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An automatic transmission is just that- automatic, consequently most people tend to pay very little attention to it until a major problem rears its ugly head.

Picture the scenario- you are driving along in the lap of luxury, the satellite radio blaring and the heated seats on. You have become accustomed to the comfort level and great driving experience brought to you by BMW.



You decide to stop at the local convenience store on your way home to grab some ice cream for the kids and a bottle of water for yourself. Upon returning to your car, you start it up, check your rear view mirror, put the shifter in reverse and then the unthinkable happens- the engine just revs as if it is in neutral and the car goes nowhere!

This article deals with the reasons behind an unexpected loss of reverse in certain BMW automatic transmission equipped vehicles, specifically the 3 series and 5 series vehicles that use the ZF5HP19 or steptronic transmission. This includes the popular 323i, 323ci, 325i, 328i, 330i, 525i, 528i, 530i, X3 and X5 models well as some others built in the 1999 to present model years.

To eliminate confusion, this does not apply to vehicles equipped with the GM 5L40 E transmission, just the ones with the sometimes problematic ZF5HP19. The 5L40 E has some issues of its own that are beyond the scope of this article but are certainly going to be the subject of another.


The failure rate for these transmissions seems to be very high and is expected to become much more of a problem as time goes by.

Typically, the vehicle is working perfectly while driving forward but when it is put in reverse there is a complete and permanent loss of movement to back up.

Reverse is typically a major feat for any transmission to accomplish- imagine the demands that are placed on a gearbox as it is asked to reverse the torque of your engine so that you can back up your nearly 4000 pound vehicle.

By far, the most common cause of the reverse problem in BMW's is the failure of the D-G clutch drum. Specifically, the snap ring that retains the D or reverse clutch breaks out of the clutch drum resulting in an inability for the clutch pack to apply.


The good news is that there is hope in regards to a proper repair. The factory has released an updated part that so far appears to be a permanent fix for this problem.

In our testing and in conjunction with several hundred successful repairs at our facilities, the new part seems to be metallurgically superior in several ways.

We have found that there is an improved radius area as well as slightly thicker casting. In addition to this, the grove that retains the snap ring is also relocated further away from the edge of the drum.


With this issue addressed and attention to detail in several other areas of the ZF5HP19 unit, the transmission can be repaired to "better than new" condition by a competent transmission rebuilder / remanufacturer. In fact, when properly repaired, the ZF gearbox becomes quite robust and can provide an almost indefinite service life.

Even though Toyota supplies a large variety of options for consumers looking to buy a new vehicle, many people choose to customize their ride even further with parts and accessories that alter the look and feel of the car. These alterations must be done with only real Toyota accessories so that you are certain of good quality, and that the accessories you have chosen a perfectly suited for your make and model.



Every Toyota vehicle has numerous aftermarket Toyota accessories which are specifically designed to fit the vehicle. Before you buy any parts, it is necessary to know your vehicle's exact year and model name. This is because parts and accessories are designed specifically for one car and so you can't always use a 2007 Camry part in a 2009 Camry.




A few of the optional Toyota Camry parts can make your life and driving experience much more enjoyable and are quite popular among Toyota owners. These parts include remote starters for the car; permitting you to start your car and also set the inside temperature without entering yourvehicle . This is ideal in hot climates where you can use the air conditioner to cool down the car before you enter; however it is also incredibly useful in the winter to prevent you from freezing as you enter yourvehicle. Several remote starters also allow you to set the radio station as well as a number of other cool features.



A few of the internal Toyota accessories include specific shift knobs that alter the look of your vehicles interior and can make for a more enjoyable driving experience. Custom shift knobs are a great way tocustomize your interior and select the color and feel that you enjoy most. This is a popular option amongst people who enjoy driving and value a quality ride.



Toyota accessories are also available for people looking for something a little bit less flashy and a little more practical. Urgent situation aid kits which consist of every single thing you require in the case of problems while driving are popular for many motorists. These kits are full of jumper cables in addition to flashlights as well as batteries, gloves, and all of the necessary tools that might be required to do some urgentvehicle maintenance while on the road. People tend to buy urgent situation aid kits so they are always prepared in case their vehicle breaks down or they need to help somebody else with vehicle problems.



Toyota Camry parts and accessories are made for many needs and can fit almost any budget. Buying the right parts can make your driving experience safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable. When it comes to something as important as yourvehicle , make sure not to skimp on quality. Sure you can save a few bucks on inferior parts but the end result is rarely worth the savings. Invest in quality parts and, when necessary, hire a certified mechanic to install them. It's well worth your money and you won't be sorry with the results.