Tips to Identify Transmission Leaks in Your BMW 3 Series

Leaking transmission fluid can occur internally in your BMW 3 Series or as an external leak that is evident by the fluid on the ground. In other instances, you may detect a transmission fluid leak in your BMW 3 Series, because the dashboard indicator light illuminates as a symbol of this occurrence.

Whatever method you use to detect a transmission leak in your BMW 3 Series, there are serious consequences for your vehicle if it isn’t taken care of promptly. Transmission leaks can result in a reduction of fluid in your transmission that is essential for proper function and continued performance. When you suspect a transmission fluid leak in your BMW, contact our experts at Mike Johns Imports to see how we can help.

In the meantime, take a look at the top signs of transmission leaks in your BMW 3 Series and what they can mean for your vehicle.

How to Determine if Your Transmission is Leaking Fluid

Although leaking transmission fluid is a serious issue, it is also a common one that many BMW 3 Series owners experience. There are a few ways to determine if this is happening in your vehicle before it becomes too late to easily fix. To detect a transmission leak, consider the following:

• Check the transmission fluid level via the dipstick: Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and read it again. This will give you an idea of how much transmission fluid your vehicle has to operate with. Not only does the level tell you what you need to know, but the color of the transmission fluid should be pinkish-brown, too.
• Noticeable illumination of a dashboard warning light: Many lights will light up on your dashboard if attention needs to be paid to a specific area. Transmission fluid levels are within this range, so when the little oil can on your BMW’s’ dashboard lights up, it may be time to look at your transmission fluid level.
• Visible leaking fluid: It isn’t uncommon for your vehicle to leak condensation after the air conditioner has been on for a bit, but transmission fluid that seeps from your vehicle will appear a bit different. Transmission fluid will leave dark spots underneath your vehicle when it is parked.
• Noisy grinding gears: When your BMW’s transmission fluid levels get low, you may experience some grinding noises that come from your gearbox. A damaged transmission synchronizer can cause this noise, which can be from an insufficient supply of transmission fluid.
• Weird vibrations, sounds, and smells: Anything abnormal in your BMW is easily identifiable when you drive in daily. Some signs of transmission fluid leaks will include clunking sounds, weird vibrations from slipping gears, and a notorious burning smell.

Other Signs of Transmission Fluid Leaks in BMW 3 Series

Some indicators of transmission leaks in your BMW may include more mechanical concerns. These common indicators consist of:

• Delayed Acceleration: Your BMW should switch between gears instantaneously with little play in the process, yet when your vehicle is experiencing transmission fluid leaks there may be a delayed response in shifting among gears or the engine won’t rev as smoothly as it normally does.
• Noisy Neutral: When your BMW begins to make noises as it is shifted into neutral, it may be time to check your transmission fluid levels for potential leaks. This sound is typically described as a “bumping” noise, but these cases often result in a quick and easy fix.
• Very Hot Transmission: The transmission of your vehicle is responsible for propelling it down the road with ease, so ample transmission fluid is required to keep your system in check. When the transmission fluid in your BMW gets low, it may cause your transmission to get hot.

Have Your Transmission Leak Repaired at Mike Johns Imports

When you think a transmission leak could be the cause of problems in your BMW, it is a good idea to have it checked out sooner rather than later. Bring your BMW into Mike Johns Imports for a quick and easy evaluation of potential transmission leak issues.

As a vehicle repair shop that caters specifically to the needs of BMW owners, the technicians at Mike Johns Imports know the ins and outs of every BMW model. If you need help with transmission leaks or need other service or routine maintenance, call us at (812) 284-3791. We are eager to provide you with excellent service to keep your BMW running safely.