Sorry for another SMG thread
Discussion
Lots of great info recently regarding the pros and cons of the system, and some of the reliability issues that can arise. Much thanks to all.
I've tried SMG in E46's and actually enjoyed it, and am therefore indifferent regarding SMG/manual when looking for my next toy (soon, hopefully), however I would appreciate a little advice.
When viewing and test driving a car, what should I be looking/listening/feeling for to spot potential issues. Is there a routine to follow to ensure it works correctly? Is there any way to judge if the clutch is getting tired? Is there anything in particular to look for in the service schedule / reciepts to ensure that work has been carried out on time ..... etc
I might be looking at a car at the weekend if all goes well. It has 68k miles on it. Appreciating that driving style would be a big factor, but how many clutches would be normal? Original abnormal? 2nd clutch normal? 3 or more indicating misuse?
Look forward to your thoughts
I've tried SMG in E46's and actually enjoyed it, and am therefore indifferent regarding SMG/manual when looking for my next toy (soon, hopefully), however I would appreciate a little advice.
When viewing and test driving a car, what should I be looking/listening/feeling for to spot potential issues. Is there a routine to follow to ensure it works correctly? Is there any way to judge if the clutch is getting tired? Is there anything in particular to look for in the service schedule / reciepts to ensure that work has been carried out on time ..... etc
I might be looking at a car at the weekend if all goes well. It has 68k miles on it. Appreciating that driving style would be a big factor, but how many clutches would be normal? Original abnormal? 2nd clutch normal? 3 or more indicating misuse?
Look forward to your thoughts
Hi Matt,
I've now had two SMG E46's and in my experience the best way to test the clutch is to find a steep hill to drive up, Stop halfway put the SMG on the lowest setting in auto (1 Bar on dash gauge) and then pull away slowly, this will certainly show any slip straight away, you'll feel the judder. Could also try pulling away on a flat with the handbrake on, in 2nd gear, any slip should be evident immediately, otherwise the car should stall under the pressure. When I sold my first SMG E46 it had 65k on the clock still on the original clutch so they are pretty rock solid, IMO. Also you can always call BMW to get the History on the car and ensure the software upgrades have been done. Best of luck and let me know how it goes.
I've now had two SMG E46's and in my experience the best way to test the clutch is to find a steep hill to drive up, Stop halfway put the SMG on the lowest setting in auto (1 Bar on dash gauge) and then pull away slowly, this will certainly show any slip straight away, you'll feel the judder. Could also try pulling away on a flat with the handbrake on, in 2nd gear, any slip should be evident immediately, otherwise the car should stall under the pressure. When I sold my first SMG E46 it had 65k on the clock still on the original clutch so they are pretty rock solid, IMO. Also you can always call BMW to get the History on the car and ensure the software upgrades have been done. Best of luck and let me know how it goes.
Happily, however, I have someone interested in coming to have a look at my car on Sunday 
I'll be in a position to be properly shopping then 
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