BMW’s Value Service Program has been around for over a decade, offering more competitive pricing for routine maintenance and service on older vehicles. Essentially, the program allowed certain dealers to opt in, letting BMW North America subsidize the cost of routine maintenance to make it more competitive with local third-party mechanics. Now, the program is becoming more widespread, covers even more owners’ vehicles, and is easier to understand.
It used to be that certain models only became eligible for Value Service pricing based on the end-date of their production cycle. So eligibility varied wildly between models and owners were confused about whether their cars qualified. Now, it’s simple: the moment a car’s warranty ends, Value Service pricing begins. It’s a seamless transition that goes into effect on the vehicle’s 37th month of age, as soon as the initial 36 month/36,000 mile warranty is up.
“Creating a premium customer experience starts at the point of purchase and continues through all phases of ownership,” said Neal Guthrie, Vice President Customer Support and Aftersales, BMW of North America. “We know that long-term maintenance costs are an important consideration when shopping for a premium vehicle. With the extension of our Value Service Program, we are working with our dealers to ensure that every customer receives the level of quality and care they deserve, at a competitive price. This is just one more example of how we’re putting our customers first.”
So what does Value Service pricing actually get you? For all routine maintenance—there are 11 services, including oil changes, brake rotors, brake pads, spark plugs, air filters, and windshield wipers—participating BMW dealerships will charge prices that are competitive with local third-party rates. The idea is that BMW wants you getting your car serviced at a dealer, with OEM parts and certified technicians, rather than at Uncle Tony’s Lube and Fill down the road. There is an age limit, though, as Bimmers older than 20 years aren’t eligible. However, BMW and Mini models are available. Alpinas aren’t, though, despite being owned by BMW now. If you have to ask about Rolls-Royce…
With 94 percent of BMW dealerships in America participating, and 96 percent of Mini dealerships, you’re bound to live close enough to one to make it worth your while. And if you check your local dealer, BMW even provides transparent pricing, including parts and labor. Enter your VIN and you’ll see exactly how much each service will cost.
For example, my seemingly ancient E90 3 Series is still eligible, and an oil change costs $119.99, according to BMW’s Value Service page. That oil change includes the OEM oil, an OEM filter, the disposal of the old oil and filter, and a multi-point mechanical and safety inspection. Just an oil change kit alone, with high-quality oil, is $80-90 for my car, and I still have to get under the car, get messy, and dispose of the oil myself. I’d say $119.99 is well worth it. So the updated Value Service Program can make maintaining many older BMWs far more affordable and convenient than it ever was.
