When it comes to luxury cars, few brands can match the style and performance of BMW. Owning a BMW is one of the great joys in life. Not only are they gorgeous vehicles, but they’re also known for being extremely reliable.
Bavarian Motor Works has been crafting world-class vehicles for over a century, and their commitment to quality is evident in every detail.
However, owning a BMW comes with certain responsibilities. These cars require regular maintenance and care in order to keep them running at their best.
One reason for the high cost of ownership is the price of parts and labor. BMWs use premium materials and advanced engineering, so replacement parts can be quite expensive.
Similarly, trained technicians command higher wages than your average mechanic. In addition, BMWs require more frequent servicing than other brands, due to their complex components and high-performance standards. As a result, the maintenance costs can add up quickly.
Are Parts for BMW Expensive?
Yes, parts for BMW are expensive. On average, a single part can cost anywhere from $30 to $7,000. This is because BMW uses high-quality materials and innovative technologies in its vehicles.
As a result, their parts are designed to last longer and perform better than those of other brands. However, this also means that when something does go wrong, the repairs can be costly. For example, replacing the transmission on a BMW can cost upwards of $7,000.
While BMWs may be more expensive to maintain than other brands, their parts are designed to provide superior performance and durability.
Are BMW Expensive to Maintain?
Yes, BMWs are expensive to maintain, they are one of the most expensive brands to maintain, with costs ranging from $750 to $2,500 per year for routine maintenance. This includes the cost of parts, labor, and taxes. BMWs are also expensive to repair.
The average cost of repairs for a BMW is $1000. This is due to the fact that BMWs use high-quality parts and require specialized tools and training to repair them.
BMWs also require more frequent servicing than other brands, which can add up over time. However, many BMW owners feel that the cost is worth it, as the vehicles are well-built and offer excellent performance.
Standard BMW Maintenance and Repair Costs
Oil change — $149 to $174
If you own a BMW, you know that you have to be careful about which oil changes you get and how often you get them.
That’s because BMWs require synthetic oil, which means that the oil change cost is going to be higher than it would be for a car that doesn’t require synthetic oil.
On average, a BMW oil change cost is going to be anywhere from $149 to $174. That might seem like a lot, but it’s important to remember that synthetic oil is made to last longer than regular oil, so you won’t have to change it as often.
Oil changes should be performed every 5,000 miles in BMWs.
Engine Inspections — $88 to $116
Not only is the initial cost of a BMW higher than most other vehicles on the market, but the maintenance costs can also be quite steep. One thing that can quickly add up is the cost of engine inspections.
Depending on the model of BMW, these inspections can range from $88 to $116. Of course, this cost does not include any necessary repairs that may be required as a result of the inspection.
BMW requires a full inspection of the vehicle approximately every 20,000 miles.
Air and Cabin Filters $15 to $35
BMW air and cabin filters typically cost between $15 and $35, depending on the model and year of your vehicle. While this may seem like a lot to pay for something that is essentially a piece of cloth, there are several reasons why BMW filters are worth the investment.
First, they are designed to trap even the smallest particles of dust and debris, which can lead to clogged air vents and Reduced airflow. Additionally, BMW filters help to protect your engine from damage by keeping harmful contaminants out.
BMW recommends changing the air and cabin filters about every 20,000 miles.
Spark plugs — $144 to $295
When it comes to car maintenance, few things are as important as Spark plugs. These small but essential components help to ensure that your engine is running smoothly and efficiently.
However, they also tend to be one of the most expensive parts of your car, with BMW spark plugs costing anywhere from $144 to $295.
While this may seem like a lot, it’s important to remember that spark plugs play a vital role in your engine’s performance. Replacing them regularly can help to improve fuel economy and prevent serious engine damage.
Brake Fluid — $150 to $360
brake fluid must be changed every two years, and a single bottle can cost anywhere from $150 to $360. While this may seem like a steep price to pay, it’s important to remember that brake fluid is what allows your brakes to function properly.
Without it, you could easily find yourself in an accident. As such, it’s best to view the cost of BMW brake fluid as a necessary evil – rather than an optional expense.
After every 30,000 miles or three years (whichever comes first), your BMW brake fluid should be replaced and cleansed.
Coolant & Antifreeze Replacement — $750 to $1,000
it’s important to regularly replace the coolant and antifreeze. Over time, these fluids break down and become less effective. BMW recommends replacing them every four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.
The cost of replacement can range from $750 to $1,000, depending on the model and year of your BMW. But the peace of mind that comes with knowing your car is operating at its peak performance is priceless.
After every 40,000 miles or whenever a coolant system item is replaced, coolant, also known as antifreeze, should be refilled and cleaned.
Wheel hub assembly replacement — $235 to $595
The BMW wheel hub assembly is a vital part of the car’s suspension system. It helps to keep the wheels in proper alignment and also helps to reduce noise and vibration.
Over time, the wheel hub assembly can become worn or damaged, causing the wheels to become misaligned. When this happens, it can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased wear on the tires.
Replacing the wheel hub assembly is not a difficult task, but it can be expensive. The cost of a replacement BMW wheel hub assembly ranges from $235 to $595, depending on the model and year of the vehicle.
Timing Belts & Chains — $409 to $919
One of the most important parts of a BMW car maintenance is replacing the timing belt or chain. The timing belt is responsible for synchronizing the engine’s valves with the pistons, and it typically needs to be replaced every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
However, depending on the make and model of your car, the cost of replacing a timing belt can vary widely. For example, a BMW timing belt typically costs between $409 and $919.
Therefore, it’s important to consult your car’s owner’s manual to find out how often the timing belt needs to be replaced and to budget accordingly.
Most engines go 80,000 – 90,000 miles before needing a new timing belt.
Windshield wiper motor replacement — $612 to $679
Replacing the windshield wiper motor on a BMW can be a costly repair. The average cost for a BMW windshield wiper motor replacement is between $612 and $679. This repair can be even more expensive if the windshield wipers themselves need to be replaced as well.
Fortunately, there are ways to save on this repair. Many auto insurance policies cover the cost of windshield wiper motor replacements, so it’s worth checking with your insurer to see if you’re covered.
Additionally, some warranty programs may also cover the cost of this repair. Be sure to check your coverage before you schedule the repair to avoid any surprises.
Transmission Services — $3,000 to over $7,000
If your BMW needs transmission services, be prepared to spend a pretty penny. According to most estimates, the cost of transmission services for a BMW ranges from $3,000 to over $7,000.
The exact price will depend on the specific services needed and the model of BMW. Of course, this is just an estimate – some people may find that they spend more or less depending on their individual circumstances.
No matter how much you end up spending on transmission services for your BMW, it’s important to make sure that the job is done right.
This is not a repair that you want to cut corners on, as it could lead to even more expensive problems down the road. Make sure to do your research and find a reputable mechanic who you feel confident will do a great job.
Turbocharger assembly replacement — $2,328 to $2,481
A BMW turbocharger helps to improve engine performance by forcing more air into the combustion chamber. Over time, however, the turbocharger can become clogged with dirt and debris, reducing its efficiency.
When this happens, it may be necessary to replace the turbocharger assembly. The cost of a replacement turbocharger assembly can vary depending on the make and model of your car, but it is typically between $2,328 and $2,481.
While this may seem like a significant expense, it is important to remember that a new turbocharger can dramatically improve engine performance, potentially saving you money in the long run.
Tire Rotation — $30 to $60
The cost of tire rotation for a BMW can range from $30 to $60, depending on the type of car and the number of tires. The best way to keep your tires in good shape is to rotate them regularly, as this helps to evenly distribute the wear and tear.
By rotating tires, you can also help to extend their lifespan. In addition, proper tire maintenance can improve your car’s handling and braking, and it can even help to improve your gas mileage.
If you’re not sure how often to rotate your tires, consult your owner’s manual or ask a qualified mechanic. Tire rotation is an important part of keeping your BMW in top condition, so it’s worth the investment.
Tire rotation is recommended for every other oil change on standard BMWs while Crossovers and BMW SUVs, notably the BMW X series, should have their tires rotated at each oil change.