Transmission Fluid Change DIY

[RenaissanceMan]

Folks, sorry to resurrect an already long thread but I sure could use some help and guidance. What I thought was going to be a simple automatic transmission fluid change project has turned into a huge source of confusion. I am getting all kinds of conflicting information on both proper fluid and procedure. My '05 3.0i transmission has a green sticker on the bottom which shows a lifetime fluid part # 83220024359. I called the dealer with the number and they said the correct fluid for my transmission is ATF Dextron VI, although they also mentioned the old part # had been superseded. I then called Bavauto to order the trans filter kit and asked if they sold the Dextron VI. They told me that Dextron VI was absolutely incorrect for my tranny and that I needed to use either the Esso/Texaco fluid or an equivalent such as Liqui Moly Top Tec 1200. To further add to the confusion, the website from another very well-known BMW parts/service provider I checked showed a Texaco ETL-7045E equivalent product for use in my tranny, but stated it was only specifically to be used with "yellow tag" transmissions. How do I know which is the right fluid?

Regarding the fluid change procedure, my understanding is that the fluid temp needs to be properly monitored during the change to insure that the proper amount of fluid is put in the transmission. How critical is this? Is it enough just to start the engine after filling, let it warm up some and shift through the gears, and then add fluid until it overflows from the fill plug?

Thanks for any help you can offer-