Match gearbox to engine capacity

Q1: I have 95 BMW Model 318i E36 car.

My problem is that my transmission is not responding immediately after shifting. I believe there's something wrong with it. Since the car is an automatic, I am planning to convert it to manual. Please advise if this plan will work.

Yit Soong
Shah Alam

There shouldn’t be any issue changing a gearbox from automatic to manual. Just be sure the gearbox you’re installing is matched with your car’s engine capacity to avoid possible problems like broken gears later.

Make sure the wiring and connections in the gearbox are properly done, particularly the back switch, and speed sensors.


Q2:  I had sent in my query to your troubleshooting column previously. I have done basically all the stuff that you have pointed out. But the problem has not gone away. What else can I try next?

To re-cap, my car doesn't move in a straight line from the day of purchase.

After eight alignment efforts at various tyre shops and other workhops, the problem is still there.

Suthan
Klang

If you’ve tried all of the previous suggestions, it’s possible your wheel rim may be bent or imbalanced.

Another possible issue could be from the tyre air pressure not being at the manufacturer’s recommended specification.

It may be that your car’s steering geometry is incorrect due to an improper installation.

Finally, if your car had been in an accident, it may have a bent chassis.

Provide the make, model and age of your car so that we can better advise what steps you can take.


Q3: My 2005 Nissan Sentra will not start. When the weather is cool, it takes over half an hour for the car to start if at all.

I have replaced the camshaft sensor twice within a year. Now the problem has resurfaced. How do I resolve this issue once and for all?

Tammy
Kluang

The common problem in this case is a faulty temperature sensor and the engine coolant or air intake.

It has nothing to do with the camshaft position sensor. You may also want to consider checking the oxygen sensor.

Your engine must be in closed loop operation and delivering a rich mixture (of air and fuel) to cold start quickly.