BMW has specified that "Lifetime" means 100,000 miles, not forever. Great video, helped me identify my transmission, proper fluid and importance of cycling out old fluid. You should add changing the filter to your video, old filter, old oil running thru the fill and recycling process and not changing filter doesn't make sense to me.
Good research, and that is coming from a technician. First off, the BMW lifetime fluid, translates to 100,000-120,000 mile service life. You will find this noted in your original literature that came with your vehicles. You can service your ZF with the MaxLife but keep in mind it will reduce the service life of your fluid, however your filter will still be good for up to 100,000 miles. As long as you change your fluid from that point on, at or around 30,000 mile intervals and make a note of the fluid type change for your technician or whoever you sell it to, if that is your intention at some point, you will not experience problems. Personally I do not mind the reduced service life of the MaxLIfe, it seems to prevent build up in the valve body. It is what I use in my E46 daily driver. Also a final note. If the trans has been allowed to go over 100k with the original factory fluid, I do not recommend servicing the fluid 3 times, instead I recommend only a drain and refill twice. That is the one time you drop the pan to change the filter and one more time after driving a few hundred miles, drain and refill. This will maintain a fluid viscosity the transmission can make better use of, in its higher mileage life.
I use that on the zf too with no issue, but you have to make sure it says miulti-vehicle on the bottle , the regular gm fluid will work but I have found the car will shift strange , even had strange shifting issues on the zf using the zf fluid lol
good to know! Thanks for chiming in Nathan. Yep it says "multi-vehicle" on the front right above "ATF". Also at 1:51 meets all BMW specs for both GM and ZF
Also let me know what you think about changing the fluid once vs. twice vs. three times. I think doing it 3 times consecutively cycles the fluid enough to get it something like 95% new fluid through the whole system including torque converter.
After watching your informative video I ended up using this transmission oil for my BMW 750LI 2006. I have changed the machatronic adapter and sleeves and filled with almost 8.5 or 9 liters. Car is driving like a charm. Thanks for great informative video that saves me alot of money in transmission oil.
They make it so confusing, don't they? It's actually much more simple than we think. The GM trannies used fluid that met the Texaco ETL 7045E spec, right? Well that's just plain Dexron III, non synthetic. The ZF used the fluid that met the LT 71141 spec and that is just Dexron VI, full synthetic. In fact I was just at Wal-Mart today and their "Super Tech Full Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF for use where Dexron-VI & Mercon LV are recommended" fluid says on the back that it meets the LT 71141 spec plus it lists all the other manufacturers and their special spec numbers. But all this really comes down to is non synthetic dexron III or full synthetic dexron VI. It's exactly the same "choice" as you have with engine oil. The full synthetic stuff is backward compatible with the non synthetic however there is a difference in viscosity that can make some older worn out transmissions shift a little weird so I always try to stick with whatever fluid was in there originally. If maxlife says it meets both BMW specs, I imagine it isn't low viscosity maybe? Not sure on that one.
Thanks for adding your feedback man! What are your thoughts on doing the fluid change once vs. twice vs. three times in a row? I think doing it 3 times consecutively cycles the fluid enough to get it something like 95% new fluid through the whole system including torque converter.
Great job! I have a 2000 e39 and limped into the garage. Surely, the transmission had it at 150K miles. The mechanic said it was the fluid, and that GM transmission would last forever. Now I'm at 260K miles and thinking about changing the transmission oil again. The garage wants $750 to replace the fluid. What?!!
Have you actually analyzed the MSDS specs for ZF Lifeguard 6 which is OE spec fluid for all 6HP series transmissions? This 'one size fits all' Valvoline does not match those specs, both in kinematic viscosity and density. Sure the Max Life is certainly cheaper but I suspect you will lead to failure of TC lockup clutch at very least, could also lead to long-term failure of solenoids and drums because this fluid is substantially higher density and relatively higher viscosity. I believe that MaxLife may also be red in color thus any transmission failures on an oe or extended warranty may be declined due to obvious incorrect fluid being used. There are lower priced alternatives to Lifeguard 6, namely Ravenol 6HP who's density and viscosity specs are nearly identical, its pour point is also much lower temp for those residing in Canada or northern States that see subzero temps. There may too be others in EU but the only readily available alternative to Lifeguard 6 in NA that I have seen is Ravenol 6HP. You may also choose Lifeguard 8 as alternate, which is identical viscosity to 6 but slightly higher density and substantially better pour point, much like Ravenol 6HP. Lifeguard 8 however is green which again could affect warranty claim coverage in failure. Lifeguard 6 and Ravenol 6HP are both a very light amber color. Honestly, you don't even need to check MSDS specs. Just try pouring Maxlife, its thin but still quite hydraulic fluid like consistency. The proper Lifeguard fluid are literally the consistency of water. They are crazy thin at even room temperature.
exactly...the spec sheet will show a lot of differences....shell 1375.4 is the spec and manufacturer for lifegard6 and mercon sp....good video but i choose to pay more for the fluid and keep the trans safer
I just aquired a 05 x5 with 6hp 26 and high mileage,I heard a guy that works on BMW's say that Maxlife is better than Lifeguard 6 which is recomended on zf transmissions because it is denser and not as slippery on the clutch packs as Lifeguard 6 and am going to try it on mine,it is high mileage,over 200,000.
@@luciano5137 I think they will be fine with Maxlife,if mine goes which I know it eventually will,I will rebuild it,I have never rebuilt a ZF but have been studying them,I have rebuilt a few GM,and ZF looks to be easier to rebuild than GM,Ford uses in some of their vehicles 6R80 which is allmost identical to the ZF transmissions!
I have E53 X5 3.0i 2006. It had the 5L-40e and the factory fill was Texaco 8072b fluid. Is that just Dextron VI or is it something else. I know 7045e is just Dextron III non synthetic fluid, it says that on the bottle but I never seen an 8072b bottle. 🤔
I have 2011 328i XDrive with 94k miles on it! The car fax shows no history of the transmission fluid/filter being changed!?. I’m not going to do a complete flush on the transmission just a drain! I want to use V-Max Life!!!! It seems to be the top recommended transmission fluid to use!? I’m assuming I have original BMW transmission fluid in the tranny! Will mixing 2 differentl types of fluid cause damage!?
For long life tranmission, chage the oil ever riquire milliage for better performance, and duravility. I have a 328i, and runs great perfectly. thanks for the info.
Hello, my car E39 540i 2003 has driven 233,000 km Is this liquid suitable? How many liters is appropriate? Will it harm the carrier as it is rumored? Do I completely change the fluid in one go? I hope my friends because this question is very important to me and thank you
I also changed the fluid on my e39 (530d) GM transmission. And fluid needs to be changed for sure ! and now the transmission shifts smooth. but I plan to do another flush after 20.000 km so the old fluid left in the torque converter comes out completely.
Great video, good info! Yes, definitely change, as most others have said - definitely not lifetime. Just a quick clarification regarding ZF vs GM -- generally speaking, the GM transmissions were used in LATER models, not earlier (especially in E46 3 series, where GM was used exclusively starting around 2001 and continued thru the end of the E46 series - the cutover you mention was in the switch from ZF to GM, not the other way). E38's were exclusively ZF, I believe, and E39s a mix, with later models being GM and earlier ZF. But - everyone should verify before any work, they look distinctly different - lots of good info available online about both! Good stuff!
it also matters what model of e46 you have. for example.. My 2005 325i is a gm trans, with the earlier models (2003 and below) have the ZF. Meanwhile, the 323 models usually have a zf for 2003 and above, and a gm for 2003 and below. Always check your transmission tag to be 100% sure.
Again this is not entirely true as all e36 US spec cars came with GM 4L30 except for the M3 which used a ZF box. Hence GM trans have been in BMW'S for years
YES.....You need to change your transmission fluid... You also need to change the filter too. It is better to change it at 50k interval. You can probably just change the fluid at 50k and then change the fluid and filter at 100k. It also depends on the climax, temp conditions and how the car is driven.........The GM transmission on the e39 early version has two pans so it makes more work.
Hi, thanks for your video, I have a 2002 330ci automatic, is this fluid ok for this car?, I can't find what OEM BMW oil is the number, thanks for let me know.
Previous owner put cheap fluid so car drives only when hot and fluid heats up then the next morning I must have the car on for a while before driving I've been advised to change transmission but I'll change to a good quality fluid before taking that measure I bought the car this past Saturday.
Great video! I've had no problems using the Max Life Full Syn in my 1997 528i transmission for the last 5 years since rebuilding it. I also use it in the PS. I use LifeGuard 5 in the trans of my 2001 330i since rebuilding it and have had no probs.
Well done buddy! Yup I change my transmission fluid every 50K. I have a manual transmission and my 2004 E46 shifts like butter! I use the BMW fluid however you have convinced me to look at an equally appropriate fluid that is likely much cheaper, thank you 👍
Lycan ZHP thanks Lycan. I should note this is directed for automatic transmissions. You can use a redline brand MTL for manual transmissions and there is no risk of shifting issues. It’s really just the automatics that can suffer from issues!
About a month ago, I did a search for "transmission fluid for BMW E46". All I could find was sites & videos that said to use only ATF LT 71141. My grandson also called a dealership, asking which fluid would work. And they said the same. So, he ordered some online. Then, a few days ago, I was looking for something different on BMW E46, & several videos came up showing that Valvoline & Castrol make compatible fluid. This isn't the first time this sort of thing has happened. It makes no sense.
swmovan there are several schools of thought on changing the trans fluid. Some bmw dealer techs say don’t touch it if there is no service issue. Some say change it at certain intervals. Some say only use genuine fluid, or zf fluid, or German brands. At the very least use a bmw rated fluid like the ones in this video but do your own research and make the best judgement for your case ;-)
@@BIMMERZEITT Thanks for replying! My 20yr old grandson bought an '02 325ci, as a project car. He found a motor elsewhere. He seemed to think it would be an easy ordeal. I advised him to pull the pan(on trans), replace filter & gasket, with new fluid. He didn't listen. He did finally get it all together. He told me that he drove it around the block, & it wouldn't shift out of low. He never added any fluid. I looked up how to check it, & now he says there is sludge in it. He hasn't pulled the pan yet. My question is: Would it hurt to use carb cleaner to spray over the valve body, & inside the trans, to possibly clean it up? Even if it does (or doesn't), shift correctly, I'm sure he should change the fluid again, after driving for awhile. If it's not already too far gone.
swmovan hopefully it is ok if only drove it around the block. Just fill it with fluid to adequate level (there are other channels with diy’s) and fill it at the correct temp and cross your fingers!
Hlw to everyone, please help I have a e46 Bmw 325i 2003 model Automatic transmission so when it changes it doesn't change ealier or quick so I want to know if is it normal or it needs a service Plz help good people
Can someone help me, I have a 2003 e46 325i and I checked the transmission tag under the car it says it's a GM and part number is 96025329 I can't identity what transmission this is? Any help is appreciated
@@richardsanchez6993 I ended up checking under the car and the bolts were hex bolts, I'm pretty sure it's a GM tranny. The owner before me might've had a swap out done.
If you note your first reply you do not have a GM. You have to look for the tag, GM tags are green and have a large GM written right on it. The GM transmission use fluid that met the Texaco ETL 7045E specs and that's Dexron III, non synthetic.
Little later to the party but just FYI bmw does say lifetime, but within Bentley it’s specifies that “lifetime” is 100k miles. Which is all they want the car to last to in the first place 😜
Good video. I must say this though: just because the brand of oil "recommends" you can use with a certain make of car, does NOT mean that it will meet the specifications. Those are two different things. You need to look for the statement on the bottle which states something like "meets specifications for GM Dexron VI" and some "code" will follow. Or, "meets Ford specifications XYZ-123" etc. Pay careful attention to the wording. Valvoline "recommending" you use this fluid is NOT the same as "meeting the manufacturers specifications". Just thought to point that out. Thanks!
I'm still sitting on the fence haha. I'd like to change it on my manual transmission but then people argue that if you haven't done it by a certain mileage, don't do it at all as you'll destroy it? I don't see how changing the oil could harm it but then, I'm not a mechanic. Honestly, if it wasn't for the fact that I do all my work in the driveway, I'd have done it by now lol
Niamh Healy you can 100% change your manual trans fluid with a Redline MTL and it will make a huge improvement in shifting. It’s only the automatic transmissions that can suffer from a change. I agree, it’s hard I also work in my driveway for now.
And what fine taste you have in UA-cam channels, Niamh. ;-) You just have to use 75w-80 MTF-2 Full Synthetic API GL-4 fluid and you should definitely change it because who doesn't like their fluids serviced once and a while?
I’ve heard people argue that even changing it at all would ruin the transmission.. but honestly if the fluid is black, burnt or metallic specs I wouldn’t.. but if it still has a red hue I would do a change or drain and fill. I’ve had other mechanics state it’s not harmful but if you do a flush then yeah. Some even say use nothing but genuine fluid.. others like this video change it out with synthetic fluids etc.. ehhh.
You said it meats the specification according to BMW. It does not meet the specification according to BMW. they dont have any certification from BMW. its their own claim that it meets the same specification.
oh interesting, let me (and everyone here) know where you found that in the literature. The dealerships are weird, it depends on who you talk to they will give you a different answer of what ''lifetime'' means
Change it I own 3 BMWs 2 e36s one manual one automatic and one e60 automatic on my95 e36s I have changed the trans oil and they are over 100k running strong no issues and I drive them super hard I didn't change the trans oil on my e60 because wifey said no because she heard blah blah blah and gues what Mrs Blah Blah Blah had to replave her transmission at 130k. So I believe u should change it.
Mr Joe child man Think for a moment? Do you study chemistry? You strongly against keep oil for life in the transmission = means kill faster = yes? Now when using this Valvoline oil same kill fast = yes What a difference not change? When not change the same kill and save money buy oil Change kill transmission spending money on oil.
MAXLIFE ATF: amzn.to/2H0595H
BMW TRANS SERVICE: amzn.to/2queBHZ
TRANS FILTER KIT: amzn.to/2queBHZ
GET BMW TOOLS: ebay.to/2JJbdkt
Can this atf be used for power steering on e39s?
BMW has specified that "Lifetime" means 100,000 miles, not forever. Great video, helped me identify my transmission, proper fluid and importance of cycling out old fluid. You should add changing the filter to your video, old filter, old oil running thru the fill and recycling process and not changing filter doesn't make sense to me.
We do a full flush with Max life tranny fluid and have never a transmission problem.
Good research, and that is coming from a technician. First off, the BMW lifetime fluid, translates to 100,000-120,000 mile service life. You will find this noted in your original literature that came with your vehicles. You can service your ZF with the MaxLife but keep in mind it will reduce the service life of your fluid, however your filter will still be good for up to 100,000 miles. As long as you change your fluid from that point on, at or around 30,000 mile intervals and make a note of the fluid type change for your technician or whoever you sell it to, if that is your intention at some point, you will not experience problems. Personally I do not mind the reduced service life of the MaxLIfe, it seems to prevent build up in the valve body. It is what I use in my E46 daily driver. Also a final note. If the trans has been allowed to go over 100k with the original factory fluid, I do not recommend servicing the fluid 3 times, instead I recommend only a drain and refill twice. That is the one time you drop the pan to change the filter and one more time after driving a few hundred miles, drain and refill. This will maintain a fluid viscosity the transmission can make better use of, in its higher mileage life.
Thanks for this feedback and well written comments. I and the community appreciate it!
You're welcome. I have no problem making the ownership experience more enjoyable, like your self.
For the second fluid exchange would you use a t-tech transmission fluid exchange machine at the mechanics?
I use that on the zf too with no issue, but you have to make sure it says miulti-vehicle on the bottle , the regular gm fluid will work but I have found the car will shift strange , even had strange shifting issues on the zf using the zf fluid lol
good to know! Thanks for chiming in Nathan. Yep it says "multi-vehicle" on the front right above "ATF". Also at 1:51 meets all BMW specs for both GM and ZF
Also let me know what you think about changing the fluid once vs. twice vs. three times. I think doing it 3 times consecutively cycles the fluid enough to get it something like 95% new fluid through the whole system including torque converter.
BIMMER ZEIT I will do the filter and fluid first, if it's really dirty I will change the fluid 1 more time
After watching your informative video I ended up using this transmission oil for my BMW 750LI 2006. I have changed the machatronic adapter and sleeves and filled with almost 8.5 or 9 liters. Car is driving like a charm. Thanks for great informative video that saves me alot of money in transmission oil.
They make it so confusing, don't they? It's actually much more simple than we think. The GM trannies used fluid that met the Texaco ETL 7045E spec, right? Well that's just plain Dexron III, non synthetic. The ZF used the fluid that met the LT 71141 spec and that is just Dexron VI, full synthetic. In fact I was just at Wal-Mart today and their "Super Tech Full Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF for use where Dexron-VI & Mercon LV are recommended" fluid says on the back that it meets the LT 71141 spec plus it lists all the other manufacturers and their special spec numbers. But all this really comes down to is non synthetic dexron III or full synthetic dexron VI. It's exactly the same "choice" as you have with engine oil. The full synthetic stuff is backward compatible with the non synthetic however there is a difference in viscosity that can make some older worn out transmissions shift a little weird so I always try to stick with whatever fluid was in there originally. If maxlife says it meets both BMW specs, I imagine it isn't low viscosity maybe? Not sure on that one.
Thanks for adding your feedback man!
What are your thoughts on doing the fluid change once vs. twice vs. three times in a row? I think doing it 3 times consecutively cycles the fluid enough to get it something like 95% new fluid through the whole system including torque converter.
There is a jerk coming from 1st > 2nd upshift in E90 GM transmission. Is that normal or should the fluid be changed ?
No one had spook about pentosin, liqui moly top tec 1200, febi, ZF life guard, wich are the best option to choose...
Nelson Melgar yep, ZF lifeguard definitely the best and one of most expensive options
So what should i use for my 2007 BMW Z4, and don’t want to spend $57 a liter ?
Great job! I have a 2000 e39 and limped into the garage. Surely, the transmission had it at 150K miles. The mechanic said it was the fluid, and that GM transmission would last forever. Now I'm at 260K miles and thinking about changing the transmission oil again. The garage wants $750 to replace the fluid. What?!!
هل يناسب هذا الزيت الجير الاتماتيك سيارة بي ام دبليو e39 523i محرك m54
Have you actually analyzed the MSDS specs for ZF Lifeguard 6 which is OE spec fluid for all 6HP series transmissions? This 'one size fits all' Valvoline does not match those specs, both in kinematic viscosity and density. Sure the Max Life is certainly cheaper but I suspect you will lead to failure of TC lockup clutch at very least, could also lead to long-term failure of solenoids and drums because this fluid is substantially higher density and relatively higher viscosity. I believe that MaxLife may also be red in color thus any transmission failures on an oe or extended warranty may be declined due to obvious incorrect fluid being used.
There are lower priced alternatives to Lifeguard 6, namely Ravenol 6HP who's density and viscosity specs are nearly identical, its pour point is also much lower temp for those residing in Canada or northern States that see subzero temps. There may too be others in EU but the only readily available alternative to Lifeguard 6 in NA that I have seen is Ravenol 6HP. You may also choose Lifeguard 8 as alternate, which is identical viscosity to 6 but slightly higher density and substantially better pour point, much like Ravenol 6HP. Lifeguard 8 however is green which again could affect warranty claim coverage in failure. Lifeguard 6 and Ravenol 6HP are both a very light amber color.
Honestly, you don't even need to check MSDS specs. Just try pouring Maxlife, its thin but still quite hydraulic fluid like consistency. The proper Lifeguard fluid are literally the consistency of water. They are crazy thin at even room temperature.
Hmm I don't think that many of us driving E46, E38, or E39 are still under warranty!
exactly...the spec sheet will show a lot of differences....shell 1375.4 is the spec and manufacturer for lifegard6 and mercon sp....good video but i choose to pay more for the fluid and keep the trans safer
How do I find if I can use this in a 2009 BMW 335i ? I can't find the specs for the ZF 6HP21 transmission.
I have 525i e39 2003 how i can check the oil transmission??
I have a 2004 x3 bmw with M54 engine can I use this fluid ?
Would you be able to use it in a BMW 528i 2008 6HP19 zf transmission?
I just aquired a 05 x5 with 6hp 26 and high mileage,I heard a guy that works on BMW's say that Maxlife is better than Lifeguard 6 which is recomended on zf transmissions because it is denser and not as slippery on the clutch packs as Lifeguard 6 and am going to try it on mine,it is high mileage,over 200,000.
@@randallstewart8487 I used maxlife on all my BMW so far never had an issue
@@luciano5137 I think they will be fine with Maxlife,if mine goes which I know it eventually will,I will rebuild it,I have never rebuilt a ZF but have been studying them,I have rebuilt a few GM,and ZF looks to be easier to rebuild than GM,Ford uses in some of their vehicles 6R80 which is allmost identical to the ZF transmissions!
I have E53 X5 3.0i 2006. It had the 5L-40e and the factory fill was Texaco 8072b fluid. Is that just Dextron VI or is it something else. I know 7045e is just Dextron III non synthetic fluid, it says that on the bottle but I never seen an 8072b bottle. 🤔
I have 2011 328i XDrive with 94k miles on it! The car fax shows no history of the transmission fluid/filter being changed!?. I’m not going to do a complete flush on the transmission just a drain! I want to use V-Max Life!!!! It seems to be the top recommended transmission fluid to use!? I’m assuming I have original BMW transmission fluid in the tranny! Will mixing 2 differentl types of fluid cause damage!?
For long life tranmission, chage the oil ever riquire milliage for better performance, and duravility. I have a 328i, and runs great perfectly. thanks for the info.
Hello, my car E39 540i 2003 has driven 233,000 km Is this liquid suitable? How many liters is appropriate? Will it harm the carrier as it is rumored? Do I completely change the fluid in one go? I hope my friends because this question is very important to me and thank you
I also changed the fluid on my e39 (530d) GM transmission. And fluid needs to be changed for sure ! and now the transmission shifts smooth. but I plan to do another flush after 20.000 km so the old fluid left in the torque converter comes out completely.
I have jeep can I use Valvoline atf better than mopar atf 4 is it same
Great video, good info! Yes, definitely change, as most others have said - definitely not lifetime. Just a quick clarification regarding ZF vs GM -- generally speaking, the GM transmissions were used in LATER models, not earlier (especially in E46 3 series, where GM was used exclusively starting around 2001 and continued thru the end of the E46 series - the cutover you mention was in the switch from ZF to GM, not the other way). E38's were exclusively ZF, I believe, and E39s a mix, with later models being GM and earlier ZF. But - everyone should verify before any work, they look distinctly different - lots of good info available online about both! Good stuff!
This is correct, the GM transmission was used in later model BMWs mainly production 03/2003 and on, not the earlier models.
Not entirely accurate, my 2000 E46 323CI is a 11/99 build with a green sticker GM transmission.
it also matters what model of e46 you have. for example.. My 2005 325i is a gm trans, with the earlier models (2003 and below) have the ZF. Meanwhile, the 323 models usually have a zf for 2003 and above, and a gm for 2003 and below. Always check your transmission tag to be 100% sure.
Again this is not entirely true as all e36 US spec cars came with GM 4L30 except for the M3 which used a ZF box. Hence GM trans have been in BMW'S for years
@@chrisneil862
I concur with you, my brohter's 1998 E36 328i has a GM auto transmission.
YES.....You need to change your transmission fluid... You also need to change the filter too. It is better to change it at 50k interval. You can probably just change the fluid at 50k and then change the fluid and filter at 100k. It also depends on the climax, temp conditions and how the car is driven.........The GM transmission on the e39 early version has two pans so it makes more work.
i have an 2006 bmw x3 3.0 i change the fluid and put atf castrol vi. but trans is acting funny ...which fluid i suppost to use??
You didn't mention the E38 .... I have a 95 740il
Hi, thanks for your video, I have a 2002 330ci automatic, is this fluid ok for this car?, I can't find what OEM BMW oil is the number, thanks for let me know.
Can this be used for BMW 525xi 2006 E60? Or what fluid?
which is better Castrol or Valvoline?
Does the valvoline work with my 2012 BMW X3 with a ZF8HP 8 speed?
Hey man. I have a Jag XF with 8 speed ZF. You think this oil will do? Im at 75k miles and i dont believe this lifetime fluid crap
I would post or research on the Jag forums/community to see what their thoughts are
Does my 99 323i have the a5s360r and use the d4 redline?
Previous owner put cheap fluid so car drives only when hot and fluid heats up then the next morning I must have the car on for a while before driving I've been advised to change transmission but I'll change to a good quality fluid before taking that measure I bought the car this past Saturday.
Thanks for the great post. Very helpful. Have been wanting to change my early 1998 e39 fluid. Now I know. Thanks again.
Great video! I've had no problems using the Max Life Full Syn in my 1997 528i transmission for the last 5 years since rebuilding it. I also use it in the PS. I use LifeGuard 5 in the trans of my 2001 330i since rebuilding it and have had no probs.
Hello sr, can you please tell me BMW E39 528 how many litres of ATF?
Well done buddy! Yup I change my transmission fluid every 50K. I have a manual transmission and my 2004 E46 shifts like butter! I use the BMW fluid however you have convinced me to look at an equally appropriate fluid that is likely much cheaper, thank you 👍
Lycan ZHP thanks Lycan. I should note this is directed for automatic transmissions. You can use a redline brand MTL for manual transmissions and there is no risk of shifting issues. It’s really just the automatics that can suffer from issues!
So is this good for a 2005 bmw 325i ?
About a month ago, I did a search for "transmission fluid for BMW E46". All I could find was sites & videos that said to use only ATF LT 71141. My grandson also called a dealership, asking which fluid would work. And they said the same. So, he ordered some online. Then, a few days ago, I was looking for something different on BMW E46, & several videos came up showing that Valvoline & Castrol make compatible fluid. This isn't the first time this sort of thing has happened. It makes no sense.
swmovan there are several schools of thought on changing the trans fluid. Some bmw dealer techs say don’t touch it if there is no service issue. Some say change it at certain intervals. Some say only use genuine fluid, or zf fluid, or German brands. At the very least use a bmw rated fluid like the ones in this video but do your own research and make the best judgement for your case ;-)
@@BIMMERZEITT Thanks for replying! My 20yr old grandson bought an '02 325ci, as a project car. He found a motor elsewhere. He seemed to think it would be an easy ordeal. I advised him to pull the pan(on trans), replace filter & gasket, with new fluid. He didn't listen. He did finally get it all together. He told me that he drove it around the block, & it wouldn't shift out of low. He never added any fluid. I looked up how to check it, & now he says there is sludge in it. He hasn't pulled the pan yet.
My question is: Would it hurt to use carb cleaner to spray over the valve body, & inside the trans, to possibly clean it up?
Even if it does (or doesn't), shift correctly, I'm sure he should change the fluid again, after driving for awhile. If it's not already too far gone.
swmovan hopefully it is ok if only drove it around the block. Just fill it with fluid to adequate level (there are other channels with diy’s) and fill it at the correct temp and cross your fingers!
Just as a heads up. E39 540i's always had ZF transmissions
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_5_Series_(E39)#Automatic_transmissions
Would you recommend, this fluid.. for the zf6hp26... witch is on my bmw 550i 2006.. I've been thinking of doing this.
Please help. Thank you
use only zf fluids
Can i used this fluid for my 2006 bmw 330i
I used what u recommended and my transmission turn in to slush box :)
Hello! I have a 07 550i how many quarts? And will this fluid work for my application.
9.5 total only use zf fluid
I have a 2004 545 sd
What do you recommend to change it or not
Z-f
Checkout the newest updated 3 gallons for $54 formulation MaxLife ATF 95% all makes full synthetic including CVT tranny's.
Can I use this for bmw e90 - GA6HP19Z
Hlw to everyone, please help I have a e46 Bmw 325i 2003 model
Automatic transmission so when it changes it doesn't change ealier or quick so I want to know if is it normal or it needs a service
Plz help good people
Can someone help me, I have a 2003 e46 325i and I checked the transmission tag under the car it says it's a GM and part number is 96025329 I can't identity what transmission this is? Any help is appreciated
Jacob Elmer GM transmissions have 10 millimeter regular bolts the ZF have Torque bolts.
T Bailey Thank you, I'm going to check tomorrow. Happy 4th!
Hey, I have the exact same BMW, did you find out? I think it's GM Dexron VI is all I can find.
@@richardsanchez6993 I ended up checking under the car and the bolts were hex bolts, I'm pretty sure it's a GM tranny. The owner before me might've had a swap out done.
If you note your first reply you do not have a GM. You have to look for the tag, GM tags are green and have a large GM written right on it. The GM transmission use fluid that met the Texaco ETL 7045E specs and that's Dexron III, non synthetic.
Same applies to E53?
PzKpfw VI Tiger ausf. H1 yep
Little later to the party but just FYI bmw does say lifetime, but within Bentley it’s specifies that “lifetime” is 100k miles. Which is all they want the car to last to in the first place 😜
Good video. I must say this though: just because the brand of oil "recommends" you can use with a certain make of car, does NOT mean that it will meet the specifications. Those are two different things. You need to look for the statement on the bottle which states something like "meets specifications for GM Dexron VI" and some "code" will follow. Or, "meets Ford specifications XYZ-123" etc. Pay careful attention to the wording. Valvoline "recommending" you use this fluid is NOT the same as "meeting the manufacturers specifications". Just thought to point that out. Thanks!
How about an e53? 05 X5 5 speed automatic.
BigMystic18 Gaming should also work for the E53 trans but note it holds slightly larger capacity than that sedans, like an extra liter I think
I'm still sitting on the fence haha. I'd like to change it on my manual transmission but then people argue that if you haven't done it by a certain mileage, don't do it at all as you'll destroy it? I don't see how changing the oil could harm it but then, I'm not a mechanic. Honestly, if it wasn't for the fact that I do all my work in the driveway, I'd have done it by now lol
Niamh Healy you can 100% change your manual trans fluid with a Redline MTL and it will make a huge improvement in shifting. It’s only the automatic transmissions that can suffer from a change. I agree, it’s hard I also work in my driveway for now.
Ah okay! Thanks for that! I must be watching too many American channels lol us Europeans prefer manuals. I will put it on my list for the summer :)
And what fine taste you have in UA-cam channels, Niamh. ;-) You just have to use 75w-80 MTF-2 Full Synthetic API GL-4 fluid and you should definitely change it because who doesn't like their fluids serviced once and a while?
Haha! Only the best Jason ;) You're still my favourite .... Shhhhh ;)
I’ve heard people argue that even changing it at all would ruin the transmission.. but honestly if the fluid is black, burnt or metallic specs I wouldn’t.. but if it still has a red hue I would do a change or drain and fill. I’ve had other mechanics state it’s not harmful but if you do a flush then yeah. Some even say use nothing but genuine fluid.. others like this video change it out with synthetic fluids etc.. ehhh.
170K miles it's time will my mechanic cycle twice? I think he will
I was thinking of changing my fluid this morning. Are you licensing to my conversation? Haha
BigFerris L Alexa told me ;-)
You said it meats the specification according to BMW. It does not meet the specification according to BMW. they dont have any certification from BMW. its their own claim that it meets the same specification.
life time means 100K I seen that statement in one of my BMW owners books cant remember where
oh interesting, let me (and everyone here) know where you found that in the literature. The dealerships are weird, it depends on who you talk to they will give you a different answer of what ''lifetime'' means
Change it I own 3 BMWs 2 e36s one manual one automatic and one e60 automatic on my95 e36s I have changed the trans oil and they are over 100k running strong no issues and I drive them super hard I didn't change the trans oil on my e60 because wifey said no because she heard blah blah blah and gues what Mrs Blah Blah Blah had to replave her transmission at 130k. So I believe u should change it.
Good video
Viscosity numbers are off. Don’t use it.
Fluid from Valvoline is good but stinks
santiago herrera pretty much all fluids smell bad in my opinion, especially gear oil 😷
I compared with the Castrol and the Valvoline had that strong transmission shop smell
Don't use it,is not even close ,to what zf 5 hp gearbox needs, as an ATF.!!!!!!!
Girl, narrow your facts...
Mr Joe child man
Think for a moment?
Do you study chemistry?
You strongly against keep oil for life in the transmission = means kill faster = yes?
Now when using this Valvoline oil same kill fast = yes
What a difference not change?
When not change the same kill and save money buy oil
Change kill transmission spending money on oil.