2018 maintenance schedule
2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible Preventive Maintenance & Service Schedule
The 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible utilizes BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Last updated
November 6, 2026
Reviewed for service schedule clarity.
Key Takeaways
- The 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible (F12 chassis) is powered by the N55 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine and features xDrive all-wheel drive.
- A conservative synthetic oil change interval is 5,000 miles to maximize engine longevity and turbocharger health .
- Spark plugs are recommended for replacement at intervals determined by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system .
- Brake fluid requires DOT4 specification; it should be changed whenever the brake system is serviced .
- Differential oil should be checked and changed as per the owner's manual recommendation; use BMW-approved fully synthetic gear oil .
- Wheel bearings should be cleaned and repacked annually as a preventive measure .
Understanding BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) System
The 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible utilizes BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system. The maintenance system directs you to required maintenance measures and supports you in maintaining road safety and the operational reliability of the vehicle. Unlike traditional fixed-interval maintenance schedules, CBS uses sensors and algorithms that take into account the driving conditions of your vehicle to determine when maintenance is required. The system makes it possible to adapt the amount of maintenance you need to your user profile, considering factors such as trip length, engine temperature, and driving style.
Service information on the required maintenance is continuously stored in the remote control. Your service center will read out this data and suggest the right array of service procedures for your vehicle. The vehicle includes a service interval warning system in the instrument cluster .
Engine Specifications & Capacities
The 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible is equipped with the N55 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Code | N55 3.0L L6 Turbo |
| Oil Capacity (with filter) | Approximately 6.5 liters |
| Spark Plug Quantity | 6 plugs |
| Brake Fluid Specification | DOT4 |
| Drivetrain | xDrive All-Wheel Drive |
Preventive Maintenance Schedule
The following maintenance intervals represent recommended preventive milestones for the 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible. Exact OEM intervals are determined by the vehicle's CBS system based on driving conditions.
Engine Oil and Filter Change
Motor oil is the single most important element in keeping your engine healthy and helping it to enjoy a long life . The 2018 640i xDrive Convertible uses the N55 engine and is compatible with BMW-approved synthetic oils. Approved oil specifications include BMW LL-01 and LL-04 .
Conservative Owner Guidance: 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; 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 . The 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible uses DOT4 specification brake fluid .
Owner Guidance: Brake fluid should be changed every time you service your brakes . Check your owner's manual for your vehicle's particular brake fluid specifications. BMW offers a low-viscosity formula ideal for extreme braking conditions . DOT4 fluid typically has a dry boiling point of 280°C and wet boiling point of 198°C .
Spark Plug Service
The 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible uses Bosch spark plugs as original equipment . The N55 engine requires 6 spark plugs . Aftermarket alternatives such as NGK Laser Iridium spark plugs are also compatible .
Owner Guidance: Keeping your spark plugs fresh is a very important part of keeping your car in top shape . Replacement intervals are determined by the CBS system. Check for abnormal pitting or charred plug ends when replacing plugs .
Differential Fluid Service
Differential oil lubricates and assists in the heat dissipation of the differential . It should be checked for level and changed as per the owner's manual recommendation .
Fluid Specification: Fully synthetic gear oil is recommended for vehicles with standard differentials . BMW 75W-90 full synthetic multigrade final drive lubricant is specially designed for use in all BMW final drives with conventional (non-limited slip) differentials. It provides superior protection at high and low operating temperatures, including excellent temperature reduction, final drive enhancing performance, and extends component life span .
xDrive-Specific Note: The xDrive all-wheel-drive system includes both front and rear differentials. Ensure both are serviced when differential fluid is due.
Wheel Bearing Maintenance
Wheel bearing grease lubricates the bearings that support the weight and heat generated by the spinning of the wheels .
Owner Guidance: It's a good idea to clean and repack your bearings once a year as a preventive measure . High-temperature service grease is recommended for rolling bearings .
Ignition Coils
Ignition coils transform battery voltage into the high energy needed for each spark plug . A faulty ignition coil can mean an engine that has a hard time starting up or one that is mistimed when it needs the spark in the combustion chamber, which can reduce engine performance and cause undue wear and tear .
Owner Guidance: Ignition coils are not typically considered a scheduled maintenance item but may require replacement if they fail. Delphi ignition coils with spark plug connectors are available for this vehicle .
Long-Term Ownership Outlook
With proactive maintenance, the 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible has a good chance of achieving high mileage. The N55 engine is a reliable powerplant when properly maintained. Staying on track with routine service appointments can help your 640i xDrive Convertible perform better, keep you safer on the road, and help you avoid expensive repairs.
Regular maintenance is an investment that maintains the value and dependability of your car, extends its service life, and increases its resale value. Scheduled maintenance services can vary depending on driving conditions, climate, and other factors; however, recommended maintenance usually includes services like oil changes, tire rotations, brake pad replacement, filter changes, and fluid checks and exchanges.
Maintenance questions
2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible FAQs
How often should I change the oil in my 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible?+
Pelican Parts recommends changing your synthetic motor oil every 5,000 miles . Always replace the filter when changing your oil.
What type of oil does the 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible use?+
The N55 engine requires BMW-approved synthetic oil. Approved specifications include BMW LL-01 and LL-04 . Refer to your owner's manual for the specific viscosity required for your car and climate .
When should spark plugs be replaced?+
Replacement intervals are determined by the CBS system . The 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible uses Bosch spark plugs as original equipment, and the engine requires 6 plugs .
What type of brake fluid does the 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible use?+
The 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Convertible uses DOT4 specification brake fluid . BMW also offers a low-viscosity formula for extreme braking conditions .
How often should differential fluid be changed?+
Differential oil should be checked for level and changed as per the owner's manual recommendation . Use BMW 75W-90 full synthetic final drive lubricant or equivalent for standard differentials . The xDrive system includes both front and rear differentials.
How often should wheel bearings be serviced?+
It is a good idea to clean and repack your bearings once a year as a preventive measure .
What is Condition Based Service (CBS)?+
CBS is BMW's adaptive maintenance system that uses sensors and algorithms to calculate maintenance needs based on actual driving conditions rather than fixed intervals. Service information is stored in the remote control.
When should ignition coils be replaced?+
Ignition coils are not typically considered a scheduled maintenance item but may require replacement if they fail . A faulty ignition coil can reduce engine performance and cause undue wear .