My 2019 F57 Vert is approaching 90k miles. I”m told I will soon need brakes and it would be a good idea to change brake and auto trans fluids and coolant. The dealer says fluid changes are unnecessary. I live in a warm and humid climate. I’d appreciate hearing experienced insights re: brake, trans and coolant change requirements or recommendations. BTW, I don’t use the forum often so if this is posted in the wrong section or has been addressed before, please advise. I searched brake fluid and brake fluid change but did not see any relevant posts. Thanks.

 

I should preface my reply by stating that I do not believe in lifetime fluids. BMW/MINI try to tell us that some of the fluids in our cars never need to be changed. I'll always change the fluids in my cars are regular intervals.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic so it's a good idea to change every couple of years. Many manufacturers recommend this.

In addition to cooling the engine, coolant has properties that protect that cooling system. My understanding is that these properties degrade over time. Thus, it's a good idea to change periodically.

If you search NAM for automatic transmission fluid, you'll find a lot of posts by guys who changed their fluid and found that it was black and smelled burnt. Given how much a new transmission costs, changing the fluid seems like cheap insurance.

 

I agree with dmath. Most fluids are fairly easy to replace. I'd rather do more preventative maintenance than do repairs later.

But my opinion is based on no supporting data. I could just be old and technology has gotten much better. The conspiracy nut part of me thinks that BMW/Mini tries to minimize the requirement maintenance since they give it to you for free (for particular intervals).

 

+1 Fluid changes every 40K except engine oil every 5K when the clock reads last four numbers showing a 5 and 3 zeros or 4 zeros. Makes things easy to remember.

 

thanks for the input on fluid changes. i agree with the better safe than sorry approach.

 

My 2018 4 door S has 86K miles.
I change the oil about every 5 to 6K miles.
Had the brake fluid service done due to service message.
Changed the stock plugs 2 weeks ago.
Original belt still looks good.

Still have the original coolant and transmission fluid.

 

Thanks for sharing your experience.