Hi,

I hope you don't mind an 8 series owner posting here, but I do share certain features with the e32 including the ZF4HP24 transmission. Please read on if you feel you might be able to help.
I have recently received my 850 auto back from the local BMW dealers where they had been tracking down a shutdown problem. After a very long time they eventually found the defective module and replaced it. They also replaced both batteries. When I went to pick up the car the TRANS FAIL SAFE message came up on the Obc when I started the engine. I also noticed that the gear indicator on the dash was no longer working. I asked them to check out the problem which had only occured whilst they had the car.
They suggested it was the electronic switch below the gear lever (25161219149) which they ordered and replaced. Both problems persisted. Next they tried swopping the instrument cluster with that of another customer's car. This still failed to resolve problems.
The Diagnosis EGS Faults readout came up with the following:
Gearbox Relay Relay in the SG cannot drop out.
Solenoid valve canot be cut in or cut off.
Interestingly although I get this message every time I start up, within a few seconds the message goes away and the gearbox works fine, abeit without the dash display. The dealer has suggested the gearbox does a self diagnosis check upon start up and thinks there is a problem at first, hence the message and then realises all is OK and message goes away.
Although the car drives as it should , the message and lack of gear indicator on the dash is very annoying. Dealer suggests new EGS control unit required and is currently awaiting similar car to swop unit to test theory.
Has anybody any helpful ideas or suggestions on this one as the dealers look like keeping me waiting forever.

Thanks in advance
Richard in the UK