Auto transmission doesn't shift until warmed up

[Cabrio330]

1991 325ic. When I start the car cold, it stays in low gear until it warms up. Even shifting from D into S, 2, 1 or back will not cause it to change gear.

Before I take it to my mechanic, any suggestions on what the problem is or how to fix it? Not 100% sure of the mileage on the car or the transmission because the PO swapped the odometer & gauges.

Still learning my way around the E30, as I just bought this car on Monday.

Thanks.

[kamotors]

have you tried changing the fluid or checking the level?

[2002maniac]

Mine does this too for the first 2-3 blocks. I havent worried about it. My fluid is clean and full fwiw.

Hopefully we can get some good input here.

Auto = :(

[Rolla1990]

I believe this is normal, it helps all the fluids and gears/clutches to reach operating temperature. Every automatic car I've ever owned did this.

[ADEN]

no no mine wasn't doing that at alll even in low temp in the morning but it did this after i did an automatic transmission rebuilt i suspect the big round pump cause it's the only used part in my rebuilt please guys check your ATF pumps.

[2slo4me]

just had the same problem... most likely its the governor inside the tranny... no bueno.

[MR 325]

I believe this is normal, it helps all the fluids and gears/clutches to reach operating temperature. Every automatic car I've ever owned did this.

lol

[SpecM]

Mine hangs in First gear for about a quarter mile when its cold, I hate it because I have to drive at 15 or 20 mph untill it can shift... I don't want to rev the engine past 3.5g or so untill its warm too!

tranny has new fluid and filter, and I rebuilt the front "A" clutch-basket assembly a year ago

It's because of the seals in the valve body, when they age they leak a bit and that makes it harder for the solenoids to build enough pressure to change gears.