1996 BMW 318is Oil Type & Capacity: 5W-30 (5.2 quarts)
The 1996 BMW 318is takes 5W-30 motor oil — 5.2 quarts with a filter change, per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
5W-30 — 5.2 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Automatic — 1.9L Eng | SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil may be used, but it is not required. | 5.20 QTS. | — | Mineral based oil maybe used on pre-1999 models. For reliable engine performance, mineral based engine oil viscosity must be matched to the following temperature ranges, which the vehicle will be operated: -40Deg.F to about 15Deg.F (SAE 5W-20); -40 Deg.F to about 25Deg. F (SAE 5W-30); -30Deg. F to about 40Deg F (SAE 10W-30); -30Deg. F to about 60Deg. F (SAE 10W-40); 0Deg. to about 105Deg. F (SAE 15W-50); 15Deg. F to above 120Deg. F (SAE 20W-50). |
| Standard, S5D200G — 1.9L Eng | SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil may be used, but it is not required. | 5.20 QTS. | — | Mineral based oil maybe used on pre-1999 models. For reliable engine performance, mineral based engine oil viscosity must be matched to the following temperature ranges, which the vehicle will be operated: -40Deg.F to about 15Deg.F (SAE 5W-20); -40 Deg.F to about 25Deg. F (SAE 5W-30); -30Deg. F to about 40Deg F (SAE 10W-30); -30Deg. F to about 60Deg. F (SAE 10W-40); 0Deg. to about 105Deg. F (SAE 15W-50); 15Deg. F to above 120Deg. F (SAE 20W-50). |
| Standard, S5D250G — 1.9L Eng | SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil may be used, but it is not required. | 5.20 QTS. | — | Mineral based oil maybe used on pre-1999 models. For reliable engine performance, mineral based engine oil viscosity must be matched to the following temperature ranges, which the vehicle will be operated: -40Deg.F to about 15Deg.F (SAE 5W-20); -40 Deg.F to about 25Deg. F (SAE 5W-30); -30Deg. F to about 40Deg F (SAE 10W-30); -30Deg. F to about 60Deg. F (SAE 10W-40); 0Deg. to about 105Deg. F (SAE 15W-50); 15Deg. F to above 120Deg. F (SAE 20W-50). |
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More factory specs & repair guides for your 318is
🛞 1996 BMW 318is Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 1996 BMW 318is Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 1996 BMW 318is Light Bulb Sizes →📖 1996 BMW 318is Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
6.9 quarts (6.52 L) — Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze. Use only reputable brand Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze w/corrosion inhibitors that are nitrite and amino-free and compatible w/aluminum radiators.
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 1996 BMW 318is take?
The 1996 BMW 318is takes 5W-30 motor oil (SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil may be used, but it is not required.), per the factory service manual.
What is the oil capacity of a 1996 BMW 318is?
The 1996 BMW 318is oil capacity is 5.2 quarts with a filter change.
How often should I change the oil in my 1996 BMW 318is?
Most 1996 BMW 318is owners follow a 5,000–7,500 mile interval with conventional oil, or up to 10,000 miles with full synthetic. Always check the oil life monitor if equipped, and consult your owner's manual — BMW recommends intervals based on driving conditions, not just mileage.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 1996 BMW 318is?
Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 1996 BMW 318is. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.