BMW M3 2015-2020

BMW M3 2015-2020 ZF 8HP Transmission Specifications

Comprehensive technical specifications for the ZF-8HP automatic transmission system used in the 2015-2020 BMW M3. This document covers gear ratios, torque capacity, fluid specifications, shift logic, and diagnostic codes specific to the ZF-8HP transmission in the BMW M3.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the ZF 8HP transmission specifications for the 2015-2020 BMW M3, including key features, measurements, and technical details.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific ZF 8HP transmission specifications by entering keywords such as 'torque capacity', 'gear ratios', or 'fluid capacity'.

Navigate through the documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the major sections and subsections listed below.

Key Specifications

Transmission Weight

87 kg (192 lbs)

Torque Capacity

700 Nm (516 lb-ft)

Fluid Capacity

9.5 liters (10.0 quarts)

Shift Time

200 milliseconds

Gear Ratios

5.000:1 (1st) to 0.640:1 (8th)

Available Specifications

Transmission Design and Architecture

Detailed overview of the ZF 8HP transmission's design, architecture, and key components.

Transmission Layout

8-speed automatic transmission with planetary gear sets
Compact and lightweight design, weighing approximately 87 kg (192 lbs)
Longitudinal mounting configuration for rear-wheel-drive applications
Integrated torque converter with lock-up clutch

Gear Ratios

1st gear: 5.000:1
2nd gear: 3.200:1
3rd gear: 2.143:1
4th gear: 1.720:1
5th gear: 1.314:1
6th gear: 1.000:1
7th gear: 0.822:1
8th gear: 0.640:1
Reverse gear: 3.295:1

Note: Gear ratios optimized for performance and fuel efficiency.

Performance Specifications

Technical details related to the transmission's performance capabilities.

Torque Capacity

Maximum torque capacity: 700 Nm (516 lb-ft)
Designed to handle high-performance applications
Supports BMW M3's S55 engine output

Shift Times

Shift times as low as 200 milliseconds in Sport mode
Adaptive shift mapping for dynamic driving conditions
Seamless gear changes for improved acceleration

Note: Shift times may vary based on driving mode and conditions.

Fluid and Maintenance Specifications

Information on transmission fluid requirements and maintenance intervals.

Fluid Capacity

Total fluid capacity: 9.5 liters (10.0 quarts)
Fluid type: ZF Lifeguard 8 transmission fluid
Fluid change interval: 80,000 km (50,000 miles) or as recommended by BMW

Maintenance Requirements

Regular inspection of fluid levels and condition
Seal and gasket checks during service intervals
Software updates for transmission control unit (TCU)

Note: Use only manufacturer-recommended fluids and parts.

Control and Electronics

Details about the transmission's electronic control systems and integration.

Transmission Control Unit (TCU)

Integrated TCU with adaptive shift logic
Supports multiple driving modes (Comfort, Sport, Sport+)
Compatible with BMW's iDrive system

Sensors and Actuators

Multiple speed sensors for precise gear shifts
Electro-hydraulic actuators for clutch control
Temperature sensors for fluid monitoring

Note: Sensor data is critical for adaptive shift mapping.

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Transmission Specifications

General information

Transmission Type: 8-speed automatic

Manufacturer: ZF Friedrichshafen AG

Part Number: 8HP50

Application: 2015-2020 BMW M3

Weight: 87 kg (191.8 lbs)

Fluid Type: ZF Lifeguard 8

Fluid Capacity: 9.5 liters (10 quarts)

Gear Ratios

1st Gear: 4.714:1

2nd Gear: 3.143:1

3rd Gear: 2.106:1

4th Gear: 1.667:1

5th Gear: 1.285:1

6th Gear: 1.000:1

7th Gear: 0.839:1

8th Gear: 0.667:1

Reverse Gear: 3.317:1

Performance Parameters

Maximum Torque: 500 Nm (369 lb-ft)

Maximum input Speed: 7000 rpm

Shift Time: 200 milliseconds

Efficiency: Up to 96%

Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to 150°C (-40°F to 302°F)

Control System

Control Unit: Integrated Transmission Control Unit (TCU)

Software Version: V8.0.1

Shift Strategies

Comfort
Sport
Manual

Adaptive Learning: Yes

Diagnostic interface: OBD-II compliant

Mechanical Components

Torque Converter: Type: Lock-up clutch
Diameter: 258 mm (10.16 in)
Stall Speed: 2200 rpm

Clutch Packs: Number Of Clutches: 5
Material: Carbon fiber reinforced
Wear Limit: 0.5 mm (0.02 in)

Planetary Gearsets: Number Of Sets: 4
Material: Case-hardened steel
Tolerance: ±0.01 mm (±0.0004 in)

Fluid System

Fluid Pressure: 3.5 bar (50.8 psi)

Fluid Filter: Part Number: 24118616001
Replacement interval: Every 60,000 miles or 48 months

Cooling System: Type: Integrated heat exchanger
Coolant Flow Rate: 12 liters/min (3.17 gallons/min)

Mounting And Installation

Mounting Points: 4

Bolt Torque Specifications: Transmission To Engine: 80 Nm (59 lb-ft)
Crossmember To Body: 45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
Driveshaft To Output Flange: 100 Nm (74 lb-ft)

Alignment Tolerance: ±0.5 mm (±0.02 in)

Diagnostic Specifications

Fault Codes

P0700
P0715
P0720
P0730

Diagnostic Tools

BMW ISTA
OBD-II scanner

Self Diagnosis: Yes

Error Log Capacity: 1000 entries

Maintenance Specifications

Fluid Change interval: Every 60,000 miles or 48 months

Filter Change interval: Every 60,000 miles or 48 months

Seal inspection Interval: Every 100,000 miles or 84 months

Clutch Pack inspection Interval: Every 100,000 miles or 84 months

Safety information

High Temperature Warning: Avoid prolonged operation above 150°C (302°F)

Fluid Handling: Use gloves and eye protection when handling transmission fluid

Electrical Safety: Disconnect battery before servicing electrical components

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the ZF 8HP transmission in the 2015-2020 BMW M3

60,000

Transmission fluid change
Transmission filter replacement
Inspect seals and gaskets

Use only ZF Lifeguard 8 fluid for optimal performance

100,000

Inspect clutch packs
Inspect planetary gearsets
Check torque converter operation

Replace worn components as necessary

Common Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What is the torque capacity of the ZF 8HP transmission in the 2015-2020 BMW M3?

The ZF 8HP transmission used in the 2015-2020 BMW M3 has a torque capacity of up to 700 Nm (516 lb-ft). This ensures compatibility with the high-performance S55 engine, which produces 431 hp and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque.

How many gears does the ZF 8HP transmission have?

The ZF 8HP transmission is an 8-speed automatic transmission. It features a wide gear ratio spread of 7.0:1, which optimizes both performance and fuel efficiency.

What is the shift time of the ZF 8HP transmission in the BMW M3?

The ZF 8HP transmission in the BMW M3 has a shift time of approximately 200 milliseconds. This rapid shifting is achieved through the use of advanced hydraulic control systems and precise electronic management.

Can the ZF 8HP transmission handle track use in the BMW M3?

Yes, the ZF 8HP transmission is designed to handle high-performance driving, including track use. It features a robust cooling system and adaptive shift logic that adjusts to aggressive driving conditions. However, regular maintenance and fluid checks are recommended for prolonged track use.

What type of transmission fluid is recommended for the ZF 8HP in the BMW M3?

The ZF 8HP transmission requires ZF Lifeguard 8 transmission fluid. This specific fluid is formulated to meet the high-performance demands of the transmission and ensure optimal lubrication and cooling.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

ZF 8HP Transmission Technical Manual

Coming Soon

Official technical manual from ZF detailing the specifications, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting for the 8HP transmission.

BMW M3 Service Schedule for ZF 8HP Transmission

Coming Soon

Detailed service schedule and maintenance recommendations for the ZF 8HP transmission in the 2015-2020 BMW M3.

ZF 8HP Transmission Fluid Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing the transmission fluid in the ZF 8HP transmission, including fluid specifications and safety precautions.

BMW M3 Transmission Cooling System Overview

Coming Soon

Technical overview of the transmission cooling system in the BMW M3, including its role in maintaining optimal performance during high-stress driving.

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