First Inspection - What needs to be done?

[moymch]

My 06' X3 will be going in for it's first inspection at 24K miles. Since I have to go to a German dealer I want to be prepared for what needs to be done. Some times the language barrier is a problem. Can someone give me a break down of what BMW says needs to be done. My guess is oil change, filters (oil, air, cabin filter), and a visual inspection of everything else. Thanks for the help.

[Rick in Prescott]

Short of writing out the same thing that's in your manual, have you read your manual? It's in there. You can also find this info on www.bmwusa.com Create an account and you'll be able to see your entire maintenance schedule.

[moymch]

Thanks. I have read the manual, or at least I thought I had. I will take another look. As for the online maintenance schedule, I am not able to do that. My VIN is not recognized because my X3 has not been to the U.S. yet; it was delivered here in Germany. Funny as it may sound BMW of North America and BMW in Europe do things totally different. Just wanted to be prepared before I went in. Thanks for the help!

[Rick in Prescott]

Pardon the format issues (cut and paste) but you get the idea
BMW Inspection I. If you'd like you can cut and paste this into a WP and reformat it yourself. Hope this helps Undercarriage Change oil and oil filter while engine is at operating temperature.
We recommend BMW High Performance 5W-30 Synthetic oil, p/n 07 51 0 017 866 Check transmission for leaks. Check transfer case for leaks. Check rear axle for leaks. Half-shafts (front and rear): 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 p/s fluid level; add fluid if necessary. Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads (outer pads only) 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 steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage and joint disc. 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 surfaces [left/right]), tread wear and pattern; in
case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if requested(to be
invoiced separately.)
Note: If requested rotate all four road wheels as instructed and rebalance.
(invoiced separately.) Inspect entire body according to terms of rust perforation 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 necessary. Check level of brake fluid in reservoir. Add fluid if required. Replace brake fluid every 2 years (timing interval begins from vehicle's production date).* Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary. Check air conditioner operation. Replace microfilter.
Note: reduce replacement interval in dusty operating conditions. Reset Service Interval Indicator. Body/Electrical Equipment Check battery state-of-charge, and charge if required.* Check lighting system, i.e., headlights, foglights, parking, back-up, license-plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated make-up mirrors, luggage area lights. Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination. Check all warning/indicator lights, check control. Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch. Check wipers and washer system(s);wiper blades, washer jet positions. Check condition and function of safety belts. Check central locking/double lock. Check operation of all latches. Check heater/air conditioner blower fan, rear window defogger. Check rear view mirrors. Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn covers, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations or accessories. Final Inspection Road test with check of brakes, suspension, steering, clutch/manual transmission or automatic transmission.

[motordavid]

Maybe the Teuton Techs will be more diligent, but an Insp1 here
in the states, generally consists of oil change, check brake pads,
give the undercarriage a cursory glance, a quick wash and...
you get it back. Imo, the detailed list of "checks" is not done.

Some here may have had thorough Inspections, but my experience
with the 3 diff. Stlrs I have been to, leads me to sound critical and
suspect of what they really do, besides an oil change, etc..
GL,mD

[moymch]

Thanks again for all the help. Now I will know what to expect when they give me laundry list of things that need to be done. I'm sure I will get raped at the dealer since they do not honor the maintenance plan that we get in the U.S. I was told at my last oil change that the inspection was a little pricey. Just to give you an example it cost me 120 Euro to have the oil changed and the cabin filter replaced and I provided my own oil. Such is life I guess.

[Rick in Prescott]

DIY = save euros