The need for a BMW service history check 
                     The need for a BMW service history check  
 
If you have thought about purchasing a BMW in order to take 
advantage of its performance, safety, technology, and comfort, you 
will find it to be well worth the cost.  
But wait! A BMW cannot be purchased from a dealer forecourt or a 
classified website. Make sure it is mechanically and structurally 
sound, has a complete service history, and hasn't been stolen, 
written off, clocked, or scrapped. 
 
What are the ways to check the BMW service history? 
The BMW service history check can be done in one of two ways: 
The first method is to search in the maintenance record part of the 
owner's manual for your BMW.  
The second method is to visit the BMW service centre, provide your 
VIN, and ask them to retrieve the service records from approved 
BMW workshops. If you are familiar with the service advisor, you 
might be able to obtain the BMW electronic service history check 
over the phone. If not, it is preferable to go to the workshop and pick 
up a printout of the service history. 
 
Can I look up the service records for a BMW online? 
 
Both yes and no. 
A computerised maintenance history is now standard on all new 
BMW vehicles.  
You can obtain BMW service maintenance records by VIN if you are 
the owner of the BMW and all maintenance and warranty work has 
been completed at authorised BMW locations.  
In order for the dealership to download the printout of your service 
history and present it to you, you must give them the vehicle 
identification number. Remember that you cannot access the service 
history online directly. 
 
On the other hand, if the vehicle has not received complete 
maintenance at authorised dealerships, an online search of the BMW 
service history will be fruitless. To  verify the car's service history in 
this instance, you need to look a little further. 
 
How to check the iDrive service history for a BMW? 
If you are planning to buy a second-hand BMW car, you should make 
sure the iDrive system is working properly. 
You must get in touch with the authorised BMW dealership if you 
want to check the history of the iDrive servicing.  
You won't be able to track the vehicle's troubled background, 
though, if the BMW dealer does not do the iDrive repair. To find out 
if iDrive has a repair history, a buyer should request from the vendor 
a thorough service history record.