GM tranny - hard move the shifter only when warm

[johnnylud3]

Before I dive into the armpit of automatic transmissions, I figured I would see if anyone has words of wisdom. I am new to working with autos.

The issue is ONLY after driving for a bit and then parking. It is tough moving the shifter into park or any gear for that matter. Short drives are usually not noticeable. The transmission itself shifts smooth like butter.

I changed the fluid and filter last year along with the disintegrated thermostat when doing some cooling work. Thinking of checking trans temps and fiddling with the shift cable (I assume not this because should be more of an issue when cold).

[shogun]

does that refer to an E46, as you posted in the E46 forum? Your profile says

2002 BMW 540i

shall I move it to the E39 forum?

[johnnylud3]

Should update the profile. It’s an e83 x3 with the GM 5L40-E A5S390R transmission, believe same as the e46. Figured I would post here as more likely to get a response.

[RobertDenali]

https://www.cars.com/articles/why-is...1420684865566/

[johnnylud3]

Appreciate the link, I ran across many similar articles, but seems that’s focused on shifting out of park when cold. I have no issue doing this. It’s only after things have warmed up and trying to go back into park. I thought maybe shifter cable, but as that article starts it may be easier to move when warm.

[whiskychaser]

Have you just been on holiday? If so, check the shift cable inner at the trans end. It can rust up pretty quickly. Try spraying it with WD40 and work the lever a little. If that doesn't work, you may end up disconnecting it to confirm if the issue really does lie with the cable or the interlock

[johnnylud3]

I’ll try and get under there this afternoon and report back.

[randy72877]

Warm it up so it's hard to shift then go under the car and disconnect the shift cable from the transmission and see if the shifter moves freely.

Sent from my S61 using Tapatalk

[johnnylud3]

Easiest fix ever if it doesn’t come back. I disconnected the cable at the trans and shifter moved freely. I tried moving the arm by hand that bolts to transmission and it was tough to move. Hit with pb blaster and moved it back and forth and then some lubricant continuing to move it until it was easier to move. Hooked the cable back up and all seems well. Prob should replace this little arm at some point. Thanks guys.

[shogun]

I will move it now to E83 X3 forum for info