In the 2009 BMW M3 sedan with dct (dual clutch) transmission, there is a significant lag or hesitation of at least 1 second between applying pressure to the accelerator and the clutch engaging and giving acceleration to the wheels. This does not happen from a stand-still, but occurs primarily when the car is in motion at virtually all ranges of speed, from rolling stop (5km/hr or less) through standard road speeds of any degree (residential 30-40km/hr, city roads 50-70km/hr, or highway 90km/hr+). I was carefully in the middle of a slow left turn at an intersection on Saturday, Feb 7, 2009. To avoid an oncoming car prematurely heading in my direction, I pressed on the accelerator to hasten the completion of my turn, but the car did not respond because of the clutch lag. I narrowly avoided being hit. This transmission defect could reasonably result in serious injury or death to the driver or passengers, especially when sudden and unanticipated acceleration out of a difficult driving situation is required. The consumer stated he also experienced unexpected stalls during low speed driving, but not rapid deceleration. Updated 03/11/09.

- Toronto, 00, USA