oil change

[kohlers]

I am new to BMW. Had my 2000 323i for two weeks. Manual says use only BMW synthetic oil. Sounds expensive What are you guys using? How often? Is going to Jiffylube or similar a nono or?

[yammahamma]

I use full synthetic Mobil 1...although I'm going to switch to Castrol with my next change.

I change every 7k miles and I prefer to do it myself. I don't trust lube shops enough.

[TIMECRUISER]

X2. I would rather my Dog change the BMW's oil. Stay away from the quick lube places and don't pick up any soap in the locker room. Two rules of thumb.

[k.sidlosky]

You don't have a cheap car so don't go cheap on it.
If you don't know how to chang oil take it to a dealer or your trusted mech.

[TRuckee]

Use ONLY a full synthetic oil... preferably Castrol, which is what BMW specifies. This oil is good for,at least, twice the service interval. So the cost is probably about the same. Although the process of changing the oil is not as easy as it is on a vehicle that's easier to get under, stay away from the cheap chains. DIY or go to an independant shop.

[denyo77]

yep, don't use the quick lube places, their oil quality is sometimes more than doubtful

[kohlers]

Thanks for all the good advice. I am still deliberating. I am surprised to find several shops specializing in BMW's (and European cars). I checked with two of them and they quote about $100 for an oil-change. The dealer wants $125. They have fancy offices to pay for and I am not so sure that the mechanics are any better there. However, the CARFAX shows that the car has been there for service several times before and I checked with the dealer that they still have all the records and that seems to me a PLUS. So I may choose the dealer.
PS I had some other threads about 'SERVICE ENGINE SOON" and missing OAT sender. I installed the OAT and the missing splash-guards (myself of course). The service light is now out. I am not sure why really but .....