Heating up an X5 without a key

[rj1986]

Hey all,

On my old 120d, i used to be able to keep the engine running without the key (turn engine on with the button, turn it off, take key out, foot on the clutch and press starter button). This meant i could heat it up and lock the doors.

Any ideas on a 07 X5? Tried the manual, but no sight.

Thanks
Rich

[E38Ross]

you shouldn't leave a car idling to warm up anyway...

1 - it takes ages
2 - it just about heats the coolant up after ages, but the engine oil is still quite cold
3 - it just causes excess engine wear as the rich fuel washes away the lubricating film of oil in the engine and the oil is still thick so not providing the best protection
4 - it doesn't heat up the gearbox or diff oil

5 - just get in the car, turn it on, and drive it.

clear your windscreen first

[mph1977]

or get a proper pre-heater with mains connection which is what the scandinavians and canucks do

[TheEnd]

Quite a few of the BMW diesels have a inbuilt diesel powered pre-heater.
Over have of 530d and X5 3.0Ds have them, but in most cases, the first time the owner hears about them is when I tell them they have a fault code saying their pre-heater is busted.