BMW 2 Series Transmission Failure, Paddle Shifter Issues

Hi there! I had a similar issue with my 2017 BMW 3 Series (my first BMW after owning a 1 Series). I have some experience working on cars, but transmissions are definitely not my specialty. Last year, my transmission started acting up just like yours, jerky shifts, weird noises, and limp mode. After dealing with this headache, I took it to my regular workshop. Turned out the transmission control unit was faulty. They had to replace it completely, which set me back about 1000 Euro. Not cheap, but it fixed the problem completely. Before jumping to conclusions though, what's your mileage and have you noticed any other warning signs before this started happening? Also, have you had any recent transmission fluid changes? These details would help me understand if you're dealing with the same issue I had. Since you're having similar symptoms with a newer model, I'd recommend getting it checked ASAP to prevent any further damage to the transmission.

Hey, thanks for your detailed response! Mine's at 42812 KM and just had its latest service, which is why these symptoms are particularly concerning. I appreciate you sharing your experience with the transmission control unit, it's helpful to know what I might be looking at cost-wise if it turns out to be the same issue. You make a good point about the transmission fluid. During the service, everything appeared normal, but I'll definitely have them double-check the fluid levels and condition when I take it in. Better safe than sorry with these transmissions, especially since it's been shifting so rough lately. Did you notice any immediate improvement after your TCU replacement? Just trying to get an idea of what to expect if I end up needing the same repair.

Hey again! I'm glad I could help earlier. Yeah, after dealing with my transmission issues, I can totally relate to your concerns. When I had my TCU replaced, the improvement was literally night and day, it was like getting a new car. The shifts became butter-smooth again, and all those annoying symptoms disappeared completely. The paddle shifters started responding instantly, just like they should. Since you mentioned your car just had a service, that's actually quite similar to how mine started acting up. Weirdly enough, the problems began showing up about two weeks after a routine service. I initially thought maybe something got messed up during the service, but the diagnosis confirmed it was definitely the TCU. With your mileage being similar to what mine was when it failed (I was at around 45000 KM), it's sounding more and more like we had the same issue. One thing I forgot to mention in my previous reply, before the full failure, I noticed the transmission would occasionally hesitate for a split second before engaging, especially when cold. Did you notice anything like that? Trust me, even though the repair cost hurt my wallet, it was worth every penny to get the car shifting properly again. Just make sure you get a warranty on the new TCU if you end up replacing it. These units aren't cheap, and you'll want that peace of mind.

Thanks for sharing those extra details about your experience. It's both reassuring and concerning that your symptoms matched mine so closely, especially the part about problems showing up after a service. And yes, now that you mention it, I have noticed that slight hesitation when cold starting, particularly in the mornings. I just didn't connect it to the transmission issues until you pointed it out. I'll definitely take your advice about getting a warranty on the TCU if that turns out to be the problem. I've got an appointment scheduled for next week, and I'm hoping they can diagnose and fix it quickly. The grinding sounds are making me really nervous about driving it too much. It's been really helpful hearing about your experience with this issue. At least now I have a better idea of what I might be dealing with and what the fix could cost. Thanks again for taking the time to share your insights, it's made me feel a bit better about the whole situation, even though my wallet's already crying at the potential repair bill!