Should the Transmission Fluid of BMW Cars Be Replaced?

[LeChristopher]

Here are the reasons why transmission fluid should be replaced and the precautions for replacement: Reasons for Replacement: All transmissions (including many that claim to be maintenance-free) will experience a certain degree of degradation after several years of use, mainly due to the deterioration of the transmission fluid (including contamination or emulsification caused by other issues). Therefore, replacing the fluid is definitely more beneficial than harmful. Precautions for Transmission Fluid Replacement: 1. For automatic transmissions, the fluid generally needs to be replaced every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. 2. If the car is frequently driven at high speeds, it is recommended to replace the transmission fluid approximately every 40,000 kilometers. 3. For manual transmissions, the fluid can generally be replaced later, as the requirements for transmission fluid are relatively lower, and replacement can be done at around 100,000 kilometers. 4. Whenever possible, use the original manufacturer's transmission fluid for replacement. 5. Pay attention to the amount of fluid added during replacement.

[BryceLee]

I've been driving BMWs for over a decade, and transmission fluid definitely needs regular replacement. I remember once when I neglected to change it, and at around 80,000 kilometers, the gear shifts suddenly became rough with slight noises, which scared me into rushing to the shop for maintenance. BMW's automatic transmissions are very sensitive to fluid quality—over time, the fluid accumulates metal shavings and impurities, losing its lubricating properties and causing component wear or overheating. Generally, it's advisable to change it every 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers, but this depends on your specific model and driving conditions. For example, frequent city traffic jams mean you should change it sooner. The risks of not changing it are significant—transmission repairs can cost tens of thousands, much more expensive than the few hundred bucks for a fluid change. I recommend checking the fluid level and color regularly. If it turns black or cloudy, that's a warning sign. It's best to have a professional shop replace it with genuine fluid to ensure smooth driving.