BMW, Inspection

Time flies, and it’s already time for the one-year inspection of our BMW 320i (F30).(2014 model) In this just under one year, we’ve driven about 6,500 km. Compared to our other cars that often easily exceed 10,000 km per year, the 320i hasn’t been driven much at all. Even though we use it almost daily, mostly for short trips around the neighborhood, so the mileage is about this much.

On the day of the inspection, I assumed we’d go to the used car dealer where we bought the car, and arrived on time, but something felt off. I found out that the service workshop was actually at a different location, so we had to turn back the way we came.

Sorry for my ignorance… (-_-)

Pulling myself together, I went to the service workshop they told me about, and it was a very spacious and clean facility. Later, I looked it up and learned that this service workshop is one of the largest in the Kansai area and is a cutting-edge facility that also supports i models.

Amazing… so this place handles maintenance for many dealerships in the area.

Regarding the inspection itself, since I hadn’t noticed any major issues, I just mentioned that the rubber on the rear door was slightly cracked, the wipers weren’t working well, and that the oil change was due soon.

They said the inspection would be completed by the next evening, so we borrowed a loaner car and went home for the time being.

I wasn’t expecting much for the loaner—thinking it might be a compact car or something—but to my surprise, it was a BMW 320d (F30) M Sport!

I couldn’t help but ask, “Is it really okay to borrow such a nice loaner!?” I’m grateful to such a generous dealership. My husband also drove the 320d a bit, so I’ll share his test drive impressions another time.

BMW 320i Inspection Details

After returning home, we got a call from the workshop. They said:

“The thermostat valve is broken and should be replaced as soon as possible. Also, the clips on both sides of the door’s side frame are broken and need to be replaced.”

After confirming everything, I was shocked when I heard the total inspection cost!

I said to my husband, “What!? It costs this much!?” and he replied,

That’s right. Since we bought it used and it’s got quite a few kilometers on it, that’s about what you’d expect. It’s within the expected range. If it were a Porsche, it would be even more expensive because parts cost more…

Wow, cars really are expensive… and soon the automobile tax notice will arrive to add to the burden… ((；ﾟДﾟ))

The next day, I went to pick up my car in the evening, and even though it was only away for one day, seeing the 320i at the service workshop made me feel relieved. They also washed both the interior and exterior as a service, so my car was sparkling clean.

So, here are the details and costs of this one-year inspection:

・BMW One-Year Legal Inspection
・Engine Oil and Filter Replacement
・Thermostat Removal and Replacement
・Preventive Replacement of Both Wiper Blades
・Brake Pad Measurement: Front 9.0mm, Rear 7.5mm
・Tire Tread Depth: Front (both sides) 5.5mm, Rear (both sides) 5.5mm
・Battery Inspection
・Rear Door Clip Replacement
Total: 94,000 yen (tax included)

Looks like the tires still have plenty of tread left… that’s a relief.

On the way home driving the 320i, I felt the engine was somehow smoother and lighter. It felt like it ran without any hesitation and revved nicely. Maybe it’s just my imagination, but perhaps it’s because of the oil change.

After checking the details and inspection report at home, my husband said, “This shop is very thorough and provides clear itemized billing. They’re honest and it’s great to have our car looked after here.”

Our beloved 320i still seems ready to run for a long time, so I want to continue taking good care of it.