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Showing posts from December, 2025

Are All BMWs Rear-Wheel Drive? Here’s the Full Breakdown

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  Photo by Александр Бендус on Unsplash Rear-wheel drive has been part of BMW’s identity for decades. It shaped the way their cars handled, the balance they delivered and the reputation the brand built among enthusiasts. But as the model range has expanded, with hybrids, compact family cars and fully electric models, the question isn’t as simple as it used to be. So, are BMWs still rear-wheel drive, or has the line-up moved on? Here’s a clear, up-to-date breakdown of how BMW’s drivetrains work today. The Legacy: Rear-Wheel Drive at the Core For most of BMW’s history, the answer would have been a straight yes. Traditional saloons and coupés were built around a longitudinal engine layout with a prop shaft running to a rear differential — a simple, balanced configuration that defined the brand. Plenty of models still follow that formula: 3 Series 4 Series 5 Series 7 Series 8 Series Most M models These cars remain rear-drive by default and continue to deliver the sharp, predictable fee...

Which BMW parts are a must to change after your warranty ends?

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Photo by Angelica Levshakowa on Unsplash A BMW that has just stepped out of warranty isn’t a problem, but it is at the age where certain parts begin to show predictable wear. And while BMW often promotes “lifetime fluids” and long servicing intervals, UK independent specialists, ZF transmissions themselves, and thousands of owner reports tell a more grounded story. Below is a realistic, research-driven guide to the BMW parts most owners should expect to replace or service shortly after their warranty expires. 1. Gearbox Oil (Despite BMW Calling It ‘Lifetime’) BMW calls its gearbox oil “lifetime fill,” but none of the manufacturers behind the transmissions agree. ZF, Aisin, Getrag and Magna all advise oil and filter changes between 40,000 and 75,000 miles, depending on the unit. This includes: ZF 8HP (most F/G generation petrol and diesel models) ZF 6HP (older F generation and late E generation models) Aisin automatics in smaller petrol and hybrid BMWs Getrag/Magna DCT gearboxes in...