2 good shops around my area I have heard about are Bimmerworks and Bavarian Specialties.

I need a good run through of the car, just checking for obvious things that could go wrong and leaks, etc. I will also need an inspection.

I need a shop that can pass my car in its current state, lowered, HIDs, tint, etc.... I can understand not letting safety things go. Anyone have any feedback on these places like which one is more expensive or strict. Or even if you know of a better shop that can help me out in southeastern PA. Thanks for any input.

I dont know exactly where you are but JCL Automotive in Hellertown, PA is a very very good shop

Chances are good you're going to end up looking for 2 shops. One to give the car the onceover you desire (good shop)

Then you will also need a backwoods "lick and stick" inspection shop. You're out at state college right? Ask around one of the weekly meets out there, someone will know of a good inspection shop.

I have not been to Bimmerworks, but I know they support the local autox community, so I have a feeling they know what they are doing, and know about performance. And are used to dealing with "not so affluent" customers with good work.

Bavarian sounds a little more "premium" just by pure pre-judging and stereotyping.

Thanks for the input everyone... I've been asking around but no one seems to have clear answers. I go to school in State College, but I'm back home for the summer now. Reading/west chester Area. I mean I can do alot of the work myself... but somethings I've learned just to take it too a good shop. I don't have as much time to mess around with things.

I think I got inspection covered, but I want a good run through and I'm not looking forward on racking up the maintenance costs... grrr.

I've taken my car to Bimmerworks multiple times. Very professional. Solid service.

Have been taking my E36 M3 to Bavarian Specialties with great success. Started out with a complete run through (reinforcements, motormounts, etc) and now he does everything from inspections to corner weighting on the car. Haven't had a mechanical failure at the track since taking my E36 there. He does great with preventative work as well.

JCL it's relatively close to Lehigh without the crazy over head of other places. Chris will do you right.

Thanks guys... more responses than I ever would of thought! Keep them coming for other people who need service done in area. I sure could of used a thread like this back when I had my first e36.