01-24-2024, 12:27 PM | #1 |
Private First Class
79
Rep 108
Posts |
BMW Dealer Cheaper Than Independent Shop?
I just picked up my car from service, my 2019 330i needed an oil change, brake fluid flush, and new spark plugs.
The oil change was $220, brake fluid was $250, and spark plugs were $350. A local independent shop quoted $250 for the oil change, $300 for brakes, and $400 for plugs. The service at the dealer was great, they provided a shuttle service and a hand wash for free. Of course, for things like brakes and suspension the independent shop is significantly less expensive, but for routine scheduled maintenance I see no reason not to just go to the dealer. |
01-24-2024, 01:41 PM | #2 | |
Major
988
Rep 1,115
Posts
Drives: 2022 M340i Mineral Grey
Join Date: Nov 2021
Location: North Bay & Los Angeles
|
Quote:
I will say for me personally, servicing my car strictly at an Indy has led me to have a great relationship with the owner, and through that, I am sure they are more likely to perform a better service and preventative / proactive inspections for me.
__________________
Present: 2022 M340i Mineral Grey
Past: 2019 330i, 2012 Evo X GSR |
|
Appreciate
0
|
01-24-2024, 03:38 PM | #3 |
Private First Class
57
Rep 185
Posts |
I suspect basic fluids are either loss leaders or similar at dealers (by the way, you need wipers, cabin air filter, tires are down to 5/32, etc.), whereas Indy shops not so much. Still seems a little pricey for an Indy shop. Mine, if I use them for this, charges 1/2 hour for an oil change and 1/2 for brake fluid; I supply the parts.
|
Appreciate
0
|
01-24-2024, 06:44 PM | #4 |
Second Lieutenant
86
Rep 210
Posts
Drives: Sold - e90 335
Join Date: May 2011
Location: USA
|
My thoughts may be against the grain but here goes.
Id rather the dealer do all of my very basic maintenance such as oil changes etc. The price is almost always the same or close enough. Dealers typically have comfortable seating, allow me to work comfortably while there, and offer coffee / snacks. In addition they will often have coupons to get you in the door. The most important thing for me is that they only deal with BMW and know those cars inside and out. They know the common problems (especially while you are in warranty). Thats all they deal with vs a german Indy (the Indy i use occasionally is a BMW only one however). They also do a full Multi Point inspection which is always great to know whats coming. Having a relationship and service history at the dealer for an in warranty vehicle as it approaches expiration is also really valuable in the event things go sideways shortly after it expires. Once the warranty is fully up, I will typically go to a BMW specific Indy. You lose the comfortable place to work, with snacks and coffee, but you also save hundreds on the invoice. |
Appreciate
0
|
01-25-2024, 11:00 AM | #5 | |
Private First Class
79
Rep 108
Posts |
Quote:
|
|
Appreciate
0
|
01-25-2024, 02:57 PM | #6 |
Major General
4975
Rep 6,241
Posts
Drives: 2018 340i M Sport
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Chicago, Edgewater (via Texas & Tennessee)
iTrader: (0)
Garage List 2018 BMW 340i M Sport [9.38]
2020 BMW M340i xDrive [10.00] 2018 BMW 340i M Sport [8.00] 2006 BMW 330i Sport [4.50] 2004 BMW 330i ZHP [7.25] 2000 BMW 328i [6.00] |
The other prices are good, but $220 for an oil change?!?! I have never paid more than $99 at the dealership. I have always been able to take advantage of an oil change special. Just fyi - since you have a 2019 you’ll probably qualify for BMW’s $225 three year oil change program at some point in the next twelve months. You should be able to get at least four oil changes. https://bmwusaservice.com/ultimatecare
__________________
www.bmwcca.org member #388003 - Use me as a referral & you could win a one day ///M Driving School!! ___________________________________________ |
Appreciate
0
|
Post Reply |
Bookmarks |
|
|