[Bimmer221]

Hi,

This is probably a really dumb question but its going to be my first time changing the oil of my car by myself. I've read on several guides that i should let my engine run for at least 2-3 min. before i change the oil. Why is that so? I know its so i can warm the oil a little bit, but why do i need to warm the oil why can i change it while the engines and oil is cold or room temperature?

Thanks!!!!

[ctuna]

Not something to stress over but.
Oil flows better when its warm also the contaminants
will be stirred up and more likely to drain .
Either way the fact that it's getting changed does
good things for your cars long term health.

You should do this search on google and you will get
a lot more answers.

[DJtoad]

That's not a dumb question. Not only will you be able to drain more oil out of your car if it's warm (less clings to internal surfaces), it will help remove anything that may have settled in the bottom of the pan. But in truth, it doesn't make a big difference as long as you're willing to wait a lot longer for the oil to completely drain. Cold oil will trickle out for a long time - up to 15 to 20 minutes -- and if you put the plug back in too soon, you can leave up to a half a quart of old oil in the pan.

But if this is your first time changing the oil yourself, I'd do it when the oil is cold or lukewarm so that you don't have to deal with hot, gushing oil if you misjudge things.

[Bimmer221]

thanks guys!!!

[Nitrousbird]

Get that oil up to full temp before draining it.

[Imbue]

Get oil piping hot then drain

[Bimmer221]

I just finished changing it and i put in the oil and checked the oil sensor and its right at the line that says max. How do i know if i put too much oil? it still has the O.K. sign on it but if there is too much oil with there be a warning light or something?

Thanks

[mike3000fl]

if you put in 7 qts you are good. dont over think it.

[Efthreeoh]

Originally Posted by Bimmer221

I just finished changing it and i put in the oil and checked the oil sensor and its right at the line that says max. How do i know if i put too much oil? it still has the O.K. sign on it but if there is too much oil with there be a warning light or something?

Thanks

There is an over-level notification, but as Mike said, if you added in 7 quarts you are good. Don't over think it.

[Welcome to NBA Jam]

http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E92-335...spring_loaded/

Fumoto oil drain valve ftw

[mpaone23]

Originally Posted by Welcome to NBA Jam

http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E92-335...spring_loaded/

Fumoto oil drain valve ftw

Do you have this? Was thinking about ordering one pretty soon cause im due for an oil change

[Welcome to NBA Jam]

Originally Posted by mpaone23

Do you have this? Was thinking about ordering one pretty soon cause im due for an oil change

I do not, but once my maintenance plan is up, you betcha!

[Agentphish]

Originally Posted by mpaone23

Do you have this? Was thinking about ordering one pretty soon cause im due for an oil change

I'm just about to put one of these in here in the next two weeks. I was just about to recommend to the OP for the future.

I got this one. http://www.qwikvalve.com/fumoto-f-10...e-p-16154.html
Same brand, a bit cheaper than ECS.

[kiel_dafo_kenyg_as]

The disadvantage of the valve is it can easily break off when the pan is about to approach the ground

[Welcome to NBA Jam]

Originally Posted by whiteblue

The disadvantage of the valve is it can easily break off when the pan is about to approach the ground

Shouldn't be a problem for us, as there's a little door covering the oil pain.

[Douche]

Are you guys sure that valve can be trusted? Anyone using it for a long time now?

I think it's a good idea, but am unsure it can be trusted... Oil leaks from it would be a pain.

[kiel_dafo_kenyg_as]

If it wasn't for the reduced clearance in general I would rather go with this layout

[94marcus]

Originally Posted by Welcome to NBA Jam

http://www.ecstuning.com/BMW-E92-335...spring_loaded/

Fumoto oil drain valve ftw

will that even fit after closing the cover??

[Welcome to NBA Jam]

Originally Posted by 94marcus

will that even fit after closing the cover??

Yup.

http://www.fumotousa.com/parts.php?p...&partnumber=47

S series are designed especially for general automotive users concerned about low ground clearance.

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=670164

[DJtoad]

Originally Posted by Welcome to NBA Jam

Shouldn't be a problem for us, as there's a little door covering the oil pain.

I have one on my 535i. Works great. Open the access panel, lower the hose, and open the valve. The only downside is that it drains slowly. It usually takes at least 20 minutes to drain out all of the oil, but it's definitely worth it. No mess and no chance of stripping the drain plug. At least on the N54 engine, the drain plug is horizontal so there's really little if any chance of hitting and breaking off the valve. You do need a short extension / adapter though.

[TrAcK TRaP]

Am I the only one paying only $79 for an oil change at the dealer? you guys do it to kill some time or having fun doing it? its not worth it to get dirty imo..

[mike3000fl]

Originally Posted by N54CherryHill

Am I the only one paying only $79 for an oil change at the dealer? you guys do it to kill some time or having fun doing it? its not worth it to get dirty imo..

It's costing you more than $79, there's the opportunity cost of driving there and getting the work done while you wait. TNSTAAFL