740 IL Transmission Service

[KRIS@MAKOAPPRAISAL]

Is there a way to check fluid level for a 740? I realize there is no dipstick. I have a squeeling noise coming from the front of my car when it gets hot and my mechanic, which does not specialize in BMW, thinks it is the bearing in the front pump. I think perhaps low on fluid.

Any suggestions??

[lincolnmaster80]

I suppose you could be a little more descriptive...but BMW wouldn't not put a dipstick where you'd need one the most...there's one for the engine and tranny and i Know on my 90 750iL, the hydrolic tank for steering and two or three other functions is on the drivers (left hand) side and has a mesh filter so that junk doesn't get in there...all else fails, check the owners manual to see where those dipsticks are.

[DarrellG]

I realize your posting is a few months old but how many miles? Let me guess around 100,000 - 120,000 miles? Does it sound like a If so then it is not your transmission it is your Drive Shaft Carriage Bearing. I'm told they go out first then the U-joints at 150,000 miles. The nosie is sometimes hard to locate.

[vitojosy]

So anyone know how to check the transmission fluid on 2001 BMW 740IL ??

[lincolnmaster80]

I don't think you can on your chassis/body style. If I remember correctly, they were 'sealed-for-life' transmissions, which made checking the level impossible.

Changing the oil? That's a whole 'nother ball game! It is possible, but I think they didn't even have drain plugs as that would defeat the sealed-for-life purpose.

I can dig around and find some info on how to change the tranny oil if you like...

[DarrellG]

These transmissions for the 2000 & 2001 740 i & il's are all sealed from the factory. If you don't see any oil leaking then it should be good. The miles that these transmissions can go with out a major should be in your manual. But if you see oil leaking from it them you may have a problem that you might want to see a BMW dealers.