Reprogrammed transmission software - fixed harsh shift between 1st and 2nd

[Boston X5 4.4]

I have been having problems with harsh shifting in automatic mode in my '04 4.4. Surges between 1st and 2nd when both up and downshifting. Problem was noticably worse when engine was cold but was still present after running for a while. It felt like the rpm's were too high and the car was lurching forward to the next gear.
Anyway, I brought it to the dealer and they said a service bulletin had been issued. Transmission software was re-programmed and so far so good, problem is completely gone.

Here is the info. from the dealer:

Shift concern
C/S harsh 2nd to 1st down shift
Check and advise
Tech drove vehicle/checked and found SIB 24-01-06
Reprogrammed the EGS

Anyway, just though I would post in case anyone is having similar problems

[John Davenport]

I just had the same fix yesterday!

[rayxi]

Did you also have the problem where the transition from a rolling stop to the accelerator was very harsh? This is what I've noticed in my 04 4.4 X5.

[X5Jay]

I'm having the same thing done today - BMW of Peabody!

[Boston X5 4.4]

Yes, the problem was noticeable on a rolling stop - reprogram got rid of it.

[rayxi]

Originally Posted by Boston X5 4.4

Yes, the problem was noticeable on a rolling stop - reprogram got rid of it.

Thanks. I'll get the dealer to do the update the next time the X is in for service.

[Kris@modmynav]

Quick question guys,

I'm going to upgrade my tranny software soon,
but what should I ask to dealer? just asking tranny upgrade?
or there is any name or version called?

Thank you!

[Stukes]

This seems to be a common and known problem for the 04 4.4. I had my tranny reprogrammed 3 times and for some reason it never completely solved the problem and as a result they replaced the transmission...My advise is to keep pushing for a solution until you are satisfied with the performance of your transmission

[JS_4.8]

thats funny cause just today i said to myself that i need tocall the dealer on this issue. it seems the truck holds some of the gears too long and then has a jerky shift........even if im not in sport mode. does anyone know if this problem afflicts 4.8's as well, or is it just 4.4's. thanks!

[LVR]

Originally Posted by JS_4.8

thats funny cause just today i said to myself that i need tocall the dealer on this issue. it seems the truck holds some of the gears too long and then has a jerky shift........even if im not in sport mode. does anyone know if this problem afflicts 4.8's as well, or is it just 4.4's. thanks!

Yes, I have been through all sorts of problems with mine. The transmission software interacts with the central computer and selects gears based on throttle setting/brake pressure/speed/yaw rate etc.

The transmission has 4 software modes, being XE (extreme economy), E (economy), S (sport M) and XS (extreme sport M 1-6). The speed with which you press the throttle down from stop will tell the transmission which mode to use until it senses you backing off/cruising. Each time you do this it compares it against stored values it 'learns' from your actions over time.

There is also another setting which is called uphill/downhill mode and towing mode. These are designed to hold gears when under load/decelerating.

The first solution is to have the transmission re-programmed. That can make a short term solution as all stored entries are gone and your car feels great. After a month or so it may return to the faults described in a lot of threads here.

The second solution is to have the whole car computer (DME I think it's called) reflashed AS WELL as the transmission software.

Because the transmission takes its cue from so many sensors, the central computer can sometimes be the culprit.

I have had this done and have regained a missing uphill mode and better gear selection in low speed situations........