99 323i trans problem

[99beamer323]

I’ve read a lot of threads on the trans problems, but haven’t seen one that it has no reverse but goes forward in reverse, neutral and any forward gear selected. When in reverse without giving it any gas it will move forward, give it gas and it doesn’t move any where and feels like it’s fighting against itself. Just bought from an auction, valve body problem? I’m sure the filter and fluid need changed. Just looking for any nice suggestions. Don’t tell me to sell it lol. I’ll put an ls motor in it before that happens.

[TalianStalion13]

Is it installed upside down? lol just kidding. How does the shifter feel when you select a gear?

[99beamer323]

It feels like it shifts like it should, and does go into park just fine. This is my first bmw. It seems like the valve body is stuck. I’d hate to replace it if it might be something I can fix. When I picked it up, it acted like it wouldn’t go into gear, after I gave it enough gas it took off and worked just fine forward all the way home for the 45 min drive.

[WadiM3]

With autobox's the very first suggestion I always see is to change the fluid and filter

[99beamer323]

I figured I’d do that and take the valve body out and check it over and maybe get a rebuild kit for it and see what that does and hope it’s not a computer problem.

[WadiM3]

Isit an E36 or E46? I'm sure you could pick up a second hand gearbox for dirt cheap

[99beamer323]

I have no idea, still trying to figure all that out, my first bmw. I found a used transmission for $300 but not sure if it will work since it seems like 99 did some mid year changing depending on the build date. Just from what I’ve read on here. I need to figure out if it’s the 4 or 5 spd Auto and if it was made by GM or not. I’m still learning and I’ve only had it one day. Motor is quiet and has lots of power, figure for $500 I didn’t get hurt. The shifter says 2,3,4 and D.

[99beamer323]

How do you tell the difference between a e36 and a e46?

[Aeko]

How do you tell the difference between a e36 and a e46?

Does it look like it was made with a straight-edge or carved from a bar of Zest? :^)

Pic below from saint166. Black is e46, silver is e36

http://i295.photobucket.com/albums/m...8/100_0754.jpg

[99beamer323]

I’d have to say an E46. Only with 4 drs. Thank you for that, still learning lol

[bmwdirtracer]

The solution to this will likely depend on whether you have a GM gearbox or a ZF gearbox. Most shops will recommend a replacement remanufactured transmission, but there are alternatives, if you have a plethora of patience, skill, and tools.

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=706809

[99beamer323]

I have to look up and figure which one it has.

[shadowpuck]

just go to realoem.com - put in the last seven of your VIN. this will show you parts for your car, build date, etc.

best way to confirm transmission is to get under the car and look - i would not trust VIN lookup or other "reference" methods to confirm something like this.

if you are going to DIY the work on this car, i'd highly recommend you look into the BMW Car Club of America (BMW CCA). Your local chapter, Kansas City, has an amazing member only parts pricing program with a local dealer - OE BMW parts at very competitive pricing.

if you choose to have a shop work on your car, there are several great BMW shops in the general KC area - do not waste your time going to anyplace other than an experienced BMW shop.

also add a Bentley service manual to your tool box - it'll cover service procedures, etc. for your BImmer.

[99beamer323]

Well I really appreciate the advice and help! First thing I do when I get a car I’ve never had before is join a forum to get more info, and there’s always people willing to help the new guys! Thank you again!