BMW X5, E53 (USA)

Automatic transmission fluid capacity & service interval

BMW X5, E53 (USA) models utilize automatic transmission fluid with a capacity range of 9 to 10,1 liters. The data covers 6 configurations.

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

TypeSpecifications
X5 4.8is (2004-2007)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 10,1 liter
  • Code: ZF 6HP26/6HP28 6/1
X5 3.0i (2003-2007)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 9 liter
  • Code: GM A5S 360R/390R 5/1
X5 4.4i (2003-2007)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 9,6 liter
  • Code: ZF GA6HP19Z/GA6HP26Z 6/1
X5 4.6is (2001-2004)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 9,7 liter
  • Code: ZF 5HP24 (A5S440Z) 5/1
X5 3.0i (1999-2003)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 9 liter
  • Code: GM A5S 360R/390R 5/1
X5 4.4i (1999-2003)
  • Use: Normal
  • Capacity 9,7 liter
  • Code: ZF 5HP24 (A5S440Z) 5/1

Additional Notes

  • Across the BMW X5 E53 lineup, automatic transmission fluid capacities range from 9.0 liters to 10.1 liters depending on the engine variant, reflecting differences in the transmission units paired with each powertrain.
  • The X5 3.0i holds a consistent 9.0-liter capacity across both its 1999-2003 and 2003-2007 production periods, indicating no change in the transmission assembly or its fluid volume requirement between those generations of the six-cylinder variant.
  • The X5 4.4i shows a slight reduction in capacity between model periods, from 9.7 liters in 1999-2003 to 9.6 liters in 2003-2007. A difference of 0.1 liter at this scale typically reflects a revised transmission specification or updated fill procedure rather than a fundamental change in unit size.
  • The X5 4.6is, produced from 2001-2004, shares the 9.7-liter capacity of the early 4.4i, suggesting both variants used a transmission with the same total fluid volume despite differing engine displacements.
  • The X5 4.8is carries the highest automatic transmission fluid capacity in the E53 range at 10.1 liters. A larger total capacity in an automatic transmission generally corresponds to a larger torque converter or an additional transmission cooler circuit that holds more fluid.
  • All six configurations listed carry a normal use condition designation. In transmission service contexts, a normal use interval typically applies to standard on-road driving without the elevated thermal or load stress associated with severe use classifications such as towing, off-road operation, or frequent short trips.
  • The 9.0-liter figure for the 3.0i and the figures above 9.5 liters for the V8 variants represent total system capacities. Total capacity figures of this kind account for fluid held throughout the entire transmission assembly, including the torque converter, valve body, and cooler lines, rather than just the sump volume accessible during a standard drain-and-fill service.

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