[iamcc88]

I’m getting ready to order everything I need to do an oil change, and usually I don’t do this myself.

I’ve done all kinds of reading on the process, watched a video, and I’ll have 2 experienced mechanic family members who are helping me, so I’m not worried about any of that.

However, when I go to buy my oil I noticed that my BMW CCA gives me 20% off if I buy from Bimmerworld and if I buy the “red line” oil. It’s normally more expensive than the BMW oil but with the discount it ends up being the same price.

What’s the difference and what does everyone recommend?

Links below for reference:

https://www.bimmerworld.com/s.nl?it=I&id=22
https://www.bimmerworld.com/s.nl?it=I&id=22

[BimmerMan33]

Redline has an OE equivalent oil & a ester based full synthetic. The latter comes with extra ZDDP & meant for performance use such as frequent high revs/track use & in my opinion is overkill for mostly street use.

[overcooked]

Just get the cheapest oil that meets BMW's spec.. For street driving anything more than that is overkill..

[430Scud]

Originally Posted by overcooked

Just get the cheapest oil that meets BMW's spec.. For street driving anything more than that is overkill..

If one wants, BMW does allow you to upgrade from LL-01FE to either LL-01 or LL-04 as approved alternates. Both LL-01 and LL-04 have a much higher High Temperature High Shear rating of 3.5 or greater (typically you will see 3.5 to 3.7, though there are some as high as 4.0). LL-01FE has a HTHS rating of 3.0 or greater (typically 3.0 or 3.1, I have seen a couple at 3.4 to 3.6 from more expensive boutique oils, like HPL or Motul).

Since I am out of warranty and free oil changes, I have been only using LL-01 or LL-04 oils. Either Castrol Euro Synthetic 5w-40 or Pennzoil Euro L synthetic 5w-30. Both are more robust than the factory BMW 0w-30 LL-01FE and relatively inexpensive from WalMart. They will ship to your door in the 5 quart jugs for free.

[430Scud]

Originally Posted by iamcc88

I’m getting ready to order everything I need to do an oil change, and usually I don’t do this myself.

I’ve done all kinds of reading on the process, watched a video, and I’ll have 2 experienced mechanic family members who are helping me, so I’m not worried about any of that.

For your first DIY oil change, I have prepared a forum post with all the little details you need here:
https://g30.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=2093796

As simple as oil changes are, there are a lot of little things specific to this car that can make the process a lot easier.
Good luck to you, I'm sure it will go well.

[iamcc88]

Originally Posted by 430Scud

For your first DIY oil change, I have prepared a forum post with all the little details you need here:
https://g30.bimmerpost.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2093796

As simple as oil changes are, there are a lot of little things specific to this car that can make the process a lot easier.
Good luck to you, I'm sure it will go well.

Thank you! I actually saw your post already and I copy and pasted everything into my notes.

I’m glad you commented because I meant to PM you. Your post helped give me the confidence to do this myself! Much appreciated.