I have used Royal Purple (5W30) for the last 4 oil changes. I originally followed the recommended change interval, but have since reduced that because I still want freh oil in the car. ANd, it makes me feel better!

 

So what did YOU use to prevent the oil from shooting out of the drain opening and getting under the plastic shield under the motor?

 

Make a shield out of common household aluminum foil

 

Did you use axle stands?

I used axle stands on both front sides and never had any issues.

 

I used a shield made of regular cardboard.

 

I've done exactly the same. Just got some cardboard, rippied it a rough size and kind of bent it into there to act as a shield so it would deflect the oil down. i make sure it is tall enough to deflect the oil and I have it hang lower than the covers so that it drips well below the cover into the oil catch pan. Simple and I've done it 3 times now.

 

I use mobil 1 Extended Performance, they have done tests where the car has run for 200,000 miles on the mobil 1 and the oil is still good. Plus its the only oil I have ever seen OTC with the "guaranteed to protect for 15,000 miles" on the label. Also My valve cover gasket leaks on my 05 545i so I fill my oil every 2-3k with Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer. I know people will say not to use it, but honestly its 100% petroleum and is the best lubricant oil you can buy. My friend told me this and he is a master mechanic and he uses it in his 05 645. I use it in my 545i with no problems. I would not use it though if my valve cover wasnt leaking...

 

I'm using Red Line 5W40 in my 545, change every 5,000-6,000 miles. It's all synthetic, where one could argue Mobil 1 isn't. No issues with oil splashing where it shouldn't, like my wife's Mercedes. Personally I don't believe any oil is good for 15,000 miles but I want to run this car for 200,000+ miles.

Got oil questions? Go to Bob Is The Oil Guy's website. You'll find so many different answers you'll really be confused!!

 

use ramps to jack up the car equally and you shouldn't have a problem with the drainage. Or, remove the underbody panel first.

I use German Castrol 0w30 since it's BMW-LL01 approved. probably doesn't make much difference.