Has anyone managed to install a remote starter to their car? I have a 2004 545i and whould love to get this installed. Took it to a local shop and they were hesitant to attempt it. Any info and what product used would be useful. Also any issues with installation?

Thanks

Bill

 

Bill,

The installation is technically possible. However, BMW does not advises to install remote starters or as a matter of fact warm up the engine more than 30 seconds in the morning. The reason for this recommendation is that it is better off to warm up the car driving (not hard) where you have better lubrication at 3k rpm vs 600 at idle.

In colder markets (I'm guessing Sweden) they offer an option for an engine warmer unit. This works with burning gas from the fuel tank and a heating element. This option was never offered in the US.

Webasco (a UK company) is offering similar units at about $2.5K

 

When I bought my 05 e60 the dealer advised against it because of the installation that would be needed . He told me that they would have to remove the dashboard in order to properly install the remote starter module.....................hence I never had it done.

I also drive off slow when I first start the car in cold weather. It even appears to warm up quicker when driven this way.

 

I am not sure about remote starter if one has kids and closed garage. Accidentally istart and not recognised can be dangerous especiaally in closed garages. I will look for codes/lock features in starter that will be accessed by a responsible adult it's use.
I love the car warmer option/accessoryavailable in some euro countries that is not available in US?Read about this in BMW-Int'l site under 5 series accessories.

 

We do have this feature in our security cars. Works only with automatic transmission and asures not to blown away while starting the engine.

 

You can install a remote starter on a manual, it's just that most SHOPS won't do it due to liability issues. I had an alarm/remote starter installed on my '01 Honda Prelude (manual) several years ago and with a little tinkering I figured out how to install the remote start option myself. The guy at the install shop wouldn't do it, but essentially showed me how to hook it up if I wanted to do it myself. Just make sure you always engage the "e-brake" if you install a remote start on a manual trans car otherwise you're in for a world of trouble.

 

If you get it working on the e60, you gotta be one crazy smart auto electrician. cause it seems impossible to me, but it may not be impossible to others. $$$ can get you anything done. Like kobe's manual transmission converted to auto ( not really ... still has clutch and custom custom clutch engage disengage ) on his lambo that he gave to his wife.