What exactly is a sticky pedal?

[toniarae]

I have question about the pedal sticking. Is it the gas pedal sticking? I'm asking this question because about 1 1/2 months ago I was almost in an accident. I was backing out of a parking space and put my brake on to put the car in drive. When I put my brake on, it felt like the gas pedal went to the floor(I've never backed that fast in my life), then I literally stomped the brake hard and the car stopped just before I almost backed into another car. I bought these cheap car mats to cover my nice mats that came with the car because it had been raining, and they just barely touch the bottom of the pedal. I don't know if this has anything to do with it because I have not had a problem before or since. Thanks in advance.


2002 Alpine White 325i:D

[alee]

The best way to describe the sticky pedal is that the pedal feels like it has notches cut in it. So instead of being able to move the throttle up/down in a smooth continuous motion, it feels like your throttle has 6 or so distinct positions of travel.

I have yet to hear of one actually stick and stay stuck.

The problem seems to only occur when the inside temperature in the car reaches a certain temperature. It likely has something to do with plastic or rubber expanding, causing the plunger to catch.

It doesn't sound like your problem... could be your mat. However, if you think it is your problem, your next course of action is to go to the link below. Register, and you will get instructions on how to get in touch with William Stuart of BMW Customer Relations. He will get you on his list of people to call every 30 days to update you on the progress of a permanent fix.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bmw-sticky-pedal

If you do contact Mr. Stuart, be nice! :D He's one of the best people to talk to at BMW Customer Relations, and is a good person to have on your side. He is very aware of the problem.

-Al

[ride365]

(edit: sorry for repeating alee's info, but i was on the phone and very slow in posting my response)

it's a problem affecting drive-by-wire throttles. it's most often described as a notchy or sticky pedal--basically it doesn't slide smoothly. bmw is currently working on the problem, as it affects several models. for more info, there's a Yahoo Group site: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bmw-sticky-pedal/

even though they are addressing the problem, BMW insists it is not a safety issue. I don't know what caused your situation, but you may want to go to the site and tell your story.

FYI when an accelerator sticks for whatever reason, it often feels like the car actually accelerates drastically (rather than just remaing constant). i think this is because you're expecting the car to slow down, and you mind is caught off gaurd.

kurt

[toniarae]

Thank you both alee and ride365 for your input. It really helps and gives me some ideas to think about.


2002 Alpine White 325i:D

[MAK]

Bring your car to your dealer...ASAP. This is not a usual BMW problem.
Mike