The common signs of transmission issues
The common warning signs of transmission trouble in BMW vehicles are not all that different from the typical symptoms any other car might express; however, it’s always best to consult with a shop that specializes in BMW cars to be sure that the symptoms you’re experiencing are in fact due to transmission malfunction. Furthermore, whether you drive a manual or automatic transmission BMW will also weigh heavily on how your specialist will determine the source of the transmission issue and attend to it.
Here’s what you should be on the lookout for when you suspect your transmission is beginning to fail or malfunction:
Check-engine light
The check engine light may come on for any number of reasons; it’s sort of a catch-all warning light for all types of problems your car might experience. If your check engine light comes on, it’s important to have the codes emitted read by a BMW professional to determine if it is due to a transmission issue. This is usually one of the first steps in a diagnostic process.
Odd noises
The constant velocity joints and the differential are often the two main causes of troublesome noises, so it’s important to determine whether the sounds you’re hearing are coming from a transmission component or not. Any grinding, squeaking, or screeching should be checked out right away.
Odd smells
When the transmission fluid becomes compromised or overheats, it can create a burning smell. It’s important to stay on top of your transmission fluid maintenance to catch problems early on.
Fluid leaks
Any time you see fluid leaking beneath your car or within your engine, it’s critical to have addressed immediately. The only fluid that should be leaking from your car occasionally is condensation from the AC. If you notice a rich, dark-colored reddish fluid beneath your car, it could be due to a transmission fluid leak.
Shifting problems
A classic symptom in both manual and automatic transmissions is shifting problems. Shifting problems are a dead giveaway that your transmission requires servicing. If you notice shifting hesitation or rough shifting, bring your BMW in for a diagnostic procedure right away.
Lowered acceleration efficiency
This might not be noticeable to all drivers, but to those who drive a BMW, this symptom is most concerning. Traditionally, when you hit the gas in a BMW it wastes no time at all; if you notice that your BMW is suddenly lagging upon acceleration, it could be a transmission issue.
Shaking or vibration
BMWs generally offer a comfy ride to drivers and passengers, which is why any noticeable difference in ride smoothness is concerning. Shaking, shuddering, or vibration can often be traced back to a transmission problem.
Common causes of transmission issues
So, what causes transmissions issues you might ask? Well, no one is immune to them, and here’s why:
- Normal vehicle wear and aging
- Driving habits
- Engineering or design deficit
As you can see, the most common causes of transmission problems may be out of your control. When it comes to driving habits, all you can do is, know how to use a manual transmission properly and smoothly without wearing out the clutch or causing damage to the transmission. However, there are a few things you can do to help prevent transmission problems in your BMW.
How you can prevent transmission issues in your BMW
It’s not a full-proof plan, but the following suggestions can significantly reduce the likelihood of running into transmission issues in most cases:
- Hire a BMW specialist for all services and repairs
- Use only high-quality replacement parts
- Attend to your car’s routine services regularly
- Become aware of your driving habits and adjust them if needed
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The BMW experts here at Pete’s, Inc. in San Francisco, CA, have helped countless numbers of BMW clients attend to transmission issues. Transmission repairs can be costly and labor intensive, which is why we only have the most experienced and dedicated BMW technicians perform transmission work. If your BMW has exhibited any of the above-mentioned symptoms, it’s critical to bring your car in for an inspection right away—it could jeopardize your safety on the road, and at the very least your car’s reliability and value. Please call one of our helpful professionals today to schedule an appointment with us.
*BMW M4 image credit goes to:Chiradech.