BMW: Replacing odometer code module

My problem is that the odometer refuses to display higher
than 299960 kilometers. As I understood it when talking
to BMW all early versions of the electronic instrument cluster
(for E34 chassis, probably for others too) has this "feature".
According to BMW, the "feature" was implemented due
to security reasons. However I cant see the point, nor did
I discussed it further. The "feature" disappeared around 1992-93.

On the back of the instrument cluster there is a small orange/brown
tiny plastic thing (contaning some electronic but mostly plastic) called
"code module" which is the one responsible for the odometer counter stop.
Replacing this will make the odometer start counting again. So far, so good.

Getting a new one from BMW was not that complicated. They needed the
serial number on my current code module and the VIN number. Then an
order was sent to Germany and it should take about two weeks until
the new code module was ready.

The REAL problem was the price tag : For the code module itself (excluding
install work etc) they wanted 220 USD (202 EUR, 1900 SEK) !!!
(According to the salesman, the very same part costed "just" around 90 USD a
year ago).


So my question to all out there is if anyone have any clue, ideas or know
if there exists any cheaper alternatives than BMW:s !?!?


/Henrik

535i -89 E34