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Recommended MINI Cooper Oil for
All MINI Coopers: 2002 to Present

The following guide is designed to help you find the right MINI-tested, MINI-approved OEM fully-synthetic motor oil made for your BMW MINI Cooper.

If you have questions about any MINI parts, including general maintenance or repair parts, give us a call at 1-800-946-2642 or submit a request.


MINI Coopers Are Broken Down Into Generations (Gens)

BMW MINI made three significant styling and engine changes or updates since they first launched the "new" MINI Cooper in 2001-2002. These updates are rolled out into three Generations: (click on link to jump to that section)

Not sure about what MINI you have? Check our our article: "What Kind of MINI Cooper do I drive?"


2002-2006 GEN1 Models: R50, R52, R53

Full-synthetic SAE 5W-30 is THE engine oil that MINI recommends.

2007-2016 GEN2 Models: R55-R61

Two recommended motor oil options to consider: full-synthetic SAE 5W-30 or SAE 0W-30.

2014+ GEN3 Models: F54-F60

Full-synthetic SAE 0W-20, or as an alternative, SAE 0W-30 is recommended.

How Often Should I Change The Engine Oil in My MINI Cooper?

MINI recommends that you change your engine oil every 15,000 miles using the appropriate grade fully-synthetic MINI oil. IT IS ALSO VERY IMPORTANT to frequently check your oil to ensure the level is within the appropriate range. Frequent checking will ensure your MINI doesn't have an unexpected oil leak or any other potential oil related problems. Also, when replacing your oil, it's essential that you also replace the MINI oil filter using a MINI recommended filter. The oil filter plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness of the oil by eliminating sludge and debris that may accumulate over time.


What's The Difference Between 5W-30 and 0W-30 and 0W-20 Motor Oil?

It is the viscosity of the oil is that differentiates 0w20 from 5w20 and 5w30 from each other. Every oil viscosity has benefits and drawbacks depending on the temperature, and not all of them are compatible with all engines. Basically:

0W20 = COLD WEATHER PERFORMANCE
Low viscosity. Provides better protection from normal engine wear and tear for its cold-weather performance
0W30 = EXTREME TEMPERATURES OVER 400°F
This is an alternative oil used in high performance engines and driving habits.
5W30 = COLD & WARMER TEMPERATURES
Thicker composition makes it less fuel-efficient than the other motor oils.

Does Mini Mania Have Kits For A MINI Cooper Oil Change?

Yes, we do, all featuring recommended Motor Oil from MINI, and recommended filters, too! Check it out on our MINI Cooper Oil Change Maintenance Kits page!


Don't Forget Your MINI Oil Accessories....

Engine Oil Bag
This handy storage bag with MINI lettering on front holds a one-quart container of MINI high-performance engine oil. Keep a quart or liter of oil 'safely' in your MINI just in case you suddenly discover you are low in oil. Motor oil not included.

Bag also includes:

  • two (2) paper funnels
  • two (2) gloves
  • napkins for wiping the dipstick
  • two (2) wipe-up towels
  • three (3) Velcro strips on the back to easily attach the bag to the inside of the trunk

Full Line of MINI Engine Oil Filters, Kits and Accessories: