Transmission Clutch Piston Seal Leak Detected
2001-2005 BMW 325i E46 2.5L I6 🇬🇧
Description
The TCM has detected a clutch pack apply pressure that is lower than expected, consistent with an internal clutch piston seal leak in an automatic transmission.
Symptoms
- Check Engine Light
- Slipping in specific gears
- Delayed engagement
- Transmission fluid temperature elevated
- Harsh shifts as TCM compensates for leak
- Possible burning smell
Common Causes
- Clutch piston seal hardened with age
- Transmission overheating damaged seals
- Excessive mileage wear
- Contaminated fluid causing seal degradation
- Manufacturing defect in seal
Diagnostic Steps
- Monitor clutch apply pressures for affected circuits
- Check transmission fluid condition
- Perform transmission pressure test
- Compare adapt pressures to specification
- Check fluid temperature at time of fault
Repair Notes
Internal transmission repair required to replace clutch piston seals. Transmission fluid flush after repair. May require full rebuild if multiple circuits affected.
Related Codes
Other Powertrain Codes
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0011Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0012Intake Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
- P0013Exhaust Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0014Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced Bank 1
- P0015Exhaust Camshaft Position Timing Over-Retarded Bank 1
P3070 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code P3070 mean on a 2001-2005 BMW 325i E46?
P3070 stands for "Transmission Clutch Piston Seal Leak Detected". The TCM has detected a clutch pack apply pressure that is lower than expected, consistent with an internal clutch piston seal leak in an automatic transmission.
What are the symptoms of P3070 on a BMW 325i E46?
Common symptoms of P3070 include: Check Engine Light, Slipping in specific gears, Delayed engagement, Transmission fluid temperature elevated, Harsh shifts as TCM compensates for leak, Possible burning smell.
What causes P3070 on a 2001-2005 BMW 325i E46?
Common causes of P3070 include: Clutch piston seal hardened with age, Transmission overheating damaged seals, Excessive mileage wear, Contaminated fluid causing seal degradation, Manufacturing defect in seal.