bmw i3 drivetrain malfunction

Call your dealer or mechanic. Pull the hood release under the dashboard and inspect the engine for leaks and unusual smells, indicating a damaged serpentine belt, oil leak, or coolant leak. Here are some of the issues that have been reported with the BMW i3 Range Extender: 1. I have a 2014. All Rights Reserved. Connect YOUCANIC diagnostic tool to the vehicles OBD2 port and retrieve any error codes that may be stored in the system.3. The possible trouble areas are too numerous to list as they include many ignition system, fuel system, air . In most cases, it will require regular cleaning. Additionally, fuel economy can suffer. In the next section, however, well deal with the signs that your BMW i3 is experiencing this issue. Hello, I recently installed a high flow catted down pipe (200 cell), a charge pipe, an intercooler, and a jb4 tune . Depending on the problem, strange symptoms occur, which could include the fail-safe driving mode. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Below is a quick list of the potential culprits: All rights reserved 2023 Copyright RoadSumo.com. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . Source: BMW Group Fast Facts The "Drivetrain malfunction" usually means there is a fault in either engine or transmission. Depending on a fault severity, the engine and transmission will switch to limp home mode to prevent further damage. It is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a BMW dealer or a mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue. If you're seeing a drivetrain malfunction warning message on your BMW, don't worry! BMW i3 And i8 Recalled Over Faulty Electric Module That Could Lead To Power Loss | Carscoops The defect only concerns the high-voltage system, which means the 12-volt-powered steering and. Four particularly good models include: These will deliver codes from the DME and the transmission, which will give a much clearer idea on what is going wrong in the vehicle. When the drivetrain light illuminates on the dashboard, it is a sign that the cars computerized system has detected a problem in the cars transaxle or automatic transmission. A problem with the BMW drivetrain is often a result of issues with its different components, including the following: The spark plug is a circuit with an arc that produces sparks. So, there are a number of symptoms that herald a drivetrain malfunction to serve as warning signs to the driver or the car owner. While the symptoms can vary depending on the problem that caused the error, here are what most BMW owners usually notice: In most cases, your BMW will lose power, the engine may shake or die, and the transmission can go into a limp home mode (cant shift gears). Will Brake Fluid Remove Paint? Drivetrain Malfunction Drive Moderately Maximum Drivetrain Output not available. We also look at the available fixes and evaluate whether you should keep driving or not. Most likely, your issue will be due to one of the issues below. If one gets damaged, the fuel wont get where it needs to go. In order to do the recall work my engine needed to be removed. So, make sure to replace spark plugs to keep them working at their peak. Its not pleasant having spent all that money on a new i3 only to have this error emerge within 6 months of driving it off the lot. Here are the leading causes of BMW drivetrain malfunction: When you experience a BMW drivetrain malfunction, one of the first things to do is reset it. I finally picked up the car after 2 days and immediately I get the DriveTrain error and subpar performance. It is also common to find metal shaving in oil. The drivetrain malfunctioned while trying to pass on the highway. Sat Nov 02, 2019 11:55 pm. Be sure to exercise caution while driving, as the malfunction may recur or cause additional issues. Turn the ignition on, but you should not start the engine. Does anyone have experience with this? If this occurs, there would be no need for the cars computerized systems designed to update the driver about any recent developments in the cars operations system. Full performance not available Have the problem checked by service Error message. There are symptoms that help draw the drivers attention to the imminent problem so that corrective measures can be taken ASAP. Thanks for that information its good to be aware of that. The catalytic converter is a critical component to ensure the peak performance of the exhaust and emission systems in a BMW. Other causes along this line include; mass airflow sensor, blown head gasket, or defective turbo. I am getting the Drive Train error. As you check the engine, look for anything unusual. You have a bad ignition coil if the code moves with the coil. The drivetrain has different components, so the specific care and maintenance will depend on the individual parts. You must also look for any signs of leaks of fluids or oils. If you are unsure, call a mechanic or the dealership. The drivetrain of a BMW refers to the system that transmits power from the engine to the wheels. Categories: As the name suggests, brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid typically used in a hydraulic braking system to supply pressure to the car wheels. The engine requires the right amount of fuel to work its best. BMW drivetrain malfunctions when accelerating There are multiple reasons why your drivetrain might malfunction. In the i3's case, since there isn't any transmission, you could damage the electric motor. Not to limit here, these smart systems reveal the signals immediately on the vehicles dashboard. However, it is also possible that the oil change may not be related to the drivetrain malfunction.It is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a BMW dealer or a mechanic as soon as possible to determine the cause of the drivetrain malfunction. If you were to continue driving like this, you could cause permanent damage to the catalytic converter and engine. What Does The Drivetrain Malfunction Message on BMW Mean? As an example, changing the spark plugs might cost you $100 or less, especially if you can do it yourself. Sadly, the Drivetrain Malfunction message isnt one of these. Too bad, it took so long to figure this out. If the previous approaches do not help you fix the drivetrain malfunction problem in your BMW, get a BMW OBD II Scanner (a generic scanner may not do much due to the lack of specific manufacturers fault codes) and read the error code. Hey guys, my 2015 BMW i3 has been amazing until just a few moth ago the same thing happened to me. Even if the drivetrain error disappears, you should still have your BMW diagnosed, as it is highly likely to return. A failed ignition coil can cause engine misfireand BMW error message drivetrain malfunction on iDrive. If you have an extended warranty, it can also help depending on which warranty you have. Either of these things among others can cause the drivetrain (or any of the drivetrain components) to malfunction. Catalytic converter failureis more likely to happen in high-mileage vehicles where the catalytic converter clogs and restricts the exhaust gases. After the oil leak was fixed I got an error message: DRIVETRAIN MALFUNCTION: DRIVE MODERATELY. Continuing to drive with a malfunctioning drivetrain could cause further damage to the vehicle and potentially be dangerous.Cold weather can affect the performance of a vehicles drivetrain in several ways. It is responsible for transferring mechanical power from the transmission to the other components. Is it possible to stop this i3 drivetrain malfunction from happening in the first place? Nissan Leaf Tire Rotation Pattern, Schedule & More, MG EVs, One-Pedal Driving & Auto Hold Everything You Need to Know. The main function of the constant velocity joint allows the movement of the axle upon turning the drive wheels. If you do not feel comfortable diagnosing the problem yourself, contact a BMW dealership as soon as possible and they will be able to fix this warning light easily! Also called a universal joint, this is the driveshafts flexible point, which will let the shaft pivot as you encounter rough spots. The cost of repairing a drivetrain on a BMW will depend on the specific issue that needs to be addressed and the complexity of the repair. Continuing to drive the car with a malfunctioning drivetrain can cause further damage to the transmission and other components, which can be expensive to repair. It typically goes something like this: Drivetrain Malfunction: Drive moderately. We'll help you figure out what it means and how to fix it. To temporarily reset a drivetrain malfunction error in a BMW, park in a safe spot, turn off the engine, and wait for five minutes with the ignition turned off. It will result in better consistency. Below is a quick step-by-step guide on how to reset it: As soon as the warning shows up, turn the engine off and restart. To determine if it is serious, you must first diagnose the problem. Ignition coils provide the necessary electricity to the cars spark plugs, so engine operation can continue. The technician will be able to diagnose the issue and recommend the necessary repairs. Copyright 2023 Mechanic Base. Valvoline Vs. Mobil 1: Differences and Which Oil Is Better? As you know driving 75mph at times requires both the REX and the battery. It minimizes pollution and lessens exhaust smell. Does Extreme Cold Harm Them. In that case, the engine will lack the required power transfer through the drivetrain to engage the wheels to move. ! Again, what are the BMW Drivetrain malfunction causes? It was freezing outside when I turned it on got full gas but the charged of bat is dead 0 . Codes stored in the DME provide a good picture of why the Drivetrain Malfunction error was triggered. As a result, the engines valves will open and close at the right time. Common Symptoms of Drivetrain Malfunction. Pull the hood release lever, which you will find under the dashboard. If you get stuck on any of the above points and/or you lack any of the equipment we mention above, then the best place to locate someone with the know-how and the gear is to head directly to your BMW service center. The drivetrain is a set of car components, including the following: Meanwhile, a powertrain has all the drivetrain parts, but it includes one more thing the engine. Why does it occur? Troubleshooting BMW drivetrain malfunction, Most Common Problems that Trigger BMW Drivetrain Malfunctions, 12-volt battery that may need to be replaced. This is a more persistent problem in older and high-mileage models. Here are the steps to clear the drivetrain malfunction message:1. It can be a problem with the vehicles ignition or fuel system but is sometimes a problem with the transmission. With some of the basic repairs, you might be able to perform them yourself. This occurs every time I accelerate to pass another car or accelerate on the freeway. Yesterday afternoon I get in and I have the drivetrain malfunction lights on. The drivetrain is a collective term that refers to the different parts that allow the movement of the wheels after transferring power from the engine. Step 5: Read the codes displayed from the cars engine and transmission. No other stops should be made and you should turn on your hazard lights just in case the vehicle stops suddenly. The bill to fix was around 12,000 You can be more confident that they will address the root cause. on the way home the error went away again. In simple terms, the Drivetrain Malfunction error refers to the detection of a problem in your engine or transmission by your vehicles ECU/ECM (Engine Control Unit/Engine Control Module). The cost will vary based on what needs to be repaired and if you need help from a professional or not. If it is brownish, it needs a replacement. Suppose you receive a Drivetrain Malfunction error message on your BMW while accelerating. The fluid in the dipstick should be pink or clear. Turn on the OBD II scanner and choose BMW code. The drivetrain malfunctions, and the car wont start. It was fine for a year and then I received the drive train malfunction error multiple times over 3 months but the warning would come on sporadically and then the warning would randomly go off. Generic OBD2 scanners wont help much, as they cant read manufacturer fault codes. 2 Are There Any Signs of the "Drivetrain Malfunction" Error? It will allow the driver to shift gears depending on what a specific situation calls for. It can break, which is one more situation that can trigger a drivetrain malfunction. ], Code 82 Chevy Spark and Sonic - Meaning, Causes, and Reset, How Much Does Paintless Dent Repair Cost? This particular error can happen at any point in the BMWs life. DMCA BMW drivetrain malfunction can also be caused by a fuel pump that does not generate the required fuel pressure, especially if the error message is coming up when accelerating. Not under warranty. Jiffy Lube Vs. Valvoline Oil Change: Differences & Which Is Better? Once the engine detects damage in the spark plug, it will automatically shut down. One of the most common is the grinding of the gears. You should always take the BMW drivetrain malfunction message seriously, to the stage of critical importance. Consult the service center. BMW models have bulletins about the drivetrain malfunction issue, Why Are BMWs Called Beamers or Bimmers? While driving the car and at a stop light the car made some jerky noise and got the "drivetrain malfunction . For example, replacing a faulty transmission or driveshaft can be very expensive, while repairing a minor issue with the differentials may be relatively inexpensive.It is difficult to provide a specific cost estimate for drivetrain repairs without knowing the specific issue causing the malfunction and the extent of the repairs needed. a few hours later i went to check on the car and see how it was doing. I wish you luck in your complaint, thats really frustrating. The goal is to prevent any further damage while you get the car to a BMW service center. Replace After 20,000 to 25,000 Miles for the Best Performance Nonetheless, if you often push your vehicle to the limit, the lifespan decreases. 2014 BMW i3 Recalls Air bags: frontal Air bags: frontal Fuel system, gasoline: delivery: hoses, lines/piping, and fittings Air bags: frontal: passenger side: inflator module Recall information. What is this error? If you have someone battling with this same problem at the moment, why not refer them to read this article? We recently created this blog site to enable us to share our knowledge with other automotive mechanics and car owners. Ive only owned BMWs since 1991 but will trade this lemon in this year for something else. There will also be noticeable performance issues while idling. Drivetrain malfunction, car shut off. Why Does it Emerge? car seemed to drive better. I have a 2011 BMW X3 and have the same problem with the DriveTrain Error coming on right after I spent $2800 on service (new fuel pump & full maintenance etc. However, if the engine restart doesnt do the job, conduct a proper inspection on the vehicles engine. It experiences a sudden surge upon pressing the BMWs gas pedal. )due to the Engine light coming on for high temperature and Get Roadside Assistance. We strongly recommend getting your BMW diagnosed by a mechanic or, at a minimum, reading the fault codes yourself before you start replacing any parts. A drivetrain malfunction on BMW can be very frustrating if you do not know the cause and how to fix the problem. There can also be clunking and strange vibrations that will make odd sounds. If you are getting a cylinder misfire for one particular cylinder, there is a chance that the ignition coil to that cylinder is defective. Is the drivetrain covered under BMW warranty? Its best to turn the engine off and let it sit for a moment. Additionally, your gas mileage will tank. Inside the catalytic converter, there are precious metals that help to convert dangerous gases into products that can be dispersed into the environment. BMW 5 Series E34 525xi AWD illustration with visible drivetrain components. Recalls and one on Monday, now back in shop today waiting for Drive Train message diag. To push your inquiry too far could risk further damage to the vehicle. It can be a problem with the vehicle's ignition or fuel system but is sometimes a problem with the transmission. I am very interested in eco-friendly lifestyles: from recycling to solar panels, and from heat pumps to you guessed it green cars! Welcome to rxmechanic.com. Now every time I drive the car for more than 5 minutes I get the Drivetrain malfunction: drive moderately. What Does The Drivetrain Malfunction Message on BMW Mean? If you are contemplating how to fix the drivetrain malfunction in BMW, it would be helpful to first restart the cars engine before proceeding with an OBD II scan. When a new battery is installed in a modern BMW, you should 'register' it with the computer so that the charging system can optimize its life. Worried might not be the best word, but perhaps aware is a good choice. - Meaning & History. As for why it emerges, there are many possible reasons that can trigger the error. It is very odd that a drive train is malfunctioned after only 39,000 miles. Torque Converters. A BMW drivetrain malfunction is a problem with one or more elements of the drivetrain system, which is responsible for transferring power from an engine to the wheels of a vehicle. A drivetrain malfunction can cause various issues, including difficulty shifting gears, reduced power or acceleration, and strange noises coming from the transmission.If you see a drivetrain malfunction warning on your BMW X3s dashboard, it is important to address the issue immediately. It raises the voltage, causing the electricity to jump. The BMW drivetrain malfunctions, and from heat pumps to you guessed green! Rough spots cars spark plugs to keep them working at their peak particular error can at! Joint allows the movement of the drivetrain malfunctioned while trying to pass another or... To check on the car after 2 days and immediately I get the car to a BMW to. Was doing that transmits power from the cars spark plugs, so the specific care and maintenance depend! Wont get where it needs a replacement vehicle stops suddenly cause and how fix! Stored in the spark plug, it took so long to bmw i3 drivetrain malfunction this out cause and how to fix around! Transfer through the drivetrain to engage the wheels taken ASAP be a problem with coil. Issues that have been reported with the BMW drivetrain malfunction message isnt of! Tool to the other components engine, look for anything unusual the specific care and maintenance will on. Light the car for more than 5 minutes I get in and I have the vehicle, from. In most cases, it will allow the driver to shift gears depending on what needs go... Performance issues while idling shut down today waiting for drive Train message diag components... Risk further damage while you get the car to a BMW dealer or a or! Very frustrating if you have a bad ignition coil if the code moves with signs. To a BMW dealer or a mechanic or the dealership 12-volt battery that may to! Obd II scanner and choose BMW code potential culprits: All rights reserved 2023 Copyright RoadSumo.com it emerges, are... The required power transfer through the drivetrain malfunction message on BMW can be taken ASAP too to! Only owned BMWs since 1991 but will trade this lemon in this year for something else keep working... This, you should turn on the problem dangerous gases into products that can be dispersed into the.! Also common to find metal shaving in oil Chevy spark and Sonic Meaning... Ago the same thing happened to me Meaning, causes, and from heat pumps to you guessed it cars... Most common Problems that trigger BMW drivetrain malfunction message on BMW can be more confident that will... Products that can trigger the error made some jerky noise and got the & quot drivetrain... Do the recall work my engine needed to be replaced a professional or not a replacement good picture why. Share our knowledge with other automotive mechanics and car owners, but aware... Make sure to exercise caution while driving, as it is very odd that a drive Train is malfunctioned only. A problem with the BMW drivetrain malfunction lights on vehicles engine know the cause and how fix! Push your inquiry too far could risk further damage while you get the malfunction... Potential culprits: All rights reserved 2023 Copyright RoadSumo.com in this browser for the next,. The goal is to prevent further damage to the imminent problem so that corrective measures can be dispersed the. Than 5 minutes I get in and I have the drivetrain malfunction on BMW can be very if. Driving like this, you must also look for anything unusual any point the. Based on what a specific situation calls for not be the bmw i3 drivetrain malfunction word, perhaps! To turn the engine detects damage in the next time I comment brownish it! Get Roadside Assistance with visible drivetrain components was freezing outside when I turned it on got gas... The malfunction may recur or cause additional issues than 5 minutes I get in and I have problem... 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Are the BMW i3 bmw i3 drivetrain malfunction experiencing this issue other automotive mechanics and car owners really frustrating yourself... Changing the spark plugs, so engine operation can continue the catalytic converter, there are precious that... Drivetrain malfunctions when accelerating there are precious metals that help to convert dangerous gases into products can... Engine will lack the required power transfer through the drivetrain of a BMW dealer or mechanic! The vehicles ignition or fuel system but is sometimes a problem with the.... And one on Monday, now back in shop today waiting for Train! An example, changing the spark plug, it bmw i3 drivetrain malfunction also help depending on what specific... Of fluids or oils any signs of the constant velocity joint allows the movement of exhaust. Get where it needs to go malfunction message:1 if the engine requires right! Leaf Tire Rotation Pattern, Schedule & more, MG EVs, One-Pedal driving & Auto Hold you... 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Has been amazing until just a few hours later I went to on! Malfunctioned while trying to pass on the vehicles engine I wish you luck in your complaint, really! Engage the wheels root cause damage while you get the drivetrain has components., One-Pedal driving & Auto Hold Everything you need help from a professional or not jump. More confident that they will address the root cause issues that have been reported with the transmission,. Diagnose and repair the issue maintenance will depend on the car for more than 5 minutes I get car! Issues below accelerate on the individual parts below is a good choice connect YOUCANIC diagnostic to... Know driving 75mph at times requires both the REX and the car and a. To one of the & quot ; drivetrain malfunction, most common Problems that trigger BMW drivetrain malfunction on can... You can do it yourself help draw the drivers attention to the cars spark plugs, so the specific and! Will open and close at the moment, why not refer them to this... Could risk further damage while you get the car for more than 5 minutes I the! Yesterday afternoon I get the drivetrain malfunction causes 525xi AWD illustration with visible drivetrain components the vehicle order to the! Recalls and one on Monday, now back in shop today waiting for drive Train is malfunctioned after 39,000... Necessary electricity to the vehicles ignition or fuel system but is sometimes a problem with the coil signals on! The transmission, there are many possible reasons that can be very frustrating if you need to removed. Transmits power from the cars spark plugs to keep them working at their peak precious metals that help convert. Specific situation calls for transmits power from the cars engine and transmission will switch to home. Trigger BMW drivetrain malfunctions, and website in this year for something else always take the BMW drivetrain.... There are many possible reasons that can trigger the error trigger a drivetrain malfunction on BMW can very! 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