Re: Should i have the dealer do it or take it else (archive)

Another suggestion--if you decide to buy, check out extended warranties. You may be able to get a better price while it's under warranty rather than after expiration, and, the warranty companies (some) require a car inspection whose cost is deducted from your warranty price if you purchase the warranty. Edmunds.com has one of these (look under the warranties tab on the home page) called warrantybynet.com. For my 96, out of warranty it's a little over 2K for 2 years. Many participants on the bimmer.org web site would recommend purchasing one, but I admittedly don't have personal experience with it.
Bob J

Jay,
Not trying to insult your intelligence, but don't let the dealership do the inspection if they are selling the car,have connections with the owner, or if you have any indication they aren't honest (usually you don't find out until too late). Since the car is about to go out of warranty, they could "miss" some items hoping to make the sale and hoping you'll come back to them for the repairs.
Tell us where you are, and we may be able to recommend a good shop. Had mine inspected for $55 and the technician walked around the car with me over a half hour explaining in detail what was wrong and right with the car. That's invaluable, and you're unlikely to get that sort of service from the dealer. Also, could be the start of a good relationship with an independent tech.
Good luck.
Bob J
96 IL

The car in question is at a BMW dealership. I would think they would know how and what to do.
I plan to ask for maint records before i ask for the leakdown test.
I am continuing to scan through posts here sucking up info.

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