2013 BMW 640i Convertible Maintenance Schedule & Service Intervals

Key Takeaways

• The 2013 BMW 640i Convertible (F12 chassis) is powered by the N55 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine .
• BMW utilizes a Condition Based Service (CBS) system that calculates maintenance needs based on actual driving conditions rather than fixed intervals .
• Major periodic service is generally recommended every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .
• Brake fluid requires replacement every 2 years regardless of mileage—this is a critical time-based safety requirement .
• A conservative synthetic oil change interval recommended by independent specialists is 5,000 miles for optimal engine longevity .
• The serpentine drive belt, tensioner, and pulleys should be replaced approximately every 80,000 miles on the N55 engine .
• The N55 engine uses Bosch spark plugs as original equipment .

Understanding BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) System

The 2013 BMW 640i Convertible utilizes BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Unlike traditional fixed-interval maintenance schedules, CBS uses sensors and special algorithms that take into account the driving conditions of your vehicle to determine when maintenance is required . The system adapts the amount of maintenance to your specific user profile, considering factors such as trip length, engine temperature, and driving style .

Service Data in the Remote Control: Information on required maintenance is continuously stored in the remote key fob. Your service center will read out this data and suggest the appropriate service procedures for your vehicle .

Storage Periods: Storage periods during which the vehicle battery was disconnected are not taken into account. If this occurs, have a service center update the time-dependent maintenance procedures, such as checking brake fluid and, if needed, changing the engine oil and the microfilter/activated-charcoal filter .

OEM Factory Maintenance Schedule

For the 2013 BMW 640i Convertible, the maintenance schedule is sensor-driven and centers around the CBS system. For major periodic service, this should generally be done every 2 years or after 30,000 kilometers (approximately 18,600 miles) .

Engine Oil and Filter Change

The 2013 640i Convertible uses the N55 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine . BMW's CBS system will indicate when an oil service is due, with typical intervals around 10,000 miles or 12 months depending on driving conditions.

Conservative Owner Guidance: Motor oil is the single most important element in keeping your engine healthy and helping it to enjoy a long life . Pelican Parts recommends changing your synthetic motor oil every 5,000 miles . Always replace your filter when changing your oil . Different engines and climates require specific oil viscosities; be sure to refer to your owner's manual for the type and viscosity of oil required for your car .

Brake Fluid Service

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid specially formulated to withstand the extreme pressures and temperatures of your braking system . For the 2013 BMW 640i Convertible, it is recommended to change the brake fluid every two years .

Fluid Specification: The 2013 BMW 640i Convertible uses DOT4 brake fluid .

Owner Guidance: Brake fluid should be changed every time you service your brakes . Different brake systems require different brake fluid formulations; check your owner's manual for your vehicle's particular brake fluid specifications . BMW generally recommends that brakes be inspected and serviced at least once every 12,000 miles or 12 months.

Serpentine Drive Belt Service

The N55 single-turbo engine uses a serpentine drive belt to operate the steering pump, AC compressor, and alternator .

Recommended Interval: This belt, along with the tensioner and pulley, should be replaced approximately every 80,000 miles .

Service Kit: A complete drive belt service kit is recommended for this procedure, which includes all necessary OEM components for a factory-quality replacement. The kit for the 2013 BMW 640i Convertible includes :

• Main drive belt (8PK1390, 1,390mm)
• Mechanical belt tensioner
• Deflection pulley

Compatibility Note: This kit is only for cars without Adaptive suspension (code 7SZ), Dynamic suspension (2VP), or Active steering (217) .

Spark Plug Service

The N55 engine uses high-performance spark plugs to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine's combustion chamber .

OEM Part: The 2013 BMW 640i Convertible uses Bosch spark plugs as original equipment .

Owner Guidance: Keeping your spark plugs fresh is a very important part of keeping your car in top shape . Check for abnormal pitting or charred plug ends when replacing . Any strange variations among plugs are a sure indicator that something is wrong with a particular cylinder .

Known Technical Service Bulletin (TSB)

The 2013 BMW 640i Convertible with the N55 engine is subject to a service bulletin addressing potential drivetrain malfunction warnings .

Issue: In areas where winterized fuel is used, this situation may occur after prolonged periods of engine idling or "stop and go" driving. Symptoms include :

• Rough running
• Poor engine performance
• Difficulty in starting the engine

Cause: Vapor formation in the fuel system from fuel quality characteristics of certain winter fuel blends along with high engine compartment temperatures .

Correction: Replace the low-pressure fuel pump along with revised DME software . This applies to models produced up to March 2012 with the Continental high-pressure fuel pump . Owners experiencing these symptoms should consult their BMW service center.

Long-Term Ownership Outlook

With proper and diligent maintenance, the 2013 BMW 640i Convertible can achieve high mileage. The N55 engine is a reliable powerplant when properly maintained. Staying on track with routine service appointments helps maintain performance, safety, and resale value.

The convertible top mechanism, while not requiring specific service intervals, should be inspected periodically for proper operation and seal condition. Regular oil level monitoring through the iDrive system is important for turbocharged engines like the N55.