A client from Greensboro recently contacted Adrenaline Autosound to discuss the installation of a 2018 BMW X3M radar detector and laser defense system. The client had done extensive research into the available systems and was very specific about the products he wanted to use. After discussing his plan and inspecting the vehicle, we agreed to an installation design that would meet his performance expectations.
BMW X3M Radar Detector Solution
To guard against police radar guns, the client wanted an Escort MAX Ci 360 with front and rear radar receivers. Escort leads the industry with GPS locating for false alarm locations and its IVT filter. The IVT (In-Vehicle Technology) filter helps prevent adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist systems from triggering an alert.
We mounted the DSP-based radar receiver in the lower front grille of the BMW as per the client’s request. According to the client, testing has shown that complete and direct exposure can increase the sensitivity of the radar receiver by a few percentage points.
AntiLaser Priority Laser Defense System
The client chose the AL Priority system to defend against police laser (lidar) guns. The ALP system has a main control module, with the HiFi upgrade set that includes a compact control panel, and a small speaker to announce warnings. To provide maximum protection, we mounted two standard laser sensors at the top of the lower grille opening. The optional TX Sensor is mounted in the main grille to provide the required ground clearance as outlined in the installation instructions.
The rear of the vehicle is protected by the same trio of sensors. We created custom mounting brackets out of cast acrylic plastic to conceal the sensors above the rear license plate. The mounting brackets are finished in black paint so they blend into the cosmetics of the vehicle.
Radar Detector and Laser Defense System Installation
Both the MAX Ci 360 and the AL Priority systems include compact control panels. We fabricated a custom bezel for the controllers out of acrylic plastic and mounted them in the center console.
Because the X3M includes stop/start technology, the battery voltage can drop significantly as the driver pulls away from a stop. We added a voltage regulator to mitigate any issues with the radar and laser detector systems. The regulator is mounted in the rear of the SUV behind the trim panel. As always, all of our wiring is bundled and protected with 3/8-inch automotive-grade fleece tape for an OEM look.
North Carolina’s Laser and Radar Detector Experts
After a few days, the client returned to Adrenaline Autosound to inspect his 2018 BMW X3M radar and laser system. He loved the fit and finish of the control panel in the center console and thought the trim around the rear sensors was fantastic. In fact, he was so impressed that he brought us another of his BMWs and asked us to remove the existing system and install a duplicate of the X3M system. He also referred a friend of his to us for an identical system in his truck. If you are in the Raleigh area, drop by Adrenaline Autosound to find out how we can protect your vehicle from police laser and radar speed traps. You can also reach us by e-mail using our contact page.
