Volkswagen has recently announced that they will begin offering a free scheduled service program starting with their upcoming Tiguan model. The program is not limited to just their new pint-sized SUV however, and will apply to all of the 2009 models and beyond.
Sure we have seen this before from Audi, BMW and Land Rover, for example, but what is noteworthy about this development is that Volkswagen becomes the first non-luxury brand to offer service. Curiously, it is predominantly the German brands (luxury or otherwise) that have decided to go down the service-inclusive route.
Now, the VW program is slightly different in that it covers service through 3 years or 36K miles (vs. the luxury standard 4 years, 50K miles), which is the factory warranty term. More specifically, the program includes a check-up visit at 6,000 miles as well as regular service (oil changes really) at 10K, 20K, and 30K. With the upcoming VW/Chrysler Routan minivan, the service interval is every 6K miles through 36K. Whereas VW consents that service is no longer needed every 5K, apparently Chrysler isn't quite as confident in their product.
So, at the end of the day, it is a nice gesture, but when you consider that we are really only talking about some oil & filters and that many dealers (of all brands) even throw that in occasionally anyway, it loses a little luster. Having said that, VW is somewhat notorious for offering a less than pleasant experience in their service lane, so for these new owners specifically, the fact that they don't have to pay for the privilege of mediocre service is at least a step in the right direction.
Who will be the next non-luxury brand to follow?
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