Although there are some maintenance procedures best left in the hands of a capable professional, there are still some BMW maintenance tips that you can follow on your own. In this article, we will discuss some of the most important details to remember to ensure your BMW is running smoothly for a long time.
Replacement Parts Specifically for BMW
When your BMW needs replacement parts, it’s not a great idea to modify anything that the manufacturer has specifically built for performance purposes. Some of the components at risk of failure include coolant systems, oil filters, and brake cylinders. Each of these have specific variants that are tailor-made for the internal composition of a BMW.
When you turn to a reputable BMW service center, you will be attended by a technician who can source components that match the original equivalent (OE) of the parts they are taking out otherwise, they are just like quack doctors who are putting incompatible organs into the body of their patient. For a while, you might find that things are running smoothly, however, faults might start to occur in the BMW’s circuitry.
Parts that Need Regular Maintenance
To avoid expensive and unexpected repair services further down the road, it’s best to bring your vehicle to a BMW authorized service center regularly, as doing so will ensure your BMW receives the service it requires to keep it problem-free and safe to drive.
Engine
Keep in mind that the engine is what keeps your BMW running, so it’s worth noting that even small engine issues can cause a major inconvenience. Every few times a year, have your BMW engine checked by professionals, so you can avoid risks and keep your BMW working at its optimum level. While you’re at it, you should also ask the technician to inspect the transmission, as you wouldn’t want to find yourself stranded under the sweltering sun during summer.
Brakes
We highly recommend flushing your brake system once every two years, since your BMW has hygroscopic brake fluid that absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. As time passes, the brake fluid becomes dangerously contaminated by the absorption, causing failures in the brake system. You should also ask your mechanic to inspect the brake pads, as when they are dirty, they can cause squeaking noises and other annoying issues.
Transmission
Your dealer might convince you that your transmission fluid can last you a lifetime, but the reality is that this is probably only said to make more money selling new transmissions, with the gears failing at around 70,000 to 90,000 miles; what we recommend is that every 50,000 miles, you flush the transmission. Keep in mind that it’s more cost-effective to regularly have your transmission filter and fluid serviced than to pay for a costly transmission replacement.
Tyres
The smallest issue on your tyres can become a big problem fast. Studies have shown that under-inflated tyres are more likely to cause an accident on the road, and that’s why you should always make sure that your tyres are properly inflated. Once a week or at least a month, have a routine check-up for your tyre pressure, as there may be times when you don’t notice something puncturing your tyres and only discover it when you’re physically checking them.
It’s advisable to rotate your tires regularly, as doing so will prevent uneven wear. It is worth mentioning that the outer edges of your front tyres tend to wear faster, and since the rear wheels are only following the front wheels, they tend to wear evenly. Without rotating your tyres, you could be forced to replace your front tyres thousands of miles earlier than you should. Every 3,000 to 6,000 miles, remember to bring your vehicle to a BMW auto repair shop for a tyre rotation.
Cooling System
This component is essential in keeping the temperature of the engine at its optimal operating level. Engine coolant possesses lubricant properties that keep the thermostat, water parts, and other parts from seizing, which is why you need to flush the system every three years to keep your BMW from overheating and ensure optimum performance.
Steering System
The quality of your steering system determines how you can control the car- it goes without saying that it plays a vital role in keeping you safe on the road. To keep it in good condition, you should flush the steering fluid every 50,000 miles, as, over time, the power steering fluid gets contaminated which causes leaks and other issues.
Oil
Here at German Auto Meisters, we recommend preventing such unwanted incidents by having your oil changed every 5,000 miles. It may seem like our recommended timeframe is too short, however, the harsh Australian heat requires you to change the oil more frequently.
