Automatic Transmission

[onyxibex]

I have had my 1988 325i (automatic) for over a year now....

It started having trouble shifting gears at the start of this winter. If I remember right, someone on here posted that it was waiting for the right temperature before shifting. So I assumed nothing was wrong, but still worried that something might go wrong.

Well, I screwed up. The other day I drove a short distance with my hand brake on. When I realized what happened, I put it down. I drove it for a little while and it seemed to shift fine still, so I was relieved.

I continued my trip home, but on the way the car began to smoke. I later found out that transmission fluid had started to leak and burn under the car.

The mechanic that looked at my car said the transmission needs to be replaced because the pump has stopped working (he also says that the car needs to be replaced because it is old as well). The car currently runs fine, but leaks transmission fluid when it is driven.

I would just like to know if replacing the tranmission will solve this problem that may have been caused solely by my negligence or if the parking brake messed up something else as well.

I would also like to know if anyone can recommend a mechanic in Indiana (I live in Terre Haute) or if you know how/where I can find a good BMW mechanic. Also, how much will a new tranmission cost?

Thank you,
-David

[deepfat]

Without looking at it, I would say that replacing the entire tranny might be the optimal (albeit expensive) thing to do. If the pump is indeed shot, then damage to the transmission itself has probably occurred.

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, dude. I don't know why the guy would tell you to replace the entire car, though.

[guywithblack88e30]

yeah sounds like tranny is gone, try to get a manual from junk yard. unless u keep it auto cause of daily driver.