general problems of the 1999 BMW 540

Two problems related to power train have been reported for the 1999 BMW 540. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Power Train problem

Failure Date: 05/11/2011

My transmission would not accelerate or move. I had the trans rebuild and 2 years later the same problem. The trans has lost gears 1-3 and reverse, multistate repaired the trans again 2013, ifor the second time, it never worked after repairs. The engine light stays on, BMW says I need new trans and engine. When I looked up recalls for 540i, it states the same trans problem and it should be replaced. When I look up engine there are known engine problems with 540i, not my VIN. I also have electical issues, which have a recall on 540i, but not my VIN. Also issues with coolant, which is another known issue, but not my VIN. I have tried to get BMW to diagnose, but they only recommend replacing all parts at my expense, even though there is a history of these type of issues with the 540i, 1999 cars. I want BMW to replace all know issue parts at their expense and they have refused due to my VIN, not willing to add VIN to the issue. All issues with my car are known issues for 540i 1999 cars.

2 Power Train problem

Failure Date: 03/14/2009

I have a 1999 540i and the reverse has stopped working completely. The forward gears work perfectly but the reverse suddenly stopped working. I have read many similar stories.


Other Power Train related problems of the 1999 BMW 540

Automatic Transmission problems
3
Power Train problems
2


540 Service Bulletins
540 Safety Recalls
540 Defect Investigations