This video shows how to replace the transmission fluid on a BMW. This procedure will be similar on all BMW models. This video is done using a BMW X3 E83 with…
This video shows how to replace the transmission fluid on a BMW. This procedure will be similar on all BMW models. This video is done using a BMW X3 E83 with…
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can i use a different type of oil ? then the bmw ?
I have a 2003 BMW 325i with production date after NOV 03. Any idea if
dextron III is applicable. 1 quart of dex III = $5, 1 quart of BMW fluid =
$35
Thank you BMWman. You are good.
…is worth a pound of cure. So with 100,000 miles being lifetime does this
mean the transmission will only last this long? I have seen quite a few
problems with auto transmissions in BMW’s. I have always wondered if the
fluid was maintained at bettery intervals if less problems will occur. The
fluid is expensive but a new transmission is much more so 😉
this is looks like a really complicated procedure. most dealers in europe
would be against it, because of the “lifetime” seal on the transmission,
and the high cost of a replacement, naturally 🙂
Thanks for the great comment!
The fluid is going to overflow when full so you want to try to get your
vehicle as level as possible. A stubby 17mm may work or if you use a 17mm
that a wrench can fit over so you use the wrench to release and tighten.
The ring wrench might work well. 🙂
In my opinion I think every 60,000 would be a good number. BMW calls most
trans fluid lifetime which means 100,000 but by then it can be pretty
contaminated.
verry useful”
Couple of questions, why not change the pan filter also? Is there a rule
about that? I have 2007 530xi Wagon with 78k miles and was thinking of
doing a fluid change and change the filter also, should I not do it this
way? How many quarts of the ZF fluid should I buy? Lastly, how do we change
the transfer case fluid, do you have a video? Thanks for all the help,
really good video.
Always check on the transmission pan for the part number of the fluid but
by my info it look like it is not Dextron but ESSO LT 71141, BMW part
number 83 22 9 407 807
Do you recommend doing a FULL FLUSH (hooking it to a pump) if you want to
change the fluid brand? (5HP19) I have 2005 e46. I haven’t changed the oil
(51k miles) so i think it has OE oil but i want to use redline oil b/c its
easier to source and cheaper (dealer only sells in 20L) Trans running fine
– except for the thump in R-gear if not put in N-gear before P-Gear.
There is a lot of debate on this topic. Some say do not do a flush as it
can make the transmission fail. Most people however do not do a flush until
problems are already started which is too late. I think doing a flush to be
preventative is better than doing nothing.
He was actually being very honest with you. If the fluid was never changed
then often a flush at high mileage can result in a failure. This is a
double edge sword, either you do not do the fluid and eventually the
transmission will fail or you do the fluid and take the chance that it may
prolong the life of the trans but may also result in failing faster. It is
a tough choice.
how often we change transmission oil ?
Hello Augusto, On some BMW’s the entire pan needs to be changed as it is
part of the filter. Also dropping the pan can lead to further problems such
as broken pan bolts. They sometimes do not want to release and the heads
break off. You also have to make sure there is no wind or debris can get
into the housing. Safer to do a drain and fill.
Is Dextron III also used in a 98 740il trans?
You should use caution if changing fluids. Make sure it is an approved
fluid for your BMW such as redline that matches your BMW. If the wrong
fluid is used transmission failure can result.
I believe that was the BMW fluid for your model year.
thanks for the info and the work. good job.
Thanks for making the video. It is informative. I am about to tackle this
and wonder how to go about leveling the tranny to assure a correct fill
amount assuming using floor jacks? Thanks
I have heard of good things with redline. Most often only the fluid needs
changing.
You could try to support the vehicle at all 4 corners. You could also lift
the side that has the fill plug so it is raised a bit which will equal a
bit more fluid rather than less fluid. The amount should be minimal
depending on the tilt.
Hello and thank you for the great comment!
Not overly complicated really but some caution is needed. The work area
must be kept clean. No contamination can occur with the fluid being
installed. Any small amount of water or coolant will destroy a
transmission. Clean and new fluid should always be used. For this vehicle
my friend has around 60,000 miles and is not in warranty. This flush was
done to prolong the life of the transmission. What does “lifetime” mean?
Usually 100,00 to 120,000 miles. An ounce of prevention…
Thank you for the response, the one thing I had an indy mechanic tell me
was that his belief was the main reason for Tranny failures after fluid
changes had more to do with the fact that most dealers or service centers
did not then hook up the vehicle to the GT1 computer to reset and re learn
the shifting program. When I asked the dealer if they reprogrammed the
tranny he said no that was not part of the tranny service procedure. Have
you guys ever heard this before, thank you for the comments
I tried to look up capacity but could not find a specification. The last
time I did this I purchased 9 liters but think I used about 7 liters. The
fluid is Dextron III. I usually like to have some extra on hand and then
return the unused containers 🙂
Do u think is recommend change the transmission oil I have 1997 E39 540i I
have the car for 4 years is mandatory change the transmission oil