They are pretty reliable. Some boxes were replaced because they had a problem with a sticking clutch (it doesn't use a torque-converter but a wet clutch inside the gearbox), so it would not release and stall the car when you came to a stop.

Seems to have been a bad batch of clutches, because I haven't heard of such problems with any of the replaced ones.

Idling at 1000rpm could be in 'D' or 'R'. When it's in 'P' or 'N' it should idle at 900rpm +/- 50rpm (non-adustable, ECU controlled)

The single-point B18U engine does always 'hunt' a bit when idling. That's a normal characteristic of this setup.

Do take it out for a test drive. A light whining noise is normal, but when you apply a constant throttle from standstill (eg. 3/4 of the total range) it should pull cleanly and smoothly without any hickups or bumps.

Oil level has to be checked every 15000km and flushed every 45000km. Checking the oil level is done as follows:

- put the car on a level surface and let it idle in the 'P' position
- put you foot on the brake and go trough every gear lever selection. Use every selecttion for 2 to 3 seconds
- put lever back to 'P' an let idle for 2 minutes
- check oil level on the transmission dipstick

Most of the maintenance and checks are just like an ordinary auto-box.

If the oil smells burnt or is discolored then it has to be replaced. If there are metal shavings in the oil then the gearbox is toast and has to be replaced. If the oil is white-ish or has the consistency of a milkshake then the oil-cooler is leaking and has to be replaced (together with the oil).

Bye, Arno.