I have been going through the archives to get a definitive answer to the changing or adding fluid to a "lifetime" 540i 5-speed auto tranny.

My fluid is "black" and it takes a couple of seconds to engage reverse. there is also a leak in the shifter seal.

I sent an email to Kirt (europetransman@hotmail.com) asking for an opinion on what to do, but he has not got back to me after 5 days.

(1) Do I change the filter and catch the fluid in the pan, put the fluid back in and replace what is lost with new fluid.

(2) Do I change the filter and replace all the fluid (with Esso or Shell of course, I have a green label on the tranny so I think I have to use Esso, LT71141), except what is left in the torque converter.

(3) Do nothing, but top up the fluid with new and replace the leaking seal.

Cheers,

Baileydog