Keeping your 2018 BMW M4 running at peak performance requires more than just regular maintenance; it demands precise fluid selection tailored to its high-revving, twin-turbocharged engine. The S55B30 2-liter 3.0L inline-six is a masterpiece of engineering, but it places immense stress on lubrication systems, particularly under the extreme heat generated by its turbochargers. Using the correct viscosity and formulation ensures that critical components remain protected, preventing premature wear and maintaining the driving dynamics that make this sports car a favorite among enthusiasts.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 0W-30 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A specialized formula designed for the unique demands of European performance vehicles, featuring a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives to handle turbocharger heat.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Provides superior filtering efficiency of 99 percent at 20 microns, allowing for lower restriction and better engine protection against wear-causing contaminants compared to standard filters.
- MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter – Offers premium media with improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters, ensuring reliable filtration for this specific BMW application.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range, ideal for the high-performance braking systems of the M4.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-140 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Advanced protection against wear for the rear limited-slip differential, helping control thermal runaway and protect against rust and corrosion in this high-torque application.
The heart of your BMW M4, the 3.0L 6-cylinder engine with code S55B30 2 Turbo, requires a lubricant that can withstand extreme thermal loads. The recommended oil capacity for this engine is 6.9 quarts when changing the filter. It is crucial to verify the oil level after refill, as the torque specifications for the drain plug vary depending on the sump pan material; for a magnesium oil sump pan, use 15 ft/lbs, while an aluminum pan requires 18 ft/lbs. Note that the oil drain plug torque differs in thread size as well, with M16x1.5 for magnesium and M12x1.5 for aluminum. When performing your oil change, be aware that the vehicle may be equipped with a gasoline particulate filter, which influences the specific oil grade requirements, though AMSOIL 0W-30 MS covers both configurations effectively.
Beyond the engine, the cooling system is another critical area that demands attention. With a capacity of 14.7 quarts, the cooling system requires a robust antifreeze solution. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation engineered to exceed OEM requirements, protecting metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or five years. For those preferring a concentrated solution, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers even longer service intervals in passenger cars, providing superior protection against corrosion and erosion while being compatible with all other coolant colors.
Braking performance is paramount for a vehicle capable of such high speeds. The M4 utilizes DOT 4 low viscosity fluid, specifically BMW P/N 83 13 0 139 896 or 83 13 0 139 897 for smaller reservoirs, and 83 13 0 443 024 or 83 13 0 443 026 for larger ones. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid ensures that your braking system remains responsive and free of fade, even after repeated hard stops on the track. Its high boiling point and stable viscosity prevent the spongy pedal feel that can occur with traditional fluids under stress.
Essential Protection for Drivetrain and Fuel Systems
The rear limited-slip differential of the 2018 BMW M4 requires a heavy-duty lubricant to handle the torque and heat generated during spirited driving. The capacity for the 215M rear differential is 2.1 pints. Using a dedicated synthetic gear lube like AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-140 100% Synthetic Gear Lube helps control thermal runaway and extends the life of the gears and bearings. This lubricant contains friction modifiers specifically designed for limited-slip applications, ensuring smooth power delivery without the chirping or judder often associated with standard gear oils.
Fueling the engine with pure, clean gasoline is essential for maintaining peak horsepower and preventing deposit buildup in the GDI fuel injectors. Over time, carbon can accumulate, leading to reduced efficiency and potential pre-ignition knock. AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive restores injectors to 100% flow rate and can restore up to 14% horsepower, making it an excellent choice for keeping the M4’s fuel system clean. It also helps prevent carbon buildup, which is a common concern for owners of direct injection engines.
About the Vehicle
The 2018 BMW M4 is a standout in the world of sports coupes, representing the pinnacle of the brand’s performance division. Built on the BMW F82 platform, this model is widely celebrated for its aggressive styling, which includes the signature large kidney grille, flared wheel arches, and aerodynamic elements that hint at the power lurking beneath the hood. It serves as the coupe counterpart to the M3 sedan, sharing its heart but offering a distinct two-door driving experience that many enthusiasts prefer for its rigid chassis and focused cockpit environment.
At the core of the 2018 M4 lies the S55B30 twin-turbocharged inline-six engine. This powerplant is an evolution of the naturally aspirated engine found in the previous generation, upgraded with a sophisticated twin-scroll turbocharging system to deliver massive torque and horsepower across the rev range. The engine’s ability to rev quickly and maintain power at high RPMs makes it a favorite on winding roads and racetracks alike. The transmission, typically a 6-speed manual or a lightning-fast 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (M DCT), complements the engine perfectly, allowing the driver to exploit the car’s dynamics with precision.
Owners of the 2018 M4 often cite the vehicle’s balance of daily drivability and track-ready performance as its strongest attribute. Unlike some competitors that lean too heavily toward one extreme, the M4 strikes a chord with a wide spectrum of drivers. It can be a comfortable cruiser for commuting, equipped with advanced technology and luxurious interior finishes, yet it transforms into a focused weapon when the driver demands more. The interior is driver-centric, featuring supportive sport seats and high-quality materials that age gracefully, enhancing the overall premium feel of the cabin.
Despite its engineering excellence, the 2018 BMW M4 does have specific vulnerabilities that conscientious owners address with high-quality lubricants. One known issue is carbon buildup on the intake valves, a common characteristic of direct injection engines. Using a high-quality fuel additive like AMSOIL P.i. helps mitigate this buildup, maintaining injector flow and combustion efficiency. Another concern is the cooling system, which must work overtime to manage the heat generated by the twin turbos. Ensuring the coolant is fresh and free of corrosion extends the life of the water pump and radiator. The differential, particularly on cars with a limited-slip setup, can also suffer from thermal degradation if standard gear oils are used; switching to a premium synthetic gear lube provides a crucial buffer against heat-induced wear. Finally, brake fade can become a concern during track events, making a high-temperature synthetic brake fluid a necessary upgrade to maintain stopping power when it is needed most.
By selecting the right fluids and lubricants, owners can significantly enhance the longevity and performance of their 2018 BMW M4. Whether you are driving on the track or navigating city streets, proper lubrication ensures that every component operates within its optimal parameters, preserving the car’s reputation as one of the finest performance machines in its class.