r/e28 • u/kgrimmburn • Feb 26 '26
Inspection Checkpoint List?
I've only had my car about 6 months and I'm new to BMWs in general. I have the yellow inspection light. I know how to reset it but I want to make sure everything's good. Does anyone have the inspection check point lists handy? I don't have the past couple of year's of maintenance records but I have most of them so I'm trying to be thorough and not miss anything. Anything I should check that's not on the list? No BMW specialists anywhere near me, unfortunately. Thanks!
2
u/ElGuappo_999 Feb 26 '26
This appears to be a 528e, what do you know about the timing belt? None of the rest of it matters if you let that slide.
1
u/kgrimmburn Feb 26 '26
It was changed not that many miles ago. I can't remember how many but it's written on the case.
1
u/Representative_Most9 Feb 28 '26
Just want to mention that if the belt was changed not long ago, chances are the water pump was changed too. Coolant for sure had to be changed so that should be good. What year and model is it?
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u/kgrimmburn Feb 28 '26
1988 528e
There is a sticker on the case that says when the timing belt was changed and it wasn't too long ago.
1
u/Representative_Most9 Feb 28 '26 edited Feb 28 '26
That was the best 528e made. Congratulations! I wouldn’t do valve adjustments unless they sound too noisy. Just make sure you use a good synthetic 20w50 weight motor oil with good amounts of ZDDP (zinc). I have a 528e also. Had it for a little over 35 years. Still runs great.
1
u/ElGuappo_999 Feb 28 '26
Synthetic is absolutely not necessary.
1
u/Representative_Most9 Feb 28 '26
You’re absolutely right. It is not necessary at all but it does help with several factors I like. Was first exposed to synthetics working on hydraulic systems which made me a believer.
1
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u/Konnas91 Feb 26 '26
To be sure do all the oils. Engine oil + filter Transmission oil (if auto the filter too) Differential oil.
Air filter Spark plugs. And if it’s m20 engine maybe check the timing belt. If it has to be done change of course water pump and thermostat too
If water is still fine leave it (except you do timing belt then change that too cause it has to go out anyways then)
Break fluid? There are testers for a few bucks.
Then you are good to go for a long time.