The BMW 316i is a BMW sedan that was discontinued in the early 2000s. If you own one of these popular models, make sure you know your vehicle’s oil capacity and get regular oil changes for continued performance.

It’s one thing to own a classic car that doesn’t get driven very often—but an older vehicle like the 316i requires extra care to keep up with modern life! Oil changes are simply one of the best ways to prolong the life of your vehicle. You should use the specific oil type indicated in your owner’s manual.

If you lost the manual decades ago, don’t worry. This article (courtesy of

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BMW 316i engine oil capacity

Before you can change the oil in a BMW 316i, you need to know how much engine oil a BMW 316i needs.

The engine oil capacity on a BMW 316i is 4.2 quarts. Note that this measurement includes the oil filter. You can buy engine oil in one-quart or five-quart containers. One-quart bottles are perfect for top-ups, whereas five-quart containers are better for oil changes.

What kind of oil does a BMW 316i need?

Every vehicle was manufactured to work with a specific type of engine oil. The owner’s manual for a BMW 316i recommends that you use a Helix Ultra Professional AM-L 5W-30 product. Today, this fully synthetic oil is made by Shell.

The most important thing to look for when buying engine oil is the engine oil rating. So long as the rating says 5W-30, you can use any brand of oil in your Bimmer.

Here’s a quick review of how to interpret oil ratings.

In 5W-30, the “W” stands for winter. The numbers 5 and 30 describe the oil’s thickness or viscosity at different temperatures. The first number explains how thin the oil is when the engine is cold, and the second number is how thin the oil is at peak operating temperature.

Here are several options for engine oil for your BMW 316i:

The genuine article: Use

Shell Helix Ultra Professional AM-L 5W-30

if you want to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions

Liqui Moly: The

SAE 5W-30 motor oil

from Liqui Moly is a good option for a BMW 316i

High-mileage: If you put a lot of miles on your car, try

Mobil Full Synthetic 5W-30

MORE:

How much does a BMW oil change cost?

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How often to change oil on a BMW 316i

BMW suggests that you get an oil change every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. That’s a significantly longer interval than many other vehicles! More frequent oil changes are optional but unnecessary with fully synthetic oil.

In addition to scheduled maintenance, it’s important to check the oil level frequently. Many drivers check the oil every other time they fuel up. You should top it up when it’s low. If you notice any irregularities, it might be time to get an oil change.

Here are some signs you might need a full oil change:

Molasses-colored oil (clean oil is light amber)

Gritty texture

Odd sounds coming from the engine

Unusual smells, especially anything burnt

Changes in your car’s performance

MORE:

The best BMW hybrids

How to change your oil and oil filter

If you have the space and skills, changing your own oil is a great way to save money as a car owner. Start by parking your vehicle on level ground. You will need safety glasses, gloves, new 5W-30 oil, a funnel, an oil pan or container for the old oil, rags, a new filter, and a socket wrench.

Here are the basic steps for a DIY oil change on a BMW 316i:

Remove the dipstick and fill cap to help with drainage

Put on your safety gear and get beneath the vehicle to place the oil pan

Pull the drain plug and allow the old oil to drain out

Remove the old filter and install the new one, tightening to the manual’s specifications

Add new oil with the funnel

Replace the plug and fill cap

Now, it’s important to do a final check. Run your engine for a few minutes then turn off the car. Look under the hood and beneath the car for any leakage. Then, check the oil level on the dipstick to ensure it’s at the MAX fill line at peak operating temperature.

To finish, bring your old oil in a sealed container to a recycling center that accepts waste engine oil. Don’t pour it in the street or in the trash!

Don’t forget regular insurance policy maintenance

Owning a car means you have to take care of recurring tasks—fueling up, wiping bird poop off your windshield, and getting oil changes. It also means you have to update your car insurance policy regularly.

BMW 316i drivers, this is for you:

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