Automatic gearbox - cheaper to replace or manual swap?

[JAG_001]

I've recently acquired a 2000 BMW Z3 3L and the automatic gearbox warning light has come on a few times upon start up, then disappears after idling for a few mins. I've been told the gearbox does not yet need replacing, but when the time does come, I am considering swapping the box to a manual one. Would this be cheaper than an auto replacement, or am I better off sticking with the auto?

 

[Dunkelgrun]

Don’t really know the answer to your question, but BMW transmissions often have “lifetime” fluids, meaning the fluid may never have been changed in 20 years. Most folks think this was for marketing purposes and a bad idea. First thing I would do is change the fluids and then scan for codes, this might tell you why the light comes on...

 

[t-tony]

I used to get the light on with my 2000 2.0 Auto. On next start up it would be off. No codes were stored. It wasn't the gearbox putting the light on it was the speed sensor on the diff. These auto boxes are very strong and very rarely give any problems.

Tony.

 

[NZ00Z3]

Scan the auto transmission module (EGS) for codes and find out for sure what's going on. If you not, you'll keep on guessing and may end up spending way more to replace the transmission than the cost of actually fixing the problem.

You'll need a scanner with BMW software. 2 options are:

1. INPA on a windows laptop. Free software and cheap special cables. https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/...tions-Experiences-Discussions-Experimentation
2. Foxwell NT530 scanner with BMW software.

 

[Nodzed]

Certainly consider a filter and oil change, cheap and easyish job