Observations after 1 month of M235i ownership...

[Pyewacket69]

Well, I've owned my M235i for a month now, and I thought I would post some of my observations...

First of all, just for background, I'm 59, and my track days have come and gone. I bought the car to be used as a (quite literally) a vehicle for fun. It's Mineral Gray with the Terra leather/wood grain interior, and a 6 speed manual. I took delivery at the BMW PC in Spartanburg,SC (8 miles from my home). The car was ordered with every option available, and it has (blasphemy, I know) RFTs. I also had the dealer install the M-Performance exhaust system.

I purchased this car to replace a 2007 Z4 3.0si Coupe with automatic transmission.

The car is truly a delight to drive. The transmission shifts precisely and smoothly. Having lower back "issues", it's most certainly easier to enter and exit the vehicle. IMO, the feedback given the driver is excellent. The car feels sure-footed and easy to control.

Some things that I think are nice/neat/classy... Front seats are very comfortable. I've never been in the back seat, but it's fairly obvious that 2 grown men riding in the back for any distance would have to be extremely "friendly" for them to tolerate the journey. IDrive works well and is very intuitive. Being able to have the car actually read you text messages is a nice touch. I find the cabin ergonomics to be highly suitable for one my height (5'7"). One nice, and somewhat practical feature is the car displays the speed limit in the instrument cluster. However, for what is marketed as a "performance" vehicle, the instrument cluster is sorely lacking in gauges. My 2010 328i Convertible actually gives the driver more info (at least, it displays the oil temp). If I was truly into performance driving, that might be an issue for me, but again, those days have come and gone for me.

The lane departure warning works exactly as one would expect, and it performs admirably.

If there's a major disappointment, I'd have to say it's the "collision avoidance" system. Actually, it should be called the "collision notification" system, because by the time it alerts the driver, it's everything but too late to take any corrective action. At first, I thought there might be a defect on my particular car, so I spent some time with the dealership "Genius" (BMW's title, not one I made up) in a 5-series sedan equipped with the same option. Same results. Even set in the most conservative early warning setting, there's practically no notification of a potential collision. Not criticizing BMW in any way, but this option doesn't seem to be ready for "prime time". It doesn't work anything like the owner's manual implies...

My wife's Subaru Outback with the "Eyesight" system performs the act of collision avoidance light years ahead of BMW's current system.

My suggestion: save your money and leave this box unchecked on the order form.

That's pretty much it up to now. Even with that minor complaint, I absolutely love the car, and for me, it's the perfect "fun" vehicle.

I'll update again in another month with any other perceptions I've formed between now and then.

[m235noob]

Do you know why the ac is always on when you start up the car

[Pyewacket69]

Do you know why the ac is always on when you start up the car

No, but I've noticed the A/C settings (temp, settings, etc.) do follow the key fob "profile". It just seems to default to always being in the "on" position.

I have tried, but not yet found any way for it to default to the "off" position, even though the owner's manual suggests that it is a valid option.

[Pyewacket69]

I was at my dealer today, and in the lot sat a "pre-owned" Estoril Blue M235i, auto trans. When I inquired about it, I was told the car sold but was returned 3 days later and traded in on a different model.

I guess the M235i isn't everyone's "cup of tea".

Someone will probably pick it up at a good discount.

I also saw my first new M4 coupe there today. Gray exterior with black interior. Nice looking car...

[m235noob]

Cool thanks for the reply

[BimmerBreaker]

True story... I almost became a BMW "Genius" but didn't want to sound like an ass when introducing myself to people ;)

The collision detection must come with a certain package, but I can not deduce if it is part of the Driver Assistance package or the Driver Assistance Plus package... based on your description, your car has both, so though that one feature may be lackluster, it is bundled with other features which you seem to quite like.

I really wonder why someone returned one of these models so soon... more likely than not they took it in to prevent it being lemoned, and gave the owner a ridiculous trade-in value on a replacement car. Hmm. I'm hoping personally to buy an M2, but will probably wait until the last year they are available to work out any kinks. In the time being I am really considering trading in the 1 for a 228i but not really convinced at the moment. I love the straight 6 and the 128i will be the last N/A BMW I6 in the foreseeable future, maybe ever...

[Pyewacket69]

So, are you/were you working at a BMW dealership?

Just curious...

[BimmerBreaker]

So, are you/were you working at a BMW dealership?

Just curious...
They offered me a few jobs in their service department but at the time I had a full time job, so I talked to the sales manager about a part time job since I'd rather sell them then wrench on them, and he offered me the Genius job. Seemed like fun, but decided against it. Will probably go back and see what jobs they have for me now that I am part time in my other job again :)

[pw4]

Thanks pyewacket69 for the write-up. I'm in a very similar position and have just placed an order for a 220i with all the handling options. Looking forward to it - and to getting back to rear-drive.

[Pyewacket69]

Do you know why the ac is always on when you start up the car

After researching this item, there is no "user control" that you can set to default the AC air handler in the "off" position when starting the car.

I have no doubt that someone with the right tools, software and knowledge could code it to be in the default "off" position, but I am not that person...

[Tonyd917]

After researching this item, there is no "user control" that you can set to default the AC air handler in the "off" position when starting the car.

I have no doubt that someone with the right tools, software and knowledge could code it to be in the default "off" position, but I am not that person...


Yeah I just bought a 228i a few days ago and I noticed that the ac always comes on I called the bmw genius from the dealership where I got my car. He said he was going to look into and call me back but never did.

[Pyewacket69]

Yeah I just bought a 228i a few days ago and I noticed that the ac always comes on I called the bmw genius from the dealership where I got my car. He said he was going to look into and call me back but never did.

If he does, that's the answer you're gonna get.

[jpccarguyM]

Hi to All,

I ordered a 235i yesterday, and I'm looking forward to learning and sharing more about the car on this forum. After having an E36 M3 and an S52 M Coupe in the past, I am back in the fold.

What other forums are useful for the 2 series?

Thanks in advance.

John

[BeManWoo]

thanks for write this up and share

[Pyewacket69]

More on the collision avoidance system...

I'm at about 1K miles on the car now, and I think I'm starting to get a better feel for how the system works. I'd also add that it appears the system is somehow "learning", because it seems to give more warnings (and is more consistent) as I get more miles on it.

The most significant thing I've discovered is what action/behavior actually triggers the warning to be displayed.

In a nutshell:

If I gradually creep up on a car in front of me (say, 5-7 mph faster than the car I'm following), the system will not respond with a warning. It will let you drive into the trunk of the leading car.

However, if I approach the car ahead at a significantly faster speed (I'd say 15 mph or more), the system gives me the red light warning practically every time.

More if and when I know it...

[m235noob]

What's the maintenance schedule on this car

[Pyewacket69]

What's the maintenance schedule on this car

Can you be more specific?

Are you referring to the official BMW schedule, or what experienced owners of BMW products might suggest?

I can say this... While the M235i has very good looking wheels, they are a real pain to clean, due to excessive brake dust. They need a complete cleaning every 200 miles or so...

[m235noob]

What's your suggestions Id like to stay on top of things and treat this car good lol

[rolltidef30]

What's your suggestions Id like to stay on top of things and treat this car good lolBMW uses high performance brake pads. All high performance brakes produce a great deal of brake dust. Look around at the German performance cars while driving; same issue.

Yes, keep them clean, and although I love a good shine, tire Polish makes it worse. The dust gets on the rims and can ruin the finish over time. The dealer never uses tire shine during service visits either.
I use tire shine anyway, but I wash my black metallic beauty weekly. :-)

[skyleech]

Anyone notice a cabin resonance in sports mode when passing 2000-2500 rpm? Tested the demo it is there at 2300rpm. Mine is at 2400rpm and higher resonance felt with my m performance exhaust. Care to share any similar experience ?

[Pyewacket69]

Anyone notice a cabin resonance in sports mode when passing 2000-2500 rpm? Tested the demo it is there at 2300rpm. Mine is at 2400rpm and higher resonance felt with my m performance exhaust. Care to share any similar experience ?

I also have the Performance Exhaust and have noticed the same thing, when in Sport mode. Gets very noticeable around 2600-2700 rpm, but practically disappears at 2900 rpm. I just flip it back into Comfort mode and the sound disappears.

[Chromisdesigns]

I'm driving one right now as a loaner, and with the control panel switch set to "manual", the AC does not come on when you start the car -- it remains with whatever the last setting was.

That said, I'll note that 3-series climate control computers have had some kind of glitch mode ever since the E36 came out, where the AC mysteriously starts up on you, even though you have the thing set to manual control. So I would not be at all surprised if the same programming bugs didn't carry over to the new 2 series. Toggling the AC switch a couple of times generally clears it. The same thing happens with heat, occasionally.

[skyleech]

I also have the Performance Exhaust and have noticed the same thing, when in Sport mode. Gets very noticeable around 2600-2700 rpm, but practically disappears at 2900 rpm. I just flip it back into Comfort mode and the sound disappears.

I did the same thing. Just flick it to comfort. It is okay. Do you felt the resonance perpetuate into some form of little micro vibration transmitted through the pedals / floor board and the seat when passing the respective 2400 - 2700 ish rpm ? Anyone knows why does this happen? Vanos phenomenon ?

[rolltidef30]

I'm driving one right now as a loaner, and with the control panel switch set to "manual", the AC does not come on when you start the car -- it remains with whatever the last setting was. That said, I'll note that 3-series climate control computers have had some kind of glitch mode ever since the E36 came out, where the AC mysteriously starts up on you, even though you have the thing set to manual control. So I would not be at all surprised if the same programming bugs didn't carry over to the new 2 series. Toggling the AC switch a couple of times generally clears it. The same thing happens with heat, occasionally.Not sure if it's directly related since I have a 2012 328i, but my AC was doing something weird by making a loud groaning, after a few mins it went away.

Had to take back to the dealer anyway, they noticed it and replaced a part in the AC unit. Likely the same unit in the 2 series. Couldn't tell if it changed when not in Sport, as I only drive in Sport unless in heavy traffic.

[Pyewacket69]

I did the same thing. Just flick it to comfort. It is okay. Do you felt the resonance perpetuate into some form of little micro vibration transmitted through the pedals / floor board and the seat when passing the respective 2400 - 2700 ish rpm ? Anyone knows why does this happen? Vanos phenomenon ?

I think it's more of a "condition" than a "problem".

At that RPM, the frequency just happens to resonate at a tone audible to the human ear that's far more noticeable. On mine, its a very narrow RPM range, and all I notice is the audible aspect. No vibrations anywhere else, nothing going crazy with the electronics, etc.

I seriously doubt it has anything to do with Vanos operation...

[BimmerBreaker]

It's probably at a frequency that is similar to the natural resonance of the chassis or floor boards.

Definitely has nothing to do with VANOS

[Pyewacket69]

Do you know why the ac is always on when you start up the car

I don't know if you're still around, or if you're even interested... But,...

I have found a resolution to this issue.

I obtained a copy of E-SYS and downloaded it on a PC.

It's the software BMW uses to modify the software on the F-series vehicles.

I modified the variable that controls the air handler to not default to the "on" position when the car is started.

Works like a charm... Just the way I want it to operate now...

[jpccarguyM]

Great to hear. Now, just how did you get the E-SYS?

[BimmerBreaker]

I wouldn't personally advise someone under warranty to start plugging in their car to the software at home unless you are a BMW tech or know what you are doing. The dealer that services your car should change these settings for you free next time you are at the dealer. May be a good time to go over some other features and settings of the cars as well.

[Pyewacket69]

Great to hear. Now, just how did you get the E-SYS?

First of all, I'm not going to get in-depth here. If you aren't able to do Google searches and read through forum postings to find out how this process works, as well as how to obtain the necessary items, then STOP! You're not a candidate for doing your own coding. Let your dealership do it for you. Having made that clear...

There are several E-SYS cable providers (you'll need this cable to connect the car's programming port to your PC, and they're available in the $20 range) on eBay (do a search), and they'll provide you with the necessary links to download the products you need.

Also, the Bimmerfest forums can provide you with a wealth of information on coding your car.

While I would agree that coding their F-Series isn't for everyone, if you have a decent background in information systems and are willing to take your time, do the required reading on the subject and follow basic instructions it shouldn't be any problem.

The E-SYS programs are menu-driven, so you're not in some kind of funky binary/octal/hexadecimal editing routine when you're making modifications to the car.

But, be aware that you can also "brick" your car if you don't take the appropriate precautions.

If you do your research the right way, you can find the very same documentation the the techs at BMW dealerships use to code options.

It's definitely not for every owner...

[skyleech]

Found the vibration/resonance problem. It is from the acoustic sound simulation feature that came with the car. Unplugged the fuse for the entertainment system. All resonance stops. Apparently this sound simulation created the resonance through the woofer under the seat. I was told by the agent to await bmw head quarters to decode or reduce the sound simulation level. For sharing. I have since gotten some expert to isolate and turned off this sound simulation feature. Now I m driving a true blue ultimate driving machine.

[HarryN]

Found the vibration/resonance problem. It is from the acoustic sound simulation feature that came with the car. Unplugged the fuse for the entertainment system. All resonance stops. Apparently this sound simulation created the resonance through the woofer under the seat. I was told by the agent to await bmw head quarters to decode or reduce the sound simulation level. For sharing. I have since gotten some expert to isolate and turned off this sound simulation feature. Now I m driving a true blue ultimate driving machine.

If it's the same sound feature I am thinking of, the E60 M5 had that same stupid and moronic feature. The sound would play through the speakers to enhance the engine sound to make it sound like you are driving a race car. By far, the dumbest feature I have ever heard of in my opinion. I guess BMW really thinks the US Market is a bunch of ghetto owners that will do anything for sound of a car dictating performance, or we're just that easy to please if we get something shiny. I did the same thing to my friend's M5 to get rid of that stupid sound. The car sounds a lot better without that damn sound.

As far as the "always on" A/C system that has been around since the E36, you can just take it to your dealer and if you're still under the 4 year maintenance program, you can ask the service manager to turn that setting off. Only takes a couple minutes. And it's free.

[BimmerBreaker]

If it's the same sound feature I am thinking of, the E60 M5 had that same stupid and moronic feature. The sound would play through the speakers to enhance the engine sound to make it sound like you are driving a race car. By far, the dumbest feature I have ever heard of in my opinion. I guess BMW really thinks the US Market is a bunch of ghetto owners that will do anything for sound of a car dictating performance, or we're just that easy to please if we get something shiny. I did the same thing to my friend's M5 to get rid of that stupid sound. The car sounds a lot better without that damn sound.
Just saying but, the F10 M5 has that feature not the E60 M5, and that feature is in all the cars worldwide not just US models.

[Pyewacket69]

The A/C "always on" feature was not set on my 2010 328 E93 when I bought it new.