How much to replace an automatic transmission to a manual

I have a bmw automatic transmission and it grinds on 1st and 2nd gear and after it reaches speed its fine. but i wanted to get a new transmission so i dont have to deal with it always stalling, but i always wanted a manual car so i was wondering since im replacing the transmission anyways would converting the car from automatic to manual be too much money and a pain?
My car has an automatic transmission.
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
The PCM and TCM that you presently have are incompatible with a manual transmission. The PCM hardware and some engine controls, particularly relating to idle speed and electronic "dashpot", would be different too. The only way you could reliably do such a swap is if you changed out the vehicle’s electrical system, include the wiring harness to the transmission and engine, and even that wouldn’t be a guarantee of success if your vehicle also has a body control module (i.e., that would have to be changed out as well). Your only practical option is to have the existing transmission re-built or install a re-manufactured one. Even going that route, you have to be extremely careful and vigilant that you get an EXACT replacement, in every respect, because even minor year to year differences in electronic controls could render the unit unusable. In some locales, certified Mechanics from YourMechanic will perform engine and transmission replacements, so please inquire if you simply want to repair what you have. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

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Depending on the vehicle, the cost of swapping a manual transmission can range from $1,000 to $5,000. Find out if there are any swap opportunities available for the specific vehicle you are looking to do the transmission swap on.
If you`re looking to have a professional do the work of swapping out your transmission, a BMW 3 Series transmission replacement costs between $3,000 and $8,000.
A conversion is done one of two ways: physically converting the existing transmission or replacing the automatic with a manual transmission (whether new or rebuilt). The rebuilt option is rather pricey, but may be necessary depending on the make and model of vehicle you are converting.
BMW transmission repairs can be pricey. While minor repairs might cost around $300, a complete rebuild or replacement could range from $1,800 to $7,000.
Manual car pros

It`s usually less expensive than an automatic-equipped vehicle. The transmission often costs less to repair.

Transmission replacement costs also vary widely, but manual transmissions typically are cheaper, falling into a rough range of $1,500 to $3,000 for non-luxury vehicles. Automatics are more expensive, with a range of roughly $2,000 to $4,000 for a re-manufactured transmission for most vehicles from mainstream brands.
These factors include if it is automatic or manual, the age of the transmission and its parts, the extent of damage, and the type of vehicle. A transmission rebuild cost averages $3,000. In comparison, a transmission replacement cost averages $6,500.
Rebuilding a transmission can save you a lot of money over the short-term, while keeping car payments out of your monthly budget. For many, rebuilding their transmission is worth the initial cost. Rebuilding a transmission may cost you twenty-five hundred dollars or more, which is a significant chunk of change.
On the other hand, transmission replacement is one of the most expensive repairs you can get. Replacements can range from $1,800 to $3,400. Depending on the repair shop and technicians, labor charges can range from $500 to $1,200.
If your BMW needs transmission repair, the good news is at least you don`t need transmission replacement. The bad news is it`s still costly. Repair costs vary widely, too, due to a number of factors: style of your car, extent of damage, manual vs. automatic transmission, dealership vs.
Manual transmissions may be better if you are racing, but even there paddle shifting is taking over. Even F1 race cars have moved to a semi automatic gearbox. After pulling away from the stop, the driver never has to touch the clutch again. Gears are changed with paddle shifters.
The standard M3 sedan and M4 coupe are the only BMW models to offer a six-speed manual transmission. Buyers seeking a clutch pedal must be smitten with 473 horsepower from the 3.0-liter, turbocharged inline-six because BMW doesn`t offer any of the higher-powered M3/M4 performance versions with a manual transmission.
The job of removing and replacing an automatic transmission is not tremendously difficult – it`s just a matter of being prepared, being safe, and following instructions.
Manual transmissions require less servicing to remain functional and don`t need the same type of oil as an automatic transmission. Cars with a stick-shift usually last longer than an automatic of the same make and model.
Depending on the repair shop and technicians, labor charges can range from $500 to $1,200. Here`s a quick overview of the average transmission replacement cost: Remanufactured transmission – $1,300 to $3,400. Used/Salvage – $800 to $1,500.
It is possible to convert a manual to an automatic. It has been done before on many project cars. That being said, it isn`t easy, it isn`t cheap, it isn`t reliable, and it will most certainly cause issues with your warranty and insurance.

Relevant Questions and Answers :

the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue

There is automatic transmission fluid in a manual transmission. Is it okay to leave or do I need manual transmission fluid?
ANSWER : This would depend on what the manufacturer recommends. Many manual transmissions do take automatic transmission fluid. If your transmission has ATF in it, it is very likely that it is supposed to have that in there. If not, it is likely that the transmission would not function properly with the wrong fluid. Many manual transmissions will also take engine oil as a lubricant. The best way to know for sure is to check your owner’s manual or call your local General Motors dealership to inquire.

How much to replace an automatic transmission to a manual
ANSWER : The PCM and TCM that you presently have are incompatible with a manual transmission. The PCM hardware and some engine controls, particularly relating to idle speed and electronic "dashpot", would be different too. The only way you could reliably do such a swap is if you changed out the vehicle’s electrical system, include the wiring harness to the transmission and engine, and even that wouldn’t be a guarantee of success if your vehicle also has a body control module (i.e., that would have to be changed out as well). Your only practical option is to have the existing transmission re-built or install a re-manufactured one. Even going that route, you have to be extremely careful and vigilant that you get an EXACT replacement, in every respect, because even minor year to year differences in electronic controls could render the unit unusable. In some locales, certified Mechanics from YourMechanic will perform engine and transmission replacements, so please inquire if you simply want to repair what you have. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

Can too much transmission fluid cause speedometer malfunctions?
ANSWER : Hi there. In most cases when you overfill the transmission fluid it can cause excessive foaming of the fluid or possible internal component failure due to excessive pressure inside the hydraulic lines. Sensors like the speed sensors however are rarely impacted by this situation. However, in regards to the possibility of probability of this; I would say perhaps a 10% chance.

Is replacing the transmission on a 1988 Toyota Corolla fx hatchback worth it? And can I replace transmission with a 1990 corolla?
ANSWER : Hi there. As long as the engines in the two Toyota’s are identical in size and configuration, the compatibility of the two transmissions should work, however there are some risks with swapping out a transmission on an older vehicle like your 88 Corolla. The correct way to complete this service is also installing new drive axles and supporting hardware within the driveline. However, the head gasket repair is often a trap, as the reason most head gaskets fail is due to an overheating issue, which typically damaged the cylinder head itself, internal components like pistons, connecting rods and more. If finding a newer car is not in the cards as the moment, the best investment would be the transmission swap.

Engine and Transmission mounts have collapsed. Do they have to be replaced immediately? How much for both? TBC….
ANSWER : If the engine mounts are faulty, the drive axles will operate at the wrong angle eventually causing premature wear-out of the axles so it is important to get the mounts replaced. If you would please refer to YourMechanic’s motor mount service page you can obtain the requested price quote. Brake pads generally cannot be replaced without either resurfacing the brake rotors or replacing the rotors if they are not restorable. If you do not follow this procedure the brake pads will wear irregularly, wear out early and you may get brake pedal pulsation and vibration from rotor thickness variation. To request brake service and cost info, please use YourMechanic’s brake pad/rotor service page. With regard to your air suspension, repairing a leak is typically straightforward but, as noted, the status of the whole system, whether you need a new dryer, and so forth will have to also be determined. If you request an air suspension diagnostic the mechanic can just deal with what you have in one trip and estimate for you, on site, all the repairs that are necessary. Of course, if the simple leak repair resolves everything, there will not be a need for further estimating. If you schedule the aforeforementioned mentioned services, the responding certified mechanic will get this taken care of for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

Gear shift slips over to Manual Transmission without touching. I have to hold it to keep it in Automatic.
ANSWER : Hi there. All automatic transmissions require transmission fluid for them to work. In your engine compartment by the right side next to the radiator area, there is a box in front of the air filter housing. Remove that box and below the air filter housing you will see the dipstick to the transmission. For the transmission not staying in automatic mode and conveying over to the manual mode only, the shifter has either broke inside or the circuitry has a short in the shifter housing. I recommend replacing the shifter assembly with a new one. If you need further assistance with your shifter not selecting automatic mode, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

2013 Ford Focus Transmission Issue. Is it worth keeping the car?
ANSWER : Hi There,
This is a known issue in this generation Ford Focus and some Fiestas with the "Power Shift" transmission and there have been numerous recalls and lawsuits. Although, it is would be difficult to determine how much longer your transmission will last given the fact that you have many new parts, I would not recommend junking the car as it may still provide some valuable life left for you. I would recommend taking it to the dealer to see if these parts may be covered under the recall.

VW TDI GolfSportswagen 2015 buying a Manual vs DSG transmissions. I love driving manual. What are the pros/cons?
ANSWER : Hi there. In general, Volkswagen transmissions (both automatic and manual) are typically built very well and tend to hold up for extended periods. The key with any transmission is to ensure proper service and maintenance is completed. In regards to the costs of operation, over time the automatic transmission tends to be less expensive. Modern manual transmissions also require routine service, but the most costly repair will be the clutch system; especially if you drive frequently in traffic or city, stop-and-go driving. In the end, both transmissions on these vehicles will have about equal costs of maintenance and repairs – with a slight edge going to the manual for cost-effectiveness. One thing to consider also is fuel economy. The manual transmission tends to get worse fuel economy across the board due to driving style.