[335ivin]

As I was surfing the net I ran into the article listed below that can help you diagnose your transmission problems.

https://www.youcanic.com/guide/bmw-t...ssion-problems

A common problem many BMW owners face is the automatic transmission not shifting or erratic shifting. The first sign of BMW transmission problem is the Trans. Malfunction Drive Moderately message pops up on the screen.

Symptoms of BMW transmission problems vary. Your BMW may be running fine and then all of the sudden you get a transmission fault warning plus the car goes into Safe Mode/ Limp Mode. The transmission will no longer shift or go in reverse.

What you will find in this guide:

Common BMW Transmission Problems
Troubleshooting BMW Transmission
BMW Transmission Messages
Related Resources
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COMMON BMW TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS
Transmission stuck in gear
BMW Transmission slipping
Transmission malfunction message
Transmission shifts hard, not smoothly
Transmission malfunction drive moderate
Erratic shifting or bumping in one or more gears
The engine revs up and refuses to shift
Transmission Failsafe Prog. Warning
Lag between gears such as 1st to 2nd, 2nd to 3rd
Gear ratio fault codes
Erratic shifting when changing gear

If you are experiencing transmission problems and take your BMW to the dealership, you may have been quoted for a new transmission. You shouldn't panic or rush into spending $5000-$7000 on a new transmission. There are a few things that need to be checked first. Follow the steps below to learn about the most common BMW transmission problems and how to fix them.

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TROUBLESHOOTING BMW TRANSMISSION
Troubleshooting BMW transmission problems yourself is possible. Often times not only can you fix the problem yourself, but you can fix the problem by replacing only the defective part instead of replacing the transmission. Let's start with the most simple and basic troubleshooting steps.

Restart Engine
restarting your BMW will often get the car out of safe mode and fix transmission problem If your BMW displays the transmission error message or is stuck in gear, the first thing you should do is find a safe location, turn off the engine and restart the car. Wait at least one minutes and start the car. This may reset the transmission and the transmission malfunction message may turn off, which should allow you to get back on the road.

If your BMW is back to shifting normally don't assume there is no problem. There is a high chance that you will experience the same transmission problem again.

While the problem may not seem major, if you ignore it, it can eventually get worse to the point that your BMW will no longer shift gears.

Reset automatic transmission
If you have noticed that your BMW has erratic shifts or is not responding properly the problem may be fixed by following a few simple procedures that will allow you to reset BMW adaptive settings. This procedure is very simple, requires no tools and only needs a couple of minutes.

BMW Transmission Reset Procedure

BMW automatic transmission reset
Turn on the ignition. If your BMW has Start/Stop button, press the Start button but DO NOT press the brake pedal.
All the dash lights will turn on.
Now, press the gas pedal all the way to the floor and keep it pressed. (Ensure the kick down switch is pressed )
Keep the gas pedal pressed for 30 seconds. (During this procedure engine should be off, ignition still on.)
Release the gas pedal.
Start BMW and drive normally.

This will reset your transmission shifting to original factory settings. In other words, the BMW will erase the transmission shift points. For the next few driving cycles, your BMW will be monitoring your driving patterns; it is NOT recommended to drive aggressively.

Hopefully, this fixed your problem but if the symptoms will return again continue to the next step.

Read and Reset EGS Fault Codes
The next step is to read the fault codes. You will need a BMW specific OBD2 scanner that can retrieve fault codes from BMW modules. Typically you will be able to get a good scanner in the $100-$150 range. Generic OBD2 scanners won't help you with this task. If you use a generic OBD2 scanner you will get generic fault codes such as P0720 or P0732 which don't provide enough details on what could be the cause of the problem.


What we used: Foxwell NT510 for BMW

Alternative scanners: Top 10 Scanners for BMW

You should at a minimum read fault codes from the Transmission Module (EGS Unit), but a full system scan is recommended. Sometimes you may find there is DSC or ABS fault code. It is possible that a fault code in these systems can put your BMW automatic transmission into Fail Safe mode even if there is nothing wrong with the transmission.

Erase all the codes. This will erase any stored codes and current codes. If your BMW transmission is working properly, great. If your BMW is still in Failsafe mode read the codes again.

Check Transmission Fluid Level
check BMW transmission fluid level If transmission malfunction drive moderately error message pops up on your BMW, one thing that you should always check is the automatic transmission fluid level. If the trans level is low, even slightly, your BMW will go in limp mode to protect the transmission. It is typical for a small amount of oil to leak especially in high mileage BMW. Add the missing transmission fluid, but do not overfill the transmission above the recommended level as this can cause shifting problems as well.

Typical signs that the transmission fluid level is low, is that your BMW displays the Transmission Failsafe Prog." Warning if you try to accelerate by flooring the gas pedal or when accelerating as you are making a turn. This happens because more transmission fluid is required during acceleration or the fluids gets pushed to one side of the trans oil pan when making a turn. Which means there is no transmission fluid for the oil pump which causes the transmission to go into FailSafe or Limp mode.

How to check BMW transmission oil

Drive your BMW for 15 minutes to warm up the automatic transmission fluid. Make sure to allow the transmission to shift through all the gears. Transition fluid temperature should reach around 100 degrees F. during this driving cycle.
Park your BMW in a level surface or lift it up on a lift.
Let the car in park and at idle.
Remove the drain plug from the transmission oil pan.
A very small amount of transmission fluid should drain from the oil pan if the level is full.
If the level is low, there will be no oil coming out.
Transmission Mechatronic Sleeve
BMW mechatronic sleeve location Check for an oil leak at the electrical connector. The mechatronic sleeve is located on the passenger's side of the transmission near the end of the automatic transmission. This is where the wire harness from the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) connects the transmission. This is usually near the back of the transmission. If you unplug the wire harness, you may notice an oil leak at this plug. If there is any oil, not only it means you are losing oil, but the communication between the ECU and the mechatronic valve body is interrupted.

To replace or check for leaks you will need to get your BMW up on ramps. Remove the splash shield from under the transmission and unplug the wire harness.

What you will need: BMW Mechatronic Sleeve ( Part #: 0501 216 272 01)

DIY Instruction: How to replace BMW Mechatronic Sleeve, Alternative Guide

Mechatronic Bridge Seal adapter
Mechatronic adapter Another reason why a BMW may display “Transmission Fault” warning message on the iDrive screen is due to a cracked adapter (trans seal grommet) for the mechatronic valve body. Under normal condition the grommet allows the fluid to flow from the transmission to the mechatronic valve body without any fluid loss. This allows transmission fluid to make it to the mechatronic without any pressure loss which in turn allows normal gear shifting. The grommet or the plastic adapter can crack over time, which allows the fluid to leak at this port. When this happens the fluid pressure at the mechatronic valve body is reduced. Because the fluid pressure is reduced the solenoids in the valve body cannot open and close properly which triggers the transmission fault or erratic shifting. This part is easy to replace and comes in plastic or aluminum. The OEM part sold at BMW is usually plastic, but upgraded aluminum adapters can be purchased online and last longer than the plastic version.
This problem is common on these BMW transmissions: 6HP26, 6HP28, and 6HP32. An improved Aluminum Part Number SFC-MA-001 is available.

Another indicator that this part is broken is that you will get the “transmission Fault” popup typically when you move the shifter from drive to reverse. You usually back up a few feet and put the transmission back in drive.

What you will need: BMW Mechatronic adapter (Part #: 0501 215 783 01)

List of cars most affected by this problem:

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 Except 4.0d
2008–2012 BMW F01/02 7 Series (except 760i/Li and Hybrid 7)
Change Automatic Transmission Fluid
BMW may say their transmissions are sealed for life and require transmission fluid change. We don't believe that claim. Our recommendation is to change the transmission fluid every 60k miles.

What you will need:

Only used the recommended transmission fluid for your BMW.

Filter and Gasket Kit
ZF Lifeguard fluid
4.5 qt if only draining oil pan
9.5 qt for full system flush
Fluid Transfer Pump
Torx Socket
Drain Pan
If you experiencing random shifting issues, consider changing the automatic transmission fluid and filter. There is a lot of discussions and often disagreement whether you should or should not change the automatic fluid in a BMW especially on a transmission that is sealed for life. In our experience, fresh fluid and transmission fluid will only help to extend the life of the transmission. The only times that things get worse, is when there is an already existing issue with the transmission.

A BMW automatic transmission holds about 9.5 qt of ATF fluid. That is full system capacity, which includes all the oil in the transmission, oil pan, and torque converter. If you are not going to flush the whole system but only drain the oil pan you need about 4.5 qt of oil.

Mechatronic Problem
bmw mechatrnoicIf you read the codes, you may get fault codes related to the valve body also known as the BMW mechatronic. BMW ZF mechatronic are notorious for problems with 2 to 1 st gear downshift or shift flare during the upshift. These harsh upshifts and downshifts are often due to a TTC clutch failure, overheating, damaged solenoid, worn selenoid springs and other problems with the mechatronic unit.
If you checked everything above but are still having problems with your BMW transmission the cause most likely is the mechatronic unit. If you are looking to save money, you can consider replacing only the solenoids in the mechatronics unit/valve body. If you decide to replace the solenoids yourself, remember to change the foam strip that goes between the solenoid terminals and connectors.

You can buy cheap BMW transmission solenoids online. Check the price of BMW Mechatronic Solenoids here and follow this guide on how to replace them.

If you want a unit that has already been remanufactured and tested, you can buy a remanufactured BMW Mechatronic unit online. If you have some basic DIY skills, you can replace the mechatronic unit on a BMW. Keep in mind that the unit often needs to be codded to match your BMW VIN. Before you purchase a replacement mechatronic unit, check with the seller or BMW dealer if programming or coding is required.

It is possible to replace BMW mechatronic yourself.


If you would rather let a mechanic do the work, this repair can cost anywhere from $1500 to $3500. If you decide to have the dealer replace the mechatronic on your BMW, it will usually cost anywhere between $2100 and $3500.

It is recommended to reset the transmission module after the Mechatronic replacement. Drive the vehicle around for about 15-20 minutes making sure transmission cycles through all the gears several times to recalibrate the shift points.

EGS Transmission Control Module Software Update / Reflash
BMW often comes up with software updates for the automatic transmission. These updates change the shift points which improves the shifting. In some cases, it has been reported to fix erratic shifting problems or SAFE MODE issues. You will need to call your BMW dealer and ask them if there is a software update for the transmission for your particular car. You will need to provide the dealer with the VIN number of your BMW.

Transmission Stuck in FailSafe Mode
We have seen cases where the BMW transmission will get stuck in second or third gear and will not come out of failsafe mode even if you restart the car. In one case this problem was caused by a dead battery that stored hard codes. Even though the BMW battery was replaced the car remained in Failsafe mode. Typically a BMW will go into failsafe mode if the voltage is under 9 volt. If a hard code is stored in the EGS module you will need a BMW Specific Scanner to clear the fault codes from the EGS module. Low battery voltage can also cause the transmission to not go into Drive or Reverse.

Temporary Fix, 2 Tip 1
Often the transmission issue may be with due to a problem with the first gear only. To verify that the problem is with the first gear, set your BMW transmission in Winter mode, which forces the transmission to start in second gear. If your BMW shifts normally when in winter mode that means there is an issue with the first gear. Keep the transmission in winter mode, until you get your BMW transmission repaired.

BMW Stuck In Park
If your BMW is stuck in park and the shifter won’t come out the problem could also be the brake light switch or park solenoid.

BMW Transmission Shudders
BMW that are equipped with twin turbo may experience shuddering symptoms, especially during a long trip. To verify that this is the issue, it is recommended that you stop your car and let it cool down. If transmission shuddering symptoms go away when the engine cools down then it is possible that the problem is caused by the twin turbos. Check engine light may also come on. Symptoms often happened between 50-70 mph.

Another reason why you may experience transmission shudder is due to issues with the torque converter. This is often due to the fact that the torque converter lock-up is wearing out and not locking the torque converters.

BMW transmission shudder may also be caused due to spark plug or fuel injector problems. If the check engine light is on, make sure to scan the codes from the ECU so that you can get a better idea of why the transmission shuddering is happening.

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BMW TRANSMISSION MESSAGES

This is a list of common BMW transmission messages. These messages vary between models, but they all point to problems with BMW transmission.

Transmission Malfunction - Functionality or display of the gear selector position may malfunction. Gearbox position P may not be available. Set parking brake when completely stopped. Engine start may be possible with a delay.

Trans. Malfunction - Drive moderately. Continued driving possible. Reduced acceleration. Have the system checked by the nearest BMW center

Transmission Malfunction. Limited gear selections possible. Continued driving is possible./ Drive moderately. Have the system checked by the nearest BMW center.

Transmission Faulty - Transmission position P possibly not available. Operate parking brake when car stationary. Please contact BMW service.
Trans. Failsafe Prog
BMW Transmission Fault Codes
This is a list of common BMW transmission fault codes.

578E - EGS Gearbox oil wear
CF17 No message from JBBF. Vehicle mode receiver DKG/EGS transmitter DSC/DME
5140 is No CAN message from DME
4F8F - EGS: Ratio monitoring, gearshift 3-2
5149 is No CAN message from power module
27EB No message (EGS 2) from electronic transmission control (EGS) unit
27EC No message (EGS 1) from electronic transmission control (EGS) unit
299A CAN fault management, electronic transmission control (EGS)
4f81 - Gear ratio monitoring, Clutch A
cf17 - Calibration between ISTA/D and ISTA/P missing
507B or 507C - Parking gear sensor implausible signal
507D - Parking gear incorrectly disengaged
4f89 - ratio monitoring gearshift incorrect
4f92 - EGS ratio monitoring, clutch A-C
4f8d - Ratio monitoring, gearshift 5-4 – plausibility
37 - Voltage Low
4f85 - 4F85 RATIO MONITORING CLUTCH E
4f8a - RATIO MONITORING.GEAR SHIFT 4-5 GEAR
5088 - Sensors, transmission switch L1-L4
507C - Parking gear sensors implausible
507B PARKING GEAR SENSOR IMPLAUSIBLE
4F84 RATIO MONITORING CLUTCH D
4F97 RATIO MONITORING CLUTCH "B"-D
4F83 RATIO MONITORING CLUTCH C

This list does not include all BMW EGS fault codes. A BMW scanner is required to read and clear these BMW codes.

[328idunkman]

Thanks this was helpful considering I'm having transmission problems 07 328i coupe. I hit a giant puddle getting off the freeway and it tore the underskirts off. Well a week later transmission light comes didn't go into limp mode. so I pull off the highway Turn car off/on waiting10mins symbol still on won't go into ds/M mode it's shifting hard into reverse/drive from park in drive it's reiving high building speed. I haven't been able to take it anywhere for diagnostic also don't own a Jack that will get under coupe.

[shawnmaan]

A really helpful post. I've had some problems relating to transmission, wish I could find this post sooner

[dudeman7684]

!What kind of specific BMW scanner does it take to clear the hard codes stored to get it out of failsafe?

[navydoug33309]

how do i check my transmission fluid level on my 2008 328i ?
can i add trans fluid myself ?

thnx

[New2BmwE902011]

Hi I was wondering if anyone has advice for me. I bought a 2011 e90 320i and I have been building the car up as I had to replace engine and gearbox from the previous owners neglection. I finally got the car to drive without errors except that when I drive, the car kicks over by 3000 - 4000 rpms in first and second gear and then I have to hit 3000rpms for the other gears. I recently replaced oil in the gearbox and did brakes over. When I done the brakes the car started kicking over normal again (1500 rpm kick over) but then after two weeks of driving started again with the 4000 rpm changing. Sport mode also does not want to work anymore and it stays in drive.

Will appreciate any advice! Thanks!!!

[Silent Pleasant]

Thank you! Very informative

[Mohammed12485]

Hi i have a problem with my f30 320i 2015

So the gear box wont go into D Or R

it comeback to P

what to do?

[NZE90]

Originally Posted by Mohammed12485

Hi i have a problem with my f30 320i 2015

So the gear box wont go into D Or R

it comeback to P

what to do?

Set it on fire