BMW Warranty Explained: Coverage, Duration, & Claim Process

Purchasing a BMW car entails investing in a luxurious brand renowned for its performance and innovative engineering. To ensure peace of mind, BMW offers a wide range of warranty programmes that protect your car against unexpected repair costs and provide assistance to maintain its long-term value.

BMW’s standard warranty in India covers your new car for 24 months (2 years) from the date of first registration or invoice, with no limit on mileage. During this period, authorised BMW dealers will repair or replace any component they find defective in material or workmanship, without incurring a fee.

In this guide, we will discuss the BMW car warranty in India, including the warranty period, extended warranty options, service plans, and the process for filing a warranty claim. 

Overview of BMW Car Warranty

The regular new car warranty provided by BMW in India covers almost every significant part against any manufacturing defects for two years, with no mileage restrictions. This excludes standard wear parts but includes the engine, electronics and transmission systems. Additional coverages include a 3-year paint warranty and a 12-year rust perforation warranty on the body structure.

To retain the warranty, the owners are required to abide by the maintenance schedule as provided in the Owner’s Manual and service their vehicles at authorised BMW centres. In the case of electric models, BMW offers an 8-year/160,000km warranty on high-voltage battery cells, ensuring long-term protection for EV owners.

In addition to the factory warranty, BMW offers extended Repair Inclusive warranty plans that can last up to 6 years and Service Inclusive warranty plans that can last up to 10 years or 2,000,000 km. These combined plans provide extensive flexibility and coverage to BMW owners.

BMW Car Warranty Coverage Details

The standard BMW car warranty in India provides protection against material or workmanship faults for most mechanical and electrical parts. Through this warranty, the authorised dealers will be liable to repair or replace any part that does not meet the strict quality standards set by BMW.

Key categories covered by the BMW warranty include:

• Engine & Drivetrain: Every key part of the internal engine (block, pistons, cylinder heads, fuel injection, lubrication and cooling systems) is taken care of. It also consists of drive train parts such as the transmission, clutches, differentials and driveshafts. The warranty period is covered under a free-of-charge repair of any defects in terms of failure.
• Steering & Suspension: Essential components, such as the steering rack/column, power steering pump, and suspension elements (shock absorbers, struts, springs, and control arms), are covered under warranty. These parts ensure the vehicle’s handling and ride comfort remain reliable.
• Braking System: While brake pads and discs (wear items) are excluded, the hydraulic braking system components, such as the master cylinder, ABS modulator, brake boosters, and brake callipers, are covered if they fail due to defects.
• Electrical System & Electronics: Critical electrical parts are included. This covers the vehicle’s computer modules (ECUs), sensors, wiring harnesses, alternator, starter motor, and other electronics. Modern BMWs feature complex electronics, and the warranty covers failures in these systems, provided they are not caused by misuse.
• Fuel & Exhaust Systems: Parts such as the fuel pump, fuel injectors, catalytic converter, and exhaust manifold are covered under warranty if they fail due to a defect.
• Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC): The air conditioning compressor, condenser, blower motor, and associated A/C components are covered for defects. The engine cooling system (radiator, water pump, and thermostats) is also included.
• Body & Chassis (Rust): The body structure is covered by a separate 12-year rust perforation warranty (as mentioned above). However, cosmetic body panels and paint are only covered for corrosion causes, not dents or scratches.
• Other Systems: Other included systems are the immobiliser and keyless entry components (if factory-installed), as well as any original parts or accessories used in repairs or replacements during the warranty period.

Components Covered under the BMW Car Warranty

The BMW warranty coverage shields owners from costly repairs on the car’s critical components. Here are the main parts covered:

• Engine Components: This includes the engine block, pistons, cylinders, timing components (chains, belts, gears), the fuel injection system, and parts of the lubrication and cooling systems. BMW covers any defects that cause engine failure.
• Transmission and Drivetrain: Both manual and automatic transmissions (gearboxes), transfer cases (in AWD/4WD), driveshafts, differentials, and associated parts are included. Any fault in shifting or power delivery due to defects will be repaired under warranty.
• Steering and Suspension: Major components, including the steering rack and column, power steering pump, tie rods, ball joints, shock absorbers, springs, and suspension linkages, are covered. BMW aims to ensure safe handling, so faulty components in these systems are promptly addressed and rectified.
• Braking System: Key brake components (hydraulics, ABS modules, brake boosters) are included. (Brake pads and discs are not covered as they wear out with use.)
• Electrical and Electronic Systems: Core electrical components, including the alternator, starter motor, battery (beyond the standard electrical warranty), ignition coils, engine control unit (ECU), sensors, and wiring harnesses, are covered. Faulty electronics or wiring issues from manufacturing defects are repaired.
• Climate Control & Cooling: The A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, and related ducts are covered for defects. Similarly, engine cooling parts (radiator, water pump, fan, thermostat) are included.
• Fuel & Emission Control: Fuel system parts (fuel tank, pump, injectors) and emission-related components (catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, EGR valve) are covered against defects.
• High-Voltage Battery (EVs): For electric models like the BMW iX or i4, the high-voltage battery cells have an 8-year/1,60,000 km warranty. This long-term battery coverage protects against battery failures due to defects.
• Miscellaneous Mechanical Parts: This includes items such as the turbocharger (if factory-equipped), intercooler, timing chain cover, drive belts, and other related components. Any mechanical part that fails prematurely due to a defect is covered under this warranty.

Components Not Covered under the BMW Car Warranty

While BMW’s warranty is broad, there are standard exclusions. Certain parts and situations are not covered:

• Wear-and-Tear Items: Any part that naturally wears out during regular use is excluded from coverage. For example, brake pads and discs, clutch plates, tyres, wiper blades, bulbs, filters (air, oil, fuel), and other consumables wear out over time and are not covered. BMW’s warranty explicitly excludes standard wear parts, as they are required to be replaced periodically through scheduled maintenance.
• Cosmetic Damage: Dents, scratches, chipped paint, fading, or interior upholstery wear are not covered under warranty, as they do not affect drivability. BMW’s warranty covers the paint for corrosion (3 years) but not for dents or scratches from impacts.
• Routine Maintenance: Services such as oil changes, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacements, and wheel alignments are the owner’s responsibility. BMW requires that you perform all scheduled maintenance at the intervals specified in the service booklet; however, these services themselves are not covered by warranty.
• Accident or External Damage: Any damage resulting from accidents, collisions, fire, theft, vandalism, storms, floods, or other environmental hazards is not covered. If a part fails due to an accident, the repair must be paid for by the owner or their insurance, not under warranty.
• Negligence, Improper Use, or Modifications: The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, neglect, or modifications. Examples include engine damage from skipped oil changes, turbocharger issues resulting from tuning, or battery failure due to prolonged idleness. Non-approved modifications that cause damage can void coverage on affected parts. BMW also states that improper use may void the warranty.
• Unauthorised Repairs: Repairs by non-authorised workshops can invalidate the warranty. BMW requires service by authorised dealers with genuine parts. If a repair claim is denied, it could be due to previous unauthorised work.
• Optional Accessories: Unless supplied and fitted by BMW, aftermarket add-ons (e.g., non-OEM infotainment systems, performance parts, retrofit lights) are not covered.

BMW Extended Warranty and Service Plans

In addition to the standard 2-year warranty, BMW offers extended protection options for owners who require coverage for a longer period. These are generally provided through BMW Financial Services (BMW FS) and may involve a partnership with an insurer. There are two main categories:

• Extended Warranty (Repair Inclusive): BMW’s “Repair Inclusive” plan extends warranty coverage beyond the standard 2 years, up to 6 years from registration, with no mileage limit. Qualifying defects in covered parts are repaired at no cost, provided the plan is purchased during the original warranty period or an active extension. This ensures continuous protection and helps avoid expensive post-warranty repairs.
• Service Inclusive (Maintenance Plans): BMW also offers prepaid Service Inclusive plans, separate from the warranty, which cover scheduled maintenance and selected wear items. These plans range from 3 years/40,000 km to 10 years/200,000 km, with higher tiers including items like brake pads and wipers. All work is prepaid, uses genuine parts, and is done by certified BMW technicians.

Here’s the information organised into a clear table format:

BMW Car Warranty Claim Process

Filing a claim on your BMW car warranty in India is straightforward if you follow the right steps. Both the standard and extended warranties have terms and conditions, so the key is to document the problem carefully and use authorised channels. Here’s a step-by-step guide: 

Step 1: Review Your Warranty Documents

First, review your warranty or service booklet to know what’s covered, excluded, and the duration/mileage limits. Ensure all required maintenance has been completed according to the BMW schedule, as improper upkeep can void coverage. Also, confirm that any extended warranty you purchased is still active.

Step 2: Document the Problem

Record the date and mileage at which you first noticed the problem. Note exactly what’s happening (symptoms, conditions when it occurs, etc.). If possible, take photos or videos of any visible issues or warning lamps. Gather any previous service records or invoices related to that part. Good documentation of the malfunction and your maintenance history will support your claim. 

Step 3: Contact an Authorised BMW Service Centre

Be prepared with your vehicle’s VIN, warranty booklet, and a description of the issue. BMW requires servicing at authorised centres to maintain the warranty’s validity. Explain the problem, share any documents, and mention the applicable warranty plan. The service centre will then verify your coverage in their system.

Step 4: Schedule an Inspection and Repair

The dealer will inspect the vehicle to confirm the issue, and the technician may conduct a test drive or further examination. For intermittent issues, describe the conditions clearly and precisely. You may be asked to leave the car overnight for diagnosis. Ensure they have copies of your service history and warranty documents. Once confirmed as a covered defect, repairs will be done using genuine BMW parts.

Step 5: Follow Up on the Claim

After the inspection, the service centre will coordinate with BMW to approve the repair under warranty. This is typically handled internally by the dealer. Ask the service advisor for an estimated timeline for approval. You may need to check back if approval is delayed. BMW’s policy is that covered repairs should be completed promptly; however, paperwork can take a few days. 

Once approved, you will generally pay nothing for the covered repair. If the claim is somehow denied, you have the right to ask for an explanation in writing. You can then appeal the decision if you believe the issue should have been covered. Having your documentation in order will help if you need to appeal a rejection. 

Summary

Owning a BMW combines premium performance with peace of mind through a strong warranty programme. In India, the standard warranty covers nearly the entire vehicle for 24 months with unlimited kilometres, plus 3-year paint and 12-year rust protection.

For long-term drivers, BMW offers extended “Repair Inclusive” coverage up to 6 years and “Service Inclusive” maintenance plans up to 10 years. These options help manage costs and preserve resale value, provided servicing is done at authorised centres.

Overall, BMW’s warranty programmes, from factory coverage to extended plans, ensure confidence and protection. With timely service and proper care, owners can enjoy their driving experience, knowing that both reliability and expenses are well-managed.

FAQs about BMW Car Warranty