How Many Liters of Engine Oil Does a BMW 5 Series Need?
2 Answers
BMW 5 Series requires approximately 4 liters of engine oil. Adding too much oil can increase the amount of oil splashed onto the cylinder walls by the rotating crankshaft and connecting rods. Taking the 2021 BMW 5 Series as an example, it belongs to the mid-to-large-sized car category with the following dimensions: length 5106mm, width 1868mm, height 1500mm, wheelbase 3105mm, fuel tank capacity 68 liters, and curb weight 1705kg. The 2021 BMW 5 Series features a double-wishbone independent front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. It is equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged engine delivering a maximum horsepower of 184PS, maximum power of 135kW, and maximum torque of 290Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
As someone who has long studied and driven BMW models, I understand that the oil capacity of a BMW 5 Series is typically around 6.5 liters, but this figure is not fixed—it highly depends on the engine model. For example, the classic N55 engine usually requires about 6.3 liters, while the newer B58 may be closer to 6.5 liters. The reason is simple: the correct oil volume ensures that internal engine components are adequately lubricated and cooled, preventing overheating or excessive wear. After using synthetic oils of different viscosities several times, I found that adding even half a liter too much can increase oil pressure, potentially leading to leaks or higher fuel consumption; too little, on the other hand, can result in insufficient lubrication, making the engine noisier or even damaging the pistons. Therefore, I strongly recommend that owners first check the user manual or confirm the specific capacity by entering the VIN code through the official BMW app—never estimate the amount arbitrarily. Regular oil changes are crucial, as replacing the oil every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometers can significantly extend engine life. If the oil light comes on during a drive, stop immediately to check and top it up—safety first.
