Auto transmission fluid
 

Hi!
I'm new to the forum and a new X5 owner. I want to change the transmission fluid in my 2001 4.4l with 70k miles and want to know what the recommended fluid is. I can sum up my feelings on BMW's 'lifetime' fluid with a series of four-letter words.
I've seen that Bavarian Autosport sells an Esso brand fluid for $18/liter, which seems way excessive. Does Redline make something that is acceptable?

And what kind of fluid does the transfer case use?

the one on bavauto is the only other one that'll work besides the oem one (which is even more expensive)
i researched this many times over before i did my changes too

edit: almost forgot also the VW/Audi fluid from http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e53-forum/...hange-diy.html

The BavAuto fluid is cheap compared to the stuff at the dealer. My wife's e46 325i had to have the ATF changed. The fluid alone cost my shop $400.

Anybody got a source, apart from the dealer, for the GM tranny found in the 3.0L? Anybody know if the new Dexron VI will work in with the OEM?

zulu95, try this company

http://www.jie.com/

FWIW, I think JIE bottles their Esso in their own bottles.....if you're a *fluid* nut like me.

The VW equivalent is what I used and I believe it was $11-12 per qt when I did the fluid swap awhile back.

They only do the ZF trannys. I have a top secret, if I tell you I have to kill you stupid GM tranny built in France. Seems you could get the latest CIA code book easier than info on the fluid BMW use.

Ok, thanks, it looks like I'll go with the VW/Audi branded fluid.

does anyone know what fluid goes in the transfer case?

I used Amsoil Severe Geat 75/90 on the diffys and transfer case takes the same ATF

Trans Fluids meeting BMW spec for ESSO LT 71141
 

This article describes Quaker State & Valvoline claiming to meet BMW spec.

http://www.taligentx.com/passat/maintenance/atfchange/

Caveat Emptor...

Hawkeyes