In 2004 BMW introduced the new X3 crossover vehicle to the United States, which is also called the e83 and part of their three-series. Rather than call it an SUV, BMW referred to it as a Sports Activity Vehicle, and it featured all-wheel-drive and a cockpit filled with state-of-the-art gadgets. However, the X3 also has some common problems associated with this first-generation vehicle, including the car holding lower gear too long on inclines.
It is normal for any transmission to hold their gears while climbing, as it helps prevent damaging the engine. In most cases though, a properly functioning transmission will return to the proper gear once the car levels out. In the case of the X3, the vehicle will stay in the low gear for hundreds of yards after it has returned to a level driving surface.
Some owners have temporarily relieved his problem by putting the vehicle in manual mode and shifting it themselves. While this resolves the problem for many X3’s, it is not a permanent solution, and really not feasible for drivers who don’t know how to work a manual shift. The best option would be to get a professional to repair the problem.
So, if your BMW X3 is holding a lower gear too long when on an incline or climbing hills, contact a trained Bimmer service expert to diagnose the problem and get it repaired professionally. They will have the tools and experience to get your BMW back on the road in no time.
Search for a local, independent BMW repair shop with BMW mechanics that have dealer-level expertise at a fraction of the expense.