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BMW 5 Series E39 - BMW E39 520 Auto Selection Problem - Taxboy

My 2001 E39 has just developed a problem in selecting D. Previously I could pull the selector back in a straight line but now it won't budge past N and I have to move it in a slight dog leg to get it into Drive. The car drives fine once I have overcome this and I can select P,R & N in a straight line.

is this an early indication of something terminal or just "old age"

Any advice gratefully received

TIA

BMW 5 Series E39 - BMW E39 520 Auto Selection Problem - TeeCee

Here's a possible cheap fix that worked to cure an auto selection issue on another car.

Remove the shroud around the selector lever and hoover out the accumulation of biscuit crumbs and other clag in there.

BMW 5 Series E39 - BMW E39 520 Auto Selection Problem - Taxboy

Thanks - I'll have look. Always start with the cheapo option first !!!