More on the MCS Stumbling Issue

Here's a very interesting update on some of the software issues that a few of us have been experiencing. It was sent in by Phobol who was lucky enough to meet with engineers at the BMW Eastern Division Research Center:

I met with engineers today again, at their work place (more about it below) and they took my MCS for a drive, came back and said that, “yes, it's there” but they can't fix it for several reasons:

1. DMI is self adjusting and adapting, and to fix this problem they would have to change the adaptation logarithms.

2. They can't change software code, only versions because the software is owned by Siemens who in turn subcontracts Recarro to develop it. Neither of these companies want to lose full control of the software, so they won't let BMW group play with it.

3. It may have something to do with the “anti-jerk” feature designed specifically for front wheel cars, that adjusts the throttle to avoid the yank of the wheel. It kicks in just when you accelerate. What apparently happened is that Recarro only tested the software in England and Germany and figured that if it's good enough fo London and Munich, it's good for the rest of the world. WRONG!!! The heat factor plays a big role in when that “anti-jerk” kicks in and how much.

4. This is why the two engineers are going to Arizona next week. They will collect all the data they can and then relay it to Recarro who in turn is supposed to make changes to software.

This is a lot of info to absorb in half an hour, so I MAY be wrong about exact details (i.e. company names)

I was very impressed and surprised by the hospitality. Wonderful people making wonderful products. MINI is just one of them, and I am positive that all of the problems will be fixed soon, because they are aware of them and are working hard to get the fixes out to us.”

Great info – thanks!