BMW 3: Fuel recommendation
General information
Depending on the region, many gas stations sell fuel that has been customized to winter or summer conditions. Fuel that is available in winter, for instance helps make a cold start easier.
Gasoline
General information
For the best fuel efficiency, the gasoline should be sulfur-free or very low in sulfur content.
Fuels that are marked on the gas pump as containing metal must not be used.
Fuels with a maximum ethanol content of 25 %, i. e. E10 or E25, may be used for refueling.
Ethanol should meet the following quality standards:
US: ASTM 4806-xx
CAN: CGSB-3.511-xx
xx: comply with the current standard in each
case.
Safety information
CAUTION The use of poor-quality fuels may result in harmful engine deposits or damage. Additionally, problems relating to drivability, starting and stalling, especially under certain environmental conditions such as high ambient temperature and high altitude, may occur.
If drivability problems are encountered, we recommend switching to a high quality gasoline brand and a higher octane grade - AKI number - for a few tank fills. To avoid harmful engine deposits, it is highly recommended to purchase gasoline from Top Tier retailers.
Failure to comply with these recommendations may result in the need for unscheduled maintenance.
NOTICE Even small quantities of the wrong fuel or wrong fuel additives can damage the fuel system and engine. Furthermore, the catalytic converter is permanently damaged. There is a risk of damage to property. Do not refuel or add the following in the case of gasoline engines:
- Leaded gasoline.
- Metallic additives, for instance manganese or iron.
Do not press the Start/Stop button after refueling with the wrong fuel. Contact a dealer's service center or another qualified service center or repair shop.
NOTICE Incorrect fuels can damage the fuel system and the engine. There is a risk of damage to property.
Do not use fuels with a higher percentage of ethanol than recommended. Do not refuel with fuels containing methanol, e.g. M5 to M100.
NOTICE Fuel that does not comply with the minimum quality can compromise engine function or cause engine damage. There is a risk of damage to property. Do not fill with fuel that does not comply with the minimum quality.
Recommended fuel grade
BMW recommends AKI 91.
Refuel with this gasoline to achieve the rated performance and consumption values.
Minimum fuel grade
BMW recommends AKI 89.
If you use gasoline with this minimum AKI Rating, the engine may produce knocking sounds when starting at high external temperatures. This has no effect on the engine life.
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READ NEXT:
Engine oil
General information
The engine oil consumption is dependent on
your driving style and driving conditions.
Therefore, regularly check the engine oil level after
refueling by taking a detailed measurem
Coolant
General information
Coolant consists of water and additives.
Not all commercially available additives are suitable
for the vehicle. Information about suitable additives
is available from a dealer's s
Washer fluid
General information
All washer nozzles are supplied from one reservoir.
Use a mixture of tap water and windshield
washer concentrate. If desired, a windshield
washer concentrate containing antifreeze
SEE MORE:
Concept, General information, Safety information
Concept
The system helps to avoid imminent side collisions.
General information
Four radar sensors in the bumpers monitor the
space next to the vehicle from a minimum speed
of up to approx. 130 mph/210 km/h.
The minimum speed is country-specific and is
displayed in the menu for the intelligent Saf
Operating strategy
The following graphic shows the positions of the rotary valve as the coolant
temperature increases:
Switching diagram heat management module
0% - Rotary valve closed
100% - Rotary valve open
Cold start
Warm-up phase
Operating temperature
Transition from normal operation to maximum cooling req
