Expert: Josh Fields - 2/7/2006

Question
Josh,
The dealer said today that I could use new control arms in the rear suspension both left/right and probably the same in the front.  They want $720 for the rear and $1100 for the front replacements.  The guy I bought the car from said he replaced bushings in the front both sides and one control arm.  Do I really need to do these replacements?  It's riding good enough  now that the tires are balanced.  I may have another BMW automotive shop take a shot at it based on price but again I'm not really "enthusiastic" about doing this job.  Again it's a 740iL 2001.  Thoughts?   Thx, Tom.  

Answer
Tom, I would get a second oppinion... that seems kind of high for bushing replacement.  It shouldn't take that long to replace them, nor be that expensive.  

 It is a "high-dollar" car, so be expecting to be charged accordingly.  

 The bushing's (if installed correctly) shouldn't wear out that soon, and people at car lots are notorious for "quick-fixes" just to make the car better until it leaves the lot.

 Hope you get your problem solved.
 Josh