Transmission Repair
Among the crowded luxury automobile landscape, a BMW still stands out as an impressively engineered and crafted machine. With a tradition of being crafted with exquisite attention to detail, BMWs remain singularly impressive — both under the hood as well as on the outside. What many BMW owners may not be aware of, though, is that a BMW’s transmission is quite possibly its most complex component. This piece works hand-in-hand with the other elements in a BMW to provide for that signature acceleration. Checking the transmission at the right intervals will help you avoid extensive BMW repairs.
Several types of automatic and manual transmissions are integrated by BMW into their vehicles. In the past few years, two main types of transmission, the DCT and SMG, have become common.
The Dual Clutch Transmission explained
A BMW with a Dual Clutch Transmission –- or DCT — offers some distinct advantages over both a traditional manual and a traditional automatic transmission. Two input shafts –- one for odd number gears and the other for even numbered — are operated by two clutches controlled by a computer. One advantage here is the swiftness and efficiency of gear shifts. This happens because one clutch can begin a shift without waiting for the opposite clutch to fully release. Without either a manually operated clutch pedal or torque converter, the DCT incorporates the best of an automatic and manual transmission into one package.
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The SMG or Sequential Manual Gearbox explained
Similar in many ways to a DCT, the Sequential Manual Gearbox transmission of some newer BMW models incorporates a sophisticated computer with a single input shaft and clutch. A hydraulic mechanism operates the clutch and input shaft per the transmission computer’s instructions. The SMG allows for rides at higher speeds that are smooth, safe and very satisfying.
The Importance of servicing your BMW’s transmission
The overall health of your BMW’s transmission depends mainly upon two factors: the transmission filter and transmission fluid. This fluid reduces wear upon moving parts inside the mechanism and also alleviates overheating issues. However, transmission fluid sometimes becomes contaminated with tiny metallic bits which can be detrimental to the smooth functioning and overall health of the transmission.
A BMW’s transmission filter is intended to capture these metallic particles and any other abrasive bits to prevent them from circulating throughout the transmission via the lubricant and causing havoc. Again, while BMWs are known for the quality of their transmissions, it should be clear now that a BMW’s transmission deserves checkups to keep these two items –- fluid and filter — in good working order and thus greatly prolong the life and maintain the health of one’s BMW.
Because it is such a vital and intricate component, a BMW’s transmission should never be ignored when it comes time to service one’s vehicle. Of course, a BMW transmission is going to likely last for tens of thousands of miles before service on this particular part is needed.
However, there are some warning signs that could indicate a developing transmission problem with your BMW. The transmission fluid is red. If it begins to change to brown, it needs replacement. Additionally, buzzing sounds, unusual noises and the smell of burnt rubber can indicate a problem with your BMW’s transmission. In general, the older the transmission fluid the less cooling properties it has. Overheating is the most common problem with transmissions. This can be easily thwarted by bringing in your BMW to be evaluated for early warning signs.
For BMW owners looking for a high-quality, honest service center, we here at Dealer Service Alternative are a customer-oriented and thoroughly professional vehicle service center that will evaluate, diagnose and solve any range of issues you may have with your BMW, all at an upfront and fair price.
This is a Great choice for anyone needing repair especially German vehicles as I have.
Today was my first day visiting Dealer Service Alternative. Instantly when I walked in their was such a positive energy in this place it felt unlike any Auto Service place that I have ever been to.
They gave me a fair price for what I felt was the service I needed as I went in for brakes and new rotors.
To my surprise when I called to check if the parts were in I was informed by Alex the mechanic and Larry Joe that I did not actually need either at this time.
Most shops I have dealt with would have seized the opportunity to capitalize on me. They did not.
These are good people and I am very comfortable recommending them to anyone. You will be happy you did
Great customer service, kelp me posted on what was going on. “Honest team of guys” at a great price. Thanks Alex and the team.
They were very professional and extremely knowledgeable, will definitely take my car again thanks to Alex and his team
I was very impressed with everyone’s help in the shop. The work was performed properly and on time. The cost was much better than the Dealership. They are very accommodating to their other customers also. I overheard Larry Joe try and walk a customer through getting into the trunk of his Mercedes after that customer had disconnected the battery (to take the battery out) and then shut the trunk accidentally with his keys in the trunk. Larry even tried to walk him through it via Skype. This to me really showed a dedication to their customers.
I’ve been a customer at DSA for almost a year now and the service has been nothing but amazing. I will go out on a limb here and say they’re by far the most honest auto shop I’ve dealt with. No harrasments, no unnecessary work will be done to your car. If it doesn’t need to change or fix they won’t do it. I can say they’re really for you and everything about them is PROFESSIONAL! I’d recommend anyone to go there.
i brought my BMW X3 in to DSA for a oil change and a noise in one of my front wheels, Larry took care of the problem at a very reasonable price and in one day. he will have my business for as long as he wants.
I had first made a appointment for 9 AM at the dealer (Fields BMW) they kept the car for the entire day and called me just before 5PM that they needed more time I asked if they at least did the oil change. but the answer was negative. I am here in Orlando on a temporary assignment from Arizona and my guess is, that Fields doesn’t care about people from out of state even when you make an appointment.
The team here was fabulous. I had a dead battery and the end of the day, drove over an hour before closing, they ordered the battery while I was on my way and 30 minutes later I was on my way, battery swapped out, everything checked diagnostically. These folks just won all my business for repair going forward. Thanks Jason and Larry for quick turn around and a great job!
Brought my Mercedes in for relatively major repairs and could not be happier with the professional and quality service provided. Both Jason and Alex kept me informed on progress as they quickly dealt with the extended warranty folks and performed the repairs.
I had my AC compressor go out and needed it fixed fast, being that it’s summer in Florida. I took it to these guys, and they were able to order the part and have the unit replaced in a day. I’ve been driving it ever since and have experienced no issues at all! Back to cold blasting air!
Went to Dealer Service Alternative for the first time to get my brake pads changed and and came out very happy with the service. They made it quick and simple and will make sure to come back for any other work on my car.
Great experience! Alex took my concerns seriously and quickly fixed my issue. The price was quite reasonable. I recommend Dealer Service Alternative!
Very helpful, friendly staff and convenient service. Thank you!
I’ve visited Dealer Service Alternative for several repair and service needs and their workmanship is on level with any service I’ve received at the BMW dealership. Top notch work.
My experience has always included great service from honest and reliable staff. Very clean and organized shop with a nice waiting area and complimentary wifi. Highly recommend this repair shop as an alternative to dealer repair shop prices.
Excellent service at a fair price, all well explained by the staff. Highly recommend it.
Great service and great price. Had a starter replaced and they did it for much better price than Fields BMW quoted.
I took my Smart here after receiving a quote from the Mercedes dealer for $2,000. They had me print out their diagnostic and took a look at my car; they were able to save me money and fix a problem that the dealer had unsuccessfully tried to fix before. I’ll definitely come back.
Got a break job done on two of my cars, one Acura TL and one TSX. There prices are very reasonable and they also give discount to college students. Will defiantly recommend them to others.
I brought in my BMW X5 for service needs; they did a great job with my car and also beat the dealer prices. The owner and his staff are wonderful to work with. They provide excellent customer service and professionalism. I highly recommend them.