BMW transmission problem, error number 100, error number 120 – what do they mean?
BMW driver question
I have a problem with the transmission, namely on a curve the failure mode of the transmission came on and the car stopped driving. After waiting 10 min the transmission started to work but not in the best way. After connecting to the KTS, the error number 100 and 120 popped up. From the box gently oozed oil through the simmering. What could have been damaged and is it worth repairing?
The problem affected a 97 BMW E39 540i, but it happens in other models as well.
BMW E39
Response from BM Cars service
The described problem suggests (based on the symptoms) that the failure mode of the transmission was caused by too low oil level in the transmission. Attempting to operate an automatic transmission with an oil level that is too low can cause permanent mechanical damage to the transmission.
The extent of the damage can only be verified by disassembling the transmission.
He suggests sealing the box (replacing the simmerings) and replacing or topping up the oil. Perhaps the extent of damage is not too great.
You are welcome to use our service.
BMW E39 | By M5_E39_Terabass.jpg: Terabassderivative work: WaddleDee72 (M5_E39_Terabass.jpg)[CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
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