BMW Servicing and Maintenance
Servicing is a vital component of vehicle ownership. Your BMW will be grateful that you correctly service your vehicle, as will your wallet. Servicing makes your BMW safe to drive, lasts for years to come and allows all the precision-engineered parts to work together optimally.
If you’re unsure about when you should service your BMW, or whether you should check certain components between services, then this comprehensive guide is all you will need.
At Swift Motor Services we have written this guide to assist you on all BMW maintenance and servicing requirements to ensure your vehicle is continuously working as it should.
BMW suggests you undergo regular servicing and inspections. It is a benefit to you as it improves longevity, ensures your vehicle is safe and helps maintain resale value. A regularly serviced and properly maintained BMW gives potential buyers confidence that it has been treated well by its owner.
Let’s dive deeper on how to maintain your BMW properly.
Recommended BMW Service Intervals
BMW vehicles undergo services differently from other brands. Using what’s known as “condition-based servicing” the in-built computer systems use sensors to detect driving habits to work out when you next need a service or inspection. Careful monitoring of the engine oil condition, filters, brake fluid, brake pads, spark plugs and the entire engine system, all take place.
The iDrive system is the best place to work out when your BMW next needs a service. Found on most modern BMWs, you access it by delving into the menu and entering vehicle settings. From here your service information will be available, indicating how many miles until your next service is due and the estimated time frame. You can also drive normally and wait until the service indicator light and message appear on your dashboard. Usually, it appears four weeks before your service is due to allow time to book your service appointment.
BMW service guidance explains that you should not exceed two years between services. BMW also keep records of your servicing on their central databases for accurate historical records. Your vehicle handbook will also inform you if and when your BMW needs to undergo a service.
How Does My Driving Affect The Service Schedule?
Your driving has a very important role in how often your BMW needs service due to its condition-based servicing model. Driving in extreme temperatures or lots of short journeys and stop-and-go traffic may require more frequent services, in conjunction with aggressive driving behaviour and driving at high motorway speeds. This is due to more wear on components and higher revs causing components to work harder. Driving responsibly and calmly will also reduce the frequency of servicing your BMW.
The condition-based system for BMW vehicles follows your driving behaviour and determines when you need a service. Adjusting for harsher or less harsh driving conditions accordingly to ensure it is always functioning optimally and in the best way for longevity and driving comfort.
What to Look Out For Between Services In Your BMW
The onboard ECU (engine control unit) will check a host of issues and maintenance needs for your engine, electrical systems and drivetrain amongst other vehicle systems. Warning lights and dashboard messages will inform you when your BMW needs attention.
When the time arises, your next service due date will be displayed on the dashboard. It looks like a car on a ramp and could also include a “Service” message.
This does not mean that you can neglect your BMW between services, as the dashboard only contains certain warnings and information about your vehicle. Suspension knocking noises could indicate an issue with a system not picked up by the BMW computer, as it is purely a mechanical component. This will need addressing by professional mechanics.
Our team at Swift Motor Services are here to help you if you hear any unusual sounds or notice anything different about your handling, brakes or electrical system on your BMW. Contact us today and our team will be able to get your BMW back running smoothly and optimally.
To further understand what to look and listen out for, follow these steps. When your engine is running and you hear a high-pitched squeaking or whining sound then it could indicate a worn-out engine belt which needs to be replaced. This belt is responsible for the likes of air conditioning, alternator and engine timing, therefore it is vital to stick to the recommended service schedule and have yours replaced every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on your BMW model.
A general “Check Engine” light will appear for a host of engine, exhaust and other problems if there is no specific warning light. This is when it’s best to consult experts at Swift Motor Services to take a look and repair your BMW. Our dedicated expert team are on hand to assist with any check, engine light, servicing or maintenance needs thanks to our vast knowledge and expertise. We only use genuine parts recommended by BMW and each vehicle is meticulously repaired to the highest standards.
Maintaining Your BMW The Right Way
BMW has a unique reputation for being the “ultimate driving machine”. To maintain this status, you must keep a grip of your maintenance schedule and follow the recommended services from your onboard computer system and condition-based servicing. Throughout this guide, we have shown you how your BMW is serviced, what to look out for and the warnings that appear when yours is due for service or repair.
At Swift Motor Services we know how important your BMW is to you. Our team of experts are here to guide you in the right direction with advice and also perform specialist repairs and servicing to your BMW, ensuring it runs smoothly for years to come.
It’s important to know that sometimes your BMW might show signs it needs attention before it’s time for a service. Don’t ignore these signals. Whether it’s a strange noise, vibration or a warning light on the dashboard, get in touch with us at Swift Motor Services. We’re your trusted BMW specialists, ready to make sure your car keeps running smoothly.
