Is a BMW Engine Oil Temperature of 120 Normal?
2 Answers
An engine oil temperature of 120 is normal for a BMW, but if the coolant temperature reaches 120, it is abnormal. In such cases, the vehicle should be immediately pulled over, turned off, and allowed to cool down naturally to prevent engine damage and extend its service life. Engine oil serves to lubricate, cool, and clean the engine, ensuring proper lubrication of internal components for optimal performance. BMW is a German luxury car brand, with model series including i, X, Z, and numeric series such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, as well as the performance-enhanced M series based on these models.
As a long-time BMW driver, I always take caution when the oil temperature gauge shows 120°C. The normal oil temperature for a BMW should be between 90°C and 110°C, so 120°C is noticeably high, indicating potential issues with the cooling system—such as a stuck fan, insufficient coolant, or driving at high speeds in extremely hot conditions. Excessive oil temperature can thin out the oil, reducing its lubricating ability and increasing the risk of engine wear or cylinder damage. I remember once during a summer road trip when the temperature suddenly climbed to around 115°C—I immediately slowed down, pulled over, and shut off the engine to inspect, after which the temperature dropped. Routine maintenance is crucial: regular oil changes, cleaning the radiator fins, and maintaining proper coolant levels are essential. In such situations, prioritize stopping to cool down and avoid sustained high-load driving—safety comes first.
