BMW 1 Series: Transmission Warning & Grinding Gears Alert

Hey there! I had a pretty similar issue with my 2014 BMW 2 Series. The symptoms were almost identical to what you're describing with your 1 Series, transmission warning, limp mode, and those nasty grinding noises. Took it to my regular workshop and turns out it was just low transmission fluid. They did a thorough check, topped up the gearbox oil, and that fixed everything. The whole thing cost me about 365 Euro. Before jumping to conclusions about the pressure sensor, I'd suggest getting the fluid levels checked first, it's usually the simpler things that cause these symptoms. Could you share more details about your car? Like the engine size, transmission type (auto/manual), and current mileage? This would help me give you more specific advice based on my experience.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My BMW has 96253 KM on the odometer and had its last service about 2 months ago. While I appreciate your input about the transmission fluid, I'm a bit skeptical since the symptoms started quite suddenly, right after the service actually. I'll definitely get the fluid levels checked though, as that would be the cheapest fix. Did your grinding noise also occur during gear changes or was it constant? For reference, mine's an automatic with a gasoline engine.

Hey again! Yeah, I totally get your skepticism, especially since the issues started right after the service. Now that you mention it, that's quite suspicious timing. In my 2014 2 Series (also automatic with a gas engine), the grinding was specifically during gear changes, not constant, sounds exactly like what you're experiencing. You know what? Given that this started after your service, I'm actually thinking I might've jumped the gun suggesting just the fluid levels. I had another issue a year before the fluid problem where a mechanic didn't properly secure the transmission wiring harness during service. It caused pretty much the same symptoms, the grinding, warning lights, the whole deal. If I were you, I'd take it back to wherever did the service and have them check if anything got knocked loose or wasn't properly reconnected. In my case, it was a free fix since it was their mistake. Definitely push for them to check their work first before you start spending money on other potential fixes. What kills me is that both our cars are relatively low mileage for these kinds of issues. Mine had around 85000 KM when I had the wiring problem. Have you noticed any other changes in how it drives besides the grinding?

Thanks for the additional insight! You've actually made me feel better about taking it back to the service center. The similarity between our issues and the fact that yours was related to loose wiring after service really hits home. Besides the grinding, I've noticed the car hesitates a bit before engaging first gear from a complete stop, which it never did before. I just called the workshop and explained everything, mentioning the timing of these issues right after service. They've agreed to inspect it tomorrow at no cost, specifically checking the wiring harness and connections they might have disturbed during the recent service. Really hoping it turns out to be something simple like in your case, rather than a major transmission problem. I'll let you know how it goes if you're interested. Thanks again for all the helpful information!