BMW E63/E64 645Ci Oil Change Guide

Essential Guide to BMW E63/E64 645Ci Oil Changes

Maintaining the correct oil level and quality is paramount for the longevity and performance of your BMW E63/E64 645Ci. This guide will walk you through the process of a do-it-yourself oil change, including how to reset the 'Check Control' service indicator. While this guide is based on a 2006 650i convertible, the procedures are largely identical for the 645Ci models, and similar for other BMWs like the E60 5-series and E65/E66 7-series with comparable engines.

Choosing the Right Oil and Filter

Selecting the correct engine oil and filter is crucial for your BMW. BMW specifies oils that meet their stringent LL-01 approval. Using the wrong type of oil can lead to premature engine wear and potential damage. Always consult your owner's manual or a trusted BMW parts supplier to confirm the exact specifications for your specific model year.

Recommended Synthetic Oils:

• BMW 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (BMW Part #: 07510017866): This is the manufacturer's recommended oil, readily available from BMW dealerships.
• Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic Oil - European Formula: A high-quality synthetic oil that meets BMW's specifications. Available at many automotive parts stores.
• German Castrol Syntec 0W-30: Ensure the bottle explicitly states "Made in Germany." The "Made in USA" version does not meet the same specifications.

Oil Filter Kits:

You'll need an oil filter kit that includes the filter element and necessary O-rings. The correct part number is essential:

• For E63/E64 645Ci: BMW Part #: 11427511161 (Also fits E60 545i, E65/E66 745i)
• For E63/E64 650i: BMW Part #: 11427542021 (Also fits E60 550i, E65/E66 750i/760i)

Tools and Supplies You'll Need

Gathering the right tools before you start will make the process smoother and safer. Ensure you have everything readily available.

Essential Tools:

• 24mm socket: For the oil filter housing. A 6-point socket is preferable to avoid damaging the plastic housing.
• 8mm socket: For the oil filter access cover screws.
• 8mm hex socket: For the main oil drain plug.
• 6mm hex socket: For the oil filter housing drain plug.
• Torque wrench: Capable of measuring 10Nm (7 lb-ft) and 25Nm (18 lb-ft).
• Ratchet wrench: To fit your sockets.
• Large oil drain pan: Must be capable of holding at least 10 quarts (approx. 9.5 litres).
• Rags or shop towels: Plenty of them for cleaning up spills.
• Wheel chocks: To secure the rear wheels.

Vehicle Lifting Equipment:

You will need to safely raise the front of the vehicle. Choose one of the following:

• Floor jack and jackstands: The most secure method.
• Rhino ramps: A convenient option for easy access.
• Standard ramps with starter boards: Use 2x10 boards in front of standard ramps to prevent scraping the front bumper.

Optional but Recommended:

• Disposable gloves
• Needle-nose pliers or a small blade screwdriver (for O-ring removal)
• Funnel
• Large zip-lock freezer bag (for used filter disposal)

Pre-Change Preparations

BMW recommends that the engine oil be above 70°C (158°F) before an oil change. This allows the oil to drain more effectively and helps suspend any contaminants in the oil. Take your car for a 10-15 minute drive, monitoring the oil temperature gauge (usually located at the bottom of the tachometer).

Step-by-Step Oil Change Procedure

1. Raise the Vehicle:

   Using your chosen method (ramps or jack and jackstands), safely elevate the front of the vehicle. Ensure the parking brake is engaged and the rear wheels are chocked. Never work under a car supported only by a hydraulic jack. If using ramps, consider placing rubber mats underneath to prevent slipping, especially on hot asphalt.

2. Remove the Oil Filter Access Cover:

   Locate the plastic undertray positioned midway between the front wheels. Use an 8mm socket to remove the three screws securing the cover and remove it completely.

   Tip: Use a creeper or a large piece of cardboard to make working underneath the car more comfortable.

3. Position the Drain Pan:

   Place your large oil drain pan directly beneath the main oil drain plug. Keep some rags or shop towels handy for any potential spills. Consider wearing rubber gloves for this step.

4. Remove the Main Oil Drain Plug:

   Using the 8mm hex socket, loosen the drain plug. Once it's loose, carefully continue unscrewing it by hand. As the plug is about to come free, apply slight upward pressure to keep it seated against the engine block, then quickly pull it sideways to avoid being sprayed by the hot oil. Warning: The oil will be very hot! Wear eye protection and use a rag to clean your hands and the plug.

5. Aid Oil Drainage:

   Remove the oil filler cap on top of the engine. This will help the oil drain more freely.

6. Remove the Oil Filter Housing Drain Plug:

   Locate the small drain plug on the bottom of the oil filter housing. Use the 6mm hex socket to remove it. Be prepared for approximately half a litre of hot oil to drain out.

7. Allow Oil to Drain Completely:

   Wait for at least 15 minutes to ensure all the old oil has drained from the engine. This minimises the risk of overfilling when you add the new oil. Check the main drain plug for the old crush washer; if it's not attached, it may be stuck to the engine block. Remove and discard it.

   Tip: This is a good time to grab a refreshing beverage while you wait.

8. Remove the Oil Filter Housing:

   Using the 24mm socket, carefully unscrew the entire oil filter housing. If the filter element doesn't come out with the housing, gently pull it out from the engine block. Be cautious, as the filter can also be hot.

   Tip: Place the old filter element into a zip-lock bag and seal it to contain any residual oil. You may need to pull quite firmly to detach the filter from the housing.

   

   Side Note: You might find the opening in the undertray slightly too small for easy removal of the plastic filter housing. You may need to gently pull back the undertray while removing it.

9. Replace O-rings, Crush Washer, and Filter Element:

   Lubricate the new large O-ring for the filter housing with fresh oil before installation. Remove the old large O-ring from the housing and install the new one, noting its original position. Place the new oil filter element into the housing with the lettering facing upwards. Ensure it's seated correctly. Remove the old crush washer from the main drain plug and fit the new one. Replace the small O-ring on the filter housing drain plug with the new one provided in the kit.

   Tip: A small blade screwdriver or needle-nose pliers can help remove old O-rings. Be careful not to damage the plastic threads on the filter housing.

10. Reinstall the Oil Filter Housing:

    Clean the exterior of the housing before screwing it back into place. Torque the housing to 25Nm (18 lb-ft), or the specified value indicated on the housing itself.

11. Reinstall the Filter Housing Drain Plug:

    Clean the drain plug and reinstall it. Torque to 10Nm (7 lb-ft).

12. Reinstall the Main Oil Drain Plug:

    Clean the main drain plug and install it with the new crush washer. Torque to 25Nm (18 lb-ft). Do not overtighten. You'll feel the washer begin to crush; once it does, an additional half a turn is usually sufficient.

13. Clean Up the Area:

    Wipe down the filter housing and drain plugs to ensure they are clean. This will make it easier to spot any leaks later.

14. Add New Oil:

    Carefully add approximately 8.5 litres of your chosen synthetic oil. Use a funnel and place some shop towels around the filler hole to catch any drips.

    Tip: Ensure your funnel is clean before use.

15. Replace the Oil Filler Cap:

    Securely lock the oil filler cap back in place.

16. Start the Engine and Check for Leaks:

    Before starting, ensure all tools and rags are removed from the engine bay. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Keep an eye on the oil warning light; it may illuminate briefly upon startup but should extinguish within seconds. If any oil warning lights remain on, shut off the engine immediately.

17. Check for Leaks and Lower the Vehicle:

    Turn off the engine and carefully inspect underneath for any signs of oil leaks around the drain plug and filter housing. If all is well, replace the oil filter access cover. Remove the wheel chocks and carefully lower the vehicle back to level ground.

18. Check the Oil Level via iDrive:

    With the engine running, navigate through the iDrive system to check the oil level. This typically involves going to Menu > Service > Service Requirements > Engine oil level. The system may take a few minutes to provide a reading. If the level is low, turn off the engine, add a small amount of oil, and re-check. Do not overfill. An "oil level too high" message indicates you'll need to drain some oil.

Resetting the Service Indicator

After completing the oil change, you'll need to reset the service indicator. This can be done manually:

1. Insert the key fob into the ignition.
2. Press the 'Start/Stop Engine' button to turn the ignition on (don't start the engine). All warning lights should illuminate on the instrument cluster.
3. On the turn signal stalk, repeatedly press the 'CHECK' button until the date is displayed in the central Check Control screen.
4. Within 5 seconds of seeing the date, press and hold the trip odometer reset button for approximately 5 seconds. An exclamation mark in a triangle symbol should appear, followed by a Check Control symbol.
5. Release the reset button. You have now entered the reset mode.
6. Repeatedly press the reset button to cycle through the available service items until you see the 'oil can' symbol.
7. With the 'oil can' symbol displayed, release the reset button and press and hold it again for about 5 seconds until 'RESET?' appears.
8. Release the button and press and hold it for another 5 seconds. The service indicator should reset, and the red background will disappear.

Following these steps carefully will ensure your BMW E63/E64 645Ci remains in optimal condition. Regular oil changes are a fundamental part of preventative maintenance, saving you from potentially costly repairs down the line.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What type of oil is best for my BMW 645Ci?

A1: BMW LL-01 approved synthetic oil is recommended. Specific grades like 5W-30 or 0W-40 (European Formula) are suitable options.

Q2: How much oil does the BMW 645Ci take?

A2: The 645Ci typically requires approximately 8.5 litres (about 9 US quarts) of engine oil.

Q3: How often should I change the oil in my BMW 645Ci?

A3: Consult your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended service interval. Typically, this is around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. The car's 'Check Control' system will also alert you.

Q4: Can I use conventional oil?

A4: It is strongly advised to use synthetic oil, as specified by BMW, for optimal engine protection and performance, especially given the high-performance nature of these engines.

Q5: What is the torque setting for the oil drain plug?

A5: The main oil drain plug should be torqued to 25Nm (18 lb-ft). The oil filter housing drain plug is torqued to 10Nm (7 lb-ft).

If you want to read more articles similar to BMW E63/E64 645Ci Oil Change Guide, you can visit the Maintenance category.