Crazy repair cost for diagnosis?!?!

[xKeii]

Hey All,

Long story short.. I got an engine reduced power/DSC malfunction error and brought it in to the dealership to get it checked (Went back to normal after turning off and starting back up the car). They came back with the following repair costs and notes. Can I please get your opinions on this?

REC REPLACED BOTH THROTTLE VALVE ACTUATORS
WITH DIAG (FOUND THE BANK 1 THROTTLE VALVE
ACTUATOR SHORTED CAUSING SES LIGHT.)
$2,822.48

REC REPLACE DSC UNIT WITH DIAG (FOUND THE DSC
UNIT SHORTED CAUSING DSC WARNING LIGHTS)
$4,469.59

REC REPLACE MAP THERMOSTAT WITH DIAG (FOUND
THE MAP THERMOSTAT SHORTED CAUSING SES LIGHT.)
$1,388.89

Maybe they are just being vague but I don't see why the whole unit needs to be replaced in each of these cases if it's an electrical short causing the error.


This is for a 2008 M3 with 88,000 miles on it. Slightly modded with an exhaust and aftermarket pulley. Other than that it's pretty much stock.

[pbonsalb]

In most cases, it’s just the actuators, which cost about $600 each and about 2 hours of labor to change. I’d be surprised if your car has more significant issues but it is possible.

[xKeii]

I looked around on the forums and noticed a lot of people seem to need to replace the throttle actuators however the term "shorted" normally refers to an electrical issue, so doesn't that mean it's not an issue with the actual part but with the wiring to it?

[kyrix1st]

In case you have all of the problems.. these are my recommendations.

Tip #1: Remove DSC once and for all for maximum fun and practice.
Tip #2: Get those actuators rebuilt using http://www.rebuild.org.uk/
Tip #3: Tell the dealership to go have intercourse with themselves.

[tdott]

Originally Posted by kyrix1st

Tip #3: Tell the dealership to go have intercourse with themselves.

This.

[GMWNashville]

Id probably recommend seeking some service from somewhere other than the dealership..but id say you likely have throttle actuators which are causing a DSC warning. The thermostat likely needs to be replaced but all of the above can be done cheaper at a good indy shop.

[jeff@autocouture]

throttle acuators seems a bit high in price.
I would just do the acuators as low or spiking voltage can cause some strange warning lights to pop up. Hows the battery life / condition of alternator?

[xKeii]

Originally Posted by kyrix1st

In case you have all of the problems.. these are my recommendations.

Tip #1: Remove DSC once and for all for maximum fun and practice.
Tip #2: Get those actuators rebuilt using http://www.rebuild.org.uk/
Tip #3: Tell the dealership to go have intercourse with themselves.

Tip #2: Get those actuators rebuilt using
I saw this as well, but also saw a DIY video on replacing the actuators. Definitely considering that route.

Tip #3: Tell the dealership to go have intercourse with themselves
Yes, i should.

Originally Posted by GMWNashville

Id probably recommend seeking some service from somewhere other than the dealership..but id say you likely have throttle actuators which are causing a DSC warning. The thermostat likely needs to be replaced but all of the above can be done cheaper at a good indy shop.

GMWNashville, Thanks for the info! ill definitely look elsewhere now that i have the diagnosis report.

Originally Posted by jeff@autocouture

throttle acuators seems a bit high in price.
I would just do the acuators as low or spiking voltage can cause some strange warning lights to pop up. Hows the battery life / condition of alternator?

I was thinking the same. All of these warning lights only popped up after the engine reduce power came up. The price for the throttle actuators is actually to replace both. The battery was replaced around 1.5 - 2 yrs ago and seems to still be good. Not sure of how to check condition of the alternator but im not having any battery problems or issues starting the car.


All the replies are greatly appreciated. Thanks guys!

[vsix]

First of all, personally I don‘t believe SQUAT anymore what a source ( that is living from selling parts and repairing ) is trying to tell me whats wrong with my car.


Many people on here, me included, use Carly and have that way much more control over their expenses and of course piece of mind.
Talking about that almost heart attack feeling when a light flickers in the dash.

More info about that subject:
http://www.m3post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1231875

[msan]

ECS has actuators for $585 each. Buy two and replace them yourself or bring the parts to a trusted independent mechanic. If it doesn't fully fix then report back.

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-...h/13627838085/

[Bartledoo]

The only thing crazy about that bill is that many people will pay it!!

[jeff@autocouture]

Originally Posted by xKeii

Tip #2: Get those actuators rebuilt using
I saw this as well, but also saw a DIY video on replacing the actuators. Definitely considering that route.

Tip #3: Tell the dealership to go have intercourse with themselves
Yes, i should.



GMWNashville, Thanks for the info! ill definitely look elsewhere now that i have the diagnosis report.





I was thinking the same. All of these warning lights only popped up after the engine reduce power came up. The price for the throttle actuators is actually to replace both. The battery was replaced around 1.5 - 2 yrs ago and seems to still be good. Not sure of how to check condition of the alternator but im not having any battery problems or issues starting the car.


All the replies are greatly appreciated. Thanks guys!

oh i knew it was for two, get a second quote, that job doesnt cost that much anymore since the acuator price went down