I recently bought a 1992 525i with 90k on it, the automatic trans seems to become disengaged when I stop quickly, after an abrupt stop, when I go to take off it seems like it may be slipping for a second and then it grabs. Also sometimes when it is cold, when I take off it will make a slight shuddering noise I hope my trans isn't junk! Is there any way to check the fluid? I couldn't see a dipstick anywhere. I would greatly appreciate any help!

Thanks
Dan

Your tranny supposedly has lifetime fluid in it. That is why there is no dipstick to check fluid levels. However, I wouldn't believe this and send it out for a fluid change, or do it yourself if you don't mind getting dirty. Hopefully that will do the trick.

Didnt they sell a dipstick kit? It sure sounds like his fluid is low..personally, with that many miles, Id just add some

I think I will change the fluid and filter. What is the best trans fluid to run in this? Thanks for the help.

Dan

I used AMS OIL in my tranny, no problems as of yet. I know some people who's trannies have messed up after doing a fluid change, so make sure you use a good fluid

i would take it to a shop, or even to the dealership to change the fluid. The fluid has to be at a certain temperature, and if i recall, the car has to be on (not sure on that one).

tranny is a tranny guys

Thats right. A tranny is a tranny. In fact I believe this vintage of BMW trannies is nothing more tham a GM tranny. I am pretty sure you could do a rebuild with parts from your local GM dealer.

Thats right. A tranny is a tranny. In fact I believe this vintage of BMW trannies is nothing more tham a GM tranny. I am pretty sure you could do a rebuild with parts from your local GM dealer.
Thats right :rolleyes:

The operation is identical. the parts may be different, but they work the same. The 4 speed BMW transmission has no secret operation and no secret parts..its not like its a 5 through 7 speed auto...change the fluid..warming it first is absurd..it may say that somewhere, but you have no idea how many service centers completely ignore stuff like that and noone is ever the wiser..


Now tell me...why in the hell owuld you warm the tranny fluid? SO the torque converter and front pump dont get a tummyache?

http://www.bmwe34.net/e34main/maintenance/transmission/automatic_flush.htm

I'll try the fluid and filter change. There isn't any kind of electronic control module in it that may do this is there?

While I have seen many module problems in other transmissions (hard shifts, no overdrive, starting in second, staying in second, etc) this is so symptomatic of low fluid...bad fluid/bad pump pressure that I really doubt it..the good news is, my L7's 4 speed tranny is only about 1200 rebuilt...no really any different than a domestic component

Sorry to say it ...My brothers 92 525it did kind of the same thing, tranny shot.
He just finished putting the new tranny in, shifts like a dream now, no probs..

I am going to change the fluid and filter today. How do I know when I've added enough fluid? There is no dipstick? I've heard it takes 3 quarts with a filter change.

Owners manual, BAvauto's tech line is generally really good too

Junkie... clean out your PM box!

I changed the fluid and filter and the problem seems like it may be a little worse. I find it hard to believe that the trans needs a rebuild with 91K on it. It shifts fine and passing gear kicks down perfectly also, I can't explain it, but I don't want to get raped at a transmission shop! I'd be willing to pay someone to look at it if there is anyone in the chicagoland area or southern Wisconsin.

Put in a can of Sea Foam for transmissions