Which type of engine oil is suitable for BMW?
2 Answers
BMW generally uses four types of engine oil: 0W30, 0W40, 5W30, and 5W40. Below is relevant information about engine oil: Meaning of engine oil specifications: 0W refers to low-temperature lubrication protection performance. The smaller the number, the lower the temperature at which it can provide protection. 30 refers to high-temperature lubrication protection performance. The larger the number, the higher the temperature it can withstand for protection. Effects of excessive engine oil: Too much engine oil can easily increase engine load, harming power output. The engine's exhaust ventilation system is also prone to damage, increasing carbon buildup. Excessive oil levels can also lead to oil burning issues.
I've driven BMWs for over a decade and often get asked this question. BMW engines are precision machines, so you can't just use any oil. Typically, I recommend SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 full synthetic oil with BMW Longlife certification, such as Longlife-04. Synthetic oils have lower viscosity, allowing quicker engine starts, reduced friction, and better fuel efficiency. The certification ensures oil quality and protects against counterfeit products damaging the engine. The manual spells it out clearly—just follow the guidelines. I adjust based on climate: in hot southern regions, 0W offers better flow, while 5W is more suitable for northern winters. For brands, I trust Mobil or Shell, and BMW's own formulations are excellent. Skip this step, and your engine may wear faster, develop more noise, or even see a spike in fuel consumption. Change the oil regularly—every 8,000 kilometers—don’t wait for problems. Remember, saving a little now could cost you big on repairs later. Safety comes first.
