Alarm Remotes for GSA - Thanks BMW :(

[Fullchat]

On my 2015 GSA I obtained some remotes and had them programmed into the alarm. So DWA off on the dash and no more activations moving, washing, fueling etc. Could set the alarm as and when I wished using the remotes. No more needlessly turning the ignition on and off. All good.

Have traded to a new GSA Triple Black with optional alarm and asked the dealer to transfer the remotes as part of the deal. Went to collect and told 'no longer can do'. Technician had tried and found the computer would no longer allow him to do so. After contacting the BMW mothership he was informed BMW Germany had removed the ability to do so from their diagnostic/programming machines. This was not the first time they had been contacted and they had attempted to have the facility returned.

I have to say that whilst the alarm may give some protection from interference / theft of the bike it is otherwise a total pain in the butt.

So I decided to contact Customer Services expressing outlining the general issues with the alarm and my disappointment that they had decided to prevent the addition of remotes and inquiring if they had an explanation. I thought the more complaints the better.

This was their corporate response:

Thanks for your email letting us know about the alarm system on your GSA. I’m sorry to hear this – I can understand why you’re frustrated.

We value feedback from our customers and we’re always looking for ways to improve our product range. I’ve passed your thoughts on to our Product Department for future consideration.

Our engineers face a constant challenge where vehicle security is concerned, given the fact that thieves are constantly developing new ways to steal vehicles. We’re therefore constantly reviewing and enhancing our security systems to the highest standards possible.

Motorrad vehicles are designed to the highest security standards and comply with all UK and EU vehicle security legislation so it is not standard practice for our retailers to offer security reprogramming.

If there’s anything else I can help you with, please let me know.

Kind regards

So a slap on the wrist for the dealer. But I'm sure the factory supplied alarm is universal across the BMW bike range and other models have remotes including the keyless GS's

 

[fredaroony]

"I’m sorry to hear this – I can understand why you’re frustrated." typical scripted customer service bullshit answer.

 

[Y7 JMM]

I had this done with my GS 2014 as I was fed up with activating alarm when opening/closing the topbox!!

Be a shame if I can't do it if I purchase a new one?

 

[Neil W]

This stuff has been going on in the car world for nearly 10 years ,for example VAG group used to include a security tag on new vehicles keys , it had a reference that allowed dealers whether they were franchised or using independant software to access and code certain components regarding vehicle security including alarms and even fuel pump with a immobiliser fitted.

In 2008 they changed policy so no security code meaning that it is very difficult to carry out certain repairs without accessing main delaer networks diagnostics and even then the main dealer does not get security code for future use all they get is access to the security system via a remote activation from VAG. if they unplug the vehicle they have to recontact VAG for a further remote acces to the system.

Still doesn't stop thieves being able to obtain devices to extend the range of keyless systems and get access to VAG cars but makes it a damned sight more difficult for anyone trying to legitimately access certain aspects of the vehicles systems