Engine oil BMW 3 Series E90 N47D20 (2.0d) — viscosity and approvals
Which engine oil for BMW 3 Series E90 N47D20 (2.0d, 2005–2012) — viscosity, specifications, capacity and change interval.
Engine Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Make / Model | BMW 3 Series E90 |
| Engine Code | N47D20 |
| Displacement / Fuel | 2.0d diesel |
| Production Years | 2005–2012 |
Recommended Oil
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Viscosity | 5W-30 |
| Specification / Approval | ACEA C3 / BMW LL-04 |
| Fill volume | 5.5 L (including oil filter) |
| Change interval (mileage) | 10 000 km |
| Change interval (time) | 12 months |
Change oil when either condition is reached — mileage OR time. Never exceed both limits simultaneously.
Approved Oil Brands
Castrol Edge 5W-30 LL / Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 / Shell Helix Ultra ECT C3 5W-30 / Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30
How to Choose Oil for N47D20
- Viscosity must match specification — using the wrong viscosity grade is not acceptable. Only 5W-30 is approved for N47D20.
- Check the approval code on the label — the can must show ACEA C3 / BMW LL-04 compliance. Regular oil with an incorrect approval may damage the engine.
- Volume — when changing with a new filter, you need 5.5 L. Check the oil level with the dipstick 5 minutes after filling.
- Do not mix grades — if topping up, use the same viscosity and specification.
Consequences of Using the Wrong Oil
- Oil with a wrong approval for a diesel engine can clog the DPF filter (diesel) or cause excessive oil consumption.
- Too thin oil (e.g. 10W-40 instead of 5W-30) accelerates timing chain/belt and crankshaft bearing wear.
- Too thick oil makes cold starting difficult and increases fuel consumption.
FAQ
What oil goes in a BMW 3 Series E90 N47D20?
Viscosity 5W-30, approval ACEA C3 / BMW LL-04, volume 5.5 L. Recommended brands: Castrol Edge 5W-30 LL / Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 / Shell Helix Ultra ECT C3 5W-30 / Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30.
How often to change the oil in BMW 3 Series E90?
Every 10 000 km or 12 months — whichever comes first. With heavy city driving or short trips, every 7,500–10,000 km.
How much oil does the N47D20 take?
5.5 litres with a new filter. Before ordering, double-check — some 3 Series E90 variants with the same engine code may differ by 0.2–0.5 L.
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