Please Help...

[Jamiediddy]

I've just up-graded from a 3-series to a beautiful looking 540i, all good so far, but:

Upon travelling the 11 miles to my home I started to hear a slight grinding (metallic) noise when accelerating, I consequetly took the car to a mechanic friend immediatley, he came on a small trip with me and said that as the gears were moving though ok (no slipping) then it must be a lack of transmission fluid...
Took the car home, went away for the weekend, came back and took her to a Gearbox Specialist, upon trying to get there the screaming had got worse and after a few seconds 'Limp mode' activated, left the car with specialist for an hour who called up and told me it was 'knackered' (the transmission), this specialist was a friend of family so no charge for checking, but I don't think he actually managed to look underneath and whatnot.
'Trans Program' did come up as soon as Limp mode engaged.
I resigned myself to the fact that it's fuggered and I'm trying to take the car back to the previous owner for a refund, however, thought i'd check with the experts first (you all) to ensure that it really is knackered.
The engine seems lovely, purrs... a shame really...

Does this all sound like a screwed tranny?

Thanks in advance.

J.

[Bimmer Nut Ed]

I'm certainly no expert, but it does sound screwed. You should find out if your friend dropped the pan or not, and if so, how much fluid, and what else was in it.

[632 Regal]

sounds like the previous owner probably knew about the issue and sold the car. It possible that it "just" started also but I would be looking for a refund or strike a deal on having it replaced. Them kinds of noises aren't good, the transmission is the most expensive componant to replace next to the engine and you are taking a chance on any used trans. Rebuilds go from 2k up and those arent always perfect either.

[Kalevera]

Like mine -- ZF factory reman that lasted 1,500k ;)

Did you have this car checked out prior to buying it? I kinda get the impression that it was an impulse buy. Doesn't sound very good, though...although if it's one of those trannys that uses the shell LAwhateveritis lifetime fluid, then replacing it and the filter might fix things up.

How many miles on the car?

best, whit