Automatic Transmission M3 shifting methods

[m3f_ubersnax]

Since I've owned my automagic M3, when coming to a stop I generally shift into neutral and let it coast to the light. When the light turns green I shift into D and get on my merry way.



I have always heard this is better for the tranny than letting it idle in D.



A passenger in my car disagreed, and said that I am abnormally wearing out my tranny.



What do you guys think?

[m3f_Sirius_880bd69485]

It won't hurt the transmission to sit in D at a light. Just engaging and disengaging it all the time will more than likely wear out your valve body prematurely IMO.



When its in D at a standstill, the torque converter asorbes enough energy for it not to be noticed. They are designed to be in D at a stop, so I am pretty sure its safe to do it.

[m3f_ubersnax]

I guess I'll stop doing it.. Well..



I would like to get a SMG swap.... but I can't find any SMG transmissions.. I called my dealership and they couldn't even find the part number...



blah

[m3f_imports4ever858]

shifting it to neutral is not too bad, i think your auto tranny will take a **** from just the fact that its auto, before the shifting factor will cause it to.. but it is better to just leave it in D.. now why do u want to switch to smg? switch to 6 speed or stay auto...

[m3f_JAlfredPru_7f28a4f655]

When I sit at a stop light in an auto car I let it idle in N... it just doesn't feel right for me to hold my foot on the brake all the time, really strikes a nerve with me.

[m3f_ubersnax]

smg > *



euro e36 m3's had the smg option..

i don't want a manual thats why i bought the auto.. so 6-speed isn't necessary..



yes i also dislike holding the break down at a light with the car trying to roll forward..

[m3f_Sirius_880bd69485]

Use your e-brake. :P, it should be strong enough to hold the car while its in D :P

[m3f_JAlfredPru_7f28a4f655]

Takes more effort than shifting into neutral...

[m3f_imports4ever858]

just rear end the car in front of you and you won't need to hold your brake