Cars House

The other day I called in to make an appointment for an oil change at my dealer. I've got 55,800 miles on my 2000 328i.

The guy (not my regular svc. mgr) told me that I need the Inspection II at a cost of about $480. :eek:

I told him to hold off while I think about it.

I got out my service records and they attached a list that itemizes what they do for both the Inspections I and II.

I've already paid out of my own pocket for about 2 of the Inspection I services (the scheduled maintenance every 12k or so.)

The Insp. I includes things like; oil and filter change, microfilter, check battery, fluids, etc. Its a pretty comprehensive service and check-up for $180 or so, at least I feel it is.

SO, the insp. I is this big laundry list of things, and then the Insp. II (for almost $500 mind you) only adds; replacement of spark plugs, air filter (moot since I have the K&N), inspect clutch disk for wear (moot since I have an automatic). My svc. mgr said they also service the differential. Is this even necessary??

So for $300 extra dollars over the Insp. I, I get plugs and perhaps my differential serviced.

Hmmm...I guess I just answered my own question...

Anyhow, is there anything else that I'm missing about the Inspection II?

Seems like a total sham!

When should I replace my plugs? Isn't 55K too soon? Could I replace them myself? I'm fairly mechanically inclined, and my father is very much so.

What do you guys think?

Any info/advice is much appreciated!

Thanks and Happy New Year!
Drjones

I would say do it yourself.

Hit a few parts of the inspection II at a time, don't try to do it all at once. Start with what you know you can do and work up. You confidence increases as you move along. Next thing you know your doing everything on your own, not only to save money, but because you enjoy it.

What kind of car do you have?

Originally posted by ponq
I would say do it yourself.

Hit a few parts of the inspection II at a time, don't try to do it all at once. Start with what you know you can do and work up. You confidence increases as you move along. Next thing you know your doing everything on your own, not only to save money, but because you enjoy it.

What kind of car do you have?

As I said above ;) I have a 2000 328i.

Hit a few parts myself? That's what I'm saying: according to the checklist from my dealer, the only thing I would get from the Inspection II for my car is plugs! And for $300 too!!! :eek: :confused: :nono

So are plugs easy to do on a 2000 328i (E46)?

Sorry about the misread, I'm a poor skimmer.

I think there's a little more than just plugs, but I've never looked at an e46 inspection I or II checklist.

As far as plugs I would guess you only have to take off the cover that covers the coils unplug and remove the coils and the spark plugs are right under there.
If you don't have one already if you want to start doing stuff yourself, Bentley manual:

http://www.bentleypublishers.com/product.htm?code=B301&subject=4

a lot of your questions can be answered by that manual.

did not see auto fluid change specifically mentioned. this was a key inspection 2 item on older e36's.
here is interesting link where owner received court judgement against lifetime auto trans. fluid claim.

http://bimmer.roadfly.org/bmw/forums/e36/forum.php?postid=4413786&page=1

Hi,
Like what many here say: Get a Bentley Manual and DIY, I think that is the best solution, plus you have the satisfaction of messing around with your car. :)

We carry Bentley manuals if you do need one.

Happy new year to ALL!!!:)

You could have them do an Inspection I and then handle the few extras to complete the Inspection II yourself.

On later E46's (I think 2001+) the ONLY difference between Inspection I and II is replacing the air filter.

Originally posted by Chris325i
You could have them do an Inspection I and then handle the few extras to complete the Inspection II yourself.

On later E46's (I think 2001+) the ONLY difference between Inspection I and II is replacing the air filter.

And plugs.

You may want to check into whether or not performing the Inspections yourself (as opposed to to a certified mechanic - dealer or independent) will void your warrenty (if it is still in effect).

Originally posted by MojoMoto
You may want to check into whether or not performing the Inspections yourself (as opposed to to a certified mechanic - dealer or independent) will void your warrenty (if it is still in effect).

Thanks for the tip, but at 56,000 miles, I don't think I have any warranty still in effect.

Bump.