How many liters of engine oil should be added to the BMW 118i three-cylinder engine?

[VonJames]

BMW 118i three-cylinder engine requires approximately 4 liters of engine oil. Engine oil plays a crucial role in lubricating and reducing friction, assisting in cooling, sealing against leaks, preventing rust and corrosion, and providing shock absorption. The BMW 118i is a compact car with body dimensions of 4341mm in length, 1765mm in width, and 1458mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2690mm and a fuel tank capacity of 52 liters. It is equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum power of 100kW at 4400rpm and a maximum torque range between 1250 to 4300rpm.

[PhoebeFitz]

When I drove the 118i, I often changed the oil myself. The standard oil capacity for the three-cylinder engine is about 4.2 liters, but don't just focus on the number. Every time I did it, I made sure the engine was cooled down, drained the old oil completely, and then slowly poured in the new oil. Pouring too fast can cause spills and may lead to overfilling, which increases engine strain. I once added only 4.0 liters, and the oil level was too low—the engine noise became louder. After topping up with an extra 0.2 liters, it returned to normal. Using BMW-recommended 5W-30 synthetic oil is best, as it offers high compatibility and protects the engine. If you drive frequently, check the dipstick every 5,000 km to ensure the oil level is at the middle mark. If the oil level drops too quickly, it might indicate a leak or engine wear. Remember, both overfilling and underfilling are risky—overfilling wastes oil and affects performance, while underfilling reduces lubrication and shortens engine life. In short, 4.2 liters is the baseline, but always refer to the manual or consult a professional to be sure—don't skip the details. Regular maintenance is key and can save you a lot on repairs.

[LeElliana]

When dealing with this three-cylinder engine, I'll give you practical advice: The standard oil capacity is 4.2 liters, but it depends on specific conditions. For example, when draining old oil, do it thoroughly to avoid leaving residue in the new oil. Personally, I always warm up the engine for a few minutes to soften the old oil before draining, then open the drain plug after cooling. Before pouring new oil, check if the oil filter has been replaced - only proceed when it's properly installed. Common mistakes include overfilling beyond 4.5 liters (causing high oil pressure and blue smoke, leading to expensive repairs) or underfilling at 4 liters (resulting in insufficient lubrication and accelerated wear). I recommend using synthetic oil to extend engine life and save fuel. After refilling, let the engine idle for five minutes before checking the dipstick level. Don't skip regular maintenance - intervals should be 5,000 to 10,000 km depending on driving habits. DIY mistakes like incorrect oil quantity can damage components, so beginners should watch tutorial videos or seek professional help. Remember, 4.2 liters is just a starting point - always verify with the dipstick to ensure oil level stays within the ideal range.