NAV & FM Tuner Fade (aka the law suit)

Sorry to post yet another thread on this topic, but I guess we can't reply to older threads anymore.

I printed and handed my dealer the service measure, but the dealer gave me the run around with this FM stereo fade issue...
1- "this part is no longer available"
2- "they have tried this before and it didn't fix the issue"
3- "they think it won't work with NY drivers-" then I cut him off and insisted they look into it further.

I called to follow up and this time I got "bring it in and we'll see if we can duplicate the problem"

Not very happy with their attitude thus far. I'm not a nit picky owner that complains about every squeak or rattle. What makes me angry is that this issue is very annoying and there is a well documented and simple fix.

Can anyone refer me to an actual BMW service bulletin or TSB (www.bmwtis.net). Thank you




Service Measure B65-209-04 - updated on 4/30/04

Subject: E39, E46, E53 with BM53 Radio Navigation system, and DSP or Harman/Kardon Amplifier: Radio is switching from Stereo to Mono

Complaint: In FM mode only the radio sound is switching from Stereo to Mono, fading in and out.

Cause: Software error in the BM53 Radio.

Measure: On a customer complaint basis only, replace the BM53 radio. Install a BM53 radio with the new software, P/N: 65-12-4-135-562

Which dealership did you go to?

Originally Posted by alee

Which dealership did you go to?

Check your PM

hey I just got an 05' 330ci ZHP..and this is happening to me as well when I listen to the radio...its a problem that can be fixed?

Originally Posted by 330ciPfmcePkg05

hey I just got an 05' 330ci ZHP..and this is happening to me as well when I listen to the radio...its a problem that can be fixed?

Yes, see the bottom of the 1st post above. However my dealer is being difficult despite the clear service bulleting issued in April

It is a problem that can be fixed and it's a 5 minute job. I had this done to my 5'er last November. I gave the service measure number in the original thread, he looked it up, and approved the replacement. There was no "lets see if we can dupliate the problem" BS at all. From what I understand, if the customer complains and they have the older verion BM53 radio, the dealer is supposed to replace it.

My SA had never heard of the problem, or the replacement campaign. I think they learn something new everytime I go in there.

This is a good point. Sometimes we teach them, especially in the internet age where we are often more informed on the minutiae then are the dealers. It was just the case when I ordered my M3, the dealer first learned of a new package from me.

As for shizat, just work with the dealer. It certainly becomes more difficult when you start the thread "aka the law suit" what a #%@#% arrogant attitude, and one of the many reasons this country is messed up... a little problem and "hey man, law suit" What a waste of (negative) energy.

Originally Posted by jvr530i

It is a problem that can be fixed and it's a 5 minute job. I had this done to my 5'er last November. I gave the service measure number in the original thread, he looked it up, and approved the replacement. There was no "lets see if we can dupliate the problem" BS at all. From what I understand, if the customer complains and they have the older verion BM53 radio, the dealer is supposed to replace it.

My SA had never heard of the problem, or the replacement campaign. I think they learn something new everytime I go in there.

Originally Posted by e36M3r

As for shizat, just work with the dealer. It certainly becomes more difficult when you start the thread "aka the law suit" what a #%@#% arrogant attitude, and one of the many reasons this country is messed up... a little problem and "hey man, law suit" What a waste of (negative) energy.

Woah, relax there tiger. That wasn't my idea...

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=60255

OK, got it, sorry about that. Hope you get it fixed.

Originally Posted by shizat63

Woah, relax there tiger. That wasn't my idea...

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=60255

Originally Posted by e36M3r

OK, got it, sorry about that. Hope you get it fixed.

Thanks, I'm going to speak to the service manager in person and work things out.

Good luck, Shizat, and keep at it. I had mine done last summer and FM sounds much better. My SA and the tech were great and very easy to deal with.

I’m with BMW of North America, LLC. I’m sorry to read about this problem with your radio. We are here to work with you and your BMW center. If you want our assistance, please phone us at (800) 831-1117 or email us at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com, and mention Reference # 200502500136 so that we can help you more efficiently.

Originally Posted by jvr530i

It is a problem that can be fixed and it's a 5 minute job. I had this done to my 5'er last November.

Is it usually done this fast? I ask because I'll have to schedule the work either on the way or coming from work. Thanks!

KH

Originally Posted by hecklerz

Is it usually done this fast? I ask because I'll have to schedule the work either on the way or coming from work. Thanks!

KH

Five minutes to fix the problem, but don't assume that the dealer can see you exactly when you show up, even with an appointment. I've just learned to give my dealer the whole day no matter what the problem is. Even the five minute coding of the alarm kept me from my car for the day.

Can't you get a loaner from the dealer? This is warranty work, after all.