It seems that everyone is very price conscious, especially these days. So, it is probably a good time to remind everyone, that an independent shop is almost always, going to be less expensive than going to the dealership. It has been our experience, that over the lifetime of your BMW it can save you 20%-30%, just by going to a BMW facility that is not a dealership. Don’t misunderstand, a quality shop is not going to be “cheap”. A good value is just that, a good value. And don’t forget, that a well maintained BMW will get optimum fuel efficiency and that’s always another way to save.

Your BMW may be the 2nd largest chunk of yours, (or your family’s) budget, just behind your rent or mortgage payments. Your vehicle gets you to work, to school, to play. There’s no doubt about it, the newer your car, even the insurance and yearly registration can be pricey. So, be price conscious and always look for value. And remember, that going to a qualified BMW independent will not void your manufacturers warranty.

This morning, most of us in our beautiful Bay Area, woke to frost on our lawns, or even our BMW’s windshield, (if it was not garaged). However, this afternoon, our temps will probably be in the 70′s. Spring is here and we are experiencing the wide temperature swings that are so good to the vines in the Wine Country, and over time, not so good for parts of your car.

April is national Car Care Month for a good reason. It is time to check out those fuel hoses, AC hoses, tires, wipers and other rubber or plastic components on your BMW. Working with you, we can help you avoid breakdowns by monitoring a potential weak component and replacing before you are “stranded”.

So, summertime driving will be here before we know it. Let’s be prepared!

There is always something exciting happening in the automotive business world.

Just this week, Ford sold the Jaguar and Rover divisions to an Indian company. One wonders how this sale will affect those brands in the U.S.. In Europe, BMW is laying off some of their production staff in Germany, citing labor costs. However, the same time expanding production in the U.S. In Japan, Toyota is trying to improve sales of their very own Lexus, as the BMW is the preferred luxury brand in Japan. (Lexus in the U.S. was introduced about 19 years ago, whereas in Japan, only 5 years ago). Ahh BMW lovers all over the world!

Today is an exciting day for BMW. At the New York International Auto Show, the BMW 118d (diesel) with Efficient Dynamics, was named the 2008 World Green Car!

There was specific criteria that played a part in this endeavor. One standard was the tail pipe emissions. Those had to be equal or better than the CA and EPA regulations. Reduced fuel consumption, (lower than 47.6 mpg. U.S.) was another. The use of another “power plant” technology, (in addition to engine components), was another criteria. The combination of the BMW technologies on this vehicle, such as the Brake Energy Regeneration, the Electric Steering, and an Auto Start Stop Function are said to cumulatively reduce the fuel consumption by 21%. This is pretty incredible.

We think this is a great honor and it was in the running with Mercedes Benz and Volkswagen’s diesel models, as part of the top 3 picks. Here in the U.S., we often think of diesel in terms of transportation vehicles. Let’s not forget, that diesels in other parts of the world and Europe have been the norm. Unfortunately, the price of diesel has steadily increased during the past few years. But, if we use less of it, that’s a winner!

There are myths and facts that surround the earliest years of BMW and it’s connection to aviation. Of course there is the oft mentioned theory that the “badge” is reminiscent of an aircraft propeller.

Another idea is that the Inspection 1 and Inspection 2 are founded in with the idea in mind, that there are some items that must be “inspected”, and/or replaced, to keep you “flying” along in your BMW. Let’s face it, a pilot does not have the luxury of just pulling over to get out of traffic’s way, if a part should fail.

We do have some BMW clients in the field of aviation, (as pilots and technicians), who understand the importance of those Inspections. They understand that some items, especially those made of the plastic composites, will eventually fail. We don’t want to condemn a part that has not failed, yet, it may be in your best interest for us to monitor, (together), those items that will need to be replaced. For some items, it is just a matter of time. Your being pro-active can save you time and frustration.

So, when it’s time to get those Inspections for your BMW, remember that the purpose is to keep you “flying” along. Flying along as only you can, in your beautiful BMW! Ahhh enjoy the ride.

The BMW factory in Spartanburg S.C., is set for a major expansion of $750 million over the next three years. It has become more profitable for BMW to build cars in the U.S., due to the value of the Dollar vs. that of the Euro. BMW has seen an increase in U.S. sales of 27% over the past five years. Given those two factors, it seems like a good business decision to increase production at that location. Some portion of the vehicles built there will be destined for the overseas market.

Part of the expansion includes adding about 500 more jobs to the facility, and that is some good economic news. Yeah BMW!

Is is just me, or is that word “Certified”, so overused it’s almost becoming cliche. In some cases it can even create some confusion among consumers seeking a repair shop.

In the U.S., the Institute of Automotive Service Excellence, (ASE), is the Nationally recognized Automotive testing foundation since 1972. An automotive technician that has his, (or her) credentials with ASE have spent years in the field. But, they have also studied, tested and passed the tests prior to becoming “ASE Certified”. A “Master ASE Certified”, is the top tier of this certification. Once one has achieved the distinction of becoming a Master ASE Certified, re-testing and recertification is mandatory to keep the title. Being credentialed with ASE is an ongoing process throughout the lifetime of a technician, if they choose to go this professional route.

A tech can have years of BMW experience and even be credentialed by BMW, and at the same time be ASE Certified.

A client asked me last week, “why don’t you say that you are “BMW Certified?”. No, that would imply that we are a dealership, (not), and would also cause confusion with the public. Of course, our goal is to lessen the confusion, not create more.

But, we are BMW qualified, and that is very important to all of you BMW and MINI owners out there, who prefer the autonomy and personalized attention that you get from an independent service facility. However, if you are still covered under the “free” aka “pre-paid” maintenance program with your dealership, the only way to get the “free-stuff” is to go back there. But, this is America, and you always have a choice. How cool is that!

You were just told that you may have “an intermittent failure”. What does that mean to you? The first test showed that everything is good! And a week later, it’s testing “failed”. How can that be? This is called an “intermittent” failure.

It is possible that an electrical unit may be testing fine, (within specs), one day, but, tested an hour later, the next day or perhaps, 10 days later, it fails. It may fail under identical conditions or not. When you have an electrical component with an intermittent failure, it can be one of the most frustrating issues with your BMW, (or any car).

No one wants us to be guessing at what part is causing the problem. A good BMW tech should not just be changing parts or just guessing what is causing a problem, and should not condemn an electrical part/until it is has failed. A client would never be happy with that situation and it’s just not good automotive repair practice. That’s why tests and diagnostics are a must.

Consider this scenario and the parallels to your BMW; Remember, the time that you went to the doctor and he/she ran some blood tests, and everything came back fine. But, you knew there is something wrong, because you are not feeling, (or working) right. Your doctor cannot just tell you that is “probably” a “disconbobulated thingy” that could possibly make you feel bad. He has to test further, (or wait until you feel worse ), and you return to his office. When he/she finds out the specifics of what is causing your problem, only then you will be prescribed a remedy. And, when you have the lab work, (or tests) run, he/she does charge for that service. Sometimes, it is no different with your car.

Keep in mind, those same cool gadgets that every one is loving in their car will eventually fail. It’s no different than any new electrical component at your home, (or even the light switch in your office). Because of the electronics, our computerized, energy efficient washing machine will never make it to 15 or 20 years as it’s old predecessor did. (Seriously, that cool new energy efficient washing machine has already had it’s control unit changed 2 times in 3 years)!

Welcome to the new world of electronics in automotive, (and what is cool today), just may tick you off, tomorrow.

Just when you thought you had it all figured out about your oil changes and maintenance, the Department of California Integrated Waste Management has decided to “help” you. The new website, (January 2008), is “www.3000milemyth.org“. This is an effort to decrease the amount of oil that is NOT being recycled. They are telling us that only 59% of the oil used in vehicles in the state is being recycled. Where is the other 41% going? And why is not more being recycled? Isn’t that the real question here, and what can we all do about it?

This is a new campaign advising vehicle owners that they don’t need to change their oil every 3K miles, and that it is just a “myth”.Our experience has shown us, that it is not “one size fits all” when it comes to your oil changes.

There is some good information on the site about the new advances in the synthetic oils, and it’s very true. And yes, your later model vehicles do have extended maintenance schedules. But, the site neglects any information regarding the filters that really need to be changed, (even if you have a newer car and driving habits that allow you to safely extend your oil changes).

They list predominantly American cars, produced 2000-2007 and the recommended oil change intervals.But, remember that:1). Not all cars on the road in our beautiful State are using synthetic oils.2). Most older cars still need that 3K oil change. (The median age of vehicles in U.S. is 9 years)3.) Your individual driving habits need to be part of your plan when determining your oil services.

And please, don’t tell our clients who have perfectly clean BMW’s with 300-400K miles that it’s a “myth”. These are high mileage BMW’s that are passing our CA “Test Only Smog Checks” and get great mileage per gallon of gas. That original engine is going strong because of those 3K oil and filter changes. Confused? Has anyone else, (in our State government) considered, that this outreach program seems to be in conflict with the latest energy saving legislation, which is mandating that shops check the tire pressure at the time of oil changes? If more people decide to take their advice, cars will be getting checked out even less than they are now! And we know that a poorly maintained vehicle is not as “clean” at the tail pipe and uses more gasoline. (Go figure) The huge disclaimer at the bottom of the home page, tells it all. They are not in the Automotive Repair Business.

To get the most out of your investment in your vehicle, always follow, at minimum, your manufacturers scheduled maintenance program. Go to a BMW professional shop that can help you extend not just your oil changes, but the life of your vehicle.

The Driving Machine is a Santa Clara County Green Business and our fluids are recycled. Are yours?