1.2

hardly worth mentioning
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
143,000 miles

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problem #1

Oct 142003

328 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 143,000 miles
The automatic transmission in my 1998 BMW 328I failed due to burnt fluid and oxidation. BMW product literature clear states that the transmission contains a "lifetime fill" of fluid and does not require changing. In addition, BMW does not include a transmission service in any regularly recommended services and never recommends that one be performed. Intersting though, BMW recommends the use of dexron III/mercon fluid for the transmission. Product literature put out by the manufacturers of these fluids clearly state that although the fluid should last longer than normal fluid, it still must be changed regularly. Every article regarding transmissions clearly states the transmission should be serviced and the fluid changed regularaly. BMW refuses to stand behind its "lifetime fill" claim.

- Newbury Park, CA, USA

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