1998 BMW 740 Trans Fail Safe

Tiny
SGTSTURD1
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 BMW 740
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 11,600 MILES
Hi. I have a BMW 740iL that has a Trans Fail Safe Mode error message. I had it checked with the OBD tester and it gave me 4 errors. P0720, P0731, P0732, P0734. These are Output Speed Sensor Circuit Malfunction and Gear 1, 2, 4 Ratio Incorrect. Do you know what this may mean? The car does run and moves, but it does not take off very well at all in drive. Once you get up to 35-45 MPH it runs fine. It also goes into reverse fine. Please let me know what you think. Thank you for all of your help. --Alton
Wednesday, January 9th, 2008 AT 6:31 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
DOCHAGERTY
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,601 POSTS
I recommend seeking local professional help. This is a speed sensor issue and will require removal of the oil pan on the transmission
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Saturday, January 12th, 2008 AT 10:58 PM
Tiny
BLAKE05
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have a very similar problem with my 1998 740il (trans in fail safe 4th gear only) and have been told I must get a new trans. Are the speed sensors at the rear wheel hubs? And, I was wondering what the outcome of this person's issue was. I have a solid 1st gear when initialy engaging but immediately goes to failsafe 4th gear.
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Saturday, March 21st, 2009 AT 8:50 PM
Tiny
DOCHAGERTY
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,601 POSTS
The speed sensors are inside the transmission.
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Sunday, March 22nd, 2009 AT 10:15 AM
Tiny
HDOUGLASUS
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Replace transmission fluid to solve problems. I have a 98 740il with the same problems. The amsoil brand trans fluid will work fine and is less expensive than the bmw brand. Been driving the car for 2 years since.
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Tuesday, May 26th, 2009 AT 7:56 PM

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