BMW Parts - Where do you all buy them?

[TSilver330CI]

I have a few items I'd like to fix on my car (ie: temperature sensor, turn signal socket, oil sensor)

While they appear to be minor the prices the dealer is charging for the parts is outrageous....


I found a good mechanic who charges a reasonable rate except that I have to bring him the parts.

Does anyone hear have a good source for getting BMW parts at a good price?

Do you recommend aftermarket parts for anything?


Thanks! [bmwkick]

 

[Big Daddy]

Check this thread on the subject. BMW Parts thread

 

[ThatOneGuy]

I usually buy from Pacific, Circle or Tischer BMW.

 

[TSilver330CI]

Thanks Big Daddy. I checked out that Arizona site and the prices are definitely good.

Question though... are these legit parts made by BMW or by generic manufacturers?

 

[Big Daddy]

It depends, BMW does not really make parts, for instance BMW oil is Castrol, they do not make filters, they use Mann or Mahle. The same is true of brake rotors, Zimmerman, Brembo, ATE and many others all German some OEM some not. I could get an OEM water pump from Arizona AutoHaus but than it would have the plastic impellers again, so I chose to get a Graf, also made in Germany. So many parts although OEM are not necessarily made by BMW. Usually Arizona and Pelican Parts will have a note by the brand either "OEM", "Replacement" or "Alternate" You can get either at most parts houses.

 

[TSilver330CI]

I understand.... I guess I should have asked if the parts were the official ones the dealership would use.....

My concern is ordering a part that may be of low quality and will not end up lasting.....

 

[TSilver330CI]

It depends, BMW does not really make parts, for instance BMW oil is Castrol, they do not make filters, they use Mann or Mahle. The same is true of brake rotors, Zimmerman, Brembo, ATE and many others all German some OEM some not. I could get an OEM water pump from Arizona AutoHaus but than it would have the plastic impellers again, so I chose to get a Graf, also made in Germany. So many parts although OEM are not necessarily made by BMW. Usually Arizona and Pelican Parts will have a note by the brand either "OEM", "Replacement" or "Alternate" You can get either at most parts houses.

Just curious but for my 2001 330CI who is the OEM for the brakes, rotors, etc..?

 

[Big Daddy]

Go to this page at Pelican Parts, you will see listings for OEM (genuine BMW), ATE, Brembo, and Balo. BMW uses a soft rotor for maximum braking and less brake dust, others are a bit harder surface and work better with performance pads. The advantage is that they cost less, last longer and have a greater option range. I have used Brembo, ATE and OEM and never had a problem with any of these, except to say that the OEM require replacement more often. I prefer slotted ATE's but they are not available in all applications and I do not use drilled for street use. Who actually makes the "Genuine BMW" I am not sure however all the listed brands are excellent (I have no experience with Balo's) and I know numerous track junkies who use other than OEM. If you want a great rotor use Frozen rotors, expensive and not worth the money unless you are really driving your car (to track degrees, auto-cross, etc.).

 

[TSilver330CI]

Thanks dude... I certainly don't have that much brake knowledge... so I'll stick with the OEM.... I have heard that brembo is the best though.... but those have all been from people who drive the nissan 350z lol