i have been getting a TON of emails and PM's lately on this subject.

i thought it best to have a thread specifically on this subject and information (and hopefully dave will get it stickied for us soon).

installing the alarm:
http://e46fanatics.com/faq/alarminstall/index.html
Q: What alarms can I get for my E46?
A: The BMW alarm is p/n 65-73-9-416-520 Note: This P/N does NOT work on the convertible (MSRP $300, $220 from PacificBMW.com). This includes a high-powered siren, trunk/hood protection, interior motion sensor and tilt sensor. It will also flash the "clown nose" LED located on the bottom of the rearview mirror.


personally, i do not recommend buying ANYTHING from pacific bmw. i used to live very close to the dealership and have nothing but horrible things to say about them and their service/parts department. DO NOT ASK ME ABOUT PACIFIC BMW IN THIS THREAD. i will not reply to any questions outside of the scope and topic of alarms in this thread.

you can obtain the part at circle in NJ for a fairly good price http://www.circlebmw.com/service/access/9416520.htm or, you can try to get your local dealer to give it to you for list, rather than MSRP. most parts counter guys don't give a shit, and will do it for you.

activating the clown nose and flashing blinkers WITHOUT installing an alarm:

1) Have your dealer hook up the shop computer (MODIC) to the car.
2) Go to the "Anti-Theft" activation section.
3) Activate the alarm, but uncheck the "DWA" option.

After this is done, your corner light should blink once when locked and twice when unlocked remotely. In addition, the clown nose will blink when car is locked just as if an alarm was present.

*note: this can be done by using either a MODEC or GT1 bmw diagnostic computer. ...and probably more.

there is no way to activate either the alarm, or "fool" the car into thinking you have an alarm in order to obtain the flash and beep upon door locking/unlocking, WITHOUT the computer. there isn't any other way.

I just installed the alarm in my '03 330i, was pretty easy. however the clown nose doesnt blink still, so I guess I need to get it activated. I saw a post of yours LeftCoast that said "dont take it to a dealer to get activated". Unless you have the diag computer for BMW, what other option does one have? Also, how much should a dealer charge to simply activate the alarm? Thanks

the dealer will bend you over if you take it there.


where in norcal are you?






your best bet is trying to take it to an indy shop; they'll either hook you up or charge you significantly less. i would never pay more than $40 bucks for the activation. that's about half the hourly rate at most bmw shops.


it takes like 5 minutes; but the dealer will try to charge you close to 150- which is closer to 2 hours worth of time you're paying for.


seriously, i've done it on mine a few times at my old shop (not MY shop, but my mechanic i used to go to in LA). you have to go into like 4 sub-menus on the GT1; and then select a button to tell the car it has the alarm.

I'm in Sonoma County (petaluma, work in Novato). I called the BMW dealer yesterday and they said it'd cost $75. not terribly bad, but still pretty weak.

thats kinda far from the shops i know in the bay area. the ones i know of are in san ramon and pleasanton/dublin area.

post in the regionals here and see if anyone has an indy they get good rates from.

I ordered my '04 330Ci w/o the alarm system, but did request to have
the clown nose & blinkers programmed to flash when locking / unlocking
the car. When I took delivery, the salesman explained that they could
not program due to the type software the car came with. Does this
sound valid or should I try another dealer ? Thanks

I ordered my '04 330Ci w/o the alarm system, but did request to have
the clown nose & blinkers programmed to flash when locking / unlocking
the car. When I took delivery, the salesman explained that they could
not program due to the type software the car came with. Does this
sound valid or should I try another dealer ? Thanks
your salesman is a lazy fat slob.

your salesman is a lazy fat slob.
:laugh :laugh :laugh :laugh I'll check another dealer. Thanks

great idea, get this thing parked a top the forum

great idea, get this thing parked a top the forum
i've been told they wont park it due to a link directed towards another bmw based forum.


i'd mirror the install/DIY file myself; but i'm afraid the original host will be upset- because i'm one of the owners of another automotive club that has an active forum. (albiet a very NON technical forum).

My car did not have an alarm either and I had read that the clown nose could be programmed to simulate having an alarm. I thought, ok, take the car to a dealer and ask them to program the clown nose. The Service Tech claimed he was not aware that the clown nose could be activated when there was no alarm installed. So....I pulled out a printed instruction page detailing how to do the programming and gave the instruction page to the Tech. However, I did not notice until I arrived back at home after completion of other services, that the Service Tech still had not programmed the clown nose even though I supplied him with instructions on how to do it. The dealer claimed that they simply "forgot" to program it. I do not believe that they "forgot" to do the programming; they are trying to force me to pay them a quoted $415 to install an alarm.

My car did not have an alarm either and I had read that the clown nose could be programmed to simulate having an alarm. I thought, ok, take the car to a dealer and ask them to program the clown nose. The Service Tech claimed he was not aware that the clown nose could be activated when there was no alarm installed. So....I pulled out a printed instruction page detailing how to do the programming and gave the instruction page to the Tech. However, I did not notice until I arrived back at home after completion of other services, that the Service Tech still had not programmed the clown nose even though I supplied him with instructions on how to do it. The dealer claimed that they simply "forgot" to program it. I do not believe that they "forgot" to do the programming; they are trying to force me to pay them a quoted $415 to install an alarm.
the alarm is amazingly easy to install.



just hard on your body (weird angles and stuff). do it yourself and just pay for the activation. ...that is, if you want the full alarm.


i have the full alarm, but i used to live in los angeles. it helped me sleep at night there :rofl

Hey guys what do you think about attaching aftermarket alarm I looked at the wiring diagrams and should not be problem, I know some people will say thats crazy but prety shure will work

Hey guys what do you think about attaching aftermarket alarm I looked at the wiring diagrams and should not be problem, I know some people will say thats crazy but prety shure will work
it will work, but will you be able to activate it with the BMW key? or have to carry an additional fob?

You Can Go Either Way , When You Use Your Bmw Key The Aftermarket Alarm Wont Turn On But Than You Still Have Option To Use Your Key For Your Windows And Have Extra Alarm Which Is Instaled "custom" And Trust Me Those Are The Hardest To Brake In And Disable (i Have Learned From ......)
I Am Going To Do It On Mine Tmrw Just Got To Figure Way How To Pull Out The Power Lock Button On MIDDLE Consol Without Braking It
If Sombody Is Interested I Can Post What I Have Done And How It Works

I have no interior motion sensors, so I do not belive I have the alarm, yet my lights and clown nose flash...

2nd owner, car came from a progressive dealership, so they must have done it there...

Marcus
`03 330i ZHP - Imola Red!

I have no interior motion sensors, so I do not belive I have the alarm, yet my lights and clown nose flash...

2nd owner, car came from a progressive dealership, so they must have done it there...

Marcus
`03 330i ZHP - Imola Red!
have you removed the cover (just rear of the moonroof) to check?


also, the shock sensor is easy to spot if you pull back the cloth near the battery. the horn is the hardest to find, as it is under the cowl in the engine bay.

I just purchased a 99 323i very well kept with 70K miles, how can I tell or find out if it has a factory alarm or not, what and where should I look to determine if it exist or not.

Thanks
Xavier

I just purchased a 99 323i very well kept with 70K miles, how can I tell or find out if it has a factory alarm or not, what and where should I look to determine if it exist or not.

Thanks
Xavier
does it beep or blink when you lock the doors?

if not, you probably don't have an alarm.














you could also look in the places i mentioned ABOVE... where things might be installed...

have you removed the cover (just rear of the moonroof) to check?

Yeah, thats how I know they are not there, lol...

can anyone tell me if the OEM alarm goes ON and OFF if u try to set it of or keeps beeping until u push button?
because there is option to instal extra shock sensor and will beep if u tap or kick the car but dont wanna have it going for hours if Im far from the car , because I did my homework and seen it but dont if works as aftermarket alarm or keeps going until u push button

it will stop shrieking after a few minutes, on its own.

Thanks

Hey guys you can ADD a shock sensor to your OEM alarm and have it all ...yea
I am waiting on delivery on the alarm from pacific bmw and will put on the sensor too so dont have to mess with aftermarket one

Hey guys you can ADD a shock sensor to your OEM alarm and have it all ...yea
I am waiting on delivery on the alarm from pacific bmw and will put on the sensor too so dont have to mess with aftermarket one
the OEM alarm comes with a "shock" type sensor, it can tell if the car is being lifted (towed/repo'd) or if there is a jolt/shock/sudden impact to the car while armed.


it is installed in the rear right side of the trunk, above the battery (behind the cloth lining).

well from what I have been told its only "level" sensor for car been lift/towed
I will tested when I get it

well from what I have been told its only "level" sensor for car been lift/towed
I will tested when I get it
mine was set off in a winery parking lot just outside of carmel a couple of months ago, when some little kid ran into it.



literally... ran right into it. he must have jumped off the short bus and forgot his helmet or something.

Just wondering what you mean when you are talking about "Clown Nose" Thanks (sorry for what I'm guessing is an obvious answer)

Just wondering what you mean when you are talking about "Clown Nose" Thanks (sorry for what I'm guessing is an obvious answer)
red plastic bubble under your rear-view mirror.

Is it possible that the oem Alarm shock sensor is mounted in the hood inside the large void on the pasengers side by the hood shock? Also what is this large void Box for? Looks like a battery could fit in there easily? Just woundering looks like a waste of space.

Is it possible that the oem Alarm shock sensor is mounted in the hood inside the large void on the pasengers side by the hood shock? Also what is this large void Box for? Looks like a battery could fit in there easily? Just woundering looks like a waste of space.
in the 2000 model, the DSC stuff was all there.


the shock sensor is designed to be installed in the rear of the car, in the trunk- on the passenger side (under the upholstery/trunk lining).

I have just decieded to order alarm and install myself in my 330. Then bring to dealer for activation. What does alarm sound like if set off? A horn sound or actual siren ?

Thanks, I must ask whats DSC?

Again Thanks

I have just decieded to order alarm and install myself in my 330. Then bring to dealer for activation. What does alarm sound like if set off? A horn sound or actual siren ?
it's an actual siren... but not like the siren that has become "standard" for alarms with all those ambulance horns and bombs dropping, etc.

try to find an ind. shop in your area with the GT1 or MODEC for activation, it will save you some cash. the dealers typically rip you off for what amounts to 10 minutes of pushing keyboard buttons.

find a local indy shop here: http://www.bimrs.org/index.html

Thanks, I must ask whats DSC?

Again Thanks

DSC = dynamic stability control

and you're welcome. :D i'm glad i can help in some way.

try to find an ind. shop in your area with the GT1 or MODEC for activation, it will save you some cash. the dealers typically rip you off for what amounts to 10 minutes of pushing keyboard buttons.

And that is exactly what I did. Thanks for the link! Price to activate alarm is $88.00 I didn't think that was too bad. PaulZo.

Is there any way to program the clown noise manually.

Is there any way to program the clown noise manually.
only with the information provided above.

Hi, i have the alarm set and everything , i just have a question, how can i blink my lights and beep the siren alarm horn everytime i want to unlock the car? oh and if i could do it by myself and not have to spend a day or two like im used to at the dealer and get charge a lot for it, thanks.

My car only lights the directions lights when i lock the car only.

Hi, i have the alarm set and everything , i just have a question, how can i blink my lights and beep the siren alarm horn everytime i want to unlock the car? oh and if i could do it by myself and not have to spend a day or two like im used to at the dealer and get charge a lot for it, thanks.

My car only lights the directions lights when i lock the car only.
there is no way for you to program this yourself.

they must have forgotten to set the unlock in the same way they set the "lock".



it has been awhile since i saw the layout for that screen on the GT1, but i thought it was the same settings for both locking and unlocking.

Hello. I put in the OEM alarm myself and had the dealer program it. It now beeps on lock/unlock, and the nose flashes, but the panic alarm doesn't go off and I haven't been able to set it off with the motion detector.
The dealer acts surprised and says it should work. ( Yes I should have tried it before I left !!!)
Of course - my alarm components (Ebay) may be not good, but some questions :
Is it possible that the dealer didn't program it right ?
Is there any check I can do Vs a trip back to the dealer ?

Hello. I put in the OEM alarm myself and had the dealer program it. It now beeps on lock/unlock, and the nose flashes, but the panic alarm doesn't go off and I haven't been able to set it off with the motion detector.
The dealer acts surprised and says it should work. ( Yes I should have tried it before I left !!!)
Of course - my alarm components (Ebay) may be not good, but some questions :
Is it possible that the dealer didn't program it right ?
Is there any check I can do Vs a trip back to the dealer ?
did you buy a used alarm, or aftermarket/knockoff.... or is this truly OEM?



second, have you waited the full 45 seconds after arming to test your motion sensor? you should roll down the driver's side window, arm the car, wait 45 seconds for the motion detector to set, and then stick your arm in there and waive it around.



have you checked all your connections?

you should check to make sure you've properly plugged in the ports for:
-motion sensor in headliner
-alarm horn in engine bay under cowl
-shock sensor in trunk


the last thing i can think about checking is their actuall programming of the unit. who knows, maybe they used the instructions that fools the car's computer into beeping like it has an alarm, but not arming the alarm?

Thanks for the response. Yes it is OEM and the correct part number. I'll check the connections today, but I think they'll be OK. I did try the motion detector as you described - nothing. I was hoping there would be some component checks I could do - such as pin resistance/voltage.
The last one is my main concern - is it possible that the dealer could turn on the beep/nose but not the actual alarm system ?

Thanks for the response. Yes it is OEM and the correct part number. I'll check the connections today, but I think they'll be OK. I did try the motion detector as you described - nothing. I was hoping there would be some component checks I could do - such as pin resistance/voltage.
The last one is my main concern - is it possible that the dealer could turn on the beep/nose but not the actual alarm system ?
yes, read post #1



as far as pin resistance/voltage... i'm not an electrical engineer. can't help.

Quick Update. I talked with the dealer some more. He now admits the tech turned on the acknowledgement, but didn't activate the sensors or panic mode which need to be done separately. Now I have to take the car back again. This time I'm going to take the memory options sheets with me with exactly what I want done !! Thanks for the help.

This is FRUSTRATING!

We've got an '03 330i with no alarm. The dealer says it's impossible to get the flashing of lights etc (upon locking) and the clown nose operation (whenever the car is locked) UNLESS you actually get the whole alarm.

The first indy mechanic doesn't know how to do it.

The second indy place (the biggest shop in town) at least has the MODIC. Here's their story . . .

"We need to put the car on the computer first to see what can and can't be done." Five minutes later . . .

"It can't be done without at least adding the box that goes in the passenger compartment (the plug-in unit in the roof)." That part alone costs $300 PLUS an hour of labor to then get the appearance of an alarm!

Meanwhile, back at the ranch . . . this thread claims that the ENTIRE parts for any ol' E46 330i (the 4-dr sedan) are found in Circle BMW's ALARM KIT (part number 65-73-9-416-520) which costs a total of only $225 for ALL alarm components!!

I'm afraid if I get the parts from Circle BMW, the Indy guy is going to claim that they're the wrong parts.

SUGGESTIONS ANYBODY? (Telling these various repair places to go screw themselves will not get me to the goal line.) Thanks in advance, guys!

This is FRUSTRATING!

We've got an '03 330i with no alarm. The dealer says it's impossible to get the flashing of lights etc (upon locking) and the clown nose operation (whenever the car is locked) UNLESS you actually get the whole alarm.

The first indy mechanic doesn't know how to do it.

The second indy place (the biggest shop in town) at least has the MODIC. Here's their story . . .

"We need to put the car on the computer first to see what can and can't be done." Five minutes later . . .

"It can't be done without at least adding the box that goes in the passenger compartment (the plug-in unit in the roof)." That part alone costs $300 PLUS an hour of labor to then get the appearance of an alarm!

Meanwhile, back at the ranch . . . this thread claims that the ENTIRE parts for any ol' E46 330i (the 4-dr sedan) are found in Circle BMW's ALARM KIT (part number 65-73-9-416-520) which costs a total of only $225 for ALL alarm components!!

I'm afraid if I get the parts from Circle BMW, the Indy guy is going to claim that they're the wrong parts.

SUGGESTIONS ANYBODY? (Telling these various repair places to go screw themselves will not get me to the goal line.) Thanks in advance, guys!
you live in portland.


i'm sure you have more options that ONE dealer and ONE independant wrench.






with what you've described to me, i'd never use either of those facilities again... so i WOULD advise you to tell them to go screw themselves.

This is FRUSTRATING!

We've got an '03 330i with no alarm. The dealer says it's impossible to get the flashing of lights etc (upon locking) and the clown nose operation (whenever the car is locked) UNLESS you actually get the whole alarm.

The first indy mechanic doesn't know how to do it.

The second indy place (the biggest shop in town) at least has the MODIC. Here's their story . . .

"We need to put the car on the computer first to see what can and can't be done." Five minutes later . . .

"It can't be done without at least adding the box that goes in the passenger compartment (the plug-in unit in the roof)." That part alone costs $300 PLUS an hour of labor to then get the appearance of an alarm!

Meanwhile, back at the ranch . . . this thread claims that the ENTIRE parts for any ol' E46 330i (the 4-dr sedan) are found in Circle BMW's ALARM KIT (part number 65-73-9-416-520) which costs a total of only $225 for ALL alarm components!!

I'm afraid if I get the parts from Circle BMW, the Indy guy is going to claim that they're the wrong parts.

SUGGESTIONS ANYBODY? (Telling these various repair places to go screw themselves will not get me to the goal line.) Thanks in advance, guys!
i tried to send you a private message, but you do not allow other members to send any to you.

change that in your user CP options.

i tried to send you a private message, but you do not allow other members to send any to you.

change that in your user CP options.

Thanks for trying to help. I think I checked the right box so please retry (or simply email me directly at saustin@aracnet.com ).

Thanks in advance.

Do a Google on "E46 memory option" and you'll see a list of the options that can be set. You sure can have the lights flash without the alarm installed, but I'm not sure about the nose, although I suspect you can - my car was activated without teling it that the alarm parts had been added, and it flashes the nose.

. . . You . . . can have the lights flash without the alarm installed, but I'm not sure about the nose, although I suspect you can - my car was activated without teling it that the alarm parts had been added, and it flashes the nose.

I don't understand. If your E46 nose flashes without the car knowing there's an alarm how come you're not sure the nose can be activated without an alarm? (It's the nose flash I'm really after because I believe that is 99% of the deterent (the other one percent being the flashes that occur the moment the car is locked plus the siren going off when something bad really happens). Thanks in advance for a reply.

I don't understand. If your E46 nose flashes without the car knowing there's an alarm how come you're not sure the nose can be activated without an alarm? (It's the nose flash I'm really after because I believe that is 99% of the deterent (the other one percent being the flashes that occur the moment the car is locked plus the siren going off when something bad really happens). Thanks in advance for a reply.
well, if worst comes to worst, you can accomplish YOUR individual goal by just installing a red LED diode hooked up to the battery.

:dunno

Hi. I can't be sure because my alarm parts are physically in place - yours aren't. However, since the computer has to be told when they are added it's probably safe to say it can't see them by itself, and hence you should be OK.

Hi. I can't be sure because my alarm parts are physically in place - yours aren't. However, since the computer has to be told when they are added it's probably safe to say it can't see them by itself, and hence you should be OK.

Got it. Thanks.

My next step? I called the big indy wrench here in Portland again, read to him the directions (posted in this thread and elsewhere on the internet) for activating the clown nose without a real alarm and he said, "Bring the car back--let's try again." I'll let y'all know the outcome.

Quick update, had the car back at the dealer ( with the list of control settings I wanted ) and all is great now..

IT WORKED!

I took the directions listed on the 1st page back to the major indy mechanic who'd previously tried unsuccessfully to activate the "alarm" and he followed the directions and the lights flash when the car is locked and then the clown nose starts flashing. Recall that the dealer had told me all this was "impossible."

You guys saved me $550 (the $595 the dealer wanted for an alarm install minus the $45 I was charged for the activation). THANKS, GUYS!!!

IT WORKED!

I took the directions listed on the 1st page back to the major indy mechanic who'd previously tried unsuccessfully to activate the "alarm" and he followed the directions and the lights flash when the car is locked and then the clown nose starts flashing. Recall that the dealer had told me all this was "impossible."

You guys saved me $550 (the $595 the dealer wanted for an alarm install minus the $45 I was charged for the activation). THANKS, GUYS!!!
:D



wow, i'm stoked to have helped you in such a way.

:D wow, i'm stoked to have helped you in such a way.

Yeah--me too. Thanks again!!! Let's see . . . that's 550 candy bars or 67 movie tickets, or 18 dinners out with the wife, or a round-trip ticket to the east coast or . . .

Hey All,

New to BMW but old to world and my first post here.. Just got a 325iA/4 03 for my wife last week and started looking for feedback from other owners to get a feel for problems etc, etc. and came across this fine site. Lots of great info and exchanges. I too have the clown nose but no alarm so was interested in the change to flashing etc but came across this bit of info that looks interesting. See what you guys and gals think.

I was trying to put some pics but I guess my post count is too low... 1 ..lol

The Clown Nose Controversy

The "Clown Nose" flashes after you purchase, install and activate your BMW alarm. Did you know that you can have the Nose programmed to flash, and the amber lights blink off/on when you open/close the doors even though the alarm is NOT installed? Here's how:
1) Have your dealer hook up the shop computer to the car.
2) Go to the "Anit-Theft" activation section.
3) Activate the alarm, but uncheck the "DWA" option.

This was tested by at least a dozen people so far, who swear that it works. The shop work order the job was written as: "Program car memory to visual acknowledge when locking/unlocking"

NOTE OF WARNING:

The following is a quote from a very reputable dealer passing along a comment from his tech guys on the above procedure. Take this as you want, I'm passing it along so that you do know there might be problems with this procedure. The last thing I want is for you to screw up your car.

"I feel that it is my civic duty to warn everyone who is having this done of the 'irreversible consequences' of this procedure (when activated sans alarm). In plain English, activating the light is tricking the car's computer into thinking that the car has had an alarm installed. Consequently, fault codes are generated because the computer is searching for alarm data and can't find any... This will not affect the functionality of the vehicle until the car has some other electrical problem. When the car is hooked up to the diagnostic equipment at the BMW Center, the technician is going to pull up string after string of fault codes, and be unable diagnose whatever the problem is. At that point, the only solution will be to replace the car's computer -or- add an alarm in order to isolate the real fault codes... Sounds like a big headache just to have a blinking clown-nose thingy... "
Sales Manager, Reputable Dealer, Fall 1999

The person making this statement has been correct 95% of the time in his statements about technical matters and is known to be a real BMW fanatic, always ready to help fellow bimmer lovers, no matter if they buy from him or not. It was therefore assumed this was the case and the Clown Nose hubub died down.

HOWEVER:

The official publication of the BMW Car Club of America (BMWCCA) ROUNDEL, in the December 2000 issue, weighed in on the topic and said the following:

In answer to a question by Jackie Moro, according to Mike Miller, the Technical Editor of Roundel, in his "Tech Talk" column on page 104, BMWCCA spoke with BMW NA regarding any problems with the above procedure. According to BMW NA, there are no long term problems with this procedure. Here's the quote:

"We spoke with BMW of North America regarding (the question) The "Car Memory" function, "Acknowledgement without DWA" for E46 vehicles (without factory-installed alarm), is available since DIS CD 20.0, and its functionality is described in Service Bulletin 09 03 98. When activated, the fault code "07 anti-theft alarm system" is going to be set in General Module. This fault does not affect operation of the General Module in any way. Simply put, the sustem detects absence of certain components of the DWA - alarm siren and ultrasonic sensor - while at the same time the module was coded to activate the DWA for the lights acknowledgement purpose. Again, the above mentioned fault code is transparent to driver and does not affect the operation of the car. There is no reason to replace the General Module after Car Memory programming. This programming procedure was approved by BMW AG."
Roundel, December 2000, pg. 104

THEREFORE:

December, 2000. Based on the above evidence, I had my nose programmed and it works like a charm!

PeterJS
BMWNation.com

yeah... i've read all that before. it doesn't really apply as it has been proved false (as pointed out in your post).



welcome to the forum :wave

I told the dealer to programme the blinkers and the clown nose.
The result is: the blinkers work, the nose doesn´t !
He said he just can switch the DWA on or off, that´s all.
Where´s the difference, where is the problem ?
I have a german car and I live in Germany, but no one can tell me how it works!

Thanks for help,

Rainer.

I told the dealer to programme the blinkers and the clown nose. The result is: the blinkers work, the nose doesn´t ! He said he just can switch the DWA on or off, that´s all. Where´s the difference, where is the problem ? I have a german car and I live in Germany, but no one can tell me how it works!
Rainer.

Guten Tag, Rainer. If dealerships auf Deutchland are as they are here in the Vereinigen Staten then some know how to get the clown nose working and will do so, some know how but will claim they don't to get you to buy the whole alarm system, and some apparently really do not know how to do it. My local dealer said nothing could be done without the alarm system--not even the blinkers. The first independent mechanic I went to simply didn't know how to do it. The second independent mechanic wanted to try, but at first could not do it. However, when I brought him a printed copy of the instructions listed several times in this thread, he read them carefully, tried again, and it all began operating properly including the clown nose. Thus, it takes patience, but in the end if you can get it done, it will save you a bunch of Euros. Viel Gluck (sorry about the lack of an umlaut and my bad spelling auf Deutch)!

where is the best place to buy this at price wise
also do all the items come in one package or do i need to buy each item alone if so what are the part #s ?
1) Siren
2) Siren bracket
3) Screw packet.
4) Interior radar sensor
5) tilt sensor.

where is the best place to buy this at price wise
also do all the items come in one package or do i need to buy each item alone if so what are the part #s ?
1) Siren
2) Siren bracket
3) Screw packet.
4) Interior radar sensor
5) tilt sensor.
it comes in a nice package.


www.circlebmw.com is probably a good idea price wise... or www.bmaparts.com or www.interautoparts.com

price ?

price ?

Last time I checked (a few weeks ago) it was "on sale for $225." To that, add your labor or the shop's. A dealer might charge $300 for the labor. All this compared with $45 to get an indy mechanic to turn the "appearance of the system" on for you, which has got to buy more than 90% of the protection. How many theives will go after your blinking clown nose (plus the incredible barrier BMW adds with the constant changing of the key code with each use) when they could get into that VW or Honda that's next in line oh so easily?

Last time I checked (a few weeks ago) it was "on sale for $225." To that, add your labor or the shop's. A dealer might charge $300 for the labor. All this compared with $45 to get an indy mechanic to turn the "appearance of the system" on for you, which has got to buy more than 90% of the protection. How many theives will go after your blinking clown nose (plus the incredible barrier BMW adds with the constant changing of the key code with each use) when they could get into that VW or Honda that's next in line oh so easily?
for locales such as mine when i bought the alarm (los angeles) or the poster above... NJ/NY... every little bit helps

Last time I checked (a few weeks ago) it was "on sale for $225." To that, add your labor or the shop's. A dealer might charge $300 for the labor. All this compared with $45 to get an indy mechanic to turn the "appearance of the system" on for you, which has got to buy more than 90% of the protection. How many theives will go after your blinking clown nose (plus the incredible barrier BMW adds with the constant changing of the key code with each use) when they could get into that VW or Honda that's next in line oh so easily?

where was this at ?im going to the links posted but i
1 cant get in as i need a login
or
2 dont see where the item is on there web site

anyone have the part # for this kit and this is the same kit used in the M3 correct ?

thanks again.

This maybe a long shot, but does anyone know of an indy mechanic in the Phoenix area that can program the car to make the clown nose blink without alarm installed?

This maybe a long shot, but does anyone know of an indy mechanic in the Phoenix area that can program the car to make the clown nose blink without alarm installed?
look at the link i posted regarding finding an indy shop and browse your area. make some calls.

where was this at ?

Just call them (Circle BMW in NJ): 732-440-1200

for locales such as mine when i bought the alarm (los angeles) or the poster above... NJ/NY... every little bit helps

If you want full protection, besides the alarm and a club, of course, do you know about "The Cap"? It's shaped like a small garbage can lid, fits over your steering wheel, has slots for your club, and is made out of cryptonite. Even for people who break in and can normally saw off enough steering wheel to bypass the club, it makes the car essentially unstealable. (It's also far cheaper than the real alarm, but of course they're not mutually exclusive.)

If you want full protection, besides the alarm and a club, of course, do you know about "The Cap"? It's shaped like a small garbage can lid, fits over your steering wheel, has slots for your club, and is made out of cryptonite. Even for people who break in and can normally saw off enough steering wheel to bypass the club, it makes the car essentially unstealable. (It's also far cheaper than the real alarm, but of course they're not mutually exclusive.)
well, i always parked in secured lots (both home and work)... so i didnt need to go overboard.


and the 200 bucks for the alarm and 45 for activation (all i paid at an indy) wasn't going to force me to eat in the streets for a week or two...




and now that i live in san diego, my home has a real garage all my own.... and my office is in mission valley... not real busy.

Just call them (Circle BMW in NJ): 732-440-1200

thanks i called $225 + $12 shipping :) but $105 to program it :eyecrazy

Paul Miller BMW has it for 326.14 + 7%tax 180.00 to program it or $699 for everything alarm install and reprogram.
:lol

i called $225 + $12 shipping :) but $105 to program it :eyecrazy

A total of $342 parts & labor is a great price!

Paul Miller BMW has it for 326.14 + 7%tax 180.00 to program it or $699 for everything alarm install and reprogram.
:lol

$699, even from a stealership, is out of line.

well, i always parked in secured lots (both home and work)... so i didnt need to go overboard. . .

"The Cap," by the way, is for real. OK, it's not really made of cryptonite, but it's a cheap way to add lots of protection in high crime areas. Mission Valley ain't exactly that, but up here in Portland, the methamphetamine capital of the world, we need PROtection. I can't remember where I bought "The Cap" but it was cheap and it's nearly invincible.

For what it's worth, my regular mechanic discouraged me from even getting the activation let alone the alarm system.

"Why," I asked?

"Because with the fancy key code change every time you start the car up, it's almost impossible to steal. We hardly ever run across a 3 Series theft. It's mostly Accords, Camrys, etc."

Still, I had the system activated, use the club, and in tough neighborhoods, add The Cap.

look at the link i posted regarding finding an indy shop and browse your area. make some calls.
I must have missed it. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.

look at the link i posted regarding finding an indy shop and browse your area. make some calls.
Ok I made my call to the only indy dealer listed in my area. Bavarian Motor LTD. I talked to the guy over the phone and he said It would be $75 to hook up to the computer to program it. He said that my 2003 325i would have to have a program ?(not sure of his exact words) in order to program the clown nose. I asked him "How can I tell if my car will be able to be programmed?" HE said , "Well we won't know until we plug into the computer." I asked him how much that charge would be....he said $75 bucks!!!

So i asked him if I was clear on the cost being $75 dollars either way ...programmed or not. He said I was correct.

Is there anyway to find out if my car is capable to be programmed without plugging in?

just found out someone i know works at a bmw dealer ,mabe i can get a hook up :)

. . . Is there anyway to find out if my car is capable to be programmed without plugging in?

I'm not sure in this thread we've run across one that was not programable. HOWEVER, plenty of mechanics don't know how to do it even when they have the right computer. MAKE SURE YOU TAKE A HARD COPY OF THE DIRECTIONS (listed a couple of times already in this thread) WITH YOU. Before I did that, after they hooked up our 330i, they said it was impossible (though at least they charged us nothing). When I came back with the directions, they followed them, it worked, and they charged us their minimal 1/2 hour ($45) charge for the 5 minutes it took them to activate. Good luck.

I printed them out...these are them correct?

1) Have your dealer hook up the shop computer to the car.
2) Go to the "Anit-Theft" activation section.
3) Activate the alarm, but uncheck the "DWA" option.

I see you're in PDX. I just moved from there to PHX. How's the weather? (The reason I moved)

I printed them out...these are them correct?

1) Have your dealer hook up the shop computer to the car.
2) Go to the "Anit-Theft" activation section.
3) Activate the alarm, but uncheck the "DWA" option.

I see you're in PDX. I just moved from there to PHX. How's the weather? (The reason I moved)
please go back to the original post in this thread.

print out the entire post.

LeftCoastBias i skimmed by this so fast i did not see you had posted the part # from the start ..sorry .

LeftCoastBias i skimmed by this so fast i did not see you had posted the part # from the start ..sorry .
its ok, i am not trying to come off as bitchy... its just most of the questions have already been answered.


and i just want to make sure that anyone that has a new question isn't discouraged by the redundancy and length of the thread.

I printed them out...these are them correct?

1) Have your dealer hook up the shop computer to the car.
2) Go to the "Anit-Theft" activation section.
3) Activate the alarm, but uncheck the "DWA" option.

I see you're in PDX. I just moved from there to PHX. How's the weather? (The reason I moved)

Yes, those are the directions I gave that finally got the indy mechanic to get "the appearance of an alarm" activated.

As per your note, I am in PDX. To answer your Q, right now it's in the 30s and, for a brief moment, it's not drizzling. Still, the stereotype of PDX having rain "only once a year--from October 'til the 4th of July"--is close to true.

Our bad weather is the reason you moved? You're not alone. We've already bought a terrific Victorian house in Galveston that cost about as much as a 2-car garage would have cost here in PDX. We get to move in 17 more months. I'll be 60 soon and 9 months of drizzle a year is more than I can take.

New to the car and the forum - so a basic question:

Bough a second hand 2003 325CI from someone leaving the country in a rush (illness, not criminal) I believe that I have a factory installed alarm system (not sure after reading some of the threads here...) and the "clown's nose" does blink when I lock the car. However, I am not sure if it does/doesn't work - as I cannot get it to "beep" when locking/unlocking - which I get on other cars. Is there something I am missing /not doing correctly?

Thanks, Rgds

New to the car and the forum - so a basic question:

Bough a second hand 2003 325CI from someone leaving the country in a rush (illness, not criminal) I believe that I have a factory installed alarm system (not sure after reading some of the threads here...) and the "clown's nose" does blink when I lock the car. However, I am not sure if it does/doesn't work - as I cannot get it to "beep" when locking/unlocking - which I get on other cars. Is there something I am missing /not doing correctly?

Thanks, Rgds
it is possible the alarm was not installed correctly, either hardware or software (programming by dealer).


follow through the directions to install the items, and check to see that all those parts are actually there.


if so, go to a dealer and have them hook it up to their computer and refresh through the programming.

Thanks for the quick reply. Would you plse "walk me" through how to test the system, i.e., what would one do to initiate alarm beep similar to pushing the "panic" button found on many car alarms?

Thanks

1) read the instructions and walk through an "installation" of your alarm. make sure all the components are available and installed on your car.


2) open drivers window and activate alarm.


3) wait 45 seconds for motion detector to activate.


4) stick arm in window and wave around.

okay im new to the bimmer world but dont hate me but this is probably a stupid question but what is a "clown nose" alarm? I have a 03 330ci and dont believe I have a factory alarm on there so am interested in whatever this thread is about but gotta be honest I'm lost

okay im new to the bimmer world but dont hate me but this is probably a stupid question but what is a "clown nose" alarm? I have a 03 330ci and dont believe I have a factory alarm on there so am interested in whatever this thread is about but gotta be honest I'm lost
http://staff.pop3now.com/alee/bmw/clownnose.jpg

okay im new to the bimmer world but dont hate me but this is probably a stupid question but what is a "clown nose" alarm? I have a 03 330ci and dont believe I have a factory alarm on there so am interested in whatever this thread is about but gotta be honest I'm lost

LeftCoastBias's picture of the clown nose sticking out of the bottom of the inside rearview mirror proves a picture is worth a 1000 words.

All '03 330ci's have the clown nose EVEN IF THEY DON'T HAVE THE ALARM SYSTEM. Read through this thread and you'll learn about your options: to get a real alarm system that, amongst other things, will mean the clown nose will flash when the car is locked by the remote button on your key ($300-$600 depending on who you go to and whether you do the install yourself) OR to have the "appearance" of an alarm system that, amongst other things, will mean the clown nose will flash when the car is locked by the remote button on your key (typically about $40-$45 dollars plus a bunch of phone calls to dealers and even indy repair places that will claim "it can't be done" 'til you find one who'll do it). Instructions for how to do the "appearance" of an alarm are in this thread several times over. THEY WORK. However, you cannot create the appearance of the alarm system yourself because it requires a $20,000 computer.

LeftCoastBias's picture of the clown nose sticking out of the bottom of the inside rearview mirror proves a picture is worth a 1000 words.

All '03 330ci's have the clown nose EVEN IF THEY DON'T HAVE THE ALARM SYSTEM. Read through this thread and you'll learn about your options: to get a real alarm system that, amongst other things, will mean the clown nose will flash when the car is locked by the remote button on your key ($300-$600 depending on who you go to and whether you do the install yourself) OR to have the "appearance" of an alarm system that, amongst other things, will mean the clown nose will flash when the car is locked by the remote button on your key (typically about $40-$45 dollars plus a bunch of phone calls to dealers and even indy repair places that will claim "it can't be done" 'til you find one who'll do it). Instructions for how to do the "appearance" of an alarm are in this thread several times over. THEY WORK. However, you cannot create the appearance of the alarm system yourself because it requires a $20,000 computer.
good recap :thumbup:

Simple question, is there any fob pressing combination which will act as a "panic button"?

good recap :thumbup:

Thanks, LeftCoastBias. Where in San Diego are you? My wife and I lived in North County along the coast until 30 years ago. We still enjoy visiting friends in Encinitas. Your weather is from heaven.

Is there any way to add in a cool "chirp, chirp" noise when you lock your doors and activate the alarm. My car doesnt beep or anything, all i hear is a clunk as the doors lock and the clown nose starts to flash.

Is there any way to add in a cool "chirp, chirp" noise when you lock your doors and activate the alarm. My car doesnt beep or anything, all i hear is a clunk as the doors lock and the clown nose starts to flash.
if you actually have the alarm, you will have a chirp. please read the thread in whole and follow the directions to determine if you have all components installed.

then report back.

Is there any way to add in a cool "chirp, chirp" noise when you lock your doors and activate the alarm. My car doesnt beep or anything, all i hear is a clunk as the doors lock and the clown nose starts to flash.

I have the "appearance of an alarm"--not the real thing. They were able to get the clown nose to flash whenever the car is in locked mode. They were also able to get the exterior lights to flash as the car is being locked (by key button).

They were NOT able to produce a chirp as the car is being locked.

Got the same set-up as Jive...
But now the orn sounds and the turn signals blink at all times during the day...
any idea what could be wrong? I have checked and have ZERO sensors!
I am at a loss!:eyecrazy

Iinstalled mt alarm yesterday. It wasnt as hard as I thought it would be, it took maybe 45 minues to do. The hardest part of it was retrieving my socket that I dropped into the engine compartment.

Got the same set-up as Jive...
But now the orn sounds and the turn signals blink at all times during the day...
any idea what could be wrong? I have checked and have ZERO sensors!
I am at a loss!:eyecrazy

I don't have an answer but some potentially related info. The folks who did the successful phoney "install" (meaning no real alarm system but rather fooling the car's computer into thinking it should flash the clown nose when the car is locked and flash the lights as the car is being locked) on my car said this: It can only be done correctly "by people who have the $20,000 computer system designed for BMWs. Otherwise, it won't work right."

Here in Portland OR with a metropolitan area population of vaguely a million, except for the dealers (who refuse to do the phoney install because they want you to buy the whole alarm system), the place I went to is the ONLY place that has the equipment. Thus it's possible you'll need to have it redone by an independent shop that's so big that they have plunked down the $20K for the diagnostic machine. Good luck!

I don't have an answer but some potentially related info. The folks who did the successful phoney "install" (meaning no real alarm system but rather fooling the car's computer into thinking it should flash the clown nose when the car is locked and flash the lights as the car is being locked) on my car said this: It can only be done correctly "by people who have the $20,000 computer system designed for BMWs. Otherwise, it won't work right."

Here in Portland OR with a metropolitan area population of vaguely a million, except for the dealers (who refuse to do the phoney install because they want you to buy the whole alarm system), the place I went to is the ONLY place that has the equipment. Thus it's possible you'll need to have it redone by an independent shop that's so big that they have plunked down the $20K for the diagnostic machine. Good luck!
yeah, if you dont read my initial post correctly and thoroughly... this could really fuck up your car, i suppose.


you need the GT1 or MODEC computer to do this. and they both cost about 15k.

yeah, if you dont read my initial post correctly and thoroughly... this could really fuck up your car, i suppose.


you need the GT1 or MODEC computer to do this. and they both cost about 15k.

The folks who successfully set up my "phoney alarm system" indeed have the MODEC computer of which you speak. Truthfully or not, their claim is they had to pay $20K for it. In any case, 'sounds like we're in agreement that messing with the set of of the "phoney alarm system" is unwise in the absence of the the computer.

I have a 2004 325Ci that was manufactured in May, and according to Circle BMW the correct kit is
65730391495 E46
cabrio
01290391496
1.5
Alarm Kit with Motion Sensor from 03/04
requires housing for center consoleThe difference being that after 03/04 there are two additional motion sensors in the center console. After speaking with the parts guy at Circle he emailed me the TI's (tech instructions) for that install and the illustrations don't match up to what is in my car. At one point the TI states to use a template to cut an access hole at the rear end of my center console for the aft motion sensor. Then you install a cover plate to hide the sensor. Here is wherein my problem begins. At the end of my console is an ash tray with a roll up door. Doesn't appear to be any place to cut.
I called the dealer in West Palm about about a price quote and was directed to someone's voice mail and have not had a response yet. That was yesterday. Any pearls of wisdom would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

I have a 2004 325Ci that was manufactured in May, and according to Circle BMW the correct kit is
The difference being that after 03/04 there are two additional motion sensors in the center console. After speaking with the parts guy at Circle he emailed me the TI's (tech instructions) for that install and the illustrations don't match up to what is in my car. At one point the TI states to use a template to cut an access hole at the rear end of my center console for the aft motion sensor. Then you install a cover plate to hide the sensor. Here is wherein my problem begins. At the end of my console is an ash tray with a roll up door. Doesn't appear to be any place to cut.
I called the dealer in West Palm about about a price quote and was directed to someone's voice mail and have not had a response yet. That was yesterday. Any pearls of wisdom would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you
scan the TI and post photos of your console and point out where you are talking about.


i'll do my best to walk you through what you have.

Appreciate your reply, not sure how or if I can upload the TI in a .pdf

It appears that I need 12 more posts before I can attach an image.

email them to me, i'll host.



email: leftcoastbias AT gmail.com

george,

after reading through the documentation you sent me, and the picture of your car (which, as i suspected, is like every other e46 coupe i've seen)... the part you selected from the website is incorrect (as indicated by its notation of "cabrio")


the words that tricked you up were probably this:
3 Series Convertable:_________Vehicle Production 3/04-On*

that meant just convertables after 3/04; not all e46's.


the sensors for the coupe are placed in the weird little thing on the top of ceiling right behind the sunroof:

http://www.my330i.com/photos/mod8d.jpg


since convertables have neither a fixed roof, nor that thing... they have to put the sensors elsewhere (such as that weird box thing that you have to cut part of your rear ashtray out for).


that should have no bearing on a coupe, whatsoever.

call circle and ask for this (quoted from my first post in this thread):


The BMW alarm is p/n 65-73-9-416-520 Note: This P/N does NOT work on the convertible (MSRP $300, $220 from PacificBMW.com). This includes a high-powered siren, trunk/hood protection, interior motion sensor and tilt sensor. It will also flash the "clown nose" LED located on the bottom of the rearview mirror.

dont order from pacific bmw. they're clowns.

LeftCoastBias,

Thanks for the reply. My car is a convertible E46. I called Circle and I was told that was the part I needed per my vin. I don't want to cut on my console. I have a Lojac installed , so it's not like I'm not protected at all.

Thank you Sir.

LeftCoastBias,

Thanks for the reply. My car is a convertible E46. I called Circle and I was told that was the part I needed per my vin. I don't want to cut on my console. I have a Lojac installed , so it's not like I'm not protected at all.

Thank you Sir.
ooooooooooohhhhh you DO have a vert. i'm sorry, i misread then.


you do need to cut that thing in order to have the motion sensor. you can still install the alarm, without the motion detector, and it will function with the tilt sensor and break/vibrations.

i have two e46 friends in florida; almost equal distance from you in orlando and miami. if you were to go there for any reason, either one of them would be more than happy to help you with the process.






oh and a tip: you should list and refer to your car as a 325Cic on the boards, as that is customary to indicate you have a cabrio. it will point out to the rest of us what you drive so we can reference what parts will be specific to your model.

you can still install the alarm, without the motion detector, and it will function with the tilt sensor and break/vibrations.
Some things are better left alone. Kinda like putting a mustache on the Mona Lisa! I like this plan much better.

Thank you very much for your help.

P.S. Tip noted

OK, I got a questions, I just pick up a 01 330Ci, It have the clown nose, and I'll check under for the motion sensor. But my car beeps when you lock and unlock it with the bmw key. Keyless entry maybe? I look under the hood and didn't see any serine there to make that noise, or it beep the horn? I locked it and waited a min then kick the tire, press the rear of the car up and down and nothing.. ?

OK, I got a questions, I just pick up a 01 330Ci, It have the clown nose, and I'll check under for the motion sensor. But my car beeps when you lock and unlock it with the bmw key. Keyless entry maybe? I look under the hood and didn't see any serine there to make that noise, or it beep the horn? I locked it and waited a min then kick the tire, press the rear of the car up and down and nothing.. ?
roll down the drivers window, shut the door, lock it and wait 90 seconds.

stick your arm in the open window and see if the alarm sounds.

I have a 2003 330i pretty much decked out, but no clown nose. I just bought the factory alarm for the car and am wondering if I actually need the clown nose or not. I bought the car used and there wasn't one when I got it, not sure if I really need it or not.

Just curious before I go and install this...

Thanks

-Paul-

I installed my OEM alarm myself last week. Had it activated this morning.

The clown nose is just an indicator/theft deterrent.

You can buy a rearview mirror with one. I'd guess your original mirror was replaced with one lacking the clown nose.

The alarm is easy to install.. I did it at night! Dealer activated for $95. Indi shops here charged MORE than dealer.

If i hold the trunk release button down on my remote the alarm sounds.

One strange question, on the green wire in the trunk...

What is it for and how do you remove it, I can get underneath it, but what does that wire do and how do I remove it??

Figured it out, total install time was about 45 minutes total, finding the place for the horn was the hardest and then I was worried I plugged the horn in wrong, but it locked in and would not budge so I figured it had to be right ;)

Now to head over to the dealer and have them turn it on :)

Good guide LeftCoast!!

Cheers

-Paul-

One strange question, on the green wire in the trunk...

What is it for and how do you remove it, I can get underneath it, but what does that wire do and how do I remove it??

The plastic green cord is a fuel door release I believe. The actual cap snaps apart. look at it closely.

The plastic green cord is a fuel door release I believe. The actual cap snaps apart. look at it closely.
yeah, if you're talking about the green plastic cord, it's just the emergency gas cap release. the end plug pulls apart so you can remove the inner trunk lining.
Figured it out, total install time was about 45 minutes total, finding the place for the horn was the hardest and then I was worried I plugged the horn in wrong, but it locked in and would not budge so I figured it had to be right ;)

Now to head over to the dealer and have them turn it on :)

Good guide LeftCoast!!

Cheers

-Paul-

thanks :thumbup:

Ok anyone should be able to install that alarm, I did it at night after reading the guide here, the only thing that confused me was the gas wire, but once I was past that it was easy. Getting the horn mounted was a bit of a pain, but it went in with minimal fuss...

I just got it back from the dealer today, had them turn on the chirp and disable the valet key (had the car stolen last month), cost me $95. To test I pulled it into the driveway, rolled down a window and waited 90 secs and then stuck my arm in the car and voila!!! The car is now armed and working.... SWEET!!!

Now I can sleep at night :)

Next up... Bluetooth and HD Radio with iPod and I'll be a happy driver....

I love my car!!!!

Again thanks Left Coast, that guide was awesome.

-Paul-

I'm pretty sure I've seen the answer to this question somewhere, but I had the clown nose/visual confirmation successfully activated on my '04 325it. Now that I'm about to buy the OEM alarm and install it myself, do I have to go to the dealership and have the full alarm activated? The part I'm wondering about is the "uncheck the DWA" option. Does that have to be checked when I install the alarm?

...and, I forgot to ask something else. If you already have the OEM alarm installed, would you characterize the arm/disarm chirping sound as obnoxious? Or is it pretty respectful (of neighbors in a quiet neighborhood)? If anybody has a sound file, or knows of one on the net, let's hear it.