TSB: BMW Gear Selector Switch

The gear selector switch (GWS) consists of the control electronics circuit and the selector lever. The sensors for recording the gearshift lever position and for inhibiting inadvertent gearshifts are integrated in the control electronics.

When fault code 802683 (selector lever knob exchange without disconnection of battery) is stored, this indicates that the GWS was exchanged without isolating the vehicle’s battery. Removal of electronic components without first disconnecting the battery may result in a short circuit, causing component damage.

Perform a short test and read out the fault memory. Whenever the fault code 802683 is stored with additional faults in the GWS control unit, the gear selector switch control module is also faulty and must be replaced.  Whenever this fault code is stored without additional faults in the GWS control unit, the fault memory entry can be ignored. If the customer does not wish to have the GWS control unit repaired, it will continue to function.