Monetary question

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Maryland
#1
My car is reaching 115k; I'm going to get the inspection II done before 115k, and a BMW private shop around me is telling me $460 for Inspection II and an oil service (apparently there is a difference between an oil change and an oil service?! BS or true?) The inspection II also includes radiator flush, and all the fluids flush, and some other stuff like plugs wires, hoses, timing adjustment, timing chain/belts, other belts, etc.

Does $460 sound reasonable?

Should I attempt to do it on my own?

The shop is very reputable; I've taken my car their once before and had an excellent experience, but I would like to learn how to mantenance work on my BMW. I've never worked on BMWs before and I would like to learn, but if you guys think I should leave it to the professionals let me know.

BTW, my car has felt a bit sluggish; I'm think cause it's been 5500 since its last oil change; fair assumption?

Thanks. Sean
 

pcy

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#4
selavia said:
My car is reaching 115k; I'm going to get the inspection II done before 115k, and a BMW private shop around me is telling me $460 for Inspection II and an oil service (apparently there is a difference between an oil change and an oil service?! BS or true?) The inspection II also includes radiator flush, and all the fluids flush, and some other stuff like plugs wires, hoses, timing adjustment, timing chain/belts, other belts, etc.

I must be missing something... timing needs to be adjusted ?
I thought computer/ECU takes care of that... No?

I didn't think timing chains needed to be changed just because
the car reached some mile mark... UNLESS the chain is making
unusual noises.

Plugs and wires are very easy to replace. Radiator flush/fill is easy.

My recommendation is to do it yourself (at least the things you can handle);
this way you will know more about your car and servicing your car.

I have recently done all those things on my '97 328i.
Good Luck.
pcy
 
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#6
Do it yourself . . .


Inspection II
The Inspection 2 Service is the larger of the two Inspection Services and basically includes all of the items performed on the Inspection I Service along with some extras like differential oil change; fuel filter and air filter replacements; Replacement of spark plugs. Inspection 2 generally runs around $400+ to $500+. Below are the items that are normally performed. If you are performing the inspection yourself, We carry most of the BMW parts you need to complete the inspection and replacement of BMW parts. www.bimmerzone.com

Undercarriage
Change engine oil and filter oil while engine is at normal operation temperature.
Check transmission for leaks.
Check rear axle for leaks.
Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
Check power steering system for leaks.
Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
Examine brake disc surfaces.
Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
Grease wheel center hubs.
Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
Check front control arm bushing for wear.
Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
Check thickness of parking brake linings.
Half-shafts; check for leaks at flexible boots.
Inspect entire body according to terms of rust prevention limited warranty.


Engine Compartment
Read out diagnostic system
Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
Check air conditioner for operation.
Reset Service Indicator.
Replace spark plugs.
Replace intake air cleaner element.


Body/Electrical Equipment
Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
Perform batter load test.
Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
Check condition and function of safety belts.
Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
Check central locking/double lock.
Replace microfilter or Acc Cabin Filter.
Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
Check rear view mirrors
Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.


Final Inspection
Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission
 
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#7
Do it yourself? OR......have the dealership do it????? Hmmm, how proficient with your cars inner workings are you? I know I could not do all those things alone on mine....but then again I SUCK at car mechanic stuff.
 
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#8
tool fan said:
Do it yourself? OR......have the dealership do it????? Hmmm, how proficient with your cars inner workings are you? I know I could not do all those things alone on mine....but then again I SUCK at car mechanic stuff.

I'm really good with Toyotas....but my fear is BMW is something radically different. Plus, I don't want to mess something up; she's my daily driver and it would be a serious pain in the ass if I didn't have my car for more than a day. AND the shop I'm going to take it too is only charging $460. And is it worth the hassle to do it myself when I have a job, school, and an internship? I'd like to do it on my own, but if it's not something one should start with, then I won't.

And I am not proficient with Bimmers at all. So I guess to the shop I will go. I'll make an appointment on Monday.

THanks for all the comments!!

Sean
 


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