Hi Scotty! Recently I got a 2010 BMW 128i convertible, model code seems to be E88, and I plan to do the engine oil service since it've been 5k miles from last service,
but when i look at the owner's manual, i found BMW only specified that "you should only use approved BMW performance synthetic oil" and "approved oils belong to the 0W40, 0w-30, 5w-40, and 5w30", but didn't tell the specific viscosity i should use. They said select one depends on your regional climate, but if i didn't make it wrong, mixed viscosity will destroy the engine, doesn't it?
in this context, is it ok to use Pennzoil Platinum Euro L Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil? Because I'm sure this particular one meet BMW's requirements on quality. I'm new to BMW cars, so i got lost by the unique requirements.
btw, this is the owner's manual untitled (dealereprocess.org)
Thanks for any and all feedback in advance!
Ethan
mixed viscosity will destroy the engine, doesn't it?
no
i found BMW only specified that "you should only use approved BMW performance synthetic oil"
male cow dung.
the specification is right there in the manual. Any oil that meets/exceeds it will be fine.
"SM" is actually old and obsolete (2010) . Both SN and SP (the majority of oils on the shelf now) exceed this specification.
Read our FAQ topic to see what the product packaging logos look like.
You don't have to believe the greedy BMW marketing by buying their brand of oil.
Use 0w40 (best), or 0w30 if you can. If it's too difficult to find or expensive, then use 5w40 or 5w30. If you're in a hot climate then it doesn't matter they're all fine.
thanks for additional information! Im in GA, so i guess 5w30 is fine, plus it seems walmart only have 5w30 in stock.
You can use any oil that meets or exceeds the manufacturer's requirements.
Thanks for the reply! I guess i will go with the penzoil oil then
"you should only use approved BMW performance synthetic oil"
Meanwhile, at the BMW after sales marketing department -
exactly. They want you to believe BMW branded oil contains unicorn tears or something.
On my former BMW X5, on the oil cap or near the oil cap, it said to use Castrol 5W-30. Specifically Castrol.
You can use almost any name brand oil, as long as it meets the specs. Check the oil cap too, it will give you a hint at what is “best” for your car.
Thanks for your information, but unfortunately, mine just said use Castrol, without any viscosity label.