Part 2: Changing Automatic Transmission Fluid & Filter On A BMW/MINI

blog.BavAuto.com -- Most people think that because BMW and MINI call their transmission fluids "Lifetime" or "Extended Service" it doesn't have to be changed. Not true. To get the most out of your transmission and avoid a costly, catastrophic failure, you should change the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles. Watch Bavarian Otto demonstrate how to do this on a BMW E39 (5 series 97 thru 03). You'll find the specific fluid and filter your BMW/MINI needs in our online store at www.BavAuto.com.

[@rayhindle642]

Being 65 and partly deaf it's great to here someone who speaks slowly and wonderfully clear, an excellent video, thank you. Ray H. from the U.K.

[@localrockbands8962]

Ray, you can click on the (CC) button and it will close caption what he is saying to help folks who are hearing impaired.

[@RealdealSkip]

Now your 70, hooray

[@bavarianautosport]

When the pan is drained, you are removing around 1/2 of the fluid from the transmission. If the fluid being removed has high mileage or is visibly nasty, we do recommend a second fluid drain and fill (without removing the pan again) after running the transmission long enough for the old and new fluid to mix (some may take a 3rd time to be really clear and clean).. Once, the fluid is clean and clear, you next scheduled change can just be a normal single drain and filter.

[@kevz1969]

ok

[@jonplopp6643]

What about the dirty fluid in the torque converter, which if similar to a Mercedes holds the majority of the fluid. Looks like a job half done?

[@jonplopp6643]

You mean keep wasting very expensive atf? The stuff is at least £12.00 a litre. Must be another way?

[@yarpos]

@@jonplopp6643 he just explained that ( or at least 7 years ago) is there something unclear about "When the pan is drained, you are removing around 1/2 of the fluid from the transmission" ?

[@yarpos]

@@jonplopp6643 sure you can flush the transmission which uses even more fluid and comes with its own risks in old transmissions. Otherwise I guess hope for magic. If you are paying 12 quid a litre you need to change suppliers .

[@kingtachoss]

I'm impressed with the amount of detail in this video. Great job guys.

[@HDreamsProductions]

We appreciate the time you invested in helping out!...

[@NHILLproductions]

Outstanding how-to video. I'm a retired Air Force aircraft mechanic, and I can say that you are VERY detail oriented. Good job!!!

[@Seanmcclurewriter]

Fantastic step by step video. Was debating whether or not I should do this on my own, but this video confrimed I'd rather do it myself. Keep up the videos going!

[@ericmg7563]

The two parts are the best I have ever seen on KZbin. The instructor was so clear at a very comfortable pace! I like this video very much. Great job!

[@my7332]

You are a star. No music. No rubbish. Precise and up to the point. Can not be bettered. You are one of the rare people who share their experience and knowledge without return. Can't thank you enough. If you know how much I suffered with my auto transmission. No one was willing to sort this out as all I saw was monsters waiting for an opportunity to rip people off even BMW who insisted on replacing the whole gear box for more than 5000-6000 euro and also insisting on diagnostics which cost 140 euro( they are real bastards). My gratitude to you. Mudhafar

[@ericksonphillip1821]

you'all are doing great, this guy will make a great teacher for mechanics

[@bavarianautosport]

Thanks!

[@sylvamoise5788]

Erickson Phillip he's a professional who working at a dealer car's he's not someone who's trying.

[@mohitbhardwaj8711]

Thanks mate for a very informative video. I am about to buy BME E90 320i 2008 or 2009 model. Your videos filled me with confidence that I can repair Bimmer at home as I usually does my lancer. Thanks once again.

[@binniedj]

Did this job over the weekend and it went just as described in these videos. A big kudos to Bavauto and please continue to make these videos.

[@leolammas7940]

As ever,videos are articulated clearly. The pace of commentary matches the actual execution of each step of the job. The camera coverage is steady and well lighted. What can I say?----Perfect

[@darrylfernandez2899]

Wow you guys are great. I heard that Bavarian Auto had great videos on late model BMW's. I am a DIY guy and now without question I am confident that I can maintain a 1999 BMW 328i for a longtime. Everything I need to know you guys have a video for thanks and keep it up.

[@bavarianautosport]

Wajid Furgan - We can't reply directly to your comment as it was sent in via Google. Running the engine in a low gear and a higher engine RPM can certainly increase oil usage. However, you may have a problem with the crankcase ventilation system, which can increase the oil usage. You may have a ruptured check-valve diaphragm or clogged oil-separator. As for the transmission, we would suggest changing the fluid/filter as a first step.

[@04bmw330i]

Do you have a video on how to change the pipes that connect to the automatic transmission heat exchanger / transmission Cooler? can i find them on the website?

[@bavarianautosport]

04bmw330i - We do not currently have a video for changing the transmission cooler lines. The Bentley repair manual does address this. We can offer the replacement cooler lines. If you don't see them on the web site (www.bavauto.com), after identifying your model, just give our Advisors a call at 800-535-2002.

[@stallion78]

+Bavarian Autosport Question..........does anything have to be reset on the dash when finished ?????

[@TheKobotron]

I have a BMW 530i 2004 is the same process?

[@enrique967]

@@TheKobotron should be...just confirm via your VIN what tranny you have. There are several over the years

[@HenryJHutchins]

9 years on and still helping out. Thanks guys. 🤘🏻

[@walidbast]

Professional, informative, and straight to the point, no fluff or annoying music, and a sales pitch. Thank you.

[@simonsliwa1351]

Are the same steps in e60 with automatic transmission? Great video!

[@bicabone]

How do you run the transmission through all of the gears in an automatic? Do you just mean park, neutral, reverse, drive -- or did you run it through gears 1 - 6 with the tiptronic as well?

[@enrique967]

I run my park, neutral, reverse and then on drive switch to the tiptronic and run it manually through each gear.

[@superhossenpheffer]

Possibly the best video I've ever seen on youtube. Very precise and clear. Extremely helpful as well. Thank you so much for taking time to do this video.

[@daryushi]

I loved the way you approached this job very professional and precise and the fact that since you know what you are doing makes everything look very easy. Being organized and prepare for a task can go a long way without any head ache.

[@MrChangkn]

What about the fluid left in the Torque converter and oil cooler? Shouldn't that to be replaced also?

[@kyleweuve1677]

I am also wondering the same thing.

[@HDChrisSweet]

After the first fill the car should be run and cycled through the gears, it should then be drained again and refilled. This will help to clear most of the old fluid from the torque converter etc.

[@HarmanLearns]

planning on doing it tomorrow with 2x changes.

[@E59FF]

Kon Nyuk Chang you don't want to flush that fluid… That could cause some loose particles to break free and cause a worse clog.

[@paullahi2091]

It is best to increase the oil change interval. If the fluid is red or pink no burnish it is good. You can do a flush but the flushers often add solvents which is a contaminant. The only true recommended flush is with the exact fluid. If you change it like this and have no metals or burnt fluid you are good. As bad as this transmission was you could re change the fluid and filter by a month or mile schedule...several months or several thousand miles and it would be as good or better than a flush. It would address the concern you have about the fluid...capacity is around 9 quarts and he changed what 5? so you are doing well with two changes.

[@pd1jdw630]

someone should make a dipstick and tube for this. aftermarket. but better then black transmission fluid.

[@Vickthemaint]

I have actually made a dip stick my self for a 95 525i e34 auto.. works magic lol

[@overevv]

@@Vickthemaint Older cars that I have had such as Fords, all had a dip stick connection where anyone could pour oil into the transmission. Ah, those were the good old days.

[@xolithe]

Just wanted to thank you for another thorough and high quality video. The videos you folks have put out have definitely filled a niche that's missed by many with regards to the quality and consistency. Kudos!

[@bavarianautosport]

Thank you much!

[@olddavid4]

Thank you for your advice. Sure as hell, it took a pint plus to fill warm and running. Your advice is much appreciated in this man's garage.

[@edalvi441]

Appreciate the professional touch to all phases of fluid change.

[@sokola311]

These vidoes are amazing. Please do keep making them. Late 2000 528i owner here (MT52-TU.) Customer for life.

[@raider3001]

This is how auto repair vid's should all be very through clear visuals and sound. As for Otto your great I just purchased a 2002 325ci with 83,000 original miles and I have used your instructional vids to save myself hundreds of dollars in labor. In regard to the Trans fluid and filter change I wish I had a lift would make this job 100 times easier. Cheers.

[@bavarianautosport]

Thanks for the good words, Rich. We're glad to be able to help. Yes, the lift certainly is a game changer!

[@NeilMagill]

Your videos are great! Clear, concise and extremely helpful. Keep up the good work.

[@sebastianskopek]

I love you, I was really scared of changing the oil in my automatic transmission (2002 e46 325i touring) but after this video it won't be a problem. Thank you so much for your help, definitely a sub!

[@rustyshackleford6259]

Keep the vids coming! Every job I perform on my e90 and e46, your videos are the first place I look for answers! Just swapped out water pump and thermostat...followed your video and was confidently guided every step of the way. Cant say enough about how much help yall are for us DIY'ers. Saved me a lot of $$ to date. Bavauto.com is an awesome shop and has the best customer service!

[@bavarianautosport]

Thanks!

[@eystonaustin4988]

I own an 08 550i, and now can't wait to do mine!! I'm at 55,000 miles. Will do soon!! Thanks for the great video!!

[@michaelangelo9522]

thanks a lot for this video, in many mehanics garages make us think like no one can work on a bmw if it isnt a studied mechanic but with this videos we can see that it aint no science and that with the right tools anyone can do it. thanks a lot. keep on helping us.

[@javed6211]

Very well explained in an extremely clean and crisp manner including the talking. Thanks. Will be doing this on my E39 also. Driven 140k kms. 525 tds.

[@tenochxipilli6715]

Ty very much, I enjoy the professionalism. The mic is incredible.

[@rajkaza7445]

I'm impressed with the amount of detail in this video. Great job.

[@graemecooper3653]

Thanks guys for yet another great high quality DIY video. I always look you guys up for advise no matter what I am doing on my 2001 Z3 2.2i. Hope to see you in Australia some time! :)

[@bavarianautosport]

Thanks Robert. We're glad we could help!

[@Operator21]

Great Video Otto keep up the good work you guys at BavAuto are the best

[@LimitlessCXIVI]

Great job describing the process from start to finish. You earned my subscription.

[@mikeherbert6937]

always excellent videos that depicts the straightforward process

[@chemadison]

You guys have the best videos! Keep up the great work. Thanks to BavAuto, I've saved thousands of $ in mechanic labor. Not to mention avoiding price gouging on parts!

[@bavarianautosport]

Thanks Mike ... we're certainly glad to help.

[@anthonyjames4478]

Per this video, I found the instruction well-paced and sufficiently explained. Nicely done!

[@richardknight6066]

WOW. That has to be one of the most Well Explained, Thorough, Easily Followed, Informative Videos that I have seen on this process. Certainly going to help me doing the Job on my Z3. Thank You & well done.

[@Kabaselefh]

You made the whole process believably simple to us, I am waiting for my kits to arrive then I will replace it myself

[@edfrancis165]

Excellent video, BavAuto!! Keep these great video's coming.... you are doing a great job on these. I will be sure to reward you folks by buying all my BMW parts from you folks in the future.

[@BigO4501]

RE: 2007 328i with GM L45R transmission. This was very helpful. According to REDLINE their D6 ATF exceeds the requirements of BMW ATF for the GM green tag L45R. They also said REDLINE was fully compatible as it is nearly impossible to get all of the old fluid out. I was able to get access to a lift otherwise its impractical to DIY. Followed this video and performed the service. Trans shifts normally after service.

[@neufitofernandes2735]

Excellent Video, better than most that I have viewed. Thanks

[@schiktol]

Thank you for your DIY video. It's a great video with step by step instructions and explanation. I look forward for your DIY videos for more recent bmw models!

[@expeditetv5074]

Defunitely a great video!!! Very step by step, including the info on the magnetic fill plug...keep up the great work!

[@rabuayya1]

Very "precise and clear" indeed. Thorough! Great job!

[@dennislawson56]

I think this video is awesome and self explanatory. Although BMW has recommended lifetime for the transmission fluid it is quite obvious there is a significant breakdown in efficiency over time which in my opinion can cause problems with performance.

[@mikelovesnifer]

Just the info I was looking for, thanks for posting!

[@benjaminalawani7267]

Great step by step lesson. Detailed but well adjusted for smooth listening.

[@carlthomas4451]

I love it! just replaced all cooling parts on my wife's '00 528i and currently having the ignition parts replaced. I was under the belief that this was never suppose to be needed/done but I'm glad to have found this!! I plan on doing my '02 530i as well I hope it's very similar!!

[@bavarianautosport]

The '02 530i will have the A5S-325Z ( ZF 5HP-19) transmission. This is a bot different, but the procedures are the same, an the fill plug is in a similar location as shown.

[@bavarianautosport]

We have the filter kits and the proper fluids in our online store. Go to; bavauto.com and enter you vehicle, then search "automatic filter" and "automatic fluid", or call our agents at 800-535-2002 for personal assistance.

[@leolammas7940]

videos are clear,very informative------professional & well filmed. the 'plugs' for auto parts or tools are appropriate to the job & are welcome

[@MrRiveraW]

this video is well explained , we need more people like him. Thanks

[@multtube]

great job, i have a 528I touring about 220000 km i got it from its 1st owner, i think he never changed it..... thank's to you guys it wil be my weekend project

[@hjaltigestsson7866]

Excellent tutorial. Everything clearly described in a professional way.

[@MrRjnr]

Great! I didn't have the confidence to do this until I saw your video!!

[@beeeeeezo]

Thank you all of the helpful videos you post.

[@williebarrett1095]

Awesome video with perfect step by step instructions, very confident to do it myself!!

[@jamesogara2219]

Great video -- clear, understandable, and nice lenswork!

[@krisfraley]

Thank you for this extremely informative tutorial. This will end up saving me hundreds of dollars!! It's a little more invasive than an oil change(wish I had a lift), but overall still very simple.

[@bubba072]

Great video, very informational and helpful. I'm definitely gonna change the transmission fluid in my Altima.

[@Mr2pint]

It's a fairly easy job and I like how you don't have to top up the fluid at a certain temperature like a lot of other vehicles.

[@ksukutube]

Professional video and audio quality. Thanks for expert illustration.

[@bavarianautosport]

Yes, you are correct. Always loosen the fill plug first. We actually do this (and did, while doing the video), but neglected to show it in the final video editing.

[@Iraqitammar]

your awesome and know how to do things right. so far this is the best video i have seen on KZbin,thanks for the video and i wish to see you working on how to change or fix the power steering on E46 coupe.

[@Usman.Sanaullah]

amazingly clarified steps... thats exactly how i am going to changing my cadillac cts transmission fluid... because the process and part are same as this video... BIG thanks

[@ACT189]

Excellent video! Simple and straight forward .

[@bleepbooster]

Great vid - couldn't have been any more informative and clear. Thanks

[@ArshadKhan-xs4uk]

great detail shown in the video thanx BavAuto.

[@robertmccarson]

Great video. You just saved me the $500 my indy charged me for this 20,000 miles ago. All your videos are great.

[@johndrummond88]

Great video. Perfect step by step especially for us 1st time BMW owners. I am a service member stationed in Germany and just bought a used 1998 328i. Runs great but the previous owner stated that I might need to replace fluid and filter. However, getting the Germans to do it is just like you stated in the video, they state that it is not necessary for the life of the car. Thanks again and I really enjoy your videos!

[@bavarianautosport]

John Drummond thats for the good words ... and thank you for your service!

[@JohnFaire]

Doing a good job. Thank you for your time and hard work on a your videos.

[@tonybrennan9825]

I’m looking to have this job done on my 2011 BMW 520d F10 model with auto gearbox and now I actually know what the job involves, great video, great job 👍🏻

[@cezreycor]

Amazing DIY video! thanks for the help in this e46 journey! keep it up!

[@melvinacevedo2233]

Beautiful job and very informstive!

[@Moshishak1]

Impressive work. Thank you Mr. Bavarianauto

[@nathaniels.newsom2698]

Great video. Thank you for explaining (what may seem to you like) basic concepts. Some I had, some I did not (e.g., transmission will take an additional 1-1.5qt of fluid after it has been shifted through and motor is warm).

[@desertduck44]

Fantastic videos. Thank you and keep them coming !

[@NTL1991]

Excellent videos, great film work, great explanations! Keep them coming, Thanks!

[@ssadams2108]

Excellent!!!!!!!!, one of the best tutorial videos I've seen. Thanks look forward to seeing other instructional videos.

[@tahtahony]

This was really a experienced video. thank you very much Bavarian autosport

[@lonniechatman393]

Excellent Video. Keep up the great videos

[@DictaminarDaRuleZ]

This was really a experienced video. thank you very much Bavarian autosport (Y)

[@TerrellRiFic3]

Couldn't of been explained any better... Great Explanation Video.. Professional Work Done Right..

[@walterszczesny3619]

Well done video step by step. Excellent job!

[@bavarianautosport]

Thanks for the great words, Eric!

[@eduardocarrera4230]

Magno teacher film, I learning very well about transmission fluid change for my 2000 BMW 528i, sedan car. Thank you so much for the video.

[@user-pd3ce5gr3i]

I like how professional this video was

[@1972juankarlos]

great video, very informative, just loved it because i'm having issues with my 5 series automatic transmission.

[@astront917]

Excellent informative video, going to do my X5 soon,Thank you so much for taking the time.

[@tomfewins5803]

great video, very concise and thorough.

[@frantube20]

absolutely simply explained. could not be more clear. thank you

[@shortdog6360]

Very informative and we appreciate all the information for all the do it your self-service guys out here

[@peteraga997]

You guys always kick butt thats why i get all my parta from yous keep em comming..

[@alexcamilleri68]

very well spoken and explains everything clearly step by step......Thanks alot good job!

[@willmacleod1742]

Great video, clear and easy to absorb, congrats you Guys, & all the best.