[Aldor27]

So I did post this in the 2 series forum but I am posting here for more exposure. I am 300 miles away from having to do an oil change on my n26. I live in California, where weather can be as low as 30fº and as high as 107fº. I do a lot of spirited driving and will be changing my oil every 3-5k miles (Keeping my OCI short since I don't want to stretch out my timing chain.) On stock tune, just running an intake and catless downpipe at the moment if that changes anything.

Currently looking at using Rotella T6 5w-40 oil since that is what I used on my 07 335i (Does not have BMW LL-01 sticker since its a diesel type of engine oil, but very good oil for boosted engines.) Also looking at using Shell Helix Ultra 5w-40 since it does meet the LL-01 standards. Heard something about phosphorus in the T6 being able to clog up catted downpipes but that isn't an issue since I am catless

Any recommendations for a winter type of oil and a summer type of oil?
Best oil filter to use I presume is the Mann filter BMW uses.

[Billfitz]

You're in the wrong forum section with this question, which has been asked and answered many times here:
https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/fo...play.php?f=437

[bmwchue]

I love in norcal and I've always used mobil 1 for all my cars. I'm using 0w40 mobil 1 every 5k miles. I do use oem oil filter that I buy on amazon/ebay. cheaper to buy 2 filter for $15

[Z K]

I think 0w40 is a bit overkill for an engine that BMW now specs their 0w20 for. Unless you're driving on an race track, I'd split the difference and do an LL01 approved 0w30.

[bmwchue]

Originally Posted by Z K

I think 0w40 is a bit overkill for an engine that BMW now specs their 0w20 for. Unless you're driving on an race track, I'd split the difference and do an LL01 approved 0w30.

where can I find the new oil spec? I prefer thicker oil just because of the hot weather we get here in california

[Z K]

There is another thread on this:
https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1574737

Official BMW oil guide:
https://www.newtis.info/tisv2/a/en/e...engine/1PSryV8

BMW is now recommending LL17FE 0w20 for all N20/N26 engines. This is probably mostly to increase fuel efficiency.
Older oils will still work but 0w20 should be no problem for street driving even if you push it now and then.

It can get hot, that's why I said 0w30 is a good medium if you don't want to use 0w20. 40 weight oil will make it very thick for little benefit.

[Billfitz]

Originally Posted by Z K

BMW is now recommending LL17FE 0w20 for all N20/N26 engines. This is probably mostly to increase fuel efficiency.

From a corporate standpoint there's no advantage to increasing the fuel efficiency on non-current year models, as it won't affect CAFE numbers. From an inventory cost standpoint there's a major advantage to both BMW and BMW dealers in not having to stock different grades of oil for different vehicle model years. That's the more likely reason for this recommendation. Whenever something happens that leaves you questioning 'Why?' the answer can usually be found by following the money.

[Gen13 F36]

My God we still talking about oil.😱