Free or no-cost maintenance is an enticing promise — and a major selling point for many automakers these days. It is intended to provide peace of mind for new car buyers by shaving off the hidden cost of regularly scheduled dealer maintenance.

However, the programs vary considerably from carmaker to carmaker, and the fine print of each is packed with caveats and exclusions. With few exceptions, such as a free oil change or two for a new Scion, no-cost maintenance is offered only on higher-end vehicles. So who's actually benefiting from the pledge of no-cost maintenance, and why do some carmakers offer extensive, multiyear no-cost programs, while others won't even spring for a tire rotation? [Details]