I am stumped! 2000 323 Automatic. Runs great 99.9% of the time. Just over 100K miles on it and just the usual things replaced. The tranny fluid has NOT been changed (OK, I thought lifetime meant lifetime but whatever). Problem: driving slightly uphill and turning towards the left, the tranny warning light comes on. Usual deal to reset it (turn engine off). We have tried to get it to turn on other ways, but basically only under this condition. It could be low fluid related but I did not see a leak anywhere. I read it could be voltage related but checked the output and it is at 14.1v (granted that is while stopped and not while driving uphill and to the left). I tried to open the tranny check spot but it is almost impossible for a DIYer to even check the fluid level. Any thoughts? Next step is to being it in, but that will get expensive rather quickly.
It could need fluid. If you plan on keeping this car a long time, I am in the camp which believes in fluid changes. IMHO I would suggest a trans fluid change.
Thanks. I was thinking it is low on fluid and the turn/uphill sloshes it to one side, but I was unable to get the thingy open next to the really hot exhaust to check the fluid level. What is wrong with a dipstick? I have seen mixed postings on tran fluid change on automatic after it has never been done before. If it were a manual, I would have had it changed already but the camp of 'leave it alone now that you waited this long' has me worried.
If you take it in to the dealer or a good Independent shop they should be able to check for any stored codes in the transmission module. 100K is BMW's suggested trans fluid change interval, I would have the fluid and filter changed. The 100K recommendation started around 2002 if you check the BMW Service Maintenance Checklist (at least for the 325/330/Z4/5series models) http://www.bmw330ci.net/maintenance/Service_Checklist_2003_US.pdf
