We want to share the expertise of our Nalley BMW service staff as much as possible, so we've introduced this Ask A Technician column to let our wonderful employees answer your automobile questions. Today's tip comes from our own Darnell Lambert!
Q: How do I know when it's time to get my car serviced?
A: For older BMWs (everything up to '99 on 3 Series, '03 on 5 Series, or '01 on 7 Series), there are a series of five green bars displayed above the odometer for a few seconds after the car is started. The bars will go away over time based on how the car is driven. For instance, cold starts and short driving will make them go away faster than long-distance driving, so it's almost like the car adapts to the driving style. In newer models, there is simply a mileage display rounded off to the nearest hundred-mile mark shown every time the car is started. As it gets close to zero, a "SERVICE" light comes when the car is started. It doesn't stay on long, so be on the lookout for it. Older cars need service or inspection every time the light is reset, while the newer cars have Condition Based Service (CBS), so they tell you what's due next (i.e. "Cabin Filter", "Vehicle Check", "Front Brakes", "Rear Brakes", and "Brake Fluid"). To find out what is due next you have to either check the on board computer using the toggle switch in the turn indicator under SERVICE INFO, or use the iDrive system in the center of the dash under INFO SOURCES, then SERVICE INFO.
Thanks, Darnell! Follow these tips to make sure you don't wait too long for a checkup, and visit us today to schedule your next service appointment!