The heart of the 2016 BMW M6 is the S63B44B5 twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This powerhouse requires a lubricant that can maintain its viscosity and integrity despite the intense heat generated by the twin turbochargers. The manufacturer specifies a viscosity grade of 0W-30 or 5W-30 for all operating temperatures. The total oil capacity, including the filter replacement, is 9.0 quarts. Proper oil change procedures are vital; after refilling, the oil level must be checked to ensure it is within the correct range. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 18 foot-pounds, and the drain plug seal must be replaced every time to prevent leaks.
The AMSOIL 0W-30 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil is designed to meet these rigorous demands. It features a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives that cater to the unique engineering of European performance vehicles. This formula provides exceptional cleanliness and wear protection, allowing the engine to perform at its best whether in city traffic or on the track. It is suitable for gasoline, diesel, and hybrid applications, making it a versatile and high-performance choice for the M6’s sophisticated powerplant.
Cleaning the oil is equally important as the lubrication itself. The WIX Oil Filter (Part Number 57189) is a critical component in the M6’s maintenance regimen. This filter utilizes premium media that offers improvements over many OEM-branded filters, effectively trapping harmful contaminants. Using the correct filter ensures that the high-shear environment of the M6’s engine does not degrade the oil prematurely, maintaining peak flow and protection for the lifetime of the oil change interval.
Transmission and Differential Lubrication
The 2016 BMW M6 is equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission (code GS7D36SG). This transmission system is complex and requires a specialized fluid to ensure smooth shifts and longevity. The total fill capacity for the transmission is 8.2 quarts. Using a standard transmission fluid can lead to shudder and premature wear, especially under the high loads generated by the M6’s acceleration capabilities.
The AMSOIL 100% Synthetic DCT Fluid is the recommended solution for this application. It is engineered to prevent shudder, a common issue in dual-clutch and high-performance automatic transmissions, and provides excellent wear protection. The fluid maintains its properties in extreme heat and cold, ensuring reliable performance year-round. For the differential, the vehicle features a rear limited-slip differential (code 220M/SL147). This system requires a specialized gear lube to handle the friction generated by the limited-slip mechanism.
The AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-140 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is the ideal choice for the differential. It contains friction modifiers specifically designed for limited-slip applications, helping to control thermal runaway and reduce operating temperatures. This advanced protection extends the life of the seals and gears, ensuring that the power from the engine is effectively transferred to the road without mechanical failure.
Cooling System and Brake Fluid
Maintaining the cooling system is crucial for the longevity of the M6’s turbocharged engine. The vehicle’s cooling system has a capacity of 19.5 quarts. Coolant that breaks down under extreme heat can lead to overheating, which is catastrophic for aluminum engine blocks and heads. AMSOIL offers two excellent options for this vehicle. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation that is phosphate-free and ready to use. It protects against corrosion for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years. For those who prefer a concentrated formula, AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant provides even greater protection, suitable for up to 1,000,000 miles in heavy-duty applications or 240,000 miles in passenger cars. Both options are compatible with all other antifreeze colors and protect all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses.
Brake performance on a vehicle of this caliber must be flawless. The BMW M6 requires a low-viscosity DOT 4 brake fluid. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is a high-performance option that offers excellent responsiveness for the ABS and traction-control systems. It maintains a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring that brake pedal feel remains consistent during aggressive driving maneuvers. This fluid is also compatible with BMW’s specific part numbers, providing a direct and superior replacement.
Other Essential Fluids and Performance Additives
Beyond the primary lubricants, the M6 benefits from specialized fluids in the power steering system and the fuel system. For vehicles equipped with automatic steering, AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid is recommended. It resists heat and provides strong anti-wear protection, helping seals remain soft to prevent leaks. This fluid is formulated for quiet operation, ensuring the steering remains smooth and silent.
For fuel system maintenance, AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive is a powerful tool. In modern direct-injection engines like the S63, carbon buildup can be a significant issue. This additive restores fuel injectors to 100% flow rate, improves fuel economy, and can restore up to 14% of lost horsepower. It also helps prevent pre-ignition knock, protecting the engine under high load conditions. By incorporating this additive into the fuel system, owners can ensure that the engine breathing is optimized for peak performance.
About the Vehicle
The 2016 BMW M6 is a legendary coupe that sits at the top of the BMW hierarchy for performance and luxury. Part of the sixth generation M6, this vehicle was powered by the twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, known as the S63. This powertrain was derived from the V10 used in the M5 and M6, detuned slightly but still delivering massive torque and horsepower. The M6 is renowned for its dual personality: it can be a comfortable grand tourer capable of crossing continents in silence and luxury, yet it transforms into a fierce, track-capable machine when the driver engages the appropriate modes.
Designed with a focus on precision handling, the M6 features a sophisticated chassis that balances rigidity with compliance. The steering is direct, and the suspension, often featuring adaptive dampers, allows the driver to choose between a soft ride for daily driving and a stiff setup for spirited cornering. The interior reflects the vehicle’s high status, with premium leather, carbon fiber accents, and advanced technology integrated into a driver-focused cockpit.
Originating from Germany, the BMW M division has a long history of producing high-performance derivatives of standard road cars. The M6 specifically competes with other high-performance grand tourers, offering a blend of V8 power and rear-wheel drive dynamics that enthusiasts have come to love. It is a vehicle that commands respect on the road, representing the height of automotive engineering for the 2016 model year. Owners of the M6 typically value its capability to deliver adrenaline-pumping performance without sacrificing the comfort required for a daily driver. This unique combination has made the M6 a favorite among automotive enthusiasts who demand both speed and sophistication from their vehicles.