Autocar iconAutocarAug 30, 2026 ~1 min source read

From XM to E46: BMW dealers are re-training to keep classics alive

However, over time workshop staff move on or retire and technology is always advancing – meaning that, bit by bit, experience with old mechanicals, electrical systems, paint finishes and body construction is slowly being lost. The BMW Classic partners programme aims to recover and reapply this knowledge.

From XM to E46: BMW dealers are re-training to keep classics alive

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However, over time workshop staff move on or retire and technology is always advancing – meaning that, bit by bit, experience with old mechanicals, electrical systems, paint finishes and body construction...

You might think all BMW dealers that have held the franchise long enough must have experience with these and many of the other classic models covered by the programme (if not all of them, since it covers...

The BMW Classic partners programme aims to recover and reapply this knowledge.

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The useful part

However, over time workshop staff move on or retire and technology is always advancing – meaning that, bit by bit, experience with old mechanicals, electrical systems, paint finishes and body construction is slowly being lost. The BMW Classic partners programme aims to recover and reapply this knowledge. To be accepted as a partner, a dealer must show specialist expertise in classic BMW vehicles, including heritage knowledge, have access to original BMW Classic parts and exercise factory-approved standards of care.

How it works

  • BMW says the four UK dealerships it has chosen – Halliwell Jones Wilmslow, Sytner Stevenage, Group 1 Hailsham and Dick Lovett Bristol – will e...

Details worth keeping

You might think all BMW dealers that have held the franchise long enough must have experience with these and many of the other classic models covered by the programme (if not all of them, since it covers cars built as far back as 1960).

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