Hello all... I was redirected here from the "general" forums... maybe I can find the answer here? Anyway....

New to the board here and I am potentially looking to purchase an M-car in the coming months - specifically an e34 M5. One of the deciding factors is whether or not I can find a qualified tech in the area for service. I've owned various VWs/Audi's for the past ten years and am currently trying to do my homework before purchasing a used BMW. I'd like to think I can turn a wrench on most items, however, I'd like to make sure that the S38 gets the quality of care it deserves! I've searched on the forums here and on Google, but was unable to find any specific information on shops in the Cleveland/Akron area.

Thanks!

-Geno

Braucher Auto service in Cleveland can help you out with that car.

if this is going to be your first bmw and you dont have deep deep pockets i wouldnt go with a s38. Def try something along the lines of a e36 M or if it has to be a e34 say a 540 or such

Larchmere in shaker is BMW specific.

Thanks for the help fellas. Yeah, I understand an M5 of that vintage can be a large bite to chew but they're such wonderful cars. The motor's practically a work of art in its own right - and unfortunately that reflects itself in the maintainence/repair costs. Currently, the other contenders are an e36 M3 and an UrS6, but they're somewhat different beasts. I've still got a few months to do my homework :)

-Geno

As a BMW tech I say take it to a dealer. But as an enthusiast I can say try Koala motorsports in the Bainbridge/Novelty area. Also try Autobahn in Copley. I would agree with sweers though about maybe an e36 m3 first the S38 is a beast of a motor and can be a bit overwhelming the S50/52 used in the U.S. spec cars anyway is way more mild and more Beginner friendly but if you muust go with an m5 check those places out along with HDIDDYS rec. to see Larchmere

Take it to Koala Motorsports. They are just outside of the Chagrin Falls area. Brett Anderson (the owner) has probably one of the best reputations for knowing BMW's in our area. He started his buisness years ago only working on m cars. He definately knows his stuff more than anyone in cleveland. Thats why I take my car to him. I wouldn't take my car somewhere I didn't think would be able to provide the best service for it.

^^^^^^
AGREED I shouldve said to go to Koala first!

Thanks again. I work up in Mayfield Heights, so Koala Motorsports probably isn't too far. I also remember driving past Autobahn and making a mental note when I lived in Copley last year. They had a lot of nice cars out in front of their shop. Anyway....back to doing my homework!

Last year Brett at Koalamotorsports had 2 (!) e34 M5 tourings on his lot. One was shipped from Alaska for him to work on the other was Rob Levinsons of UUC motorsports in NJ. Good 'nuf?

Very qualified, great guy, loaner cars if you schedule far in advance.