does the x3 have a standard factory alarm or is it an option?

[stangmatt66]

Originally Posted by pseto

alarms are dealer-installed, so negotiate this into the price of the car

You can purchase the alarm after you buy the car, as alarms can also be self-installed (dealer's will charge you an arm and a leg for labor to install it even though they probably have a third party alarm company come in to install it, I know Crevier BMW does this). However, self-installation will require the dealer to activate the alarm. The activation is a simple update to your car's computer. I don't know if you will be charged for the activation.

[xnsf]

Originally Posted by stangmatt66

You are 100% correct!

Also, for those without an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, the clown nose is used to dim the mirror, just give it a twist.

omg...really? thanks for the tip

[xnsf]

when i twist it, it only tilts to a lower position...what else is it supposed to do?

[blondboinsd]

BMW X5s, 5 series, 6 series and 7 series models come standard, all other models (x3,3 and Z4) are prewired additionally the models can be "tricked" into thinking the alarm is on (so the clown nose will blink/lights will flash) also the auto dimming mirror DOES not mean you have an alarm

[stangmatt66]

Originally Posted by blondboinsd

BMW X5s, 5 series, 6 series and 7 series models come standard, all other models (x3,3 and Z4) are prewired

Thanks for the clarification. I assumed the X5, 5, 6, & 7 would come with it, I just didn't know for sure.

[silversurferX3]

i need an alarm

[BartG]

All 3 series BMW's including the X3 doesn't come with the alarm system installed. It is pre-wired but is dealer installed option. Just the same that all 3 series cars don't come with floor mats... It is my understanding that all 5,6,and 7 series cars come with the alarm system installed. Although you would think that at $32 - $42k car would come with an alarm and floor mats.

The alarm system should run you about $400.
The Universal Garage Door Opener will run you about $800 on the X3.