If your BMW needs a repair, it is always advisable to go to a BMW repair shop that has a qualified mechanic with specialized training. These high-end German automobiles require a certain amount of knowledge to be serviced well. There are dedicated diagnostic computers, parts, and tools that a mechanic has to use to find what is wrong with your car and how he or she can fix it. So if you want your car to stay in tip-top shape, only consult someone who has training in repairing and servicing BMW cars specifically. Here are a few things that you need to look for when you are searching for the right repair shop:

Mechanics With Specialized Training

BMW offers training certification to individuals who have completed the relevant course material and proven their knowledge. The mechanics with official certification know everything there is to about a BMW vehicle. A BMW Master Certified Technician has over five years of experience working on vehicles from the German brand in an environment approved by the manufacturer. Many of these technicians were once enrolled in the BMW STEP, also known as the BMW Service Technician Education Program. These programs have classroom sessions followed by internships at BMW service centers. Even though a Master Certification is not a mandatory requirement to have a look at your car, you should at least find a technician who has the required certifications from the company. Most of the repair shops that employ BMW certified technicians have an outstanding reputation. Furthermore, these technicians are always updated with the latest tools and technologies.

Specific Diagnostic Equipment

BMW cars are sophisticated machines that need more than just the generic OBDII scanner that most repair shops use. They require specific computer hardware and software to diagnose vehicle issues. The “GT1,” the “SSS,” and the “ISIS” are some of these products. You need to ensure that the repair shop that you go to makes use of AutoLogic or similar high-end diagnostic tools to see what is wrong with your car without taking everything apart. BMW specialists and certified technicians also have access to genuine BMW spare parts. You will always want to have the parts on your car replaced with the genuine OEM parts. General repair shops may not have access to these parts, or will not be able to make them available for you as quickly as a BMW specialist can.

Professional Associations

BMW repair shops that are approved by the company and employ certified mechanics will also have their evidence of membership at the shop. On entering such a shop, you can see certifications from groups such as ASA (Automotive Service Association), the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence), or even the iATN (The International Automotive Technicians Network). These groups provide certifications to members with rigorous technician’s training. There are also associations that are specific to BMW, such as BIMRS. They only accept specialized experts certified by BMW.

Online Reviews and Recommendations

Before you go to visit a store, always check for online reviews to see what other people are saying. Also, ask other BMW drivers to see what places they recommend. You can even get in touch with fellow enthusiasts or get in touch with the local BMW CCA chapter.

Do what feels right

In the end, it is essential to go with your gut feeling. If you have a good feeling when you call a repair shop to get your BMW serviced, go ahead and give it a try. True experts are able to answer all your questions and make arrangements to get your car serviced. If possible, you can get a minor service done in the shop before a bigger one so that you can get to know the staff and grow more confident in the skills of their certified technicians.

The post What To Consider When Looking For A BMW Repair Service appeared first on Mercedes Repair - BMW Repair.