BMW M3 2021-present ZF 8HP Transmission Transmission Specifications
BMW M3 2021-present

BMW M3 2021-present ZF 8HP Transmission Specifications

Comprehensive technical specifications for the ZF-8HP automatic transmission system used in the 2021-Present BMW M3. This document covers gear ratios, torque capacity, fluid requirements, shift logic, and diagnostic protocols specific to the ZF-8HP transmission.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the ZF 8HP transmission specifications for the 2021-Present BMW M3, including key features, measurements, and technical details.

How to Use

Use the search bar to find 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 listed below.

Key Specifications

Transmission Type

8-speed automatic

Torque Capacity

750 Nm (553 lb-ft)

Fluid Capacity

9.5 liters (10.0 quarts)

Shift Time

200 milliseconds

Final Drive Ratio

3.154

Available Specifications

Transmission Design and Architecture

Details about the design, architecture, and key components of the ZF 8HP transmission.

Transmission Type and Layout
  • 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Longitudinal layout for rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations
  • Modular design for integration with BMW M3's S58 engine
  • Compact and lightweight construction for improved efficiency
Key Components
  • Four planetary gear sets for smooth gear transitions
  • Five multi-plate clutches for precise shifting
  • Integrated torque converter with lock-up clutch
  • Electro-hydraulic control system for adaptive shifting

Note: The transmission is designed to handle high torque loads, making it ideal for the BMW M3's performance requirements.

Performance Specifications

Technical details about the performance capabilities of the ZF 8HP transmission.

Torque Capacity and Gear Ratios
  • Maximum torque capacity: 750 Nm (553 lb-ft)
  • Gear ratios: 1st - 5.000, 2nd - 3.200, 3rd - 2.143, 4th - 1.720, 5th - 1.313, 6th - 1.000, 7th - 0.822, 8th - 0.640
  • Reverse gear ratio: 3.696
  • Final drive ratio: 3.154
Shift Performance
  • Shift times as low as 200 milliseconds in Sport+ mode
  • Adaptive shift mapping based on driving conditions
  • Launch control functionality for optimal acceleration
  • Manual shift mode with paddle shifters

Note: The transmission's adaptive shift mapping ensures optimal performance in both daily driving and track conditions.

Fluid and Maintenance Specifications

Information about transmission fluid requirements and maintenance intervals.

Transmission Fluid
  • Recommended fluid: ZF Lifeguard 8
  • Fluid capacity: 9.5 liters (10.0 quarts)
  • Fluid change interval: 80,000 km (50,000 miles) or 8 years
  • Operating temperature range: -40°C to 150°C (-40°F to 302°F)
Maintenance Requirements
  • Regular inspection of fluid levels and condition
  • Software updates via BMW's diagnostic system
  • Filter replacement during fluid changes
  • Seal and gasket inspection for leaks

Note: Using the correct fluid and adhering to maintenance intervals is critical for optimal transmission performance and longevity.

Integration with BMW M3 Systems

Details about how the ZF 8HP transmission integrates with the BMW M3's drivetrain and electronics.

Drivetrain Integration
  • Seamless integration with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system
  • Compatibility with the M Differential for enhanced traction
  • Direct connection to the S58 twin-turbo inline-6 engine
  • Optimized for rear-wheel-drive dynamics in M3 models
Electronic Control Systems
  • Integration with BMW's Driving Dynamics Control system
  • Adaptive transmission tuning via M Drive settings
  • Communication with the ECU for real-time adjustments
  • Support for BMW's ConnectedDrive services

Note: The transmission's electronic systems are designed to enhance both performance and driver engagement.

Transmission Specifications

General information

Transmission Type
8-speed automatic
Manufacturer
ZF Friedrichshafen AG
Part Number
8HP76
Application
2021-Present BMW M3
Weight
94 kg (207.2 lbs)
Fluid Type
ZF LifeguardFluid 8
Fluid Capacity
9.5 liters (10.0 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

Torque Capacity

Maximum Torque
760 Nm (560 lb-ft)
Operating Torque Range
200-760 Nm (148-560 lb-ft)

Shift Characteristics

Shift Time
200 milliseconds
Shift Programs
  • Comfort
  • Sport
  • Manual
Adaptive Shift Logic
Yes
Launch Control
Supported

Cooling System

Coolant Type
ZF LifeguardFluid 8
Coolant Flow Rate
12 liters/minute (3.17 gallons/minute)
Coolant Temperature Range
-40°C to 150°C (-40°F to 302°F)
Oil Cooler integrated
Yes

Electronic Control

Control Unit
Integrated Transmission Control Unit (TCU)
Communication Protocol
CAN bus
Sensors
  • Input speed sensor
  • Output speed sensor
  • Temperature sensor
  • Pressure sensor
Diagnostic interface
OBD-II compliant

Maintenance Specifications

Fluid Change interval
60,000 miles or 48 months
Filter Change interval
60,000 miles or 48 months
Seal inspection Interval
Every 30,000 miles
Torque Converter inspection
Every 60,000 miles

Diagnostic Specifications

Fault Codes
  • P0700
  • P0715
  • P0720
  • P0730
Diagnostic Tools
  • BMW ISTA
  • ZF Test System
Self Diagnosis
Yes
Error Log Capacity
100 fault codes

Operational Limits

Maximum input Speed
7000 rpm
Maximum Output Speed
8000 rpm
Operating Temperature Range
-40°C to 150°C (-40°F to 302°F)
Maximum Fluid Pressure
20 bar (290 psi)

Safety information

High Temperature Warning
Activates at 140°C (284°F)
Low Fluid Level Warning
Activates at 1.5 liters below minimum
Emergency Limp Mode
Engages at critical faults
Safety Circuit
Redundant safety systems

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the ZF-8HP transmission in the 2021-Present BMW M3

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Inspect transmission fluid level
  • Check for leaks
  • Inspect seals and gaskets

Perform visual inspection and top off fluid if necessary

60,000 miles
48 months
  • Replace transmission fluid
  • Replace transmission filter
  • Inspect torque converter
  • Reset adaptation values

Use only ZF LifeguardFluid 8 for fluid replacement

100,000 miles
72 months
  • Comprehensive transmission inspection
  • Check electronic control unit for updates
  • Inspect cooling system

Perform full diagnostic scan and update software if required

Common Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the torque capacity of the ZF 8HP transmission in the 2021-Present BMW M3?

The ZF 8HP transmission in the 2021-Present BMW M3 has a torque capacity of up to 750 Nm (553 lb-ft), making it suitable for high-performance applications.

Q2

How many gears does the ZF 8HP transmission have?

The ZF 8HP transmission is an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing a wide range of gear ratios for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

Q3

What is the shift response time of the ZF 8HP transmission?

The ZF 8HP transmission features a shift response time of approximately 200 milliseconds, ensuring quick and smooth gear changes for enhanced driving dynamics.

Q4

Can the ZF 8HP transmission be manually controlled?

Yes, the ZF 8HP transmission in the BMW M3 can be manually controlled using the paddle shifters or the gear selector, allowing for a more engaging driving experience.

Q5

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

ZF Lifeguard 8 is the recommended transmission fluid for the ZF 8HP transmission. It is specifically formulated to meet the requirements of this high-performance transmission.

Q6

Is the ZF 8HP transmission compatible with all-wheel drive (AWD) systems?

Yes, the ZF 8HP transmission is compatible with BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.

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 Specifications

Coming Soon

Detailed technical specifications and performance data for the ZF 8HP transmission used in the BMW M3.

BMW M3 Owner's Manual

Coming Soon

Official owner's manual for the 2021-Present BMW M3, including information on transmission operation and maintenance.

ZF Lifeguard 8 Fluid Information

Coming Soon

Information on the recommended transmission fluid for the ZF 8HP transmission, including specifications and usage guidelines.

BMW xDrive System Overview

Coming Soon

An overview of BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system and its integration with the ZF 8HP transmission.

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Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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