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View Full Version : Oil Change on an '08 X3

ubermax
11-11-2008, 10:24 AM
Does anyone have detailed instructions ( pictures would be ideal ) on how to change the oil on an '08 X3 ?
TheCritic
11-12-2008, 07:20 AM
This should be pretty close (http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=106684&highlight=diy+x3+oil+change).

I understand if you're doing a break-in oil change or an in-between (~every 7500 miles) change, but want to make sure you know you can get them entirely free from the dealer when the car requests it *or* is over a year old (from in-service date). All 3 wiper blades and the cabin air filter are also free (may have to request, may not be able to get cabin air filter before the car-requested interval).
rs6655
11-12-2008, 07:48 AM
On my '09 the only difference seems to be the drain plug configuration and no "nut" on top of the filter.

The front hole is where the drain plug is located. I did an 1100 mile break in oil change. I did not have to raise the car.
ubermax
11-12-2008, 09:12 AM
On my '09 the only difference seems to be the drain plug configuration and no "nut" on top of the filter.

The front hole is where the drain plug is located. I did an 1100 mile break in oil change. I did not have to raise the car.

thanks RS - how did you unscrew that filter housing without the top nut ? were you able to pick up a special tool ? it looks like a standard oil filter wrench wouldn't be big enough ?
rs6655
11-12-2008, 02:41 PM
thanks RS - how did you unscrew that filter housing without the top nut ? were you able to pick up a special tool ? it looks like a standard oil filter wrench wouldn't be big enough ?

You're welcome... Mine came off by hand but a rubber Craftsman Strapwrench would work just fine. The other advice I can give is to use an OE filter and don't overtorque the drain plug. I'm pretty sure it only needs 19 lb ft.
ubermax
11-13-2008, 05:06 AM
You're welcome... Mine came off by hand but a rubber Craftsman Strapwrench would work just fine. The other advice I can give is to use an OE filter and don't overtorque the drain plug. I'm pretty sure it only needs 19 lb ft.

thanks again RS - the pic was helpful also - I know the new synthetic oils are suppose to last longer but 15K still seems a stretch - and it can't hurt to change it more often - my local dealership would charge for a change before 15K and like everything else for these cars, big bucks.
rs6655
11-13-2008, 07:34 AM
thanks again RS - the pic was helpful also - I know the new synthetic oils are suppose to last longer but 15K still seems a stretch - and it can't hurt to change it more often - my local dealership would charge for a change before 15K and like everything else for these cars, big bucks.

I agree. I do an initial "break in" change and then at least every 5K after that.