Steptronic Shifting System

Steptronic Shifting System






















The 1995 E31 850Ci was the first vehicle equipped with the Steptronic Shifting system. The 840Ci became available with the optional system in 1996. The E38 740i Sport is also available with Steptronic as an option. The transmissions (A5S 440/560Z) with AGS control are identical to non Steptronic systems. The Steptronic capabilities and features are all linked to the shifter system. Since it's introduction, there are two variations of Steptronic operation and mode display. With either variant, the shift lever provides the driver two choices or modes of operation:

- To operate the transmission in the fully automatic mode as with a non Steptronic vehicle.
- To operate the transmission in the manual shift mode by tilting the shift lever forward or backward (for up or down shifting) when in the manual gate.

The layout of the Steptronic shift console is unique. The range indication for gear positions 4, 3, and 2 are not included on the console. The program switch is also deleted.

The Steptronic shift lever console contains an automatic and a manual shift gate. The automatic gate contains the gear lever positions P/R/N/D. When the lever is placed in "D" all of the shifting of the transmission takes place based on the AGS shift map programming, as on a non Steptronic AGS controlled system.

The manual shift gate contains the "M" display on the 850Ci and an "M/S" display on the 840Ci and 740i Sport along with a "+" and "-".

The AGS monitors the shifter's gate position from the switched ground signal of the "M" gate microswitch. In the manual mode the bowden cable for gear changes is mechanically decoupled at the shifter, all gear changes take place based on switched ground inputs from the "+" / "-" microswitches mounted along side of the shifter base.

The up and downshifts are now carried out by tapping the shift lever toward the "+" or "-". The spring tension on the shift lever will return it to the center position.