Where is the oil dipstick in the BMW 5 Series?
4 Answers
The BMW 5 Series does not have an oil dipstick. To check the oil level, you need to start the car and enter the iDrive system. Navigate to the vehicle information section to confirm the vehicle status, where the oil level will be displayed. Click on the check option to view the oil level. The BMW 5 Series is a mid-to-large-sized sedan. Taking the BMW 5 Series 2021 525Li Luxury Package as an example, its body dimensions are: length 5106 mm, width 1868 mm, height 1500 mm, with a wheelbase of 3105 mm. The BMW 5 Series 2021 525Li Luxury Package is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 184 hp.
I remember when I first drove a BMW 5 Series, I also found it quite tricky to locate the oil dipstick. It's generally positioned in the front-right area of the engine bay, near the radiator. After opening the hood, you'll need to bend down and look for a tube with a yellow or orange plastic handle—that's the oil dipstick. To check it, make sure the car is parked on level ground and the engine has cooled for a few minutes. Pull it out, wipe it clean, reinsert it for a few seconds, and then pull it out again to observe where the oil mark falls between the MIN and MAX indicators. If it's below MIN, you'll need to add oil—preferably the grade recommended by BMW. Don’t forget to confirm there are no oil leaks before closing the hood; beginners often overlook this detail. Regular checks can prevent engine overheating and extend your car's lifespan. If you still can’t find it, consult the user manual or visit a repair shop—never force or yank it randomly.
Having driven for many years, I find the oil dipstick location on the BMW 5 Series quite concealed. It's hidden beneath the hood on the driver's side front, near the air filter housing. While some modern BMW models have switched to electronic oil level monitoring, older 5 Series still feature a physical dipstick. The checking procedure is straightforward: wait about ten minutes after parking, then pull out the dipstick tube, wipe it clean, reinsert to measure, and finally check the oil level. The positioning considers dust and water protection to avoid misreading. If the oil level is too low, promptly top up with the specified oil—remember not to operate when the engine is hot to prevent burns. I recommend checking monthly alongside the maintenance schedule, which greatly helps prevent engine carbon buildup and wear. Although electronic systems are convenient, traditional dipsticks offer intuitive feedback, making them suitable for DIY enthusiasts. When in doubt, consulting a professional technician is always advisable.
Locating the dipstick on a BMW 5 Series was quite a lesson for me. It's situated in the engine compartment, near the area below the front windshield. After opening the hood, look towards the front left corner—it's usually a long tube with an orange handle. Remember to wait five minutes after turning off the engine before checking to avoid oil splashing. Gently pull it out, wipe it clean with a tissue, reinsert it, and then slowly pull it out again to see if the oil mark is between the two indicator lines. If it's too low, you'll need to add some oil, but be careful not to overfill as it can damage the engine. The location isn't hard to find; beginners can try a few times. If it's hard to see, bring a flashlight for better visibility. I don't usually work on cars, so I've asked car-savvy friends for help or searched for illustrated videos online. Making a habit of regular checks can save you from costly repairs—it's both safe and economical.
