Unlike most cars, BMW vehicles require synthetic engine oils. The BMW X3 works best on Pennzoil Ultra Platinum 5W-30 motor oil. Depending on whether you are driving a gasoline or a diesel engine vehicle, make sure to check in the owner’s manual for the recommended type of oil by BMW. Great oil for BMW X5 is Mobil 1 SAE 0W-40.
The best oil for BMW X3
Purchasing and changing the oil of your BMW X3 is no simple task. While BMWs can run on natural engine oils, it is highly recommended to use synthetic engine oil, unless you want to shorten the lifespan of your vehicle’s motor by half.
BMW has very specific oil recommendations for each model, so you should first check with your owner’s manual before making any oil purchases.
Both Mobil 1 oils and Castrol oils are approved by BMW in terms of brands, but don’t rush out to purchase an oil just yet. There are many aspects you need to consider before making the choice.
There are some oils suitable for both gasoline and diesel engines, but if you intend to do the labor on the vehicle yourself, you have to make sure to use the right product.
Before purchasing, make sure you are certain of the density of the oil you pick and always stick to BMW’s recommended oil brands. Also, make sure to purchase an oil that corresponds to the type of engine you have – diesel or gasoline. The viscosity of the BMW X3’s oil is 5W-30.
5W-30 Pennzoil 550038320 Ultra Platinum Full Synthetic Motor Oil
This is one of the best choices for a BMW X3, especially if you live in an area with a colder climate, as it is also freeze resistant. The Pennzoil Ultra Platinum helps your car start faster, even in the harshest of winters and preserves your motor for long periods of time. It also slightly decreases the overall fuel consumption of your vehicle.
Best BMW X3 Diesel engine motor oil – Castrol Magnatec SUV 5W-30
If your BMW X3 has a diesel engine, fear not, Castrol’s Magnatec oil is here to the rescue. This oil was specifically designed for BMW SUVs and more importantly, for the BMW X3. It is an all-around synthetic oil that clings to the engine, protecting it like nothing else. It protects the engine from overheating and from extreme weather conditions, whether it’s frost or heat.
Additionally, it also plays a big part in boosting the fuel economy of your beloved vehicle and greatly slows down the wear and tear on your engine. Always check the owner’s manual of your vehicle before purchasing motor oil.
The best oil for BMW X5
The viscosity of the oil which BMW X5 uses is 0W-30, 0W-40, 5W-40, and 5W-30. Make sure to never combine a 0W with a 5W. If you are wondering what the difference between the 0W-30 and the 0W-40 is, the main difference is that the 30 is better in colder temperatures, whereas the 40 is better in hot areas.
BMW recommends changing the oil of your BMW X5 every 7500 miles on the road. You can find the BMW X5 owner’s manual online if you do not know where to find it at home.
0W-40 5 Quart Mobil 1 120760 Synthetic Motor Oil
This Mobil 1 Synthetic motor oil is a good fit for most BMW models since it can withstand extremely high temperatures, and we all know how infamous BMW’s coolant system is. It greatly reduces stress on the BMW engine and is also approved for Mercedes-Benz, VW, Audi, and Porsche.
Castrol SLX 0W-30 full synthetic
Castrol’s SLX is a low viscosity oil that matches the requirements of the BMW X5 gasoline engine. BMW has recommended this brand with a legitimate BMW LL-12 FE approval. This particular motor oil product is extremely compatible with BMW’s exhaust after-treatment systems and lubricates the engine perfectly. You will also most likely experience an increase in miles per gallon.
Best BMW X5 Diesel engine oil – BMW TwinPowerTurbo Longlife-12 FE 0W-30
The TwinPowerTurbo Longlife has very good economical characteristics. It greatly enhances the diesel engine’s capabilities on the road, unlocking its full potential, even in the harshest conditions of winter or summer. It has a lower level of friction and vaporization than most synthetic oils.
FAQ about changing your car’s oil
Can you change the motor oil of your BMW on your own?
Technically, if you have the tools for the job, you can change your own oil. But BMW does not recommend you changing your oil on your own. Rather, you can get your BMW oil changed at any oil lube shop. Labor costs for an oil change are not that costly and it is better to be certain of the type of oil used in your vehicle and that it matches the user manual’s recommendations.
How much does a BMW oil change cost on average?
A BMW motor oil change price can vary based on your car’s model, your location, and the type of oil needed. On a general basis, the oil change costs for BMWs vary between $150 and $400, depending on the model. BMW covers all oil changes at no charge under its four-year or 50,000 mile-warranty for your vehicle.
How can you know the oil viscosity for your vehicle?
Typically, oil viscosity rates how thick the oil is at zero degrees Fahrenheit. You can check what oil your car’s motor recommends by reading the owner’s manual. More often than not, owner manuals recommend different oils depending on the climate where you live and drive. For example, thicker oils have higher first digits – 10w30 is thicker than 5w30.
What will happen if you put a non-recommended oil in your car?
Most importantly, you should make sure to put the same viscosity oil in your car that has been recommended by your car manufacturer in the owner’s manual. If you happen to mix two types of oil, visit a mechanic as soon as possible. Mixing two types of oil viscosity will lead to a gradual decrease in engine performance and in permanent damage.
