Getting your vehicle services at recommended intervals is critical for its performance and longevity. But does that mean that you always need to go to the dealership? If you drive a BMW and are wondering if it will need to be serviced only by BMW, we can help you. We researched this make from multiple professional sources so you'll know for sure where you can take it.
While other mechanics might be capable of servicing a BMW, it is recommended to only get your BMW serviced by an authorized BMW center.
Now that we know that BMW recommends only getting your BMW serviced by an authorized service center, we'll take a look at why they make this strong suggestion. You might also be wondering how long a BMW will last or how often a BMW needs to be serviced. For the answers to these questions and more, read ahead in this post to see what our research has uncovered.
Why you should always get your BMW serviced by an authorized service center
Not all service centers are built the same. Imported vehicles can require specific parts and specialized labor to get the best possible results when getting your vehicle maintained. BMW drivers will find that their cars are not an exception to this rule.
Whether you need an oil change or a tune-up, you'll find that a certified BMW service center will take the best care of your car. While you can always find someone else who might be able to do the work, BMW strongly suggests that you only get your car taken care of by those that are certified.
An authorized BMW service center will have access to approved BMW parts and accessories
Oil and air filters, engine oil, and numerous other parts and fluids should have BMW's stamp of approval if they are going to be used on or in your vehicle. While a non-certified BMW service center will be able to get the parts you need, an authorized center will almost certainly have these items on hand without having to order them.
The floor mats, shifter knobs, and other accessories are much more likely to be found at one of these centers as well. These locations will typically have everything you will want or need for your BMW, while others will not.
Your vehicle will be serviced by trained BMW technicians
At an authorized BMW service center, you'll find technicians that have been trained to provide maintenance and care on this make of vehicle.
Of course, you can find someone else to take care of these critical items every time your car needs to be serviced. But wouldn't you rather have someone who works on nothing but BMW vehicles?
BMW takes pride in training its technicians so that your vehicle will get the best possible care and service. When your BMW is at an authorized center, you can rest assured that it will be worked on by someone who has the expertise to give you peace of mind.
BMW Classic Centers accommodate owners of older BMWs
An approved BMW service center will be able to take care of any of your vehicle needs. If your vehicle is under warranty or has a Care Plus contract, these are the best places for your car. You'll also find that they are the preferred place for older or classic BMW models to be taken to.
The older BMW models will also get the best service and maintenance possible at these centers. Just like the new BMWs, the classic versions will have the BMW-approved parts and accessories needed to keep your car running properly.
How long will a BMW last?
For what a consumer will pay for a BMW, there is an expectation of longevity. And while this automaker does not produce models that have the storied reputation of high mileage like a Honda or a Toyota, prospective BMW owners will be happy to know that these vehicles will stay on the roadways for a good number of years.
If you take care of a BMW, you should be able to expect an average of 200,000 miles. If you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year, this means that your vehicle will be on the highways for at least 13 years. But there are many examples of this make of car lasting upwards of 20 years.
Like any car, a BMW will not last unless you put some effort into it. Though the engines are built tough, they will need proper attention if they are to meet and exceed high mileage. To get the most out of your BMW, we suggest doing the following.
Get your BMW serviced at recommended maintenance intervals
Following a regimented maintenance schedule is the single most important thing you can do to keep any vehicle on the road. If you are wanting high mileage out of your car, be sure to open its owner's manual and peer at the recommended maintenance intervals. This will give you a great idea of what needs to be done to your BMW and when.
This goes beyond regular oil changes. Tire rotations, belt inspections, filter changes, and other structural and mechanical inspections are all part of routine maintenance.
Be mindful of how you drive your BMW
How you drive your BMW will certainly impact how well it drives and how long it will last. Treat it with care and respect when you're behind the wheel and you'll find that it needs fewer repairs and will enjoy maximum performance.
Avoid as much stop-and-go driving as you can. Rapid acceleration and sudden braking will prematurely wear the tires, suspension system, and other vital parts.
When driving, avoid potholes and road hazards. Don't drive at excessive speeds. And refrain from as many short trips as possible.
Keep your BMW clean!
You might not have thought about it before, but a clean car will last longer than a dirty one. Dirt and debris will wear out working parts faster, requiring more maintenance and frequent replacements.
On the exterior, it's important to routinely wash your BMW. This is especially important in climates where roads get treated for snow and ice. The road salt will slowly cause the metal undercarriage to oxidize if it's not washed away.
Refrain from smoking or vaping inside your BMW. The chemicals you exhale will discolor the interior, dirty your cabin filters, and damage the electronics.
How often does a BMW need to be serviced?
Your owner's manual will outline the service schedule required to keep your BMW running like a top. How often these items need to be performed will depend on the items themselves as well as how often you drive your car. The maintenance items are based on mileage amounts, so it's difficult to put an exact time on when things need to be done.
Though the following isn't an all-inclusive list of maintenance items, it will give you a general idea of what major things need to be taken care of at certain mileage.
- The oil in your BMW should always be synthetic. This requires a change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles.
- Cabin air filters should be changed every 30,000 miles.
- The engine air filter should be swapped out every 20,000 miles.
- A coolant flush needs to be done every 30,000 miles.
- The power steering fluid should be flushed every 50,000 miles.
- Tires need to be rotated every 5,000-7,500 miles.
In conclusion
A BMW will always be better serviced at an authorized BMW service center. Whether your BMW is a newer model or a classic one, it will have access to trained technicians and certified parts and accessories at these locations. Take care of your BMW and you should see it on the road for upwards of 200,000 miles. Drive safe!
Thanks for reading all the way to the end! We hope this post answered all your questions. For more helpful information, we recommend reading the following posts:
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Is Your BMW Active Grille Not Opening Or Closing? Here’s What To Do!
Where Is The Ground Strap On A BMW? [And How Do You Replace It]?