Recently purchased a used 2006 530i with 52,000 miles. Next oil change not due for another 11,000 miles. I have noticed some oil spots in my driveway...they are very small. Low engine oil light came on and instructed me to add 1 quart. Put in Mobile 1 synthetic 5W-30 as instructed in my owner's manual. Is this normal? Taking it in to the dealer where I bought it (Carmax) but don't have a ton of confidence in their service dept. and think I may need to give them a hint as to what to look for. Prefer to take it to them as I purchased an extended warranty from them. Any thoughts or ideas from anyone?

 

These cars can burn oil and require the occasional topping off, but it's a closed system and shouldn't be leaking. I'd say bring it in sooner than later. Good luck!

 

Great, thanks for the response. Taking it in on Thursday....forgot to mention that when I added the quart of Mobile 1 the oil gauge in iDrive went to "normal". Have been checking this gauge frequently.

 

Look for the valve cover leaking or the vacuum pump (mine's a 545i). I had the same leaks. Also, if the ext warranty does not cover it, try to get bmw to do it since you're so close to the end of warranty...they often do it as goodwill repairs. Good luck

 

Great advice. Thank you.

 

if you use bmw oil, 5w-30 is right. but if you use mobile 1, the recomennded weight is 0w-40.

 

It might have been better to buy a third party extended warranty, but only time will tell. If I were you, I would be looking for a good independent shop to work on your car. Only take your car to the BMW stealership when you need to have your cars software updated.

 

Hmm....my manual doesn't state that. It states 5w-30 Synthetic and that it needs to be API approved.

 

Carmax uses a 3rd party....company called CNA Warranty Corp.

 

Here is the list of BMW approved oils for the US market, BMW Approved

Note, basic Mobil 1 or Castrol synthetic is not approved for long life. It has to be the European version. Mobil-1 0w40 European Forumla $6.99 at Advance Auto Parts. Castrol 0W-30 European Part 06068 $6.99 AutoZone.