What is CBS?
Conditional Based Service (CBS) is an evolution of BMW’s standard service indicator system (SIA) previously fitted across the model range. It was first introduced in 2002 when the ‘new’ 7’ series model was launched and is now a standard feature on most new models.
Benefits of CBS
The concept of CBS was to create a flexible yet economical maintenance schedule for serviceable items fitted to a vehicle. Unlike its predecessor (SIA) which used fixed time and distance service schedules (days and m/km’s) the innovative CBS system goes one step further. This intelligent system constantly gathers information from modules and sensors fitted around the vehicle which allows flexible intervals to be created preventing unnecessary replacement of components which still have substantial service life left. In essence there is an aim to lengthen service intervals and maximise the use of serviceable components.
Components supported by CBS
The type of CBS components supported on a particular model will vary depending on specification and engine type. Items fall into 2 main groups:
1) Sensor based items
These items are monitored by physical and virtual sensors with some reference being made to variables such as vehicle mileage, driving styles and temperature. Items included in this group are:
-Engine oil – Monitored by the DME/DDE engine control module
-Micro filter/Pollen filter – Monitored by the IHKA climate control module
-Front brake pads – Monitored by the DSC stability control module
-Rear brake pads – Monitored by the DSC stability control module
-Diesel Particulate filter - Monitored by the DME/DDE engine control module
2) Internally calculated items
Certain items monitored by the CBS system do not require physical sensors. These serviceable items still operate under fixed intervals with remaining service life calculated by the instrument cluster based on time and distance. Items included in this group are:
-Brake fluid
-Spark plugs
-User interface
-Instrument cluster
The instrument cluster gives advanced notification ofany pending service requirements via informationdisplayed on the LCD. This is displayed in the form on a ‘SERVICE’ warning followed by information relevant to the component requiring maintenance. BMW aim to give approximately four weeks advanced notificationof any maintenance requirements to prevent driversaccidently ‘running over’ service schedules.
i-Drive
Further information can be accessed via the i-Drive system. By navigating through the i-Drive menu into the ‘Service Menu’, it is possible to check the current state and remaining serviceable life of all CBS monitored components. Each item will be highlighted in either Green, Yellow or Red and display a percentage value indicating remaining serviceable life.
Green item = No service required at present
-Yellow item = Service life nearing its end
-Red item = Service deadline has been passed
Resetting CBS service indicators
Inevitably this extra complexity demands more advanced reset procedures. The first noticeable requirement is the need to set the on-board time and date prior to making any resets. This is taken as the reference point for any ‘time dependant’ CBS items such as ‘Brake fluid’
Resetting manually
It is possible to carry out the reset of CBS items manually by following specific procedures relevant to supported vehicles. These procedures will NOT work if:
- The remaining percentage is greater than 80%
- The time and date have not been set
Resetting using diagnostic equipment
By using suitable diagnostic equipment connected to the vehicle diagnostic connector it is possible to reset CBS service schedules at any time. By selecting the ‘CBS’ option, the diagnostic equipment will gather information regarding the current state of CBS items from their relevant modules on the CAN network.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manual Reset Procedure
Step 1
Insert key into slot
Step 2
Press start/stop button without depressing clutch/brake and wait for the service reminder to dissapear.
Step 3
Immediately after service reminder goes out, press and hold the odometer reset. After 3 secs a warning triangle will appear, keep the odometer button pressed and after another 2-3 secs the Oil can will appear. If you hold it too long (10 secs in total) you will overshoot and some German writing will appear giving the software level/ can bus etc. of the car. Go back to the beginning and start again.
Step 4
You are now in the service menu, use the toggle switch on indicator stalk to scroll up/down through the various service items.
Step 5
When you have the item you want to reset showing, press the BC button on end of indicator stalk. Reset should now appear in the display. Press in and hold the BC button for 2-3 secs and a clock will start whirling around and then its done.
Step 6
You can now either scroll up/down to select another item (as in step 4) or you can press the start/stop button to exit.
The above procedure will NOT work if:-
- The remaining percentage is greater than 80%;
- The time and date have not been set.
EDIT:- Just found out that BMW will charge you £22 for this reset under a service scope
...now
it's FREE...
EDIT:- Extra Info...
The following to be checked when the following symbols are illuminated.
Engine oil
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* The engine oil and oil filter are changed because keeping the oil at the right level and clean is vital to the protection and longevity of the life of movable engine parts. Also, if you do a lot of short journeys, your oil filter will be more susceptible to blockages caused by the condensation of water in the oil.
* The handbrake is checked - unlike the foot brakes, the handbrake is a mechanical function and therefore has to be checked for any necessary adjustment as standard.
* With every 3rd oil change:
- Intake silencer: replace air filter element - this can reduce your fuel consumption by up to 10% as the engine can breathe more easily.
- Fuel filter: replace main fuel filter (only if diesel) - this will ensure a higher purification level of your fuel.
Micro-filters
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* Heating, air conditioning or automatic air conditioning: replace micro filter/carbon canister - this is important because micro filters trap 80% of the pollen and traffic fumes before it gets into the cabin, helps keep drivers and passengers alert and helps demist windows quickly even on a rainy winter's day.
* Reset indicator.
Front brakes
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* Brake pads are changed, and the brake caliper cavities are cleaned. Failure to get your brake pads replaced will result in a reduction in braking performance, and if the callipers are cleaned, any squeaking in the brakes should be diminished.
* Brake discs:
o Surface and thickness - the importance of having a safe level of thickness in your brake discs is paramount to your driving safety; if necessary, the brake discs will be replaced.
* Reset indicator.
Rear brakes
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* Brake pads are changed, and the brake caliper cavities are cleaned. Failure to get your brake pads matched correctly will result in a brake imbalance front to rear on your vehicle, and if the callipers are cleaned, any squeaking in the brakes should be diminished.
* Brake discs:- Surface and thickness - the importance of having a safe level of thickness in your brake discs is paramount to your driving safety; if necessary, the brake discs will be replaced.
* Handbrake:
- Condition, brake lining thickness and function - unlike the foot brakes, the handbrake is a mechanical function and therefore has to be checked for any necessary adjustment. As the handbrake is connected to the rear brake shoes, over time these shoes wear and therefore these will also require inspection to ensure a serviceable condition. (The brake shoes when applied by the handbrake clamps the drums of the rear brake disc, therefore securing the rear wheels in a locked position, the mating surfaces have to be in good order).
- If necessary, the handbrake or any of its other components will be replaced.
* Reset indicator.
Brake fluid
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* Brake fluid is changed. The problem with brake fluid is that it absorbs moisture from the air quickly. This is important because the amount of moisture in your brake fluid affects your vehicle's performance. As water content in brake fluid increases over time, the boiling point decreases. Fluid with a reduced boiling point (or high water content) can create vapour by boiling in the caliper, or wheel cylinder. Potentially, this could reduce braking performance significantly, and can also contribute to corrosion of parts, such as steel pistons and ABS modulators.
* Reset indicator.
Diesel filter
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears? (Only on diesel models)
* Diesel filter is changed. This filter is important to the general efficiency of diesel engines. As the fuel passes through this filter, unwanted particles and residue will become trapped, so that the fuel is passing to the engine is 'clean'. Therefore, this filter has to be replaced when indicated to ensure that your engine is running at optimum performance.
* Reset indicator.
MOT
CBS models:
* Statutory inspection for vehicles 3 years and older.
* Annual check comprising of over 150 safety related items and exhaust emission system test.
* Checked items, for example include lights, steering, brakes, suspension and fuel system.
* Government regulated inspection.
Spark plugs
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears? (Only on petrol models)
* Spark plugs are replaced. When it comes to fuel efficiently, spark plugs are one of the most critical parts of a petrol car's engine. Defective spark plugs can result in worsening emissions and increased fuel consumption, and can even result in misfires if not replaced. Replacing these worn spark plugs will improve the performance of the engine.
* Reset indicator.
Vehicle check
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* Diagnosis test.
* Horn, headlight flasher and hazard warning lights.
* Instrument and indication field lighting, check heater blower.
* Windscreen wash/wipe system.
* Body: checked for corrosion.
* Tyres: tread depths, tread pattern and external condition, check inflation pressures and correct if necessary (spare wheel checked also).
* Battery: display checked, and if necessary, replaced. - If your car is a few years old it is worth getting your battery checked prior to the onset of cold and damp weather, as these conditions can contribute to deterioration in the battery.
* Steering fluid reservoir: fluid level checked.
* Coolant level and refill if necessary: if there's too little water and anti-freeze in the cooling system, then the engine can overheat and cause potentially serious damage.
* Windscreen washer system: check fluid level, top up if necessary.
* Brake lines and connections: checked for leaks, damage, and correct position.
* Under-body including all visible parts: checked for damage, leaks and corrosion.
* Steering components: checked for clearance, leaks, damage and wear.
* Check for roadworthiness
- Brakes
- Steering
- Shock absorbers; and
- Clutch / automatic transmission
ADDITIONALLY: A Standard Scope inspection is carried out on your BMW when it is brought in for a service. This inspection includes:
* Check of control messages.
* Check of tell tale and warning lights flagged in the LCD display.
Conditional Based Service (CBS) is an evolution of BMW’s standard service indicator system (SIA) previously fitted across the model range. It was first introduced in 2002 when the ‘new’ 7’ series model was launched and is now a standard feature on most new models.
Benefits of CBS
The concept of CBS was to create a flexible yet economical maintenance schedule for serviceable items fitted to a vehicle. Unlike its predecessor (SIA) which used fixed time and distance service schedules (days and m/km’s) the innovative CBS system goes one step further. This intelligent system constantly gathers information from modules and sensors fitted around the vehicle which allows flexible intervals to be created preventing unnecessary replacement of components which still have substantial service life left. In essence there is an aim to lengthen service intervals and maximise the use of serviceable components.
Components supported by CBS
The type of CBS components supported on a particular model will vary depending on specification and engine type. Items fall into 2 main groups:
1) Sensor based items
These items are monitored by physical and virtual sensors with some reference being made to variables such as vehicle mileage, driving styles and temperature. Items included in this group are:
-Engine oil – Monitored by the DME/DDE engine control module
-Micro filter/Pollen filter – Monitored by the IHKA climate control module
-Front brake pads – Monitored by the DSC stability control module
-Rear brake pads – Monitored by the DSC stability control module
-Diesel Particulate filter - Monitored by the DME/DDE engine control module
2) Internally calculated items
Certain items monitored by the CBS system do not require physical sensors. These serviceable items still operate under fixed intervals with remaining service life calculated by the instrument cluster based on time and distance. Items included in this group are:
-Brake fluid
-Spark plugs
-User interface
-Instrument cluster
The instrument cluster gives advanced notification ofany pending service requirements via informationdisplayed on the LCD. This is displayed in the form on a ‘SERVICE’ warning followed by information relevant to the component requiring maintenance. BMW aim to give approximately four weeks advanced notificationof any maintenance requirements to prevent driversaccidently ‘running over’ service schedules.
i-Drive
Further information can be accessed via the i-Drive system. By navigating through the i-Drive menu into the ‘Service Menu’, it is possible to check the current state and remaining serviceable life of all CBS monitored components. Each item will be highlighted in either Green, Yellow or Red and display a percentage value indicating remaining serviceable life.
Green item = No service required at present
-Yellow item = Service life nearing its end
-Red item = Service deadline has been passed
Resetting CBS service indicators
Inevitably this extra complexity demands more advanced reset procedures. The first noticeable requirement is the need to set the on-board time and date prior to making any resets. This is taken as the reference point for any ‘time dependant’ CBS items such as ‘Brake fluid’
Resetting manually
It is possible to carry out the reset of CBS items manually by following specific procedures relevant to supported vehicles. These procedures will NOT work if:
- The remaining percentage is greater than 80%
- The time and date have not been set
Resetting using diagnostic equipment
By using suitable diagnostic equipment connected to the vehicle diagnostic connector it is possible to reset CBS service schedules at any time. By selecting the ‘CBS’ option, the diagnostic equipment will gather information regarding the current state of CBS items from their relevant modules on the CAN network.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manual Reset Procedure
Step 1
Insert key into slot
Step 2
Press start/stop button without depressing clutch/brake and wait for the service reminder to dissapear.
Step 3
Immediately after service reminder goes out, press and hold the odometer reset. After 3 secs a warning triangle will appear, keep the odometer button pressed and after another 2-3 secs the Oil can will appear. If you hold it too long (10 secs in total) you will overshoot and some German writing will appear giving the software level/ can bus etc. of the car. Go back to the beginning and start again.
Step 4
You are now in the service menu, use the toggle switch on indicator stalk to scroll up/down through the various service items.
Step 5
When you have the item you want to reset showing, press the BC button on end of indicator stalk. Reset should now appear in the display. Press in and hold the BC button for 2-3 secs and a clock will start whirling around and then its done.
Step 6
You can now either scroll up/down to select another item (as in step 4) or you can press the start/stop button to exit.
The above procedure will NOT work if:-
- The remaining percentage is greater than 80%;
- The time and date have not been set.
EDIT:- Just found out that BMW will charge you £22 for this reset under a service scope
...now
it's FREE...EDIT:- Extra Info...
The following to be checked when the following symbols are illuminated.
Engine oil
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* The engine oil and oil filter are changed because keeping the oil at the right level and clean is vital to the protection and longevity of the life of movable engine parts. Also, if you do a lot of short journeys, your oil filter will be more susceptible to blockages caused by the condensation of water in the oil.
* The handbrake is checked - unlike the foot brakes, the handbrake is a mechanical function and therefore has to be checked for any necessary adjustment as standard.
* With every 3rd oil change:
- Intake silencer: replace air filter element - this can reduce your fuel consumption by up to 10% as the engine can breathe more easily.
- Fuel filter: replace main fuel filter (only if diesel) - this will ensure a higher purification level of your fuel.
Micro-filters
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* Heating, air conditioning or automatic air conditioning: replace micro filter/carbon canister - this is important because micro filters trap 80% of the pollen and traffic fumes before it gets into the cabin, helps keep drivers and passengers alert and helps demist windows quickly even on a rainy winter's day.
* Reset indicator.
Front brakes
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* Brake pads are changed, and the brake caliper cavities are cleaned. Failure to get your brake pads replaced will result in a reduction in braking performance, and if the callipers are cleaned, any squeaking in the brakes should be diminished.
* Brake discs:
o Surface and thickness - the importance of having a safe level of thickness in your brake discs is paramount to your driving safety; if necessary, the brake discs will be replaced.
* Reset indicator.
Rear brakes
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* Brake pads are changed, and the brake caliper cavities are cleaned. Failure to get your brake pads matched correctly will result in a brake imbalance front to rear on your vehicle, and if the callipers are cleaned, any squeaking in the brakes should be diminished.
* Brake discs:- Surface and thickness - the importance of having a safe level of thickness in your brake discs is paramount to your driving safety; if necessary, the brake discs will be replaced.
* Handbrake:
- Condition, brake lining thickness and function - unlike the foot brakes, the handbrake is a mechanical function and therefore has to be checked for any necessary adjustment. As the handbrake is connected to the rear brake shoes, over time these shoes wear and therefore these will also require inspection to ensure a serviceable condition. (The brake shoes when applied by the handbrake clamps the drums of the rear brake disc, therefore securing the rear wheels in a locked position, the mating surfaces have to be in good order).
- If necessary, the handbrake or any of its other components will be replaced.
* Reset indicator.
Brake fluid
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* Brake fluid is changed. The problem with brake fluid is that it absorbs moisture from the air quickly. This is important because the amount of moisture in your brake fluid affects your vehicle's performance. As water content in brake fluid increases over time, the boiling point decreases. Fluid with a reduced boiling point (or high water content) can create vapour by boiling in the caliper, or wheel cylinder. Potentially, this could reduce braking performance significantly, and can also contribute to corrosion of parts, such as steel pistons and ABS modulators.
* Reset indicator.
Diesel filter
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears? (Only on diesel models)
* Diesel filter is changed. This filter is important to the general efficiency of diesel engines. As the fuel passes through this filter, unwanted particles and residue will become trapped, so that the fuel is passing to the engine is 'clean'. Therefore, this filter has to be replaced when indicated to ensure that your engine is running at optimum performance.
* Reset indicator.
MOT
CBS models:
* Statutory inspection for vehicles 3 years and older.
* Annual check comprising of over 150 safety related items and exhaust emission system test.
* Checked items, for example include lights, steering, brakes, suspension and fuel system.
* Government regulated inspection.
Spark plugs
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears? (Only on petrol models)
* Spark plugs are replaced. When it comes to fuel efficiently, spark plugs are one of the most critical parts of a petrol car's engine. Defective spark plugs can result in worsening emissions and increased fuel consumption, and can even result in misfires if not replaced. Replacing these worn spark plugs will improve the performance of the engine.
* Reset indicator.
Vehicle check
CBS models: What's checked or changed when this symbol appears?
* Diagnosis test.
* Horn, headlight flasher and hazard warning lights.
* Instrument and indication field lighting, check heater blower.
* Windscreen wash/wipe system.
* Body: checked for corrosion.
* Tyres: tread depths, tread pattern and external condition, check inflation pressures and correct if necessary (spare wheel checked also).
* Battery: display checked, and if necessary, replaced. - If your car is a few years old it is worth getting your battery checked prior to the onset of cold and damp weather, as these conditions can contribute to deterioration in the battery.
* Steering fluid reservoir: fluid level checked.
* Coolant level and refill if necessary: if there's too little water and anti-freeze in the cooling system, then the engine can overheat and cause potentially serious damage.
* Windscreen washer system: check fluid level, top up if necessary.
* Brake lines and connections: checked for leaks, damage, and correct position.
* Under-body including all visible parts: checked for damage, leaks and corrosion.
* Steering components: checked for clearance, leaks, damage and wear.
* Check for roadworthiness
- Brakes
- Steering
- Shock absorbers; and
- Clutch / automatic transmission
ADDITIONALLY: A Standard Scope inspection is carried out on your BMW when it is brought in for a service. This inspection includes:
* Check of control messages.
* Check of tell tale and warning lights flagged in the LCD display.
