218i ZF auto message oil needs service after 3 years i

[Richjon]

🙃

[Richjon]

My car is five years old with 20000 miles I now have a message that my transmission oil needs a service I have been told that this is a progmammed BMW message is this true?

[Greydog]

Morning Richard 

Not so long ago BMW were telling people the Gearbox was "Sealed for Life" this actually meant it didn't need servicing in the first 3 years while they had Warranty responsibility. The manufacturers of most BMW transmissions fitted to rear drive and Xdrive cars are ZF who recommend service/fluid change at either 60k or time dependent due to Transmission Fluid degradation. 

It seems they now include it in the cars inbuilt service schedule just like Brake Fluid and Coolant change cycles

BMW cars with Front Wheel Drive the transmissions are I believe manufactured by Aisin Warner

If you are DIY capable Kits to change Fluid and filters are readily available (make sure you use genuine ZF Fluid) If you are reliant on Garage support it doesn't need a BMW Dealer a good Transmission specialist Independent Garage or BMW Specialist can carry out the work

Good Luck 

Dave