I am having an issue with my BMW f10 active 5 when it is in hybrid mode and I place it into drive or reverse it goes straight back into park and...

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Customer

I am having an issue with my BMW f10 active 5 when it is in hybrid mode and I place it into drive or reverse it goes straight back into park and when the engine is activated it goes into drive and reverse normally It also drives without an issue and no codes

Last updated
Charles Totherow
Technician

Hello and welcome to ExpertHelp.com! My name is Charles Totherow and I'm going to do everything in my power to answer your question to your full satisfaction!

I might need to request additional information from you to better understand how to help you. Please read my replies and respond to them as soon as you can so we can have this solved in no time. Hang tight while I prepare my next message.

Posted
Charles Totherow
Technician

The issue with your BMW F10 ActiveHybrid 5 shifting back to park in hybrid mode could stem from a few potential causes, even though there are no error codes:

  1. Hybrid System Calibration: There might be a glitch in the hybrid system's calibration, particularly with how it handles gear selection in electric mode.

  2. Parking Lock Mechanism: A malfunctioning parking lock system in the transmission could cause it to revert to park when in hybrid mode.

  3. Battery or Power Management Issue: If the hybrid battery or power management system isn't functioning correctly, it might prevent proper operation in electric mode, forcing it back to park.

  4. Software Issue: Modern hybrid systems heavily rely on software. There might be a bug or corrupted software module.

Suggestions:

  1. Perform a Hybrid System Reset: Disconnect the car battery for 15-20 minutes to reset the system. This may recalibrate the hybrid control module.

  2. Check Battery Health: Verify the condition of the hybrid battery using a diagnostic tool.

  3. Transmission Sensors: Have the transmission sensors and control module inspected.

  4. Dealer or Specialist Check: If the issue persists, a BMW specialist with experience in hybrids can perform a more in-depth diagnosis.

Let me know if you'd like steps for checking the battery or guidance for discussing this with a mechanic

 
 
 
 
Posted
Customer

I would like steps for checking the battery and guidance for discussing this with a mechanic

 

Posted
Charles Totherow
Technician

Steps to Check the Hybrid Battery and Prepare for a Mechanic Visit

Step 1: Check Battery Charge Status

  1. Monitor the Battery Gauge:
    • Look at the hybrid battery indicator on your dashboard. Ensure it has a reasonable charge. If it's too low, the system may limit functionality.
  2. Drive the Car to Charge the Battery:
    • Take the car for a short drive in engine mode (non-hybrid). The combustion engine charges the hybrid battery as you drive. Once charged, try shifting into drive or reverse in hybrid mode to see if the issue persists.

Step 2: Perform a Visual Inspection

  1. Check Battery Terminals:
    • Ensure the 12V battery terminals are clean, tight, and free of corrosion. The hybrid system uses the 12V battery for startup and control systems.
  2. Inspect the Hybrid Battery Cooling System:
    • Look for blockages in the hybrid battery cooling vents. Clean them if dirty, as overheating can cause functionality issues.

Step 3: Use a Diagnostic Tool

  • Scan for Fault Codes:
    • If you have access to a BMW-specific OBD2 scanner or a hybrid system diagnostic tool (like the BMW ISTA system), scan the car for hidden fault codes related to the hybrid system, battery, or transmission.

Tips for Discussing the Issue with a Mechanic

What to Tell the Mechanic:

  1. Describe the Problem Clearly:

    • "When the car is in hybrid mode, placing it into drive or reverse immediately shifts it back to park. In engine mode, it functions normally without issues. There are no error codes."
  2. Provide Context:

    • Mention any recent events that could be related, like extreme weather, recent repairs, or unusual sounds.
  3. Mention Observations:

    • Note if the battery charge seems low, if the cooling vents were dirty, or any other irregularities.

Questions to Ask the Mechanic:

  1. Battery Health:

    • "Can you test the hybrid battery for capacity and voltage to ensure it’s performing correctly?"
    • "Is the battery cooling system functioning properly?"
  2. System Diagnostics:

    • "Could you check if the hybrid system or transmission control module has any hidden codes or faults?"
    • "Is there a software update for the hybrid or transmission systems?"
  3. Preventive Suggestions:

    • "Are there any maintenance steps I should take to prevent this issue in the future?"

What to Request:

  • A full hybrid battery health check, including charge level, voltage, and capacity.
  • A diagnostic report for the hybrid and transmission systems.
  • Confirmation of any necessary software updates.

By preparing this way, you'll ensure the mechanic has all the relevant information to diagnose and resolve the issue efficiently. 

 
 
 
 
Posted
Customer

Thank you I will follow your steps

Posted
Charles Totherow
Technician

Hi Samual.  Just checking to see if you needed any mor ehelp with this question.  Please let me know in a reply whether I can close this chat or if you need more help I will be here as well.

Posted

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