Synchromesh in 3rd gear gone at 40k

[Mnorm123]

Just looking for some advice really.
Bought a BMW 1 series 18months ago from a reputable garage, full service history, really happy with car.
Have done roughly 1000 miles in it and yesterday I couldn't get it in to third gear. Took it straight to garage who said that the synchromesh in third gear had worn and that they'd never seen anything like it before for such low mileage. They suggested we got in touch with BMW to explain and see if they could offer any advice or fix the problem that they say should not have occurred. Rung BMW and they have pretty much accepted over the phone that there's no way the synchromesh in third should have gone for the miles done and the cars history yet have suggested we take the car to them for them to diagnose (150 for an hour) then if iOS what the garage had diagnosed then allow them to complete the work, obviously a lot more expensive, £3000) and they would pay a small amount of it. What should I do? Anyone else had any similar experiences?

[kev b]

Source and fit a used gearbox, change the clutch whilst its out, if its a diesel do the timing chain as well.

All that should come to less than BMW will charge for a new box.

[SebringMan]

Don't wish to say it but this is one reason I don't get hung up on mileage. They could all have been hard town miles. I know a mate of mine blew a 'box to bits in 20k ; he used to really slam the gears in enough to give you whiplash. 10 years later he is not much kinder on 'boxes...

But I'd do what the above said. The only thing is some garages can be funny about fitting secondhand 'boxes. A rebuild would be cheaper. Definitely get the clutch and flywheel changed .

[Mnorm123]

Thanks guys. I'll be doing as you've said.

[anonymous-user]

Some people keep a hold on to, if not pressure on, the lever going through the gears. Not good for synchro rings.

I would think it's much more likely abuse than faulty manufacture.

[CarsOrBikes]

This ^

[iSore]

Failed syncros on the stop/start manual BMW boxes is NOT rare!

[anonymous-user]

iSore said:

Failed syncros on the stop/start manual BMW boxes is NOT rare!

Why mention stop/start? Do you think that has something to do with it?

[iSore]

No, it's just that pre stop start boxes almost never go wrong. The later ones with stop start just do. Not that common but far from unheard of.