DIY Front Differential Fluid Change Complete

[stltri]

Was reading some info on the ISTA+ regarding recommended fluids for the differentials. I know different DIY'ers have used different kinds. But I was curious about any drawbacks to using cheaper alternatives over the more expensive fluids recommended by BMW (for e70 N55 motor, per ISTA+ updated 2016) before I tackle this DIY:

1. Front differential: Hypoid Axle Oil G2 (BMW part no. 83-22-2-413-511)

2. Rear differential: Final-Drive Gear Oil Saf-Xo 832514 (BMW part no. 33-11-7-695-240)

3. Transfer case: Transfer Case Fluid - DTF 1 (SAE 75W GL-4) (BMW part no. 83-22-2-409-710)

[Entropy]

Originally Posted by stltri

Was reading some info on the ISTA+ regarding recommended fluids for the differentials. I know different DIY'ers have used different kinds. But I was curious about any drawbacks to using cheaper alternatives over the more expensive fluids recommended by BMW (for e70 N55 motor, per ISTA+ updated 2016) before I tackle this DIY:

1. Front differential: Hypoid Axle Oil G2 (BMW part no. 83-22-2-413-511)

2. Rear differential: Final-Drive Gear Oil Saf-Xo 832514 (BMW part no. 33-11-7-695-240)

3. Transfer case: Transfer Case Fluid - DTF 1 (SAE 75W GL-4) (BMW part no. 83-22-2-409-710)

The front and rear differentials are nothing fancy (no limited slip)... Same technology that's in just about every car on the road. You can use any quality gear oil in them. I went with Redline 75W-110. The transfer case is where you MUST go with the BMW fluid.

[Kostyan]

Originally Posted by stltri

Was reading some info on the ISTA+ regarding recommended fluids for the differentials. I know different DIY'ers have used different kinds. But I was curious about any drawbacks to using cheaper alternatives over the more expensive fluids recommended by BMW (for e70 N55 motor, per ISTA+ updated 2016) before I tackle this DIY:

1. Front differential: Hypoid Axle Oil G2 (BMW part no. 83-22-2-413-511)

2. Rear differential: Final-Drive Gear Oil Saf-Xo 832514 (BMW part no. 33-11-7-695-240)

3. Transfer case: Transfer Case Fluid - DTF 1 (SAE 75W GL-4) (BMW part no. 83-22-2-409-710)

Called SilverSpring BMW GetBMWparts counter...

You got the transfer case fluid part # right, and that is the only fluid to use. I was told need only 1 500ml container

Front differential - was told to use part 83 22 2413511 , need 1.25l via two $45 containers
Rear differential - was told to use part 83 22 22 95532 , same capacity, about the same 2 x $45




Called Northwest BMW parts counter and they would not confirm/give out part #s over the phone. I am a bit confused as last time these fluids did not cost me $300 and can't recall where/what/how much I bought.....