Over the past few months there has been a growing number of thefts of all BMW vehicles built between 2004-2012,
accross the UK. All cars manufactured with the cartridge type BMW key fob which slots into the dash with push
button start or comfort access are under threat. Over the past 8 months, Secure My Car have been
working closely with a number of BMW owners who have had their cars broken into or stollen by this new threat.
There are a number of security risks with these cars. At the moment, gangs are operating mostly in and
around London and Birmigham areas with hundreds of BMW's being stollen every month.
Click on the M3 Cutters banner below for full detail.
CCTV of a BMW 1M being stolen
How these cars are being stolen
From speaking with the police and working closely with our customers, we have worked out how these thefts are being
under taken. As you can see from the video above, they have have a number of ways to steal all new BMW's...
Smashing a window to gain access to the car..
There is a possibility there is a black spot somewhere on the drivers side window which when hit shatters the
glass but doesn't activate the standard BMW alarm system. CCTV footage has shown on a number of breakings the
factory BMW alarm system has not been activated when attacked. This allows the theif to work on the car to clone
a new key for your BMW. Most owners also don't know, that if you click the lock button on your remote, then click
it again within 5 seconds, this deactivates the internal sensors. This is normally used when leaving a pet inside
the car. Owners of Vauxhalls, citroens etc will be used to clicking the lock button twice to activate the dead locks. Even If the BMW factory alarm system does sound on an attack it will
only sound for a few seconds. As soon as the thief clones a new key (normally in 20sec of smashing the window) and
slots the new fob into the dash, the BMW alarm and immobiliser shuts down as well as the cars dead locks are also
deactivated allowing the theif full access to the car. The car can then be started and driven away.
How do we solve this? The only way to solve this problem is to upgrade your BMW alarm system to a high end
aftermarket Viper alarm system, preferably with a 2-way paging system built in to the remote and upgraded sensors.
This will make it harder for the theif to get into your car unnoticed. Once fitted, if your new alarm system is
activated, your new key fob at a range of up to 2000 feet will flash, beep and vibrate notifying you instantly of
the break in. We can also connect this to your smart phone making the range unlimited. (see Smartstart below for
this feature)
We also recommend upgrading the sensors on the new alarm system with a dual Proximity sensor. As standard, these
alarm systems come with an impact sensor which will detect a hard impact to the vehicle, for example if the
window is hit to smash the glass, the dual proximity sensor works by creating two invisible bubbles, one inside the
car the other outside the vehicle. The external zone, once broken will warn anyone who comes too close by
beeping the siren 5 times. We normally set this zone just inside the wing mirrors to minimalise false alarms. The
second zone creates an
invisible bubble inside the car. If this zone is broken the full alarm system is activated instantly.
We sell 5 upgraded sensors.
1) Ultra sonic interior sensors for motion inside the car.
2) Dual proximity sensor with warn away. (Creates an invisible bubble inside and outside the car) Detects motion.
3) Glass break sensor.
4) Tilt and motion sensor, for alloy wheels and detecting the car being tilted, jacked up or towed.
5) Impact sensor/shock sensor. Detects any impact to the car, smashing a window etc.
Secondly, drilling out the locks to the car.
We have also heard of cases where the locks have been drilled in a certain way. This then either unlocks the
doors or drops the windows giving the theif access to your OBD port to clone a new key. By attacking the car
this way there is no smashing of glass sound and less chance of the interior sensor activating the factory
alarm.
How do we solve this?
Again, by upgrading to a viper alarm system with a Proximity sensor (motion sensor) proximity sensors detect
movement much better than your standard BMW ultra sonic sensors. With a proximity sensor there are no black
spots as there are with ultrasonics which point to the rear of the vehicle. Anywhere behind an ultra sonic
microphone is un-protected.
Thirdly programming a new key through the cars OBD port..
This is the most important one! Once inside the car, under the dash is an OBD port. This links straight to
the cars main brain and the security system. The thieves have managed to source key programming equipment
which allows them in seconds to program a new key to your car. These units are easily sourced on the internet
through ebay and other internet sites sold to the public. Once plugged in, it's only a matter of 20-30 seconds
before a new key is cloned. They then slot the newly programmed key into your ignition slot which instantly
disarms your factory BMW security system, including deadlocks, engine immobiliser and alarm siren/sounder. They
can then start your car and drive off with your pride and joy. All these above steps can be done in less than
40 seconds flat.
What can be done? We can't say too much about what we do but let's just say we can fit extra immobilisation
controlled via the new alarm aswell as other things which stops the OBD key programming. This is done for
free as part of the alarm install to all BMW vehicles. Even if the thief does gain access to the car it's almost
impossible for them to shut down the new viper alarm system and/or clone a new key to your car.
FAQ
A few facts you may not know about your BMW security system.
If you press the lock button on your BMW Remote twice this will deactivate all internal sensors.
Factory alarm system sirens are only 100DB and sounds like a vehicle reversing
alarm system deactivates as soon as a programmed key is slotted into the dash also unlocking doors and deadlocks.
There is no impact/shock sensor fitted to a BMW factory alarm system.
If you don't shut your doors properly or leave them a jar, the car will not lock. This includes the boot.
Youtube video of our demo car fitted with the full securiy upgrade which we are offering
Viper 5704
2-Way LCD Display 1 mile range Paging security system with Remote Engine start, Keyless GO (no need to insert the key in to the dash as long as the key is inside the car) Upgraded engine immobilisation, OBD port Securiy and Battery backup siren
Viper smart start system with GPS tracking, Acutrac Locater Alarm and Tracker Locate
The Alarm System
We have a number of aftermarket car alarm systems to choose from all with the latest anti code grabbing rolling code
technology. A few alarm systems are listed below. We use 2 types of canbus modules to install these alarm system to your
car. This depends on customers prefrence and vary in price. The first canbus module allows us to control
the cars complex electronics, locking, deadlocks etc digitally. The second does the same but also separating the cars security
system from the factory remote completely. This is perfect if your worried about code grabbing. It also
helps stop the thief from scanning your factory remote. Please call for more information on
which canbus module best suits you.
We have had a problem on certain model BMW's where we havent been able to disarm the factory alarm system from the
new alarm. What we found was when the new alarm was armed, the BMW would also arm but wouldnt disarm when you disarmed
the alarm from the new Viper fob. At the time when coming back to your car we had to disarm the viper then also disarm the
bmw alarm using the factory fob. This also opened up the code grabbing from the factory remote.
We have found a way to get past this by using a second Canbus module which we special order in from the states.
I know we're also the only company in the UK who knows how to do this successfully.
Now all you need to do is choose and alarm system.
All our alarm systems come with a very, very loud 120db 6 tone siren. Your standard factory alarm siren sounds like one of these
vehicle reversing sounders. They also come with rolling code technology which is vurtually bullet proof. This stops any thief
from scanning the code whilst hiding in the bushes (in cunjunction with canbus module 2). The alarm systems comes standard with dual
impact sensor but we always recommend upgrading the alarm with a dual motion/proximity sensor. This produces 2 invisible bubbles.
One for the outside, which when broken sounds a beeping noise from the siren warning anyone who gets too close.
And the other on the inside of the car which when broken activates the full alarm system.
So that's motion and shock protected. The alarm also comes with protection
to the boot bonnet and doors, also ignition sense and engine immobilisation. This way if the thief does manage to get into your BMW to program a new key, they still can't start the car as the viper immobiliser is still activated.
Alarm system
We recomend 3 diffrent upgraded security system. Both alarm systems have the same features with different remotes. The 3303 has a visual
aid in the form of a 2 inch Liquid Crystal display. This notifys you which zone is actually broken. The 3203 remote is also a 2-way paging alarm system with hidden led ghost lights which flash
and beeps when the alarm is activated.
Click on each banner for more information on each alarm system.
New
New Viper 3203 2 -way pager Alarm
Video below - Secure My Car installed the Viper 3203 to this BMW M3
The Responder LE 2-way Security system will wrap your vehicle in protection, with the most sophisticated electronic technologies available today, including the Stinger® DoubleGuard® shock sensor, Revenger® six-tone siren and Failsafe® Starter Kill. The system also offers in-demand convenience features like keyless entry.
The included 2-way remote will confirm your commands virtually instantly using brilliant flashing GhostLight™ LEDs on the remote. Rock solid 2,000 foot range and performance at an affordable price – that’s what the new Viper 3203 has to offer.
Key Features:
D2D for the highest level of connectivity with Performance Matched Xpresskit interfaces
Control Center with integrated valet switch and bright blue status LED
SuperCode™ Technology for long reliable 2000 feet range
Auto Re-Arm. If you lock you vehicle and do not enter the system will rearm itself
Ground when armed sensor port for additional sensors
Flex Relay for dome light, horn, or trunk release operation
Upgradable remote start capability with 4003L. Works just like a 5X!
SmartStart™ Compatible
Includes:
One 2 way Responder LE remote (7251V)
One 1 way companion remote (7153V)
Control Center w/ integrated LED/VALET Switch (6211T)
Revenger® 6 Tone Siren
All Required Harnesses for Installation
New Viper Responder LE Car Alarm - Fully Fitted
* Only disarm using viper remote if second canbus module is installed or remote start is fitted
** Spare key is needed. Manual cars will need to go through a shut down secuence every time you exit the car
* All alarm systems are not Thatcham rated and are not insurance approved alarm systems
This state-of-the-art Responder LC 2-way Security system will wrap your vehicle in protection, with the most sophisticated electronic technologies available today, including the Stinger® DoubleGuard® shock sensor, Revenger® six-tone siren and Failsafe® Starter Kill. The system also offers in-demand convenience features like keyless entry.
The included 2-way remote will confirm your commands virtually instantly on the large LCD screen of the remote. Rock solid 2,000 foot range and performance – that’s what the new Viper 3303 has to offer.
Key Features:
Proprietary User interface on a large LCD display
Rechargeable lithium -ion battery
D2D for the highest level of connectivity with Performance Matched Xpresskit interfaces
Control Center with integrated valet switch and bright blue status LED
SuperCode™ Technology for long reliable 2000 feet range
Auto Re-Arm. If you lock you vehicle and do not enter the system will rearm itself
Ground when armed sensor port for additional sensors
Flex Relay for dome light, horn, or trunk release operation
Upgradable remote start capability with 4003L. Works just like a 5X!
SmartStart™ Compatible
Includes:
One 2 way Responder LC remote (7351V)
One 1 way companion remote (7153V)
Control Center w/ integrated LED/VALET Switch (6211T)
Revenger® 6 Tone Siren
All Required Harnesses for Installation
* All the above alarm systems are not Thatcham rated there fore are not insurance approved alarm systems
We also have the new smartstart iPhone/blackberry/android module which is £399.99 (plus subs and
fitting) this connects your phone to your alarm system allowing you to lock/arm disarm/unlock boot
pop, locate/track and gives you instant notification if your alarm is activated, literally anywhere
in the world. Where ever you have phone signal. If you also have remote start fitted this will also
start your car.
Official Smart Start Demo on YouTube.com
Years ago, when it came to getting the ultimate range on your keyless entry/remote sta rtsystem there was only one sure-fire solution: put the remote to your chin and press the button (it does actually work) and hope that you’d successfully started or disarmed your vehicle from a few hundred feet away. Today, manufacturers are producing remote transmitters that feature advertised ranges of up to a mile; but even these transmitters face range limitations caused by signal interference and obstructions that decrease the effective range of the remote to just a few thousand feet. But why limit yourself to a few thousand feet of transmitting range when you can lock/unlock or start your vehicle from tens, hundreds, or even thousands of miles away? To test out the ultimate in "remote" vehicle control, we evaluated Directed Electronics latest in automotive convenience, the Viper SmartStart. With the Viper SmartStart system and an iPhone.Blackberry, or Android smartphone, you can control your vehicle from virtually anywhere you have cellular service via an easy to use smartphone-based app.
*Please note Smartstart prices subject to annual subscription of £99 a year
SmartStart controlled By Android Samsung Galaxy S2 Fitted to our Vauxhall Astra Work Car
SmartSmartstart controlled By apple Iphone 4S Itunes Fitted to out Vauxhall Astra Work Car
Trackers
Most BMW owners have some sort of Tracker installed to their BMW . Unfortunately I've got some bad news for you. For
those of you with high Tec trackers fitted which notifys you if your car is stollen, well I'm sorry to say these are
basically useless until you actually physically notice your car has been stollen and you contact the tracking company
yourself. A tracker works by unauthurised movement of your car. If a new key has been programmed into your car, the
tracker won't see this as an unauthorised movement as it's started and driven away with the vehicles keys.
We have tracking units which notifys you if your new alarm system is activated via your mobile phone before the new
key can be programmed.These units are armed and controlled by your new viper alarm system. You can then track it via an app
instantly on your phone or by login on to a secure website to locate your car. Anytime any place. You can also set a
Geo fence around your car. If your car leaves this circle in any way at a time set by you, your notified via your phone
SMS/phone app and also emailed instantly.
Extras sensors
1) Ultra sonic interior sensors for motion inside the car.£45
2) dual proximity sensor with warm away. Creates a invisible bubble inside and outside the car. Detects motion.£60
3) glass break sensor £45
4) tilt and motion sensor, for alloys wheels and detecting the car being tilted, jacked up or towed. £60
5) impact sensor/shock sensor. Detects any impact to the car, smashing a window etc. Already built in to all the alarms.
Flashing viper windscreen logo £30 fitted.
Extra security
Thatham approved immobiliser when fitted with an alarm system £160
Acutrac locate and locator alarm £350-£450 fitted with an alarm system
We are authorised dealers and installers for all Acutrac, clifford and viper security systems. We operate a mobile
fitting service which covers most of the UK. We only charge what it costs in fuel to get to you for this service.
But your quiet welcome to come to us in Bristol. It's time to secure your BMW before it's to late.
Clifford car alarms are the leaders in vehicle security with over 20 years in the industry. Clifford have a car alarms to suit everyones needs whether its cliffords cat 1 thatcham approved car alarms to there entry level arrow 5.1 car alarms. The arrow 5.1 car alarms comes with protection to the boot bonnet and doors aswell as dual shock sensor and immobiliser. The clifford arrow 5.1 car alarm can also be fitted to almost every vehicle on the market today. Cliffords next car alarm on offer is the clifford concept 470 which boasts the same features as the clifford arrow 5.1 car alarm but also comes with a glass tampering sensor, tilt and motion sensor and an extra immobiliser. The clifford concept 470 car alarm also comes with two five button remotes when the arrow 5.1 car alarms only come with 3 button remotes. the clifford concept 470 also comes with clifford super bright blue led. Cliffords cat 1 entry level car alarm system is the clifford concept 650 mk2 car alarm system. with dual immobilisation and cliffords legendary daul proximity sensor with warn away. the clifford concept 650 cat 1 car alarm system also comes with cliffords battery backup siren and cliffords anti hijack blackjax system. The clifford concept 650 mk2 car alarm also won best car alarm system and best cat 1 car alarm system in the 2009 me awards. No other cat 1 thatcham approved car alarm comes close the clifford concept 650 mk 2 car alarm. Clifford car alarms flagship thatcham cat 1 insurance approved alarm system is the avantguard 5.5 car alarms system. The clifford avantguard 5.5 comes with clifford dual proximity sensor, tilt an motion sensor aswell as clifford glass tampering sensor. The clifford avantguard 5.5 cat1 also comes with cliffords blackjax antihijack clifford car alarms battery backup siren and is completely programmable through cliffords cliff wizard software. The clifford avantguard 5.5 cat car alarm also comes with remote engine start. at the the touch of a button your car alarm will start your car on those cold winter mornings and warm your car. clifford intellistart module will fit on to any clifford car alarm system including the clifford arrow 5.1 car alarm and the clifford concept 470 car alarm aswell as the clifford concept 650 cat 1 car alarm system. All clifford extra sensor and parts including remote engine start is designed to fit on to any clifford g5 and g4 car alarms. We are based in the bristol city centre and have been fitting clifford car alarms now for over 15 years. We cover mobile fitting in Bristol bath london exeter Birmingham Coventry Leicester Cardiff Newport Gloucester Yate Bristol south west wales essex sussex middlesex luton kent.
Viper car alarms
Viper car alarms are the leaders in vehicle security with over 20 years in the insustry. Viper have a car alarms to suit everyones needs weather its Viper cat 1 thatcham approved car alarms to there entry level arrow 5704 car alarms. The 5204 car alarms comes with protection to the boot bonnet and doors aswell as dual shock sensor and immobiliser. The Viper arrow 5.1 car alarm can also be fitted to almost every vehicle on the market today. Viper next car alarms on offer is the viper 5204 2-way pager, which boasts the same features as the viper 5904 car alarms but also comes with a glass tampering sensor, tilt and motion sensor and an extra immobiliser. The Viper 5904 2-way pager car alarms also comes with two 4 button remote when the arrow viper 5704 car alarms only come with 3 button remotes. the viper 5204 2-way pager also comes with vipers super bright blue led. Viper cat 1 entry level car alarm system is the viper cat 1 480xv 2 way pager alarm system. the viper 480xv car alarm is the only 2wway pager thatcham cat 1 car alarm system on the market.. with dual immobilisation . the Viper concept 650 cat 1car alarm system also comes with cliffords battery backup siren and cliffords anti hijack blackjax system. the Viper concept 650 mk2 car alarm also won best car alarm system and best cat1 car alarm system in the 2009 me awards. No other cat 1 thatcham approved car alarm comes close the Viper car alarm. Viper car alarms flagship thatcham cat 1 insurance approved alarm system is the 480xv with remote engine start added to its car alarms system. The Viper 5701 is the new car alarm from viper security. The viper 5701 hyper alarm system comes with 2 way paging and remote engine start as standard. We are based in the bristol city centre and have been fitting clifford car alarms now for over 15 years. We cover mobile fitting in Bristol bath london exeter birmingham coventry leicester cardif newport gloucester yate bristol south west wales essex sussex middlesex luton kent.
