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A $7,000 Transmission

8K views 92 replies 20 participants last post by  Chicone 
#1 ·
So I purchased my BMW from a local BMW dealer Sept. 2018 with 27k miles (one owner). It's been running great, no fault codes and December 1st I changed the oil, oil filter, air filter and cabin filter.

I took it in today for a complimentary checkup and possible 30k mile maintenance. I mentioned when I backup I would hear a faint "wine". Like when you backup a car at an accelerated rate but much lower sound and just barely backing up.

Well, I went shopping at the local mall with my mom (today is her birthday), when I get the call from the service advisor. He said the car needs two things:

1- A wheel alignment $189.99, and ...
2- A NEW transmission!!

I asked him how much the transmission repair would cost and was told BMW doesn't repair transmissions, they replace them. When I asked how much, he said $7,000.00 and warranted for 2 years. AMAZING!!

When I asked him how this happened, he said it's a faulty internal bearing which caused this and it's no fault of the operator. I said if there's a faulty part shouldn't BMW cover it? His reply was the car is out of warranty.

Thank God, I purchased an extended warranty. They're sending an adjuster to verify the claim.

Anyone ever hear of such atrocity? Also, I feel BMW May have sold me a lemon (I've only had the car 3 months!)

Any thoughts?

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#2 ·
**** happens. Nothing is 100%.

You probably have a ZF 8-speed transmission. If so, that's the worldwide industry standard for automatic transmissions. But, occasionally one of those goes bad. I broke a double-clutch transmission on one of BMW NA's F10 M5's. More accurately, it broke when I was driving it.

Our new X3 had a water pump go bad after six months and 5k miles. My old 535i has a similar water pump (electric) and is fine at 56k miles.

My Chevy had a wheel bearing go bad at 55k miles. It 118k miles, the replacement bearing and the other three original bearings are fine.

Yeah, that extended warranty ended up being worth the money. Now you'll get a brand new transmission. They don't fix transmission, just replace them. When the car has 100k miles, the transmission will only have 70k miles on it.
 
#3 ·
**** happens. Nothing is 100%.

You probably have a ZF 8-speed transmission. If so, that's the worldwide industry standard for automatic transmissions. But, occasionally one of those goes bad. I broke a double-clutch transmission on one of BMW NA's F10 M5's. More accurately, it broke when I was driving it.

Our new X3 had a water pump go bad after six months and 5k miles. My old 535i has a similar water pump (electric) and is fine at 56k miles.

My Chevy had a wheel bearing go bad at 55k miles. It 118k miles, the replacement bearing and the other three original bearings are fine.

Yeah, that extended warranty ended up being worth the money. Now you'll get a brand new transmission. They don't fix transmission, just replace them. When the car has 100k miles, the transmission will only have 70k miles on it.
Thank you Autoputzer.

I'm still trying to relieve my upset stomach. I feel like I've been had, and can only imagine where I'd be had I not purchased that extended warranty. I have a $250 deductible.

I have a 2014 X1 28i xDrive. Not sure what transmission it has but I'm feeling ill, I won't lie to you. I have a 2018 5 Series as a courtesy loaner. Rides so nice.

Nonetheless, gonna try to enjoy the rest of my mom's 78th birthday today. No matter how hard it is for me to wrap my mind around this sudden news. [emoji17]

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#4 ·
Here's what eases my mind when I get a four figure bill in the BMW dealership's service department. It's a spreadsheet calculating the annual depreciation on a $50k MSRP car.

Typical depreciation is 25% the first year; 20% the years the car goes out of warranty, becomes seven model years old, and goes over 100k miles; and 15% the remaining years.

The last column is sort of what you could spend that year on maintenance and repairs and still be better off over buying a new car.

When you look at depreciation, the maintenance costs on an older car, even a BMW, are really trivial. But, people freak out by a $1000 repair bill, but that $12.5k hit the first year, $5.6k the second year, $4.8k the third year, $5.4k the fourth year... are all invisible to them.

I buy new, and I don't buy extended warranties. But if I was buying used, yeah, an extended warranty would be worth looking at. $250 for a new transmission is a bargain.

Don't worry, be happy.

Did you ever measure the tread depths on your tires? What did the dealer say about mis-matched tires with xDrvie?
 

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#19 ·
Here's what eases my mind when I get a four figure bill in the BMW dealership's service department. It's a spreadsheet calculating the annual depreciation on a $50k MSRP car.

Typical depreciation is 25% the first year; 20% the years the car goes out of warranty, becomes seven model years old, and goes over 100k miles; and 15% the remaining years.

The last column is sort of what you could spend that year on maintenance and repairs and still be better off over buying a new car.

When you look at depreciation, the maintenance costs on an older car, even a BMW, are really trivial. But, people freak out by a $1000 repair bill, but that $12.5k hit the first year, $5.6k the second year, $4.8k the third year, $5.4k the fourth year... are all invisible to them.

I buy new, and I don't buy extended warranties. But if I was buying used, yeah, an extended warranty would be worth looking at. $250 for a new transmission is a bargain.

Don't worry, be happy.

Did you ever measure the tread depths on your tires? What did the dealer say about mis-matched tires with xDrvie?
Great spreadsheet idea, Putz! :thumbup:
Thanks!
 
#5 ·
Thanks Autoputzer

Not yet on the tires, but I will bring this up when I pickup the car and have them give it to me in writing. I mentioned it verbally to the service advisor and he said I should be fine. Verbally, of course. [emoji19]

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#9 · (Edited)
....any problems when driving forward? Just find it hard to believe.
kevman2-

Just what I explained to 4llr above. [emoji15]

Also, now that I'm driving a 2019 x3 loaner, the shifting is quiet. On mine, it would sound like a bearing without grease (if that makes any sense) when accelerating to merge into a highway.

This is my first BMW, so again I assumed that's how they sound.
 
#7 ·
I had my zf 8 replaced under warranty as well. When the trans was hot, it was jerking, almost like if I was getting hit in the back by another car. Changed under extended warranty. BMW does not open transmission, they just swap it. In my case, it was probably just a sticky solenoid.
 
#8 · (Edited)
4llr-

Interesting.

Not sure if this is the same thing but while stopped, when I released breaks slightly to start moving again, it felt like someone "bumped" be from behind. Ironically, the first time that happened, I really thought I was bumped from behind.

Again, not sure if this is of any significance, but I assume that's normal for the "xDrive" car. [emoji15]
 
#10 ·
Recognize that BMW dealers are notorious liars and incompetents.

Just because THEY say it needs a trans isnt necessarily true. Yes, I know you have a warranty...but still.

Id want to be there when the adjuster is there. Dont assume you will not get screwed between the two of them.

Florida, land of the scams.

FWIW
 
#11 · (Edited)
Thank you ard.

Very helpful and encouraging response.

One would assume, or at the very least HOPE a reputable "BMW" dealer representing such a global company would not do such a thing. Suffice to say the massive negative publicity such would bring, including BBB, Office of Consumer Affairs, BMWNA, our local AGs Office, Local News and various Social Media outlets. I'd also pursue legal litigation.

I'll check into this once it's all said and done. If what you allege is true (and I'd certainly like to think not), I assure you it wouldn't end there.
 
#12 ·
Yes its questionable you need a brand new transmission
However its true the dealers dont mess around with transmissions nor have the expertise
Lucky you are under warranty and have it replaced covered
Otherwise I would search for a ZF transmission specialist and have him diagnose and perform the work..
and I doubt it would be $7000
 
#13 ·
Is this a BMW extended warranty or from a third party? MIght make a difference if you let the dealer deal with the issue or look for an independent transmission shop. Either way, be glad you have the warranty and take advantage of it. You don't want to wait thinking its not a major issue and then have to replace it later out of warranty.
 
#14 · (Edited)
Thank you Jim.

I purchased an extended warranty from my credit union (they financed the loan). It's an exclusionary policy (same as dealer; bumper-to-number, excluding maintenance items), and carries a $250 deductible. It's a 75,000 mile policy; runs 5 years or until the vehicle hits 107,000 miles. The service advisor said they deal with them all the time, and stated "they're one of the better ones."

According to the advisor, because it's a $7,000 claim, the adjuster was set to visit BMW this past Saturday. He said if all goes well, they'd order the new tranny on Monday and the job would take 2 days.

I haven't heard from them so I assume the new transmission has been ordered.

This is my very first BMW and I'd be lying if I said I'm not totally dismayed by this entire situation. [emoji17]
 
#15 ·
I have had the dealer in Miami stone cold lie to me about work that was billed for but not done. They are under time and economic pressure just like everyone else.

Trust but verification is your best bet at the dealership. Also I would jump at the chance for a new transmission under warranty. You are eliminating a huge failure point from your car on their dime.
 
#18 ·
So I purchased my BMW from a local BMW dealer Sept. 2018 with 27k miles (one owner).

I took it in today for a complimentary checkup and possible 30k mile maintenance.

He said the car needs two things:
1- A wheel alignment $189.99, and ...
2- A NEW transmission!!

When I asked him how this happened, he said it's a faulty internal bearing which caused this and it's no fault of the operator. [/url]
Hello David,
Very sorry to hear your tragic story. Assuming that you have not put many miles on the car in less than 3 months of ownership, how in the heck did the BMW pre-owned dealership not know something was terribly wrong with the transmission when they sold it to you? Not to mention the wheel alignment - do you ride on bumpy roads?

That said, when I purchase a used vehicle, I always assume that some gremlin will rear its ugly head, so I prepare myself as best I can. As da Putz wisely reminds us, **** happens. You were very smart to purchase the extended warranty. So, pat yourself on the back. Well done.

When I read of BMW failures such as yours, it does give pause. But, thankfully, they are relatively rare. So, Merry Christmas, and enjoy your brand new transmission!!
Best,
Don
 
#24 ·
Hello David,

Very sorry to hear your tragic story. Assuming that you have not put many miles on the car in less than 3 months of ownership, how in the heck did the BMW pre-owned dealership not know something was terribly wrong with the transmission when they sold it to you? Not to mention the wheel alignment - do you ride on bumpy roads?

That said, when I purchase a used vehicle, I always assume that some gremlin will rear its ugly head, so I prepare myself as best I can. As da Putz wisely reminds us, **** happens. You were very smart to purchase the extended warranty. So, pat yourself on the back. Well done.

When I read of BMW failures such as yours, it does give pause. But, thankfully, they are relatively rare. So, Merry Christmas, and enjoy your brand new transmission!!

Best,

Don
Hi Don-

Thanks for the feedback. To answer your question ..

1- I know what you mean about them not saying anything. I'll see how this all plays out.
2- No bumpy roads at all. All flat roads here and very nicely paved. In fact, I can safely say I've never ran over a pot-hole or anything which would cause me to lose my alignment.

Things that make one go, "Hmmmmmmm..."
 
#32 ·
Thanks everyone for advice and words of encouragement.

@Refted: It's not a 2018. It's a 2014 purchased with 27,800 miles 3 months ago from a BMW dealership. One owner (retired folks) before me.

Happy Holidays everyone.

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Now I understand. I'm surprised (but happy for you) that you bought the extended- I never do. My niece did and she was denied on the claim because she didn't have oil change receipts. The job of the insurance company is to take your money and deny your claim.
That said, our 2011 328i with 80K needs a rear diff. Should this be going after 80K? I didn't think so either!
 
#27 ·
Making a long story short my daughter purchased an '06 X5 (48K and out of warranty) from a dealer in NJ that I've been doing business with since '91 (11 cars). She had the car a few days and it stalled while doing 60mph on Rt 80 (not good). The car was in and out of their shop for 6 weeks ... the dealer pushed BMW and the entire engine was replaced. Press the dealer and promise to raise hell with BMW Corporate in NJ. Good luck ... this should never happen with a purchase from an authorized dealer.
 
#29 ·
Actually, I mentioned when I accelerated to pass a truck once, the car handled poorly (we have 5 MINIs in the family so I'm use to tight handling). This BMW appeared to sway slightly and not at all conducive to what I hear BMWs are supposed to feel like (e.g. connected to the road).

I asked him to check the alignment and when he called about the tranny he said it needs an alignment too.
 
#34 ·
David, is the repair shop connected to the dealer that you purchased the car from?
Was the car previously serviced by them?
 
#36 ·
I abandoned my last car under similar circumstances. $4000 for the new tranny exceeded the cars value. I knew I could go the tranny shop route instead, but after 19 years I had enough and donated the Pontiac to charity. So, $7000 for a BMW vs $4000 for a GM tranny doesn't sound totally out of whack.

My other question is off topic, is the OP "Big Papi" of the Mariners and Red Sox?
 
#45 · (Edited)
UPDATE: So, BMW just called and stated, "We just heard back from the extended warranty company and they elected not to cover the new transmission."

I asked him why (keep in mind it took a WEEK to get a response from the warranty company) and his response was, "Because they say the car is still drivable, operating/shifting normally without any fault codes and they consider the faint noise normal mechanical operation."

I asked him if the warranty company is going against BMW mechanic's recommendations? His reply was, "Yes, they are."

I asked to have all this in writing. I also asked for a copy of ALL service/repair records (this was the only dealer). I also want in writing that no other maintenance items are required at this time. He agreed to all. I'll pickup my car tomorrow.

I just can't help but wonder what actually happened here. Did this BMW dealer try to pull a fast one on the insurance company, did my car actually need a new transmission? The decision to replace the tranny was based on a technician "listening" to the car and supposedly driving it.

Anyway, I'm out just the realignment charge $189.99.

I'm really confused but will be researching this further on this end.

Here's a scan of the Davis report for this car. All work was performed at this dealer when the previous owner purchased it from them brand new. [emoji17]

Thoughts, advise, direction ... anyone?

Text Font Document Paper
 
#46 ·
All transmissions make noise in reverse. That's because the reverse gears are either not helical or have very small helix angles. Helical gears are used to cut down on noise, but they're not as strong as non-helical gears.

Yeah, having one entity decide what's wrong and another entity on the hook to pick up the cost is a recipe for trouble. (That's why Medicare is about $60T in the hole, and why medical insurance for the rest of us is so high.) Mechanics at dealerships get a commission on parts. So, there's an incentive to load you up with new parts, and stick it to a 3rd party warranty company (who competes with the dealer for selling extended warranties).

On the positive side, you're covered up to 107k miles if the transmission deteriorates. If there's really something wrong with your transmission, it will get worse.

Alignments are far cheaper than tires.
 

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#48 ·
Id say the car does not need a transmission and didn't need a wheel alignment. Some of these dealers are really horrible suggesting unnecessary things. On my X1, I just had it in for the Takata airbag recall. They told me I needed a new gasket at the oil filter housing and quoted $700. I told them its parked in the same spot every night and has never leaked a drop of oil. The electronic gage has never moved from 100% full (134k miles). BTW I have never had a wheel alignment tires wear perfect and car has never pulled. Best car I have ever owned.

:thumbup::thumbup::thumbup:
 
#49 ·
Thank you kevman2. Great words of encouragement. I was completely disappointed with BMW being my first one and all.

You know, one would assume a "reputable" global company like BMW wouldn't attempt to pull such a scam on their customers. I was under the impression of coming into a different class of vehicle ownership as it relates to service and dependability.

I guess in today's "money hungry" age; good honest people are hard to come by. So sad [emoji20]
 
#50 ·
Sorry to hear this. But without taking the transmission apart, it's hard to determine who is rignt. You did the right thing to document everything. Hopefully if there really is an issue, it becomes clear while the extended warranty is still in effect.

FWIW this is a ZF 8-speed and is very popular and has a good reputation.
 
#51 · (Edited)
RESULTS: Picked up the car and it seems OK. I do hear noise (could be engine and/or transmission) but maybe that's because I became use to the x3 3.0 which was newer (2019 with 1k miles) and much quieter.

At any rate, check out the following images and let me know if you have any thoughts.

Looks like alignment was off, but have you ever seen anything like the explanation for a new transmission? Hmmmm.

Text Plan Diagram Floor plan Parallel
Text Font Document Paper
Text Document Paper Font Monochrome
Text Line Font Document Circle
 
#52 ·
RESULTS: Picked up the car and it seems OK. I do hear noise (could be engine and/or transmission) but maybe that's because I became use to the x3 3.0 which was newer (2019 with 1k miles) and much quieter.

At any rate, check out the following images and let me know if you have any thoughts.

Looks like alignment was off, but have you ever seen anything like the explanation for a new transmission? Hmmmm.

View attachment 833679 View attachment 833685 View attachment 833681 View attachment 833683
Doesnt your warranty also state that you are required to minimize damage by being proactive? i would fight the warranty company on that.
 
#57 · (Edited)
To the OP,
Perhaps this won't help, but consider doing some rolling tests backwards.
Find a hill, put the car in neutral and let it roll backwards. Still hear the noise?
This should hide the powertrain components and show focus on the hub/wheel bearing and if I were to guess... the noise won't be there.
At least I would want to know for sure if it was my car. :)

On another note, you could get a local indy shop to complete a tranny fluid spill and fill with a new pan and filter. (or DIY if you have the means)
It may not fix anything, but I would consider it.
 
#58 ·
@ard: Thanks for the detailed info. The car felt better on my drive home. It didn't have that lateral sway I mentioned when I took the car in. I obtained print outs of everything done to this car since new. I discovered they put the tires on (two different brands in the front). SA said I should be fine because the xDrive cars have a higher tolerance for varying tires because they're not always squared (fatter tires in the rear).

@stonex1: Unfortunately, I have no hills here. Everything is flat, and the best I could do is my garage driveway which is slightly pitched. [emoji17]

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