Introduction
If you’re having difficulty starting your BMW, it may be helpful to put it in neutral without starting the engine. This can help you troubleshoot the problem more easily and allow you to move the car without turning on the engine. In this article, we’ll go over the steps for putting a BMW in neutral without starting it.
Step 1: Push the Clutch Pedal All the Way to the Floor and Shift into Neutral (N)
The first step is to push the clutch pedal all the way to the floor and shift into neutral (N). Make sure the gearshift is in the neutral position before releasing the clutch pedal. This will ensure that the transmission is in neutral and will not cause any damage to the vehicle.
When shifting into neutral, it’s important to be gentle and smooth. If you’re too forceful, you could damage the gearshift or even break it off. If you find that the gearshift is not sliding into neutral easily, check to make sure that the clutch is fully depressed.
Step 2: Find the Neutral Safety Switch and Disengage It
The next step is to locate the neutral safety switch and disengage it. The neutral safety switch is located underneath the steering column and is responsible for preventing the vehicle from starting when the gearshift is not in the neutral position. To disengage the switch, simply press the release button on the side of the switch.
Once the switch has been disengaged, you should be able to shift the gearshift into neutral without any resistance. However, if there is still resistance, you may need to check the linkage between the gearshift and the transmission.
Step 3: Use a Flathead Screwdriver to Manually Push the Transmission Lever into Neutral
If the gearshift is still not moving into neutral, you may need to use a flathead screwdriver to manually push the transmission lever into neutral. This is done by inserting the screwdriver into the hole on the side of the transmission lever and pushing it down until it clicks into place.
It’s important to be careful when doing this as it can be easy to damage the transmission lever. If you’re unsure of how to do this, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic for assistance.
Step 4: Locate the Neutral Safety Relay and Disconnect It
The next step is to locate the neutral safety relay and disconnect it. The neutral safety relay is responsible for sending a signal to the starter motor to prevent it from engaging when the gearshift is not in the neutral position. To disconnect the relay, simply unplug the two wires that connect it to the starter motor.
Once the relay is disconnected, the starter motor should no longer be able to engage, allowing you to shift the gearshift into neutral without any resistance.
Step 5: Identify the Neutral Position Sensor and Unplug It
The next step is to identify the neutral position sensor and unplug it. The neutral position sensor is responsible for telling the computer when the gearshift is in the neutral position. To unplug the sensor, simply locate the plug on the side of the transmission and unplug it.
Once the sensor is unplugged, the computer will no longer be able to detect when the gearshift is in the neutral position, allowing you to shift the gearshift into neutral without any resistance.
Step 6: Remove the Shifter Knob and Access the Gearshift Linkage
If the gearshift is still not moving into neutral, you may need to remove the shifter knob and access the gearshift linkage. This is done by removing the screws holding the shifter knob in place and then lifting it off of the gearshift. Once the knob is removed, you should be able to see the linkage between the gearshift and the transmission.
If the linkage is stuck or jammed, you may need to use a pair of pliers to loosen it. Make sure to be careful when doing this as it can be easy to break the linkage if it is not properly handled.
Step 7: Engage the Emergency Brake and Shift into Neutral
The final step is to engage the emergency brake and shift into neutral. Engaging the emergency brake will prevent the car from moving, allowing you to safely shift the gearshift into neutral without any risk of it rolling away.
Once the emergency brake is engaged, you should be able to shift the gearshift into neutral without any resistance. Make sure to double check that the gearshift is in the neutral position before releasing the emergency brake.
Conclusion
Putting a BMW in neutral without starting it can be a difficult task, but it’s not impossible. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to successfully put your BMW in neutral without starting it. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any damage to your vehicle.
If you’re still having trouble putting your BMW in neutral, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic for assistance. They will be able to diagnose the issue and provide advice on how to resolve it.
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