Throtle Delay

[Kahalu'u Bob]

I've got a 2001 330Ci. I've had it about a week (a CPO from the local dealer) so I am certainly a "newbie." It has an automatic transmission.

When I hit the throttle, there is a delay before the car responds. It seems to me that the delay is a function of engine response rather than transmission. In any event, there seems to be a delay before the tach shows RPMs increasing.

The delay is quite short. Probably only a half a second. But it is also very real. It is like using a digital camera, where you press the shutter button but the camera doesn't take the picure for a moment. It is disconcerting to me.

It may be that I'm just used to a standard transmission (not to reopen that debate). And perhaps it is just something I will need to get used to. In so many other ways the car is a genuine delight. I'm finding this a bit of a frustration.

Any thoughts?

Aloha,
Bob Godbey
Honolulu

 

[epj3]

I noticed the same thing with my car (1988 325is) and it only does it when cold. The TPS (throttle position sensor) might be messed up. I'd say get it looked at.

By the way, super nice collection of cars you have!! I would like to see some pics.

 

[BMV23]

well if youre experiencing this delay when your car is downshifting, that due to the fact that the torque converter is all automatic transmission cars have a slight delay.

 

[Abdoman]

All the newer BMWs with auto have a slight delay. I have felt it in every bimmer I have driven that hasn't been chipped. The Dinan chip is suppose to remove the delay in the throttle response. The dealership in OKC chips all of there loaner cars and it definitely makes a difference.

 

[Kahalu'u Bob]

Thanks. That helps. I think I'll ask the dealer to look at it, but I won't expect miracles.

Thanks also for the comment about the cars, epj3. I realized after getting the BMW that the odd thing that unites very different cars spanning 50 years is that they all have a straight (inline) six. Purely coincidence, but I thought it was interesting.

Thanks again, all.

Aloha,
Bob

 

[lpquick]

Yes, the Dinan software upgrades to both the engine and transmission made a huge difference in my 325. No real horsepower gains, but instant throttle response and transmission shifts are better defined. Higher rpm, no top speed limiter and in manual you control the shifts, all the way up and down. The computer will not over ride your inputs as it will from the factory.

 

[Kahalu'u Bob]

Update: BMW Honolulu says we need to replace the accel. pedal assembly. It's on order and I'll let you know when it is installed if it makes any difference.

Thanks for all the helpful comments.

Aloha, Bob

 

[jonnyz16]

Bob. There isn't a recall on the pedal assembly but bmw will replace it upon customer complaint . That should at least cure any sticky throttle part and should give you more of a pos. pedal feel . You'll always feel some delay ...good luck and let us know how it goes down at BMW of Honolulu...