5 series i-drive and servicing schedule query

[Doncaster Dave]

Seen a 530d (auto) on a '54 plate I rather like but have doubts on 2 scores: a) it has run-flats with no spare wheel - any views on this? Can you get spare wheels and jack, etc and if so, where from (would like to avoid BMW dealers if poss)....and b) the i-drive shows the mileage until x, y or z needs doing on the service schedule. I've been told that only BMW can reset these values once the work has been done. Does this mean I've got to have every little service thing done by a BMW dealer, even down to changing the oil -stuff I can do myself or, at the very least, any garage can do?

Thanks in advance for any views...
DD

[RedRobert]

Dave

I have a 535D (05 plate) and would say the following:

a) got rid of run flats too and went with 19" 172's with no run flats. I thought about getting the spare wheel kit (you need wheel, jack and wrench) and from BMW they were about £170. Decided against in instead and went and got a small cigarette lighter pump. The tyre pressure monitor still works and on one occasion it told me I had a puncture, but the PSi was still around 23, therefore allowed me time to get to a garage. The cigarette lighter pump is for emergencies I suppose in that I figure I could pump the wheel up until I get to a garage.

b) you do not need to go to BMW to reset the service indicators. I had the oil changed with my local garage man and half the cost and he was able to reset it with his computer. Also, there is some sequence that you can do with the ignition and mileage reset button that helps you reset it yourself.

Hope that helps
Ronan

[StuB]

As redrobert says, space savers are hellish expensive and pretty much BMW only or near BMW prices on fleabay. I have a can of foam and a small pump too just in case. Still got RFT's on the front, but when they're done, it's normal tyres all round for me.

I can e-mail you a text file with the instructions to do the service stuff, but I'd recommend keeping the car serviced by a good local independent BMW specialist.

I work in Doncaster and use some guys in Hessle, near Hull for all my BMW servicing, have for years!

[Doncaster Dave]

Thanks very much for the info. I went to my local garage and they assured me they could do the codes. The run-flats I can live with - just bought the car and its great!