What Type of Engine Oil Should a BMW Use?
2 Answers
BMW should use 5W30 engine oil. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves to lubricate and reduce friction in the engine, assist in cooling, provide sealing to prevent leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and act as a shock absorber. Taking the 2021 BMW 5 Series as an example, its body dimensions are: length 5106 mm, width 1868 mm, height 1500 mm, with a wheelbase of 3105 mm and a fuel tank capacity of 68 liters. The 2021 BMW 5 Series is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 184 hp and a maximum power of 135 kW. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The front suspension type is a double-wishbone independent suspension, and the rear suspension type is a multi-link independent suspension.
This topic has been discussed multiple times in our BMW owners' group. BMW engines are exceptionally precise and really require the right engine oil. The most reliable option is to use oil with BMW LL certification—my car's manual specifies the LL-04 standard, which is designed specifically for German cars. For viscosity, 0W-30 or 5W-30 is generally recommended. I recently used 5W-30 full synthetic for my service. If your car is a newer model equipped with a GPF (Gasoline Particulate Filter), avoid high-ash oils as they can clog the exhaust system. A friend of mine opted for cheaper, non-spec oil, and within three months, the engine warning light came on—costing over 2,000 RMB to clean the fuel system. Nowadays, repair shop apps can help you check compatible oil models. Always buy genuine barrel-packed oil and avoid unbranded oils from small workshops.
