
No, a free service package is not a standard feature with every new car. It is a complementary maintenance plan offered by some manufacturers as a purchase incentive. These programs typically cover basic factory-scheduled services like oil changes, tire rotations, and multi-point inspections for a limited time or mileage, but the specifics vary dramatically between brands.
The most common type is a complimentary maintenance plan, which is often included by brands like Hyundai, Kia, Toyota, and BMW to enhance the ownership experience. It's crucial to understand that "free service" almost never means unlimited repairs; it covers only the items specified in the factory schedule. Another type is a prepaid maintenance plan, which the dealer might try to sell you separately, but this is an added cost, not a free inclusion.
Understanding the details is key. You need to ask about the duration (e.g., 2 years/24,000 miles), what's included (e.g., synthetic oil, cabin air filter), and what's excluded (e.g., wear-and-tear items like wiper blades). The value can be significant, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars during the initial ownership period.
| Manufacturer | Complimentary Plan Details | Key Inclusions | Common Exclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai / Kia | 3 years / 36,000 miles | Oil changes, tire rotations, inspections | Wiper blades, brake pads, fluids |
| Toyota | 2 years / 25,000 miles | Oil changes, tire rotations, inspections | Cabin air filter, fluid top-offs |
| BMW | 3 years / 36,000 miles | All factory-scheduled maintenance | Tires, brake pads, damage repairs |
| Mercedes-Benz | 2 years / 20,000 miles | Scheduled service A and B | Consumables, tires, accident damage |
| Honda | 2 years / 24,000 miles | Oil changes, tire rotations | Cabin air filter, other fluids |
Always get the details of the complimentary service plan in writing as part of your sales contract. Don't assume it's included; it's a negotiating point. If a brand doesn't offer one, you might be able to have it added as a purchase incentive.

Nope, it's not automatic. Some brands throw it in to sweeten the deal, especially luxury ones. My Hyundai came with two years of free oil changes and tire rotations. It's a nice perk that saves you a bit of money upfront. But you have to read the fine print—it only covers the very basic scheduled stuff. Anything else, you're paying.

It's a mixed bag. While not free across the board, many manufacturers now include a complimentary maintenance plan to compete. The real value is in the details: how many services are covered and for how long. From my experience, it's a fantastic way to reduce the cost of ownership in the first few years, but it's essential to confirm what's included before you sign on the dotted line, as it's not a blanket warranty for repairs.