I have a 525i 1990 and everytime I put it in drive I have to step ******* the gas as well as reversing other wise it does not move even when the ground is level.What could be the problem?

I recently tried the DIY service and repair manuals
from a website and it actually helped me repair transmission problem in my jcb 3cx site-master. it wont move forward or reverse, engine is good both solenoids for forward and reverse work.
I don't have much technical knowledge but I just followed it step-wise, and works perfect! got it from www.reliable-store.com
All the best

I tried the DIY service and repair manuals from a website and it actually helped me repair transmission problem in my jcb 3cx site-master. it wont move forward or
reverse, engine is good both solenoids for forward and reverse work.
I don't have much technical knowledge but I just followed it step-wise, and works perfect! got it from www.reliable-store.com

it sounds like you need a rebuild. blackish fluid indicates clutch failure.

I recently tried the DIY service and repair manuals from a website and it actually helped me repair transmission problem in my jcb 3cx site-master.
It would'nt move forward or reverse, engine was good both solenoids for forward and reverse worked, but still couldn't diagnose the problem.
I don't have much technical knowledge but I just followed it step-wise, and now it works perfect! covers wiring, codes, diagrams, torque specs, PCV, everything
got it from www.reliable-store.com

Can the car be pushed in reverse by hand (in neutral)? If ok, then you will likely need the transmission serviced. Good luck!

You have a failed tranmission, there is nothing else that gives this symptom.

it sound like a faulty ignation key contact. it is a common problem of 5 series E39 model. I hope it can help you this tip. thanks

I had same problem on my 1990 lumina try and clean the TPS sensor. Also in these models after you do it you have to disconnect the battery then basically have it drive against a wall so that it cant move and leave it for about 10-15 min you cant hit the gas anything and then the fans will kick on and you have reset it. Make sure you know what you are doing and know the proper steps first tho I am sure this is your problem. What dummy lights are you referring to? Is it overheating or anything? Most likely clean the TPS and reset the computer and go from there.
Thanks,
Lee

This could be caused by the transmission range selector switch on the tranny, no sure how without the wiring diagram, but seems to ring a bell from my 20 years at a ford delaer.