2002 BMW 325 Multiple Issues

Tiny
GABRIEL831
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 BMW 325
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 75,000 MILES
I have the above vehicle, bought used about 8K ago. Haven't had a single issue noticed when driving. However, had the "Service Engine Soon" light come on and had my passenger window broken resulting in an Airbag light. So, I brought it to a BMW dealer (knowing I'd get gouged) to have them repair these minor issues. The result was the following recommendations from them. My question is general being (for some of the issues) do they truly need repairing, if so how much SHOULD it cost and are these issues indicative of a bigger problem. Car was one owner with good service history. I am also about 5K from needing the second major service on the vehicle.
1 - $250 for airbag plastic seal to prevent water intrusion
2 - $545 for replacement of thermostat (caused Engine Light and for some issues with heating car)
3 - $250 dry and cracked engine belts.
4 - $575 to replace front lower control arms
5 - $690 replace rear brakes (1mm)
6 - $700 recommend consider replacing front brakes (4mm)
7 - replace rear suspension coil springs, one shows crack at base.

From start to finish I felt I was getting screwed at the dealership. I am not super car savvy, but I am no slouch. Some things obviously need repairing but the costs seem ridiculous. Mostly, when I inquired into the details on the issue the worker seemed annoyed and impatient. As if me dropping $4000 when I expected just a few hundred bucks was no big deal.

To whoever takes the time to reply. Thank you kindly!
Wednesday, December 10th, 2008 AT 1:04 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
I have it estimated around $1,685 for parts and labor. This is minus the airbag seal as I did not see it listed. Please note that this is ONLY an estimate though and will vary from location. Also, I am uncertain if when they dealer is changing brakes, if he is replacing whole brake system (new calipers rotors drums shoes pads..) or just the pads/shoes. Obviously the more parts you have to purchase, the more the estimate will be. However, this is still well below the estimate that the dealer gave you.. and why do you need front control arms replaced? Is the vehicle steering or pulling irregular or bad tire tread wear? If not then I don't see this as a necessary repair.. All of the others need to be replaced though.


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/261618_Noname_28.jpg

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Wednesday, December 10th, 2008 AT 1:32 AM
Tiny
DOCHAGERTY
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,601 POSTS
They probably meant lower control arm bushings as they fail at about that mileage. The 4K quote is way high, how in the world can the dealers think they are going to get any customer pay work when they quote like this?
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Wednesday, December 10th, 2008 AT 2:39 AM
Tiny
GABRIEL831
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
First off thanks much for the replies.

As for the lower control arms I started asking questions about that myself because the car drives great. I was told its like a ball and socket joint that indicates its wearing enough to be replaced by the mechanics ability to basically wiggle the tire.

As for the 4K. Doc.I think they sort of bully their way to the finish line here. I am pretty big 26 year old guy. Dropping the car off in my military uniform from work. And the second I balked at the high cost their attitude immediately changed. I almost felt bad for a second:)

Thanks, thanks thanks!
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Wednesday, December 10th, 2008 AT 7:58 AM
Tiny
DOCHAGERTY
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,601 POSTS
Time to walk away mate! ♥
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Wednesday, December 10th, 2008 AT 10:27 AM
Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
I second that opinion .

Thanks for using 2carpros. Com!
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Wednesday, December 10th, 2008 AT 11:18 AM

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