Service Cost Guide

BMW 4 Series Service Cost South Africa

Independent workshop price

R 2 873 – R 4 768

403 variants 2013 - 2017 petrol

R 3 864

R 2 873 R 4 768

petrol 403 variants

R 2 873 – R 4 768

automatic 237 variants

R 2 873 – R 4 768

manual 166 variants

R 2 873 – R 4 130

~34% saved

Independent R 3 864

Dealer (est.) R 5 825

You save ~R 1 961 per service

Major Service Cost Estimate

A major service for a BMW 4 Series costs approximately R 2 873 – R 4 768 at an independent workshop.

Minimum service cost R 2 873

Maximum service cost R 4 768

SA average (all makes) R 3 200

The BMW 4 Series service cost is approximately 21% above the South African average. Using an independent workshop can help reduce this cost significantly.

Looking for a BMW 4 Series engine?

Compare BMW 4 Series service costs across South Africa, ranging from R2 873 to R4 768. Understanding what a major service costs helps you budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses at the workshop.

Whether you choose an independent mechanic or a BMW dealership, keeping your 4 Series serviced on schedule protects its value and reliability. For engine components and spares, browse replacement BMW engines or find BMW parts from stripping across South Africa.

Recommended service schedule based on manufacturer guidelines. Intervals may vary by model year and variant.

MIN

15,000 km Minor Service

Oil & filter change
Visual inspection
Fluid top-up

MAJ

30,000 km Major Service

Full oil service
Air filter
Spark plugs (petrol)
Brake inspection

MIN

45,000 km Minor Service

Oil & filter change
Tire rotation
Fluid levels

MAJ

60,000 km Major Service

Full oil service
Fuel filter
Cabin filter
Brake fluid flush

MAJ

90,000 km Major Service

Full major service
Timing belt/chain check
Coolant flush
Transmission fluid

15,000 km Minor

Oil & filter change
Visual inspection
Fluid top-up

30,000 km Major

Full oil service
Air filter
Spark plugs (petrol)
Brake inspection

45,000 km Minor

Oil & filter change
Tire rotation
Fluid levels

60,000 km Major

Full oil service
Fuel filter
Cabin filter
Brake fluid flush

90,000 km Major

Full major service
Timing belt/chain check
Coolant flush
Transmission fluid

Parts Cost Breakdown

Estimated parts costs based on independent workshop pricing across all variants.

Part Category	Min Cost	Max Cost
Oil & Oil Filter	R 465	R 751
Air Filter	R 186	R 300
Cabin/Pollen Filter	R 149	R 225
Fuel Filter	R 223	R 376
Spark Plugs (Petrol)	R 279	R 563
Brake Pads (Front)	R 335	R 826
Brake Discs (Front)	R 223	R 713
Total Parts Cost	R 1 861	R 3 755

Common Parts Brands

BMW Bosch Castrol Elf FRAM GUD Filters NGK S Shell

BMW 4 Series Service Guide

What's included in a major vs minor service for your BMW 4 Series.

Major Service

Every 30,000 km / 24 months

Engine oil & oil filter change
Air filter replacement
Fuel filter replacement
Spark plugs (petrol models)
Cabin/pollen filter replacement
Brake inspection & adjustment
Fluid top-up (coolant, brake, steering)
Multi-point inspection

Minor Service

Every 15,000 km / 12 months

Engine oil & oil filter change
Visual belt & hose inspection
Fluid level checks
Tire rotation recommendation
Basic safety inspection

Service Book Stamping: Under South African consumer law, independent workshops can stamp your service book. This does not void your BMW warranty provided the correct parts and fluids are used.

Common BMW 4 Series Problems

Known issues to watch for when servicing your BMW 4 Series.

Regular Wear Items

Low Severity

Brake pads and discs wear over time and need periodic replacement. South African driving conditions, including hilly terrain and stop-start city traffic, can accelerate brake wear. Budget for brake replacement every 40,000-60,000 km.

Est. repair: R2,000 - R6,000

Battery Degradation

Low Severity

Car batteries in South Africa typically last 2-4 years due to extreme heat, which accelerates chemical degradation. Have your battery tested at each service and replace preventatively to avoid being stranded.

Est. repair: R1,200 - R3,000

Suspension Component Wear

Medium Severity

South African road conditions, including potholes, speed bumps, and gravel roads, cause faster wear on suspension bushings, shock absorbers, and ball joints. Listen for clunking noises and have the suspension inspected at each service.

Est. repair: R2,000 - R8,000

Air Conditioning Regas

Low Severity

The air conditioning system loses refrigerant over time and should be regassed every 2-3 years for optimal cooling. In SA's hot climate, a fully functional AC system is essential for comfortable driving.

Est. repair: R500 - R1,500

BMW Engine Specifications

Common engines found in the BMW 4 Series range.

Engine specification data is being updated for BMW models.

Looking for a Replacement Engine?

Get free quotes from verified BMW engine suppliers across South Africa.

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Dealership vs Independent Workshop

Compare service options for your BMW 4 Series.

	Dealership	Independent Best Value	Mobile Service
Price Range	R 4 022 - R 7 628	R 2 873 - R 4 768	R 3 160 - R 5 721
Parts Quality	OEM (Original)	OEM or Quality Aftermarket	Varies
Warranty	Official manufacturer warranty	Workshop warranty on work	Limited warranty
Service Book	Official stamp	Can stamp (legally valid)	Rarely stamps
Convenience	Drive-in, may need booking	Flexible scheduling	Comes to you
Diagnostics	Brand-specific equipment	Universal + brand tools	Basic diagnostics

Our recommendation: Independent workshops offer the best value for BMW 4 Series servicing. You get quality parts at lower prices, and South African law protects your right to service at any qualified workshop.

Other BMW Service Costs

Compare service costs across the BMW range.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BMW 4 Series service costs in South Africa.

How much does a BMW 4 Series service cost in South Africa?

A BMW 4 Series major service in South Africa costs between R2 873 and R4 768, with an average cost of approximately R3 864. Prices vary based on the specific variant, year model (2013-2017), and whether you choose an independent workshop or dealership. These prices are based on data from 403 BMW 4 Series variants available in South Africa.

What is included in a BMW 4 Series major service?

A BMW 4 Series major service typically includes engine oil and filter change, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement (diesel models), spark plug replacement (petrol models), brake fluid check and top-up, coolant level check, cabin/pollen filter replacement, transmission fluid inspection, a comprehensive multi-point vehicle inspection, and diagnostic scan. Some variants may include additional items like timing belt inspection or DSG/automatic transmission fluid change.

What is included in a BMW 4 Series minor service?

A minor service for a BMW 4 Series typically includes engine oil and oil filter change, visual inspection of belts and hoses, fluid level checks and top-ups, tyre pressure check and rotation recommendation, and a basic safety inspection. Minor services are usually done at alternating intervals between major services.

How often should I service my BMW 4 Series?

BMW recommends servicing the 4 Series every 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first. However, if you frequently drive in harsh South African conditions such as dusty roads, stop-start traffic, or extreme heat, you may benefit from shorter service intervals of around 10,000 km. Following the recommended service schedule helps maintain your warranty and protects resale value.

Is it cheaper to service a BMW 4 Series at an independent workshop?

Yes, independent workshops typically charge 30% to 50% less than BMW dealerships for a 4 Series service. On a service averaging R3 864, that translates to potential savings of R1 159 to R1 932. In South Africa, you are legally entitled to service your vehicle at any reputable workshop without voiding your warranty, provided they use approved parts and fluids as per the Consumer Protection Act.

What are the most expensive service items on a BMW 4 Series?

The most expensive service items on a BMW 4 Series typically include timing belt or chain replacement (R5,000 to R15,000), brake pad and disc replacement (R3,000 to R8,000), clutch replacement on manual models (R6,000 to R15,000), and automatic transmission or DSG fluid service (R2,000 to R5,000). These are not required at every service but should be budgeted for as the vehicle accumulates kilometres.

Does servicing my BMW 4 Series at an independent workshop void the warranty?

No. Under South Africa's Consumer Protection Act (CPA), you can service your BMW 4 Series at any qualified workshop without voiding the manufacturer warranty, as long as the correct parts and fluids are used and the work is properly documented. The dealer cannot refuse a warranty claim simply because you serviced at an independent workshop. Keep all service records and invoices as proof.

How often should I change the oil on my BMW 4 Series?

Oil changes for a BMW 4 Series should be done at every service interval, typically every 15,000 km or 12 months. Use the manufacturer-specified oil grade and quality synthetic oil to protect the engine. South African driving conditions, particularly frequent short trips, dusty roads, or heavy traffic, can degrade oil faster, so consider checking oil levels regularly between services.

Where can I find a replacement engine for my BMW 4 Series?

If your BMW 4 Series needs an engine replacement rather than a service, Engine Finder connects you with verified suppliers across South Africa. Visit our BMW engines page to get free quotes from multiple suppliers and compare prices for both new and used BMW 4 Series engines.

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