What is the function of the button on the left side of the BMW gear lever?
3 Answers
The button on the left side of the BMW gear lever is the multimedia option selection and volume adjustment button, used during media playback and unrelated to the vehicle's driving system. Operation method: Depress the brake pedal of the BMW 5 Series, press the one-touch start button of the BMW 5 Series, the instrument panel of the BMW 5 Series lights up, and the vehicle's power is turned on. Press the knob up, down, left, or right to adjust multimedia options. Rotate it left to decrease the volume and right to increase the volume. Location of multimedia option selection and volume adjustment buttons in other vehicles: In Honda vehicles, the multimedia option selection and volume adjustment buttons are located on the steering wheel.
I've been driving a BMW for many years, and the button on the left side of the gear lever is the electronic parking brake switch, which is quite practical. When parking, just press it lightly, and the wheels are locked; to start moving, just pull it or step on the accelerator. Especially in underground parking or on slopes, it prevents the car from rolling back, much more convenient than the old-fashioned handbrake, with no effort required. I often use it in city traffic jams to avoid frequent manual operations. After starting, the system automatically releases, reducing the risk of forgetting to disengage. Once on a steep slope, it helped a lot by preventing any backward roll, making it safe and worry-free. I recommend beginners familiarize themselves with this function before driving; just practice a few simple operations to get the hang of it. Regular maintenance checks on the circuit and button response can prevent aging issues, ensuring every response is quick and reliable—safety first.
As a fellow auto enthusiast who frequently tinkers with cars, let me explain that button. It's the electronic parking brake button, internally connected to a motor that controls the brake cables. Press to activate the brake, pull to release; common maintenance issues include contact point oxidation or circuit breaks causing unresponsiveness. In such cases, try restarting the vehicle or checking the fuses—never force it. Compared to traditional handbrakes, it's more durable but electronic failures can be costly. I've encountered cases where the button malfunctioned, often due to moisture exposure, so parking in dry areas helps minimize this risk. Safety-wise, it prevents accidental rolling, especially useful for slope parking. I recommend regular professional checks of the button's functionality to extend its lifespan, and avoid DIY disassembly to prevent short circuits.
