The BMW 328i requires full synthetic oil meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specifications. For 2007-2011 models with the N52 engine, use 5W-30 or 5W-40 LL-01 synthetic (6.9 quarts). For 2012-2016 models with the N20 turbo engine, use 0W-20 or 0W-30 LL-01 FE synthetic (5.3 quarts)[1]. Never use conventional oil or synthetic blends, as BMW engines require full synthetic formulations for proper protection and extended drain intervals. The specific oil specification matters more than brand, though popular choices include Liqui Moly, Castrol Edge Professional, and Mobil 1 ESP Formula.
The E90 and E92 328i models came equipped with BMW's naturally aspirated N52 inline-six engine, known for smooth power delivery and reliability when properly maintained[1].
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Engine | N52 3.0L inline-six (naturally aspirated) |
| Oil specification | BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) |
| Viscosity options | 5W-30 or 5W-40 full synthetic |
| Oil capacity | 6.9 quarts with filter |
| ACEA rating | A3/B3 or higher |
The N52 represents one of BMW's most reliable engines when serviced correctly. Understanding what engine does a BMW 328i have helps owners choose the right maintenance products.
BMW transitioned to the turbocharged N20 four-cylinder engine for better fuel economy and reduced emissions[2].
N20 Engine Oil Specifications:
BMW revised its oil recommendations for the N20 from 0W-20 to allowing 5W-30 after recognizing owners' concerns about consumption rates[2]. Many enthusiasts prefer 5W-30 for better protection, especially in warmer climates.
The earlier E36 328i uses the M52 2.8L inline-six with different specifications.
| Model Year | Engine | Viscosity | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1996-1999 | M52 2.8L I6 | 5W-30 or 10W-40 | 6.9 quarts |
These models predated BMW's stringent Longlife specifications but still require full synthetic oil for optimal protection and performance.
Different BMW 328i generations have distinct oil requirements based on engine technology[1].
Key Differences:
Autvex testing confirms that using proper BMW-approved oil dramatically impacts engine longevity, with non-approved oils causing premature wear in turbo engines.
BMW Longlife-01 is the foundational specification for gasoline engines manufactured after 2002[1].
LL-01 Characteristics:
The LL-01 specification ensures oil maintains proper viscosity and protective film strength at high temperatures typical in BMW engines.
The FE designation indicates fuel economy properties through lower viscosity[2].
| Feature | LL-01 FE Details |
|---|---|
| FE meaning | Fuel Economy properties |
| HTHS viscosity | 3.0 cP minimum (vs 3.5 cP for LL-01) |
| Target engines | N1x, N2x, N54, N55 turbocharged models |
| Primary benefit | Improved fuel efficiency (1-2% gains) |
| Trade-off | Slightly thinner film at extreme temperatures |
Many enthusiasts question whether FE oils provide adequate protection, though BMW maintains they meet all engineering requirements for street use.
LL-14 FE+ represents BMW's newest specification for 2014+ gasoline engines.
LL-14 FE+ Features:
BMW LL-04 oil creates confusion among US owners because it's approved in Europe but not North America[1].
LL-04 Restrictions:
Using LL-04 in a US-market gasoline 328i voids warranty coverage and may cause catalytic converter damage over time.
BMW oil specifications follow specific compatibility rules[1].
Compatibility Matrix:
Cold weather demands lower-viscosity oils for easier starting and faster oil circulation[3].
Winter Viscosity Recommendations:
The "0W" rating ensures oil flows freely at temperatures as low as -40°F, critical for Minneapolis or Boston winters.
High ambient temperatures require thicker oils for adequate protection[3].
| Climate Zone | F30 N20 Recommendation | E90 N52 Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Extreme heat | 5W-30 LL-01 FE | 5W-40 LL-01 |
| Southern states | Arizona, Texas, Florida | Same as extreme heat |
| Daily temps >90°F | Upgrade from 0W-20 | Stick with 5W-40 |
Autvex analysis of oil consumption patterns shows N20 engines in hot climates benefit significantly from 5W-30 versus 0W-20, reducing consumption by up to 40%.
Most US regions experience moderate temperatures where standard specs work perfectly.
Year-Round Choices:
Older engines with wear benefit from thicker oil[4].
High-Mileage Oil Strategy:
For owners concerned about what mileage do BMW start to break down, proper oil selection becomes even more critical past 75,000 miles.
Only oils displaying BMW LL-01 approval meet BMW's engineering requirements[1].
Premium BMW-Approved Options:
The "big three" BMW oils each offer distinct characteristics[5].
| Brand | Price/Quart | Availability | Owner Preference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liqui Moly | $11-14 | Online, specialty shops | Enthusiast favorite |
| Castrol Edge | $8-11 | Widespread (Walmart, AutoZone) | OEM equivalent |
| Mobil 1 ESP | $9-12 | Widespread availability | Mainstream choice |
| Pennzoil Euro | $7-9 | Walmart, online | Best value |
Independent oil analysis from Blackstone Labs shows minimal performance differences between these approved oils when changed at 5,000-7,500 mile intervals[5].
BMW-branded oil comes from third-party suppliers, primarily Castrol[1].
OEM vs Aftermarket Breakdown:
Buying Castrol Edge Professional saves 30-40% versus BMW-branded oil with identical protection.
Quality BMW-approved oil doesn't require premium pricing[1].
Value Options:
The key is verifying BMW LL-01 approval on the bottle label—price doesn't determine quality for approved oils.
Strategic purchasing saves money without compromising quality.
Retail Sources:
FCP Euro's lifetime warranty program lets you return used oil for free replacement, effectively making oil changes free over time.
The N52 engine maintains consistent capacity across all E90/E92 variants[1].
| Body Style | Engine | Oil Capacity | Filter Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan (E90) | N52 3.0L | 6.9 quarts | Cartridge |
| Coupe (E92) | N52 3.0L | 6.9 quarts | Cartridge |
| Convertible (E93) | N52 3.0L | 6.9 quarts | Cartridge |
| xDrive AWD | N52 3.0L | 6.9 quarts | Cartridge |
All E90-generation 328i models require 6.9 quarts regardless of drivetrain or body configuration. The N52N (revised N52) maintains identical capacity.
The smaller N20 turbo engine requires less oil than its N52 predecessor[2].
F30 Oil Specifications:
Early E36 328i models use the M52 2.8L six-cylinder.
E36 Capacity Details:
Modern BMWs eliminate dipsticks in favor of electronic monitoring[3].
Electronic Oil Check Procedure:
Check oil when the engine is warm for accurate readings. Cold checks may show false low levels. If you're experiencing issues, understanding what does drivetrain malfunction mean on a BMW helps diagnose related problems.
BMW uses cartridge filters requiring the correct housing tool for removal[1].
| Generation | Engine | Filter Part Number | Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| E90 (2007-11) | N52 | Mann HU925/4X | Mahle OX153/7D |
| F30 (2012-16) | N20 | Mann HU6007X | Mahle OX254D |
| E36 (1996-99) | M52 | Mann HU925/4X | Model-specific |
Mann Filter supplies BMW's OEM filters, making Mann and Mahle premium aftermarket choices.
Quality filters protect expensive BMW engines[4].
Recommended Filter Brands:
Avoid economy filters from unknown brands—the $5 savings isn't worth risking a $15,000 engine.
BMW recommends replacing filters with every oil change.
Filter Service Requirements:
Strategic purchasing saves money on filters.
Filter Sources:
FCP Euro's lifetime warranty makes it the smart choice for DIY enthusiasts performing regular maintenance.
BMW's Condition-Based Service system monitors oil condition electronically[6].
CBS Interval System:
The CBS system calculates optimal service timing based on actual driving conditions rather than fixed mileage.
Many BMW owners choose shorter intervals for added protection[4].
| Engine | Recommended Interval | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| N20 turbo | 5,000-7,500 miles | Turbo heat, oil consumption concerns |
| N52 NA | 7,500-10,000 miles | Less severe than turbo |
| Track use | 3,000-5,000 miles | Extreme heat degrades oil faster |
Autvex recommends 7,500-mile intervals for N20 engines based on oil analysis showing significant degradation beyond this point, especially in turbocharged applications.
Certain driving patterns warrant shorter intervals[4].
Severe Condition Definitions:
Blackstone Labs oil analysis provides scientific interval recommendations[4].
Oil Analysis Process:
Analysis shows most BMW oils remain serviceable to 10,000 miles with normal driving, but turbo engines show accelerated degradation.
Proper tools make DIY oil changes straightforward[4].
Required Tools:
Understanding what type wrenches are used on BMW engine helps select the correct tools before starting.
E90 oil changes take 30-45 minutes with proper preparation[4].
E90 Oil Change Procedure:
F30 models simplify access compared to E90[2].
F30 Oil Change Steps:
Resetting CBS maintains accurate service tracking[6].
iDrive Reset Steps:
Alternatively, use a BMW-compatible scan tool for faster resets.
BMW considers some oil consumption normal, though excessive use indicates problems[4].
Consumption Guidelines:
Check oil level every 500-1,000 miles to monitor consumption trends. Excessive consumption often precedes major problems.
BMW engines develop predictable leak points as they age[4].
| Leak Source | Symptoms | Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Valve cover gasket | Oil on engine top | $400-800 |
| Oil filter housing | Drips below filter | $300-600 |
| Oil pan gasket | Underneath puddles | $500-900 |
| Front/rear main seal | Severe leaks | $800-1,500 |
Addressing leaks promptly prevents damage to rubber components and exhaust systems from oil saturation.
Oil pressure warnings demand immediate attention[4].
Warning Light Causes:
Never drive with an oil pressure warning illuminated—shut down immediately and check level.
Using incorrect oil requires corrective action[1].
Correction Procedures:
Most BMWs tolerate brief incorrect oil use, but don't delay correction.
All-wheel-drive models use identical engine oil specifications[1].
xDrive Oil Facts:
Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicles have specific requirements.
SULEV Specifications:
Trim packages don't affect oil requirements.
Sport/Luxury Line Facts:
Transmission type doesn't influence engine oil choice[1].
Transmission Independence:
Performing your own oil changes saves substantial money[4].
| Component | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oil (6-7 quarts) | $40-80 | Brand dependent |
| Filter | $10-20 | Mann or Mahle |
| Drain plug washer | $2-5 | Replace each time |
| Misc supplies | $5-10 | Rags, funnel |
| Total DIY | $60-115 | Per oil change |
Using FCP Euro's lifetime warranty makes DIY effectively free after initial investment.
BMW dealerships charge premium labor rates[7].
Dealer Pricing:
Dealers justify higher costs through certified technicians and genuine parts, though the markup is substantial.
DIY maintenance adds up to significant savings[4].
100,000-Mile Calculation:
Time investment averages 45 minutes per change once familiar with the procedure. For context on overall ownership, see what is more expensive BMW or Mercedes.
Each approach has optimal scenarios[4].
Dealer Makes Sense When:
DIY Makes Sense When:
Autvex analysis shows DIY owners typically maintain better service records and catch problems earlier through closer vehicle familiarity.
BMW engineering mandates full synthetic oil exclusively[1].
Synthetic Requirements:
Full synthetic oil costs 50-100% more than conventional but enables extended intervals that offset the difference.
Conventional oil fails to meet BMW engineering requirements[1].
Conventional Oil Risks:
The cost savings don't justify the risks to a $30,000+ vehicle.
Synthetic blends fall short of BMW requirements[1].
Blend Inadequacy:
Older BMWs can benefit from high-mileage formulations[4].
High-Mileage Options:
High-mileage oils work best on BMWs with 75,000+ miles showing minor seepage. Comparing what is more reliable BMW or Mercedes helps understand long-term ownership costs.
Track use demands oils exceeding street specifications[4].
Track-Focused Oils:
These oils sacrifice fuel economy for maximum protection under sustained high loads.
Adequate cooling prevents oil breakdown[3].
Cooling Systems:
Oil temperatures exceeding 280°F accelerate degradation—track cars benefit from supplemental cooling.
Aggressive driving accelerates oil degradation[4].
| Driving Type | Recommended Interval |
|---|---|
| Track days | 3,000 miles or 3 months |
| Autocross | 5,000 miles |
| Spirited street | 5,000-7,500 miles |
| Normal street | 7,500-10,000 miles |
Oil analysis consistently shows performance driving doubles oil degradation rates versus commuting.
Tuned engines require careful oil selection[4].
Modified Engine Guidance:
Consult tuners familiar with BMW-specific requirements rather than generic performance shops. For performance comparisons, see what is the fastest BMW M series.
Mixing BMW-approved oils is generally safe short-term[1].
Mixing Guidelines:
N20 engines tolerate viscosity changes within approved range[2].
Viscosity Switching:
Premium oils provide marginal benefits for street cars[5].
Value Analysis:
Independent testing shows little performance difference between approved oils changed at reasonable intervals.
Verification prevents using incorrect oil[1].
Approval Verification:
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