BMW X1 2017 Petrol (2.0i) Sport trim - Service Questions and

[fandyman]

Hi everyone,

I own a 2017 BMW X1 2.0i petrol, which I purchased in December 2022 with 13,000 miles on the clock. It’s now at 18,800 miles. I want to maintain its service history without doing unnecessary work and was hoping to get some clarity on a few points.

Current Service Status:

My CBS system only shows that Engine Oil and Vehicle Check are due. However, I’ve received a dealer email recommending additional services:

• Spark Plugs
• Microfilter (Cabin Air Filter?)
• Air Filter (Engine Air Filter?)

Is it possible for the CBS system not to display some of these items?

Spark Plugs:

They were last changed in January 2021, about 4 years after the car was manufactured. The official BMW maintenance schedule (see BMW Maintenance PDF) suggests spark plugs are due every 6th engine oil change (approximately 60,000 miles).

Considering my low mileage (18.8k), is it okay to delay replacing them, or should I stick to a 4-year interval and change them in January 2025?

Also, does anyone know if spark plug replacement is time-based as well as mileage-based, or is it strictly based on miles?

Microfilter and Air Filter:

According to the BMW schedule, the engine air filter should be replaced every 4th engine oil change (approximately 40,000 miles). However, the last air filter replacement was done during the car’s 2nd oil change in January 2021. Would this mean the air filter is next due two engine oil changes from now?

Can I replace the microfilter and air filter myself, or is it better to have them done professionally during service?

Service Cost and Items:

I’m trying to balance maintaining a proper service history while avoiding unnecessary charges. Are the dealer's recommendations (spark plugs, microfilter, air filter) necessary now, or should I just stick to what the CBS system suggests?

MOT and BMW Vehicle Check:

Does getting an MOT at a BMW dealership automatically count as a Vehicle Check, or do I need to specifically book a Vehicle Check service as well?

Oil Service Costs:

BMW dealerships charge a premium for oil services. Does anyone know how much the engine oil itself costs if sourced independently? Would there be significant savings by buying my own oil and using an indie garage for the service?

Summary:

I’m trying to figure out:

1. Are the spark plugs, microfilter, and air filter replacements necessary based on mileage, time, or both?
2. Why the CBS system doesn’t show these items despite the dealer recommending them.
3. How best to maintain service history while keeping costs reasonable.

I’d appreciate any advice or experiences, especially from those with similar models and driving habits. Thanks in advance!

[Greydog]

Hi Andrew

Welcome to the Forum

First the Dealer is a business and will try to generate Profit where it can. If you are capable of changing Oil and Filters yourself do so and keep all reciepts as part of the cars History

Spark Plugs these are normally mileage based for change or if of course showing signs of failing the same applies to coil packs

Micro Filter and Air filter these items I change annually as the cost is so low

If you are not into DIY then Google the Register of BMW Specialists  these garages normally are BMW trained technicians with all the equipment to maintain your car but their hourly rates are often about half that of a Dealership (someone has to pay for the Free coffee) With the BMW Specialists many can register your service records held on the BMW servers and update them.

When servicing my own cars annually I buy Mann Filters Air and oil (OEM suppliers)and Castrol Magnatec 5-30 oil which meets BMW LL04 standards cost is around £70. I carry out the work near to MOT time so I can check the car over. I have my own BMW Diagnostics allowing me to rest any service points and of course find and reset fauts

Dave