I have an 04 530i with an automatic transmission. My mileage is 92000. Should I change the lifetime fill transmission fluid when I get near 100000 miles? If I do change it should I only change the pan/filter and the fluid in there? I want to keep this car for at least another 100000 or 200000. Thanks.

 

I have only owned American prior to my e60 and what I learned was that if you routinely changed your tranny fluid...ie every 60,000 miles, then you should continue to change it.

However, if you NEVER changed it, I would advise against doing it for the first time at 100,000.

BMWs could be different however.

 

My Service Advisor is recommending that I do it now with 74k miles.

 

If you've had no transmission issues a fluid and filter change shouldn't have any negative effects. Be certain to use original BMW parts and approved fluids. And at your mileage I'd avoid any 'power flushes' ... just let the fluids drain from pan and replenish to the correct level. Since there will be some fluid remaining in the transmission body, be careful not to overfill!