reset BMW 3 SERIES 2004 E46 Service and warranty information

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

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