disabling a Z4

[Idratherbediving]

Hello, I'm new. My wife has bought a 2015 Z4 and I'm considering security. I used to have a Stag and would routinely leave it unlocked but remove the rotor arm in the distributor cap. I figured there were few people carrying one around and indeed it proved successful during two attempted thefts. I have little trust in keyless entry, alarms & imobilizers so am looking for a simple way to disable the engine when we're away from home. Can anyone suggest a modern Z4 friendly alternative to my old ruse?

 

[Nanu]

I am sure you can get the keyless entry disabled and that would be a start.

 

[Idratherbediving]

I'm looking to physically disable the car rather than prevent entry I guess.

 

[Smartbear]

I'm looking to physically disable the car rather than prevent entry I guess.

Everything is monitored these days, if you made temporary disconnections to disable the car you could theoretically be causing problems with faults? :?
Maybe a decent steering wheel lock would be more straightforward?
Rob

 

[Z4 COUPSTER]

Just put a hidden kill switch somewhere. Any good auto spark could do.
D

 

[firebobby]

Can you remove a fuse, say to the fuel system. The other thing you could try is the fuse link type battery connection
Like this https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/12V-Quick-Release-Battery-Clamp-with-Fuse-Link-Battery-Isolator/292010799936?hash=item43fd333340:g:xEQAAOSwuxFYyT4K

 

[Smartbear]

Can you remove a fuse, say to the fuel system. The other thing you could try is the fuse link type battery connection
Like this https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/12V-Quick-Release-Battery-Clamp-with-Fuse-Link-Battery-Isolator/292010799936?hash=item43fd333340:g:xEQAAOSwuxFYyT4K

All do-able but isn’t the fuse box a pain to reach behind the glovebox? The battery idea sounds ok as well but you’d have to reset the clock each time & possibly reteach the electric windows :x
It would be such a pain you’d end up wishing someone would nick it :lol:
Rob

 

[kis]

I'd also consider other external factors, after you've found what you're looking for to physically disable the car... I'd look to physically stop them leaving (further deterrant) like the use of a telescopic parking post?

 

[mmm-five]

Remove a wheel and leave it on axle stands.

 

[djstan]

Didn't someone recently have a problem recently with a salvaged Z4 that he couldn't get to start - turns out it was a hidden Tracker device that had prevented ignition - some cable along one of the door jambs if I remember correctly? I'm sure it wouldn't be difficult to replicate that with a clever switch or relay or something?

 

[djstan]

See here: https://z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=45&t=107979&p=1566651#p1566651

 

[Ewazix]

Keyless entry is a real problem since the scum have discovered cheap and easy relay techniques so I deliberately avoid models with it fitted. I've fitted 12v remote relay switches similar to the link on classics in the past (you need one with an on/off function rather than just 'latch' which engages, then shuts off typically used for gates). Using the LT ignition circuit on low-tech classics was fine but I guess (literally) that more thought is needed about the best circuit to interrupt and how to avoid causing CAN BUS mayhem and shut-downs on our cars. At this point I put it up as a raw 'idea' and declare that my knowledge of CAN BUS is exhausted so maybe someone who knows what they are on about can step in and say whether or not this could work

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/DC-12v-10A-relay-1CH-wireless-Remote-Control-Switch-Momentary-Toggle-Latched-/141922674460
https://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/remote-control-systems-kits/1463511/

 

[firebobby]

Can you remove a fuse, say to the fuel system. The other thing you could try is the fuse link type battery connection
Like this https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/12V-Quick-Release-Battery-Clamp-with-Fuse-Link-Battery-Isolator/292010799936?hash=item43fd333340:g:xEQAAOSwuxFYyT4K

All do-able but isn’t the fuse box a pain to reach behind the glovebox? The battery idea sounds ok as well but you’d have to reset the clock each time & possibly reteach the electric windows :x
It would be such a pain you’d end up wishing someone would nick it :lol:
Rob

No Rob :roll:
There is a small fused wire that keeps all the small items going, it will blow if someone tries to hot wire or start the car without the screwed nut on the post.

 

[Smartbear]

Can you remove a fuse, say to the fuel system. The other thing you could try is the fuse link type battery connection
Like this https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/12V-Quick-Release-Battery-Clamp-with-Fuse-Link-Battery-Isolator/292010799936?hash=item43fd333340:g:xEQAAOSwuxFYyT4K

All do-able but isn’t the fuse box a pain to reach behind the glovebox? The battery idea sounds ok as well but you’d have to reset the clock each time & possibly reteach the electric windows :x
It would be such a pain you’d end up wishing someone would nick it :lol:
Rob

No Rob :roll:
There is a small fused wire that keeps all the small items going, it will blow if someone tries to hot wire or start the car without the screwed nut on the post.

Every day is school day
Rob