Question

How do I fix the drivetrain malfunction in my BMW​?

If you see a drivetrain malfunction warning on your BMW while driving, it might help to restart the engine. Pull over safely, turn off your car for ten minutes, and then start it again. This simple step can sometimes clear the warning.

If you drive a BMW, you must have noticed a “Drivetrain malfunction. Drive moderately” error message on the iDrive screen at some point. This could mean something is wrong with the transmission or the engine and can be a real pain if not properly fixed. Here’s more info about the drivetrain malfunction on a BMW, its causes, and how much it costs to fix.  

What does the drivetrain in a BMW do?

Like every car, a BMW’s drivetrain transmits power from the engine to the wheels. The drivetrain system consists of the transmission, wheels, axles, differential, and CV joints. A slight issue with any of these components can affect your car’s regular performance.  

What does a drivetrain malfunction on a BMW mean?

A drivetrain malfunction warning on your BMW means that the engine control module (ECM) has found a problem with the transmission or the engine. It can also mean that the ignition or fuel systems are in trouble.   

The ECM will automatically cap its torque upon this detection to protect the vehicle from potential harm. This is known as the limp or safe driving mode, which helps safely move your car for service. 

BMW drivetrain malfunction symptoms 

When your BMW displays a “Drivetrain Malfunction” error, don’t panic. This is a warning for the driver to check for and fix any broken parts before they lead to more serious damage to the vehicle. These are some of the symptoms associated with it: 

• Check engine light indication.  
• Drivetrain error indication on the iDrive screen. 
• Lack of power while trying to overtake another vehicle on a highway. 
• Rough idling. 
• The engine cuts off during idling or while putting into Drive (D) mode. 
• Your BMW does not start. 
• Occurrence of thicker smoke from the exhaust. 
• Excessive vibrations inside the cabin. 

Causes of drivetrain malfunction in a BMW 

Damaged spark plugs 

Worn-out spark plugs can cause engine misfires. Older spark plugs cannot produce enough sparks to fire the engine, leading to a drivetrain malfunction indication.  

Faulty ignition coils 

The ignition coil supplies the spark plugs with electricity. If the ignition coils are damaged, it will be difficult to provide power to the spark plugs, resulting in misfires and decreased engine output. 

Faulty fuel injectors/ fuel pumps 

When the fuel injectors or fuel pumps are faulty, insufficient fuel reaches the combustion chamber, leading to a drop in power and performance. Thus, a drivetrain malfunction indication will pop up on your BMW, as there’s insufficient power transfer through the drivetrain.

Catalytic converter malfunction 

A catalytic converter helps to break down harmful gases into less harmful byproducts. It converts gases like carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide into carbon dioxide and water vapor. A faulty catalytic converter can cause the vehicle’s exhaust to release less gas per second, causing the pressure to rise. This leads to a drivetrain malfunction indication on your BMW.

Fixes for the drivetrain malfunction in a BMW

Restart the engine  

Sometimes, a simple engine restart is enough to remove the drivetrain malfunction indication on your BMW. If you encounter this warning while driving, pull over, turn your car off for ten minutes, and try restarting it.  

Inspect the engine 

If a drivetrain malfunction alert pops up, check your engine for oil and coolant levels, leaks, and the drive belt. 

Scan for error codes

By connecting a code scanner to the OBD II port, you can read the Diagnostic Trouble Code associated with the fault on your BMW. After this, you can refer to your car’s user manual to find out what it means and fix it accordingly. However, ensure that you use a code scanner compatible with a BMW.  

Replace parts 

As discussed above, spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel pumps, and a damaged catalytic converter are some potential causes of a drivetrain malfunction. If any of these components are damaged, they must be replaced immediately. 

Fill with better fuel. 

Sometimes, excessive usage of low-octane fuel can lead to a drop in engine power. However, using high-octane fuel can avoid this power loss and, subsequently, the drivetrain malfunction indication on your BMW.

Is it safe to drive your BMW if there is a problem with the drivetrain?

Technically, you could drive your BMW with a malfunctioning drivetrain, but it’s not the smartest thing to do. Although your vehicle’s performance would suffer due to the loss of power, you might be tempted to keep your foot on the gas in the face of this diminished capability, potentially causing severe damage to the car’s internals. Therefore, as soon as the car enters limp mode, get it to the nearest service station as quickly as possible. 

What is the cost of fixing a BMW drivetrain malfunction?

If your BMW shows a “drivetrain malfunction” message, fixing it can cost up to $2,500, depending on which part needs replacing. A spark plug replacement won’t break the bank, coming in at around $100. Replacing a catalytic converter can cost you up to $2,500, depending on the brand you choose. If you need a transmission rebuilt or repaired, expect to pay at least $5,000.