Madmoggy, how are you getting on with the Autowatch Ghost? I considered getting one for my G30 but I'm concerned about invalidating my warranty if it gives any problems, or if the dealer attributes any electrical problems to it. Do you use the Bluetooth fob or the coded button press system with it?
Im getting on fine with it, I use the button press, which is easy to change from the default, and after a couple of days of forgetting to do it I now find it second nature and even started doing it when I got into my missus's Fiesta, much to her amusement. I did consider getting the app so the phone bluetooths the code to the unit and I dont have to press the buttons, but I havent yet as Im concerned that the phone would be a weak link in the security. I wondered about fitting anything that might cause issues but it can only be fitted by certified/approved installers, and I trust mine as he has done a few audio builds in the past.
Perhaps I ought to reconsider one. Another thing that deterred me was that the valet/service mode cancels if the vehicle is driven over 30 mph for 15 mins. I wonder whether this may cause a problem if the dealer needs to take it on an extended test drive.
Talking to my installer yesterday, he recommended changing the code to something simple (ie 4 presses of the down button) before sending it in to the dealers etc. Still put it in service mode and tell them so they know they cant take it out and rag it around, but if they do take it over 30 and it cuts out next time it stops, you tell them to put the 4 down presses in, then change the code back when you get the car back. There is another product being added by Autowatch, called the Shadow. Its an audible alert, if someone puts the code in incorrectly twice and triggers the cutout, the second time the lights flash/siren sounds etc. I'm in talks to get one fitted asap, and Monty will be using mine to do a product video with. Once its done I'll post a link to the video
Well, one week in, what can I say. Im really happy with it, and getting used to all of the systems and the auto box (my first). Enjoyed a great run into Northumberland yesterday, collected quite a few flies, hit one or two potholes and used 2/3 of a tank of fuel, but a quick wash today had it all back to nice and shiny again. Forgot to do an under-the-bonnet shot after last weeks collection, not quite up to singvogel's standard, but it'll do for now Looking pretty in the sun
Enjoyed reading your report. I have my 123d coupe booked in for detailing on Friday with Mint Car Care here in Edinburgh.
Be sure to get some photos posted when you get it back. Are you going for the gtechniq ceramic coating?
so, this weeks update is that Ive had a 4 wheel alignment done, nothing was too far out to be a huge problem, but almost everything was out to some degree. Everything that is adjustable was adjusted and brought back into line, and after todays run to Scotland and back it feels a bit more 'solid' and not like the back favours left handers. Ive also had the Autowatch Shadow fitted, to work with the Ghost. While the Ghost was a good choice for security there was no alert that someone was messing with it but the Shadow solves that, second attempt at getting going without the code being entered sets the siren off. I'm still finding new things in the menus, and becoming more used to the auto box. I'm also not reaching for a key to switch it off any more
A little update, Ive now had time to do a little coding using Bimmercode. I've now got a digital speedo in the dash (never believe a salesman when he tells you something is impossible ) and a few other nice tweaks to suit me. Still in basic coding mode as its different to what I use on the Mini, but Im enjoying finding out what can be done. First photography trip has been done, and the boot coped very well with all the gear, much easier than my old Cayman. Why didn't I get one of these sooner?
Have only now seen this thread (after six hectic working weeks). @Madmoggy, the car looks really cool! Good to hear you're enjoying driving it (unsurprisingly).
Thanks. I'm definitely enjoying it, I'm even volunteering to do the shopping just so I have an excuse to go out
no no, its a good thing, I get to play in the car, it earns me brownie points with the missus, and I get to buy what I want not what she wants me to eat
We had a cat like that .. You'd Hoover the car or in my case the van out.... Walk back to the garage to tidy up.. And he'd be in it all over... Generally laid on your newly cleaned dashboard sunning himself....feeling very please with his new sunspot....