Are you having issues with your BMW’s transmission? Here are some ways troubleshoot them.
One of the most common problems faced by BMW owners is when the transmission fails to shift or shift erratically. Trans is the first sign that there are issues with the transmission. On the screen, a message pops up that says, “malfunction drive moderately”. However, the problems in BMW’s transmission tend to vary. Your car might be running perfectly, and would suddenly go in a limp or safe mode. Sometimes, the car may suddenly refuse to change gears or go in reverse.
Here are some ways to troubleshoot BMW transmission problems.
Restart the Engine
Sometimes the car may get stuck in a gear. When that happens, find a safe location, and pull over. Now, turn the engine off, and start it over again. After turning the car off, wait for at least a minute before turning it one again. This will reset the transmission, and the malfunction message might go away. If the car starts running smoothly, you are good to go, but if the problems return, go see a mechanic.
Reset the Adaptive Settings
If the gears in your BMW are shifting erratically, it is better to follow a simple set of tips mentioned below, and reset the adaptive settings.
- Turn the ignition on. Do not hit the brakes, and press the stop button.
- The dash lights are going to turn on.
- Completely press the gas pedal and keep it like that.
- Don’t release the gas pedal before 30 seconds.
- Now, release the gas pedal, and drive off slowly.
Doing so, you will reset the transmission back to factory settings.
Resetting the EGS Fault Codes
Now, make sure to read the fault codes properly. To retrieve the fault codes, you will need a custom BMW OBD2 scanner. Make sure to get the one that is specifically designed for BMW cars. Such a scanner will cost somewhere between $100 and $150. The fault codes provide details on what the issue is. It is better if you do a complete scan. Te fault codes might send the transmission into a safe mode. After reading, erase all the codes, and if it doesn’t give you the right codes, read again.
Check the Fluid Level
Here are some steps you must follow to check the level of transmission fluid in your BMW.
- To warm up the transmission fluid, drive for 15 minutes. Allow the transmission to shift through gears. During the process, the fluid temperature shouldn’t be anywhere below 100 degrees.
- Te BMW should be parked on a level surface.
- Allow the car to stand still for a while.
- Now, from the oil pan, remove the drain plug.
- If the fluid level is fine, only a small amount of oil will comes out. However, there won’t be any oil coming out, if the level is low.
If everything is fine, you can drive away easily. However, if your car is low on transmission fluid, make sure to have it refilled.
