Dear all,

I just got my brand new BMW Z4 M back from Nick Alexander BMW for engine repair (a rock on the road managed to lift itself into my accessory drive and bust my steering pump, alternator, pulleys, tensioners, and crankshaft counterbalance, resulting in a $5500 repair, that was covered by my comprehensive coverage).

Upon inspecting the body, I noticed a few stains on the rocker panel that I could have sworn were grease stains, from a shop towel, but after bringing my baby home, I tried using soap, then toothpaste, then RainX bug/tar removal spray, and finally rubbing with Meguire's (http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=998670#)Polish to no avail. The stains might have gotten fainter, but that might be psychological from all the rubbing that I did.

I called my service advisor at Nick Alexander, and he asked me to bring the car back to see if they can get the stains out. I really don't want to have to leave my car in the shop again. Any ideas as to how this could have happened and what I can do about it?

Did you try clay bar with a lubricant like detailing spray? You might try asking in the detailing forum as well. I agree that this isn't something for the dealer, even the most competent shops suck at taking care of a paint finish or interior.

Some pictures would help.

It's really hard to see in a photo. Imagine grease stains that are completely flush with the paint. It's as though they somehow penetrated the clear coat. Really aweful.