Introduction to Free Scheduled Maintenance
Free scheduled maintenance is a significant perk that more automakers are integrating as an incentive for car buyers. This program typically includes complimentary regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, which may range from a single visit to as much as five years of service. It is an attractive proposition for both new and used car buyers.
Automakers Offering Transferable Free Maintenance
Among the key players are BMW and Jaguar. Starting with the 2022 model year, BMW extended its three-year/36,000-mile free scheduled maintenance coverage to be transferable to subsequent owners, making pre-owned BMWs even more appealing. Similarly, Jaguar’s elite care vehicle warranty, which spans five years or 60,000 miles, also includes complementary scheduled maintenance that is transferable to new owners. Hyundai offers limited transferability, restricted to transfers between spouses.
Other Noteworthy Free Maintenance Programs
Several other automakers also provide notable free maintenance programs. Honda and Acura offer routine maintenance for two years or 24,000 miles starting with their 2023 models. Alfa Romeo extends a complimentary first scheduled service for the 2020-2024 model years, valid for up to one year or 10,000 miles.
Summary of Various Brands and Their Offers
Below is a brief summary of other automakers and their free maintenance programs:
BMW, MINI:Â Three years or 36,000 miles (2020-2024 models), transferable from 2022.
Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC:Â Complimentary first scheduled maintenance during the first year, with an extended period for the Chevy Corvette.
Ford, Lincoln: No designated free maintenance, but points-based rewards; Lincoln’s Black Label offers four years or 50,000 miles for 2021-2024 models.
Infiniti:Â Three years for 2023 models onward.
Hyundai, Genesis:Â Three years or 36,000 miles from 2020 onward, transferable under specific conditions.
Jeep:Â Three free visits for certain 2021 and 2023 models; reduced to two visits from mid-2023 for new models.
Lexus:Â First two visits at six months/5,000 miles and one year/10,000 miles.
Lucid:Â Two years or 24,000 miles from 2022 to 2025 models.
Mercedes-Benz:Â Two years of free service for electric vehicles only from 2022 onward.
Mitsubishi:Â Three visits within two years or 30,000 miles for 2024 models.
Polestar:Â Three years or 30,000 miles for model-year 2021 onward for select models.
Porsche:Â Complimentary first scheduled service at one year or 10,000 miles.
Subaru:Â Offers available in select states, typically two years or 24,000 miles.
Toyota:Â Two years or 25,000 miles for 2020-2024 models.
Volkswagen:Â Initially two years or 24,000 miles, reduced to 20,000 miles from 2021.
Volvo:Â Three years or 30,000 miles for gasoline and hybrid, four years or 40,000 miles for electric models.
Conclusion
For potential used car buyers, transferable free maintenance schemes add substantial value. Being informed about which automakers offer these benefits can make a significant difference in long-term vehicle upkeep costs.
