BMW 7 Series Hybrid: Multiple Major Drivetrain Issues

Hey there! I've got some experience with hybrid vehicles. I had very similar issues with my 2014 BMW ActiveHybrid 5, got really lucky the repair was covered under warranty! The symptoms were nearly identical to what you're describing. After several diagnostic tests, it turned out the ABS module was malfunctioning, causing havoc with multiple systems since everything's interconnected in these cars. Got it sorted at the dealer and they also did a software update on the i5 model line. Could you share if you've had any recent ABS-related warnings or if the problems started after any specific event? Also, what's your mileage? This info would help me give more specific advice based on my experience. These symptoms can stem from various sources in these complex hybrids, so getting the right diagnosis is crucial. Don't wait too long to get it checked, these issues can cascade into bigger problems.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My car's at 49404 KM and just had its service last month. I haven't noticed any specific ABS warnings, but the issues actually started right after a rainy day when I hit a deep puddle. It's interesting that you mention the ABS module, I'll definitely have them check that out. So far, I've been hesitant to drive it much since these symptoms started, especially with that jerky transmission behavior. Did you notice any particular patterns with when the issues would get worse in your case?

Hey again! Yeah, now that you mention the puddle incident, that rings a bell for my case too! Water exposure can definitely mess with these systems. In my BMW, the symptoms would actually get worse during cold starts and especially when making tight turns at low speeds. Looking back at my experience, I think you're smart to be cautious about driving it too much. When I had these issues, I noticed the jerking would become more pronounced after the car had been running for about 15-20 minutes. The transmission would act up more when trying to shift between 2nd and 3rd gear. Since you mentioned the puddle incident, I'd bet water might have gotten into some electrical connections. In my case, they found some moisture in the wiring harness near the ABS module, which was causing those unusual warning lights and weird behavior. The transfer case wasn't actually the problem, even though it seemed like it at first. Given your mileage is pretty low and you just had service, I'd definitely push to have them check all the electrical connections and the ABS module specifically. Might save you from replacing parts unnecessarily. The fix for mine took about three days at the shop, but it's been running perfectly since then. Let me know what they find, curious to see if it's similar to what I experienced!

Thanks so much for all that detailed info! That's really helpful, especially about the cold starts and low-speed turns, I've noticed exactly the same thing! Mine definitely acts up more when I'm turning into parking spots. And now that you mention the timing, the jerking does get worse after the car's been running for a bit. You've actually made me feel a lot better about this whole situation. I was worried I'd need a whole transfer case replacement, but the electrical/ABS theory makes way more sense, especially given that puddle incident. I'm going to book it in tomorrow and specifically ask them to check the wiring harness and ABS module. Really appreciate you sharing your repair timeline too, helps me plan better. I'll set up a rental car for a few days just to be safe. Will definitely update you once I get the diagnosis. Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience, it's been super helpful!