I just bought my first bmw its a 1998 m3 vert. What are some things I should look for and fix right away? It Is a automatic I was woundering If any one has converted a automatic to a 5sp before? Really anything would help at this point I just want to make sure the car wont break down in the next 100 miles. thanks
-Joe

It would probably be better for you to post in the E36 M section as the convertible top should be in pretty good shape and other than regular weatherproofing should be the least of your maintenance concerns.

Yes there has been an automatic to manual conversion done, before posting questions try a search and it's very likely it's already been discussed.

I am in the same boat, first time BMW owner and jumped in with a 98 M3 vert. My first advice is DON"T PULL THE RED LEVER! It disconnects the top motors. If something is loose, I have fixed several things with velcro, a tip my mechanic taught me. Don't be afraid to drive it and have fun! :D

This....without pics!

My account doesnt let me post pics or links so I cant show the pics yet.
-Joe

pics are always a bonus, i'd love to see the M3 verts though.

welcome to the site and the ultimate driving machines! (haha i sound tacky)

You just bought a car.... Why did you not just buy a manual one if thats what you wanted?

I have an auto, now would prefer the manual. I was just looking for a "deal". I ended up with a car for wholesale and the upside was it was a M3! I have really enjoyed driving the car, automatic and all! :D

Congrats on your purchase, M3 verts are nice, you must be loving it, any chance of some pics now?

HI there evrybody! i'm a new owner of a 3281 convertible '99.! I just got it 7 days ago and I love it and enjoy it a lot.
These is the most awesome forum about cars I seen by now!
I start looking for a veert. bmw a month ago and this forum helped so much since I bought the car last week!
I just become a member , and I have couple questions.
When I went for a test drive with the owner of the car last week in San Diego, the Check Engine Light came on for couple times and the owner said he wiil take care of this, saing somthing about the Oxigen Sensor from Catalitic Converter....
When finaly I decided to buy the car I gave him a call and he said he fixed that " Check Engine" Light.
I went again on a test drive and everithing was fine( no " check engine light up)
I maid the deal and boght it for 6900.The car look very good , great leather interior,the top is working perfect,averithing is working...by the way I came home and I start cleaning and washing the car, and I wash it with the top on and no any leaks, not even a drop of water inside!
Yesterday when I drove back home the " CHECK ENGINE" Light came up again , but the engine work fine and responding very good and sharp.
Please ... is anywone can tell me waht I have to do with that Check Engine light!
Thankx...

Talk to the dealer, get more info on how it was fixed etc.
Have you got warranty?