I purchased a BMW and want to install a nice alarm/security system. I want to install a Python alarm/security remote starter which I saw in Best Buy (available at Circuit City as well). The remote of this alarm/security (1) VIBRATES and, (2) LIGHT FLASES should the alarm go off for any reason. Now, I’m not sure if I should have the BMW center or a retail store such as Best Buy install it on my BMW. Again, should I have this system install by a BMW dealer? Or, can I trust Best Buy to do a professional job on installing it?
2007-10-27 18:21:40 · 5 answers · asked by Mizan 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Makes ➔ BMW
BMW Center. BestBuy will probably void the warrenty, unless they are an Authorised BMW Service Center?
2007-10-27 18:30:15 · answer #1 · answered by 33333248 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No doubt you're choosing the Python system over the BMW OEM alarm because of the myriad of features that the BMW system does not offer.
I'm not favoring one over the other, but I'm just going to go ahead and list the pros and cons. You decide which way you would like to go:
BMW system:
Pros:
Pre-wired, easy to install. Even if you try to install it and you mess up, the dealer can pick up the slack. Interfaces with your car key remote.
Cons:
Dated, with basic features, and standard install location and where pros are likely to know and disable. Costly (equal or more than a nicer aftermarket sysytem).
Aftermarket System:
Pros:
Latest technology, 2-way remotes, lots more features (such as remote start), non-standard install location (harder to figure out). May not cost as much as a BMW system.
Cons:
Remote starter defeats the key transponder security (needs a spare key to be in the car), cumbersome additional remote keyfob. Installer's skills may come to question.
BMW dealer WILL NOT install any non-BMW equipment to your BMW (for liability and warranty reasons), so you can forget about that idea.
HOPEFULLY - the Best Buy dude knows what he's doing. BMW's electrical system is not as straight forward as other cars. If he messes up, it could get... well, really messy.
Have a good conversation with the manager at Best Buy about your concerns. Be clear about whether the dude at least had installed on a few other E46 BMWs. Also make sure they spell out any warranty on the job should it fail 6 months down the road due to poor workmanship; what is covered...etc. If in doubt, walk away.
2007-10-28 02:07:00 · answer #2 · answered by Snowie 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i would not have the Best buy do it BMW (and germen cars in general) have complex electrical systems best buy is not what i would consider as a place that can handle an install on a car like this i would highly consider going to a custom car shop for an after market system or sticking with the BMW system. i would definitly consider that you will have to carry around an extra fob for the after market system.
2007-10-28 18:40:57 · answer #3 · answered by mbar3 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Best Buy
2007-10-28 01:29:21 · answer #4 · answered by Hello:) 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Snowie makes a good point. I'd be wary of best buy voiding your warranty, but i trust them enough. go best buy.
2007-10-29 01:47:39 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋