Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Approved Engine Oils
-For BMW gasoline engines with two valves per cylinder, all reputable multiple grade engine oils* which meet or exceed the API classification of SH. (Combination with diesel oil specifications CD or CE quality classifications are also permitted, e.g. SH/CE etc.)
For BMW gasoline engines with four valves per cylinder, only reputable multiple grade engine oils* which meet or exceed the API classification of SH. (Combination with diesel oil specifications CD or CE quality classifications are also permitted, e.g. SH/CE etc.)
-For BMW turbocharged diesel engines, all reputable multiple grade engine oils* which meet or exceed the API classification CD/CE.
*: Engine oil may be mineral or synthetic based.
Special Oils category has been replaced by BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil (5W-30). It eliminates the need for seasonal oil changes since it covers all ambient temperature ranges.
BMW of North America has introduced a line of exclusively formulated High Performance Engine Oils which exceed existing international quality specifications (SAE/CCMC) for motor oils. BMW part numbers are:
| SAE 5W-30 (SJ/CF) BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil |
1 quart | Part No. 07 51 0 017 866 |
| SAE 15W-40 (SJ/CF) BMW High Performance Mineral Oil |
1 quart | Part No. 07 51 0 017 868 |
Motorsport EnginesÂ
E46 M3/S54E36 M roadster, M coupe/S54 from start of production
E39 M5/S62 Up to 3/2000
E52 Z8/S62 Up to 3/2000
E60 M5/S85 From start of production
BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil Castrol RS SAE 10W-60 also called Castrol TWS Motorsport SAE 10W-60
Synthetic Oil Part No. 07 51 0 009 420 (1quart)
E39 M5/S62 From 3/2000
E52 Z8/S62 From 3/2000
BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil SAE 5W-30 Part No. 07 51 0 017 866 Or BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil Castrol RS SAE 10W-60 also called Castrol TWS Motorsport SAE 10W-60 Synthetic Oil Part No. 07 51 0 009 420 (1quart)
BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil 5W-30 and 10W-60 offer several benefits over conventional mineral based oils.
Superior Thermal StabilityÂ
The synthetic based oil resists thickening at very low ambient temperatures providing improved flow, lubrication and less internal engine resistance during cold starts.
Under high heat conditions, the oil resists thermal breakdown/shearing which causes a loss of lubrication quality compared with conventional oils.
Superior Lubrication Throughout The Life Of The OilÂ
Compared to conventional engine oils, BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil is better able to keep engine combustion contaminants in suspension and is less susceptible to the harmful effects of oxidation.
The oil resists sludge buildup thus allowing extended oil change intervals. Synthetic based oils also have a lower volatility which makes them less susceptible to evaporation thereby reducing oil consumption.
This oil has been durability tested on BMW engines and supplies superior lubrication under all operating conditions and over the extended BMW oil change intervals.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.