Alarm on '04 M3

[ThinkingBMW]

I can't seem to locate any specific information on the alarm option on the '04 M3 Coupe. I'll be picking up the car this spring and would like to have an alarm installed. How much should I expect to pay at the dealer and what are the better after-market options?

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[Tom]

The alarm costs about $232.05, you can install it yourself or have the dealer install it for about two hours labor. The benefit of getting the stock alarm system is that you can use your key to arm and disarm your alarm.


Alarm can be purchased here.
http://www.pacificbmw.com/catalog/access/detail.asp?pid=31&category=5&section=20&model=E46

 

[MrElussive]

Yeah, that's a good question. If you ask your salesman about it, he will have all the details. It's a good thing Tom posted what you should expect to pay, this way your dealership can't hustle you for that important feature.

 

[codex57]

My dealer wanted $700 or $800 for it. Can't remember the exact number. THey were smoking crack I think. I saw one dealer offer it for $400 installed I think. That's not too bad, cept for the fact that the BMW alarm doesn't have a shock sensor so it's value is only half of a normal one.

 

[E46_Driver]

E46 alarm

$200 - 250 for alarm, 2hrs install time at dealers hourly rate = greater peace of mind for about $400. Be sure to get the alarm installed prior to taking delivery so it is included in the warranty.

P.S. shock/glass breakage sensor IS included.

 

[ThinkingBMW]

Thanks for the feedback.

After talking to more people, it appears that the best strategy is to refuse the alarm option when offered by the finance dept. when you pick up the car and instead have it installed by the service dept. when you do your 1200 mile service. Makes sense.

Also, if you have several BMW dealers in your area (as I do), you can call around and shop for the best price. Since most of the money dealers make is on service, I'm sure at least one of them would be willing to cut you a break on the alarm in order to start a good relationship with a new service customer.

 

[codex57]

Re: E46 alarm

$200 - 250 for alarm, 2hrs install time at dealers hourly rate = greater peace of mind for about $400. Be sure to get the alarm installed prior to taking delivery so it is included in the warranty.

P.S. shock/glass breakage sensor IS included.

Is this some 04 thing? Shock sensor wasn't included before.

And my dealer told me that as long as the alarm was installed before 1 year was up, the full 4 year warranty attached.

Install the alarm yourself. It's easy. Here:
http://www.my330i.com/mod8.php

Then you just need to get the dealer to activate it. THey usually only charge 1/2 hour service at most. Some do it for free so call around.