after and before 1999 model - 530d - differerent maintenance interval why ?

[Russell]

When did BMW start including "free" service with their cars for X amount of time? That may have affected their service schedule.

I know this of great concern for those of us who are considering purchasing an e39. I feel that most of them are way under maintianed when following the factory schedule.

[btc530d]

I am planning to buy a 530d Touring E39 from September 1998 and would like to know why this model, because its the same as 1999 engine model, needs more maintenance, i mean it has a 10000 miles interval between services....and 1999 model only has 15000 miles?
What are the differences between them?

[Ross]

Perhaps a different oil is specified for the later car. Consider those intervals to be the bare minimum.

[Omega]

What are the differences between them?

5000 miles? Seriously though, I think that 1999 marked the introduction of the phase 2 (as I call them) e39's. New bumpers, lights and other bits were added.

Just because the engine blocks are physically the same there may be other modifications. It depends on what needs changing during the service, have you seen the actual service schedule. Do they differ?

I didn't actually know that BMW recommended mileage for services, thats what the service lights are for? Drive it like you stole it and you service it more frequently.

.

[Ross]

The lights are driven by fuel consumption. My cars usually cover 3k miles before the first light blinks off, can't imagine going until the service light comes on.