Note: This guide refers to the 6-cylinder engine, the four-cylinder engine's oil change process is different.
1. Gather the necessary tools and materials:
- New oil filter (BMW Part Number 11 42 7 505 856)
- New oil drain plug washer (BMW Part Number 11 13 1 740 236)
- 6 quarts of 5W-30 or 10W-40 full synthetic motor oil
- Oil filter wrench
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Rags
- Safety glasses
2. Prepare the vehicle:
- Park the car on a level surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Allow the engine to cool down if it has been running recently.
- Crawl underneath the vehicle and locate the oil drain plug.
3. Drain the old oil:
- Place the oil drain pan under the drain plug.
- Loosen the oil drain plug using a wrench.
- Allow all of the old oil to drain completely.
- Replace the oil drain plug and tighten it securely.
- Remove the oil filter (located on the top of the engine) using an oil filter wrench.
4. Replace the oil filter:
- Apply a thin coat of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
- Screw on the new oil filter until it is hand-tight.
5. Add new oil:
- Use a funnel to add new oil to the engine.
- Add 6 quarts of oil.
- Once the oil level reaches the full mark on the dipstick, stop adding oil.
6. Start the engine:
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Check for any leaks under the vehicle. If there are any leaks, tighten the oil drain plug and/or oil filter until the leak stops.
- Turn off the engine.
7. Check the oil level:
- Wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.
- Check the oil level using the dipstick. The oil level should be between the "min" and "max" marks on the dipstick.
Note: Depending on the model year and engine type of your BMW Z3, the oil change process might vary slightly.
Note on Disposal: Properly dispose of the used oil and filter in accordance with local regulations. Take these materials to a recycling center or auto parts store for proper disposal.
