215
You can also call BMW of North America at
1-800-831-1117 or visit the website
www.bmwusa.com to obtain this information.
Do not use oil additives, as these may
cause engine damage.
<
Alternative oil types
If exceptionally none of the approved oils hap-
pens to be available, small quantities of other
oils may be used when adding oil between oil
changes. However, the corresponding con-
tainer must be labeled with one of the following
oil specifications:
Gasoline engines
>
Preferred: BMW Longlife-01,
BMW Longlife-01 FE or BMW Longlife-04
>
Alternatively: BMW Longlife-98, API SM or
higher
Diesel engines
BMW Longlife-04
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is a measure of an oil's flow rating and
is categorized in SAE classes.
Selecting the appropriate SAE class depends
on the regional climatic conditions in which you
normally drive your BMW.
Approved oils belong to the 0W-40,
0W-30, 5W-40 and 5W-30 SAE
classes.
<
These oils can be used for driving at all outside
temperatures.
Coolant
Do not add coolant to the cooling system
when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant
can cause burns.
<
Coolant consists of half water and half additive.
Not all commercially available additives are suit-
able for your BMW. Ask your BMW center for
suitable additives.
Only use suitable additives, otherwise en-
gine damage may result. Because addi-
tives are harmful to your health, it is important to
follow the instructions on the containers.
<
Comply with the appropriate environ-
mental protection regulations when dis-
posing of coolant additives.
<
Checking coolant level
1.
Do not open the engine hood before the en-
gine has cooled down.
2.
Turn the cap of the expansion tank a little
counterclockwise to allow any accumulated
pressure to escape, then 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.
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