I promise I did a search, and looked at the wiki but I did not get a clear answer. What is the general rule about the oil I should use in my E46? I was under the impression that it was advisable to go with the OEM stuff, but it looked like other people were using other brands. I am sure this has been asked before, and I apologize for not being able to find it in an older thread.
According to that link BMW usa link (and WIKI), 1st choice is BMW HP 5-30 synthetic, and these are alternatives:
* Castrol Syntec European Formula SAE 0W-30
* Mobil 1 SAE 0W-40
* Pennzoil Platinum European Formula Ultra SAE 5W-30
* Valvoline SynPower SAE 5W-30
I would also be looking to change my own oil, and have been thinking about what SAE grade to use: Although 5/30 is a good all round SAE grade, I myself will be using Mobil 1 0w-40 for summer months (I am in NC where it gets pretty hot in summer) and BMW 5/30 or Syntec 0/30 for cooler months, and stick to 7 or 8k mile oil changes.
Just contact Tischer http://www.getbmwparts.com/ and get their oil change kit. It includes everything you need, is the best price available, is high quality OEM, and comes with free shipping. Can't beat that!
I get ALL my OEM stuff from them at GREAT prices. Thye are way lower than the dealer and many other online merchants. Very friendly and accomodating, too.
Your local BMW dealer will have it at about the same price ($6 -$7 per quart) If you are a BMW CCA member, you'll get 15% (I think) discount plus you'll pay no shipping and you'll get it right away.
True, but Tischer doesn't charge shipping. (Although you do have to plan ahead a little, as you have to wait a few days for the delivery.) I like using site sponsors, especially when they are good and offer competitive prices. My local dealer isn't very competitive, especially on out of the ordinary items, so I don't shop from them unless I'm really pressed and need an item right away.
The did charge me shipping before I think ... Anyhow, yeah they do have a wide selection, no doubt about it. I use them sometimes too for oil and stuff. They are kind of slow (and I live about an hour away from where they are). My local dealer would charge about 2 - 3 times the going price for any other parts. But for oil and stuff like that they are reasonable.
Oil should meet LL01, but as a minimum must meet ACEA A3.B3.
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