BMW 3 Series Oil Type & Capacity
The BMW 3 Series takes 5W-30 engine oil, about 5.5-6.9 qt with a filter change, on 2019-2026 models. Older ones use the same grade but hold a different amount - 2014-2018 models take 5.3-7.4 qt - so check your year in the table below.
Oil by model year
| Model years | Oil type | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 2019-2026 | 5W-30 | 5.5-6.9 qt |
| 2014-2018 | 5W-30 | 5.3-7.4 qt |
| 2005-2013 | 10W-60 / 5W-30 | 4.5-9.3 qt |
| 1998-2004 | 5W-30 | 4.2-6.9 qt |
| 1993-1997 | 10W-40 / 5W-30 / 5W-40 | 5.3-7.4 qt |
| 1986-1992 | 5W-40 | 4.5-5.8 qt |
Capacity is with a filter change and can vary by engine - open your exact year below for the per-engine figures and our sources.
Every 3 Series year
Frequently asked
What kind of oil does a BMW 3 Series take?
The BMW 3 Series takes 5W-30 engine oil, about 5.5-6.9 qt with a filter change, on 2019-2026 models. Older ones use the same grade but hold a different amount - 2014-2018 models take 5.3-7.4 qt - so check your year in the table below.
How many quarts of oil does a BMW 3 Series take?
About 5.5-6.9 qt with a filter change on 2019-2026 models, and 5.3-7.4 qt on 2014-2018 models. Capacity varies by engine, so check your exact year for the per-engine figure - and finish on the dipstick rather than pouring in the full amount.
Does the oil type change by year on the BMW 3 Series?
Yes. We record 6 different factory specs across the years we cover - 2019-2026: 5W-30; 2014-2018: 5W-30; 2005-2013: 10W-60/5W-30. Use the table above and confirm against your owner's manual.