Owner's Manual for the vehicle. With a quick reference ... - E38.org

64nAutomatic transmission
Special functions
In program A, the Adaptive Transmission
Control influences several special
functions in the selection of the drive
gear.
With the system active, some shifts that
would be made in other modes will be
suppressed. The system also reacts to
special situations by executing shifts
that would not occur with a conventional
transmission.
Control of the winter program
A winter program is automatically selected
when the vehicle is operated on
slippery road surfaces (snow and ice).
When this program is active, the transmission
starts in 2nd gear and shifts
into the higher gears earlier. This program
improves response under winter
driving conditions by providing enhanced
traction and vehicle stability.
ATC leaves the winter program when it
registers a high-traction road surface,
when the Sport program is selected and
when ASC+T/DSC is deactivated.
Electronic transmission control
module
If the message "TRANS. FAILSAFE
PROG" appears in the Check Control,
there is a fault in the gearshift electronic
system or in the transmission itself.
You can still place the selector lever in
all positions. However, it is possible
that not all gears are available for the
vehicle's forward drive.
If this happens, avoid extreme engine
loads and consult the nearest authorized
BMW center.
Do not work in the engine compartment
when a drive gear (forward
or reverse) is engaged. If you do
this, the vehicle could move.<
For towing, tow-starting or jump-starting
the vehicle, refer to pages 179, 180.