The 2012 BMW 135i is a high-performance compact sports sedan that demands premium care to maintain its renowned driving dynamics. Powered by the twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine (code N55 B30A 4), this vehicle operates under significant thermal stress. Proper lubrication is not merely a maintenance task but a critical requirement for preserving the engine’s turbocharger, ensuring smooth power delivery, and extending the lifespan of complex transmission components. Using fluids designed specifically for European performance vehicles can make the difference between a vehicle that ages gracefully and one that suffers from premature wear.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 0W-30 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Engineered with a precise blend of synthetic base oils and additives to meet the strict requirements of BMW’s N55 twin-scroll turbo engine, providing superior protection in all temperatures.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers a filtration efficiency of 99 percent at 20 microns, capturing small contaminants to reduce engine wear while maintaining low flow restriction for optimal lubrication.
- MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter – An excellent alternative featuring premium media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters, ensuring robust protection for your BMW’s oil system.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic DCT Fluid – Specifically formulated for the BMW 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (GS7D36SG), this fluid offers outstanding wear protection and prevents shudder in extreme heat and cold.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A ready-to-use 50/50 pre-mix formula that exceeds OEM requirements, protecting the cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – A low-viscosity DOT 4 fluid that provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness while maintaining stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Designed to help seals remain soft and prevent leaks, this fluid offers strong anti-wear protection and excellent high-temperature performance for quiet operation.
- AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive – A potent fuel system cleaner that restores GDI fuel injectors to 100% flow rate and helps prevent carbon buildup, essential for maintaining the performance of direct injection engines.
Ensuring your 2012 BMW 135i receives the correct lubricants is vital for its longevity. The N55 engine is a marvel of modern engineering, but its performance characteristics place unique demands on the oil. The turbocharger spins at extremely high speeds, generating significant heat that standard mineral oils struggle to dissipate. AMSOIL 0W-30 MS provides a stable film of lubrication that resists thermal breakdown, ensuring the turbo bearings and engine internals remain protected even during spirited driving or extended track use. The engine oil capacity for this vehicle is 6.9 quarts when the AMSOIL Oil Filter is changed.
It is crucial to adhere to this volume to prevent low oil pressure or overfilling, which can lead to foaming and excessive crankcase pressure. When performing an oil change, the drain plug torque specification is M12x1.5 at 19 ft/lbs, and replacing the drain plug seal is highly recommended to ensure a leak-free service. After refilling, the oil level must be checked carefully to ensure the system is topped off correctly.
Transmission fluid selection is equally critical for this model. The 2012 BMW 135i is typically equipped with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (GS7D36SG). This transmission requires a fluid that can handle the rapid engagement of clutch packs and the intense heat generated during shifts. The total fill capacity for this transmission is 8.2 quarts. Using AMSOIL 100% Synthetic DCT Fluid ensures the transmission shifts smoothly, prevents shudder, and offers superior protection against wear during the most demanding driving conditions. For those with manual transmission variants or different fluid requirements, maintaining the correct viscosity and specification is key to clutch health and gear shifting precision.
Beyond the engine and transmission, the cooling system plays a pivotal role in managing the heat generated by the 3.0L turbocharged powerplant. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant capacity for the 2012 BMW 135i is 8.7 quarts. This coolant is a phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free formulation that is compatible with all cooling system metals. This ensures that the intricate cooling passages in the engine block and cylinder head are protected against corrosion and cavitation. For those needing a concentrated option, AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant can be mixed with distilled water to achieve freeze protection down to -34°F, which is essential for owners in colder climates.
Brake performance on a vehicle of this caliber cannot be compromised. The 135i utilizes a hydraulic brake system that benefits from a fluid with a high boiling point and consistent viscosity. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is an excellent choice, providing a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range. This stability ensures that the brake pedal remains firm and responsive, even after repeated hard braking, offering excellent traction-control responsiveness and ABS performance. Replacing the fluid regularly removes moisture that can lower the boiling point and lead to brake fade.
The power steering system in the BMW 135i, particularly models with AS/ARS or without AS/ARS, requires a fluid that resists heat degradation. Using AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid helps the seals remain soft to prevent leaks and reduces friction within the steering pump. This results in a quieter operation and extended life for the steering components. Additionally, for those interested in maximizing the performance of the direct injection engine, AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive is recommended. It restores fuel injectors to 100% flow rate after just one tank of fuel, helping to maintain the engine’s peak horsepower and fuel economy.
Model History and Performance
The 2012 BMW 135i represents a significant chapter in the E82 generation of the 1 Series lineup, known for its balanced handling and engaging driving dynamics. As a rear-wheel-drive coupe, it brings the hallmark BMW sport sedan characteristics to a more compact footprint, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts who appreciate agility and power. The vehicle was powered by the N55 engine, a technological leap forward from its predecessor, the N54 twin-turbo setup. The N55 replaced the twin turbochargers with a single, larger twin-scroll turbocharger, which helped reduce lag and improve throttle response while maintaining the potent output expected from BMW.
This model was celebrated for its ability to deliver sports car performance in a daily driver package. The 3.0-liter inline-six engine produced a robust amount of torque, delivering power in a linear and predictable fashion that complemented the six-speed manual or the advanced 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 135i’s chassis was tuned to offer a sharp, responsive ride, making it a delight on twisty backroads while remaining composed on the highway. The design cues of the era, including the distinctive kidney grilles and sleek body lines, contributed to its status as a compact yet powerful presence on the road.
Owners of the 2012 135i often cite its reliability, provided that regular maintenance is performed with high-quality fluids. The engineering of the N55 engine focuses on durability and efficiency, but like all high-performance engines, it benefits greatly from the use of premium synthetic lubricants. The vehicle’s reputation for being a “driver’s car” is well-earned, offering a driving experience that is both fun and sophisticated. Whether navigating city streets or enjoying weekend canyon runs, the 135i stands as a testament to BMW’s commitment to building cars that are as enjoyable to drive as they are to look at. Regular use of AMSOIL Oil Filters and AMSOIL Motor Oils ensures this legacy continues.