Transmssion goes KLUNK!!!

[Brandon002]

I had the same issue, I had the trans fluid and filter replaced and the torque converter flushed. Problem has not resurfaced in over 2000 miles since the service.

Lifetime fluid my (insert swear describing posterior here)

[bcredliner]

The following is a summary of transmission issues: http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...s-summary.html

The issue of whether or not to change fluid is an endless debate. The positions are very reasonable and adamant on both sides.

If you change the fluid yourself you will not be changing the fluid in the torque convertor. Some drop the pan, change the fluid and leave it at that. The better way is to drain the fluid drive awhile and do that say 3 times so the amount of old fluid is low. Best way is per Brandon002, have a professional do it. Be sure the new fluid is right for your tranny.

I suggest getting a diagnosis from two transmission experts so you don't do a bunch of stuff and still have the same problem. You can still DIY. FYI- the dealer will not be much help with transmission issues.

[Brandon002]

There is a local shop to me (DuPage Auto Werks) in west Chicago IL..

410 bucks for the complete trans service, including

Fluid
Gasket
Filter
Torque converter flush

When I figured it was going to cost me almost 300 just for parts and fluid I figured it best to pay the extra 100 bucks to have the shop do it.

[absentmathis]

Sounds reasonable. Did they do any diag or think this would help your problem? I tend to think the drain and refill is safer than a flush, but as BC noted it's an endless debate with good points on both sides. My anecdotal observation has been that, despite lots of dire warnings on fluid change/flush, there don't seem to be that many people that have experienced failure following the service. And for those that have...if you changed your fluid in response to a problem (or clunky shift) who's to say it wasn't already giving up the ghost?

Either way, hope it works for ya!

[Brandon002]

I've always lived by the "New fluid is better than old fluid" way and it's worked.

[bcredliner]

Originally Posted by Brandon002

I've always lived by the "New fluid is better than old fluid" way and it's worked.

[admranger]

Originally Posted by Brandon002

There is a local shop to me (DuPage Auto Werks) in west Chicago IL..

410 bucks for the complete trans service, including

Fluid
Gasket
Filter
Torque converter flush

When I figured it was going to cost me almost 300 just for parts and fluid I figured it best to pay the extra 100 bucks to have the shop do it.

As long as they are using the right fluid for your transmission (Lifetime-6), and not some generic multi-spec stuff, this is fine.

[gdlbmw]

@Doru did you ever do the transmission fluid change?
Did it fix you problem?

[Sarek]

I would scan it first to see if any codes are present. Then check for leaks. ZF 6hp trans is notorious for leaking. Check and top off fluid level with lifeguard 6. Clear trans adaptations and go thru re-adaptation process (actually exists). If the symptom goes away, then fix any leaks if found. Consider a filter and the mechatronics seal with fresh fluid. ZF does suggest fluid change at 60k

[Doru]

Originally Posted by gdlbmw

@Doru did you ever do the transmission fluid change?
Did it fix you problem?

I haven't changed the ATF yet. It's too cold. I have a major overhaul to do on this vehicle. It's barely driven so far.
I still have to change the coolant pipe (I have a steady coolant loss - no traces of coolant and major cooling components changed. Coolant pipe is the only one not touched), I have to change the valve stem seals (I loose oil at an alarming rate - maybe I will find some other seals broken).
I changed the transfer case fluid, did a cooling overhaul, fixed not working mirrors, changed PCV valves and other seals, but still more stuff to fix. This vehicle was not maintained by the previous owner I believe.