The driver of a BMW M2 Competition in Germany has found out first-hand the damage that can be done when accidentally down changing during a high-speed run on the autobahn.
The clip, uploaded by H2 Motors GmbH, shows a man pinning the throttle of the M2 Competition and attempting to change into fifth gear when traveling at a touch over 93 mph (150 km/h). However, the driver accidentally smashes the gear stick into third, and proceeds to let off the clutch, thinking he’d changed into fifth. He hadn’t and the engine can be heard instantly over-revving.
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In the seconds after the ill-fated gear change, the person filming asks “We’re fine?” with the driver responding “Hopefully” while popping the gearbox into neutral and attempting to slowly shift into fourth. A warning message then appears on the infotainment screen warning of a ‘Drivetrain malfunction’ and telling the owner to ‘Drive moderately. Maximum drivetrain output not available. Consult service center.’
The uploader says the driver was forced to replace the entire 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine due to the shifting mistake and unfortunately for him, the replacement engine was not covered by the car’s warranty because it was deemed the original was broken due to “operating error.”
While power from the M2’s engine sits at a relatively modest 405 hp, it was clearly a little too much to handle for this driver.