Z3 auto gearbox issue.

[gezzard]

I have a 1998 1.9 automatic and it has a slight transmission problem.

It starts and drives fine, but when waiting in traffic, at a junction etc it seems like it slips into neutral briefly, during which if I release the brake pedal it will roll backwards.

We've changed the fluid and filter and it stopped for about a week, but then its started again!

The diff fluid has been changed too.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[t-tony]

Have you had the codes read by any chance? To see if there are any faults in the system? Any warning lights coming on at all?

Tony.

 

[gezzard]

Have you had the codes read by any chance? To see if there are any faults in the system? Any warning lights coming on at all?

Tony.

I had it plugged in at my local BMW specialist, he couldn't see any faults other than its had a flat battery.

Its strange in that for the first couple of miles its fine, then it starts playing up.

It also occasionally shudders and hesitates when pulling away. When your driving along it shifts up and down fine and is a pleasure to drive, though with the roof down today I did get a bit of a sunburnt head!

 

[jonco]

Hi - I have the same model as you and fortunately have not had the problem.
The fact that the it runs ok until warm suggests temp related problem - I recall you can check running conditions/temp using INPA if you have access to same. Not looked at mine for awhile but may be doing some checks tomorrow, for different reasons, so will have a look see.
When you did fluid change did you do final top up with engine running and box in neutral? Will take another ~litre after cold fill.

 

[t-tony]

Will take another ~litre after cold fill.

A good point Colin.

Tony.

 

[gezzard]

It is shuddering and struggling to pull away even with my foot flat to the floor! it will drive if you flick the switch into 'M' albeit pulling away slowly.


Next time I drive it I'll make a video and stick it on YouTube.

 

[Cooper]

I believe that you need to put the car in gear for a while when up on ramps to ensure all fluid is taken up, and then in neutral and top up until it starts to leak out of the fill hole. I think my 3.0 took 5-6 litres of fluid [from memory]. Check on the specifications and ensure that you used the correct fluid as well. Someone here should advise how much fluid it will take when changing the fluid. I assume you did not do a flush which is a different procedure. Good luck.