2009 BMW 5 Series Owner's Manual - Page 66

Driving > if you remove the remote control from the ignition lock Manual transmission Handbrake The handbrake is primarily intended to prevent the vehicle from rolling while parked; it brakes the rear wheels. Indicator lamp The indicator lamp lights up, and a signal also sounds when starting off. The handbrake is applied. Indicator lamp for Canadian models. While shifting in the 5th/6th gear lane, press the gearshift lever toward the right, otherwise accidental shifting into the 3rd or 4th gear could result in engine damage.< Applying The lever locks in position automatically. Reverse gear Select only when the vehicle is stationary. When pressing the gearshift lever to the left, overcome some resistance. Releasing Automatic transmission with Steptronic* In addition to fully automatic operation, you can also manually shift with the Steptronic, refer to page 65. Transmission positions Pull slightly upwards, press the button and lower the lever. If exceptional circumstances should make it necessary to apply the handbrake while the vehicle is in motion, do not pull it too firmly. In doing so, continuously press the button of the handbrake lever. Otherwise, too firm an application of the handbrake can lock up the rear wheels and cause the rear of the car to swerve.< To prevent corrosion and one-sided braking action, occasionally apply the handbrake lightly when the vehicle is slowly coming to a stop if the traffic conditions are suitable. The brake lamps do not light up when the handbrake is applied.< P R N D M/S + - Displays in instrument cluster P R N D DS S1* to S6* M1 to M6 The transmission position is indicated, and in the manual mode, the gear currently engaged. 64 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 600 721 - © 08/08 BMW AG