A plethora of new BMW models are now being produced without touchscreens because of the ongoing semiconductor shortage.
In a post made to the Bimmerfest forum, a user revealed that BMW started to build models without touchscreens last week. Impacted models include the 3-Series, 4-Series Coupe and Convertible, 4-Series Gran Coupe, Z4, and all versions of the current X5, X6, and X7.
Models manufactured without a touchscreen will have an option code of 6UY for the ‘Deletion of Touchscreen’ in the window sticker and owners of impacted vehicles will be provided with a $500 credit.
The removal of the touchscreen means the infotainment system can only be operated through the iDrive Controller and via voice control. Vehicles optioned with the Parking Assistant Package will also lose the Backup Assistant. All other functionality of the infotainment system will be retained, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
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In a statement provided to Edmunds, the automaker confirmed the move.
“This measure is a result of the industry-wide supply chain issues which are affecting automotive manufacturing worldwide and causing limitations on the availability of some features or options.”
This isn’t just bad news for those that have a new BMW model on order but could also impact the resale value of their vehicle in the future. Impacted customers will need to sign a form confirming acknowledgment of the change at their local BMW dealership. Vehicles equipped without a touchscreen will also need a software update before they are handed over to customers.
