The standard oil capacity for most 428i models is about 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) including the oil filter. Always verify with your owner's manual or dealer for your exact VIN, as some markets or model years may list slightly different figures.
The 428i, part of BMW’s F32/F33 4 Series lineup, was produced primarily from 2013 to 2016 in many regions and relied on a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine. Oil capacity is influenced by engine design, the size of the oil filter, and whether the filter is changed during service. This article explains the standard capacity, common variations by year or drivetrain, and practical steps for checking and changing the oil.
Engine and capacity basics
In the 428i, BMW commonly used the N20 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four in many markets. This engine, paired with either rear-wheel drive or xDrive all-wheel drive, requires synthetic engine oil that meets BMW specifications. The stated oil capacity reflects the total fill volume, including the oil filter, and is designed to ensure proper lubrication and cooling across typical driving conditions. While the exact figure tends to be stable, minor variations can occur by year and market.
N20 engine specifics
The 428i’s N20 engine produced about 240 horsepower, and the standard oil-fill quantity is generally listed as approximately 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) with the filter. For VIN-specific or market-specific figures, always consult the official BMW documentation or your dealership, as some regions may publish slightly different values.
Official oil capacity figure and typical ranges
Manufacturers publish a standard oil capacity that applies to most 428i models. The typical figure is around 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) including the oil filter. Some regional specifications may show a very close range, and the exact amount can vary by year, drivetrain, and whether a filter change is performed during the oil change. Use the dipstick and the vehicle’s manual as the final reference.
- Engine oil capacity (with filter): 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) for most 428i models
In practice, this means performing an oil change with a full refill of about 6.0 quarts and then checking the level on the dipstick, topping up in small increments if necessary. Always confirm with the manual or a BMW service bulletin for your precise vehicle, as there can be small regional differences.
How to change oil in a 428i
A standard oil-change procedure for the 428i follows common BMW practice and uses the same capacity figure as a guideline. The steps below outline the typical process and the target oil quantity.
- Warm the engine to operating temperature to ensure complete drainage.
- Secure the vehicle on level ground and place a drain pan beneath the sump plug.
- Remove the drain plug and let the used oil drain completely from the engine.
- Replace the oil filter with a new BMW-approved filter.
- Reinstall the drain plug and refill with the recommended oil quantity: about 6 quarts (5.7 liters).
- Use the dipstick to check the oil level and top up in small amounts if needed until the level is at the correct mark.
- Run the engine briefly, recheck for leaks, and ensure the level remains correct after the engine is shut off.
Following these steps helps ensure you meet the manufacturer’s capacity recommendation and maintains proper engine lubrication.
Model-year variations and cross references
BMW’s official specifications can vary slightly by market and model year. The 428i generally shares a common oil capacity of about 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) with the filter, but some early or late-year production runs might show minor differences. For guaranteed accuracy, consult the owner’s manual for your exact vehicle or contact a BMW dealer with your VIN.
Practical tips and cautions
To maximize engine health and ensure you use the correct quantity, keep these pointers in mind as you plan maintenance or a DIY oil change.
- Always use the recommended oil grade (BMW LL-01 synthetic oil, commonly 5W-30 or 0W-40 depending on climate and year).
- Replace the oil filter with a BMW- or OEM-grade filter during every oil change.
- Dispose of used oil properly at a recycling facility or service center.
- Do not overtighten the drain plug and ensure the gasket is in good condition when replacing it.
These practices help ensure your 428i runs smoothly and that you maintain the correct oil quantity and quality over time.
Summary
For most BMW 428i models, the official oil capacity is about 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) of engine oil with the filter. Verify the exact figure for your vehicle in the owner's manual or with a BMW dealer, as regional and year variations can occur. When performing an oil change, start with approximately 6 quarts, then check the level with the dipstick and top up as needed to reach the proper mark. Regular use of the correct oil grade and a new filter will help protect the turbocharged N20 engine and maintain performance.