By continuing to use this site, you agree to ourprivacy policyandterms of service. Connect YOUCANIC diagnostic tool to the vehicles OBD2 port and retrieve any error codes that may be stored in the system.3. Step 3: Allow the car to stay for at least 5 to 7 minutes and restart the engine. DMCA It is responsible for transferring mechanical power from the transmission to the other components. 3.1 Step 1: Pull Over and Restart 3.2 Step 2: Inspect the Engine 3.3 Step 3: Scan with a BMW Scanner 3.4 Step 4: Take the Car to a Service Center 3.5 Cost of Repairs I assure you, it would be a lifesaver for that fellow. When the drivetrain malfunction message appears, it indicates that there is a problem with an engine or transmission component. This may involve road testing the vehicle or performing specific tests on the components. There are places that can do that outside of the dealership. Checking using the dipstick is one of the easiest ways to determine if the transmission fluid is leaking. Hopefully the problem is something trivial such as spark plugs, because replacing or repairing those will probably cost less than $100 or so. A drivetrain malfunction in a BMW refers to a problem with the cars power transfer system, which includes the transmission, driveshaft, and differentials. dollars. It experiences a sudden surge upon pressing the BMWs gas pedal. And I hope that this dealer isn't ripping you off!! It can also be because of fuel contaminants, causing the pump to malfunction. Read more. Osuagwu Solomon is a certified mechanic with over a decade of experience in the mechanic garage, and he has over five years of experience in the writing industry. What Does The Drivetrain Malfunction Message on BMW Mean? Step 1: Identify the OBD II Scanner port beneath your BMWs dashboard. That being the case, its doubtful that theres any special miracle cure or definitive preventative measure one can take to prevent it. A cars drivetrain malfunction is quite problematic and must not be taken lightly or with levity. For example, replacing a faulty transmission or driveshaft can be very expensive, while repairing a minor issue with the differentials may be relatively inexpensive.It is difficult to provide a specific cost estimate for drivetrain repairs without knowing the specific issue causing the malfunction and the extent of the repairs needed. While it is impossible to know what caused the BMW drivetrain to malfunction in your car withoutreading the codes, this error is due to an engine misfire in most cases. We'll help you figure out what it means and how to fix it. Aside from the warning on the screen, another way to diagnose a problem in the CV joint is to listen as you drive. In the i3's case, since there isn't any transmission, you could damage the electric motor. There are many different causes of the BMW drivetrain malfunction message, and the best way to determine what is wrong is to read the trouble codes. As mentioned earlier, the CV joint is one of the most important drivetrain parts. During this time, do not keep any lights, cooling fan, or radio on. One of the reasons for a BMW drivetrain malfunction is insufficient fuel pressure from the fuel pump. In that case, stopping the vehicle in a safe place as soon as possible is important so as not to continue driving. To clear the Drivetrain Malfunction error message on a BMW, you will need to address the issue causing the malfunction and then clear the error code from the vehicles computer. Strange indeed. However, it is also possible that the oil change may not be related to the drivetrain malfunction.It is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a BMW dealer or a mechanic as soon as possible to determine the cause of the drivetrain malfunction. It cools and lubricates your vehicles transmission. First Gear Glitches. Never try to drive your BMW with a drivetrain malfunction. It seems to be fairly ubiquitous across the range. Castrol Edge vs. Mobil 1 Oil: Differences & Which Is Better? On the other hand, a reckless driving style with a random maintenance style cannot guarantee the possibility of a cars drivetrain reaching its expected lifespan. Codes stored in the DME provide a good picture of why the Drivetrain Malfunction error was triggered. On average, the cost is anywhere from $2,068 to $2,108. Do not panic when you see BMW Drivetrain Malfunction warning on your dashboard. The injectors push the fuel into the combustion chamber of the engine. Why does it occur? Clear the error codes from the vehicles computer using the diagnostic tool.4. And its not the 1st time. A cylinder misfire indicates that the ignition coil attached to that cylinder is bad. Common reasons why BMW triggers drivetrain malfunction drive moderately on the dash include a weak 12-volt battery that may need to be replaced or an engine misfire, typically caused by a bad spark plug or ignition coil. Browse BMW 530 vehicles in Boca Raton, FL for sale on Cars.com, with prices under $99,931. With a clog in the converter, the combustion chamber flow can slow down as well, causing a stalling situation and a Drivetrain Malfunctioning message. MAXIMUM DRIVETRAIN OUTPUT NOT AVAILABLE. Consult the service center. Modern BMW cars come with sophisticated computerized systems that track any form of malfunction within a few seconds. I wish you luck in your complaint, thats really frustrating. Step 2: Plugin/connect the scanner to the port. Privacy Policy Here are the steps to clear the drivetrain malfunction message:1. Even if the drivetrain error disappears, you should still have your BMW diagnosed, as it is highly likely to return. If theres no history indicated of that issue, then you should be safe. It can cause a slew of problems, including drivetrain malfunction. We are an automotive mechanic blog that helps mechanics and car users to find the most recent and accurate technical and repair information for their cars. Hey guys, my 2015 BMW i3 has been amazing until just a few moth ago the same thing happened to me. Act immediately when there is a drivetrain malfunction. While some people might attempt to fix a BMW drivetrain malfunction on their own, we suggest letting the pros do it. She had a full battery charge and was not using the range extender. Then when ti was 9 months out of warranty it came on again and stayed on, i took it to the dealer and after having the car a day looking for the problem they called me and said it was a heat exchanger of some sort and the cost was estimated at $2800 to replace it. These are all practical steps you can take. Fixing the BMW drivetrain malfunction can cost anywhere from $0 to $5,000 or more. I had intended to buy an extended warranty but never had the spare cash. Shell Gas: Which One to Go for in 2023, iDrive screen display drivetrain error message. BMW I3 Drivetrain Error High Voltage Insulation - YouTube AboutPressCopyrightContact usCreatorsAdvertiseDevelopersTermsPrivacyPolicy & SafetyHow YouTube worksTest new features 2022. I can drive it electric but the Rex shuts off once it heats up . The breakage of this component will compromise the functions of the parts that attach to it, resulting in odd sounds. As an example, changing the spark plugs might cost you $100 or less, especially if you can do it yourself. 1. It is important to address drivetrain malfunctions as soon as possible to avoid potentially damaging the cars transmission or other components. Yikes! For example, the viscosity of the transmission fluid can increase in cold weather, making it more difficult for the transmission to shift gears. The drivetrain is an important part of the cars powertrain and plays a crucial role in the cars performance and handling.The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the driveshaft, which delivers power to the wheels through the differential. Drivetrain malfunction on BMW328i can be fixed with an estimated cost of $2,068 to $2,108. i have a drivetrain malfunction when i accelerate. Unfortunately, its a fairly wide spectrum that makes it hard to pin it automatically down to one particular problem. The possible trouble areas are too numerous to list as they include many ignition system, fuel system, air . Locate the diagnostic port under the dashboard. Otherwise, you will end up compromising its performance. Can You Drive a Long Distance With a Plugged Tire. The BMW drivetrain malfunction is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. About 3 months after I drove it off lot, it went into limp mode while driving from Wa to Ca. I drove the vehicle yesterday morning, no issues. Finally we come to the question of prevention. If you are experiencing aBMW drivetrain malfunction when accelerating or driving, do not continue. A BMW uses different fluids to ensure its peak performance. The transmission is one of the parts of the drivetrain. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Consult the service center. If you are getting a cylinder misfire for one particular cylinder, there is a chance that the ignition coil to that cylinder is defective. The engine cuts off when the gear is engaged. Research, browse, save, and share from 1,081 BMW models in Fort Lauderdale, FL. on the way home the error went away again. This is because a faulty fuel pump cannot supply the required quantity of fuel to power the cars engine for proper acceleration. To fix the BMW drivetrain malfunction message, you need to read the error codes from the engine and transmission control modules with an OBD2 scanner to determine what is causing the problem. The ignition coil is a crucial component that sends the necessary power for the spark plugs to work. So, make sure to replace spark plugs to keep them working at their peak. Iridium vs. You can be more confident that they will address the root cause. This particular error can happen at any point in the BMWs life. Check the oil level and ensure that the engine isnt running too hot. As a result, the engines valves will open and close at the right time. The BMW scanner is best because it can recognize all of the manufacturer-specific codes. 2 Are There Any Signs of the "Drivetrain Malfunction" Error? Restart the engine. Yes thats definitely unacceptable for a low mileage 2021 model. Its possible that theres a simple fault that can be repaired to get you back on the road. The future's here, and it's shaping up to be a wild ride! BMW i3 Drivetrain Malfunction Hello, I have a 2014 i3 with 53k miles. Have the problem checked by service. I then pulled the paper and it was so wedged in the DC motor it broke. Various issues, such as low transmission fluid levels, a faulty transmission control module, or a problem with the differential, can cause BMW drivetrain malfunction. Many people often misunderstand it. It is a part of the moving elements that allow the powertrain to deliver its intended functions. If theres no visible reason for the warning message, its time to use your code-scanning tool. A faulty ignition coil is another culprit to a BMWs drivetrain malfunction error signal display on the iDrive screen. The cost of repairing a drivetrain malfunction on a BMW328i is projected to be between $2,068 and $2,108. Here is a list of possible error messages that you may get on a BMW cluster. Regardless of your personal skill or confidence when it comes to automotive repairs, that course of action must always remain in your mind when you reach a point where safe experiments and trial and error yield no positive results. I am very interested in eco-friendly lifestyles: from recycling to solar panels, and from heat pumps to you guessed it green cars! This warning message may appear in the dashboard display. This error NEVER happened prior to getting the oil leak fixed. These core questions and more form the focus of todays blog. If that does not work, you will need to check under the hood or use a scanner to diagnose the problem through error codes. A BMW has an advanced and intelligent system that will warn you of any problem. A drivetrain malfunction on BMW can be very frustrating if you do not know the cause and how to fix the problem. Maximum drivetrain output is not available. It is best to replace ignition coils after running 20,000 to 25,000 miles for the best performance. Also makes a sound like there is air blowing though the vents. If you are asking, What causes drivetrain malfunction in BMW? Sometimes, it can be due to one or more of the causes working hand-in-hand, outlined below: When one or more of a BMW cars injectors are faulty or damaged, it automatically affects the engine and reduces the power and performance. A quick look at the dashboard will give you insights into what is wrong, including a BMW Drivetrain Malfunction warning. Of course, for many BMW models, checking the engine is as simple as lifting the hood, but in the case of the i3 REx, you have to access the engine from the trunk, lifting up first the floor mat, and then unscrewing the metal engine bay covering. To temporarily reset a drivetrain malfunction error in a BMW, park in a safe spot, turn off the engine, and wait for five minutes with the ignition turned off. The drivetrain system of a BMW consists of the components that deliver power from the engine to the wheels, including the transmission, driveshaft, and differentials. Consult service center. So, whether it is a drivetrain malfunction on BMW 528i or any other BMW series, take any perceived drivetrain issue with seriousness until you have resolved the issue. Turn on the scanner and select your BMW model. There will also be noticeable performance issues while idling. What does PDC malfunction mean on initial startup on that BMW? Once the engine detects damage in the spark plug, it will automatically shut down. The Engine Control Module is sometimes referred to as Digital Motor Electronics DME, or Engine Control Unit ECU. If faulty spark plugs cause your drivetrain issue on a BMW, you should change all of them, not regarding which one looks good or bad. It was fine for a year and then I received the drive train malfunction error multiple times over 3 months but the warning would come on sporadically and then the warning would randomly go off. When there is an issue, reset the drivetrain immediately. The technician will be able to diagnose the issue and recommend the necessary repairs. One or more damaged fuel injectors can cause BMW to drive with moderately reduced power. Anyone have that part number?? Another common sign is engine stalling. BMW 5 Series E34 525xi AWD illustration with visible drivetrain components. Parts Catalog Every time I do this towards the end of the trip I get a warning "Drivetrain Malfunction" get home, after a day it goes away and all is normal. BMW models have bulletins about the drivetrain malfunction issue, Why Are BMWs Called Beamers or Bimmers? As a result, you will notice a misfiring engine and a loss of power. We participate in the Amazon, Advance Auto Parts, eBayaffiliate programs and may earn a commission when you purchase using links on this site. BMW drivetrain malfunction repair cost is relatively cheaper than fixing both the drivetrain problem and any other issues that come along with neglecting the drivetrain for too long. However, the expected lifespan of a cars drivetrain depends on the drivers driving and maintenance style. BMW drivetrain malfunction when accelerating is directly traceable to a defective fuel pump. Obviously, the first and clearest sign that your car has this problem is that you see the warning on your dash display, but lets say that the error message hasnt come up yet. Testimonials My question: BMW just pulled my engine less that 4000 miles ago. In the next section, however, well deal with the signs that your BMW i3 is experiencing this issue. Instead, you would deal with a misfiring engine, stalling, strange vibrations and a rough idle. Copyright 2023 Mechanic Base. Swap the ignition coils for cylinder one and cylinder 2. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . Common Symptoms of Drivetrain Malfunction. $200 to diag and he just said maybe it is the EGR diesel? You must make several critical decisions for your cars well-being, such as the gas brand. Step 2: Open the hood by pulling the hood-release component beneath the dashboard. See TSBs and recalls for the BMW i3. To reset the Drivetrain Malfunction error message on a BMW, you will need to address the issue causing the malfunction and then clear the error code from the vehicles computer. Your email address will not be published. - Answered by a verified BMW Mechanic . Magnus is the owner and main author of Mechanicbase. A problem with the BMW drivetrain is often a result of issues with its different components, including the following: The spark plug is a circuit with an arc that produces sparks. License Plate Screw Is Stuck How to Get It Out. Yesterday afternoon I get in and I have the drivetrain malfunction lights on. Faulty or worn-out spark plugs can also alter the proper functioning of a BMWs drivetrain. To temporarily reset a drivetrain malfunction error in a BMW, park in a safe spot, turn off the engine, and wait for five minutes with the ignition turned off. The engine requires the right amount of fuel to work its best. The fuel pump condition can deteriorate over time, contributing to its failure. Full performance not available Have the problem checked by service Error message. Test the transmission, driveshaft, and differentials to see if they function properly. Luckily, she was not far from home and was on a quiet side street. A drivetrain malfunction message or signal on a BMW is an indicator of a transmission or engine problem detected by the cars Engine Control Module ECM. A BMW drivetrain malfunction does not suddenly cause the car to break down. But here are some common causes of the BMW powertrain error message: A misfiring engine is sure to lead to a Drivetrain Malfunction error. If you receive a Drivetrain Malfunction error message on your BMW during cold weather, it is important to stop the vehicle in a safe place as soon as possible and not continue driving. The car will function as normal and I am able to accelerate after the message disappear. The cost of repairing a BMW drivetrain defect is less expensive than the cost of fixing both the drivetrain problem and any additional . Other causes along this line include; mass airflow sensor, blown head gasket, or defective turbo. To add, it prevents engine ping and knocks. Turn your vehicles ignition and take the key out. 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Of possible error messages that you may get on a BMW drivetrain malfunction.... Suddenly cause the car with low-octane gasoline include many ignition system, fuel system, fuel system air... Form the focus of todays blog manufacturer-specific codes a defective fuel pump II scanner port beneath your BMWs.! Thats really frustrating that your BMW diagnosed, as it is best to replace spark to. Low-Octane gasoline pulling the hood-release component beneath the dashboard display contributing to its failure this error never happened to... Drivetrain error disappears, you will notice a misfiring engine, stalling, strange vibrations and a loss power! Has been amazing until just a few seconds questions and more form the focus of todays blog solar. To as Digital motor Electronics DME, or defective turbo & amp ; SafetyHow YouTube worksTest new features....