BMW 5 Series: Transmission positions - Automatic transmission with 
Steptronic - Driving - Controls - BMW 5 Series Owners ManualsBMW 5 Series: Transmission positions

D Drive, automatic position

Position for normal vehicle operation. All forward gears are available.

R is Reverse

Select only when the vehicle is stationary.

N is Neutral

Use in automatic car washes, for example. The vehicle can roll.

When the ignition is switched off, position P is engaged automatically.

P Park

Select only when the vehicle is stationary. The drive wheels are blocked.

P is engaged automatically:

▷ After the engine is switched off, if the car is in radio ready state, or if the ignition is switched off, and if position R or D is engaged.
▷ With the ignition is off, if position N is engaged.
▷ If the safety belt is unbuckled, the driver's door is opened, and the brake pedal is not pressed while the vehicle is stationary and transmission position R or D is engaged.

Before exiting the vehicle, make sure that position P of the automatic transmission is engaged.

Otherwise, the vehicle may begin to roll.

Kickdown

Kickdown is used to achieve maximum driving performance. Press on the gas pedal beyond the resistance point at the full throttle position.

    Engaging the transmission position
    ▷ Transmission position P can only be disengaged if the engine is running and the brake pedal is pressed. ▷ With the vehicle stationary, press on the brake pedal before shifting out ...

    See also:

    Engine compartment overview - 1.6L Duratorq-TDCi (DV) Diesel
    A. Engine coolant reservoir*: See Engine coolant check. B. Brake and clutch fluid reservoir (right-hand drive)*: See Brake and clutch fluid check. C. Engine oil filler cap*: See Engine oil check ...

    Treadwear
    The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 ...

    Safety warnings
    You will find a number of WARNINGs, CAUTIONs and NOTEs in this manual. These safety warnings alert you to potential hazards that could result in injury to you or others. Please read these safety ...