BMW Oil Change
You need to get your oil changed at least every 10,000 miles for a BMW. However, many professionals (including us) recommend changing your oil every 3,000-5,000 miles for optimal performance. An oil change is routine maintenance but it is a critical procedure for your BMW.
In an oil change your old, contaminated engine oil is replaced with fresh oil which will ensure proper lubrication of the engine’s moving parts. Over time, engine oil breaks down and accumulates dirt and debris from the engine, losing its effectiveness and potentially leading to increased engine wear and damage.
So what happens during an oil change? The oil filter is typically replaced along with the oil change. The filter removes particles and contaminants from the oil, keeping it clean as it circulates through the engine. Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining engine health while also ensuring smooth operation. If you stay on top of oil changes then you will prolong the life of your BMW.
Type of Oil Should You Use
You might be overwhelmed when choosing the type of oil in your BMW. We do have a couple of options, but we do have our recommendations.
Viscosity Grade
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- BMW typically recommends using synthetic oil with a viscosity grade that matches the climate and driving conditions you typically encounter. Commonly recommended viscosities for BMWs are 0W-40, 5W-30, and 5W-40.
BMW Longlife Specifications
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- BMW has its own oil standards, known as BMW Longlife-01, Longlife-04, etc. These specifications are designed to ensure the oil meets the performance and emission standards required by BMW engines. Make sure the oil you choose meets the BMW Longlife specification recommended for your vehicle.
Synthetic Oil
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- BMW generally recommends the use of fully synthetic oil rather than conventional oil. Synthetic oil offers better performance, particularly in extreme temperatures, and typically lasts longer before it needs to be changed.
Manufacturer Approval
Look for oils that specifically state they are approved by BMW for use in their engines. These oils have been tested and certified to meet BMW’s stringent requirements.
Oil Change Interval
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- Follow the oil change intervals as recommended in your BMW’s manual. Modern BMWs often have a condition-based service (CBS) system that alerts you when an oil change is needed.
High-Performance Models
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- If you own a high-performance BMW, such as an M series model, it may require a different type of oil. Always check the manual or consult with a BMW specialist for the correct type.