Expert: Sean Halliday - 6/17/2009

Question
I have a 2002 mini and I can't get it to go into 1st or 2nd I really don't trust car dealers any idea what it could be

Answer
I assume this is the 6 speed getrag gearbox.Basically the box is in need of a rebuild even though the car is a 2002.I have replaced one of these as it literally disintegrated(2002)60,000 miles.In short,this gearbox is rubbish and BMW knew it when they sold these cars.Your problem sounds like worn out shift mechanisms and will have to be replaced.If you know a good transmission shop try them as the dealer will charge you 1500 for labor just to remove the gearbox and thats before any work on it.This car is a nightmare to work on.Even if it were your clutch which is usually a simple job on most cars,the front end and subframe must be removed.Total replacement of the gearbox at the dealer is approx $5000.