How expensive is it to service BMWs?

Question

My husband and I are considering buying a used BMW. A local dealership has a great price on a 2002 model, but my husband is having second thoughts because he said we'll spend a lot of money when it breaks down because parts are so expensive. I said BMW are better made, so we won't have to worry about that so much. Any used BMW owners out there want to comment? (I asked the same question of Mercedes owners because we've looked at both).

Answer 1

Both are some of the best cars in the world. That said they both can be very expensive to repair. If you are asking the question then you probbably wouldn't like the repair costs. There are reputable independent shops that work on them for reasonable rates but in general the parts are definitely more expensive. The 3 series bmw has been consistently rated very good for repairs. In the end it boils down to what are you priorities in purchasing a car? If repair cost is at the top of the list then buy Honda or Toyota. If prestiege/unique driving experience is the priority then these high end models are for you. You may want to consider purchasing a used BMW from a BMW dealership because they have a very good used certifacation program.

Answer 2

They're well built cars, but not indestructible. Servicing isn't too pricey - I'd recommend a marque specialist rather than a generic garage, as they tend to be more familiar with the idiosyncracies of particular models.

It can get expensive if something does go wrong - Personally, I'd make sure I got a decent warranty package, either from the dealer selling it or from an independent broker.

The car may still have BMW warranty on it - in the UK, as long as you always have the car serviced at a main dealer, BMW allow you to continuously extend the warranty as long as you like. Sure, it's not the cheapest option, but it's good cover.

BMW Genuine parts can be ferociously expensive, but much of the commonly-needed stuff is available from independent places at a fraction of the cost - for instance, I can get an exhaust system for the same price as for a Ford hatchback.

I'd say buy the car, but get a good warranty, even if it costs a little extra. They're very nice cars, and have a solid, quality feel to them. Look after one and it'll serve you well for a very long time.

Answer 3

To be brief:

1. Your husband is right
2. They are made well but not infallible: oil leaks, electrical bugs
3. Get an extended warranty if you must buy a used BMW or Mercedes.

Answer 4

Service and parts are rediculously high for BMW. I had to get a hose and it cost me almost $200. Servicing it is expensive because it is an import, small, and suprisingly cheaply made. They use a lot of flimsy plastic in the engine bay.

Answer 5

not too bad if you go to local garages away from the dealerships. Ie the same as any other. Parts arent too hard to come by either.

Interestingly ive bought a few at around 50k miles and havent needed any parts yet. Used is the wawy forwards