Non-Approved Accessories - May Cause Malfunctions
90BMW2111/90 I-34
TO: ALL BMW DEALER PARTS MANAGERS
SUBJECT: INSTALLATION OF NON-APPROVED ACCESSORIES/COMPONENTS
Last November a Service Information bulletin was issued to all Dealer Principals regarding the listed subject. Due to the importance of this matter, I am herewith re-issuing the content of the bulletin and urge you to take the time to thoroughly read this information.
A point of most concern to BMW of North America, Inc. ("BMW NA") is the increasing number of customer complaints regarding the unusual malfunction of their vehicle or a component in the vehicle.
Our investigation into these complaints have revealed that the installation of non-approved accessories/components have contributed to the majority of these complaints.
As you are aware, automobiles produced nowadays have become highly sophisticated. The various components, both electrical and mechanical (i.e., suspension and steering), that make up the entire vehicle have been integrated and designed to work collectively.
That is why installation of non-approved accessories and/or modifications to existing components in the vehicle may have adverse effects on its operation and safety.
In the case of electrical accessories, such as alarms, radios, amplifiers, radar detectors and telephones, extensive damage to the vehicle's wiring harness may occur when these accessories are improperly installed. The damage may occur when poor connections are made for their power and ground leads without any concern for the circuit being tapped. Even the routing and placement of these accessories and harnesses in the vehicle can effect other components due to certain electromagnetic interference. Examples of these effects are: whining heard through the sound system, a dead battery and unusual/sporadic operation of electrical systems found on the vehicle. BMW makes special efforts to seal the vehicle against water from entering the interior in particular through the firewall. Grommets are specifically designed for this purpose. We have found cases where grommets have been perforated due to the aftermarket installations allowing the water to freely drip onto electrical connectors inside the car.
Modifications to the body structure of the vehicle are also of great concern since the structural integrity and crash worthiness can be greatly affected. An example of this is the installation of speakers onto non-approved speaker openings. Body panels are extensively modified and cut to allow for their installation.
We must also strongly advise against modifications to the suspension. Typical modifications are: springs, shocks, wheels and tires. Installation of such items which are not BMW approved can have a direct effect on the vehicle road-worthiness and response in evasive situations.
It is our responsibility as an automobile importer to notify you, as a dealer of our product, that such non-approved installations/modifications can place the burden of the vehicle's worthiness and safety upon you. In addition, you must be made aware that such nonapproved modifications and installations may effect the validity of the BMW Warranty and will be contrary to your obligations under the Dealer Agreement.
We feel that our current offering of accessories meets the needs of our customers. New products are continuously evaluated to meet the needs of our customers and their effects on the vehicle.
We ask that you further discuss this matter with the Sales and Service personnel within your dealership so that they are aware of all of the factors involved with such installations.