Why can't you give me a quote over the phone?
Just like your medical doctor can not diagnose you over the phone, we can't be sure what is ailing your car. While the transmission can seem to be acting up - it could turn out to be a computer issue. We need to see your car.
How often do I need an oil change?
Now that some manufactures offer free maintenance oil change schedules have extended up to 15,000 miles. That's too long to drive without even a safety check. This may be okay for the car to run reliably in the beginning (under warranty), but the contaminated oil and sludge build up contributes to engine damage which is showing up after warranty expires. Visit our Maintenance Tips. Between 5,000 and 7,000 miles is not only good for the oil change, but allows our technicians to inspect your vehicle for safe operation.
Do I really need to change the timing belt/chain?
The timing belt or timing chain is definitely a wear item and needs to be replaced before it breaks. If it breaks you could need a new engine.
While my car is still under warranty can I see an independent service shop?
Definitely! Unfortunately
car dealerships won't look too hard for repair defects while under warranty.
A periodic check of your German auto protects your long term interests and your investment.My car is under warranty, and the dealership told me they must service the car.
Not so - you may choose to have your car serviced by any qualified independent repair shop. German Automotive Service Center meets all manufacturers’ requirements to keep your warranty current and we use only original equipment quality parts to maintain your vehicle. Unless you have a free maintenance service contract with your dealer, you can bring your car to us for service.
My warranty is due to expire. Should I have the dealer check the car over?
Having an impartial experienced shop inspect your car is a good idea. German Automotive Service Center offers a Pre-Warranty Expiration Inspection which includes a thorough car inspection and documentation of any warrantable items needing repair. This can save you the expense of items missed during the warranty by the dealership.
Are extended warranties worth the cost?
There are some good after market warranties, but as with any insurance policy you must read the fine print. If you purchase one while you are still under the manufacturer's warranty you'll be able to get better coverage at a better price. Be sure wear and tear items are covered, also make sure your deductible is "one per year", not per visit. German Automotive Service Center honors most extended warranty policies and will gladly do the claim filing for you.
Is a Carfax report enough when I am purchasing a pre-owned car?
No! Carfax relies solely on the insurance industry and State DMV's for their information. This means they have no maintenance history, no unreported fender benders and no record of abuse. It can tell you these things: if the car was totaled or has a salvage title, had an accident bad enough to file an insurance claim, how many previous owners, a record of odometer rollback, or has had a police report filed.
Always have the vehicle inspected by someone familiar with BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Volkswagen. We are familiar with common problem areas. A pre-inspection fee can save you headaches or give you confidence to make your purchase.
Are you thinking about purchasing a pre-owned Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Porsche or Audi?
Be an informed buyer before signing the deal by having the vehicle inspected by a qualified third party. German Automotive Service Center offers a Pre-Purchase Inspection to ferret out any undisclosed problems. We will make a complete inspection, under hood and road testing, searching for signs of prior repair and damage; and wear and tear. We'll give you an evaluation of its current condition and an estimate of any problem areas.
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