BMW Drivetrain Malfunction Drive Moderately Warning
If your BMW displays a drivetrain malfunction, the warning indicates an electrical system, transmission, driveshaft, or engine issue. A common culprit is an aging 12-volt battery that no longer holds a charge, so your first step should be to check the car battery.
If replacing the battery doesn’t resolve the issue, other factors to consider include low transmission fluid levels, a defective transmission control module, or issues with the differential. We’ll also demonstrate how to utilize the YOUCANIC full-system scanner to pinpoint the specific cause of the malfunction quickly. Driving with a compromised drivetrain can exacerbate the problem and increase repair costs.
Fix the Drivetrain Malfunction on BMW
A BMW drivetrain malfunction warning signals an issue that could range from a simple weak car battery to more complex problems. This alert is generated by the Engine Control Module or Digital Motor Electronics (DME). To address a drivetrain malfunction, follow these steps:
Park in a secure location, shut off the engine, and wait for five minutes with the ignition off. For added measure, you may disconnect the battery’s negative terminal. Ensure all lights, cooling fans, and the radio are turned off during this period. Restarting the vehicle or disconnecting the battery can often clear the warning, enabling you to resume driving. If the transmission has entered limp mode upon restarting, you can cautiously drive to a repair shop or your residence but note that your maximum speed will be restricted to 40 mph. Exercise caution while driving, as the malfunction could reappear or lead to further complications.
BMW Drivetrain Malfunction Common Causes
As previously stated, the most frequent cause of BMW drivetrain malfunctions is a weak 12-volt battery that may require replacement. The second most common issue is an engine misfire, often due to a faulty spark plug or ignition coil.
Drivetrain Malfunction message on BMWs may appear:
- under heavy acceleration,
- going up on a steep incline,
- taking off from a stop sign,
- trying to pass another car,
- when you first the engine,
- when it is extremely cold outside.
Drivetrain Malfunction Drive Moderately may appear at any point while driving or upon startup. However, it is more likely to occur in cold weather with an aging battery or under extreme driving conditions.
What does drivetrain malfunction on a BMW mean?
The BMW Drivetrain Malfunction alert signifies that the Engine Control Module (DDE, ECU, ECM, or DME) has identified an issue with the engine or the transmission.
To prevent damage, the engine control unit limits the maximum torque output. The YOUCANIC scanner can diagnose the problem, allowing you to read the fault codes from the Digital Motor Electronics (DME) and transmission (EGS) modules.
Common Symptoms of Drivetrain Malfunction
While symptoms may differ based on the underlying issue, the following are commonly observed by most BMW owners:
- Drivetrain malfunction error message on the iDrive screen
- The car starts to shake.
- Check engine light comes on.
- Vehicle cuts off / dies when idling or placed in gear (D)
- Smoke out of the exhaust
- Vehicle idles rough
- The transmission is stuck in gear.
- The drivetrain malfunctioned while trying to pass on the highway.
- The drivetrain malfunctions and the car won’t start.
In most cases, your BMW will lose power, the engine may shake or die, and the transmission can go into a limp home mode (can’t shift gears).
Troubleshooting BMW drivetrain malfunction
To repair a drivetrain malfunction in a BMW, it’s essential to pinpoint the exact problem causing the issue. The drivetrain system of a BMW includes the components that transfer power from the engine to the wheels, such as the transmission, driveshaft, and differentials.
Here are some steps that a mechanic may take to diagnose and repair a drivetrain malfunction on a BMW:
- Perform a visual inspection of the drivetrain components for any visible signs of damage or wear.
- Connect a diagnostic tool to the vehicle’s computer to retrieve any error codes stored in the system. These codes can provide clues as to the cause of the drivetrain malfunction. See the instructions below.
- Test the transmission, driveshaft, and differentials to see if they function properly. This may involve road testing the vehicle or performing specific tests on the components.
- Clear any error codes from the vehicle’s computer and road test the vehicle to ensure the repair has succeeded.
Following the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines is important when repairing a drivetrain malfunction on a BMW. If you are not comfortable or experienced with working on vehicles, it is recommended to have a mechanic diagnose and repair the issue. Ignoring a drivetrain malfunction or continuing to drive with a malfunctioning drivetrain could result in costly repairs and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
1. Restart the Engine
- Find a safe place to park your BMW.
- Turn off the ignition and remove the key.
- Wait for at least five minutes, then restart the car.
In most instances, temporarily resetting the BMW drivetrain malfunction can enable you to resume your trip. Restart the engine if the BMW Drivetrain Malfunction warning appears. If the warning persists, examine the battery. Insufficient power may be available for BMWs older than five years to run all modules and vehicle systems.
2. Inspect the Engine for Leaks
If rebooting the engine didn’t resolve the Drivetrain Malfunction, Drive Moderately warning, safely park your vehicle, and shut off the engine again.
Pull the hood release under the dashboard and inspect the engine for leaks and unusual smells, indicating a damaged serpentine belt, oil leak, or coolant leak.
- Check the engine oil level.
- Monitor engine temperature.
- Do not keep the engine running if it overheats or the oil light is on.
3. Read Codes with a BMW Scanner
Codes stored in the DME provide a good picture of why the Drivetrain Malfunction error was triggered. For this step, you will need a BMW Scanner. Generic OBD2 scanners won’t help much, as they can’t read manufacturer fault codes.
- Locate the diagnostic port under the dashboard.
- Plug in an OBD-II scanner into the diagnostic port.
- Turn on the ignition, but don’t start the engine.
- Turn on the scanner and select your BMW model.
- Read codes from the engine (DME) and transmission (EGS) module.
Driving is inadvisable if you notice engine vibrations, diminished power, or limp mode. Contact your dealer or mechanic immediately. Don’t overlook a drivetrain malfunction warning. Have your BMW serviced promptly. Even if the drivetrain error resolves itself, getting your BMW checked is crucial, as the issue will likely recur.
How to Reset Drivetrain Malfunction on a BMW?
First, to clear the “Drivetrain Malfunction” warning on a BMW, resolve the underlying issue causing the malfunction. Once done, remove the error code from the car’s computer. Here’s how to reset the drivetrain malfunction message: Identify and rectify the root cause, then repair or replace any defective components as needed.
- Connect the YOUCANIC diagnostic tool to the vehicle’s OBD-II port under the dash and retrieve any error codes that may be stored in the engine control unit (DME).
- Fix any fault codes showing as CURRENT or ACTIVE in the Engine Control Unit or DME.
- Clear the error codes from the vehicle’s computer using the YOUCANIC diagnostic tool.
- Disconnect the diagnostic tool and start the vehicle to see if the drivetrain malfunction message has been reset.
If the “drivetrain malfunction” warning persists even after trying to reset it, the issue may not have been effectively resolved. Inspecting your vehicle by a BMW dealer or qualified mechanic is advisable to accurately diagnose and fix the problem. Failing to address a drivetrain malfunction or continuing to drive with a compromised drivetrain could lead to expensive repairs and potentially hazardous driving conditions.
Most Likely Causes of BMW Drivetrain Malfunction
Drivetrain malfunction alerts may appear for various reasons, ranging from a low battery to engine misfires. Typically, your problem will fall under one of the categories below. We highly recommend having your BMW evaluated by a qualified mechanic or, at the very least, reviewing the fault codes yourself before initiating any part replacements.
1. Spark Plugs
Worn spark plugs frequently lead to drivetrain issues in BMW cars. When replacing the spark plugs, change all of them simultaneously.
2. Ignition Coils
A faulty ignition coil can lead to engine misfires and trigger a “Drivetrain Malfunction” warning on your BMW’s iDrive system. The corresponding ignition coil is likely defective if a cylinder misfire code specifies a particular cylinder. For instance, if you receive a misfire code for cylinder one, switch the ignition coils between cylinder one and cylinder two. Then, clear the error codes using an OBD-II scanner and operate the vehicle until the check engine light reappears. If the misfire code shifts to the new cylinder, it confirms that the ignition coil is faulty.
3. High-Pressure Fuel Pump
A drivetrain malfunction in a BMW can also stem from a fuel pump that fails to produce the necessary fuel pressure, particularly when the error message appears during acceleration. The fuel pump may struggle to maintain sufficient pressure, especially when the engine requires a high fuel flow.
4. Catalytic Converter
A blocked catalytic converter can trigger a BMW drivetrain malfunction warning. This issue is more common in high-mileage vehicles, where the catalytic converter becomes clogged and impedes the flow of exhaust gases.
5. Low-Quality Fuel or Octane Rating
This issue may arise if you’ve recently fueled your BMW with low-octane gasoline. For optimal performance, use premium fuel with an octane rating of 93 or higher. If you’ve mistakenly used low-octane gas, you can enhance the fuel’s quality by adding an Octane Booster to the tank.
6. Clogged Fuel Injectors
One or more damaged fuel injectors can cause BMW to drive with moderately reduced power. If your mechanic determines the fuel injectors are faulty, replacing them simultaneously is recommended (but not required). Other possible causes of BMW drivetrain malfunction include a blown head gasket, mass airflow sensor, turbo issue, and fuel injectors. While it is impossible to know what caused the BMW drivetrain to malfunction in your car without reading the codes, this error is due to an engine misfire in most cases.
Conclusion
BMW drivetrain malfunction on a BMW can come up for several reasons ranging from a weak 12-volt battery to a faulty high-pressure fuel pump. Sometimes, drivetrain malfunction is due to a simple software glitch in the DME that will reset by simply disconnecting the battery for a few minutes and restarting the engine; other times, the vehicle needs to be repaired to clear the drivetrain malfunction drive moderately permanently. Use a full system scanner to run a full diagnostic check on the vehicle to find out what is causing the drivetrain malfunction on your BMW.
Frequently Asked Questions
Drivetrain malfunction error message during cold weather?
If you receive a “Drivetrain Malfunction” error message on your BMW during cold weather, it is important to stop the vehicle in a safe place as soon as possible and not continue driving. Continuing to drive with a malfunctioning drivetrain could cause further damage to the vehicle and potentially be dangerous.
Cold weather can affect the performance of a vehicle’s drivetrain in several ways. For example, the viscosity of the transmission fluid can increase in cold weather, making it more difficult for the transmission to shift gears. Cold weather can also cause drivetrain components, such as the driveshaft, to contract and potentially cause problems.
To determine the cause of the drivetrain malfunction, it is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a BMW dealer or a mechanic as soon as possible. The technician can diagnose the issue and recommend the necessary repairs. Ignoring the drivetrain malfunction message or continuing to drive with a malfunctioning drivetrain could result in costly repairs and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
Drivetrain malfunction comes up when accelerating.
Suppose you receive a “Drivetrain Malfunction” error message on your BMW while accelerating. In that case, stopping the vehicle in a safe place as soon as possible is important so as not to continue driving. Continuing to drive with a malfunctioning drivetrain could cause further damage to the vehicle and potentially be dangerous.
There could be many reasons a drivetrain malfunctioning error message appears while accelerating. Some possible causes could include problems with the transmission, driveshaft, differentials, or issues with the engine or other components of the drivetrain system.
To determine the cause of the drivetrain malfunction, it is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a BMW dealer or a mechanic as soon as possible. The technician can diagnose the issue and recommend the necessary repairs. Ignoring the drivetrain malfunction message or continuing to drive with a malfunctioning drivetrain could result in costly repairs and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
BMW drivetrain malfunction after an oil change or service?
If the “Drivetrain Malfunction” error message appears on your BMW after an oil change, there may be a problem with the vehicle’s drivetrain system. However, it is also possible that the oil change may not be related to the drivetrain malfunction.
It is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a BMW dealer or a mechanic as soon as possible to determine the cause of the drivetrain malfunction. The technician can diagnose the issue and recommend the necessary repairs. It is also good to inform the technician about the recent oil change, as this information may be relevant to diagnosing and repairing the drivetrain malfunction.
Ignoring the drivetrain malfunction message or continuing to drive with a malfunctioning drivetrain could result in costly repairs and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
How much does it cost to fix a drivetrain malfunction in BMW?
The cost to fix a drivetrain malfunction on a BMW will depend on the specific issue causing the malfunction and the extent of the repairs needed. The drivetrain system of a BMW consists of the components that deliver power from the engine to the wheels, including the transmission, driveshaft, and differentials.
Repairs to the drivetrain can vary widely in cost. For example, replacing a faulty transmission or driveshaft can be very expensive, while repairing a minor issue with the differentials may be relatively inexpensive.
It is difficult to provide a specific cost estimate for drivetrain repairs without knowing the specific issue causing the malfunction and the extent of the repairs needed. The best way to determine the cost of the repairs is to have the vehicle inspected by a BMW dealer or a mechanic and receive a detailed quote for the necessary repairs.
How to clear drivetrain malfunction BMW?
To clear the “Drivetrain Malfunction” error message on a BMW, you will need to address the issue causing the malfunction and then clear the error code from the vehicle’s computer. Here are the steps to clear the drivetrain malfunction message:
1. Determine the cause of the drivetrain malfunction and repair or replace any faulty components as necessary.
2. Connect the YOUCANIC diagnostic tool to the vehicle’s OBD2 port and retrieve any error codes that may be stored in the system.
3. Clear the error codes from the vehicle’s computer using the diagnostic tool.
4. Disconnect the diagnostic tool and start the vehicle to see if the drivetrain malfunction message has been cleared.
If the drivetrain malfunction message persists after attempting to clear it, it is possible that the issue has not been properly addressed. It is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a BMW dealer or a mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue. Ignoring a drivetrain malfunction or continuing to drive with a malfunctioning drivetrain could result in costly repairs and potentially unsafe driving conditions.
What does drivetrain malfunction mean on BMW x3?
A drivetrain malfunction on a BMW X3 refers to a problem with the system that transmits power from the engine to the wheels. This includes the transmission, driveshaft, and differential. A drivetrain malfunction can cause various issues, including difficulty shifting gears, reduced power or acceleration, and strange noises coming from the transmission.
If you see a drivetrain malfunction warning on your BMW X3’s dashboard, it is important to address the issue immediately. Continuing to drive the car with a malfunctioning drivetrain can cause further damage to the transmission and other components, which can be expensive to repair. It is recommended to have the car checked by a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the underlying issue.
What is a drivetrain on a BMW?
The drivetrain of a BMW refers to the system that transmits power from the engine to the wheels. It includes the transmission, driveshaft, and differential. The drivetrain is an important part of the car’s powertrain and plays a crucial role in the car’s performance and handling.
The transmission transfers power from the engine to the driveshaft, which delivers power to the wheels through the differential. The differential is a mechanical component that allows the wheels on a car to rotate at different speeds, which is necessary when turning corners.
A drivetrain malfunction can occur when there is a problem with any of these components. This can cause various issues, including difficulty shifting gears, reduced power or acceleration, and strange noises coming from the transmission. It is important to address drivetrain malfunctions as soon as possible to avoid potentially damaging the car’s transmission or other components.
How much does it cost to fix the drivetrain malfunction on a BMW?
The cost of repairing a drivetrain on a BMW will depend on the specific issue that needs to be addressed and the complexity of the repair. Some common drivetrain problems, such as faulty transmission, can be expensive to repair, often costing thousands of dollars. Other issues, such as a worn-out driveshaft or differential, may be less expensive but still significant.
It is best to consult a professional mechanic to get a more accurate estimate of the cost of repairing a drivetrain on a BMW. They can diagnose the specific issue and provide a detailed quote for the repair. Remember that it is often more cost-effective to fix a drivetrain issue sooner rather than later, as ignoring the problem can lead to further damage and more expensive repairs.
iDrive Malfunction Error Messages
Here is a list of possible error messages you may get on a BMW cluster. The exact wording of the statement can vary between models.
- Drivetrain Malfunction…drive slowly.
- Drivetrain malfunction maximum output not available
- Drive moderately. Maximum drivetrain output is not available. Consult the service center.
- Drivetrain malfunction drives moderately.
- Full performance not available – Have the problem checked by service – Error message.
- Drivetrain Malfunction Drive Moderately Maximum Drivetrain Output not available
- Drivetrain: Continue the journey at a moderate speed. Total performance is not available. Have the problem checked by the service.
- Drive Modertaley Maximum drivetrain output not available. Consult the service center.
We hope you find the Troubleshooting BMW Drivetrain Malfunction Drive Moderately guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your BMW.
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