redline transmission fluid and second gear

[trionalaw]

I apologize if the answer to this is on the forum. I have searched with every combination I can think of but cannot find it. However, I recall (I think because at my age sometimes what I think I remember I have already forgotten) someone mentioning that Redline transmission fluid cured or, if not, made the shift to second gear much easier.

I have a new 2008 with about 900 miles on it. it does seem that second gear is difficult to engage. When I go and for the 1200 service I understand the transmission fluid is changed. I remember what I think I read indicated someone was going to determine if using the Redline fluid would not invalidate the warranty.

So my question is has anyone used Redline transmission fluid? If so, any information about how it impacts the warranty and the shift to second gear?

Thanks.

Jim

[alpineweissM3]

I would imagine non OEM trans fluid would void the warranty. From what I've read about Redline is that it is smooth as butter for a few thousand miles. Then it goes down hill real fast.

[Radiation Joe]

Originally Posted by alpineweissM3

I would imagine non OEM trans fluid would void the warranty. From what I've read about Redline is that it is smooth as butter for a few thousand miles. Then it goes down hill real fast.

If by a few you mean 40,000 miles, maybe you're right. Every single person I know that's run Redline swears by it. I had in my e46 for 40k miles with zero problems. It got tracked in 100+ degree weather and driven in sub zero temps in Minnesota. I never had one problem shifting. Finally replaced it with the BMW LT2 fluid and didn't notice any improvement in shifting. So in my actual use of Redline, I can say that brand new BMW LT2 doesn't improve the shifting over 40,000 mile Redline MTL.

[alpineweissM3]

YMMV.

I never used it on my e46 as I bent over, touched my toes, and bought a $100 jug of the OEM LT2. However, several members over @ Bimmerfest have stated that the Redline fluid was awesome when new, but shift quality deteriorated quickly...within a few thousand miles.

[volkswackin]

id suggest sticking to oem

[Radiation Joe]

Originally Posted by alpineweissM3

YMMV.

I never used it on my e46 as I bent over, touched my toes, and bought a $100 jug of the OEM LT2. However, several members over @ Bimmerfest have stated that the Redline fluid was awesome when new, but shift quality deteriorated quickly...within a few thousand miles.

Bimmerfest: Pfffft.

Personally, I'd stick with the OEM stuff, too. Although, I honestly believe the MTL is superior to the factory fill, it's not worth the hassle if you have a warranty claim. When I had my MTL replaced with LT2, the service manager made it a point to tell me I had non-OEM fluid in the tranny.

[trionalaw]

Thanks for the replies. Enough said. I will stay with the OEM. Interestingly, my first BMW, a 1983 320, had a problem shifting into second gear. BMW replaced the transmission twice! And that fixed it. I will see how second gear reacts with a little more miles on it.

Input much appreciated.

Jim

[Green///Hell]

It will definitely void the transmission warranty

But I put Royal Purple in my E46 and it was totally smooth and the clunk was totally gone
Temperatures were also lower due to the fluid, but still I would stick to OEM for now or at least until 4yr/50,000miles