Needed 4 wheel alignment after quite a bit of front axle/steering work.

Global BMW quoted $299 with active steering

Nally BMW was at $279

United BMW of Roswell $229.95

NAPA Clinic - Alpharetta (Just installed the Hunter Hawkeye system) was at $219.95

Since Global is closest, I went to them, and they promised to price match Nally at $229.95 (Also, their Hunter alignment equipment is only 2 years old.)

So I drop it off, and they drive me back to the office.

3 hours later, they call to let me know its ready, and so they picked me back up.

Get to the counter, and the cost was $261.90. Huh?

There was a $30 shop charge. For what? "Standard fee on all repairs."

(I knew that was BS because there were other invoices lying on the table w/o the charge.)

Okay, discuss with Service Advisor, and after being "informed" by him, that they will drop the $30 "shop charge" this ONE time, I walked out the door at $229.95 to the penny.

Can you believe that nonsense? $229.95 is $229.95. It is not $229.95 + $30 + a little tax. The SA did finally own up to having told me that they would match the $229.95 and so he dropped the $30 fee. How gracious of him!

So if you're bringing in the car for an alignment, make sure to get the "Out The Door" price from your service adviser before committing. Also, here in Atlanta, BMW dealerships will price match each other. (Not sure about NAPA Clinic.)

 

Yeah Global gave me the run around once too. Same sort of thing.

 

It pays to review/check the receipt at all places, not just at car repair places.

Paran, it's good that you checked the receipt and the SA honored the said price.

 

Actually that was the "BMW tax" being applied simply under another name. Global techs/SA probably thought it was "more fair" to charge you more money, since you're clearly in the "1%" you know, driving a BMW and all.

Seriously, though - wouldn't be surprised if that was the mentality. "This guy drive's a BMW, he's rich and probably won't even check the amount."