: That said, it may not be your transmission at all. I had the same problem (and it was intermittent) and it was a cam-shaft position sensor. Justin recently went through this as well and I believe it was an engine sensor as well, although he did find a faulty electromotive clutch later. The reason for this is that the electronics are so integrated in the car, a failure in a sensor can trigger a cascade of error-faults and lead to a read-out of something like the transmission fail-safe. Have your mechanic look carefully at the fault code readout and chances are that there are a few codes prior to the transmission code. Check items starting with the primary fault code first, and work down the list. If the primary fault is a transmission one, you may have a tranny problem, but it doesn't sound like it. But take heart, chances are that it's in an engine sensor and should be easy to repair.

: Calm your wife's fears, these cars ARE reliable, as long as you take care of them, give them regular maintenance, and lot's of love.

: Stan C.
: '92 850iA
: Bay Area 8's