BMW Repair: BMW Stalls, bmw service, service engine soon light

Question
My 2001 525i has started stalling after starting and sometimes at stop signs.  "Service Engine Soon" light is now on.  Do I have to take it to BMW service or is this likely something simple that can be fixed by a "cheaper" alternative?  Thanks...

Answer
Since 1996 all cars can be scanned for computer codes with the same devise.Most repair shops will have one and can tell you what the engine light is on for.  Depending on the code and their information, they might be able to fix it.Some codes are dealer only repairable.