How much oil does the BMW 318i require?

Ensuring your BMW 318i has the correct amount of oil is vital for maintaining its optimal performance. The recommended amount of oil required for the BMW 318i varies depending on the model and year of production. In this article, we will provide you with information regarding the oil capacity of various generations of BMW 318i.

First Generation (E21):

The original BMW 318i, also known as the E21 model produced from 1975 to 1983, typically requires approximately 4.5 liters (4.75 quarts) of engine oil. It is crucial to consult your vehicle's user manual or contact a certified BMW service center to identify the exact oil capacity for your specific E21 model.

Second Generation (E30):

When it comes to the second-generation BMW 318i, or the E30 model, produced from 1982 to 1991, the oil capacity may differ depending on the specific engine variant. On average, the E30 BMW 318i requires around 4 to 4.5 liters (approximately 4.25 to 4.75 quarts) of oil. However, please refer to your vehicle's manual or seek professional assistance for accurate oil capacity information.

Third Generation (E36):

For the third-generation BMW 318i, known as the E36 model, which was produced from 1990 to 1999, the recommended oil capacity ranges from 4 to 4.5 liters (approximately 4.25 to 4.75 quarts). It is crucial to double-check your specific E36 model's requirements to ensure you add the correct volume of oil during maintenance or oil change.

Fourth Generation (E46):

In the case of the fourth-generation BMW 318i, or the E46 model, manufactured from 1998 to 2007, the typical oil capacity lies around 5 to 5.5 liters (approximately 5.3 to 5.8 quarts). However, do note that variations in engine types and additional features might slightly affect the precise oil capacity. Always consult the owner's manual or trusted BMW service center for accurate information tailored to your E46 model.

Fifth Generation (F30):

Regarding the fifth-generation BMW 318i, also known as the F30 model, ranging from 2012 to 2019, the typical oil capacity remains similar to the E46 model. Usually, these vehicles require approximately 5 to 5.5 liters (about 5.3 to 5.8 quarts) of engine oil. However, it is essential to cross-reference this information with the official documentation for your specific F30 model.

Sixth Generation (G20):

As for the current sixth-generation BMW 318i, the G20 model (introduced in 2019 and onwards), it generally has an oil capacity ranging from 4.5 to 5.5 liters (around 4.75 to 5.8 quarts). For the precise oil amount in your G20 model, it is recommended to refer to the owner's manual or consult an authorized BMW service center.

It is essential to note that these figures are rough estimates, and oil capacity may vary depending on factors such as engine modifications, climate, and maintenance history of the vehicle. It is always advisable to consult the owner's manual or contact a BMW-certified service professional to obtain accurate information specific to your BMW 318i model.