Aloha everyone,
After much research, and gnashing of teeth after seeing the "deal" I can get from the local (only) Lexus dealer here on the island of Oahu, I will be replacing my 2002 RX300 with a 2008 BMW X5!!! I'm really stoked, as the BMW is an outstanding vehicle, and is 100% compatible with my new iPhone as well
The "deal" from Lexus is for a 2008 RX350 with Bluetooth, but no iPod integration (NONE of the Lexus SUVs here on Oahu have iPod integration), whilst the BMW has everything I want albeit as a higher price. I could order a new Lexus from the mainland and have it shipped out here, but the BMW solution is far simpler, and more elegant to boot. That way, I won't have to order the auxiliary input unit and mounting bracket and have them installed. I can simply plug my iPhone into the iPod connector in the center console and enjoy hands free communication and iPod functionality while I drive.
I do have a couple of questions, however. Bear in mind that these concerns have been raised by other-than-BMW owners. How dependable, maintenance-wise, are BMWs in general? I've always heard that Mercedes has a problem with electronics and BMW with standard maintenance. Of course, as mentioned above, that has NOT been from BMW owners. I've had a great experience with my Lexus, other than the driver-side front window (just had to pay $1,200 to replace both the motor and rocker switch), but that may be due to me working on a military base and having to raise and lower it every time I drive in. My salesperson also said that standard (read: required) maintenance for the first four years of ownership is completely free. Was he just trying to make a sale or is that actually true?
My second question is about the iPhone integration aspect. Apple has listed only BMW on its website as 100% compatible with the iPhone. I would like to submit from BMW owners any negative and/or positive comments you may have, with respect to iPhone integration. When I test drove both the X3 and X5, the salesperson was unable to successfully pair my iPhone with the vehicle's Bluetooth, but at least my iPhone could "see" the BMW. Also, with respect to the iPod cable in the center console, when the iPhone is plugged in, does the iPhone indicate that the cable is not intended for use with the iPhone and ask to go to airplane mode? I'm making the assumption that, as is the case with my Belkin TunebaseFM, the iPhone will function normally even after declining the airplane mode option. My game plan is to replace my iPod with my iPhone - my wife really wants the iPod hehehe
Mahalo in advance for your responses,
HawaiiMacAddict
