Coolant, Under the hood – BMW M3 Sedan 2009 User Manual

Page 198

Under the hood

196

Viscosity ratings

Viscosity is a measure of an oil's flow rating and
is categorized in SAE classes.

Approved oils belong to the 10W-60 SAE
class.

Alternative oil types

If BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil is not
available, you can add small quantities of other
synthetic oils in between oil changes. Only use
oils with the following specifications:

Viscosity:
preferred: SAE 10W-60;
alternative: SAE 10W-40, SAE 5W-50 or
SAE 10W-50

Specification:
API SJ/CF, API SK/CF or higher

Low ambient temperatures

The oils used at BMW factories for your vehicle
type are suitable for virtually any ambient tem-
perature. However, if the vehicle is operated at
temperatures below –4

7/–206 for extended

periods, your BMW center will be glad to rec-
ommend an optimal oil.

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 suit-
able 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 impor-
tant to follow the instructions on the contain-
ers.

Comply with the appropriate environ-
mental protection regulations when dis-

posing of coolant additives.

Checking coolant level

Do not open the engine hood before the
engine has cooled down.

Turn the cap of the expansion tank a little
counterclockwise to allow any accumulated
pressure to escape, then continue turning
to open.

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.

If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant up to
the specified level; do not overfill.

Turn the cap until there is an audible click.

If the loss of coolant is substantial, have the
cause eliminated as soon as possible.

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