A drivetrain malfunction message or signal on a BMW is an indicator of a transmission or engine problem detected by the car’s Engine Control Module – ECM. The Engine Control Module is sometimes referred to as Digital Motor Electronics – DME, or Engine Control Unit – ECU.
What causes a drivetrain malfunction?
The most common cause of this problem is worn out U-joints. As they loosen, your drivetrain will shake more and more until, if left unchecked, it can eventually just fall apart. More bad vibrations – Excessive vibration is one thing, but clunking and grinding are other matters, suggesting worse problems.
How serious is BMW drivetrain malfunction?
This should be taken seriously as if not attended to; it is a malfunction that can lead to expensive repairs. However, a BMW drivetrain malfunction does not automatically result in the car’s breakdown, meaning that if action is taken quickly, the issue can usually be resolved without too much inconvenience.
How much does it cost to fix a drivetrain?
The cost to fix a drivetrain depends on the type of damage, model, and vehicle’s year. Minor repairs like replacing a gasket or seal should cost you anywhere between $100 to $200. However, for major replacements, you will be spending close to $4000.
What does it mean when your BMW says drivetrain malfunction? – Related Questions
How do I know if my drivetrain is bad?
Signs of a bad driveshaft/drivetrain
- Vibrations from under the vehicle. A common symptom of a failing driveshaft is an intense shaking coming from underneath the vehicle.
- Difficulty turning.
- Loud clunking noise.
- Car shudders upon acceleration.
- Squeaking noise.
- Clicking or knocking noise.
Is a drivetrain malfunction covered under warranty?
In general, car warranties only cover repairs due to malfunctions, breakdowns or faulty parts. Unlike so-called bumper-to-bumper coverage, drivetrain warranties only cover specifically listed components. A drivetrain warranty ONLY covers components that transfer power from the motor/engine to the wheels.”
What does drivetrain warning mean?
Generally, this indicator light means a problem has been detected in the automatic transmission (not applicable in manual transmission cars) or transaxle. This light can also indicate an Electric Shift Control system warning.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a transmission?
A transmission replace is the most expensive option when fixing your transmission. In many cases you will hear this referred to as “re-manufactured.” Basically, the manufacturer will replace parts that have gone bad with modified parts. This is an option if the transmission is too damaged to even consider a rebuild.
Is it worth fixing a transmission?
A brand-new transmission costs anything from $1,000 to $7,000+. Therefore, if the current worth of your vehicle ranges from $8,000 to $10,000, replacing the transmission will be worth it. But if your vehicle is under or within the transmission range, it won’t make much sense to replace its transmission.
What are the signs your transmission is going out?
What Are the Transmission Failure Symptoms?
- Refusal to Switch Gears. If your vehicle refuses or struggles to change gears, you are more than likely facing a problem with your transmission system.
- Burning Smell.
- Noises When in Neutral.
- Slipping Gears.
- Dragging Clutch.
- Leaking Fluid.
- Check Engine Light.
- Grinding or Shaking.
Do transmissions go out suddenly?
Luckily, transmission failure doesn’t usually happen without warning. There are several warning signs that your transmission’s going out.
Will check engine light come on for transmission?
Yes, transmission problems can cause your check engine light to come on. Your automobile’s main computer, the engine control module (ECM), talks with system sensors to make sure everything is okay. If the transmission sensors report a problem, the ECM will turn on the check engine light.
Will check engine light come on for transmission fluid?
There are many, many reasons that the check engine light may come on in you car, truck or SUV. A malfunctioning sensor, low tire pressure, low transmission fluid and so much more will cause the light to come on.
Can I just add transmission fluid?
You can add more by inserting a funnel into the tube the dipstick was withdrawn from and pouring a small amount of automatic transmission fluid into the pipe. Check the level each time you add a little until the level is right between the two lines.
Can an overdue oil change cause check engine light?
1. Your Car Needs an Oil Change. An illuminated check engine light is the first warning sign that your vehicle needs an oil change. It can activate because the oil is too dirty or when there’s not enough flowing throughout the engine.
How can I tell if my transmission fluid is low?
Symptoms of Low Transmission Fluid
- Drips or puddles underneath the car.
- Difficulty shifting through gears and/or slipping.
- Shuddering or shaking.
- Lurching or sudden jerks.
- Transmission won’t engage.
- Humming or clunking noises.
- A burning smell.
How does a car act when it needs transmission fluid?
Not being able to shift is a direct result of having low transmission fluid. Slipping Gears – On the flipside, slipping out of gear is another side effect of having low transmission fluid. For example, you may be maintaining your current speed, then suddenly feel your vehicle downshift or shift to a higher gear.
How do you check transmission fluid on a BMW?
How to Check Your Transmission Fluid
- Turn the car on. Before checking the transmission fluid, the engine should be warmed up.
- Locate the transmission fluid dipstick.
- Remove the dipstick and touch the fluid.
- Use a rag to wipe off the dipstick.
- Use a funnel to bring the fluid level up to full.
What happens if you drive a car with low transmission fluid?
Driving your car through a low transmission fluid level is dangerous to you and the vehicle. Failure to top up the fluid is a hazard that might cause extreme damage to the transmission, the engine, and essential components that keep the car running.
How long can a transmission last without changing fluid?
If you drive manual, most manufacturers will recommend changing your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you have automatic, you can typically boost that range up to 60,000 to 100,000 miles. There’s no harm in changing your fluid early.