When to change "lifetime" tranny fluid - BMW Forum

LloydM · 08-30-2004, 07:21 PM

My 98 328i (A/T) has "lifetime" tranny fluid, but I've been told to change it between 50 and 100K miles (I have 71K on it now). Does this make sense?

And if I change it, should I use synthetic tranny fluid? What brand is best? Do I need to change the filter or anything else when I change the fluid?

-Thanks! Lloyd

Cruzin 323is · 08-30-2004, 08:15 PM

have u had the car since day 1.... or did u but it used, if so, how many miles?? and have u ever had a FULL tune up!!???

Kevin325i · 08-30-2004, 11:06 PM

Mobil 1 MTL.

Yes I know the fill says ATF only. Yes I said MTL.

007ben · 08-31-2004, 09:50 AM

Changing the fluid is a pain... its supposed to be done at a specific temp, so you get it properly filled.

thekid · 08-31-2004, 12:20 PM

it is also a pain to do it by your self. There's a specail tool/attachement that you need to be able to complete the removal and replacement of the fluid. I really wouldn't do it my self. This would definately be something I would pay to have some one else do.

El Presidente · 08-31-2004, 12:25 PM

Kev, where/whom told you use MTF?

wulley1 · 08-31-2004, 12:37 PM

where should i bring it to have the transmission fluid changed properly? Dealership?

LloydM · 08-31-2004, 01:28 PM

I bought it used w/70K miles a month ago. I haven't had a full tune-up. Judging by the service records, the old owner was well-conditioned by the service lights to get his wallet emptied by the dealer.

By the way, most of the old owner's driving was short trips in stop-and-go LA traffic, so I'd assume a "severe" schedule applies...

-Lloyd

thekid · 08-31-2004, 02:09 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by wulley1@Aug 31 2004, 01:17 PM
where should i bring it to have the transmission fluid changed properly? Dealership?

or a shop that specialized in BMW repair. You "can" do it yourself, but to me it's not worth it.

007ben · 08-31-2004, 03:38 PM

nope not worth it. you'd need to get your car high enough off the ground to work on the underneeth but still be able to get in and run the engine some to get the tranny to the right temp keeping the car level the whole time too.... then drain it some how and fill it somehow (not impossible but could be tricky with out proper tools... )