How smart is Google Gemini? In a clip that’s racking up over 1.2 million views on X, tech enthusiast Kim Nguyen (@kimmonismus) turned his home garage into a showcase for Gemini’s real-world prowess. Using the Google Gemini Live feature on his smartphone, Nguyen successfully performed an oil change on his 2009 BMW 335i, with the AI providing step-by-step guidance via live video analysis. The demonstration has ignited debates about AI’s role in everyday mechanics and whether it can emerge as a mechanic’s helping hand.
The video opens with Nguyen lifting his white BMW onto a jack in an auto shop, with the phone pointed at the engine bay. “Hey Gemini, this is my 2009 BMW 335i. Can you help me do an oil change?” he asks. The AI responds instantly, stating, “Yeah, absolutely! What kind of oil and filter do you have on hand? And do you have the right tools like a wrench for the drain plug and an oil filter wrench?”
Gemini helps with oil change
Gemini identifies the BMW N54 engine’s specifics, locates the oil drain plug behind a plastic panel (“That’s the plastic panel you will need to remove”), and advises on torque specs – 18 foot-pounds for the drain plug and oil filter housing. It even corrects a potential mix-up when Nguyen eyes a 17mm bolt, steering him away from disaster.
As oil drains into a pan, the AI reminds him to replace the crush washer and O-rings, suggesting a flathead screwdriver for prying if needed. By the end, with the engine idling and the digital oil gauge reading full, Gemini says, “It looks like you’re all set with your oil change. Another job well done.”
Nguyen, wrote in his post, stating, “Google cooked so hard. Not gonna lie, this feels like the future is here. Now develop Google Glasses with enough battery power, a good chip, and a look like Ray-Bans, and you’ll have an instant hit. 100%.”
Internet was quick to react
Reactions poured in on the video, with most of them in full appreciation and awe. “AI: Now, just take off the plug… Mechanic: That’s not the oil drain plug… AI: You’re right, that’s not—do not take it off,” said one user. Others voiced unease, photographer Sebastiaan de With (@sdw) noted, “Trusting this when you realise that it could have easily hallucinated the torque spec is terrifying.” Tech analyst Ben Dickson praised the “million-token context window in full display,” highlighting the AI’s ability to reason over visuals for minutes without faltering.
