Difficulty engaging gears in BMW – what is the reason and how to fix it?

BMW driver question

It’s hard to enter gears on a cold engine, specifically it’s the 1st gear and reverse gear. As you drive, the problem stops. What is the problem?

The problem affected the BMW 1 E87, but it happens in other models as well.

2010_BMW_120i_(E87)_5-door_hatchback_01

BMW 1 E87

Response from BM Cars service

The described problem of difficulty in shifting into 1st and reverse gear on a cold engine may be related to poor quality and low level of oil in the gearbox. If the problem affects all gears – it may indicate problems with engine clutching. It is necessary to change the brake fluid and properly bleed the clutch.

For a correct diagnosis, check the level and quality of oil in the gearbox.

You are welcome to use our service.

BMW 1 E87 | By Rudolf Stricker (Own work)[GFDL or CC-BY-SA-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

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BMW 1 E87 | By Alexandre Prévot from Nancy, France (BMW 1M)[CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

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