How to Release the P Gear on a BMW 5 Series Electronic Gear Shift?
3 Answers
In the trunk of a BMW, there is a red T-shaped lever. Insert it into the small hole below the cup holder and rotate it 90 degrees clockwise to release the P gear. The T-shaped lever must remain in this position to maintain the N gear. After completing the operation, contact a tow truck.
As a long-time owner of a BMW 5 Series, I often encounter issues with releasing the P gear. Its electronic gear design is quite user-friendly: you must first press the brake pedal to ensure the car is stationary, which is for safety to prevent the vehicle from moving during gear shifting. Then, hold down the unlock button on the gear lever—usually the small button on the side or top—press it firmly while gently pushing the lever to switch to D, R, or other gears. I remember when I first bought the car, there was a time when I didn't press the brake, and no matter how I pressed the button, it wouldn't budge, which startled me. Later, I learned that this was the electronic sensing system protecting the car. After driving it more, I got used to it. During operation, pay attention to the dashboard, which will display the current gear changes, providing intuitive feedback. If it's a cold start in winter, the brake might feel slightly stiff, but it still works. Overall, BMW's system is responsive, safe, and reliable, but remember to keep the gear clean to avoid dust buildup affecting the button's sensitivity.
Releasing the P (Park) gear on a BMW 5 Series is actually not difficult, especially for beginners. The first thing to do is to sit firmly in the car after getting in and press the brake pedal to keep the car in a braking state. Then locate the small button on the gear lever, press and hold it, while gently moving the lever from P to D or R position with your fingertips. When I first started driving, I was a bit unfamiliar with it, but after a few tries, it became very natural. BMW's electronic gear sensing is very responsive, but you must ensure the engine is running, otherwise the button may not respond. Additionally, if operating on a slope, it's best to engage the handbrake for added safety. It's recommended to practice in an open area at first to develop good habits. BMW's gear lever design is very smooth, requiring little effort to operate, but after long-term use, it's advisable to regularly check the battery condition, as insufficient power may cause shifting issues.
