Automatic transmission — fluid level check/replacement (BMW 7 Series E32)

The automatic transmission fluid filling usually changes only depending on temperature.

The amount of fluid to replace is about 3.3 liters.

Caution: Only ATF fluids recommended by the manufacturer may be used. These include the following: ESSOATFDEXROND-21065 (poured at the factory), ATF DEXRON II D-20356 (sHEII company), ATF 220 D-20104 (mOBIL company), DEXRONIID-2D356 (tOTAL company). For other ATF fluids, please consult a specialist workshop.

When replacing ATF, you need to pay attention to maintaining cleanliness. Even the smallest contamination can lead to the failure of the automatic transmission.

Caution: Do not allow the engine to idle without ATF in the automatic transmission. The vehicle cannot be towed without ATF in the automatic transmission.

Examination

Checking the fluid level on the latest models is only possible using a diagnostic tester.

The consequences of too high a fluid level may be the following: severe foaming, loss of throttle response, increased temperature at high speed, fluid loss through the automatic transmission ventilation system.

The consequences of too low fluid level may be the following: valve knocking, foaming, engine cranking without increasing vehicle speed, general deficiencies in operation.



The ATF fluid level in the ZF4HD22 gearbox is checked using a dipstick.



The difference between the MIN and MAX marks is 0.25 l.

Fluid replacement

Take a test drive of about 15 km to warm up the automatic transmission.

Raise and support the vehicle so that it is level and remove the lower engine compartment cover (mudguard).

Unscrew the drain plug (1) from the oil pan and collect the spilled liquid. If the liquid has a burnt smell and is blackish in color, then the automatic transmission needs to be repaired.



Unscrew the filler plug on the automatic transmission housing.

Tighten the drain plug with a new sealing ring. The tightening torque is 15 Nm.

Fill the ATF fluid through the fill hole until it starts to flow out of the hole.

Start the engine by moving the selector lever to position P. Turn on the outside lights - the idle speed should increase.

Add more ATF until it starts to flow out of the filler hole

Tighten the plug (2) with a new sealing ring to a torque of 100 Nm.

With the engine idling, cycle the selector through all positions several times.

Check the fluid level in the workshop.