John W

Hi,

My post-DME install 545 is now at my dealer, ready for pickup. The Sirius option was changed from factory to dealer-installed between the time I ordered the car and when it was produced. Now, the dealer wants $950 to install it, rather than the original $595.

I see that Circle BMW has the parts for about $350, but I can't find any installation instructions. Has anyone done this? I assume the receiver's easy to install, but that programming would be necessary afterwards, like the phone.

Any insight? Thanks

kscarrol

$950!!!! That is a rip off! The parts are about $350 and the official BMW line is 1 hour of labor for install. I'd check at another dealer if there is one in the area.

bmw545

Not sure if that can be DIY. You may still need dealer to enaable sirius radio in iDrive software setting.

kscarrol

bmw545 is right, it is not just a matter of plugging in the module, there is some software work that the dealer has to do. But again, I was show the actual BMW memo at my dealer describing the parts needed and the cost and it clearly showed to charge 1 hr of labor. Unless the going rate in N. Ca. is $600/hr for labor, I'd shop around.

GotBMW

BMW actually issued a Bulletin that dealers where not to charge more than if it was factory installed. I would question them on this.

wolverine

From what I understand, you need to have the factory install the Sirius radio antenna in your sharkfin (satellite radio prep). I think they charge $75 for this if you have nav. If you don't have the factory prep, I have heard that you need to install an antenna in a pod on your trunk.

I'm getting this info thirdhand, so you definitely should check - especially if they are going to install something onto your trunklid.

$950 is definitely a ripoff - I paid $595 for the entire thing. It is fantastic - I highly reccomend it.

John W

Thanks for all the feedback. I asked them to stick to the $595 factory charge, but they're just saying "it's more now." You know the game.

In any case, the option isn't in the 'build your BMW' site anymore, so there's nothing to compare to.

I did have the sat radio prep done, so that's a start. I'll see what the other locals are charging.

juan2mini

John W:
Welcome aboard. My dealer, in California, quoted me $530.00. I already have the satellite prep done also.

tjohnson

john W-wanted an update did you go the dealer route or get the parts from circle bmw?

John W

I went through my dealer. For the extra $50 in parts, I wanted one responsible party. Worked out fine, and I love Sirius - I never use AM or FM anyomre, and rarely CDs.