Flat spot in first gear e46 330ci

[PaulB81]

Hi

I have a very weird problem in my 330ci. It drives perfectly for the most part, however, in first gear there is a 'flat spot'. I put my foot down, the revs increase as normal but there is no 'shove', it doesnt feel like it is really accelerating, then it gets past a certain point and picks up. Change up to 2nd and apply the same amount of throttle and it goes off like a rocket.

Anyone got any idea what could cause this?

[dingg]

clutch slipping maybe

[miln0039]

^^^ As above, sounds like the most feasible explanation unless I'm misunderstanding your explanation OP?

Edited for grammatical error...(before PH massive noticed though!)

[ccr32]

I remember reading somewhere that torque is limited in first gear, or am I talking codswallop/thinking of another car?

[PJ S]

If there's a flat spot as a function of the mapping/engine design, then it's in every gear, just not first.
That said, it could be more noticeable, but it's revs related, so you'd need to see if the same sensation is felt at the same revs when it changes up.
If not, then I'd be looking at the transmission.

Has the transmission oil ever been changed?
What mileage has the car done?

Edited by PJ S on Wednesday 3rd August 19:20

[PaulB81]

Thanks guys

Car is on 77k miles. Its not had a proper BMW service (local garages and independents only) in a while so maybe its the transmission.

Its not noticable in any other gear. It pulls really nice and very smooth right up the rev range. Very weird issue.

EDIT _- Dont think its the clutch slipping as I have accidentally pulled off in 3rd a few times without stalling lol. Not sure it would do that if the clutch was on the way out.

[Gad-Westy]

This is a manual right? Got to be the clutch if the revs aren't being translated to forward motion. Could just need adjustment rather than replacement.

[rpm1969]

I get a similar sensation on mine (2002 330C with 112k) - have assumed it's clutch related and as it drives well in every other situation I've decided to live with it and treat it gently in 1st gear to eke out a bit more life in the clutch.