What ATF for GA6L45R automatic?

[ryland]

So I just found out that my BMW 328i has a French GM GA6L45R transimission. How do I find out what ATF that takes? All the specs I see when I look it up are for the ZF transmission.

 

[unDummy]

Dexron-VI or an equivalent.

 

[ryland]

here is whats weird I found out what transmission I have from REALOEM.com by entering my VIN but when I look at this BMW sheet it looks like my car shouldn't have that trasmission?? Maybe I'm reading it wrong?


GA6L45R (GM6)
DEXRON-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
E82
128i from 12/07 production to present
E83
X3 LCI from 9/06 production to present
E88
128i from 12/07 production to present
E90
328Xi from 9/06 production to present
E91
328Xi from 9/06 production to present
The fluid can be sourced locally until a BMW PN is available. If the fluid cannot be sourced locally contact your Regional
Technical Specialist via PuMA

 

[ryland]

the list only says 328xi but I have a 328i?

 

[dtt004]

Hi.

You are fine using the recommended fluid for the xi.

Since the xi is AWD, it has more demanding lubrication requirements, so that's why it is listed rather than the regular RWD version. The xi's requirements encompass those of the i as well.

 

[ryland]

So I guess the redline vehicle lookup is [censored] because it says to use D4 and last I checked thats not compatible with dexron VI. This whole thing just makes me angry! I've called some independant shops and asked for quotes on changing the ATF and I've even given them my vin and they all say that they are going to use the ATF thats expensive that is for the ZF transmissions! The dealership quoted me high because they said it takes an expensive fluid and xpensive filter that is molded into the pan but now I come to find out that it takes cheap fluid and a $50 filter! Maybe thats why BMW says lifetime fill because every one is too dumb to know what to fluid and filter to use!

 

[nthach]

I'd stick to the Dex-VI. I'm assuming GM also uses this tranny in a Cadillac as well. It's the ZFs that need the special stuff.