[Alexander]

Yes our cars with the 7 quarts capacity dry oil sumps, etc do elongate the oils life, but if you have a N54 I recommend at least 10k to ensure proper lubrication of the turbos. Turbos equals more heat. More heat equals faster oil break down.

I push my car every day so for me it's every 6k with BMW Syn and Mann filters. As well as plugs every 20k. I do work for a automobile parts company so I get the stuff much cheaper and I'm ASE so DIY is no problem.

[Samuel L Jackson]

Dealers around my area charge $200 for an oil change. Go to the regional forums and see if there are any good independent shops in your area for oil changes. I'm sure you'll find plenty of places that do it for $100 or less.

And why not just do an oil analysis to figure out exactly when you need an oil change?

[BayMoWe335]

Just as an update, I consistently got a "low mileage" oil change done free every year at my dealer as part of the no cost maintenance. Never a hassle.

Car currently has 43,000 miles, Purchased in October 2009.