Why Are BMW Oil Changes So Expensive?

The BMW series of luxury and performance automobiles is no exception to the rule that regular oil changes are necessary to get the maximum performance out of any vehicle.

You’ll help your automobile achieve better gas mileage, last longer, and run for more miles by according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil changes.

The quick explanation for why BMW oil changes are so expensive is that high-performance synthetic oil is necessary for BMWs. Additionally, labor expenditures are relatively high. On the other hand, performing the BMW change yourself can save you money.

Continue reading to learn more about the price of an oil change for a BMW and how you can cut expenditures.

How much does it cost to have the oil changed in a BMW?

How much does an oil change for a BMW cost? My friend and I were debating whether oil changes for expensive cars cost more or less. They disagree, but I believe they are more expensive.

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You are correct! An oil change for a more cheap automobile will often cost between $35 and $75, while an oil change for a BMW will typically cost between $135 and $175. Three things affect prices: the type of oil, the parts, and the labor.

  • BMWs employ specialized synthetic oil that operates more effectively in cold weather. While heating and lubricating the engine’s moving parts, it also cleans the engine. Regular oil is used for more standard oil changes.
  • BMWs have unique oil filters that are intended to be used with synthetic oil. BMW oil filters are more expensive than regular oil filters, albeit the price difference isn’t very large.
  • Only certain service teams are certified by BMW, thus certain shops might not be able to handle a BMW. Of course, an unlicensed establishment is still able to replace your oil. They might not have received specialized instruction in handling BMWs.

That said, oil changes are more expensive for fancier cars. In reality, a great car costs more for almost everything! A Mercedes-Benz can be insured for up to four times the price of a Honda Civic. However, there are still wonderful ways to save, such as by using Jerry!

A certified broker, the Jerry app can help you find and compare prices from leading name-brand suppliers. Jerry can even assist you in canceling your current policy and purchasing a new one!

Are oil changes for a BMW $2000?

An oil change for a BMW typically costs between $120 and $180 at a BMW dealership or between $120 and $180 at an independent service. However, you can do-it-yourself (DIY) for about $80, as we’ll explain in this post.

According to BMW, you should change the oil in your vehicle every year or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, if you want to extend the life of your engine, you should change it earlier. See more below on that.

By going to a nearby independent mechanic that has been highly rated, you can also save money on your oil change.

Are BMW repairs genuinely pricey?

This German automaker has grown to become one of the most well-known automobile brands globally since 1916. Due to their extensive appeal, BMW’s range of high-end luxury vehicles is appreciated by everyone from regular drivers to celebrities and even the most well-known spy in the world. In fact, just between January 1 and October 1, 2021, the U.S. experienced 243,613 BMW sales!

BMW offers up to 16 different vehicle designs in total, ranging from the sporty BMW M series to the compact X1 series. BMWs will cost more to maintain and repair than other makes and models because they are luxury cars. BMW owners should budget upwards of $1,000 to $1,700 annually for maintenance and repairs.

How much does an oil change cost for a BMW 2022?

Versions with 8 cylinders cost $129.95, while all additional options, such as BMW M and Diesel models, cost $179.95. BMW oil of the highest quality is used during oil changes. Model-specific oil viscosities may exist. Processes involve labor, parts, and oil

Is the cost of maintaining a BMW really that high?

Remove the Band-Aid now. Every 10,000 miles, BMW owners may anticipate paying between $150 and $400 per service. A significant service may cost up to $3,000 or more. In the end, owners spend more on maintenance and repairs than most brands, between $1,000 and $1,700 annually.

You may always purchase an extended warranty, either directly from BMW or through a third-party service contract, if you’re concerned about future ownership costs. Standard BMW maintenance expenditures are not covered by a car warranty, but it will cover pricey items that are more prone to break over time.

We’ve combed the market and selected a handful of the top third-party extended vehicle warranty companies because there are many possibilities for extended coverage. These are businesses who did well in regards to things like price, standing, and customer support.

To help you reduce your out-of-pocket vehicle ownership costs, compare the best BMW extended warranty packages above.

How frequently should a BMW have an oil change?

Even the owner’s manual for your BMW suggests getting your oil changed every 15,000 miles. Additionally, the instrument panel reminder lights on the majority of BMW vehicles are programmed to alert the driver to replace their oil at this time. However, changing your oil more frequently can improve engine performance and longevity.

Are BMWs oil-intensive?

The BMW 5 Series V8 engines are 27 times more likely to waste too much oil, according to Consumer Reports. What other BMW vehicles come in first place?

According to Consumer Reports, BMW is the worst offender in terms of new cars using too much oil (CR). Why is there a V8 in the BMW 5 Series? In the Top 30 vehicles that consume significantly more oil overall than the average for their model years, according to a new Consumer Reports survey, BMW is the worst offender.

According to CR, the worst case study revealed that owners of BMW 5 Series cars with V8 engines are 27 times more likely to experience excessive oil consumption than owners of typical cars. The BMW 6 Series, 7 Series, and BMW X5 are further BMW models that come in first place.

Additionally, CR discovered that the 3.0 liter V6 and 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder engines from Audi both ranked highly for excessive oil usage. These engines are found in Audi models such the Q5, A3, A4, and A5. Subaru’s 3.6-liter V6 is also on the list, albeit to a lesser extent. The worst offenders were BMW’s 4.8-liter and 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engines.

All three manufacturers—Audi, BMW, and Subaru—admit that oil consumption is a regular aspect of their engines’ operation and that this is the case here. According to Subaru, a quart of fuel should be burned every 1,000 to 1,200 miles. According to the requirements for some Audi and BMW vehicles, a quart of fuel should be burnt every 600 to 700 miles.

These are ridiculous amounts for any vehicle and are high for a new car. Customer Reviews claims, “As a car reaches 100,000 miles and beyond, it’s common for some oil to burn. We think the powertrain warranty should cover any engine that burns oil in between oil changes. In the small print of their owners manuals, automakers frequently cloak their identities.”

BMW does take precautions and even specifies such consumption in its manufacturer guidelines. Even better, you can get an oil travel case from the dealer to keep in the car’s trunk for when you need it.

Hector Arellano-Belloc, a BMW spokesperson, wrote in an email to CR, “Oil consumption is normal on all engines.” “BMW automobiles require frequent oil changes (10,000 miles). Under specific driving circumstances, BMW engines (apart from the BMW M) may use up to one quart of engine oil every 750 miles.” He continued by saying that BMW’s M performance variants might use even more oil.

It’s intriguing that in the J.D. Power 2015 U.S. Initial Quality Study, BMW received a very high ranking (IQS). In their respective categories, the 2015 BMW 2 Series, BMW 4 Series, and BMW 5 Series all came in first place. BMW outperformed the industry average and came in at number six among all the brands. Read more here.

There are 30 cars that consume much more oil overall than the average for their model years, according to data from Consumer Reports’ 2014 Annual Auto Survey of owners of 498,900 vehicles from the 2010 to 2014 model years. Eight BMW automobiles appear on the list. BMW 335Ci, BMW 335i Sedan, BMW 5 Series (6-cylinder), BMW X1 (6-cylinder), BMW 5 Series (V8), BMW 7 Series, BMW 6 Series, BMW X5 (V8), and BMW 5 Series (V8) are on the list, starting with the worst offender. Visit this page to view “The Thirsty 30” in its entirety.

Why is BMW upkeep so expensive?

Because it’s a German car with specialized parts and technology, maintaining a BMW is pricey. BMW is not only a vehicle to move passengers from point A to point B; it is designed for driving aficionados. BMW’s advanced technology calls a specialized certification to be repaired correctly. A skilled BMW mechanic will possess the knowledge necessary for a thorough and effective repair.

A $400 battery replacement, for instance, might be necessary because the mechanic must register the battery with the engine control module. If not, the battery risk of an early demise since the vehicle won’t “know” how to charge it.

What BMW requires the least amount of maintenance?

The 3 Series is often the least expensive BMW to maintain in the current lineup of the brand, and owners pay roughly $748 a year to do so. Some antique automobiles, like the BMW E28, are also inexpensive to maintain.

How far can a BMW travel before needing an oil change?

My uncle recently gave me his BMW as a gift. I might need to change the oil soon, he replied, adding that it was in good condition. How frequently should I have the oil changed in my BMW?

Your BMW’s performance, longevity, and gas mileage can all be increased by getting regular oil changes, so it’s crucial to remember to do it.

How many miles you may safely drive between oil changes depends on a few factors. Among these elements are:

  • the caliber and kind of oil you employ
  • the vintage of your car
  • The vehicle’s kind
  • You’re driving style
  • Your frequency of driving

The oil in newer BMWs should be changed every 12,000 to 15,000 miles because they use synthetic oil. Plan to have the conventional oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles if your BMW is a little older and uses it.

Frequently, the mechanic will stick a tiny decal on the windshield indicating the last time the oil was changed or the recommended mileage. The majority of current cars can also tell you when it’s time for a change, but you may extend the life of your automobile by having oil changes performed more frequently. It’s also great to include oil changes in your routine auto maintenance program.

Bring the car to an expert if you’re unclear when to get your oil changed again. Some items, like your auto insurance, are better left in the hands of professionals, just like many facets of car ownership. Download the Jerry app to compare prices from as many as 50 businesses and consult with insurance agents about the best possible coverage.

How long does a BMW need between oil changes?

Your Routine for Oil Changes It is advised that BMW car owners get their engine oil and oil filter replaced after 10,000 miles or every 12 months. Although many manufacturers advise doing so every 5,000 miles or six months (whichever comes first)

Can you perform an oil change on a BMW by yourself?

For a BMW owner, performing an oil change themselves is a terrific endeavor. if you have the resources. Fortunately, if you have the oil filter cap wrench—which costs around $20 if you can’t borrow one from a friend—they are not difficult to complete.

After a few usage, the instruments typically pay for themselves. For $89.26 with free shipping, Turner Motorsports offers an oil change package that includes a BMW oil filter, 7 gallons of BMW synthetic oil, and a new drain plug. I’ve done a lot of articles and videos on oil changes because it’s a relaxing way to use your BMW.