BMW serie 3 sedan 2000 User Manual

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Engine oil 
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil is ex-
tremely important for the function and 
life of an engine. Based on extensive 
testing, BMW has approved only cer-
tain types of engine oils. 
Use only approved "BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil." 
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High 
Performance Synthetic Oil," you may 
use small volumes of other approved 
synthetic oils for topping up between oil 
changes. Use only oils with the specifi-
cation API SH or higher. 
Ask your BMW center for details 
concerning the specific "BMW 
High Performance Synthetic Oil" or 
other synthetic oils that have been 
approved.
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You can also call BMW of North Amer-
ica at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this web-
site: www.bmwusa.com to obtain this 
information.
Viscosity ratings 
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as estab-
lished in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class 
depends on the climatic conditions in 
the area where you drive your BMW.
BMW recommends the use of oils in 
SAE classes SAE 0W-X or SAE 5W-X 
("X" stands for a typical value such as 
30, 40, or 50).
These oils may be used for driving in all 
ambient temperatures.
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