BMW’s Removal of Dipstick Continues to Plague Owners Seeking Oil Changes

A well-known BMW owner online recently highlighted a problem that continues to plague oil maintenance for the automaker’s vehicles, according to MotorBiscuit.

YouTuber Turbo Auto Haus recently shared that after performing an oil change on his BMW X5 SUV, the vehicle’s computer told him it still was in need of more oil, displaying a message that read “engine oil below minimum level. Please add one quart of oil immediately.”

Despite having just added a quart of oil, he bought a five-quart jug of oil and dispensed it into the vehicle. It took nearly seven quarts of oil for the vehicle to report its levels were adequate.

Upon sharing his story, many criticized BMW’s decision to forego dipsticks in several of its models after 2005, with some pointing out that oil level sensors are more of an expense than a traditional dipstick.

Still, one other BMW owner suggested Turbo Auto Haus attempt to recalibrate the vehicle’s computer, as it may simply have been failing to update in a timely manner.

“I love the electronic oil sensor, never had an issue. Make sure you put the correct amount in, and drive the car,” said the user. “I noticed it doesn’t update immediately.”