Drain & Refill Procedure

The ECVT gearbox contains three plugs, one is used for draining, one is used for fill/level and the other for fill only. On the MINI it is recommended that the oil fill takes place from the underside of the gearbox through the fill/level plug. There is another oil fill plug on the top of the gearbox that is used in other applications but is not suitable for MINI due to lack of access.

The ECVT oil change is carried out at every MINI Inspection I.

With the vehicle on a hoist, remove the drain plug from the sump pan using an 8 mm Allen key.

Caution is required when the gearbox oil is hot to prevent scalding. 

While the oil is draining, to gain access to the fill/level plug remove the small undercar panel, loosen the 3 bolts on lower valance and unlock the 2 screws on the cross frame.

Remove the fill/level plug, (6 mm Allen key) this will drain off excess fluid retained in the level tube. Reinstall Drain Plug.

Using Special Tool No 24 8 100 connect to the fill/level plug and pump 4.5 liters of oil into the gearbox. It is the responsibility of the Technician to ensure the correct volume of fluid is added to the gearbox.

Shut the valve of the hydraulic equipment, to ensure no oil flow takes place in either direction. Lower the vehicle sufficiently, (Note: ensure road wheels are approximately 15 cm off the ground, as it is necessary to operate the vehicle in drive mode.) Ensure the parking and foot brake are applied firmly, start the engine and allow 10 seconds of engine running time before moving the gear lever from P (park). Shift the gear lever into each position and allow the gear lever to rest in each of its positions for 5 seconds before progressing to the next position.

The final part of this process will require the gear lever to be moved into the Drive position and the foot brake released. A light throttle application will be sufficient to shift the gearbox through the various ratios, this should be carried out 2 times, after completion apply the foot brake and return the gear lever to the park position. Keep the engine running and raise the vehicle.

With the oil temperature between 30°C and 50°C remove the hydraulic equipment and special tool, (Note: care must be taken to prevent scalding). Should the filler tube run dry very quickly, the gearbox is likely to be under filled. Refit the Special Tool and pump an additional amount of oil into the gearbox. Remove the Special Tool and wait until the oil flow begins to slow and then refit the fill/level plug.

Drain Plug Torque 40 NM

Fill/Level Plug Torque 21 NM

Use Only Esso ECVT EZL 799 Fluid for top-off or replacement.

Replace sealing washers on drain and fill plugs.