[Skip2017]

First, I am deeply cynical about BMW's "lifetime fluid" recommendations and pretty aware that the marketing phrase only came into use when BMW started selling maintenance packages.

That said, I'm not sure it applies as well to automatic transmission fluid, in that my dealer is quite reticent to do it even though I would be paying for it. They claim that there are actually more reports of transmission failures AFTEr such a change than if people just leave well enough alone.

It matters to me because my wife and I are now retired (on "fixed income") and want her X1 to last for quite a while. I am fastidious about maintenance -- especially fluid and filter changes -- so am wondering what is the best thing to do. Anecdotes are welcome but even more someone who can verify that BMW is saying.

Thanks for any help.

[allwheelsdriven]

my friend, who is a bmw dealer tech, swapped out mine two years ago.

[Skyline2.0]

I also am highly skeptical of "lifetime fluid" claims by manufacturers. I personally change all fluids possible, particularly for the engine and transmission, on regular schedules

I'm actually about to DIY an ATF drain and fill soon on my X1.

Most dealers I've asked about this type of service, not just BMW, have been reluctant or reinforce the script that the fluid is a "lifetime" one.

All fluids will break down and/or get contaminated over time. The "lifetime" claims typically mean the life of the respective warranty, which can be much shorter for people that plan to keep their vehicles for the long haul.

[allwheelsdriven]

Yes that is why an "lifetime of your ownership warranty" sounds good but they know you won't keep it long...

[Carlman3]

People who wait to change their transmission fluid long after it was needing to be replaced are the ones that have the problems. (When changing for new fluid)
If you change your transmission fluid anywhere between 50 and 75 k, you will likely not have the kind of issues caused by keeping transmission fluid for way longer than its useful life.
I've had it explained to me over the years. I'm just a regular guy, so take this for what it's worth.

[knightarmor]

A drain and fill every couple of years is worth doing.
As the poster above me stated (and me having worked at a Volvo and SAAB shop for several years in my past life) those who do not change their fluid and then decide to change the fluid only when they start noticing issues are the ones who are changing it way too late.

[jw9803]

The reason they claim "lifetime" fluid is because BMWs definition of "lifetime" is 100K miles. 50K mile intervals is what I was finally told. I would never buy a used BMW with an automatic trans unless I knew the previous owner disregarded the "lifetime" fluid claim and actually serviced the transmission. My F48 xDrive currently has 37K on it and I am in the middle of working my way through changing all the fluids that no one really thinks about. By 50K miles I will definitely service the transmission.

[Bebe X1]

Good day All,

I just have bouhgt second hand X1 with 113000 km on it.
All services done in official bmw service bit I dont see any evidence of oil change in gearbox.
Is it to late to change it now for the first time ?
Change the oil or no ?

[allwheelsdriven]

I've been changing the trans and diff fluids (and plugs) every 60 odd thousand miles. Now at 138k

[Tally100]

What does a Indi charge to replace ATF fluid please.