2011 BMW X3 Oil Type & Capacity
The 2011 BMW X3 oil type depends on the engine: the 28i takes 5W-30 (7.4 quarts qt with filter); the 35i takes 5W-30 (6.9 quarts qt with filter), per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
It depends on the engine:
- 28i: 5W-30, 7.4 quarts with filter
- 35i: 5W-30, 6.9 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28i — Eng CD N52 | BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil or MOBIL 1 SAE 5W-30 or SAE 5W-40 | 7.40 QTS. | — | — |
| 35i — Eng CD N55 | BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Oil or MOBIL 1 SAE 5W-30 or SAE 5W-40 | 6.90 QTS. | — | — |
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🛒 Buy 5W-30 Full Synthetic Oil (7.4 quarts needed) on Amazon💡 Capacity Note: Your 2011 BMW X3 holds 7.4 quarts with filter. Since standard jugs are 5 quarts, be sure to pick up extra 1-quart bottles or a 2-pack to reach the full mark on the dipstick.
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More factory specs & repair guides for your X3
🛞 2011 BMW X3 Tire Size & Pressure →🌧️ 2011 BMW X3 Wiper Blade Sizes →💡 2011 BMW X3 Light Bulb Sizes →📖 2011 BMW X3 Factory Service Manual →All fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner network AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
N/A (N/A) — Ethylene Glycol long-term Antifreeze. Having corrosion inhibitors that are compatible with aluminum radiators.
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 2011 BMW X3 take?
It depends on the engine: 28i uses 5W-30; 35i uses 5W-30.
What is the oil capacity of a 2011 BMW X3?
Oil capacity depends on the engine: 28i holds 7.4 quarts with filter; 35i holds 6.9 quarts with filter.
How often should I change the oil in my 2011 BMW X3?
Most 2011 BMW X3 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 2011 BMW X3?
Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2011 BMW X3. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.