The Oil Thread

[LivesNearCostco]

I was using Total/Elf Quartz INEO 5w-30, full synthetic BMW LL approved. However, before that I ran at least two cycles of non-LL01 approved fully synthetic oil, Valvoline Synpower and Penzoil Platinum. And my last oil change did not drain out the plug but pulled the oil out the dipstick tube. I don't think the oil numbers look terrible, but since it's my first UOA I'm not sure what to expect. Here's what Blackstone called out as high when compared to 6,000 miles of oil use on a similar engine.
--Aluminum: Actual = 8; Reference = 4
--Lead: Actual = 14, reference = 4
--Sodium: Actual = 60; Reference = 13

If we assume normal wear is proportional to miles, it would be expected that aluminum and lead would be 45% higher than the reference levels. But aluminum is 100% higher (double) while lead is 250% higher. So here's are my speculative reasons:

My high mileage engine has some kind of ring/bearing problem
Total Quartz 5w-30 oil wasn't protecting properly
Metals from last oil change (August 2011) were trapped in bottom of oil pan and came out in this sample, possibly made worse because before Aug 2011 I was using Penzoil Platinum, which is not BMW approved.
I ran the oil too long given the 8 or 10 track days since last oil change. I'm sure some racers change the oil after 5 or 6 track days.

I plan to change the oil at 5,000 miles or 4 track days and submit another sample to Blackstone. Maye I'll buy their $30 fluid pump and sample it after 3,000 miles. Do we have an oil analysis thread around here?
3424

[danewilson77]

I was using Total/Elf Quartz INEO 5w-30, full synthetic BMW LL approved. However, before that I ran at least two cycles of non-LL01 approved fully synthetic oil, Valvoline Synpower and Penzoil Platinum. And my last oil change did not drain out the plug but pulled the oil out the dipstick tube. I don't think the oil numbers look terrible, but since it's my first UOA I'm not sure what to expect. Here's what Blackstone called out as high when compared to 6,000 miles of oil use on a similar engine.
--Aluminum: Actual = 8; Reference = 4
--Lead: Actual = 14, reference = 4
--Sodium: Actual = 60; Reference = 13

If we assume normal wear is proportional to miles, it would be expected that aluminum and lead would be 45% higher than the reference levels. But aluminum is 100% higher (double) while lead is 250% higher. So here's are my speculative reasons:

My high mileage engine has some kind of ring/bearing problem
Total Quartz 5w-30 oil wasn't protecting properly
Metals from last oil change (August 2011) were trapped in bottom of oil pan and came out in this sample, possibly made worse because before Aug 2011 I was using Penzoil Platinum, which is not BMW approved.
I ran the oil too long given the 8 or 10 track days since last oil change. I'm sure some racers change the oil after 5 or 6 track days.

I plan to change the oil at 5,000 miles or 4 track days and submit another sample to Blackstone. Maye I'll buy their $30 fluid pump and sample it after 3,000 miles. Do we have an oil analysis thread around here?
3424

Yeah... We have a Blackstone thread.


http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showthread.php?2637-Blackstone-Oil-Report&highlight=Blackstone

HTC Thunderbolt+TT

[LivesNearCostco]

Dane, Thanks for the link. I posted my UAO there, plus I read the whole thread.

Edit: In a similar theme, I had my annual fasting lipid (cholesterol) and blood sugar test yesterday morning and got the results today. Kind of like a UOA for the body, except we can't run synthetic blood (at least not yet). Results were in normal range, but some were close to the wrong end of normal. I think I need to exercise just a little more often and avoid eating any of the donuts or pastries often provided at AutoX/track days, or the free bagels that sometimes show up at the office.

[danewilson77]

LOL...at your edit note. I have been eating oatmeal every morning. My UBA says blood is good, before changeout, for another 50 years.

[LivesNearCostco]

I made some instant oatmeal yesterday after reading your note. Had some more today for breakfast. But this morning somebody left chocolate cake in the break room at work... I am sorely tempted!

I understand from the Blackstone web site that TBNs neutralize acid formation in the oil. So if your TBNs get too low, does your oil end up like the blood the Alien aliens?
http://images1.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20110102045254/avp/images/thumb/d/d4/Alien-acid-for-blood11.jpg/830px-Alien-acid-for-blood11.jpg

[Oli77]

Since we can't search for 3 letter words, could you sticky that thread at the top boss?

[Oli77]

So the oil pump in our car is under the engine?

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/diagrams/w/t/69.png

[Oli77]

Never mind, it's obvious. Don't see too many DIYs on that sucker, must be made to last.

Not like the OFHG that dries up at 76K miles.

[danewilson77]

Unless the OPN falls off.

[Oli77]

Darn oil pump magnets, they do like to fall off, don't they?

[danewilson77]

Darn oil pump magnets, they do like to fall off, don't they?

Oops... Meant OPN = Oil Pump Nut.

Sent from SIGFest 2012

[Oli77]

Lol

[NorCalZman]

ugh, you guys have officially made me paranoid. The car is going to the dealer for a oil/filter, transmission, and differential fluid change within the next week or two. I am not sure exactly what the PO was using for any of that in the car.

[echo46]

I did the same thing the first weekend I had my ZHP. Didn't trust the PO even though he and the prior PO took good care of her. I did oil, filter, manual tranny fluid, rear diff fluid. Then soon thereafter I did coolant and fuel filter for further peace of mind.

[HokieZHP]

So it's about time for my next oil change. I just ran BMW 5w-30. I do a lot of spirited driving and am wondering if there is another oil that would be better suited for my driving style?

[kayger12]

So it's about time for my next oil change. I just ran BMW 5w-30. I do a lot of spirited driving and am wondering if there is another oil that would be better suited for my driving style?

I do the same and have multiple good Blackstone reports with the BMW 5w30.

Don't think there's any reason to change, imo.

Oil analysis will tell the tale, though.

I wish this was sent with a Galaxy S3

[HokieZHP]

Well I'm also wondering because the nearest BMW dealer is 45 mins away so it would be a 2 hour round trip to get oil. Whereas, Autozone is 2 minutes away haha

[kayger12]

Take a look at the BMW oil change kit that Tischer sells. getbmwparts.com

Free shipping.

I wish this was sent with a Galaxy S3

[shanneba]

Well I'm also wondering because the nearest BMW dealer is 45 mins away so it would be a 2 hour round trip to get oil. Whereas, Autozone is 2 minutes away haha

You could check AutoZone for the Castrol Edge with syntec 0w-30 or 5w-40. Both should have the BMW LL-01 approval on them.
They also probably have the Mobil 1 0w-40, also BMW LL-01 approved.

[Washburn]

Pennzoil Euro Ultra 5/40 is also on amazon w/ free shipping - LL01 certified.

[ryrules1]

Also Castrol 06244 EDGE 0W-30 SPT Synthetic Motor Oil on sale at amazon w/ free shipping. Meets LL01 spec.

[danewilson77]

Ha! Finally found it! Can't beat the price.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/Myoil.jpg

Did we say this was spec'd for our cars?

http://www.bmwusa.com/Standard/Content/Owner/SyntheticEngineOils.aspx

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/Pennz.jpg

How about this?

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/Valv.jpg

Just asking.

[Washburn]

I think neither that Penz nor the Valvoline is LL01 approved, However the Penz Euro Ultra 5/40 that I use right now, is.

BUT there's a new LL01 kid in town :) (can be bought at AAP stores)

Castrol EDGE 0w-40 (made in Belgium):
http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=2851811&page=1

6756

http://i1285.photobucket.com/albums/a585/Mikennedy15/image_zps6b77fefd.jpg

[danewilson77]

Ahhh....nice. I wish BMW would fix their site regarding the other 2 oil.

[danewilson77]

Just picked up this at Auto zone.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/IMAG2076.jpg


http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/nicee46/Maintenance%20and%20Misc/IMAG2075.jpg
Sent from Williamsburg, VA USA

[danewilson77]

Crazy stuff in this world.


Just a heads up about the oil at dealerships. They usually buy oil in bulk and don't use BMW oil. They sell it over the counter but don't necessarily use it in the shop. If you really want BMW oil do it yourself or ask what they use in the shop. The service advisor will probably look at you like a deer in the headlights cause they will have no idea or tell you what you want to hear. That said if you change it at like 7 or 8k it really doesn't matter as long as its synthetic. You only have to worry if you go by the service lights in the car.




^Interesting....so the BMW dealerships don't use BMW synthetic? That's absurd.

[danewilson77]

More discussion.


I can't speak for all dealerships but in general they buy huge quantities of oil. Its much cheaper that way. BMW doesn't sell it that way only in quarts. It's still most likely quality oil but not BMW oil in the bottles. BMW doesn't make their own oil they sublet it and have it branded BMW. I've heard its Valvoline but could never get a confirmation of that. Its oil that is made with their specifications. That is why I buy oil at Wal Mart and save a ton of money. I just make sure its either Valvoline or Castrol and meets BMW specs. I also change my oil at 7 to 8k and never have any issues. I tell my customers to do the same.

[Washburn]

1st of all there's no such thing as 'BMW oil' - it's rebottled Castrol, which is pretty well known by now...
The 'BMW' 5w-30 oil is either Castrol Softech (now obsolete name) or SLX Professional (probably the latter).
It's NOT Valvoline!

So IDK if dealers use something else or not, that might be true that they cheat and use something else, but it's not because they can't get 'BMW oil' in barrels.
As long as Castrol sells them SLX professional in barrels, then that's the same stuff that's in that 'BMW' bottle.

[Johal E32]

Shell Rotella T6 is some good stuff (from what I hear). It's also waay cheaper than most oils. I think around $20 for 5 quarts from Wal-Mart or something crazy cheap.

[BavarianZHP]

Motor oil standards have come a long way. Most are API-SN and ILSAC-G5 approved nowadays - the standards were updated in 2010. Our E46 manuals say to use SH rated or higher (which BTW is obsolete now). Most modern synthetic oils can be safely used. There's a good forum on Virgin Oil Analysis (VOA's) (http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=cfrm).

Here's a site (albeit in German) that has LL01 and LL04 (both approved for our engines, although it's '05 info): http://www.auto-treff.com/bmw/vb/showthread.php?postid=1197010#post1197010

Valvoline is LL-04 approved (updated from LL-01).

I actually just got 14 qrts of full synthetic NAPA (rebranded valvoline synpower) for $3.79/qrt after heavily researching it. It does have less additives than most oils, but hey, I'm planning on changing it around 5k anyways. Hell, with that price I could change it every 3k.

EDIT: valvoline is also LL-01 approved per BMW (Dane's comment may be a correction for this reference though, valvoline may NOT be LL-01 approved but is LL-04?):
http://www.bmwusa.com/Standard/Content/Owner/SyntheticEngineOils.aspx

[BavarianZHP]

Shell Rotella T6 is some good stuff (from what I hear). It's also waay cheaper than most oils. I think around $20 for 5 quarts from Wal-Mart or something crazy cheap.

Wal-Mart actually has VERY good prices for all of their oils (and they carry almost everything) - my local one beats all of the automotive shops by a large margin.

[Johal E32]

^Word. Every now and again Costco sells Mobil ! for a good deal, but Wal-Mart always has the best oil prices in my area as well.

[Washburn]

BMW also needs to put the Pennzoil Platinum Euro Ultra 5w/40 : LL01 approved, and currently in my car...not sure if I am going to use it in the future, though...seems a bit noisier than the GC I had in there before...might be my imagination, though.

[Torxuvin]

I have bought all my mobil 1 stuff at walmart. :shifty

[danewilson77]

I used to as well. They used to carry M1 0W-40...then just stopped one day.

[Washburn]

FYI -

I (will) never use this oil but i know lots of you do:

M-1 Coupon at Autozone - $10 off 5 qts

http://www.autozone.com/images/MEDIA_ProductCatalog/m610015_mobil1Coupon-v4.pdf?intcmp&ed_rid=EXUEU52-Z6KPG-IY60Q1-OFEIFF-Q36A1-v1&ed_mid=156081

[danewilson77]

FYI -

I (will) never use this oil but i know lots of you do:

M-1 Coupon at Autozone - $10 off 5 qts

http://www.autozone.com/images/MEDIA_ProductCatalog/m610015_mobil1Coupon-v4.pdf?intcmp&ed_rid=EXUEU52-Z6KPG-IY60Q1-OFEIFF-Q36A1-v1&ed_mid=156081

Why?

[Washburn]

unexplainable and illogical weird negative feeling towards M1 0w/40

[Washburn]

Advance auto has BOGO on Castrol Syntec and I went in search of the new LL01 kid on the block - the BELGIAN Castrol (BC) Edge 0w/40: :)

1st one only had BC - got all 6 qts they had on the rack; (more coming next week but i will be out of country) - rang up as BOGO
They didn't carry GC at all.

2nd one had 4 BC qts on the rack - that's all they had; got all 4 qts (rang up as BOGO) -
They also had German Castrol 0w/30 http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/images/graemlins/default/smile.gif got 8 qts of that BOGO .... I was tempted to buy more, but I get curious about other oils from time to time and this should cover me for at least 2 self oil changes on the Bimmer http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/images/graemlins/default/smile.gif

So the tally is 8 qts of GC and 10 qts of BC for BOGO - quite happy http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/images/graemlins/default/smile.gif - Now the pics: http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/images/graemlins/default/smile.gif

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b176/nishang/IMG_0910_zps85740205.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b176/nishang/IMG_0911_zps0f42d66b.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b176/nishang/cedge_zps0353e0bf.jpg

[kayger12]

Great info. Thanks, Wash.

[Torxuvin]

Nice. Thanks for the tip. I have an oil change coming up soon. Have to make a trip to AZ tomorrow.

[Washburn]

It's Advance Auto Parts, not AZ that has the syntec / Edge BOGO deal

[Torxuvin]

It's Advance Auto Parts, not AZ that has the syntec / Edge BOGO deal

Oops. I totally passed right by that. (thankfully they are about half a mile from each other near me)

[Dave_B]

What you guys' thoughts on the 0-40 in a ZHP with 140k on it?

Any concerns running that?

[Washburn]

What you guys' thoughts on the 0-40 in a ZHP with 140k on it?
Any concerns running that?
Generally no (IMO) - but what's your location? extreme cold starts? is the car garaged?

[danewilson77]

What you guys' thoughts on the 0-40 in a ZHP with 140k on it?

Any concerns running that?

I usually run M1 0W-40 and mine has 175k miles on it.

I just switched over to Castro Euro blend 0W-30.

[Dave_B]

Car is garaged and in Upstate, SC (between Atlanta and Charlotte on I-85) It was sleeting this morning, but were lucky to see snow once a year. Generally warmer than colder over the course of the year.

[echo46]

Why did you switch, DW. I am a M1 0W40 guy am I missing something? By the way, badass Mini.

[danewilson77]

Why did you switch, DW. I am a M1 0W40 guy am I missing something? By the way, badass Mini.

I switched because I wanted to run Castrol this run.

Sent from my ADR6400L using Tapatalk 2

[echo46]

Do you switch up often or are you just trying something new?

[danewilson77]

Do you switch up often or are you just trying something new?

Honestly, I just wanted to try Castrol. It says it on my friggen oil cap, so I figured I would give it a go. Been an M1 guy since I bought it though.

[echo46]

Good point, my G. It does say Castrol.

[Johal E32]

I wanted to say that my Dad and cousin has been using Mobil 1 5w-30 Full synthetic oil in their BMW's for years, and have never ever had a problem. My cousin recently switched to Shell Rotella T6 5w-40, and my Dad will either switch to Rotella T6 (it has better detergents to keep the motor clean) or keep using m1 5-30.

My dad religiously gets the oil changed at 7500 miles or he DIY's..

He used it on his 330 ZHP, 2000 528i, and his current 2003 530i. My cousin used it on his 1997 328is. (In case any of you were wondering what models they were)

I understand it is not a LL-01 oil, but it does get changed every 7500 miles..

[LivesNearCostco]

I just changed my oil with 8900 miles on it and sent a sample to Blackstone. Should have results by Monday. My last sample showed higher than normal sodium. Blackstone said it could be coolant leaking into the oil or leftover sodium using Valvoline synthetic earlier, which Blackstone said uses sodium additives. This sample should tell if I have a headgasket problem.

135K Valvoline Synpower 5w-30 (uses sodium)
147K Penzoil ultra synthetic 5w-30 (does not use sodium)
150,700 overheated engine
151,416 Total Quartz INEO (does not use sodium)
160,159 Total Quartz INEO (first UOA, 60 ppm sodium found)
169,140 Total Quartz INEO (2nd UOA, 24 ppm sodium found)

<edited 21 Feb to add amount of sodium found--Blackstone says average for our engines is 15ppm>

[danewilson77]

I just changed my oil with 8900 miles on it and sent a sample to Blackstone. Should have results by Monday. My last sample showed higher than normal sodium. Blackstone said it could be coolant leaking into the oil or leftover sodium using Valvoline synthetic earlier, which Blackstone said uses sodium additives. This sample should tell if I have a headgasket problem.

135K Valvoline Synpower 5w-30 (uses sodium)
147K Penzoil ultra synthetic 5w-30 (does not use sodium)
151K Total Quartz INEO (does not use sodium)
160K Total Quartz INEO (first UOA, sodium found)
169K Total Quartz INEO (2nd UOA, awaiting results)


Ugh. Biting nails here.

Williamsburg, VA, Droid DNA, Tapatalk

[LivesNearCostco]

Dane, thanks for the moral support! I just checked my coolant level an hour ago and panicked after seeing it was low. But it took less than a half cup (4oz) to bring the float back to maximum, and I think I last topped it off 5,000 miles ago, so maybe that's not so bad. If I hurt my HG back in June 2011 (overheated), I think I would have found oil in the coolant by now. Seems a weird HG failure that could leak coolant into oil but not combustion gases into coolant.

So that's why the UOA. I had Blackstone test a virgin sample of Total Quartz INEO 5w-30 and it does not contain sodium additives. If sodium levels in my oil are lower than last time, will assume it's just leftover Valvoline. (I might have topped off with Valvoline when I had the Penzoil Platinum.) If sodium levels are same or higher, then it's either coolant leak or a gremlin sprinkling sea salt into my ET in the dead of night.

[LivesNearCostco]

Got sample results. Good news is 60% less sodium (24ppm) than last sample (60ppm). Bad news is should be 12ppm or lower if we assume 20% of old oil remains in the system. One possibility is a very small headgasket coolant leak. 2nd possibility is leftover sodium stubbornly hanging around from 3 changes ago. 3rd possibility is somebody salted my oil filler cap!

Bearing wear is higher than average though slightly better than last time with slightly more miles on the sample, and TBN dropped below 1.0. Definitely should be changing it more often, like every 7500 miles instead of 8900. May be time to try a different oil to see if that reduces lead. Or it could be my doing more short drives since moving to Nor Cal is wearing out the oil faster. Viscosity was higher than normal and higher than last time. I did catch the very tail end of the drain, so maybe the last oil draining out of the pan is more viscous than if I sampled in the middle?

Here's the report:
7297

[LivesNearCostco]

Any thoughts on what could cause higher-than-normal bearing wear? Do lots of short drives (cold starts) do that? Not enough moly in the oil (Total INEO Quartz 5w-30 apparently has no moly even new)? Would sampling from the very last drops of oil draining from the pan explain why my viscosity and flashpoint are high?

Actually looking at the Blackstone UOA of virgin Total INEO 5w-30, I see it has a high viscosity and flashpoint anyway, 11.62 cSt at 100C (65/0 SUS at 210F) and flashpoint of 440F. Maybe it was 11.26 cST and 63.7 SUS in the previous UOA sample because it still had the previous oil mixed in, and the higher viscosity in this sample is because I collected it from the last of the drain. By definition, the last oil to drain out would be the thickest, right?

[Dave1027]

May want to choose a different oil with more moly content.

[Hermes]

I use the Total Quartz Ineo MC3 5W-40, it has more zinc to protect your bearings. LL-04 approved

[LivesNearCostco]

Thanks guys. Description differences between the Total Quartz INEO MC3 5w-30 and Total Quartz Energy 9000 5w-40 are interesting.

Quartz INEO ECS 5w-30: Lower sulphated ash, phosphorous and sulfur, with 50% less metal additives to prevent clogging diesel particulate filters. ACEA C3, API SM/CF, BMW LL-04. (I guess that explains lower zinc, moly and phosphorous content.)
Quartz 9000 5W-40: ACEA A3/B4, API SM/CF, BMW LL-01k. No claim of low-SAPS.

I was thinking low-SAPS was a good thing, and maybe it is if you have a diesel particulate filter. Sounds like I should switch to the 5w-40, or Redline. Anyone know if BMW 5w-30 synthetic is high ZDDP or high moly?

[Hermes]

Carl told me to get the Ineo MC3 40 weight and not the 30 weight because of the added zinc. He said its worth the difference to protect the motor

[UdubBadger]

Need to change my oil this month. What does everyone recommend for a guy on a budget?

[Pip]

I've had good luck with Mobil 1 0w40. If you can pick it up at Walmart it is a decent price. If you're on a budget budget I'm sure the filter will last 15k - assuming you changed it on your last change. I know that's probably not popular around here, but when I replaced my filter on last change at 7.5k it was in great shape.

[UdubBadger]

ya I actually only had a change 3-4k ago but it was junk oil (it was a free oil change so I took it). Filter should be good so I'll get to walmart and grab some mobil 1.

[UdubBadger]

we sure walmart has it? i see only motorcycle oil from mobil 1

[LivesNearCostco]

My local Walmarts carry Mobil-1 0W40 but only in quarts. They carry all the other Mobil-1 weights (including 0w-20 for newer Toyotas) in 5-qt jugs, but not the 0W40.

[Pip]

Just check online. I only have one Walmart nearby that carries it (quarts). They also carry Castrol, but I'm not sure how common that is. If you have Oreilly they might have some oils on sale.

[danewilson77]

My local Walmarts carry Mobil-1 0W40 but only in quarts. They carry all the other Mobil-1 weights (including 0w-20 for newer Toyotas) in 5-qt jugs, but not the 0W40.

Mine used to... Then stopped carrying it fml.

Williamsburg, VA, Droid DNA, Tapatalk

[UdubBadger]

K well I'll figure something out. Thanks boys.

[Hermes]

Seth, just go get some dealership oil. Its not very expensive and decent quality

[llll1l1ll]

Seth, just go get some dealership oil. Its not very expensive and decent quality

That's what I've been using ever since I've owned my car.

[Hermes]

just as a FYI - BMW used to recommend Shell Rotella... Castrol paid for the right to be the official oil, not because BMW thought it was better (this happened decades ago)

[UdubBadger]

ya i was just gonna buy some from Tischer

[ryankokesh]

I use the Total Quartz Ineo MC3 5W-40, it has more zinc to protect your bearings. LL-04 approved

+1 on the Total. PO had that in the zhp when I bought it, and it was noticeably quieter than when I put m1 in it.

Just ordered some from autohaus for my next change along with some lubromoly to try as an additive.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Dave1027]

I don't see the Total Quartz Ineo MC3 in 5W-40 on the Autohaus website. Only 5w-30.

[Hermes]

look somewhere else

[ryankokesh]

I probably bought the wrong one. Also, their site is a disaster.

[Washburn]

isn't LL04 a much less stringent spec than LL01, which is what our cars need to meet?

[Hermes]

isn't LL04 a much less stringent spec than LL01, which is what our cars need to meet?

yes... but why not use the Long Life 2004 vs the Long Life 2001? Like you said, the oil has to be of better quality to meet the revised spec

[ryankokesh]

Just read a lot about this... I didn't realize we couldn't run a LL04 oil. :ducking

Apparently the LL04 spec is for cars that'll run gasoline without any sulfur. So that'd limit it to cars in the EU. Since there's sulfur in US gas, we shouldn't use an LL04 oil for longer than 4-5k miles. I'm not sure I'll use it at all. Going to do some more reading...

[ryankokesh]

Also, here's Total's LL01 oil with free shipping:

http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?partnumber=184952&utm_source=google&utm_medium=nonpaid&utm_campaign=frooglePN&utm_term=184952&gclid=CM35i_yL2LUCFcdDMgodx2AAyA

[ryankokesh]

I use the Total Quartz Ineo MC3 5W-40, it has more zinc to protect your bearings. LL-04 approved

So you're using a LL04 oil and all is well? You haven't happened to get a blackstone report, have you?

[LivesNearCostco]

Had no idea that LL-01 might protect our engines better than LL-04. Presumably Hermes is running the Total Energy 9000 5w-40 which is LL-01, while I'm on the INEO MC3 5w-30 which is LL-04. I'll probably switch to their 5w-40 at next change. Maybe I should put some Lubro Moly anti-wear additive in until then?

Edit: Ryan, where did you read about LL-01 vs. LL-04?

[ryankokesh]

Random forums... I did my best to get everyone's general consensus, as there's a lot of differing opinions out there. There's a short blurb about it in TIS as well.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[ryankokesh]

Also, after all this reading, it's starting to seem like we can really use any synthetic oil, but only ll01 oils for really long oil change intervals. (As in like 14k miles...) Anyone know more about that? I'd be terrified to go that long on any oil...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Hermes]

Had no idea that LL-01 might protect our engines better than LL-04. Presumably Hermes is running the Total Energy 9000 5w-40 which is LL-01, while I'm on the INEO MC3 5w-30 which is LL-04. I'll probably switch to their 5w-40 at next change. Maybe I should put some Lubro Moly anti-wear additive in until then?

Edit: Ryan, where did you read about LL-01 vs. LL-04?

both Ineo blends are LL-04, the last LL-01 I used was BMW Castrol 5W-30


Also, after all this reading, it's starting to seem like we can really use any synthetic oil, but only ll01 oils for really long oil change intervals. (As in like 14k miles...) Anyone know more about that? I'd be terrified to go that long on any oil...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk


there is no need to really worry about LL-01/LL-04 if you're following an old school maintenance schedule. It matters when you follow the new school 15k mile oil change interval. Technically, you could run dinosaur oil and just change it every 3000 miles.

here is the spec sheet on Quartz Ineo MC3 5W-30
http://www.lubadmin.com/upload/produit/FichePDF/lang_1/5832.pdf


and here is the sheet for 5W-40
http://www.total-lubricants.ca/Pages/content/NT0000F6E2.pdf

[Dave_B]

My concern with long oil changes...

The filter.

That said, I change my oil at 6-7500 miles. I use the OEM filter.

[ryankokesh]

My concern with long oil changes...

The filter.



^That.

Sounds like I'll probably use it for my next change and just make sure I replace it by 5k. Or I'll just use it on the mazda.... :shifty

[ranger]

Curious - does anyone have any data about a ZHP engine that was damaged by using the "wrong" oil?

[kayger12]

Curious - does anyone have any data about a ZHP engine that was damaged by using the "wrong" oil?

I don't think you'd find that.

I think it's difficult to ever prove, but the concern for me would be reduced longevity.

Maybe with the wrong oil the motor gives up at 200k instead of 270k.

So many variables that it really just boils down to intangible peace of mind for me.

Sent from my kick-A Galaxy S3

[danewilson77]

I don't think you'd find that.

I think it's difficult to ever prove, but the concern for me would be reduced longevity.

Maybe with the wrong oil the motor gives up at 200k instead of 270k.

So many variables that it really just boils down to intangible peace of mind for me.

Sent from my kick-A Galaxy S3

Agree...plus...the ones that do die...I think are mainly due to wrecks or cooling system failure overheats.

[Hermes]

Just read a lot about this... I didn't realize we couldn't run a LL04 oil. :ducking

Apparently the LL04 spec is for cars that'll run gasoline without any sulfur. So that'd limit it to cars in the EU. Since there's sulfur in US gas, we shouldn't use an LL04 oil for longer than 4-5k miles. I'm not sure I'll use it at all. Going to do some more reading...

after doing some more research I have to confirm this. Apparently if you want to use LL-04 approved oil you will need to do old school oil change intervals (which I do anyways). The only way around this in the US is if you are somehow able to regularly and only purchase ethanol-free gas.

I'll try to have a Blackstone report done when I do my next oil change.

[aurelius]

FWIW, Mike Miller of Roundel and Bimmer magazines considers 5W-30 "arctic oil" and as noted in his Lifetime Maintenance Schedule, he uses Redline 10W-40 in his M54 motor @ 10k change intervals.

[LivesNearCostco]

Yes, but that 5w-40 is also "Low SAPS" the one I was thinking of at AutohausAZ is not Quartz INEO MC3 5w-40, it's Quartz Energy 9000 5w-40. Here's the spec sheet for that one; compare page 6 to page 10.
http://www4.total.fr/pdf/lubricants/products/PassengerCars.pdf


both Ineo blends are LL-04, the last LL-01 I used was BMW Castrol 5W-30
here is the spec sheet on Quartz Ineo MC3 5W-30
http://www.lubadmin.com/upload/produit/FichePDF/lang_1/5832.pdf


and here is the sheet for 5W-40
http://www.total-lubricants.ca/Pages/content/NT0000F6E2.pdf

[Hermes]

As a general FYI, I was talking to my buddy about oils the other day... he is friends with the President of Total Lubricants USA. He said that after a long conversation about this subject neither of them are sure as to why LL-04 is not approved in the US market. As far as he knows the LL-04 Quartz Ineo MC3 5W-40 is blended for use in the North American market with our blended gasoline despite BMW not approving it.

[UdubBadger]

So I'm about to get an oil change at local Firestone. Last time they used 5w-40 full synth and filter. Been 3000 miles and I'm due again but for $80 is it worth me going and doing when I could be using BMW oil and getting 7500 mile intervals safely? What is so different about the BMW oil to last so long? Is it LL oil?


- Goin' H.A.M. Mobile

[UdubBadger]

Also the last time I went there they say they used 7 qts of oil. Is that BS?


- Goin' H.A.M. Mobile

[Washburn]

7 qts is right
3000 mile OC intervals is BS - you can go at least 7-8k on a good syn oil.
its BS to pay $80 for some unknown 5/40 syn when you can buy BMW (Castrol) 5/30 LL01 oil and OEM filter from dealer (or online even cheaper for any other LL01 approved oils) and use a pump and change it yourself. 8k intervals will be just fine.

or if you don't wanna DIY, ask the place if u can bring your own oil and filter and just have them do the work and pay just for the labor - some places allow that and you'll still save money by buying oil/filters online.

[UdubBadger]

Yeah saying $88 for some 5w-40 full synth.


- Goin' H.A.M. Mobile

[UdubBadger]

Candle oil... Oooook?


- Goin' H.A.M. Mobile

[danewilson77]

Yeah saying $88 for some 5w-40 full synth.


- Goin' H.A.M. Mobile

I wouldn't pay that for an oil I didn't know was approved.

I'm with Washy.

Sent from the HTC DNA, Williamsburg, VA and USA

[UdubBadger]

Going to just do bmw oil.
Anyone have a good clutch bleed DIY handy too?


- Goin' H.A.M. Mobile

[Avetiso]

So where can I get the best deal on Mobil 1 or bmw oil ?

Sent from my SPH-L710 using Tapatalk 2

[danewilson77]

So where can I get the best deal on Mobil 1 or bmw oil ?

Sent from my SPH-L710 using Tapatalk 2

Dealer w/cca discount for BMW oil, or keep your eyes open at Napa, Advance Auto Parts, etc... For M1.

Sent from the HTC DNA, Williamsburg, VA and USA

[Dave_B]

My local Wally Mart has the LL-01 M1 for $25/gal. They also have qt's as well, so you can pick up the 7qts you need total.

[LivesNearCostco]

My coolant level is down again, but I see some leaked coolant on undertray, under the expansion tank. Seems less likely that coolant is leaking into my oil, more likely I did something wrong in my cooling system refresh 2 years ago. Maybe the drain plug just worked loose? Or my plastic radiator end tanks cracked again? (Original radiator replaced 35,000 miles ago.) I have to get under the car and take a closer look.


Got sample results. Good news is 60% less sodium (24ppm) than last sample (60ppm). Bad news is should be 12ppm or lower if we assume 20% of old oil remains in the system. One possibility is a very small headgasket coolant leak. 2nd possibility is leftover sodium stubbornly hanging around from 3 changes ago. 3rd possibility is somebody salted my oil filler cap!

[billyjack]

My local Wally Mart has the LL-01 M1 for $25/gal. They also have qt's as well, so you can pick up the 7qts you need total.

Wal-Mart had the best price around here by quite a margin. I was going to go to the dealership but its a lot farther on a very busy and annoying highway. So while its not my favorite place I went with Wally world. They only carry it in quarts however. I was going to buy a new catch can with a lid for transport as my old one leaks, but every single one of them was missing the drain cap.

[M0nk3y]

Just came to jump in here, and as crazy as it sounds...look out on craigslist or similar for deals

It might not be the same for oil that the E46 uses, but for 10w-60 apparently it is not a bad market.

I was able to score 10 liters of $5/L about a month ago, and just last weekend I was able to score 20 Liters at $5/L again from a guy who sold his E39M. All sealed, all genuine OEM.

Considering they run $14-16/L....I got a pretty good deal and now have 36 Liters of 10w-60 sitting in my garage. I think I'm set for oil changes....I think.

[Dave1027]

Wal-Mart had the best price around here by quite a margin... So while its not my favorite place I went with Wally world.
I would feel out of place just parking the bimmer in the Walmart parking lot. I don't even like shopping at WM to begin with. I'm not chancing my zhp there. No way.

If I do go there I'll take the toyota.

[Dave_B]

I would feel out of place just parking the bimmer in the Walmart parking lot. I don't even like shopping at WM to begin with. I'm not chancing my zhp there. No way.

If I do go there I'll take the toyota.

Not here in Greer/Greenville with the BMW plant just 2 miles from the WW I like (this isn't the super sized one you see everywhere, it's small and not terrible) There are likely to outnumber by brand any other car in the lot.

[Washburn]

I would feel out of place just parking the bimmer in the Walmart parking lot. I don't even like shopping at WM to begin with. I'm not chancing my zhp there. No way.

If I do go there I'll take the toyota.

BMWs are so common especially E46, you should know they're not special. Probably the guy who works at the oil section at WM drives a newer/better BMW than yours :) very possible these days.

[terraphantm]

I would feel out of place just parking the bimmer in the Walmart parking lot. I don't even like shopping at WM to begin with. I'm not chancing my zhp there. No way.

If I do go there I'll take the toyota.

That's a bit elitist... I see cars much nicer than mine almost every time I go to wal-mart. S-classes, 7-series, etc.... I even saw a Gallardo Superaleggera at the wal-mart near my school not too long ago (student's car...)

[danewilson77]

That's a bit elitist... I see cars much nicer than mine almost every time I go to wal-mart. S-classes, 7-series, etc.... I even saw a Gallardo Superaleggera at the wal-mart near my school not too long ago (student's car...)

+1

Sent from the HTC DNA, Williamsburg, VA and USA

[Dave1027]

I don't think I'm elitist just pragmatic. The Walmarts around this area are chock full of tweakers and assorted dirtbags. My ZHP doesn't even have one door ding in it.

[wertyu78]

Running Castrol Syntec 0W-30 (german castrol) here. Viscosity is consistent and helps cut back on the lifter tick on hard cornering.

[JupiterBMW]

I'm oing to bump this thread... I was in the dealer today and asked him his thoughts on oil for the car. He said that any Fully Synthetic oil would be fine. He didn't mention any other specs at all, just as long as it was a fully sythetic oil.

And they wanted $9.xx/qt for the OEM 5W-30 stuff.. I'm probably going to pick up the Castrol at the local store, 5W-30. I'll look for one that says LL-01 on the back, but if not, as long as its fully synthetic, I'm good to go..

Thoughts?

[danewilson77]

I'm oing to bump this thread... I was in the dealer today and asked him his thoughts on oil for the car. He said that any Fully Synthetic oil would be fine. He didn't mention any other specs at all, just as long as it was a fully sythetic oil.

And they wanted $9.xx/qt for the OEM 5W-30 stuff.. I'm probably going to pick up the Castrol at the local store, 5W-30. I'll look for one that says LL-01 on the back, but if not, as long as its fully synthetic, I'm good to go..

Thoughts?

Castrol European blend 0W-30 will be only LL-01 Castrol you'll find.

Thoughts on the guy is that he doesn't give a rats ass about your car.

HTC DNA, Williamsburg, VA

[JupiterBMW]

Castrol European blend 0W-30 will be only LL-01 Castrol you'll find.

Thoughts on the guy is that he doesn't give a rats ass about your car.

HTC DNA, Williamsburg, VA

Hmm, he seems to be one of the better guys at the dealer, he's the main parts guy and the Dinan rep that I have been dealing with. I'll have to look into options some more. I don't want to have to 'order' oil... It should be a local pickup kind of part...

[midlandtech]

if you're not stuck on Castrol you can buy Mobile 1 0-40 at Walmart in the big jugs.

[JupiterBMW]

if you're not stuck on Castrol you can buy Mobile 1 0-40 at Walmart in the big jugs.

Hmm, ok... I've always used Mobil 1 in past cars, never had a bad experience. Do we run the 0W-40 vs the 5W-30 just based on the standard viscosity measurements (40*C/100*C)?

[Torxuvin]

Yep. I use it in both. 0W-40 seems to be the recommended blend

[JupiterBMW]

Sounds good. Sucks that we need 7 quarts, the ol' 5 quart jug used to be sufficient in my last car...

[danewilson77]

Hmm, he seems to be one of the better guys at the dealer, he's the main parts guy and the Dinan rep that I have been dealing with. I'll have to look into options some more. I don't want to have to 'order' oil... It should be a local pickup kind of part...

I get my Castrol 0W-30 European Formula at AAP's.

[danewilson77]

.....He said that any Fully Synthetic oil would be fine. He didn't mention any other specs at all, just as long as it was a fully sythetic oil.



I do not hear many OCD enthusiasts ever say this.

I though you were OCD about your car. My bad.

[JupiterBMW]

I do not hear many OCD enthusiasts ever say this.

I though you were OCD about your car. My bad.

He being the guy at the parts counter. I didn't feel comfortable with this either, hence posting on the Mafia... I want the best fluids I can get, but I also don't want to have to place a million online orders for stuff either. It'd be nice to get stuff close by...

[ejp2fast]

was at walmart the other day and it has mobil 1, 0W-40 full synthetic BMW LL01 approved in the 5 qt containers now (24.99) so i got a couple... the single quart containters are 6.99..

[danewilson77]

He being the guy at the parts counter. I didn't feel comfortable with this either, hence posting on the Mafia... I want the best fluids I can get, but I also don't want to have to place a million online orders for stuff either. It'd be nice to get stuff close by...

Also....you should never ever have to buy oil on line. Worst case...get the BMW 5W-30 at the dealer.

[Washburn]

Castrol European blend 0W-30 will be only LL-01 Castrol you'll find.


you forgot Castrol Edge 0w-40 (Belgian Castrol) which is also LL01 :)

My own hording a few months ago when it was BOG at AAP:

http://i1285.photobucket.com/albums/a585/Mikennedy15/image_zps6b77fefd.jpg
8286

[danewilson77]

Well...I wasn't about to list the 20 or so approved oils. Just the one I'm familiar with.......Washy.

[Washburn]

Oh ok...I just mentioned the other LL01 Castrol, because you said the the euro 0w-30 is the ONLY LL-01 Castrol ...but it's all cool :)

[danewilson77]

Oh ok...I just mentioned the other LL01 Castrol, because you said the the euro 0w-30 is the ONLY LL-01 Castrol ...but it's all cool :)

You're correct. You got me. I don't think I've seen that one here.

[Washburn]

It's still sort if new
... AAPs here stock it, but not in huge amounts...
I will probably use it for my next oc

[Dathaeus]

Sorry for the necro but didnt want to start another thread for this....

What is the difference between daily use and racing oils? Not that I race but I do like better performance out of my car rather than "longevity" so will the racing oils do anything more for HP/responsiveness? Will I have to change more often as well?

If not much, I want to get the Mobile1 0W-40, Walmart has it for like $24 for the 5 gallon jugs, but out of stock now, so I am looking at other options just in case, and because some were complaining about added engine noise using the Mobile1.

[BavarianZHP]

Sorry for the necro but didnt want to start another thread for this....

What is the difference between daily use and racing oils? Not that I race but I do like better performance out of my car rather than "longevity" so will the racing oils do anything more for HP/responsiveness? Will I have to change more often as well?

If not much, I want to get the Mobile1 0W-40, Walmart has it for like $24 for the 5 gallon jugs, but out of stock now, so I am looking at other options just in case, and because some were complaining about added engine noise using the Mobile1.

Racing oils operate best at higher temps and provide the proper/consistent viscosity at those sustained revs in addition to added engine protection via higher levels of additives. There is no change in lubricity. You won't notice a difference from daily driving or noise reduction. Actually, racing oils use more additives and less detergents to provide this added performance at high performance, so there will actually be more engine deposits - especially so if you use racing oil with regular driving. My advise would be to stick to non-racing oils.

[Hermes]

Also, true race oils are single weight

[Johal E32]

Anybody here run Shell Rotella T6? It's a 5w-40 weight, not LL-01 approved.

I have seen a ton of E36 and E46 guys using this stuff now and they swear by it. I think I might try it out next, I have only ran oem BMW oil before..

EDIT: apparently its a kick ass synthetic oil and its Mercedes approved.
Yes I know, it says Mercedes not BMW approved. I reckon it has something to do with viscosity being 5-40..

I will probably end up having BMW change my oil again, it's only a $7 difference if I DIY or not..

[BavarianZHP]

Interesting. I just DIY'd my oil change today. Sears wanted a tad over $100 to change the oil, I can't image what BMW charges. I did mine at the total cost of $72.50, and that includes $25 of the gas I used to visit my parents to use their garage, the $13 filter, and the $9 36mm socket I had to get. Subsequent oil changes will be around $40. I bought my oil (2 cases) at Walmart when they had their sale like half the guys here @ $4/qrt lol.

[Johal E32]

Costs me $79 at local dealer. I save more like $10 to diy.. But I work slow. Will take me 45 minutes or so to do it.

[Dave1027]

I do my own oil changes. It's a super easy job and costs about $40 in M1 0W-40 and another $6 for a Mahle filter. This way I know it's done perfectly too. I use a large crescent wrench on the oil filter housing. I don't have to take it anywhere or wait for them to get around to doing it.

[brewer90]

Anybody here run Shell Rotella T6? It's a 5w-40 weight, not LL-01 approved.



I ran it in my turbo Subaru for years. I also use it in the ZHP and my BMW R1200RT motorcycle. I changed the oil in both of them this weekend. $21.36 a gallon is hard to beat.

[PirateZHP]

What's wrong with a good ole' Fram oil filter? I can't seem to find a Mann oil filter anywhere local, and I am changing oil tomorrow.

Thoughts?

[HokieZHP]

Fram filters are crap. Any BMW dealer will have Good filters. I always got mine at Performance

[Dave1027]

What's wrong with a good ole' Fram oil filter? I can't seem to find a Mann oil filter anywhere local, and I am changing oil tomorrow.

Thoughts?
If you are in a pinch, you could use the Fram temporarily until you order in a Mann or Mahle. It's simple to replace the filter again.

[LivesNearCostco]

Agree... from the racer postings on bf.com it sounds like racers tend to change their oil more often, measuring change intervals in hours of race time instead of miles, and they optimize for good lubrication at operating temps and high rpms. Regular oils are designed to support both cold starts and regular warm running with lifespan of 7500 miles (for synthetic) under normal use, or 15,000 miles if you believe the older BMW guidelines.


Racing oils operate best at higher temps and provide the proper/consistent viscosity at those sustained revs in addition to added engine protection via higher levels of additives. There is no change in lubricity. You won't notice a difference from daily driving or noise reduction. Actually, racing oils use more additives and less detergents to provide this added performance at high performance, so there will actually be more engine deposits - especially so if you use racing oil with regular driving. My advise would be to stick to non-racing oils.

[PirateZHP]

Fram filters are crap. Any BMW dealer will have Good filters. I always got mine at Performance

I will check with Leith tomorrow morning.

[echo46]

I changed the oil in the M and when I changed the filter, I pulled out a BMW filter and replaced with a Mann filter. IMHO the BMW filter appeared beefier and better made than the Mann filter. Wondering if the Mann, which I have been using for years, is up to the standards of the BMW filter. Opinions?

[Dave1027]

I used a Mahle which looked beefier than the Mann it replaced

Mahle OX1541D (http://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-engine-oil-filter-ox1541d)

[M0nk3y]

I changed the oil in the M and when I changed the filter, I pulled out a BMW filter and replaced with a Mann filter. IMHO the BMW filter appeared beefier and better made than the Mann filter. Wondering if the Mann, which I have been using for years, is up to the standards of the BMW filter. Opinions?

I have Mann in the Z4M right now. I'll see what the results show come spring.

[terraphantm]

I doubt the UOA would be noticeably worse with a Mann or Mahle, but I choose to go with the Mahle filters simply because they're identical to what you get with from BMW

[terraphantm]

Costs me $79 at local dealer. I save more like $10 to diy.. But I work slow. Will take me 45 minutes or so to do it.

At least for me, 45 mins would be quicker than driving to the dealer, waiting in the lobby for them to get to the car, and then driving back. Nice not getting dirty or having to dispose of the oil though... And after the UOA on my dad's E60 535, I don't even see a huge reason to switch away from BMW's 5w-30

http://i.imgur.com/eMCpKTr.png

[danewilson77]

Wow.

17k miles on an oil change and Blackstone is recommending 19k miles. Crazzzzzzeeeeee.

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[ELCID86]

Wow. Can't believe that recommendation.


Thumbs, iPhone, Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1).

[danewilson77]

Those guys know their shit over at Blackstone and I'm sure when they looked at the specs and additives/detergents left over, they made the recommendation... But....

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Washburn]

I doubt the UOA would be noticeably worse with a Mann or Mahle, but I choose to go with the Mahle filters simply because they're identical to what you get with from BMW

I was pretty sure the filters from the dealer are BMW branded Mann and not Mahle .... (at least for ZHPs/3 series)

What does everyone mean by Mahle filters are 'beefier'? I noticed that the equivalent Mahle filter end has RAISED LIPS around the middle, and the Mann does not - it's flat on both ends... Due to this the actual FILTER area seems to be shorter on the Mahle. (space taken up by the raised lip around the middle)...

See pic: BMW/ Mann -
I could not find a pic of a Mahle oil filter that's branded BMW for E46 application...

http://www.ecstuning.com/forum/bmw/OilFilter.jpg

[Dave1027]

What does everyone mean by Mahle filters are 'beefier'? I noticed that the equivalent Mahle filter end has RAISED LIPS around the middle, and the Mann does not - it's flat on both ends... Due to this the actual FILTER area seems to be shorter on the Mahle. (space taken up by the raised lip around the middle)...

That's a good point. I think the Mahle looked beefier due to it's heavy duty looking plastic end caps. Perhaps I'll replace it with a Mann at the 5k mark.

BTW, I would never do 17k oci. That's just asking for trouble imo. My friend's 325 has a lifter tick. I don't want anything like that.

[terraphantm]

I was pretty sure the filters from the dealer are BMW branded Mann and not Mahle .... (at least for ZHPs/3 series)

What does everyone mean by Mahle filters are 'beefier'? I noticed that the equivalent Mahle filter end has RAISED LIPS around the middle, and the Mann does not - it's flat on both ends... Due to this the actual FILTER area seems to be shorter on the Mahle. (space taken up by the raised lip around the middle)...

See pic: BMW/ Mann -
I could not find a pic of a Mahle oil filter that's branded BMW for E46 application...

http://www.ecstuning.com/forum/bmw/OilFilter.jpg

S54s use Mahle filters. Ours have metal end caps, hence the beefier look compared to the biodegradable filters.

http://c1552172.r72.cf0.rackcdn.com/391326_x600.jpg

In general I prefer Mahle. Their cabin air filter and intake air filter are both superior

More info: http://www.turnermotorsport.com/t-s54_mahle_vs_mann_oil_filters.aspx

At least in this case, the Mahle has more pleats, so more surface area

[terraphantm]

Wow.

17k miles on an oil change and Blackstone is recommending 19k miles. Crazzzzzzeeeeee.

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

Well you know how it is; dealer oil changes and it isn't my car. I did this last oil change for him, and took a sample for an oil analysis to prove to him he should be doing it at least every 10k, and then I get that recommendation back

[danewilson77]

Well you know how it is; dealer covered oil changes and it isn't my car. I had my dad do an oil change to prove to him he should be doing it at least every 10k, and then I get that recommendation back

Haha. That's life.

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Washburn]

11015Well I couldn't decide so got one of each :D what say the crowd?

[danewilson77]

Green box.

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[Avetiso]

+1

[Washburn]

Let me put a different spin on this:
why NOT Mahle ? :)

[danewilson77]

Let me put a different spin on this:
why NOT Mahle ? :)

Because racecar.

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[terraphantm]

On first glance it looks like the Mann is bigger, but I would count the number of pleats. Even 1 extra pleat would make up the difference I think. To my eye, it looks like the pleats are a little closer together on the Mahle, but that could just be the picture

For pretty much every other filter, Mahle tends to have more media, so I wouldn't be surprised if that's the case here too

[Washburn]

counted # of pleats:

MANN: 65
Mahle: 74

[terraphantm]

That would make the Mahle a winner I think, unless their filter media happens to suck (I doubt that). The height difference looks smaller than 14% to me.

[danewilson77]

What's the micron count on the filter media?

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

[terraphantm]

What's the micron count on the filter media?

Sent from my S4 > Mason, OH

Does not seem to be published by either brand. Probably have to get it under a microscope and count to get an idea.

[Vas]

Just did an oil change with Castrol Edge 0w-40 that is Made in Germany according do the back of the 5 quart jug. Decided to switch from Mobil 1 0w-40 which is no longer BMW ll-01 approved.

[NoVAphotog]

Just did an oil change with Castrol Edge 0w-40 that is Made in Germany according do the back of the 5 quart jug. Decided to switch from Mobil 1 0w-40 which is no longer BMW ll-01 approved.

Notice any difference?

[Vas]

Notice any difference?
Not really. But I did get an oil test kit

I also found this article for filter comparison

https://banglebutt.wordpress.com/2016/11/07/bmw-m54-oil-filter-comparison/

[holyc0w]

Not really. But I did get an oil test kit

I also found this article for filter comparison

https://banglebutt.wordpress.com/2016/11/07/bmw-m54-oil-filter-comparison/

Awesome :thumbsup

[KevinC]

Changed my Mobil 1 0W-40 out for poorly named Twin Power Turbo official BMW juice last week. Went on long trip (Vegas) I've done many times before, always average 30 mpg. Only did 26.4 this time. No idea if the oil was a factor, but that's a big difference.

[BMWM3186]

Just did an oil change with Castrol Edge 0w-40 that is Made in Germany according do the back of the 5 quart jug. Decided to switch from Mobil 1 0w-40 which is no longer BMW ll-01 approved.

The 5 quart jugs I just bought say made in Belgium, the 1 quart bottles still say made in Germany. Whats up with that?

[Vas]

Changed my Mobil 1 0W-40 out for poorly named Twin Power Turbo official BMW juice last week. Went on long trip (Vegas) I've done many times before, always average 30 mpg. Only did 26.4 this time. No idea if the oil was a factor, but that's a big difference.

I am going to switch back to 5w-30 oil on my next oil change and see if there is any difference in mpg from 0w-40. Not going with the BMW oil though.

Maybe the oil is thicker?


The 5 quart jugs I just bought say made in Belgium, the 1 quart bottles still say made in Germany. Whats up with that?

Old stock maybe?

[hcbeck2689]

So someone said that Mobil 1 5w30 is not to spec. Can someone explain why not? I just bought 2 jugs off Amazon but I could send them back and get something else.

[az3579]

So someone said that Mobil 1 5w30 is not to spec. Can someone explain why not? I just bought 2 jugs off Amazon but I could send them back and get something else.

I've been using it for years - it's fine.
BMW LL-01 spec only matters if you plan on going 15k between oil changes. Hell, plenty of synthetics will go that distance even without the certification (they just didn't want to pay for the cert).

[ELCID86]

So someone said that Mobil 1 5w30 is not to spec. Can someone explain why not? I just bought 2 jugs off Amazon but I could send them back and get something else.

It used to be but no longer is. I'm still using it too.

[holyc0w]

I thought it was the Mobil 0w40 that had the LL-01 certification and not 5w30?


But I agree with BP. You can send it to a testing lab after using it, to see how things are working.

[Vas]

I thought it was the Mobil 0w40 that had the LL-01 certification and not 5w30?


But I agree with BP. You can send it to a testing lab after using it, to see how things are working.

Correct. Mobil 1 0w-40 had the certification and then it got removed. 5w-30 never had it.

Also this is a good article in regards to oil suggestions from Redline and Bimmerworld

https://www.redlineoil.com/tech_article.aspx?id=3

[hcbeck2689]

Ok thanks. I knew that the euro formula was good, but prefer 5w30. I read that long article by the engineer who worked with oils and explained a lot. From what I gather the closer the winter and regular weight is the better. In NC there is no need for 0w seeing as how we hardly ever get below 0C.

I plan on sending my oil to get analyzed and trying a few different ones for comparison sake. Is there a thread somewhere of a Blackstone results compilation?

[ELCID86]

Correct. Mobil 1 0w-40 had the certification and then it got removed. 5w-30 never had it.

Also this is a good article in regards to oil suggestions from Redline and Bimmerworld

https://www.redlineoil.com/tech_article.aspx?id=3

Yep, sorry, had my weights mixed up. And I still use 0w40.

[droman81]

I’m in need of a top off and the PO used liquimolly 5w30 when he did OFHG and oil change prior to my purchase. I’m only 2k in and not ready for an oil change. Should I just stick with what he used for my top offs?


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[Vas]

I’m in need of a top off and the PO used liquimolly 5w30 when he did OFHG and oil change prior to my purchase. I’m only 2k in and not ready for an oil change. Should I just stick with what he used for my top offs?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Ideally yes.

Liqui Molly is some good stuff.

[John in VA]

I plan on sending my oil to get analyzed and trying a few different ones for comparison sake. Is there a thread somewhere of a Blackstone results compilation?
Take a look at the Bob Is The Oil Guy site - you can read about oil until your eyeballs bleed!
https://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=cfrm

[joeybananaz18]

Its been almost a year since the last post here and I'd getting ready for my first oil change. What are people using nowadays? There wasn't any talk about liquimoly? is it true thats mostly because its a bit newer to NA?

[Vas]

I been using the Liqui moly oil change kit from fcpeuro.

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[joeybananaz18]

I been using the Liqui moly oil change kit from fcpeuro.

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

5W 30 or 40? is 30 typically used for gas milage? Thats how I'm seeing them as advertised but just wanted to see what others have experienced.

[Vas]

5w30. And I also add liqui moly ceratec
5W 30 or 40? is 30 typically used for gas milage? Thats how I'm seeing them as advertised but just wanted to see what others have experienced.

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

[PetesZ]

I use the standard 0-40 Castro’s European formula. Autozone has it on sale 364 days of the year. Have not found the missing day yet.

Return the filter and use Mann or mahle.

[ELCID86]

Anyone made the switch to AmazonBasics oil? Not a conclusive test, but makes one think [emoji848].

https://youtu.be/a9DWGtXpYUc

[Reasoned1]

Sounds like decent oil from all corners, but the current price doesn't quite warrant switching from a well-established and reputable brand/formula.

[ELCID86]

Sounds like decent oil from all corners, but the current price doesn't quite warrant switching from a well-established and reputable brand/formula.

I’d agree. I may consider it for my Subaru Outback down the line. For now I found this at Costco yesterday.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190217/5d22bf6b0b049bb3170762e5dbc468c2.jpg

[Dano516]

I've been using Liqui Moly 5w40 with the new Molygen stuff in it. It's been nice, have had no problems at all. Anyone try any group V oils as of recently?