I just got my old changed yesterday and was told that bmw now is mandating that all minis 1st to current generations to use only 0w/30 oil. The original oil we use on the R56 is 5w/30 which is thicker and provides better engine protection. The 0w/30 however will provide better fuel economy and better cold start-up but should be taken with a grain of salt for engine protection. I was told that since I was changing oil every 6000 km then I should not worry about it but still monitor engine oil burn. What do you guys say about this thing BMW is pushing on all of their cars now with regards to oil use?

 

You need to realize that BMW is only specing oil that is the cheapest for the dealers to use and only good enough to get the vehicle through warranty. If you want your R56 to last you should use your better quality oil and forget BMWs recommendation.

 

Motul 5w-30 is what I run and NEVER take my car to the dealership for a oil change. They charge too much.

 

There is a ton of info on sites like Bob-the-oil guy.

Using thinner oil is counter-intuitive, but that is what they recommend.

Apparently, thinner oil flows better & takes away more heat.

 

I am pretty sure I was supposed to use 5-40 in my car. Guess that meets it half way?

 

My R56 manual indicates from page 148:

When selecting a motor oil, ensure that it
belongs to one of the SAE viscosity classes
0W-40, 0W-30, 5W-40 and 5W-30; otherwise,
malfunctions or damage to the engine may
result.

From page 149:
Approved oil types
Additional information on approved types of oil
can be found at a dealer.
Gasoline engines
BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30
BMW Longlife-01
BMW Longlife-01 FE

Not certain on the validity of the BMW change in oil specification years later. Seems odd. If it was a serious concern or significant change wouldn't they officially notify owners by mail? I've received two notifications of extended warranty notifications on subsystems.

 

I only pay $69+tax for an oil and filter change then I ransack their condiments counter get a 16 point inspection included (whatever that inspection might be), free car wash and vacuum. Then on my way out I grab 4 cans of redbull and a hot mocha from their vending machine. The $69 is worth it for whatever I get plus I don't get my hands dirty.

 

So it is okay then if the 0w/30 is listed. I do kinda feel the car runs a little smoother though or maybe it is just psychological. Also it occured to me that this might just be a Canadian thing that BMW is silently implementing as we do have cold weather here.


So the question is drum roll.....what is the best oil to use? Stick with the 5w/30 or use the 0w/30? what is your take on this? And yes this might turn into a oil spec contest.

 

My understanding of 0W is that the oil only acts like a 0 in the cold weather. Once the engine warms up, you've got 30 weight oil. I think it's a good idea to use 0W30 because we want instant oil flow to R56 trouble spots...you want the timing chain tensioner to extend quickly, and you want oil to quickly get to the vacuum pump as they've been known to seize. My R56 S rattles a bit for a couple seconds when I start it cold, and I imagine that's the chain guides and bearings taking a beating. If you want good flow in a cold engine and extra protection on a hot engine, 0W40 might be a good choice.

 

hot little motor + turbo = good change of oil shearing...temps are one thing.. having properly lubricated bearings and internals is another.

*fuel blow by - thins oil
*condensation - its water.. in your oil
*high temp - causes additives to burn off.. altering the oils lubrication and viscosity
*boost pressure - increased pressure can cause oil shearing too


If you love Mini (the dealer).. listen to them. Use thinest oil available because its cheap for them and not for you. It will give the least protection from engine wear.. but the best fuel economy. Great.


If you love your Mini (the car).. listen to it. It doesnt want **** oil kept in it for more than 5k miles. Your turbine shaft really wants to spin, you know?! Any 40 weight oil that is full synthetic is a great choice for a warm climate and modified engine.

 

i've been using castrol 0w40. great oil, easily available and inexpensive.