Do I Have to Service My BMW at the Dealership?

You do not have to service your BMW at a dealership, even if your car is brand new. While dealerships will always recommend bringing your vehicle to them for regular service, you are not obligated to do so. You may choose to use a BMW certified mechanic, as they also have the necessary knowledge, skills, and equipment to properly service your vehicle.

If your BMW is still under warranty, it is important to work with a mechanic that follows the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule and uses original BMW parts to maintain your warranty coverage.

If your BMW is no longer under warranty, you have more flexibility in choosing where to have your vehicle serviced. You can do some research to find a reputable, certified mechanic who has experience working on BMWs and uses OEM replacement parts. Be sure to check reviews and ask for recommendations from friends and family to ensure you find a mechanic who can provide reliable service.

There are several reasons why you might choose a certified mechanic over a dealership to service your BMW:

Cost

Certified mechanics may offer more affordable services compared to dealerships. They may have lower overhead costs and can often source parts from a variety of suppliers, which can translate to savings for the customer.

Personalized service

Certified mechanics may offer more personalized service, as they are often smaller businesses and can provide more individual attention to your specific needs. They may take the time to get to know you and your vehicle and can offer more tailored recommendations for maintenance and repairs.

Expertise

Certified mechanics often have extensive experience working with BMWs and other European cars and may have received specialized training to work on these vehicles. They may be better equipped to diagnose and repair issues specific to BMWs and may have access to specialized tools and diagnostic equipment.

Convenience

Certified mechanics may be more conveniently located than dealerships and may offer more flexible scheduling options. They may also be able to complete repairs more quickly, as they may not have the same backlog of appointments and repairs as larger dealerships.

Trust

Finding a reputable and trustworthy certified mechanic can be an excellent long-term solution for your BMW maintenance needs. You may be able to build a relationship with your mechanic, who can provide consistent, high-quality service and help ensure the longevity of your vehicle.

AutoGermany is owned and operated by former BMW Technical Support Specialists with unmatched factory training and German vehicle knowledge. When you bring your BMW or other German car to us for regular maintenance, repairs, or diagnostics, we apply our expertise and attention to detail to keep your vehicle in its best condition.