The 3 Best Motor Oil Choices for a BMW (+ How to Pick One)

Here’s something I’ve learned from my years behind the wheel of BMWs: a vital detail is the motor oil.

Now, you might think: “It’s just oil, right? Any high-quality one will do.”

However, this notion couldn’t be further from the truth. Choosing the appropriate oil for your BMW can make all the difference in its performance, longevity, and overall health.

In this article, we’ll show you the 3 best oil choices for BMWs and guide you in choosing one.

How do you choose the right oil for your BMW?

One of the most vital aspects of BMW’s reliability?

The motor oil.

Here is how to choose the right oil for your BMW:

1. Find the right oil type for your BMW in the owner’s manual

Before diving into anything else, grab your BMW’s owner’s manual.

It’s the first and best source of information on what oil your car needs.

It’ll list recommended oil types and often includes special codes or approvals (we’ll touch upon these shortly).

2. Understand the viscosity grades and rating standards

When skimming through your manual or looking at motor oils, you might come across terms like “SAE” or “API” or specific BMW approvals such as “BMW LL-01” or “LL-04”.

These might seem confusing, but they’re simply markers indicating the oil’s properties and whether they match your BMW’s needs.

Here is a quick explanation of what you should know:

• SAE Ratings: SAE stands for the Society of Automotive Engineers, and their rating determines the oil’s viscosity, or in simpler terms, its ‘thickness’ or ‘flow.’ For example, ‘5W-30’ is a common rating. The ‘5W’ indicates how the oil performs at colder temperatures (with ‘W’ standing for winter). The ’30’ denotes the oil’s performance at the engine’s regular operating temperature.
• API Rating: The American Petroleum Institute (API) rating represents the oil’s quality. For instance, symbols like “SL,” “SM,” or “SN” indicate that the oil meets specific engine protection and emission standards.
• BMW Approvals: These are standards set by BMW themselves, ensuring that the oil meets the rigorous demands of their engines. They’re like a stamp of approval directly from the manufacturer. Examples include:
  • BMW LL-01: This is an older specification but still relevant for many BMWs made before 2014. It emphasizes protection against sludge and wear and ensures fuel-saving capabilities.
  • BMW LL-04: A more recent specification designed with low SAPS (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, and Sulphur), it’s especially beneficial for newer BMW models, especially those running on diesel and those equipped with a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter).
  • LL-14FE/LL-17FE: These are energy-conserving formulations. They aim to reduce internal engine friction, thus increasing fuel efficiency.

3. Consider the age of your BMW

The age of your BMW isn’t just about how long you’ve had those keys in your hand; it also influences your oil choice:

• Engine design evolution: Over the years, engine designs have evolved. Older engines often have larger tolerances and gaps, necessitating a thicker oil to maintain a protective layer between moving parts. Newer engines, with their tighter tolerances, often demand thinner oils that can easily flow through and lubricate the compact spaces.
• Material wear and tear: As a BMW ages, its engine parts might wear down, changing the internal dynamics. A higher viscosity oil might provide additional protection, cushioning worn parts and reducing wear.
• Technological advancements: Newer BMW models have advanced features like turbochargers, which require specific oil types to handle the added heat and stress.

4. Your driving environment

The external environment also plays a crucial role.

For colder climates, a lower ‘W’ rating (like 0W or 5W) ensures the oil flows smoothly during cold starts.

In contrast, high-performance driving or warmer climates might necessitate a higher-end viscosity rating, like 40 or 50, to maintain protection at high engine temperatures.

Top 3 engine oils for BMWs

Disclaimer: Before ordering motor oil, check your owner’s manual to verify whether the oil’s viscosity rating equals the recommended viscosity rating of your BMW.

Different types of motor oils

When it comes to engine oils, there are a few different types available:

1. Mineral oil

This is the traditional engine oil derived directly from crude oil.

It’s the least processed among all types and, therefore, offers basic protection.

While it’s usually more affordable, its limitations become evident under extreme conditions.

Its viscosity changes significantly with temperature fluctuations, and it may not offer the best protection in demanding situations.

We highly recommend avoiding mineral oils for your BMW!

2. Semi-synthetic oil

Think of this as a middle ground between mineral and full synthetic oils.

It’s a blend of conventional mineral oil and synthetic oil.

This gives it enhanced protective qualities over pure mineral oils, such as better temperature stability and improved protection against wear, but at a slightly higher cost.

3. Full synthetic oil

This is the pinnacle of engine oil technology. Here’s why:

• Temperature resistance: Synthetic oils maintain their viscosity across a broader temperature range. Whether you’re starting your BMW on a frosty morning or driving it hard on a scorching day, full synthetic oil ensures consistent lubrication.
• Enhanced protection: Due to their refined and consistent molecular structure, synthetic oils provide superior protection against engine wear and tear. They form a steady, unbroken lubrication film, minimizing friction and preventing premature engine wear.
• Cleaner operation: Full synthetic oils resist sludge formation and deposit build-up. This means a cleaner engine, meaning smoother operation and longer engine life.
• Longer intervals: While it’s essential to follow your BMW’s recommendations, synthetic oils generally degrade slower than their conventional counterparts. This can mean longer intervals between oil changes, saving time and money in the long run.
• Fuel efficiency: Thanks to their superior lubrication properties, synthetic oils can help reduce friction within the engine, leading to slight improvements in fuel efficiency.

Full synthetic oil is the only right choice for BMWs.

It provides optimal protection, ensures the engine runs efficiently, and often aligns with the stringent standards set by BMW for their vehicles.

Note: All three of our top picks above are high-quality, full-synthetic oils.

FAQs about Engine oil

If you have more questions about engine oils, take a look at these FAQs:

Conclusion

For a BMW to perform at its best, it needs the right kind of care – and that begins with choosing the right oil.

In simple terms, the right engine oil makes your BMW happy.

And a happy BMW means happy drives for you.

Let us know in the comments below if this article has helped you pick!

Lastly, don’t forget to check out our other articles if you’re interested in BMW products:

• These 12 BMW Accessories
• 14 BMW Gift Ideas
• These 15 Amazing BMW Mods
• The Best Home Charger For Every BMW
• 5 Best Dash Cams For A BMW
• Top 6 Phone Holders For Your BMW
• The 6 Best Car Seats For BMW