2018 BMW M4 DTM Champions Edition Maintenance Schedule & Service Intervals

Key Takeaways

• The 2018 M4 DTM Champions Edition requires a break-in service at 1,200 miles that includes engine oil and filter replacement along with an intercooler inspection
• BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system monitors driving conditions and calculates service needs individually, typically prompting service approximately every 10,000 miles or 12 months
• Spark plug replacement is critical at 30,000 miles for the S55 engine, using the Genuine BMW part number 12120039634
• The factory maintenance program covers scheduled service for 3 years or 36,000 miles under BMW Ultimate Care
• The DTM Champions Edition is powered by the S55B30 twin-turbo inline-six engine, shared with the standard M4 Competition and featuring BMW's Motorsport-derived engineering
• Brake fluid service is recommended every 2 years for M models given the extreme heat generated during performance driving

Understanding the 2018 BMW M4 DTM Champions Edition

The 2018 BMW M4 DTM Champions Edition is a limited-production special edition celebrating BMW's DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) racing success. Like all F82-generation M4 models, it is powered by the S55B30 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six engine, featuring a forged steel crankshaft and aluminum alloy construction for durability under high-performance conditions . The S55 engine has a mixed reputation for reliability, with BMW designing advanced engineering techniques into the engine while the turbocharging system and high-performance components can lead to specific problems if not properly maintained .

The vehicle employs BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, which uses sensors and algorithms to monitor actual driving conditions including engine temperature, driving style, trip length, and component wear to calculate when service is genuinely needed . BMW utilizes electronic oil measurement to monitor the engine load on the current oil fill based on driving style and distances, displayed on the vehicle's Control Display .

Break-In Service (1,200 Miles)

The 2018 BMW M4 DTM Champions Edition requires a mandatory break-in service at approximately 1,200 miles. This service is critical for the long-term health of the S55 engine and drivetrain components. During this initial visit:

• Engine oil and oil filter are replaced
• The intercooler system is inspected

This break-in service is typically covered under BMW Ultimate Care during the first 3 years or 36,000 miles of ownership . Owners should not delay this service, as proper break-in procedures affect engine longevity and performance.

Break-In Driving Guidelines

During the break-in period, the engine requires careful operation. BMW recommends:

• Avoiding high engine speeds and heavy loads during the initial 1,200-mile period
• Varying engine and road speeds rather than maintaining constant speeds for extended periods
• Engine oil consumption can increase during the break-in phase of the engine, which is normal for high-performance engines

BMW Ultimate Care Coverage

The 2018 BMW M4 DTM Champions Edition includes BMW Ultimate Care maintenance coverage for 3 years or 36,000 miles . This program covers factory-recommended maintenance including:

• Engine oil and filter changes
• Brake fluid service
• Spark plug replacement
• Vehicle inspections

The vehicles carry a standard 4-year/50,000-mile new vehicle warranty and unlimited-mileage roadside assistance for 4 years .

BMW offers Ultimate Care+ for owners who intend to keep their car beyond the standard coverage period. Available in various levels, coverage can extend all the way to 7 years/125,000 miles .

Factory Scheduled Maintenance

Engine Oil Service

The S55 engine responds best when serviced with the proper oil grade, matching filter, and fresh hardware . BMW recommends regular oil changes, ideally every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, to ensure optimal performance and longevity . The use of high-quality synthetic oil is crucial, as it helps to mitigate wear and tear on engine components .

The CBS system determines oil change intervals based on actual engine operating conditions, with synthetic oil and filter changes typically occurring every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever occurs first . The genuine BMW S55 engine service kit typically includes BMW Twin Power Turbo LL-04 5W-30 oil and the matching oil filter .

Spark Plugs

The 2018 BMW M4 DTM Champions Edition requires spark plug replacement at 30,000 miles according to the factory maintenance schedule . The genuine BMW spark plug part number for the S55 engine is 12120039634 .

The S55 engine uses six spark plugs for a complete service. BMW recommends replacing spark plugs with original BMW components . Using cheaper alternatives risks misfires and expensive catalytic converter damage. Since its introduction, BMW has recommended a 25,000-mile replacement interval for S55 spark plugs in some internal guidance.

Brake Fluid

BMW recommends replacing brake fluid on a time-based schedule. For M models, brake fluid should be changed approximately every 2 years . This time-based approach accounts for brake fluid's hygroscopic properties and moisture absorption regardless of mileage.

M Series braking systems generate extreme heat, especially during spirited driving or track days, making regular brake fluid replacement essential for maintaining pedal feel and preventing brake fade. Brake fluid may also be changed at the 30,000-mile mark according to some service guidance .

Engine Air Filter

The engine air filter on the 2018 M4 DTM Champions Edition is typically replaced every 60,000 miles . The genuine BMW air filters for the S55 engine are available as a pair (part number 13727843284) .

A clean engine air filter improves airflow, enhancing engine efficiency and performance, and prevents contaminants from entering the combustion chamber.

Cabin Air Filter / Microfilter

The cabin air filter (microfilter) is generally replaced according to service intervals. The genuine BMW activated carbon cabin filter (part number 64119237555) is available for the S55-powered M4 . This filter cleans air entering the cabin and maintains HVAC system performance, critical for passenger comfort and air quality.

Fuel Filter

Fuel filters are typically changed every 20,000 to 40,000 miles . This interval ensures fuel flow remains clean and unobstructed, protecting fuel injectors and maintaining proper combustion.

Cooling System

BMW recommends coolant replacement every 40,000 miles or as specified by the maintenance system. The cooling system on the M4 includes multiple cooling circuits for the engine and turbos. Maintaining coolant quality is essential to prevent corrosion and ensure adequate heat dissipation for the high-output S55 engine.

Transmission and Drivetrain Service

Manual Transmission

The 2018 M4 DTM Champions Edition equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission follows BMW's life-time fluid fill philosophy under normal driving conditions. BMW typically does not specify a fixed mileage interval for manual transmission fluid replacement.

However, many owners and independent shops recommend fluid changes as a preventive measure, particularly for vehicles used in performance driving or track applications. Transmission fluid replacement is generally recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for performance use .

Automatic Transmission (M DCT)

The 2018 M4 equipped with the 7-speed M DCT uses specialized transmission fluid optimized for the transmission's requirements. BMW's factory guidance does not specify fixed intervals for DCT fluid replacement under normal driving conditions. Many specialists recommend transmission service at 60,000-100,000 miles for vehicles subjected to performance driving.

Rear Axle Differential Oil

The rear axle differential oil service is particularly important for M4 models equipped with the Active M Differential, which uses electronically controlled multi-plate clutches. Fresh oil maintains proper differential cooling and friction characteristics essential for the M4's handling performance. Many specialists recommend differential oil replacement every 30,000-40,000 miles.

S55 Engine Maintenance Considerations

Oil Leaks

Oil leaks are a prevalent issue in the S55 engine, often originating from various seals and gaskets, particularly around the valve cover and oil filter housing . If not addressed promptly, oil leaks can lead to significant engine damage and reduced performance. Symptoms include oil spots under the vehicle, low oil levels, and burning oil smell .

Turbocharger Health

The turbochargers in the S55 engine are designed to deliver high performance but can fail under conditions including oil starvation, excessive heat, or foreign object damage . Symptoms of turbocharger issues include whining noises from the engine bay, reduced acceleration, and check engine light activation .

Cooling System Monitoring

Cooling system failures can include failed water pumps, leaking hoses, or thermostat malfunctions . Symptoms include overheating warning lights, coolant leaks, and steam from the engine bay . Regular inspection of the cooling system is recommended at every preventive maintenance schedule .

Carbon Buildup

Direct injection engines like the S55 are prone to carbon buildup on intake valves, which can lead to performance degradation over time . Symptoms include rough idle, reduced power, and increased fuel consumption .

High-Pressure Fuel Pump

The high-pressure fuel pump is crucial for delivering fuel at the correct pressure to the injectors. Failures in this component can lead to performance issues and engine stalling .

High-Mileage Ownership Considerations

For 2018 M4 DTM Champions Edition owners accumulating significant mileage, several additional services become relevant:

30,000-40,000 Miles

• Fuel filter replacement
• Brake fluid service

60,000 Miles

• Engine air filter replacement
• Spark plug replacement
• Transmission fluid service (strongly recommended for performance use)

90,000+ Miles

• Ignition coil inspection/replacement
• Major system checks

120,000 Miles

• Oxygen sensor replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 2018 BMW M4 DTM Champions Edition need a break-in service?

Yes. The 2018 BMW M4 DTM Champions Edition requires a break-in service at 1,200 miles that includes engine oil and filter replacement and an intercooler system inspection. This service is essential for long-term engine health and warranty protection.

What is the oil change interval for the 2018 M4 DTM Champions Edition?

The factory CBS system determines oil change intervals based on driving conditions, typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months. BMW recommends regular oil changes, ideally every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, to ensure optimal performance and longevity .

When should spark plugs be replaced on the 2018 M4 DTM Champions Edition?

BMW recommends spark plug replacement at 30,000 miles for the S55 engine. The genuine BMW part number is 12120039634 .

How often does brake fluid need replacing?

BMW recommends brake fluid replacement every 2 years for M models . Brake fluid may also be changed at the 30,000-mile mark according to some service guidance.

What is BMW Ultimate Care and what does it cover?

BMW Ultimate Care provides factory-recommended scheduled maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles, covering engine oil and filter changes, brake fluid service, spark plug replacement, and vehicle inspections .

When should the engine air filter be replaced on the 2018 M4?

The engine air filter is typically replaced every 60,000 miles . The genuine BMW air filters for the S55 engine are available as a pair (part number 13727843284) .

When should the fuel filter be replaced?

Fuel filters are typically changed every 20,000 to 40,000 miles .

What is the S55 engine's common maintenance concern?

Oil leaks are a prevalent issue, often originating from seals and gaskets around the valve cover and oil filter housing . Regular inspection of these areas is recommended.

What is the coolant replacement interval?

BMW recommends coolant replacement every 40,000 miles or as specified by the maintenance system.

What warranty coverage does the 2018 BMW M4 DTM Champions Edition include?

The 2018 BMW M4 includes a 4-year/50,000-mile new vehicle warranty and a 3-year/36,000-mile maintenance plan under BMW Ultimate Care. Roadside assistance is provided for 4 years with unlimited mileage .