Need opinion on using an independent mechanic - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

keving · 20th December 2007, 00:42

I live in Omaha. Needless to say, there are not a lot of M5's running around here. I usually go to the dealer to get work done, but unless it's warranty work, which costs me nothing, it's maintence work, which is the occassional oil change.

I'm coming up on Inspection II and there is an independent shop here that is part of the BIMMERS (sp?) organization, which is a group of independent shops specializing in BMW's. I've used him before with my last two 3 series cars and he always does a nice job and his fees are very reasonable and I do trust him. However, I don't think he ever works on E39 M5's, but he does have the latest computers for testing and diagnosing. I don't trust my dealer 100%....does anyone?

I wanted to get this boards opinion if you think I should let the indy shop perform the Inspect II. Frankly, I don't think my dealer sees that many M5's, either, but certainly more than this independent fellow. Thanks.

Kevin

mottati · 20th December 2007, 00:59

nothing particularly complicated about an inspection 2. If the guy can change plugs, you're ok.

KevinM · 20th December 2007, 08:02

For a straight inspection II, I think a decent independent is fine. The BMW factory computers are not needed unless there are codes, etc. Even then, some independent mechanics have the "official" BMW computer (although not many, at least in Arizona).

I'm having Inspection II performed this week at the dealer - I have a maintenance agreement which incidentally expires next month. I also have a CPO which means that all my (minimal) work has been done at the dealer. There is a great local indy that I will likely go to soon. The only things I'm chewing on are: 1. you can't just drive off in a loaner at most indys...even with rental company comps, you have to be driven to the rental company and then from the rental company to the shop. Seems a small deal, but those of us with little time realize the hassle. 2. I still have to bring the M coupe to the dealer, and so I will be maintaining a relationship either way.

Decisions...

mottati · 20th December 2007, 08:20

Quote:

Originally Posted by KevinM

: 1. you can't just drive off in a loaner at most indys...even with rental company comps, you have to be driven to the rental company and then from the rental company to the shop. Seems a small deal, but those of us with little time realize the hassle.

this is a big factor for me too, my local independent shop has a shuttle van, and they're ten minutes from my office, but a loaner is nice, fun to drive something new for a day.
I think it is good to maintain a dealer relationship to keep up the good will, just in case i need anything. My dealer has treated me decently, so i don't mind throwing them some work every now and then.

BMW x 2 · 21st December 2007, 02:37

BMW varies a ton on their price mark-ups and their stated labor rate is about double what everyone else charges, but you get 24 months worth of warrantee, I guess it really comes down to the likelihood or a recurrence of the problem. If it will likely be tough to disagnose I vote for BMW. If it is a straight away repair such as a suspension part, clutch, brakes, etc. I definiely vote for the Indy. A forum member was just quoted $2700 for a leaking rear main when he took his car to a dealer for a straight oil change. He had 97,000 miles on his stock, original clutch. They did not even recommend to him a new clutch since thay had to remove all the same parts anyway. I had clutch, flywheel, rear main seal, fork, pivot pin, pilot bushing, and throw-out bearing installed at an Indy for 1350 bucks parts included (with a new main seal).

You figure it out!

Para · 21st December 2007, 03:59

Independent shops are the way to go!

If you can find a good one you'll never want to go to the dealer again.

keving · 21st December 2007, 15:20

The independent shop I go to sometimes I pretty good I think. I appreciate everyone's feedback. This board never ceases to suprise me.....I would've thought everyone would vote for the dealer for their baby. You guys are right though; it's just an Inspection II.

No question this guy will be less money. I do like my dealer, as they always take good care of me, provide a loaner even though I didn't buy the car from them and understand I am not the ordinary slushbox owner. They just get a wee bit expensive.

Thanks for all the input!

BlueDevil · 21st December 2007, 23:14

Hey KevinM, sorry to get off topic here, but I'm in Tucson as well and I just purchased a 2003 Le Mans M5 (see sig) as my daily driver. Have a Dinan 540i/6 as well, but haven't been driving it much because, well, bought the M5 and

Anyway - Only other E39 M5 I've seen in town is a MY 2000 at the AZ Europeans car club meet at Grant and Swan Fridays 7PM.

Do you ever make it to the meets or car clubs around here? I think Ive seen your car in group drive photos, but I'm not sure it was you. The BMW guys would love to see your M Coupe too.

And the other kevin g (that posted the original question)I've been taking my 2 BMWs to an Independent here in Tucson, and haven't regretted it so far. Quite a bit cheaper than dealer work, and they really "get to know" your car better than the faceless dealer. They did an Inspection II for my 540 and a decent job for 50% cost. Totally agree with you on dealer for warranty stuff - it's all covered and at least its free

KevinM · 22nd December 2007, 04:02

BD - I'll PM you.