iDrive Reliability??

[marvenmassey]

Hi folks,
When I get my 135 - (which with the changes in 2009 model I will wait) I really want the iDrive. I loved in my 330. However I plan on keeping this vehicle for the long term (10+ years). What is everyone's general point of view of the iDrive outside of the warranty period?? On my 330 the Nav/iDrive did die and BME fixed it..hate to know what that would have cost me without the warranty..

Comments and experiances are welcome..

PS..Yes I a :

Thx
M.

[1ToBeOn2Wheels]

I'm not sure about OEM repair, but as the iDrive technology ages it opens up the possibility of aftermarket options (i.e. TV, DVD video, etc.) using the OEM screen/controls.

[marvenmassey]

thx, that sounds promising...still concerned though..
M.

[MikeVictor]

Surely any tech you own in 10+ years is going to be open to the issue of problems?

If you like it now, get it now. Like 12b said, you can always use the controller for aftermarket installations if you need/want to down the track.

[marvenmassey]

Yeah it makes sense..look how much iDrive has changed in the last few years especially the new 2009..however as I've mentioned my concern is the MAJOR repair costs from the stealer...I guess like you said get it and see what happens..

M.

[imported_mega]

look at the e90 forum's I did not get idrive because of what I read there

[Jack in Jax]

Marv:

Electronics and electrical subsystems are known for becoming problematic on older BMW's - and for that matter, on most technically sophisticated, complex products. How many of us are using 10 yr old PCs, let alone ones that have never suffered any component issues? Also, given your location, such systems are likely to have a longer life if they enjoy a protective environment (garage at home, underground parking at work, etc.).

On a broader scale, not just iDrive, this is one of the issues I wrestle with most. Like you, I would purchase a BMW with the notion of keeping it for a long time. OTOH it doesn't seem to be a prudent choice to make unless one's prepared to spend substantial sums on systems (e.g. every piece of the coolant system) that live much longer in other brands. Toss in the high level of complexity in any BMW product and the odds just move further south.

Jack

[Sephiroth]

When its out of warranty, don't take it to the dealer. Find a good mechanic/shop with experience with bmws. Supposedly bimrs.org lists such shops.

[marvenmassey]

Originally Posted by 1love

When its out of warranty, don't take it to the dealer. Find a good mechanic/shop with experience with bmws. Supposedly bimrs.org lists such shops.

Thx, that was a great link..however I wonder if they repair iDrive issues..As the others say..I may not even care/want it in 10+ years so this might be a moot point now...

M.