SMG Pump vs. SMG Hydraulic unit

[lyonsfin]

I am considering an '02 SMG convertible w/106000 miles. I am concerned about the SMG maintenance, but realize that it is a maintenance item like others. My research shows several suppliers have an SMG hydraulic pump for $400-$600 and there is also an SMG Hydraulic unit available from $1800-$4000. My question is which is it that will need top be replaced? Is it the pump? Or the entire unit?

[dworthy]

Is the pump going bad? Or are you trying to replace a part as preventative maintenance?

The typical 3 items that go bad on the SMG are:
1) Salmon relay
2) Hydraulic pump
3) Accumulator

While I have seen some SMGs have no issues, and other have all kinds of issues. The thing I would look for is to see if the software has been updated for the SMG and DME.

Lastly before you buy at 15k car, pay the 120 bucks for a PPI.

[lyonsfin]

Thanks. I drove the car and it seemed fine. It is a trade at the Volvo dealership my wife uses for service. What are the indicators that it is "going" bad?

[dworthy]

It will not go into gear, or you will hear the pump running for more than 60 seconds when you first open the door is also a clue. I can also have problems shifting or it locks itself in 1 gear.

A good Independent European shop can do the PPI, or even a dealership. The important thing to remember is the service completed. At that mileage, the oxygen sensor should be replaced at 100k and the Fuel filter too. Every Inspection-II is transmission and diff fluid replacement, which occurs around 60k. Ask for all records, as a minimum there should be a service booklet. As I do all the services on my car I have the service sheet for every year it has been completed.