We know why a lot of you select BMWs with automatic transmissions. Commuting in heavy traffic is a hassle and all. It's just that the BMW clutch is such a thing of beauty, especially combined with the silky smooth action of the gearbox, that it's hard for us to imagine just putting the car in "D" and driving away. As most of you likely know, your BMW clutch allows the engine and transmission to be separated for things like stoplights and gear changes. On all newer BMWs, the BMW clutch is operated hydraulically by a pedal to the left of the brake pedal. There's a clutch master cylinder attached to the pedal, a hose leading down to the clutch, and a clutch slave cylinder that actually moves the parts inside the clutch to engage or disengage them.

When you have your foot on the clutch pedal, a little part that looks like a metal bagel, called the clutch throwout (or clutch release) bearing takes the force of the clutch springs and absorbs all the engine's power and torque. The clutch throwout bearing can wear before anything else in the clutch, and if you have a moaning or grinding sound when the clutch is disengaged, the clutch throwout bearing is suspect. If your clutch slips or shudders upon engagement, the clutch disc is most likely worn and will need replacement. Either way, get your toolbox--the transmission has to come out for any BMW clutch repairs other than hydraulic system work. But come on--it's worth it!