Transmission Fluid Refill Procedure needed?

BMW 550I

MEMBER
2011 BMW 550I
4.4L
V8
TURBO
2WD
AUTOMATIC
99,500 MILES

Can you please provide the procedure to refill the transmission with new fluid after draining the fluid and replacing the filter/pan? The transmission model # is 8HP70. According to BMW the fluid is 'lifetime', and according to the transmission manufacturer ZF the fluid replacement interval is 150,000 km.

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,363 POSTS

Here is the fluid type and how to check it in the images below. You fill the transmission through a fill plug on the side of the transmission much like a manual gearbox. You must use the correct fluid, or it will cause problems like not shifting and slipping.

Type. Shell M-L12108
BMW P/N. 83 22 2 152 426

They don't give how to change the filter out, but I suspect it is much like a normal service where you pull the pan which might be a screen. Check out the images (below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the service completed.

Images (Click to make bigger)

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Tuesday, February 7th, 2023 AT 10:43 AM

BMW 550I

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20 POSTS

Hi Ken,

I purchased a new ZF transmission pan/sump which includes an integrated filter. The 2 pieces already connected together as an assembly: the packaging included new fasteners and drain/fill plug. I was hoping the detailed fill procedure would provide details other than referring only to initial and final fluid temperature ranges. For example, the process to shift through all gears prior to topping the fluid off after it's within the specified temperature range. But apparently the temperature range is the only critical variable.

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Tuesday, February 7th, 2023 AT 11:33 AM

KEN L