2005 X3 2.5L what power steering fluid needed?

[adutta]

I want to top off the power steering reservoir in my 2005 X3 (2.5L manual transmission). The reservoir cap says "ATF Only" and the fluid inside does look reddish. But everywhere I am reading that this model requires CHF-11S power steering fluid and that one is greenish. I am hesitant to mix the reddish fluid with this greenish stuff. Do I need to get some special ATF fluid to top off? Any recommended brands? Thanks in advance for advice.

[shogun]

Moved to X3 forum from X general forum

[vinyldude]

I think you won't go wrong if you use Dexron III or Dex/Merc ATF fluid.

CHF-11S is/was required in some models, where also some other hydraulic components in addition to the steering rack were run by the same hydraulic system. If the cap says "ATF only" that's not the case for you. The color also tells Dexron type ATF is in your system right now.

[adutta]

thank you all for reply. my mistake--- i will move to X3 subforum as advised by moderator.

[dukedkt442]

As the reservoir has an integral filter, replace the entire thing. If you have any PS moisture on top of the reservoir (around the vent hole in the cap), you have a filter that has outlived its life expectancy. IF yours takes ATF, Dex 6 is the latest and greatest. You don't want to mix ATF and CHF; don't go by what's on the cap, as caps can be changed in the 16 years the car has been in existence. Dab a white cloth into the reservoir to get an accurate indication of its color rather than by looking into the reservoir. Smell it; CHF and ATF smell quite different. Mine takes CHF, but it is an LCI model with a completely different drivetrain.