E46 All-Wheel Drive System: Transmissions: Notes

There are two transmission variants for the 325xi and 330xi.

The manual transmission for both versions is the S5D-280Z direct gear transmission. The extension housing is modified to accept the transfer case.

The transmission has a lifetime fill of MTF-LT1 synthetic transmission fluid.

Fig 1: Identifying Transmissions (S5D-280Z)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The automatic transmission for both the 330xi and 325xi is the A5S-390 R (General Motors) transmission with GS 20 AGS control and Steptronic shifter.

The transmission has a lifetime fill of Texaco 8072B.

Fig 2: Identifying Transmissions (A5S-390R)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.