Hi all

I've got a 2005 R52 convertible with the getrag 5-speed at 100k miles. Things weren't feeling great (hard to find gears, gearshift not returning to center, etc), so I did a bunch of work:
Changed shift cables, gear selector mechanism (the tower on top of the tranny) and transmission oil (put in redline MTL GL-4 as per so many recommendations)

That made a huge difference, and things are way better now, but getting into 2nd and 3rd while moving has gotten more difficult. It goes in, but takes double or triple the time to get thru and extra effort. Doing my best not to force it, but it's causing some anxiety while driving...

I'm thinking (hoping) that the synchros aren't loving the redline... Any suggestions? I'm contemplating swapping it out for authentic mini transmission fluid from the dealer.

It's also possible that the issues I fixed were masking this issue somehow, and it's been like this for awhile now...

Any thoughts?

 

The additives do matter. Certainly won't hurt to switch back. If it's not too pricey, fill it once, run it a while, then drain and fill again. Have no idea what MINI wants for that fluid. I know BMW is often asking $30-$40 a quart for their special ATF.

 

I've got redline in my tranny, shifts nicely. Not ruling it out just adding my experience.