After re-reading your post, you mentioned that you sometimes place the vehicle in neutral to stop smoothly. Does this mean the vibrations go away? I was reading thru the transmission manual that Rudy posted a link to. The transmission software communicates with the accelerator pedal and predicts that when the accelerator pedal is in the zero position, the driver is about to stop. Systems involved should disengage appropriately for a smooth stop. It sounds like there are are other 550i owners who can stop smoothly, so I wouldn't let this problem slide. If the engine torque is pulling the vehicle forward during braking, it would seem your brakes could wear prematurely, and also be harder on the engine/trans components.

 

I have a 6 speed manual and have never experienced what you write of. Maybe it's a Step thing?

 

Yes my 550 does the same. Sometimes I don't notice it and sometimes I do. I thinking about taking my car in. Maybe the idle is too high.

CVT Benhogan

 

For what it's worth, I have just had my OEM brake pads all swapped out for EBC Green Stuff. They've only been on for a week but I have noticed that I can stop smoothly from any speed, and no lurch at the end......

Cheers

 

Now to think about it mine does the same too....I guess I got used to it but after reading this thread I notice it. The hard stop at the end. I will take it in to have it checked.

 

My '05 545 abrupt stopping issue seemed to be related to hotter weather, like when the AC and cooling fans are working, creating more draw on the engine. I think with the Step and higher idle required under load is the cause. The dealer looked at it once but pronounced it normal. It was one of 4 things that caused me to sell it and consider an 08 535i.

 

I have a brand new 08 550i sport with sport auto, and it does the same thing. It is very hard to come to a smooth stop, that last second, the car will "jerk" a little. I have noticed that by braking early and let it slowly roll to a stop while on brakes helps, of course this is not a solution.. If someone has a solution please share. I will mention it to service next time i am at dealership

 

Hi! I have noticed this on my 2 month old car as well. I think this happens in all auto trans except that this is very pronounced in the BMW auto trans system. Have also had various Japanese cars but did not notice this is a big way. Coming to think of it I remember having the same experience with my dad's 82 735i and 280SL. Think it has got to do with the gear ratios, 1st gear is much higher than 2nd gear and as you are coming to a stop you can see the fuel economy gauge at the bottom of the rev counter moves almost all the way to the right (less economical range) then after you feel that "jerk" it starts to move to the left (more economical range). Tried various ways to minimize this but no full proof way of doing away with it. Just like other forum members are doing, I now slow down almost completely before stopping then let go the brakes and then applying brakes again to come to a complete stop. I tried driving in manual mode and stopping the same way like I normally would do and I don't feel this jerk as the lowest gear the auto trans shift to is 2nd gear. So, could this "jerk" be caused by auto trans shifting from 2nd into 1st in the full auto mode?