DCT isues when stored...

I currently have my '12 M3 Conv in storage for the winter. Every week, she gets started and allowed to run for 30 minutes or so just to keep things happy... I usually pull her in and out of the garage, weather permitting but this week, I got a "transmission error" on the display. Called Dealership and they stated that this is a common problem with the DCT... The suggested shutting the car off and let it sit for a day.. Seriously? Anyway, it corrected the "transmission error" display but now, when I put it in reverse, it moves a foot or so and then pops into neutral... Anyone else having this issue or heard about it? Once the weather gets decent, The dealership is picking it up and giving here the all over treatment...Help?

Originally Posted by Twinllamas

I currently have my '12 M3 Conv in storage for the winter. Every week, she gets started and allowed to run for 30 minutes or so just to keep things happy... I usually pull her in and out of the garage, weather permitting but this week, I got a "transmission error" on the display. Called Dealership and they stated that this is a common problem with the DCT... The suggested shutting the car off and let it sit for a day.. Seriously? Anyway, it corrected the "transmission error" display but now, when I put it in reverse, it moves a foot or so and then pops into neutral... Anyone else having this issue or heard about it? Once the weather gets decent, The dealership is picking it up and giving here the all over treatment...Help?

I have stored cars over the winter for years and have never had a problem. Before parking them in the garage for the winter, I add some Stabil and top off the gas tank, over fill the tires by 8-10 lbs., clean and full detail, park it on dense foam pads to stop flat spots on the tires, hook up the battery tender, cover the car...and leave it alone for the winter.

By starting the car and letting it sit running, IMO, just builds up condensation in the exhaust system (that sits there) and possibly carbon deposits in the engine.

I have not experienced the issue you describe with the DCT in my 335is.

Sometimes less is more.

Everything you mentioned is "Car storage 101"... I just like to start the monster every now and again to keep things fresh (And to listen to the motor... I'm easily amused!)

The DCT issue has me concerned though...