How to Tell If My 1995 BMW 740Il Is Self


1. Pop the hood and identify the power steering fluid reservoir. The power steering reservoir is a black cylinder mounted on the inner fender. Note the size and shape of the reservoir cap. If it covers about 3/4 of the top of the reservoir and has a flat, circular section in the middle, then the car does not use SLS. If the cap is smaller and the ribs extend all the way in, then you have SLS.
2. Read the words embossed into the top of the power steering reservoir. If it says to use ATF, then your car doesn't have SLS. An SLS system came from the factory with Pentosin CHF 11S fluid; if you see the words 'Pentosin CHF' instead of 'ATF' on the reservoir lid, then you have SLS.
3. Crawl under the car and look for the hydraulic lines connected to the shock absorber. You might be able to see it from the outside if you slip a mirror over and behind the rear wheel, but you'll probably find it easier to just poke your head under the car. If you can see the top of the shock, look for a U-shaped metal line that connect the shock to the thick rubber hydraulic line.