[im_an_alien]

Hadn't thought about it before, I know the area and rarely use nav except for RTTI. I've doubted that it's the idrive from day one, initially thought it was Google maps on my phone, but clearly previous owner had something installed...maybe one of those escort radar detectors that are integrated and installed out of sight..
I'm gonna go digging behind the front bumper

[im_an_alien]

Culprit found, it was a custom installed hardwired radar detector...I found the main unit tucked in behind and just under the head unit, (that's why it seemed the sound was coming from the idrive) with wires leading out to the front bumper. Looks like PO removed the sensors but either forgot or neglected to remove the detector, and I'm guessing they went to this much trouble to avoid neighboring VA radar detector laws (car came from NC). Overall a pretty tidy install, escaped the dealer during CPO checks (I know they don't do much)
Pics later, have to get my car back together...

[rlmesq]

Originally Posted by im_an_alien

Culprit found, it was a custom installed hardwired radar detector...I found the main unit tucked in behind and just under the head unit, (that's why it seemed the sound was coming from the idrive) with wires leading out to the front bumper. Looks like PO removed the sensors but either forgot or neglected to remove the detector, and I'm guessing they went to this much trouble to avoid neighboring VA radar detector laws (car came from NC). Overall a pretty tidy install, escaped the dealer during CPO checks (I know they don't do much)
Pics later, have to get my car back together...

It's probably an Escort Passport 9500ci or the almost-identical Beltronics STiR+. I have one in my car and it has paid for itself many times over.

Hidden sensor at top center of grille on driver's left.


Display above mirror.


The green LED flashes red when it detects a radar source


Controller is easy to reach with my thumb.

[im_an_alien]

Nice setup...