Originally Posted by DaveVT02S

Lessons learned:

#1 - get an estimate/quote before works begins
#2 - shop tires before "accepting" the shop's recommendations - and (2-B) tire specialists usually give better rates and service than general repair shops or dealerships (in my experience)
#3 - (2cents) I wouldn't give a found penny for Continentals - they screwed my Dad over on his so bad I was ready to go postal on 'em

BTW - dealership's steep costs don't necessarily come from multiple salaries, but from all the rest of the overhead, including mortgages, property taxes, lights and heat, INSURANCE, etc.

Originally Posted by oompaloompab0i

Yea, I think I learned it the hard way this time. and Yes, it was an independent BMW/MINI service shop, not a dealer. I am located in the metro DC area. I also have heard about ordering tires from tirerack and having them shipped to the shop...definitely something i will look into next time; could have save me at least 200 bucks this time i think. I usually would definitely do oil changes and stuff myself, but currently i am a grad student and dont honestly have time to do these things (neither do i have a garage since im living in the city), nor time to research how to do it, or what exactly i need to change at which miles. (I used to be super **** and all about DYI when i was much younger with my first car - now, im simply too old and lazy ). Any one from the DC with good recommendations on shops? Also, i probably will buy my own parts from now on and bring them to the shop and simply pay for labor, good advice!

Originally Posted by accokeek1543

Can someone suggest a good indi repair shop in DC area? I only know about dealers. I need to take mine in for 50K tune.