[Alscoob]

After reading some post on here about the knocking steering when moving the wheel side to side and the knock from offside front suspension, I checked found I had just that.

After some unsatisfactory conversations with the more local dealer I decided just to turn up to Specialist Cars Stevenage and ask them if they had anyone available to come and have a quick look. After a few minutes a head tech guy came out, looked at the car and said Rack or track rod, lets book it in. I also booked the brake fluid change as it was due in January so thought get it all done at once. (also having read about some cars having corroded bleed nipples)

Took it in, drove off the the nice courtesy 218d active tourer
Had a call mid that afternoon to say they had replaced track rod ends but that hasn't cured it, so will change the rack. Next day confirmed all done and was having software updated and rack coded to car together with 4 wheel alignment.

Picked car up the following morning due to my commitments , all done and no problems. All I can say is that they were efficient and helpful and there were no arguments or me having to push them to do anything, which makes a change, very pleased and happy to go back there.

[F15CCT]

Nice to see some good reviews for them, I haven't had the best experience from them so far.

[Alscoob]

Originally Posted by F15CCT

Nice to see some good reviews for them, I haven't had the best experience from them so far.

Maybe my issue was something that was well documented so they just got on with it?

Haven't used them before for service, but did try the car sales, bought the last 2 BMW's elsewhere though

[Sasquartch]

I had exactly the same experience with them (I bought my car from then as AUC) - they too went through the process of chaging the track rod first, then the rack. (Which apparently is the BMW mandated procedure)

Very friendly, zero hassle.

Recommended.

[F15CCT]

Originally Posted by Alscoob

Maybe my issue was something that was well documented so they just got on with it?

Haven't used them before for service, but did try the car sales, bought the last 2 BMW's elsewhere though

Ow yes my issues were with sales and another time servicing not tightening my fuel filter so it leaked diesel everywhere.

[Alscoob]

Originally Posted by F15CCT

Ow yes my issues were with sales and another time servicing not tightening my fuel filter so it leaked diesel everywhere.

Ooopps... as long as they sorted it out properly. Sales ... they need to improve!!

[F15CCT]

Originally Posted by Alscoob

Ooopps... as long as they sorted it out properly. Sales ... they need to improve!!

Unfortunately not. The sales issue never got resolved (even though they asked for feedback) and the filter issue was fixed but I've still got a stained drive and a car that seems to not be doing the same miles per tank (by about 50+miles indicating it's not fully correct). But I do have an email from the service manager saying 'ow well it happens get over it'. It's a shame as they are so convenient but I will be trying out other garages in the area.

[dobbo99]

Good to know that they have pleased someone.

I've always been distinctly underwhelmed by them unfortunately.

[Alscoob]

Originally Posted by dobbo99

Good to know that they have pleased someone.

I've always been distinctly underwhelmed by them unfortunately.

Good job you don't go to Cambridge lot then ....even worse

[Singh211]

I have had the worst experience with these guys and refuse to use them now. Sucks because I am literally 10 minutes from them and now have to travel 1 hour!

[F15CCT]

Originally Posted by Singh211

I have had the worst experience with these guys and refuse to use them now. Sucks because I am literally 10 minutes from them and now have to travel 1 hour!

Whee do you go now as I'm looking for a new place?

[Singh211]

Originally Posted by F15CCT

Whee do you go now as I'm looking for a new place?

I use local independent in Luton for most maintenance and then Bedford for servicing.

I provide the parts as well - just do it to get the stamp

[F15CCT]

Originally Posted by Singh211

I use local independent in Luton for most maintenance and then Bedford for servicing.

I provide the parts as well - just do it to get the stamp

I was going to give A1BM a go as that's local too but it Defoe FS if they can stamp the idrive

[S1NGH]

Originally Posted by Singh211

I use local independent in Luton for most maintenance and then Bedford for servicing.

I provide the parts as well - just do it to get the stamp

I assume you use the Indy Fensomes in Luton? I used to go there 3/4 years back with cars that were out of warranty. Nayan is a good guy and they do a good job. Most of the original technicians were ex Specialist Cars at one time.

Also highly recommend Deutsche Tech in MK, they've always looked after me well.

[Alscoob]

Originally Posted by Singh211

I use local independent in Luton for most maintenance and then Bedford for servicing.

I provide the parts as well - just do it to get the stamp

You could try Bartlett Automotive in Huntingdon, they did my first & second service and I will continue with them. Only used Stevenage BMW for the warranty work.

They log everything on the BMW server so your history appears on your i drive as well

[simon the pieman]

I use specialist cars for my servicing and I've never had any problems with them. In fact I've always been very happy. Maybe I've been lucky. I guess there will always be good with bad. that's just how it is.
They're auc cars are over priced though.
Only ever bought from them once.
Can't complain on the service I got then either.

[RichardM]

I used them for servicing and warranty work and I was impressed. I had a bad experience with their sales guys though so won't be going back.