[nolam3]

I researched radar detectors on various forums dedicated to the products and the consensus seems to be the Escort 9500ci. I called the local BMW dealership to ask about having one installed and was told they no longer do business with Escort (Passport). I asked if I could buy the 9500ci and bring it in for installation. The dealer’s rep. told me they would not be able to do that and suggested I buy a Calibre K40 which is the only radar detector they are authorized to install.


I’ve owned a number of Escorts over the years and have never heard of Calibre. I’m disappointed the dealership will not install the 9500ci because I don’t want “non-approved” products on my vehicle (2008 M3).

I’d like to know if anyone has been able to get the 9500ci installed by a BMW dealer. If so, where and if not, what are they selling?

[Blake]

crazy talk...k40 isn't the way to go. you want to stick with a 9500ci. you don't have to get it installed at the dealership, go to any stereo shop and get it done. that's probably your best bet anyway, they'll probably be more apt to handle a custom install job. check out PencilGeek's setup: http://www.m3post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=143999 - you should have it done like that at a professional custom auto shop. that's a proper e92 m3 9500ci setup

[Blake]

oh and btw, if you're somehow scared that an installed radar detector will void your warranty, don't be. that's a harmless mod and i've never heard of any car being denied warranty because of it. and to suggest that a K40 is "approved" is also crazy talk, it's only "approved" because that's what your stealership wants you to believe so you'll buy their crap.

[deamon32]

Stick with an escort, there really are only two radar detectors to buy, and thats the escort or the valentine 1. Both have different features and they are about the same as far as performance goes but any other radar detector is a waste of money.

And Blake is right about your dealership, they just want your money, bottom line. I would find a independent shop to install the escort for you if the dealer wont. There is no way that a radar detector can void any warranty or cause any issues with your vehicle, I would call BMW NA if your dealership keeps feeding your misinformation and garbage.

[Ryan@Motorwerks]

Originally Posted by deamon32

Stick with an escort, there really are only two radar detectors to buy, and thats the escort or the valentine 1. Both have different features and they are about the same as far as performance goes but any other radar detector is a waste of money.

And Blake is right about your dealership, they just want your money, bottom line. I would find a independent shop to install the escort for you if the dealer wont. There is no way that a radar detector can void any warranty or cause any issues with your vehicle, I would call BMW NA if your dealership keeps feeding your misinformation and garbage.

+1

[rcracer_tx]

I have a 9500ci Built into my 1er and couldn't be happier with it... Pays for itself very quickly.

As said before, the k40 is not the answer, It has alot of garbage reviews which kept me away from it. Glad I did

[achenator]

Just get a V1 and hardwire it. Good to see another NOLA area M3 on here. If you need some pointers, I'll help.

[MERGANSERS]

I had my top of the line escourt passport installed in my 2008 M3 convertible by a escourt authorized shop. It is in the front ashtray so I can shut the lid in Conn, Va, etc.
Must have amplifier and extra speaker. With the top down, radio on at 125 plus have to hear and light does not grap you right away. Was doing 125 plus in Va and did not hear it immediately. Paddle shifted down but he still clocked me at 95 in 60 on the interstate down the Shanadoah valley of a sunny, dry day. 90 or above is manditory reckless driving. Got lawyer local on internet who bargained it down to speeding, $1035 including costs, plus his $1500 cost. On the plus side, no reckless driving on record, no jump in insurance and he handled it all while I was in Europe. I just phoned in my credit card.
Nw I have to be good and save my cash for the Ericsson M480 Titanium Exhaust.