Is it necessary to opt for BMW's lifetime free maintenance service?

[OElizabeth]

Whether to choose BMW's lifetime free maintenance service depends on the user's usage pattern. If you don't have much time or lack trustworthy repair shops, you may consider opting for the lifetime free maintenance plan. The free items only include engine oil and oil filter, while labor costs and other replacement parts/fluids will incur additional charges. Additional information: BMW maintenance intervals: BMW vehicles require their first maintenance at 5,000 kilometers, primarily for oil change service, followed by maintenance every 10,000 kilometers. Subsequent maintenance follows a pattern of two minor services alternating with one major service. Minor maintenance typically only involves engine oil changes, while major maintenance includes replacing engine oil, oil filter, cabin air filter, air filter, etc., depending on the vehicle's usage condition.

[DelCamilla]

My BMW has been running for six years now. Back then, the 4S dealership strongly recommended the lifetime free maintenance package, and after hesitating for a long time, I finally signed up. Let me do the math for you: this car requires at least two maintenance sessions per year, with minor services costing 1,300 and major ones around four to five thousand. Over ten years, you could save thirty to forty thousand. But the key is to consider your own car usage habits. If you plan to keep the car for over a decade and prefer servicing at the 4S dealership, it’s definitely worth it. However, there’s a catch to watch out for: the free items usually only cover basic maintenance like engine oil and oil filters, while brake pads and transmission fluid still come out of your own pocket. Last time I replaced the spark plugs, I was charged an extra 2,000. My advice is to carefully review the list and warranty terms before signing up.

[LeRosalie]

Last year, I accompanied a friend to pick up his BMW X5, and the salesperson kept pushing a lifetime maintenance package. My friend asked for my opinion, and I said it depends on the individual. If you change cars every two or three years, the package is definitely a huge loss, since you pay 20,000 to 30,000 upfront but end up using it only a few times. For someone like me, a commuter who drives 50 kilometers daily and racks up 25,000 kilometers a year—requiring maintenance every three months—it’s the perfect fit. Another easily overlooked point is that some dealerships mandate buying specific insurance during the package period, and this cost should also be factored in. However, if you’re self-employed or frequently on business trips and rarely use the car, there’s really no need to spend this extra money.

[EvangelineFitz]

Lifetime free maintenance sounds appealing, but the actual experience depends on the dealership. My brother had it with his BMW—each service required a two-hour appointment queue. Worse, only basic maintenance is free; last time, replacing coolant and the cabin air filter still cost him 1,800 yuan. The package also limits service to twice a year, with extra visits charged. I think it’s more suitable for retirees or homemakers with time to spare, since they can afford the wait at the 4S shop. For busy professionals, a specialized repair shop gets the job done in half an hour at a lower cost, making it far more convenient.