What Kind of Oil a BMW N55 335i Takes

A BMW 335i with the N55 engine requires a full-synthetic engine oil that meets BMW’s Longlife specification—specifically BMW LL‑01 (for most markets and model years) or LL‑01 FE in some later applications, typically in a 0W‑40 or 5W‑30 viscosity. In practice, most owners and independent BMW specialists in North America use high-quality 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 full-synthetic oils that carry an official BMW LL‑01 approval.

Understanding the BMW N55 335i’s Oil Requirements

The turbocharged N55 inline‑six engine in the BMW 335i runs hot, makes significant power, and is sensitive to lubrication quality. Using the correct oil is essential to protect the turbocharger, reduce deposit formation, and support long service intervals. BMW specifies oils according to formal “Longlife” standards (LL‑01, LL‑01 FE, etc.), which combine performance criteria, viscosity, and additive requirements rather than just a simple weight like 5W‑30.

Official BMW Specifications for the N55 Engine

BMW’s factory documentation, including owner’s manuals and technical service data, forms the basis for determining which oils are compatible with the N55 335i. These specifications focus on both performance characteristics and emissions system compatibility.

BMW Longlife Oil Standards

BMW’s “Longlife” standards define which oils can safely support the brand’s extended drain intervals while maintaining engine and emissions system health. The N55’s requirements fall under a few key designations.

The following list outlines the primary BMW specifications relevant to most N55-powered 335i models:

• BMW Longlife‑01 (LL‑01): The main specification for gasoline BMW engines from the 2000s through much of the 2010s, including the N55. Oils must meet strict criteria for high-temperature stability, deposit control, and wear protection.
• BMW Longlife‑01 FE (LL‑01 FE): A fuel‑efficiency variant used on some later models and markets. These oils typically have lower viscosity and are optimized for reduced friction and fuel consumption while still protecting the engine.
• BMW Longlife‑04 (LL‑04): Primarily a low‑SAPS (low ash) spec intended more for diesel and some direct‑injection gasoline applications in Europe with specific fuel standards. In North America, LL‑04 is generally not preferred in gasoline engines unless BMW explicitly approves it for that model and fuel quality.

Understanding these designations helps owners choose oils that are truly compatible with BMW’s engineering expectations, rather than relying only on generic viscosity numbers.

Viscosity Grades Typically Used

BMW lists several viscosity options based on climate, but certain grades have become de facto standards among dealers and specialists. The choice affects cold-start performance and protection at high operating temperatures.

The list below covers the most commonly used viscosity grades for an N55 335i in various climates:

• 0W‑40: Very popular for N55 engines in many regions; offers excellent cold‑start performance and robust high‑temperature protection. Frequently recommended in performance and enthusiast circles.
• 5W‑30: Often the factory‑recommended grade in owner’s manuals, especially in North America. Must be a BMW LL‑01 or LL‑01 FE approved variant—not just any 5W‑30.
• 5W‑40: Common among independent BMW shops for cars driven hard or in warmer climates, as it provides slightly higher high‑temperature viscosity while still flowing well at startup.
• 0W‑30: Sometimes specified in colder climates or for fuel‑efficiency focus, provided it carries the correct BMW Longlife approval.

These viscosity grades, when coupled with the correct BMW Longlife approval, give owners flexibility to match climate and driving style without compromising engine protection.

Approved Oil Brands and Products Commonly Used

While BMW often sells rebranded oil under its own label, many major oil companies produce products that officially meet BMW’s LL‑01 or LL‑01 FE standards. These products are widely available and typically more cost‑effective than dealer‑branded oil.

Examples of BMW LL‑01 Approved Oils

The following list highlights well-known oils frequently used in N55 335i engines in North America and Europe, provided they carry the BMW LL‑01 approval on the label (always verify, as formulations can change):

• Mobil 1 0W‑40 (FS or equivalent): One of the most popular enthusiast choices; long-standing BMW LL‑01 approval, strong high‑temperature performance, and broad availability.
• Castrol EDGE 0W‑40 / 5W‑30 (A3/B4 or “European Formula” variants): Often BMW‑approved LL‑01 and historically linked with BMW dealer‑branded oils in some markets.
• Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W‑40 / Top Tec variants: Several Liqui Moly products carry BMW LL‑01 approval and are favored by many independent European-car specialists.
• Shell Helix Ultra 5W‑40 (or Pennzoil Platinum Euro 5W‑40 in North America): Certain “Euro” formulas meet LL‑01 and are widely used in German performance cars.
• Valvoline European Vehicle 5W‑40 / 0W‑40: Select “European Vehicle” oils are LL‑01 approved and designed for extended-drain German applications.

While brand loyalty varies, all of these oils—when they explicitly list BMW LL‑01 approval—can provide the level of protection the N55 demands under normal and spirited driving conditions.

How Much Oil the N55 335i Takes

Beyond selecting the correct type of oil, owners must also know the proper fill capacity to avoid overfilling or running the engine with insufficient lubrication. The N55’s capacity is relatively large for a six-cylinder, reflecting its performance orientation and turbocharging.

Typical Oil Capacity

Exact capacity may vary slightly by model year and specific chassis (E90/E92/E93 F30/F32, etc.), but the general guidelines for an N55 335i are consistent.

The following list summarizes typical engine oil capacities for the N55 335i with a filter change:

• Approximate capacity: Around 6.5 to 7.0 liters (roughly 6.9 to 7.4 US quarts) with filter.
• Practical fill approach: Add about 6.5 liters/quarts, run the engine briefly, then use the electronic oil level sensor (or dipstick, if equipped) to top off gradually to the recommended level.
• Avoid overfilling: Excess oil can cause foaming, increased crankcase pressure, and potential seal or catalytic converter issues.

Since capacities can differ slightly between model years and markets, checking the specific owner’s manual or a BMW service information system is the safest way to confirm the exact fill volume.

Service Intervals and Real‑World Best Practices

BMW’s official service intervals often stretch oil changes to 10,000–15,000 miles (or around 15,000–25,000 km) under their Condition Based Service system. Many N55 owners and independent specialists view these intervals as too long for a turbocharged engine, especially in mixed or spirited driving.

Recommended Change Intervals

To balance protection with cost and convenience, most enthusiasts adopt shorter change intervals than BMW’s maximum recommendation. This helps minimize sludge formation, turbo wear, and timing component stress.

The following list outlines commonly recommended change intervals and considerations for N55 335i maintenance:

• 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km): Widely adopted interval range among independent BMW shops for mixed city/highway driving with occasional spirited use.
• Closer to 5,000 miles (≈8,000 km): Sensible for heavily tuned cars, frequent short trips, track days, or very hot climates.
• Use of high‑quality filters: Pair LL‑01 oil with OEM or equivalent filters (e.g., BMW, Mann, Mahle) to maintain proper filtration and oil flow.
• Monitoring oil consumption: Some N55s can consume small amounts of oil; checking the level between services is important, especially on higher‑mileage engines.

By shortening intervals from the factory maximum, owners can significantly improve long‑term reliability, especially for vehicles that are tuned or driven aggressively.

How to Verify the Correct Oil for Your Specific 335i

Because BMW made running changes over the N55’s production life—and because fuel quality, regional regulations, and climate vary—verifying the exact recommendation for your car is essential rather than relying solely on general guidance.

Steps to Confirm the Proper Oil

Several sources can confirm the correct oil specification and viscosity for your specific VIN, model year, and market. Cross‑checking them ensures you are within BMW’s current recommendations.

The list below explains how to verify compatibility before your next oil change:

• Check the owner’s manual: Look for the “Engine Oil” section, which specifies BMW Longlife approvals and recommended viscosity ranges for your climate.
• Use the BMW online manual or app: BMW’s official sites and apps often provide up‑to‑date fluid specs for each model year and engine variant.
• Contact a BMW dealer or specialist: Provide your VIN and ask for the latest oil specification; they can check current BMW service bulletins and technical data.
• Read the oil label carefully: Confirm that “BMW Longlife‑01” (or LL‑01 FE if specified) appears in the manufacturer’s approvals—not just “meets requirements” but actual approval where possible.

Taking these steps helps ensure that your chosen oil meets BMW’s exacting standards, reduces warranty concerns for newer cars, and protects your engine over the long term.

Summary

A BMW 335i equipped with the N55 engine requires a high‑quality, full-synthetic engine oil that carries a BMW Longlife approval—primarily BMW LL‑01, and in some later cases LL‑01 FE—with typical viscosities of 0W‑40, 5W‑30, or 5W‑40, chosen according to climate and driving style. The engine holds roughly 6.5–7.0 liters (≈7 quarts) of oil with a filter change. Popular choices include BMW‑branded LL‑01 oil and European‑formula synthetics from Mobil 1, Castrol, Liqui Moly, Shell/Pennzoil, and Valvoline, provided they explicitly list BMW LL‑01 approval. For longevity—especially in a turbocharged, performance‑oriented engine like the N55—many experts recommend oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles rather than stretching to the maximum factory interval, while always verifying exact specifications in the owner’s manual or with a BMW dealer.

Can I use any 5W-30 oil in my BMW?

If you look in the manual, it’ll tell you exactly what to use. 0w30, 5w30, 0w40, and 5w40 are perfectly okay. 0w30 and 5w30 are the exact same viscosity at operating temperature.

What kind of oil does a BMW 335i N55 take?

BMW TwinPower Turbo 0W-30 Engine Oil – LL-01 FE – 1 Liter.

What oil should I use in my BMW 335i?

The BMW 335i requires a full synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 motor oil, with many models specifying the BMW LongLife-01 (LL-01) approval. Always check your owner’s manual for the precise specification, as the exact requirement can vary slightly by model year and engine type. 
Recommended oil

• Viscosity: 5W-30 or 5W-40
• Type: Full synthetic is strongly recommended
• Approval: Look for the BMW LongLife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approval 

Additional tips

• Check manual: Always confirm the specific requirements in your owner’s manual for your exact model and year. 
• Consider other options: Some owners also use 0W-30 or 0W-40 oils, especially those that meet the LL-01 specification, as noted in this Bimmerpost forum thread and this Reddit discussion. 
• Change frequency: Changing your oil frequently can help with engine longevity, even with high-quality oil. 

What is the best oil for Stage 2 N55?

Look no further than the Motul 8100 Power 5W40 Oil Package.