The World of BMW Service (recommended dealers)

What's happening in the wider BMW scene? Gossip and news about forthcoming models. Plus off-topic chat.
ZZZEMMCO
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Joined: Wed 19 Nov, 2003 13:55
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  M coupe S50
Location: Motown = Milton Keynes

The World of BMW Service (recommended dealers)

Post by ZZZEMMCO »

So many varied experience of Good, Bad and indifferent services provided by the Approved dealers and the Independents. Some dealers going out of their way to keep their clients loyal to them and succeeding. These are the ones, together with the good indis, we need to place on a Recommended list, and pass the word to others.

Not everyone logs on, and that includes the cause of our tears ---the Dealers. If they did, and realised the Bad PR and hostile feelings on this, and many forums, I think things might change. As we have seen, some want you for life, others sell a car and it's Goodbye. Indis don't always have the Luxury of car sales to spread the income, so Must give a good service to stay in Biz.

We get the service that we are prepared to accept!!! If we are not satisfied or something is not correct, say so, ask for Customer Relations manager, Dealer Principal. If not happy, then its GB and Customer relations. Make sure your facts are correct. All areas have their Zone and Regional managers, who exist to keep you happy and sales rising.with 1.4 million new cars a year, BMW group need you More than ever, and if you leave the world of BMW, it costs much more to get you back. One last thing, the WWW. has the power to change many things.
safetyfast
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Phoenix Nights
Joined: Mon 16 Feb, 2004 17:36
Posts: 681

  Not specified
Location: Leicester

Post by Phoenix Nights »

I suggest users list those dealers they have used right here, and leave brief comments as to their overall satisfaction.

I'll start by commending Leicester Sytner (Meridian). I've always been very happy with their work and customer service.
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Zmeagol
Joined: Wed 08 Oct, 2003 15:38
Posts: 1375

  Z4 roadster 3.0i
Location: Putney

Post by Zmeagol »

I've taken the liberty of clarifying the title of the thread, and I've made it a 'sticky' so it stays high on the board list.

And... I recommend Chandlers of Hailsham (near Eastbourne). Unlike some dealers, the sales guys don't have their noses in the air, and the service people are friendly and helpful.

Tim
dazzydog
Z Register member
Joined: Thu 26 Feb, 2004 10:47
Posts: 34

  Z3 roadster 2.2i
Location: newton abbot

Post by dazzydog »

hi I'm fairly new to the bmw world but having bought my z3
from ocean of torbay (Devon ) i would like to reccomend them.
they have been very helpful and friendly and no problem is to big or
small . A+ all round :D :D eg only yesterday i had a very faint
whining in top gear , took it in, they took it for a spin came back
and said they could also here it in fourth and if i took it back next
week they would replace the diff . no charge :D
DavidM
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  Z4 M roadster
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Post by DavidM »

I'm afraid I can counter the comments for Ocean BMW (Torbay) - very eager and helpful when I was thinking about and then bought the ///M off them - uncommunicative since to sort out a list of eight niggles (minor and major) - to the point where I am going to have to refer it to BMW GB

Whitehouse BMW (Ruxley) - had ups and downs with them - on all three roadsters - but overall - they are still my dealer of choice - Service department are very helpful - parts department are brilliant - they have let themselves down a number of times - but have put things right
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GaryZ4
Joined: Sun 07 Dec, 2003 13:17
Posts: 29

  Z4 roadster 3.0i
Location: Southampton

Post by GaryZ4 »

I can recommend Scotthalls in Chandlers Ford. Have had 2 cars from them and sales and after sales has been consistently excellent and polite. With my first BMW (a 3 series cab), I had a few niggles which they sorted out under warranty without a quibble.

Only had one service with them so far (at 12000ish miles on the 3 series) and it was very reasonably priced - £150 cheaper than my Audi A4 Avant which had its first service at the same time! Still can't get my head around that - cheaper to service a 2.5 litre cab than a 1.8 estate? And Scotthalls re-greased the roof mechanism free of charge at the same time because it was a bit squeaky... Not hard to guess which dealer I left feeling a bit conned!

cheers

Gary
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Phooto
Joined: Fri 07 Nov, 2003 17:32
Posts: 619

  BMW convertible
Location: Farnborough
Contact:

copied from another thread...

Post by Phooto »

Barons in Farnborough have not let me down yet, took our MINI in at Christmas for a service, asking for a wiper blade to be changed, when I got the car back and offered to pay for the wiper, I was told 'that's fine'.

Just took my Compact in for Inspection 1, was quoted £235, plus £85 for brake fluid change plus VAT on the lot, when I went in to collect the car, total bill was £260 inc. VAT - nice when it's cheaper than you expected!

Warranty claims have always been settled without charge or fuss, staff are very polite and friendly - and call back!

Cars are always cleaned when they are in for any work, even if it's something trivial.

I even went in once asking for a litre of oil for the Z, and was given it.

I'm not on commission, or backhanders, they just seem to be very good!

When they are this good, you don't mind paying (a little) extra for the car when you buy it to keep the goodwill. That's almost certainly why they go the extra mile, it makes me go back.
Simon Taylor
phooto
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Phoenix Nights
Joined: Mon 16 Feb, 2004 17:36
Posts: 681

  Not specified
Location: Leicester

Post by Phoenix Nights »

Come on folks - big issue, this. There must be more people that have experiences to report?
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Bloke
Joined: Mon 27 Oct, 2003 22:09
Posts: 1111

  Other roadster
Location: London

BMW Scotthall in Stanmore

Post by Bloke »

Dont ever buy a car from these guys,

Once they have your money, they dont care,

and the cheek of it, my car is in there again at the moment, and I have to pay extra insurance cover to have their loan car!!

I am not a happy man!!

Bloke
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Phooto
Joined: Fri 07 Nov, 2003 17:32
Posts: 619

  BMW convertible
Location: Farnborough
Contact:

Post by Phooto »

I have NEVER paid extra insurance for a loaner (since age 30), sometimes have to sign something, but nothing else. Maybe it's an age thing - are you under 30?

Barons loaned me a car which I later bought from them as ex-demo, so might actually be a good policy on their part!

Simon
Simon Taylor
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chanlon1
Joined: Tue 30 Dec, 2003 16:45
Posts: 29

  Z4 roadster 2.2i
Location: Belfast

Post by chanlon1 »

Bavarian Garage in Belfast. Approved Dealer.

In 5 years with them over two different cars, never had a single problem.

Curteous, polite, informative, etc etc.
www.babybmw.net
The 1 & 2 Series Forum
Z4 2.2i
DarkBlue28
Joined: Mon 23 Feb, 2004 15:48
Posts: 18

  Z3 roadster 2.8
Location: Manchester

Halliwell Jones - Chester

Post by DarkBlue28 »

Never had any servicing by them, but when i bought the zed privately, the previous owner had bought it from them. When i rang for some info and to clarify service records, they were very helpful, polite and backed everything up with a letter - even though they werent going to make any money out of me.
[/b]
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Bloke
Joined: Mon 27 Oct, 2003 22:09
Posts: 1111

  Other roadster
Location: London

Post by Bloke »

I am 31, bought the car from them 3.5 yrs ago, about 2 yrs ago they changed their policy and now you have to get your insurance to cover the loan car, and Admiral charge £15.75 admin fee to cover other car!!

Still doenst make me a happier man!

Bloke
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Bloke
Joined: Mon 27 Oct, 2003 22:09
Posts: 1111

  Other roadster
Location: London

dealers

Post by Bloke »

To make matters worse, I called the dealer that has my car on Friday to ask them whether or not I was getting my car back for the weekend, and was informed that it would cost me £300 to fix my alarm, long saga but have had loads of problems with it, eventually they replaced alarm under warranty 14 months ago, recently had problems again, they changed a few sensors, but this didn't fix the issue, so I refused and then called BMW customer care, who surprisingly informed me that all BMW parts are covered by a 2 year guarantee, so basically the dealer was trying to rip me off!!! doesn't this just P*ss you off!!! :head:

Bloke
ZZZEMMCO
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Joined: Wed 19 Nov, 2003 13:55
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  M coupe S50
Location: Motown = Milton Keynes

Bad Customer Service.

Post by ZZZEMMCO »

:) Bloke, This IS what this Register can help do best.Please- Write to BMW Customer Relations stating the facts , as you have posted here.For all of us, ask Why, we the owners are given second rate treatment, by some of the Dealer network.The system for advice from BMW GB,to Dealers, on parts updates improvements FOR owners, is not working and priority is urgently needed Now to cure this problem.The Onus should be on the Dealers to advise clients of additional benifits, not clients having to keep fighting for what is their Rights under the Consumer Act,s.
safetyfast
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Bloke
Joined: Mon 27 Oct, 2003 22:09
Posts: 1111

  Other roadster
Location: London

Tell me about it

Post by Bloke »

Finally they have got back to me and said that they will pay for the replacement as a matter of good will!! this of course infuriates me and I am in the process of writing a nasty letter to the powers that be at BMW. But to be honest, I have done this once before and I never even got a response from them, I emailed to BMW customer care, and posted a letter the GM of the local dealership. Not one of them responded!!

But I will write a letter again, just as I agree totally with what you are saying, why should I waste my time arguing with people when they should be offering me this service in the first place, and as we all know BMW's are not exactly a cheap car are they.
Ill keep you posted as to whether I get a response.

Bloke
'MC' MarkC
Joined: Wed 11 Feb, 2004 10:36
Posts: 415

  M coupe S50
Location: Harlow
Contact:

Sewells, Bishop's Stortford + Cook's Ferry Engineering, Brim

Post by 'MC' MarkC »

Sewell's 1;
After 3rd visit to fix my wife's starting problem on her '96 323i, I find that the new alarm siren I bought on their advice is not the right one and that the correct one is no longer made. Unfortunately I had by then thrown the old one away ! Worse still, the starting problem was cured by a DME reset, nothing to do with the alarm/immob at all !! At least I only paid labour for the first visit. In the meantime, if anybody knows where I can find a BMW 3G alarm siren (the type WITHOUT an isolator key switch), please PM me !

Sewell's 2;
I paid £200 for the oil service on my M Coupe, to then hear of another register member paying £125 for exactly the same items at Altwood, Tring, who supplied my car ! No prizes for guessing where I'll be going next time.

Cook's Ferry Engineering, Brimsdown, North London;
I can highly recommend this fairly well-known independent specialist (they won't touch any vehicle other than BMs). They are honest (one of only 2 garages, the other being my MOT testers, that I have ever made this statement about), and will cost around 1/2 - 2/3 of main dealer price. This makes good sense if your car's a little older and out of warranty. OK, so they won't wash it for you, but don't forget who's paying for that wash - clue, it's not the smiling service desk assistant. And the clued-up buyer shouldn't consider there to be much difference in value compared to FBMWSH either.

I'll be calculating the pros/cons of keeping the warranty+paying main dealer servicing versus independant this year. Until now I'd always done my own servicing+most maintenance (drew the line at an engine swap in my old M3), so this is all fairly new to me. Any views welcome.
ACS susp., exhaust, wheels, short-shift +decat (Supersprint)+CF intake with K&N, remapped ECU, Strong-strutt. Piranha carbon-metallic clutch, EBC Grooved & Dimpled+Redstuff Ceramics. ACS pedals, gearknob & handbrake, stick-on plates.
ZZZEMMCO
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Joined: Wed 19 Nov, 2003 13:55
Posts: 1135

  M coupe S50
Location: Motown = Milton Keynes

Approved Dealers and Service providers

Post by ZZZEMMCO »

We all agree, its a very complex subject.One owners good experience is anothers Bad.Some of the Good guys for one post, turn up on someones Bad post on another.Nobody has invented the Perfect Dealer or service provider, just as they will tell it like it is , on the Subject of owners.
Our Z world is small compared to other Models being serviced, so we should be remembered a little more ,by the service providers.If we get good service tell them, and we will put their names on our approved listing, on OUR forum. Word Will get around and the good providers will notice a differance in their Income.We are still a bit of an unknown Quantity to the majority of these people, computers are for service & parts, and accounts mostly.Its slowly changing, and our voice will be heard much more often in the future.The success of this idea all depends on YOU.At this moment,we DONT want dozens of mails with your reccomendation please wait, we will advise in the near future, of what we need.
safetyfast
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S.A.C
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  Z3 roadster 3.0i
Contact:

Post by S.A.C »

I have nothing but trouble with Whitehouse Ruxley.
The sales department is very good at taking your money then leaving you with the woefully inadequate service department who's stock answer seems to be
We could not recreate the fault
The only bright point is the parts department who are very good.

When i had my 3 series i used to go to Vines of Sevenoaks who were excellent.

Steve
S.A.C
______________________________________________________

Happiness was a Titanium Z3 now a Yellow Boxster.
Take it out, Play with it, Then polish it.
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spokey
Joined: Fri 20 Feb, 2004 11:11
Posts: 4586

  blank
Location: The Big Smoke

Post by spokey »

I really enjoyed dealing with Vines of Guildford, and boy! can they "service wash" a car! I remember coming back one day to collect my black V8 E32 730i, seeing another black E32 on the driveway and thinking "I wish my car looked that good." When I got up close, I realised it was my car! :lol: That left an impression that they did nothing to change. :D

I like Murketts too, but its more because they're friendly and helpful at short notice and try hard. Their valeting "skills" are a source of constant aggravation, even on paid-for valets. :head: I'm happy with their workmanship, but I've often considered driving down to Guildford and asking Vines to wash my car. :nerd:
Ciao,
Spokey
jackal on PH wrote:i love your profile... an endless pornographic paroxysm of the letters BMW

do you actually like driving at all or are cars to you just a manifestation of some sort of pathological mother complex ?
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Madeira Jon
Joined: Sat 08 Nov, 2003 20:44
Posts: 257

  BMW convertible
Location: Barnard Castle

Post by Madeira Jon »

Ive used Preston Farm BMW in Stockton-on-Tees and so far have had very good service from them for both my Z3 and my 3 series cabrio. But I have always paid insurance for a courtesy car,and I'm ?? (got licence in the Army in 1957) I also had to do the same when my Jaguar was serviced..(but thats a true horror story!) The ignition plugs popped out after 2 miles! I hasten to add that this was nothing to do with Preston Farm. They had a guy in Service called Les Morton who was superb; but after I came back from Madeira I was mortified to learn that he had gone! Possibly due to the bottgle of Madeira wine I brought back for him. Anyway Preston Farm BMW I can recommend so far.
Even if the voices aren't real, they have some pretty good ideas
Bryn
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  BMW convertible
Location: Royal Military Academy Sandhurst

Post by Bryn »

I purchased my Zed from Rydales on the Wolverhampton road, West Mids and i have to say i had a joyful experience :-) I found them helpful and polite. Their after sale service was excellent ( when i turned up to view my potential Zed, I noticed a larges graze on the drivers wing mirror, i was assured if i got it sorted they would stand the cost :? I trusted him and sure to his word they payed (£117.50inc) )

Prior to this on my previous BMW's i have always used the L&C group (who are now owned by Coopers since Tim's retirement) and found their service to be of only the very highest of standard and never had a problem with getting a BMW courtesy car when mine was in the shop . (I may be a bit bias;-) )
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Lorraine
Joined: Tue 02 Dec, 2003 15:55
Posts: 170

  Z3 roadster 3.0i
Location: Ripon

Victoria BMW in Harrogate has been very good...

Post by Lorraine »

They have never let me down and have always been very pleasant to deal with, and I get my car back when they promise it.
Cheers,
Lorraine
Z3 3.0 :D
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Neal(2.8Roadster)
Joined: Tue 18 May, 2004 09:55
Posts: 255

  Z3 roadster 2.8
Location: York

Post by Neal(2.8Roadster) »

Castle BMW in York are generally good, the sales team are very good and willing to spend time answering questions etc and not at all pushy.

The service department also seems pretty good too, serviced my car at short notice and gave me a lift to work, only charged £25 to reset my alarm remotes when they had quoted £45 (not too sure if I could have done this myself but I watcheed the guy do it and he took the glovebox out to reset something ?)

The only problem was that they didnt was my car while it was in for service ! :bawl: , something I have become to take for granted at the Local VW dealer who do a full Valet inside and out evey time they have the car, even for small jobs like replacing an alloy wheel under warranty !

Oh one more thing, they did claim to have never had anyone mention the seat rocking/movement problem on a Z3 before, even after asking around all the techies in the place !
They said that I must be my imagination as they couldnt feel it when they took it out ! (it feels like it moves about half an inch!)
Neal Glover


Email : nealglover@Gmail.com
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Gary Brown
Joined: Wed 26 May, 2004 20:39
Posts: 146

  Not specified
Location: Erskine

Post by Gary Brown »

I've had a varying degree of success with the 3 dealers in the Glasgow area.

Harry Fairbairn, Giffnock. - Not the greatest, they seemed to take great umbridge that I was using them for some warranty work. I hadn't bought the car from them but Fawdingtons in Newcastle and had moved 'home' shortly afterwards. Booking the car in I stated it would be work that should be covered under the warranty, receptionist replied "We'll see about that" :shock: :shock: :shock:

Only in for 2 minor faults, slight rattle from the os under the bonnet near the 'gills' and the ns wiper arm was catching the bonnet. Didn't answer the phone, didn't fix the car until the second attempt - it sat all day they didn't even look at it. However on my 2nd visit (a fortnight later, the quickest they could book) I got the 'couldn't recreate the problem' ditty but I managed to collar one of the techs before leaving, sat him in the car and the problems were recreated instantly before his eyes & ears. Swiftly fixed, much apology. Sales staff were all very pleasant during a recent visit to look at a Z4 (but then again they would be, wouldn't they)

Henry Bros, Central Glasgow - In the main very good. Current dealer of choice, because of experiences at Fairbairns. No real problems to date. Only one gripe, I had some tiny rust bubbles appear around the bootlock. Put it in to be repaired under warranty and some muppet in the bodyshop dept started going on about the chrome bootlock not being a factory fitted part, he kept asking "Is this an import?" over and over again. My salesman in Newcastle sorted him out, boot replaced. So far sales staff spot on.

Douglas Park, Hamilton - Not really tested but I encountered a very, very helpful sales rep when recently looking at a Z4. He also stated when buying a new car from them they would do a discount :shock: :shock: :shock: and said it was something no other BMW dealer was prepared to do. Any thoughts / similar experiences :?: He said it would be 1 or 2%. I replied that the more discount he gave me, the more spec I would put on the car. He gets his money back, I get more toys, sounds fair to me.

Fawdington's, Newcastle-upon-Tyne - I bought two different cars from the same salesman. No complaints whatsoever. Anytime I was in the dealer, even just having a look around, he was over asking if my car was ok, there were no problems, etc. I appreciate my opinion is almost entirely based on this salesman but he really was a diamond. Solved my bootlock dispute with Henry Bros in one phonecall and I had bought the Z from him almost 2 years previously. If you use that dealer ask/look out for Steve King. UPDATE - 2/7/04: Just found out Steve left 2 wks ago

No complaints about the service from the dealer but other than servicing I didn't have to use them, which I suppose is another plus. Out of the four I have used - the best.
Last edited by Gary Brown on Fri 02 Jul, 2004 14:16, edited 1 time in total.
magpie
Joined: Tue 16 Mar, 2004 15:33
Posts: 26

  Z3 roadster 2.8
Location: Bath

Post by magpie »

Has anyone got an opinion on Wellsway in Bath ??
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Alfie
Z Register member
Joined: Thu 29 Apr, 2004 14:28
Posts: 3312

  M roadster S54
Location: Broadchurch....

Post by Alfie »

Also, any experiences of Scotthall ( previously Milcars ) of Ruislip, Stanmore and Watford? A friend told me the Ruislip branch has gone downhill since the buyout. Shame, coz this would be my local dealer.
Comments welcomed.

Regards
Alfie.
g3ajg
Joined: Mon 24 May, 2004 08:39
Posts: 15

  BMW other
Location: Bracknell

Altwood Maidenhead (now Taplow)

Post by g3ajg »

I have bought 3 cars from Altwood Maidenhead (now in Taplow), 2 of which were Z3. I had some major snags with the first and a few with the second (new sway bars, fuel tank etc) and they always fixed the problems quickly. Generally service has been excellent in the past, although the chap I always dealt with has left and no with an increase in customers the service has got less personal but would still recommend them.

In terms of servicing costs my first Z3 was cheaper to service than my girlfriends 1.8 old stlye celica!!!!!

Waiting to find out how much a Inspection 2 will cost on my 325....
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Bloke
Joined: Mon 27 Oct, 2003 22:09
Posts: 1111

  Other roadster
Location: London

Post by Bloke »

Alfie,

read above about Scotthall Stanmore, they are my local dealer and where I normally take mine, as its really close and they always drop my car off, I have had some issues with them, like being incapable of fixing issues, but this was mainly before they changed to Scotthall, and were still Millcars. They are a little hit and miss really, read the posts I made above, as they did try to diddle me a month or so ago, but the car is there now for MOT and a warrenty issue so. I am away in the states at the moment and they seem willing to collect and deliver my car no questions asked!! I will post my findings later!! This is their last chance!!

Bloke
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AndyBass
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Joined: Tue 18 Nov, 2003 13:10
Posts: 803

  BMW other
Location: Barnsley

Post by AndyBass »

A big shout for Sytner BMW SHeffield who recently had my car in for an airbag light problem. In December 2003 they changed both wiring looms for the seats( I paid full cost). Six months later and after adjusting the seat six times only the light was on again. Sytner "fixed" it at no cost as it was the same fault. Then two weeks later after moving the seat twice!!! it came on again. Back to Sytner who checked and reported the actual seat belt tensioner was faulty.(Deep breath expecting huge bill). For my inconvenience they paid for the part(£158+vat) and 50% of the labour leaving me with £45 to pay. Stand up and take a bow Scott WALKER at Sytner BMW Sheffield for an excellent piece of customer relations. You have restored my faith in BMW main dealers.
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exdos
Joined: Fri 19 Dec, 2003 18:30
Posts: 377

  M coupe S54

Robert Stern of Evesham, Worcestershire

Post by exdos »

I can recommend Robert Stern of Evesham, they don't always get it right first time, but they don't make you feel as though you are a pain in the 4rse when you tell them to try again! All the staff are normal and there doesn't seem to be any air of "superiority" that some of the BMW dealerships try to cultivate.
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Phooto
Joined: Fri 07 Nov, 2003 17:32
Posts: 619

  BMW convertible
Location: Farnborough
Contact:

Post by Phooto »

seeing as this thread has been 'revived' - I was pleasantly pleased with my recent Oil Service, Brake fluid change and 'gold' valet, total charge £217 inc. VAT from Barons.

Also had a very straightforward and un-pressured deal when negotiating two new cars about three weeks ago, both trade-ins were better prices than I was expecting, as were the deals on the new cars.

Woods in contrast, which are used at my office, always get a lukewarm reaction from our staff who use them for servicing.
Simon Taylor
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magpie
Joined: Tue 16 Mar, 2004 15:33
Posts: 26

  Z3 roadster 2.8
Location: Bath

Post by magpie »

There must be someone out there that has an opinion on Wellsway in Bath ??
Ci
Joined: Fri 28 Nov, 2003 17:08
Posts: 226

  Z3 roadster 1.9
Location: East Dorset

BMW dealer - William Jacks Wimbledon A Dyson y or n?

Post by Ci »

I use William Jacks in Wimbledon. They are expensive, focused, pick up the car and are fairly pleasant verging on hysteria. However I like Simon T's experience with Barons, so I may go see them in Hindehead for the next oil service (if they can find the little engine), change the break fluid, and valet inside all the dust under the seats which I can't get at. Do they have a BMW Dyson I ask? :nerd:
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stu
Joined: Fri 10 Oct, 2003 17:49
Posts: 3540

  Z3 roadster 2.8 supe
Location: On the edge!

Independent - Autologic Hull

Post by stu »

just cost £180 for inspection II on my 200k miles 328. Car came back feeling very fit and healthy and what a bargain - also gave me a 1.1 Saxo as a service loan (to teach me never to sell the BM and get a Gallic Coke Can!)
someone in a minority once wrote:I know I'm in a minority
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JAY
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Joined: Sun 09 Nov, 2003 16:24
Posts: 840

  M roadster S54
Location: Wiltshire

wellsway

Post by JAY »

magpie wrote:There must be someone out there that has an opinion on Wellsway in Bath ??
Put it this way..... I won't be using them again...............ever


I use dick lovetts in Swindon, excellent service
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Devon Z
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Joined: Thu 20 Nov, 2003 21:39
Posts: 651

  Z3 roadster 2.0
Location: Brixham, Devon

Post by Devon Z »

Phoned round my two local dealers for a quote for oil service, supplying dealer Ocean Torquay quoted £230/250 :!: :!: so phoned Westerly in Exeter and they quoted £150 :?: :?: and what about this Four Plus BMW keep plugging in the mags when i asked Ocean they said that quote was on four plus :!: Westerly asked how old the car was before they quoted :D so Westerly got the business.

Steve,
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Big Mr P
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Joined: Sun 14 Mar, 2004 19:27
Posts: 339

  M roadster S50
Location: Swaffham, Norfolk
Contact:

Sorensons Kings Lynn

Post by Big Mr P »

Can't fault Sorensons they have been servicing my BMWs on and off for 20 years now and I've never had any problems.

A recent oil service on my ///M cost me £98.99 (Four Plus) which you must admit is a bargain.

Last week I went there to look at a car for a guy on the board and got chatting to one of the technical staff about some wear marks on my soft top. This has led to a good will gesture form BMW in providing me with a new roof, parts and labour paid. :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

Thank you Sorensons.
Graham,
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Something for the weekend!!!
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PdP
Joined: Wed 25 Aug, 2004 21:51
Posts: 8

  blank.gif
Location: Cardiff(ish)

my first service - what to look out for?

Post by PdP »

Hi, getting my new Zed 2.8 full serviced + inspection I (now on 29k, and never had fluid replaced). Quotes so far are £287 inc, and close to home Rydales in Cardiff @ £305 - how these prices compare? Is there something I should pay particular attention to, or perhaps a telling question or two that will highlight any potential probs with the stealer? might cough for hood treatment (not that it needs it, but it'll be outside for the winter until my new place is built) - any recommendations.
cheers, pdp
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pingu
Joined: Fri 30 Apr, 2004 16:01
Posts: 3412

  M roadster S50

Bridgegate of Derby v Sytner of Nottingham

Post by pingu »

Spares: Bridgegate more expensive than Sytners. Bridgegate advised that I didn't modify my boot lock as there was a potential rust problem. Who knows of a garage that will persuade you NOT to buy something!! Have used both for parts, no problems.

Servicing: Sytners more expensive than Bridgegate. I had my Z3 serviced at Bridgegate, so cannot comment on Sytner. It was the first time I had paid for labour in 20 years (except for an MoT) - I just wanted the stamp in the book!!

Before the service I marked all the items that would need to be changed / tampered on the service. Everything was done, except the engine coolant drain plug. When I asked about this, they said that the coolant is drained out of the bottom hose. This, I know, is a normal practice, but it does mean that some residue could be left at the back of the engine. I used to run a workshop and as long as you run a bonus scheme, you will get guys cutting corners.
Pingu
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PdP
Joined: Wed 25 Aug, 2004 21:51
Posts: 8

  blank.gif
Location: Cardiff(ish)

service report

Post by PdP »

expected the sun and moon, got, erm, ...
Decided on Rydales, Cardiff, for my Z3's first service (with me) - had to start somewhere! Firstly, despite having a quote with my details, they excluded coolant drain from the service (caught it in time, so it was done). Second, informed me previously it would take 4 hours, but neglected to tell me the 4 hours start at the workshop door - could take 2-3 hours to get there; so had to travel back to home, pickup computer for work, back again, blah blah. Thirdly, despite actually changing the oil, they didn't mark it in the service book as such. Minor niggles, but niggles - I expected a 'wow - so this is BMW servicing', and instead it was 'wow - so this is BMW servicing!'
On the plus side, tyre guy ("I only do tyres, Guv") rang me to tell of tyres getting worn (and for £127+ each would replace them - have to get back to this one). And a surprising plus (and this might be of interest to others), BMW have some sort of discount scheme, which applied to my 99 Z3 as Four Plus - essentially discounting almost £35 from the service. So, Inspection I, fluid drain, coolant drain, oil etc. - £268. Aside from stone chips and tiny dints, clean bill of health (suppose 29K miles has an advantage). cheers, pdp
mroadply
Joined: Mon 31 May, 2004 13:04
Posts: 20

  M roadster S50

Post by mroadply »

I'd concure with some of the comments about Ocean in the South West on this board. They stink, big time!!! Its down on the KDS check in the ///M folder. So far I've paid for them to check out, several times, what I suspect is the vanos unit failing, however, the usual reply is ' we've run a diagnostic, no fault found and that will be a £100 please. Classic quote from the service manager "you have to rev these engines really hard thats when you feel the real power" perhaps on the track, not when sitting in the traffic jams of Plymouth. So Ocean nil point!
neil z3 2.8
Joined: Fri 03 Dec, 2004 22:27
Posts: 10

  Z3 roadster 2.8
Location: skegness

The World of BMW Service (recommended dealers)

Post by neil z3 2.8 »

clutch went on my z3 panic stations wife not happy only had it 8 months
first page on warranty says clutch linings not covered so i rang round for prices,friend said ring dealer astle bmw scunthorpe .went in 120 miles round journey went ready to argue maybe get them to help with cost got called to service desk no problem sir clutch needs changing we will try to get some money from bmw uk and we we will pay for rest.
not only this they drove to my workplace left me a car took mine and brought it back at night.new clutch ]
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mojo
Joined: Fri 06 Aug, 2004 20:39
Posts: 18

  Porsche

Cooper Reading

Post by mojo »

Are not to be recommended at all.

Through multiple issues with my Z3M that it took them at least 3 goes to fix problems with, to them fitting a faulty new rear screen, to them selling it to me with an non BMW windscreen.

Two faulty Z4's and a current big issue that I am waiting for BMW GB to resolve for me today.

I will post the full and gory details once resolved.
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Robin
Joined: Sun 14 Dec, 2003 18:35
Posts: 2691

  M roadster S50
Location: Southampton
Contact:

Warranty issues

Post by Robin »

Yesterday I took my ///M in with a list if things to check/sort out.
1) Hood torn & worn.
2) Plastic clips on footwell drivers mat broken
3) Petrol cap not locking
4) Headlamps too low.
5) Vanos getting a bit of a growl.
6) Brake warning light coming on intermittently
7) Alarm didn't seem very sensitive.

Their response:-
1) Hood is trim & not covered under BMW used vehicle warranty. Fair enough... I accept it's wear & tear.
2) Mat clips replaced.
3) Petrol cap needed oiling. They did this & now operates OK but not covered by warranty as was not technically a mechanical failure, so they did as a favour. Had I known it just needed oiling I would have done it myself anyway.
4) Headlamps adjusted & charged me £47 + VAT :shock:
5) Vanos according to the diagnostic test unit is fine :?
Charged me £20 to test even though it was something that's covered by warranty when it fails. But it didn't fail... so I pay for the check Image
6) Brake pad sensor wire broken. This is not covered by warranty they say becuase a stone could have been flung up & broken the wire so it wasn't a failure of BMW component due to any fault of theirs. So they fitted new sensor & charged me £25
7) Alarm function checked & OK but no problem to claim for under warranty so charged £10 for check.

I took it to a £101 per hour BMW garage cos I have the warranty but just wound up paying their high labour rates !
Came away feeling none too pleased & £139 the poorer without feeling I had much to show for it, as it seems they use any excuse to wriggle out of claiming on warranty. Image

Moral is get a quote 1st.. don't assume like I did that most problems will be covered by warranty :dunce:
Oh well I guess the warranty will be worth it if/when the Vanos goes.
Image
'High G' motoring enthusiast
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M11 POW
Joined: Thu 20 Nov, 2003 19:00
Posts: 334

  M roadster S50
Location: Colchester

Post by M11 POW »

I have just had an inspection 2 (ouch) done on my ZM at Smoothtune in Colchester, as recomended by Ben Tarrant :D It's an unpreposessing place in a small industrial estate, but the premises are well equipped with two hydraulic lifts, good quality tools (snap on) and the mechanics look professional with matching BMW T shirts. :colourful: I was quoted £960 at the dealers :head: Smoothtune did it for £310, I supplied my own oil, Mobil 1. Hire car supplied foc, would have had to supply and pay for insurance at the dealers Lind in Colchester, :head: very throughly done with a list of "to do shortly" items listed, some of which I knew about, some of which I didn't.
Natty "BMW" stamp in the service record which you would be hard pressed to spot it wasn't a stealer stamp. :) OK so no free coffee or a TV to look at, but at £650 saving, I am not complaining :!: I don't know if it's the new plugs, or oil or valve timing or what , but she now goes like a rocket with an instant pick up. :evil: She didn't exactly hang about before, but the difference is amazing. I am beginning to wonder if there is something in the rumour that the engine management system detunes the engine when a service is overdue as mine was. :roll:
[321 bhp. Das ist gut ja?
IOMRoadster
Joined: Sun 18 Jan, 2004 20:49
Posts: 149

  M roadster S50

Post by IOMRoadster »

Just had an oil service on the ///M at the main dealer near me. With coolant and brake fluid change that came to £230 all in.

Given the price of the oil and other fluids that seemed pretty good to me. Cheaper than my Mazda and good customer service to boot!
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M11 POW
Joined: Thu 20 Nov, 2003 19:00
Posts: 334

  M roadster S50
Location: Colchester

Post by M11 POW »

Yep, the oil change service I had was a similar price, it's those inspection services that are the killers, I am going to leave those to the independant in future. :D
[321 bhp. Das ist gut ja?
///M_aniac
Z Register member
Joined: Sat 30 Jul, 2005 19:34
Posts: 4054

  M roadster S50
Location: Belfast

Post by ///M_aniac »

There are just 5 BMW dealerships in N. Ireland. :shock:

Here is my top 3 for different services :nerd: -

For Sales - David Prentice, Portadown :D

For Service - The Country Garage, Kells :wink:

For Parts, Coffee & Pie - Bavarian Garages, Belfast :D :mrgreen: :roll:
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Gazza
Joined: Tue 04 Oct, 2005 20:58
Posts: 9521

  M roadster S54
Location: Romford Essex

inspection 1

Post by Gazza »

I have just bought my z3 '98 2.8 and just had inspection 1 service for £359 inc vat at Syntner City in East London, they reported brakes all round and front discs will need replacement by the next service so should they do them now they asked? how much i asked? only £607 they said, i collapsed.
Oil service was quoted at £165.00 inc vat. and fluids at £95 inc vat.
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