2004 BMW 3 SERIES service interval

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

3 Con-
Series vertible
Replace air cleaner element. (Note: Reduce replacement interval in  
dusty operating conditions).
Inspection II
Includes all items listed under Inspection I, and the following checks
and maintenance operations.
Engine Compartment
8
Brake Fluid Service
Replace brake fluid every 2 years (time interval begins from the  
vehicle’s production date).
Oxygen Sensor Service
Replace Oxygen Sensor every 120,000 miles.  
Spark Plug Service
Replace spark plugs every 100,000 miles.  
Automatic Transmission Service
Replace ATF every 100,000 miles.  

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

29 BMW NA warrants this original vehicle against
defects in materials or workmanship which will
result in rust perforation of the vehicle body for
a period of 6 years, without mileage limitation,
commencing 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 discovery of
any rust perforation, to the workshop of any
authorized BMW center. This BMW center will,
without charge for par ts or labor, either repair
or replace the defective part(s). The decision to
repair or replace said part(s) is solely the
prerogative of BMW of North America. Parts for
which replacements are made become the
property of BMW of North America.
REQUIRED MAINTENANCE:
In order to keep this warranty in effect, the
vehicle must be inspected at every BMW
Inspection II (at least every two years). Any
areas requiring preventative maintenance
must be repaired. (THIS INSPECTION/
MAINTENANCE IS AT THE OWNER’S
EXPENSE).
The Inspection/Maintenance consists of:
a. Washing the chassis before inspection, if
necessary, due to dirt accumulation.
b. Repairing any damages to undercoating or
paint due to stone chips, gravel erosion,
scratches, or other external influences.
BMW of North America makes no other
express warranty on this product except the
new car warranty or the warranty as to the
emission control system. THE DURATION OF
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING
THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANT-
ABILITY, IS LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF
THE EXPRESS WARRANTIES HEREIN.BMW OF NORTH AMERICA HEREBY
EXCLUDES INCIDENTAL AND CONSE-
QUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING LOSS OF
TIME, INCONVENIENCE, OR LOSS OF USE
OF THE VEHICLE, FOR ANY BREACH OF
ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY,
INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY, APPLICABLE TO THIS
PRODUCT.
Some states do not allow limitations on how
long an implied warranty lasts, or the exclu-
sion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above limitations and
exclusions may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights,
and you may also have other rights which vary
from state to state. Any legal claim or action
arising from any express or implied warranty
contained herein must be brought within 12
months of the date it arises.
This warranty does not apply to the
following:
a. Damage caused by negligence, improper
accident damage repairs, or improper use.
b. Damage attributable to failure to perform
required inspections/maintenance at the
specified intervals or in accordance with the
BMW rust inspection/maintenance program
instructions. Proof must be provided by a
paid invoice or filling in the appropriate
boxes in the Service Section of this
Statement.
BMW will not accept any liability for any parts
and accessories not approved by BMW.
This warranty shall be null and void if the
vehicle identification number has been
altered or cannot be read, if the odometer
has been replaced or altered and the true
mileage cannot be determined, if the vehicle
has been declared a total loss or sold for
salvage purposes, or if the vehicle has been
used in any competitive event.
Limited Warranty -
Rust Perforation 2004 Models