Expert: John Kingery - 9/29/2008

Question
As new tires were being installed the Firestone dealer said the wheels can be easily shaken when the car is up on the lift. They say it is because thelower arm controls are loose and need to be replaced $1,200. Can you explain? Is this right? Is the price right?

Answer
Very likely your lower control arms.

You don't mention what model you have, but $1200 may be reasonable.

However, I would go to a BMW dealer or an independant BMW mechanic, and get them checked/replaced.  I have found Firestone dealers range from very good to very bad.