Workshop Hints

Workshop Hints

There are various maintenance elements that must be performed at specific time or mileage intervals that are not accounted for by the Service Indicator System. For the purpose of time intervals, counting begins at the vehicle production date, not model year or retail date. These additional measures are:
- Brake fluid Service
- Engine Coolant Service
- Oxygen Sensor Service
- Spark Plug Service
- Corrosion Inspection
- M-Mobility System Service (Motorsport models)

Brake Fluid Service







The brake fluid must be replaced every two years from the production date of the vehicle. Replacing the brake fluid may be done during an Inspection Service but must be invoiced separately.

Connect the DISplus or MoDiC to the vehicle and select:
- Service Functions
- Bleeding ABS/ASC hydraulics

Remove the brake fluid from the reservoir and replenish with new fluid.

Connect a "one man pressure bleeder" to the brake fluid reservoir. (operate the bleeder according to the individual manufacturers instructions).


NOTE: Pressure must not exceed 2 bar.







Flush entire brake system using at least 250 ml of brake fluid for each wheel.

Open bleed valve and flush until clear, bubble free fluid is seen.

Flush in the order:
1. Right rear
2. Left rear
3. Right front
4. Left front

Operate the hydraulic unit and pre-charge pump (DSC III) using the bleeding function in the diagnosis program.

Bleed the front and rear axles.

Engine Coolant Service












The engine coolant must be replaced every four years. Refer to instructions on draining and refilling coolant. Pay attention to engine specific instructions.

Oxygen Sensor Service
The oxygen sensors should be replaced at intervals of 100,000 miles.

Spark Plug Service
BMW engines from Model Year 1999 come equipped with Longlife Platinum Spark Plugs. The service interval of the longlife plug is 100,000 miles, except for application in the S62 and S54 engines which is an interval of 60,000 miles.

Be aware that earlier models may have been fitted with the Longlife spark plugs during a previous service, look for a label along the radiator support or shock tower indicating the 100,000 mile service interval of the new plugs.

The Spark plug tightening torque is 31 Nm.

Refer to the Spark Plug Application Chart SD-92016 for notes on installation.

Corrosion Inspection







BMW provides a six-year limited anti-corrosion warranty (see Warranty Highlights). In order to keep this warranty in effect, the vehicle must be inspected at every Inspection II service or at least every two years.

Areas requiring maintenance must be repaired. In addition the underbody must be cleaned at least once a year, with plain water in order to remove mud, road salt and other deposits (invoice separately). Maintenance consisting of repairing damages to undercoating or paint due to stone chips, scratches, etc. is at the owners expense.

Servicing the M-Mobility system (Motorsport models only)







The sealant bottle of the M-Mobility system must be replaced after the system has been used or after 3 years. Replacing the sealant every three years will ensure that the sealant has not hardened when required in an emergency.

Refer to instructions on replacing the sealant bottle.


NOTE: Replace label after servicing unit.