Services

FAQs
General Maintenance
Engine Repair
Chassis Electrical
Suspension
Drivetrain
Braking System
Vehicle Inspection
Inspection I
Inspection II

FAQs

What is the after hours drop-off procedure?

There is an after hours key drop located on the front door of our building. Drop-off procedure: - Park in a NW European Autoworks reserved spot (without blocking garage doors). - Lock your vehicle. - Make sure to leave a phone number where you can be reached with your key and on our voicemail. - Place your car key and any necessary alarm remote in the mail slot of our front door.

How should I get my vehicle towed in?

NW European Autoworks recommends A OK Auto Transport. With the expertise to properly tow your fine European automobile, A OK offers both flatbed and wheel-lift tow trucks. Call Phillip at 360.739.8691 for more info.

Can you give me a ride?

Due to limitations of available staff on hand, we offer rides on a case by case basis. If you need a ride, please call in advance to make arrangements. We limit shuttle rides to a five-mile radius.

Where should I get a rental car?

We recommend Bellingham’s local rental choice, Fountain Rental Company. Serving Bellingham for sixty years, Fountain offers compact, mid, and full-size cars, vans, and trucks. Call 360.733.7420 for more info. We also recommend Enterprise Rent-A-Car at 1852 N State Street. Enterprise also provides shuttle service to arrange pick-up. Call 360.733.4363 to book a rental.

What is the best method of payment?

We accept payment by cash and check as well as debit, Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and Discover.

How long can I leave my car at your facility?

Due to lack of parking and space in our shop, cars will need to be picked up upon completion or there may be a storage fee imposed. Unless prior arrangements have been made, your vehicle will need to be picked up within four days of completion or there will be a $40.00 per day storage fee added to your work order. We apologize for any inconvenience, and thank you for your understanding.

Do you do factory warranty work?

We do not provide service under factory warranties.

Do you do aftermarket warranty work or recalls?

Yes. NW European Autoworks can complete a diagnosis on your vehicle, then contact your aftermarket warranty company. Be advised that warranty contracts vary extensively, and some portions of the repair may not be covered under your policy. We can release your vehicle to you once payment has been received, but please be aware that you may be responsible for a balance owed upon work order completion.

NW European also can do Recall work once approved by the manufacturer.

Do you do sell original BMW parts?

​Yes, we sell original BMW parts. We use original equipment manufacturer parts whenever possible, and will contact you when aftermarket parts are available and advised. We stock many parts, and can get nearly anything within 48 hours, if not same day.

Do you install customer-supplied parts?

Due to accountability, application verification, and maintaining a timely repair completion, Northwest European Autoworks recommends allowing us to provide you with parts. We do install customer-supplied parts on an adjusted price schedule of $165 per hour. We are unable to warranty labor or materials for repairs involving customer-supplied parts.

Can you do body work?

We do not perform bodywork, but we highly recommend No.1 Automotive Body Repair. 4108 Hannegan Rd Bellingham, WA 98226 Phone: 360-671-3222 Fax: 360-671-3223

What are your hours of operation?

We are open for business Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you plan to drop-off or pick-up your vehicle before or after our regular hours, please contact us to make arrangements.

General Maintenance

Engine Oil Change & Service

  • Oil drain and refill
  • Oil Filter Replacement
  • Battery, Tire, Fluid Check

Engine Tune-Up

  • Air Cleaner Filter Replacement
  • Spark Plug Replacement
  • Distributor Cap and Rotor Replacement
  • Ignition Wiring Replacement
  • Ignition Timing Adjustment
  • Valve Clearance Adjustment
  • Idle Adjustment
  • Fuel Filter Replacement
  • PCV Valve Replacement
  • Thermostat Replacement
  • Water pump Replacement
  • Exhaust and Muffler Replacement

Fluid Change & Service

  • Brake Fluid
  • Manual Transaxle Fluid
  • Automatic Transaxle Fluid
  • Power Steering Fluid
  • Anti-Freeze Fluid
  • Windshield Wiper Fluid

Belt Inspection and Replacement

  • Alternator Belt
  • Power Steering Belt
  • Air Conditioning Belt
  • Timing Belt

Other Services

  • Lubrication Service
  • Bushings & Hoses Replacement
  • Brake Inspection and Service
  • CV Boots and Joints Repair
  • Air Conditioning System Service
  • Wheel Alignment
  • Tire and Wheel Service

Engine Repair

Intake and Exhaust System, Cylinder Head, Cooling System, Ignition System, Fuel, Emission Controls, Timing Belt Replacement

Cylinder Head

  • Valve Adjustment
  • Valves Job
  • Rocker Arms/Shafts
  • Cam gears and Pulleys upgrade
  • Timing Belt Replacement

Exhaust System

  • Carburetor Repair
  • Exhaust Manifold (Header) repair
  • Catalytic converter Replacement
  • Exhaust Pipe and Muffler Replacement
  • Fuel Injection

Engine Block

  • Camshaft upgrades and Replacement
  • Pistons and Connecting Rods
  • Cylinder bore Inspection
  • Crankshaft and Main Bearing Repair
  • Oil Pan Resealing & Replacement
  • Oil Pump Replacement

Ignition System

  • Distributor Repair
  • Distributor Caps and Rotor Replacement
  • Ignition Wires Replacement
  • Spark Plugs Replacement
  • Alternator Repair
  • Regulator Repair
  • Starter Repair and Replacement

Emissions

  • Fuel System Repair and Service
  • Fuel Injection Diagnosis & Repair
  • Fuel Pump Service
  • Fuel Evaporative Emission
  • Sensors Repair and Replacement
  • Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
  • Idle Adjustment

Cooling System

  • Radiator Replacement
  • Cooling Fan Repair
  • Cooling Hoses Replacement
  • Thermostat Replacement
  • Water pump
  • Heater Core

Chassis Electrical

Audi, BMW, Mini Cooper, & Mercedes Check Engine Light, General Electrical Repairs, Heating and Air Conditioning, In-Car Entertainment, Lighting & Indicators.

Electrical Repair

  • Circuit Testing
  • Fuse Box Service
  • Harness Repair
  • Regulator Repair
  • Relay Diagnosis & Repair
  • Sensor Diagnosis & Repair
  • Short Location & Repair
  • Voltage Regulator Repair

Operation System

  • Check Engine Light
  • SRS (air bag) Service and Repair
  • Cruise Control Service and Repair
  • PCU (Computer Control System)
  • Horn Repair
  • Instrument Cluster Repair

Lighting System

  • Headlight Service
  • Headlight Alignment
  • Tail light Service
  • Turn signal Lamp Service
  • Brake Lamp Service
  • Fog Lamp Service
  • Interior Lamp Service

Heating and Air Conditioning

  • Heating System Service
  • Heated Seat Repair
  • Climate Control System
  • Blower Motor, Resister, & Fan Repairs

In-Car Entertainment

  • Audio System Repair
  • Antennas & Antenna Masts
  • Navigation
  • Security System

Suspension

Steering Components

  • Ignition Switch and Lock
  • Steering Column
  • Steering Linkage
  • Steering align adjustment
  • Power Steering Gear
  • Power Steering Pump

Suspension Components

  • Spring upgrade and Replacement
  • Shock upgrade and Replacement
  • Shock Absorber Replacement
  • Rocker Arm & Shaft Replacement
  • Self-Leaking Suspension Repair
  • Upper and Lower Control Arm repair
  • Ball Joint Repair and Service
  • McPherson Strut Service
  • Air Suspension Repair
  • Four Wheel Drive Repair

Tires and Wheels

  • Wheel upgrade
  • Computer Wheel Balancing
  • Wheel alignment
  • Wheel Bearing Service
  • Wheel Hub, Knuckle and Spindle repair

Performance Upgrades

  • Performance Springs and Shock upgrades
  • Lowering Suspension
  • Performance Sway bar installation
  • Polyurethane bushing installation

Drivetrain

General Drivetrain

  • Driveline Replacement
  • Flex Disc
  • Transmission Service
  • Shift Linkage Adjustment
  • Transaxle Service
  • Differential Service

Driveline

  • Halfshafts Service and Repair
  • CV-Joint and Boot Service and Repair
  • Driveshaft and U-Joints Repair
  • Differential Service and Repair
  • 4-matic (All Wheel Drive) Repair

Manual Transmission

  • Gearshift Service and Repair
  • Manual Transaxle Service
  • Flywheel

Automatic Transmission

  • Torque Converter Service
  • Planetary Gearbox Service
  • Servos and Accumulators Repair
  • Hydraulic Control System Repair

Braking System

Brake Service

  • Brake Pads & Rotors
  • Brake Fluids flush

Braking System

  • Brake Pads
  • Brake Master Cylinder
  • Brake Caliper Repair
  • Brake Disc (Rotor) Turn
  • Brake Shoes
  • Brake Booster
  • Wheel Cylinder
  • Brake Hoses
  • Brake Light Switch Testing
  • Hydraulic Brakes

Vehicle Inspection

Are you shopping for a new car? Don’t make an offer until you’ve had a pre-purchase inspection performed by professionals who know European cars best. At NW European, our comprehensive pre-purchase inspection can help you purchase a vehicle with confidence. Starting your ownership with a car’s clean bill of health can save you $1000’s in unexpected repairs. From complex modern vehicles that require specialized computer diagnostics, to the sports cars of yesteryear; NW European Autoworks has you covered! Priced competitively at $90 plus tax. Schedule an appointment today.

Road Test

  • Engine (Runability)
  • Indicator Lights
  • Cruise Control
  • Noise and Vibration
  • Brakes
  • Transmission
  • Suspension
  • Seatbelt
  • Squeaks and Rattles
  • Differential

Under the Hood

  • All Fluids
  • Battery
  • Cooling system
  • Fan
  • Radiator
  • Wires/Belts/Hoses
  • Available for an additional fee: Compression or leak-down test

Under the Vehicle

  • Tire Size/Rating
  • Wheel Condition
  • Chassis Components
  • Exhaust System
  • Tire Tread Depth
  • Brakes
  • Fluid Levels

Luggage Compartment

  • First Aid Kit
  • Spare Tire
  • CD Cartridge, if equipped
  • Jack/Components
  • Tool Kit

Vehicle Interior

  • Interior Trim/Seats
  • Carpets
  • Seat Operation
  • Headliner
  • Door Trim
  • Seatbelts
  • Power Window/Lock Operation
  • Steering Wheel
  • Instrument Panel Lights
  • Rear Defogger
  • Air Conditioning/Heater
  • Audio System
  • Clock
  • Outside/Inside Mirrors
  • Glove Compartment
  • Windshield Wipers
  • Horn
  • Seat Heater, if equipped
  • Interior Lights
  • Alarm System
  • Sunroof, if equipped
  • Cigarette Lighter
  • Cellular Telephone, if equipped

Vehicle Exterior

  • Exterior Body Panels
  • Moldings & Trims
  • Exterior Lights/Lenses
  • Wheels
  • Windshield/Glass
  • Door Lock System
  • Bumpers/Body Cladding

Other Items

  • Maintenance Performed to Standard
  • All Books/Records Present
  • Proper Number of Keys

Inspection I

The BMW Inspection 1 Service is the smaller of the two inspection services recommended by BMW. It includes basically all of the items that assures safety and full functionality of your vehicle. Inspection 1 could cost in the range of $200+ to $300. (Repair cost are not included in the inspection cost)

Undercarriage

  • Change engine oil and Oil Filter, check engine at is at normal operation temperature.
  • Check transmission for leaks.
  • Check rear axle for leaks.
  • Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
  • Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
  • Check power steering system for leaks.
  • Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
  • Examine brake disc surfaces.
  • Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
  • Grease wheel center hubs.
  • Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
  • Check front control arm bushing for wear.
  • Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
  • Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
  • Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
  • Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.

Engine Compartment

  • Read out diagnostic system with BMW scanners.
  • Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
  • Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
  • Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
  • Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
  • Check air conditioner for operation.
  • Reset Service Indicator.

Body/Electrical Equipment

  • Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
  • Perform batter load test.
  • Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
  • Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
  • Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
  • Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
  • Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
  • Check condition and function of safety belts.
  • Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
  • Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
  • Check central locking/double lock.
  • Replace microfilter or Acc. Cabin Filter.
  • Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
  • Check rear view mirrors
  • Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

Final Inspection

  • Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission

Service Intervals

  • These are the recommended interval for models years from 1986 through 1998 models, more frequent inspections are essential if driven in extreme conditions: 5,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •10,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •15,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •20,000 miles - BMW Inspection I (I/1)
  • •25,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •30,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •35,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •40,000 miles - BMW Inspection II (I/2)
  • •45,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •50,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •55,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •60,000 miles - BMW Inspection I (I/1)
  • •65,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •70,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •75,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •80,000 miles - BMW Inspection II (I/2)
  • •85,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •90,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •95,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • For 1999 and later models, the recommended service/inspection intervals are as follows:
  • •5,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •10,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •15,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •20,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •25,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •30,000 miles - BMW Inspection I (I/1)
  • •35,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •40,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •45,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •50,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •55,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •60,000 miles - BMW Inspection II (I/2)
  • •65,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •70,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •75,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •80,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •85,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •90,000 miles - BMW Inspection I (I/1)
  • •95,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •100,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • Inspection I Service (I/1)
  • Inspection II Service (I/2)
  • Intermediate oil service (O/F)

Inspection II

The Inspection 2 Service is the larger of the two Inspection Services and basically includes all of the items performed on the Inspection I Service along with some extras like differential oil change, fuel filter and air filter replacements, and replacement of spark plugs.

Undercarriage

  • Change engine oil and Oil Filter, check engine at is at normal operation temperature.
  • Check transmission for leaks.
  • Check rear axle for leaks.
  • Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
  • Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
  • Check power steering system for leaks.
  • Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
  • Examine brake disc surfaces.
  • Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
  • Grease wheel center hubs.
  • Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
  • Check front control arm bushing for wear.
  • Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
  • Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
  • Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
  • Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
  • Check thickness of parking brake linings.
  • Half-shafts; check for leaks at flexible boots.
  • Inspect entire body according to terms of rust prevention limited warranty.

Engine Compartment

  • Read out diagnostic system with BMW scanners.
  • Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
  • Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
  • Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
  • Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
  • Check air conditioner for operation.
  • Reset Service Indicator.
  • Replace spark plugs.
  • Replace intake air cleaner element (Air Filter).

Body/Electrical Equipment

  • Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
  • Perform batter load test.
  • Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
  • Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
  • Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
  • Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
  • Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
  • Check condition and function of safety belts.
  • Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
  • Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
  • Check central locking/double lock.
  • Replace microfilter or Acc Cabin Filter.
  • Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
  • Check rear view mirrors
  • Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

Final Inspection

  • Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission

Service Intervals

  • These are the recommended interval for models years from 1986 through 1998 models, more frequent inspections are essential if driven in extreme conditions: 5,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •10,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •15,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •20,000 miles - BMW Inspection I (I/1)
  • •25,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •30,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •35,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •40,000 miles - BMW Inspection II (I/2)
  • •45,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •50,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •55,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •60,000 miles - BMW Inspection I (I/1)
  • •65,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •70,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •75,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •80,000 miles - BMW Inspection II (I/2)
  • •85,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •90,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •95,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • For 1999 and later models, the recommended service/inspection intervals are as follows:
  • •5,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •10,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •15,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •20,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •25,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •30,000 miles - BMW Inspection I (I/1)
  • •35,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •40,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •45,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •50,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •55,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •60,000 miles - BMW Inspection II (I/2)
  • •65,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •70,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •75,000 miles - Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • •80,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •85,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •90,000 miles - BMW Inspection I (I/1)
  • •95,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • •100,000 miles - intermediate oil service (O/F)
  • Oil and Safety Service (O/S)
  • Inspection I Service (I/1)
  • Inspection II Service (I/2)
  • Intermediate oil service (O/F)