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  BMW Forums » BMW discussion forums » BMW 5-Series
  Inspection II, would you do it yourself??

 Inspection II, would you do it yourself??



I have a total of 3 BMW's I've done some basic maintenance on my 2 3 series, however, I've never done one on my 5 Series (e39). Looking to do my inspection II myself to save on the cost of the dealership. Has anyone had experience with doing it, if so, please help me out

Also, looking to change my radiator fluid, since BMW charges almost $240, would love to do the tranny but I leave that to the professionals. Looking forward to some advise and guidance...

One last thing, where online do you recommend to buy your parts from?

Thanks!
   Reply » Inspection II, would you do it yourself??

I'm doing mine slowly over the summer.

The most technical things are the brake flush, rad flush, Oil change and air filters. You may need to replace plugs and O2 sensors depending on the mileage. Transmission and diff fluid change is not requried in an inspection II, but of course may be done at your discretion.

If you're comfortable doing the fluid and filter work, then for sure you can do the rest of the inspections. This may affect your resale value as your maintenance book will not be 'signed' by BMW - perhaps keep a signed checklist and receipts for various fluids to show you did the work.

   Reply » Inspection II, would you do it yourself??

I do basic oil/filter changes, and even the simple engine air filter and AC micro filters, but leave most of the other stuff for the dealer. I'm surprised at the coolant change price, Seattle BMW only charged me $121 for a coolant change on my 01 540 last week. I had the trans and diff changed last summer it was quite a bit more ($375?) but was told on one of the boards that there is a special process to changing the oil in the trans.

As far as the inspection II, I could probably do it, but would worry if I really knew what I was looking for....especially if something was "borderline" would I really know if it is fine or needed attention.

Which ever way you go, (as was mentioned previously) document everything for posterity.

   Reply » Inspection II, would you do it yourself??

540, prices in Chicago are higher, dont ask me why but they are. I may have to take your advise of getting the Trans/Diff/Brake Fluids to the pros. I will keep all the receipts as well.

Thannks!

   Reply » Inspection II, would you do it yourself??

See if you can locate an independent BMW mechanic. I had my inspection II performed by a local indy and it was a lot cheaper for them to do it versus the dealer. They found a lot of stuff that I would never have:

(1) Slight leakage of power steering pump hose
(2) Cracked upper thrust arm bushings
(3) Slight leakage of rear valve cover
(4) Slightly cracked drive belts

Anyway, look around for an indy. Most of the above was "borderline" and they left a comment: check again in a year.

In the end, I would let the pros do the inspections and then take what they find and either fix it yourself or pay them to fix it. My indy gave me a list of all parts for everything and then we contacted my aftermarket warranty company to see what would be covered. I will fix whatever the aftermarket warranty won't cover...if I am able.

   Reply » Inspection II, would you do it yourself??

Agent, thanks for the advise I already has an indy for the inspection, will keep you posted.

Thanks


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