What’s Wrong with Your BMW’s Transmission System?
Every vehicle is bound to have problems at some point, even with proper maintenance. In most cases, these issues are minor and relatively quick and easy to repair. However, the transmission can be an incredibly expensive vehicle part to replace. That’s why it’s important that you take care of any transmission issues in your BMW quickly by getting the best BMW repair in Houston, TX, at the first sign of trouble. Keep reading to learn the most common transmission issues that BMWs have and how you can get fast BMW repair.
Low Transmission Fluid
The fluid in your transmission system keeps it properly lubricated to reduce friction and avoid excessive heat when shifting gears. Because the transmission system is a closed system, transmission fluid isn’t something you should have to replace regularly. Typically, you’ll only need to replace the fluid if there’s a leak or if the fluid is old and no longer lubricating properly. Check your transmission fluid levels at least every 6 months to ensure the reservoir is full.
Transmission Leaks
As we just mentioned, your transmission fluid typically only needs to be replaced if there’s a leak in the transmission system. If your fluid levels have dropped, you should look for BMW auto repair to have the leak found and fixed quickly. Leaks usually occur when the seals and gaskets in the transmission system begin to fail. While some leaks can be internal, others will reveal themselves on the ground under where you park your vehicle. Look for dark red or pink puddles with a slightly sweet smell if you suspect a leak; on your BMW, this will occur near the front of your vehicle.
Blocked Fluid Filter
The transmission fluid in your system can collect dirt and grime as it circulates; for this reason, your BMW has a transmission filter to help keep the fluid clean. However, like an air filter, this can get clogged by the debris it filters, preventing the transmission fluid from properly circulating through the system and lubricating the system. Make sure to have your filter checked regularly and replaced when needed.
Bridge Seal Adapter Failure
While the issues mentioned above can occur in any vehicle, this issue is specifically a problem for BMWs. The mechatronic bridge seal adapter is a component in the transmission that prevents pressure loss and allows you to shift gears smoothly. However, in BMWs, this component is plastic and prone to cracking. Not only can this cause a fluid leak, but it also reduces the pressure output of the mechatronic valve, which can cause erratic gear changes and other transmission issues. This problem is most common in the following models of BMW:
- 2001-2008 BMW E65/E66 7 Series
- 2004-2006 BMW E53 X5 V8
- 2003-2010 BMW E60 5 Series
- 2005-2011 BMW E90 3 Series
- 2003-2010 BMW E63/E64 6 Series
- 2007-2013 BMW E70 X5 Excluding the 4.0d
- 2008-2012 BMW F01/02 7 Series Excluding the 760i/Li and Hybrid 7
If you drive any of these models, whether you purchased it as a new or pre-owned BMW, it’s important that you pay extra attention to how your vehicle shifts and keep an eye out for any warning signs of transmission trouble.
If your BMW’s transmission is acting up, contact us for expert BMW auto repair right away. Or, if you’re ready for a new vehicle, we can help you find your next certified preowned BMW in Houston. Just give us a call or stop by today!