Is it true that most places dont fix BMW's?

Answer 1

It depends how complex is the job at hand. Most places will gladly do oil changes (you may need to get your service indicator reset elsewhere), change out a burnt bulb, service brakes and change tires for you no problem. They can even help you read your check engine light fault code if it comes on.

For more complicated jobs, then the story is different. You will need to look around for specialized shops with experienced mechanics and diagnostic equipment.

Because I'm quite a hands-on person, whenever I encounter a problem on my BMW that needs repair, I would first check the internet and my Haynes repair manual to see if it's something I can do on my own (90% of the time, I can and end up repairing the car on my own successfully). It is my experience that on things I cannot handle, the neighborhood garages also would not be able to handle; so I would send it to the dealer.

But I am also aware that not all BMW owners are like me, so fixing it yourself may not be an option.

Many garages turn BMW owners away because they know they cannot handle the repair or devote the kind of attention to detail needed to care for a BMW - and you'd be wise to avoid them too!

So stick to dealer and specialized shops; or join an online BMW forum and learn as you go along.

Answer 2

Yes, it is true, most repair places will not do work on BMWs. I have a BMW and I live in an area where BMWs are not too common. The closet dealer is an hour away, and unfortunately, there are only a few places that are closer and will service my car. BMWs are European, so their parts are not as easily or inexpensively found as American and Asian cars. Plus, the car is much more complex to work on. I take solace in taking my car to a dealer for repairs, because I know that the person who is working on my car knows how to work specifically on my car, and will do the right thing. If you do not want to pay the steeper prices found at BMW dealers, try to look for a used car dealer that sells a fair amount of newer, more upscale cars. You may have a better chance at getting someone to fix your car at a slightly lower price, however, with that lower price, there is a higher chance that they may not do everything absolutely correctly. So, pick your poison. For me, I bite the bullet and take my car to the dealer. It is a BMW after all, there aren't that many things that go wrong with it, so for the occasional oil change and mileage checkup, it's worth it.

Answer 3

That is correct.

I own a 1997 540ia (black with beige interior) with only 74,400 original miles and it runs great!

Going to a dealer is a matter of preference.

I personally go to custom shops which specialize in BMWs rather than the dealer. You won't get the sexy receptionist like you get at the dealerships...but who cares.

I would not advise on getting your BMW "chipped" with Dinan or other performance chips. Looks cool, but...

Here are a few repair issues to be concerned about:

Brake rotors - REPLACE only...do not "turn".

Tires - Dealers will often sell a car with wider tires on back. It looks cool, but can be a replacement nightmare. Often the dealer will have noisy tire brands such as Continental on the car and buy out all stock of that size in the general area...forcing you to go back to them for replacement.

Oil changes can be costly as well.

When your radiator goes out, have the mechanic replace all the belts and hoses. It will save you money down the road.

1997 and newer BMWs do not have the famous nikisil/anisil engine problem either.

I am really pleased with my car and still receive compliments on how well its been maintained. No dings or scratches. No plans on selling it anytime soon.

Lastly, keep an eye out on the cup holders. They are very fragile...as any BMW owner will tell ya.

:-)

Answer 4

BMW is a very complex, precise vehicle. It's not that they can't, it's they won't. They do not want to run the risk of messing up your vehicle and opening a "can of worms" that they are not capable to fix to begin with. Stick with a dealer, yeah it will cost more, but you know it will be done right. As far as normal maintenance you should be able to have that done nearly anywhere.

Answer 5

There is a special BMW Computer Dynostic Tools required and not all workshop will have it. Even they have it, not everyone knows how to use it. So, its not that they won't do it, they can't do it properly without the special Dynos tools.

Answer 6

well, yes and no, if you want it done by a licensed bmw technichian, then only the bmw garage for you, but also look for Foriegn car garage, and oh, i know, if your bmw is older, fix it your self, if its new, then your rich, deal with overpaying a bmw mechanic

Answer 7

bmws arent like normal cars in the US it is a German car therefore it needs a specialist to fix it in most cases

Answer 8

BMW is a very complex, precise vehicle. It's not that they can't, it's they won't.

Answer 9

yes because they dont have german parts