BMW 5 Series: Managing gearbox failures

Although the gearbox is a robust part, it can break down: EDEN BOITES can help you maintain and repair it.

How to prevent BMW 5 Series gearbox breakdowns?

How does a gearbox work?

The gearbox is a fundamental component of a motorized vehicle: it adapts the ratio between engine and wheel speeds.

It is made up of a complex set of gears of different sizes which engage according to the selected speed:

• Theprimary shaft rotates at the same speed as the engine, thanks to the crankshaft which connects it via the clutch;
• Thesecondary shaft contains the pinions for the different speeds;
• Bearings ensure shaft rotation;
• The balancer is used to fit the gears on the secondary shaft;
• The forks move the shifter to engage a gear change.

Each part plays a very specific role, and a defect in one can lead to failure of the entire gearbox.

What are the features of the BMW 5 Series?

The 1981 5 Series E28 was already equipped with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic gear box. Subsequent versions followed the same path, offering both types of gearbox, but increasing the number of gears for greater power: in fact, the automatic gearbox is sometimes available with up to eight gears, as is the case with the M5 competition 625.

Depending on the model chosen, the transmission works in different ways. Most cars have rear-wheel drive, but sporty versions can have all-wheel drive , or XDRIVE, where the engine's power is transmitted to all four wheels: the Touring 530I XDRIVE 272 Sport Design, for example.

How to look after your BMW 5 Series gearbox?

The risk of damage to a manual gearbox is higher than for an automatic. Indeed, when a vehicle is fitted with a manual gearbox, the driver controls gear changes by manipulating the gearshift and clutch pedal: sudden movements on these two elements can prematurely wear or even break the gearbox parts.

The motorist must pay particular attention to the engine noise and the number of revolutions per minute displayed on the dial, in order to shift into the right gear at the right time. Otherwise, under- or over-revving can seriously damage the gearbox and engine.

Since the automatic gearbox optimizes gear changes, the driver does not have to manipulate the mechanics as with a manual gearbox: he must, however, ensure thatthe vehicle comes to a complete stop before engaging Park or Reverse.

Repairing a BMW 5 Series gearbox

Change gearbox oil

If your BMW 5 Series gearbox shows signs of malfunction, such as hissing or cracking noises, a burning smell, skipping gears, or if you notice a general drop in vehicle performance, it may be due to deterioration or a lack of transmission oil.

Changing the gearbox oil can solve these problems. It is recommended every 60,000 kilometers for an automatic gearbox, and from 250,000 kilometers for a manual. To change the oil : 

• Drive for 10-15 minutes to allow the oil to warm up and become less viscous, making it easier to drain;
• Elevate your vehicle;
• Remove the protective plate and place a tray under the oil sump;
• Unscrew the drain plug and allow the oil to drain into the container;
• Replace the O-ring and close the drain hole with it;
• Use a funnel or syringe to pour the recommended amount of new oil through the trap;
• Reassemble all parts.

You can then drive for a few kilometers to check the smoothness of gear changes and make sure there are no oil leaks under the vehicle.

Ask for expert advice

If your transmission system continues to malfunction, don't delay in contacting a mechanic, who will check thecondition of the gearbox components in detail: pads, synchros, differential and bearings.

Using the observations you've shared with him, he'll make a precise diagnosis and confirm whether or not your gearbox needs changing.

The solution EDEN BOITES

EDEN BOITES offers quality reconditioned gearboxes at competitive prices. Each product is carefully disassembled, cleaned and defective parts replaced. To give you maximum peace of mind, we offer a one-year warranty on all our products.

If you wish to replace your bmw serie 5 523i 2.5 petrol gearbox, first identify its reference number and check that it matches the gearbox code of the selected product.

You don't have to worry about your old box thanks to our standard exchange system: we'll collect it when we deliver your order.

Despite our wide selection of gearboxes, sometimes a product is out of stock. No problem: EDEN BOITES will recondition your own gearbox and send it to you as quickly as possible.

To find out more about our services, request a quote on our website to be contacted by one of our advisors as soon as possible!