BMW Inspections and Maintenance Services
What is performed during a BMW Inspection 1 service?
In short, the BMW Inspection 1 Service is a checklist developed by the manufacturer of basic items to inspect and/or service on your BMW at a regular mileage interval. This helps to keep your BMW well-maintained and running well.
The BMW Inspection I checklist is, as you might expect, not quite as comprehensive as the Inspection II.
BMW recommends that the Inspection 1 Service be completed approximately every 20,000 miles (actual interval based on specific model and year), OR once a year.
BMW Inspection 1
Diagnose/Test
Diagnostic Readout Box
Read out diagnostic system.
Vehicle
Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission.
Inspect
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Air Bag Systems
Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn covers, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations or accessories.
Battery
Check battery state-of-charge, and charge if required.
Body and Frame
Inspect entire body according to terms of rust perforation limited warranty (must be performed at least every two years).
Brake Fluid
Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir. Add fluid if required. Replace brake fluid every 2 years (time interval begins from vehicles production date).
Brakes and Traction Control
Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads using special tool. If replacement is necessary: Examine brake disc surfaces. Clean brake pad contact points in calipers. Grease wheel centering hubs.
Clutch Hydraulic System
Check clutch system connections and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
Doors, Hood and Trunk
Check operation of all hinges and latches. Oil all hood, door, and trunk hinges. Grease all hood, door, and trunk latches.
Exhaust System
Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
Fluid – A/T
Check transmission for leaks
Fluid – Differential
Check rear axle for leaks.
Fuel Supply Line
Visually check fuel tank, lines and connections for leaks.
Fuel Tank
Visually check fuel tank, lines and connections for leaks
Heating and Air Conditioning
Check heater/air conditioner blower fan, rear window defogger. Check air conditioner for operation.
Hydraulic System, Brakes
Check brake system connections and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
Instrument Panel, Gauges and Warning Indicators
Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination. Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
Lighting and Horns
Check lighting system, i.e., headlights, fog lights, parking, back-up, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated make-up mirrors, luggage compartment lights. Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
Locks
Check central locking/double lock.
Mirrors
Check rear view mirrors.
Parking Brake System
Check parking brake actuation/free movement of parking brake cables. Adjust if necessary.
Power Steering
Check power steering system for leaks. Check P/S fluid level; add fluid necessary.
Seat Belt Systems
Check condition and function of safety belts.
Steering
Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage and joint disc.
Tires
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 requested. Note: If requested, rotate all four road wheels as instructed and rebalance.
Wiper and Washer Systems
Check wipers and washer system(S); wiper blades, washer jet positions. Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
Replace
Alarm System Transmitter
Recharge or replace batteries for remote controls in all vehicle master keys.
Cabin Air Filter
Replace microfilters. Note: Reduce replacement interval in dusty operating conditions.
Engine Oil
Change engine oil and oil filter while engine is at operating temperature. BMW recommends BMW High Performance 5W-30 Synthetic oil P/N 07 51 0 017 866.
Oil Filter, Engine
Reset
Service Reminder Indicators
Reset Service Indicator. NOTE: Do not reset Service Indicator when additional oil changes (between the normal intervals) are requested by the customer.
What is Included in BMW Inspection 2?
All of the elements of inspection 1 are repeated during inspection 2. In addition to those services, inspection 2 adds:
Inspection of your parking brake lining
Replacement of spark plugs
Replacement of air filters
Examination of flexible boots for leaks
Inspection of the car body for rust per your rust prevention warranty
How often should you schedule inspection 2?
Your service indicator lights are the best guide for when to perform scheduled maintenance on your BMW, but the general guidelines for service according your factory scheduled maintenance are as follows:
For model years 1991 and older, your first scheduled Inspection 2 should be at 30,000 miles and every subsequent 30,000 mile interval.
For years 1992-1998 and the 1999 E36 Inspection 2 should be done at 40,000 miles and every subsequent 40,000 mile interval.
For model years 1999 (except for the E36) and newer, your first Inspection 2 should be at 60,000 miles and every subsequent 60,000 mile interval.
Fill out our form to request a service.
