Quick answer: Complete Oil Change Guide on a 2011–2016 BMW 5 Series is rated Moderate and takes about 1 hour. You'll need 8 tools for this job, and parts cost about $67. 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) |
BMW 11427512355 |
$15.00 |
|
| Drain Plug Washer |
BMW 11137512355 |
$2.00 |
|
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 (LL-01, 6.9 qt!)
The 2011–2016 BMW 5 Series (F10, 535i N55 3.0L turbo inline-6) oil change: 0W-30 or 5W-30 meeting BMW LL-01. Capacity: 6.9 quarts with filter. You'll need: BMW LL-01-approved 0W-30/5W-30 (buy 7+ quarts — you'll use 6.9), cartridge filter (top of engine), drain pan, funnel, torque wrench. Drain plug: 18 ft-lbs (AMSOIL). The CARTRIDGE on top (not a spin-on underneath) is the BMW standard. The LL-01 approval (not just 'Euro') is the spec — verify on the bottle. The N55's 6.9-qt sump is large for a 3.0L. Note: the 528i (N20 4-cyl) and 550i (V8) are different — this guide is the 535i N55.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
I gather my torque wrench before the 5 Series oil change even starts — the drain plug threads into an aluminum pan, and I have learned that snug is not a torque spec the expensive way.
2
Drain the Old Oil
Remove the drain plug — let the old oil drain (expect ~6.9 quarts). The old LL-01 oil should drain freely. The N55's turbo is hard on oil — the 6.9-qt capacity helps. Let it drain completely.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
I drain the 5 Series oil and I pour the old oil back into the new oil's jug — I drop it at the parts store. Most take it free, and no used oil of mine ever sees a storm drain.
3
Replace Top Cartridge
Remove the cartridge filter housing from the TOP of the N55 engine. Replace the element and the housing O-rings. Use an OE-grade cartridge. The N55's filter housing is the BMW standard — 36mm socket typically.
4
Reinstall Drain Plug (18 ft-lbs)
Torque to 18 ft-lbs (AMSOIL). The F10's N55 drain plug needs 18 ft-lbs. Use a torque wrench. The aluminum pan strips easily — don't over-tighten. The 18 ft-lb is the BMW spec — not the Mopar 20.
5
Add 6.9 Quarts (LL-01!)
Add 6.9 quarts of BMW LL-01-approved 0W-30 or 5W-30 through the filler cap. Use ONLY LL-01 — the N55's turbo needs it. Check the dipstick/electronic level after filling. The LL-01 (not LL-04 diesel) is the spec.
6
Check Level, Reset CBS
Start the engine — check for leaks (drain plug, filter housing). Recheck the oil level. Reset the CBS (Condition Based Service) oil indicator. The LL-01 0W-30/5W-30 (not just Euro), the 6.9-qt capacity, top cartridge, and 18 ft-lb plug are the 2011-2016 535i's defining specs. The N55's turbo means the LL-01 is critical — don't use non-approved oil. This guide is the 535i N55 — the 528i (N20) and 550i (N63 V8) have different capacities/specs. The CBS reset is via the dash — follow the owner's manual.
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 excessive pressure
