Auto transmission noise

[slw54]

Hi,

I am a recent BMW owner from NZ. Like the site by the way!

Could anyone help with a strange noise I have just started hearing in my '96 328 coupe?
This car has 53000kms on it (i think is real), and is from Japan originally. I am the first NZ owner.
I think the noise is coming from the auto transmission, because it only makes the noise once in drive, not when it is revved in neutral.
It is a light to medium squealing noise, which usually happens worst when driving from cold, and it changes pitch slightly or goes away as the transmission goes through its changes.
The sound is almost like the noise of a slipping fan belt but not as bad!
It can also do it when hot, seems worse when accelerating but sometimes when driving at a constant speed.

The gearshift is still good and smooth.

I thought maybe a fluid change would be the first thing to try?

Any ideas would be great.

Thanks

Steve

[slw54]

From reading through the useful advice on the forum, I am beginning to wonder whether it is actually a belt tensioner problem. I guess it shows itself more when the engine is under load, and therefore revving it in neutral won't show it up as much. I have tried switching the air con on for the extra load but that doesn't seem to make the noise come more than with it off.

It is due for a service in the next month so I will ask them to have a look at it.

[dahoe99]

Hi,
I recently purchased a 97 328is and she is making the exact noise yours is making:mad:. I am about to take her in for service to find out what it may be. Just curious if you figured your problem out. Thanks. Take care.

[HeadnSouth]

If you are for sure its coming from the trans I'd start by changing the trans fluid and filter. Thats cheapest and simplest way to keep your trans in good shape.

I had a slipping problem and used some trans-tune from seafoam and it cleared it up. Not sure it'll help in your situation. I'l also heard good things about Auto-rx being used in transmissions and fixing issues.

www.auto-rx.com