Newbie Tranny Program question

[DanSr]

Hi, I am a former Volvo enthusiast who has now turned to the dark side. ;) I recently got an 02 540i Sport 6Spd, the difference from a Volvo 960 defies description.

I am considering buying a 89 535i auto which is throwing a Transmission Prog error. Its black on grey and is otherwise in good condition. After reading several threads on this error my question is this: Is there a way to "discreetly" rule out a failed tranny with the car still in the guys driveway, before I close the deal? I am to new to BMW and am not prepared to get into replacing a failed transmission right now. But, if I can rule that out troubleshooting relays and such would be a great to get to know the car.

Any advice?

TIA,

Dan
--
Northern Virginia

[shogun]

Go to the dealer and ask for a pre purchase inspection, they can make a DIS computer diagnosis which should help you.

Here is a PPI list for the E31 which also helps
http://wuffer.net/MyFiles/E31ppc.pdf