Fluid Changes

[Puggsley2]

I am about to change the fluids in my 2.5l Z4 but I'm having trouble deciding what grades of engine oil, coolant or brake fluid to use. The service booklet is next to useless. Is there anywhere I can source a lubrication chart?

 

[Bing]

I've never seen a chart - the manual seems designed to force you to go to a dealer for things like this :headbang:

Coolant - I just get from BMW so I know I have the right stuff
Oil - pretty sure I have a litre of Castrol Edge 0w-30 in my boot
Brake fluid - don't know I'm afraid, but if you do a search on here there's loads of info

 

[swanicyouth]

The brake fluid is what we call in the USA "DOT 4" (may be called the same in the UK - dunno). It's basically synthetic brake fluid. Any DOT 4 brake fluid is OK, I stick with Pentosin from Germany. I have used Castrol as well in the past with no issue.

Here in the USA, our choices for oil for your car are: Mobil 1 0W40, Castrol Syntec Euro 0W30 "German Castrol", or the BMW oil from the dealer. From my research, I believe the first 2 oils may be better than the BMW stuff.

Yes there are other choices, but those 3 are easily available, at least here.

Coolant: get the BMW stuff.

 

[Bing]

And if you're going to change out the oil I believe you'll need 6 litres ?

 

[Puggsley2]

Many thanks for the input guys. I have now changed the brake fluid and used DOT4 as advised. I am also now planning to use Castrol Edge 0W-30 as soon as I can after New Year, (Shops are closed in Perth WA). I'll get the BMW coolant as advised.

 

[bluestreak56]

Oil was 6.5 litres 0w30 or 5w30 for my 3 litre coupe..

 

[Toe-side]

Upgrade Brake fluid to DOT 5.1 if you have a choice ....slightly higher Boiling point

 

[Shipkiller]

Upgrade Brake fluid to DOT 5.1 if you have a choice ....slightly higher Boiling point

Waste of money unless you are on the track.