Operating Fluids March 2008

Group 11 Engine Technical Service

1.0 General Information

2.0 Grading Of Oils
3.0 Conversion Table
4.0 Engine Oil Change Intervals
5.0 Condition Based Service
6.0 Engine Oil Additives
7.0 Break-In Instructions
8.0 N52, N52KP and N54 Front and Rear Radial Seal Sealant
9.0 Engine Oil Applied to Engine Exhaust Studs
10.0 Lubricant For Oxygen Sensor
11.0 Oil Consumption
12.0 References
13.0 Operating Fluids Table and Alternate Suppliers

1.0 General Information

The specified engine oil is extremely important for the operation and service life of an engine.

Engine oil requirements will depend on the engine design, operating conditions, oil change intervals and, in the case of
diesel engines, the fuel grade.

A modern engine oil provides more than just a lubrication function. The following qualities are required:

Good Wear Protection and Friction Reduction

Frictional losses will lead to a reduction of engine power and efficiency. An approved engine oil will minimize frictional
losses. Excessive wear will lead to a reduction in service life (e.g. wear of bearings, piston rings, cam lobes) or to
mechanical failure.

Limited Tendency to Produce Combustion Residue

During engine operation, a limited amount of oil enters the combustion chamber, where it is burned. Combustion residues
or deposits, which build up in the combustion chamber, lead to unwanted increases in compression and promote surface
ignition (“pinging”). Any approved engine oil will help prevent such a condition.

Favorable Viscosity Temperature Behavior

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Viscosity is the tendency of oil to resist flowing. Engine oil, when cold, should be thin enough so that the engine can be
cranked over. Hot oil should be thick enough to maintain proper lubrication.

Anti-Foaming

The oil is forcefully mixed with air during engine operation. Heavy foaming will lead to impaired lubrication and reduction in
oil flow rate. To prevent foaming, antifoaming additives are mixed with the oil.

Good Corrosion Inhibition

The engine oil must prevent corrosion on engine components under all circumstances. Corrosion and rust inhibitors are
added to displace water and acids from metal surfaces so that oil coats them.

Mixing Ability/Compatibility

It must be possible to mix all engine oils with each other, even synthetic with mineral oils, without causing any
incompatibility problems. A further requirement is the compatibility with all materials contacted by oil, in particular oil seals,
hoses and paint.

Good Thermal Conductivity/Good Cooling Property

Engine oil makes an important contribution to the cooling of an engine. It must transfer heat from friction surfaces, and
combustion heat away from affected areas. The oil absorbed heat is carried back to the oil pan where it is transferred to
the surrounding air.

Good Dispersant/Detergent Qualities

To limit or slow down the formation of combustion deposits and acidic components, together with abrasive particles and
dirt from the intake air, good engine oils contain a detergent additive. Deposits of carbon and dirt are loosened and
suspended in the oil, being drained away at the next oil change.

Oxidation Inhibitors and Aging Stability

Oxidation can be described as the oxygen absorption of hydrocarbons formed in the oil. The results of oxidation have a
negative impact on viscosity causing corrosion on certain metals and the formation of sludge. Inhibitors are added to
prevent oxidation from occurring. A good engine oil must maintain its stability during the required oil change intervals.

Good Lubricating Oil Must:

1. Lubricate moving parts to minimize wear.
2. Lubricate moving parts to minimize loss from friction.
3. Remove heat from engine parts by acting as a cooling agent.
4. Absorb shocks between bearings and other engine parts, reducing engine noise and extending engine life.
5. Form a good seal between piston rings and cylinder walls.
6. Act as a cleaning agent.

2.0 Grading Of Oils

Viscosity Number

A method of classifying an oil by number, based on its resistance to flow at a high temperature.
These numbers are usually prefixed by SAE which is the abbreviation for the Society of Automotive Engineers.
A lower SAE Number (i.e. SAE 5W) indicates a thinner oil with a higher flow rate, for use at lower temperatures.
A higher SAE Number (i.e. SAE 30) indicates a thicker oil with a slower flow rate, for use at higher temperatures.

Multigrade Oils

A multigrade, or multiviscosity oil has the qualities of a lower number oil at low temperatures and those of a higher number
oil at high temperatures. Multigrade oils have numbers such as SAE 5W- 30 and SAE 10W-40. For reliable engine
performance in all temperature ranges mineral based engine oil viscosity must be matched to the temperature range at
which the vehicle will be operated.
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Single Grade Oils

A single grade viscosity oil has a limited temperature/viscosity range compared with multigrade oils. Due to the limited
temperature/viscosity range of these oils they are no longer used in BMW engines and thus no longer listed in the BMW
Engine Oil Temperature/Viscosity Table.

Oil Classifications

A method of classifying oil was jointly developed by the SAE, API (American Petroleum Institute), and ASTM (American
Society for Testing and Materials). Engine oils are rated according to two engine use categories:
C = Compression Ignition (i.e. CC)

Compression Ignition (C) oils are those that are used for diesel engines. The current service ratings for diesel-engine
lubricating oils are: CA, CB, CC, CD, CE, CF and CG. The oils differ in their properties and in the additives they contain.
S = Spark Ignition (i.e. SE)

Spark Ignition (S) oils are those that are used for gasoline engines. The current service ratings for gasoline-engine
lubricating oils are: SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF, SG, SH and SJ. These oils differ in their properties and in the additives they
contain.

Another method of classifying minimum performance standards for gasoline-fueled engine oils has been developed
through ILSAC (International Lubrication Standardization Approval Committee). Oils that meet ILSAC GF-1 performance
standards must have a “starburst” certification mark displayed on the print of the oil product packaging.

3.0 Engine Oil Requirements and Specifications

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) 1 quart Part No. 07 51 0 017 866

BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil

SAE 15W-40 (SJ/CF) 1 quart Part No. 07 51 0 017 868

BMW High Performance Mineral Oil

Motorsport Engines
E46 M3 / S54E36 M roadster, M coupe / S54 from start of production
E90 M3 / S65 M3 from start of production
E92 M3 / S65 M3 from start of production
E93 M3 / S65 M3 from start of production
E39 M5 / S62 Up to 3/2000
E52 Z8 / S62 Up to 3/2000
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E60 M5 / S85 From start of production
E63 M6 From start of production
E64 M6 From start of production
E85 Z4 M Coupe / Z4 M Roadster 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 stability

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 oil

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.

4.0 Engine Oil Change Intervals

With the introduction of the 1999 Model Year vehicles BMW has introduced an extended oil change interval of
approximately 15,000 miles (depending on engine operating conditions) on most models.

To coincide with the increased oil change interval, BMW has also introduced “BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil”
which must be used on all 1999 Model Year vehicles (except E36 318ti, 323is/iC, 328is/iC, M3, M Roadster and M Coupe
models) whenever a service is necessary to avoid engine damage.

Note: Only if it is necessary to top up the engine oil between oil changes is it permissible to use synthetic low viscosity
engine oils which conform to the API classification SJ or higher.

A label in the engine compartment states the oil specifications and refers to the BMW website (www.bmwusa.com) and
toll free number (1-800-831-1117) for additional information.

BMW High Performance Synthetic Engine Oil may also be used on Model Year 1999 E36 (3-Series and M models)
as well has Model Year 1998 and earlier BMW models.
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The oil change intervals should not be extended due to the greater durability of a fully synthetic engine oil. The engine oil
and filter should always be changed as per the vehicle’s Service Interval Indicator when the “Oil Service” or the
“Inspection” display appears regardless of the type of oil being used.

BMW mineral-based High Performance engine oil is also offered for model year 1998 and earlier BMW models. However,
for reliable engine performance in all temperature ranges mineral-based engine oil viscosity must be matched to the
temperature range at which the vehicle will be operated. See Engine Oil Temperature/Viscosity Table below.

Other Oil Changes For Cars Without Service Indicator:

Model Year(s) Mileage

1980 and later 7,500
1975 thru 1979 6,500
1974 or earlier 4,000
Including oil filter. However, at least twice annually, preferably before and after the winter season.

Under severe driving conditions it is recommended to increase the number of oil services.

5.0 Condition Based Service

Models: E82, E88, E90, E91, E92, E93, E60, E61, E63, E64 E65, E66, E70, E71

Condition Based Service measures, monitors, and determines the required maintenance of several service items
independent from each other. This technology prompts the customer to bring the vehicle for service whenever one of the
CBS items requires maintenance or replacement. CBS strikes a compromise between too frequent maintenance and too
rigid service intervals that call for the replacement of service items which may still have substantial remaining useful life.
CBS also details the recommended, due, and overdue required maintenance during and after the BMW Vehicle
Maintenance Program Agreement. Thus, CBS allows BMW customers to experience a technology that makes service
more convenient, transparent and structured.

Refer to applicable New Vehicle Preparation and Maintenance Requirements Service Information Bulleting in TIS.

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6.0 Engine Oil Additives
The use of engine oil additives is not recommended and not necessary on BMW engines. Instead, it is mandatory to use
BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil in 1999 model year and later BMW models and recommended to use either BMW
High Performance Synthetic Oil, BMW High Performance Mineral Oil or one of today’s highly advanced brand name
lubricating oils conforming to API classification SH or higher in 1998 and earlier BMW models.

7.0 Break-In Instructions

During the break-in period of a new engine or parts of a reconditioned engine (new bearings, crankshaft, pistons, etc.)
BMW engines do not require special break-in oils.

All of the multiple grade engine oils can be used, as long as they conform with BMW specifications.

8.0 N52, N52KP and N54 Front and Rear Radial Seal Sealant

When replacing the front or rear radial crankshaft seals on new generation 6 cylinder engines, a special Loctite® sealant
must be applied to fill the seal grooves at the bedplate seam. Follow the appropriate repair instruction in TIS:
RA 11 14 005 – Front radial crankshaft seal replacement
RA 11 14 151 – Replacing crankshaft radial seal (rear)
All special tools required to perform these repairs have been sent out through the automatic tool shipment program and
are listed in S.I. Bulletin 04 01 06.
Required Materials:
P/N 83 19 7 536 051 - Loctite® 128357 sealant compound\
P/N 83 19 7 515 683 - Loctite® 171000 primer
P/N 83 19 7 515 684 - Stamp

9.0 Engine Oil Applied to Engine Exhaust Studs

Refer to S.I. Bulletin B 11 02 91 (3219).

10.0 Lubricant For Oxygen Sensor

Apply Bostik NEVER-SEEZ® (Part No. NSBT-16) to threads of oxygen sensor.

11.0 Oil Consumption

All engines normally consume a certain amount of oil. This is necessary in order to properly lubricate the cylinder walls,
pistons, piston rings etc. In addition, engines with less than 6,000 miles will generally consume additional oil because the
components are not fully seated. Therefore, oil consumption complaints received prior to 6,000 miles cannot be
considered.

Once a new or rebuilt engine has accumulated 6,000 miles this procedure should be used if there is a drastic change in
the oil consumption rate (i.e. the oil consumption rate triples) under similar driving conditions or if the oil consumption rate
exceeds 1 qt. per 750 miles at any time. Refer to S.I. Bulletin B 11 05 84 (888).

All Motorsport Engines:

Due to their increased output and maximum engine speeds, these engines are allowed a maximum consumption of 2.5
quarts per 1,000 miles.

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12.0 References
See S.I. Bulletin B 11 04 00 for Engine Oil Level Check.

See S.I. Bulletin B 11 08 98 for BMW Engine Oils.

See S.I. Bulletin B 11 11 90 for BMW Engine Oil Capacities.

13.0 Operating Fluids Table and Alternate Suppliers

BMW Part Number Description / Application 3M Würth Loctite CRC

11 12 1 262 571* Silicone Sealant 8661 80050/PX66BR

81 12 9 400 086* Hylogrip/Loctite 270 Thread Sealant 8932700 21438

Secures and seals bolts, studs, nuts, threaded
inserts, screw plugs against impact and
vibration. Fastens ball, roller and sliding
bearings onto shafts or in housings, with play
up to 0.25mm. Quick setting.

Oil filter flange bolt –

See S.I. Bulletin B 11 02 87.
81 22 9 400 243* Sealer Permatex 3D
Low viscosity, non-hardening, removeable. Aviation
For sealing off against mineral oils, grease, Form a Gasket
gases, air and many chemicals. 80017
o o
Application: from -40 C to approx. 200 C.

Tacking cylinder gasket –

See S.I. Bulletin B 11 02 88.

81 22 9 400 339 Hylomar SQ32M Sealant

Universal sealing compound, applicable by
brush. For sealing interfaces between
surfaces that require excellent temperature
resistance and sealing elasticity.
Material: Polyester-urethane mixture.

81 22 9 407 394* Loctite 380 Epoxy Cement 8155 8934103 38050

Black cyanacrylate adhesive for joining
metals, rubber, PVC.

See S.I. Bulletin B 11 06 89.

*These items are no longer available through BMW NA Parts Department.

BMW Part Number Description / Application 3M Würth Loctite CRC

81 22 9 400 794* Copper Paste 8945 3046010

Multi-purpose grease for all detachable joints
at high temperatures and corrosive conditions,
also after long operating periods. Able to
withstand high pressures, protection against
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 undesired weld contact, seizure and
corrosion, active adhesion properties,
effective as lubricant and separator up to
o
1100 C.

Applications: parts subject to high

temperatures, such as bolts and flanges on
exhaust system, engine, disk brakes, etc.

81 22 9 407 439* Silicone Sealer 8670 81157/PX16B

07 58 9 062 376* A black colored silicone-based sealant for 8661 80050/PX66BR
large areas. Resists temperatures up to
o
250 C. For engine or gearbox; particularly
suitable for sealing the timing case on M70
engine, and eliminating oil seepage from E36
M42 cylinder head.

See S.I. Bulletins B 11 07 90, B 11 02 88,

B 11 09 93.

81 22 9 407 760* Engine Cleaner Spray 8899 890923 80043 14045

Fast acting cleaner for dirty engines and
engine parts. Does not attack painted, rubber,
or plastic parts.

N/A Lubro Moly Lecksucher

Intake and vacuum system leak detector.

See S.I. Bulletin B 11 03 92.

N/A J-B Weld

Repairs pitting in cylinder head sealing
surfaces.

See S.I. Bulletin B 11 10 93.

N/A Bostik Never-Seez

Thread lubricant for oxygen sensors.

*These items are no longer available through BMW NA Parts Department.

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