How to Change Oil on Your BMW 5 Series

What You'll Need Before You Start

Changing the oil on your BMW 5 Series requires a few basic tools and materials. Gather these items before you begin:

• New oil (check your owner's manual for the correct type and amount)
• New oil filter
• Oil drain pan
• Wrench set
• Oil filter wrench
• Jack and jack stands (if needed for undercarriage access)
• Rags or paper towels
• Oil funnel
• Torque wrench (recommended for proper drain plug tightening)
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves

Having everything ready before you start makes the process smoother and safer. Take time to organize your workspace and lay out all tools within reach. This prevents interruptions once you've begun working under your vehicle.

Key Takeaways

• Always warm your engine slightly before draining oil to help it flow more freely
• Work on a level surface with the parking brake engaged for safety
• Consult your owner's manual for your specific model year's oil type, capacity, and drain plug location
• Replace crush washers on drain plugs as recommended by BMW
• Never over-tighten the drain plug or oil filter—follow manufacturer torque specifications
• Dispose of old oil responsibly at an auto parts store or service station
• Keep maintenance records with the date and mileage for your records

Prepare Your Vehicle

Start by warming up your engine for a few minutes. This helps the oil flow more freely and ensures better drainage. Then turn off the engine and let it cool slightly—you want it warm but not too hot to touch.

Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake. If your 5 Series requires it, use a jack and jack stands to lift the vehicle safely. Never rely on a jack alone—always use jack stands as a backup safety measure.

Locate the oil drain plug underneath the engine. You may need to remove a plastic undertray to access it. Consult your owner's manual for the exact location on your model year, as different generations of the 5 Series may have different configurations.

Put on your safety glasses and work gloves before proceeding. Old oil can splash and may be warm, so protection is important.

Drain the Old Oil

Position your oil drain pan directly under the drain plug. Using the correct wrench size, loosen the drain plug by turning it counterclockwise. Once loose, carefully unscrew it by hand and set it aside on a clean rag.

Allow the old oil to drain completely into the pan. This may take several minutes—patience is important here. While the oil drains, wipe the drain plug clean with a rag and inspect it for damage. If the plug looks worn or damaged, consider replacing it.

Check the condition of the crush washer on the drain plug. Many BMW models use a crush washer that should be replaced with each oil change. If your plug has one, plan to install a new washer before reinstalling the plug. Your owner's manual will confirm whether your model requires this.

Replace the Oil Filter

Locate the oil filter on your 5 Series. BMW models often use a cartridge-style filter located on top of the engine. Consult your owner's manual to find the exact location for your year, as this varies between model generations.

Place your drain pan underneath the filter location, then use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Be careful—there will still be oil inside the filter housing, and it may drip.

Clean the filter housing with a rag. Remove any debris or old gasket material. Apply a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket of your new filter, then screw it on by hand until the gasket touches the housing, then turn it about three-quarters of a turn more. Do not over-tighten, as this can damage the gasket and cause leaks.

Install a New Drain Plug (if needed)

Some BMW drain plugs have crush washers that should be replaced each time. Check your owner's manual to see if your model requires this. If your plug needs a new washer, install it before reinstalling the drain plug.

Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to the manufacturer's specification. Your owner's manual will list the correct torque setting. Use a torque wrench if you have one to ensure you tighten it correctly. Tighten firmly but do not over-tighten, which can strip the threads and cause oil leaks.

Add New Oil

Remove the oil filler cap on top of the engine. Place an oil funnel in the opening and slowly pour in the new oil. Start with slightly less than the recommended amount, then check the level.

Replace the oil filler cap. Start the engine and let it run for a few seconds, then turn it off. Wait a minute for the oil to settle, then check the oil level using your dipstick or the on-board computer display. Add more oil if needed to reach the correct level.

Run the engine for a few more seconds and check for any leaks around the drain plug and filter. If you see drips, turn off the engine and tighten these connections slightly. Allow the engine to cool before proceeding.

Final Steps

If you lifted your vehicle, lower it carefully back to the ground using the jack. Remove the jack and jack stands and store them safely.

Dispose of your old oil responsibly. Many auto parts stores and service stations will take used oil for free. Never pour it down a drain or into the ground, as used oil is harmful to the environment.

Keep your receipt for the oil and filter for your maintenance records. Note the date and mileage when you performed this service. This information is helpful for tracking your vehicle's maintenance history and knowing when the next oil change is due.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change the oil in my BMW 5 Series?

BMW recommends checking your owner's manual for the specific interval for your model year and engine type. Older models may require oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, while newer models with synthetic oil may go 10,000 to 15,000 miles between changes. Some newer BMWs use condition-based service monitoring, which tells you when an oil change is needed based on driving conditions and engine performance.

What type of oil should I use in my BMW 5 Series?

Always consult your owner's manual for the correct oil specification. BMW models typically require synthetic oil that meets specific standards. Using the wrong oil type can affect engine performance and may void your warranty. The manual will specify the viscosity grade and any special requirements for your particular engine.

Can I change my BMW 5 Series oil without lifting the vehicle?

This depends on your model year and engine configuration. Some 5 Series models have drain plugs that are accessible without lifting, while others require undercarriage access. Check your owner's manual to see if your specific model needs to be lifted. If it does, always use proper safety equipment like a jack and jack stands—never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.