Today I ran drove around until the engine was warmed up, then kept her running and checked the ATF fluid. Not gritty. Smells slightly burnt but honestly can't tell. Color is not pink but not brown either. More of a pinkish skin color. Probably due. Tranny overheated in stop and go traffic over a mountain pass last week. Found the ATF about 1" low. Let her cool down and topped off the ATF. Driven daily for the last week. No signs of tranny problems, but I'm babying her until I can change the ATF.

How could you tell it was 1" low?

Just a WAG but thinking his power steering level is 1" low. :dunno:

That's what I was betting on but wanted to make sure.

Is that a trick question?

Our research indicates that your vehicle does not have a transmission fluid dipstick. These types of transmissions are designed to be maintenance free. In order to check the transmission fluid, your vehicle likely has check valve on the bottom of the transmission on the bottom of your car. Your car must be level when the fluid is checked and we therefore recommend having a mechanic with a hydraulic lift or underground bay check your transmission fluid. Any fluid leaks for this type of transmission should be treated by a mechanic.

Apparently I have some fresh ATF in my steering system. Greeeat.

Ah...looks like someone has recently had a revelation. :D But the really cool thing is...you didn't run and hide in a cave...but graciously acknowledged your mea culpa. :thumbup:

It isn’t the worst thing you could have poured in there... when I first brought mine home the prior owner had used ATF in the PS and it had no ill affect.

Being anal retentive though I promptly siphoned it out when I got home and refilled with PS fluid, I did that dance a few times to make sure I got as much as I could out - been driving it for 6 years sense and she’s all good [emoji106]


2005 X5 4.4i (04/05 build date)
Titanium Silver w/Black Interior

thanks guys. suddenly less worried about the power steering and more concerned that i may have a real problem with my transmission