2018 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible Complete Service & Maintenance Schedule

Key Takeaways

• The 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible is powered by a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine (N63) and features xDrive all-wheel drive.
• The vehicle is covered by a 48-month/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty, with scheduled maintenance included for 3 years or 36,000 miles from the original in-service date .
• The N63 V8 engine requires BMW LL-01 approved synthetic oil (Liqui Moly, Total, or Castrol) with a recommended 5,000-mile oil change interval for optimal engine protection .
• The vehicle uses Bosch spark plugs as original equipment and DOT4 specification brake fluid .
• Differential fluid service is recommended as per the owner's manual using fully synthetic 75W-90 gear oil .

Understanding the BMW Maintenance Philosophy

The 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible utilizes BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system. 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 adapts the amount of maintenance to your specific driving profile, considering factors such as trip length, engine temperature, and driving style.

Service information on required maintenance is stored in the vehicle's remote key fob. Your BMW Service Advisor can read this data to propose the precise maintenance procedures needed for your vehicle.

BMW Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

The 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible was covered by the following warranty packages from the original in-service date:

For vehicles beyond the scheduled maintenance coverage period, owners should plan for out-of-pocket maintenance costs. The estimated maintenance cost for Year 5 of ownership is approximately $3,574 .

OEM Factory Maintenance Schedule

BMW's maintenance guidelines are sensor-driven and center around the CBS system, which is cycled to occur approximately every 10,000 miles. The following maintenance intervals represent key factory-recommended milestones for the 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible.

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 650i xDrive Convertible uses the N63 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine, which requires high-quality synthetic oil.

Oil Specifications:

• BMW LL-01 approved synthetic oil
• Common viscosity: 5W-30 (refer to your owner's manual for climate-specific recommendations)
• Always replace the oil filter when changing your oil

Oil Change Guidance:

Pelican Parts recommends changing your synthetic motor oil every 5,000 miles for optimal engine protection . 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.

More frequent oil changes may be needed if you regularly:

• Haul heavy loads
• Drive in dusty conditions
• Engage in frequent short trips or aggressive driving

Signs Your Vehicle May Need an Oil Change Sooner:

• Check engine/oil change light is illuminated
• Knocking sounds from the engine
• Oil smell inside the vehicle
• Excess amount of vehicle exhaust

Spark Plug Service

The 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible uses Bosch spark plugs as original equipment . The N63 V8 engine requires 8 spark plugs.

Spark Plug 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 based on actual driving conditions.

Signs Your Engine May Need a Tune-Up:

• Shaking while the engine is idling
• Poor fuel economy
• An illuminated check engine light on your dashboard
• A knocking sound when the engine is running

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 650i xDrive Convertible requires DOT4 specification brake fluid.

Fluid Specifications:

• DOT4 Low Viscosity recommended by BMW
• Dry Boiling Point: 280°C (536°F)
• Wet Boiling Point: 198°C (388°F)
• Also meets DOT 5.1, DOT 4, and DOT 3 specifications

Brake Fluid 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.

Genuine BMW low viscosity brake fluid is ideal for extreme braking conditions . Brake fluid is hygroscopic—it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere over time, which lowers its boiling point and compromises braking performance. A conservative approach is to flush and replace brake fluid every 2 years regardless of mileage.

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 for standard differentials
• Genuine BMW 75W-90 full synthetic final drive lubricant is specially designed for use in all BMW final drives with conventional (non-limited slip) differentials
• Provides superior protection at high and low operating temperatures

The xDrive all-wheel-drive system includes both front and rear differentials. Ensure both are serviced when differential fluid is due.

Brake System Service

BMW recommends that front and rear brakes are removed and serviced at least once every 12,000 miles or 12 months, including inspection of the parking brake. Brake fluid should be inspected and replaced when indicated by the CBS system.

Signs of Brake Issues:

• Unusual noises (squealing or grinding)
• Vibration or pulsation in the pedal or steering wheel
• A burning smell near the tires
• Illuminated brake dashboard warning light

Transmission Service

The 2018 650i xDrive Convertible is equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. BMW's original maintenance schedule classifies the transmission fluid as "lifetime fill" under normal conditions.

Conservative Owner Guidance: A conservative maintenance approach is to service the transmission as preventative maintenance at regular intervals to avoid potential failure. If left unserviced, the automatic transmission fluid will break down over time, potentially leading to poor shifting, slipping, and ultimately transmission failure. BMW recommends exchanging transmission fluids at certain intervals with BMW-approved products.

Wheel Alignment

It is generally recommended to have wheel alignment checked approximately every 6,000 miles or 6 months. Signs that alignment may need attention include:

• A feeling that your car pulls to one side
• Rapid or uneven tire wear
• A steering wheel that feels off center or crooked while driving straight
• Tires that squeal frequently

Unlike with other potential issues, you won't see any dashboard warning lights if your wheel alignment needs attention.

Long-Term Ownership Outlook

With proactive maintenance, the 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible can achieve high mileage. The twin-turbo V8 engine and 8-speed transmission are capable of durability with proper care. Staying on track with routine service appointments can help your 650i xDrive Convertible perform better, increase your vehicle safety, 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. Good maintenance should never be viewed as an expense—it is an investment in the longevity and reliability of your BMW.