BMW 7 series, E38 (USA)

Power steering fluid capacity & service interval

BMW 7 series, E38 (USA) uses power steering fluid with a capacity range of 1,2 to 2,5 liters. The data covers 4 configurations.

The configuration chart below lists fill volumes and service intervals for each engine and trim variant.

TypeSpecifications
  • 740i (1996-2001)
  • Combined with levelling system
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 2,5 liter
  • 740i (1996-2001)
  • Separate system (ATF cap)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 1,2 liter
  • 740i (1994-1996)
  • Combined with levelling system
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 2,5 liter
  • 740i (1994-1996)
  • Separate system (ATF cap)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 1,2 liter

Additional Notes

  • The BMW 7 Series E38 (USA) 740i was available with two distinct power steering configurations: one combined with the levelling system, and one as a separate system with an ATF-type cap.
  • The combined power steering and levelling system holds 2.5 liters, a notably larger capacity that reflects the shared fluid reservoir serving both the steering rack and the hydraulic self-levelling suspension components.
  • The separate power steering system, identified by an ATF cap, holds 1.2 liters, a figure consistent with a standalone rack-and-pinion or recirculating-ball steering circuit without any additional hydraulic functions drawing from the same reservoir.
  • Both the 1994-1996 and 1996-2001 740i variants share identical capacity figures across both configurations, with 2.5 liters for the combined system and 1.2 liters for the separate system, indicating no change in fluid volume requirements across the production span covered by these specifications.
  • All capacity values listed apply under normal use conditions, meaning no separate severe-duty or first-fill distinction is specified for either system configuration.

Other Systems