Service time. Dealer or Specialist?
Discussion
Very topical - have just picked my 26000 mile 2003 Z4 2.5 after Inspection 1 at Dick Lovett.
They spotted a damaged rear coil spring - replaced ex-gratia by BMW, it would have cost nearly £300 (replaced as a pair, with labour & VAT). My rain sensor has also packed up, which means a new windscreen (fitted £550!!!) - they have also gone in to bat with BMW on my behalf to get this fixed.
So, by maintaining a full main dealer history I think I have saved money. I am also left to wonder if an independent would have spotted the broken spring, which could have meant a safety issue being left unsorted.
Finally, all credit to Dick Lovett Bristol for their service - both in quality and in customer relations (
for Stefan my advisor); was mighty impressed toothat they managed to slot the car in at 24 hours notice when I said I needed the work done promptly.
Top service by all concerned (manufacturer and dealer alike) that breeds brand loyalty. (Just hope that the windscreen is agreed though!)
They spotted a damaged rear coil spring - replaced ex-gratia by BMW, it would have cost nearly £300 (replaced as a pair, with labour & VAT). My rain sensor has also packed up, which means a new windscreen (fitted £550!!!) - they have also gone in to bat with BMW on my behalf to get this fixed.
So, by maintaining a full main dealer history I think I have saved money. I am also left to wonder if an independent would have spotted the broken spring, which could have meant a safety issue being left unsorted.
Finally, all credit to Dick Lovett Bristol for their service - both in quality and in customer relations (
for Stefan my advisor); was mighty impressed toothat they managed to slot the car in at 24 hours notice when I said I needed the work done promptly.Top service by all concerned (manufacturer and dealer alike) that breeds brand loyalty. (Just hope that the windscreen is agreed though!)
I would keep it with the dealer until either their fees become too high or you want some major work undertaken. Oil changes etc you can do at home, but Service I and II... I would get done professionally for the moment. Do you still have a warranty?
Edited by belleair302 on Thursday 12th July 20:33
Get a main dealer service and save money at the same time –
I just had my 330 Sport Cab serviced yesterday by Stratstone in Windsor - Inspection 1 and I paid £185 inc.
Their telesales team called me about a month ago to remind me of service due as I had it done there last time. I told her that I would not be taking it to main dealer as it was 4 years old and a good indi service would be just as good for the service history (IMO).
She asked me what the price would be, when I told her she said they would match it ! Their normal Inspection one would have been
If you want the telesales persons number, let me know and I’ll PM it to you.
I just had my 330 Sport Cab serviced yesterday by Stratstone in Windsor - Inspection 1 and I paid £185 inc.
Their telesales team called me about a month ago to remind me of service due as I had it done there last time. I told her that I would not be taking it to main dealer as it was 4 years old and a good indi service would be just as good for the service history (IMO).
She asked me what the price would be, when I told her she said they would match it ! Their normal Inspection one would have been
If you want the telesales persons number, let me know and I’ll PM it to you.
Mustard said:
At that age & mileage and it only being an inspetion I I would think go main dealer, price difference (£100 tops) vs damaged resale value makes sense to.
I'd say stick with main dealer till 5yrs old or inspection II whichever comes first
Couldn't agree more.. Seeing a non francised garage stamp or being told "I did it at home" on a BMW thats less than 5 years old puts buyers right off.. I'd say stick with main dealer till 5yrs old or inspection II whichever comes first
Can't say fairer than that.
Rumble, I just so happen to be most likely to use Windsor so would like to get the best price I can, I'll get in touch.
As for the warranty, no I haven't topped it up but think going on all your advise/suggestions i'll keep with the main dealers for a little while longer.
Especially if I can haggle with them!
Many thanks indeed.
Rumble, I just so happen to be most likely to use Windsor so would like to get the best price I can, I'll get in touch.
As for the warranty, no I haven't topped it up but think going on all your advise/suggestions i'll keep with the main dealers for a little while longer.
Especially if I can haggle with them!
Many thanks indeed.
Boulder said:
Who wants some spotted dick working on your car,at least with an indy you will be able to know the peple working on the car,might be slightly more enthusiastic aswell.
The answer is 95% of Joe Public on a car less than 5yrs oldI use both, they both have a place, once a car reaches 5+ yrs and chances of goodwill claims diminish then yes, a straight talking experienced Specialist is a better bet
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