Transmission Issue

[BWX5]

So I have owned my 2005 4.4i for three years, now have 51900 miles. In this time span, I have had to have the steering box replaced & more recently experiencing a transmission issue. Here's the thing, it has occassionally dropped into first gear abruptly when traveling up a hill (I live on a steep driveway). More recently, however, (note just at 49900 miles) becoming consistant, each time I down shift. Called the dealer and said I was worried because my mileage will be over 50k when I get there for the repair (2.5 hour drive to closest dealership). Took it to the dealership arriving for the supposed software update. Spent a couple of hours there only to find it worse then when I dropped it off. When taking off, the car would jump into 2nd when the accelerating (before 5 mph!!), then when coming to a stop DROPS into first with a THUNK. You would think the service technician would have taken it for a test drive before having me drive off the lot. This is not a slight problemp; it is very noticable and has taken the fun out of driving the car. Took it back to the dealer and spent 4.5 hours the next morning (after having to stay the night) waiting for repair. I was told they reprogrammed the transmission so it will have to relearn my driving style and to take it easy for a couple of days. Drove home and the minute I came to a stop, it dropped into first. Waited a couple of days and the problem seemed to be resolved, only to find yesterday, exactly one week after service, that it is not solved and is even worse. WHAT'S GOING ON and anyone know the resolution to the problem? No that I am out of warranty, this is very upsetting not to mention adding unnecessary mileage to the car having to drive back and forth to the dealership since it wasn't fixed the first then second time.

[mrbmwx5]

move this to E53 forums.