Free Maintenance Questions

[dbs600]

Okay, so, for free oil changes, the rule is annually or when the car calls for it. But what about for free brake and rotor changes? Is it only when the car calls for it? And, is there a limit to how many times same will be changed for free within the free maintenance period? Thanks!

[xDrive50i]

AFAIK, only when the car calls for it or unless something is broken and needs to be replaced to function properly.

[dbs600]

So will the car notify us when it needs new brakes?

[xDrive50i]

I thinks it's based on how many km or miles you drive and will give you a heads up when they need to be replaced. Go into your iDrive menu under service and take a look at the individual items listed and it will tell you when the service for each of those listed items is due!

[dbs600]

Gotcha. Figured brakes wear differently due to driving patterns, but guess there's a set number of replacements. Free maintenance isn't really free then; then again, I suppose nothing is.

[michal12]

I think there are things that are not covered by these Free Service plans - I think brakes, clutch (if you have any), tires etc.

E.g. I thought I had an issue with my clutch (have a manual 330d) and it would only have been replaced if it was faulty - not worn-off. (this is EU based servicing plan thou)

BTW I wouldnt wory about the brakes as they will not require a change in 3-4 year period you will probably keep you car.

Originally Posted by dbs600

Gotcha. Figured brakes wear differently due to driving patterns, but guess there's a set number of replacements. Free maintenance isn't really free then; then again, I suppose nothing is.

[xDrive50i]

Originally Posted by michal12

BTW I wouldnt wory about the brakes as they will not require a change in 3-4 year period you will probably keep you car.

It always depends on how you drive

[Niva]

What about changing over to winter tires/rotation. Will dealers generally do that for free during a scheduled service? Other dealers have usually done it for free while changing the oil which is how I justifyed not changing the oil myself.

[BMWrules7]

Winter tires will probably cost you a few bucks. However, tire rotation has been unnecessary for the past fourteen years or so.

BMW does not want you to rotate your tires since it can reduce ABS and DTC performance.

Yes, the are old school dealers that still try to make a fast buck. However, the dealer is opening themselves up for a potential liability claim as the service manual and customer manuals clearly tell you to avoid this practice.

Originally Posted by Niva

What about changing over to winter tires/rotation. Will dealers generally do that for free during a scheduled service? Other dealers have usually done it for free while changing the oil which is how I justifyed not changing the oil myself.

[dbs600]

Does anyone know if New York's annual state inspection is covered under BMW's free maintenance program? And, if not, whether or not same costs any more at the dealer than at an indy? Thanks!