from day 1 my dealer said the ATF is a lifetime fluid, requiring no service. as i approach 100k miles I worry that i should have changed it and if changing it now will just invite problems. it runs fine. any experience-based insights will be appreciated. Thanks.

 

@SavannahMan, I know it’s not a MINI but my brother changes his ATF on his BMW M3 about every 45k miles.

He drains and refills, never flushes because a BMW Master Technician told him a flush can do damage.

If you don’t get a definitive answer maybe contact Speedsport Tuning in CT and see what they recommend. I’ve heard amazing things about their company and services

I hope it all works out,

Rich

 

Depending on the year of the M3, it may have the dual-clutch transmission, and that does have a service interval.

 

Assuming you don’t have a 2021 or newer, your car has an Aisin (Toyota owned) automatic. If I’m not mistaken, not even Aisin recommends service. That being said, and from what I’ve read, 60,000 miles seems to be a popular service interval for these transmissions.

 

Thanks to all for the input. I will do some additional research before next visit to my dealer. Unfortunately, I need to replace one of my headlight assemblies, as the LED ring has burned out. Fortunately, BMW and dealer are providing financial goodwill to reduce my cost.

 

Great point

Rich