shift solenoid

[X5Andrew]

Hey guys and girls, getting trans safe mode on every 5 starts. Dug the codes out and it says shift solenoid 3, interm fault. Is that an easy fix or is it time for me to start looking for a new tranny?

2001 x5 , 3.0l
250,000 km on it.

[JCL]

First rule: Nothing is easy.

This code (like many others) doesn't tell you what has failed, it provides pointers to allow a full diagnosis. You would need the troubleshooting guide for your transmission to be able to determine all the possible causes. Off the top of my head, they would include a failed solenoid (this one), a fault in the transmission wiring harness, and a different failed solenoid which impacts this circuit. I am sure there are more.

I suspect that this code could be a caused by a failure elsewhere within the transmision, and if that failure is mechanical then you would require a full overhaul (your worst-case scenario).

The problem could be with the solenoid itself, and it is mounted in the valve body, accessible when the transmission pan is dropped. That is the best-case scenario.

Sorry that doesn't directly answer your question, but hopefully it provides some guidance on potential causes.

I would take it to a transmission shop that is familiar with this model of transmission and have them diagnose it.

[X5Andrew]

Good reply, thanks for the info. I will have it in this week. I was going to drop the pan and replace the 3rd shift solenoid (easy fix and only $50 for the solenoid) but after your post I think I will drop it off to my guys to look at.

Thanks for the reply