Worth it to repair at dealer or use private mechanic?

PSWalters

Is it worth the extra cost to repair at a certified BMW dealer or am I better off using an independent BMW mechanic? I'm planning to order two parts for my 2021 X5, and want to know if there is a reason to pay the higher repair cost at a dealer. I'm leaning towards the independent shop to save a bit of money. What are your thoughts?

kyfdx

PSWalters said:

Is it worth the extra cost to repair at a certified BMW dealer or am I better off using an independent BMW mechanic? I'm planning to order two parts for my 2021 X5, and want to know if there is a reason to pay the higher repair cost at a dealer. I'm leaning towards the independent shop to save a bit of money. What are your thoughts?

Are you using factory OEM parts for the BMW? If so, the independent might not be much cheaper. Also, if you are still in warranty, that would make me lean towards using the dealer. (4 yr 50K warranty?)

That said, I've had plenty of work done at independents vs the dealer on our BMWs. If you have a good shop, it wouldn't worry me.

PSWalters

kyfdx said:

PSWalters said:

Is it worth the extra cost to repair at a certified BMW dealer or am I better off using an independent BMW mechanic? I'm planning to order two parts for my 2021 X5, and want to know if there is a reason to pay the higher repair cost at a dealer. I'm leaning towards the independent shop to save a bit of money. What are your thoughts?

Are you using factory OEM parts for the BMW? If so, the independent might not be much cheaper. Also, if you are still in warranty, that would make me lean towards using the dealer. (4 yr 50K warranty?)

That said, I've had plenty of work done at independents vs the dealer on our BMWs. If you have a good shop, it wouldn't worry me.

I am using factory OEM parts (ordering from https://bmwdiscountparts.com), but I'm just out of warranty. I trust the local Euro (BMW specialist) shop, so no worries there. I appreciate your insight as the cost difference (quoted) is significantly a better value going the independent route.