
BMW 525 Series requires 5 liters of engine oil. Engine oil, also known as motor lubricant, serves multiple functions for the engine including lubrication and wear reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, as well as shock absorption. The BMW 5 Series is a premium 4-door, 5-seater sedan with body dimensions of 5106mm in length, 1868mm in width, and 1500mm in height, featuring a wheelbase of 3105mm and equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The BMW 525 Series is powered by a 2.0T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum power output of 135 kilowatts and a peak torque of 290 Newton-meters. The engine reaches its maximum power at 6500 RPM and peak torque at 4250 RPM. It adopts a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, with a front suspension utilizing a double-wishbone independent setup and a rear suspension employing a multi-link independent configuration.

The oil capacity of the BMW 525 series generally ranges between 5.5 to 6.5 liters, depending on the engine version. I usually drive a 2018 525 model, and during oil changes, I typically use around 6 liters of full synthetic oil. It's recommended to use BMW LL-01 certified oil, such as Shell's 5W-30, which provides excellent engine protection across various temperatures. Don't add oil randomly—always check the user manual first for the exact specifications to avoid overfilling, which can lead to high oil pressure or leaks. Every time I change the oil, I also inspect the oil filter and cooling system. The recommended oil change interval is every 5,000 to 7,500 kilometers, depending on driving habits and road conditions. Changing it too frequently is a waste of money, while delaying it excessively can accelerate engine wear. In short, maintaining the right amount and high-quality oil is fundamental to extending your car's lifespan, especially in extremely cold regions where the right oil can also reduce cold-start issues.

As a mechanic who frequently works on BMWs, I know that the 525 series typically requires around 6 liters of oil on average, but engines like the N20 might need 5.8 liters, while the B48 could take about 6.2 liters. The key is not to overlook the details—using the wrong oil type, such as one with too high a viscosity, can affect fuel consumption. I recommend synthetic oil with LL-04 certification, specifically 0W-30, which performs well in German cars. Before adding oil, always measure the oil level using the dipstick to ensure it's between the MIN and MAX marks. Too low can lead to overheating and piston damage, while too high might cause overflow and engine smoke. During routine maintenance, checking the oil pan seal and cooling system can prevent minor issues from escalating. Don’t skimp by choosing cheap, low-quality oil, as it can easily lead to carbon buildup or clogged filters, ultimately costing you a fortune in repairs—BMW engines are expensive, after all.

Safety should never be taken lightly, as improper engine oil capacity can pose risks. The BMW 525 typically uses about 6 liters, but the manual is the authoritative guide. Excess oil may lead to increased emissions, while insufficient oil can cause engine overheating or even stalling. I emphasize using standard synthetic oil, adjusting the type seasonally—for instance, using 5W-40 in summer for higher viscosity. Change the oil every six months or 7,000 kilometers, and never ignore warning lights. Additionally, set up oil maintenance reminders or use onboard diagnostic tools to monitor parameters, ensuring worry-free driving.


