The BMW 328i is a sporty and refined sedan that demands top-quality engine oil to run at its best. Whether you drive an E90, F30, or G20 generation, using the right oil is critical for engine longevity, fuel efficiency, and overall performance.
This guide will help you find the best engine oil for your BMW 328i, including factory-recommended specs, top product choices, and how often you should change it.
What’s the Best Oil for BMW 328i?
The best oil for BMW 328i is synthetic 5W-30 or 0W-30 oil that meets BMW’s Longlife-01 or Longlife-14FE+ standards. Top choices include Liqui Moly, Castrol EDGE, and Mobil 1, which are all approved by BMW and trusted by enthusiasts and mechanics alike.
Top 5 Best Engine Oils for BMW 328i
Here are the highest-rated oils for different generations of the BMW 328i:
| Brand | Viscosity | BMW Approval | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech | 5W-30 | BMW Longlife-01 | Daily driving, high-mileage BMWs |
| Castrol EDGE European Formula | 0W-30 | BMW Longlife-01 | Turbocharged engines, cold starts |
| Mobil 1 ESP Formula | 0W-30 | BMW Longlife-14FE+ | Fuel economy and modern BMWs (F30/G20) |
| Pentosin Pento High Performance | 5W-30 | BMW Longlife-01 | OEM-level performance, euro-spec blends |
| Valvoline European Vehicle Full Synthetic | 5W-30 | BMW LL-01 | Budget-friendly and reliable |
BMW 328i Engine Oil Specifications by Generation
Here’s a quick guide to oil specs based on your 328i’s model year:
- E90 (2006–2011): 5W-30 synthetic, BMW LL-01
- F30 (2012–2018): 0W-30 or 5W-30, BMW LL-01 or LL-14FE+
- G20 (2019–Present): 0W-20 or 0W-30, BMW LL-17FE+ approved
Always check your owner’s manual or oil cap to confirm the recommended spec for your specific engine code (like N52, N20, or B48).
1. Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-30
Liqui Moly is a premium German oil brand trusted by BMW specialists worldwide. Their Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-30 is LL-01 approved and known for its durability and engine cleanliness.
- Excellent wear protection
- Great for engines with 75,000+ miles
- Ideal for E90 and early F30 328i models
2. Castrol EDGE 0W-30 A3/B4
Castrol EDGE with Fluid Titanium is a high-performance synthetic oil designed for European engines. It’s BMW-approved and performs well in cold starts and high-heat conditions.
- Reduces metal-to-metal contact at high speeds
- Improves fuel efficiency
- Great choice for turbocharged F30 models
3. Mobil 1 ESP Formula 0W-30
Mobil 1 ESP is designed to reduce ash buildup and protect emissions systems. It meets BMW’s newer LL-14FE+ spec, which is ideal for modern engines like the B48 in newer 328i models.
- Helps maintain fuel economy
- Low SAPS formula for extended engine life
- Perfect for 2015+ BMWs
4. Pentosin High Performance II 5W-30
Pentosin is often used as factory-fill oil by German automakers. It’s engineered for long oil change intervals and harsh driving conditions.
- Strong detergent properties for cleaner engines
- Resists breakdown over time
- BMW LL-01 approved
5. Valvoline European Vehicle Full Synthetic
Valvoline’s Euro blend is a great budget-friendly option that still meets BMW’s LL-01 spec. It’s widely available and ideal for daily drivers who want quality without overspending.
- Good oxidation resistance
- Excellent cold start protection
- Meets and exceeds ACEA A3/B4
How Often Should You Change the Oil in a BMW 328i?
Change the oil every 7,000 to 10,000 miles, or once a year—whichever comes first. Even though BMW may suggest 10,000 to 15,000 miles, more frequent oil changes protect the engine better, especially in turbocharged models or under aggressive driving.
If your car is under factory maintenance, follow the scheduled service. Otherwise, stick to a 7,500-mile interval for long-term reliability.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Oil?
Using the wrong oil viscosity or a non-BMW-approved formula can lead to:
- Oil leaks or increased consumption
- Poor fuel economy
- Sludge buildup and internal engine wear
- Warranty issues or damage to emissions components
Stick with synthetic oils that meet BMW’s Longlife certification to avoid problems.
Pro Tips for BMW Oil Changes
- Always use an OEM or high-quality oil filter (like Mann, Mahle, or Bosch)
- Warm the engine before draining for a more complete oil change
- Check for leaks around the oil pan, valve cover, and oil filter housing after service
- Reset the oil service light from the iDrive or dashboard menu
Want to learn more about BMW maintenance and performance tips? Click here to explore more BMW tech articles to keep your 328i running strong.
Conclusion
The best oil for your BMW 328i depends on the model year and engine type, but trusted options like Liqui Moly, Castrol EDGE, and Mobil 1 offer BMW-approved performance and long-term engine protection. Always use synthetic oil with the correct Longlife specification to protect your investment.
Need more help choosing the right parts or fluids for your BMW? Explore our full library of BMW maintenance guides here and drive with confidence.
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