What Oil Is Recommended for the BMW 3 Series?

The recommended oil for most modern BMW 3 Series models is a full synthetic engine oil that meets BMW Longlife specifications—typically 0W-20 or 5W-30 viscosity, certified to BMW LL-17FE+ or LL-01 standards, depending on the model year and engine. Choosing the right oil is crucial for performance, longevity, and warranty compliance, and it varies slightly across generations and engine types.

Understanding BMW’s Oil Specifications

BMW does not just recommend a brand; it specifies technical standards that oil must meet, known as “Longlife” (LL) specifications. These standards ensure that the oil can handle the high temperatures, turbocharging, and extended service intervals typical of modern BMWs.

Key BMW Longlife Specifications

The following list explains the most common BMW oil standards relevant to the 3 Series and what type of engines and model years they typically apply to.

• BMW LL-17FE+: Latest low-viscosity spec, typically 0W-20 full synthetic, used on many G20/G21 3 Series (from about 2019 onward) to maximize fuel efficiency and protection.
• BMW LL-14FE+: Older fuel-efficient spec, often 0W-20 or 0W-30, used in some mid-2010s turbocharged four-cylinder engines; gradually superseded by LL-17FE+ in newer models.
• BMW LL-01: High-performance full synthetic spec, commonly 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40, used widely in earlier F30/F31 3 Series and many six-cylinder engines.
• BMW LL-01FE: A fuel-economy variation of LL-01, typically lower viscosity, for some later N-series and early B-series engines.
• BMW LL-04: Low-ash (low-SAPS) spec primarily for many European diesel engines with DPFs and some gasoline engines in certain markets; viscosity usually 5W-30 or 5W-40.

These specifications are more important than the brand name on the bottle; any oil claiming one of these BMW approvals—and the correct viscosity grade—is generally safe for the engine it’s intended for.

Recommended Oil by BMW 3 Series Generation

The BMW 3 Series has evolved significantly over time, and so have its engines and oil requirements. The best way to be exact is to check your owner’s manual or the label under the hood, but broad guidance by generation is still useful.

G20/G21 3 Series (2019–Present)

The latest 3 Series generation, including models like the 330i, M340i, and various plug-in hybrids, uses newer B-series engines designed around low-viscosity synthetic oils.

The list below outlines the most commonly recommended oils for the current G20/G21 generation.

• Typical viscosity: 0W-20 full synthetic.
• Spec to look for: BMW LL-17FE+ (primary) or BMW LL-14FE+ (if stated in manual for earlier B engines).
• Example applications:
  

  • 330i / 330i xDrive (B48 2.0L turbo): usually 0W-20, LL-17FE+.
  • M340i / M340i xDrive (B58 3.0L turbo): typically 0W-20 LL-17FE+, though some markets and conditions may allow LL-01-approved 5W-30.
  • 330e plug-in hybrid: same base engine as 330i, commonly 0W-20 LL-17FE+.

For these newer engines, using the lower-viscosity LL-17FE+ oil isn’t just about fuel economy—it’s baked into the design of the lubrication system and cold-start strategy.

F30/F31/F34 3 Series (2012–2019)

The F-generation 3 Series widely uses turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines (N20, B48, N55, B58, diesels, and performance models), and the recommended oil depends on the specific engine and market.

The following list summarizes common recommendations for the F30-era 3 Series.

• Typical viscosity: 0W-30 or 5W-30 full synthetic; sometimes 5W-40 depending on engine and climate.
• Specifications:
  

  • Gasoline engines (e.g., N20, N26, B48, N55, B58): BMW LL-01 or LL-01FE is most common.
  • European diesels (e.g., N47, B47): typically BMW LL-04 low-SAPS oil.

• Example models:
  

  • 320i/328i/330i (N20/N26/B48): usually 0W-30 or 5W-30 LL-01/LL-01FE.
  • 335i/340i (N55/B58): generally 5W-30 LL-01, occasionally 5W-40 LL-01 in hotter climates or spirited-use recommendations.
  • 320d/330d diesels: 5W-30 LL-04 in most European markets, sometimes 5W-40 LL-04 for heavy use.

Within the F30 range, regional differences matter: North American gasoline models are typically LL-01, while European diesels almost always call for LL-04 to protect emissions systems.

E90/E91/E92/E93 3 Series (2005–2013)

These models span naturally aspirated inline-sixes, twin-turbo petrol engines, and early common-rail diesels. BMW’s oil standards were simpler but still centered on fully synthetic oils.

The list below covers the dominant oil choices for the E9x generation.

• Typical viscosity: 5W-30 or 5W-40 full synthetic.
• Primary spec: BMW LL-01 for most gasoline engines; BMW LL-04 for many diesels (especially in Europe).
• Example engines and guidance:
  

  • N52/N53 naturally aspirated sixes (e.g., 325i, 330i): 5W-30 LL-01.
  • N54/N55 turbo sixes (e.g., 335i): 5W-30 or 5W-40 LL-01; 5W-40 often favored by enthusiasts for hotter running and modified cars.
  • Diesels (e.g., 320d, 330d): 5W-30 LL-04 in most European service schedules.

Because many E9x cars are now older and may have higher mileage, some owners opt for slightly thicker LL-01-approved 5W-40 to help with consumption and maintain oil pressure under load.

Older 3 Series (E46, E36, and Earlier)

For older generations, BMW originally specified earlier Longlife standards (e.g., LL-98), but modern LL-01-approved oils usually supersede those recommendations.

The list below provides general guidance for pre-E90 3 Series models.

• Typical viscosity: 5W-30, 5W-40, or in some warmer climates 10W-40 fully synthetic.
• Recommended spec: BMW LL-01 typically satisfies or exceeds original requirements for gasoline engines.
• Special cases:
  

  • High-mileage engines may benefit from 5W-40 LL-01 to reduce consumption and noise.
  • Where climate is very cold, 0W-30 LL-01 can improve cold start lubrication.

While these cars predate some current standards, using a modern high-quality LL-01-approved oil remains compatible and is generally superior to legacy formulations.

Viscosity Choices: 0W-20 vs 5W-30 vs 5W-40

Beyond BMW’s Longlife codes, the viscosity grade (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-30) affects cold-start protection and behavior at high temperatures. BMW calibrates each engine’s clearances and oil pump around an expected viscosity range.

Modern Low-Viscosity Oils

Newer BMW engines are increasingly designed around low-viscosity oils to balance emissions, fuel economy, and performance.

The following list explains how common viscosities are typically used in the 3 Series lineup.

• 0W-20: Standard on many G20/G21 330i and M340i with LL-17FE+; offers excellent cold flow and fuel efficiency, with engine tolerances designed for this grade.
• 0W-30: Sometimes specified for LL-01FE or older fuel-efficient specs; suitable for cold climates while still robust at operating temperature.
• 5W-30: The classic all-round BMW recommendation in LL-01 and LL-04; widely used on E9x and F30 gasoline and diesel engines.
• 5W-40: Often accepted under LL-01 and LL-04; favored in hot climates, for performance driving, and for older/high-mileage engines.

Deviating from the viscosity recommended in the manual is generally discouraged unless there’s a clear reason (such as extreme climate or very high mileage) and you remain within a BMW-approved spec.

Official BMW Recommendations vs Aftermarket Brands

BMW has preferred partners for engine oil and also allows a range of third-party brands, as long as they carry the correct BMW approval on the label.

Factory-Fill and OEM-Branded Oils

BMW-branded oils are manufactured under license by major oil companies and are designed explicitly to meet BMW’s current Longlife standards.

The list below outlines what you will typically encounter at BMW dealers and why.

• BMW TwinPower Turbo Engine Oil: The official BMW-branded line, offered in various viscosities (0W-20, 0W-30, 0W-40, 5W-30) and specifications (LL-17FE+, LL-01, LL-04).
• Shell / Pennzoil partnership: In many regions, BMW’s official oils are formulated by Shell; in North America, Pennzoil-branded products often share similar formulations and approvals.
• Dealer service: Newer 3 Series models serviced at BMW dealers will almost always receive the current recommended BMW TwinPower Turbo oil for your VIN.

Using BMW-branded oil guarantees compliance with BMW’s standards but is not the only way to meet those standards.

Recommended Third-Party Brands (When Approved)

Many independent shops and owners opt for well-known aftermarket brands that explicitly list BMW approvals on the bottle, which can offer cost savings or specific performance traits.

The following list provides examples of popular brands that commonly offer BMW-approved formulations.

• Castrol EDGE / Castrol EDGE Professional: Often available in LL-01 and LL-04 0W-30, 5W-30, and 5W-40 versions.
• Mobil 1: Certain variants, such as Mobil 1 ESP or specific 0W-40/5W-30 formulations, carry LL-01 or LL-04 approvals (must check label).
• Liqui Moly: Offers LL-01 and LL-04-approved oils, popular among European car specialists.
• Shell Helix Ultra: Includes BMW-approved LL-01/LL-04 oils in various viscosities in many markets.
• Ravenol, Motul, TotalEnergies, and others: Multiple European brands provide BMW-approved oils targeted at German vehicles.

The critical point is not the logo but the printed approval: look specifically for “BMW Longlife-xx” (LL-01, LL-04, LL-17FE+, etc.) on the product data sheet or label.

How to Choose the Right Oil for Your Specific 3 Series

Because engine options, markets, and updates change over time, the most reliable way to identify the right oil is to combine BMW’s documentation with a few simple checks.

Step-by-Step: Confirming the Correct Oil

The steps below explain how to confidently select the correct oil for your particular 3 Series.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look for the “Engine Oil” section, which will list approved BMW Longlife standards and recommended viscosity ranges.
2. Verify engine code and model year: Identify whether you have, for example, an N20, B48, N55, B58, etc.; you can find this via the build sheet, VIN decoder, or under-hood labels.
3. Look under the hood or oil cap: Many cars have a sticker or oil-cap engraving specifying LL-01, LL-04, LL-14FE+, or LL-17FE+ and a viscosity.
4. Match the BMW spec on the oil container: Ensure the bottle clearly states “BMW Longlife-xx approved,” not just “meets requirements” without certification.
5. Consider climate and usage: In very cold climates, a 0W grade may be preferable; in very hot or track conditions, a higher hot-weight oil (e.g., 5W-40) may be acceptable if it still meets the right BMW spec.
6. Maintain proper change intervals: Even with Longlife oils, many independent specialists suggest changing every 10,000 km–12,000 km (6,000–8,000 miles) or annually, especially on turbocharged engines, rather than stretching to the maximum service interval.

Following this process reduces the risk of using an incompatible oil, helps preserve engine health, and ensures you remain aligned with BMW’s design assumptions and, where relevant, warranty terms.

Common Mistakes and Myths

Oil choice around BMWs is surrounded by myths, often spread through forums and hearsay. Knowing what to avoid can be as important as knowing what to use.

What Not to Do

The list below highlights frequent mistakes owners make when choosing oil for a 3 Series.

• Ignoring BMW Longlife approvals: Using “any full synthetic” without LL-xx approval can compromise protection and emissions-system compatibility.
• Choosing the wrong viscosity out of fear: Switching a new G20 from 0W-20 LL-17FE+ to a thick 5W-40 without justification may worsen cold-start wear and efficiency.
• Overextending oil change intervals: Relying solely on the longest possible interval (or the dashboard indicator) on high-heat turbo engines can accelerate wear and sludge formation.
• Mixing incompatible oils: Topping up with oil that does not share the same spec or viscosity can dilute performance and, in rare cases, impact DPF or catalyst health in diesels.
• Using diesel-only oils in gasoline engines (or vice versa): LL-04 diesel-focused oils may be acceptable for some gasoline engines in Europe, but only when explicitly allowed by BMW.

Avoiding these pitfalls helps ensure your 3 Series performs as intended and reduces the chance of expensive engine or emissions-system repairs later on.

Summary

For most modern BMW 3 Series models, BMW recommends full synthetic oil approved to its specific Longlife standards: typically 0W-20 LL-17FE+ for the latest G20/G21 generation and 5W-30 LL-01 or LL-04 for many earlier F30 and E9x cars, depending on engine type and market. The exact choice depends on your model year, engine code, and region, all detailed in the owner’s manual and under-hood labels.

When selecting oil, prioritize BMW’s Longlife approval (LL-17FE+, LL-14FE+, LL-01, LL-01FE, or LL-04) and then choose the viscosity specified for your climate and driving conditions. BMW TwinPower Turbo oils from dealers and numerous third-party brands like Castrol, Mobil 1, Liqui Moly, and Shell are suitable, as long as they carry the correct BMW approval. Staying within these guidelines—and observing sensible change intervals—will help your 3 Series deliver the performance, efficiency, and longevity it was engineered for.