I have had that happen to me a few times, usually during stop and go traffic. Sometimes the auto start stop system gets confused and it sets the transmission to neutral. I had my X3 reprogram to shut off the ASS and I do not use it in traffic anymore.

 

If the car goes into neutral by itself, that is a flaw and should be investigated.

I note that you can move the shift lever from D to N without depressing the side button. I find myself forgetting that the car is in regular mode and trying to downshift and putting the car in "N" while driving. I have a theory that a casual swipe of the jacket cuff could move the lever while at the stop light. I have not tested my thoery, but I offer it for consideration here.

 

I reported the issue to the dealer, and I was told it's first time they heard of the issue. They asked me to drive the car to their service department. I'll update when I got a result.

 

The X3 has been in the shop for 4 working days, they haven't been able to duplicate the problem.... Maybe I shouldn't send it to the shop

 

Got the car back from the shop, they found nothing but just upgrade software

Btw, why I feel 328i is more powerful than x3 35i?


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Got the car back from the shop, they found nothing but just upgrade software

Btw, why I feel 328i is more powerful than x3 35i?

Sent from BimmerApp mobile app

I would suggest very carefully watching yourself for the next several days and make sure you aren't bumping the shifter in any way. it doesn't take much to knock it into neutral, either by resting your hand on the lever or bumping it.

Your sensation of the 328 being more powerful is probably a mistaken sensation of the 328 being more nimble than x3. It's physics. X3 is 1000 pounds heavier than a 3 series, and has a higher center of gravity. It wont behave the same as the car.