BMW Specialist SW London

[BalhamBadger]

Hi All,

I'm sure this is a common request but the google search function didn't throw anything out.

My situation is I've just bought an e36 coupe and have a few niggly problems I'd like to get sorted out (central locking, alarm, lighting etc) and I'd also like to give it a once over to make sure there's nothing that needs urgent attention.

I live in SW London and so far have found two garages that seem to fit the bill: The German Motor Co in Putney and AMC, Garratt Lane, Earlsfield. Both of these seem to come reasonably highly recommended in other forums but just wondering if anyone has any input on either of these or any alternatives in the area they can recommend?

Thanks!

Edited by BalhamBadger on Wednesday 1st September 10:02

[bga]

My old neighbour used AMC for the servicing on his 3 series and was happy with them. They are more Earlsfield way than Streatham.

[will_]

West 3 in Chiswick - MD is an ex senior BMW Tech, I've used them a few times now and have been pleased with the work, the communication and the cost. Nice people to deal with and not too far away.

[BalhamBadger]

will_ said:

West 3 in Chiswick - MD is an ex senior BMW Tech, I've used them a few times now and have been pleased with the work, the communication and the cost. Nice people to deal with and not too far away.

Thanks Will, but I can't find this chap on the internet. Do you have a link/telephone number I can use?

[will_]

BalhamBadger said:

will_ said:

West 3 in Chiswick - MD is an ex senior BMW Tech, I've used them a few times now and have been pleased with the work, the communication and the cost. Nice people to deal with and not too far away.

Thanks Will, but I can't find this chap on the internet. Do you have a link/telephone number I can use?

They've got a new website - might be why they've disappeared off google! Link:

http://west3ltd.com/

Edited by will_ on Wednesday 1st September 13:38

[BalhamBadger]

Thanks all. German Motor Co have quoted me a labour rate of £80/hour. Seems ok to me. any thoughts?

[will_]

BalhamBadger said:

Thanks all. German Motor Co have quoted me a labour rate of £80/hour. Seems ok to me. any thoughts?

West 3 are £59+VAT/hr (if you want a benchmark).

[BalhamBadger]

Yep benchmarks are good cheers. This place in Brixton also seems to come highly recommended http://www.cliftonautorepairs.com/page/contact_us so going to give them a go also.

Edited by BalhamBadger on Wednesday 1st September 15:15

[rdrw2]

Has anyone used Clifton Auto Repairs in Clapham / have any comments on what they're like? I need to find someone who will take apart and repair an X5 (E53) electric wing mirror, rather than insisiting on an entire replacement unit.

[BalhamBadger]

rdrw2 said:

Has anyone used Clifton Auto Repairs in Clapham / have any comments on what they're like? I need to find someone who will take apart and repair an X5 (E53) electric wing mirror, rather than insisiting on an entire replacement unit.

Yeah I ended up using them for my e36. So far they've serviced the car, fixed the boot wiring loom, fixed the dashboard, repaired a coolant leak and re-gassed the aircon. I would definitely recommend them on the basis of what they've done on my car, but I can't comment on their ability to service the inner gubbins on a wing mirror.

They're pretty pushed for space at the premises so if you live locally they'll pick your car up in the morning from your house if you leave the keys in their letterbox overnight (or you could drop them round I guess). This is a slightly fraught process as the letter box is fairly accessible but as long as you don't leave your address I guess it's ok. I still have my car anyway...