Need some help ASAP, car won't go into gear

[lylefk]

Hey, I could probably search it out, but I'm hoping you'll take it easy on me and just help me out.

Headed home tonight the car decided to not go into gear. 92 325i, 5 speed...suddenly won't go into gear at all. 102k miles...fluid issue?

Please advise, I need to go track the car down in the morning and get it moving...

Clutch feels about normal but it just won't select a gear...not to mention the fact that this car has been absolutely flawless and lets me down the moment I have 5 beautiful women in it. Gee, thanks. Fuck you, car.

Thanks

[jlevie]

If the transmission will go into gear with the engine off, but not with the engine running, the clutch isn't fully releasing. That can be from a problem in the clutch hydraulics, or from a worn out clutch.

[lylefk]

Great info, thanks...and if it won't?

[jlevie]

The first action should be to check the brake fluid reservoir and make sure that the clutch chamber isn't low on fluid. If it is, there's a leak in the clutch hydraulics a new master and slave are indicated. As a temporary fix to get the car home topping up the reservoir and pumping the clutch pedal (50 or more times) to self bleed the clutch may work long enough to get home.

Before dropping the transmission and changing the clutch you should examine the slave cylinder and lines for leaks. To completely inspect the slave you'll need to dismount it from the bell housing and have a peek under the boot. If no leaks in the slave or lines you could have a bad clutch master cylinder. Replacement of both the master and slave might restore operation. If that doesn't help, the clutch will have to be replaced.

[lylefk]

It does appear that the clutch isn't releasing all the way...it goes into gear with the engine off, I limped it home in 1st gear...thanks for the info, much appreciated!

[lylefk]

Any thoughts on other work I should have done at the same time while they are in there?

[Danny]

Rear main seal.

[jlevie]

Until you've eliminated the possibility of the clutch hydraulics I would not dive into a clutch replacement. Especially since this problem surfaced suddenly.