What Type of Oil Does a BMW 330i Take?

The BMW 330i generally requires a full synthetic engine oil that meets BMW’s Longlife specifications—most commonly BMW LL-01 or LL-17 FE+, with viscosity grades such as 0W-20, 0W-30, or 5W-30 depending on model year and engine. This synthetic oil is essential to protect the turbocharged engine, maintain performance, and keep the factory warranty and emissions systems in good standing. Below is a detailed breakdown by generation, specification, and how to choose the right oil for your specific 330i.

Understanding the BMW 330i: Why Oil Choice Matters

The BMW 330i name has spanned several generations and engine designs, from naturally aspirated six‑cylinders to modern turbocharged four‑cylinders. Despite these differences, all versions rely on high-quality synthetic oil with BMW-approved specifications. Using oil that meets BMW’s Longlife (LL) standards is more important than any single brand name, because those specifications govern how the oil behaves under heat, long intervals, and turbocharger stress.

Official BMW Oil Specifications for the 330i

BMW doesn’t just specify viscosity; it requires that engine oils meet strict Longlife standards. These specifications define performance requirements such as resistance to breakdown, deposit control, compatibility with emissions systems, and suitability for extended change intervals.

• BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01): A widely used spec for many BMW gasoline engines from the mid‑2000s through the mid‑2010s. Typically paired with viscosities like 0W-30, 0W-40, or 5W-30.
• BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE): A fuel-efficient variant of LL-01 designed for lower viscosity oils with improved fuel economy, often in 0W-30 grades.
• BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04): Low-ash (“low-SAPS”) oil originally intended mostly for European markets and diesel/particulate-filter applications, but sometimes specified for certain gasoline engines in specific regions.
• BMW Longlife-17 FE+ (LL-17 FE+): Newer, fuel-efficient spec used on many latest turbocharged four‑cylinder engines, often with 0W-20 viscosity.
• BMW Longlife-14+ (LL-14 FE+): Another fuel-economy focused spec, used on some North American turbo gasoline engines with lighter-weight oils.

Together, these Longlife standards ensure that whichever approved viscosity you choose, the oil can withstand the thermal, mechanical, and chemical stresses typical of BMW engines, especially those with turbochargers and extended service intervals.

Recommended Oil Types by 330i Generation

Because the 330i badge has been used on several platforms and engine families, the “correct” oil depends on the model year and engine code. Below is a generation-based guide to the most common specifications and viscosities used in North America and many other markets. Always confirm with your owner’s manual or dealer based on your VIN.

E46 330i (Approx. 2001–2006, M54 Engine)

The E46 330i used the naturally aspirated 3.0‑liter inline-six M54 engine, which was designed around high-quality synthetic oil long before turbocharging became the norm.

• Typical spec: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01).
• Common viscosity: 5W-30 or 0W-40 full synthetic meeting LL-01.
• Examples of compliant oils: BMW TwinPower Turbo 5W-30 LL-01; or major-brand synthetics explicitly labeled as meeting BMW LL-01 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 European Car Formula, Castrol Edge 0W-40 A3/B4 with BMW LL-01 approval, etc.).

While the E46 is older, sticking with a high-quality LL-01 oil—ideally in a slightly thicker grade like 0W-40 or 5W-40 in hotter climates or higher-mileage engines—helps reduce wear and maintain smooth operation.

E90/E91/E92/E93 330i (Approx. 2006–2011, N52 Engine)

The E9x 330i used the naturally aspirated 3.0‑liter inline-six N52, which continued BMW’s reliance on synthetic oil but introduced more advanced valvetrain and emissions technologies.

• Typical spec: BMW LL-01.
• Common viscosity: 5W-30 or 0W-30, full synthetic, LL-01 approved.
• Climate considerations: 0W-30 or 0W-40 for colder regions; 5W-30 or 5W-40 for warmer climates or spirited driving.

For these engines, the priority is meeting LL-01 rather than obsessing over a specific viscosity within the 0W-30 to 5W-40 range, provided the oil is fully synthetic and approved.

F30 330i (Approx. 2016–2018, B46/B48 Turbo Four-Cylinder)

The F30-era 330i nameplate reappeared with the 2.0‑liter turbocharged four‑cylinder B46/B48, moving away from six‑cylinders toward more efficient, high-output small displacement engines.

• Typical spec (North America & many markets): LL-01, LL-01 FE, or region-specific advisories transitioning to newer FE specifications.
• Common viscosities: 0W-20, 0W-30, or 5W-30 depending on region and production date, but always synthetic and Longlife-approved.
• OEM recommendation: BMW TwinPower Turbo 0W-20 or 0W-30 that matches the spec listed in the under-hood decal or manual.

On these turbo engines, BMW’s shift toward thinner, fuel-saving oils is governed by precise engineering, so using the exact LL standard and viscosity from the owner’s manual is especially important for turbo health and warranty compliance.

G20 330i (2019–Present, B46/B48 Turbo Four-Cylinder)

The current G20-generation 330i continues with an evolved B46/B48 turbocharged four‑cylinder, alongside mild-hybrid systems on newer models in some markets. BMW’s oil recommendations have moved more firmly into the low-viscosity, fuel-efficient category.

• Typical spec: BMW Longlife-17 FE+ (LL-17 FE+) or regionally specified FE-type Longlife oil.
• Common viscosity: 0W-20 full synthetic.
• Factory oil: BMW TwinPower Turbo 0W-20 LL-17 FE+.
• Important note: Using heavier oil (e.g., 5W-30) without LL-17 FE+ approval may not be recommended and could impact efficiency, emissions system behavior, and dealer goodwill on warranty matters.

For the G20 330i, using a genuine BMW-branded LL-17 FE+ oil or a reputable aftermarket brand that explicitly lists BMW LL-17 FE+ approval is the safest path to preserving both performance and warranty coverage.

Viscosity Grades: What the Numbers Mean for Your 330i

Beyond BMW’s Longlife standards, the other key label on any oil bottle is its viscosity rating, such as 0W-20 or 5W-30. Understanding these numbers helps owners make informed decisions when climate, driving style, or mileage might justify small adjustments within BMW’s approved range.

• “0W” or “5W” (winter grade): Indicates how the oil flows when cold. A lower number (0W) flows more easily at low temperatures, aiding cold starts and reducing wear on startup.
• “20”, “30”, “40” (operating-temperature grade): Reflects the oil’s thickness when the engine is hot. A “20” oil is thinner at temperature than a “30” oil, which can improve fuel economy but may provide slightly less film thickness in extreme conditions.
• BMW’s trend: Newer 330i models use 0W-20 or similar low-viscosity oils to balance protection with fuel economy and emissions.

Staying with the viscosity recommended in your owner’s manual is the best default; minor variations should only be made if they still meet BMW Longlife approvals and are justifiable for climate or usage, ideally after consulting a specialist.

Approved Brands vs. Specifications: What Really Matters

Oil discussions often focus on brand loyalty, but BMW’s own guidance makes clear that the critical factor is whether the oil meets the Longlife standard, not which logo is on the bottle.

• OEM-branded oil: BMW TwinPower Turbo oils are formulated to meet BMW LL specs and are always safe choices when matched to your model’s requirements.
• Major third-party brands: Many global brands—such as Mobil 1, Castrol, Shell, Liqui Moly, and others—offer oils with explicit BMW LL-01, LL-04, LL-14 FE+, or LL-17 FE+ approvals listed on the label and product datasheet.
• “Suitable for” vs. “Approved”: “Meets or exceeds” or “suitable for use where BMW LL-01 is recommended” is not always the same as formally approved. For strict compliance, look for explicit mention of “BMW LL-xx approved.”

While using BMW-branded oil simplifies choices, selecting a high-quality synthetic oil that clearly lists the relevant BMW Longlife approval can be equally effective and sometimes more cost-efficient.

Oil Change Intervals and Practical Advice

BMW’s service systems often specify relatively long change intervals—up to around 10,000–12,000 miles (16,000–20,000 km) or once per year—but many owners and independent specialists adopt more conservative schedules to extend engine life, especially on turbocharged models.

• Factory interval: Follow iDrive / service indicator or local BMW guidelines if you’re under warranty and want to strictly align with manufacturer recommendations.
• Enthusiast interval: Many owners of turbo 330i engines choose 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) oil changes using BMW-approved synthetic oil to reduce long-term wear and deposits.
• Driving style impact: Frequent short trips, stop‑and‑go driving, and high-load or track use justify shorter intervals, even with the correct LL-spec oil.

Combining the right oil type with sensible change intervals is often more important for long-term reliability than strictly following the maximum distance allowed by the service indicator.

How to Confirm the Exact Oil for Your Specific 330i

Because BMW has made running changes over time and recommendations can vary by market, the most reliable method to confirm the correct oil for your 330i is to consult the official documentation tied to your specific VIN and region.

• Owner’s manual: The lubrication section lists the required BMW Longlife standard and typical viscosity grades for your exact model and engine.
• Under-hood or oil-cap labeling: Many vehicles have an oil spec or viscosity sticker in the engine bay or on the oil filler cap.
• BMW dealer or official website: Providing your VIN allows a service advisor or online system to confirm the current official spec, including any technical service bulletins that may have updated recommendations.
• Digital manuals and apps: BMW often provides downloadable manuals or app-based information, which can contain the latest spec guidance for your model year.

Verifying your oil spec through official sources only takes a few minutes and ensures that you’re using an oil that aligns with the latest BMW engineering and warranty requirements.

Key Takeaways

Across its generations, the BMW 330i has consistently required high-quality full synthetic oil that meets specific BMW Longlife standards, with exact specifications evolving alongside engine technology and emissions regulations.

• Older 330i models (E46, E9x) typically use BMW LL-01 synthetic oil, often 5W-30, 0W-30, or 0W-40.
• Mid-generation turbo 330i models (F30) frequently call for LL-01 or FE-type specifications, with viscosities such as 0W-20 or 0W-30, depending on year and market.
• Current G20 330i models generally require BMW LL-17 FE+ 0W-20 full synthetic oil.
• The BMW Longlife specification is more critical than the brand name, provided the oil is fully synthetic and officially approved.
• Confirming the spec via your owner’s manual or dealer using the VIN is the most accurate way to determine the exact oil your 330i should take.

By choosing a full synthetic oil that clearly meets the BMW Longlife standard specified for your 330i’s generation—most notably LL-01 or LL-17 FE+ in recent years—you ensure proper lubrication, protect the turbocharged engine where applicable, and maintain the reliability and performance that the 330i badge represents.

Summary

A BMW 330i requires full synthetic oil that meets BMW’s Longlife standards, with LL-01 oils (often 0W-30, 5W-30, or 0W-40) commonly used on older six‑cylinder models, and newer turbocharged four‑cylinder 330i models typically calling for fuel-efficient LL-17 FE+ 0W-20. The precise requirement depends on model year, engine, and market, so the best practice is to match a BMW-approved synthetic oil—by specification and viscosity—to the guidance in your owner’s manual or official BMW documentation for your specific vehicle.

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. 

What kind of oil does a BMW 330Ci take?

The correct oil for a BMW 330Ci is full synthetic 5W-30, which meets the BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specification. While some sources may recommend other viscosities, a 5W-30 full synthetic that is BMW LL-01 certified is the most reliable choice to ensure proper lubrication and protection for the engine. 

• Oil type: Full synthetic
• Viscosity: 5W-30
• Specification: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01)

Why this oil is recommended

• Engine protection: Full synthetic oil provides superior protection against wear, sludge buildup, and extreme temperatures. 
• Optimal performance: The 5W-30 viscosity ensures proper lubrication across a wide range of temperatures, especially in colder climates. 
• BMW certification: The LL-01 certification indicates that the oil has been tested and approved by BMW to meet their specific performance and quality standards for this engine. 

Where to find the oil

• Look for brands that explicitly state “BMW LL-01” on the bottle, such as some European-formula oils from Castrol or Mobil 1. 
• Many major auto parts stores and online retailers carry a variety of full synthetic 5W-30 oils that meet this specification. 

Can you put any 5W-30 oil in a BMW?

5w30 is too thin. Don’t do it. SAE ratings have numerical ranges, just because BMW’s 5W30 oil is the right one doesn’t mean that another vendor’s 5W30 is the right one as well. For M1, use 0w40 as others have said.

What kind of oil does a BMW 330e take?

The correct oil for a BMW 330e is 0W-20 full synthetic oil that meets BMW’s Longlife-14 FE+ or Longlife-01 FE specifications. Some sources also mention 0W-30 as a possibility depending on the climate and specific engine requirements. The capacity is approximately 6 to 6.1 quarts, but you should always check the oil level after refilling. 
Oil type and specifications

• Viscosity: 0W-20 is the primary recommendation for all temperatures. 
• Alternative: 0W-30 can also be used, especially in colder climates, as long as it meets the BMW approval rating. 
• Approvals: Look for an oil that meets BMW Longlife-14 FE+ or Longlife-01 FE specifications on the bottle. 
• Type: Use a full synthetic motor oil for optimal performance and protection. 

Oil capacity

• Capacity: The oil capacity is approximately 6 to 6.1 quarts, including the oil filter.
• Important: Always check the oil level after refilling to ensure the correct amount is added.