2007 BMW M5 Owner's Manual - Page 59

Handbrake The handbrake is primarily intended to prevent the vehicle from rolling while parked; it brakes the rear wheels. Manual transmission* Indicator lamp Controls When engaging the 1st gear, a slight jolt may occur. This is operation-related and no reason for concern. Select only when the vehicle is stationary. When pressing the gearshift lever to the left, overcome some resistance. To achieve the best vehicle acceleration with a sporty driving style, shift lights in the Head-Up Display* indicate the optimum shifting point briefly before reaching the maximum rpm. Refer to Shift lights, page 61. 57 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 0 013 310 - © 02/07 BMW AG 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. Releasing 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.< Reference Mobility Communications Entertainment Shift lights Navigation Reverse gear Driving tips At a glance