Clunky manual gearbox

[roblightbody]

What's it meant to feel like? I've only driven one Z4, ours, and have never driven a manual BMW. It feels very notchy and rubbery and when moving away it's sometimes easier to use 2nd than try to get into first. I was wondering if it should it have it's transmission oil changed maybe?

 

[Pondrew]

I've got a manual E89 Z4 and a manual F31. Both are very low miles and both have pretty awful gearboxes. Maybe why so many BMWs are autos?

 

[Zedebee]

I never liked the gear change much on my 50k mile coupe, which is one of the reasons why I switched to auto for my current car.

 

[Mr Tidy]

I'm currently on my 7th and 8th manual BMWs and they seem to vary wildly in terms of how they drive from car to car. :?

I've had great, good and some not so good as in baggy, obstructive and/or notchy. Although thankfully all my Z4 ones have been good!

I don't believe the BMW claim they are sealed for life so have had the fluid replaced in my last 6 (the first 2 were much newer cars with lower mileage) and had the Clutch Delay Valve removed which generally helps smooth out the change from 1st to 2nd and is free if you can do it yourself.

 

[MikeyH]

Mine is a 5 speed and going from 1st to 2nd is always a bit hit and miss. If I take my time it is very rubbery but if I just shove it in to 2nd quickly it’s okay. Be positive and you will be okay, fanny about and you won’t

 

[Rockhopper]

Some people drain and re-fill with ATF.