Experiencing issues with your BMW’s Wheel Heater? You’re not alone. Many BMW owners have encountered frustrating problems with their heated steering wheels, often finding themselves in a battle to get the issue properly diagnosed and resolved. One BMW owner recently shared their experience, highlighting the importance of being informed and proactive when dealing with dealership service departments.
The owner of a 2009 BMW 328xi Coupe scheduled their first yearly service and, aware of a potential issue with the steering wheel heat, armed themselves with a Service Bulletin (SB) thanks to online resources. Upon presenting the SB during the initial service appointment, they were informed that a two-day service was needed, leading to a rescheduled appointment.
Returning for the second appointment, the situation became more complex. The dealership identified a need for a new left front strut, attributing it to pothole damage. Alongside this, the owner requested attention to both the steering wheel heater and a navigation (I-Nav) problem. After a week and an $800 bill for the strut and wheel alignment, the owner was dismayed to find the service report stating “Steering Wheel Heat, operates normal, no fault found. INav operates normal, no fault found.”
Expressing their frustration to the service advisor, the owner was told the foreman had inspected the system and found no issues, further claiming the SB was not applicable to their specific vehicle. However, upon returning to their car, the owner immediately demonstrated the problem: the wheel heater activated briefly before shutting off prematurely.
This direct demonstration finally prompted the dealership to acknowledge the issue. The car remained at the dealership, with assurances that the wheel heater problem would be addressed. This experience underscores a crucial takeaway for BMW owners: Service Bulletins are valuable tools, but dealerships may not always proactively apply them. It’s essential to be persistent and advocate for yourself, even demonstrating the issue directly when necessary. As this owner learned, being informed and assertive can be key to resolving frustrating car issues like a malfunctioning wheel heater.
This situation serves as a reminder to all vehicle owners to stay informed about potential issues and available Service Bulletins for their cars. Proactive preparation can make the difference between a quick resolution and a prolonged, frustrating service experience. Always “motch” – stay vigilant and informed!
