Is it possible to add start button & RFID key to X3?

[ashori]

I know that the new bimmers now come with the option of adding a start button and 'comfort access'. Just wondering if anyone has tried putting it into an e83?

[AzNMpower32]

Cannot be done on the E83. The software is based on the E46 and will not permit things such as iDrive or Comfort Access.

[motordavid]

Start Button?!

My first car, a '52 Ford had a start button...
The SB is an answer to a question that was
not asked by any car buyer, imo.
GL,mD

[ashori]

Originally Posted by AzNMpower32

Cannot be done on the E83. The software is based on the E46 and will not permit things such as iDrive or Comfort Access.

Forgive my ignorance, but couldn't you just bypass the software and have the buttons contain the RFID transmitter? I figure that since so many cars have it, there should someone making retrofit kits by now... that being said I've never seen one.

[AzNMpower32]

You would need to install a whole bunch of antennas in the perimeter of the car, so it can detect when the remote is inside the car. You would also need a new key/remote, and install door handle sensors. All that is more work and money than is worth it.

I agree with mD....why would you want a start/stop button? I like the traditional key because its just something that works. I think the real reason carmakers are switching to buttons is to please the health & safety folks, who claim that keys cause knee injuries in collisions . If the latest technology is important, the X3 is not the BMW to buy.

[ashori]

Originally Posted by AzNMpower32

You would need to install a whole bunch of antennas in the perimeter of the car, so it can detect when the remote is inside the car. You would also need a new key/remote, and install door handle sensors. All that is more work and money than is worth it.

I agree with mD....why would you want a start/stop button? I like the traditional key because its just something that works. I think the real reason carmakers are switching to buttons is to please the health & safety folks, who claim that keys cause knee injuries in collisions . If the latest technology is important, the X3 is not the BMW to buy.

I'm no RFID expert, but I'd expect you could build the antennas into the buttons also. You are right in saying the key isn't that important, I just like to be able to do away with keeping track of my key. Guess I'm too lazy to fish it out when I need it.