How to engage the P gear in a BMW X5 when parking?
4 Answers
The gear shift lever is located in the center of the cabin. The "P" position is the parking gear, which should be engaged after parking. The "R" gear is the reverse gear, and caution should be exercised when reversing. The "N" position in the middle is the neutral gear.
I've been driving a BMW X5 for a while, and putting it into Park is actually quite simple. After the car comes to a complete stop, first make sure to keep your foot on the brake pedal to prevent rolling and damaging the transmission. Then move the gear lever from D or R to the P position - BMW's gear selector is very smooth, just a gentle push will do. Don't forget to engage the electronic parking brake or mechanical handbrake for double security on the wheels. After shifting to P, turn off the engine but don't release the brake pedal immediately. I always check that the P indicator lights up on the dashboard before locking the car, to avoid battery drain from forgetting to shift gears. Overall, once you develop the habit it becomes second nature - the key is never to rush when parking, putting safety first is what experienced drivers always emphasize.
When I first drove my new BMW X5, I was thrilled to learn how to park and shift into P (Park) mode. The steps are: come to a complete stop, firmly press the brake pedal, then push the gear lever forward to the P position—it feels like playing a racing game. BMW's automatic transmission responds quickly, and once in P mode, the drivetrain locks, preventing the car from rolling on slopes. Beginners should take it slow, avoiding rough gear shifts or neglecting the brake, as this could damage the transmission. I also found that enabling the Auto Hold feature makes things easier—the car automatically applies the brakes when stopped, making shifting into P smoother. In short, after a few tries, it becomes second nature, blending driving fun with safety.
I adhere to safe driving practices and strictly follow the proper procedure for engaging the P gear. After the vehicle comes to a complete stop, I immediately press the brake pedal and shift the gear lever to the P position to lock the transmission shaft. The BMW X5's operation design is clear, with easily understandable gear indicators. The key is not to skip any steps—for example, engaging P gear without pressing the brake pedal may cause gear grinding. After properly engaging P gear, apply the handbrake, and confirm the status before turning off the engine. Developing these habits in daily driving can significantly reduce risks.
