ATF Cap on 2001 320i

[orange]

It appears that its leaking, there is a fine film of what I assume is atf fluid around the edge of the fill cap. It looks like its leaking enough that over the course of a month, theres a fresh coat around the edges.

[AZ325Ci]

That's actually your power steering. Have you replaced your power steering fluid?

[Graphic Designer]

az is correct. the cap next to your oil filter is your power steering. check the level of the fluid. is it filled to the top?, which it shouldnt be.

[Braymond]

Mine does the same...

and clean your engine bay dood!

-B

[orange]

I had a feeling someone was gonna say that, its going in today. As for the level, there are some notches on inside of the cap, almost like a dipstick. Its near the top.

One thing, it does say 'ATF Fluid Only' on the outside ring of the cap. Wtf?

[Braymond]

mine also says Automatic trandmission fluid only too, yet i have a manual :P Im guessing ATF and power steering fluid are similar oils.

:nana

[Mach 5]

Yes BMW power steering systems use ATF fluid, Dextron I think, and they have for as long as I can remember. The oils are similar, but please do not mix them. Just for referance the 98' VW Passat uses mineral oil in the power steering system. Adding power steering fluid to that could cause serious damage.
Ben

P.S. Mine leaks also. I just clean it up when I wash my engine bay.

[AZ325Ci]

^ i agree with Mach 5