2010 BMW M3 Owner's Manual - Page 224

Under the hood Specified engine oils Your service center can advise you on which engine oils have been approved by the manufacturer of your vehicle. The engine oil quality is critical for the life of the engine. Approved oils can be identified by the following specification: Gasoline engine Preferred: Alternatively: Diesel engine Preferred: BMW Longlife-04 BMW Longlife-01 BMW Longlife-01 FE BMW Longlife-98 Comply with the appropriate environmental protection regulations when disposing of coolant additives.< Checking coolant level 1. Do not open the engine hood before the engine has cooled down. 2. Turn the cap of the expansion tank a little counterclockwise to allow any accumulated pressure to escape, then continue turning to open. 3. The coolant level is correct if it is between the maximum and minimum marks in the filler neck, refer also to the diagram next to the filler neck. Approved oils belong to the following viscosity classes: SAE 0W-40, SAE 0W-30, SAE 5W-40 and SAE 5W-30. Alternative oil types If the approved engine oils are not available, up to 1 US quart/1 liter of another oil with the following specification may be used: API SM or higher 4. If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant up to the specified level; do not overfill. 5. Turn the cap until there is an audible click. 6. Have the reason for the coolant loss eliminated as soon as possible. Coolant Do not add coolant to the cooling system when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant can cause burns.< Coolant consists of half water and half additive. Not all commercially available additives are suitable for your BMW. Ask your BMW center for suitable additives. Only use suitable additives; otherwise, engine damage may result. Because additives are harmful to your health, it is important to follow the instructions on the containers.< 222 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 603 066 - © 08/09 BMW AG