Auto box questions....

[ColinG]

I did a search but nothing specific really showed up.

Anyways, couple of questions regarding my 2005 3.0i.

When going up through the gears, it sounds like it changes up quite a few gears at lower speeds, I'd say it sounds as though the 5 speed box has 6 or 7 gears, not much rev difference between gears.

Also, when coasting, should the revs drop a fair bit? Then rise again when you make it accelerate? I can try and video this to show what I mean, but in more modern autos the revs drop slowly and act as an engine brake.

Car drives fine, no jerking, no rough changes or noises at all. Just need my mind at rest.

Thanks in advance

[X5Sport]

If I remember correctly the 5 speed box doesn't have the engine braking system that more modern boxes have, including the later 6-speed version fitted to the 2005 diesels and V8s.

By 'coasting' I'm assuming you are in D and just on the overrun not in N?  It has probably disconnected the drive from the wheels so the engine is pretty much idling.  If you go downhill and gently 'trail' the brakes on the 6-speed, it will select 3rd to hold the speed.  Does the 5-speed do the same?

[themoog]

I don't know about the 6 speed but I think the 5 only does engine braking effect in the sport mode and not in normal drive.
The reason I know this is because I actually drove mine today manually for a change and noticed engine braking when slowing. At least I think so anyway..

[X5-D-Sport]

I some times get a creaking shriek from my 6sp auto box if I pull away hard, especially in 2nd gear... I'm guessing there is a clutch or torque converter on the way out.... its been doing it for over a year any way.

I also have a fault with the Mechatronic unit going from 1st to 2nd.... so it may be easier to simply get a working 2nd hand box & hope for the best. I got a friend who can remap the box across the street...

[Steamyrotter]

GM 5L40e does do engine braking.

In all modes as per design..



but the OP has a 6sp ZF as its 2005.

[grumpywurzel]

On the 6spd box like it has been said it has the engine braking mode.... which if you knew the Devon/Cornwall border like I do, this engine mode is a nightmare due to the number of hills. I normally have to put the car into manual to stop in dropping down a few gears when I am braking normally.

Colin. Have you got the 5 or 6 speed box mate? Is this under normal acceleration or when you are booting it as the gearbox will adjust to suit. Under normal acceleration I hardly notice much of a rev change to be honest. Shame there isn't a way of the car displaying which gear its in like it does when its in manual (or is there?)