People that complain about smg being rubbish either: 1. Have not owned or driven one 2. Dont know how to actually drive one 3. Have issues with their clutch /flywheel or motor/pump due to poor maintenance Smgs are an amazing piece of kit
I agree but point 3 is more I think for bad driving because always the SMG must be used in manual and as well the big manual trans of buses if you give a little help in the 2 and 3 gear by pressing a little bit the acceleration pedal fraction of second when the pinion is entering and giving an a very soft, rapid and perfect shift gear
Whooo.. I thought by the thumbnail you was gonna say it was a bad transmission.... I absolutely love my m5 smg. And i use my paddles as normal drive i just release the gas pedal when I'm shifting and it acts as normal as a clutch and when I go into m.mode my car is very violent
Having owned my E46 M3 CSL for 7 years I grew to really enjoyed the SMG 2 after a few miles behind the wheel as it takes a bit of time behind the wheel to fully accustom yourself to the SMG life. Sure, the early SMG 1 in the late E36s M3s and early E46 non M cars was a bit experimental and "Hit & Miss" but SMG 2 onwards (especially a well looked after one with the latest updates) is a great systems and a joy to use. Being able to have both hands on the steering wheel, especially when lapping the world famous Nurburgring ... the spiritual home of the M3 CSL is where the SMG makes most sense and comes completely alive. Too many SMG haters out there who don't even know what the "M" in SMG stands for, calling it an Automatic after spending 5 minutes max with SMG to form their misguided opinions. Great vid Doc and I'm with you 100% in upholding the SMG as a worth transmission choice in its own wright.
The SMG1 & 2 trans where normal manuals with the automated actuators added to them as an after thought. The SMG 3 trans was specifically designed for the S85 from the ground up as an SMG. There are trans design limitations associated with having to design a trans around a hand shifter linkage and associated shifter forks. The absence of those limitations in the SMG3 allowed the high torque gears (1st and 2nd) to be placed at opposite ends of the gear shaft against the transmission housing bearings rather than next to each other. The mechanicals of the SMG3 are rock solid, the gears and synchro's never fail. The S85 specific gear ratios, extra gear (7th) and shift speeds make an SGM3 car quicker than a 6 speed manual car. The 6 speed manual trans was designed for a different motor and offered as an after thought with the S85. So the 6 speed ratios result in lugging and when driven hard trans overheating. However, the problem with the SMG is the high pressure actuator pump. While the SMG3 E6x cars are rightly criticized for actuator pump failures it is a problem which is common to all the automated single clutch manual trans of the era (F430, Gallardo and R8). In the end there is no go solution until someone figures out how to program the DCT from the M3 S65 into the complex system of E6x modules. The mechanical piece is easy as the S85 and S65 share the same casting so the DCT bolts right up to the S85.
Leaving your car in gear so it won't roll is the stupidest thing. That's what handbrake is for. One thing that can happen is that the car will start to roll and turn the engine. It won't fire, but it will still jerk. The other thing which I have actually whitnessed is parking the car in first gear, then minutes later a van driver rushes, loses control and rear-ends that parked car with 25+ mph, the car completely overrevvs and you not only get your rear end destroyed, but your engine too. Use the parking brake, even if you leave it in gear.
Smg is so shit...I had m6 e63 with it and sold the car just bcos of the gearbox...utterly shit..jerky..kangaroo in traffic..elastic band feeling when breaking..really bad gearbox...
These are high performance gearboxes with high torque capabilities and fast changing similar to ferrari technology that means a manual gb but no cross gate operation like in a normal manual gb so the actuators operate each shift fork directly. Over a manual the advantages are: over rev protection (idk I assume they have this) ,faster gear changes, no miss-shifts (I mean no grinding the when downshifting too low), consistent correct clutch operation. Another advantage is they let you concentrate better on the driving line and on very fine braking application while with a heel and toe braking is more difficult and very fine application right above abs limit is harder. Also modern motorsports cars don’t use manuals anymore. Manual gb’s have their own charm of course and it’s hard to choose between them, if you are dealing with a very good and well tuned bmw smg type.
Is this the reason some people have trouble with auto boxes when they clear or reset gearbox adaptions like some numptys when they shouldn't because it's either worn or needs an oil service and then whine when it's broke lol. Hence the gearbox learning how you drive and adapting to you.
Dean, what has happened? I have not seen any of your videos here from across the pond for over year now! I know this video is over a year old! Hope to see more of your BMW videos over here again!!!
If you see this years later, I am the original owner of a 2007 M6 e64, 66k miles. It hasn't been back to the dealer since 2015 when they ripped me off (misdiagnosis of voltage regulator fault, replaced many sensors and modules $6500+). When was the SMG updated, and is there a way to do this myself?
Really thankful for your information sir. As the proud owner of an '04 e46 330Ci with only 82,000 kms which also has an "smg" I would really appreciate your advise on which oil specs or oil brand can I use to maintain my car. I realize mine is Not the same smg as in an m3 -for example- , I understand mine is a simpler version, but I think the oil itself could be the same one for both transmissions. I am very happy with my transmission (it was in part why I bought this car) and I have been trying to change its oil unsuccessfully so far 'cause no one seems to have this transmission in my country (Mexico). I'll really appreciate your comments/reply. :)
Had my M6 E63 replaced by BMW GB due to continual transmission issues, solenoids, pumps,clutch slip etc, new car was no better to be honest, better than a manual though
Hi Dean, any possibility you can help me get a set of style 135 wheels that will fit my xdrive? I cannot find any in the states that are ET43. I see them on gumtree super cheap but can’t find anyone that’ll ship.
It's definitely not a transmission that people are used to. I can understand why people think that the SMG transmission is pretty bad, but I think the more you drive the car, the more you can get used to it. The shifts are pretty jerky and abrupt, but it is pretty similar to that of a normal manual, and people need to think of it as a manual transmission, but just done automatically. It's still not great, but it's just different, and I would say the manual mode is still a bit more smoother than the automatic. It definitely hard to use at first, but again, keep driving the BMW cars with this transmission, and you may be more used to it and it may be more easier to use.
Genius! I agree is for far the best transmission because it is 100% manual so it is very diferent of the automatic transmission and those last ones are boring because automatic transmission has no pinion enters change. We all know that manual transmission are the best system tyransmission, independently all transmission are vert sofisticate in tech and motion
Great video !! I have an BMW F20 where the fan runs high all the time when the car is switched on, any ideas what could be the possible causes Dean? Thanks!
I don’t have an smg transmission on my 07’ 650i (E63) but I do notice my gears shift clunky. I just hit 91k miles and was looking to replace my trans fluid and filter but dealership recommended me not to. Any ideas on wat to do??
@BMW Doctor can i reset the smg 3 if i am biying the e60 m5 so that it learns how i drive rather than me adjusting to the previous owner's driving style.
Hey doc i love watching your videos and you have helped me multiple time but now I really need help I have 06 m5 smg transmission 9 months ago I replaced hydraulic pump, clutch, clutch release fork, throw out bearing, pilot bearing and pivot the Car was perfectly fine for few months then slave cylinder broke, I replaced it with a used one 3 months later slave cylinder broke again , this time I fixed the one I had put it back on the car and it worked fine for 3 hours then transmission got stuck in 2nd gear and there no way to put it into neutral, I’ve tried with ista and it just tells me “test program canceled “ any suggestions? I’d really appreciate it btw I did all the work myself I have been fixing my own cars since my first car
I always do this, it shifts smoothest when I let off but the trick is not let off completely. Just upto like 5% throttle, lift of like halfway. If you completely lift of the pedal it jerks even worse. I always drive in manual mode and I usually shift around 2700 rpm.
Anyone moaning about a SMG should have a go in a DAF 85 truck with the robotised manual, you'll come back saying SMG is the best transmission ever invented lolol.
No I don’t ! It’s a show car that’s it this isn’t a driving channel I don’t go out just doing driving videos everyday ragging the crap out my cars. If you want that there is many videos up already of the same car everywhere. And the same will apply for the next M car on this channel so no point even asking this channel is aimed at enthusiasts for repairs and maintenance this is not a channel just to drive around loose
Most of the time yes on my tow truck as I don’t even want it on the dirty floors in this country as my tyres are brand new along with my wheels and I’m very very OCD one scratch to my car or wheels will put me in bad depression for many many months and I won’t be able to look at the car. Man I only just come out of jail for hitting my neighbour for nearly hitting his door against the car so can you imagine ?
People that complain about smg being rubbish either:
1. Have not owned or driven one
2. Dont know how to actually drive one
3. Have issues with their clutch /flywheel or motor/pump due to poor maintenance
Smgs are an amazing piece of kit
All of the above plus... 4. Don't know what "M" in SMG stands for and expertly calling it an Automatic.
I agree but point 3 is more I think for bad driving because always the SMG must be used in manual and as well the big manual trans of buses if you give a little help in the 2 and 3 gear by pressing a little bit the acceleration pedal fraction of second when the pinion is entering and giving an a very soft, rapid and perfect shift gear
Whooo.. I thought by the thumbnail you was gonna say it was a bad transmission.... I absolutely love my m5 smg. And i use my paddles as normal drive i just release the gas pedal when I'm shifting and it acts as normal as a clutch and when I go into m.mode my car is very violent
Having owned my E46 M3 CSL for 7 years I grew to really enjoyed the SMG 2 after a few miles behind the wheel as it takes a bit of time behind the wheel to fully accustom yourself to the SMG life. Sure, the early SMG 1 in the late E36s M3s and early E46 non M cars was a bit experimental and "Hit & Miss" but SMG 2 onwards (especially a well looked after one with the latest updates) is a great systems and a joy to use. Being able to have both hands on the steering wheel, especially when lapping the world famous Nurburgring ... the spiritual home of the M3 CSL is where the SMG makes most sense and comes completely alive.
Too many SMG haters out there who don't even know what the "M" in SMG stands for, calling it an Automatic after spending 5 minutes max with SMG to form their misguided opinions.
Great vid Doc and I'm with you 100% in upholding the SMG as a worth transmission choice in its own wright.
The SMG1 & 2 trans where normal manuals with the automated actuators added to them as an after thought. The SMG 3 trans was specifically designed for the S85 from the ground up as an SMG. There are trans design limitations associated with having to design a trans around a hand shifter linkage and associated shifter forks. The absence of those limitations in the SMG3 allowed the high torque gears (1st and 2nd) to be placed at opposite ends of the gear shaft against the transmission housing bearings rather than next to each other. The mechanicals of the SMG3 are rock solid, the gears and synchro's never fail.
The S85 specific gear ratios, extra gear (7th) and shift speeds make an SGM3 car quicker than a 6 speed manual car. The 6 speed manual trans was designed for a different motor and offered as an after thought with the S85. So the 6 speed ratios result in lugging and when driven hard trans overheating.
However, the problem with the SMG is the high pressure actuator pump. While the SMG3 E6x cars are rightly criticized for actuator pump failures it is a problem which is common to all the automated single clutch manual trans of the era (F430, Gallardo and R8). In the end there is no go solution until someone figures out how to program the DCT from the M3 S65 into the complex system of E6x modules. The mechanical piece is easy as the S85 and S65 share the same casting so the DCT bolts right up to the S85.
most of these smg actuator pumps where replaced with updated actuators under warranty or extended warranty. BMW rectified the issue 06 onwards
Someone should look into a standalone management method for the SMG with the engine
Leaving your car in gear so it won't roll is the stupidest thing. That's what handbrake is for. One thing that can happen is that the car will start to roll and turn the engine. It won't fire, but it will still jerk. The other thing which I have actually whitnessed is parking the car in first gear, then minutes later a van driver rushes, loses control and rear-ends that parked car with 25+ mph, the car completely overrevvs and you not only get your rear end destroyed, but your engine too. Use the parking brake, even if you leave it in gear.
Smg is so shit...I had m6 e63 with it and sold the car just bcos of the gearbox...utterly shit..jerky..kangaroo in traffic..elastic band feeling when breaking..really bad gearbox...
These are high performance gearboxes with high torque capabilities and fast changing similar to ferrari technology that means a manual gb but no cross gate operation like in a normal manual gb so the actuators operate each shift fork directly. Over a manual the advantages are: over rev protection (idk I assume they have this) ,faster gear changes, no miss-shifts (I mean no grinding the when downshifting too low), consistent correct clutch operation. Another advantage is they let you concentrate better on the driving line and on very fine braking application while with a heel and toe braking is more difficult and very fine application right above abs limit is harder. Also modern motorsports cars don’t use manuals anymore. Manual gb’s have their own charm of course and it’s hard to choose between them, if you are dealing with a very good and well tuned bmw smg type.
Does the dinan stage 1 software update the SMG system? If it does, then where do I go to get the SMG system updated.
Is this the reason some people have trouble with auto boxes when they clear or reset gearbox adaptions like some numptys when they shouldn't because it's either worn or needs an oil service and then whine when it's broke lol. Hence the gearbox learning how you drive and adapting to you.
Dean, what has happened? I have not seen any of your videos here from across the pond for over year now!
I know this video is over a year old! Hope to see more of your BMW videos over here again!!!
If you see this years later, I am the original owner of a 2007 M6 e64, 66k miles. It hasn't been back to the dealer since 2015 when they ripped me off (misdiagnosis of voltage regulator fault, replaced many sensors and modules $6500+).
When was the SMG updated, and is there a way to do this myself?
i had an O3 m3 - lag in the transmission almost caused a few accidents - was no immediate launch = hazardous.
Really thankful for your information sir. As the proud owner of an '04 e46 330Ci with only 82,000 kms which also has an "smg" I would really appreciate your advise on which oil specs or oil brand can I use to maintain my car. I realize mine is Not the same smg as in an m3 -for example- , I understand mine is a simpler version, but I think the oil itself could be the same one for both transmissions. I am very happy with my transmission (it was in part why I bought this car) and I have been trying to change its oil unsuccessfully so far 'cause no one seems to have this transmission in my country (Mexico). I'll really appreciate your comments/reply. :)
Had my M6 E63 replaced by BMW GB due to continual transmission issues, solenoids, pumps,clutch slip etc, new car was no better to be honest, better than a manual though
I have a 330ci with smg- I’ve fallen in love with the whole system- want to learn more actually- top video
tell me the pro's and cons please.
If it's E46 330ci then that'll be the SMG 1.
Informative as usual!!! Never ceases to amaze me how there is always something to learn watching your videos!!! 👍👌😎
And the E36 M3 Evo......
Hi Dean, any possibility you can help me get a set of style 135 wheels that will fit my xdrive? I cannot find any in the states that are ET43. I see them on gumtree super cheap but can’t find anyone that’ll ship.
Disregard. Someone just posted 4 from a totaled e60 xdrive. Got em cheap 😎
It's definitely not a transmission that people are used to. I can understand why people think that the SMG transmission is pretty bad, but I think the more you drive the car, the more you can get used to it. The shifts are pretty jerky and abrupt, but it is pretty similar to that of a normal manual, and people need to think of it as a manual transmission, but just done automatically. It's still not great, but it's just different, and I would say the manual mode is still a bit more smoother than the automatic. It definitely hard to use at first, but again, keep driving the BMW cars with this transmission, and you may be more used to it and it may be more easier to use.
I love that gearbox
Is there any truth in, it’s better to drive it in manual and treat the SMG as a manual? Taking your foot off the pedal when changing gears?
Genius! I agree is for far the best transmission because it is 100% manual so it is very diferent of the automatic transmission and those last ones are boring because automatic transmission has no pinion enters change. We all know that manual transmission are the best system tyransmission, independently all transmission are vert sofisticate in tech and motion
the smg is what it is. treat it nice, and it will treat you nice. 2005 E60 M5
I love it !!
🥕istics
Another good video mate. Keep it up
Thanks for the video!
it was only hated by people who never actually drove one with smg transmission
Great video !! I have an BMW F20 where the fan runs high all the time when the car is switched on, any ideas what could be the possible causes Dean? Thanks!
I don’t have an smg transmission on my 07’ 650i (E63) but I do notice my gears shift clunky. I just hit 91k miles and was looking to replace my trans fluid and filter but dealership recommended me not to. Any ideas on wat to do??
SMG is the only option on the CSL, which means a lot.
... and it work like a dream... especially on Full Chat.
You go outta get used to the driving caractistics
@BMW Doctor can i reset the smg 3 if i am biying the e60 m5 so that it learns how i drive rather than me adjusting to the previous owner's driving style.
Great video Doc.
Hey doc i love watching your videos and you have helped me multiple time but now I really need help I have 06 m5 smg transmission
9 months ago I replaced hydraulic pump, clutch, clutch release fork, throw out bearing, pilot bearing and pivot the Car was perfectly fine for few months then slave cylinder broke, I replaced it with a used one 3 months later slave cylinder broke again , this time I fixed the one I had put it back on the car and it worked fine for 3 hours then transmission got stuck in 2nd gear and there no way to put it into neutral, I’ve tried with ista and it just tells me “test program canceled “ any suggestions? I’d really appreciate it btw I did all the work myself I have been fixing my own cars since my first car
What do you think of the people who say to let off the gas before upshifting in the SMG’s?
Total "Shirt Lifters" LOL!
I always do this, it shifts smoothest when I let off but the trick is not let off completely. Just upto like 5% throttle, lift of like halfway. If you completely lift of the pedal it jerks even worse.
I always drive in manual mode and I usually shift around 2700 rpm.
Hi buddy random question but my E90 318ise 2.0 petrol is emitting blue smoke under acceleration what’s the best treatment for this,many thanks.
E36 had smg too
WTF, a car that learns how the driver likes his carrot -dip-sticks,
mind blown!
Adaptive response from driver input.
My next car will be a e46 with a smg
Anyone moaning about a SMG should have a go in a DAF 85 truck with the robotised manual, you'll come back saying SMG is the best transmission ever invented lolol.
Haters are everywhere.
Don't we know it !
Dct all the way or zf 6hxp
645ci msport or 635d ???
Depends, what you want it for, economy(lol) or GT fun.
Do you even drive your m5
No I don’t ! It’s a show car that’s it this isn’t a driving channel I don’t go out just doing driving videos everyday ragging the crap out my cars. If you want that there is many videos up already of the same car everywhere. And the same will apply for the next M car on this channel so no point even asking this channel is aimed at enthusiasts for repairs and maintenance this is not a channel just to drive around loose
@@BMWDoctor so you just tow it around then 😃
Most of the time yes on my tow truck as I don’t even want it on the dirty floors in this country as my tyres are brand new along with my wheels and I’m very very OCD one scratch to my car or wheels will put me in bad depression for many many months and I won’t be able to look at the car. Man I only just come out of jail for hitting my neighbour for nearly hitting his door against the car so can you imagine ?
@@BMWDoctor damn man... that's rough. Anyways, I appreciate your videos. Thank you for sharing your bmw knowledge with the public.
@@BMWDoctor You can take it out once in a while, to enjoy it.
Don't have to drive hard, just enjoy it before they ban ICE.
Deffo not I love my SMG
Man.. you hate BMW so much.. nothing positive in your clips ,doctor, 😉.. people..dont buy BMW ...