E39 - What is this doofer under my Rearview Mirror?

[vyking56 0]

Half of you are probably rolling your eyes at seeing yet another question from me... but what can I say - BMWs are sooooo different to Japanese cars!

Can someone please tell me what exactly this red twisty gadget is? I've read various E39 owners manuals I've downloaded and some imply that this is something to do with the alarm.

Part two of my question... should my E39 have a factory alarm? I've only got one key for the car. The manuals indicate the veichle had as many as three when it was new... so, am I missing any functionality with the "two-button" key I have? It operates the central locking fine but apart from looking very worn and scungy, I thought it might be the valet key or have limited functionality... like not being able to arm the cars security system (again assuming it has one?) It's not uncommon for a low-end Japanese car (1999/2000 vintage) to have an integrated alarm or sorts, so I just assumed a 5-series would to.

And I understand a replacment key is around $400 ex Germany from a BMW dealer.

Mine is a 1999 E39 540i ex Japan.

[hotwire 352]

Gareth,

Firstly - Jap E39's don't have alarms. Euro/NZ cars do.

Clown nose is receiver for IR remote (Jap system) Euro cars use RF system.

Aim your key to this for locking/unlocking

When fitted with alarms - the LED is inside the clown nose

Switch attached (from memory) is for day/night control for mirror

Cars are equipped with four keys from factory (& if lucky as I was - you get all four ) -very uncommon with an import.

Two as you show (master), one valet & one emergency (plastic) -all are chipped.

This vintage only came with two button remotes, later cars keys came with three button.

I too have one master slightly scungy but not as bad as yours.

Yes, replacements are $350 ish & ex Germany (from your 7 digit vin)

If you only have one then I suggest you get another as if you lose/wreck this one - your car aint going nowhere.

[jochen 4]

You can replace the deteriorated rubber in the key for very low cost.

or replace the case and key with an uncut one - just transfer the internal electronics - only cost 16 GBP plus shipping plus key cutting:

http://cgi.ebay.ph/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewIt...em=220467435068

Edited September 19, 2009 by jochen