Quote:
Originally Posted by bcredliner
There are two entrenched camps about changing transmission fluid. I am on the yes side. I drive hard and have done many engine mods. I change fluid and filter every 40,000 miles. I have 118,000 miles on the original transmission with no problems. The only potential other reason I have had no problem is the Dinan trans software installed at around 1,500 miles. I use the ZF fluid. My basis is 20 year veteran of working on BMW transmissions that advised there is no such thing as lifetime fluid and recommended the interval I use. That doesn't mean I am the yes folks are right. Suggest you ask someone of the caliber I did and see which side he falls.
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FWIW, completely agree on changing trans fluid and filter.
As a past member of STLE (Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers) I will tell you there is indeed no such thing as a "lifetime" ATF. Changes over time and temp cycling take place that change the nature of the fluid. Additionally, particulate from the inevitable wear and bedding in of trans internals needs to be removed, and much of this is too fine for the filter to capture. More then you might think will stay in suspension and act as an abrasive. 40k miles is a good interval.
All that said, there are plenty of people out there that have very high mileage on transmissions with no maintenance. I believe you stack the odds in your favor by changing it.