activating BMW alarm

Having read numerous messages here about people buying the
BMW alarm (from places like Pacific BMW), installing themselves,
and then visiting the dealership for activation, I decided to do the
same. So I ordered the alarm kit from Pacific BMW - they seem
good to deal with.

Now I'm trying to make an appointment with the local dealership.
They refuse to just activate it - they want to charge $165, apparently
the same as for installing it.

However once they found out I didn't buy the kit from them, they
started saying they didn't think they could even install it ... they are
concerned about some kind of warranty/liability issue.

Since (1) it's a genuine BMW part, and (2) if I bend and let them
install it instead of doing it myself ... I'm not sure why there should
be an issue.

Is this legit for them to refuse to (1) just "activate" the alarm, or
(2) install it when I purchased it (genuine part) from an authorized
dealer (Pacific BMW) ?

Thanks in advance.
-Bill (2002 325i sedan/Jet Black/Prem/HK/Sport)

I am having the EXACT same problem. BMW dealers are ALL asses! Someone help us.

I was thinking about doing the same thing, but now i guess im not. Got 2002 330i I would ask other dealers in the area.

I think it's pretty bad that a NEW 325 doesnt even include an alarm- when half of the parts are already in the car. I am leasing a new 325i, and thought it came with one- until I realized it didnt when I got home with it. Now BMW wants me to spend $500 to put one in. For a leased car? I don't think so.

Call around to other BMW dealers near you and see if they will do it.

I am in Canada and I had activation done And I don't have an alarm....just wanted some feature on....bitch a little ...I got it for free

My dealer ( Lauderdale BMW )did it free when the car was in for service,
I don't have the alarm, just the "clown nose" flash and the flashing parking lights when locking and unlocking. I have heard that $50 was what most charged (1/2 hour labor time for just the activation)

drive down to fayetteville nc we turn them on for free all the time.