E46 Auto Gearbox Hunting In Top

[Rbz5416]

My 2000 320i Tourer has around 105k on the clock. For some time now I've had a small issue with the gearbox.

At around a steady 45 MPH, the box continually changes gear & the revs between approx 1500 & 1800 RPM. This is accompanied by a "labouring" sound that seems to come from the rear of the car, like you might get running a manual at too low a speed for the gear selected. This only happens at a steady speed & is maybe more prone on a slight incline.

A local indy has suggested an oil change would cure it but I wondered if anyone else had experienced this before I part with my cash?

[SteveHooper]

Hi, I have a 1998 E46 328 (with steptronic) with the same issues. Did you manage to get your fixed? If so what was the issue? Thanks.

[Rbz5416]

Yes, changing the gearbox fluid sorted it.

Despite it being supposedly sealed for life.

[jimmythepie]

interesting post, never heard of this before. But then I am in a dark about most things, the sealed for life fantasy seems to live on despite all evidence to the contrary. Good luck with it matey, hope you really have cured it

[Rbz5416]

It's been nearly a year now & no sign of it returning (desperately searches for piece of wood!).

Although I do now have a knackered n/s wishbone, both bushes & an intermittent ABS error...

[Jack Dabsy]

BMW's "For Life" statement does not take into account "How" the car has been driven...
NOTHING is for life thats why BMW still put gaskets and drain plugs on ALL gearboxes and diffs etc...

[Jack Dabsy]

BTW The intermittant sensor issue could just be simply the inner rotor fins are clogged with rust/debris !

[Rbz5416]

Removing & cleaning the sensors (assuming the buggers will come out) is on my list of things to do. It's been happening for a while now & can go 6 months between incidences.

[Jack Dabsy]

Just get a toothbrush in there !!

[Rbz5416]

Haven't come across that recommendation before!

[AZguy]

yea i dont think i would take the "life time" thing too seriously regardless of what its talking about, i actually didnt know that is what BMW said though about tranny fluid