MOT at dealer - Updated with results

[mooneymini]

We've had the cherished mini for almost a year. Its booked it for a oil service, brake fluid change and MOT on the 27th (expires 29th).

I'm not that bothered who does the MOT, I'd usually take it to the local garage, but as its close to warranty ending I figured, if there was anything wrong (that needs warranty work) they can just keep it and get it sorted. But then figured, if a wear/tear item goes, there going to charge me dealer prices, unless I get it, get it fixed and take it back.

I am now thinking to get it MOT'd locally a few days before it goes it for a service, and if it fails on a warranty item, I can just drive it to the dealer for the fix and services.

What do you think?

[Paul]

I'd do that latter, get it done independently. The other risk is, when it's in warranty, a dealer may "find" work that needs to be done that, perhaps, doesn't. It's been reported on here a few times lately.

[mooneymini]

If its warranty work then I'm not paying, BMW would be. Not great, but I'm worried about my costs.

[Paul]

Yes BMW would be, but dealers have been accused of quoting for and carrying out work that isn't required, even if under warranty do you want things done that don't need to be?

[mooneymini]

Fair point. If they do though, I'd take it to a local place and get a second opinion and then get it fixed by them. Take it back to BMW for the retest.

If I do it on the flip side, and take it to a local place and it fails, and its a warranty claim, I'm going to pay for 2 MOT's. If its not warranty then I can get the local place to fix it cheaper than BMW and get the retest for free.

[iain cooper]

I would agree with Paul's posts.

BMW/Mini will find things that need done whether they do or not and not just with the MOT.............I bet this will happen with your service !!

[mooneymini]

Taking it for MOT tomorrow to the local place and then to MINI for service the next day.
Hope it all goes ok and nothing is made up about it.
From how the car is, I can't imagine they will say there is anything of a great deal wrong with it, and if they do I will have to get it double checked by an independent to put my mind at rest.

Wish me and the car luck !

[PK5]

would you like to name and shame the dealer for everyones sake?

[mooneymini]

Quote: Originally Posted by PK5 (original)

would you like to name and shame the dealer for everyones sake?

Well nothing has happened, it was more trying to avoid anything happening. If the dealer try anything on then I can post results.

MOT tomorrow, BMW web for service.

[Paul]

Fingers crossed for you!

[PK5]

yes good luck!!

[mooneymini]

Just got the good news, passed! We took it to a local place who had time this afternoon to fit it in.

Edit: MINI went to MINI today to be serviced and have the brake fluid change.

Good results. They picked up on another faulty engine mount and a cracked leaking sump which will be changed under warranty.

After a bit of cheeky asking, they also gave us a bit of money off the servicing cost.

Then they told us the good news that the MINI passed its MOT. We said we knew, because we had it done yesterday at another place.
So of course they didnt charge us, as we had previously cancelled this with them anyway.

Good news, was there has been no hidden charges, and no scarey faults that they picked up on, and we had a lovely 1 series M sport as a courtesy car.

Very painless- well done Sytner High Wycombe