Pass , just my thought

send from space command

 

Pass.

 

Maybe the clutches are on there way out? :dunno:

Which means: $$$$$ and LOTS of it.... for rebuilding the transmission

I would pass

 

Problem is I have no idea what an auto tranny is supposed to feel like in these cars, so I appreciate the input. Weird thing is -- the car didn't react at all (in terms of acceleration, speed, pull, revs, etc.), there was just a vibration. Transmission felt fine with respect to all the normal transmission things, like going into reverse, smooth shifts between gears, no slipping even under hard accel., I played with the steptronic a bit and it was great -- just that brief rattle right when the car began accelerating in 2nd gear after shifting from 1st at a high rpm. I've been looking around and I'm starting to think it may just need a new guibo (giubo?) -- flex disc.

I have to say -- besides that, I checked out some things under the hood and the car is in great condition -- new CCV (hoses were all new, anyway, so I'm assuming the oil separator is new), new VCG, new cooling system, new O2 sensors, etc.

Maybe we'll keep looking.

 

If you have doubts about a car, it is best to pass.

 

I'm just hoping we can find a 10 year-old BMW that we have no doubts about.

 

Sounds like a big issue

 

or front trust arm bushing

 

or you can get PPI before you pass or buy...? :dunno:

 

Good advice. The guy (a small indy dealer) is taking it to a mechanic to replace some odds and ends on it -- thrust arms, other suspension parts, a few seals, trim pieces, etc. I'll ask him to do take a look at that vibration issue.

We'll also definitely do a PPI before any purchase is made.

 

If at all possible I would consider a manual transmission... Way less problems and much longer life,

all automatics suffer the same fate at some point, Clutchs.. Converters or solenoids

 

I'm with you 1000% -- I will only buy manuals. But the individual who's buying the car is set on wanting an auto, even after discussing all the problems they're known to have.

 

besides my hatred of clutches, converters, and solenoids its my opinion that auto's are also a little unsafe, ive seen it here "put it in gear and go"
what that translates to me is... "i put the car in gear turn the music on and forget to pay attention to what my car is doing" it almost creates a false feeling or sense of feeling for the car

no to mention burn fluid, filters.... filters! dont need anymore filters on a 39 but if you must get a car that has a automatic trans

some things to look for when buying a auto..
dry pan, dry shaft seal's smooth shifting when cold (get in the test drive and go)
nice clear red fluid, and if you could get one that has already had its transmission replaced that would be even better....

best of luck

 

besides my hatred of clutches, converters, and solenoids its my opinion that auto's are also a little unsafe, ive seen it here "put it in gear and go"
what that translates to me is... "i put the car in gear turn the music on and forget to pay attention to what my car is doing" it almost creates a false feeling or sense of feeling for the car

no to mention burn fluid, filters.... filters! dont need anymore filters on a 39 but if you must get a car that has a automatic trans

some things to look for when buying a auto..
dry pan, dry shaft seal's smooth shifting when cold (get in the test drive and go)
nice clear red fluid, and if you could get one that has already had its transmission replaced that would be even better....

best of luck

I love my MT because I know what the car is doing at all times -- there's a sense of connectedness that you don't get with an auto. Unfortunately, this person is set on an auto tranny.

That said, thank you for the tips on what to look out for with the auto. We're still looking, I told the friend to go drive a few more e39s to see which felt the best, so I'll report back after we pick one.

 

If he's set on it, too bad... they'll all have issues tbh.