korpse88

Yea, you gotta try to replace the battery first and maybe get the software updated. Hopefully that works. Mine worked again for a while but slowly got worse and worse, I needed a new/used transmission replacement. Ended up finding one online for $1100 + $500 for installation.

ASpec818

I just got the dreaded transmission malfunction error as well. Car only has 79k miles and is never abused. Car still drives perfectly. Mechanic reset adaptations and will see if it pops up again. I hope it was just a computer glitch!

copey2015

Someone must of fixed this without replacing the tranny

bmw naseem

[QUOTE=rocksteady530;1318353]'04 530i.
Today I was quickly get around someone, and all of sudden I got the "transmission fail safe drive moderately". I was still able to drive about 45mph (on side streets) but it was a little sluggish. When I got home and turn it off and about a min or 2 turn it back on and it was gone.
Now I did the usual Google search and got a laundry list of what it could be...battery, Tranny need reset, etc.

Anyone had this problem and had a real solution to it? I hope the transmission is not bad....

Thanks
Hi everyone I'm having transmission failure issue when I switch in.my CSR and its not shifting gears changed oil and filter but still having same problem someone told me its valve body sensor issue any tips thanks i

mrottenborn

Hi Folks,

My 2008 528xi had the same problem about 18 months ago right after the CPO warranty expired. It would run fine for a day or two, then drop into failsafe mode and light up the warning lights on the instrument panel like a Christmas tree.

The problem was actually caused by a bad crankshaft position sensor, nothing to do with the transmission at all. On the N52 engine this sensor is located on the driver's side, above the starter motor. (Don't confuse it with the camshaft position sensors; there are two of those on the front of the engine, much easier to reach than the crankshaft position sensor.) The dealer quoted close to $1,000 to remove the intake and replace the sensor from above. With a little patience and the right e-torx socket I was able to replace it from below with no disassembly required other than removing the underbody pan and stiffener. You're working blind, and the hardest part was seating the new sensor in the engine block in the right position to allow the retaining bolt to be reinstalled.

Of all the possible causes for this error message, I'm glad this was the problem with mine and not a problem with the transmission itself, although I took it as an opportunity to do a full transmission fluid and filter/pan service at the same time.

I hope this helps someone else out there...

Mike

SHARKBEAM5

Sorry for resurrecting an old thread but I thought it was better than starting a new one.
Hey ASpec818, I have a 2009 BMW N54 with around 60k on the clock and I just had the transmission malfunction error come on my screen. I turned the car over to the shoulder, switched off the engine and restarted only after checking for oil leaks. Th error was gone as I could make it back home without incident.
I figured the issue you faced is similar to mine and wanted to know if the reset adaptation worked out for good!

Cheers
Sharkbeam

JSINGH868

hello mainuser12,
hope all is well.
what was the solution to your problem?

Dan Morris

I have the same problem, I changed my battery as the old one died, th restraint light has come on and now the transmission warning every now and again. I've read it may be a bad alternator, low transmission fluid or the sensor.
any pointers to start with. I have the car for sale so want to get it sorted before I sell it. Asap

seanjordan20

Was the battery coded? Go to advance and have the alternator tested. That's where I would start