97 528i Auto-Transmission "whirring" sound

[bmw_guy]

I own a 97 BMW 528i that just started making a "whirring" sound when the trannie shifts between 2-3 gears.
I am not a mechanic, but it sounds like it may be "slipping" a bit when it shifts. I have noticed that if I go slowly enough, I don't hear the sound.

Does anyone know what may be causing this?
Is there a known "fix" for it (i.e. that doesn't cost an arm and a leg)?

Any suggestions?

Thanks,

bmw_guy

p.s.
this car has 99,000 miles on it and has been very well maintained.

 

[aNoodle]

Tranmission whine or torque converter whine is an early indication that the transmission is about to go. Is yours one of the first 'life-time oil' units? Some say to change the transmission fluid at the first indication of any problems, this could make a difference. Others will tell you it's too late. Hard to say, but may be worth trying it anway.

These units don't last forever. I got mine in '98 and I had to get a new unit last summer. Looks like you had a good run on yours if it's the original since '97.

 

[bmw_guy]

I appreciate your reply aNoodle.
I've been "bit by the bug" to get a new ride anyway, but I was hoping to get another good year out of this car first.

Anyway, thanks.

 

[aNoodle]

I appreciate your reply aNoodle.
I've been "bit by the bug" to get a new ride anyway, but I was hoping to get another good year out of this car first.

Anyway, thanks.

Well, no reason to throw out the baby with the bath water. I went a good 6 months with my little glitches between 5th and 4th. At 125,000 miles, I tried changing the transmission fluid but for me it didn't work. But that's not to say it won't work for yours, it's just hard to say. It's unlikely that the transmission will just stop working entirely.

If you're holding off for a new ride, you may be able to get by just fine. You may want to consider getting a factory refurbished transmission, cuz a 5 series is a classic and isn't dated much at all. I bet it would be cheaper than buying an entire new car, considering a BMW engine regularly gets to 250,000 miles.