E39 530d Auto Leaking Gearbox Problem

[igk]

My 530d (61000 miles) recently started leaking oil from underneath. Not large amounts but making a mess on the driveway. It's currently at the dealer. After inspection I was told a leak was detected from an 'intercooler pipe' to the gearbox. This is being replaced at £312. I got worried when I was told if this didn't fix the leak then I would need a new gearbox.
I'm no expert but can this really be the case? I fear being talked into a very expensive job when it might be unnecessary. The car and tranmission itself seem to run fine.
Any similar experience/advice? Thanks.

[sp0rky]

If the tranny developed a leak, you either need to rebuild or replace. (MOST of the time) Unless you can do what we did with our Toyota after 200,000 miles - which is deal with the drippings and always add fluid for the life of the car.

[col530d]

I had a similar problem last month, and yes the dealer replaced the whole box. Last week I had the turbo unit replaced too, I've been told on another forum that turbo's tend to go from about 70,000 miles on the 3.0d.

Sorry I can't give you any idea of costs as all mine was carried out under warranty

To see my thread click HERE.

I hope you get it sorted to your satisfaction, I must admit mine has never run better since all this work but then again it should do!

Col

[igk]

I got the car back after having the Oil Cooler pipe replaced. The cost of this came to £315. The dealer said this has done the trick, so hopefully a lucky escape. Unfortunately I didn't extend the BMW warranty beyond 4 years (I did after 3 yrs and nothing apart from the horn went wrong!)
I'm thinking it's time to get a new E60 model as I've been driving E39s since 1997 (528i '97-00, 530d 00-04). Thanks for your advice.