Auto box in manual mode?

[Lomardy]

I have recently bought a bmw with an auto box. Could anyone please advise whether when the auto is in manual function (lever to the left) whether the box should automatically change down to M2 or M1 when you come to a stop. Mine seems to change down to M2 but not M1. I can down shift with the paddles into M1. Is this normal?

Thanks

[bor]

IIRC, it's normal. Oddly enough, even in manual, I think it will also change up automatically at max rpm.

[_deano]

in manual it will only downshift to M2, even when stopped. You have to shift it to M1 for a quicker get away. gear 2 is used for a smoother off from a stop.