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BMW Mis-shift Class Action Suit

What is it with BMW owners and class action suits?  Maybe it's just a sign
of the times.  Porsche 911 owners (especially the early 70 models) were
prone to downshifts into the wrong gears, many causing expensive engine
parts to fly. Porsche 930 owners (especially the 76-79 models) were prone to
hitting guard rails backwards as the tail heavy rear came around while
lifting in a corner.  These were expensive mistakes!  They were caused by
driver error. Driving these cars quickly and smoothly is a challenge that
many 911/930 owners accept and they don't cite Class Action Lawsuits when
they screw up.
BMW (I'm sure) is aware of the tight shift pattern in the E36 gearbox and
engineers will solve this issue as the model evolves.  BMW has been through
this in the past with problems like cylinder head cracks on pre-79 M30
models, out of round cylinders on 74 2002 (US model only) engine blocks,
fjord blue paint failure (mid-70's), etc...in all cases, the propensity for
these failure was solved through product re-engineering and evolution.  If
there is a fix available for a known problem/situation (eg, M20 head bolt
update or repair kit for the E36 shift linkage), the owner should have the
update implemented.  Otherwise, be aware of this situation and sharpen your
skills through the driving school programs.  If you can't live with
this....move on.  SD
Steve D'Gerolamo c/o The Ultimate Garage,  Emerson, NJ  (201-262-0412)