Quick answer: Engine Oil Change Complete on a 2011–2016 BMW 5 Series is rated Moderate and takes about 1-2 hours. You'll need 8 tools for this job, and parts cost about $75. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Engine Oil |
— |
$50.00 |
|
| Oil filter cartridge element kit (with O-rings) |
11428507683 |
$20.00 |
|
| Drain Plug Washer |
BMW 11137525388 |
$5.00 |
|
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
1
Prepare the Vehicle
The 2011–2016 BMW 520d (F10, diesel) takes 5W-30 BMW Longlife-04. Do NOT use LL-01 — the diesel's DPF (diesel particulate filter) requires low-SAPS LL-04 oil. Capacity: 5.2 liters (N47 engine) or 5.0L (B47) — verify your engine. You'll need: 5W-30 LL-04 (low-SAPS), cartridge filter (topside), new drain plug washer. Critical: this is a DIESEL — the oil will turn black quickly (normal for diesels, don't panic). There is NO DIPSTICK — you'll check the level via iDrive after the change. Park on level ground.
2
Lift and Secure the Vehicle
Raise the 520d and support with jack stands. Note: the oil FILTER is accessed from the TOP (under the engine cover) — you only go underneath for the drain plug. Chock the wheels.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I lift the 520D and set the stands, then I shove the car side to side. If it shifts even a little, I reset everything. I have been under cars for twenty years, and the shake test has never once been wasted time.
3
Drain the Old Oil
Remove the drain plug (use a new washer on reinstall). The DPF-equipped diesel produces more soot. Let it drain 15 minutes. Don't confuse the transmission drain with the engine oil drain.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
I drain the 520D oil into my oil-only drain pan — I keep a separate pan for coolant. I have seen mixed fluids rejected at the parts store, and I keep them apart from the first drop.
4
Replace the Oil Filter (topside)
Use the correct socket to remove the cap. Pull the old cartridge out. Replace the o-rings (they come with the new filter). Reinstall the cap to spec.
5
Reinstall the Drain Plug
Torque to BMW spec (not verified for the 520d — check the service manual; do not guess). Wipe clean. Reinstall the undertray and the engine cover. Verify everything is secure.
6
Add New Oil and Verify via iDrive
Lower to level ground. Do NOT use LL-01 or non-low-SAPS oil — it will damage the DPF. Start the engine, let it reach operating temperature. Check the oil level via iDrive (Vehicle Info > Vehicle Status > Oil Level). Check for leaks.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I always check for leaks twice: once right after the job, and once after the first full heat cycle. The second check catches what the first misses.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Not allowing the engine to cool before starting the oil change
- • Failing to replace the drain plug washer, leading to leaks
- • Overfilling the engine with oil, causing potential engine damage
