Getting car serviced in Europe?

[CIS121]

Off on a road trip shortly, servicing at a BMW franchise in Eastern Europe is a good bit cheaper than the UK

Has anyone had their car serviced abroad?

Are there any downsides in either the service or service history?

[Driver101]

Is it really worth the time, effort and inconvenience when you're on a road trip?

[CIS121]

Driver101 said:

Is it really worth the time, effort and inconvenience when you're on a road trip?

I'm in the city 2 days, it saves me having to work about parking the car securely too, I can't see any inconvenience, it's actually easier for me than doing from home (live in central London)

[RedWhiteMonkey]

Sounds like a lot of hassle unless you already know the garage and fluent in the local language.

[RiccardoG]

In reality its likely you will get a better workmanship level and lower prices than in London. I'm also in London and wholly uninspired by the main dealer groups servicing here (over 15 years frequenting them).

But, many people back in UK might be suspicious of work done. That's normal, same applies in the inverse situation - people trust more what they know, even if its not actually better. So, depends on how old the car is and whether the SH will be relevant to its value.

Personally I'd go for it based on what you write. Its still a main dealer after all!

[sunnyb13]

yes they'll do a good job. but come px time, they won't recognize the service history.

[Earthdweller]

I’ve had a couple of my cars serviced in Ireland whilst I’ve been over there

Both at main dealers, both having the idrive updated and paper BMW service record

The beauty is

A) the rates are a lot less than in the U.K.

B) priced in Euros so you win even more

The services are recognised, and the vehicles still have a full BMW history

It’s a lovely historic place and they drop you into town, and then a lovely lunch and walk back to the dealer to collect

Ideal