kimoloop

Hi,

I have an E60 530i 2003 [new shape] 124000 km.
it had an issue with the alternator and i took it to BMW, and they replaced it with a brand new one.
i have noticed an oil leak so took the car for a full service.
the mechanic changed the oil filter and the spark plug and he topped up the engine oil with Castrol GTX Professional, is that the correct oil?

also he said there are some other places which has leaks such as:
* Sump Gasket.
* Rocker cover gasket.
* oil filter housing gasket.
* electrical plug transmission.

he said to fix those it may cost a grand and i asked him how urgent are those fixes he said NOT urgent. is that right?

Thanks

tonyb635

"Not urgent" is in one's own mind... I just had mine in for service and was told the same thing as they handed me a quote for $1,100.00 to change the valve cover gasket. Sure its leaking a little but what became urgent to me was the leak was falling onto the exhaust and burning so you smell this when you drive the car. Other than this annoying problem it was not urgent. Also, my oil pan gasket is leaking a little and leaves evidence on the underbody panels. I only need to add one qt of oil between services so this is well within the requirements. I will not be replacing this one anytime soon.

pcy

As long as first 3 leaks (in your list above) are not bad, you can live with those leaks for now. How bad is the trans fluid leak at electrical plug? Even small changes in trans fluid level can result in trans issues. I would take care of trans fluid leak at an earliest convenience.

kimoloop

Thanks Tony and pcy.
i will call the mechanic and see how he said.

what about the Engine oil that he used, Castrol GTX Professional, is that the correct oil?

Thanks

pcy

Personally, I use Mobil1 0W-40 synthetic oil and I change oil approx every 6K to 7K miles.
If the mechanic used full synthetic oil, then it should be ok.

Attached pdf has list of BMW approved oils.

kimoloop

thanks pcy, the list is very helpful, i did not find the Castrol GTX Professional on the list though! is it gonna be alright or should i change it?

thanks

BimmerFan52

Topping off the sump with Dino oil will not hurt anything. Continue as normal and change your oil at your regularly scheduled drain interval (which hopefully is 7K or less) to ensure you still have plenty of additives left.

kimoloop

Thanks Bimmerfan