A typical car consists of thousands of parts. Some are crucial, while others are only for aesthetic purposes. In a simplistic approach, a typical car runs on a handful of parts working alongside each other. There’s the engine, transmission, wheels, brakes, axles, suspension system, exhaust system, radiator, battery, and alternator. The engine and transmission are the two crucial components that generate the torque and power, making a car move. In a BMW car, the concept is the same, albeit more complex. There are a handful of signs that indicate possible failure. When you notice any of these signs, take your car to a BMW Transmissions specialist.
Warning signs that indicate possible BMW Transmissions failure
1. Gears won’t shift
When your car struggles to shift gears, it is a sign of possible BMW Transmissions failure. The transmission might be low on fluid. In some cases, the wrong type of transmission fluid is used. Either way, it is crucial to bring your BMW to a trustworthy auto repair shop for a complete transmission inspection.
2. The car is unresponsive
When your car has a transmission problem, it will have problems shifting gears. There are also instances where the BMW doesn’t respond at all. When the vehicle does not respond when you switch from park to drive, bring it to a transmission specialist in your area.
3. The car is making humming noises
It is common for any vehicle to make certain noises. However, when you hear humming or clunking noises when you turn the car on, avoid using it and take it to a reliable auto mechanic near you.
4. Unusual noise while in neutral
Your car should be barely audible when in neutral. When you hear strange noises while the gear is neutral, do not wait too long before taking it to an auto mechanic. The noise you hear could be a sign that your car needs a top-up of fresh transmission oil. The unusual sound produced by your car can also indicate a worn-out transmission. In such cases, transmission replacement is necessary.
5. Slipping gears
When your gears slip while driving, it can be life-threatening. Take your care for a BMW Transmissions inspection soon after you notice the gears slipping. Avoid using the vehicle until transmission repair is completed. You might lose control of the car and crash with a faulty transmission.
6. Dragging clutch
A dragging clutch happens when the clutch disk fails to disengage from the flywheel. When this happens, the clutch and the transmission are both damaged. It is advised to take your car to a reliable auto repair shop for BMW Transmissions Repair.
7. Leaking fluid
A leaky transmission is easy to detect. If you happen to see red fluid underneath your car, it indicates a transmission leak. Take your BMW to your mechanic for a thorough inspection.
8. Grinding or vibration
Automatic transmissions are designed for smooth gear shifting. Manual transmissions can also shift smoothly but will depend on the proficiency of the driver. When you notice any vibration when shifting gears, there is bound to be a problem with the transmission.
9. Burning smell
When you pick up burning smells inside your car, don’t panic. Turn off the engine and let the car rest for a few minutes. If the burning smell goes away after a while, take your car to a local automotive repair shop for an inspection.
10. Warning light turns on
The indicators on the dashboard light up to warn the user. In most cases, the warning lights are triggered by minor issues. However, never disregard the warning lights. Check your owner’s manual for more details about the lights.
Car care tips for automatic BMW Transmissions
It is costly to have a car transmission repaired or replaced. With that said, maintaining optimum transmission conditions is a must. Luckily, taking care of BMW Transmissions isn’t all that hard. Here are some tips on proper transmission maintenance:
· Periodically check the transmission fluid.
· Use the correct type of transmission fluid.
· Have a transmission flush at least once a year.
· Have an annual transmission inspection.
Five ways to keep manual BMW Transmissions working
The benefits of using a manual transmission if up for much debate. But at the end of the day, it all boils down to the condition of the transmission. A working transmission is what every car owner needs, regardless of the classification. Here are some maintenance tips for manual transmissions:
· Take your foot off the clutch after every gear shift.
· Take your vehicle to an auto mechanic for periodic servicing and inspection.
· Have your car transmission flushed regularly.
· Don’t use a downshift to slow down the car.
· Have your transmission professionally inspected.
If you need help with your BMW transmission, be sure to check out Broad Stroke in Snohomish. We provide top-of-the-line automotive services for a range of vehicles. Give us a call at (866) 810-3469 or visit our website to book an appointment.