BMW X4 Parking Heater Failure: Common Issue & Solutions

Hey there! I've got some experience working on BMWs (some experience level). Had a similar issue with my 2013 BMW X3 last winter. When you mentioned the parking heater problems, it really rang a bell. Initially thought it was just a minor glitch, but after taking it to my regular workshop, they diagnosed a defective glow plug in the auxiliary heating system. Total repair came to around 440 Euro, not cheap, but necessary to get everything working properly again. The techs had to replace the glow plug and reset the system. Could you share more details about your X4? Like, does it show any specific error messages on the dashboard? Also, have you noticed any other unusual behavior, like trouble starting in cold weather? This info would help determine if you're dealing with the same issue I had. The X3 and X4 share quite a few components, so I'd guess the fix might be similar, but it's always best to get a proper diagnosis.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Mine's also at 199811 KM, and I just had it serviced last month. The symptoms sound exactly like what you described. No specific error messages on the dash, but the fault code reader definitely shows something's up with the heater system. Started having this issue about a week ago, and yeah, I've noticed it's been a bit slower to start on cold mornings. If the glow plug is the culprit like in your case, at least I know what I'm looking at cost-wise. Appreciate the heads up about the price range, helps me prepare for the workshop visit. Did you notice any improvement in cold starts after getting it fixed? I'm planning to take it in next week, but just trying to gather as much info as possible before I do.

Hey again! Thanks for the follow-up. Yeah, after fixing the glow plug on my X3, the cold starts improved dramatically. It's actually a good indicator that you're dealing with the same issue I had, especially since you mentioned the slower cold starts. That was exactly my experience before the repair. The service made a huge difference, the car now starts up smoothly even on really cold mornings, and the parking heater works perfectly again. One thing I forgot to mention in my first reply, after they replaced the glow plug, they also had to do a system reset and recalibration. Make sure your workshop does this too, as it's crucial for proper operation. The mileage on your X4 is pretty close to what mine had when the issue popped up (mine was around 195000 km), so it makes sense timing-wise. These parts typically start showing wear around this mileage. Quick tip, when you take it in, ask them to check the fuel lines to the heater while they're at it. My mechanic did this as a precaution, and it's good preventive maintenance. Didn't cost much extra but gave me peace of mind. Keep us posted on how the repair goes. Always good to know if these fixes work out for others too!

Thanks so much for all the detailed info! It's really helpful to hear that the fix made such a big difference for your cold starts. I'll definitely ask about the system reset and fuel line check when I take it in, great tips that I wouldn't have known about otherwise. Given how similar our situations are, with the mileage and symptoms matching up, I'm feeling more confident about getting this sorted. I've already called my workshop and booked it in for next Tuesday. Will make sure to mention everything we've discussed, especially about the glow plug and recalibration. Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience, really helped me understand what I'm dealing with. I'll update the thread once I get it fixed to help others who might run into the same issue in the future.