2005 325i - automatic gear box service yes or no?

[danlightbulb]

I am seeing conflicting advice.

The car is on 102k miles. The automatic gearbox has never been serviced.

I have approached two independants - one says don't do it, one says it should be done.

BMW doctor on youtube says don't do it.

Someone on bimmerforums says to do it.


I don't know what to do. I want to give the car the best chance at surviving by doing some healthy preventive maintenance. But this conflicting advice is strong.

What is your view please?

[d_a_n1979]

Yes; get it serviced

Re BMWDoctor; ignore that knobjockey; the guys a tit of the highest order!

My 2002 E39 has only 57k miles; got it serviced by Grant of Automatic Tranmissions in Preston & he said the fluid was foul, burnt and way passed it's life!

ZF (who make the boxes) state 60-80k miles for the box service; ignore what BMW say...

[helix402]

Go for it. These boxes often feel better after a service.

[Court_S]

d_a_n1979 said:

Yes; get it serviced

Re BMWDoctor; ignore that knobjockey; the guys a tit of the highest order!

My 2002 E39 has only 57k miles; got it serviced by Grant of Automatic Tranmissions in Preston & he said the fluid was foul, burnt and way passed it's life!

ZF (who make the boxes) state 60-80k miles for the box service; ignore what BMW say...

Agree with this….BMW Doctor is an absolute cock jockey.

Mine will be getting done on my 335i in the spring. I’d just make sure that genuine ZF parts are used.

[Gavarnie]

I had the autobox fluid changed on my 2004 325i a couple of months ago. Took the plunge (after seeing all the conflicting advice and opinions) not so much based on mileage (15,000) but age (of the car). It's not cheap to do it properly (flushing it through plus there is a filter to replace) but I think it feels a bit smoother and there's the peace of mind too.