
BMW 520 requires 4.5 liters of engine oil. The functions of engine oil include: lubrication, auxiliary cooling, cleaning, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, shock absorption, and wear resistance. Taking the 2017 BMW 520Li as an example, it belongs to the mid-to-large-sized car category with body dimensions of: length 5055mm, width 1860mm, height 1491mm, wheelbase 3108mm, and fuel tank capacity of 70 liters. The 2017 BMW 520Li features a double-wishbone independent front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension. It is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine delivering a maximum horsepower of 184PS, maximum power of 135kW, and maximum torque of 270Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

I remember the first time I serviced my BMW 520, I specifically checked the manual and consulted the mechanic. It generally requires about 6.5 liters of engine oil. That engine has an inline six-cylinder design. If the oil level is insufficient, the noise will increase, and parts may even wear out; adding too much is wasteful and may cause white smoke. During my regular checks in my garage, I found that the oil dipstick position is best maintained in the middle zone after the engine cools down, and the oil should be changed every 10,000 kilometers. That time, the oil level was a bit low, so I topped it up to 6.5 liters. After starting the car, it ran much smoother and even saved me some fuel costs. Always use qualified engine oil and never buy cheap, inferior oil to save money, as it can easily cause major engine problems. Once you develop the habit, it’s both worry-free and safe.

When I first bought my BMW 520 and went to the 4S store for the initial maintenance, the technician said it would be appropriate to add about 6.7 liters of engine oil. As a novice, I was worried about adding the wrong amount and asked why this specific quantity was recommended. It turned out that the manual specifies between 6.5 to 7 liters, as the engine has limited internal space. Overfilling can cause oil to leak from the oil pan or affect lubrication efficiency. Now, I’ve learned to check the oil dipstick every season to ensure the oil level is between the marked lines. If the oil turns black or contains impurities, I replace it immediately. This kind of maintenance is both economical and practical, helping to extend the car’s lifespan. Remember, don’t act blindly—always consult a professional first.

Having worked in a repair shop for several years, I've found that the BMW 520i typically uses 6.5 to 7 liters of engine oil, depending on the year and model. For example, newer engine designs with optimizations may require slightly less. Overfilling can increase internal pressure or risk oil leaks, while insufficient oil may cause rough acceleration. I recommend using a measuring cup for precise amounts, adhering to the owner's manual recommendation of 6.5 liters. The oil viscosity must also match, such as 5W-30, to properly protect the engine. After each service, start the car for 10 minutes and then check for any leaks—this ensures safety and efficiency.


