Why do you even need a Service Inspection

[madres]

Why do we even need a service inspection from a dealer. When i got my SI2 done last time.. it was a total rip off. All the dealer did was do an oil service, change micro filter and told me things that are possibly wrong with the car, he barely did anything, except take a butt load of money.

So if that is the case, and one is aware of the issues with his or her car then why pay a dealer to reset the lights. What is the point of the drill anyways .. please help me understand !!

[MacR]

I've done 1 in 2 1/2 years just to see if there is anything wrong that I'm not noticing.

Doesn't really answer your question though. sorry

[kalevera]

The idea of the inspection services has been diluted over the years.

It used to be a very effective method of keeping cars on the road, a primary reason why these things last(ed) for 300, 400k. Have a look at the service booklet -- chassis inspection and all, it's fairly impressive.

Things being what they are, dealers don't have time for inspections anymore. They do have time to sell you a new car.

I would take the car to a good indy, familiar with the inspection service, and have it done there. You'll get a lot more bang for the buck.

[M3UOND]

I would take the car to a good indy, familiar with the inspection service, and have it done there. You'll get a lot more bang for the buck.

+1

[525fourthew1n]

I would take the car to a good indy, familiar with the inspection service, and have it done there. You'll get a lot more bang for the buck.+ a trillion times infinity.

Seriously though, a good independent shop is the best thing for your car. That's how they make money, so they should be doing a good job. The shop where we take our German cars has always been faithful, and we can always rely on them having a good answer, or being able to explain the problem.

When the car is inspected, I notice a bunch of things that were fiddled with or changed, that I never used to notice after a dealer inspection. (I'll turn the car on the rear defroster is on, A/C, Fan, etc. all on full, blinkers on, fogs, mirrors adjusted, etc.) Even better, if there is a problem, they go ahead and take care of it.

Thus far, we've never had any problems that really could've been prevented. The car has just gone through oil, tires, brake pads, a water pump, and some light bulbs.

It's the ultimate investment for the Bimmer

[Qsilver7]

Have you seen the list of things that are "checked" , "changed", or "inspected" in the full Oil Service & Inspections I & II?


http://www.baydiagnostic.com/inspection.htm
Also, if you are an advanced DIY'er or even a moderate DIY'er...the Oil Service and Inspection I & II can be performed right in your own garage or driveway. And with the proper diagnostic equipment, you can reset codes and the Service Lights...in fact, following the instructions posted 1000s of times over on every forum...you can reset the Service Interval Lights yourself with something as simple as a homemade tool (or in my case in a pinch, I've used my needle nose pliers...carefully placed in pin #7 & #19).

But only do so after getting the instructions and understand that the correct pins must be used to prevent damage. (you've been thoroughly warned to proceed with caution and not jump in all willy nilly...KNOW WHAT YOU'RE DOING FIRST!!) :D

[sfgearhead]

Have you seen the list of things that are "checked" , "changed", or "inspected" in the full Oil Service & Inspections I & II?

<b>
http://www.baydiagnostic.com/inspection.htm</b>
Also, if you are an advanced DIY'er or even a moderate DIY'er...the Oil Service and Inspection I & II can be performed right in your own garage or driveway. And with the proper diagnostic equipment, you can reset codes and the Service Lights...

+1. i bought the service reset tool, and now do my own "inspections". in addition to the actual inspecting, they are supposed to change most fluids and filters, so it's really a regular service. i personally think it was a brilliant way for BMW to get you back into the dealership for service or to buy a new car, but now I just like knowing that the car tells me when it's ready for new oil or more.

i printed my own version of a checklist, do all the work, save the receipts and keep the records for proof of maintenance for the next owner. whenever i take it in for something i don't want to do, i ask them to inspect the rest of the car for worn bushings, leaks, etc.

but i also agree with the OP that the dealerships can rip you off, and on our old e36 the fuel filter wasn't a part of either inspection, and eventually clogged and also blew the pump. that really pissed me off.