Trouble spots, radio line in & car alarm

[SoCal325iT]

Just bought my first BMW -- a lovely 2003 325iT with 37,000 miles. As a newby I have a few questions:

1. What are the known trouble spots in the car and what components I should be very mindful of? The manual lists which components should be checked during Inspection I, II and I see that the car will tell you basically when all kinds of services, including oil changes are needed. Have not seen a single thing about the timing belt/chain replacement schedule. Seems like a very integral component.

2. I have the OEM Business Radio/CD player. I'd like to add a Line IN to plug in my Sirius radio. Does the radio have a jack in the back that simply needs to be routed or is it more complicated than that?

3. Does my car have an alarm system? I know it is a silly question, but the previous owner did not know either... From the manual I learned that the nub on the rearview mirror is for cars equipped with the alarm or 'alarm ready'. When I wirelessly lock the car and try to shake/tilt it, the alarm does not go off, so I suspect there is no alarm or it is not activated. Could not find the loudspeaker anywhere either. Seems silly that a car with auto tilting headlights and windshield wipers does not have an alarm.

4. Can anyone also recommend a non-dealer BMW mechanic in the San Fernando Valley, California?

Thank you!

[witeshark]

If the keyless entry has an alarm, there should be an LED flashing somewhere in plain view from angles approaching the driver's door whenever it's on.

[FCPGroton]

The 325i is a pretty reliable car. The only issue I can think of is the VANOS system. Everything else is just normal maintenance.

As for the line in, I don't believe it has one.

[ega]

Originally Posted by SoCal325iT

Just bought my first BMW -- a lovely 2003 325iT with 37,000 miles. As a newby I have a few questions:

1. What are the known trouble spots in the car and what components I should be very mindful of? The manual lists which components should be checked during Inspection I, II and I see that the car will tell you basically when all kinds of services, including oil changes are needed. Have not seen a single thing about the timing belt/chain replacement schedule. Seems like a very integral component.

2. I have the OEM Business Radio/CD player. I'd like to add a Line IN to plug in my Sirius radio. Does the radio have a jack in the back that simply needs to be routed or is it more complicated than that?

3. Does my car have an alarm system? I know it is a silly question, but the previous owner did not know either... From the manual I learned that the nub on the rearview mirror is for cars equipped with the alarm or 'alarm ready'. When I wirelessly lock the car and try to shake/tilt it, the alarm does not go off, so I suspect there is no alarm or it is not activated. Could not find the loudspeaker anywhere either. Seems silly that a car with auto tilting headlights and windshield wipers does not have an alarm.

4. Can anyone also recommend a non-dealer BMW mechanic in the San Fernando Valley, California?

Thank you!

Try this link to connect an ipod to your stereo.
BMW Audio, BMW iPod, Speakers, Subwoofers, & more | BSW: Bavarian Soundwerks