Expert: Josh Fields - 8/23/2006

Question
Hello,I have a 1989 BMW 325ic with an automatic transmission.When taking off in drive the 1-2 shift happens around 10 MPH,the 2-3 shift does not happen until around 43 MPH then 4th around 50 MPH.When it does shift and downshift the shifts feel firm with no slipping.The car does have 173000 miles.What makes these transmissions shift? Is there anything that can be done to adjust the shift speeds or am I looking at a rebuild?

Answer
John,
 The BMW transmissions (especially these years) shift a little different than most automatic cars.  Its not a HUGE difference, but it is there.  There isn't much that can be done to an automatic transmission to adjust things, at least not while the transmission is in the car.  I know that a fluid and filter change will help sometimes, so that's definately worth a try.  There is a kick-down cable adjustment, it's attached to your throttle cable.  When you depress the gas pedal to accellerate or pass someone, this will shift the car down to ease accelleration.  Since this is based on throttle input, you can obviously adjust it.  I dont think this will help up-shifting much though.

  Try the fluid/filter change first, and hopefully it will help.

 Good luck,
 Josh