The BMW E90 series is known for its sophisticated adaptive transmission, which learns your driving habits and adjusts shifting patterns accordingly. While this feature enhances the driving experience, it can sometimes lead to issues like rough shifting, delayed engagement, or even limp mode.
Fortunately, you can reset the adaptive transmission and restore factory settings using the Carly app, a popular diagnostic tool for BMWs. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
What You’ll Need
- A Carly adapter (either the Bluetooth or Wi-Fi version)
- The Carly app installed on your smartphone or tablet (available for both Android and iOS)
- A BMW E90 model year 2005-2012
Resetting the Adaptive Transmission
- Connect the Carly adapter to your car’s OBD-II port, usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Open the Carly app and log in to your account.
- Select your BMW E90 from the list of vehicles.
- Navigate to “Control Units” in the Carly app.
- Select “Transmission Control Unit (EGS/GS)”.
- Look for the “Adaptation Reset” or “Reset Transmission Adaptation” option. This might vary slightly depending on the Carly app version.
- Tap on the option to initiate the reset process.
- Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the app. This might involve starting and stopping the engine, driving for a short distance, and waiting for the adaptation to complete.
Important Notes
- Ensure that your car is parked on a level surface before proceeding with the reset.
- The reset process may take a few minutes to complete. Do not interrupt the process.
- After the reset, drive the car for a few miles to allow the transmission to relearn your driving habits.
- If you encounter any issues or errors during the process, consult the Carly app documentation or seek professional help.
By resetting the adaptive transmission, you can often resolve shifting problems and restore smooth gear changes. However, it’s important to remember that this is not a permanent solution. If you continue to experience transmission issues, it’s recommended to consult a qualified BMW mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.