You’re only seeing the surface.

Our most active car forums and technical guides are reserved for registered users.

Sign up here to get total access and start sharing your own ride.

Keeping an M57 engine in good working order: what fuel is best?

The go-to spot for all non-technical car talk. Whether you’re discussing the latest EV tech or classic steel, park up and join the conversation.
Post Reply
Imlach_C220
Posts: 31
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:46 pm

Hello there,

For my first time ever owning a diesel engine, I've recently bought a pre-LCI 530D (E61). Everyone says the engine is bulletproof.


is there anything else I need to know about maintaining a healthy engine and gearbox than deleting the swirl flaps (which the prior owner had already done) and making sure to replace the oil regularly?

What about the gasoline, too? Would the cheaper stuff do, or would asda diesel work just fine? Is it necessary to use the additives for diesel? Now that I have the automobile, is there anything I need change?
GURU4U2BUY
Posts: 48
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:40 pm

It just needs servicing, but not at the "BMW intervals"; instead, change the oil and filter every 6,000 to 10,000 miles, or once a year.
Do the "lifetime" tasks that BWM fails to mention as being necessary. • Chain tensioner - Gearbox maintenance - differential oil, mileage-dependent
I take it there is no DPF on these? Other than that, it's simply routine mechanical wear and tear maintenance.


Costco Kirkland Premium Diesel is my go-to diesel as it's less expensive than the regular stuff at Asda and Tesco.
Imlach_C220
Posts: 31
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:46 pm

that is great! I will shortly be scheduling an appointment. my own has 150,000 miles
andy_bmw_1965
Posts: 65
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:37 pm

It is necessary to service the automatic transmission and make further oil and filter replacements.
For a long time now, I've been using millers ecomax diesel treatment, but I also use whatever fuel is available at the local grocery.
LeeStu
Posts: 26
Joined: Mon Feb 02, 2026 8:29 pm

diesel; replace fuel filters every 20,000 to 30,000 miles, or every three years, whichever comes first.
Post Reply