Power steering fluid/ ATF

[tsteeves]

I've got a 1991 535i 5spd, in the US, and I'm doing all the fluid changes.

The problem I ran into was that the sticker on my power steering cap has been partialy torn away, but there is a big "ZF" in the middle of the cap. After reading a few posts on the site it seems like most e34 use Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Are there other fluids used in the power steering systems on E34s? How can I be sure I'm using the right stuff?

--steeves

[BASEBALL248]

4 options come to mind...

Check owner's manual
Shop manual
Look on P/S reservoir cap
Call a dealer.

[632 Regal]

mine takes CHF 11

[GS535i]

ATF in mine ... check the colour: red is almost always ATF, petrosin/CF11 is green IIRC

[genphreak]

ATF in mine ... check the colour: red is almost always ATF, petrosin/CF11 is green IIRCWere there any M30 powered cars with auto transmission (535i/635i/735i) that were produced that take anything other than Dexron in the trans and power steering? I don't think so...

[BASEBALL248]

I use DEXTRON III (ATF) in PS.

[Kobe Diesel]

ZF is a manufacturer of transmissions and various hydraulic components. Use ATF for PS system, do not use PS fluid

Redline synthetic ATF
Mobil 1 ATF Dexron/Mercon (what I use)
Any reputable ATF is good, Pentosin, as what the other fellows have mentioned.

If you would like to change the fluid yourself visit www.bmwe34.net there is a maintenance section on DIY PS fluid flush and change.