What distinguishes this version
1,998 cc four-cylinder petrol turbo (ADAC engine code B48B20A): 115 kW (156 hp) between 4,500 and 6,500 rpm and 250 Nm between 1,300 and 4,300 rpm. Eight-speed Steptronic automatic, rear-wheel drive; steering-wheel paddles have been standard since summer 2022 and, since the 2024 update, the Steptronic Sport transmission is optional on the 218i only, standard on the other four-cylinders. BMW quotes 8.7 s for 0–100 km/h and 224 km/h; WLTP combined consumption 7.1–6.5 l/100 km (160–146 g/km CO2), Euro 6d at launch and Euro 6e on the 06/2024 sheet. The handbook allows a 1,300 kg braked trailer, against 1,600 kg for the 220i. Timing chain according to ADAC.
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Engine oil: quantity and approvals
Oil change: 5.25 l according to BMW’s 05/2022 and 06/2024 specification sheets (“oil change volume”). For top-ups, the G42 handbook (VI/22) lists BMW Longlife-12 FE or Longlife-17 FE+, SAE 0W-20 or 0W-30 (if unavailable, up to 1 litre of ACEA C2 or C5), with no additives. The level is measured electronically: it is monitored while driving (a value is available after about 30 minutes of normal driving), and a detailed measurement is started with the car level, engine warm and selector in N or P, under MENU › Vehicle apps › Vehicle status › Engine oil level › Oil level measurement › Start measurement. The handbook advises running it after every refuelling. Only add oil when the car asks for it, in the quantity given in the message.
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What the service display tracks
The car calculates each due date from how it is used (Condition Based Service) and briefly shows the next date or remaining distance after switching on; details, including statutory inspections, are under MENU › Vehicle apps › Vehicle status › Service requirements, and completed work under Service History. BMW’s regular maintenance covers engine oil, brake fluid, a vehicle check, air filter, cabin microfilter and spark plugs. Brake fluid and, where applicable, oil and microfilter also depend on time; periods with the battery disconnected are not counted, so have the workshop update them. Neither the handbook nor BMW’s list sets a mileage or period.
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Prepare the next service
Check the first-registration date and the power on the registration document (115 kW). Note the items and dates shown under MENU › Vehicle apps › Vehicle status › Service requirements. Give the service advisor the key the car was last driven with: the car stores its service data in it. Ask for 5.25 l of a BMW-approved oil. Have the VIN checked against the starter recalls listed by ADAC, then check that the work is entered in the electronic Service History, which a later owner can also view.
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