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BMWs are renowned for their powerful engines, cutting edge electronics and excellent handling. These car have their problems even though they are excellent in many aspects the error message “” drivetrain malfunction that appears on the dashboard display is one problem that some BMW owners have been reported
The purpose of this error message is to alert the driver to a potentially serious problem, which can be concerning it doesnot however always indicate that the car is about yo breakdown everything you need to know about the BMW drivetrain malfunction message including how much it will cost to fix
Meaning
BMW employs self monitoring technology to record malfunction and notify the driver of an impending or existing problem A drivetrain consists of the following components : axles, driveshafts, transmission, differentials and if included a transfer case the drivetrain malfunction message doesn’t always mean that the drivetrain is the only source of problem
Another way to set the message is for powertrain related issues
Causes
There are several potential causes because both powertrain and drivetrain related issues can result in the drivetrain malfunction message this error message is typically caused by an engine or related problem the most frequent reasons are as follows
Defective or won spark plugs
Dirty or faulty fuel injectors
Fail ignition coils
Faulty high pressure fuel pump
Poor fuel quality
Clogged catalytic converters
How to fix?
We want yo stop the drivetrain malfunction warning from staying error the error message may be accompanied by additional warning messages or fault codes such as maximum drivetrain output not available which is frequently the case the diagnosis of the warnings underlying cause is aided by these additional warnings some action we can take to fix the drivetrain malfunction issue:
Check the fluid levels
Low engine frequently results in the drivetrain malfunction message if the fluid level is low check the engine for leaks if necessary top off the systems with the appropriate fluid
Check vacuum hoses for air leaks
The positive crankcase ventilation valve is prone to frequent failures
Use higher grade fuel
The drivetrain malfunction message has been attributed to low quality fuel according to some BMW specialist and customers buying fuel with a higher octane from a well known gas station lowers the chance of receiving tainted or subpar fuel
A common cause of drivetrain malfunction error is worn spark plugs the error message will usually be accompanied by misfire codes that are stored raw fuel entering the exhaust from a misfired cylinder is a common cause of clogged catalytic converters
How to reset?
Restart the engine after tuning the car off for five to ten minutes to reset it if the issue recurs, flaws are found and repairs are probably required
Cost to fix
The cost of fixing a BMW drivetrain malfunction can vary significantly based on underlying cause. A drivetrain malfunction error repair won’t break the bank most of the time there have been some reports of expensive repairs up to $2500
If there has been significant damage to the engine repair cost increase even more its also important to take a model specific costs into account
E. G The same part will cost more on a 7 series than a 2 series
We advised looking up relevant technical service bulletined service campaigns recalled and warranty coverage before making any repairs
< Repair cost estimates >
Tune up $200-$300
Ignition coil replacement #65-$600
PCV replacement $50-$150
Fuel system clean $120-200$
Cat converters replacement $1500-$3000
< Conclusion ::: >
The BMWs model like 3series and 5series are frequently modified drivetrain and powertrain problems can result from specific vehicle modifications one BMW service bulletin states that drivetrain malfunction may be caused by aftermarket components or tuners
The drivetrain malfunction error is typically accompanied by additional message
Diagnostics trouble code consequently the cause of fault shouldn’t be to mysterious
Repairs can involve anything from a straightforward gas tank or fuel additive replacement to engine, transmission, powertrain control module reprogramming the purpose of warning message is to prevent damage to vehicles when the drivetrain malfunction is active we advice against driving for extended period of time get your car scanned and start with a straightforward engine restart inspect the fluid levels in car looks for any leaks and stay away from aftermarket performance components as they may also contribute to the issue
