Automatic Transmission: Checking Oil Level / Changing Oil (BMW 5 Series E39)

Automatic transmission oil (ATO) should be replaced only after repair work has been carried out; oil level checks and replenishment are performed only when leaks are detected and eliminated.

The filling volume is approximately 3.3 l.

Caution: Only BMW approved automatic transmission oils may be used. The following oils may be used: Esso ATF Dexron D-210B5 (poured at the factory), Shell ATF Dexron II D-21-666, Mobil ATF 220 D-20104, Total Dexron II D-20356. For information on the possibility of using other oils, please contact your BMW dealer.

When changing the oil, extreme cleanliness must be observed. The slightest contamination leads to failure of the automatic system.

Caution: Do not start the engine or tow the vehicle if the gearbox is not filled with oil.

Examination

The prescribed oil level can only be checked with a tester used for servicing BMW vehicles by interrogating the condition of the vehicle's units and assemblies. Consequences of too high an oil level: strong foaming, hydraulic losses, increased temperature when driving fast, oil losses through the ventilation system.

Consequences of too low oil level: valves cracking, foaming, engine crankshaft turning (slippage), disruption of all work.

Oil change

To warm up the gearbox, drive for at least 15 km.

Raise the vehicle in a horizontal position and secure it with jack stands. Remove the lower engine compartment cover, see page 10.



Unscrew the drain plug "1" from the oil pan, collect the leaking oil. If the oil has a burnt smell and is blackish in color, the gearbox needs to be repaired.

Attention: dispose of transmission oil at a special waste collection point; do not drink it or throw it away with household waste.

Unscrew the oil filler plug "2" from the bottom of the oil pan.

Tighten drain plug "1" with a new sealing ring to a torque of 15 Nm.

Pour ATF through the filler hole until oil starts to flow out of the filler hole. Collect excess oil.

Start the engine. The operating mode selection lever should be in position P. Turn on the outside lighting - this will increase the engine crankshaft speed.

Refill the ATF until oil starts to flow out of the filler hole again.

Tighten the filler plug "2" with a new sealing ring to a torque of 100 Nm.

With the engine running, move the operating mode selection lever repeatedly to all positions.

Check the gearbox oil level at a BMW service station.