[spicyB48]

I just picked up my car from service, my 2019 330i needed an oil change, brake fluid flush, and new spark plugs.

The oil change was $220, brake fluid was $250, and spark plugs were $350.

A local independent shop quoted $250 for the oil change, $300 for brakes, and $400 for plugs.

The service at the dealer was great, they provided a shuttle service and a hand wash for free.

Of course, for things like brakes and suspension the independent shop is significantly less expensive, but for routine scheduled maintenance I see no reason not to just go to the dealer.

[peelerec]

Originally Posted by spicyB48

I just picked up my car from service, my 2019 330i needed an oil change, brake fluid flush, and new spark plugs.

The oil change was $220, brake fluid was $250, and spark plugs were $350.

A local independent shop quoted $250 for the oil change, $300 for brakes, and $400 for plugs.

The service at the dealer was great, they provided a shuttle service and a hand wash for free.

Of course, for things like brakes and suspension the independent shop is significantly less expensive, but for routine scheduled maintenance I see no reason not to just go to the dealer.

It’s dependent on location, dealer, and Indy shop. I don’t think it’s ever definitive one is cheaper than the other. It just depends.
I will say for me personally, servicing my car strictly at an Indy has led me to have a great relationship with the owner, and through that, I am sure they are more likely to perform a better service and preventative / proactive inspections for me.

[prostcfc]

I suspect basic fluids are either loss leaders or similar at dealers (by the way, you need wipers, cabin air filter, tires are down to 5/32, etc.), whereas Indy shops not so much. Still seems a little pricey for an Indy shop. Mine, if I use them for this, charges 1/2 hour for an oil change and 1/2 for brake fluid; I supply the parts.

[335aw]

My thoughts may be against the grain but here goes.

Id rather the dealer do all of my very basic maintenance such as oil changes etc. The price is almost always the same or close enough. Dealers typically have comfortable seating, allow me to work comfortably while there, and offer coffee / snacks. In addition they will often have coupons to get you in the door.

The most important thing for me is that they only deal with BMW and know those cars inside and out. They know the common problems (especially while you are in warranty). Thats all they deal with vs a german Indy (the Indy i use occasionally is a BMW only one however). They also do a full Multi Point inspection which is always great to know whats coming.

Having a relationship and service history at the dealer for an in warranty vehicle as it approaches expiration is also really valuable in the event things go sideways shortly after it expires.

Once the warranty is fully up, I will typically go to a BMW specific Indy. You lose the comfortable place to work, with snacks and coffee, but you also save hundreds on the invoice.

[spicyB48]

Originally Posted by prostcfc

I suspect basic fluids are either loss leaders or similar at dealers (by the way, you need wipers, cabin air filter, tires are down to 5/32, etc.), whereas Indy shops not so much. Still seems a little pricey for an Indy shop. Mine, if I use them for this, charges 1/2 hour for an oil change and 1/2 for brake fluid; I supply the parts.

Yeah, I just go to America's Tire for tires (they have great prices!) and change the filters, wipers, and other easy stuff myself.

[tturedraider]

The other prices are good, but $220 for an oil change?!?! I have never paid more than $99 at the dealership. I have always been able to take advantage of an oil change special. Just fyi - since you have a 2019 you’ll probably qualify for BMW’s $225 three year oil change program at some point in the next twelve months. You should be able to get at least four oil changes. https://bmwusaservice.com/ultimatecare