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318i auto not engaging top gear!
Posted: Sun Jan 30, 2011 8:30 pm
by grey_andy
Hi all,
my 318i auto has stopped engaging the 4th gear which is a pain as i do quite a lot of motorway driving.
Oil level is fine but could do with a change soon. Something to do with a cable maybe? Any help would be great!
Thanks in advance
Re: 318i auto not engaging top gear!
Posted: Mon Jan 31, 2011 11:09 am
by mrLEE30
Is it a switchable auto? Ie does it have the rotary switch next to gear selector?
If so this switch or the wiring from here to the control unit located on right side of boot would be the first place I would look at. When in "S" mode it will not shift into top, you need to ensure (or fool) the switch is in "E".
If this is all working then the governors may be dirty and a oil and filter change may fix it, but they normally need removing to clean, failing this the torque covertor is dying.
Re: 318i auto not engaging top gear!
Posted: Tue Feb 01, 2011 10:06 pm
by grey_andy
Cheers! its not a switchable auto, il have to do the oil change then and hope!!
Re: 318i auto not engaging top gear!
Posted: Tue Feb 01, 2011 10:23 pm
by peterjcollins
Hi,
I would change the automatic gear box filter and auto transmission fluid and see how you get on. The gear box sump or pan as it is sometimes referred will have to be removed to change the filter, a filter, o ring and rubber gasket will be required.
Refill with Castrol Dextron 2 or 3 available at Halfords or a good motor factors.
If after doing that it is still the same, the chances are the valves are sticking in the gearbox itself.
A complete removal and overhaul will cost alot of money but you could take a chance and purchase a secondhand box which is a known good unit.
Good luck
Peter