Auto gearbox slow to pick up

[James H]

Hi everyone,

I have 2.8 auto and it feels to me like I am having to rev more than I should for the car to start moving, a bit like clutch slipping on a manual. It is only in forward gears, reverse is ok. Once it is rolling it is ok and gear change is as it should be. I have changed the transmission fluid but hasn't made any difference. It is driveable so if it is something major then I'll probably live with it but does anyone know anything simple it could be or I could try without taking the gearbox out!!? Thanks.

 

[jonco]

Hi James,
I have the 1.9 auto and the only problem I've had with sluggish pull away was when fluid level was low. When you say you have changed ATF was that a full drain and strainer change? Did you do final top-up with engine running - if not level may be a bit low.
Are the symptoms the same in Sport and economy mode? Not sure what codes will come up on OBD - if you have access to INPA or similar you can check certain box running conditions which may give a clue?

 

[James H]

Thanks Jon, local garage did the fluid for me, I know they changed the filter, will check if they did the final top up. I don't have access to INPA at moment, will get myself on eBay!

 

[jonco]

Thanks Jon, local garage did the fluid for me, I know they changed the filter, will check if they did the final top up. I don't have access to INPA at moment, will get myself on eBay!

On mine box takes a further litre after cold fill with engine running in N. Did problem only appear after the change or was it there before. What area are you in - somebody local may have diagnostics and be willing to help.

 

[James H]

Problem was before the fluid change, I was hoping that might resolve it but no different. I’ll have a word with the garage first, check they put enough in as you suggest, cheers.

 

[James H]

I’m in Whitchurch Shropshire by the way, i’ll Update my profile

 

[James H]

Hi Jon, checked at the garage and they did top up again with the engine running and again after a test run so I trust the level is correct. I'll get myself a cable and see if the diagnostic comes up with anything. Someone has also suggested the transmission range switch which might be worth looking at;

https://www.pelicanparts.com/BMW/te...tic_Transmission_Range_Switch_Replacement.htm

 

[jonco]

................Someone has also suggested the transmission range switch which might be worth looking at .........

Maybe - get the codes read first - if you follow that procedure take care when replacing sleeve as there is a flimsy locator lug on the assembly and it can easily snap off ( guess how I know that ). I'm an hour down the road from you in Chester - so not exactly door step but I've got INPA and cables etc.

 

[James H]

Cheers Jon, much appreciated.

 

[cameron.white]

exterior design, performance and handling. This car is a blast to drive.

but not happy on auto gearbox as it's too much slow!

 

[jonco]

exterior design, performance and handling. This car is a blast to drive.

but not happy on auto gearbox as it's too much slow!

When you need the extra oomph - sport's mode delivers.

 

[abh29]

couple of years ago we had trouble with the Auto box in sons CooperS
Chester Automatic Transmission were great in sorting it , but also gave a lot of help and advice before having to rebuild it. Cost very competitive.
We have no relationship to the firm except as happy customer.

 

[James H]

Thanks for the tip. To be honest I may be just being overly critical, i’m going to live with it for a while and see how I go but if I decide to get someone to look at it i’ll give them a shout.