Geek2232 Posted January 14 Share Posted January 14 Service requirements for automatic and dual-clutch gearbox fluid, along with a drivetrain inspection, are imminent. A warning appears on the dashboard, indicating an age-related issue or mileage threshold, whichever occurs first. It is imperative not to disregard this warning, as the only resolution will be a visit to the main dealer. The software may prevent you from resetting the message, even with advanced Autel tools. I have discovered a workaround using Autel settings. I recently encountered a vehicle that posed challenges during the gearbox oil change and the necessary resets and adaptations to eliminate the dashboard warning. I have observed that some individuals are charged approximately £400-£500 for this service, while garages equipped with the requisite knowledge, diagnostic tools, and gearbox filler tools typically charge between £250 and £400. If anyone is interested in servicing Gen 2 or Gen 3 vehicles, please send me a message. I now offer a 'bring it and leave it' service, which typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on how long it takes for the gearbox to cool. For optimal results, the gearbox oil must be between 20°C to 40°C for filling and 40°C to 60°C for adaptation programming; any deviation may result in improper gear shifting. This service is available for £200, and I can provide transportation to a nearby town or a pleasant c Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Geek2232 Posted January 14 Author Share Posted January 14 Initially, I overfill the gearbox with the engine off, then activate the valve that allows excess oil to return to the gearbox pump reservoir. When I observe an air bubble at the union, I ascertain that it is full. I then start the vehicle, allowing it to reach 40°C at idle while continuously pumping oil back and permitting it to flow out until it attains the operating temperature. At this point, it is adequately filled, and I replace the bung. This method ensures that the gearbox is not compromised by insufficient oil or air pockets. Following this procedure, it is imperative to utilise a diagnostic tool to reset the system and adaptations; merely changing the oil is insufficient without the diagnostic tool for adaptation and reset of the gearbox. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Geek2232 Posted January 14 Author Share Posted January 14 I believe BMW has made a prudent decision regarding the warnings for gear oil services. I own a Volvo Geartronic automatic gearbox that requires oil changes every three years or 30,000 miles; the degradation of oil can lead to gearbox damage. A £200 service can prevent a £4,000 gearbox replacement in the long term. The VAG group mandates 30 oil changes for their Haldex systems to ensure optimal performance. I am aware of vehicles with 200,000 miles that continue to function effectively due... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Paqngo Posted January 14 Share Posted January 14 What is the appearance of the warning light? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Geek2232 Posted January 14 Author Share Posted January 14 The large speedometer display indicates the need for an automatic gearbox gearbox gearbox fluid service and a forthcoming drivetrain inspection as soon as the vehicle is started. This indicates immediate action is required; do not delay. Additionally, it records a problem code in the primary DME along with the warning. Personally, I believe that addressing it every 30,000 to 40,000 miles and every 3 to 4 years is a prudent strategy, considering the potential cost of a gearbox replacement, which is likely to exceed $4,000 due to the detrimental effects of contaminated oil. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Geek2232 Posted January 14 Author Share Posted January 14 The oil deteriorates due to stress, heat, and age, which ultimately damages automatic transmissions regardless of the vehicle. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Craigbelont Posted January 14 Share Posted January 14 I performed the DCT gearbox oil service on my Cooper S Auto today. The service needed light has been extinguished, and the gearbox seems to shift more smoothly now. He also noted that the battery is deteriorating, which is important to acknowledge. He has extensive understanding on this subject, and I would unequivocally endorse him. He is situated in a picturesque region conducive to walking while you wait; I successfully located a satisfying full English breakfast at a nearby café. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Geek2232 Posted January 14 Author Share Posted January 14 It was a joy to assist you. You are aware of my future availability. Thank you for your input. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Geek2232 Posted January 14 Author Share Posted January 14 Today, I completed another gearbox oil change for a car dealership. The vehicle in question was a 2019 Mini Cooper SD with 60,000 miles on the odometer. The owners had disregarded the warning light for six months and continued to operate the vehicle. I have discovered a method to compel the Autel diagnostic tool to reset the warning and adapt the gearbox. If the warning is left unaddressed for an extended period, it will prevent any reset attempts. My technique allows the tool to perceive the service as being performed early, thereby avoiding an expensive visit to the main dealer. I would recommend changing the oil in these gearboxes every 30,000 miles or every four years at most, as the oil extracted is often severely degraded. This degradation can be mitigated by utilising the start-stop feature or shifting to neutral while idling in traffic, thus preventing the gearbox from dragging the plates and generating excess heat. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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