Difficult to engage 1st gear when very cold?

Over Clocker · 10 Jan 2009 at 16:15

Hi guys, I've noticed in my BMW E46 that when it is very cold, it is quite difficult to engage 1st gear, until I've been driving for a good 15 mins or so.

Is this an indication of something wrong, or is it normal?

Thanks,

Mal

Princey · 10 Jan 2009 at 16:18

Sometimes the same for me. I guess the fluids thicken slightly in the cold.

rare · 10 Jan 2009 at 16:19

Every manual BMW I have ever driven has been like this to be fair. Not usually a problem unless it starts doing it in more gears or when its hot.

NickXX · 10 Jan 2009 at 16:23

Same as mine - has been like it since I got the car. I found that a gearbox fluid change (£45) helped a bit.

Tends to be easier to get in if you slot it into 2nd, then first.

MikeHunt79 · 10 Jan 2009 at 16:23

My car has been doing this recently too, 1st to 2nd can feel a little rough also. I think it's just the transmission fluid going a little buttery due to it being so cold out.

sigma · 10 Jan 2009 at 18:49

Suffered from this in various cars over the last few weeks, only on really really cold mornings though.

danza · 10 Jan 2009 at 18:58

My car is a PITA to change to second at the best of times when cold. This weather only makes it worse.

BigglesPiP · 10 Jan 2009 at 19:32

Perfectly normal, cold gearbox oil.