20 Ways to Upgrade Your BMW With Safety and Security Equipment

BMW Steering Wheel with Controls for Adaptive Cruise and Lane Assist, Showcasing Safety and Security Equipment Features

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Boosting the safety and security of your BMW isn’t just about peace of mindโ€”it’s about keeping yourself, your passengers, and your ride in top shape.

Letโ€™s get straight into the best upgrades to make your BMW safer, more secure, and ready for anything.

1. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

BMW ADAS Sensors Detect Nearby Cars
Source: Youtube/Screenshot, Adaptive Cruise Control keeps a safe speed and distance based on traffic

When it comes to driving smarter, ADAS is a choice that so many drivers praise. Think extra sets of eyes watching for obstacles or helping with lane changes:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control โ€“ Maintains speed and distance, adapting to traffic.
  • Lane Departure & Keeping Assist โ€“ Keeps you on track with gentle nudges to stay centered.
  • Blind Spot Detection โ€“ Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots.
  • Automatic Emergency Braking โ€“ Can prevent or lessen the impact of a collision.

Some of these features can be activated over the air with BMWโ€™s ConnectedDrive upgrades, so check your options and unlock new levels of safety.

2. Adaptive LED or Laser Headlights

Better visibility means safer driving, especially when the sun goes down. Upgrading to adaptive LED or laser headlights provides:

  • Enhanced Illumination โ€“ Brighter lights that make a difference on dark roads.
  • Adaptive Lighting โ€“ Lights that follow the curve of the road.
  • Automatic High-Beam Control โ€“ Automatically adjusts based on traffic.

Get these through BMW service centers or authorized dealers to make your night drives clearer and safer.

Upgrading to adaptive LED or laser headlights can significantly improve nighttime visibility and overall driving safety. For a range of high-quality options, consider exploring Ultra Bright Lightz.

3. Dash Cam Installation

BMW Dash Cam Settings Menu
Source: Youtube/Screenshot, Dash cams are essential for insurance claims

A dash cam is a very cool gadget, but it is so much more than that. Itโ€™s a silent witness if you ever need visual proof of what happened on the road.

  • Accident Documentation โ€“ A lifesaver when dealing with insurance claims.
  • Theft Deterrent โ€“ Acts as a deterrent for would-be thieves.
  • Parking Surveillance โ€“ Records while parked, catching incidents when you’re away.

Options like the Thinkware U1000 deliver 4K resolution and night vision. Itโ€™s a small investment for serious peace of mind.

4. GPS Vehicle Tracking

A tracking system offers real-time monitoring, letting you breathe a little easier.

  • Theft Recovery โ€“ Greatly increases chances of recovery.
  • Geofencing Alerts โ€“ Notifies you if your BMW exits designated zones.
  • Driving Behavior Monitoring โ€“ Perfect for watching young drivers or fleets.

BMW offers its own ConnectedDrive tracking, or you could go for a third-party solution like SmarTrack.

5. Strengthen Keyless Entry Security


Keyless entry is convenient but also at risk for relay attacks. Secure your system with:

  • Secure-A-Key Device โ€“ Blocks the key fob signal when not in use.
  • Faraday Pouches โ€“ Simple but effective for keeping the signal contained.

These simple steps go a long way toward safeguarding your BMW from tech-savvy thieves.

6. Upgrade to Run-Flat Tires

With run-flat tires, a flat doesnโ€™t mean pulling over immediately. Itโ€™s a game-changer.

  • Safety โ€“ Lets you keep control if a tire goes out.
  • Convenience โ€“ No need to stop for a tire change right away.

If your model didnโ€™t come with run-flats, check with a dealer about making the switch.

7. Install an Enhanced Alarm System

 

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An upgraded alarm system does more than honkโ€”it deters thieves and vandals effectively.

  • Motion Sensors โ€“ Detects movement inside when armed.
  • Tilt Sensors โ€“ Alerts for wheel theft or towing.
  • Glass Break Sensors โ€“ Triggers if the glass is broken.

Upgrade through BMW or an authorized service center to add serious security to your setup.

8. Window Tinting and Security Film

Beyond looks, window tinting, and security film add protection and privacy.

  • UV Protection โ€“ Cuts down on interior fading and protects skin from harmful rays.
  • Shatter Resistance โ€“ Makes windows harder to break, deterring smash-and-grabs.

Check local regulations on tinting before diving in, as rules vary on how dark you can go.

9. BMW Remote Services

Person Using BMW Remote Services App
Source: Youtube/Screenshot, Remote Lock/Unlock lets you secure your car from anywhere

BMWโ€™s ConnectedDrive has many remote options available through the My BMW App.

  • Remote Lock/Unlock โ€“ Control access even from afar.
  • Vehicle Finder โ€“ No more wandering the parking lot.
  • Real-Time Status โ€“ Keeps you informed on fuel, range, and maintenance.

These features make owning a BMW even more practicalโ€”who doesnโ€™t want a little extra convenience?

10. Stay on Top of Software Updates

Software updates bring fresh features and security enhancements right to your ride.

  • Remote Software Upgrades โ€“ Keeps your systems up-to-date with the latest enhancements.
  • Feature Activation โ€“ Updates can sometimes add new tools like driver assistance.

Check your My BMW App or infotainment for updates and keep your BMW running sharp.

11. Add a Fire Extinguisher


A fire extinguisher may not be standard, but itโ€™s a solid addition for any driver.

  • Accessibility โ€“ Place it within easy reach of the driverโ€™s seat.
  • Appropriate Type โ€“ Class B or C, suitable for automotive fires.

Itโ€™s one of those โ€œjust-in-caseโ€ tools that can save a day from going wrong.

12. Consider Professional Armoring

Looking for maximum protection? Professional armoring transforms your BMW into a fortress.

  • Ballistic Protection โ€“ For high-level defense against firearms.
  • Explosion Resistance โ€“ Reinforced undercarriage and body panels.
  • Discreet Design โ€“ Protection without sacrificing style.

With this added security, BMW even offers factory-built Protection models, like the X5 and 7 Series.

13. Parking Sensors and Cameras

BMW Rear Camera Display with Parking Assist Options
Source: Youtube/Screenshot, Front & rear sensors help avoid parking bumps

Parking aids take the stress out of squeezing into tight spots with a range of options:

  • Front & Rear Sensors โ€“ Prevent minor bumps when parking.
  • 360-Degree Cameras โ€“ Birdโ€™s-eye view makes tricky spaces easier.

Get these from BMW service centers or trusted installers for extra parking peace of mind.

14. Seat Belt and Airbag Upgrades

Want to increase protection in your BMW? Consider adding high-performance safety restraints.

  • Four-Point Seat Belts โ€“ For those high-speed adventures.
  • Side Airbags โ€“ Ask a dealer about retrofitting if your model lacks side airbags.

More safety means more security, especially if you love to push the limits.

15. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

BMW Tire Pressure Monitoring System Showing Internal Components to Track Tire Pressure Levels
Source: Youtube/Screenshot, If your BMW lacks TPMS, itโ€™s an upgrade worth checking out

A TPMS gives you real-time tire info, helping avoid dangerous under-inflation.

  • Pressure Alerts โ€“ Prevents blowouts by alerting you to low pressure.
  • Better Handling โ€“ Maintains optimal handling and fuel efficiency.

16. Anti-Theft Markings

Marking parts with unique identifiers makes stealing your BMWโ€”or its partsโ€”less appealing.

  • VIN Etching โ€“ Makes it tough for thieves to resell parts.
  • Microdot Marking โ€“ Tiny identifiers trackable by law enforcement.

Many security companies offer these services. Itโ€™s a quiet but effective deterrent.

17. BMW Digital Key


BMWโ€™s Digital Key turns your phone into a key, adding both security and convenience.

  • No More Keys โ€“ Your phone handles it all.
  • Secure Authentication โ€“ Prevents unauthorized access.

Check compatibility and set up through the My BMW App to keep things safe and simple.

18. Rear-View Mirror With Display

Enhanced mirrors with displays add serious functionality to your drive.

  • Backup Camera โ€“ See behind you clearly when reversing.
  • Dash Cam Integration โ€“ Keep an eye on the front and rear simultaneously.

Ask about authorized options for easy integration into your BMWโ€™s design.

19. Remote Start System

Person Using a Remote to Start a White BMW Parked in An Outdoor Lot
Source: Youtube/Screenshot, Locks the vehicle until you’re ready to drive

Remote start gets your BMW cozy before you even step inside.

  • Climate Control โ€“ Pre-cools or heats the car.
  • Security โ€“ Keeps the vehicle locked until youโ€™re ready to go.

BMWโ€™s ConnectedDrive offers remote start, which is easily accessible via the My BMW App.

20. Routine Maintenance & Inspections

Nothing beats the basics. Regular maintenance keeps your BMW in peak condition.

  • Brake Checks โ€“ For reliable stopping power.
  • Suspension Inspections โ€“ Keeps handling tight and stable.
  • Software Updates โ€“ Ensures systems run smoothly.

Follow BMWโ€™s maintenance schedule, and youโ€™ll be ready for any road trip or city commute.

Summary

With the right upgrades, your BMW becomes a fortress on wheels. These tweaks prepare you for anythingโ€”safe, secure, and ready to roll.

Picture of Joe Duran

Joe Duran

Hi guys, I'm Joe, and I'm a very passionate BMW enthusiast with a deep love for everything related to the brand. After spending eight years working as a mechanic, I've gained hands-on experience that allows me to provide technical insights into the cars I admire. I stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the automotive industry, especially BMW, and love sharing my knowledge with fellow car lovers. Check out my articles!
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