2006 BMW M5 Owner's Manual - Page 186

Under the hood Add at least 0.5 US quart/0.5 liter of oil, otherwise the oil level check cannot reliably display the current oil level.< Continuous exposure to used oil has caused cancer in laboratory testing. For this reason, any skin areas that come into contact with oil should be thoroughly washed with soap and water. Keep oil, grease etc. out of reach of children and observe the warnings on the containers to prevent health risks.< For immediate updating of the oil level display, carry out a quick measurement directly afterward.< Alternative oil types If BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil is unavailable, you can add small quantities of other synthetic oils between oil changes. Only use oils with the following specifications: > Viscosity preferred: SAE 10W-60; alternative: SAE 10W-40, SAE 5W-50 or SAE 10W-50 > Specification API SJ/CF, API SK/CF or higher Low ambient temperatures The oils used by BMW from the factory for your vehicle model can be used at virtually all ambient temperatures. However, if the vehicle is operated for a longer period at temperatures below -47/-20 6, your BMW center will be happy to recommend a suitable oil. Oil change Have oil changed only at your BMW center or at a workshop that works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel. Approved engine oils The quality of the engine oil selected has critical significance for the operation and service life of an engine. BMW continuously approves specific oils after confirming their suitability for use in its vehicles with extensive testing. Do not use oil additives, as these may result in engine damage.< Your BMW center will be happy to answer detailed questions on BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil or approved synthetic oils.< You can also call BMW of North America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit the website at www.bmwusa.com to obtain this information. Coolant Do not add coolant to the cooling system when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant can cause burns.< Coolant is comprised of water and coolant additive. Not all commercially available additives are suitable for your BMW. Ask your BMW center for suitable additives. Only use suitable additives, otherwise engine damage may result. The additives present a health hazard; observe the instructions on the containers.< Comply with the appropriate environmental protection regulations when disposing of coolant additives.< Viscosity grades Viscosity is a measure of an oil's flow rating and is specified in SAE grades. Approved oils belong to the SAE grade 10W-60.< Checking coolant level 1. The engine must be at ambient temperature. 2. Turn the cap of the expansion tank counterclockwise to allow any accumulated pressure to escape, then continue turning to open. 184 Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 012 213 - © 02/06 BMW AG