Using an automatic transmission (AT) (BMW 7 Series E38)

The models under consideration can be equipped with AT with either a system "Steptronic", and without it. System "Steptronic" allows you to shift AT gears both in automatic mode and manually.

The AT mode selector lever is located in the lower part of the central console, between the front seats. AT is controlled by an electronic control unit. The standard equipment includes an adaptive transmission control (ATC) system, which accurately determines the driving style and road conditions, and on this basis selects a specific AT control program, ensuring maximum transmission efficiency.

If there is a malfunction in the AT control system or the AT itself, a corresponding message is displayed on the text display in the instrument cluster ("TRANS. FAILSAFE PROG"). In this case, you should stop, move the selector lever to the "P" position, apply the parking brake and turn off the engine. Wait a few seconds and start the engine again. If the indicator goes out after a few seconds, this will mean that the AT has restored its operating parameters. Otherwise, you can continue driving, but the AT will work with restrictions in 3rd and 4th gears - avoid heavy loads on the engine and contact a service station for AT repair as soon as possible.

Provisions are available for all types of AT "P", "R", "N" and "D" of the selector lever. On AT with the system "Steptronic" additional provisions are available "M/S", "+" and "–", and on AT without a system "Steptronic" – positions "4", "3" and "2". In addition, on AT without a system "Steptronic" "A" programs available (adaptive/economical), "M" (manual) and "S" (sporty) aT control.



AT has a function "Kick-down" – downshifting with the accelerator pedal fully depressed if the AT is in "D" mode. This function is used to ensure maximum acceleration, for example when overtaking. After that, a shift to a higher gear occurs, unless the accelerator pedal is released before the maximum number of revolutions is reached.

When downshifting on a slippery road, there is a risk of skidding.

Selector lever lock

At the front of the AT mode selector lever handle there is a button for releasing the lock on accidental AT mode switching. Press the button to move the selector lever to the "P" and "R" positions, and also when switching, to move the lever out of the "P" position. In addition, to move the lever from the "P" position to the drive position, you need to press the brake pedal.

AT operating modes

"P" (Parking) In this position, the AT is locked and the rear wheels cannot rotate. Before moving the selector lever to this position, stop the car completely and press the lock release button; when parking on a slope, first apply the parking brake.

Shifting the selector lever to the "P" position while the vehicle is moving will cause the wheels to lock and the vehicle to lose control, and will also damage the automatic transmission. Do not use the "P" position instead of the parking brake - they must be used together.

"R" (Reversing) This position of the AT selector lever is used to engage reverse gear.

To avoid damage to the AT, make sure the vehicle is completely stopped before engaging reverse gear. After engaging the "R" mode, wait for the gear to engage (you can feel it in the engine's thrust).

"N" (Neutral position) The wheels and transmission are not locked, the car can be moved freely.

"D" (Movement) Normal position of the selector lever when the vehicle is moving. The AT switches between all forward gears based on the optimal ratio of power and fuel economy.

"4" and "S" (Fourth gear and sports program) This position is recommended to get the most out of the vehicle.

"2" and "3" (2nd and 3rd gears) AT shifts only between gears 1-2 or 1-3 respectively. This is used to obtain more traction when driving uphill, for engine braking when driving downhill, and to prevent frequent shifts from 2-3 or 3-4. Selecting this position also helps reduce wheel slip on slippery roads.

"A" Adaptive program, is automatically selected each time the engine is started. In the selected forward driving positions, the ATC system automatically determines the optimal gear.

"M" Manual program, is designed for driving in one gear (for example, in 4th, if the "M" program is selected in the "D" mode). AT remains in the selected gear both during movement and at the start of movement. For example, when driving uphill with the "2" position selected, AT does not make unnecessary upshifts.

"M/S", "+", "-" Manual mode and sports program. When the selector lever is moved from the "D" position to the "M/S" position (to the left), the sports mode is activated, as indicated by the "S" indicator in the instrument cluster. When the selector lever is moved forward or backward (to the "+" or "-" position), the AT switches to manual mode and the indicator of the currently selected gear is turned on in the instrument cluster (from M1 to M5).