Expert: Don Berlan - 8/22/2008

Question
I just bought a 1983 BMW 323i. The engine sounds good and still has a lot of power but does not like to idle. If I start the car and let off the accelerator it will slow, sputter then turn off. If I start it and want to drive I have to keep my foot on the gas while changing to drive or it will die when it goes in gear. Once I have it in drive it seems to idle at stop lights fine but when I get home and want to go in reverse to park it will die when I change to reverse and it goes into gear. I have taken it to one mechanic and the problem is still there. What should I be looking at as the problem. The engine runs so well when driving I didn't think it was the electricals.

Answer
My first thoughts are checking the throttle plate.Make sure there is .002" space when closed.If any major adjustments are made the throttle position sensor will also have to be adjusted.Any oil leaks are problems that need to be attended to as they are an unmeasured air leak and will cause drivability problem.And also being an automatic adjusting the transmission cable will have to be checked if any is moved.
So clean the throttle plates,replace any hard or cracked hoses,repair any oil leak and all should go well.