24 34... Unlock Transmission Lock Electronically

2013 Mini Cooper Countryman, Standard TransSECTION 24 34... Unlock Transmission Lock Electronically
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 50 other vehicles, including the 2016 BMW M5, 2016 BMW ActiveHybrid 5, 2016 BMW 550i xDrive, 2016 BMW 550i, and 2016 BMW 535i xDrive. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

For various tasks, it is necessary to unlock and lock the parking lock.

Before releasing the parking lock, secure the vehicle against rolling away.

IMPORTANT: To operate the electronic emergency transmission release system the vehicle must not  be towed but rather only pushed.
In the case of misuse, a corresponding fault is entered in the fault memory.

Unlock transmission lock electronically: 

  • Switch the ignition on.
  • Apply the brake pedal and hold it down during the entire procedure.
  • Press start/stop button.
  • The starting operation may last for some seconds in low ambient temperatures and for diesel engines.
  • As soon as the starter motor can be heard to operate.
  • Press and hold down the release button (1).
    Fig 1: Transmission Lock Release Button
    G06889496Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  1. The specified time must necessarily be complied with!
  2. Push selector lever (2) forward up to point of resistance and hold for 2 seconds.
  3. Release the selector lever and quickly move it forward by another level again.
    Fig 2: Pushing Selector Lever
    G06889497Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
  • The selector lever position N is displayed in the instrument cluster.
  • The transmission lock is now electronically unlocked.
  • Release the brake pedal after the transmission lock has been successfully unlocked.
  • Leave the ignition switched on in order to subsequently move the vehicle.
  • The transmission automatically shifts into P when the ignition is turned off.
    Fig 3: Display - Selector Lever N Position Screen
    G06889498Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
IMPORTANT: The transmission lock is reactivated without a message when the start/stop button is pressed again.
If the gearbox cannot be released, turn the ignition off and on again and repeat the previous steps.
Allow the starter to cool down for approx. 10 minutes after unsuccessful attempts.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.