How Many Quarts of Oil Does a 2014 BMW X5 Take?
A 2014 BMW X5 typically takes between 6.9 and 7.0 quarts of engine oil (approximately 6.5 liters), but the exact capacity depends on the engine variant. Understanding which engine you have is essential to determine the correct oil volume and specification, ensuring proper lubrication, performance, and engine longevity.
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Understanding Oil Capacity for the 2014 BMW X5
The 2014 BMW X5 (F15 generation) was sold with several different engines worldwide, and each has a slightly different oil capacity. While most owners will be safe planning for about 7 quarts, checking the specific engine code and consulting the owner’s manual or dealer data is the most reliable way to confirm the exact number.
Oil Capacity by Engine Type
The 2014 BMW X5 came in multiple trims and engine options, each with its own oil capacity range. The following breakdown provides approximate capacities for the most common engines used in the 2014 X5, which helps owners and technicians avoid overfilling or underfilling during an oil change.
Gasoline Engines (U.S. and Many Global Markets)
The gasoline-powered variants represent a large share of 2014 X5 models, especially in North America. Their oil capacities are broadly similar but not identical, and they all require high-quality synthetic oil that meets BMW’s specifications.
- xDrive35i / sDrive35i (N55 3.0L turbo inline-6): Approximately 6.9–7.0 quarts (about 6.5 liters) with filter.
- xDrive50i (N63 4.4L twin-turbo V8): Approximately 8.5–9.0 quarts (about 8.0–8.5 liters) with filter.
- Performance variants (e.g., X5 M with higher-output N63/S63 V8, where applicable in some markets): Typically in the 8–9 quart range, depending on exact engine and regional spec; always verify via manual or dealer database.
These figures highlight that while many drivers associate the X5 with a simple “about 7 quarts,” the V8 models require a significantly larger volume, making exact engine identification crucial when planning an oil service.
Diesel Engines (Market-Dependent)
In Europe and some other regions, the 2014 X5 was sold with several diesel engines. These powertrains also use synthetic oil and have capacities slightly above or around the 7-quart mark, depending on configuration.
- xDrive30d (3.0L diesel inline-6): Around 7.0–7.2 quarts (about 6.6–6.8 liters) with filter.
- xDrive35d / xDrive40d / M50d (various 3.0L twin-turbo or tri-turbo diesels): Generally in the range of 7.0–7.4 quarts (about 6.6–7.0 liters), depending on the exact variant and regional spec.
Because diesel variants are less common in some markets and may differ by country, owners of these models should rely on the service booklet, under-hood labels, or a dealer’s database to confirm precise capacity for their specific engine code.
Hybrid Variant (If Equipped)
In some markets and years around this generation, BMW offered hybrid or plug-in hybrid derivatives based on similar engines. While not as widespread for the 2014 model year as later plug-in versions, hybrid models that share the same base engine usually have oil capacities close to those of their conventional counterparts.
- Hybrid models sharing the N55-based powertrain: Typically around 6.9–7.0 quarts with filter, but can vary slightly due to auxiliary systems and packaging.
For any hybrid or less common configuration, the exact capacity is best confirmed using the vehicle’s VIN through a BMW dealer or trusted specialist, as published figures can differ slightly across markets and production runs.
How to Confirm the Correct Oil Capacity for Your Specific X5
While the general answer for a 2014 BMW X5 is “about 7 quarts” for six-cylinder engines and “about 9 quarts” for V8s, precision matters. Using the wrong quantity can lead to issues such as foaming (from overfill) or inadequate lubrication (from underfill). Several reliable resources can help you verify the exact capacity for your specific vehicle.
- Owner’s manual: The most direct reference, typically listing capacity with and without filter under “Technical Data” or “Engine oil.”
- Under-hood sticker or service guide: Some models include fluid specifications and capacities under the hood or near the radiator support.
- BMW dealer or official service center: By providing your VIN, the service advisor can access factory data showing the exact engine and its official oil capacity.
- Trusted repair databases: Professional systems (such as manufacturer-linked databases used by workshops) often list engine-specific capacities for each market.
Checking at least one authoritative source ensures that the oil change is performed correctly and helps protect the engine from preventable wear or damage.
Recommended Oil Type and Change Practices
Capacity is only one part of proper maintenance. BMW specifies particular oil grades and quality standards for the 2014 X5, and using the correct type of oil is as important as using the right volume.
Oil Specifications
The 2014 BMW X5 typically requires full-synthetic oil that meets BMW’s Longlife standards. Using the correct spec ensures compatibility with BMW’s extended service intervals and modern engine designs.
- Common viscosity: 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40 (varies by climate and engine; 5W-30 LL-01 is widely used).
- BMW approvals: Look for BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or the specific approval listed in your owner’s manual.
- Diesel engines: In some markets, diesel variants may require oils with low SAPS formulations and specific BMW diesel approvals.
Adhering to these specifications helps maintain engine efficiency, supports correct operation of emission-control systems, and preserves warranty coverage when applicable.
Practical Tips for Changing Oil
Even when you know the official capacity, the best practice during an oil change is to approach the final fill gradually and verify with the vehicle’s measurement system. The 2014 X5 typically uses an electronic oil-level sensor rather than a traditional dipstick.
- Start below full capacity: Add slightly less than the listed capacity (for example, 6.5 quarts for an N55 engine), then run the engine and warm it up.
- Check oil level via iDrive: Use the onboard menu to check the electronic oil level after the engine has reached normal temperature and the car is on level ground.
- Top off slowly: Add oil in small increments (around 0.2–0.3 quarts at a time) until the display shows the correct level.
- Replace the filter every time: The stated capacities assume an oil filter change; skipping the filter is not recommended and will slightly alter how much oil you need.
This method reduces the risk of overfilling, which can be particularly problematic on turbocharged engines that are sensitive to oil aeration and crankcase pressure issues.
Summary
A 2014 BMW X5 generally uses about 6.9–7.0 quarts of oil for its common six-cylinder engines and about 8.5–9.0 quarts for its V8 versions, with diesel and less common variants typically falling near the 7-quart mark. Because capacity varies by engine type, the safest approach is to identify your specific engine (via VIN, badges, or documentation) and confirm the official figure in the owner’s manual or through a BMW dealer. Using the correct quantity of BMW-approved synthetic oil, combined with careful level checks via the electronic system, ensures that the 2014 X5’s engine remains protected and performs as intended over the long term.
Can I put 5W-30 in my BMW X5?
Recommended Oil for the BMW X5
Viscosity: Typically, 5W-30 or 0W-30 is suitable, but always refer to your X5’s manual for the exact viscosity. API Certification: Oils with an API SN designation ensure they meet the current industry standards for gasoline engines.
How many quarts of oil does a BMW X5 take?
The number of quarts of oil a BMW X5 takes varies by model and engine, but typically ranges from 6.9 to 10.6 quarts. For example, a 2018 or 2022 3.0L 6-cylinder engine needs about 6.9 quarts, while a 2023 4.4L 8-cylinder engine requires about 10.6 quarts. Always check your specific model year and engine to ensure you get the correct capacity and use the recommended oil viscosity.
- For a 6-cylinder engine (e.g., 3.0L): Typically requires around 6.9 quarts.
- For an 8-cylinder engine (e.g., 4.4L): Typically requires around 10.6 quarts.
- For a newer 6-cylinder engine (e.g., 2024 with B58 engine): Requires approximately 7.2 quarts.
Important Considerations:
- Check your owner’s manual: The most accurate information for your specific vehicle can be found in the owner’s manual.
- After refilling: It is crucial to check the oil level with the electronic dipstick or a traditional one after the oil change to ensure it is filled to the correct level.
How much oil does a 2.0 L engine take?
Engine Oil Capacity and Specification – 2.0L EcoBoost
| Variant | Including the Oil Filter |
|---|---|
| All. | 5.5 qt (5.2 L) |
How much oil does a 2014 BMW X5 take?
6.9 quarts
6.9 quarts (with filter).


