3 series maintenance

I have a question about maintenance on my 2000 328i. I am nearing 30,000 miles and unfortunately am no longer covered by the full service maintenance. I need to get an oil change and the inspection I, but the bmw dealer told me it would cost me around $400!! Anyone have suggestions as to alternatives?? Thanks in advance.

I was in the exact same situation about two weeks ago. I'll give you the same (great and useful) advice that was given to me: In the end, a car is just a car. They are going to do the same stuff to it that a local mechanic will do....just for more money and high BMW Quality (and cost.) Your best bet is to find a local guy who people trust who tends to work almost exclusively on German cars. Evan a good mechanic will do (that's what I did.) Tell him what they say you need, he'll tell you what he needs to do and you can both have a good laugh over what they were going to charge. Save you maybe $200....:smoker:

find a quality speedie shop to do oil changes, and establish a relationship, computerized so you get the exact same oil everytime. consistancy i s good, but for any real repairs go to the dealer, they hav e the tools and means that most garages would be chasing there tail to figure out...

Here's a list of what in details on an Inspection I

Undercarriage
Change engine oil and filter oil while engine is at normal operation temperature.
Check transmission for leaks.
Check rear axle for leaks.
Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
Check power steering system for leaks.
Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
Examine brake disc surfaces.
Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
Grease wheel center hubs.
Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
Check front control arm bushing for wear.
Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.



Engine Compartment
Read out diagnostic system
Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
Check air conditioner for operation.
Reset Service Indicator.


Body/Electrical Equipment
Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
Perform batter load test.
Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
Check condition and function of safety belts.
Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
Check central locking/double lock.
Replace microfilter or Acc. Cabin Filter.
Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
Check rear view mirrors
Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.


Final Inspection
Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission