Expert: John Kingery - 8/3/2010

Question
John

Just want to get you input. I have a 2000 740 with a 128000 on it and I'm really getting confused by what I'm reading. Some say no it's life time and others say 60000 and 120000 with filter.I have always been a belive of new blood keep things working to tops. Since I purchased this BMW I now find things different.

Thanks
Ray

Answer
I side with the folks who say don't change it.  It's expensive to change...can't really drain it all out at once, and so have to refill and flush several times to get it nearly clean.  Also, on all transmissions, replacing the fluid increases the odds for a failure shortly after....putting new solvents in, etc.

I recommend topping it off, but not changing.

If you go on-line, you'll find about 50-50 on which way to go.