2026 BMW X2

I experienced multiple unintended gear changes while stopped in traffic in a 2026 BMW X2 xDrive28i (~11,800 miles, rental vehicle, prior usage unknown). The vehicle uses a small electronic toggle gear selector located immediately adjacent to the cupholders. Incident 1: While stopped with my foot on the brake, the engine shut off due to auto start/stop. When I released the brake, the engine restarted but the vehicle did not move forward and instead revved slightly. I immediately pulled the selector back and the vehicle resumed normal forward movement. I did not intentionally shift gears and believe the vehicle had unintentionally shifted into Neutral. Incident 2: While stopped with my foot on the brake, I reached for a drink in the cupholder. During this normal action, the gear selector was likely contacted unintentionally. The vehicle shifted into Reverse without my intent, confirmed by the backup camera activating. The vehicle did not move because I remained on the brake and recognized the issue immediately. Afterward, I tested this interaction in a controlled environment in my driveway. While stationary with my foot on the brake, repeatedly reaching for a cup caused the vehicle to shift into Neutral or Reverse multiple times without intentional input or clear tactile feedback. The selector’s location next to the cupholder and its sensitivity allow incidental contact during normal use. As a left-handed driver reaching across the console (with a wristwatch and jacket), contact may occur without awareness. This creates risk of unintended gear selection, unexpected movement, or failure to move when expected.