Tranny issues and questions
 

This is not how I wanted my first post to go. The 2003 4.4i w/ sport package we recently purchased appears to be developing a transmission problem. Fortunately, the truck is still covered under the certified pre-owned BMW warranty until June. I noticed it in the parking garage this morning when I had the window down to get a ticket. It makes a metallic non-grinding noise as I accelerate away from a stop. I switched to manual and confirmed my suspicion by verifying that it didn't occur while in first or second gear. Does this sound familiar to anyone else who has experienced problems with the X5 V8 transmission? How do you think BMW will handle this? It's scheduled to go in to the dealer for other unrelated items next week. I informed them of my concerns today to have them look into it then and to get it on record.

I appreciate any advice you all can give me...this board has already saved me hundreds of dollars.

How many miles on your X? Not quite sure it is a tranny related issue. Could be a metal part loose in your cat convertor. The sound could disappear as you rev the engine which would explain why you do not notice it when using manual as you may rev the engine more than on automatic.
Just my 2cents

Thanks for yoyr thoughts. It didn't disappear in manual it just wasn't present in first or second. It came back when I shifted to third in manual. My X5 has 84k miles.

Alpac,

Your cat converter theory could have some legs because my check engine light came on today as well which the manual states is emission related.

If it comes from one of the two cat converters it should be easy to confirm. Have somebody in the car pressing the accelerator while you listen under the car on each side.