Poor Customer Service of BMW dealers

[combatcarry]

I have now called three separate dealers offering to purchase used front brake pads (so that I can re-use the anti-rattle springs). All three either haven't returned my call, or told me they would look and call me back. I haven't received any returned calls.

I actually have a list of parts that I want to buy (and am willing to pay retail prices), but as a test of the dealers I wanted to see if anybody would help me with some used brake pads. I guess I'm forced dealing with discount online parts dealers since there really isn't any advantage trying to work with the "brick and mortar" shops. I couldn't be more disappointed with the service of these BMW dealers. In my experience my favorite Harley shop is much better (go figure).

[omg1010]

Hi combatcarry,

for safety reasons every BMW dealer is forced to throw used brake-pads away and not resell them. However this does not explain why they did not call you back. Probably they are not taking somebody serious who is asking for used pads. In any case I would suggest you get yourself new aftermarket pads from either Brembo or Lucas. These are better than stock and way cheaper.

If you are just after the springs maybe try your luck with beemerboneyard.com or other salvage companies. These would also be good addresses for other parts in my opinion.

Best regards
Oliver

[Railbender]

For something like that I would stop at the dealer and talk with the service manager. After explaining what I wanted and why he would probably give me the springs. Of course I have been doing business with him for 20 years!

[combatcarry]

I already have Brembo pads and they didn't come with the clips (for some reason). Maybe the early ones didn't.

Unfortunately I'm 2 1/2 hours drive away from the nearest dealer so stopping by isn't the best option. I might make a trip to one of the dealers and do some begging. I hate to throw $55 or more away for new pads, when mine are fine and they only need the clips.

[omg1010]

Why don't you contact the dealer who sold you the pads and ask him for the clips?

Brgds
Oliver

[Beimuir]

Hi Combatcarry,
If I didn’t know any better, I’d say that you were in the PNW. I’ll buy into the reasoning that omg1010 brought up as to why they didn’t want to sell you any used brake pads. As for the dealership giving you the cold shoulder, I feel your pain. My experience with the local BMW dealer has been pretty much the same as yours.