Hi all, just picked up my first BMW yesterday, a 2006 330Xi in Artic Silver. Had a quick question that I was not able to find an answer to using the search option. It appears that both the ciggeratte lighter and power jack in the center console only have power when the engine is running, I find this hard to believe, can someone confirm that this is the case and if so, are there any work arounds.

Thanks,

Pat

Try putting the key in and not pushing start?

Is the one in the center arm rest off too? If so, bring a lighter.

Try putting the key in and not pushing start?

Is the one in the center arm rest off too? If so, bring a lighter.
I've tried with the key in, but power only goes to both when the the engine is started. It seems strange that you would not be able to charge a cell phone or power some other accessory unless the car is running.

In the arm rest there's an extra one, try that.

In the arm rest there's an extra one, try that.
Are you referring to the center arm rest /console? If so, that and the actual ciggeratte lighter are what I have tried, both have no power unless the engine is running.

I'm not surprised. There are electrical things that are different in BMWs compared to most cars. My previous car was an E36. It was famous for, among other things, having the OBD give a warning that said, "Check Brake Light Circuit" even though the brake lights worked fine (the cause was build-up on the brake switch). The fix required replacing the brake switch, which I did once, then did it again right before I sold it because the warning came up again. Just to make sure everything was fine, I had my son hit the brake when the car was off - and the brake light did NOT go on! The brake lights did work with the key turned. All my other cars' brake lights will go on with the brake pedal, key or no key.

I didn't get my car yet, but I think I read somewhere where if you put the key in and not press on the brake and press the button, the power will be available and the car will not start.

Can anybody confirm?

Radio readiness mode- listed in your manual of course.
Don't step on clutch, pres start with key in ignition. For auto, do not press brake.

Radio readiness mode- listed in your manual of course.
Don't step on clutch, pres start with key in ignition. For auto, do not press brake.
Yes, my understanding from my test drives is that pushing the start button when starter interlocks are not activated (foot not on brake or clutch not in) is the same as the "old fashioned" method of turning your ignition key to the accessory position. It is a little counter-intuitive as you think of a "Start" button meaning only "start", not "accessory".

they do not work unless engine is running, mercedes are the same

Radio readiness mode- listed in your manual of course.
Don't step on clutch, pres start with key in ignition. For auto, do not press brake.First thing I did was check the manual (of course). I do not think the radio readiness mode turns on the power outlets.

they do not work unless engine is running, mercedes are the same
Thanks.

That sucks.

they do not work unless engine is running, mercedes are the same
They work when my engine is turned off and key is left in pre-start position. Don't know about Mercedes key-less systems.

Yes, my understanding from my test drives is that pushing the start button when starter interlocks are not activated (foot not on brake or clutch not in) is the same as the "old fashioned" method of turning your ignition key to the accessory position. It is a little counter-intuitive as you think of a "Start" button meaning only "start", not "accessory".
+1

Just an update, by putting the key fob in and hitting the ignition button without applying brake, does supply power to the accessory outlets, however, also to everything else in the car (instrument panel etc) so it is not real practical for my purposes. Semes like a dumb design choice, fortunately the rest of the car makes up for it. I did find an accessory that plugs into the flashlight receptical in the glove box to give you power, but not sure if that is powered all the time or not. I'll pull out my meter and check this weekend.

An additional update for those interested in having power for accessories when the car is off and key fob is out. Along with a nice BMW hat and stainless tumbler that I receieved for Father's day, I also got the auxilary power adapter that plugs into the flashlight recepticle in the glove box, part # 82-11-0-004-073 and it will provide power all the time, if you have the need.
Pat

Pat6366 thanks for post re: power accessories. Picked up part 82-11-0-004-073 from Ralley BMW Westbury NY for $9.50. Hooked it up in glove box where flash light is and cell phone is now always on car power whether or not car is on or fob is totally removed. I did not think you could buy anything from BMW for $9.50. Part came in really nice plastic box which I will also put to good use. Service manager said next least expensive part would be coffee cup which costs $18.00. Although this is wife's car I love it and drive it whenever I can. 2007 328xi coupe with 6spmanual. We have had several 5 series and 2z3s and a z4 and I like 2007 best.

Trichman, Glad you found the info useful. I know what you mean about the price, I thought for sure it would be more, plus I had a 15% off coupon.
Pat

auxilary power adapter that plugs into the flashlight recepticle in the glove box, part # 82-11-0-004-073 and it will provide power all the time
Pat
Thanks for the input - will stop by dealer tomorrow to purchase; for the mobile phone!!!!!:redspot