I recently had an MOT on my E36 328is 1996, (101k on it) and it passed needing new bulbs, although I have received an advice note from the tester indicating parts that they think will need to be looked at before the next MOT. On the advice note I have says all these things are too minor to fail the test:
Track Rod Ends has very slight play, both sides. Rear shock slightly damp (small leak).
He also said that the car is the age for the rear trailing arm bushes too and although they seem ok now, might be worth changing those too.
I've also got some very minor signs of clutch wear.. SO.. Since I am thoroughly in love with this vehicle and I'm going to be keeping it quite some time I decided to have a look for the parts, and buy them, and fit them slowly during the year. THIS is where I need your help!
BMW want £70 + vat each side for the Track Rod Ends, I have found no such part on German French and Swedish Car Parts, but I have been told that the "Tie Rod Ends" are in fact the same part, is this true? The main thing here is that the GSF part is £17.99 + vat each side! Massive difference between that and the BMW part. Now are these parts the same? Is the difference in price just mark-up? Or is there a distinct difference in part quality?
I am concerned because of this difference in price.. I have other quotes for clutch £110, bushes at the rear £25 ish for the pair, and the shock (I assume I would be getting a pair for the back?) £35 each...
Can anyone advise me on these parts.. I would really appreciate it..
Thank you
Craig