DIY: Installing the Factory E90 Alarm

[CC 330i]

I went forward with my E90 alarm install, and took some pics along the way. I would say that it is an easy install, as long as you have some mechanical confidence and experience. The "hardest" part is removing the left rear wheel to install the siren. Since our cars do not come with a jack, you have to use your own (or buy the BMW jack), and there are special lift points that require a special fitting so as not to damage the lift point (nice work BMW). If you have any doubts about your ability to safely lift your car with a jack, do not attempt this install.

The E90 Factory Alarm kit from BMW (pn 66 12 0 403 658) lists for $300 but I got mine for about $229 from Circle BMW. They supplied the kit and printed out the offical BMW PDF instructions, which dealers have access to. Typically the kit does not include printed instructions since they obviously prefer the dealer to do the installation. The kit is pretty minimal, and kind of a crime that it costs so much and it not included with every car. :thumbdown It consists of an ultrasonic module for inside the vehicle, a hood switch, and a siren that goes up under the left rear wheel well. See picture below:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01532.jpg

1. Remove Negative Battery Terminal.

To get started, first disconnect the negative battery terminal. As you know, the battery is in the trunk (or "boot" for you English-English speakers). The nut on top of the negative (black) terminal is 10mm. I put the removed negative terminal on a rag so that it would not drop back on to the battery or touch the positive terminal.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01534.jpg

2. Install Ultrasonic Module into interior of car.

To install the Ultrasonic Module, you must pop open the rear dome light fixture inside the cabin. Make sure you do the REAR one (aft of the sunroof). This was not specified in the instructions, and I spent about 1 hour figuring out that the front light fixture was not correct! To remove the rear dome light fixture, I used a plastic spatula as a pry tool so as not to damage the headliner or plastic. When you do this MAKE SURE your hands are very clean, as you will stain your headliner if they are not. (really, I am serious about this) The spot to pry is immediately behind each reading light, at the back edge of the fixture. There is a release tab immediately behind each circular light, and you have to get the pry tool in just the right place. I did one side, and then held it with my hand and did the other side. You should not have to use tremendous force if you get the pry tool in the right place. Don't worry if the frosted clear light surround pops off when you do this, it easily snaps back in place later:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01542.jpg

Once the tabs are released, I found it easiest to unplug the wiring harnesses to completely free the dome light fixture from the car. (This is not necessary, but it makes the next step easier). Then you simply put the ultrasonic module in place (it snaps in) and reinstall the dome light fixture into the car, taking care to connect the original wiring harness for the lights, and the previously unused one that snaps in to the awaiting ultrasonic module you just installed:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01540.jpg

3. Installation of the Hood Switch

For the next step, open the hood (or "bonnet" for you English-English speakers) and locate the hood switch wiring along the drivers side edge of the engine compartment. It is taped to another batch of wires neatly. You will see a cap with 3 blue dots on the end, which is a termination for the harness that will eventually plug into the alarm hood switch.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01543.jpg
CAREFULLY cut or unwrap the felt tape that holds the hood switch wires to the larger wiring bundle, and pull them up toward the windshield. You will need to remove the cover for the brake resevoir, and it is also easier if you remove the short weatherstripping piece and plastic braket that are shown in the pictures below:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01557.jpg
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01556.jpg
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01547.jpg
These pieces pop right off easily, but use care when doing the brake resevoir cover. It has a clip at the front and back that you should release when removing.

Once these pieces are removed, straighten out the hood switch wiring, and you will notice 2 plastic clips that are used to mount the wiring to 2 plastic tabs in a channel near the hood switch mounting location. Simply push them down onto the tabs to mount them.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01549.jpg

Next, mount the hood switch bracket. There is only one correct orientation of this bracket. The notch in the bracket goes toward the middle of the car and aft. Secure this with the provided screw:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01551.jpg

Now, mount the hood switch into the bracket (it basically drops in) and connect the wiring harness to the switch. You must remove the "plug" that is in the connector first. In the pic, the plug is not yet removed.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01552.jpg

3. Installation of the Siren in the wheel well

For the next step, you must jack up the vehicle and remove the left rear wheel. This is the "scariest" part of the install. If you have any doubts about doing this safely, do not perform this install. Apparently there is a special tool that fits into the plastic jacking points under the vehicle. They look like upside-down boxes. I just used a block of wood that I cut for this purpose that fit inside each "box" and protruded down below the lift point just far enough to prevent damage from my flat floor jack platform. I suggest buying the fitting or tool from BMW, though.

Before jacking I loosened the lugs slightly (17mm socket) to make it less scary when removing the wheel when lifted. Immediately after jacking the car up, I put 2 jackstands under 2 different parts of the rear suspension that appeared strong enough to support the weight of the car if the jack failed. Always assume your jack will fail! Since I had the lugs loosened slightly, I was able to easily able to remove the wheel once lifted.

Next you must remove the wheel arch cover, which is the felt lining inside the wheel well. This is pretty easy. There are about 10 nuts that must be removed, 10mm and 8 mm. Make sure you get them all. Then simply pull the felt liner out and set it aside.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01559.jpg

Look up to the top of the wheel well. There is a cavity up there with some unused wiring, which is neatly tied up with felt tape, and 3 threaded studs. Undo the felt tape to release the connector. Place the supplied bracket over the exposed studs and secure it with the hex nuts. (10mm I think).
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01560.jpg
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01561.jpg
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01562.jpg

Next, connect the siren to the siren mount with the supplied nut.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01563.jpg

Remove the "plug" from the connector in the wheel well, and plug the connector into the siren. There is a plastic grommet that pushes into the bracket to support the weight of the siren when it is not mounted. Make sure you push this into the bracket before letting the siren "hang".
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y170/GLX_guy/330i%20Alarm%20Install/DSC01564.jpg

Then install the siren mount to the bracket with the supplied screws. Make sure that the wires are not pinched between the wheel well and the siren mount. Securely fasten these screws but do not overtighten. (Sorry, no picture here).

Finally, replace the felt wheel arch cover and the rear wheel. Make sure you get the cover tucked in to all the right places and make sure to replace ALL mounting screws. Torque specs for the rear wheel are between 120 and 140 Nm, which translates to about 90 lb/ft. Make sure to use a torque wrench and check the torque again after a short drive. Do not over or under torque!

If your car has had the proper software updates and programming, the alarm may function immediately after installation. Mine didn't, and I have to go to my dealer and have the software updated to activate the alarm. If you have Nav, you can configure several parameters of the alarm. If you don't have Nav, you may have to live with all features active. Consult your dealer for different configurations.

Enjoy!

On a side note, my dealer says he still can't activate my alarm because he doesn't have the software updates from BMW yet. LAME! If anyone else gets their alarm activated, please let me know.

[MarkE90M3]

unbelievable writeup with great pics. this will be handy for me, thanks my man

[Jason]

It's great to see someone willing to roll up their sleeves and do a little work on their brand new E90. Everything I've installed on my car myself I appreciate much more than if I just had someone do the install for me, and I bet you feel the same way with your pedals and alarm so far :) Great writeup!

[CC 330i]

Thank you. It's a little scary doing it yourself sometimes, but I do find it is very rewarding, and you learn a lot more about your car. You just have to be careful and go SLOWLY, and don't be afraid to ask questions. This is my first new car, so I am a little apprehensive doing anything to it, though.

I don't fault anyone for having the work done at the dealer, of course. But it's like I tell my wife, I have a hard time paying for things that I can do myself, even if I don't always have the time. When it comes to my BMW, I can barely even stand to let the dealers touch it. I know that since our cars are so new, very few BMW techs have even had a chance to work on one themselves. Of course they are experienced with other BMWs so they have a huge head start on us.

On a side note, when I had the rear wheel off, I noticed that I did have a nail (suspected this due to very slow leak) in the tire (in the first 1300 miles!). So it was off to the tire shop to have a qualified tech fix the punture. I would never try something like that on my own, but for things like pedals, the alarm, and the wheel stud locks, I think most people could do them on their own if they have some experience working on cars.

[YYimports]

Awesome DIY! THanks, I'll probably do this one of these weekends... grab a 6 pack and a buddy and make a day out of it.

[camiloE90]

I have a e90 on the way...i thought it came with alarm....need to check on that. Nice tutorial !

[CC 330i]

All the cars are pre-wired for the alarm, but I believe it is a dealer installed option only. It's easy enough to install yourself if you want it.

UPDATE: I just noticed that my clown nose is flashing now (and my fog lights which didn't work before are now working) after installing my alarm. The alarm itself has still not been activated, but the clown nose flashing is a good start! For all I know, the alarm may work already, but I can't figure out how to set it off without breaking anything... Tried sitting inside and locking the doors and then opening them, but no luck. Tried also opening the hood when the doors were locked, to no avail. I think it really is not activated...

[JBOO]

Excellent work!

[plpeeple]

Did any who installed the alarm, get it activated? How!! I'm having the same problem as CC 330i!! I don't know if the alarm horn works. Also, has anyone seen any options for the alarm in the I-Drive..

[CC 330i]

Did any who installed the alarm, get it activated? How!! I'm having the same problem as CC 330i!! I don't know if the alarm horn works. Also, has anyone seen any options for the alarm in the I-Drive..

You have to get the alarm activated at the dealer.

[abdyel]

I had a good deal with the alarm and if you guys need one here is the email from the person I got mine from. mikeanzz@hotmail.com this alarm I just got is the OEM for the e90 brand new in the box never opened and I got it for $160 plus shipping i think this is a good deal so if you have any questions drop this guy a line. :thumsup:

[lux.sh]

I have question.

Installation seems like pretty much "plug-and-play", correct?
I don't see any custom cutting/drilling/wiring involved.

Also, so after you get this alarm installed, it just "Activates(assuming you
have software upgrade)" and connected with your remote key fob?

I heard bmw factory alarm also have window/sunroof closing feature.
How can you do that with your remote?
As for alarm system arming, if you lock, it arms, when you unlock,
it un-arms? Any idea on how to activate panic feature?

[sardal320d]

CC 330i:
Your post is very useful but know that I´m going to order my e91 I´m thinking in buying my alarm+PDC after market...
I´ve 2 questions:the alarm kit I saw here http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=VB31&mospid=48483&btnr=65_1487&hg=65&fg=60 does not have all the peaces you have at your first picture.However, the your kit number is the same as at this link?
Do you think that rear PDC does already have electric installation such as the alarm?
Waiting for your reply

[shadye90]

When you installed the ultrasonic modlue didnt you have to cut open the slits in order for the sensor signals to pass through because on a e90 w/o the factory alarm the slits are not cut out..

[Jason]

When you installed the ultrasonic modlue didnt you have to cut open the slits in order for the sensor signals to pass through because on a e90 w/o the factory alarm the slits are not cut out..

There's a TSB on this. Car should have come from the factory with a slotted rear light module cover. Plenty of members here have taken this TSB printout to their dealers and had them install the correct slotted cover for free. See the first TSB here to see what I'm talking about -

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3793

[shadye90]

There's a TSB on this. Car should have come from the factory with a slotted rear light module cover. Plenty of members here have taken this TSB printout to their dealers and had them install the correct slotted cover for free. See the first TSB here to see what I'm talking about -


cool..thanks for the info..

[ScotyH]

I just finished installing my alarm. It took about 50 minutes thank to the help of this thread. Now I just have to get it programmed to work. I can't believe that BMW service charges 2hrs labor ......

[AW330i]

I felt the same way but i had them program on my alarm my cd changer and do the sept update all at the same time... Worked out well for me because i got a lot of stuff taken care of...

[lux.sh]

I can't believe that BMW service charges 2hrs labor ......

how much are they charging you?

Does anyone know how much it is to get alarm installed @ dealer?
I mean as an option(including the alarm kit + installation). Isn't it like $500 installed for everything?

[ScotyH]

The first quote I got was $738+tax CDN installed. But since I bought the "alarm system" for $338(had to haggle to get the "wholesale price"), I only have to get it programmed which should be under 40 bucks. I truly do appreciate quality work performed by qualified techs for a fair dollar, but this is childs play. There's no way they should be charging 2 hrs for this.

[mc68386]

The first quote I got was $738+tax CDN installed. But since I bought the "alarm system" for $338(had to haggle to get the "wholesale price"), I only have to get it programmed which should be under 40 bucks. I truly do appreciate quality work performed by qualified techs for a fair dollar, but this is childs play. There's no way they should be charging 2 hrs for this.

So if my math is correct, your techs work for $20/hour CDN?
Here in the US, I think they charge $90/hour.

[lux.sh]

The first quote I got was $738+tax CDN installed. But since I bought the "alarm system" for $338(had to haggle to get the "wholesale price"), I only have to get it programmed which should be under 40 bucks. I truly do appreciate quality work performed by qualified techs for a fair dollar, but this is childs play. There's no way they should be charging 2 hrs for this.

Slightly confused, if you can clear it up for me, i'll appreciate it. :)

I am assuming the $738 CDN is for the installation(including programming, not including the alarm kit cost), right?

I bought alarm kit, and I plan on installing myself also. I was wondering how much it'll cost to get it activated by the dealership. I think you are saying it'll cost under 40 bucks to get it activated?

[ScotyH]

Yes, about $40 to activate.

[poldim]

Why do they charge for this service? Anyone know if theres a away to get them to update this under warranty? I know, I know, its a strech.

[MUrhino]

So I ordered the Alarm from the part number I found in the 3's accessory catalog (65-12-0-403-658). Does this include the full wiring system to put an alarm on an E90 that isn't pre-wired? I think it will still have all the required equipment, but some extra wiring will be in there too. It hasn't even shipped yet so I might be able to have them order the correct part, but I bet the cost would be the same.

[poldim]

So I ordered the Alarm from the part number I found in the 3's accessory catalog (65-12-0-403-658). Does this include the full wiring system to put an alarm on an E90 that isn't pre-wired? I think it will still have all the required equipment, but some extra wiring will be in there too. It hasn't even shipped yet so I might be able to have them order the correct part, but I bet the cost would be the same.


Got mine delivered a few days ago, but havent opened.

[2006bmw]

Anyone have the part number for the thingamajig that fits over the plastic jacking points?

[poldim]

Anyone have the part number for the thingamajig that fits over the plastic jacking points?
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/diagrams/k/y/218.png
No. Description Supplement Qty From Up To Part Number Price Notes
21 SUPPORT LIFTING PLATFORM 4 51717123311 $4.18

[UnPossible]

21 SUPPORT LIFTING PLATFORM 4 51717123311 $4.18


Maybe I'm slow, or not looking in the right place, but I can't seem to find that part number on any of the online BMW part vendors (i.e. Circle, Pacific, etc.) Anyone know where I can order this online?

Thanks

[poldim]

Have you tried calling either of the places?

[BMW325]

Where, and what was the cheapest you guys got your alarm for? I got a quote from the dealer for $599 installed. they wont sell it w/o the installation.
Any suggestions as to where to get a good deal on one?????

[poldim]

21 SUPPORT LIFTING PLATFORM 4 51717123311 $4.18


Maybe I'm slow, or not looking in the right place, but I can't seem to find that part number on any of the online BMW part vendors (i.e. Circle, Pacific, etc.) Anyone know where I can order this online?

Thanks
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=VB33&mospid=48523&btnr=51_5865&hg=51&fg=80

[poldim]

Where, and what was the cheapest you guys got your alarm for? I got a quote from the dealer for $599 installed. they wont sell it w/o the installation.
Any suggestions as to where to get a good deal on one?????

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9484

230 shipped

[BMW325]

Quick question for you guys who have done the alarm install themselves. My friend owns a garage with lifts, so he and I are going to the do the install there, this way we can use one of the lifts for removing the rear tire.
So heres my question, since we are using a lift, and NOT a jack, I wont need to worry about these little jack supports thingys right?

[reddragon]

I just got finished doing my alarm I bought thru circle BMW. It was easy, simple and with this thread straight to the point. Take your time, read the instructions above and should be no problem. My red light started to blink right away. One thing I would like to emphasize is the removal of the dome light housing. I use a plastic spatula/cake knife. Thanks a lot for whoever put this thread together, you saved me a lot of money.

[poldim]

Quick question for you guys who have done the alarm install themselves. My friend owns a garage with lifts, so he and I are going to the do the install there, this way we can use one of the lifts for removing the rear tire.
So heres my question, since we are using a lift, and NOT a jack, I wont need to worry about these little jack supports thingys right?
if you have perfectly flat jacks then i think you wont need them...

[poldim]

I just got finished doing my alarm I bought thru circle BMW. It was easy, simple and with this thread straight to the point. Take your time, read the instructions above and should be no problem. My red light started to blink right away. One thing I would like to emphasize is the removal of the dome light housing. I use a plastic spatula/cake knife. Thanks a lot for whoever put this thread together, you saved me a lot of money.


Yea, the install is pretty easy. I got it activated for free because I waited 4 hours, but they also didnt wash the car, so I'm kinda :(

But for the 40 bucks, I just washed her myself the next day...

[CC 330i]

I've been away for a while, and I am glad to see people are still getting some use from this thread. :cool!:

[john802]

I bought the oem alarm this morning ($232.05 + tax) although my 325i SG is still on the ship on its way to Port Hueneme. I printed a copy of CC 330i oem alarm installation post to guide me when it's time to install the alarm. :)

[john802]

From reading all the post above, to finish the DIY installation of DWA (oem alarm system), you need to bring it to the dealer and have them perform the CIP Retrofit Procedure regardless of what version your CIP. Is this correct? :confused2

Thanks,

[Drugfranbs]

Most likely, unless the BMW factory already fixed the problem. You can just look at it when you go to pick up the car :)

[poldim]

From reading all the post above, to finish the DIY installation of DWA (oem alarm system), you need to bring it to the dealer and have them perform the CIP Retrofit Procedure regardless of what version your CIP. Is this correct? :confused2

Thanks,


Are you talking about programming the alarm to be installed or the new trim piece on the light?

[Drugfranbs]

Are you talking about programming the alarm to be installed or the new trim piece on the light?

My bad, I thought he was talking about the slotted rear light module cover.

[john802]

Are you talking about programming the alarm to be installed or the new trim piece on the light?

I'm talking about programming the oem alarm. :)

[Jeffack56]

I'm thinking about ordering the alarm for self-install. 330's are all prewired, right?

[poldim]

I'm talking about programming the oem alarm. :)


You have to goto the dealer no matter what CIP you have. The dealer will have to update your CIP to the latest because the computer wont let them enable it if its not upto the latest version.

[poldim]

I'm thinking about ordering the alarm for self-install. 330's are all prewired, right?


I think, not 100% sure, all cars come prewired.

[john802]

You have to goto the dealer no matter what CIP you have. The dealer will have to update your CIP to the latest because the computer wont let them enable it if its not upto the latest version.

Thanks! :)

[crvgt]

my 300xi was completely pre-wired

[BMW325]

I have a question for you guys who have already done the install. Apon re-connecting the battery are there any codes for resetting the idrive/nav or radio? I was talking with my friend who has a TL and he said make sure you have all the codes to reset your Nav and Radio. Is this the case for us? or do they just come back on like nothing ever happened?
Other question, do you think it matters or would hurt the alarm if I hooked up the hood sensor, and the interior motion sensor with out unhooking the battery?
Also do you think it matters if I hook everything up, except the siren, might be a week or so till I can get to my friends garage. Figured in the mean time I could the other stuff installed.
Thoughts?

[E30M3Driver]

I just installed mine. Thanks for this thread. It was awesome. Alarm was $250 out the door at my local dealer.

Some points (I have a early Sept. build car):

-I did it without disconnecting the battery.
-I did it in reverse order-siren, hood pin, interior
-Mine didn't work until I had all the pieces connected
-Once I got the last piece in, clown nose started blinking
-I tested it as follows-rolled down the windows, locked the car, waited for clown nose to stop fast blink, reached in and unlocked the car with the button on the center console, opened the driver's door from the inside-instant siren.

However, mine does not chirp when I lock the car, one of the key features for me, grrrrr!

I do not have Idrive.

[john802]

I just installed mine. Thanks for this thread. It was awesome. Alarm was $250 out the door at my local dealer.

Some points (I have a early Sept. build car):

-I did it without disconnecting the battery.
-I did it in reverse order-siren, hood pin, interior
-Mine didn't work until I had all the pieces connected
-Once I got the last piece in, clown nose started blinking
-I tested it as follows-rolled down the windows, locked the car, waited for clown nose to stop fast blink, reached in and unlocked the car with the button on the center console, opened the driver's door from the inside-instant siren.

However, mine does not chirp when I lock the car, one of the key features for me, grrrrr!

I do not have Idrive.

You need to have the dealer activate the alarm in order for the chirp sound to be active when locking the car using the fob.

[jkcali2ooo]

I bought my alarm system from the stealer for 330 after tax. Installed and to my surprise I have to get it activated :(
They are going to charge me $125 + tax to update my software and make the alarm work with my car. Man, maybe I should have just paid for them to install everything...

[poldim]

I bought my alarm system from the stealer for 330 after tax. Installed and to my surprise I have to get it activated :(
They are going to charge me $125 + tax to update my software and make the alarm work with my car. Man, maybe I should have just paid for them to install everything...


Dont pay. Either tell them it should only take a half hour to activate it or go to another dealer.

Software update is supposed to be covered by warranty.

[jkcali2ooo]

*UPDATE* I made a huge mistake. Completely forgot to connect the wire to the ultrasonic module. I just did it this morning and red clown nose starts blinking. I rolled down the window and threw a towel inside and alarm goes off.

I too do not have the arming noise when alarming my car but I don't really care about that. Thanks again for the awesome DIY instructions

Thats $125 plus tax saved for dealer software updates.

:D

[john802]

...They are going to charge me $125 + tax to update my software and make the alarm work with my car...

That's robbery! Shop around, it should not cost you more than 30 minutes of labor. When I had my alarm activated, the BMW service center (New Century BMW) only charged me $50.00 + tax. The dealer where I bought my car wanted $150.00 + tax.

[E30M3Driver]

You need to have the dealer activate the alarm in order for the chirp sound to be active when locking the car using the fob.

The alarm IS active. Perhaps they can control the lock/unlock settings described in the manual that are unobtainium in real life?

[poldim]

It took them 3 hours to do mine, so my SA covered it under warranty.

[2006bmw]

So did anyone NOT have the clown nose start blinking and siren working right away? I installed the alarm, but nothing works. I'm wondering if I did something wrong, although I cannot imagine what that could be. It's just not that complicated.

[best1]

Thanks for the DIY on this. I Bought the alarm from Pacific BMW for 250 including shipping. It took me about an hour to install it all. The dealer said that they would activate for 90 bucks. The clown nose started blinking right away but no sound from the siren. Thanks again.

330i sparkling graphite, terra, sport, premium

[jkcali2ooo]

I did the self install myself and initially nothing worked. I later realized I had forgotten to connect the wire to the ultrasonic module in the interior of the car. Once done the clown nose started blinking. Everything was working except the beeping. I called the dealer and they quoted me at $125 plus tax to install. So I talked to my service advisor and after making it a point on how my car was an 06 (i.e. a new car), he said he would cover the install under warranty. So I lucked out. :)

Everyone should at least try to reason with em before paying the software update fee... G/L

[best1]

Cool thanks for the insight. I will try and negotiate with them

[BMW325]

got my alarm activated today, $45.00, WOOHOO. However, did anyone else notice after they recoded your car, the radio didnt display station names? EX. in my area there is a radio station, 93.3WMMR, and thats how it used to show up in Nav screen. Today its just 93.3
Anyone else have this issue?

[poldim]

what cip?

[BMW325]

My bad, forgot to come back and post, everything is working fine now, all I had to do was re-program the stations, and the tags came back.

[poldim]

Good to know. I wonder why it lost the tags though....

[john802]

My bad, forgot to come back and post, everything is working fine now, all I had to do was re-program the stations, and the tags came back.

Same thing happens to my radio when the dealer initiated my oem alarm. I just re-program the stations and the tags came back.

[FrankoQ]

All these posts just inspired me to do it myself
The dealer wanted $500
Just bought my alarm for $220 including shipping.
They say they will charge about $100 to update software.

Question:
It seems that once installed, the alarm works.
The software update seems to add options so you can
set the audible alert and the lights to blink when arming/disarming.
But other than that, the alarm works the moment you
install it. Is that so?

[crvgt]

I believe you are right. The only thing the dealer activation accomplished was the audible chirp and the flashing lights. Otherwise the alarm itself is fully functional as far as I can tell after the install. Dealer should only charge 1/2 hour labor - around $50.00 USD.

[BMW325]

All these posts just inspired me to do it myself
The dealer wanted $500
Just bought my alarm for $220 including shipping.
They say they will charge about $100 to update software.

Question:
It seems that once installed, the alarm works.
The software update seems to add options so you can
set the audible alert and the lights to blink when arming/disarming.
But other than that, the alarm works the moment you
install it. Is that so?

The alarm wont work to its full capacity. After I installed mine, the clown nose blinked, and the alarm would go off sometimes from the motion sensor. But you DONT get the audible confirmation, or the panic feature (holding the trunk button) Since I got mine activated the motion sensor is also acting properly. My dealer only charged me $47.00. IF your dealer is trying to charge you more, tell them thats BS, you know for a fact it only takes 1/2 hr to do it, and if they wont honor that, your going somewhere else. Then I'd call around, get some other quotes.

[john802]

Sometimes the dealer include updating software as part of the labor charge. That's one of the reason why they charge so much to initiate the alarm. My dealer cover under warranty the software update & charge me $50.00 to initiate the alarm.

["White Chicks" was an awf]

My dealer told me that the alarm is not available for cars with the big moonroofs, like on my 325xit (E91 wagon). Anybody know if this is true?

[john802]

My dealer told me that the alarm is not available for cars with the big moonroofs, like on my 325xit (E91 wagon). Anybody know if this is true?

I think the oem alarm is available to E91 w/ electric panoramic moonroof. You just need a different ultra sonic module(P/N:65 75 6 972 065).

[foofighter]

quite informative!!! I think when i take delivery i'll haggle with them to get this alarm thrown in ;)

[magamaga]

at Momemtum BMW west here in Houston, the SA said it would be $216 to install it because they have to reapply software to the car. Am I getting ripped off?

[FrankoQ]

Well, I just did the install and here are a few things to notice:
1) I did not disconect the battery.
2) I started with the installation of the siren. This is because I was
installing the mudguards too.
3) I did have to jack up the car but did not remove the wheel.
once the wheel is on the air, there is plenty of room to install the siren
and the mudflap.
4) I used the jack from an old Toyota corolla. hehe. the jack did fit
perfectly in those jack points for the bimmer.
5) Next was the hood switch. No issues here.
6) the next step was the motion sensor. No issues but be careful when
removing the dome light housing.

At that point, the clown nose did nothing.
I figured I need to take the car to the stealer so they can activate it.
Maybe not...
I went into the i-drive menu and found alert settings to
flash the lights when locking and unlocking. Nothing about audible alerts.
I took delivery of the car yesterday and I don't remember seeing the lights
flash when locking the car.
I removed the keyfob from the car, got out and pressed the lock button.
The lights flashed and the clown nose started blinking fast for a few secs
then went to flash once every few seconds. If I unlock, then I get the lights to flash again and the clown nose stops blinking.

It's almost midnight so I do not want to test the actual alarm.
But will try the following tomorrow:
- press and hold trunk button to see if the panic feature works.
- lock myself inside the car to see if the motion sensor works.
- test the hood switch
- test the doors.

If the above works, the only thing not there is the audible alert when
locking/ unlocking. I could live without that and save me some $$$
that I can use for other upgrades.

That's my report for today.

[obLu]

Mine started working like that right away ... and then I fought with the stealer over activation, they wanted $250 just for activation. Finally settled on $100 after calling them out on what it is they have to do for activation ... and after they had my car ALL damn day before bothering to start the software update and then telling me they'd need the car another day, but no loaner for you so sorry. Needless to say I wasn't pleased. After much bitching they miraculously got it working.

But the downside is, somehow they activated the alarm so that it has audible notification but it's not available as an option in the settings. I have the choice of setting it to flash the lights or not flash the lights, but no matter what it chirps. I don't have that third option to turn the audible on or off.

No matter, but somehow they were able to hard code that without updating the software. I highly doubt they got the software on my car updated in 40min (I don't have idrive and don't know how to check it without that so I've never bothered to look either). My guess is you don't really *need* to have the software updated to activate the alarm ... I've dealt with service depts before that have done some shady crap. My guess is, since every time I asked the price for activation changed, that they're billing BMW under warranty for the software update and then charging the customer cash.

[FrankoQ]

Well, I just did the install and here are a few things to notice:
1) I did not disconect the battery.
2) I started with the installation of the siren. This is because I was
installing the mudguards too.
3) I did have to jack up the car but did not remove the wheel.
once the wheel is on the air, there is plenty of room to install the siren
and the mudflap.
4) I used the jack from an old Toyota corolla. hehe. the jack did fit
perfectly in those jack points for the bimmer.
5) Next was the hood switch. No issues here.
6) the next step was the motion sensor. No issues but be careful when
removing the dome light housing.

At that point, the clown nose did nothing.
I figured I need to take the car to the stealer so they can activate it.
Maybe not...
I went into the i-drive menu and found alert settings to
flash the lights when locking and unlocking. Nothing about audible alerts.
I took delivery of the car yesterday and I don't remember seeing the lights
flash when locking the car.
I removed the keyfob from the car, got out and pressed the lock button.
The lights flashed and the clown nose started blinking fast for a few secs
then went to flash once every few seconds. If I unlock, then I get the lights to flash again and the clown nose stops blinking.

It's almost midnight so I do not want to test the actual alarm.
But will try the following tomorrow:
- press and hold trunk button to see if the panic feature works.
- lock myself inside the car to see if the motion sensor works.
- test the hood switch
- test the doors.

If the above works, the only thing not there is the audible alert when
locking/ unlocking. I could live without that and save me some $$$
that I can use for other upgrades.

That's my report for today.


Today's report:
- panic button does not work
- hood switch does not set off the alarm
- motion sensor does work and sets off the alarm
- opening the door also sets off the alarm.

So, I will go to the stealer to get the software upgraded for the alarm.

[therat]

Been reading this post and it has been very helpful, since i'm planning to get an oem alarm myself. I do have a question for those who have installed the alarm..did any of you have comfort access installed on your car? I don't have navigation. I want to know if there is any difference if you do have comfort access. My keyfob on my car already roles down the window and moonroof. Is that the same on a non-comfort access car? Anyone have any experience w/ alarm w/ comfort access please share how the alarm works w/ comfort access. Thanks!!!

[dba1t]

Thank everyone for the helpful DIY information on the factory alarm. I installed the components on the weekend. All went according to plan with no surprises.

[FrankoQ]

Thank everyone for the helpful DIY information on the factory alarm. I installed the components on the weekend. All went according to plan with no surprises.

What do you mean?
all the functions of the alarm work?
Did you have to get a software update?

[mpc325]

I just purchased a June 06 build 325 last week. I brought it back to the dealer a few days ago to get the alarm installed and was told that I needed the rear dome light replaced to accomodate the motion detector and it is currently on backorder until at least September.

I have some doubts if this is correct. Thanks to this site, I know the dome light issue relates back to a July 05 TSB and I wouldn't think that BMW is still shipping cars with the incorrect light. Additionally it sounds like a lot of other owners are handling 2006 installations without mentioning the light replacement. I'm also getting a conflicting conclusion from another dealer who ran my VIN and said that I don't need the replacement.

I'm somewhat confused now and I'm not sure which dealer to trust. Can someone on the forum please describe or post a photo of the proper rear dome light so that I can identify whether I have the right light?

Thanks for any help that you can provide.

[magamaga]

You don't need to replace it. I have a March 06 build and I didn't need to replace the dome light. The motion sensor fits just fine.

[anolin]

...
3) I did have to jack up the car but did not remove the wheel.
once the wheel is on the air, there is plenty of room to install the siren
and the mudflap.
4) I used the jack from an old Toyota corolla. hehe. the jack did fit
perfectly in those jack points for the bimmer.
<snip>


Franko - did you remove the felt wheel well liner before or after you jacked the car? I got a quote from a local SA for the siren install and software activation only, but can get that number down even more if I can DIY the siren.

[Boondoggler]

Franko - did you remove the felt wheel well liner before or after you jacked the car? I got a quote from a local SA for the siren install and software activation only, but can get that number down even more if I can DIY the siren.

I just performed the install this evening. It would not be possible to remove the felt liner without jacking up the car. Honestly, I'm impressed he got the felt liner off without removing the wheel as there are several screws that are near impossible to get at without removing the wheel. Unless you're willing and able to jack up the car and remove the wheel you'll have to have the dealer do the siren.

[FrankoQ]

I just purchased a June 06 build 325 last week. I brought it back to the dealer a few days ago to get the alarm installed and was told that I needed the rear dome light replaced to accomodate the motion detector and it is currently on backorder until at least September.

I have some doubts if this is correct. Thanks to this site, I know the dome light issue relates back to a July 05 TSB and I wouldn't think that BMW is still shipping cars with the incorrect light. Additionally it sounds like a lot of other owners are handling 2006 installations without mentioning the light replacement. I'm also getting a conflicting conclusion from another dealer who ran my VIN and said that I don't need the replacement.

I'm somewhat confused now and I'm not sure which dealer to trust. Can someone on the forum please describe or post a photo of the proper rear dome light so that I can identify whether I have the right light?

Thanks for any help that you can provide.

Here is a pic of the rear dome light.
Older models did not have those grills for the motion sensor.
37514

[Joe Bimmer]

So, the OEM alarm doesn't have a sensor for the boot (trunk) ? This would be a common place for a thief to want to break in...did I miss something? :confused2

[FrankoQ]

So, the OEM alarm doesn't have a sensor for the boot (trunk) ? This would be a common place for a thief to want to break in...did I miss something? :confused2

There is a switch for the trunk (boot).
The DIY above shows instructions on how to install that.

[txusa03]

they rip you off with the alarm, and they are still not satisfied and want to rip you off again with the activation:barf:

[Sho]

Is the dome light grill must have those holes? Mine has the grill shape, but no holes.
I thought the infrared motion detacter would work behind the plastic shield.

[txusa03]

Is the dome light grill must have those holes? Mine has the grill shape, but no holes.
I thought the infrared motion detacter would work behind the plastic shield.
It is not that high tech yet:laugh: to penetrate the plastic, you will need to get the dome light cover with the open horizontal slot. Look on realoem.com for the part#

[Sho]

Thanks, and that is sucks.

[Sho]

Part ordered. Part#61-31-6-945-200. From Crown BMW. $62.92

[mpc325]

Part ordered. Part#61-31-6-945-200. From Crown BMW. $62.92

My dealer tried to charge me for the dome light too but they reversed course when I pointed out the TSB.

Thanks to FrankoQ for the Pic.

[Boondoggler]

There is a switch for the trunk (boot).
The DIY above shows instructions on how to install that.

FrankoQ, I think you misunderstood him. There is no switch for the trunk (boot) in the alarm kit, there is a switch for the hood (engine compartment).

[FrankoQ]

FrankoQ, I think you misunderstood him. There is no switch for the trunk (boot) in the alarm kit, there is a switch for the hood (engine compartment).

Doh!
you are right. my bad.
rewind.......
NO switch for the trunk.
Yes switch for the hood.

[Sho]

If I printed the TSB, then go to a dealer. Would they give me the part for free?

[mpc325]

If I printed the TSB, then go to a dealer. Would they give me the part for free?
I did it over the phone when they called and gave me the price for my installation - they added in the price of the dome light to pick up my car. I disputed it, the SA researched it and called back and said "no charge".

Please note, the part number that you have (same as mine) is not the same one listed in the TSB. I don't know why that is, but they did give me the same part for no charge.

[Sho]

I email my SA today, with the TSB link. And he said everything will be taken care of when I bring my car in. :-)
Also they are fixing the clicking sound on the B-pillars :-)

[Boondoggler]

Here's an interesting turn of events. I purchased my alarm through Morristown BMW and installed it about 2 weeks ago. My car has an 06/06 build date. The clown light blinks and everything seems fine, so I call Princeton BMW and ask for a quote to get it activated, they quote me $52.

I take it in today and my SA comes out and says there is a problem, the computer can't see the alarm, so they can't activate. He asks me (for the 3rd time) whether it's the oem BMW alarm, I confirm it is, and he asks me to speak to the the tech working on my car. The tech asks me to talk him through how I did my install, and after describing my work, he says that it sounds like I did everything correctly. I agree to allow them to check my work, and if I did something wrong, to cover they're extra labor. If the alarm is faulty, they will replace it under the part warranty.

After a couple hours the SA calls me, and tells me that while I have the current version of software on my car, and a current version of the alarm, there is an incompatibililty with the siren model and my software, and that's why the alarm can't be recognized. To confirm this what BMW told them, they say they pulled an alarm off their own parts shelf and installed it on my car to confirm the incompatibility. They say the second alarm they installed did the same thing.

They offer to allow me to wait a couple months for a software update to come out, or they can order me an different version siren module, and install it and activate it. He also states, while the siren module costs $187, they aren't going to charge me as it's not my fault. They do ask for an extra 1/2 hour labor to install the new siren module.

Sounds pretty fishy to me as nobody else has experienced something similar.

[paul325740]

WOW. THAT MAKE ME HAVE TO THINK AGAIN.

I will pick-up my 330i next month at performance delivery center. I just got a qoute for alarm installed for "Alarm system $246 + 105 labor" which is I think is a good deal. but I'm not sure now it will happen same thing like you or not..:confused2

[Boondoggler]

Well, my SA called me to say that the siren module they ordered for me is on major backorder, at least two weeks until they receive it. It would appear I'm not the only one who needed this part to make it work.

[Boondoggler]

Well, my alarm saga is finally over, and it has a happy ending.

To recap:

1) I buy the alarm online from MorristownBMW and install it.
2) I get quoted $52 by PrincetonBMW to activate it.
3) When they attempt to activate it, they find the siren is not compatible with the most current software update. They offer to order a compatible version, they initially want $187 for it, but after I argue they agree to do it for free.
4) They get the replacement siren (a couple weeks later due to backorder) and install it, do a software update, and activate it. My service invoice says it was a 3.5 hour process, though is is most likely inflated to get more warrenty reimbursement from BMWNA.
5) Since it wasn't my fault the siren was incompatible, and I've been inconvenienced, they don't charge me a cent for the replacement siren, the installation or the activation process.

All in all, pretty damn good service if you ask me. Except for the backorder situation, which isn't the dealer's fault.

[DJHakim]

Well, my alarm saga is finally over, and it has a happy ending.

...


I had problems, too. I actually bought the system and it was supposed to be installed by the Perf. Ctr. in August. When I got there for the grand delivery, they broke it to me that BMWNA put a national freeze on alarm installs.

Evidentally, it was the siren as you discovered; it's legit. I have since learned that a software update (PROGMAN 23 available as of last week) will remedy the issue. I bet that's what you got. Hopefully I can get an alarm installed now! :thumsup:

FYI, here is the bulletin on the freeze (Aug 27, 2006)

[Sho]

I had the same issue, and just got a call from my SA last Friday that the new software is in. He said it doesn't matter to the alarm system, it was the software.

[neuronpetkowski]

they rip you off with the alarm, and they are still not satisfied and want to rip you off again with the activation:barf:
amen brother, amen.

[Mystic330]

Just installed my alarm tonight!! (Thanks for the info guys!)

One thing you should add to the DIY - After mounting the siren bracket, be sure to anchor the siren wire to the bracket. There is an extra hole on the left side of the bracket - just push the plastic wire anchor (already attached to the siren wire) into the hole and your done.

Now just need activation!

[TTG]

Any word on E92's yet? Is it the same alarm system? Any body tried to get an alarm installed on a E92 yet? Thanks in advance.

[magamaga]

Sho, did you get the alarm working with Progman 23.? I went to my BMW dealer and the tech didn't know. I showed him the forum and he said 23.1 is the latest.

I had the same issue, and just got a call from my SA last Friday that the new software is in. He said it doesn't matter to the alarm system, it was the software.

[anolin]

Many thanks to all the previous posters (especially CC 330i and FrankoQ). :bow:

I got the alarm from Chris at Circle BMW for $250 shipped and was able to do the install (without even jacking the car up or removing the wheel!) in under an hour.

Murray Motors in Denver completed the alarm activation and software de-activation of a lost key in half an hour, but the computer re-boot took over 3 additional hours!!! They only charged me $75 for the initial work, so I lost some time, but saved lots of $$$. The only other hiccup was a non-working moonroof switch, following the reboot that was easily fixed without having to return to the shop.

Thanks again, for helping me through the fist mod!

[FrankoQ]

Many thanks to all the previous posters (especially CC 330i and FrankoQ). :bow:

I got the alarm from Chris at Circle BMW for $250 shipped and was able to do the install (without even jacking the car up or removing the wheel!) in under an hour.

Murray Motors in Denver completed the alarm activation and software de-activation of a lost key in half an hour, but the computer re-boot took over 3 additional hours!!! They only charged me $75 for the initial work, so I lost some time, but saved lots of $$$. The only other hiccup was a non-working moonroof switch, following the reboot that was easily fixed without having to return to the shop.

Thanks again, for helping me through the fist mod!

I'm glad everything worked out. :)

[acizek]

thanks for a great DIY, I am intending to go with the OEM alarm as well. Have a question - do ALL cars come pre-wired or the US ones only? I do not have the clown nose on my rear view mirror at all now, is there any way to check if my car is pre-wired?
thanks a lot.

[gary328xi]

Refer to page 21 of the car manual , it tells you how to set set the audible alert.

[s4iscool]

to save a trip to the dealer on the slotted done lid, I just dremeled mine out. no probs

[s4iscool]

Also, in the original DIY, the dome lid is NOT the slotted one. You can see that the pic does not have the ultrasonic slits opened up.

When taking the dome light out, instead of prying from the light (frosted cover) side, just lift from the slits side (closer to sunroof) and it will pop off very easily.

I did mine and the clown nose blinks, but nothing else works. So ill see what the software does.

Thanks for the original post! hardest part was prying the damn wheel off the hub, which had seized on...why can BMW and other germans use STUDS.

[Ascension]

Thank you. It's a little scary doing it yourself sometimes, but I do find it is very rewarding, and you learn a lot more about your car. You just have to be careful and go SLOWLY, and don't be afraid to ask questions. This is my first new car, so I am a little apprehensive doing anything to it, though.

I don't fault anyone for having the work done at the dealer, of course. But it's like I tell my wife, I have a hard time paying for things that I can do myself, even if I don't always have the time. When it comes to my BMW, I can barely even stand to let the dealers touch it. I know that since our cars are so new, very few BMW techs have even had a chance to work on one themselves. Of course they are experienced with other BMWs so they have a huge head start on us.

On a side note, when I had the rear wheel off, I noticed that I did have a nail (suspected this due to very slow leak) in the tire (in the first 1300 miles!). So it was off to the tire shop to have a qualified tech fix the punture. I would never try something like that on my own, but for things like pedals, the alarm, and the wheel stud locks, I think most people could do them on their own if they have some experience working on cars.

CC330i..............EXCELLENT write-up. 10 out of 10. By the way, if you're ever in No Ca., you're more than welcome to install my alarm :D

[Pink]

CC330i..............EXCELLENT write-up. 10 out of 10. By the way, if you're ever in No Ca., you're more than welcome to install my alarm :D

I second that, for NY :) Seriously, I think I am going to have the dealer install my alarm - if they don't charge too much!

[s4iscool]

just do it yourself, its so easy. Like its been posted, getting the wheel off is the hardest...esp if its seized to the hub, which most likely it is.

[gary328xi]

Thank you all for all the info. I purchased the alarm from Circle Bmw $232.00 and the installation was a breeze. It took me about 30 mins .Anyone in NJ/NYC area who needs help with the installation just PM me..........

[s4iscool]

im going in for the alarm software tomorrow, but I also need to have some of the recall software updates loaded to my pre sept car. Do you think I should not even mention the alarm and see if it will recognize it automatically? Or is there a speicif seperate alarm software that has to be uploaded seperately?

[youyou]

Hi,
Well i want to do this insatll but just have a few questions nad hopeully someone might know the answers...
First off i checked with my local Bmw parts depart. and it's the same part # for the E92. So good news as it will work on the E92.
Now i am wondering if it will work with comfort access?
Forgot to ask the Parts Depart. guy...
And lastly how does the audible chirp sound?
Does it sound like the audible chirp from an E60 5 series or is basically just your horn chirping...
I think the sound of the E60 chirp when looking the doors sounds "luxurious" and just the sound of your horn beeping sounds cheap to me...
Call me crazy but that's just my opinion.

[FrankoQ]

Hi,
Well i want to do this insatll but just have a few questions nad hopeully someone might know the answers...
First off i checked with my local Bmw parts depart. and it's the same part # for the E92. So good news as it will work on the E92.
Now i am wondering if it will work with comfort access?
Forgot to ask the Parts Depart. guy...
And lastly how does the audible chirp sound?
Does it sound like the audible chirp from an E60 5 series or is basically just your horn chirping...
I think the sound of the E60 chirp when looking the doors sounds "luxurious" and just the just of your horn beeping sounds cheap to me...
Call me crazy but that's just my opinion.
And

It does not sound like the horn.
Sounds like previous BMWs alarms. one beep for arming it, two beeps for disarming.

[DrPowers]

What sound does the alarm make when you arm / disarm it????

I've installed mine and I've had it activated but it makes a beep sound rather than the chirp sound that I was expecting. Is this the correct behavior?

If so... what does the actual alarm itself sound like?? I cant figure out how to get it go off on purpose.

[SoYank]

Try arming it, wait a couple of minutes, then unlock the door with the key instead of the remote.

[s4iscool]

yes its a beep, same you hear on lexus...its a nice beep imo.
"Chirp" to me would decribe the old school viper alarms

[vAnt826]

E92 guys.

We're lucky.

I'm doing the install as we speak (for two E92s) and we are just slightly different.

We don't need a prying tool, spatuala, etc. to remove the rear dome. Just use your fingers and it literally pops off with very little force (In fact too little, makes me scared that it can just fall off during a hard bump. Easy to remove on two different E92s). No one mentioned it to me but that plug to take out of the rear dome plug holder is a BITCH!

We do not need to remove that brake resoirvor cover, it's already been taken out and lined up to that star pattern screw in hole. Make sure not to try and take the plug out of the actual hood switch, but the plug on the connector on the car. I tried and unfortunetely succeeded taking out the actual hood switch plug and it was a big mistake.

I'm still trying to install the siren, need to figure out how to jack up the car safely.

[vAnt826]

Just got done putting the siren in.

I jacked the car up with a regular jack and used ALOT of towels because I couldn't find an object shaped like a box to fit into the jacking point. I didn't take the rear wheel off and it was better for me to have the wheel there to rest my elbows on while playing with the screws up there. I left the felt fender lining on the wheel to have a clean resting surface. I'm not sure why, but it is much easier to put the left (front of car) screw first then the rear screw when attatching the actual siren to the car.

Time for activation now!

[poldim]

yes its a beep, same you hear on lexus...its a nice beep imo.
"Chirp" to me would decribe the old school viper alarms
Kinda of sad how my mom's new ES350 comes with an alarm and beeps from the factory.

But there is no replacement for the handling...

[poldim]

What sound does the alarm make when you arm / disarm it????

I've installed mine and I've had it activated but it makes a beep sound rather than the chirp sound that I was expecting. Is this the correct behavior?

If so... what does the actual alarm itself sound like?? I cant figure out how to get it go off on purpose.


Hold the trunk button for 3 seconds, it activates the panic mode where the siren goes stupid...

[s4iscool]

and you need the software from the dealer to make the siren go off, at least on mine it was like that.

And to the E92 owner posting on the dome light cover...the E90 just pops off from the rear forward area as well. There is no need to pry on the rear (frosted side). Takes 2 seconds to take the dome light cover off.

[DownInLA]

E92 guys.

We're lucky.

I'm doing the install as we speak (for two E92s) and we are just slightly different.

We don't need a prying tool, spatuala, etc. to remove the rear dome. Just use your fingers and it literally pops off with very little force (In fact too little, makes me scared that it can just fall off during a hard bump. Easy to remove on two different E92s). No one mentioned it to me but that plug to take out of the rear dome plug holder is a BITCH!

We do not need to remove that brake resoirvor cover, it's already been taken out and lined up to that star pattern screw in hole. Make sure not to try and take the plug out of the actual hood switch, but the plug on the connector on the car. I tried and unfortunetely succeeded taking out the actual hood switch plug and it was a big mistake.

I'm still trying to install the siren, need to figure out how to jack up the car safely.

Apparently we're very UNLUCKY. I agree the installation on my 335i was more simple (took me bout 20 minutes). My clown nose blinks, but of course the panic, motion, hood etc. doesn't work.

However, my dealer wants $180 for the activation! I told them a member paid only $50 for their activation and the SA tells me that the 335i is more complicated (its iDrive is based on the current 5-series and 7-series) than the previous E90s and requires two hours for a software download. That's highway robbery! It's not like the tech has to stare at my car for two hours during the download!

Just out of principle I can't bring myself to pay someone for two hours of labor to stare at a computer screen while a software is being downloaded.

Any recommendations on more sensible dealers in Socal or anywhere else (I could use the vacation :) ) would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers

[vAnt826]

I'm still trying to figure out where I can get my siren activated without paying $600... :(

[Nexus-6]

So what's the scoop on the alarm mostly working after an install?

It sounds like it works right off the bat with the exception of the confirmation beep for lock/unlock. Clown nose, motion sensor, etc seem to be working for a good deal of people right after the install without any dealer activation, right?

I'm installing my alarm tomorrow and crossing my fingers that I won't have to pay the dealer for any sort of activation. I'm totally fine without a beep confirmation and would turn that off anyhow...

[FrankoQ]

So what's the scoop on the alarm mostly working after an install?

It sounds like it works right off the bat with the exception of the confirmation beep for lock/unlock. Clown nose, motion sensor, etc seem to be working for a good deal of people right after the install without any dealer activation, right?

I'm installing my alarm tomorrow and crossing my fingers that I won't have to pay the dealer for any sort of activation. I'm totally fine without a beep confirmation and would turn that off anyhow...

It mostly works.
In my case, after DIY install, I did not have:
- audible beep for lock/unlock
- panic button did not work
- hood sensor did not work

[Nexus-6]

That's cool - I have never used the panic feature in any alarm ever (at least not on purpose then I'm mad as hell when it won't shut off) so that's a bonus for me that it doesn't work.

Didn't want the audible confirmation - so, cool there...

Hood switch - hmmm...would be nice to have that working I suppose though it's not the most important thing.

Thanks for the reply! :thumsup:

[s4iscool]

commmon, its just $48 to get it all working. I dont see the logic in not completing the install. sucks we have to pay for the software update...but to eac their own!

[vAnt826]

It's not $48 for us in Seattle... Either way, I found someone to do it for $105.

Oh and, you don't need everything installed to have the red light blink. We were missing the siren at one point and the red light still blinked when locked.

[Nexus-6]

Dealer here quoted me $150.00....

If it was $50 like you said, you bet! But it's not that way everywhere...in fact, the other dealer said they wouldn't even do it since they didn't install the alarm.

[Nexus-6]

All installed - piece of cake on my 335i! Gotta say, the siren is pretty damn shrill in a closed garage. heh

Everything worked like expected - no panic button, arm/disarm notification or hood switch trigger but doors opening and motion sensor worked - clown nose blinks. I'm good for now unless the dealer decides to change their quote for activation. :)

Also of note - like described above, I tested the alarm after installing the motion sensor in the overhead lamp compartment - no siren or hood switch. The clown nose worked straight away.

Someone needs to figure out a little resistor end-cap for that harness in the overhead lamp compartment and sell them for a few bucks for folks who just want the clown nose to blink - could be much easier than the Radio Shack PCB mod (as long as someone was able to figure it out of course).

[s4iscool]

my dealer was told by bmw to charge for half an hour of labor, so thats why it came to $48. Plus my dealer isnt really one known to offer "deals" so if mine can do it...surely others can...

but i agree, $100+? heck no

[topazblue]

My dealer told me that the alarm is not available for cars with the big moonroofs, like on my 325xit (E91 wagon). Anybody know if this is true?Any update from your dealer? Mine is telling me that it is still not available for my '06 325xit due to defective software. They are supposedly working on it...

[thenjman]

Hi,

Did you get the alarm software installed at a local BMW Dealer? If so, did they charge you 1/2 hour or more?

Thanks in advance,
Steven

P.S. I just purchased a 07 BMW 335i from Paul Millers in Wayne. I love it!


Thank you all for all the info. I purchased the alarm from Circle Bmw $232.00 and the installation was a breeze. It took me about 30 mins .Anyone in NJ/NYC area who needs help with the installation just PM me..........

[gary328xi]

Hi,

Did you get the alarm software installed at a local BMW Dealer? If so, did they charge you 1/2 hour or more?

Thanks in advance,
Steven

P.S. I just purchased a 07 BMW 335i from Paul Millers in Wayne. I love it!

My dealer installed the software as a comp no charge. It took about 20 mins.

[TTG]

All installed - piece of cake on my 335i! Gotta say, the siren is pretty damn shrill in a closed garage. heh

Everything worked like expected - no panic button, arm/disarm notification or hood switch trigger but doors opening and motion sensor worked - clown nose blinks. I'm good for now unless the dealer decides to change their quote for activation. :)

Thanks for sharing this info.... Arm / Disarm notification is annoying anyways.... Alarm simply disarms itself when you unlock the doors and arms once you lock them right.... ? I can live without getting it programmed for sure.....

In Seattle we get ripped off for trying to do get stuff like this programmed :(

[dkkim]

In Houston, Advantage BMW Midtown offered me $57 for activation.
But I got for $45 at College Station (Garlyn Shelton BMW) with Progman Update due to Bluetooth problem.

[2006bmw]

Has anyone had a problem with NOTHING working after the DIY install? My clown nose doesn't blink, nada. I'm wondering if I did something wrong, but it's so freaking simple, I can't fathom what it could have been.

[slickg66]

The walk through on the alarm install was amazing. Thanks!

Notes:

Installed mine per the walk through, (including cutting a piece of wood to fit inside the jack hole) and everything worked as advertised (including the motion sensor, and the siren).
Prior to the install, my dealer quoted me $550 + tax for the alarm & install.
I bought mine on eBay for $169 shipped. (factory sealed box too)
My dealer quoted me $109 for the software update, but I'm going to haggle pretty hard when I go in on Monday.

I think I'm having some trouble with my blue-tooth anyway.:thumsup:

[Kid Eh]

Well I bought the alarm off eBay after reading this post but something is seriously wrong. I have an e92 328i and after taking the dome light off I see no place to fit the ultrasonic sensor. The bottom of the dome light is just a flat piece of plastic covering up everything inside. Also there is no extra wire laying around to plug into the module once I would have put it in. What is going on here? Do they not pre-wire the cars here in Canada? I'm really confused. Anybody??????

[s4iscool]

there is no wire in there, its a plug.

post a picture of your dome module.

[Kid Eh]

there is no wire in there, its a plug.

post a picture of your dome module.

Plug, wire, same thing. You get what I mean. Is there not a wire going into that plug? Anyways I don't have a picture. It's basically all black on the inside with 3 white circular plastic knobs. On the outside there is no vent for the sensor either.

[Kid Eh]

Nevermind. Through all this I seemed to have missed one very important word. "rear" light. I was trying to install it in the front light compartment. I'll be ok.

[nyc3r]

oem alarm installed, clown nose blinks red.. but i can't get the alarm to go off. Tried opening door with key (not fob) after locking, sticking hand in window (left open). Nothing!

I can live without the audio beep confirmation and was going to try to avoid getting ripped off by dealer on software update.

[ebanul]

oem alarm installed, clown nose blinks red.. but i can't get the alarm to go off. Tried opening door with key (not fob) after locking, sticking hand in window (left open). Nothing!

I can live without the audio beep confirmation and was going to try to avoid getting ripped off by dealer on software update.

You have to arm the alarm (lock car) and wait 2 mins before you try to stick your arm in the car to set the alarm off. I guess the internal sensor has to fully reconize the interior parameters of the vehicle. After you get the alarm programmed it works better and can be set-off with the hood sensor.

Also if you notice when you arm the car the clown nose blinks red fast and then goes to a slow blink. The instructions state that this means somthing is wrong with the alarm (or not programmed).

[brocken]

Good info dudes! That's pretty cool if I can install the alarm and have most of the features working out of the box. I'd rather not pay the dealer $160 and hassle with taking it in if I can get the most neccessary features just by installing it.

[mimi74]

I've installed the full alarme kit with wire and miror on my E92... Then coding for activate it.
Now all features are working fine but...
- no audible beep for lock/unlock
- no panic button

[ngoni]

Great DIY. Works like a charm.

However upon going to the stealer for activation, I balked at the $200 they wanted to charge for activation and 'progman upgrades.' I pointed out the fact that any progman updates that had to be performed while activating the alarm were covered under warranty (as per the BMW installation instructions posted on this site). So instead of trying to figure out how much to bill me just for activation they waived the charge.

[Dr Dre]

I own a e90 323i in Australia. There is no spare wiring in the rear interior light and no clown nose is fitted to the mirror. Is there a different kit available for cars not pre-wired???

[s4iscool]

I've installed the full alarme kit with wire and miror on my E92... Then coding for activate it.
Now all features are working fine but...
- no audible beep for lock/unlock
- no panic button

Maybe something went wrong with the software update? Those are two symptoms that there software "wasnt" done. Id go back to the dealer.

[mimi74]

I think here, in France, we haven't the two options activate
audible beep for lock/unlock and panic button
so no solution for the moment :(

[SES_D]

trunk = panic button =P

[FrankoQ]

I've installed the full alarme kit with wire and miror on my E92... Then coding for activate it.
Now all features are working fine but...
- no audible beep for lock/unlock
- no panic button

Do you have Idrive?
If so, the audible beep for lock/unlock is an option you need to turn on.
go to car settings/door locks/confirmation to change settings.
If you do not have Idrive, you might need to take the car to the dealer for them to do it.
66118

[mimi74]

those option are not in the Idrive menu here, and they update mine to V25, but still not there :cry: So in our country, not reconized

[FrankoQ]

those option are not in the Idrive menu here, and they update mine to V25, but still not there :cry: So in our country, not reconized

Have you contacted the dealer about this?
They are not there because of an error on the software update or
they are not an option for your car?

[mimi74]

I think, it's not regular for our country, I've been to dealer 2 times with my car to ask... And on the same E92, but with factory alarm, it's the same thing :(

[joebaggg]

worked like a charm, first try. great write up

[mista350z]

The walk through on the alarm install was amazing. Thanks!

Notes:

Installed mine per the walk through, (including cutting a piece of wood to fit inside the jack hole) and everything worked as advertised (including the motion sensor, and the siren).
Prior to the install, my dealer quoted me $550 + tax for the alarm & install.
I bought mine on eBay for $169 shipped. (factory sealed box too)
My dealer quoted me $109 for the software update, but I'm going to haggle pretty hard when I go in on Monday.

I think I'm having some trouble with my blue-tooth anyway.:thumsup:


Where did you get for $169? I am looking on eBay and they are going for $250?

[rambalu80]

Yeah, I don't seem to find any for less than 230 bucks.

[gsmurf]

I got mine from Ebay $230 shipped.
I installed it yesterday for about an hour max and will have it programmed this Friday. I need to have it done at the dealership since thay need to replace my rear dome light because it does't have the holes for the ultrasonic module to work.

[joebaggg]

went to 2 dealerships today. lowest update price i could get was 107. not happy about that...

[Autobot]

I had to pay 140, so thats a steal as far as I am concerned

[TTG]

I had to pay 140, so thats a steal as far as I am concerned

can you please share where at????

[TTG]

I got mine from Ebay $230 shipped.
I installed it yesterday for about an hour max and will have it programmed this Friday. I need to have it done at the dealership since thay need to replace my rear dome light because it does't have the holes for the ultrasonic module to work.

Can you please let us know which dealership did you end up going and how much they charged you for activation?

[Autobot]

140 BMW of Monterey, they gave me a bunch of crap at first since I didn't buy it from them and installed it myself. Somethign about "we don't know if you installed it correct and stuff so thats gonna cost you extra" and then "sometimes the softwhere doesn't take so we might have to do it a few times" blah blah blah. FInally just settled because I didn't feel like driving north to San Jose an hour + more north.

[gsmurf]

Can you please let us know which dealership did you end up going and how much they charged you for activation?

My appointment for the activation this Friday is with BMW of Seattle. I was quoted one hour worth of labor ( roughly $110 )
Will see how it goes because they need to replace my rear dome light also which is under warranty.

[joebaggg]

i picked up the car and they only charged me 56 :) sunroof button didnt work after. easily fixed by reseting it. i pleieve they held it up for 2 min? something like that. any whey gave me a 335i loaner just to tease me... that things a monster. i know what my next car is.

[gsmurf]

Can you please let us know which dealership did you end up going and how much they charged you for activation?

Just like I expected, I was charged exactly $110 by BMW of Seattle.
The only problem now is they did not have the rear dome light instock, they just ordered it and will probably not be here for awhile.
It took them about an hour and a half to do it.

["White Chicks" was an awf]

Any update from your dealer? Mine is telling me that it is still not available for my '06 325xit due to defective software. They are supposedly working on it...

Yes! They are quoting $1500 to install it, because you have to remove the headliner. Does anybody know if this is true? The only different part is the ultra-sonic module, is that installed differently because of the moonroof?

There are no dome lamps in the center, only the front, and the rear sides.

[mimi74]

Yes, on E92, you must exchange headliner... 8 hours to do the work for BMW.
I've done the installation on mine without change the headliner and take 5 hours to do it ;)

[nyc3r]

Just like I expected, I was charged exactly $110 by BMW of Seattle.
The only problem now is they did not have the rear dome light instock, they just ordered it and will probably not be here for awhile.
It took them about an hour and a half to do it.


$110 for install + activation is not too bad I guess.. the other guys are being charged the same for activation alone..

[gsmurf]

$110 for install + activation is not too bad I guess.. the other guys are being charged the same for activation alone..

Actually $110 is for activation alone, I did the install myself, you miss my earllier post.

[sterns]

Anyone done this on an E93 ? Any differences in the procedure ?

[TTG]

Yes! They are quoting $1500 to install it, because you have to remove the headliner. Does anybody know if this is true? The only different part is the ultra-sonic module, is that installed differently because of the moonroof?

There are no dome lamps in the center, only the front, and the rear sides.

That is just a big BS! I just installed 2 alarms over the weekend and it literally took us 30 mins to do each..... You DO NOT need to remove the headliner or anything! Your car is prewired already! Go somewhere else....or just do it yourself... Seriously it was one of the easiest installs.....

Yes, on E92, you must exchange headliner... 8 hours to do the work for BMW.
I've done the installation on mine without change the headliner and take 5 hours to do it ;)

WHY? I am just going to assume that Euro Spec cars are not prewired for thre alarm..... That is not the case for US Spec cars..... They are all prewired and the whole process is plug and play..... :thumbsup:

[DrPowers]

I installed mine myself but had to pay the $100 for activation.

[TTG]

I installed mine myself but had to pay the $100 for activation.

I am not going to get mine "activated"..... It works just fine (minus the hood sensor and arm / disarm signal)..... I can live without those for sure....

[DrPowers]

the internal motion sensor didnt work for me when I hadnt activated it... it works fine now... plus it forced them to update my car to the latest progman

[TTG]

the internal motion sensor didnt work for me when I hadnt activated it... it works fine now... plus it forced them to update my car to the latest progman

Nice..... Sensor works fine on both of our cars and since I have i-drive... I am hoping that alarm will just be included on my next i-drive update....

[milehigh5000]

if you dont have the factory alarm, does it still make that cool little beep when you lock and unlock the car?

[Autobot]

No, it only does that with the alarm activated

[milehigh5000]

alright then..im pretty much sold on the alarm now too..i need that cool beep..i need it!

[milehigh5000]

i really do love that beep

[milehigh5000]

it sounds so cool and classy

[777ER]

i really do love that beep

beep beep

[mocheen]

i really do love that beep

:) the main reason that I got the alarm

[planetscott]

Great DIY. :thumbsup:

I did this yesterday on my May production E90. A couple of regarding my install:


I did the install in reverse order and I did not disconnect the battery.
I used towels in the jack point intead of wood and it worked out ok. I did not remove the tire. I took off most of the felt lining and rested it on the tire. I found that there was more than enough room to work.
The hood switch wiring was already run. I just had the screw in the mounting bracket. However the screw that came with the kit was too large.
When taking off the interior rear light dome fixture, I found it easier to pry from the front instead of the back. I just couldn't find the metal clips on the back.


After I connected the interior module, the clown nose started blinking as soon as I locked the doors. Like everyone else, I still need to get the alarm activated by the dealer.

[Ovboy1]

don't want an alarm i just want a chirp. Is there a way to just make the car chirp on locking and unlocking the car. I don't mind paying for it but i dont want to pay 500 for an alarm.

[Autobot]

No not unless you go aftermarket just for a chirp

[Ovboy1]

do you know of any aftermarket products. I like the chirp i have it on a 650 and when u unlock the car the people that are staring at it and are looking inside it jump.

[Mikey335i]

I installed the alarm last night (took about an hour) and had one qucik question. I got the blinking light but it does the 20 blinks at first then goes to the normal blink every 3 seconds.
Does this occur for every one who hasnt got it programmed yet, but is still installed.?


(no i drive)
07 e92 335i

thanks
Mike

[planetscott]

I installed the alarm last night (took about an hour) and had one qucik question. I got the blinking light but it does the 20 blinks at first then goes to the normal blink every 3 seconds.
Does this occur for every one who hasnt got it programmed yet, but is still installed.?


That's normal.

[Mikey335i]

That's normal.

thanks
Just wanted to make sure :D

[Mikey335i]

I am getting a little frustrated,
the SA @ my dealership is wanting $250 for labor

"Hi Mike,

I just spoke to my shop foreman, what we have to do is remove alarm, update software on vehicle, re-install alarm, and then retrofit alarm to vehicle. The labor to do this is 2.0hrs $257.60.
Let me know when you want to set the appt.
Thanks"

I just dont get, everyone is spending $50 -120 on activation

let me know guys what you think

[FrankoQ]

I am getting a little frustrated,
the SA @ my dealership is wanting $250 for labor

"Hi Mike,

I just spoke to my shop foreman, what we have to do is remove alarm, update software on vehicle, re-install alarm, and then retrofit alarm to vehicle. The labor to do this is 2.0hrs $257.60.
Let me know when you want to set the appt.
Thanks"

I just dont get, everyone is spending $50 -120 on activation

let me know guys what you think

Other than the 20 blinks at the beginning, what other problems are you having? does it go off if you open the doors?
not working at all?

[Mikey335i]

Other than the 20 blinks at the beginning, what other problems are you having? does it go off if you open the doors?
not working at all?


i dont have any other problems, i just want it to beep when i lock/unlock my doors mainly......plus the hood switch is a bonus.

[01stang]

mine's not activated (no beep yet) but mines do blink 20 times or so before just the reg onces every 5-10 secs.. works fine for me now... might get activated like later after i get my mods tho

[FrankoQ]

i dont have any other problems, i just want it to beep when i lock/unlock my doors mainly......plus the hood switch is a bonus.

Well then, the dealer seems to be trying to take your $$$.
They don't need to re-install what you just did.
All you need is a software update which should not be more than 1 hour
of their time (mine took 30 minutes).
maybe go to another dealer?

[Mikey335i]

Well then, the dealer seems to be trying to take your $$$.
They don't need to re-install what you just did.
All you need is a software update which should not be more than 1 hour
of their time (mine took 30 minutes).
maybe go to another dealer?



I got it done saturday! love the beep/alarm
worth the money IMO

spent $110 for activation/buff out scratch

[Mikey335i]

HE is the video of what the alarm sounds like in case anybody wants to know!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxUwCkf1G7Q

[defender]

2007 328Xi alarm install- just did this - your pics and instructions helped

Notes: BMW has made it easier to install the hood switch. The wires and connector are now right next to where the switch is installed- no need to pop the cover off the brake reservoir and no more fishing for the hood switch wires as they are right where they should be now.

Remember: the cap with the 3 blue dots needs to be removed and there is an identical cap (also needs to be removed) for the wires to connect to the siren in the left wheel well.

I popped the rear light dome for the motion sensor off from the front (instead of the rear per instructions). Much easier-I used a plastic putty knife.

Before starting, I disconnected the negative battery terminal (per instructions), but I don't really see why you would need to. When I re-connected the battery, the DTC light on the instrument panel went haywire and displayed the yellow triangle with the exclamation point inside it, indicating that the DTC was not activated. It cleared itself and went back to normal just by driving down the road a little ways.

Very easy install. Clown nose starts blinking immediately.

Paid $235 from Circle BMW for the alarm and printed instructions.

BMW of Stratham (near Exeter, NH) offered to program the alarm at no cost to me (they charged BMW $98 under the warranty for the software upgrade).

So total cost was $235 plus shipping- a bargain compared to what some are being quoted (My dealer originally wanted $506 for the alarm, installation and programming). BMW of Stratham charges $459.50 for everything- alarm, installation and (free) programming).

I would estimate it took 1 hour for the install because I took my time. I think I could do another one in 45 minutes.

I highly recommend getting it programmed as that adds all the features.

[sesegal99]

BMW was trying to charge me $265 to activate mine. I installed it and installed it correctly. I exploded on my SA and called the Mgr this morning. I'll let you know. They can't charge for Progman update b/c the pass seat sensor is also being fixed and the latest update of Progman should be installed as part of that fix covered under warrantee. I may have to make a phone call to BMW NA after the shananagans going on with this visit.

[JBizzle]

What does the alarm protect against? Does it activate if the glass is broken?

[sesegal99]

alls well. they ate the cost and charged me nothing. i went directly to the head service manager.

[wagonmaster]

Other than the fact that they can charge $300+, anyone know why everyone's prices on the alarm have gone up? Anyone know who has the best price?

Many thanks!

[wrh3]

Tischer has it for $230 shipped:

http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=AccessoryCatalog&siteid=214336&catalogid=4462

[wagonmaster]

Thanks man!
Unfortunately, they tack on an extra $60 for wagons. Odd.....

[MOTO69JOE]

Do july production and on cars still have to be activated by the dealership?

[aus]

Good question.

Any recent updates we can use to get the dealer to charge BMW for the activation?

[lx4life]

I would try to take the car in for program update under warranty and see if they will charge you.

[SpeedElement]

I just got my installed. And it seems like the alarm work just fine. I don't think i need to go to the dealer and have them activate it.

[FrankoQ]

I just got my installed. And it seems like the alarm work just fine. I don't think i need to go to the dealer and have them activate it.

Really?
All functions working? like...
Panic button works
Audible and visual alerts go off when arming/disarming
motion sensor
And I forgot the other few that needed software update to work properly.

[777ER]

Really?
All functions working? like...
Panic button works
Audible and visual alerts go off when arming/disarming
motion sensor
And I forgot the other few that needed software update to work properly.

And the horn beep option on lock/unlock selectable?

[SE3P_to_E90]

i got the unit installed and programmed for $170... 1.5hours.
is that a good deal?

nonetheless, the beeping turns heads... it sounds soo attractive!

[doobie]

i got the unit installed and programmed for $170... 1.5hours.
is that a good deal?

nonetheless, the beeping turns heads... it sounds soo attractive!

hell yeah it is. i paid 350 euros about $470 for everything.

[SE3P_to_E90]

hell yeah it is. i paid 350 euros about $470 for everything.

oh yea, i also paid $200 for the unit from a member here... so the total for install and programming was just under $370