263
Engine compartment
Mobility
Alternative oil types
If approved oils are not available, you can add 
quantities of up to 1 US quart/1 liter of another 
oil with the following specifications:
Oil change
Oil changes should only be performed by a 
BMW center.
Coolant
Coolant consists of half water and half additive. 
Not all commercially availa
ble additives are suit-
able for your BMW. Ask your BMW center about 
suitable additives.
Only use suitable a dditives; otherwise, 
engine damage may result. Because 
additives are harmful to your health, it is impor-
tant to follow the instructions on the contain-
ers. <
Comply with the appropriate environ-
mental protection regulations when dis-
posing of coolant additives. <
Coolant temperature
If the coolant and therefore the engine over-
heats, a warning lamp lights up. A message 
appears on the Control Display.
Checking coolant level
Do not add coolant to the cooling system 
when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant 
can cause burns. <
1. Do not open the engine hood before the 
engine has cooled down.
2. Turn the cap of the expansion tank a little 
counterclockwise to  allow any accumulated 
pressure to escape, th en continue turning 
to open.
3. The coolant level is correct if it is between 
the maximum and minimum marks in the 
filler neck, refer also to the diagram next to 
the filler neck.
4. If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant up to 
the specified level; do not overfill.
5. Turn the cap until there is an audible click.
6. Have the reason for  the coolant loss elimi-
nated as soon as possible.
Gasoline engine
API SM or higher
Diesel engine
API ILSAC GF-5
Online  Edition  for Part  no. 01 40 2 609  333 - \251  08/11  BMW AG