2009 BMW 3-Series

Replying to: shipo (Oct 13, 2008 3:59 pm)

Just put them on the furthest setting of intermittent. If wiping every 15 seconds isn't good enough, one might as well turn them off. I'm just not getting this technology. I'm being smirky about it, I'm sorry.
 
This goes in the "gadget" department with vibra-seats in my book. I'll take it if they give it to me for nothing, sure, but I'm not checking it off on the option list. One more thing to screw up and I'll be wiping my windshield in Phoenix in the summertime.
 
  YRMV of course.

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• kyfdx (Oct 13, 2008 6:09 pm)
  • roadburner (Oct 13, 2008 6:56 pm)
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Replying to: Mr_Shiftright (Oct 13, 2008 4:21 pm)

I have to disagree... I have adjustable intermittent, and sometimes it's just easier to flip the stalk when I need a wipe.. otherwise, I'm constantly adjusting the frequency.
 
The wife has had rain-sensing wipers on her last two cars... Set it and forget it... It's like you don't even know you have them on.
 
Not a deal-killer, either way, but easy to use, and better than the alternative..
 
Try it! You'll like it!!

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Replying to: kyfdx (Oct 13, 2008 6:09 pm)

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Replying to: roadburner (Oct 13, 2008 6:56 pm)

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• Mr_Shiftright (Oct 14, 2008 7:35 am)
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    • kyfdx (Oct 14, 2008 8:33 am)

Replying to: kdshapiro (Oct 13, 2008 7:02 pm)

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• kyfdx (Oct 14, 2008 7:46 am)
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Replying to: Mr_Shiftright (Oct 14, 2008 7:35 am)

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• Mr_Shiftright (Oct 14, 2008 7:52 am)

Replying to: kyfdx (Oct 14, 2008 7:46 am)

I WANT to stay busy driving is my problem. I like that-- "I'm in command of this fighter plane!" feeling

Replying to: Mr_Shiftright (Oct 14, 2008 7:35 am)

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• kyfdx (Oct 14, 2008 8:33 am)

Replying to: kdshapiro (Oct 14, 2008 8:22 am)

BMW's auto windshield wiper is neat, but should you turn it on in normal mode (non auto sensing), it's a non trivial experience turning the darn thing off.
 
I find BMW's refrigerated compartment under the arm rest some what quirky. Such a small volume is nearly useless. They should either increase usable volume ( I guess make it deeper) or eliminate the thing alltogether.
 
After 3 years with BMW's fancy turn signal invention (started in 06 models), I still fall victim to an induced back and forth left/right juggling of the lights. It's very embarressing since people behind you can see the lights. Still I like the idea but they've got to improve the interface.
 
A glove compartment that could fit at least the car's user-manual, registration, and insurance documents would be appreciated. BMW should either enlargen its glove compartment or shrink its elaboratly dressed German styled user manual.
 
With my 06 330, I enjoyed the compass meter embedded in the mirror. I also enjoyed the electronic folding mirror. This time however, with my new 335i , I've opted to live without these items that come with the $2000! Premium package. Walmart sells a $15 electronic compass that mounts smartly on your mirror. Life isn't so bad without the folding mirrors..and BMW's black leatherete is quite a good, if not superior, substitute for its leather seating.
 
A really cool feature in a BMW these days, IMO, is the cruise control. It has a most natural and pleasing electro-mechanical interface. I especially like how the cruise control maintains itself while I down or upshift (6spd manual). Very well done! Unfortunately, most gadgets in the car lack such brilliant enginering grace.
 
Example Primo:
Unfortunately,... I found BMW's navigation / iDrive interface too cumbersome and most importantly, too intrussive to the driving experience. The thing doesn't shut up. The screen is always on..even when blank, it dominates the cabin. Such devices should hide themselves away or be way in the background IMO. That's why I feel a portable Navigation device like a Garmin would be more effective, much cheaper, and less distracting from the experience (you can turn it off and tuck it away). BMW has a long way to go to convince otherwise.
 
Joseph
San Diego

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