M5
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 830 - © 07/02 BMW AG
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced control and
security when you drive it. We therefore have this request:
Please take the time to read this Owner's Manual and familiarize yourself with the
information that we have compiled for you before starting off in your new BMW. The
manual contains important data and instructions intended to assist you in obtaining
maximum satisfaction from your BMW's unique array of advanced technical fea-
tures. It also contains information on vehicle maintenance designed to enhance
operating safety while simultaneously helping you to maintain your BMW's value
throughout an extended service life. For additional information refer to the supple-
mental manuals.
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It
should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important
operating, safety and maintenance information.
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW M
Preface
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 830 - © 07/02 BMW AG
Contents
© 2002 BMW M GmbH
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts,
only with the written consent of
BMW AG, Munich.
Order no. 01 41 0 156 830
US English IX/02
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper
– bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling.
Notes
Overview
Controls and features
About this Owner's Manual 8
Symbols used 8
Your individual vehicle 8
Status at time of printing 9
For your own safety 9
Symbol on vehicle parts 10
Service and Warranty 10
Reporting safety defects 10
Cockpit 14
Instrument cluster 15
Indicator and warning lamps 16
Steering wheel with multifunction
buttons 19
Warning triangle 20
First-aid kit 20
Refueling 20
Fuel specifications 22
Tire inflation pressure 22
Opening and closing:
Keys 26
Central locking system 26
Opening and closing –
via the door lock 27
Opening and closing –
via the remote control 28
Opening and closing –
from the inside 31
Luggage compartment lid 32
Luggage compartment 34
Alarm system 35
Electric power windows 36
Sliding/tilt sunroof 38
Adjustments:
Sitting safely 40
Seats 40
BMW M sport seat 41
BMW comfort seat 42
Head restraints 43
BMW active seat 43
Safety belts 44
Seat, mirror and
steering wheel memory 45
Seat heating 46
Steering wheel 47
Mirrors 48
Contents
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Controls and features
Passenger safety systems:
Airbags 49
Transporting children safely 51
Vehicle Memory, Key
Memory 55
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 56
Starting the engine 56
Switching off the engine 57
Parking brake 58
Manual transmission 58
Turn signal/Headlamp flasher 59
Washer/Wiper system/
Rain sensor 60
Cruise control 61
Everything under control:
Odometer, outside temperature
display 63
Tachometer 64
Engine oil temperature 64
Fuel gauge 64
Coolant temperature gauge 65
Service Interval Display 65
Check Control 66
Multi-Information Display
(MID) 69
Digital clock 70
Computer 73
Technology for safety and
driving convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 78
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 80
M Dynamic Driving Control 81
Flat Tire Monitor 82
Lamps:
Parking lamps/Low beams 84
Instrument lighting 85
High beams/Standing lamps 85
Fog lamps 85
Interior lamps 86
Reading lamps 86
Controlling the climate for
pleasant driving:
Automatic climate control 87
Roller sun blind 92
Parked-car ventilation 92
Interior conveniences:
BMW Universal Transmitter 93
Glove compartment 96
Storage compartments 96
Cellular phone 97
Beverage holder 97
Ashtray, front 97
Cigarette lighter 98
Ashtray, rear 98
Loading and transporting
cargo:
Through-loading system 99
Ski bag 100
Cargo loading 102
Roof-mounted luggage rack 103
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Contents
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 106
Driving notes 107
Antilock Brake System 107
Brake system 108
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 109
Tire condition 109
Tire replacement 110
Wheel and tire
combinations 111
Special characteristics of winter
tires 112
Snow chains 112
In the engine compartment:
Hood 113
Engine compartment
essentials 114
Washer fluids 115
Engine oil 115
Coolant 117
Brake fluid 118
Maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 119
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 120
California Proposition
65 Warning 120
OBD interface socket 121
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 124
Windshield wiper blades 124
Lamps and bulbs 124
Repairing a flat tire 128
Battery 131
Fuses 132
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 133
Towing the vehicle 135
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About this Owner's Manual
We have made every effort to ensure
that you are able to find what you need
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as
possible. The fastest way to find certain
topics is by using the detailed index at
the end. If you are looking for a brief
initial summary of the essentials, please
turn to the first chapter.
Should you wish to sell your BMW
at some time in the future, please
remember to hand over this Owner's
Manual to the new owner; it is an
important part of the vehicle.
If you have any questions, your BMW
center will be glad to advise you.
Symbols used
Indicates precautions that must
be followed precisely in order to
avoid the possibility of personal injury
and serious damage to the vehicle.
Contains information that will
assist you in gaining the optimum
benefit from your vehicle and enable
you to care more effectively for your
vehicle.
Refers to measures that can be
taken to help protect the environ-
ment.
<
Marks the end of a specific item of
information.
*
Indicates special equipment, country-
specific equipment and optional extras.
t
Identifies index entries that refer
to owner service procedures or topics
on vehicle maintenance.
Identifies systems or components,
which can be activated or adapted
to suit an individual driver's require-
ments ("Vehicle Memory", "Key
Memory"). Refer to page 55.
Activation and adjustments on some of
these systems can be performed at
your BMW center.
Your individual vehicle
On buying your BMW, you have
decided in favor of a model with individ-
ualized equipment and features. This
Owner's Manual describes all models
and equipment that BMW offers within
the same group.
We hope you will understand that
equipment and features are included
which you might not have chosen for
your vehicle. You can easily identify any
differences with the aid of the asterisk
*
used to identify all optional equipment
and accessories.
If your BMW features equipment which
is not described in this Owner's
Manual, Supplementary Owner's
Manuals are enclosed. We ask you to
read these manuals as well.
Notes
Symbols
Notes
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Status at time of printing
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development designed to
ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality and safety
standards combined with advanced,
state-of-the-art technology. For this
reason, it is possible that the features
described in this Owner's Manual could
differ from those on your vehicle. Nor
can errors and omissions be entirely
ruled out. We therefore request your
understanding for the fact that we are
unable to recognize any legal claims
based on the data, illustrations or
descriptions in this manual.
For your own safety
Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels
containing up to and including
10 % ethanol or other oxygenates with
up to 2.8 % oxygen by weight – i.e.
15 % MTBE or 3 % methanol plus an
equivalent amount of co-solvent – will
not void the applicable warranties
covering defects in materials or work-
manship. Field experience has indi-
cated significant differences in fuel
quality – volatility, composition, addi-
tives, etc. among gasolines offered for
sale in the United States and Canada.
The use of poor-quality fuels may result
in driveability, starting and stalling
problems, especially under certain
environmental conditions, such as high
ambient temperature and high altitude.
Should you encounter driveability prob-
lems that you suspect could be related
to the fuel you are using, we recom-
mend that you respond by switching to
a recognized high-quality brand.
Failure to comply with these recom-
mendations may result in unscheduled
maintenance.
Obey pertinent safety rules when you
are handling gasoline.
<
Important safety information!
For your own safety, use genuine
parts and accessories approved by
BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested
and approved by BMW and Original
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire
the assurance that they have been thor-
oughly tested by BMW to ensure
optimum performance when installed
on your vehicle.
BMW warrants these parts to be free
from defects in material and workman-
ship.
BMW will not accept any liability for
damages resulting from installation of
parts and accessories not approved by
BMW.
BMW cannot test every product from
other manufacturers to verify if it can be
used on a BMW safely and without risk
to either the vehicle, its operation, or its
occupants.
Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories
and other products approved by BMW,
together with professional advice on
using these items, are available from all
BMW centers.
Status at time of printing
Your individual vehicle
Notes
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Installation and operation of non-BMW
approved accessories such as alarms,
radios, amplifiers, radar detectors,
wheels, suspension components, brake
dust shields, telephones – including
operation of any portable cellular phone
from within the vehicle without using an
externally-mounted antenna – or trans-
ceiver equipment, e.g., CBs, walkie-
talkie, ham radio or similar accessories,
may cause extensive damage to the
vehicle, compromise its safety, interfere
with the vehicle's electrical system, or
affect the validity of the BMW Limited
Warranty. See your BMW center for
additional information.
<
Maintenance, replacement, or
repair of the emission control
devices and systems may be performed
by any automotive repair establishment
or individual using any certified auto-
motive part.
<
Symbol on vehicle parts
Indicates that you should consult
the relevant section of this
Owner's Manual for information on a
particular part or assembly.
Service and Warranty
This manual is supplemented by a Ser-
vice and Warranty Information Booklet
for US models or a Warranty and Ser-
vice Guide Booklet for Canadian
models.
We recommend that you read this
publication thoroughly.
Your BMW is covered by the following
warranties:
>
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
>
Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
>
Federal Emissions System Defect
Warranty
>
Federal Emissions Performance War-
ranty
>
California Emissions Control System
Limited Warranty
Detailed information about these
warranties is listed in the Service and
Warranty Information Booklet for US
models or in the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet for Canadian models.
Reporting safety defects
The following only applies to vehicles
owned and operated in the US.
If you believe that your vehicle has a
defect which could cause a crash or
could cause injury or death, you should
immediately inform the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration
NHTSA in addition to notifying BMW of
North America, LLC, P.O. Box 1227,
Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227,
Telephone (800) 831-1117.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it
may open an investigation, and if it
finds that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order a recall
and remedy campaign. However,
NHTSA cannot become involved in indi-
vidual problems between you, your
dealer, or BMW of North America, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call
the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at
1-800-424-9393 – or 366-0123 in
Washington, DC area – or write to:
NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transpor-
tation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You
can also obtain other information about
motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
For your own safety
Notes
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Overview
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1 Parking lamps/Low beams 84
2
>
Turn signal indicators 59
>
Standing lamps 85
>
High beams 85
>
Headlamp flasher 59
>
Computer 77
3 Fog lamps 85
4 Wiper/Washer system 60
5 Central locking system 26
6 Hazard warning flashers
7 Rear window defroster 90
8 Horn: the entire surface
9 Adjusting the steering wheel 47
Cockpit
39mde147
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1 Fuel gauge 64
2 Indicator lamp for turn signal
indicator 18
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for high beams 18
5 Tachometer and engine oil
temperature gauge 64
6 Coolant temperature gauge 65
7 Indicator and warning lamps 16
to 18
8 CHECK button 66
9 Outside temperature display 63
10 Indicator lamp for Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) 17
11 Trip odometer 63
12 Check Control display 66
13 Odometer 63
14 Service Interval Display 65
15 Trip odometer, reset to zero 63
16 Indicator and warning lamps 16
to 18
Instrument cluster
39mus004
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Indicator and warning lamps
Technology that monitors itself
The system runs a check on the
warning and indicator lamps marked
by "
●
" each time you switch on the
ignition. They each light up once for dif-
ferent periods of time.
If a fault should occur in one of these
systems, the corresponding lamp does
not go out after the engine is started or
it lights up while the vehicle is moving.
The following section describes how
you should respond.
Red: stop immediately
Alternator charge current
●
The battery is no longer being
charged. Indicates a defective
alternator drive belt or a problem with
the alternator's charge circuit. Please
contact the nearest BMW center.
You should never attempt to con-
tinue driving with a defective drive
belt, as the engine could overheat and
sustain serious damage. A defective
drive belt will also make the vehicle
harder to steer.
<
Engine oil pressure
●
May be accompanied by the
warning "STOP!ENGINE OIL-
PRESS" in the Check Control display
panel: stop the vehicle immediately and
switch off the engine. Check level of oil
in engine, top up as required. If oil level
is correct: please contact the nearest
BMW center.
Do not continue driving, as the
engine could sustain serious
damage from inadequate lubrication.
<
Brake hydraulic system
●
Have the brake fluid level
checked. Before driving further,
be sure to read the notes on pages 108
and 118.
The indicator lamp comes on together
with the "CHECK BRAKE LININGS"
message in the Check Control.
Brake hydraulic system warning
lamp for Canadian models.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Indicator and warning lamps
Red: an important reminder
Parking brake
●
Comes on when you engage the
parking brake.
For additional information: refer to
page 58
Parking brake warning lamp for
Canadian models.
Please fasten safety belts
●
An acoustic signal sounds and a
message appears in the Check
Control for 4 to 8 seconds. The acous-
tical signal remains on until the belt is
fastened.
For additional information on safety
belts: refer to page 44
Airbags
●
Please have the system
inspected at your BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 49
Yellow: please have checked at
your earliest opportunity
Antilock Brake System
(ABS)
●
ABS has been deactivated in
response to a system malfunction. Con-
ventional braking efficiency is available
and unrestricted. Please have the
system inspected at your BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 107
ABS warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC)
●
DSC has been switched off or
has been deactivated because of a mal-
function. In the event of a malfunction,
have the system checked at your BMW
center.
For additional information: refer to
page 80
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC)
●
Malfunction in DBC system.
Conventional braking performance
remains available with no loss of effi-
ciency.
Have the system repaired by your BMW
center at the earliest possible opportu-
nity.
For additional information: refer to
page 80
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Service Engine Soon
●
If the indicator lamp lights up
either continuously or intermit-
tently, this indicates a fault in the emis-
sions-related electronic systems.
Although the vehicle remains opera-
tional, you should have the systems
checked at your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
For additional information: refer to OBD
interface socket, page 121
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
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Indicator and warning lamps
Green: for your information
Turn signal indicators
Flashes when the turn signal
indicators are on. Rapid
flashing: indicates a system malfunc-
tion.
For additional information: refer to
page 59
Cruise control
Lights up when system is on:
available for operation via the
multifunction steering wheel.
For additional information: refer to
page 61
Front fog lamps
Lights up whenever you switch
on the front fog lamps.
For additional information: refer to
page 85
Blue: for your information
High beams
Lights up when the high beams
are on as well as when the
headlamp flasher is activated.
For additional information: refer to
pages 59, 85
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Steering wheel with multifunction buttons
The controls integrated within the multi-
function steering wheel (MFL) have
been designed to allow you to operate
a number of accessories both quickly
and safely, without taking your eyes
from the road:
>
Selected control functions for the
radio along with CD and cassette
player
>
the cruise control
>
selected telephone functions
*
and
>
voice entry
*
.
The controls are active only when
the corresponding systems and
accessories are switched on.
<
Press briefly:
Receive a phone call, initiate dialing,
terminate a call.
Extended pressure:
Activate/deactivate voice entry.
Switch between phone and radio, cas-
sette and CD.
Forward:
>
Radio
Press briefly: station scan in FM band
Extended pressure: search function
>
CD
Press briefly: track scan
Extended pressure: search function
in track
>
Cassette
Press briefly: stop track scan or fast
forward
Extended pressure: fast forward
>
Phone
Scan personal phone book.
Reverse: functions as forward.
Volume
Cruise control: select a stored setting.
Cruise control: store and accelerate (+)
or decelerate and store (–).
Cruise control: activate/interrupt/deac-
tivate.
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Warning triangle
*
First-aid kit
*
Refueling
The hazard warning triangle is readily
accessible. It is stored in the container
for the onboard tool kit mounted in the
luggage compartment lid.
To open the container, loosen the
wingnut(s).
Always observe all legal regula-
tions requiring a warning triangle
to be carried in the vehicle.
<
394de053
Under the front passenger's seat.
To remove: lift the button on the front
(arrow) and pull the first-aid kit forward
out of its support.
To store: position the first-aid kit in the
support, then push back until the button
engages.
Some of the articles contained in
the first-aid kit have a limited
storage life and should be replaced at
periodic intervals. Please check the
expiration dates of each of the items
regularly, and replace any whose
expiration dates have passed. You can
acquire replacements in any drugstore
or pharmacy.
Always observe all legal regulations
requiring a first-aid kit to be carried in
the vehicle.<
390de716
Fuel filler door
Before filling the tank, shut off the
engine. If you do not, fuel cannot
be filled into the tank and the Service
Engine Soon lamp may come on.<
To open the filler door, press its front
edge.
If an electrical malfunction occurs, you
can unlock the fuel filler door manually:
1. Use the handle to lower the trim
panel on the right side of the luggage
compartment
2. Pull the button with the fuel pump
symbol.
394de729
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Refueling
Always observe all safety notices
posted at the service station when
refueling. Never carry spare fuel con-
tainers in your vehicle. Whether empty
or full, these containers can leak, cause
an explosion, or lead to fire in the event
of a collision.<
Simple and environmentally
friendly
Open the fuel filler cap carefully to
prevent fuel from spraying out. Fuel
spray may cause injury. Do not attempt
to continue adding fuel to the last drop,
as this practice can cause fuel to spill.<
Keep the fuel filler cap in the bracket
attached to the fuel filler door.
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle
completely into the filler pipe. Pulling the
nozzle out of the pipe during refueling
> results in premature pump shutoff
> and will reduce the effect of the vapor
recovery system on the pump.
As long as the filler nozzle is used prop-
erly, the fuel tank is full whenever the
nozzle shuts off the first time.
394de120
Refill early to avoid damaging the
catalytic converter; never attempt
to drive to the last drop of fuel in the
tank.<
Tank capacity: approx. 18.5 gal.
(70 liters), with reserve of approx.
2.5 gal. (10 liters).
Close the fuel filler cap carefully
after refueling until a click is
heard. While closing, be sure not to
squeeze the strap which is fastened to
the cap. A loose or missing cap will
activate the message "CHECK FILLER
CAP" in the Check Control.<
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Fuel specifications Tire inflation pressure
The engine uses lead-free gasoline
only.
Required fuel:
> Premium Unleaded Gasoline,
min. 91 AKI.
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Never use leaded fuel, as it would
cause permanent and irreparable
damage to both the oxygen sensor and
the catalytic converter.<
The inflation pressures are indicated
on a warning sticker attached to the
B-pillar behind the driver's door (visible
with door open).
Check tire pressures
All pressure specifications are indicated
in psi (kilopascal) for tires at ambient
temperature (refer also to the next
page).
After correcting the inflation pres-
sures in the tires, reactivate the
Flat Tire Monitor, refer to page 82.<
390de697
Check tire inflation pressures on a
regular basis, at least every two
weeks, and before every extended
journey. Otherwise, incorrect tire pres-
sure can lead to driving instability, tire
damage and accidents.<
Comply with tire approval
specifications
The inflation pressures in the table
apply to BMW approved tire sizes and
tire manufacturers. Your BMW center is
familiar with these pressures. Higher
pressures may be specified for tires
made by other manufacturers.
Your vehicle is equipped with tires
which not only meet US standards, but
also European standards. We recom-
mend the exclusive use of BMW
approved tires.
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Tire inflation pressure
BMW Tires
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) with cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
M5
245/40 ZR 18 35 (240) - 44 (300) -
275/35 ZR 18 - 38 (260) - 48 (330)
235/45 R 17 94 H M+S 35 (240) 38 (260) 39 (270) 46 (320)
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Controls
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
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Keys Central locking system
1 The master keys with remote control
determine the functions of the Key
Memory. Refer to page 55.
You can mark individual keys for sub-
sequent identification by applying the
colored decals that you received
when accepting delivery of your
vehicle
There is an extended-life battery
in every master key that is
charged automatically in the ignition
lock as you drive.
For this reason, if you have a master
key that is not in regular use, you
should use that key approx. once every
year while driving for an extended
period to charge the battery. For addi-
tional information refer to page 28.<
463de023
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place
such as in your wallet. This key is not
intended for continuous use
3 Door and ignition key
The lock for the glove compartment
cannot be operated with this key.
This is recommended for valet
parking, for instance
The concept
The central locking system is ready for
operation when both front doors are
closed. The system engages and
releases the locks on the
> doors
> luggage compartment lid
> fuel filler door.
The central locking system can be
operated
> from outside via the driver's door lock
as well as via the remote control
> from inside via the central locking
system button.
The fuel filler door is not locked when
you open the vehicle from the inside
(refer to page 31). The anti-theft system
is automatically armed whenever you
activate the central locking system from
outside of the vehicle. Both the door
locks and release handles remain
locked. The alarm system is also acti-
vated or deactivated.
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Central locking system Opening and closing – via the door lock
When you use the central locking
system to lock the doors from inside
the vehicle, it will automatically disen-
gage the locks if an accident occurs,
except on doors that have been locked
individually using the lock buttons, refer
to page 31. The accident response rou-
tine also includes automatic activation
of the hazard warning flashers and the
interior lamps.
Using the key
One turn of the key in the driver's door
lock unlocks the driver's door only.
Turning the key a second time unlocks
all of the remaining doors, the luggage
compartment lid and the fuel filler door.
Vehicles without armored glass:
do not lock the vehicle if anyone
will be remaining inside, as it would
then be impossible for the occupant(s)
to disengage the locks from the
inside.<
You can have a signal set as an
acknowledgment message that
the vehicle is locked correctly.<
390de723
Convenience operation
You can also operate the electric power
windows and the sliding/tilt sunroof via
the door lock.
> To open: with the door closed, turn
the key to the "Unlock" position and
hold it
> To close: with the door closed, turn
the key to the "Lock" position and
hold it.
Watch the closing process care-
fully and be sure that no one is
trapped by the closing motion.
Releasing the key stops the opera-
tion.<
Manual operation
(in the event of an electrical malfunc-
tion)
Turn the key all the way to the extreme
left or right to unlock/lock the driver's
door.
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Opening and closing – via the remote control
The concept
The remote control gives you an excep-
tionally convenient method for
unlocking and locking your vehicle. Fur-
thermore, it provides two additional
functions that can only be executed by
means of the remote control:
>
To switch on interior lamps, refer to
page 29
With this function, you can also
"search for" your vehicle – when
parked in an underground garage, for
instance
>
To open the luggage compartment
lid, refer to page 29
The luggage compartment lid will
open slightly, regardless of whether
it was previously locked or unlocked
>
Panic mode, refer to page 29
In case of danger, you can trigger an
alarm.
When you unlock (lock) your vehicle the
system automatically deactivates (acti-
vates) the anti-theft system and disarms
(arms)
the alarm system while also
switching on (off) the interior lamps.
You can have a signal set as an
acknowledgment message that
the vehicle is locked correctly.
<
1 Unlock, convenience opening and
alarm system
2 Lock and secure, interior lamp activa-
tion, disarming tilt alarm sensor and
interior motion sensor
3 Open the luggage compartment lid,
panic mode
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Master keys with remote control
Since passengers or animals
remaining in the vehicle might be
able to lock the doors from the inside,
take the vehicle's keys with you so that
the vehicle can be opened again from
the outside at any time.
<
Master keys that are used repeat-
edly are always ready for opera-
tion, since the battery in the key is
charged automatically in the ignition
lock as you drive.
If it is no longer possible to unlock the
vehicle via the remote control, the
battery is discharged. Use this key
while driving for an extended period in
order to recharge the battery. For more
information refer to page 26.
Prevent unauthorized use of the remote
control by surrendering e.g. only the
door and ignition key 3 or the spare
key 2 (refer to page 26) when leaving
the vehicle for valet parking.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your BMW center, which
is also your source for replacement
keys.
<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Opening and closing – via the remote control
To unlock
Press button.
Press the button once to unlock the
driver's door and the fuel filler door
only; press a second time to unlock all
remaining doors as well as the luggage
compartment lid.
Convenience opening mode
Press and hold button to open the elec-
tric power windows and sliding/tilt sun-
roof.
To lock and secure
Press button.
Vehicles without armored glass:
Do not lock the vehicle if anyone
will be remaining inside, as it would
then be impossible for the occupant(s)
to disengage the locks from the
inside.<
To deactivate the tilt alarm sensor
and the interior motion sensor
Press button a second time immedi-
ately after locking.
For additional information: refer to
page 36.
To switch on the interior lamps
With the vehicle locked, press button.
To open the luggage
compartment lid
Press button.
The luggage compartment lid will open
slightly, regardless of whether the lid
was previously locked or unlocked.
Before and after a trip, be sure
that the luggage compartment lid
has not been opened unintentionally.<
Panic mode
Provided that the alarm system is
armed, you can respond to imminent
danger by holding down the button for
between two and five seconds.
To cancel alarm
Press button.
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For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units
comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communications Commission) regula-
tions. Operation is governed by the
following:
FCC ID: LX8EWS
LX8FZVS
LX8FZVE
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
> This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
> this device must accept any interfer-
ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications
to these devices could void the
user's authority to operate the equip-
ment.<
Opening and closing – via the remote control
External systems
External systems or devices may cause
local interference in the functions of the
remote control.
If this should occur, you can unlock and
lock the vehicle via the door lock with a
master key.
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Opening and closing – from the inside
Use this button to operate the central
locking system when the front doors
are closed. The doors and luggage
compartment lid are unlocked or locked
only. The anti-theft alarm system is not
activated. Also, the fuel filler door
remains unlocked to allow refueling.
The central locking system can
be locked automatically as soon
as you begin to drive, if you desire.
You may also have this function pro-
grammed into individual keys.<
390de691
If only the driver's door was
unlocked from the outside and
you press the button
> all other doors, the luggage compart-
ment lid and the fuel filler door will be
unlocked if the driver's door is open
> the driver's door will be locked again
when it is closed.<
To unlock and open the doors
> Either unlock the doors together with
the button for the central locking
system and then pull each of the
release handles above the armrests
or
> pull the release handle for each door
twice: the first pull unlocks the door,
and the second one opens it.
To engage the locks
> Use the central locking button to lock
all of the doors simultaneously,
or
> press the individual safety lock but-
tons down. As an added design fea-
ture to prevent the driver from being
inadvertently locked out of the
vehicle, the driver's door safety lock
button will not engage as long as the
door is open.
Never use the look buttons while
the vehicle is underway, as the
doors would then fail to open automati-
cally in the event of an accident.
Since passengers or animals remaining
in the vehicle might be able to lock the
doors from the inside, take the vehicle's
keys with you so that the vehicle can be
opened again from the outside at any
time.<
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Luggage compartment lid
The lock
Only the master key (refer to page 26)
fits in the lock for the luggage compart-
ment lid.
To open separately
Turn the master key to the left in the
luggage compartment lock, continuing
until it stops – the luggage compart-
ment lid will open slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as you close the lid.
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To secure separately
Turn the master key to the right past the
pressure point and then pull it out in the
horizontal position.
This locks the luggage compartment
and disconnects it from the central
locking system. This feature can be
used to prevent unauthorized access to
the luggage compartment when you
hand over the door and ignition key 3
(refer to page 26) for valet parking, etc.
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Manual operation
(in the event of an electrical malfunc-
tion)
Turn the master key to the left in the
luggage compartment lock all the way
to the stop – the luggage compartment
lid will open slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as you close the lid.
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Luggage compartment lid
To open from the outside
Press the button (arrow): the luggage
compartment lid opens slightly.
The luggage compartment is illumi-
nated when the luggage compartment
lid is opened.
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To open from the inside
Provided the luggage compartment has
not been locked separately, you can
use this button to open it when the
vehicle is stationary.
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To close
The handle recess (arrow) next to the
lock mechanism is designed to assist
you in closing the luggage compart-
ment lid.
Operate the vehicle only when
the luggage compartment lid is
completely closed. An open lid would
allow exhaust fumes to penetrate into
the interior of the vehicle. Should it be
absolutely necessary to operate the
vehicle with the luggage compartment
lid open:
> Close all windows. Shut the sliding/
tilt sunroof
> Set the automatic climate control for
maximum airflow, refer to page 89.
<
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Luggage compartment lid Luggage compartment
Emergency release
This lever releases the luggage com-
partment lid from the luggage compart-
ment's interior.
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Luggage net
Use the luggage net to secure smaller
items of luggage.
If you place objects on the luggage net,
this helps to prevent them from moving.
Lashing eyes for attaching flexible
straps
* to secure your luggage are
located in the corners of the luggage
compartment.
Refer also to "Cargo loading" on
page 102.
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Hanger*
On the left-hand side of the luggage
compartment is a hanger for fastening
shopping bags, packages and similar
items.
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Alarm system
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
> When a door, the hood or the lug-
gage compartment lid are opened
> To movement inside the vehicle (inte-
rior motion sensor)
> Variations in the vehicle's tilt angle of
the kind that occur during attempts to
steal the wheels or tow the vehicle
> To interruption of battery voltage.
The system responds to unauthorized
vehicle entry and attempted theft by
simultaneously activating the following:
> Sounding an acoustical alarm for
30 seconds
> The hazard warning flashers are acti-
vated for approx. five minutes
> The high beams flash on and off in
the same rhythm as the hazard
warning flashers.
To arm and disarm the
alarm system
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked
with the key or the remote control, the
alarm system is also simultaneously
armed or disarmed.
You can have different acknowl-
edgment messages set to confirm
arming and disarming.<
You can also open the luggage com-
partment lid when the system is armed
by pressing the button on the remote
control (refer to page 29). When you
close the luggage compartment lid, the
luggage compartment is secured again.
Indicator lamp displays
> The indicator lamp below the interior
rearview mirror flashes continuously:
the system is armed
> The indicator lamp flashes during
arming: a door (or doors), the hood,
luggage compartment lid or rear
window are not completely closed.
Even if you do not respond by
securing the indicated area, the
system will start monitoring all other
areas, and the indicator lamp flashes
continuously after 10 seconds. How-
ever, the interior motion sensor is not
activated
> If the indicator lamp goes out when
the system is disarmed: no manipula-
tion or attempted intrusions have
been detected in the period since the
system was armed
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Alarm system Electric power windows
> If the indicator lamp flashes for
10 seconds when the system is dis-
armed: an attempted entry has been
detected in the period since the
system was armed.
Following triggering of an alarm, the
indicator lamp will flash continuously.
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion
sensor may be switched off at the same
time. You can do this to prevent an
unintentional alarm from being trig-
gered (in garages with elevator ramps,
for instance), or when the vehicle is
transported by trailer or train:
Actuate the lock (= arm the system)
twice; in other words, press button 2 of
the remote control twice in succession
(refer to page 29). You may also actuate
the locks twice with the key (refer to
page 27).
The indicator lamp lights up briefly and
then flashes continuously. The tilt alarm
sensor and the interior motion sensor
are deactivated as long as the system is
armed.
Interior motion sensor
In order for the interior motion sensor to
function properly, the windows and
sliding/tilt sunroof must be completely
closed.
Nevertheless, you should deactivate
the interior motion sensor (refer to
"Avoiding unintentional alarms") if
> children or animals are left in the
vehicle
> the windows or the sliding/tilt sunroof
are being left open.
To open and close windows
In ignition key position 1 and 2:
> Depress the rocker switch until you
feel resistance:
The window continues moving for as
long as you maintain pressure on the
switch
> Press the rocker switch beyond the
pressure point:
The window moves automatically.
Press the switch a second time to
stop the window.
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Electric power windows
After the ignition has been switched off:
> You can still operate the power win-
dows as long as neither of the front
doors has been opened. To open a
window, press the switch beyond the
pressure point.
When leaving the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key from the
lock and remember to close the doors
to prevent children from operating the
power windows and injuring them-
selves, etc.<
For convenience operation via the door
lock or remote control, refer to page 27
or 29.
Safety feature
A contact strip is located on the inside
upper frame of each of the windows. If
pressure is exerted against this contact
strip while a window is being raised, the
system will respond by stopping the
window and then retracting it slightly.
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful to ensure that
the closing path of the window is not
obstructed. Otherwise, an object might
not touch the contact strip in some situ-
ations (very thin objects, for instance).
You can disable this safety feature by
pressing the switch beyond the pres-
sure point and holding it.
Because the power windows are sealed
at high pressure to prevent wind noise
when closed, a powerful motor is
required for efficient closing. When
closing the windows, always be sure
that they are not obstructed in any way.
Unsupervised use of these systems can
result in serious personal injury.
Remove the ignition key to deactivate
the electric power windows whenever
you leave the vehicle. Never leave the
keys in the vehicle with unsupervised
children. Never place anything that
could obstruct the driver's vision on or
next to the windows.<
Safety switch
With the safety switch you can prevent
the rear windows from being opened
or closed via the switch in the rear pas-
senger area (by children, for example).
Press the safety switch whenever
children are riding in the rear of
the vehicle. Careless use of the power
windows can lead to injury.<
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Sliding/tilt sunroof*
To prevent injuries, exercise
care when closing the sliding/tilt
sunroof and keep it in your field of
vision until it is shut.
Before leaving the vehicle, switch off
the electric sunroof mechanism by
removing the ignition key. Do not leave
children unattended in the vehicle with
access to vehicle keys. The key can be
used to start the engine and to operate
vehicle systems such as the power sun-
roof, etc. Unsupervised use of these
systems can result in serious personal
injury.<
For convenience operation via the door
lock or remote control, refer to page 27
or 29.
Raising – opening – closing
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher, press the switch or slide it in the
desired direction until you feel resis-
tance.
When lifting, the headliner retracts sev-
eral inches.
The headliner insert can not be
closed with the sunroof in its
raised position.<
After the ignition has been switched off,
you can still operate the sliding/tilt sun-
roof as long as no front door has been
opened.
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Automatic opening and closing
Press the switch past the pressure
point briefly: the sunroof travels to
either the fully-closed or fully-open
position.
Other automatic operations are:
> With the sunroof open, press the
switch briefly toward "Lift": the sun-
roof automatically extends to its fully-
raised position
> With the sunroof lifted, press the
switch briefly toward "Open": the
sunroof automatically opens all the
way.
Pressing the switch again stops the
motion immediately.
Safety feature
If the sliding/tilt sunroof encounters
resistance at a point roughly past the
middle of its travel when it is closing,
the closing cycle is interrupted and the
sunroof will open again slightly.
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Sliding/tilt sunroof*
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful to ensure that
the closing path of the roof is not
obstructed. Remember that the safety
mechanism may not be able to detect
every kind of potential obstruction (very
thin objects, for instance). You can dis-
able this safety feature by pressing the
switch beyond the pressure point and
holding it.<
Sliding/tilt sunroof with glass
moonroof insert
*
The options and control procedures are
essentially the same as those previ-
ously described for the sliding/tilt sun-
roof. In order to open the raised roof,
press the control switch towards
"Open" and maintain pressure until the
roof has reached the desired position.
The headliner insert slides back some-
what when you raise the sunroof, and
retracts along with the sunroof panel
when you slide it back. The insert then
remains open, and you can slide it back
and forth to adjust it whenever the sun-
roof is not fully retracted.
Interruption in the electrical
supply
After interruptions in the electrical
supply (when the battery is discon-
nected, for instance), the sunroof may
only lift. To reinitialize the mechanism:
1. Raise the sliding/tilt sunroof fully
2. Press and hold the switch for approx.
20 seconds.
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Manual operation
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can also operate the sliding/tilt
sunroof manually.
1. Remove the interior lamp, then reach
into the exposed opening and press
out the cover
2. Use the Allen key from the onboard
tool kit (refer to page 124) to turn the
sliding/tilt sunroof in the desired
direction.
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For relaxed and fatigue-free driving you
should select a seating position that
reflects your personal requirements.
Correct seating position combines with
safety belts and airbags to enhance
occupant safety in the event of an acci-
dent. To ensure that the vehicle's safety
systems provide you with optimal pro-
tection, we request that you direct your
careful attention to the following sec-
tion.
For additional information on trans-
porting children, refer to page 51.
Sitting safely with airbags
Always maintain an adequate dis-
tance between yourself and
the airbags. Always hold the steering
wheel by the rim with the hands at the
9 and 3-o'clock positions to keep any
chance of injury to hands or arms to an
absolute minimum should the airbag be
deployed. Never allow any objects,
individuals or animals to obstruct the
areas between passengers and airbags.
Never use the front airbag's cover as a
storage tray or support for objects of
any kind. Never allow front passengers
to rest their feet or legs on the airbag
cover.<
For airbag locations and additional
information on airbags refer to page 49.
Sitting safely with safety belt
Never allow more than one person
to wear a single safety belt. Never
allow infants or small children to ride in
a passenger's lap. Avoid twisting the
belt while routing it firmly across the
pelvis and shoulder, wear it as snugly
against your body as possible. Do not
allow the belt to rest against hard or
fragile objects in your pockets. Do not
route the belt across your neck, or run it
across sharp edges. Avoid wearing
bulky clothing and pull on the lap belt
periodically to retension it over your
shoulders. In the event of a frontal
impact, a loose lap belt could slide over
the hips, leading to abdominal injury. In
addition, the safety belt's restraint
effectiveness is reduced if it is worn
loosely. Expectant mothers should
always wear their safety belts, taking
care to position the lap belt against the
lower hips, where it will not exert pres-
sure against the abdominal area.<
For information on using the safety
belts refer to page 44.
When adjusting your seat, always
observe the following precautions
Never try to adjust your seat while
operating the vehicle. The seat
could respond with an unexpected
movement, and the ensuing loss of
vehicle control could lead to an acci-
dent. Never ride with the backrest
reclined to an extreme horizontal angle
(important for front passengers to
remember), otherwise, there is a risk
that you will slide under the safety belt
in an accident, thus negating the pro-
tection the safety belt provides.
Do not move the seats to the rear when
the vehicle is at an extreme angle (on
garage ramps or steep slopes, for
example). If you do so, the automatic
safety belt height adjustment can be
disengaged.<
Seat adjustment
> BMW M sport seat, refer to page 41
> BMW comfort seat, refer to page 42
> Head restraints, refer to page 43
> BMW active seat, refer to page 43
Sitting safely Seats
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BMW M sport seat
1 Tilt (driver's seat only)
2 Backward/forward adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle
5 Head restraint height
To adjust the angle of the head restraint
manually, tilt to the desired angle.
Please refer to the adjustment
instructions on page 40 to reduce
the risk of personal injury.<
39mde009
Lumbar support
You can adjust the backrest's contour
for additional support in the curvature
of your spine's lumbar region.
The upper hips and spinal column
receive supplementary support to help
you maintain a relaxed, upright seating
position.
> Press front/rear of switch: increase/
decrease curvature
> Press the upper/lower end of the
switch: increase the upper/lower cur-
vature.
39mde114
Thigh support
Press switch: you can adjust the thigh
support for maximum personal comfort.
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BMW comfort seat*
This seat also allows you to make addi-
tional adjustments using the power seat
system (refer to BMW M sport seat,
page 41) for
1 Lumbar support
2 Shoulder support
Please refer to the adjustment
instructions on page 40 to reduce
the risk of personal injury.<
Lumbar support
Refer to BMW M sport seat on page 41.
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Shoulder support
Press the switch: the support angle of
the upper backrest section is adjusted.
You can use the adjustable upper back-
rest for supplementary support in the
shoulder region. This provides a
relaxed seating position and helps
relieve stress on the shoulder muscles.
To obtain the optimal shoulder support
position, we recommend:
Driver and front passenger:
1. Adjust the upper backrest section to
its extreme rear position
2. Adjust for the optimal seating posi-
tion as described on page 40
3. Bring the upper backrest section
forward until your shoulders enjoy
firm support.
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Front passenger's seat adjusted for
relaxed traveling:
1. Adjust the upper backrest section
to its extreme rear position
2. Lower the backrest slightly to
increase the tilt angle
3. Bring the upper backrest section
forward until your shoulders enjoy
firm support.
Make corrections in the forward/
backward adjustment of the seat
to ensure that the safety belt still fits
firmly against your body. Failure to
observe this precaution can reduce the
amount of protection provided by your
safety belt.<
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Head restraints BMW active seat*
Head restraints
To adjust the angle of the front head
restraints: tilt the head restraint.
To adjust the height of the rear head
restraints: pull up or push down.
Head restraints reduce the risk
of spinal injury in the event of an
accident.
Adjust the head restraint so that its
center is approximately level with your
ears.
Leave the center-rear head restraint in
the fully-lowered position at all times.
Extending it limits its function.<
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Active changes in the seat's cushion
helps to avoid muscle cramps, pain in
the spine's lumbar region and fatigue.
To activate, press the button.
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Safety belts
Drive with your safety belt on
Always fasten your safety belt before
starting off. As supplemental restraint
devices, the airbags are designed to
enhance the effectiveness of the safety
belts, and not to replace them.
To close
Make sure you hear the catch engage in
the belt buckle.
To open
1. Press the red button in the belt
buckle
2. Hold the end of the belt
3. Guide the belt back into the inertia
reel.
39mde069
The shoulder belt anchor automatically
adjusts to continue providing an
optimum fit when you move the seat
forward or back.
The rear belt buckle with the word
"CENTER" is intended exclusively
for the passenger sitting in the middle.
Vehicles with through-loading system
*:
please refer to the instructions for using
the rear center belt found on page 99.<
If the safety belt system has been
subjected to the stresses involved
in an accident or otherwise damaged:
to ensure that the safety belts continue
to provide effective protection, always
have the entire safety belt mechanism
replaced and the belt anchorages
inspected at your BMW center.
If a child-restraint system was in the
vehicle during an accident, consult the
manufacturer's instructions regarding
replacement.<
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Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory
You can store and call up three different
seat, exterior mirror and steering wheel
positions. The illustration shows the
buttons on the driver's door for making
these position adjustments.
The setting for the lumbar support is
not stored in memory.
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To store
1. Turn the key to ignition key position
1 or 2
2. Adjust to the desired positions for
the seat, exterior mirror and steering
wheel
3. Press the
MEMORY button: the indi-
cator lamp in the button lights up
4. Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as
desired. The indicator lamp goes out.
To select a stored setting
Convenience function:
1. The driver's door remains open after
unlocking or the ignition key is in
position 1
2. Briefly press memory button 1, 2
or 3, as desired.
Movement stops immediately when
one of the seat adjustment or
memory buttons is activated during
the adjustment process.
Safety function:
1. With the driver's door closed and the
ignition key either removed or in
position 0 or 2
2. Maintain pressure on the desired
memory button (1, 2 or 3) until the
adjustment process is completed.
If you should happen to press the
MEMORY button by mistake: press the
button a second time; the indicator
lamp goes out.
Do not call up a position from
the memory while the vehicle is
moving. There is a risk of accident from
unexpected movement of the seat or
steering wheel.<
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Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory Seat heating
Your BMW center can adjust
your vehicle's systems in such a
manner that your personalized settings
are automatically called up for the seat,
mirror and steering wheel positions
when you unlock the vehicle with your
personal remote control key.<
Before using the key memory fea-
ture to unlock the vehicle always
ensure that no objects are stored in the
footwell behind the driver's seat. If you
fail to do so, persons or objects could
be injured or damaged if the seat
should move backward.<
Passenger-side exterior mirror
tilt function
(automatic curb monitor)
1 Move the mirror selector switch
(arrow) to the "driver's mirror" posi-
tion
2 When the gearshift lever or the
selector lever is placed in "Reverse,"
the passenger-side mirror tilts down-
ward to help the driver monitor the
area directly adjacent to the vehicle
during parking (curbs, etc.).
You can deactivate this automatic fea-
ture by setting the mirror selector
switch to the "passenger-side" posi-
tion.
390de720
The seat cushion and backrest can be
heated with the ignition key in
position 2. You can select different
heating modes by repeatedly pressing
the buttons.
You can also switch the higher heating
modes off directly:
Press the button and hold it slightly
longer.
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Steering wheel
Adjustments
The steering wheel can be moved in
any of four directions. Adjust by moving
the control lever in the desired direc-
tion.
Do not adjust the steering wheel
while the vehicle is moving. There
is a risk of accident from unexpected
movement.<
To store the steering wheel setting,
refer to "Seat, mirror and steering
wheel memory" on page 45.
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Automatic steering wheel
adjustment
In order to make it easier to get into and
out of the vehicle, the steering wheel
automatically moves into the top posi-
tion and returns to the driving (memory)
position.
This automatic feature is controlled by
the position of the ignition key and by
the driver's door.
Your BMW center can adjust
your vehicle's systems in such a
manner that your personalized setting is
automatically called up for the steering
wheel position when you unlock the
vehicle with your personal key.<
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Mirrors
Exterior mirrors
1 Switch for 4-way adjustment
2 Selector switch for changing
between mirrors
To adjust manually
The mirrors can also be adjusted by
hand:
Press the edge of the lens.
To store mirror settings, refer to "Seat,
mirror and steering wheel memory" on
page 45.
390us733
Convex mirror
The passenger-side mirror fea-
tures a convex lens. When esti-
mating the distance between yourself
and other traffic, bear in mind that the
objects reflected in the mirror are closer
than they appear.<
Your BMW center can adjust
your vehicle's systems in such a
manner that your personalized setting is
automatically called up for the mirror
position when you unlock the vehicle
with your personal remote control.<
Self-defrosting mirrors
Both mirrors are automatically
defrosted with the ignition key in
position 2.
Interior and exterior mirrors,
automatic dimming feature
These mirrors automatically respond
to glare from following vehicles by dim-
ming through an infinitely variable
range. The mirrors automatically revert
to their clear, undimmed setting when-
ever you select reverse.
The interior rearview mirror's dimming
function is regulated by two photocells;
one is integrated in the mirror's lens
(arrow), while the other is located at an
offset position on the rear of the mirror.
To ensure that the mirror continues
to operate efficiently, ensure that the
area adjacent to the photocells remains
clear and unobstructed. Refrain from
attaching stickers or other objects to
windshield immediately behind the
rearview mirror.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Airbags
1 Front airbags on the driver and
passenger sides
2 Head protection airbags on driver
and passenger side (front and rear
*)
3 Side airbags on driver and passenger
side (front and rear
*)
Protective effect
The front airbags help to protect the
driver and passenger in the event of a
head-on collision where the protection
provided by the safety belt alone would
not be adequate. The head protection
airbags and side airbags help provide
protection in the event of a collision
from the side. Each of the side airbags
is designed to help support the occu-
pant's upper body.
39mde084
The side airbags in the rear pas-
senger area
* of your vehicle may
already have been deactivated, either
at the time of manufacture or by a BMW
center. You may have them activated if
you desire to do so. Please contact
your BMW center for additional infor-
mation.<
For information on the correct seating
position, refer to page 40.
The airbags will not be triggered in
the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle rollover or a collision from the
rear.<
Never apply stickers or adhesive-
backed objects of any kind to the
airbag covers. Never attempt to reup-
holster the covers or modify them in any
way. If the airbags deploy in response
to an accident, if you note any signs of
system malfunction, or if you wish to
have any parts of the airbag passenger-
restraint system deactivated, always
contact your BMW center, to whom we
strongly urge you to entrust all testing,
repair and dismantling operations.
Never attempt to modify or tamper with
either the system's electrical wiring or
any of its individual components.
System components include the uphol-
stered surfaces on the steering wheel,
instrument panel, the trim panels on the
front and rear doors and the roof braces
as well as the sides of the headliner
above the doors.
Never attempt to remove or dismantle
the steering wheel.
To ensure compliance with official
safety regulations, always entrust dis-
posal of airbag generators to your BMW
center. Attempts to carry out service
procedures undertaken by anyone
other than specially-trained profes-
sionals can result in system failure or
undesired airbag deployment, both of
which can lead to personal injury. If the
airbags deploy in response to an acci-
dent, always remember to avoid all
contact with system components, as
they are hot and can cause burns in the
period immediately following deploy-
ment.<
All vehicle occupants should
always sit upright and be properly
restrained (infants and small children in
appropriate child-restraint systems;
larger children and adults using the
safety belts). Never let an occupant's
head rest near or on a side airbag: the
inflating airbag could cause a serious or
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Airbags
fatal injury. Please note that the word
"Airbag" imprinted on the door trim
panel indicates the airbag's location.
Accident research shows that the
safest place for children in an automo-
bile is in the rear seat. However, a child
sitting in the rear seat and not properly
restrained may place his or her head on
or near the side airbag, if installed. For
example, a child – even though belted –
may fall asleep with his or her head
against the side airbag. It may be diffi-
cult for a driver to ensure that children
in the rear seat will remain properly
positioned at all times and do not place
their heads on or near the side airbag.
Therefore, we recommend that the
rear-seat side airbags, if provided, be
deactivated if you plan to transport chil-
dren in the rear seat.
The rear-seat side airbags may already
have been deactivated, either at the
time of manufacture or by a BMW
center. Labels in the rear door opening
should indicate the status of your rear-
seat side airbags. If you are uncertain of
their status, or wish to have the airbags
activated or deactivated, please con-
tact your BMW center.<
Even when all these guidelines are fol-
lowed, there is still a small residual risk
of injuries to the face, hands and arms
occurring in isolated instances.
The ignition and inflation noise may
provoke a mild temporary hearing loss
in extremely sensitive individuals.
Airbag warning information is also pro-
vided on the sun visors.
This is the right way a child should sit in
a child restraint when rear side airbags
(arrow) are provided.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Airbags Transporting children
This is the right way a larger child
should sit wearing the safety belt when
rear side airbags (arrow) are provided.
380de638
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp indicates the
operational status of the airbag
system from ignition key posi-
tion 1.
System operational:
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
then goes out.
System malfunction:
> The indicator lamp fails to come on
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
before going out and then lighting up
again.
Please respond to any malfunctions
in the system by immediately having it
inspected at your BMW center; other-
wise the airbag could fail to respond
to an accident in which both the angle
and the severity of the impact would
normally trigger airbag deployment.
Commercially-available child-restraint
systems are designed to be secured
with a lap belt or with the lap belt por-
tion of a combination lap/shoulder belt.
Improperly or inadequately installed
restraint systems can increase the risk
of injury to children. Always read and
follow the instructions that come with
the system.
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Transporting children safely
Child-restraint system with
tether strap
If you use a child-restraint system with
a tether strap, three additional tether
anchorage points have been provided –
refer to the arrows in the illustration.
Depending on the location selected for
seating in the rear passenger area,
attach the tether strap to the corre-
sponding anchorage point to secure the
child-restraint system, as shown in the
following illustration.
380us123
Each seating position is fitted with a
head restraint. Lift the head restraint
and pass the tether strap between the
head restraint and the seat back. It is
recommended to readjust the head
restraint into the lowest possible posi-
tion.
Adjust the tether strap according to the
child restraint manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
394au003
Before installing any child-
restraint device or child seat,
please read the following:
Never install a rearward-facing child-
restraint system in the front passenger
seat of this vehicle.
Your vehicle is equipped with an airbag
supplemental restraint system for the
front passenger. Because the backrest
on any rearward-facing child-restraint
system (of the kind designed for infants
under 1 year and 20 Ibs./9 kg) would be
within the airbag's deployment range,
you should never mount such a device
in the front passenger seat, since the
impact of the airbag against the child
restraint's backrest could lead to
serious or fatal injuries.
If it is necessary for a child (not an
infant) to ride in the front seat, certain
precautions should be taken. First,
move the passenger seat as far away
from the instrument panel as possible.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Transporting children safely
This important precaution is intended to
maximize the distance between the
airbag and the child. Older children
should be tightly secured with a safety
belt, after they have outgrown a booster
seat that is appropriate for their age,
height and weight.
Younger children should be secured in
an appropriate forward-facing child-
restraint system that has first been
properly secured with a safety belt.
Never install a rearward-facing child-
restraint system in the front passenger
seat. We strongly urge you to carefully
read and comply with the instructions
for installation and use provided by the
child restraint's manufacturer when-
ever you use such a device.
Be sure that all occupants (of all ages)
remain properly and securely restrained
at all times.<
All rear seating positions in your vehicle
meet the recommendations of SAE
J1819, an industry-recommended prac-
tice for securing child-restraint systems
in motor vehicles.
Child-restraint installation
All of the rear belt retractors and the
front passenger's safety belt can be
locked for mounting and securing child-
restraint systems. A label with the
appropriate instructions is located in
the immediate vicinity of the buckle
latch of each safety belt.
Lock the safety belt
Extract the entire length of the belt from
the belt retractor. Allow the reel to
retract the belt somewhat and engage
the buckle, then tighten the belt against
the child-restraint system. The retrac-
tion mechanism is now locked.
Unlock the safety belt
Release the buckle, remove the child-
restraint device and allow the belt
retractor to reel the belt completely in.
365us146
LATCH child-restraint anchorage
points
*
LATCH: Lower Anchor and Tethers for
CHildren.
Snap the rear center lap belt into the
buckle with the word CENTER and then
pull the belt away from the area where
the child restraint will be mounted.
Vehicles with through-loading
system
*: use the small lock mech-
anism to connect the two sections of
the center belt, refer to page 99.<
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Transporting children safely
The rear outer seating positions are
provided with anchors for a LATCH
child-restraint system. The illustrations
show the right rear seat as an example.
The outer anchorage points for the
LATCH child-restraint system are
marked with small flags.
394us750
Canadian models only:
The anchorage points for the LATCH
child-restraint system are marked with
buttons.
To attach the LATCH child-
restraint system, your BMW
center will provide an installation guide.
The guide, although not necessary for
installation of a LATCH child-restraint
system, will facilitate the installation
and also help protect the vehicle's
seating surfaces. Carefully read and
comply with the safety precautions of
the manufacturer.<
394us749
Child-safety locks
Insert the key in the slot of a rear door
lock and turn it outward:
The door can now be opened from the
outside only.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Vehicle Memory, Key Memory
How the system functions
No doubt you have reflected at one
time or another on how great it would
be if you could permanently configure
your vehicle's various features and
adjustments to mirror your own indi-
vidual preferences. In engineering your
vehicle, BMW has incorporated a
number of options for personal adjust-
ment that can be programmed into your
vehicle at your BMW center.
The available configuration data fall into
two categories, according to whether
their primary orientation is the vehicle
("Vehicle Memory") or the individual
("Key Memory"). Provided that each
person has a separate remote-control
key, you can have your BMW center
enter two personal adjustments for two
different individuals into the system.
463de029
When your vehicle is unlocked with the
remote control, the vehicle recognizes
the individual user by means of a data
exchange with the key, and makes
adjustments accordingly.
In order for you to distinguish between
different keys, colored decals are sup-
plied together with the keys.
What the system can do
Your BMW center can provide you with
details on the capabilities of the Vehicle
Memory and Key Memory systems. A
few examples follow below:
Examples for Vehicle Memory:
> Various signals as acknowledgment
when locking or unlocking your
vehicle
> Activates/deactivates the "Follow me
home" function.
Examples for Key Memory:
> Locks the vehicle when you start off
> Automatically adjusts the driver's
seat, the exterior mirrors and the
steering wheel position to your per-
sonal programmed settings when you
unlock the vehicle
> The automatic climate control
assumes your preset comfort settings
when you unlock the vehicle.
You will see this symbol through-
out the Owner's Manual. It is to
remind you at appropriate places of the
settings that are available to you.<
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0 Steering locked
1 Steering unlocked
2 Ignition switched on
3 Starting engine
Steering locked
The key can be inserted or removed in
this position only.
An acoustic warning is sounded when
you fail to remove the ignition key after
opening the driver's door.
After removing the key, turn the
steering wheel slightly to the left or right
until the lock engages.
390de010
Steering unlocked
Turning the steering wheel slightly to
the right or left often makes it easier to
turn the key from 0 to 1.
Individual electrical accessories are
ready for operation.
Starting engine
Depress the clutch when starting the
engine. A lockout prevents the engine
from starting with the clutch engaged.
Before starting
> Engage the parking brake
> Move the gearshift lever to the neu-
tral position
> Depress the clutch pedal.
Do not allow the engine to run in
enclosed spaces. The exhaust
gases contain carbon monoxide, an
odorless and colorless, but highly toxic
gas. Breathing the exhaust gases poses
an extreme health risk, and can lead to
unconsciousness and death.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.<
Steering/Ignition lock Starting the engine
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Starting the engine Switching off the engine
Starting engine
Do not press the accelerator pedal
while starting the engine.
While it is important not to release
the key prematurely, you should
also avoid allowing the starter to
operate continuously for more than
20 seconds at a time. Release the igni-
tion key immediately when the engine
starts.<
Do not warm up the engine by allowing
it to run with the vehicle parked.
Instead, you should drive away immedi-
ately while taking care to avoid high
engine speeds until the engine warms
to its normal operating temperature.
If the engine does not start on the first
attempt (the engine is very hot or cold,
for instance):
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Cold starts at extremely low tempera-
tures of roughly +57 (–156) or below
and at altitudes of over 3,300 ft
(1,000 m):
> Allow the starter to turn somewhat
longer (approx. 10 seconds) during
your initial starting attempt.
The engine's idle speed is automatically
regulated by the computerized engine-
management system. A brief period at
high idle is normal just after starting; the
idle speed should gradually return to
normal as the engine warms. Should
the engine fail to revert to its normal
idle speed after warming, a problem
may exist: please refer the problem to
your BMW center.
To prevent the battery from discharging,
always switch off any electrical devices
not in use, as well as the ignition when
the vehicle is not being driven.
Extended starting attempts,
characterized by excessively fre-
quent or long periods with the
starter engaged, can lead to catalyst
damage.<
When driving, standing at idle,
and parking the vehicle, take care
to avoid contact between the exhaust
system and flammable materials (grass,
hay, leaves, etc.). Such contact could
lead to a fire, resulting in serious per-
sonal injury and property damage.<
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Do not remove the ignition key
while the vehicle is still moving. If
you do so, the steering will lock, making
it impossible to steer the vehicle.
When you leave the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key and engage the
steering lock.
Always engage the parking brake
when parking on hills and inclined sur-
faces, as even first gear or reverse may
not provide adequate resistance to
rolling.<
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Parking brake Manual transmission
The parking brake is designed primarily
to prevent the vehicle from rolling when
it is parked. It operates on the rear
wheels.
To engage
The lever engages automatically when
it is pulled up, and the "PARK BRAKE"
(in Canada "P") indicator lamp comes
on in the instrument cluster in ignition
key position 2. Refer to page 17.
To release
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the
button and lower the lever.
390de714
If, in exceptional circumstances, it
should be necessary to engage
the parking brake while the vehicle is in
motion, do not pull it with excessive
pressure. Keep your thumb pressed
against the release button while care-
fully pulling the lever up to apply mod-
erate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)
at the rear axle.
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is applied. Always
engage the parking brake when parking
on hills and inclined surfaces, as even
first gear or reverse may not provide
adequate resistance to rolling.<
You can help prevent corrosion and
maintain balanced braking by periodi-
cally pulling up the parking brake lever
gently while coasting to a stop at a
traffic light. Always check traffic condi-
tions first to avoid posing a hazard to
yourself or other road users.
When shifting gears, always depress
the clutch pedal all the way down, then
move the gearshift lever until it engages
securely in the desired gear.
You will also need to depress the clutch
when starting the engine, as an auto-
matic lockout prevents the starter from
operating when the clutch is engaged.
When the vehicle lighting is switched
on, the shift pattern is illuminated on
the gearshift lever.
When shifting gears in the 5th/
6th-gear plane, be sure to press
the gearshift lever to the right in order
to prevent inadvertent selection of a
gear in the 3rd/4th-gear plane.<
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Manual transmission Turn signal/Headlamp flasher
Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is com-
pletely stopped. Press the gearshift
lever to the left to overcome the resis-
tance.
As you do this, the backup lamps will
turn on automatically when the ignition
key is in position 2.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or "riding" the
clutch. Use the parking brake instead.
Riding the clutch causes the clutch
assembly to wear out prematurely.<
1 High beam (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator
lamp)
3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator
lamp accompanied by periodic
clicking sound from the relay)
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond
the pressure point. It then returns to the
center position when released.
If the indicator lamp and the
clicking from the relay are both
faster than normal, one of the turn
signal indicators has failed.<
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Washer/Wiper system/Rain sensor
0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent mode or rain sensor
*
2 Normal wipe
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
5 Cleaning windshield
6 Intensive cleaning
7 Rotary dial for control of the wipe
interval in the intermittent mode or
the sensitivity of the rain sensor
39mde136
Intermittent mode or rain sensor*
Intermittent mode:
You can set the wipe interval to four
stages with rotary dial 7.
In addition, the wipe interval varies
automatically depending on road
speed.
Rain sensor:
The rain sensor is positioned on the
windshield, directly ahead of the inte-
rior rearview mirror.
To activate the rain sensor:
Move the lever to position 1 with the
ignition key in position 1 or higher. The
wipers travel once across the wind-
shield, regardless of the weather
conditions.
You can leave the lever permanently in
position 1. Whenever the ignition key is
in position 1 or higher, all you then need
to do to activate the rain sensor is
briefly turn the rotary dial 7.
To adjust the sensitivity of the rain
sensor:
Turn rotary dial 7.
To deactivate the rain sensor:
Put lever in position 0.
Turn the rain sensor off in auto-
matic car washes. Failure to do so
could result in damage caused by
undesired wiper activation.<
Normal wipe
When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers automatically revert to intermit-
tent wipe (not on vehicles with rain
sensor).
Fast wipe
When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers operate at normal speed (not on
vehicles with rain sensor).
Cleaning windshield
The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and activates the wipers
for a brief period.
Intensive cleaning
As in setting 5. In addition, an intensive-
action washer fluid is first sprayed on
the windshield.
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Washer/Wiper system Cruise control
Cleaning headlamps
When the headlamps are on, they are
also cleaned automatically every fifth
time you activate "Cleaning windshield"
5 or "Intensive cleaning" 6.
Do not use the washers if there is
any danger that the fluid will
freeze on the windshield, as your vision
could be obscured. You can reduce this
danger by adding a windshield washer
antifreeze. Refer to page 115. Do not
activate the washer if the reservoir is
empty, as the washer pump could be
damaged.<
Windshield washer jets
The windshield washer jets are warmed
automatically when the ignition key is in
position 2.
You can store and automatically main-
tain any desired vehicle speed above
approx. 20 mph (30 km/h).
The cruise control is available whenever
the engine is running and the system
has been activated.
To activate the system
From ignition key position 2:
Press the button and the indicator lamp
on the instrument cluster (refer to
page 18) will come on. You can now
use the cruise control.
Do not use cruise control on
twisting roads, when high traffic
density prevents driving at a constant
speed, or when the road surface is slick
(snow, rain, ice) or loose (rocks or
gravel, sand).<
To deactivate the system
Press button as often as needed until
the indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster goes out.
Cruise control is also deactivated when
the ignition key is in position 0.
The speed stored in memory is deleted.
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Cruise control
To maintain and store speed
or to accelerate
Press button (+) briefly:
The system maintains and stores the
current vehicle speed. Every time you
tap the button, the speed increases by
approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Press and hold button (+):
The vehicle accelerates without pres-
sure on the accelerator pedal. When
you release the button, the system
stores and maintains the current speed.
If, on a downhill gradient, the
engine braking effect is not suffi-
cient, the controlled speed can be
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill
grades if the engine output is insuffi-
cient.<
To decelerate
Press button (–) briefly:
If you are already driving with active
cruise control, the speed is decreased
by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h) every time
you tap the button.
Press and hold button (–):
With the cruise control active, the
system automatically reduces the
throttle opening to slow the vehicle.
When you release the button, the
system maintains and stores the cur-
rent speed.
To interrupt the cruise control
When the system is activated, press the
button. The indicator lamp stays on.
You can use the cruise control again
whenever you want by calling up the
speed that was stored last.
In addition, cruise control is interrupted
automatically:
> When the brakes are applied
> When you depress the clutch pedal
> If you exceed or fall below the pro-
grammed speed for an extended
period (by depressing the acceler-
ator, for example).
To recall the stored setting
Press button:
The vehicle accelerates to and main-
tains the last speed stored.
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1 Odometer
2 Trip odometer
3 Outside temperature display
Odometer
You can activate the displays shown in
the illustration with the ignition key in
position 0 by pressing the button in the
instrument cluster (arrow).
The range of available displays varies
according to your individual vehicle's
equipment.
Trip odometer
To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the button (arrow) with the igni-
tion key in position 1 or higher.
39mus005
Outside temperature display
The outside temperature appears in the
display in ignition key position 1 and
higher.
You can change the units of measure-
ment (7/6) by
1. pressing and holding the button
(arrow) with the ignition key in
position 1
2. turning the ignition key to 0.
Ice warning
If the outside temperature drops to
approx. +37.5 7 (+3 6), a signal is
sounded as a warning and the display
flashes for a brief period.
The ice warning does not alter the
fact that surface ice can form at
temperatures above +37.5 7 (+3 6),
on bridges or shaded road surfaces, for
instance.<
Odometer, outside temperature display
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Tachometer Engine oil temperature Fuel gauge
The orange pre-warning zone appears
depending on the engine temperature.
As the engine temperature increases,
more and more of the sectors of this
pre-warning zone disappear.
Avoid engine speeds in the pre-warning
zone if possible.
Do not operate the engine with the
needle in the red overspeed zone of the
gauge.
To protect the engine, the engine-man-
agement system interrupts the fuel
supply when you approach this sector.
39mus023
The normal operating temperature
range is between +176 7 (+80 6) and
+248 7 (+120 6). Do not exceed the
maximum temperature of +302 7
(+150 6).
39mus024
When you switch on the ignition, the
indicator lamp comes on briefly to con-
firm that the system is operational.
If the indicator lamp comes on and
stays on, there are approx. 2.5 gal
(10 liters) of fuel still in the tank.
For fuel tank capacity, refer to
page 143.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies (when you
are driving in mountainous areas, for
example), the needle may fluctuate
slightly.
Please refuel early, since driving
to the last drop of fuel can result in
damage to the engine and/or catalytic
converter.<
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Coolant temperature gauge Service Interval Display
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at mod-
erate engine and vehicle speeds.
Red
Accompanied by the warning,
"COOLANT TEMPERATURE" in the
Check Control: the engine is over-
heated. Shut off the engine immediately
and allow it to cool down.
To check coolant level, refer to
page 118.
Between the blue and red zones
Normal operating range. The needle
may rise as far as the edge of the red
sector in normal operation.
39mde026
Green lamps
The number of illuminated lamps
decreases as the time for your next
maintenance visit approaches.
Yellow lamp
This field appears together with
OILSERVICE or INSPECTION.
Maintenance is due. Please contact
your BMW center for an appointment.
Red lamp
The maintenance deadline has been
passed.
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Text messages are used to alert the
driver to system malfunctions with the
ignition key in position 2 and higher.
The alert is accompanied by a gong.
1 Status symbol for messages
2 Display
3 CHECK button
Messages warning of system malfunc-
tions are assigned one of two priority
levels.
39mus027
Priority 1
These defects are immediately indi-
cated by a gong and a flashing warning
symbol 1. Simultaneous defects will be
displayed consecutively. These status
messages remain in the display until the
defects are corrected. They cannot be
deleted by pressing the CHECK
button 3:
> "RELEASE PARKINGBRAKE"
> "COOLANT TEMPERATURE"
The coolant is overheated. Stop the
vehicle and switch off the engine
immediately. Refer to page 117
> "STOP!ENGINE OILPRESS"
The oil pressure is too low. Stop the
vehicle and switch off the engine
immediately. Refer to pages 16, 115
> "CHECK BRAKE FLUID"
The level has dropped nearly to the
minimum. Top up the brake fluid at
the earliest opportunity. Refer to
page 118. Have the source of the
brake fluid loss diagnosed and cor-
rected at your BMW center
> "TIRE DEFECT"
Reduce vehicle speed immediately
and stop the vehicle. Avoid hard
brake applications. Do not oversteer.
Refer to page 83
> "LIMIT"
*
This is displayed if the programmed
speed limit has been exceeded.
Refer to page 73.
Check Control
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Check Control
Priority 2
These displays appear for 20 seconds
with the ignition key in position 2. The
warning symbols remain after the mes-
sage disappears. The messages can be
recalled again with CHECK button 3.
> "TRUNKLID OPEN"
This message appears only when you
initially begin a trip
> "DOOR OPEN"
This message appears after a defined
road speed has been exceeded
> "FASTEN SEAT BELTS"
*
In addition to this message, an indi-
cator lamp with the safety belt icon
appears and an acoustic signal is
sounded
> "WASHER FLUID LOW"
Too low; top up fluid at the next
opportunity. Refer to page 115
> "CHECK ENGINE OIL LEV"
The oil level is at the absolute min-
imum, so add engine oil as soon as
possible. Refer to page 115. Until
then, do not drive more than approx.
30 miles (50 km)
> "TIRE PRESSURE SET"
The Flat Tire Monitor has adopted the
tires' current inflation pressures as its
reference levels. Refer to page 82
> "TIRECONTROL INACTIVE"
Transient malfunctions and system
errors in the Flat Tire Monitor. Refer
to page 83
> "CHECK BRAKE LIGHTS"
A lamp has failed or the electrical cir-
cuit has a fault. Refer to pages 126
and 132 or consult a BMW center
> "CHECK LOWBEAM LIGHTS"
"CHECK SIDE LIGHTS"
"CHECK REAR LIGHTS"
"CHECK FRONT FOGLAMPS"
"CHECK LICPLATE LIGHT"
"CHECK HIGHBEAM LIGHT"
"CHECK BACK UP LIGHTS"
Defective bulb or circuit. Refer to
page 124 and following and
page 132 or consult a BMW center
> "CHECK BRAKE LININGS"
Have the brake pads checked at your
BMW center. Refer to page 108
> "CHECK COOLANT LEVEL"
The coolant level is too low; top off
at the next opportunity. Refer to
page 118
> "CHECK FILLER CAP"
Check to see whether the fuel filler
cap has been properly closed. Refer
to page 21
> "ENGINE FAILSAFE PROG"
Indicates a malfunction in the elec-
tronic engine-management system,
which then reverts to an emergency
default program allowing continued
operation at reduced power and
lower engine speeds.
Please have the system inspected by
your BMW center
>
"OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE 24 7
(–5.0 6)"
This temperature display is only an
example. The current temperature is
displayed at outside temperatures of
37.5 7 (+3 6) and below. Refer also
to page 63.
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Check Control
Displays after completion of a trip
All of the malfunctions registered during
the trip appear consecutively when the
key is turned to position 0.
The following displays will appear when
appropriate:
> "LIGHTS ON"
This display appears when you open
the driver's door after parking the
vehicle
> "KEY IN IGNITION LOCK"
> "CHECK ENGINE OIL LEV"
Add the engine oil at the earliest
opportunity (next stop to refuel).
Refer to page 115.
Status messages remain available for
a period of approx. three minutes after
the display goes out and the key is
removed from the ignition. Press the
CHECK button 3 to display these mes-
sages. If there were multiple messages,
press the CHECK button repeatedly to
view them all in sequence.
To check the Check Control
Press the CHECK button 3 with the
ignition key in position 2:
CHECK CONTROL OK appears in the
display.
There are no faults in the monitored
systems.
Computer
You can find descriptions of the com-
puter starting on page 73 and in the
"Owner's Manual for Onboard Com-
puter."
You can have the Check Control
and computer messages dis-
played in a different language.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Multi-Information Display (MID)
Central Display
The MID serves as the central display
and control for the following onboard
systems:
> Digital clock (e.g. time display, date)
> Audio systems (radio, cassette, CD)
> Computer (e.g. fuel consumption,
cruising range)
> Cellular phone (e.g. dialing).
You will find explanations and notes for
operating the digital clock and the com-
puter on the following pages. Please
refer to the Owner's Manual for oper-
ating the audio systems, the cellular
phone and the onboard computer.
The system rejects all implausible
data entries.
All stored data will be lost if the power
supply is interrupted. Time of day,
switch-on times for parked-car ventila-
tion, distance and cruise control speed
limit may have to be reset once the
power supply has been re-estab-
lished.<
1 Function button for audio systems
2 Function button for the cellular
phone
*
3 Indicator lamp for parked-car ventila-
tion system
> remains on if switch-on time is
active
> flashes while operating
4 Function button for the digital clock
and computer
5 Indicator display for the various
onboard systems
390us705
6 Display for the entry and query but-
tons. Depending on the operating
mode, the functions and alternatives
which can be selected at the buttons
are displayed here
7 Entry and check buttons for operating
the various onboard systems
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Digital clock
Only make entries when the
vehicle is standing still – to avoid
endangering yourself or other road
users.<
Calling up time or date
Press the left side of the button.
Display shows:
You can have the time of day displayed
in 12 or 24 hours.
To change the display:
Press the left side of the button.
If the 12-hour time display is in use,
AM or PM appears after the time.
Changing the time
Press the left side of the button.
Press the right side of the button:
The dots flash in the display.
To alter the setting:
Press on the left or right, or hold the
button down.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
Changing the date
Press the left side of the button.
Press.
Press the right side of the button:
The dots and the DATE display will
flash.
To alter the setting:
Press on left or right, or hold the button
down.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
The clock takes leap years into account
and therefore does not have to be reset
manually.
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Digital clock
Reminder signal
You can program an hourly reminder
signal (Memo), that will, for example,
remind you of news broadcasts.
Press the left side of the button.
Press:
MEMO OFF appears in the display for
entry and query buttons, and the tone
symbol will appear in the upper right of
the display.
A signal is then heard 15 seconds
before each hour.
Stopwatch
Press the left side of the button.
Press.
Display shows:
To start the stopwatch:
Press the right side of the button.
To take an intermediate time reading:
Press.
Press:
The stopwatch display can be seen
counting up; the stopwatch continues
to run.
To halt the stopwatch:
Press the right side of the button.
The stopwatch is halted when the
ignition key is turned back to 0,
but starts to run again when the ignition
key is turned to 1.<
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Digital clock
Setting activation times for
parked-car ventilation system
You can enter two different activation
times.
After 30 minutes, the ventilation will
switch off automatically.
Please observe the instructions
for operating the parked-car venti-
lation system on page 92.<
Press the left side of the button.
Press on the left or right.
Display shows:
Press the right side of the button:
Display flashes, e.g. TIMER 1.
To enter the time:
Press on left or right, or hold down.
To confirm the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
The activated time is marked with an
asterisk.
The switch-on times remain memorized
until new entries are made.
You can change switch-on times that
have already been memorized by set-
ting a new time using the procedure
described above.
When the switch-on time is active, the
LED comes on in the MID. During actual
operation of the ventilation, the LED
flashes. The LED goes out when the
system is switched off.
To activate/deactivate the time:
Press twice.
Turning the parked-car ventilation
system on and off directly
The parked-car ventilation system
is available exclusively in ignition
key position 1.<
Press the left side of the button.
Press
or
press.
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Computer
Only make entries when the
vehicle is standing still – to avoid
endangering yourself or other road
users.<
Computer calculations begin at the
start of the journey.
Display information can also be
accessed by remote control, refer to
page 77.
Speed limit
Speed limit entry:
You can enter the road speed here
at which you wish to hear and see a
reminder signal: a signal will sound, the
word LIMIT will flash and the stored
speed will briefly flash in the Check
Control display on the instrument
cluster.
The speed limit reminder is only
repeated if the vehicle has in the mean-
time been driven at least approx. 3 mph
(5 km/h) slower.
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
Press the right side of the button.
Display shows:
Enter the limit by pressing the function
buttons.
To correct an entry:
Press the left side of the button and
repeat the entry.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
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Computer
To adopt the current speed as the
speed limit:
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
Press twice at right.
Deactivating the speed limit:
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
The LIMIT display goes out, but the
stored limit is not lost and can be re-
activated by pressing the LIMIT button.
Distance to destination
The remaining distance to the destina-
tion will be displayed on the screen.
This is of course only possible if you
entered the entire distance before
starting the journey.
Enter:
Press the right side of the button.
Press the left side of the button.
Press the right side of the button.
Display shows:
You can enter the distance by pressing
the function buttons.
To correct an entry:
Press the left side of the button and
repeat the entry.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
To recall stored value:
Press the right side of the button.
Press the left side of the button.
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Computer
Estimated time of arrival
When you have entered the distance
from your destination, you can obtain
an estimated time of arrival display
which is continuously updated by the
computer as your average rate of
progress varies.
Press the right side of the button.
Press the right side of the button:
The estimated time of arrival is dis-
played.
Cruising range
The distance which the vehicle should
cover on the remaining fuel in the tank
is displayed.
Press the right side of the button.
Press:
The display shows the estimated
cruising range.
When there is only enough fuel to
drive less than 30 miles (50 km),
you should refuel, as otherwise the
engine or the catalytic converter could
be damaged.<<
<<
The computer will only register fuel
amounts over 1.8 gal (6 liters).
Fuel consumption
You can have the average fuel
consumption displayed for two different
distances, for example a complete
journey and part of the journey.
To start the calculation, select the func-
tion with the engine running:
Press the right side of the button.
Press on left or right:
The average fuel consumption will be
indicated in the display.
To restart the fuel consumption calcula-
tion:
Press on the left or right.
Press the right side of the button.
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Computer
Speed
You can call up a display of the
vehicle's average speed.
To start the calculation, select the func-
tion with the engine running:
Press the right side of the button.
Press:
The display shows the average speed.
To recalculate the speed:
Press the right side of the button.
Extended immobilizer function
You can define a code that will prevent
the engine from being started unless
the code is entered.
If you do not have access to the code,
the emergency deactivation procedure
will have to be carried out, refer to the
next page.
To enter and activating the code:
Press the right side of the button.
Press the left side of the button.
Display shows:
Enter the code at the function buttons.
To correct an entry:
Press the left side of the button and
repeat the entry.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
Turn the ignition key to position 0.
Deactivate the code:
When you are asked to enter the code
(ignition key in position 1 or 2):
> Enter the code at the function but-
tons
Press the right side of the button.
After the code has been entered cor-
rectly and confirmed with the SET
button, the time display appears.
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Computer
After three incorrect code entries,
or three attempts to start the engine
without a code entry, the alarm will
sound for 30 seconds on vehicles
equipped with an alarm system.
Setting the alarm in an emergency:
If you have forgotten the code, proceed
as follows:
1. Disconnect the battery, wait about
2 minutes, then reconnect it. Note
that on vehicles with an alarm
system, the alarm will sound
2. Turn the ignition key to position 1:
The time display will count down for
the next ten minutes
3. After ten minutes, start the engine.
If the code becomes available
again in the meantime, it can be
entered during the waiting period after
pressing the CODE button.<
Remote control
You can press the button in the turn
signal indicator lever to retrieve infor-
mation from the computer for display.
To do this, press:
> The button on the lever until PROG 1
shows on the display
> The MID buttons in the order in which
you wish the information to be dis-
played.
Each time an entry is stored, the pro-
gram number appears on the display.
To terminate the selection procedure:
Press the right side of the button.
39mde118
To display all the available information,
press:
> The button on the lever until the dis-
play shows PROG 1
> The SET button.
To obtain individual items of informa-
tion, press the button in briefly as often
as necessary.
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The concept
PDC provides extra safety and conve-
nience during parking maneuvers by
providing an acoustic signal to indicate
the distance to the nearest object. To
do this, four ultrasonic sensors in the
front and rear bumpers each measure
the distance to the nearest object. The
monitoring range of the front sensors
and two rear sensors at the ends of the
rear bumper extends outward roughly
2 ft (60 cm), while the rear bumper's
two centrally located sensors detect
objects at distances of up to approx.
5 ft (1.50 m).
Automatic function
The system is activated automatically
about one second after you engage
reverse with the ignition key in
position 2.
Manual activation
Press the button, the indicator lamp
lights up.
When you subsequently drive a dis-
tance of more than approx. 160 ft
(50 meters) or exceed a speed of
approx. 20 mph (30 km/h), the system
switches off and the indicator lamp
goes out. Switch the system on again
as required.
Manual deactivation
Press the button again.
39mde116
Acoustic signals
The distance from an obstacle is indi-
cated in front with a higher intermittent
tone, at the rear with a lower intermit-
tent tone. As the distance between
vehicle and object decreases, the inter-
vals between the tones become shorter.
A continuous tone indicates the pres-
ence of an object less than 1 ft (30 cm)
away.
The warning signal is canceled after
approx. three seconds if you are
moving parallel to a wall.
If there is a malfunction of the system:
The indicator lamp flashes and a brief
continuous signal tone is heard
> when you activate PDC with the
button
> when you select reverse for the first
time after switching on the ignition
> if a malfunction occurs while the PDC
system is active.
Switch the system off and have the
cause of the malfunction corrected by
your BMW center.
Park Distance Control (PDC)*
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Park Distance Control (PDC)*
PDC does not remove the driver's
personal responsibility for evalu-
ating the distance between the vehicle
and any obstacles. Even with the sen-
sors, there is a blind spot in which
objects cannot be detected. This
applies especially in those cases where
the system approaches the physical
limits of ultrasonic measurement, as
occurs with e.g. tow bars and trailer
couplings, and in the vicinity of thin or
wedge-shaped objects.
Certain sources of sound, such as a
loud radio, could drown out the PDC
signal tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free
of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they will continue to operate effec-
tively.
Do not apply high-pressure spray to the
sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Maintain an adequate distance of more
than 4 in (10 cm).<
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Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
DSC maintains vehicle stability, even in
critical driving situations.
The system optimizes vehicle stability
during acceleration and when starting
from a full stop, as well as enhancing
traction. In addition, the system recog-
nizes unstable vehicle conditions
(understeering or oversteering, for
example) and holds the vehicle on a
sure course by intervening via the
engine and by braking at the individual
wheels.
The system starts up automatically
each time you start the engine.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster goes out shortly
after you switch on the ignition.
Refer to page 17.
Indicator lamp flashes:
The system is active and governs drive
and braking force.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or if it comes on
during normal driving and stays on:
There is a system malfunction or the
system was deactivated with the button.
You can continue to drive the vehicle
normally, but without DSC. Please con-
sult your BMW center for repairs.
To deactivate the system
Press the button, the indicator lamp
lights up and remains on continuously.
When DSC is deactivated, you are
driving with conventional power
transfer.
In the following exceptional circum-
stances, it may be effective to deacti-
vate the DSC for a short period:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
> When driving with snow chains.
39mde124
To reactivate the system
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. An
appropriate driving style always
remains the responsibility of the driver.
Do not use the extra safety margins fur-
nished by these systems as an excuse
for taking unnecessary risks.<
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
DBC is an integral component of the
DSC system.
The system responds to sudden, high-
intensity applications of force to the
brake pedal by automatically braking
the vehicle with maximum boost to
achieve the shortest possible braking
distances during "panic stops." This
system exploits all the benefits of ABS.
Do not reduce the pressure exerted
against the brake pedal until the
braking maneuver has been completed.
DBC is deactivated when you release
the pedal.
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M Dynamic Driving Control
The system guarantees that whenever
desired, the system will switch the Ser-
votronic and the accelerator pedal
response from the sporty-comfortable
mode to a pure performance mode.
This means that steering response
becomes more performance-oriented
and the response of the accelerator
pedal is much more spontaneous (Per-
formance Recognition).
39mde125
Performance Recognition
Press the button with the ignition key in
position 2: the indicator lamp comes
on.
Deactivating Performance Recognition:
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
The coordinated performance-comfort
mode is activated automatically each
time you start the engine.
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Flat Tire Monitor
The concept
The Flat Tire Monitor keeps track of the
inflation pressures in your tires as you
drive. The system provides an alert
whenever the inflation pressure drops
significantly in one of the tires.
To initialize the Flat Tire Monitor system
with the correct tire inflation pressures,
start by checking the inflation pressures
in all four tires, comparing them with
the figures specified in the tire inflation
pressure table (page 23). Then correct
the tire inflation pressures as neces-
sary. Now you can activate the system.
T
he Check Control (refer to page 66)
will inform you if the tire inflation pres-
sure of one the tires has dropped signif-
icantly.
Activating the system
1. Turn the ignition key to position 2
(do not start the engine)
2. Press the button and maintain pres-
sure until the message "SET TIRE
PRESSURE" appears in the Check
Control (several seconds)
3. As you drive, the Flat Tire Monitor
automatically enters the system ini-
tialization mode in which it stores the
current pressures as its reference
figures. The initialization process
lasts for ten minutes or somewhat
longer. Once it has been completed
the Tire Pressure Monitor is able to
detect and warn of flat tires.
39mde119
Repeat this process after altering the
tire inflation pressure, changing the tire,
or rotating the wheels.
Do not carry out a new initialization of
the system, if you correct the inflation
pressures to the already specified tire
pressures.
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Flat Tire Monitor
Flat tire
In the event of a flat tire, the message,
"TIRE DEFECT" will appear in the
Check Control. This visual alert will be
accompanied by a gong.
If this occurs, reduce vehicle speed
immediately and stop the vehicle. Avoid
hard braking and overcorrecting at the
steering wheel.
Correct the flat tire using the M Mobility
system (refer to page 128).
The Flat Tire Monitor cannot alert
you to severe and sudden tire
damage caused by external factors.
Another factor which the Flat Tire Mon-
itor does not recognize is the balanced
and very gradual pressure loss that
takes place in all tires over an extended
period of time.<
Check the tire inflation pressure
on a regular basis and correct if
necessary. Refer to page 22.
Do not carry out any kind of system
activation when using snow chains.
Under these kinds of conditions, false
warnings and unidentified losses in
pressure are possible.
In certain circumstances, when driving
on snow-covered or slippery road sur-
faces, there may be a delay in identi-
fying any loss in inflation pressure.
Performance-oriented driving (slip at
the drive wheels, high levels of lateral
acceleration) can also delay the appear-
ance of status messages in the Flat Tire
Monitor's display panel.<
System malfunctions
The message "TIRECONTROL INAC-
TIVE" appears in the Check Control
and remains on until the problem is cor-
rected.
The same message is displayed if there
is a system malfunction.
Please refer the problem to your BMW
center.
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Parking lamps (side marker
lamps)
With the switch in this position,
the front, rear and side vehicle
lighting is switched on.
For lighting on one side for parking as
an additional feature, refer to page 85.
Low beams
When you switch off the ignition
and the low beams are still on,
only the parking lamps (side
marker lamps) remain on.
390de732
"Follow me home":
When you activate the headlamp
flasher after parking the vehicle and
switching off the lights, the low beams
will come on for a brief period. You may
also have this function deactivated if
you wish.<
"LIGHTS ON" warning
When the driver's door is opened with
the ignition key in position 0 a message
will appear in the Check Control if the
lights are on, refer to page 68.
Daytime driving lamps*
The headlamps are automatically
switched on for daylight driving at
ignition key position 2.
Automatic headlight control*
When the switch is set to this
position the system automati-
cally activates and cancels the
low beams in response to changes in
ambient light (in tunnels, at dusk, etc.)
as well as rain and snow.
The vehicle's external lights
remain on constantly when you
switch on the front fog lamps after the
headlights have come on automati-
cally.<
Automatic headlight control
cannot serve as a substitute for
the driver's judgement in determining
when the vehicle lights should be
switched on. For example, the sensors
are not able to detect fog. To avoid
safety risks, you should respond to
these kinds of low-visibility situations
by switching the headlights on manu-
ally.<
You can have the sensitivity of
your vehicle's automatic head-
light control adjusted.<
Parking lamps/Low beams
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Instrument lighting
High beams/Standing lamps
Fog lamps
Turn the rotary dial to adjust the illumi-
nation intensity.
390de733
1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator
lamp)
3 Standing lamps
Standing lamps, left or right
As an additional feature, you can
illuminate your vehicle on either side
for parking, if you wish to do so:
With the ignition key in position 0, push
the lever in the appropriate direction.
The lever engages in the turn signal
indicator position.
39mde135
Front fog lamps
The green indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster lights up to
indicate that the front fog lamps
are on.
If the high beams are switched on, the
fog lamps go out.
Always comply with the legal regula-
tions governing use of fog lamps.
If the automatic headlight control
is on, the low beams will come on
automatically whenever you activate
the fog lamps.<
390us735
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Interior lamps Reading lamps
The interior lamps operate automati-
cally.
Switching the interior lamps on
and off manually
Press the button (arrow) briefly.
If you want the interior lamps to remain
off all the time, press and hold the
button for approx. 3 seconds.
To revert to normal operation, press the
button briefly.
39mde087
Reading lamps are located in the front
near the interior lamp or in the rear of
the vehicle. They can be switched on
and off with the button (arrow) adjacent
to each lamp.
In order to prevent battery dis-
charge, all of the lamps in the
vehicle are switched off automatically
approx. 15 minutes after the ignition
key is turned to position 0.<
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1 Airflow directed toward the wind-
shield and side windows
2 Airflow for the upper body area 91
3 Footwell ventilation
4 Rear footwell ventilation
5 Airflow for the upper body area in
the rear seats 91
6 Automatic air distribution 89
7 Individual air distribution 89
8 Temperature control – left-hand
side 89
9 Display for temperature and
air supply 89
Automatic climate control
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Automatic climate control
10 Temperature control – right-hand
side 89
11 Defrost windows and remove
condensation 89
12 Air conditioning 90
13 Automatic recirculated-air control
(AUC) 90
14 Rear window defroster 90
15 Air supply 89
16 Maximum cooling 90
or residual heat mode 90
17 Air grill for interior temperature
sensor – please keep clear and
unobstructed
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Automatic climate control
Tips for pleasant driving
Use the automatic system (switch on
with AUTO button 6). Select an interior
temperature that you find comfortable.
The following description will lead you
through additional individual settings.
Your BMW center can program
the settings of your vehicle in such
a manner that, when you unlock the
vehicle with your individualized key,
your own personalized setting for the
automatic climate control is initiated.<
Automatic air distribution
The AUTO program
assumes the adjustment of
the air distribution and the air supply for
you and – in addition to that – adapts
the temperature to external influences
(summer, winter) to meet preferences
you can specify.
Individual air distribution
You also have the option of
individually configuring the
air distribution pattern to
suit your own personal pref-
erences. While the AUTO
program is then deactivated, the auto-
matic airflow control remains in opera-
tion. The system directs air to the win-
dows , the upper body and into
the footwells . You can reactivate the
automatic air distribution mode by
selecting the AUTO button.
Temperature
You can make individual
temperature settings on the
driver's side or the front
passenger side. The figures in the dis-
play provide a general indication of
interior temperature. We recommend a
setting of 72 7 (22 6) for a congenial
interior climate, even when the air con-
ditioner is in operation. When you start
the vehicle, the system ensures that the
selected temperature is achieved as
quickly as possible. It then maintains
this temperature, regardless of the
season.
Air supply
In the AUTO program, the
airflow is controlled auto-
matically. AUTO will appear in display 9,
refer to the overview on page 87.
Use "+" and "–" to vary the airflow.
Your setting is displayed with bars and
the automatic air supply is switched off.
The automatic air distribution setting is
maintained. You can reactivate the
automatic air supply by pressing the
AUTO button.
When you press "–" during operation at
the lowest blower speed, all displays
are canceled: the blower, heating and
air conditioning are switched off. The
outside air supply is deactivated. By
pressing the desired button on the
automatic climate control (except MAX
button 16), you can switch the system
back on.
To defrost windows and remove
condensation
This program quickly
removes ice and conden-
sation from the windshield and the side
windows.
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Automatic climate control
Air conditioning
The air is cooled and
dehumidified and –
depending on the temperature setting –
warmed again when the air conditioning
is switched on.
Depending on the weather, the wind-
shield may fog over briefly when the
engine is started. You can reduce con-
densation forming on the windows by
switching on the air conditioning.
Condensation forms in the air
condition system during opera-
tion, which then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
Maximum cooling
At outside temperatures
above roughly 41 7 (5 6)
this program furnishes maximum
cooling whenever the engine is running.
The temperature displays 9 jump to
60 7 (16 6), the system reverts to
operating in the recirculated-air mode
and maximum airflow emerges from the
vent outlets only. That is why you need
to keep these open if you select this
program.
Automatic recirculated-air control
You can respond to
unpleasant external odors
by temporarily excluding the flow of
outside air. The system then recircu-
lates the air currently within the vehicle.
By repeated actuations of the button,
you can select one of three different
operation modes.
> Indicator lamps off: outside airflow
operational
> Left-hand indicator lamp on – AUC
mode: the system recognizes pollut-
ants in the outside air and blocks the
flow of air when necessary. The
system then recirculates the air cur-
rently within the vehicle.
Depending on the air quality, the
automatic system then switches back
and forth between outside air supply
and recirculation of the air within the
vehicle
> Right indicator lamp on – recircu-
lated-air mode: the flow of external
air into the vehicle is permanently
blocked. The system then recirculates
the air currently within the vehicle.
If the windows should fog over in
the recirculated-air mode, switch
it off and increase the air supply as
required.<
Rear window defroster
When the rear window
defroster is activated, the
indicator lamp comes on. The rear
window defroster switches off automat-
ically.
Residual heating mode
The heat which is stored in
the engine is utilized for
heating the interior when the engine
has been switched off (while waiting at
a railroad crossing, for instance). In
ignition key position 1, you can alter the
settings of the automatic climate con-
trol. With the ignition key in posi-tion 0,
the system automatically directs heated
air to the windshield, side windows and
footwells.
This function is available for oper-
ation when the outside tempera-
ture is below approx. 59 7 (15 6),
with the engine warm from recent oper-
ation and an adequate charge in the
battery. The LED on the button will light
up when all conditions have been
met.<
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Automatic climate control
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the vent outlets for the
upper body area for optimal personal
comfort:
1 Rotary dials for infinitely-variable
opening and closing the vent outlets
2 Rotary levers for airflow direction
3 Rotary dial allows you to control the
temperature of the airflow as desired:
> Turn toward blue – colder
> Turn toward red – warmer.
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Rear passenger area ventilation
1 Rotary dial for infinitely variable
opening and closing of vent outlets
2 Rotary levers for airflow direction
3 The rotary dial operates in the same
way as the front dial to adjust the
temperature of the emerging air.
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Microfilter, activated-charcoal
filter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen
from the incoming air. The activated-
charcoal filter provides additional pro-
tection by filtering gaseous pollutants
from the outside air. Your BMW center
replaces this combined filter as a stan-
dard part of your scheduled mainte-
nance. A substantial reduction in airflow
indicates that the filter must be
replaced before scheduled mainte-
nance.
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Roller sun blind* Parked-car ventilation
To actuate, press the button briefly with
ignition key in position 1.
Roller sun blinds for rear side
windows
*
Use the strap to pull out the blinds, then
hook them in the provided attachment.
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It will ventilate the interior, reducing the
temperature through the use of the
automatic climate control blowers,
whenever the vehicle is not in opera-
tion.
The parked-car ventilation system is
operated via the Multi-Information Dis-
play (MID) – refer to page 72 – or
the onboard computer. Refer to the
"Owner's Manual for Onboard Com-
puter."
You may preselect two different activa-
tion times. The ventilation will remain
activated for 30 minutes. You can also
turn it on and off directly. Since the
system uses a substantial amount of
electrical current, you should refrain
from activating it twice in succession
without allowing the battery to be
recharged in normal operation between
use.
The parked-car ventilation is available
for timer-controlled operation whenever
outside temperatures exceed 60 7
(16 6), and can also be activated man-
ually at any temperature. It operates
only when the vehicle is stationary.
The air emerges via the vent outlets
for the upper body. Therefore, the vent
outlets must be open for the system to
operate.
You can adjust the airflow volume and
the air distribution when the ignition key
is in position 1.
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The concept
The BMW Universal Transmitter
replaces up to 3 hand-held transmitters,
e.g. for garage-door openers, alarm
systems or a door-locking system. The
BMW Universal Transmitter recognizes
and "learns" the signal transmitted from
each of the original hand-held transmit-
ters.
The signal of an original hand-held
transmitter can be programmed to one
of the three channel keys. Following
that, each of the devices can be actu-
ated with the appropriately-pro-
grammed channel key. The indicator
lamp flashes to confirm transmission of
the signal.
Before you sell your vehicle, the pro-
gram data in the channel keys should
be deleted. Refer to page 95 for the
description of this process.
To prevent potential injuries or
damage: during the programming
operation and before every remote trig-
gering of a programmed device using
the BMW Universal Transmitter, be sure
that there are no persons, animals or
objects within the range of movement of
the respective device. Read and comply
with the safety instructions for the orig-
inal hand-held transmitter also.<
To Canadian residents
During programming, your hand-
held transmitter may automatically stop
transmitting after two seconds. This
may not be long enough to program the
BMW Universal Transmitter. If you are
programming from one of these hand-
held transmitters, the BMW Universal
Transmitter's light may begin to flash in
a series of double-blinks. If this occurs,
continue to hold the key on the BMW
Universal Transmitter while you reacti-
vate your hand-held transmitter. You
may have to repeat this function several
times while programming.<
Before programming, read the
"User's information" section on
page 95.<
The original hand-held transmitter
If this symbol is depicted on
the packaging or in the user's
instructions for the original
hand-held transmitter, it may be
assumed that this original hand-held
transmitter is compatible with the BMW
Universal Transmitter.
Checking for the conversion code
In order to determine whether the orig-
inal hand-held transmitter is equipped
with a conversion code system, you
may either refer to the instructions for
the original hand-held transmitter or
program a channel key as described in
the left-hand column on page 94 under
"Programming."
Following that, press and hold the pro-
grammed channel key on the BMW Uni-
versal Transmitter. If the indicator lamp
on the BMW Universal Transmitter
flashes rapidly for two seconds and
then stays on continuously, the original
hand-held transmitter is equipped with
a conversion code system. If the con-
version code system is available, pro-
gram the channel keys as described on
page 94 in the right-hand column under
"Programming a hand-held transmitter
with conversion code."
If you have additional questions,
please consult your BMW center
or call 1-800-355-3515.<
BMW Universal Transmitter*
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BMW Universal Transmitter*
Programming
1 Channel keys
2 Indicator lamp
3 Receiver for programming
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on page 93.<
1. Ignition key in position 2
2. For initial operation: press and hold
the two outer keys 1 until the indi-
cator lamp 2 flashes. Release the
keys. The three channel keys are
cleared
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3. Hold the original hand-held trans-
mitter to receiver 3, a maximum of
2 in (5 cm) away
4. Press the transmitting key on the
original hand-held transmitter
(arrow 2) and the desired channel
key on the BMW Universal Trans-
mitter (arrow 1) at the same time.
Release both keys as soon as the
indicator lamp flashes rapidly
5. To program other original hand-held
transmitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.
The selected channel key is now pro-
grammed with the signal of the original
hand-held transmitter.
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Programming a hand-held
transmitter with conversion code
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on page 93.<
Consult the operating instructions when
programming the BMW Universal
Transmitter for a particular device.
Read and comply with the following
programming instructions to use the
BMW Universal Transmitter with a con-
version code system:
A second person simplifies pro-
gramming of the BMW Universal
Transmitter.<
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BMW Universal Transmitter*
1. Program the BMW Universal Trans-
mitter as described on the previous
page under "Programming"
2. Press and hold the programming key
on the receiver of the device for
about two seconds or until the pro-
gramming lamp on the device comes
on
3. Press the desired channel key on the
BMW Universal Transmitter three
times.
If you have additional questions,
please consult your BMW center
or call 1-800-355-3515.<
Deleting the channel keys
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on page 93.<
Individual channel keys cannot be
deleted. However, the three channel
keys can be deleted together in the fol-
lowing manner:
> Press and hold the two outside
channel keys on the BMW Universal
Transmitter until the indicator lamp
flashes, then release the keys.
All channel keys are deleted.
User's information
Do not use this BMW Universal Trans-
mitter with any garage-door opener that
lacks safety "stop" and "reverse" fea-
tures as required by federal safety stan-
dards, (this includes any garage- door
opener model manufactured before
April 1st, 1982).
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) This device must accept any
interference received, including inter-
ference that may cause undesired
operation.
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Glove compartment Storage compartments
To open
Pull the handle and the lamp comes on.
To close
Fold the cover up.
To prevent injury in the event of
an accident, close the glove com-
partment immediately after use.<
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To lock
Use one of the master keys to lock the
vehicle. A master key is also required
for unlocking.
If you turn over only your door and
ignition key for valet parking, for
example (refer to page 26), access to
the glove compartment is not pos-
sible.<
Rechargeable flashlight*
Located on the left-hand side of the
glove compartment.
Features integral overload-protection,
so it can be left in its holder continu-
ously.
To avoid completely discharging
and possibly damaging the lamp,
always ensure that the flashlight is
switched off before inserting it in the
socket.<
You can open and close the cover for
the center console's storage compart-
ment by pushing on the slanted front
part (arrow). If your vehicle is equipped
with a cassette holder
*, open each cas-
sette compartment by pressing the
small button.
Storage compartment on the center
console between the front seats: to
open, reach into the recess at the front
and pull upward. If a cellular phone has
been installed, this compartment is
occupied by the phone.
You will find additional storage com-
partments in all of the doors as well as
in the backrests of the front seats
*.
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Cellular phone* Beverage holder* Ashtray, front*
Hands-free system*
For vehicles with a telephone prepara-
tion
*, the trim cover for the hands-free
speaker is located in the headliner in
the area the interior lamp.
For further information on the cellular
phone: refer to the Supplementary
Owner's Manual.
39mde090
Two holders for canned drinks have
been provided in the front center con-
sole (illustration).
Press to open; fold back inward to
close.
39mde140
To empty
Press the edge of the lid (arrow): you
can now pull the ashtray upward for
removal.
On vehicles equipped with a non-
smoker's package, the insert is
removed in the same way.
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Cigarette lighter* Ashtray, rear*
Press the cover panel for access
(arrow), then push down the lighter.
Remove as soon as the lighter jumps
back out.
Hold or touch the hot cigarette
lighter by the knob only. Holding
or touching it in other areas could result
in burns.
The cigarette lighter remains opera-
tional when the ignition key has been
removed. For this reason, children
should never be left in the vehicle unat-
tended.<
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Cigarette lighter socket
It is suitable for attaching power sup-
plies for flashlights, car vacuum
cleaners and other appliances up to a
rating of approx. 200 watts at 12 volts.
Avoid damaging the socket due to
inserting plugs of different shapes or
sizes.
To empty
Press the edge of the cover (arrow): you
can now pull the ashtray upward for
removal.
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Fold the rear backrests down
Reach into the recess and pull forward
(arrow 1).
When you close the backrest, be sure
that the catch engages securely.
The red slide (arrow 2) must retract
completely.
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The central belt has an additional small
buckle.
> If you connect the two belt sections,
you can use the central belt as any
normal 3-point belt
> It is easier to fold the rear-seat back-
rest up and down if you disconnect
the belt (arrow).
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With a master key you can lock each
backrest in the rear seat.
This also prevents access to the lug-
gage compartment from the interior of
the vehicle if you turn over only your
door and ignition key 3 (refer to
page 26). This is convenient for valet
parking, for instance.
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Through-loading system*
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Ski bag*
The ski bag allows the safe and clean
transport of up to four pairs of standard
skis or up to two snowboards.
The length of the ski bag and the addi-
tional space provided in the luggage
compartment make it possible to carry
skis with a length of up to 6.8 ft
(2.10 meters). Because of the tapered
shape of the bag, the ski bag can only
accommodate two pairs of skis with a
length of 6.8 ft (2.10 meters).
Removing the center armrest
(Not for vehicles with the through-
loading system, refer to page 102).
1. Fold the center armrest completely
outward
2. Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest
3. Grasp the front of the armrest with
one hand, then use your other hand
to reach down behind the armrest
and pull up sharply (arrow).
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Installing the center armrest
Guide the armrest into position from
above, then apply pressure until you
hear it snap into position.
Be sure that the seat covers are
not damaged by the side pins.<
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Ski bag*
Loading
1. Press the release button (arrow 1):
the cover panel in the luggage com-
partment is unlocked
2. Press the detent levers (arrows 2)
inward and fold the cover to the front
3. Extend the ski bag between the front
seats. The zipper provides conve-
nient access to stored items. It may
be opened to allow the ski bag to dry
394de749
4. Use the magnetic retainers to attach
the cover panel to the upper surface
(metal surface below rear tray) of the
luggage compartment.
To store the ski bag, perform the above
steps in reverse sequence.
An unsecured ski bag could lead
to loss of vehicle control and in
case of an accident to personal injury.<
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Securing the load
Secure the bag's contents by
tightening down the retaining
strap at the buckle.<
Please be sure that the skis are clean
before loading them into the bag. Be
careful to avoid damage from sharp
edges.
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Ski bag* Cargo loading
With through-loading system
1. Fold the center armrest outward.
Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest
2. Press button 1 downward and swing
the cover forward
3. Press knob 2: the cover in the lug-
gage compartment is unlocked.
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Stowing cargo
When transporting cargo in your BMW:
> Load heavy cargo as far forward as
possible – directly behind the back-
rests or the luggage compartment
partition – and as low as possible
> Cover sharp edges and corners
> Do not pile objects higher than the
top edge of the backrest
> If you are transporting very heavy
loads when the rear seat is not occu-
pied, secure the outer safety belts in
the opposite buckles.
39mde036
Securing the load
> Secure smaller, light pieces with the
luggage net or use retaining straps
*
(refer to page 34)
> For large, heavy pieces, see your
BMW center for load-securing
devices
*. The lashing eyes provided
at the corners of the luggage com-
partment serve for mounting these
load-securing devices
> Comply with the information
enclosed with the load-securing
devices.
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Cargo loading Roof-mounted luggage rack*
Always position and secure the
load correctly. If you do not, it can
endanger the passengers during
braking or evasive maneuvers.
Never exceed either the approved
gross vehicle weight or the approved
loads for either of the axles (refer to
page 142), as overloading the vehicle
beyond the legally approved levels can
severely compromise its operating
safety.
Do not carry hard or heavy objects
unsecured in the passenger compart-
ment. If you do so, they may be pro-
jected through the air during braking
and evasive maneuvers, thus endan-
gering vehicle occupants.<
A special roof-rack system is available
as an optional extra for your BMW.
Please observe the precautions
included with the installation instruc-
tions.
Anchorages
Access to the anchorages:
To fold up the cover (arrow), please use
the tool provided with the roof-rack
system.
Loading and driving notes
Roof-mounted luggage racks raise the
center of gravity of the vehicle when
they are loaded. For this reason, they
have a major effect on the vehicle's
handling and steering response.
394de757
You should therefore always remember
not to exceed the approved roof load
capacity, the approved gross vehicle
weight or the axle weights when
loading the rack. These weights are
listed under "Technical Data",
page 142.
Make sure that the load is not too bulky,
and attempt to distribute it evenly.
Always load the heaviest pieces first (on
the bottom). Be sure that adequate
clearance is maintained for raising the
sliding/tilt sunroof.
Secure the roof luggage correctly
and securely to prevent it from
shifting or being lost during driving
(danger to following traffic).<
Drive smoothly and avoid sudden
acceleration and braking. Do not corner
at high speeds.
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Mainte-
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To ensure that your vehicle provides
maximum economy throughout a long
service life, we request that you
observe the following.
Your BMW M5 is a masterpiece of
superlative technology. To ensure
that you derive maximum satisfaction
from its extensive array of advanced
features while simultaneously creating
the basis for many years of driving plea-
sure, we urge you to observe the fol-
lowing precautions during the initial
period of operation.<
Engine and differential
Up to 1,200 miles (2,000 km):
Drive at varying engine speeds and
road speeds, but do not exceed
5,500 rpm or 105 mph (170 km/h)
during this period.
Comply with all official speed limits.
Do not depress the accelerator pedal to
the full-throttle position.
Following the Break-in inspection at
1,200 miles (2,000 km), you can gradu-
ally increase engine or road speeds.
You should also comply with these
break-in procedures if the engine or dif-
ferential is replaced later in the course
of the vehicle service life.
Tires
Owing to technical factors associated
with their manufacture, tires do not
achieve their full traction potential until
an initial break-in period has elapsed.
Thus drive with extra care during the
initial 200 miles (300 km).
Comply with all official speed limits.
When the vehicle is operated on
wet or slushy roads, a wedge of
water may from between the tire and
the road surface. This phenomenon is
referred to as aquaplaning, or hydro-
planing, and can lead to partial or com-
plete loss of traction, vehicle control
and braking effectiveness. Reduce your
speed on wet roads.<
Brake system
Approximately 300 miles (500 km) must
elapse before the brake pads and
rotors achieve the optimal pad-surface
and wear patterns required for trouble-
free operation and long service life later
on.
To break-in the separate parking brake
drums, apply the parking brake lightly
when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic
signal, for instance), provided that
traffic conditions allow you to do so. To
avoid corrosion, repeat this procedure
from time to time.
The brake lamps do not come on
when the parking brake is applied.
Vacuum for the brake system servo unit
on your BMW is available only when the
engine is running. When you move the
vehicle with the engine shut off – when
towing, for instance – substantially
higher levels of pedal force will be
required to brake the vehicle.<
Clutch
The clutch will also begin to function
optimally after about 300 miles
(500 km). Engage the gears carefully
during the break-in period.
Break-in procedures
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Driving notes Antilock Brake System
Brakes:
Do not rest your foot on the brake
pedal while driving. Even light but con-
sistent pedal pressure can lead to high
temperatures, brake wear and possibly
even brake failure.
Hydroplaning:
When driving on wet or slushy roads,
reduce vehicle speed. If you do not,
a wedge of water may form between
the tires and the road surface. This phe-
nomenon is referred to as aquaplaning,
or hydroplaning, and can lead to partial
or complete loss of traction, vehicle
control and braking effectiveness.
Driving through water:
When there is water on the roads, do
not drive in it if it is deeper than 1 ft
(30 cm). If the water is at that depth,
drive only at walking speed, otherwise
the vehicle can sustain damage to the
engine, the electrical systems and the
transmission.
Rear parcel tray:
Do not place heavy or hard objects on
the rear parcel tray. If you do so, they
could pose a danger to vehicle occu-
pants during a braking or evasive
maneuver.
Clothes hooks:
When suspending clothing from the
hooks, ensure that they will not obstruct
the driver's vision. Do not hang any
heavy objects on the hooks, otherwise,
passengers could be injured e.g. during
any hard braking or evasive maneuvers,
or during an accident.<
The concept
The Antilock Brake System (ABS) keeps
the wheels from locking during braking,
thereby enhancing active driving safety.
With ABS, the shortest possible braking
distances are achieved under most
conditions (on straight-aways and in
curves, on asphalt, ice, wet road sur-
faces, etc.).
Braking with ABS
If you are in a situation that requires
full braking, you will exploit the full ben-
efits of the ABS system if you apply
maximum pedal pressure ("panic stop").
Pulsation at the brake pedal combined
with sounds from the hydraulic circuits
indicates to the driver that ABS is in its
active mode.
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Brake system
Brake fluid level
If the brake fluid level is too low and
brake pedal travel has become notice-
ably longer, there may be a defect in
one of the two brake system's hydraulic
circuits.
Proceed to the nearest BMW
center. Higher brake application
pressure may be necessary under these
conditions, and the vehicle may exhibit
a slight tendency to pull to one side
when the brakes are applied. Braking
distances may also be longer. Please
remember to adapt your driving style
accordingly.<
Disc brakes
Limited vehicle use, extended periods
with the vehicle parked or in storage,
and operating conditions in which
braking is restricted to gentle, low-
pressure applications will all increase
the tendency for corrosion to form on
the rotors; this is often accompanied
by a simultaneous accumulation of con-
tamination on the brake pads. The pads
must exert a certain minimal level of
pressure against the rotors for the disc
brakes' inherent self-cleaning effect to
remain effective; the pressure available
under the above conditions may not
provide adequate cleansing.
If the brake rotors are corroded, they
will tend to respond to braking with a
pulsating effect that even extended
brake applications will fail to cure.
When driving in heavy rain and on wet
roads it is a good idea to apply light
pressure to the brake pedal every few
miles. Monitor traffic conditions to
ensure that this maneuver does not
pose a hazard to you or to other road
users. The heat generated in this pro-
cess helps dry the pads and rotors to
ensure that your brake system will
respond with undiminished efficiency
when you need it.
When descending steep hills and
extended grades, downshift to a gear
that will allow you to continue safely
with only a minimal amount of braking.
By minimizing the loads placed on the
brake system, this strategy helps
ensure that optimal brake system
response will remain available at all
times.
Do not coast with the clutch
depressed or with the transmis-
sion or gearshift lever in Neutral. Do not
coast with the engine shut off. The
engine provides no braking effect when
the clutch is depressed and there is no
power-assist for braking or steering
when the engine is not running.
Never allow floor mats, carpets or any
other objects to protrude into the area
around the accelerator, clutch and
brake pedals and obstruct their move-
ment.<
Brake pads
For your own safety: use only
brake pads that BMW has
approved for your particular vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Information for your safety
The factory-approved radial tires are
matched to the vehicle and have been
selected to provide optimum safety and
driving comfort on your vehicle.
It is not merely the tire's service life,
but also driving comfort and – above
all else – driving safety that depend on
the condition of the tires and the main-
tenance of the specified tire inflation
pressure.
Incorrect inflation pressures are
a frequent cause of tire problems
and flat tires. Tire pressure also has a
major effect on your BMW's handling
response. Check tire inflation pressures
on a regular basis (refer to page 22), at
least every two weeks and before every
long trip. If you fail to observe these
precautions, incorrect tire pressures
can cause driving instability and tire
damage, ultimately resulting in an
accident.<
Tire tread – tire damage
Inspect your tires frequently for tread
wear, signs of damage and for foreign
objects lodged in the tread. Check the
tread depth.
The tread depth should not drop
below 0.12 in (3 mm), even though, for
example the legally specified minimum
tread depth in Europe is only 0.063 in
(1.6 mm). Below a tread depth of
0.12 in (3 mm) there is an increased risk
of hydroplaning, even at relatively mod-
erate speeds and with only small
amounts of water on the road.
Tread wear indicators, refer to arrow,
are embedded around the tire circum-
ference in the base of the tire tread.
Their locations are indicated on the tire
sidewall with TWI – Tread Wear Indi-
cator. At a tread depth of 0.063 in
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(1.6 mm) these indicators, signal that
the tires have reached the legally per-
missible wear limit.
Do not drive on a deflated (flat) tire.
A flat tire greatly impairs steering
and braking response, and can lead to
complete loss of control over the
vehicle.
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that
the permitted load on the tires is not
exceeded. Overloading leads to over-
heating and causes damage inside the
tires. The ultimate result can assume the
form of a sudden air loss.
Unusual vibrations encountered during
normal vehicle operation can indicate a
flat tire or some other vehicle malfunc-
tion. The type of problem can be caused
by contact with curbs, etc. This is also
true for irregularities in the vehicle's
handling characteristics, such as a pro-
nounced tendency to pull to the left or
right. Should this occur, respond by
immediately reducing your speed. Pro-
ceed carefully to the nearest BMW
center or professional tire center, or
have the vehicle towed in to have it, its
wheels and tires inspected.
Tire damage (up to and including blow-
outs) can endanger the lives of both the
vehicle occupants and other road
users.<
Tire inflation pressure Tire condition
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Tire replacement
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single
tread configuration from a single manu-
facturer. BMW tests wheel and tire
combinations and approves them.
DOT Quality Grades
Treadwear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
All passenger car tires must con-
form to Federal Safety Require-
ments in addition to these grades.<
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative
rating based on the wear rate of the tire
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified government test
course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would
wear one and one-half (1g) times as
well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance
of tires depends upon the actual condi-
tions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due
to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road char-
acteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on speci-
fied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straight-
ahead braking traction tests, and does
not include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<
Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to degenerate
and reduce tire life, and excessive tem-
perature can lead to a sudden flat tire.
The grade C corresponds to a level of
performance which all passenger car
tires must meet under the Federal
Motor Car Safety Standard No. 109.
Grades B and A represent higher levels
of performance on the laboratory test
wheel than the minimum required by
law.
The temperature grade for this tire
is established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not overloaded.
Excessive speed, underinflation, or
excessive loading, either separately or
in combination, can cause heat buildup
and possible tire failure.<
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall between
tread shoulder and maximum section
width. For example:
Treadwear 200
Traction AA
Temperature A
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Tire replacement Wheel and tire combinations
Do not use retreaded tires, since
driving safety may be impaired.
This is due to the possible variations in
casing structures and, in some cases,
to their extreme age, which can lead to
a decrease in their durability.<
Tire age
The date on which the tire was manu-
factured is indicated by the code on the
sidewall:
DOT ... 3401 indicates that the tire was
manufactured in week 34 of the year
2001.
Although tires may have a theoretical
service life of up to 10 years, BMW
strongly recommends that you replace
all tires after an absolute maximum of
6 years.
The right choice
Never mount wheels and tires that
have not been specifically
approved by BMW for use on your par-
ticular model. Although other wheels
and tires may theoretically have the
same dimensions, variations in factors
such as manufacturing tolerances can
result in contact between tire and body-
work, ultimately leading to serious acci-
dents. If non-approved wheels and tires
are used, BMW cannot evaluate their
suitability, and therefore cannot be held
liable for driving safety.<
BMW has tested certain tires for each
tire size, rated them according to road
safety and approved them. Your BMW
center can inform you which tires have
been tested in this way. Observe pos-
sible national guidelines, e.g. regarding
entry into vehicle documents.
Because various systems on your
vehicle, such as ABS, DSC and
the Flat Tire Monitor, rely on the correct
combination of tires and wheels for
optimal operation, their operation may
be adversely affected if other tires and/
or wheels are mounted.
You should therefore ensure that tires
from a single manufacturer with the
same tread pattern are mounted at all
four wheels. After installing a spare tire
in response to a flat tire you should
always ensure that a tire of the original
specifications is remounted as soon as
possible.<
The use of rims and wheel bolts
that do not meet the specifica-
tions of the original factory-installed
equipment will affect the safe operation
of your vehicle and may cause an acci-
dent and personal injury.
Never mix tires of different design, such
as steel-belted radials with radial bias-
belted or bias-ply tires, etc. Mixing tire
types will adversely affect roadholding
and can lead to loss of vehicle control.<
Storage
Store tires in a cool, dry place, pro-
tecting them against light whenever
possible. Protect the tires against con-
tact with oil, grease and fuel.
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Special characteristics of winter tires Snow chains*
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends winter tires (M+S
radial tires) for driving in adverse winter
road conditions. While "all-season"
tires (M+S designation) provide better
winter traction than summer tires with
the load ratings H, V, W, Y and ZR, they
generally do not achieve the perfor-
mance of winter tires.
In the interests of safe tracking and
steering response, install radial tires
made by the same manufacturer and
with the same tread configuration on all
four wheels if you elect to mount winter
tires.
Never exceed the maximum speed
approved for your specific winter
tires.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
service tires can lead to damage and
accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled
professionals only. Any BMW center
has the required technical knowledge
and the proper equipment and will be
happy to assist you.<
Tire condition, tire inflation
pressure
When the tread wears to a depth of less
than 0.16 in (4 mm) there is a substan-
tial reduction in the tire's ability to pro-
vide adequate traction under winter
driving conditions. To ensure continued
safety, tires with this amount of tread
wear should always be replaced.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressures – and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assemblies balanced
every time you change the wheels/tires.
The use of BMW narrow-link snow
chains on winter tires is approved only
in pairs and only on the rear wheels.
Comply with all manufacturer's safety
precautions when mounting the chains.
Do not exceed a speed of 30 mph
(50 km/h) while driving with mounted
snow chains.
It is not possible to mount snow
chains with 18-inch wheels and
tires.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
To unlock
Pull the lever located under the left-
hand side of the instrument panel.
Do not attempt to service your
vehicle if you do not have the
required technical background. Failure
to work in an informed, professional
manner when servicing components
and materials constitutes a safety
hazard for vehicle occupants and other
road users. If you are not familiar with
the guidelines, please have the opera-
tions performed by your BMW center.<
390de759
To open
Pull the release handle and open the
hood.
390de760
To close
Allow the hood to fall from a height of
about 4 in (10 cm) so that it audibly
engages.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the hood is clear
when it is closed, observing the same
precautions recommended for all
closing procedures.
If you notice that the hood is not com-
pletely closed while driving, stop imme-
diately and close it securely.<
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Hood
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Engine compartment essentials
1 Reservoir for brake fluid (under
the housing of the microfilter) 118
2 Auxiliary terminal for jump
starting 133
3 Engine oil dipstick 115
4 Engine oil filler neck 116
5 Coolant expansion tank 118
6 Reservoir for the intensive-cleaning
system 115
7 Reservoir for the windshield and
headlamp washer system 115
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Washer fluids Engine oil
Headlamp and windshield
washer system
Capacity in US quarts (liters).
Windshield washer:
Approx. 3.7 US quarts (3.5 liters)
With headlamp-washing system:
Approx. 6.3 US quarts (6.0 liters).
Fill with water and – if required – with a
washer antifreeze (according to manu-
facturer's recommendations).
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
39mde128
Intensive-cleaning washer
reservoir
Capacity approx. 1.1 US quarts
(1.0 liter).
Fill with intensive-cleaning washer fluid.
It resists freezing down to approx. –17
7 (–27 6) and is available from your
BMW center.
Antifreeze agents or intensive-
action washer fluids for the
washer systems are highly inflammable.
For this reason, keep them away from
sources of flame and store them only in
their original containers. Store them so
that they are inaccessible to children.
Comply with the instructions on the
containers.<
39mde129
Checking oil level
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface
2. Allow the engine to run at operating
temperature for at least 15 seconds
at idle, then shut it off
3. After approx. one minute, pull the
dipstick out and wipe it off with a
clean lint-free cloth, paper towel, or
similar material
4. Carefully push the dipstick all the
way into the guide tube and pull it
out again
5. The oil level should be between the
two marks on the dipstick.
As with fuel economy, oil consumption
is directly influenced by your driving
style and vehicle operating conditions.
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Engine oil
The oil volume between the two marks
on the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter). Do not fill beyond
the upper mark on the dipstick. Excess
oil will damage the engine.
460de189
To add oil
While you should wait until the level has
dropped to just above the lower marks
before adding oil, you should never
allow the oil level to fall below this
mark.
BMW engines are designed to
operate without oil additives; the
use of additives could lead to damage
in some cases. This is also true for the
manual transmission, the differential,
and the power steering system.<
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW center only.
39mde110
Continuous exposure to used oil
has caused cancer in laboratory
testing.
For this reason, any skin areas that
come into contact with oil should be
thoroughly washed with soap and
water.
Store oil, grease, etc., out of reach of
children. Comply with warning labels
and information on containers.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the dis-
posal of used oil.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Engine oil Coolant
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil is
extremely important for the function
and service life of an engine. Based on
extensive testing, BMW approves only
certain grades of engine oil.
Use only approved "BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil."
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil," you can
add small amounts of synthetic oil in
between oil changes. Only use oils with
the API SH specification or higher.
Ask your BMW center for details
concerning the specific "BMW
High Performance Synthetic Oil" or
"special oils" which have been
approved.<
You can also call BMW of North
America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this
website: www.bmwusa.com to obtain
this information.
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as estab-
lished in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class
depends on the climatic conditions in
the area where you typically drive your
BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These oils may be used for driving in all
ambient temperatures.
Do not add coolant to the cooling
system when the engine is hot.
If you attempt to do so, escaping
coolant can cause scalds. To avoid the
possibility of secondary damage, never
use anything other than factory-
approved, nitrite and amino-free
extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion
inhibitor. Your BMW center is familiar
with these specifications.
Antifreeze and anti-corrosion agents
are hazardous to health. You should
always store them in their original con-
tainers and in a location which is out of
reach of children. For this reason, do
not spill antifreeze with corrosion inhib-
itor on hot engine parts. It could ignite
and cause burns.<
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Coolant Brake fluid
Checking coolant level and
adding coolant
Correct coolant level when the engine
is cold (approx. 68 7/20 6):
In the translucent container's visible
range, as far as the graduation marked
KALT/COLD.
1. Turn the cap counterclockwise
slightly in order to allow accumulated
pressure to escape
2. If the coolant is low, slowly add
coolant until the correct level is
reached – do not overfill.
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the dis-
posal of extended-duty antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor.<
39mde111
Brake fluid level
The warning lamp for the brake
system hydraulic circuits comes
on and/or the message "CHECK
BRAKE FLUID" appears in the
Check Control:
Brake fluid level too low.
To add brake fluid
The brake fluid reservoir is located
under the microfilter housing on the
driver's side of the vehicle. For adding
brake fluid or for determining and cor-
recting the cause of brake fluid loss,
consult your BMW center. Your BMW
center is familiar with the specifications
for factory-approved brake fluids
(DOT 4).
Brake fluid loss may result in extended
brake pedal travel. If this occurs, refer
to the information on page 108.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,
it absorbs moisture from the air
over time.
In order to ensure the safety and reli-
ability of the brake system, have the
brake fluid changed every two years at
a BMW center. Refer also to the Service
and Warranty Information Booklet (US
models) or the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
Brake fluid is hazardous to health and
damages the vehicle's paint. You
should always store it in its original
container and in a location which is out
of reach of children. Do not spill the
fluid and do not fill the brake fluid reser-
voir beyond the MAX mark. The brake
fluid could ignite upon contact with hot
engine parts and cause serious burns.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the dis-
posal of brake fluid.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
The BMW Maintenance System has
been designed as a reliable means of
providing maximum driving and oper-
ating safety – and as cost-effectively as
possible for you.
Please keep in mind that regular main-
tenance is not only necessary for the
safety of your vehicle, but also plays a
significant role in maintaining its resale
value.
380us008
Service Interval Display
Conventional systems rely solely on
distance traveled to determine when
service is due. The BMW Maintenance
System, on the other hand, began many
years ago to take the actual conditions
under which the vehicle is driven into
consideration. After all, different drivers
can accumulate mileage in very dif-
ferent ways.
From a maintenance point of view,
62,000 miles (100,000 km) of short-dis-
tance driving cannot be compared with
62,000 miles (100,000 km) of long-dis-
tance highway travel.
In response to this fact, the BMW Main-
tenance System monitors operating
conditions as the basis for determining
the optimum service intervals for your
individual vehicle. The BMW Mainte-
nance System includes the Engine Oil
Service and Inspections I and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals
according to the actual loads on the
vehicle covers every kind of operating
situation. However, even those who
drive only short distances – significantly
less than 6,000 miles (10,000 km) annu-
ally – should have the engine oil
changed at least every 2 years since oil
deteriorates over time, regardless of
use.
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models)/Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
For additional information on mainte-
nance intervals and procedures, please
refer to the Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet (US models) or the War-
ranty and Service Guide Booklet (Cana-
dian models).
As a precaution against corrosion, it is
advisable to have the body checked for
damage from rocks or gravel at the
same time, depending upon operating
conditions.
Have your vehicle's maintenance
and repairs performed at your
BMW center.
Be sure that all maintenance work is
confirmed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models). These entries are
your proof that the vehicle has received
regular maintenance. They are also a
requirement for warranty claims.<
The BMW Maintenance System
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Technical modifications California Proposition 65 Warning
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
Light-emitting diodes installed behind
translucent lenses serve as the light
source for many of the controls and dis-
plays in your vehicle. The concept
behind their operation is related to that
employed for lasers.
Do not remove the protective lens
and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for extended periods
(several hours), as inflammation of the
iris could result.<
California laws require us to state the
following warning:
Engine exhaust, some of its con-
stituents, and certain vehicle com-
ponents contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects and
reproductive harm. In addition, certain
fluids contained in vehicles and certain
products of component wear contain or
emit chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
Battery posts, terminals and related
accessories contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash your hands after
handling.
Used engine oil contains chemicals that
have caused cancer in laboratory ani-
mals. Always protect your skin by
washing thoroughly with soap and
water.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
OBD interface socket
The Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) inter-
face socket is located on the left of the
driver's side at the bottom of the instru-
ment panel and under a cover. The
cover has the letters "OBD" on it.
The purpose of the OBD (Onboard-
Diagnostics) system is to assure proper
emission-control system operation for
the vehicle's lifetime by monitoring
emissions-related components and
systems to detect deterioration and
malfunction.
390us739
An illuminated indicator informs
you of the need for service, not
of the need to stop the vehicle.
However, the systems should be
checked by your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
Under certain conditions, the indicator
will blink or flash. This indicates a rather
severe level of engine misfire. When
this occurs, you should reduce the
speed and consult the nearest BMW
center as soon as possible. Severe
engine misfire over only a short period
of time can seriously damage emis-
sions-control components, especially
the catalytic converter.
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
When the fuel filler cap is not
properly tightened, the OBD
system can detect the vapor leak and
the indicator will light up. If the filler cap
is subsequently tightened, the indi-
cator should go out within a few days.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Repairs
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The onboard tool kit is located in the
luggage compartment lid.
Loosen the wingnut to open.
394de080
1. Lift the wiper arm up slightly and
hold it firmly
2. Press back the release (arrow) and
pull the wiper blade back toward the
base of the wiper arm
3. Install the new blade and slide the
release back into position.
Use only wiper blades approved
by BMW.<
390de766
The lamps and bulbs are essential fac-
tors contributing to the safety of your
vehicle. Therefore, comply fully with the
following instructions during bulb
replacement. If you are not familiar with
any of the procedures, consult your
BMW center.
Do not touch the glass portion of
a new bulb with your bare hands
since even small amounts of impurities
burn in to the surface and reduce the
service life of the bulb. Use a clean
cloth, paper napkin, or a similar mate-
rial, or hold the bulb by its metallic
base.<
A replacement bulb set is available from
your BMW center.
Always switch off all electrical
accessories and systems before
working on them. As an alternative, you
can also disconnect the cable from the
battery's negative terminal. Failure to
observe this precaution can lead to
short circuits.
To prevent injuries and damage,
comply with any instructions provided
by the bulb manufacturer.<
Onboard tool kit Windshield wiper blades Lamps and bulbs
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Lamps and bulbs
Xenon lamps
The service life of these bulbs is very
long and the probability of a failure is
very low, provided that they are not
switched on and off an unusual number
of times. If one of these bulbs should
nevertheless fail, it is possible to con-
tinue driving with great caution using
the fog lamps, provided traffic laws in
your area do not prohibit this.
Never attempt to perform bulb
changes or any other service oper-
ations on the xenon lamps. Always have
them serviced by professional techni-
cians. The extremely high voltages at
which these lamps operate constitute a
potentially lethal safety hazard.<
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
> Do not clean by wiping with a dry
cloth (this causes scratches). Never
use abrasives or strong solvents to
clean the covers
> Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with
ample water
> Always use a deicer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – never
use a scraper.<
Standing lamps
10 watt bulb
The bulb holder and reflector are a
single unit and are both changed
at the same time.<
1. Turn the bulb holder with reflector
to the left (arrow) and remove
2. Disconnect the plug
3. Plug the new bulb holder into the
plug connector. Be sure that it is
securely engaged
4. Insert the reflector with bulb holder
and turn to the right as far as
possible.
390de669
Turn signal indicators/parking
lamps (side marker lamps), front
Dual-filament bulb, 21 watt
1. Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove
2. Remove and replace the bulb.
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Lamps and bulbs
Side turn signal indicators
5 watt bulb
1. Use finger pressure against the rear
end of the lens (arrow) to press it for-
ward for removal
2. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
390de768
Front fog lamps
HB4, 51 watt bulb
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and pro-
tective gloves. Failure to observe these
precautions can result in physical injury
if the bulb breaks.<
1. Pull the cover panel next to the head-
lamp forward to remove
2. Loosen the screw, refer to arrow,
and swing the lamp assembly out
3. Release the spring on the back of the
lamp and turn the cover to the left
4. Release the clamp, remove the
contact base and replace the bulb.
39mde104
Tail lamps
Rear lamp/side marker lamps:
Light-emitting diodes
Remaining bulbs: 21 watt
1 Turn signal indicator white
2 Rear lamp/side marker lamps red
3 Backup lamps white
4 Brake lamps red
5 Reflector red
Please contact your BMW center
if there is a defect in the rear
lamp/side marker lamp assembly.<
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Lamps and bulbs
1. Use the upper handle to fold down
the side panel in the luggage com-
partment
2. Turn the corresponding bulb holder
to the left (arrow) and remove it
3. Press the defective bulb gently and
turn it to the left. Remove the bulb
and replace it
4. Insert the bulb holder and turn to the
right as far as possible.
394de769
Center (high-mount) brake lamp
21 watt bulb
1. Open the luggage compartment lid
2. Use a screwdriver to unclip the cover
panel (on the underside of the
storage tray) (arrow)
3. Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove
4. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
394de123
License plate lamps
5 watt bulb
1. Insert a screwdriver into the slot
and press to the left (arrow); this dis-
lodges the lamp
2. Remove the lamp and replace the
bulb.
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Repairing a flat tire
Precautions in case of a flat tire:
Stop the vehicle as far as possible
from passing traffic. Switch on the
hazard warning flashers.
Turn the steering wheel to the straight-
ahead position, remove the key and
engage the steering lock. Shift into 1st
or reverse and engage the parking
brake.
All passengers should be outside the
vehicle and well away from your imme-
diate working area (behind a guardrail,
for instance).
If necessary, set up your warning tri-
angle or portable hazard warning lamp
on the roadside at an appropriate dis-
tance from the rear of the vehicle.
Comply with all safety guidelines and
regulations.<
M Mobility system
For repairing a flat tire, you will find an
M Mobility system in the BMW M5. With
the aid of this system, you can apply a
liquid sealant to the inside of the tire,
thereby sealing off the damaged area,
and then continue driving.
The M Mobility system makes the trans-
port of a spare wheel superfluous and
minimizes the curb weight.
The M Mobility system is located in the
luggage compartment under the floor
mat:
1. Lift up the floor mat and then raise
the front cover panel
2. Loosen the M Mobility system from
its storage location.
Please note that the system's
sealant container must be
replaced every three years by your
BMW center if the device is not used.<
39mde132
This is part of the M Mobility
system
1 On/Off switch
2 Connection hose with pressure
gauge for connecting the compressor
with the sealant container or to con-
nect the compressor to the wheel
3 Pressure gauge for indicating the tire
pressure
4 Connector hose from the sealant
container to the wheel
5 Warning sticker for maximum speed
6 Plug and cable for the cigarette
lighter socket
7 Protective gloves (not illustrated)
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Repairing a flat tire
Use the M Mobility system
If possible, leave the foreign
object in the tire.<
Do not exceed the maximum
speeds indicated below, as an
accident could result.
Before you use the M Mobility system,
read the warnings and danger notices
on the device carefully.<
1. Remove the warning sticker 5 for
maximum speed that is located on
top of the device and affix it to the
steering wheel
2. Take off the round cover and extract
hose 4. Unscrew the valve stem cap
from the defective tire, then screw
the hose onto the valve stem. Avoid
losing the valve stem cap
39mde142
3. Flip open the cover and pull out the
enclosed protective gloves. Take out
hose 2 with the pressure gauge and
screw it to the connection on the
sealant container, as shown in the
illustration
4. Make sure that the system has been
switched off (position 0). Take out
plug 6 and plug it into the cigarette
lighter socket in the passenger com-
partment (refer to page 98)
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Repairing a flat tire
5. Make sure that the screw on the rear
of the pressure gauge 3 is tightened
down. Turn on the M Mobility system
(position I, refer to illustration) and
allow 3 minutes to elapse, to let the
sealant flow in. At this point, it is
insignificant what the tire pressure is
6. Turn the device off.
Disconnect the connector hose from
the sealant container and the wheel
valve. Stow the M Mobility system in
the luggage compartment
39mde144
7. Right afterward, drive at least
1.2 miles (2 km), so that the liquid
sealant distributes evenly throughout
the inside of the tire. If possible drive
at no less than 15 mph (20 km/h), but
not more than 40 mph (60 km/h).
Stop in a suitable spot
8. Take out the hose with the pressure
gauge and screw it onto the valve.
Take out the plug and plug it into
the cigarette lighter socket in the
passenger compartment
9. Reset the tire pressure to 29 psi
(200 kilopascal), and:
> Increase the tire pressure: turn on
the M Mobility system (position I).
To check the new tire pressure
briefly turn off the device
> Reducing tire pressure: turn the
screw on the back of the pressure
gauge, a valve located there will
open
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Repairing a flat tire Battery
If the inflation pressure does not
hold, complete step 10 and then
repeat steps 7 through 10.
The use of the M Mobility system may
be ineffective if the damaged area in
the tire is larger than approx. 0.15 in
(4 mm). If it should prove impossible to
restore the tire to operational status
using the M Mobility system, please
contact the nearest BMW center or
BMW Roadside Assistance at
1-800-332-4269.<
10. Unscrew the hose from the valve
and stow the M Mobility system in
the luggage compartment. Screw
the cap back onto the valve stem.
When you start driving again, do not
exceed the permissible maximum
speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
You will find corresponding instructions
for using the M Mobility system on the
device.
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the wheel and tire
balanced. Reactivate the Flat Tire Mon-
itor, for additional information refer to
page 82. Have the M Mobility system
recharged. Contact your BMW center
for this.
Protect valve stems and valves from dirt
using screw-on valve stem caps. Dirty
valve stems frequently lead to slow
pressure loss.
Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.<
Battery care
The battery is completely maintenance-
free. That means that the original elec-
trolyte will normally last for the service
life of the battery under moderate cli-
matic conditions.
Please consult the staff at your
BMW center whenever you have
any questions concerning the battery.
The battery is completely maintenance-
free; the following section is provided
for your information only.<
Never disconnect the battery
when the engine is running; the
ensuing voltage surge would seriously
damage the vehicle's onboard elec-
tronic systems.<
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Battery Fuses
Charging the battery
Recharge the battery only with the
engine off, using the auxiliary terminals
provided in the engine compartment
(for information on these terminals refer
to "Jump-starting" on page 133).
Avoid environmental pollution
when disposing of old batteries.<
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW center.
Maintain the battery in an upright posi-
tion for transport and storage. Secure
the battery to prevent it from tilting
during transport.<
In the glove compartment
Open the glove compartment and turn
the two white quick-release fasteners
to the left.
390de085
In the luggage compartment
Use the handle to pull down the trim on
the right wall.
Do not attempt to repair a blown
fuse or replace it with a fuse
having a different color or amperage
rating. Installing the wrong fuse could
cause a fire in the vehicle resulting from
a circuit overload.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Do not use spray starter fluids to start
the engine.
When your battery is discharged you
can used two jumper cables to start
your vehicle with power from the bat-
tery in a second vehicle. You can also
use the same method to help start
another vehicle. Use only jumper cables
with fully insulated handles on the ter-
minal clamps.
Do not touch high-voltage wiring
and cables on a running engine.
There is a risk of fatal injury if you do
this. Carefully observe the following
instructions to avoid personal injury
and/or damage to one or both vehi-
cles.<
1. Ensure that the battery in the sup-
port vehicle is also rated at
12 volts. This information is pro-
vided on the top of the battery
casing
2. Do not disconnect your battery from
your vehicle's electrical system.
Switch off all electrical accessories
in both vehicles
3. Make absolutely certain that there
is no contact between the body-
work of the two vehicles – short cir-
cuit hazard
4. Start the engine on the support
vehicle and allow it to run
5. Use one jumper cable (+) to con-
nect the positive terminal of the
battery in the support vehicle with
the auxiliary positive terminal pro-
vided in the engine compartment of
your BMW specifically for jump-
starting. The cover of the auxiliary
terminal for use in jump-starting
your BMW is identified by a "+"
symbol, refer to illustration. Flip the
cap out to open
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Jump-starting
6. Next, connect one end of the other
jumper cable (–) to either the sup-
port vehicle's negative battery ter-
minal or a suitable ground on its
engine or bodywork. Connect the
other end to the negative battery
terminal or a suitable ground on the
vehicle being started. There is a
special nut on the strut dome of
your BMW (refer to the arrow in the
illustration)
Always adhere to this sequence
when connecting jumper cables;
failure to observe this procedure can
lead to sparks at the battery terminals
and pose an injury hazard.<
390de146
7. Start the support vehicle's engine
and let it run at an increased idling
speed for a few minutes. Start the
engine on the vehicle needing the
jump-start, and allow it to run as
usual. If the first start attempt is not
successful, wait a few minutes
before another attempt in order to
allow the discharged battery to
recharge
8. Before disconnecting the jumper
cables let the engines run for a few
minutes
9. Then disconnect the jumper cables
in reverse sequence.
Depending on the cause of the fault,
have the battery recharged by your
BMW center.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Towing the vehicle
Tow fitting
The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the
onboard tool kit; be sure that it remains
in the vehicle at all times. This fitting
is designed for installation in the tow
sockets located at the front and rear of
the vehicle, and is intended for towing
on proper road surfaces only.
It should not be used to pull a vehicle
out of deep snow, mud, sand, etc.
Always observe all applicable towing
laws and regulations.
Access to tow sockets
Front:
Apply pressure to the arrow symbol on
the cover; remove the cover.
390de087
Rear:
Apply pressure to the arrow symbol on
the cover; remove the cover.
Screw the tow fitting in until it bot-
toms firmly. Failure to screw the
fitting in securely can lead to thread
damage.
Never attach tie-down hooks, chains,
straps, or tow hooks to tie rods, control
arms, or any other part of the vehicle
suspension, as severe damage to these
components will occur, leading to pos-
sible accidents.<
Use only a nylon towing strap to tow
the vehicle. The inherent resilience of
this material helps protect both vehicles
from sudden jerking movements.
394de088
Keep the vehicles in line and avoid
towing at an offset angle. Ensure
that the tow rope connecting the two
vehicles is tight, with no slack, before
starting off.<
The towed vehicle should always
be the lighter of the two vehicles.
If this is not the case, it is no longer
possible to control vehicle response.<
Tow-starting
It is better to start the vehicle's engine
by jump-starting. For instructions on
jump-starting, refer to page 133.
Never attempt to use your vehicle to
push another vehicle, as damage to the
energy-absorbing bumpers could
result.
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Towing the vehicle
Towing a vehicle
1. Shift lever in neutral
2. Towing speed:
Max. 45 mph (70 km/h)
3. Towing distance:
Max. 95 miles (150 km/h)
4. Leave the ignition key in position 1
to ensure that the brake lamps, turn
signals, horn and windshield wipers
remain operative, and to prevent the
steering lock detent from engaging
5. Switch on the hazard-warning
system (comply with official regula-
tions).
Find some means of identifying the
vehicle in tow, for instance, place a sign
or warning triangle in the rear window.
Make sure that the ignition key
remains in position 1 even if the
electrical system has failed to prevent
the steering lock from engaging. The
steering and brakes are without power
assist when the engine is not running.
This means that increased effort is
required for steering and braking.<
Towing with a commercial tow
truck
> Do not tow with sling-type equipment
> Use a wheel-lift or flatbed equipment
> Please comply with applicable towing
laws.
Never allow passengers to ride in
a towed vehicle for any reason.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Index
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BMW M5
Displacement
Number of cylinders
cu in (cm
3
) 301.5 (4,941)
8
Maximum output
at engine speed
hp
rpm
394
6,600
Maximum torque
at engine speed
lb ft (Nm)
rpm
368 (500)
3,800
Compression ratio e
11.0
Stroke
Bore
in (mm)
in (mm)
3.50 (89.0)
3.70 (94.0)
Fuel-injection system Digital electronic engine-management system
Engine data
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All dimensions are given in inches (mm). Minimum turning circle dia.: 38.1 ft (11.6 m)
Dimensions
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Weights
BMW M5
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included)
lbs. (kg) 4,024 (1,825)
Approved gross vehicle weight lbs. (kg) 5,049 (2,290)
Approved front axle load lbs. (kg)
2,426 (1,100)
Approved rear axle load lbs. (kg) 2,701 (1,225)
Approved roof load capacity
Approved axle loads and approved gross vehicle
weight may not be exceeded.
lbs. (kg) 220 (100)
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft (liters) 16.2 (460)
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Capacities
Notes
Fuel tank
of which reserve
gal. (liters)
gal. (liters)
approx. 18.5 (approx. 70)
approx. 2.5 (approx. 10)
Fuel specification: page 22
Windshield washer system
with headlamp washer system
Intensive cleaning system
quarts (liters)
quarts (liters)
quarts (liters)
approx. 3.7 (approx. 3.5)
approx. 6.3 (approx. 6.0)
approx. 1.1 (approx. 1.0)
For details: page 115
Cooling system including heater
circuit
quarts (liters) 12.7 (12.0) For details: page 117
Engine oil filter change quarts (liters) 6.9 (6.5) "BMW High Performance Synthetic
Oil," for details: page 117
Manual transmission and differential – Oil change at the 1,200-mile-service,
then the oil never needs to be
changed again
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 830 - © 07/02 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
A
ABS (Antilock Brake
System) 17, 107
Activated-charcoal filter 91
Active seat 43
Adding
brake fluid 118t
engine coolant 118t
engine oil 116t
washer fluid 115t
Adjusting
backrest 41
head restraints 43
mirrors 48
seats 40
steering wheel 47
temperature 89
Air conditioning 90
Air distribution 89
Air pressure, tires 22, 109
Air supply 89
Airbags 17, 49
Alarm system 35
Anchorage points
child-restraint system with
tether strap 52
Antifreeze 118
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 17, 107
Aquaplaning 107, 109
Ashtray
front 97
rear 98
Attach vacuum cleaner 98
AUC (Automatic recircu-
lated-air control) 90
Automatic climate
control 87
removing condensation
from the windows 89
Automatic cruise control 61
Automatic curb monitor 46
Automatic dimming
exterior mirror 48
interior rearview mirror 48
Automatic recirculated-air
control (AUC) 90
Automatic steering wheel
adjustment 47
Automatic windshield
washer 60
Average fuel
consumption 75
Average speed 76
Avoiding unintentional
alarms 36
Axle loads 142
B
Backrest, adjusting 41
Backup lamps 59
bulb replacement 126t
Battery 131
care 131
charging 131
discharged 133t
Belts 44
Beverage holder 97
Blower 89
BMW active seat 43
BMW comfort seat 42
BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil 117
BMW M sport seat 41
BMW Maintenance
System 119
BMW Universal
Transmitter 93
Bottle holder, refer to
Beverage holder 97
Brake fluid 118
disposal 118
Brake hydraulic system,
brake pads 16
Brake system 108
brake fluid level 108
brake linings 108
malfunctions 108t
Break-in procedures 106
Bulbs and lamps 124
C
California Proposition
65 Warning 120
Capacities 143
Car telephone 97
Cargo loading 102
Cellular phone 97
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual 97
Center (high mount) brake
lamp 127
Central locking system 26
key 31
Charging the battery 132t
CHECK button 66
Check Control 66
Check engine oil
level 115t
Check tire inflation
pressure 22t, 109
Child seats 51
Child-restraint
installation 53
Child-restraint system with
tether strap 52
Cigarette lighter 98
Clock 70
refer also to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
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Cockpit 14
Code 76
activating 76
deactivating 76
refer also to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
selecting 76
Comfort seat 42
Compartments 96
Computer 73
refer also to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
remote control 77
Configuring individual
settings 55
Consumption 75
Convenience operation of
windows and sliding/tilt
sunroof 27
Coolant 117
disposal 118
Coolant temperature
gauge 65
Cooling, maximum 90
Copyright 4
Cover, roller sun blinds 92
Cruise control 61
Cruising range 75
Cup holder, refer to
Beverage holder 97
Curb weight 142
D
Date
calling up 70
changing 70
refer also to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Daytime driving lamps 84
DBC (Dynamic Brake
Control) 17, 80
Deactivating
interior motion sensor 36
tilt alarm sensor 36
Deep water 107
Defrosting position 89
Defrosting the
windows 89t
Digital clock 70
refer also to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Dimensions 141
Disconnecting the
battery 133t
Displacement 140
Display lighting 85
Displays, instrument
cluster 15
Disposal
brake fluid 118
coolant 118
engine oil 116
Distance from
destination 74
Divided rear backrest 99
Door key 26
Doors
manual operation 27
remote control 28
unlocking and locking 27
DOT Quality Grades 110
Driving notes 107
DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control) 17, 80
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC) 17, 80
Dynamic Driving Control 81
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 17, 80
E
Electric power windows 36
Electrical heating, exterior
mirror 48
Electrical malfunction
doors 27t
fuel filler door 20t
luggage compartment
lid 32t
sliding/tilt sunroof 39t
Elements of operation 14
Emergency release of
luggage compartment
lid from luggage
compartment's interior 34
Engine compartment 114
Engine coolant 118
temperature gauge 65
Engine data 140
Engine oil
checking level 115
consumption 115
dipstick 115
disposal 116
grades 117
level 16
pressure 16
temperature gauge 64
Engine performance 140
Estimated time of arrival 75
Exterior mirrors 48
automatic dimming 48
electrical heating 48
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Everything from A to Z
F
Failure messages 66
Filling capacities 143
First-aid kit 20
Fittings, tow starting and
towing 135t
Flashlight 96
Flat tire 109
Flat Tire Monitor 82
Flat tire, repairing 128
Fog lamps 85
bulb replacement 126t
Folding rear backrest 99
Follow me home lamps 84
Frost protection,
radiator 118
Fuel consumption 75
average 75
Fuel filler door 20
manual operation 20t
Fuel gauge 64
Fuel quality 22
Fuel specifications 22
Fuel tank capacity 143
Fuse replacement 132t
G
Gasoline gauge 64
Gasoline quality 22
Glove compartment 96
Gross vehicle weight 142
H
Handbrake 17, 58
Hands-free system 97
Hazard warning triangle 20
Head protection airbags 49
Head restraints 43
adjusting 43
Headlamp cover,
care 125t
Headlamp flasher 59
Headlamp washer
system 115
Headlamp washers 61
Headrests 43
Heated seats 46
Heating with vehicle
stopped 90
Heavy cargo 102
Height 141
Height adjustment
seats 41
steering wheel 47
High beams 18, 59, 85
High Performance Synthetic
Oil 117
High-mount brake lamp 127
Holder for canned
beverages 97
Hood 113
release 113t
Horn 14
Hydraulic Braking Assistant,
refer to DBC 17, 80
Hydroplaning 107, 109
I
Ice warning 63
Identification, tires 111
Ignition key 26
Ignition lock 56
Imprint 4
Independent ventilation
system, refer to Parked-
car ventilation system 92
Indicator lamps 16
Inflation
pressure 22t, 109
INSPECTION 65
Instrument cluster 15
Instrument lighting 85
Intensive cleaning
system 115
Interface socket for Onboard
Diagnostics (OBD) 121
Interior lamps 86
Interior mirrors 48
Interior motion sensor 36
deactivating 29
J
Jump-starting 133t
K
Key Memory 55
Key with remote control 26
Keys 26
L
Lamps and bulbs 124
Lashing eyes for attaching
cargo straps 34, 102
Length 141
License plate lamps, bulb
replacement 127t
Lighter 98
LIGHTS ON warning 84
Locking and unlocking the
doors 27
Low beams 14, 84
Low-fuel warning lamp 64
Luggage compartment 34
capacity 142
manual operation 32t
opening from the
inside 33
opening separately 32
securing separately 32
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Everything from A to Z
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Luggage compartment
lid 32
emergency release from
luggage compartment's
interior 34
opening from the
inside 33
opening from the
outside 33
remote control 29
securing separately 32
unlocking in case of
electrical
malfunction 32t
Luggage net 34
Luggage straps 34
Lumbar support 41
M
M Dynamic Driving
Control 81
M Mobility system 128
M+S tires 112
Maintenance 65, 119t
Malfunction displays 66
Manual operation
doors 27t
fuel filler door 20t
luggage compartment
lid 32t
sliding/tilt sunroof 39t
Manual transmission 58
Maximum cooling 90
Memory, adjustment of seat,
mirror, steering wheel 45
Microfilter 91
MID (Multi-Information
Display) 69
Mirrors 48
adjusting 48
heating 48
position adjustment
memory 45
self-defrosting 48
Modifications,
technical 120
Multifunction buttons,
steering wheel 19
Multifunction switch 59
Multi-Information Display
(MID) 69
O
OBD interface socket 121
Odometer 63
Oil
additives 116
checking level 115
consumption 115
grades 117
Oil change interval, refer to
the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US
models) or the Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
Oil pressure, indicator
lamp 16
Oil specification 117
OILSERVICE 65
Onboard tool kit 124t
Opening and closing
from inside 31
from outside 27
with the key 27
Outside temperature
display 63
P
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 78
Parked-car ventilation
system 92
activating 72
refer also to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Parking brake 17, 58
Parking lamps 14, 84
Passenger-side mirror tilt
function 46
PDC Park Distance
Control 78
Performance Recognition for
M Dynamic Driving
Control 81
Pocket flashlight 96
Pollen filter 91
Power seat 41
Power windows 36
safety switch 37
Pressure monitor, tires 82
Pressure, tires 22t, 109
Q
Quality grades, tires 110
R
Rain sensor 60
Reading lamps 86
Rear backrest, folding 99
Rear window defroster 90
Rearseat backrest,
folding 99
Rearview mirrors 48
Recirculated-air mode 90
Refueling 20
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Everything from A to Z
Releasing the fuel filler door
after an electrical
malfunction 20t
Reminder signal (Memo) 71
Remote control 28, 77
Remote control key 26
Removing condensation
from windows 89t
Repairing flat tire 128
Replacement key 26t
Replacement of lamps and
bulbs 124t
Replacement of windshield
wiper blades 124t
Reporting safety defects 10
Reservoir, washer
system 115t
Residual heating mode 90
Roller sun blinds 92
Roof load capacity 142
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 103
S
Safety belts 44
Safety buttons 31
Safety defects, reporting 10
Safety switch for power
windows 37
Seat heating 46
Seats 40
adjusting 40
heating 46
position adjustment
memory 45
Securing cargo 34, 102
Service and Warranty 10
Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet (US
models) 119
Service Interval
Display 65, 119
Setting alarm in an
emergency 77
Side airbags 49
Side Impact Head Protection
System 49
Side-marker lamps 84
Sitting safely 40
with airbags 40
with safety belt 40
Ski bag 100
Sliding/tilt sunroof 38
closing after an electrical
malfunction 39t
convenience operation 27
power loss or
malfunction 39t
Snow chains 112
Socket for attaching power
supplies 98
Spare key 26
Speakers 97
Special characteristics of
winter tires 112
Special oils 117
Specified engine oils 117
Speed 76
average 76
Speed limit 73
Speedometer 15
Sport seat 41
Standing lamps 14, 85
Starting the engine 56
assistance 133t
problems 57, 133t
Starting, vehicle 56
Steering wheel 47
automatic adjustment 47
lock 56
position adjustment
memory 45
Steering wheel with multi-
function buttons 19
Stopwatch 71
refer also to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Storage compartments 96
Summer tires 111
Switching off the engine 57
Symbols 8
T
Tachometer 64
Tail lamps 126
bulb replacement 126t
Tank capacity 143
Technical
modifications 120
Telephone preparation 97
Temperature display
engine coolant 65
engine oil 64
outside temperature 63
Temperature gauge
coolant 65
engine oil 64
Temperature layering 91
Tether strap 52
child-restraint system 52
Thigh support
adjustment 41
Third brake light 127
Through-loading system 99
Tilt alarm sensor 36
deactivate 29
Tilt function, passenger-side
mirror 46
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 830 - © 07/02 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
151n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Time
calling up 70
changing 70
refer also to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Time of arrival,
estimated 75
Timer 70
Tire
condition 109
damage 109t
inflation
pressure 22t, 109
labeling 111
pressure monitor 82
replacement 110
tread 109
Tire Quality Grading 110
Tools 124t
Torque 140
Tow fittings 135t
Towing the vehicle 135t
Track 141
Traction Control System,
refer to DSC 80
Transmitter key 26
Transporting children
safely 51
Tread depth, tires 109
Tread wear indicator 109
Trip odometer 63
Trunk, refer to Luggage
compartment 32
Turn signal indicator 18, 59
bulb replacement 125t
Turning circle 141
U
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
(UTQR) 110
Universal Transmitter 93
Use antifreeze,
radiator 118t
Used batteries 132
V
Vehicle battery 131
Vehicle key 26
Vehicle Memory 55
Ventilation 91
Ventilation in the rear 91
Ventilation while parked
activating 72
refer also to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Ventilation while parked,
refer to Parked-car venti-
lation system 92
Ventilation, draft-free 91
W
Warm feet – cool head 91
Warning lamps 16
Warning messages 66
Warning triangle 20
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian
models) 119
Washer fluids 115t
Washer reservoir,
filling 115t
Washer system 60
Water on the roads 107
Wear indicator in the
tires 109
Weights 142
Wheel and tire
combinations 111
Wheelbase 141
Width 141
Windows 36
convenience operation 27
defrosting 89
Windshield washer 60
reservoir, filling 115t
Windshield wiper 60
Winter tires 112
Wiper system 60
Working in the engine
compartment 113t
X
Xenon lamp 125
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 830 - © 07/02 BMW AG
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 830 - © 07/02 BMW AG
To ensure that you always have conve-
nient access to all essential information
when you stop for fuel, we recommend
that you take the time to fill out the
adjoining chart by entering the data that
apply to your vehicle.
Consult the index for individual specifi-
cations.
Fuel
Please enter your preferred fuel here.
Engine oil
The space between the two marks on
the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter).
Designation
Quality
Tire inflation pressures
Summer tires Winter tires
front rear front rear
Up to 4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage
Fuel stops
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 830 - © 07/02 BMW AG
The Ultimate
Driving Machine
01 41 0 156 830 ue
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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 830 - © 07/02 BMW AG
