Resetting the service indicator light? - The Unofficial BMW M5 Messageboard (m5board.com)

atomic80 · 13th November 2002, 19:19

Thanks to information that I'd gathered from this board I was able to get an oil/filter change despite the fact that all my service indicator lights hadn't gotten to the yellow yet. I still had one green bar left to go but I was able to get the oil/filter changed because it was past the 1 year date. I was under the impression that they would reset the service indicator but my SA told me that it would be best to leave it alone until it actually does reach the yellow bar. At this point the dealership would do a number of other things such as lubricate the differentials, check the car, etc and then reset the service indicator. What I'm wondering is whether others had their service indicator reset at the time of the oil/filter change before the light reached the yellow bar. My SA tells me that the yellow bar should come on when I reach about 15,000 miles. I currently have about 13,000 miles now.

Digi · 14th November 2002, 17:51

The service indicator should be left alone, because it tracks use for alot more than just oil changes. The BMW SIB states that the oil/filter should be changed at the service interval indicated by the service lights, or after being installed in the engine for 12 months, whichever is first. If there are lights remaining, BMW says not to reset the lights or performed the other service required. When the service light illuminates, you get another oil change/filter, and the other required service. In my experience, if there is only 1 light left, the dealer will probably do both the oil and service, and reset the lights. Bottom line, the oil is changed every 12 months, or at service indication, whichever comes first. The service light is only reset when the other service was performed, which includes another oil change when indicated by the light even if it is only a matter of months since the last "in-between" oil change was made.

atomic80 · 14th November 2002, 18:15

Thanks Digi, you gave me the answer I was looking for!