Hey guys, probably a simple question but I want to make sure I order the correct automatic transmision fluid for my 93 850ci. Anyone have a link to a supplier and/or the name of the correct fluid for my transmission. It seems impossible to find (Google) a straight/consistent answer.

Have a great weekend all, Karl:)

I am running Mobil 1 ATF in my 4HP24. I have a 1993. What is your build date?

If you can get under the car, check your transmission, there is a plate on the side with your tranny's info (plus the color of the plate itself). Reference that with this attachment. Make sure you use the right one, good luck!

Hey guys, probably a simple question but I want to make sure I order the correct automatic transmision fluid for my 93 850ci. Anyone have a link to a supplier and/or the name of the correct fluid for my transmission. It seems impossible to find (Google) a straight/consistent answer.

Have a great weekend all, Karl:)


My 1991 850i owner's manual calls for Devcon III / Mercon ATF fluid. I went to the local auto supply shops (Kragen, AutoZone, PepBoys, etc.) and asked for that. Some of them pointed me to Pennzoil and if I want to go with a CHEAPER brand go with Pro Line.

Another item I was looking to pick up was radiator coolant. The book suggested a variant of low or zero phosphate, Zerez G 05. None of the local auto supply stores carry that brand.

So, to play it safe I went to a local BMW dealership and asked for radiator coolant and tranny ATF oil. Here's what they gave me:

Tranny oil:
Pro Line Devcon III / Mercon ATF
1 qt = $6.95

Radiator coolant:
Zerez G 05
1 gallon = $25.00

I was blown away with the tranny oil product they carry. A low end, small name Pro Line for $6.95 a quart. PepBoys carry them for $2.45 a quart. Needless to say, I didn't buy the tranny oil from BMW.

However, I did pick up 2 gallons of the Zerex brand of radiator coolant because none of the auto supply stores carry it.

Ironically, yesterday I was at a local home improvement hardware store (Osh Hardware Supply...OSH) and happened to walk down the automotive isle and guess what I saw?...gallons of Zerex G 05 radiator coolant, no phosphate 50/50 mix for $12.95 a gallon. Dough....!!!:mad

So, there you have.

Happy Friday,

-Chris

In 1991, there were very few aluminum block engine in mass production and there was no need for low or zero phosphate antifreeze. Today, most all manufacturers have aluminum block engines so the antifreeze industry has changed their formula and it will work in any engine. Name brand antifreeze is just as good and much cheaper then the stuff BMW sells.

If you use tap water in you cooling system, you will be putting in far more contaminates then is in the antifreeze.

The 4 speed automatics used with the M70 engine takes standard ATF fluid such as Dexron III, requires changing on a periodic basis, Any of the Dexron III synthetics are very good.

The 5 speed automatics used with the M73, M60 and M62 engines require special trans fluid and it is expensive. Shell and Esso are the two brand and identified by a colored sticker on the trans. This is what BMW erroneously refers to as "lifetime fluid" BMW's definition of "lifetime" is end of warranty!

If you have one of the 5 speeds, and it has over 100K miles, don't bother changing it, the damage is already done and it is a ticking time bomb. Changing the fluid at that point may even hasten the failure.

Yes I have heard of people using Royal Purple and other substitutes in these transmissions with good results, but there a lots of report where the trans got noisy quickly after the change when substitute oils were used..

Great post, Thanks!

That reminds me, I need to change my trans fluid, I'm at 71k and I've got the Shell fluid sittin' in my garage.

Once again this forum proves it's worth!

I just had a kid in a VW ask me what kind of car I was driving and how cool it looks...God I love that!

It is georgeous weather here in Wilminton NC this weekend, might have to give the car a rest and break out the motorcycle.

Have a good one, Karl