E34 trans probs.Car moves, but no pwr, Please HELP!!

[gazzillo]

I have a 91, 525i. I was sitting still in traffice and all of a sudden I have no power. I step on the gas and the car moves but like the tranny is slipping considerably. Once some momentum is gained it will continue but without power or being able to switch the gears by pressing the gas way down. The LED lit up but I cannot read (display has bad caps I think) But oddly enough the led that shows what gear I am in and the mode I am in has disappeared. Can anyone shed some light on this??? Should I brace myself for a huge bill?? If that's the case, anyone know a good mechanic in West Palm Beach FL? Thank to all who reply! (PS this is my seventh Bimmer, problem or no problem, you can't beat the ride of a BMW!)

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[e30fr3@k]

hmm

auto tranny huh...there's your first mistake, and if i've read correctly, it may also be the cause of your problem. i read that the E34 is known to have problems with the auto tranny, and to avoid it. i didn't read the specifics because i would never consider buying a car without that third pedal . i'd say the bill won't be pleasant, but i'm no expert. good luck finding someone who knows a little more

 

[Ghost]

Sounds like the transmission needs replacement. I have this problem on my 535I, but it has over 300k miles. When the trans would slip I would put it in manual-M mode then back to A (if you have the A/M button next to the gear selector). This would force the trans to third then placing it back into automatic mode would help it shift normally. This is only a temporary solution and the transmission is probably going to need to be replaced. The trans for my car was in the neighborhood of $1,800 so yours should be less. Good Luck

 

[e30fr3@k]

ouch..

guess i heard right about the E34 5 auto trannies, huh? sorry to hear it...maybe you'll decide to put a manual tranny next time . oh well, good luck my friend