Routine
Maintenance
Information

The basic maintenance routines are well covered in the BMW manuals. What is not clear is that the routines are in large part common across the different 650 models, F and G Series.

Information on what to watch for and potential problem areas is below. Most of the information is on other pages but has been included here to put it all in one place.

When engaging a Dealer to perform maintenance or repairs, ask for the MOSS operations report where there is some doubt about repairs. It will clearly show what electronic procedures were carried out and the results.

The replacement interval for the fuel filter/regulator was increased from 20,000 km (12,000 miles) to 40,000 km (24,000 miles) before the introduction of the dual spark models so the early service data sheets and single spark manuals have the old information. Many owners have run for 50,000 kms+ without replacement and Golan Products have the Mini Filter which can be used as a prefilter.

8mm copper crush washers for the oil tank drain plug & 6mm for the fork drain plugs are available from brake suppliers, they are used on banjo bolts, there are also low cost assorted size kits avalable on EBay.

There is a bleeder valve on the RHS of the cylinder for use when changing coolant. Early models have a plastic tube fitting, on later models it may be a torx bolt. Loosen until fluid appears when filling with new coolant, then tighten. Squeeze coolant hoses repeatedly to ensure all air is removed, this is the important part.

BMW, like many Euro Mfrs have their own coolant standard. There is much discussion about alternatives.
This Coolant Info pdf sets out the basics of what is known, There are alternatives in every market.

Confusion over the correct plug for each of the models has caused problems for owners over the years. The single spark uses a non resistive plug NGK D8EA. The dual spark models use a resistive plug NGK DR8EA.

See Modifications/Ignition Upgrades for info on Pulstar capacitive plugs, far better on all year models

The original torque on the axle was 85nm, this caused alloy spacer cracking. The spacers were then made of steel and the torque figure was reduced to 45nm. This was covered in a TSB to dealers but some confusion still exists.

The BMW schedules dont include maintenance intervals for the swingarm and suspension linkage bearings. The swingarm bearings in particular are not sealed and problems have emerged in the field. It is recommended they be checked and the modification to add seals done at the 20,000 km service.