Maintenance Overview
Maintenance Overview
Section titled “Maintenance Overview”Proper maintenance is the key to E46 reliability and longevity. BMW’s original “Lifetime Fill” recommendations have been widely debunked — regular fluid changes are essential.
Recommended Service Intervals
Section titled “Recommended Service Intervals”| Service | BMW Interval | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 15,000 mi | 7,500 mi / annually |
| Coolant | Lifetime | 2 years / 30,000 mi |
| Spark plugs | 60,000 mi | 45,000 mi |
| Brake fluid | 2 years | 2 years |
| Transmission fluid (manual) | Lifetime | 60,000 mi |
| Transmission fluid (auto) | Lifetime | 60,000 mi |
| Differential fluid | Lifetime | 60,000 mi |
| Power steering fluid | Lifetime | 60,000 mi |
| Air filter | 30,000 mi | 15,000-20,000 mi |
| Cabin filter | 30,000 mi | 15,000 mi |
| Drive belts | 60,000 mi | 50,000 mi |
Inspection I vs Inspection II
Section titled “Inspection I vs Inspection II”BMW’s service intervals alternate between Inspection I and Inspection II:
- Inspection I (minor): Oil change, fluid top-offs, visual inspection
- Inspection II (major): All Inspection I items plus spark plugs, air filter, comprehensive inspection