A question about my BMW and winter mode for mechanics!

Question

I have a 740I and I think that the transmission is going out. It won't move when I put it into drive, however if I change the transmission mode switch- I think that's what it's called, and put it into winter mode it runs fine. Now for my two part question, am I right is this a transmission problem, and if so, how long might I expect to be able to run my car using the winter mode? Thanks in advance for your helpful answers :)

Answer 1

Winter mode means the transmission starts to move the car using the second gear. Normally, it starts with the first gear, but if there is something bad with your transmission (as you rightly suspect), then the load makes the tranny slip.

Perhaps, a change of tranny oil can help. Perhaps it is too far gone

and needs to be replaced. How long before it belly ups? No one knows

really.  

Answer 2

I would recomend taking your bmw to a transmission specialist.  They will check it out for you and most places wont charge you the much just to inspect it and give you and idea feeling that you will come back.  If it is the transmission that is about to go out and you can I recomend buying one from this place.  http://www.bmrparts.com/ They are used parts but they also are Guaranteed! They are not to high of a price either so dont panic!