What kind of engine oil does the BMW 325 use?
3 Answers
BMW 325 is equipped with a turbocharged engine, and this model should use full synthetic oil with a viscosity of 40. Turbocharged engines have very high requirements for engine oil because they operate under high pressure and temperature in the cylinders, necessitating better oil for lubrication and cooling. More information about turbocharged engines is as follows: 1. Turbocharged engines are equipped with turbochargers, which can reach speeds of over 100,000 RPM during normal operation. The turbocharger relies on engine oil for lubrication and cooling. 2. During normal engine operation, the oil forms a protective film on the surfaces of various engine components, preventing direct contact and friction between them.
I run an auto repair shop and have worked with quite a few BMW 325 owners. This car typically uses 5W-30 or 0W-30 viscosity full synthetic oil, which must carry BMW LL-01 or LL-04 certification. Just look for these two logos on the oil container. I've seen owners use the wrong oil, resulting in excessively loud engine noise and a spike in fuel consumption. It's recommended to change the oil every 7,500 to 10,000 kilometers. When changing the oil, pay attention to the tightening torque of the oil pan drain plug to avoid stripping the threads. Also, always use OEM oil filters, as aftermarket ones are prone to leaks. Some small shops might push cheaper oil, but never risk engine damage to save a few bucks—stick with certified oils for safety.
I've been driving a 325 for four years and know very well that this car is picky about engine oil. The manual clearly requires the use of fully synthetic oil with BMW certification, commonly 5W-30. The dealership always uses this type for me, and although it's a bit expensive, it gives me peace of mind. Once, I bought oil from another brand myself, not paying attention to the certification standards, and after just 2,000 kilometers, the engine sound became very dull. I quickly switched back to oil with LL-01 certification, and everything returned to normal. Now, I follow the manual's recommendation for maintenance every 10,000 kilometers, and I also check the oil dipstick midway to monitor the oil level. I advise owners not to take risks with other oils; sticking to the manufacturer's standards is the most worry-free approach.
