Choose an independent repair shop.
Finding high-quality, affordable, reliable service can be a challenge for many BMW owners. Rather than do the work of searching out a local shop for BMW repairs in Houston, TX, many owners take the easy option and take their Bimmer to the Dealership. The trouble with this strategy is that, while you’re certainly paying more for service and repairs, you’re not necessarily getting the best value for that money. On the other hand, independent repair shops specializing in BMWs will give you superior service at a lower cost than the Dealership. Let’s take a closer look at the myths surrounding dealership service.
Dealerships are expensive because they do better work.
You might think at first glance that the price difference is all about quality, but this is not the case. Independent shops can charge less because they aren’t carrying the high overhead costs of big, fancy dealerships. The premium you pay at the Dealership covers things like the large showroom, opulent lounges, and increased advertising costs and has nothing to do with the quality of the work or the technicians’ skills.
Technicians at dealerships have more training and experience.
Not only is this not true about the Dealership, but it’s also more likely to be true of independent shops. If an independent shop claims that they have manufacturer-trained mechanics, then that’s what they have. The Dealership doesn’t have to make that claim at all; in fact, many BMW technicians start their careers at dealerships and move on to independent shops as they gain more experience.
Independent shops will void your warranty.
This claim isn’t valid. By law, BMW cannot require you to have work done at your car anywhere; consumers have the right to choose. That said, you should ask carefully about warranties. Your body shop should warranty their work and should guarantee that nothing they do would jeopardize any manufacturer’s warranties.
The Dealership has better customer service.
Again, this isn’t true. BMW dealerships don’t really have to do anything to earn business; they get customers simply by being the Dealership. Independent repair shops, however, rely heavily on reputation and word of mouth to grow their businesses. Also, many local shops offer perks like shuttle services and loaner vehicles, so you might be pleasantly surprised by what your neighborhood indy shop can do for you.
Make the Smart Choice
The next time your BMW needs service, make the smart choice and choose a local independent repair shop. Your car and your wallet will be glad you made the switch.
