Caring for your BMW enhances your enjoyment of it even more.
Here are resources to help answer your questions about everything from warranty information to the BMW Full Maintenance and Roadside Assistance programs included with all new BMWs.
Additionally, the extensive Vehicle Care section provides tips on cleaning and servicing your BMW, from the type of oil to use to how frequently it needs to be changed.
Roadside Assistance
Even the most reliable and durable automobile may someday need roadside attention. Should this happen, BMW Roadside Assistance is ready to help.
The BMW Roadside Assistance program reflects BMW's commitment to your complete satisfaction with the BMW ownership experience. It is available for U.S.-version BMWs that are covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty or Certified Pre-Owned BMW Protection Plan. Assistance extends to all 50 states, Canada and Puerto Rico, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This program provides towing, lock-out service and on-site assistance during the original New Vehicle Limited Warranty or Certified Pre-Owned BMW Protection Plan. Additionally, the program provides for towing your vehicle to the nearest authorized BMW center in the event of an accident; custom trip-routing services (maps and itineraries); and even provides trip interruption benefits for mechanical breakdowns covered under warranty when you are 100 or more miles from home.
BMW Roadside Assistance is provided through Cross Country Motor Club, Inc., Boston, MA 02155, except in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Wisconsin and Wyoming, where services are provided by Cross Country Motor Club of California, Inc., Boston, MA 02155. Full details on BMW Roadside Assistance are provided in the Warranty Booklet, which all purchasers of new BMW automobiles and motorcycles receive from BMW of North America, Inc. after taking delivery. Owners of Certified Pre-Owned BMWs can find full details about BMW Roadside Assistance in their Consumer Information Statement, which was provided by their BMW center at the time of delivery. Vehicles not covered by the Certified Pre-Owned BMW Protection Plan can, for a nominal fee, purchase the BMW Service Card that extends this service after expiration of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty for as long as you wish.
The toll-free Roadside Assistance number is:
800-332-4BMW
(800-332-4269)
Full Maintenance
As part of BMW's complete commitment to your driving pleasure and safety, we include Full Maintenance at no additional cost on every new 2001 model year BMW purchased from any authorized BMW center in the U.S. or Puerto Rico. The BMW Full Maintenance program provides superior service by expert technicians at all authorized BMW centers in the U.S. or Puerto Rico for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Full Maintenance includes items that need replacement due to normal wear and tear, provided wear and tear exceeds BMW specifications. This includes items such as brake pads, brake rotors, and wiper blades that are not covered by the original New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Any adjustments required due to normal operating conditions are also included. For exclusions and limitations, refer to the Service and Warranty Information booklet that came with your new BMW or see your authorized BMW center for details. A Full Maintenance upgrade to 4 years/50,000 miles is available.
BMW Warranties
BMW NA provides limited warranties for new 2001 U.S.-specification vehicles distributed by BMW NA or sold through the BMW NA European Delivery program against defects in materials or workmanship to the first retail purchaser and each subsequent purchaser.
The warranty period is for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first, and begins on the date of first retail sale, or the date the vehicle is placed in service as a demonstrator or company vehicle, whichever is earlier.
Please see your authorized BMW center for additional information on coverage and limitations.
BMW NA provides limited warranties for 2001 U.S.-specification vehicles distributed by BMW NA or sold through the BMW NA European Delivery program against defects in materials or workmanship which will result in rust perforation of the vehicle body for a period of 6 years, without mileage limitation, commencing on the date of first retail sale, or the date the vehicle is placed in service as a demonstrator or company vehicle, whichever is earlier.
Please see your authorized BMW center for additional information on coverage and limitations.
Vehicle Care
Proper care for your BMW will ensure optimum performance and appearance. Inside the Vehicle Care section you will find resources for keeping your interior and exterior in pristine condition, as well as extensive mechanical information. Featured are such innovations as the service indicator and BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil. The synthetic formula allows for exceptional lubrication and a longer lifespan, while the service indicator shows when your BMW needs Full Maintenance.
As a BMW owner, you may want to perform some regular inspection yourself. The Checkpoint Locator - a virtual blueprint of the engine and luggage compartment - pinpoints and describes your vehicle's various components and features.
Additionally, you will find information on the full line of BMW care and service products.
Interior
Upholstery
BMW uses some of the highest quality fabrics in its interior. To minimize the effects of everyday use and preserve the immaculate appearance of your upholstery, frequent cleaning with a dust cloth or vacuum cleaner is encouraged. Occasional cleansing with lukewarm water and interior cleaners can also be performed. Brushing afterwards will restore the texture and appearance of your upholstery.
Leather
The natural leather in your BMW is among the highest grades, and is specially processed to uphold its character for years to come. Periodic use of BMW Leather Care will heighten its durability and appearance further. When combined with vacuuming and dusting, the BMW leather cleaner will help reduce the effects of normal use. For more thorough treatment, we suggest cleaning the leather with BMW Leather Care twice a year to remove dirt and grease which can come with everyday driving.
Trim
The clear instrument panel cover and interior plastic surfaces may be cleaned using water and plastic shampoo as necessary. Wooden fascia panels and components should be cleaned only with a damp cloth. Afterwards, dry thoroughly with a soft towel.
Rubber
The rubber components in your BMW should be cleaned with BMW Rubber/Vinyl Cleaner to help guard them from drying out. Afterwards, a BMW Rubber Treatment or silicone spray may be applied for added luster and protection.
Glass
You may use window cleaner to remove any film or haze on the interior glass and mirror surfaces; make sure to wipe off immediately. Refrain from using aggressive cleaners or compounds, as they may cause scratching.
Carpet
To diminish the effects of everyday use, you may clean the carpet and floor mats* in your BMW with an interior upholstery cleaner or a mild soap and water solution. Additionally, the floor mats may be removed for more thorough washing. After drying completely, light brushing will restore their texture and appearance.
* Floor mats come either standard or as an accessory, depending on vehicle model.
Exterior
Finish
The finish on your BMW represents the latest in anti-corrosion technologies: cataphoretic immersion priming, multilayer paint work, underbody PVC and wax coating. These features, when combined with regular washing and maintenance, will uphold the strength, safety and value of your vehicle.
Cleaning
You may wash your BMW either by hand or in an automatic car wash. Note that if you choose the automatic car wash, be sure to make safety provisions for any body add-ons you might have, such as spoilers or aerial antennas. You may wish to consult the automatic car wash operator for further concerns. Should spots or blemishes remain after washing, use rubbing alcohol or cleaning fluid to remove them. For stubborn spots, you may use a more aggressive cleaner like tar remover. Lamps and lenses should always be treated with a gentle glass cleaner. When washing by hand, use a mild soap and water solution and a nonabrasive brush or BMW Sheepskin Wash/Polish Mitt. After rinsing thoroughly, dry with a lint-free towel or chamois.
Periodic washing will promote the strength and vibrancy of your BMW finish. In some circumstances, more frequent cleansing may be needed. In areas where atmospheric salt or pollution levels are higher, we encourage washing your vehicle weekly. In the winter months, increased washing may be needed to keep your BMW free of road salt and dirt.
Wheels
Periodic treatment of your light alloy wheels with BMW Wheel Cleaner protects them from dirt and brake dust and restores their natural shine.
Trim
Exterior trim surfaces may be cleaned with mild soap and water and thoroughly rinsed to prevent spots. Additionally, treat rubber components and tires with a silicone spray or rubber treatment for added protection.
Chrome
To uphold the mirror finish of your BMW's chrome, you may wash it with glass or window cleaner. For further buffing, use only a nonabrasive polish
Mechanical
Synthetic Oil
It's nice not to have to think about having the right engine oil for the weather or driving conditions. That's why we offer BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil. It delivers superb lubrication in all BMWs under all conditions and weather extremes from -40° F to +120° F. Specifically, BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil is a premium, 100% synthetic formula oil providing the following advantages over other oils:
- Greater high temperature protection
- Easier cold weather starts
- Enhanced wear and deposit protection
- Ideal for luxury vehicles and high performance vehicles
- Meets all requirements of ACEA A3/B3
- 5W-40 viscosity range
All new BMWs, except the M cars and the E36 models, come from the factory filled with BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil. And for good reason. Their new engines are designed for the longer oil service intervals – up to 15,000 miles, depending on engine operating conditions – that require an oil meeting the superior performance standards of BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil.
BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil is available through BMW centers nationwide. Should you need to add oil and BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil is unavailable, you may top up with small amounts of synthetic oil meeting the requirements of API Service SH or higher, such as Mobil 1 or Valvoline SynPower 5W-40.
Service Interval Indicator
Whenever the ignition is switched on, a series of colored lights on the service indicator panel appear momentarily, visually alerting you to the necessity of an engine oil service or inspection. The advanced technology of the BMW service indicator system allows the use of microcomputers to consider the influence of engine coolant temperature, high and low engine speeds, short and long trips, and the number of engine starts, in determining the optimum maintenance interval.
The BMW service indicator system has been developed to save you money on unnecessary oil changes as well as maximize vehicle safety, reliability and resale value, by minimizing the possibility of breakdowns resulting from improper maintenance.
No more guesswork. With the innovative BMW Service Indicator System, your vehicle precisely informs you when it needs routine servicing and maintenance.
Checkpoint Locator
The interactive Checkpoint Locator is currently not available. Please consult your BMW Owner's Manual for the information you seek, or contact your preferred BMW center.
FAQ's
What can I do to keep my BMW looking like new?
In your owner's manual you will find extensive information on Vehicle Care. Also, the Vehicle Care section of our Web site offers quick access to information on how to care for your BMW. You can go directly to Interior Vehicle Care or Exterior Vehicle Care.
How can I get a new owner's manual?
Contact your local BMW center or write to us at BMW of North America, Inc., P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, NJ 07675-1227, Attn: Customer Relations.
Where can I find out more information about BMW's warranties?
You can either access an overview of the warranty information on our Web site or you can call your local BMW center to speak to someone about the warranty.
What is BMW's Roadside Assistance program?
Roadside Assistance is BMW's customer support program for roadside car necessities. The program is offered to owners with the New Vehicle Limited Warranty or the Certified Pre-Owned BMW Protection Plan. It provides the following: towing; lock-out service; on-site assistance for flat tires, jump starts and emergency fuel delivery; custom trip-routing services (maps and itineraries); and even trip interruption benefits for mechanical breakdowns covered under warranty when you are 100 or more miles from home. Roadside Assistance can be reached at 800-332-4BMW (800-332-4269) 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
