Transmission problems in BMW – what are they caused by and how to fix them?

BMW driver question

I would like to purchase a used BMW with 160,000 km mileage, but after a test drive I noticed the following two problems. The manual transmission reverse gear comes in very hard, you have to use considerable force. The second problem is vibration to the left and right of the transmission shifter at idle. At a standstill and while driving, it looks as if the transmission cushions are worn out. I would like to get your opinions as I cannot get a concrete answer anywhere. Have you had to deal with such defects? What specifically needs to be replaced and can such problems occur more frequently?

The problem was with a 2013 BMW 318 F30 with a 143 hp 2.0 diesel engine, but it can happen in other models as well.

BM Cars service response

We are unable to assess the technical condition of the vehicle without a visual inspection. Based on your description, it can be concluded that there is a problem with the transmission. If the difficulty in shifting into gear affects only one gear (reverse), then there is probably a problem with the synchronizer of that gear. Repairing the manual transmission in F-line models is difficult, expensive and time-consuming. The BMW catalog does not provide any replacement parts for these transmissions.

The problem of a vibrating shift lever may be related to worn transmission cushions or the attachment of the lever to the body (retaining ring).

At 160,000 kilometers on an F30 with the N47 engine, it is essential to check the condition of the timing gear (chain tension, possible noises). This is the most common problem in these engines. To be sure of the cause of the problems, it is necessary to perform a full computer diagnosis.

Other tips related to the issue at BMW

• Factory defective timing on BMW 320i F30 and other F line models
• Shift rod vibration in BMW 520d F10
• Transmission problem – error number 100, error number 120

Read more tips and ask your own question