X5 making noise when parked

[kevinheap]

This sounds like I have a screw loose but today when the 2005 X5 was off and had been off for about 15 hours I heard a fanlike sound. It was coming from the vents right on the hood in front of the windshield. I did not lock the car like I should have the night before but what would cause a sound such as this to come from the X5 when not in use. ( I was not drinking )

[peter2772000]

I....gots nuthin'. I've heard weird noises if I touch the door handle or open the door, but not just fer grins outta the blue.

[Qsilver7]

...today when the 2005 X5 was off and had been off for about 15 hours I heard a fanlike sound. It was coming from the vents right on the hood in front of the windshield. I did not lock the car like I should have the night before but what would cause a sound such as this to come from the X5 when not in use. ( I was not drinking )

If you had a failing FSU/FSR (final stage unit/final stage resistor)...it could have been running the HVAC blower. This is a VERY common and much discussed failure found on the e39/e46/e53 BMW models (basic same design technology and architecture). You should be able to do a simple google search for "BMW e53 failing FSR/FSU" and get thousands of past discussions, DIYs, and videos.

FYI...if this is the issue...you will want to get on this soon because if the FSR is running your HVAC blower on it's own while the engine is not running...and at any given time while you may be parked...you may come back to a vehicle with a dead battery.

[jclausen]

Final stage for the blower fan, regular problem and if stays on to long you have a dead battery. Just like he said above. Happened in the wagon.