How many liters of engine oil does a BMW 5 Series need?
3 Answers
BMW 5 Series requires 4 liters of engine oil. If too much engine oil is added to the BMW 5 Series, it will increase the amount of oil splashed onto the cylinder walls by the rotating crankshaft and connecting rods, significantly increasing the amount of oil entering the combustion chamber. This leads to more carbon deposits in the combustion chamber, increases the resistance to piston movement, and reduces engine power. As more oil enters the combustion chamber, exhaust emissions worsen, affecting the lifespan of the three-way catalytic converter, and in severe cases, may damage it. The BMW 5 Series has dimensions of 5106mm in length, 1868mm in width, and 1500mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3105mm, and the engine model is B48B20C.
Every time I take my BMW 5 Series for maintenance, the amount of engine oil varies slightly depending on the engine model. In most cases, it's around 5 to 6 liters. I often refer to the vehicle manual because BMW has several engine types. For example, the common B48 engine might require about 5.5 liters, while the older N52 engine needs a bit more, approximately 6 liters. Adding too little or too much oil can damage the engine. For instance, overfilling can cause excessive pressure, burning out seals, while insufficient oil can lead to inadequate lubrication and high-temperature failures. It's recommended to regularly check the oil dipstick, preferably when the engine is cold for the most accurate reading. Typically, oil should be changed every six months or every 10,000 kilometers for maintenance. If you're adding oil yourself, first clean the filler port and pour slowly using a funnel—don't rush. Also, make sure to choose the right type of oil; full synthetic oil is more suitable for BMWs, as it extends engine life and improves fuel efficiency. Remember, if you're unsure, it's best to visit a 4S shop and let a professional measure it accurately—spending a little money now can save you big trouble later.
I've been using a BMW 5 Series for several years, and the engine oil refill is usually around 5.5 liters. Don't rigidly stick to the numbers—always check the actual oil level. Like the last time I did it myself, I noticed that older cars or cold winter starts can cause the oil level to drop faster. If it's low, top it up a bit to avoid engine wear. I recommend regularly consulting the manual or asking a professional shop, as the 5 Series has both gasoline and diesel versions with different oil requirements. Before adding oil yourself, make sure the car is parked on level ground and use the dipstick to confirm the ideal mid-level position. Also, let's talk about related maintenance: accurate oil levels can improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and save costs; incorrect oil levels might cause engine vibrations or increased noise. Personally, I think the simplest approach is to let the technician adjust it during each service—it's worry-free and safer.
