BMW 6 Series: remedying gearbox faults

The story continues with the launch of the 6 Series Gran Turismo, unveiled at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show and available from November of the same year. This new series is intended to replace the 5 Series GT, which had met with a lukewarm reception from the public.

The 6 Series gearbox is a robust mechanism designed to last the life of the vehicle: EDEN BOITES shares its tips for optimizing its longevity and managing repairs in the event of a breakdown.

How to preserve your BMW 6 Series gearbox?

Getting to know the BMW 6 Series transmission system

Depending on the generation, power can be transmitted via three different five- or six-speed gearboxes: a manual gearbox, a Steptronic automatic gearbox or a sequential manual gearbox (SMG) with gearshift lever and steering wheel-mounted paddles.

Transmission is either to the rear wheels (rear-wheel drive) or all-wheel drive, as on the 630DA XDRIVE LOUNGE or 640DA XDRIVE M SPORT.

Choosing the right gearbox for your vehicle

Automatic gearboxes are particularly suited to city driving, with frequent stops in heavy traffic or at traffic lights. With this type of gearbox, the driver doesn't have to worry about changing gears, and doesn't activate any mechanical parts. The risk of damaging the gearbox is therefore lower than with a manual gearbox.

However, automatic gearboxes are more expensive to buy and maintain. Some drivers also prefer to keep control of their gearshifts, so that they can adopt a gentle or sporty driving style according to circumstances: automatic gearboxes don't offer this freedom. A robotized mechanical gearbox is therefore an alternative, as it allows you to switch to manual mode whenever you wish.

Change transmission oil regularly

Gearbox oil changes are recommended every 60,000 kilometers for automatic gearboxes, and from 250,000 kilometers for manuals. This relatively simple operation consists of several stages: 

• Make sure you have theright gearbox oil for your vehicle model. Be careful not to confuse it with engine oil, which does not have the same properties or viscosity: gearbox oil is specially designed to withstand much higher pressures;
• Elevate the car flat;
• Place a drip tray under the crankcase and unscrew the drain plug to let the oil drain out;
• Open the filler cap and position the hose and funnel to pour in the new oil;
• Set used oil aside and take it to an authorized collector for proper disposal.

Don't hesitate to call in a mechanic if you don't have the right tools or if you don't feel comfortable doing so.

When should I replace my BMW 6 Series gearbox?

Expert advice

An oil leak under the car is often the sign of deterioration in one or more constant velocity joints, more commonly known as transmission spinnet seals. Simply replace them, then check the transmission oil level using the dipstick usually located on the side of the sump. If the oil level is too low, gearbox parts may wear out prematurely, so you'll need to identify the right oil for your vehicle and top up to the mark on the dipstick.

If you can't shift gears, the linkage, which is supposed to transmit the movement from the lever to the gearbox, is probably at the root of the problem: replacing the connecting rod or the control cables can be effective solutions.

If starting is particularly slow or requires increased power, a change of strainer may be necessary.

Whatever the cause of the fault, there's no substitute for the advice of an automotive expert! With the information you provide on gear changes and your general driving experience, the mechanic will be able to identify the problem with your gearbox and suggest appropriate repairs.

The solution EDEN BOITES

Your mechanic has confirmed the need to change your BMW 6 Series gearbox, but his estimate is beyond your budget? EDEN BOITES has the solution: a reconditioned gearbox with the same performance as a new one, at the price of a used one!

Our online catalog offers a wide choice of products. Whichever model you choose, we back it with a one-year warranty.

To check the availability of a suitable item for your car, you can use the filtered search by make, model and vehicle cubic capacity. Once you've entered your box code, all you have to do is make sure it's compatible with your chosen model.

Is your vehicle equipped with the BMW 640 F06 3.0 CDI 4×4 transfer case? All you have to do is enter your registration number on our online form, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

For maximum peace of mind, we've introduced a standard exchange system: no need to worry about your old box, we'll collect it when we deliver your order.

If a product is out of stock or unavailable, EDEN BOITES also has a solution! We can recondition your own gearbox to the same high quality standards as the rest of our catalog.