NHC MOTORS · SERVICE RECORD

BMW 528i F10 Differential, Transfer Case Oil and Coolant Change

We changed the front and rear differential oil and the transfer case oil separately, then flushed the cooling lines and replaced the coolant.

SAE 75W/90 and API GL-5 markings on the MOTOREX PENTA LS gear oil used in the differentials

2014 BMW 528i F10

Even owners who keep up with engine oil changes can easily miss the change interval for differential and transfer case oil. On this BMW 528i F10, we changed the front and rear differential oil and the transfer case oil. We also flushed the cooling lines and replaced the coolant.

01 / NHC MOTORS

We changed the front and rear differential oil separately

We drained the front and rear differentials and refilled them with MOTOREX GEAR OIL PENTA LS. The product's container is marked SAE 75W/90, API GL-5. The differential is where the gears that deliver drive to the wheels mesh, so it needs a gear oil suited to the unit.

We collected the old oil and the new oil for comparison. A color difference alone tells you less than two other things: when the oil was last changed, and whether any leaks or noise have appeared by the next inspection.

Color comparison of oil in measuring containers

Differential housing with the fill port opened for the oil change

Visual comparison of the drained oil and the new gear oil

02 / NHC MOTORS

The transfer case got its own dedicated fluid

For the transfer case, we used RAVENOL ATC Transfer Fluid DTF-1. It sits in the same drivetrain as the differentials but is a separate unit, so we serviced its oil separately.

Working from under the car, we drained the old oil and refilled the transfer case with the dedicated fluid. At your next service, check the differential and transfer case change records separately. A single line reading 'drivetrain oil change' makes it easier to miss something.

RAVENOL ATC DTF-1 used in the transfer case, kept separate from the differential oil

Drained oil collected in a measuring container

Oil service around the transfer case, under the car

03 / NHC MOTORS

We flushed the cooling lines and replaced the coolant

We flushed the cooling lines, drained the old coolant and refilled the system with AVENO PF A11 coolant. BG Universal Super Cool was also used. Coolant carries heat away from the engine, so its level and condition need regular attention.

After the change, check that the level in the coolant expansion tank stays steady. If the coolant keeps dropping or fresh marks appear where you park, have the connections inspected first rather than repeatedly topping up.

AVENO PF A11 coolant and BG Universal Super Cool protectant used for the change

Service hoses connected in the engine bay for the cooling line flush and coolant change

04 / NHC MOTORS

Keep a separate service record for each unit

This time, the front and rear differentials, the transfer case and the coolant were all serviced together. The timing of the next change for each unit can be decided separately, based on when it was last serviced and the condition of the car.

Record the product used and the change date for each unit in your service history. If underbody noise or a drop in coolant level appears, tell us when and under what conditions it happens. That helps us narrow down what to inspect.

Three systems serviced separately on the F10

Differentials

Gear lubrication for the front and rear axles · MOTOREX PENTA LS

Transfer case

Drive power transfer unit · RAVENOL ATC DTF-1

Cooling system

Engine heat management · AVENO PF A11 service

Shows at a glance what each of the three units does and which product was used in it.

Frequently asked questions

Do the differentials and the transfer case use the same oil?

No. On this 528i F10, we used MOTOREX PENTA LS gear oil in the differentials and RAVENOL ATC DTF-1 in the transfer case.

What should I check after a coolant change?

Check the level in the expansion tank. If it keeps dropping or fresh marks appear where you park, have the cooling system connections inspected.

If the drained oil is dark, does that mean something inside has failed?

We don't judge a failure by color alone. We look at it together with the previous change history, any leaks and any noise while driving.

Carry drivetrain oil and coolant care through to the next service

We check the differentials, transfer case and cooling system separately, then advise you on the next service items. Please bring any previous service records you have.

We explain the work and estimate before proceeding with your consent.

Call for service advice Book via Naver

031-258-1617 · NHC Motors, Suwon · By appointment

Published 2026-09-26