35D oil problem

[Lubehead]

Not only is it nothing to be concerned about, in many ways it is actually a good thing, especially when a long drain interval is the goal. While excessive consumption is obviously bad and hard on the wallet, the addition of the quart helps to replenish and stabilize the additive package. Especially the TBN (Total Base Number) which helps in neutralizing acids. In addition the boost to dispersancy capability(ability to keep contaminants in suspension -particularly soot) is always helpful.

[XXX555]

I8 and Spyder, did your check oil dashboard light come on or did you dipstick to find out your X5d was low?

[FunfDreisig]

Speaking of dip sticks and idiot lights...

Does anyone know (or have a good idea) why BMW recommends waiting until the 35d engine is a full quart low before adding oil?

Some possible 'reasons'...
It is dangerous to over fill a diesel engine.
It makes it easy to just 'add a quart'.
It reduces the number of times owners show up at the dealer for them to add a little oil.
They don't want us to get our pretty little fingers dirty checking the oil level with the obscurely located dip stick.

Call me old school but I feel like I've neglected any of my vehicles that get a full quart low before I top it up.

Funf Dreisig

[grover432]

Originally Posted by Lubehead

Not only is it nothing to be concerned about, in many ways it is actually a good thing, especially when a long drain interval is the goal. While excessive consumption is obviously bad and hard on the wallet, the addition of the quart helps to replenish and stabilize the additive package. Especially the TBN (Total Base Number) which helps in neutralizing acids. In addition the boost to dispersancy capability(ability to keep contaminants in suspension -particularly soot) is always helpful.

But it is bad for the environment. I think that is why 2 stroke engines are disappearing - they can't meet emissions regulations, no matter how thin the mix is. I say if you want clean oil, you should shorten the service interval and recycle the oil, not burn it and keep replenishing with new.