Expert: John Kingery - 7/4/2010

Question
Hi, I have a 1998 BMW 740i. The problem I am having is this; when I put the car in drive or any other forward gear, I have to rev the engine up and sorta tickle the gas peddle for the transmission to engage and then it seems to work fine until I stop the car and try to take off again, which I then have to do the same. Reverse, however, works fine. When I select reverse it is right there without any hesitation... what are the possible
remedies to fixing this problem

Answer
It's possible your transmission fluid is low.  

These cars have "lifetime" fluid, and no dipstick, however there isn't an easy way to recover from leaks.

I'd try adding fluid.  You have to be under the car and follow a procedure.  Do a web search, or purchase a Bentley Manual for this e38.  

I wouldn't attempt to change fluid, only add.

If this isn't the problem, you're probably looking at a rebuild.