Just got this thing with 81k original miles on it and it is starting to whine a bit so I guess its time to change the fluid and hope for the best.

What type of fluid should I get for the 5 speed CVT midlands transmissions? Is there any locally bought fluids from say auto zone advanced etc that have worked? or is redline, royal purple the best choice .

 

The 5-speed Midlands manual transmission is not a CVT transmission
The 1st gen MINI Cooper automatic transmission is the CVT type.
Use Texaco MTL-94 (that's the MINI OEM fluid) or Redline MTL for the Midlands.

 

DIY Automatic Transmission Fluid Change (includes type of fluid needed, parts, time, etc.) and Parts/Fluid needed here.

-Luccia

 

I think the OP has a manual transmission

 

Believe he said it was a CVT, which is an automatic. Didn't read the midlands, so just read the CVT portion haha!

If he does have a manual and not a CVT then: Manual Transmission and Differential Fluid Change.

-Luccia

 

I just replaced m passenger CVT axel.... Pretty sure I have a CVT for my Manual Trans

 

CVT is an abbreviation for Continuously Variable Transmission which is an automatic transmission.

I believe CV in reference to an axle means Constant Velocity.

 

Check your feet.

Is there a third pedal for your left foot? If so, you have a manual transmission. If not, and you have a cooper not a cooper S then you have a CVT which requires a special oil.

When it comes to the automatics, the Cooper and the Cooper S used different automatics.

If you do have a CVT, then read lots before you dive into DIY. It is a very problematic (e.g. class action lawsuit) type tranny and is very expensive to replace. Matter of fact more people convert their car from automatic to manual if they blow the CVT transmission.

Good luck.

We are here to help, so ask away.

 

+1

And yes, make sure you properly check what you have so that you're putting the correct fluid in.

-Luccia

 

alright so I dont have a CVT I have a Manual with CV axels. Confusing but Ill buy it.

I just changed my fluid with http://new.minimania.com/part/NMG729...ion-Fluid-1-Qt

and boy what a difference . There wasnt even a whole quart of fluid in my transmission!

 

Glad you got it figured out. We have that fluid here as well, good stuff! Glad you feel the difference and hope you enjoy!

-Luccia

 

might want to keep on eye on that tranny and your driveway to be sure you dont have a leak somewhere thats awful low on fluid