BMW owners are treated to a combination of luxury and engineering, but having a car like this means paying attention to its maintenance is not just advisable, it’s mandatory. Most car owners only take their vehicles to the mechanic when they develop some problems, and this often results in costly repairs and vehicle breakdowns. That is where the concept of mileage-based maintenance comes in handy.
Maintenance by estimated miles is the best practice if you want your BMW to serve you for as long as possible. Regular servicing as per the manufacturer’s schedule reduces the likelihood of large mechanical breakdowns, optimizes performance, and increases your car’s longevity. If you are wondering why it is good to go for a mileage-based maintenance and the services that your BMW may need at certain points, then you need to continue reading this guide.
Why Is Mileage-Based Maintenance Important for Your BMW?
- Avoids Expensive Repairs: A basic engine oil change costs a lot less than having to replace an engine because of a sludge problem. Scheduling services in advance helps to avoid a small problem from developing into a major one.
- Sustains High Performance: BMWs are meant to be precise and powerful vehicles. If you desire your car to accelerate, handle, and perform optimally, then you should be keen on the maintenance schedules. A car’s performance will decline as it accumulates dirty fluids, worn-out parts, and missed service intervals.
- Increases Your BMW’s Resale Value: A well maintained car will always have a higher value on the market than a poorly maintained one.
What Are the Key Mileage Intervals for BMW Maintenance?
Here are the things that you should expect at different intervals:
- At 5,000 to 10,000 Miles: Your BMW car has a sophisticated engine which demands clean and high quality oil to protect the engine and increase its performance. It is recommended to change the oil and filter after 5,000 to 10,000 miles driven to ensure that the engine is adequately lubricated and cool, and to reduce the rate of wear in some internal parts.
- 20,000 to 30,000 Miles: After your BMW has traveled between 20,000 to 30,000 miles, the brake fluid should be changed to ensure that your brake system is in good working order. The brake pads and rotors must also be checked and changed if they are worn out.
- 40,000 Miles: The transmission fluid and the coolant of your BMW should be changed at roughly 40,000 miles in order to avoid overheating of the transmission and to facilitate easy shifting. Failure to flush these fluids may result in transmission failure or even overheating of the engine.
- 50,000 Miles: Suspension and steering system components such as shocks, struts, and control arms should be checked and replaced by 50,000 miles. BMW’s handling is one of its strongest attributes, and ensuring that the suspension stays in good condition is a good way to retain that feel.
- 80,000 Miles: Spark plugs and ignition coils are very important components in your BMW as they affect the fuel consumption and the overall performance of your car. They should be replaced when they have covered approximately 80,000 miles to facilitate efficient combustion and reduce the chances of a vehicle misfiring.
- 100,000 Miles and Beyond: BMW cars should undergo a major check-up at 100,000 miles, where all the major parts such as the timing chain, fuel injectors, and the drivetrain are examined. Preventing failures in these key areas is the best way of avoiding costly breakdowns in the future.
Note: These values are just approximates. Your particular BMW model has its own specific mileage-based maintenance duration, so you can check the owner’s manual or let a certified BMW technician recommend the best time for you.
How Heynneman European Can Help
Maintenance by mileage is about preserving the value of your BMW and ensuring it stays in excellent condition. At Heynneman European, we offer BMW services to car owners in and around San Rafael, CA, including Corte, Larkspur, Kentfield, San Anselmo, Mill Valley, and Fairfax. All our mechanics are ASE certified and have adequate experience working on BMW cars to ensure that the services done meet the manufacturer’s recommendations. Whether you require an oil change, brake service, transmission fluid change, or any other car checkup, our team is ready to assist. One of the things that set us apart from the crowd is that we treat our client’s BMW as if it is our own. Visit Heynneman European to schedule your next BMW service.
