New Audi owners have something to smile about
Audi of America has just released the updates for almost its entire 2026 lineup, and with it comes the launch of Audi Signature Care. This product now exists alongside the brand’s new-vehicle limited warranty and roadside assistance package, providing Audi drivers with more value while also adding peace of mind for maintenance in the first few years of ownership. As the prices of cars continue to rise, let’s take a closer look at how Audi’s new coverage compares with its key rivals.
Audi Signature Care Standard On All Models
Signature Care covers scheduled services and maintenance items for the first three years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. These visits are honored at one year/10,000 miles, two years/20,000 miles, or three years/30,000 miles.
“Audi Signature Care applies to both purchased and leased model-year 2026 models, and all service is completed by Audi-trained technicians at authorized dealers using factory procedures, specialized tools, and Audi Genuine Parts – helping to ensure an owner’s Audi continues to perform at its best,” said the company in a statement.
The cover includes one brake fluid service, too. This new product adds to Audi’s existing coverage for new cars:
- Four-year/50,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty
- 12-year corrosion perforation warranty
- Four years of roadside assistance
The coverage timeframes for Signature Care can be easily extended via an owner’s myAudi online account.
Audi’s Warranty Vs. BMW And Mercedes
BMW X5 BMW
All three German brands offer the same limited and powertrain warranty coverage of four years or 50,000 miles, so there’s nothing to separate them there. However, BMW has had the edge over its rivals for several years now, as it has been the only one of the three to provide complimentary scheduled maintenance.
BMW’s maintenance package still edges Audi’s new Signature Care, as it runs for three years or 36,000 miles—the mileage limit is 6,000 miles greater than for Audi’s equivalent. Like Audi, BMW provides roadside assistance for four years.
Mercedes-Benz is now the only one of the three not to offer complimentary scheduled maintenance. Only its EVs get free services for two years, but these services are not nearly as extensive as what a gas-powered car would require. Roadside assistance is included, though.
Related: 6 Car Maintenance Myths That Are Costing You Money
The lack of free maintenance from Mercedes is even more glaring when you consider that it’s typically the most expensive of the three brands. For example, a 2026 Audi Q8 starts at $75,600 and a 2026 BMW X6 costs at least $76,400. The Mercedes equivalent, the base GLE Coupe, starts at $77,250.
Audi says its new maintenance plan forms part of its “most comprehensive product launch cadence in its history,” with new models like an A6 sedan on the way soon. Hopefully, a fresh lineup will reverse Audi’s fortunes, as the brand has seen profits tumble this year.
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