Why Use a BMW Auto Repair Shop vs. a Dealership

Many independent auto shops are more cost-effective and have a faster turnaround as well. What does that mean for you and your BMW? It means BMW Auto Repair Shops provide all the services you expect from your dealership, plus a high level of personal customer service often lacking in their corporate counterpart.

Whether you take your vehicle to a BMW dealer or an independent BMW auto repair shop, be sure to look for the ASE Certified badge. If you don’t see one prominently displayed, ask if their mechanics have specific factory training or certifications.

High-end vehicles often require specialized equipment to diagnose and repair issues. This equipment can be expensive and requires specialized training to use. BMW dealerships have easy access to this equipment since they work in partnership with the auto manufacturer. However, BMW independent auto repair shops also have access to the same equipment and training opportunities as the dealerships.

BMW Dealerships are required by the manufacturer to use only OEM parts, and there is usually a hefty mark-up included in the price. On the other hand, Independent auto repair shops have the flexibility to use either OEM parts or less expensive aftermarket parts. This flexibility can save you 20-60% on parts costs alone. 

New BMWs often come with a free routine maintenance service package (oil changes, basic tune-ups, tire rotations) for a limited time. Of course, this package is not actually free. The costs are wrapped into the car’s sticker price, so the dealership doesn’t lose money when the services are eventually performed. It’s wise to take advantage of all those dealer services while they last. 

Nevertheless, certain repairs will occasionally fall outside those free dealer services. Whenever you find yourself facing an expensive dealer repair, shop around for a better price. Individual BMW Auto Repair shops will be happy to provide you with an estimate. Many independent shops offer very comprehensive parts & service warranties on their work.

I think we can all agree that dealerships lack the personal touch when it comes to customer service. They have a high turnaround rate in employees, so you rarely see the same person twice. Most service writers in dealerships work on commission, so their biggest focus is upselling services. You have no direct contact with the BMW mechanic, so you have to rely on the person on the phone or at the counter to convey your needs accurately. Plus, if you drive an older model car, they frequently urge you to buy a brand new one.

Individual BMW auto repair shops depend on every single customer, so their attention to your needs is often very detailed. The shop owner is frequently found behind the counter or in the garage. Therefore, you can speak directly to the person in charge of your car’s service. The employee turn-over is usually far less in independent BMW shops due to the more casual atmosphere. Additionally, BMW shop managers strive to build long-term relationships with their customers. Fortunately, high-pressure sales techniques are rarely used in smaller service shops.