Why is my BMW automatic gearbox not smooth?
My previous car was a BMW 730d, the auto box when changing up or down it was seamless, it was always in the correct gear for all road conditions. I’ve recently changed cars and I now have a 2021 BMW 530d. I have an issue with the auto gearbox, in all settings when approaching a junction/roundabout when easing off the accelerator I can physically feel the auto box changing down, it almost feels like a clutch/gearbox set up when the clutch is released suddenly. Are there any settings which can be accessed to adjust the gearbox use?
Asked on 19 June 2025 by Richard J Harland
Answered by
David Ross
Depending on the age of your previous BMW 7 Series, it may actually share the same ZF 8HP automatic transmission as your current BMW 5 Series, and as this is a torque converter it should provide smooth changes up and down the gearbox. Assuming you have already tried the different drive modes which affect how the gearbox operates, you may wish to have the gearbox inspected by an independent BMW specialist or ZF transmission specialist. It may be that a gearbox service where the oil and filter is changed may be sufficient to restore the smooth gearshifts.
Tags:
gearbox fault
automatic cars
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