WILL AN AUTOCROSS EVENT HURT MY BMW OR ME?

This is a safe, fun, and very popular sport. The course is laid out in a large parking lot far from solid objects. Speeds are low enough (2nd or 3rd gear) that if you start to lose control or spin out, you can just hit your brakes and safely come to a stop, forwards or backwards. You may mow down some cones, but they're rubber and marks usually come off with a bit of wax. Cars are spaced far apart, so you don't need to worry about two of them coming together. And we have safety workers in strategic positions watching all cars; they will signal if two cars are too close. You will generate more tire and brake pad wear than a trip to the grocery store, but it's not any harder on the mechanical components of your BMW than enthusiastic driving on the street.

DO I NEED A RACING CAR OR SPECIAL MODIFICATIONS TO PARTICIPATE?

No! Nearly all drivers use the car they drive every day, and that's the point. We want to help you experience the full range of capability of your car in a safe environment, far from traffic, guard rails, or police officers. Whether you have a modified M5, a beater 320i, or a brand new 3-series (over break-in miles), you will have a great time. You may see some experienced drivers changing to special tires for the day, but virtually any bone-stock BMW has enough performance designed in to challenge drivers of any skill level. Your car will need to pass a technical inspection at the event.

I'VE NEVER DONE THIS BEFORE - WILL EVERYBODY LAUGH AT ME?

We were all first-timers once. We really appreciate our first-timers and have a special novice orientation for you. Every participant, no matter how experienced, has access to a personal instructor at each event. The course layout is different every time, so the instructor can show each driver the course and set an example for smoothness and shift points. Then you take the wheel with the instructor by your side giving tips that will help you during the autocross event and in your daily driving. Nothing makes us more proud than to hear from a member who avoided a road accident due to skills learned at an autocross.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

Any BMW CCA member from any chapter with a drivers license can be a driver. Participants (drivers and passengers) under 18 years of age must bring a legal guardian to sign the Minor Release Waiver. Passengers may only ride with instructors, and we encourage it. Minor passengers must be covered by a Minor Release Waiver and be at least 4'9" tall. Passengers may not ride with participants. Spectators are welcome, and it is lots of fun to watch, but this is not a good venue for unsupervised children or pets.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT IN A DAY AT AN AUTOCROSS?

First, plan on an amazing day of fun! Part of the day you will drive the course. Drivers with the quickest times in their class win an award. Another part of the day you will work the course, to watch over the course while others run. We are an all-volunteer organization and need everyone to do their part. The entry fee includes water throughout the day for each participant.

For the schedule and event-day info, check out the Event Info page.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

Bring your car with a full tank of gas and good tire tread, your BMW CCA membership card, your driver’s license, sunscreen, a hat and a helmet that meets our requirements. If you don't have a helmet, you can rent one for $10. Consider bringing a folding chair so you can relax during your rest session.

HOW ARE CARS CLASSIFIED?

We class cars with a simple system of model, year and modifications. Please see our Car Classes page for details.

HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR MY FIRST AUTOCROSS?

Autocrosses are so popular that we limit entries, so sign up early. To give everyone an equal chance at an entry slot, registration is offered online, ending 4 days before the event. First, if you are not already a member of the BMW CCA, you will need to become a member at www.bmwcca.org. Second, find the event on our website or at sdbmwcca.motorsportreg.com and follow the instructions to register.

Can I register and pay onsite instead of online?

No. All participants need to pre-register online.

what is your cancelation policy?

Please see our Cancellation Policy page.

HOW DO I FIND OUT ABOUT THE NEXT EVENT?

All confirmed autocross dates are published on our website. If you have a question, send an email to info@sdbmwcca.com.