From digest.v7.n438 Tue Oct 14 18:44:47 1997
From: SCanhinga_at_aol.com
Date: Tue, 14 Oct 1997 18:20:39 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re:E36 Factory Alarm Installation

In response to a post by "kdross", I'd like to add my thoughts on installing the factory keyless/entry alarm system, which I just did on my '97 M3. First of all, the alarm comes as a kit, with mostly decent instructions from BMW. Anyone with some hand tools, and electric drill, and a little patients ought to be able to install the unit with relative ease. The hardest part for me was prying loose the passenger side footwell trim panel (directly under the glovebox. This really isn't too difficult, once the glovebox has been removed, as it is quite flexible. There is a footwell illumination light in this panel--I unhooked the wire so that I could remove it from the car to work with it.

One hint not in the instructions involves removing the on-board computer and storage nook from the center dash to install the little blinking light. At least on my car, the procedure was easy. Place the fingers of your hand inside the storage nook pointing toward the computer. Feel for a long rectangular groove. Press UP HARD while pulling out. This release a locking tab. The OBC re-installs easily. The second hint involves finding the factory wiring harness connector to plug in the alarm control module. It is taped to a bunch of other wires roughly in the area where the alarm module mounts (that location is diagramed very well in BMW's directions). However, the only way I found it was to stick my head in the passenger footwell and look up (butt on seat, legs flailing, etc.)

I had two small problems. When I reinstalled the trim panels, one of the metal clips into which a screw is supposed to go shifted position. That screw is now in the glove box, waiting for the next time that panel has to come off. Now that I realize they move, I could have been more careful. Also, the little plastic trim covers for two of the screws that hold in the glove box didn't want to reinstall. I tacked 'em into place with a little silicone, which seems to be holding and is invisible.

Last thoughts. Keep the screws for the glovebox sorted--they are NOT all exactly identical (washer size differs based on location). I purchased my alarm from Nathan Tucker at Hendrick Imports (1-704-535-0885)--$279.00, no shipping, fast service--I was very satisfied. (Usual disclaimers--don't know 'em, not sure where North Carolina is, just liked their service).

Scott Collins
'97 M3/4, Byzanz