Several different fluids are used for BMW vehicles. They include transmission fluid, oil, steering fluid and antifreeze. The year and style of vehicle determines which fluids they car uses. Using the wrong fluids can have a negative impact on the vehicle's operation and could destroy important mechanical components. Fortunately, a little research provides all the information an owner of a BMW needs in regard to vehicle fluids. These fluids are what should be used in a 1996 BMW 528i.
A 1996 BMW 528i uses transmission fluids of type THM-R1 (A4S 270R). Four different brands can be used. They are Unical Dexron III D, Castrol Dexron III and Texaco ATF Mercon Dexron III. These fluids are required for the vehicle because it uses a GM transmission, and the transmission manufacturer specifies the use of these transmission fluids. Some BMW vehicles use a different transmission fluid, but those vehicles likely feature a ZF brand transmission. Using the wrong transmission fluid can void a vehicle warranty.
The BMW 528i is also known as the M39, and specific oil types are recommended for M series vehicles by BMW. They are synthetic oils produced by Castrol. The recommended oils are Castrol TWS Motorsport SAE 10W-60 Synthetic Engine Oil or Castrol Formula RS SAE 10W-60 Synthetic Engine Oil. According to BMW, it is possible to add another SAE 10W-60 or even a 10W-40, 5W-50 or 10W-50 oil between oil changes to keep it topped off.
BMW OEM Antifreeze is recommended for the 528i, but a basic extended life antifreeze also can be used. The antifreeze provides five-year, 150,000-mile protection for the vehicle. The 528i holds 11.1 quarts. The antifreeze should be mixed 50-50 with water. Therefore, it should have 5.5 quarts of antifreeze. BMWs almost exclusively use ATF power steering fluid. It is the recommended fluid for the 1996 528i. This fluid can be purchased in multiple brands.
