BMW dealers

[sailorlite]

For the "official" BMW 36K service, don't the first and last steps include "hooking it up"? If that's the service you agreed to, in advance, then there should be no issue here - any further fee is not warranted. OTOH, if you rolled in and asked for an "oil change", then that's really all you should expect to get and to pay for - no hooking up and resetting would be included in the price. Were you charged for a full BMW 36K service?

I wouldn't expect a dealership to "give" you (or me) a free reset unless it's included in the cost estimate before work is begun.

 

[bdfbeemer]

My dealer checks for updates each time the bike in for service. No extra charge except the time it may involve which is included in total time. No extra charge otherwise.

 

[rxcrider]

...Had 36k service on my r1200gs on wed...
...normally do my own work but I bought maint contract since it was the first water gs sold from this shop...
...this was 3rd new bike I bought from them and have had all my work done there for over 170,000 miles...
...last oil change they refused to cancel the service alert unless I paid $50 to hook up computer...

...12000 mi ago had oil and filter 6000mi service unknown to me at the time the work was done in different garage by a KLM mech without a BMW computer...
...they said no it would be a $50 charge and the KLM mech was certified BMW but he did get the oil level right...

I tried following the string of events, but I think I failed.

presumably, this is the dealer in question:
(Keep reading - or skip this post - wrong city listed above - better explanation in a couple more posts)

You just had the 36000 mile maintenance performed and the dealer was off by 10 oz. on their oil fill. I think I got that part.

The last oil change was 12,000 miles ago and "the work was done in different garage by a KLM mech without a BMW computer." You then brought the motorcycle back to BMW Botorcycles of Las Vegas and they wanted to charge you $50 to reset the oil service light since they hadn't performed the oil change.
When you reference a KLM mech, I can only assume you mean a KTM mechanic who was trained as a BMW technician at some point. This seems a bit steep, but since they didn't do the work, I'd say it is up to their policy as to what they charge for the reset. Given that you have a service contract with them, I'd think you could have just had them perform another oil change under the contract and been done with it. This whole piece of the story seems a bit off, so I'm not sure I understood what you were trying to tell us.

"Normally do my own work" but "have had all my work done there for over 170,000 miles" and "12000 mi ago had oil and filter 6000mi service unknown to me at the time the work was done in different garage by a KLM mech without a BMW computer" seem to be contradictory statements. I'm wondering if the issue between you and the dealer isn't one of miscommunication. If it is a language barrier problem, maybe bring a friend who can help make sure you and the dealership can convey your messages clearly. It might not be a bad idea to restart the conversation with "I'm sorry..." and try to get back to having a good relationship with them.

 

[40624]

I tried following the string of events, but I think I failed.

presumably, this is the dealer in question: http://www.bmwoflasvegas.com/

You just had the 36000 mile maintenance performed and the dealer was off by 10 oz. on their oil fill. I think I got that part.

The last oil change was 12,000 miles ago and "the work was done in different garage by a KLM mech without a BMW computer." You then brought the motorcycle back to BMW Botorcycles of Las Vegas and they wanted to charge you $50 to reset the oil service light since they hadn't performed the oil change.
When you reference a KLM mech, I can only assume you mean a KTM mechanic who was trained as a BMW technician at some point. This seems a bit steep, but since they didn't do the work, I'd say it is up to their policy as to what they charge for the reset. Given that you have a service contract with them, I'd think you could have just had them perform another oil change under the contract and been done with it. This whole piece of the story seems a bit off, so I'm not sure I understood what you were trying to tell us.

"Normally do my own work" but "have had all my work done there for over 170,000 miles" and "12000 mi ago had oil and filter 6000mi service unknown to me at the time the work was done in different garage by a KLM mech without a BMW computer" seem to be contradictory statements. I'm wondering if the issue between you and the dealer isn't one of miscommunication. If it is a language barrier problem, maybe bring a friend who can help make sure you and the dealership can convey your messages clearly. It might not be a bad idea to restart the conversation with "I'm sorry..." and try to get back to having a good relationship with them.

Yep, the miscommunication has been on this thread and is my fault. I started thread using Las Vegas "dealers" as sarcasm. This is in Phoenix and BMW, KTM, and other brands are in 3 buildings by same dealership. The major service was performed by this shop including updates and warranty work for previous to this GS bike. The reset was not done at 30k oil change, the shortage of oil was at the 36k service. Have not done any work on this GS since I have a contract. Previous bikes I did my own valves, oil, brakes, tires etc. maintenance.The $50 expected charge to reset the service light went against me for a variety of reasons. I spent on average since 2006 $5,000 a year at this shop in clothing, accessories, new bikes, service. I also sent a lot of business to this shop , new bike sales and service. There has been a change in management style. And I am not the only one that has had less then stellar service. So as I last commented, it is time to move on. I have posted this as an experience I have had with the modern day business changes that are taking place. I have read many post over the years and felt I was the lucky one with the great dealer which I supported. Today I test rode other brands-we have bike week going on here- looking for a bike I can do my own maintenance without a computer. I was not happy with the bikes I rode. But I will keep looking.Best of luck to you all.

 

[martyhill]

After doing my own services on BMW 1200GS's for almost 300k without having a computer I now must wonder what damage I've caused.

 

[kbasa]

After doing my own services on BMW 1200GS's for almost 300k without having a computer I now must wonder what damage I've caused.

. Hiya Marty, how've you been?

 

[rxcrider]

If you like the bike, have a service contract through the dealer in question (presumably GO AZ in Scottsdale) and have had two issues revolving around oil changes performed by this dealer, why not contact someone in management? This might be a good place to start: http://www.goaz.com/aboutus.htm

Is your service contract restricted to the dealer where you bought your bike or can it be handled by any authorized BMW dealer? If the latter and you have no interest in trying to work things out with GO AZ, you do have another dealer a bit farther south, Victory BMW in Chandler. http://www.victorybmw.com/

 

[Ponch1]

Yep, the miscommunication has been on this thread and is my fault. I started thread using Las Vegas "dealers" as sarcasm. This is in Phoenix and BMW, KTM, and other brands are in 3 buildings by same dealership. The major service was performed by this shop including updates and warranty work for previous to this GS bike. The reset was not done at 30k oil change, the shortage of oil was at the 36k service. Have not done any work on this GS since I have a contract. Previous bikes I did my own valves, oil, brakes, tires etc. maintenance.The $50 expected charge to reset the service light went against me for a variety of reasons. I spent on average since 2006 $5,000 a year at this shop in clothing, accessories, new bikes, service. I also sent a lot of business to this shop , new bike sales and service. There has been a change in management style. And I am not the only one that has had less then stellar service. So as I last commented, it is time to move on. I have posted this as an experience I have had with the modern day business changes that are taking place. I have read many post over the years and felt I was the lucky one with the great dealer which I supported. Today I test rode other brands-we have bike week going on here- looking for a bike I can do my own maintenance without a computer. I was not happy with the bikes I rode. But I will keep looking.Best of luck to you all.

$5000 a year? They should pick up the bike at your house and deliver it back for the amount you spend with them. Holy smokes. GOAZ is owned by bob parsons of Go Daddy fame. He's king of the up sell. I have friend that worked in tech support at Go Daddy and they were required to sell customers products and services. Their quota was to make $10 per call in additional services. This is for tech support. I have a problem with that as tech support is supposed to fix problems and from what my friends say, the services they sold were often unneeded. The double dipping for the dealer extortion indicator reset makes sense then as it fits in with his philosophy. I went their for warranty work once. They do wash the bike, which is nice, but the techs were so rushed that they didn't route the fuel lines right and they were hanging in view near the forks. The guy is all about money and value is a different subject. I go to Victory warranty and recall work now and while they don't wash my bike, I've never found bad work and they have decent doughnuts. There are a few good independent BMW shops too, like Motoghost, Gypsytech and Dirtbag Customs. You need to take your business where it will be appreciated.

 

[daveredman]

I would like to know:
What model/year bikes have these service warnings that need to be reset?
.
.

 

[KenDittrick]

I would like to think that when a dealer is doing work for a loyal customer they cheerfully would check the oil level and operation of the indicator for proper operation and remedy if/as needed. If this was a regular service interval engagement then the service indicator should have been reset (charges or not can be included in the service interval package). That indicator is real annoying to look at mile after mile and is not accurate if not reset. This is a two way street and starts with a collegial relationship. Take care.

 

[dpmonk]

reset of service reminder

If it was your dealer that decided to have a KTM technician service the bike, then you are absolutely correct that you were mistreated.

If it was your choice, then you have no complaint.

I brought my bike in for tires and asked if they could reset the service reminder. They refused to so so unless they did the services. But they explained that they had reset the reminder in the past for people like me that live 100 miles away and change their own oil. The problem was that they did a reset for a customer who was going to do an oil change. He ran the bike out of oil and destroyed the engine. Then he sued the dealer who did the reset.

 

[henzilla]

I would like to know:
What model/year bikes have these service warnings that need to be reset?
.
.

Started about '07...my 05's did not have them. The R's and K's...not sure about the F twins, the Thumper 650's (G's now),do not either I believe.

Not sure about the default reset at a dealer, the GS911 will let you set it to a year instead of the old 6K. A year is fine for most folks as the 6K can come quickly for others.

 

[labbats]

If you like the bike, have a service contract through the dealer in question (presumably GO AZ in Scottsdale) and have had two issues revolving around oil changes performed by this dealer, why not contact someone in management? This might be a good place to start: http://www.goaz.com/aboutus.htm

Is your service contract restricted to the dealer where you bought your bike or can it be handled by any authorized BMW dealer? If the latter and you have no interest in trying to work things out with GO AZ, you do have another dealer a bit farther south, Victory BMW in Chandler. http://www.victorybmw.com/

Good suggestions. I would add motoghost as well in North Phoenix.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/MotoGhost-Exclusive-BMW-Motorcycle-Specialists/422964851056126

 

[akbeemer]

I would like to know:
What model/year bikes have these service warnings that need to be reset?
.
.

My 07 RT did not have the service reminder; my 08 R1200R does have a service reminder.

 

[henzilla]

BTW, the newer bikes, K16 & WC boxers and a few others need the newer GS911 WiFi model to reset the service reminder...my older pro will not...time to upgrade as other functions require the newbie model.

Not sure if the LIN-BUS vs CAN-BUS system is the reason...still reading
-----------------------------------------------

From the website:
Models that require a GS-911wifi interface
Note: These are the K001 chassis models - ALL of these K001 chassis models require the GS-911wifi interface!

R-Series
R1200GS LC (K50), R1200GS Adv LC (K51), R1200RT LC (K52)

K-Series
K1600GT (K48), K1600GTL (K48), K1600GLT Exclusive (K48)

S-Series
S1000R (K47)

C-Series
C-evolution (K17)

 

[richardccarson]

Late to the party, as usual, but here's my take: Highhanded attitude with customers is the wrong approach if repeat business is the goal. I don't expect the staff to genuflect, but polite concern should be part of "the deal."
If the capacity of the crankcase is 4.5 quarts, then 10 oz. out of 144 is roughly 7%. Hope the math is right! If I take anything, anywhere for an oil change and it's 10 oz. short, then it's cause for complaint. I think you have a legitimate gripe, emotions notwithstanding.
You could offer to reduce the amount you might owe them by 10%. Seven percent for the oil shortage and 3 percent for the aggravation and loss of customer's loyalty. Then politely state that's an "insignificant" reduction.
Wonder how that would work!
My dealership would never do such a thing, and that's why I'm loyal to that dealership.

 

[greenwald]

Late to the party, as usual, but here's my take: Highhanded attitude with customers is the wrong approach if repeat business is the goal. I don't expect the staff to genuflect, but polite concern should be part of "the deal."
If the capacity of the crankcase is 4.5 quarts, then 10 oz. out of 144 is roughly 7%. Hope the math is right! If I take anything, anywhere for an oil change and it's 10 oz. short, then it's cause for complaint. I think you have a legitimate gripe, emotions notwithstanding.
You could offer to reduce the amount you might owe them by 10%. Seven percent for the oil shortage and 3 percent for the aggravation and loss of customer's loyalty. Then politely state that's an "insignificant" reduction.
Wonder how that would work!
My dealership would never do such a thing, and that's why I'm loyal to that dealership.

+1!

 

[brownie]

Dealers....

Late to the party, as usual, but here's my take: Highhanded attitude with customers is the wrong approach if repeat business is the goal. I don't expect the staff to genuflect, but polite concern should be part of "the deal."
If the capacity of the crankcase is 4.5 quarts, then 10 oz. out of 144 is roughly 7%. Hope the math is right! If I take anything, anywhere for an oil change and it's 10 oz. short, then it's cause for complaint. I think you have a legitimate gripe, emotions notwithstanding.
You could offer to reduce the amount you might owe them by 10%. Seven percent for the oil shortage and 3 percent for the aggravation and loss of customer's loyalty. Then politely state that's an "insignificant" reduction.
Wonder how that would work!
My dealership would never do such a thing, and that's why I'm loyal to that dealership.

+2........my dealer is fantastic!!!! A old mantra goes....if you want a local "XXX" dealer to survive, then you have to support the "XXX" dealer, (and vice-versa ofcourse!!)

 

[themayer]

I have said that to my riding friend for decades. It really annoys me to see people using the local dealer to try on gear or have a look at some part, then order it online to save a couple of dollars. When I have bought my new bikes from my local dealer, I've told the owner, "I need you to be here as much as you need to sell bikes. Give me your fairest price, and I will pay it." Works for me. Unfortunately, Marin BMW did not make it through the last economic downturn and they are sorely missed.

 

[40624]

results of bad dealer

I'm going to answer this with different pages This started with shortage of oil at oil change and the question I had was what else was wrong. I went to dealer manager and he denied and made me feel like a jerk. It turns out he was wrong very wrong. I said I wouldn't be back and I have not and will not go back. I all but sold bike and wanted a KTM 1290 Super adv. But I went to a Rally sponsored by Iron Horse. Told my story to Sales manager in down time there and he rode my bike. He said the clutch was wrong(I complained 4 X at main dealer in Phoenix) and then called his mech who found a BMW upgrade on clutch for my Vin#. It took 3 weeks and the owner of Iron Horse to ask BMW to replace part which they did (out of warranty). The clutch then performed like a new clutch should.