97 2.8 Auto

[MRH1966]

Going to see one tomorrow, anything I should look out for?
Mainly concerned about the auto box as never had a BMW auto before.
Cheers

 

[Jjim]

Usual

• Rust around arches
• Condition of suspension, brake lines, discs and pads
• Condition of exhaust
• Lift carpets in boot to see if any water ingress
• List to Vanos (twin or single) depending on age of Car. Listen for tapping sound
• If you can get to look underneath look for any damage or oil leaks
• Sill covers for rust
• When test driving the engine should pull nicely to 3k revs and then go like crazy after that
• Condition of interior should reflect mileage
• Check MOT history on government website (get print out if possible) and then check service history in books and receipts - it should match up and reflect this
• If non stainless steel exhaust, check for rust were the pipe from engine joins the box. As usually go around there. Also check mounts.

Sure there are loads of other bits

 

[MRH1966]

Cheers Jim. More about auto box really. Good info though. Lots to look at but need reminding about some things!

 

[hard top]

More about auto box really.

Mine was a 1.9 M44 auto and I loved it, never had problems with it and with our congested roads over here found it a God send.

 

[Sean d]

I've never really heard of any problems with the auto box on z3's, make sure you check the spot welds on the cross member in the boot

 

[Jack Ratt]

I've got a pre facelift 2.8 auto and can testify that the gearbox is great. The engine is quite torquey but you still experience the torque through the auto box.

 

[ZTec]

Cabin carpets.

 

[hard top]

can testify that the gearbox is great.

Kick Down is your friend ....

 

[MRH1966]

Thanks for all the comments. Lets hope its a good one.

 

[Dino D]

I find the autos very quick off the mark, just floor it and the nose raises and it pulls away sharpish!

 

[Sean d]

Kick Down is your friend ....

Clutch is your best friend

 

[Dino D]

Clutch is your best friend

Only if you know how to work it...

 

[hard top]

Clutch is your best friend

Haha, actually got a Dutch mate over here who's name is 'Kik Duin'.
'Clutch' sounds like a Redneck down south USA where @t-tony has got his static caravan ....

 

[t-tony]

Drive the car with the stick as well as just allowing it to do it's own thing. Make sure the sport button does more than put the light on. In sport mode you will experience a good amount of engine braking and when accelerating it should hold the gear right up to the red line. Also drive the car in D1 and accelerate right up and let the throttle off and make sure the box does not slip ie lose drive. Where are you going to see the car, there may be an Auto owner near by who could come and help? To the best of my knowledge the BMW Auto boxes are virtually bullet proof. I changed the Auto box oil on my Z3 even though it's supposedly filled for life.

Tony.

 

[Dino D]

I remember the box feeling very advanced for it’s time - in sport it would downshift itself quite assertively as you slowed down for engine braking and holding in the right gear to accelerate again rather than just shuffle along in the highest gear.

 

[t-tony]

The slush box in my Z4 I rate very highly, especially in sport (fuel drinking) mode. Smiles per gallon only.

Tony.

 

[Nodzed]

Auto? ................ why not