2005 BMW X3 2.5i

The last thing we did before returning our long-term X3 to BMW was to take it in for service. There we discovered an innovative item in possession of the dealer: a key reader. This device gives a detailed readout of specific vehicle information; in our case, it said we were 1212 miles overdue for service. It also indicates what that particular service should entail and presents other information such as the vehicle identification number, model designation, engine size, exterior color and interior trim codes. It has areas for the customer's name and when the registration and state or smog inspections are due. Interesting technology, no?