2008 BMW 335 or 535

[computersoc]

This summer or fall, I plan on buying either a 2008 BMW 335xi Sedan or 2008 BMW 535xi (Sedan). How easy is it to install a laser jammer in either of these cars?

Is it something I could do myself, or would I be better off paying to have somebody do it? What would it cost, and where would I go?

I'm in NYS if that makes a difference.

I've been thinking about the LI...

Thanks.

[PMoth]

The LI heads will easily fit in the kidney grills of both cars. There are plenty of shops in lower NY that can install them for you. I know of one in CT that can also do it for you. Just a heads up, they normally charge 1200-1500 for a Beltronics SR7 system installed. Thise units probably wholesale for around $500. So, 3-500 bucks is not an uncommon estimate from a shop who is going to take the time to install the system correctly. If you have installation experience ( house, boat, or car), then it is something you can do yourself. BMWs are put together well and take time to pull apart, so I believe my estimates are real and accurate.

[lukenosewalker]

Get Cheetah and DIY! For my money, I wouldn't trust a car shop with a laser jammer. Although I have no doubt that there are good ones around that actually know what they're doing, I've heard of shops installing jammers behind grills and other performance-decreasing options. I'd say if you do decide on a professional install, make sure it's a good reference and make sure to tell them what you're looking for. Although something I should probably note is that I myself wouldn't trust myself tinkering around a BMW, I would definitely let the pros handle that. Now my crummy ol' camry, sure I'll tinker

[TSi+WRX]

If you have installation experience ( house, boat, or car), then it is something you can do yourself. BMWs are put together well and take time to pull apart....

+1 to both counts.

Basic mechanical/electrical skills are all that's needed - patience and attention-to-detail, however, are required.

New cars tend to be "tight" in terms of interior panel fit - so they'll take a bit of time and care to pull apart. If your DIY'ing, be sure to budget-in some extra time on the clock in order to avoid rushing through the job. [/i]

[jws3]

The work wasn't too hard, but finding a power source was, as these cars can be VERY tempermental with all the new electronics. I ultimately used a mini fuse tapper the doubles up on the homlink circuit as it is switched. Use a long plastic wiretie as is used in HVAC work to shove the wire towards the driver's side.

The lower panel is fairly easily removed, but needs torq screwdrvers and MUST be reinstalled carefully, as it engages into various clips and recesses. Best to observe carefully when removing to see how it works.

The wires could be routed through a spare pinky shaped extension next to the main wiring harness. It points through the firewall and is accebile from behind the brake booster are, if memory serves. From there is was just a matter of getting to the front and dressing everything neatly. So far so good. Looks damn near factory.

Oh-- stay away from the 535. Too damned ugly in every possible way. Yuck.....

[thinkcrawley]

I say dish out some hard earned money for a new M3 8)

[computersoc]

I've been driving stick for the past 5 years and am sick of it. I want automatic.

[erickonphoenix]

I say dish out some hard earned money for a new M3 8)

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm 8) the new M3 is hot.

[BossMan4Life]

Get a AMG Benz and all the pain will cease 4ever!!

[andrewaz]

I have a 328i and its a PITB to wire from the heads to the control box. Mounting them in the kidney grills is a double PITB since the entire area from the kidney into the radiator is sealed off from the rest of the engine so the airflow goes only onto the radiator, so you have to drill out one of the small opening to allow the cable to pass from the front kidney to the engine bay area.