How to Change BMW Transmission Fluid
- 1). Drive the BMW for at least 10 miles to warm the transmission up to operating temperature. Park the car on a level surface and apply the parking brake. If you want to raise the car on jack stands, do so at all ends so the car remains level.
- 2). Loosen the drain plug for the transmission fluid pan; a half turn with the wrench will be enough. Place a draining container under the pan and remove the plug, Measure the amount of fluid that drains from the pan, then replace the plug with a new plug gasket.
- 3). Disconnect the transmission fluid pan by removing its mounting fasteners. Discard its gasket, and clean the mating surfaces and the inside of the pan; brake cleaner will work.
- 4). Remove the transmission fluid filter; disconnect its mounting fasteners if equipped. Install a new filter with new seals.
- 5). Install the fluid pan back on the transmission, using a new gasket.
- 6). Fill the transmission with the fluid specified for your model BMW; the car's manual should state the type needed. Remove the filler/level plug, which is on the transmission above the pan, to fill it with the fluid. Fill it to the amount you measured earlier from the drained fluid.
- 7). Check the fluid level; the fluid needs to be just seeping over the edge of the hole. Replace the filler plug, start the engine and let it run idle for a few minutes. Check the fluid level again, as it will have heated and expanded.
