re:advice needed - dealer svc. dept.

["Chuck MacWilliam" <chuckmac@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

>Date: Sun, 18 Oct 1998 10:26:30 EDT
>From: PatinageNY@domain.elided
>Subject: advice needed - dealer svc. dept.

>I need advice for the following problem...

>I will keep this brief.
>6 months ago I brought my 318iS (out of warranty) in to a BMW dealer 
>service
>dept.  The airconditioner was not working.  So far the car has been 
>back to
>the same dealer 3 times, roughly every 2 months which is when the AC 
>stops
>working.  I have paid the service dept, $1800.00 so far for the 
>replacement of
>various parts. Each time they replace parts they recharge the system, 
>and then
>2 months later the AC no longer works.
>The last time I brought the car in I was quoted a price of $1400.00 >to 
replace
>yet another part.  I declined the work.

>Is it normal for the service dept to just replace parts until they 
>luck out
>and find the responsible component or am I being taken?

>I would appreciate hearing from anyone with advice on how to handle 
>this

>Thanks!

I would suggest calling the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) and 
explain your situation to them.  Keep in mind specifically what you want 
out of the deal; i.e. fixing the problem for good with a one year 
warranty at no additional charge.  I have used them twice and had 
received satisfaction both times.  The dealers jump through hoops when 
the BAR is pressuring them.  Since you have already spent a great deal 
of money on a recurring problem, I think you have a great chance of 
getting satisfaction out of this deal.  You might even want to ask for 
some money back after they fix the REAL problem!  The BAR is in the 
government section of your yellow pages.  Good luck!!


Chuck MacWilliam, R.N.
'92 525i
'85 325e 
'90 Chevy Silverado
BMWCCA# 150982
http://www.geocities.com/HotSprings/Spa/9057
Sacramento Valley Chapter


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