How do you check the automatic transmission fluid in a 2001 BMW 330ci?

Answer 1

They recommend having your repair shop check it. Unlike most other cars, it is not as easy as checking the oil. Drive the car 10 miles to warm it up to 85-120 degrees (it must be warm). It is checked from under the raised but LEVEL car. There is a cap/fill hole just ABOVE the fluid pan. Take this off, and if fluid is pouring out, you have enough and quickly stick it back in. Use a new plug gasket. If the color is dark reddish-brown or black, or it smells burnt, the fluid needs replacement. There is a drain plug at the bottom, and leave this in if just checking the fluid. If the fluid is being replaced, the whole pan needs to be removed, cleaned, a new gasket installed, etc. -it is a pretty messy job better left to the repair shop with that nice big lift and the guy in the greasy coveralls (it needn't be done at the $dealer$, however).