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BMW Service intervals & lights

89K views 64 replies 46 participants last post by  Airbuspilot15 
#1 ·
I was looking up the service light for the e36 model and found this. Hope this helps others as well.
May be a sticky ?


BMW Service Lights

Normal Condition: Up to five green lights illuminate depending on vehicle use since new or last maintenance. Reduction of illuminated green lights is a countdown for the next service due.


Oil Service Alert: All green lights are off and only the yellow light is illuminated along with the "Oil Service" sign, alerting you that oil service is necessary


Inspection Service Alert: All green lights are off and only the yellow light is illuminated along with the "Inspection" sign, alerting you that this service is necessary.


Overdue Inspection Service Alert: The red light will illuminate along with the yellow one to serve as a warning that service is overdue; and in the interest of read safety and reliability, avoid driving your BMW. Schedule an appointment immediately.




Service Intervals


Inspections to be carried out

BMW Inspection I
Undercarriage

* Change engine oil and filter while engine is at normal operation temperature.
* Check transmission for leaks.
* Check rear axle for leaks.
* Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
* Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
* Check power steering system for leaks.
* Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
* Examine brake disc surfaces.
* Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
* Grease wheel center hubs.
* Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
* Check front control arm bushing for wear.
* Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
* Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
* Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
* Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.

Engine Compartment

* Read out diagnostic system
* Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
* Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
* Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
* Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
* Check air conditioner for operation.
* Reset Service Indicator.

Body/Electrical Equipment

* Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
* Perform batter load test.
* Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
* Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
* Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
* Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
* Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
* Check condition and function of safety belts.
* Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
* Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
* Check central locking/double lock.
* Replace microfilter or Acc. Cabin Filter.
* Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
* Check rear view mirrors
* Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

Final Inspection

* Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission

BMW Inspection II
Undercarriage

* Change engine oil and filter while engine is at normal operation temperature.
* Check transmission for leaks.
* Check rear axle for leaks.
* Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
* Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
* Check power steering system for leaks.
* Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
* Examine brake disc surfaces.
* Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
* Grease wheel center hubs.
* Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
* Check front control arm bushing for wear.
* Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
* Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
* Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
* Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
* Check thickness of parking brake linings.
* Half-shafts; check for leaks at flexible boots.
* Inspect entire body according to terms of rust prevention limited warranty.

Engine Compartment

* Read out diagnostic system
* Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
* Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
* Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
* Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
* Check air conditioner for operation.
* Reset Service Indicator.
* Replace spark plugs (as applicable by year and model)
* Replace intake air cleaner element.

Body/Electrical Equipment

* Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
* Perform batter load test.
* Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
* Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
* Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
* Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
* Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
* Check condition and function of safety belts.
* Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
* Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
* Check central locking/double lock.
* Replace microfilter or Acc Cabin Filter.
* Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
* Check rear view mirrors
* Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

Final Inspection

* Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission
 
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#64 ·
I was looking up the service light for the e36 model and found this. Hope this helps others as well.
May be a sticky ?


BMW Service Lights

Normal Condition: Up to five green lights illuminate depending on vehicle use since new or last maintenance. Reduction of illuminated green lights is a countdown for the next service due.


Oil Service Alert: All green lights are off and only the yellow light is illuminated along with the "Oil Service" sign, alerting you that oil service is necessary


Inspection Service Alert: All green lights are off and only the yellow light is illuminated along with the "Inspection" sign, alerting you that this service is necessary.


Overdue Inspection Service Alert: The red light will illuminate along with the yellow one to serve as a warning that service is overdue; and in the interest of read safety and reliability, avoid driving your BMW. Schedule an appointment immediately.




Service Intervals


Inspections to be carried out

BMW Inspection I
Undercarriage

* Change engine oil and filter while engine is at normal operation temperature.
* Check transmission for leaks.
* Check rear axle for leaks.
* Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
* Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
* Check power steering system for leaks.
* Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
* Examine brake disc surfaces.
* Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
* Grease wheel center hubs.
* Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
* Check front control arm bushing for wear.
* Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
* Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
* Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
* Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.

Engine Compartment

* Read out diagnostic system
* Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
* Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
* Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
* Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
* Check air conditioner for operation.
* Reset Service Indicator.

Body/Electrical Equipment

* Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
* Perform batter load test.
* Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
* Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
* Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
* Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
* Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
* Check condition and function of safety belts.
* Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
* Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
* Check central locking/double lock.
* Replace microfilter or Acc. Cabin Filter.
* Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
* Check rear view mirrors
* Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

Final Inspection

* Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission

BMW Inspection II
Undercarriage

* Change engine oil and filter while engine is at normal operation temperature.
* Check transmission for leaks.
* Check rear axle for leaks.
* Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
* Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
* Check power steering system for leaks.
* Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
* Examine brake disc surfaces.
* Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
* Grease wheel center hubs.
* Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
* Check front control arm bushing for wear.
* Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
* Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
* Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
* Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
* Check thickness of parking brake linings.
* Half-shafts; check for leaks at flexible boots.
* Inspect entire body according to terms of rust prevention limited warranty.

Engine Compartment

* Read out diagnostic system
* Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
* Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
* Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
* Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
* Check air conditioner for operation.
* Reset Service Indicator.
* Replace spark plugs (as applicable by year and model)
* Replace intake air cleaner element.

Body/Electrical Equipment

* Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
* Perform batter load test.
* Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
* Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
* Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
* Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
* Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
* Check condition and function of safety belts.
* Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
* Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
* Check central locking/double lock.
* Replace microfilter or Acc Cabin Filter.
* Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
* Check rear view mirrors
* Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

Final Inspection

* Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission
I was looking up the service light for the e36 model and found this. Hope this helps others as well.
May be a sticky ?


BMW Service Lights

Normal Condition: Up to five green lights illuminate depending on vehicle use since new or last maintenance. Reduction of illuminated green lights is a countdown for the next service due.


Oil Service Alert: All green lights are off and only the yellow light is illuminated along with the "Oil Service" sign, alerting you that oil service is necessary


Inspection Service Alert: All green lights are off and only the yellow light is illuminated along with the "Inspection" sign, alerting you that this service is necessary.


Overdue Inspection Service Alert: The red light will illuminate along with the yellow one to serve as a warning that service is overdue; and in the interest of read safety and reliability, avoid driving your BMW. Schedule an appointment immediately.




Service Intervals


Inspections to be carried out

BMW Inspection I
Undercarriage

* Change engine oil and filter while engine is at normal operation temperature.
* Check transmission for leaks.
* Check rear axle for leaks.
* Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
* Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
* Check power steering system for leaks.
* Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
* Examine brake disc surfaces.
* Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
* Grease wheel center hubs.
* Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
* Check front control arm bushing for wear.
* Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
* Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
* Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
* Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.

Engine Compartment

* Read out diagnostic system
* Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
* Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
* Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
* Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
* Check air conditioner for operation.
* Reset Service Indicator.

Body/Electrical Equipment

* Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
* Perform batter load test.
* Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
* Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
* Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
* Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
* Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
* Check condition and function of safety belts.
* Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
* Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
* Check central locking/double lock.
* Replace microfilter or Acc. Cabin Filter.
* Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
* Check rear view mirrors
* Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

Final Inspection

* Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission

BMW Inspection II
Undercarriage

* Change engine oil and filter while engine is at normal operation temperature.
* Check transmission for leaks.
* Check rear axle for leaks.
* Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
* Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
* Check power steering system for leaks.
* Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
* Examine brake disc surfaces.
* Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
* Grease wheel center hubs.
* Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
* Check front control arm bushing for wear.
* Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
* Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
* Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
* Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
* Check thickness of parking brake linings.
* Half-shafts; check for leaks at flexible boots.
* Inspect entire body according to terms of rust prevention limited warranty.

Engine Compartment

* Read out diagnostic system
* Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
* Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
* Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
* Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
* Check air conditioner for operation.
* Reset Service Indicator.
* Replace spark plugs (as applicable by year and model)
* Replace intake air cleaner element.

Body/Electrical Equipment

* Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
* Perform batter load test.
* Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
* Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
* Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
* Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
* Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
* Check condition and function of safety belts.
* Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
* Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
* Check central locking/double lock.
* Replace microfilter or Acc Cabin Filter.
* Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
* Check rear view mirrors
* Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.

Final Inspection

* Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission
Hi illusion786
:unsure:
I have a 2018 BMW 320i XDrive tourer which is coming up to 2 years old in May 2020. The current mileage is 12000 and I have no lights up on the service requirements. I had the oil changed last year by my private mechanic using the correct 'BMW recommended' oil. Your information looks excellent as I have been unable to find any BMW information on either the intervals or the actual maintenance schedules. Can you advise me what intervals I should consider as I only do 8-10000 mile per year but would like to maintain the vehicle in the best passible condition obviously without wasting money. Your information was given some time ago has it been updated since or is it still valid.
Finally I am not particularly happy with BMW and their lack of attention to service so I am a little reluctant to use them for the service but if I use my private mechanic do I loose my Warranty along with the benefits of the road side, breakdown and accident assistance much of which is extended by 2 years every time the oil is changed by an authorised BMW service partner up to 5 years?
 
#65 ·
Similar question to above, I've recently got a 118i on 11,000 miles. Digital service history says it only had the pre-delivery check when it was produced. The car is telling me to get a 'vehicle check' (which I'm presuming is their term for service) in June 2023 or 22,000 miles. First of all does that mean 22,000 miles from the current mileage or when the car reaches 22,000 miles? Because my oil mileage number seems to be decreasing as if its a countdown. Secondly, doesn't this seem like quite a large gap between services? Or will the car dynamically assess its condition and alert me much sooner that I need a service etc? Thanks to anyone who can clear this up.
 
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