8-Speed Automatic Transmission Assembly for 2012-2013 BMW 328i, 528i
Product Notes Read before buying
This is an 8-speed automatic transmission for All-Wheel Drive (AWD/xDrive) models equipped with the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine only. It will not fit Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) vehicles or models with different engines.
Voice or type your vehicle details and Wrenchy will confirm fitment in seconds.
Vehicle Fitment Guide
This part fits the following vehicles:
| SubmodelSUB- MODEL |
Body Style | Years | Engine | Attributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 |
| SubmodelSUB- MODEL |
Body Style | Years | Engine | Attributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 |
Know This Transmission Before You Buy
The research behind our purchase interview — recalls, bulletins and real install economics for this transmission family:
A quick look at your own vehicle makes sure the right transmission shows up:
- Confirm the vehicle is AWD (xDrive).
- Confirm the engine is the N20 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine.
- Verify the production date on the driver's door jamb sticker (compatible with 2013 328i AWD through 08/2012, and 2013 X3 AWD from 05/2012 through 08/2012).
What the install really takes — plan and budget with confidence:
Special tools this job needs:
- Torx and E-Torx socket sets
- Transmission jack
- Fluid transfer pump
- OBD2 scan tool / BMW ISTA system (capable of reading real-time transmission fluid temperature)
- Engine support bar or jack
Budget for these consumables at install:
- ZF Lifeguard Fluid 8 (or equivalent meeting BMW ATF 3+ specifications, approx. 8.5 to 9.0 liters)
- New plastic transmission oil pan assembly (with integrated filter, gasket, drain plug, and bolts)
- Torque converter seal (front radial input shaft seal)
- Mechatronics connector sleeve
- Mechatronics adapter seal (double-D seal)
- Aluminum bellhousing stretch bolts (single-use)
- Transmission cooler line flush solvent
What your vehicle’s computers will need after the swap:
What’s involved: Security/Immobilizer Re-marriage (EWS/ISN Reset) and TCM Adaptive Relearn
The TCM is locked to the donor vehicle's VIN/ISN (EWS4 security). To resolve, you must either swap your original mechatronics unit into the replacement transmission, or hire a specialized BMW programmer to virginize and program the donor mechatronics. A standard dealership tool cannot program a used unit. Additionally, resetting the learned adaptive values is mandatory.
Pro tips for a smooth first start-up — hand them to whoever does the install:
- Torque converter must be fully seated (three distinct clicks/drops) before bolting to the engine to avoid cracking the internal oil pump.
- The fluid level check must be performed with the engine running, transmission in Park, and fluid temperature strictly between 30°C and 40°C (max 50°C). Underfilling causes a supercharger-like whine.
- Adaptation reset is mandatory after installation to prevent rough shifting and incorrect gear holding.
Easy to get right once you know them:
- Reusing the old plastic oil pan and integrated filter.
- Reusing single-use aluminum bellhousing stretch bolts.
- Forgetting to transfer the original mechatronics/TCM or program the donor TCM's ISN security lock, causing the vehicle to lock in Park.
- Failing to flush the transmission cooler lines, which contaminates the replacement unit with debris from the failed transmission.
- Using generic or multi-vehicle ATF instead of ZF-Lifeguard 8 spec fluid.
- Shifting between Reverse and Drive while the vehicle is still rolling.
Not issues with the units on this page — the manufacturer documented these for every transmission of this family, wherever you buy one. Handy for your installer:
🔎 Recommended at install: Replace the plastic transmission oil pan, mechatronics sealing sleeve, or radial shaft seals.
🔎 Recommended at install: Replace the rectangular rubber adapter seal (double-D seal) between the mechatronics unit and the transmission case.
🔎 Recommended at install: Check transfer case fluid level, actuator motor, or front driveshaft universal joints before replacing the transmission.
🔎 Recommended at install: Inspect mechatronics unit weld seam to prevent fluid leak into the ECU.
🔎 Recommended at install: Check fluid level, replace degraded fluid, replace failing solenoids, or reset adaptations.
Researched from factory recalls, TSBs and OEM service data (reference unit 400-62186-1110592). Unit-specific details — mileage, condition, warranty, freight — are covered in the checkout interview.
Policies, in plain English.
Shipping & Handling
- Ships by LTL freight on a pallet — a real freight truck, not a parcel van
- Your checkout freight quote covers delivery to your door (liftgate service included for residential addresses)
- The carrier calls ahead to schedule a delivery window — someone must be present to receive it
- Typically palletized and picked up within 2–3 business days; transit time depends on distance
120-Day Warranty
This part includes a 120-day warranty.
- If the part fails within the warranty window, we'll replace it or refund per the coverage terms
- Coverage is parts-only — installation labor is not included
- Warranty covers defects — not installation errors, misuse, or damage after installation
Your pre-purchase interview reviews these exact terms with you before anything is charged.
Returns (30 Days)
We accept returns of uninstalled parts within 30 days of delivery for this part.
- Defective parts: We will replace the part or issue a refund at our discretion
- Programming: "Needs to be programmed to my vehicle" is not a valid return reason. Many modules require dealer programming — we're happy to help connect you with resources if your dealer says it's not programmable
- Return shipping: This part ships by freight (LTL) — the part price is refundable per the terms above, but shipping costs are non-refundable and return freight follows the seller's return terms. Your pre-purchase interview walks through the exact numbers before you buy
- Parts must be returned in original packaging and unmodified condition
- Poorly packaged returns that arrive damaged will not be credited
Damaged in Shipping?
Freight damage is rare — and you're fully protected when you do two things at delivery:
- Inspect before you sign — you're allowed time to look the pallet over while the driver waits
- Write any damage on the delivery receipt before signing — that one line is what makes a freight claim succeed
- Severe damage? Refuse the delivery — it goes back at no cost to you and we make it right
- Photograph the pallet before unwrapping; report concealed damage within 24 hours of delivery
We handle the carrier claim — you just help document it. Your pre-purchase interview walks through this checklist too.
Order Cancellation
Cancel before shipment for a full refund. Once the pallet has been built, a preparation charge may apply — and once the freight carrier picks it up, shipping costs are non-refundable and standard return terms apply. Your pre-purchase interview shows the exact numbers before you pay.
Expert Guides
2012-2013 BMW 328i & 528i ZF 8HP45: Problems, Identification, and Used Replacement
Identify the exact GA8HP45Z transmission variant, learn what causes harsh shifts and leaks, and discover when replacing it with a used OEM unit is the smartest choice.
Read Full Guide →Related Trouble Codes (OBD-II)
5 matching guidesIf your scan tool is showing one of these trouble codes, this part is a common fix. Each guide explains the code, how to diagnose it, and exactly what to replace.
Miscellaneous Information
OEM Part Numbers:
BMW: 24007640067, 24007642051
ZF: 1090012025, GA8HP45Z
Other: GA8HP45X
Fits Years: 2012 2013
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This unit ships with the selling yard's 120-day warranty. Longer plans can be requested during checkout.
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