[chriscpmtmp]

I have a 2011 BMW 328 xdrive with a GM 6AL45 (I think).

I recall someone posting that this one uses the cheaper type of fluid, maybe dextron, but I can't find the post and I can't find the spec. Pelican does not show a difference between this and my 335d, which is the German trans. I think that might wrong, but i'm not positive.

What fluid does this one use? I'm ready to change the fluid.

[bluewater328]

Originally Posted by chriscpmtmp

I have a 2011 BMW 328 xdrive with a GM 6AL45 (I think).

I recall someone posting that this one uses the cheaper type of fluid, maybe dextron, but I can't find the post and I can't find the spec. Pelican does not show a difference between this and my 335d, which is the German trans. I think that might wrong, but i'm not positive.

What fluid does this one use? I'm ready to change the fluid.

Your xdrive should be a GM tranny and will use Dextron VI.

The thread you speak of and its bloody debate on sub-specs is here:

ATF Fluid recommendation/confirmation for GM Transmission https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1278902

People who reported back saw no ill effects from using standard Dextron VI from any decent brand vs getting the new specific spec versions or BMW Dextron VI bottle. YMMV.

I use the BMW stuff but they give me a fair discount so its only slightly more than other brands. I'm also fairly conservative, but it's a choice. All the specialty stuff (except the BMW bottle) is actually trying to accommodate multiple brand requirements and usually cost more. IMHO go BMW or just get a generic Dexron VI — choice is yours...thread is an interesting read.

[CTinline-six]

Valvoline MaxLife ATF. Make sure you get the synthetic multi-vehicle that says it works for GM.

[mecheng77]

Dexron VI, make sure it is made to GM spec and you are good. If you can't find it at your local store, go to a GM dealer.

[chriscpmtmp]

Thanks. If this goes as planned, I'll do my 335d next.

The guy that was going to help me said to use ATF4+ . I think he was guessing. So I might just try this one myself.

Originally Posted by bluewater328

Your xdrive should be a GM tranny and will use Dextron VI.

The thread you speak of and its bloody debate on sub-specs is here:

ATF Fluid recommendation/confirmation for GM Transmission https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1278902

People who reported back saw no ill effects from using standard Dextron VI from any decent brand vs getting the new specific spec versions or BMW Dextron VI bottle. YMMV.

I use the BMW stuff but they give me a fair discount so its only slightly more than other brands. I'm also fairly conservative, but it's a choice. All the specialty stuff (except the BMW bottle) is actually trying to accommodate multiple brand requirements and usually cost more. IMHO go BMW or just get a generic Dexron VI — choice is yours...thread is an interesting read.

[chriscpmtmp]

I replaced the filter and fluid this weekend. A messy job for the garage.

Really good news though. The transmission shifts noticeably better now. With a moderate take off from a stop sign, it seems to shift at a higher RPM. So the car feels a lot better.

I put in more than I took out. Maybe that was part of it. Not sure. But this was really worth it.

Thanks for all the info.

[CTinline-six]

Originally Posted by chriscpmtmp

I replaced the filter and fluid this weekend. A messy job for the garage.

Really good news though. The transmission shifts noticeably better now. With a moderate take off from a stop sign, it seems to shift at a higher RPM. So the car feels a lot better.

I put in more than I took out. Maybe that was part of it. Not sure. But this was really worth it.

Thanks for all the info.

Nice! What fluid did you end up using?

Yeah ATF+4 is for Chryslers.

[chriscpmtmp]

Dextron VI.

I should have made a Walmart run for the Vavaloine though. That is a lot less $$.

I'm so excited about this car that I might do a program update to get some more power.

Originally Posted by CTinline-six

Nice! What fluid did you end up using?

Yeah ATF+4 is for Chryslers.

[nsjames]

3 stage intake manifold is what you want.

[chriscpmtmp]

Sounds expensive, right?

Originally Posted by nsjames

3 stage intake manifold is what you want.

[nsjames]

depends.
I found one complete for $150 from a 330 part out on facebook.

it's the most bang for the buck power mod you can possibly do for a N52 powered car.

[bluewater328]

Assuming you got good DISAs, yes, it can happen for a low price. I pulled a 2006 330 as well for $130. Jury still out on the DISAs as I haven't had time to clean it up and break it down, much less flash the tune. Btw....

[chriscpmtmp]

Is a tune needed, or just the manifold. I see there is one on eBay. The seller mentioned the DISAs. Something about a rebuild kit.

Originally Posted by bluewater328

Assuming you got good DISAs, yes, it can happen for a low price. I pulled a 2006 330 as well for $130. Jury still out on the DISAs as I haven't had time to clean it up and break it down, much less flash the tune. Btw....

[bluewater328]

Originally Posted by chriscpmtmp

Is a tune needed, or just the manifold. I see there is one on eBay. The seller mentioned the DISAs. Something about a rebuild kit.

Tune required for the DISAs to work properly.

[ziddak]

Originally Posted by CTinline-six

Valvoline MaxLife ATF. Make sure you get the synthetic multi-vehicle that says it works for GM.

I use this stuff in my Mercedes. $20 gal vs $20 Qt for the "Mercedes fluid"
However, I'm using synthetic dexron VI in my 09 with GM Trans when I do my upcoming trans service.
With regards to the Valvoline, You could call their tech help (I did before using it in my Mercedes) and they will tell you if it meets the BMW spec for the GM trans. (Measure twice, cut once)

[Needbmwpartzz]

i use motomaster dextron and works flawlessly.