2004 BMW 3 SERIES service indicator

BMW Maintenance Programs -
2004 Models
Maintenance Programs are a benefit designed
to help reduce the cost of scheduled and
unscheduled maintenance.
2004 3 Series vehicles purchased from any
Authorized BMW center in the United States or
Puerto Rico are covered by Full Maintenance
for 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever
occurs first. Coverage begins on the date of
first retail sale or the date the vehicle is first
placed in service as a demonstrator or
company vehicle, whichever is earlier.
Any authorized BMW center in the United
States or Puerto Rico will perform the sched-
uled or additional maintenance services on
your vehicle at no expense to you. The
maintenance schedule intervals are based on
normal driving conditions and operation.
Should you request more frequent mainte-
nance service, the cost of these services
will not be covered by the Maintenance
Program.
Coverage
Full Maintenance covers all factory recom-
mended maintenance, as determined by the
service interval indicator. Additional items that
need replacement due to normal wear and
tear, and that are not covered by the original
New Vehicle Limited Warranty - such as brake
pads, brake rotors, and wiper blade inserts -
are included, provided wear and tear
exceeds BMW specifications. Any adjust-
ments required due to normal operating
conditions are also included. See pages 5-8
of this statement for additional information.
Maintenance Intervals
Time intervals should be followed using the
maintenance interval as indicated by the BMW
Service Indicator lights on the check control
panel in the dashboard.This BMW Service and Warranty Information
Statement should be presented to your BMW
center when maintenance is required. Your
BMW center will stamp this book documenting
the services or maintenance performed.
Exclusions from coverage
– Items reimbursable under your New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
– Gasoline and gasoline additive.
– Windshield washer additive (except when
in conjunction with scheduled
maintenance).
– Tires, wheel alignment, tire balance and
rotation.
– Wear and tear of soft trim items, such as:
seats, carpets, moldings, headliner, door
panels and all chrome trim.
– Damage detected when performing the rust
perforation inspection.
– Damage which results from negligence,
improper operation of the vehicle, wear and
tear or deterioration due to driving habits or
conditions, improper repair, environmental
influences, flood, accident or fire damage,
road salt corrosion, alteration, installation of
non-BMW accessories, or use of improper,
poor quality or contaminated fuel.
– Altered or unreadable Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) or odometer irregularities or
vehicles where the true mileage cannot be
determined.
– Maintenance or repair after the vehicle is
deemed a total loss.
– Maintenance or repairs performed by other
than an Authorized BMW center within the
United States or Puerto Rico.
– Vehicles used in competitive events.
– Oil changes performed outside the
recommended maintenance intervals as
indicated by the Service Interval Indicator.
1

Maintenance System
The BMW Maintenance System has been
devised with the following objectives: to
maximize vehicle safety, reliability, and resale
value by minimizing breakdowns resulting from
wear, and minimizing cost and inconvenience
by computing maintenance intervals based
upon the specific manner in which each
individual vehicle is driven.
Maintenance intervals on motor vehicles have
conventionally been specified based upon
accumulated mileage. However, the type of
driving conditions has a major influence on
routine maintenance requirements; distance
traveled is only one of the significant factors.
A vehicle driven for 50,000 miles of short trips
in the city with numerous cold starts, pro-
longed periods of idling, stop-and-go driving,
and high engine speeds during acceleration
requires more frequent maintenance
intervals than a vehicle driven for 50,000
miles for long distances at low engine
speeds primarily at operating temperature.
The advanced technologies at BMW have led
to the development of the unique BMW service
interval indicator which computes the actual
optimum maintenance requirements based
not only upon the accumulated mileage, but
taking into account important factors such as
engine coolant temperatures, high or low
engine speeds, short or long trip driving, and
number of vehicle starts. The maintenance
interval may therefore be maximized with
considerable savings to owners of vehicles
subjected to light duty.
The service interval indicator consists of a
mileage reading, and the inscriptions “OIL
SERVICE” and “INSPECTION”.
Whenever the ignition is switched on, the
display shows the next scheduled type of
service and the remaining distance until the
service should be performed. The distance is
based on your driving style.If the maintenance interval has been ex-
ceeded, a “—” symbol reminds you of the
urgent need for servicing. In the interests of
road safety and reliability, you should avoid
driving your BMW when the “—” symbol is
showing, and have the essential maintenance
work performed without delay.
After each maintenance is performed the service
indicator is reset in order to compute the next
service interval.
If the service interval indicator displays an
illogical reading, or if there is no display, consult
a BMW center.
If the speedometer, tachometer or coolant
temperature gauge should develop a fault, the
service interval indicator will probably cease to
operate correctly as well, since it depends on
correct speed, distance and temperature
readings. The fault must be located and rectified
by a BMW center.
A detailed list of all maintenance operations
included in each of the elements of the BMW
Maintenance System is found on pages 5-8.
These elements are as follows:
Quality Certification I will be performed by your
selling center and certified on page 4.
2

3 The performance of certain subsequent
maintenance elements, as required by the
BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty, will be
specified at intervals computed by the BMW
service interval indicator as follows:
– Oil Service: Engine oil changed with the
engine at operating temperature. Note:
change oil at least once a year. Your BMW is
factory-equipped with a newly-developed
synthetic engine oil. At the time of the
printing of this booklet BMW High-Perfor-
mance Synthetic 5W-30 Oil (Part Number
07 51 0 017 866) and Mobil 1 5W-30 and
5W-40 oils are strongly recommended and
approved by BMW for the 325ci and 330ci
models. BMW is evaluating various
synthetic oils for inclusion in our list of
recommended motor oils.
For the most current list of synthetic oils,
please contact your BMW center, or call
BMW of North America at 1-800-831-1117.
You can also obtain this information from
our website, www.bmwusa.com/.
It is recommended to check engine oil level
whenever fuel is added to the vehicle.
If you need to add oil between oil changes
and are unable to obtain BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil, Mobil 1 or
another special oil on the list, use a
synthetic oil with an API rating of SJ or
higher.
– Inspection I: Major vehicle maintenance
as specified in the following pages under
Inspection I.
– Inspection II: Additional major vehicle
maintenance as specified in the following
pages under Inspection II.
The following maintenance elements must
be performed at the mileage/time stated
(time intervals begin from the vehicle’s
production date):
– Brake Fluid Service: Change brake fluid
every two years.– Oxygen Sensor Service: The oxygen sensor
deteriorates strictly on a mileage basis and
must therefore be replaced every 120,000
miles to maximize vehicle fuel economy
and minimize exhaust pollution. The
replacement of the oxygen sensor is
required under the terms of the appli-
cable BMW emission system warranties.
– Spark Plug Service: Replace spark plugs
every 100,000 miles. Your BMW is
equipped with platinum-tipped spark plugs.
These allow a longer service life than
conventional spark plugs.
– Automatic Transmission Service: Change
ATF every 100,000 miles.
The engine coolant has a lifetime rating and
does not need to be changed.
For your convenience, you may also wish to
have your BMW center perform any necessary
operations to fulfill any state inspection
requirements in your area concurrent with the
maintenance elements specified above during
other repairs.
Make sure that confirmation of maintenance
work is always entered in this Service and
Warranty Information Statement. You may need
this for any warranty claims that become
necessary, and later on as evidence that your
car has been given the correct and regular
maintenance that justifies its resale or trade-in
value.
BMW has applied the most modern techno-
logical advances not only to the design and
production of your vehicle, but also to comput-
ing of the optimum maintenance interval for
your type of operations and driving style. Your
BMW center has made a substantial invest-
ment in unique BMW special service tools to
enable his BMW factory trained service
technicians to perform quality repairs on your
BMW in minimal time. He/she looks forward to
serving your every service need and to help
maximize your satisfaction with your BMW, its
longevity, and resale value.

53 Con-
Series vertible
Change oil and oil filter while engine is at normal operating temperature.  
We recommend BMW 5W-30 High Performance Synthetic Oil,
p/n 07 51 0 017 866.
Reset service interval indicator.  
Replace microfilter.  
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. Check thickness
of parking brake linings only when replacing rear pads.
Check parking brake actuation. Adjust if necessary.  
Engine Oil Service
Engine Compartment
Lubricate convertible top sliding linkage covers. 
Body

63 Con-
Series vertible
Change oil and oil filter while engine is at normal operating temperature.  
We recommend BMW 5W-30 High Performance Synthetic Oil,
p/n 07 51 0 017 866.
Check transmission for leaks.  
Check rear axle for leaks.  
Half-shafts: Check for leaks at flexible boots.  
Visually check fuel tank, lines and connections for leaks.  
Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system.  
Examine for leaks.
Check power steering system for leaks. Check power steering fluid level;  
add fluid if necessary.
Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods,  
front axle joints, steering linkage and joint disc.
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. Check thickness
of parking brake linings only when replacing rear brake pads.
Check brake system connections and lines for leaks, damage  
and incorrect positioning.
Check parking brake actuation. Adjust if necessary.  
Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.  
Check condition of tires (outer surface [left/right]), tread wear and pattern;
in case of uneven tread wear, readjust wheel alignment if requested
(invoice separately).
Inspect entire body according to terms of rust performation limited warranty.  
(Must be performed at least every two years).
Engine Compartment
Read out diagnostic system.  
Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.  
Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level. Add coolant if required.
Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection.  
Fill up and/or correct if required.
Check air conditioner for operation.  
Replace microfilter. (Note: reduce replacement interval in dusty  
operating conditions.)
Reset service interval indicator.
Inspection I
Only those items of inspection work which apply to your vehicle will be performed. This list is
subject to amendment.
Undercarriage

The maintenance schedule as shown
is required for the proper functioning
of the emission control systems for
optimum vehicle performance and fuel
economy.
Abbreviations:
I - Inspect
R - Replace part(s) and/or fluid listed
Basic Engine
Engine oil....................................................
Engine oil filter..........................................
Fuel System
Air filter.......................................................
Ignition System
Spark plugs...............................................
Emission Control Components
Oxygen sensor..........................................
Emission Control Maintenance Schedule 3 Series
Oxygen Sensor Service: The oxygen sensor deteriorates strictly on a mileage basis and must
therefore be replaced to maximize vehicle fuel economy and minimize exhaust pollution.
The mileage interval varies according to individual driving conditions and is determined by the
service interval indicator.
13
Oil Service
Inspection I
Oil Service
Inspection II
RRR R
RRR R
R
Replace at intervals of
100,000 miles
Replace at intervals of
120,000 miles3 Series

This warranty applies only to U.S. specifica-
tion vehicles distributed by BMW of North
America (BMW NA) or sold through the BMW
NA European Delivery Program.
In accordance with the defect warranty
provisions of section 207(b) of the Clean Air
Act, BMW NA warrants to the first retail
purchaser, and each subsequent purchaser,
that the car (a) was designed, built and
equipped so as to conform, at the time of
sale, with all regulations of the U.S. Environ-
mental Protection Agency applicable at the
time of manufacture and (b) is free from
defects in materials and workmanship which
would cause it to fail to conform with
applicable regulations for a period of 2 years
or 24,000 miles, whichever occurs first,
except for specific emission control compo-
nents (as listed on page 36), for which the
warranty period is 8 years or 80,000 miles,
whichever occurs first.
This warranty begins on the date of first retail
sale, or the date the vehicle is first placed in
service as a demonstrator or company vehicle,
whichever is earlier.
Warranty claims must be made as soon as
reasonably possible after a defect is
discovered. To make a claim, the car must
be brought to any authorized BMW center
during normal business hours.
The BMW center will, without charge for parts
or labor (including diagnosis), either repair or
replace the defective part, if any. The decision
whether to repair or replace said parts is solely
the prerogative of BMW NA and must be
expected to correct the failure of the warranted
part. Parts for which replacements are made
become the property of BMW NA. In all cases,
a reasonable time must be allowed for
warranty repairs to be completed after the car
is received by the BMW center.For assistance in determining which specific
parts or components of your vehicle are
covered under this warranty, please contact
your BMW center.
It is the owner’s responsibility to have all
scheduled inspection and maintenance
services performed (at the owner’s ex-
pense), as prescribed in the maintenance
schedule for the BMW Emission Control
System. Service intervals are computed by
the onboard BMW service interval indicator
and displayed on the instrument panel. The
instructions for proper maintenance and use
can be found in the Owner’s Manual. It is
strongly recommended that any replacement
parts used for maintenance, repair or
replacement of emission control systems be
certified BMW Service Parts or BMW
Authorized Remanufactured Parts. Without
invalidating this warranty, the owner may
elect to have maintenance, repair or
replacement of the emission control systems
performed by any automotive repair estab-
lishment, or elect to use parts other than
certified BMW Service Parts. However, the
cost of such service or parts will not be
covered under this warranty, except in
emergency situations. In an emergency
situation, where an authorized BMW center
or a warranty replacement part is not
reasonably available (within 30 days),
repairs may be performed at any available
service establishment using any equivalent
part. BMW NA will reimburse the owner for
such emergency repairs (including labor,
parts and diagnosis not to exceed BMW NA
rates for labor, parts, and diagnosis in said
area) that are covered under this warranty.
Replaced parts and paid invoices must be
presented at a BMW center as a condition of
reimbursement for emergency repairs not
performed by a BMW center.
The use of replacement parts, which are not
of equivalent quality, may impair the effec-
tiveness of the emission control system. If
other than certified BMW Service Parts or
Authorized Remanufactured Parts are used
for maintenance, repair or replacement of
components affecting emission control, the
owner should obtain assurances that such
Federal Emissions System
Defect Warranty
(Valid only in the U.S.A. and
Puerto Rico)
30

35 This warranty applies to California certified
vehicles distributed by BMW of North America
(BMW NA) or sold through the BMW NA
European Delivery Program, registered and
operated primarily in California.
BMW NA warrants to the original purchaser and
each subsequent owner that the vehicle is:
(a) designed, built and equipped so as to
conform with the applicable California Air
Resources Board emission standards.
(b) free from defects in materials and workman-
ship which cause any part that can affect
emissions to fail to conform with applicable
requirements or to fail a California Smog
Check test or EPA approved short test for a
period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, which-
ever occurs first.
(c) free from defects in materials and workman-
ship in emission related parts, which are
contained in the California Emission
Warranty Parts List on page 40, for a period
of 7 years or 70,000 miles, whichever
occurs first.
This warranty begins on the date of first retail
sale, or the date the vehicle is first placed in
service as a demonstrator or company vehicle,
whichever is earlier.
To obtain service under this warranty, the
vehicle must be brought, upon failure of a
Smog Check test or upon discovery of the
defect, to the workshop of any authorized
BMW center, during normal business hours.
The BMW center will honor or deny your claim
within 30 days. If the claim is denied, the BMW
center will notify you in writing of the reason(s).
The BMW center is required by law to honor
the claim if notice is not given to the owner
within 30 days.
The BMW center will, without charge for parts
or labor (including diagnosis), either adjust,
repair or replace the defective part and other
parts affected by the failure of the warranted
part, if any. If your vehicle failed the California
California Emission Control
System Limited Warranty*Smog Check test or an EPA approved short
test, then BMW NA will repair your vehicle so
that it will pass this test. Items that require
scheduled replacement are warranted up to
the replacement interval specified in the
Service section of this Statement. BMW NA
may repair a part in lieu of replacing it when
performing warranty repairs. Parts for which
replacements are made become the property
of BMW NA. After 3 years or 50,000 miles, and
in accordance with paragraph (c) above, such
repairs are limited to the repair or replacement
of those parts identified in the California
Emissions Warranty List.
If your California registered vehicle is between
7 and 8 years old and has been driven less
than 80,000 miles, then your vehicle is eligible
for additional warranty coverage under the
Federal Emissions Warranty.
A repair performed as the result of a smog
check test failure due to a defect in a part,
which is warranted for 7 years/70,000 miles, is
covered.
In all cases, a reasonable time, not to exceed
30 days, must be allowed for a warranty repair
to be completed, after the car is received by
the BMW center.
It is the owner’s responsibility to have all
required maintenance services performed (at
the owner’s expense), as prescribed in the
maintenance schedule for the BMW Emission
Control System. Service intervals are com-
puted by the service interval indicator and
displayed on the instrument panel.
However, BMW NA will not deny your warranty
repair claims solely because you do not have
maintenance records or you did not perform
the required maintenance unless BMW NA
demonstrates that such lack of required
maintenance is a direct cause of the emission
control system failure. The instructions for
required maintenance and use can be found
in the Owner’s Manual and in the Service
section of this Statement.
*The California Emissions Control System
Limited Warranty applies to all 2004 U.S.