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      08-31-2012, 10:25 AM   #2
XMetal
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2008 Z4M Coupe  [10.00]
2018 Audi S3  [0.00]
2004 X5  [8.50]
The "Lifetime" period for BMW is really only about 100k miles. BMW keeps changing their tune on this. It used to be "never touch it", then changing to "every 100k" miles. I lost track of what is their latest stance.

Whether to change it or not really depends on how long you will be planning on keeping it. I usually keeps my cars for a long time, so I had the fluid and filter changed on my X5 at about 50k miles and plan on doing it again every 50k. I had to change out the filter again a couple of years ago at about 75k miles due to a bad aftermarket filter. It's at 84k now and still running strong. If you do decides to do it, make sure you use the proper fluid and an OE filter. BMW automatic transmission is finicky and requires the exact fluid as stated on the sticker on the transmission. Whatever you do, do NOT deviate too far away from the stated fluid, which is only available at the dealer as far as I know. Don't be surprised that your dealer may not sell this fluid to you as they only have them in drums. Also, the fluid is expensive...approximately $25 per liter/quart. You'll need about 6 liters just to do a pan drain/refill. About 12 liters if you want to remove those inside the torque converter as well. This service will cost you upward of $1k at the dealer if you can find one that will do it. My dealer didn't want to do it. I've done this service at 2 different BMW specialist and both charged approximately $600. The first only had a pan drain/refill + filter. The 2nd had complete drain (including torque converter)/refill + filter.

As far as instructions, there are a few you can find on the web. It's the same for most BMWs. You will need to drop the pan and require a new filter and gasket...so it does get a bit messy.

PS. Word on the street is that if you do decides to change the fluid, you should start early (prior to 60k). If the fluids had never been changed pass 80k or so, you're better off just to leave it in there forever.

Last edited by XMetal; 08-31-2012 at 10:32 AM..
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