tranny fluid change
 

hey mates,

i'm trying to do the tranny fluid change, looked for the tranny pan area for which fluid is used... but couldn't find a thing... the only thing i was able to find was "bmw part #...... and of course "life time...""... any help here???

i drive 02 3.0 x5.

I have an 01 3.0 X5 and run into the same problems when I changed my fluid about two months back. Eventually, I have to stop by the dealer and get the fluid. Unlike 4.4, 3.0 have more than two fluids and the dealers have the chart to compare. they need your VIN number. When you buy the fluid, they will put it in BMW anti-freeze containers. Don't freak out. When I changed the fluid (drop the pan and replace the filter) on my 01 3.0 I bought 16 pint (8 qts) and still have about over 1 pint left over. Good luck the process.

ALX5

ZF and GM will strongly recommend you not touch your fluid, not only are there several fluids to choose from based on the tag color of your transmission but fluid changed do not prolong transmission life.

If you are determined to change the fluid get the transmission tag color and number.

My '01 took Dex III synth. That was 6 months ago. I used Amsoil synth. ATF

I'm thinking of changing my fluid and use Amsoil. Do you like it so far? Any significant results?

Shifts like a dream and getting that dirty, black old stuff out cannot be bad. 6 months now and I intend to do one again soon to further dilute the old fluid with fresh. BTW O'Reilly Autoparts stock the tranny filter for the GM tranny.

hey ALX5. thanks for your reply. here is what i experienced so far.

i went to bmw and found out that they are not very cooperative when it comes to the tranny fluid. they tell me i don't need to change the fluid b/c they are supposed to be lifetime... i say BS... i am planning on driving the car as long as i can... not 100,000miles and trash it...

so long stry to short, bmw service never told me which fluid needs to be used... any help mate?