Radar Detection

jamesinaz · 06-05-2020, 01:53 PM

OK, I bought a new car recently and am considering adding radar detection, dash cam and laser stopping hardware to the car. Trying to decide is it really worth it.

I already have a dash cam Nextbase 522. I could mount it on the windshield and be done with it. Of course I don't know when radar is in use or if a cop is hitting me with a laser.

On the other hand number of tickets I have had in the last 10 years = ZERO. And I was driving a faster car the last 3 years (540i vs base model Porsche Cayenne). Ballpark cost given me was about $3500 with unit hanging from rear view mirror to $5500 built in and no one can see it. Apparently the laser defeating stuff is a major component of the cost.

Thinking in my case it might just be cheaper to pay the next ticket I get IF I ever get another one. Opinions or was the price quoted way out of line?

Smgs1992 · 06-05-2020, 02:38 PM

Well first off a laser jammer is illegal. So if you do not know how to properly use one then you will still get pulled over and face more serious consequences than had you just been caught speeding.
Unless youre doing stuff such as cross country road rallies i would avoid a laser jammer as it can be more trouble than its worth to a novice.
Most high end radar detectors will offer great range anyway. My escort passport 9500ix has 3-4mile range on open highways. More than enough time to slow down unless they hit you with laser at which it doesnt really matter what equipment you have they already busted you. Not very commonly used though as its range is rather short and direct unlike other options.
I’d suggest looking into options such as the escort max 360 or valentine v1 gen2 and just stick with a radar detector. These options will run you around $500-600 and i have not gotten a ticket or been pulled over since i bought mine which is an older model.

SteveinArizona · 06-05-2020, 02:53 PM

I am also in Arizona. The unattended vans with the radar usually (or always) are preceded by a small sign on the sidewalk that the radar is in use. For example, there is often a van on Invergordon near the Phoenician. But I always seen the sign and can make sure I am not going too fast as I go by.

For police officers with radar guns and lasers, that is a different matter. But you are looking at an awful lot of money for a relatively small gain.

But you know how you drive and where so you are best positioned to make that call.

overcoil · 06-05-2020, 03:08 PM

what brand equipment are you thinking abut having installed ?

vortexradar. https://www.vortexradar.com/best-laser-jammer-reviews/. Excellent info

I'm not sure Laser Jammers are illegal in all 50 states - vortex says the jammers are illegal in 10 states.

you can contact VortexRadar and for a small fee determine if the pricing you were given is proper or out of line.

Also, a simple radar detector is a great defense, something like a Uniden R7 or R1. Laser detection is probably more important if your doing twenty miles-per-hour faster then the other traffic in the interstate. If your not speeding in built up areas then you eliminate to some degree local cops running laser.

Most important before spending any serious money for detectors ($700+) hold off and wait and see if the upcoming Radenso Theia is solid or vapor ware.

jamesinaz · 06-05-2020, 03:40 PM

Thanks for all the replies. I would note that laser jammers don't appear to be illegal in Arizona. Just a quick google search though so I could be wrong.

You all are pretty much thinking what I am. I'm not a terrible speeder. And the occasional long haul ride to Utah or the like doesn't justify having $5K worth of equipment in my car. I think I'll ask the guy what it costs for a simple Escort Max360c with M1 attached dash cam. They are available from Escort for $780 both. My only issue is I don't want a dangling power cord or having it suctioned to the windshield. I think it is possible to connect it to the rearview and power it from the system direct there.

5.M0NSTER · 06-05-2020, 04:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jamesinaz

Thanks for all the replies. I would note that laser jammers don't appear to be illegal in Arizona. Just a quick google search though so I could be wrong.

You all are pretty much thinking what I am. I'm not a terrible speeder. And the occasional long haul ride to Utah or the like doesn't justify having $5K worth of equipment in my car. I think I'll ask the guy what it costs for a simple Escort Max360c with M1 attached dash cam. They are available from Escort for $780 both. My only issue is I don't want a dangling power cord or having it suctioned to the windshield. I think it is possible to connect it to the rearview and power it from the system direct there.

That + use Waze on your phone when you drive on unusual turf. Works.

Smgs1992 · 06-05-2020, 05:33 PM

I was mistaken about the laser jammer being illegal. Radar jammer is what i was thinking of.
As far as mounting. You can get a mirror mount and hardwire it. Neither is that expensive or hard to do. I i just hardwired mine for $20 a week or two ago installing a fuse tap.

SteveinArizona · 06-05-2020, 06:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Smgs1992

I was mistaken about the laser jammer being illegal. Radar jammer is what i was thinking of.
As far as mounting. You can get a mirror mount and hardwire it. Neither is that expensive or hard to do. I i just hardwired mine for $20 a week or two ago installing a fuse tap.

Actually, in Arizona neither is illegal.

Smgs1992 · 06-05-2020, 07:11 PM

https://www.radarbusters.com/State-R...aws-s/2412.htm
Says here, written in 2019 that theyre illegal in all 50 states and youll face jail time for using one. Not worth it imo

Suds · 06-05-2020, 07:38 PM

I have 4 radar detectors in different cars, mostly Escort base models.
The only time I have been pulled over by LEO was by observation.
My last ticket was 2-1/2 years ago. I saw a car on the access road hauling ass, turned out it was a cop and I was running way over triple digit. Thankfully he just wrote down my speed was excessive for defensive driving dismissal.

BEM-S4 · 06-05-2020, 08:28 PM

The path of least resistance to what you're talking about is Escort. You can dashcam (M1) and radar (360) with a single power source, then add the wireless laser (ZW5) without having to go through the firewall.

AlpineKing · 06-06-2020, 12:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Smgs1992

https://www.radarbusters.com/State-R...aws-s/2412.htm
Says here, written in 2019 that theyre illegal in all 50 states and youll face jail time for using one. Not worth it imo

Specific to radar jammers, not laser which is a far more condensed list.

Based on research I've been doing, I'm going to be in the market for the Radenso Theia if the actual product meets the hype. That + Waze actively running should take care of me 95% of the time. The other 5%...I know what might happen when I bury the accelerator.

https://radenso.com/products/radenso-theia

..Rush.. · 06-06-2020, 02:18 AM

The famous unattended van can also be seen along Tatum and Shea in PV.

jamesinaz · 06-06-2020, 08:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ..Rush..

The famous unattended van can also be seen along Tatum and Shea in PV.

I'm out Rio Verde way and mostly worry about McDowell Mt Rd from Fountain Hills and Dynamite/Rio Verde Drive from Scottsdale. Once in town I'm a fairly reasonable driver.

But dayum people who do 45 out on the sticks.

damnitBobby · 06-06-2020, 10:34 AM

I drive about 15-20k miles (mostly rural highway) a year because of my job and I usually get ~1 ticket per year. Most of the time it's nothing major I'm going about 10-15mph over and is easily dismissed by a driving safety course. I've noticed I NEVER get pulled over by cops sitting on the side of the road because I can easily spot them or Waze will notify me. Every single time I've been pulled over is from a cop driving in the opposite direction and making a u-turn. They always get me that way.

I finally just invested in a radar detector. Bought the Uniden R7 on Amazon. Should be arriving today actually. I know it won't save me from laser, but I don't ever see cops shooting that where I drive.

SteveinArizona · 06-06-2020, 03:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Smgs1992

https://www.radarbusters.com/State-R...aws-s/2412.htm
Says here, written in 2019 that theyre illegal in all 50 states and youll face jail time for using one. Not worth it imo

I actually checked the Arizona statutes. The only provision I found was for the unit that can change a traffic control device (i.e., turn a red light green). I did not see any prohibition on radar or laser jammers.

flybigjet · 06-06-2020, 04:37 PM

Query:

I'm not sure that the Radenso Thieia will ever be brought to market-- at the moment, it seems mostly vapor ware.

So, if you were looking for a detector *today*-- would you go with the new version of the Valentine V1 or the Radenso Pro M?

Both have rear view mirror and hardwire kits available.

I'm toying with a road trip from Denver to San Fran to Seattle to Denver, in a few weeks, so a detector might not be a bad idea.

TIA--

R.

Smgs1992 · 06-06-2020, 04:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveinArizona

I actually checked the Arizona statutes. The only provision I found was for the unit that can change a traffic control device (i.e., turn a red light green). I did not see any prohibition on radar or laser jammers.

Well according to the link radar jammers interfere with emergency responder equipment and therefore are illegal in all 50 states. I wouldnt even attempt to mess with it. Its not worth jail time vs a 20 over ticket. If youre going over 100mph then chances are the jammer isnt gonna save you and youll still receive a wreckless charge. Youd be better off running at that point if your car is fast enough

NorthCountryGuy · 06-06-2020, 05:10 PM

Radar/laser jamming, meaning you emitting a signal, is problematic. It’s an FAA/FCC thing. Though that is federal, a local LEO can initiate the problem for you.
I have an Escort Solo. No wires. Visor clip on/off very easy. Excellent unit. Not a ticket when in the car. Lots of miles over the years and it has saved more times than I can remember.

Housekeeping · 06-07-2020, 07:10 AM

Sold my V1s and only use Waze. Been great.

Mason Hatcher · 06-07-2020, 09:18 AM

Radar jamming is illeagal in the US. Laser jamming is not unlawful under federal law, so you have to refer to each state.

I don't intentionally speed. But I find myself doing so on freeways just because the 230i is so smooth. I have an Escort 360c. It keeps my attention on my speed better.

Even without a detector, there are things you can do to avoid tickets. Don't haul ass when alone on a road and you have to round a curve or top a hill. If you see brake lights of vehicles ahead of you when they top hills or round curves, slow down.

Smgs1992 · 06-07-2020, 11:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sy1616

Sold my V1s and only use Waze. Been great.

Waze is good if other users are in the area and actively update it. However id rather use my 9500ix its just more reliable imo

06-05-2020, 01:53 PM	#1
jamesinaz Lieutenant 1935 Rep 418 Posts Drives: 2013 X3 2017 540i Join Date: Feb 2020 Location: Arizona iTrader: (0) Garage List 2021 BMW X5 x40i [0.00]	Radar Detection OK, I bought a new car recently and am considering adding radar detection, dash cam and laser stopping hardware to the car. Trying to decide is it really worth it. I already have a dash cam Nextbase 522. I could mount it on the windshield and be done with it. Of course I don't know when radar is in use or if a cop is hitting me with a laser. On the other hand number of tickets I have had in the last 10 years = ZERO. And I was driving a faster car the last 3 years (540i vs base model Porsche Cayenne). Ballpark cost given me was about $3500 with unit hanging from rear view mirror to $5500 built in and no one can see it. Apparently the laser defeating stuff is a major component of the cost. Thinking in my case it might just be cheaper to pay the next ticket I get IF I ever get another one. Opinions or was the price quoted way out of line?
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06-05-2020, 02:38 PM	#2
Smgs1992 Captain 727 Rep 946 Posts Drives: 2007 bmw 335i Join Date: Apr 2020 Location: Cincinnati ohio iTrader: (0)	Well first off a laser jammer is illegal. So if you do not know how to properly use one then you will still get pulled over and face more serious consequences than had you just been caught speeding. Unless youre doing stuff such as cross country road rallies i would avoid a laser jammer as it can be more trouble than its worth to a novice. Most high end radar detectors will offer great range anyway. My escort passport 9500ix has 3-4mile range on open highways. More than enough time to slow down unless they hit you with laser at which it doesnt really matter what equipment you have they already busted you. Not very commonly used though as its range is rather short and direct unlike other options. I’d suggest looking into options such as the escort max 360 or valentine v1 gen2 and just stick with a radar detector. These options will run you around $500-600 and i have not gotten a ticket or been pulled over since i bought mine which is an older model. __________________ 07 E92 335i 6MT, MMP inlets, DCI, VRSF 7.5 competition intercooler, VRSF catless downpipes, VRSF chargepipe, 335is clutch, Vader Solutions stage 2 LPFP, MHD stage 2+, Hawk HPS 5.0 pads, R1 Concepts drilled slotted rotors, TSW Nurburgring 19x8 19x9.5
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06-05-2020, 02:53 PM	#3
SteveinArizona Brigadier General 3102 Rep 4,210 Posts Drives: BMW 530e Join Date: Jul 2016 Location: Greater Phoenix iTrader: (0)	I am also in Arizona. The unattended vans with the radar usually (or always) are preceded by a small sign on the sidewalk that the radar is in use. For example, there is often a van on Invergordon near the Phoenician. But I always seen the sign and can make sure I am not going too fast as I go by. For police officers with radar guns and lasers, that is a different matter. But you are looking at an awful lot of money for a relatively small gain. But you know how you drive and where so you are best positioned to make that call.
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06-05-2020, 03:08 PM	#4
overcoil Major General 3148 Rep 5,582 Posts Drives: M235i 6spd Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: Mid-Atlantic iTrader: (0)	what brand equipment are you thinking abut having installed ? vortexradar. https://www.vortexradar.com/best-laser-jammer-reviews/. Excellent info I'm not sure Laser Jammers are illegal in all 50 states - vortex says the jammers are illegal in 10 states. you can contact VortexRadar and for a small fee determine if the pricing you were given is proper or out of line. Also, a simple radar detector is a great defense, something like a Uniden R7 or R1. Laser detection is probably more important if your doing twenty miles-per-hour faster then the other traffic in the interstate. If your not speeding in built up areas then you eliminate to some degree local cops running laser. Most important before spending any serious money for detectors ($700+) hold off and wait and see if the upcoming Radenso Theia is solid or vapor ware. Last edited by overcoil; 06-05-2020 at 03:21 PM..
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06-05-2020, 03:40 PM	#5
jamesinaz Lieutenant 1935 Rep 418 Posts Drives: 2013 X3 2017 540i Join Date: Feb 2020 Location: Arizona iTrader: (0) Garage List 2021 BMW X5 x40i [0.00]	Thanks for all the replies. I would note that laser jammers don't appear to be illegal in Arizona. Just a quick google search though so I could be wrong. You all are pretty much thinking what I am. I'm not a terrible speeder. And the occasional long haul ride to Utah or the like doesn't justify having $5K worth of equipment in my car. I think I'll ask the guy what it costs for a simple Escort Max360c with M1 attached dash cam. They are available from Escort for $780 both. My only issue is I don't want a dangling power cord or having it suctioned to the windshield. I think it is possible to connect it to the rearview and power it from the system direct there.
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06-05-2020, 05:33 PM	#7
Smgs1992 Captain 727 Rep 946 Posts Drives: 2007 bmw 335i Join Date: Apr 2020 Location: Cincinnati ohio iTrader: (0)	I was mistaken about the laser jammer being illegal. Radar jammer is what i was thinking of. As far as mounting. You can get a mirror mount and hardwire it. Neither is that expensive or hard to do. I i just hardwired mine for $20 a week or two ago installing a fuse tap. __________________ 07 E92 335i 6MT, MMP inlets, DCI, VRSF 7.5 competition intercooler, VRSF catless downpipes, VRSF chargepipe, 335is clutch, Vader Solutions stage 2 LPFP, MHD stage 2+, Hawk HPS 5.0 pads, R1 Concepts drilled slotted rotors, TSW Nurburgring 19x8 19x9.5
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06-05-2020, 07:11 PM	#9
Smgs1992 Captain 727 Rep 946 Posts Drives: 2007 bmw 335i Join Date: Apr 2020 Location: Cincinnati ohio iTrader: (0)	https://www.radarbusters.com/State-R...aws-s/2412.htm Says here, written in 2019 that theyre illegal in all 50 states and youll face jail time for using one. Not worth it imo __________________ 07 E92 335i 6MT, MMP inlets, DCI, VRSF 7.5 competition intercooler, VRSF catless downpipes, VRSF chargepipe, 335is clutch, Vader Solutions stage 2 LPFP, MHD stage 2+, Hawk HPS 5.0 pads, R1 Concepts drilled slotted rotors, TSW Nurburgring 19x8 19x9.5
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06-05-2020, 07:38 PM	#10
Suds /M Enthusiast 1631 Rep 1,626 Posts Drives: 2019 M2C Join Date: Aug 2010 Location: Lone Star State iTrader: (1)	I have 4 radar detectors in different cars, mostly Escort base models. The only time I have been pulled over by LEO was by observation. My last ticket was 2-1/2 years ago. I saw a car on the access road hauling ass, turned out it was a cop and I was running way over triple digit. Thankfully he just wrote down my speed was excessive for defensive driving dismissal. __________________ 2019 M2 Comp, Alpine White, DCT, track car build, 1/2 cage, AP Racing Brakes & Nitron Coilovers, BM3 Stage 1 93 Oct. 2018 Porsche Cayman GTS, Night Blue Metalic, PDK, COBB tuned 93 Oct. 2004 Audi A4 Avant USP 6mt, RS4 clutch, built motor, Garrett GT3071r "Big Ass Turbo" Motoza Tune
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06-05-2020, 08:28 PM	#11
BEM-S4 Major General 4549 Rep 8,942 Posts Drives: Dinan M235, Dinan Sport Wagon Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Philadelphia iTrader: (5)	The path of least resistance to what you're talking about is Escort. You can dashcam (M1) and radar (360) with a single power source, then add the wireless laser (ZW5) without having to go through the firewall. __________________ 2022 Macan S 2016 F31 328i xDrive Sport Wagon 2006 E46 330ci ZHP Convertible
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06-06-2020, 02:18 AM	#13
..Rush.. Captain 983 Rep 925 Posts Drives: AW E88 Join Date: Mar 2019 Location: USA iTrader: (0)	The famous unattended van can also be seen along Tatum and Shea in PV.
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06-06-2020, 10:34 AM	#15
damnitBobby Major 1003 Rep 1,372 Posts Drives: 2018 M3 ZCP Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Houston iTrader: (0)	I drive about 15-20k miles (mostly rural highway) a year because of my job and I usually get ~1 ticket per year. Most of the time it's nothing major I'm going about 10-15mph over and is easily dismissed by a driving safety course. I've noticed I NEVER get pulled over by cops sitting on the side of the road because I can easily spot them or Waze will notify me. Every single time I've been pulled over is from a cop driving in the opposite direction and making a u-turn. They always get me that way. I finally just invested in a radar detector. Bought the Uniden R7 on Amazon. Should be arriving today actually. I know it won't save me from laser, but I don't ever see cops shooting that where I drive.
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06-06-2020, 04:37 PM	#17
flybigjet Remove Before Flight 8107 Rep 1,655 Posts Drives: M2C & a Boeing light twin Join Date: Dec 2019 Location: Littleton (Denver), CO iTrader: (1)	Query: I'm not sure that the Radenso Thieia will ever be brought to market-- at the moment, it seems mostly vapor ware. So, if you were looking for a detector today-- would you go with the new version of the Valentine V1 or the Radenso Pro M? Both have rear view mirror and hardwire kits available. I'm toying with a road trip from Denver to San Fran to Seattle to Denver, in a few weeks, so a detector might not be a bad idea. TIA-- R.
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06-06-2020, 05:10 PM	#19
NorthCountryGuy The Quiet One 1682 Rep 624 Posts Drives: M6, E70, E71 Join Date: May 2019 Location: I’m right here... iTrader: (0) Garage List 2013 X6 M [0.00] 2013 M6 [0.00] 2013 X5 LCI 35i Spo ... [0.00] 2013 X5 LCI 35i [0.00]	Radar/laser jamming, meaning you emitting a signal, is problematic. It’s an FAA/FCC thing. Though that is federal, a local LEO can initiate the problem for you. I have an Escort Solo. No wires. Visor clip on/off very easy. Excellent unit. Not a ticket when in the car. Lots of miles over the years and it has saved more times than I can remember. __________________ 2013 M6 Coupe Sakhir Orange Metallic / Sakhir Orange \ Black Merino - The Prince 2013 X5 LCI 35i Jet Black / Black SensaTec - The Horse 2013 X5 LCI 35i Space Grey Metallic / Black Nevada // Sport Pkg - Daughter’s 2013 X6 M Sapphire Black Metallic / Black Merino \ Carbon Fiber - Son’s
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06-07-2020, 07:10 AM	#20
Housekeeping Lieutenant 607 Rep 458 Posts Drives: 2013 BMW M5 Join Date: Mar 2016 Location: Earth iTrader: (0)	Sold my V1s and only use Waze. Been great.
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06-07-2020, 09:18 AM	#21
Mason Hatcher Captain 1193 Rep 712 Posts Drives: BMW X3 Join Date: Feb 2019 Location: FW-TX iTrader: (0)	Radar jamming is illeagal in the US. Laser jamming is not unlawful under federal law, so you have to refer to each state. I don't intentionally speed. But I find myself doing so on freeways just because the 230i is so smooth. I have an Escort 360c. It keeps my attention on my speed better. Even without a detector, there are things you can do to avoid tickets. Don't haul ass when alone on a road and you have to round a curve or top a hill. If you see brake lights of vehicles ahead of you when they top hills or round curves, slow down.
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