top of page

How to Perform a DIY Oil Service on a BMW R18: A Step-by-Step Guide

Writer's picture: A. H. MossA. H. Moss

Updated: Dec 26, 2024

DISCLAIMER: The advice provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified mechanic. Always consult a licensed technician before attempting any repairs yourself, as incorrect procedures could lead to damage to your vehicle or personal injury. No liability is assumed for any loss, injury, or damage resulting from the use of this information.


Servicing your BMW R18 may seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools, patience, and a bit of guidance, it’s a straightforward process. This guide applies to all BMW R18 models and will walk you through every step to ensure your bike runs smoothly and efficiently. You can also follow along on my YouTube Video guide!


BMW R18 Bagger
2022 BMW R18 Bagger

Supplies and Tools Needed

Before getting started, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. Here’s a checklist:

Supplies:


BMW 15W-30 Synthetic Oil
BMW Advantec 15W-30 Synthetic Oil

• BMW OEM 15W-30 Motor Oil (4 liters, p/n 83212365963)

• BMW OEM Oil Filter (p/n 11427673541)

• Crush Washer for the oil drain plug (p/n 07119963252)

• Optional: BMW OEM Oil Filter Tool (p/n 83300401554)

Tools:

• Metric HEX and Torx socket set

• Ratcheting wrench with extensions

• Torque wrench (with low torque settings)

• Drain pan

• Funnels

• Screwdriver handle with metal shaft for leverage

• Clean gloves

Step-by-Step BMW R18 Service

1. Warm Up the Oil

Start by taking the bike for a ride to warm the oil. Warm oil drains more thoroughly.

2. Prepare the Bike

Park the bike on a flat surface and turn it off. Remove the cylinder head cover on the rider’s right-hand side. Depending on your setup, you’ll need a hex or torx socket for this.

3. Remove the Filler Cap

BMW R18 Oil Fill Rubber O-Ring
Rubber O-Ring in place after removal of filler cap

• Place a drain pan under the bike.

• Use the BMW screwdriver handle and the metal shaft to undo the filler cap. Twist counterclockwise with slight downward pressure.

• Once removed, take out the rubber O-ring, inspect it, clean it, and set it aside.

4. Drain the Oil

• Locate the oil drain plug beneath the bike, about 6 inches forward of the rear brake pedal.

• Use an 8mm hex socket to loosen and remove the drain plug. Be ready for hot oil to flow out quickly—wear gloves for safety.

• Inspect and clean the magnetic drain plug and replace the crush washer.

5. Remove the Oil Filter

• Once the oil flow slows, remove the oil filter. This step can get messy, so take your time.

• Check that the rubber gasket has been removed from the filter housing. If it’s stuck, use a pick to remove it.

6. Ensure Complete Drainage

If you don’t have a lift, sit on the bike and hold it upright for 5–10 minutes to ensure all oil drains.

7. Reinstall the Drain Plug

BMW Magnetic Oil Drain Plug with Crush Washer
Magnetic Drain plug before cleaning and replacing crush washer

• Clean the drain plug and ensure the crush washer is replaced.

• Carefully thread the plug back in by hand to avoid cross-threading. Tighten until snug but don’t over-tighten.

8. Install the New Oil Filter

BMW Oil Filter 1427673541
BMW OEM Oil Filter

• Fill the new filter with fresh oil.

• Lightly coat the threads and rubber gasket with oil.

• Hand-tighten the filter until snug. Use the oil filter tool if necessary to finish the rotations.

9. Torque the Drain Plug and Oil Filter

BMW R18 Oil Filter and Drain Plug Location
Bottom of engine showing Oil Filter and Drain location

• Set your torque wrench to 28nm (20.65 lb-ft) for the drain plug and tighten it. Verify with a second attempt to ensure accuracy.

• For the oil filter, set the torque wrench to 11nm (8.11 lb-ft) and tighten until the wrench clicks.

10. Fill with New Oil

• Place a funnel into the fill hole and pour in 4 liters of BMW 15W-30 oil.

• Allow residual oil in the bottles to collect, and pour it in as well.

11. Reinstall the Filler Cap and O-Ring

• Clean the O-ring and reinstall it.

• Hand-tighten the filler cap with the BMW screwdriver handle. Do not overtighten.

12. Start the Bike and Check the Oil Level

• Upright the bike and start the engine. Let it idle for 1–2 minutes to circulate the oil.

• Turn off the engine, keep the bike upright, and check the oil level using the oil level indicator. Pro tip: Use your phone to take a photo for easier reading. The oil level should fall within the red window, ideally halfway.

• BMW recommends rechecking the oil after each 50km (31-mile) ride.

13. Reassemble the Cylinder Head Cover

• Align the cover and hand-tighten the screws until snug.

• Torque the screws to 10nm (7.37 lb-ft).

14. Reset the Service Reminder

• Locate the OBD2 port behind the decorative cowl on the rider’s left side. Pry gently from the bottom to release it.

• Lift the OBD2 gateway from its dust boot and connect it to your diagnostic tool (e.g., GS911). Use the tool to reset the service reminder.


BMW R18 OBD II Location
OBD II Port on BMW R18


With the oil level satisfactory, the bike reassembled, and the service reminder reset, your BMW R18 is ready to hit the road. Performing your own service not only saves money but also gives you a better understanding of your motorcycle. Enjoy the ride!



11 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

ความคิดเห็น


Sign up for our not so frequent newsletters!

Thanks for submitting!

© 2020 by A. H. Moss

bottom of page