Fuel. Fuel quality

Fuel quality plays a central role in the efficiency and service life of the BMW 5 Series VII generation. This chapter explains which petrol and diesel grades are suitable and which fuels must be avoided. Leaded petrol, metallic additives or methanol are expressly excluded. The use of biodiesel or incorrect ethanol blends can also cause severe engine damage. A vehicle that has been refueled with the wrong fuel must not be started, as this can irreparably damage the catalytic converter. Safety notes and minimum grades such as super petrol RON 95 or diesel to DIN EN 590 help you choose the correct fuel. Regional differences in winter and summer fuels are also covered, a chapter that concerns every driver.

General

Depending on the region, many filling stations sell fuel adapted to winter or summer conditions. Fuel offered in winter, for example, makes cold starting easier.

Petrol

General

For optimum fuel consumption, petrol should be sulfur-free or low in sulfur.

Fuels marked as containing metal at the fuel pump must not be used.

Fuels with a maximum ethanol content of 10 %, i.e. E10, may be used.

The engine is knock-controlled. Therefore, different petrol grades can be used.

Safety notes

NOTE Even small amounts of the wrong fuel or incorrect fuel additives can damage the fuel system and the engine.

The catalytic converter will also be permanently damaged. There is a risk of property damage.

For petrol engines, do not refuel or mix the following:

• Leaded petrol.
• Metallic additives, e.g. manganese or iron.

After refueling with the wrong fuel, do not press the Start/Stop button. Contact a manufacturer service partner, another qualified service partner or a specialist workshop.

NOTE Wrong fuels can damage the fuel system and the engine. There is a risk of property damage. Do not refuel fuels with a higher ethanol content than recommended. Do not refuel fuels containing methanol, e.g. M5 to M100.

NOTE Fuel below the specified minimum quality can impair engine function or cause engine damage. There is a risk of property damage. Do not refuel petrol below the specified minimum quality.

Petrol grade

Super petrol with RON 95.

Minimum quality

Unleaded petrol with RON 91.

Diesel

Safety information

NOTE Even small amounts of the wrong fuel or incorrect fuel additives can damage the fuel system and the engine.

There is a risk of property damage.

For diesel engines, observe the following:

• Do not refuel with rapeseed methyl ester (RME).
• Do not refuel with biodiesel.
• Do not refuel with petrol (gasoline).
• Do not add diesel additives.

After refueling with the wrong fuel, do not press the Start/Stop button. Contact a manufacturer service partner, another qualified service partner or a specialist workshop.

Diesel fuel quality

The engine is designed for diesel fuel to EN 590.

The fuel quality notes for the BMW 5 Series G30/G31 show how important the correct fuel is for engine output and service life. This chapter goes well beyond general recommendations and gives precise specifications on which fuels and additives are permitted and which can cause damage.

Safety aspects during refuelling are especially important: even very small quantities of the wrong fuel can cause considerable damage. The clear instructions not to start the engine and to seek professional advice immediately reflect the high standard of technical care and safety.

Question 1: Why must fuel containing methanol not be used?

Answer: Methanol attacks materials in the fuel system and can cause leaks or engine damage.

Question 2: Can E10 be used without concern?

Answer: Yes, the engine is designed for E10 fuel with an ethanol content of up to 10 %.