DIY Oil Change Guide for 2021 BMW M3 (G80)
Change the oil on your 2021 BMW M3 every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Pour in 7 liters of BMW-approved synthetic oil such as 0W-30 or 5W-30. Track days call for changes every 5,000 miles. This keeps the S58 engine strong. You finish the job in 45 minutes. Tools cost $50 to $100. Oil and filter run $80 to $150. You save $200 to $400 compared to dealer service.
Tools and Parts List
Gather these items before you start:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Oil | 7 liters BMW LL-01 or LL-01FE synthetic (Liqui Moly works well) |
| Filter Kit | OEM with O-rings and crush washer |
| Sockets | 17mm for drain plug, 32mm for filter housing |
| Bits | E6 Torx for filter cap bolts |
| Lift | Jack, jack stands, or ramps |
| Other | Drain pan, rags, torque wrench, flathead screwdriver |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Park on level ground. Warm the engine for 5 minutes. Hot oil drains faster.
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Open the hood. Pull the lever by your left foot twice. Lift off the engine cover.
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Loosen the oil cap and coolant reservoir cap. Oil drains better this way.
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Jack up the front. Use ramps or jack stands. Secure the car.
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Drain old oil. Remove plastic underbody cover. Use 17mm socket on drain plug. Catch oil in pan. Check oil color. Replace crush washer. Hand tighten plug. Torque to spec.
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Replace oil filter. Use 32mm socket on housing cap. Pull out old filter and O-ring with screwdriver. Lube new O-ring. Install new filter. Align notch. Add E6 Torx bolts. Tighten snug.
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Add new oil. Pour 6.5 liters first. Run engine 1 minute. Check level on dipstick or iDrive. Top off to 7 liters.
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Reset oil service light. Hold BC button 15 seconds for service menu. Select reset.
Wipe up spills. Check for leaks. Drive 50 miles and recheck level.
Quick Tips
- Work on a warm engine, not hot. You avoid burns.
- Buy OEM parts from ECS Tuning or BMW dealer.
- Use 0W-30 oil in cold areas like Pennsylvania ZIP 19308.
- Check your VIN in the BMW digital manual for exact specs.
Sidekick tracks your maintenance and sends reminders to cut ownership costs by 20%.
You keep your M3 sharp with DIY work. Save money and stay on top of service.