[Surfchicken]

Just dropped my i8 in its 2nd service (40k miles) and been informed that they recommend alternator belt change on each 2nd service at a cost approx £400 - it covered in service pack or warranty - anyone else seen this ?

Also had the regenerative brake failure and petrol engine failure error messages - which they are looking at - switch off and switch back on seemed to clear them

[vance]

Sounds like they’re ripping you off even if you actually do need the belt changed. Remember that this is a Mini Cooper engine so changing a belt shouldn’t be costing 400 lbs. A reputable private shop could probably do it for $150

[FrequentFlyer]

It doesn’t sound right. As the service pack is only 3 yrs/36k miles I expect you are not covered.

The USA service schedule is attached and makes no mention of belt change. Mine went in for the oil change at 2 years from build date and according to my dealer also needed a spark plug change according to the CBS key read, despite only having covered 3k miles! This was included in the service pack but struck me as a little odd. I haven’t seen the equivalent Service Schedule published for the UK market but don’t see why it should be different.

[ChiTownM]

Originally Posted by FrequentFlyer

It doesn't sound right. As the service pack is only 3 yrs/36k miles I expect you are not covered.

The USA service schedule is attached and makes no mention of belt change. Mine went in for the oil change at 2 years from build date and according to my dealer also needed a spark plug change according to the CBS key read, despite only having covered 3k miles! This was included in the service pack but struck me as a little odd. I haven't seen the equivalent Service Schedule published for the UK market but don't see why it should be different.

Same scenario happened with mine.

[Surfchicken]

Thanks for feedback - still with BMW so will be pushing them on this - apparently a 3.5 hour job to replace belt.

[FrequentFlyer]

Not surprised as the access would be difficult and a whole lot of other stuff would need to be removed/refitted Still it is not on the USA Service Schedule so surprised that it is a UK item.

Comparison with other B38 engines such as on the Mini isn’t really relevant as you have the extra load due to the energy recuperation/torque fill.

A call to BMW UK customer services may get you an answer about when the belt needs to be replaced according to service schedule.

[Surfchicken]

It is a recommend item rather than required item - considered consumable item rather than warranty item. Fortunately ! as I have the engine alerts coming through - they need to get to wiring anyway - so hopefully will be significantly less - at least for next 40k miles