[Gav5]

Hi All,

First post so please forgive my inexperience. Tried a search but couldn't find similar issue.

Have just bought a 2005 320i (2.0 petrol) and all is well except for the reverse gear - It won't engage without pretty heavy effort. When trying first time, it just won't go in. If i dip the clutch and try again, it does go in but witha lot of effort and a bit of a clunk. You can feel something fighting against it, and a solid knotchy feeling before pushing past it.
I'm pretty experienced with many manual cars under my belt, but nothing like this. The pedal is all the way down, the lever all the way down and over.

Your thoughts. opinions and experiences would be most welcome.

Thanks,

Gav

[Johnny D]

Im not a transmission expert by any means, but you could have an issue with the reverse gears not being lined up or worn.

Next time you reverse, try putting the car into first gear before reverse. Sometimes it will line up the gearing for reverse to easily engage.

[Gav5]

Thanks for your reply. A friend suggested similar, but it has no effect. The car has only done 60k. It needs a service but I doubt this will fix it. Is there possibly a cable adjustment, or synchro maybe ?

[Johnny D]

Originally Posted by Gav5

Thanks for your reply. A friend suggested similar, but it has no effect. The car has only done 60k. It needs a service but I doubt this will fix it. Is there possibly a cable adjustment, or synchro maybe ?

Do BMW's use syncros for the reverse gear? It could be an adjustment issue though. Does the car pop out of reverse or make any odd noise after its in reverse?

[Gav5]

Once its in gear it seems fine. No noises, but it does bounce out if not fully engaged. I.e. You think you've got it in but it's not.

[Johnny D]

Check your fluid level first. If it's not low, then you'll need to take it to a repair shop.

[Gav5]

I will do. It goes for a service soon. I'll report back if I find the cause. Thanks for your input.