Why Is My Car AC Blowing Hot Air?

 


On a hot day, there’s nothing better than cranking the AC of your car. Feeling the rush of cold air over your skin is as good as sinking your teeth into an ice cream cone or jumping into a cool pool. Sometimes, though, your car has other things in mind and doesn’t blow the refreshing air through its vents as expected.

When this happens on your Stratham, Portsmouth, and Exeter, NH, travels, don’t sit back and sweat in your seats. At BMW of Stratham, we’ve put together this Why Is My Car AC Blowing Hot Air guide. After reading, you’ll have a better idea as to the causes and solution to your AC issues. Let’s get started!


A close up shot of someone's thumb turning the air conditioning setting colder in a car

How Does My Car AC Work?

When your car’s AC system works, it’s a glorious thing—especially when it’s uncomfortably hot and humid outside. However, did you know the AC system doesn’t actually create cool air? Instead, it cools the existing air by removing hot air and moisture.

This is a multi-step process that includes a compressor, serpentine belts, refrigerant, hoses, and more.

Once the refrigerant is pumped into and cooled in the condenser, it’s turned into a mist. This mist removes the hot air from the cabin, then it removes the moisture, leaving the cabin feeling cool on even the hottest days.


Why Is My Car AC Blowing Hot Air?

When your car’s AC is blowing hot air, it likely means both you and your car need a bit of a refresher. One of the most common reasons your car AC is blowing hot air is because of a refrigerant issue—specifically, a loss of refrigerant.

This loss of refrigerant can occur either due to a leak or because your car’s refrigerant levels are too low.

Other reasons your car might be blowing hot air from your AC include a worn-out compressor or problems with your car’s electrical system.

If the compressor is the culprit of the hot breeze, the refrigerant can’t properly circulate through your vehicle. If it’s your car’s electrical system, the system may have purposely stopped working to help keep you and the rest of the electrical system safe.


A service technician wearing red service gloves performing Car Air Conditioning Repair on a vehicle

What To Do If Your Car AC Is Blowing Hot Air

One of the last things you want to experience on a warm or humid day is hot air coming out of your car’s AC system. If you ever find yourself in this situation, don’t wait to take your car to your trusted mechanic.

They’ll use their skills and expertise to quickly identify the source of the hot air before finding the solution and fixing the problem. With their help, you’ll be cruising the town in no time at all with fresh, cool air blowing in your face.


Schedule Your Service Appointment at BMW of Stratham

At BMW of Stratham, we have an on-site service center staffed by a team of expert technicians. We also have an on-site parts center if your car should need replacement parts to keep your car’s AC pumping fresh air for years to come.

Don’t let hot air keep you from exploring everything Stratham, Portsmouth, and Exeter, New Hampshire, have to offer. Schedule your service appointment with us today!


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Google May 16, 2025

Excellent attentive service department.

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Google May 16, 2025

I needed a new battery. I arrived they took my car and I waited in the very clean comfortable waiting room. They were quick and even washed my car! Everyone was friendly and knowledgeable!

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Google May 15, 2025

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DealerRater May 15, 2025

Everyone is so nice, the experience was completely hassle free, will definitely be buying from them again in the future

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Google May 12, 2025

We bought this Lexus after test driving a Honda CRV in NH. The staff was great and it was late in the evening but they made sure the deal got done so we could bring it home to Maine. Upon inspection the following day we had some things that needed to be done to pass the Maine inspection so Chris (manager of BMW Stratham)told us to bring it back and it was all taken care of at not cost to us! We are very happy with the suv! The service was outstanding!

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Google May 12, 2025

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DealerRater May 10, 2025

The complete lack of preparation from Pawel when I brought my vehicle for TPMs sensor installation was only bested by a gross attitude of condescension that he met me with when confronted over his easily avoidable blunder.

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Google May 10, 2025

The entire team at BMW Stratham was amazing to do business with. This dealer is friendly, straightforward and knowledgeable. I frequently purchase vehicles and this transaction was transparent and easy. I highly recommend this dealer.

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DealerRater May 10, 2025

I had an unfortunate incident with my new BMW when I moved to New England. Adam was fantastic to work with and I am super excited that this will be my new BMW dealership.

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Google May 9, 2025

John C & Gary were very friendly and such quick service! I highly recommend!

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Google May 8, 2025

Good service. Very friendly staff. Work was completed in a timely manner.

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Google May 8, 2025

Timely service and great communication from Pawel. Appreciated the wash too!

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Google May 4, 2025

Binit in service helped me out when my car broke down going to Maine. He was quick with all his responses and made sure to keep me up to date with my car. I’d recommend him for anything service related.

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Google May 2, 2025

A great dealership with honest service advisors. Timely service and a nice waiting area to work while waiting for service

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Google May 1, 2025

Fantastic experience from the time I checked in to the time I drove away!

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Google Apr 29, 2025

Always straight and easy!

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DealerRater Apr 27, 2025

Binit was amazing. I was helped immediately, escorted to the waiting area and my car was ready in half the time projected. I’ve been to other BMW dealerships in the area over the past year and I’ll definitely be using Stratham in the future! Congrats on a great hire!

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Google Apr 27, 2025

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DealerRater Apr 27, 2025

Great service and so friendly! Covered everything I needed to get done very quickly! A great dealership

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Google Apr 27, 2025

The Service Department at Stratham BMW is amazing- always consistent, helpful and they take excellent care of my car. Adam is my go to Service Advisor and he is the best!!

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DealerRater Apr 26, 2025

Great customer service,outstanding location. Friendly staff and great quality. State of the art facility

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DealerRater Apr 26, 2025

Adam service manager is excellent Great dealership and service department Very trustworthy and excellent quality workmanship Love service videos Great follow up Very prompt service

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DealerRater Apr 26, 2025

Everyone is nice and very helpful. It was my cars first oil change and it was a great first experience

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DealerRater Apr 25, 2025

Have had my X5 serviced at this dealership for almost 18years. Always impressed with the professionalism, knowledge, expertise and quality advice on maintenance and repair work.

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DealerRater Apr 25, 2025

Work completed ok time at reasonable price Pawl is great service advisor always good to work with

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DealerRater Apr 24, 2025

I am very satisfied with service. Matthew Vafeas is excellent which is one of the main reasons I continue to do my service with you. My bill today was $3,200.00

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DealerRater Apr 24, 2025

Amanda was great. The genius was also wonderful. The finance person was also very good. The dealer is a 10 out of 10 with no drawbacks.

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DealerRater Apr 24, 2025

Very professional staff. Great use of technology to keep the customers informed in real time. Clean and comfortable facility.

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Google Apr 24, 2025

Super fast inspection! Very professional! Top marks!

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DealerRater Apr 24, 2025

I always get great service when I visit this dealership. Very professional and caring, I wouldn’t go anywhere else!

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DealerRater Apr 24, 2025

Took care of my needs for service when others gave up or refused to do it. Got it done right and quickly.

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Google Apr 24, 2025

Always- the best!

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Google Apr 23, 2025

Great service and attention from Matt!

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DealerRater Apr 22, 2025

Brought my BMW to have the brakes fixed Adam Webster took great care of me very satisfied with the outcome and Kenny the head mechanic thank you guys

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Google Apr 22, 2025

Second time through service and it was excellent overall again. Binit was thorough, professional, and friendly.

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Google Apr 21, 2025

Matt in service is clear, concise, friendly and effective

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DealerRater Apr 20, 2025

Exceptional service, seamless experience, Adam at BMW exceeded expectations in every way. Highly recommend them

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Google Apr 19, 2025

THANK YOU MATT!! You are fabulous and make the experience painless You listen, you explain everything and always have the customers needs in mind! Thank you and the service team for being efficient helpful and getting the work done in a timely manner!!

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Google Apr 18, 2025

As always, Gary at Ira’s was very helpful and professional.

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Google Apr 18, 2025

Sovy and Kevin were absolutely amazing they made my car buying experience the best it’s ever been. They’re will be no other dealer I’ll go to. Honest and trustworthy.

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Google Apr 18, 2025

Had a great experience at IRA USED CARS in Exeter. They detailed my 2020 Chevy Colorada andbdidba great job. The truck looks brand new inside and out. In addition to the great work done, I was able to get an appointment right away. The cost was on par or lower than other services in the area. In closing it was a great experience all the way around.

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DealerRater Apr 17, 2025

Over the years, I’ve bought many cars and let’s face it, the process sucks! Each time though, I feel like I got better at it, even still. I went to this dealership about a month ago, just to see what my options were. I met Scot who was very patient while I asked my questions, even though it was clear I wasn’t buying that day. When all this tariff nonsense started, I got nervous so I got out of my Audi lease early. Scot made the process as painless as possible. I feel like Scott along with ... Read More

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Google Apr 17, 2025

Laura was very patient, professional, and knowledgeable. She made the car buying process quick and easy. I spent a considerable amount of time looking at vehicles and she was understanding and never pushy. Managers, give her a raise!

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Google Apr 17, 2025

Binit was a pleasure to work with. They diagnosed my vehicle problem. They were upfront and honest about repairs. I would recommend them if you are having issues.

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DealerRater Apr 16, 2025

Clean, with pleasant and courteous staff. The experience was overall positive. I would come back.

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DealerRater Apr 16, 2025

Excellent service! Pawul always does as great job. Communication was great and car was clean, thank you!

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Google Apr 15, 2025

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Google Apr 15, 2025

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DealerRater Apr 13, 2025

Binit in the service department is extremely helpful and easy to work with. I will definitely be returning for any service needs in the future. Highly recommend Stratham BMW and Binit in the service department!

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DealerRater Apr 13, 2025

Excellent service department and extremely competent set of advisors. I live in another state but continue using this dealership exclusively.

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DealerRater Apr 13, 2025

Staff is very professional and we were well taken care of. Our service rep was very thorough and explained everything to us. We were impressed with the service

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Google Apr 11, 2025

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DealerRater Apr 11, 2025

Great service, friendly, personal, great atmosphere! I highly recommend this dealership for all your vehicle needs.

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DealerRater Apr 10, 2025

Good communication about what’s happening with the car.. in my case a sunroof leak was discovered during a battery replacement.

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DealerRater Apr 10, 2025

Very efficient when bringing car in. Did good job getting everything done. Always give you a good loaner. Adam the service advisor always friendly and professional.

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DealerRater Apr 10, 2025

Excellent Service. I get this service every year. That’s is the reason I keep coming back.

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Google Apr 10, 2025

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Google Apr 10, 2025

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DealerRater Apr 10, 2025

Amazing client advisor in Steve Hazard. Knowledgeable, energetic, and passionate about BMWs. Truly enjoyed the guidance and advice he provided me. Buying experience was easy and transparent.

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Google Apr 9, 2025

The BMW team here was friendly and took the time to help us find the perfect car during a busy day as walk in traffic. They went above and beyond to make purchasing a vehicle an enjoyable experience, which is no easy feat. I highly recommend driving here for their extensive quality inventory and friendly faces.

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Google Apr 9, 2025

Wonderful experience

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DealerRater Apr 8, 2025

Great service. Very efficient and explained everything in detail. No surprises on the bill and I loved the video of everything the checked!

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DealerRater Apr 8, 2025

Binit was so friendly and professional. He was a delight to work with, very transparent, and supper accommodating throughout the process. He made sure all my needs were met. Thank you to the BMW Stratham team!

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DealerRater Apr 8, 2025

I have great confidence in the service I've received at BMW of Stratham for the past 8 years. The customer service personnel are always well trained and very professional. During this particular service, I was checked in on Friday by a service provider named Binit who was great. A brake problem was discovered during my inspection, so the service went into Saturday, which was Binit's day off. For some reason, nobody called me to authorize work on the brakes. I called later Saturday morning and got the work going. So, it extended into Monday morning where Binit, professional as ... Read More

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DealerRater Apr 6, 2025

Matthew is amazing to work with in the service department. Buy your next luxury car at BMW of Stratham!

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DealerRater Apr 5, 2025

Excellent customer service as always. Adam Webster always does a great job. Only thing that could’ve made this better was if BMW had a few tacos on hand…that would’ve been nice

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DealerRater Apr 5, 2025

I have worked with Stratham BMW for over 20 years. Will not go anywhere else. Sales and service are fantastic!

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Google Apr 3, 2025

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Google Apr 3, 2025

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DealerRater Apr 3, 2025

Excellent customer service. Professional and courteous staff. My only criticism would be expensive car to repair/maintain if you don’t have a service plan.

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Google Apr 3, 2025

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DealerRater Apr 3, 2025

As soon as my husband and I walked in the door, someone welcomed us. Eric did a fantastic job and he was very patient with us. I love my new BMW X7!! Sovy was very helpful with all the paperwork. She made me laugh several times.

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Google Apr 3, 2025

Great service as always.

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DealerRater Apr 3, 2025

We have been a customer of BMW Stratham for 15 years , they are top notch when it comes customer service and satisfaction without a doubt!! Kudos to whole team there in Stratham

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DealerRater Apr 2, 2025

Excellent service. Matt kept me updated on progress. The prices, including tire installation, were very reasonable.

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Google Apr 2, 2025

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Google Apr 2, 2025

The staff was very nice and helpful.

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DealerRater Apr 2, 2025

Matt is a joy to work with. The video of the technician inspection was a plus

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DealerRater Apr 1, 2025

Excellent service and very efficient. They are transparent with their pricing and do not oversell you products that you don’t need. Very responsive and easily accessible. Returned all my calls in a timely manner. Scot Murby was the best car dealer I have ever worked with. Very happy with my experience.

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DealerRater Mar 29, 2025

The dealer in Stratham New Hampshire was fantastic from start to driving out with my new x1.A smooth and easy experience.

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Google Mar 29, 2025

I am always happy with the service and communication from BMW of Stratham!

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Google Mar 28, 2025

BMW of Stratham is simply the best when it comes to servicing your BMW. I have had this excellent experience with them over 8 different BMW models during the last 20 years.

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DealerRater Mar 28, 2025

Great service and availability. My advisor kept me updated and my vehicle was ready ahead of time.

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Google Mar 28, 2025

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DealerRater Mar 27, 2025

We ordered a BMW X3 build in February 2025. We received the car in March!! Our sales person was Steven Hazard. Very professional & well educated about all BMWs!! Our Finance Manager was Sovy Sun a great numbers person with a lot of knowledge on BMW extra services and protection plans! Haley Heinrich, her business card reads BMW Genius! Haley knew all the latest Technology about the BMW making our needs happen so easy on our New BMW. Also with a follow up appointment in a week as we would have any new questions. We have owned five different BMW models ... Read More

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DealerRater Mar 27, 2025

Excellent service, service advisor was exceptional and exceeded my expectations. Car was completed on time

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DealerRater Mar 27, 2025

I came in for a vehicle test and there was some confusion around the appointment. The dealership quickly fit me in and honored the original deal. I was very pleased. 😃. The cars loo nice too!

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DealerRater Mar 27, 2025

Excellent service both in sales and service. Many thanks to both teams, you're fantastic

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DealerRater Mar 26, 2025

Great experience with valet. Picked up my vehicle and provided a new loaner with the same series. Returned vehicle clean and on time. Will be using them again!

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DealerRater Mar 26, 2025

The folks at BMW of Stratham were friendly, honest, and efficient from the moment I talked to them on the phone to the moment I left with my car fixed. They gave me an honest and detailed service estimate as well as a very generous loaner vehicle with their work completed within two days.

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DealerRater Mar 25, 2025

Matt my service coordinator is the best. Always courteous and efficient. Work is always done on time.

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DealerRater Mar 25, 2025

Excellent service and attention with me and my car! BMW Stratham deserves 10 stars! Thanks

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Google Mar 25, 2025

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DealerRater Mar 25, 2025

Great work by the service team at Stratham BMW, Binit was a great service advisor and was able to get my car back running over the weekend. Gave me an i4. M50 for a loaner as well! Thanks again, Binit!

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DealerRater Mar 24, 2025

Everyone was great. However, VERY expensive. Only visit when absolutely necessary. As a last resort.

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Google Mar 24, 2025

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DealerRater Mar 23, 2025

Accomadating knowledgeable willing to find what looking for. Very impressed with their help and assistance.

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DealerRater Mar 23, 2025

Nice to have car picked up and everything done to exceed expectations quality service indeed

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Google Mar 23, 2025

Sales and service are top notch.

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Google Mar 23, 2025

I love working with Amanda and Sovy they were both excellent and accommodating to my needs ! Amanda always goes above and beyond for her customers she’s the best !


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71 Portsmouth Ave, Stratham, NH, 03885
BMW of Stratham 43.0109042, -70.9188738.