What Oil Does a 2018 BMW 320i Take?

The 2018 BMW 320i uses full-synthetic engine oil that meets BMW’s Longlife (LL) specifications—most commonly 0W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil approved to BMW LL-17 FE+ or BMW LL-01 standards, depending on market and climate. Always confirm the exact spec in your owner’s manual, on the under-hood label, or with a BMW dealer by VIN.

Contents

Understanding the Correct Oil for a 2018 BMW 320i
Official BMW Oil Specifications for the 2018 320i
Brand Examples of Suitable Oils
Oil Capacity and Service Interval
How to Verify the Correct Oil for Your Specific 320i
Practical Tips for Owners
Summary

Understanding the Correct Oil for a 2018 BMW 320i

The 2018 BMW 320i (F30 generation, with the 2.0‑liter turbocharged four‑cylinder engine—B48 or N20 depending on region) is engineered to run on specific synthetic oils that meet BMW’s proprietary “Longlife” specifications. These specifications go beyond basic viscosity grades like 0W-20 or 5W-30 and define detergent packages, high‑temperature stability, and fuel‑efficiency characteristics. Using an oil that simply “fits” the viscosity but does not meet BMW LL standards can shorten engine life and jeopardize warranty coverage where applicable.

Official BMW Oil Specifications for the 2018 320i

BMW aligns its recommendations with internal Longlife approvals rather than just generic API or ACEA categories. For the 2018 model year, BMW moved most four‑cylinder turbo gas engines to low‑viscosity, fuel‑efficient oils, but still accepts older LL‑01 oils in many regions.

Primary Recommended Specifications

The following lists the primary BMW Longlife specifications relevant to the 2018 BMW 320i and how they apply. This helps clarify what you should look for on the oil bottle label.

BMW Longlife-17 FE+:
- Common viscosity: 0W-20
- Designed for modern BMW gasoline engines in many markets from ~2017 onward
- Low-viscosity, fuel-efficient formulation
- Typical labeling: “BMW LL‑17 FE+ approved” or similar wording on premium synthetics

BMW Longlife-01:
- Common viscosities: 0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40
- Widely accepted for turbocharged BMW gasoline engines for many years
- Higher HTHS (high-temperature, high-shear) protection than LL‑17 FE+
- Often used as a robust alternative in hotter climates or spirited driving

BMW Longlife-01 FE:
- Common viscosity: 0W-30
- Fuel‑economy‑oriented variant of LL‑01
- Less common now than LL‑17 FE+ but may still appear in documentation

These specifications define the base oil quality and additive chemistry BMW requires. If the bottle does not explicitly say “BMW LL‑01,” “BMW LL‑01 FE,” or “BMW LL‑17 FE+,” it is technically not approved even if it has the correct viscosity grade.

Typical Viscosity Recommendations by Region and Use

Viscosity is chosen based on climate and regulatory environment. While BMW’s global standard for this era tends to favor low‑viscosity oil, your local recommendation may show multiple acceptable options.

Moderate climates (North America, much of Europe, temperate Asia):
- Primary modern spec: 0W-20, BMW LL‑17 FE+
- Alternative (often in older manuals or dealer practice): 5W-30, BMW LL‑01

Hot climates:
- Some mechanics and independent BMW specialists favor 5W-30 or 0W-40 LL‑01 for added margin at high temperatures.

Cold climates:
- 0W-20 LL‑17 FE+ or 0W-30 LL‑01/LL‑01 FE are typically preferred for cold-start performance.

In practice, either a BMW LL‑17 FE+ 0W‑20 or a BMW LL‑01 5W‑30/0W‑40 is commonly used, depending on climate, driving style, and dealer guidance. The key is BMW approval, not just viscosity.

Brand Examples of Suitable Oils

Several major oil manufacturers produce products that carry formal BMW Longlife approvals. The specific product lines and labels may change, so checking the latest datasheet or back‑label statement is essential.

Commonly Available BMW-Approved Oils

The following list gives representative examples of oils that, at time of writing, typically meet the BMW Longlife standards for a 2018 320i. Always verify the latest approval on the bottle or manufacturer website.

BMW Genuine Engine Oil:
- BMW-branded 0W‑20 meeting LL‑17 FE+ (often sold at dealers)
- BMW-branded 5W‑30, 0W‑40, etc., meeting LL‑01

Mobil 1 (check exact variant and label):
- Mobil 1 ESP x2 0W‑20 (some batches: LL‑17 FE+ approved in certain markets)
- Mobil 1 ESP 5W‑30 or 0W‑40 (often carries LL‑01 approval)

Castrol:
- Castrol Edge 0W‑20 / 0W‑30 / 5W‑30 with BMW LL approvals depending on region
- Some Castrol Edge or Castrol Magnatec Professional variants are co-branded with BMW dealers

Liqui Moly:
- Liqui Moly Top Tec series (e.g., Top Tec 6200 0W‑20, 4200 5W‑30) with BMW LL approvals specified on datasheets

Shell / Pennzoil / Quaker State:
- In some markets, Shell Helix Ultra and Pennzoil Platinum variants carry BMW LL‑01 or LL‑17 FE+ approvals

Product names and approvals can change as formulations are updated, so the safest approach is to cross‑check “BMW Longlife‑xx approved” on the technical sheet and confirm compatibility with the 2018 320i’s engine.

Oil Capacity and Service Interval

Knowing how much oil your 2018 320i holds and when BMW recommends changing it is just as important as using the right specification. BMW’s factory guidance often assumes ideal conditions, but many enthusiasts and independent technicians recommend more conservative intervals.

Oil Capacity

The precise capacity depends on the engine variant and region (N20 vs. B48), but they are broadly similar. Understanding approximate capacity helps avoid overfilling or running low after a change.

Approximate capacity with filter change: about 5.0–5.5 liters (roughly 5.3–5.8 US quarts), depending on engine version

Check the owner’s manual or under-hood label for your exact capacity

Always:
- Fill slightly below the stated capacity,
- Run the engine briefly, let it sit, then
- Top up gradually while checking the electronic oil level readout.

This approach reduces the likelihood of overfilling, which can cause foaming, catalytic converter damage, or other issues in a turbocharged engine.

Service Interval Recommendations

BMW advertises extended service intervals under its Condition Based Service (CBS) system, but real‑world use often suggests shorter intervals for long engine life, especially on turbocharged gasoline engines.

BMW CBS / iDrive indication:
- Typically up to about 10,000–12,000 miles (16,000–19,000 km) or around 12–24 months, depending on driving pattern

Conservative/enthusiast practice:
- Every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km), especially for:
  - Frequent short trips
  - Hot climates
  - Spirited driving or heavy traffic use

Always use a quality filter:
- Preferably OEM (Mahle, Mann, or BMW‑branded)
- Replace the filter at every oil change

Shorter, regular changes with the correct BMW‑approved oil are one of the most effective ways to keep the turbo, timing components, and variable valve timing systems in good condition over high mileage.

How to Verify the Correct Oil for Your Specific 320i

Because BMW sometimes revises oil recommendations, and because engines and options can differ by market, confirming the exact requirement for your VIN is crucial. There are several reliable sources you can use.

Steps to Confirm the Right Oil

The next list outlines practical steps you can take to ensure you are selecting an oil that is fully compatible with your exact 2018 320i configuration.

Check the owner’s manual:
- Look in the “Engine oil” or “Technical data” section
- Identify both the BMW Longlife specification and the viscosity range

Look under the hood or on the oil filler cap:
- Some vehicles have a label or symbol indicating “BMW Longlife” specs
- The cap may mention recommended viscosity (e.g., 0W-20)

Contact a BMW dealer or authorized service center:
- Provide your VIN
- Ask for the current recommended oil spec (e.g., LL‑17 FE+ 0W‑20) for your model and engine

Check reputable oil manufacturer websites:
- Use their “oil selector” or “find the right oil” tool
- Confirm the product is explicitly BMW LL‑xx approved, not just “suitable for”

Avoid unapproved or generic oils:
- Even high-quality synthetics may not meet BMW’s Longlife testing
- Lack of approval can affect warranty and long‑term reliability

Following these steps ensures that, beyond just matching a viscosity, you are using an oil fully tested and validated for BMW’s engineering and emission-control requirements.

Practical Tips for Owners

Beyond the formal specifications, a few practical habits help keep the 2018 BMW 320i’s engine in good condition, particularly its turbocharger and timing components, which are sensitive to oil quality and level.

Everyday Maintenance Advice

The following tips offer simple, practical routines that most owners can follow without advanced mechanical knowledge.

Monitor oil level regularly:
- Use the electronic oil level check through the iDrive or instrument menu
- Check at least once a month or before long trips

Top up only with approved oil:
- Keep a 1‑liter bottle of the correct BMW‑approved oil in the trunk
- Avoid mixing vastly different viscosities or non‑approved brands

Warm up gently:
- Avoid full throttle or high RPM until oil is at operating temperature
- This reduces wear on the turbo and timing chain

Document oil changes:
- Keep receipts showing oil brand, viscosity, and BMW LL approval
- Helpful for resale value and for any warranty or goodwill claims

Consider more frequent changes if usage is severe:
- Short urban trips, track use, or heavy traffic justify shorter intervals

These straightforward habits, combined with using the correct oil, significantly reduce the risk of long‑term engine issues and maintain the performance and efficiency expected from a BMW 3 Series.

Summary

The 2018 BMW 320i is designed to run on full-synthetic oil that carries BMW’s own Longlife approvals—most notably BMW LL‑17 FE+ 0W‑20 for many modern applications, or BMW LL‑01 oils such as 5W‑30 or 0W‑40 in numerous regions and conditions. Viscosity alone is not enough: the bottle must explicitly state BMW Longlife approval. Typical capacity is around 5–5.5 liters with filter, and while BMW’s onboard system may allow long intervals, many experts recommend changing the oil every 5,000–7,500 miles with a quality filter. Verifying the exact spec in your owner’s manual or with a BMW dealer using your VIN is the safest way to ensure you’re using the right oil for your specific 320i.

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 320i take?

The recommended engine oil for a BMW 320i is a full synthetic 5W-30, although some newer models may require 0W-20 as a newer BMW recommendation. It is crucial to check your owner’s manual for the exact specification and any relevant service bulletins, as BMW has updated its recommendations. The oil should meet BMW’s specific Long Life (LL) specifications, such as LL-01, LL-14FE, or LL-17FE.

Key oil types and specifications

Viscosity: The most common recommendation is 5W-30, but some modern models are being specified with 0W-20. Always verify with your owner’s manual and any service bulletins.
Type: Use full synthetic oil. This is essential for modern BMW engines, as they have specific requirements for protection and performance.
BMW Long Life (LL) Approval: Ensure the oil meets the correct BMW LL approval for your specific model, such as LL-01, LL-14FE, or LL-17FE.
Example brands: Castrol, STP, Mobil 1, and Liqui Moly are brands that offer oils meeting these specifications.

Important considerations

Check the owner’s manual: The most important step is to consult your car’s owner’s manual for the precise viscosity and specifications required for your model year.
Service bulletins: BMW sometimes issues service bulletins that supersede older recommendations. Check for any bulletins that apply to your vehicle.
Oil quantity: Be sure to use the correct amount of oil. For example, some models require approximately 5 liters (or about 5.3 quarts) when changing the filter.

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What oil is recommended for BMW 3 series?

The best engine oil for a BMW 3 Series depends on the model year and engine, so always check your owner’s manual first. For newer models, a 0W-20 or 0W-30 with a BMW Longlife-14 FE+ or LL-01 FE approval is often recommended for fuel efficiency. For older models or different driving conditions like racing or hot climates, a thicker 0W-40 or 5W-40 (or even 5W-30) with a BMW Longlife-01 rating may be suitable.

For most modern BMW 3 Series

Recommendation: 0W-20 or 0W-30 with a BMW LL-14 FE+ or LL-01 FE approval rating.
Why: These oils are designed for modern engines to improve fuel economy and meet the specific requirements for newer models.

For older models or specific driving conditions

Recommendation: 5W-30 or 5W-40 with a BMW LL-01 approval rating.
Why: This viscosity is recommended for older 3 Series models or for drivers in hotter climates or those who engage in high-performance driving.

How to choose the right oil

Check the owner’s manual: This is the most important step to ensure you use the correct oil for your specific vehicle.
Look for the BMW Longlife specification: The oil must have the correct specification (e.g., LL-01, LL-01 FE, LL-14 FE+) for your engine.
Consider your climate: A thicker oil might be better in very hot climates.
Opt for full synthetic: Full synthetic oils are generally recommended for the best lubrication and protection, especially for high-performance or track use.