BMW 2004 X3 3.0i Car User Manual

Owner's Manual

for Vehicle

Contents

A to Z

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

X3 2.5i

X3 3.0i

We are very glad that you have decided to purchase a

BMW.

The more familiar you are with it, the more secure you will

be on the roads. This is why we ask you:

Please read the information we have gathered for you in

this owner's manual before you set off with your new BMW.

You receive important information on vehicle operation

that enables you to make full use of the technical benefits

of your BMW. You will also find information on mainte-

nance that serves to retain the operating and road safety as

well as the best possible value retention of your vehicle.

You will find supplementary information in other brochures.

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 good and safe driving.

BMW AG

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Aktiengesellschaft

Munich, Germany

Reprints, including excerpts, only with the

written consent of BMW AG, Munich.

Order No. 01 41 0 157 631

US English VIII/03

Printed in Germany

Printed on environmentally friendly paper,

bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Contents

The fastest way to find specific topics is to

use the index, refer to page 119.

Using this Owner's Manual

4 Notes

At a glance

10 Cockpit

Controls

18 Opening and closing

27 Adjustments

34 Transporting children safely

37 Driving

45 Everything under control

49 Technology for comfort, convenience

and safety

57 Lamps

60 A congenial climate

66 Practical interior accessories

Driving tips

76 Things to remember when driving

Mobility

84 Refueling

86 Wheels and tires

92 Under the engine hood

97 Maintenance

98 Laws and regulations

99 Replacing components

107 Giving and receiving assistance

Reference

114 Technical data

117 Everything from A to Z

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Notes

Using 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. For a

brief initial overview, please refer to the first

chapter.

Should you sell your BMW some day,

please remember to hand over the Owner's

Manual as well; it is an important compo-

nent of your vehicle.

Additional sources of information

If you have additional questions, your BMW

Sports Activity Vehicle Center is always

happy to advise you.

You can find information on BMW, e.g.

technology, on the Internet at

www.bmwusa.com.

Symbols used

Indicates precautions that must be

followed precisely in order to avoid

the possibility of personal injury and seri-

ous 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 environment.

Marks the end of a specific item of infor-

mation.

Indicates special equipment, country-

specific equipment and optional extras

when available.

Vehicle Memory, Key Memory, refer

to page 33. Identifies functions that

can be specifically adapted for a particular

key or vehicle. These adjustments can be

performed either by yourself or by your

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

Symbols on vehicle components

Indicates that you should consult the

relevant section of this Owner's Man-

ual for information on a particular part or

assembly.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

The individual vehicle

On buying your BMW, you have decided in

favor of a model with individualized equip-

ment and features. This Owner's Manual

describes all models and equipment that

BMW offers within the same group.

We hope you will understand that equip-

ment and features are included that you

might not have chosen for your vehicle.

Sections describing options and special

equipment are marked by asterisks

assist you in identifying possible differ-

ences between the descriptions in this

manual and your own vehicle's equipment.

Should your BMW be equipped with fea-

tures or accessories not described in this

manual, e.g. car radio or portable phone,

please consult the enclosed supplemen-

tary owner's manuals.

Editorial notice

BMW pursues a policy of continuous,

ongoing development that is conceived 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, the

features described in this Owner's Manual

may differ from those on your vehicle. Nor

can errors and omissions be entirely ruled

out. You are therefore asked to appreciate

that no claims can be entertained on the

basis of the data, illustrations or descrip-

tions in this Owner's Manual.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Notes

For your own safety

Fuels

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 respecting defects in materials

or workmanship. Field experience has indi-

cated significant differences in fuel quality –

i.e. volatility, composition, additives, 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 which you suspect could be related to

the fuel you are using, we recommend that

you respond by switching to a recognized

high-quality brand.

Failure to comply with these recommenda-

tions may result in unscheduled mainte-

nance.

Follow the relevant safety rules when you

are handling gasoline.

Maintenance and repair

Advanced technology, e.g. the use of

modern materials and high-perfor-

mance electronics, requires specially

adapted maintenance and repair methods.

Therefore, only have corresponding work

on your BMW carried out by a BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center or a workshop that

works according to BMW repair proce-

dures with correspondingly trained person-

nel. If work is carried out improperly, there

is a danger of consequential damage and

the related safety risks.

Parts and accessories

For your own safety, use genuine

parts and accessories approved by

BMW.

When you purchase accessories tested

and approved by BMW and Genuine BMW

Parts, you simultaneously acquire the

assurance that they have been thoroughly

tested by BMW to ensure optimum perfor-

mance when installed on your vehicle.

BMW warrants these parts to be free from

defects in material and workmanship.

BMW will not accept any liability for dam-

ages resulting from installation of parts and

accessories not approved by BMW.

BMW cannot test every product made by

other manufacturers to verify if it can be

used on a BMW safely and without risk to

either the vehicle, its operation, or its occu-

pants.

Genuine BMW Parts, BMW Accessories

and other products approved by BMW,

together with professional advice on using

these items, are available from all BMW

Sports Activity Vehicle Centers.

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 phone from within the vehicle

without using an externally mounted

antenna – or transceiver equipment, for

instance, 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 Sports

Activity Vehicle Center for additional infor-

mation.

Maintenance, replacement, or repair

of the emission control devices and

systems may be performed by any automo-

tive repair establishment or individual using

any certified automotive part.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Service and warranty

This manual is supplemented by a Service

and Warranty Information Booklet for US

models or a Warranty and Service Guide

Booklet for Canadian models.

We recommend that you read this publica-

tion thoroughly.

Your BMW is covered by the following war-

ranties:

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

Rust Perforation Limited Warranty

Federal Emissions System Defect War-

ranty

Federal Emissions Performance War-

ranty

California Emission Control System

Limited Warranty.

Detailed information about these warran-

ties 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 notify-

ing BMW of North America, LLC, P.O. Box

1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-

1227, telephone toll-free

1-800-831-1117.

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 individual 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, D.C. area, or write to:

NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transporta-

tion, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also

obtain other information about motor vehi-

cle safety from the Hotline.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

At a glance

This overview of buttons, switches and

displays is intended to serve as a source

of orientation in your vehicle's operating

environment. The section will also assist

you in becoming acquainted with the

control concepts and options available

for operating the various systems.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Cockpit

Controls

Parking lamps/low beams 57

Turn signal indicators 41

Standing lamps 58

High beams 58

Headlamp flasher 41

Computer 47

Fog lamps 58

Horn

Washer/Wiper system/Rain sensor 41

Hazard warning flashers

Central locking system 18

Unlocking the engine hood 92

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

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Instrument cluster

Speedometer

Indicator and warning lamps 12

Tachometer 45

with indicator and warning lamps 12

Coolant temperature gauge 45

Fuel gauge 45

Button for

Displaying the time 46

Service Interval Display 46

Selector lever and program display for

automatic transmission 40

Button for

Resetting trip odometer 45

Setting the time 46

Display for

Trip odometer/odometer 45

> Time 46

> Service Interval 46

> Computer 47

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Cockpit

Indicator and warning

lamps

Technology that monitors itself

The indicator and warning lamps identified

by the

+ symbol are subjected to an oper-

ation check each time you switch on the

engine. They each light up once for differ-

ent periods of time.

When a malfunction occurs in a monitored

system, the corresponding lamp will either

fail to go out when the engine is started, or

it will come on again during normal driving.

Detailed information is provided on the

specified pages.

Please fasten safety belt

+ 30

Airbags

+ 54

Brake system

With handbrake released 52/ 96

With handbrake set 38

With other warning lamps 52

Brake warning lamp for Canadian

models

Driving stability control systems/

Antilock Brake System

+ 53

Antilock Brake System ABS/

Chassis control system for Cana-

dian models

Brake pads

+ 96

Dynamic Stability Control DSC/

xDrive

+ 50/ 52

Flat Tire Monitor

+ 53

Automatic transmission

+ 39

Engine oil + 94

Service Engine Soon

+ 98

Service Engine Soon

+ 37

warning lamp for Canadian

models.

Check Gas Cap

Engine electronics + 37

Battery charge current

+ 105

Topping up coolant 95

Topping up washer fluid 94

Lamp defective 57

Turn signal indicators 41

Fog lamps 58

Headlamp flasher 41

High beams 58

Cruise control 43

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobilityReference

Colors

The indicator and warning lamps can light

up in different colors and combinations.

The following section explains the signifi-

cance of the individual colors as well as

how you should respond when they

appear.

> Red:

Stop the vehicle immediately

an important reminder

> Yellow:

Have the system inspected as soon as

possible

for your information

> Green:

For your information

> Blue

For your information.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Cockpit

Buttons in steering wheel*

The buttons integrated in the steering

wheel are provided so that you can operate

a number of accessories quickly and with-

out being distracted from traffic conditions.

You may operate:

> selected audio source functions

> Recirculating air mode/steering wheel

heating

> the cruise control

> some telephone functions

> the voice command system.

In order to operate a system, the cor-

responding system must be switched

on.<

Telephone/voice command system

Press briefly:

Accept incoming call, start dialing, termi-

nate call.

Extended pressure:

Switch voice command system on and off

Telephone/audio sources

Switching between telephone and radio,

cassette, CD or MD

Fast forward/reverse

> Radio

Press briefly: next station

> CD

Press briefly: skipping tracks

Maintain pressure on the button: fast

forward/reverse

> Telephone

Browse name directory

Volume

Cruise control

Cruise control: calling up

Cruise control: storing and accelerating

as well as braking and storing

–

Cruise control: activate/interrupt/deacti-

vate

Recirculated-air mode/steering

wheel heating

Depending on the equipment, there is

a button for the recirculated-air mode

or steering wheel heating.<

Switching the recirculated-air mode and

automatic recirculated-air control on and

off

Steering wheel heating: switching on/off,

refer to page 31.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobilityReference

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Controls

This chapter is intended to provide you

with information for complete control

of your vehicle. Its extensive array of

features and accessories, both for driving

and for your own safety, comfort and

convenience, are described here.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Opening and closing

Key set

1 Master keys with remote control deter-

mine the functions of the Key Memory,

refer to page 33.

You can mark the keys using the col-

ored decals you received on taking

delivery of the vehicle

There is an extended-life battery

in every master key which is

charged automatically in the ignition

lock as you drive.

If you have any master keys that are not

being used on a regular basis, you

should therefore remember to recharge

these units by using them to drive the

vehicle for an extended period at least

once a year.<

2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,

such as in your wallet.

This key cannot be used to open the

lock for the glove compartment. This is

an advantage, e.g. at a hotel. The key is

not intended for constant use.

Central locking system

The concept

The central locking system is ready for

operation whenever the driver's door is

closed. The system engages or releases

the locks on the

> doors

> tailgate

> fuel filler door.

The central locking system can be oper-

ated from the outside

> via the remote control

> via the driver's door lock

and from inside via the button for the cen-

tral locking system.

When the system is locked from inside, the

fuel filler door remains unlocked, refer to

page 20.

The anti-theft system is automatically acti-

vated whenever you activate the central

locking system from outside the vehicle.

This prevents the doors from being

unlocked via the safety lock buttons or

door handles. The alarm system is also

armed or disarmed.

In an accident, the central locking system

automatically unlocks the vehicle. In addi-

tion, the hazard warning flashers and inte-

rior lamps switch on.

You can have an acknowledgment

signal set to confirm that the vehicle is

correctly locked.<

Opening and closing – from

outside

Using the remote control

The remote control provides two additional

functions for the central locking system:

> Switching on the interior lamps, refer to

page 19.

You can also use this function to locate

your vehicle in parking garages etc.

> Opening the tailgate, refer to page 19.

The tailgate will open slightly, regard-

less of whether it was previously locked

or unlocked.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

In addition, the remote control offers you

another function:

> Panic mode

In case of danger, you can trigger an

alarm.

When you engage/release the vehicle

locks, you simultaneously activate/deacti-

vate the anti-theft system, arm/disarm the

alarm system, and switch the interior lamps

on/off.

As a reminder that the ignition key is

still in the ignition lock after you open

the driver's door, you can have a sound sig-

nal set.<

Protect the remote control against

unauthorized use by handing over

only the spare key, for example when using

hotel valet parking.<

Because any persons or animals left

unattended in a parked vehicle could

lock the doors from the inside, you should

always take the vehicle's keys with you so

that the vehicle can be opened again from

the outside at any time.<

Unlocking

Press the button.

Press the button once to unlock the driver’s

door only; press a second time to unlock all

remaining doors as well as the tailgate and

the fuel filler door.

Convenience opening mode

Press and hold the button. The windows

and the sliding panel of the panorama glass

roof are opened.

Press the button a second time and hold.

The panorama glass roof is opened.

If you desire, you can have this spe-

cial feature activated/deactivated on

a vehicle-specific basis.<

Locking and securing

Press the button.

If you desire, the vehicle locks auto-

matically if no door or lid is opened

after unlocking. You may have this function

set on a vehicle-specific basis if you wish.<

Switching off the tilt alarm sensor*

and interior motion sensor*

Press the button once again directly

after locking.

For details, refer to page 25.

Switching on the interior lamps

If the vehicle is locked, press the

button.

Panic mode*

By pressing and holding the button for

more than approx. two seconds, you can

trigger the alarm system in response to any

impending danger.

To switch off the alarm: press any of the

buttons.

Unlocking tailgate

Press the button.

The tailgate will open slightly, regardless of

whether it was previously locked or

unlocked.

Before and after a trip, ensure that the

tailgate has not been opened uninten-

tionally.

A previously locked tailgate is also locked

after closing.<

If you desire, the tailgate can only be

opened using the remote control if the

vehicle is unlocked. This can be adjusted.<

Malfunctions

The remote control system may be affected

by other units or equipment operating in

the immediate vicinity of your vehicle.

Should the remote control fail to operate

owing to interference of this kind, you can

respond by using the master key to unlock

your vehicle at one of the doors.

In case of faults, please contact your BMW

Sports Activity Vehicle Center. You can

also obtain replacement keys there.

If it is no longer possible to lock the vehicle

via the remote control, the battery is dis-

charged. Use this remote control during an

extended drive; this will recharge the bat-

tery, refer to page 18.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Opening and closing

For US owners only

The transmitter and receiver units comply

with part 15 of the FCC – Federal Commu-

nications Commission – regulations. Oper-

ation 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 fol-

lowing 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 or

changes to these devices could void

the user's authority to operate the equip-

ment.<

Using the door lock

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 tailgate and the

fuel filler door.

You can have a signal set to confirm

that the vehicle's locks have engaged

securely.<

Convenience operation

You also have the option of operating the

windows and the panorama glass roof from

the driver's door lock.

> To open:

With the door closed, turn the key to the

Unlock position and hold it there.

> To close:

With the door closed, turn the key to the

Lock position and hold it there.

Watch during the closing process to

be sure that no one is injured. Releas-

ing the key stops the operation.<

Manual operation

In the event of an electrical defect:

You can turn the key all the way to the

right or left in the door lock to lock or

unlock the driver's door.

Opening and closing – from

inside

You can use this button to operate the cen-

tral locking system when the front doors

are closed. With this button, only the doors

and the tailgate are unlocked or locked.

The anti-theft system is not activated.

If only the driver's door was unlocked

from the outside and you press the

button, then, with the driver's door still

open, the passenger-side door, the tailgate

and the fuel filler door will also unlock.

If the driver's door is closed, it will be

locked.<

The central locking system locks

automatically after driving off. This

can be adjusted to be vehicle-specific or

key-specific.<

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Unlocking and opening the doors

1. Press the button for central locking sys-

tem

2. Pull the respective door handle above

the armrest

individually pull on the door handle of each

door twice to unlock and open.

Engaging the locks

> Press button for central locking system

> press down the individual safety lock

buttons.

To prevent you from being locked

out, the opened driver's door can-

not be locked using the safety lock but-

ton.<

Because any persons or animals left

unattended in a parked vehicle could

lock the doors from the inside, you should

always take the vehicle's keys with you so

that the vehicle can be opened again from

the outside at any time.<

Tailgate

Opening from outside

Press the button in the handle strip. The

tailgate is unlocked and opens somewhat.

During opening, the tailgate pivots

upward and to the rear. Ensure that

adequate clearance is available before

opening.<

When the tailgate is open, the cargo area

and interior are lit up.

Manual unlocking

In the event of an electrical defect:

1. Fold up the floor cover in the cargo area

2. Press the lever to the right.

The tailgate is locked again as soon as you

close it.

Closing

The handle recesses on the interior trim of

the tailgate make it easier to pull down.

To avoid injuries, be sure that the

travel path of the tailgate is clear

when it is closed, as with all closing proce-

dures.<

Operate the vehicle only when the

tailgate is completely closed. Other-

wise, exhaust fumes could penetrate the

interior of the vehicle.<

If special circumstances should make it

absolutely necessary to operate the vehicle

with the tailgate open:

1. Close all windows and the glass roof

2. Greatly increase the air supply of the air

conditioner or automatic climate con-

trol, refer to page 60 or 63.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Opening and closing

Electric power windows

Opening and closing windows

As of ignition key position 1:

> Press the switch up to the resistance

point:

The window continues to move as long

as you continue to press the switch

> Press the switch beyond the resistance

point:

The window moves downward auto-

matically. Briefly press the switch again

to stop the opening movement.

You can close the windows in the same

manner by pulling the switch.

After switching off the ignition

You can operate the electric power win-

dows for up to 15 minutes as long as nei-

ther of the front doors has been opened.

When leaving the vehicle parked,

always remove the remote control

from the ignition lock and close the doors;

this precaution prevents children from

operating the electric power windows and

injuring themselves, etc.<

For convenience operation with the door

lock, refer to page 20.

Anti-trapping mechanism

If the closing force rises beyond a pre-

defined threshold during closing, the sys-

tem will immediately stop moving the win-

dow prior to lowering it slightly.

Despite the anti-trapping mechanism

you should always inspect the win-

dow's travel path prior to closing it, as the

safety system might fail to detect certain

kinds of obstructions, such as very thin

objects, and the window would continue

closing.

You can disable the anti-trapping mecha-

nism by pressing the switch beyond the

resistance point and holding it.<

Following interruptions in electrical

power supply

After disconnecting the battery, the anti-

trapping mechanism must be reinitialized.

To do this, open and close the windows

once and continue pull the switch for 2 sec-

onds after closing.

Safety switch

With the safety switch, you can prevent the

rear windows from being opened or closed

via the switches in the rear passenger area,

by children, for example. The indicator

lamp lights up when this safety feature is

activated.

Press the safety switch whenever

children are riding in the rear of the

vehicle. Careless use of the electric power

windows can lead to injury.<

You can deactivate the function again

as of ignition key position 1.<

Accessories in the window area

After installing any accessory – such as a

clamp-on antenna for a portable phone –

within the window's travel range, you will

need to have the system reinitialized for

use under the new conditions. Please con-

tact your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Cen-

ter.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Panorama glass roof*

To prevent injuries, exercise care

when closing the panorama glass roof

and keep it in your field of vision until it is

shut.

When leaving the vehicle, always remove

the remote control and close the doors to

prevent children from operating the glass

roof and injuring themselves, etc.<

Raising, opening, closing

The glass roof and sliding panel are opera-

tional as of ignition key position 1.

After the ignition has been switched off:

You can operate the panorama glass roof

for up to 1 minute as long as neither of the

doors has been opened.

Opening the glass roof and sliding

panel together

Within 2 seconds, push the switch back-

ward twice beyond the resistance point.

The glass roof moves to the convenience

position and the sliding panel opens com-

pletely. To open the glass roof fully at a

standstill, slide the switch backward

beyond the resistance point.

Sliding the switch again stops the motion.

Closing the glass roof and sliding

panel together

Within 2 seconds, push the switch forward

twice beyond the resistance point.

The glass roof and sliding panel close com-

pletely.

Sliding the switch again stops the motion.

Operating sliding panel

> Opening, closing:

Slide the switch up to the resistance

point in the desired direction.

The motion continues for as long as the

switch is held

> Automatic opening, closing:

Slide the switch beyond the resistance

point in the desired direction.

Sliding the switch again stops the

motion.

Operating glass roof

> Opening, closing:

Slide the switch up to the resistance

point in the desired direction.

The motion continues for as long as the

switch is held

> Automatically in convenience position:

Slide the switch beyond the resistance

point in the desired direction.

In the convenience position, the glass

roof is not fully opened.

Sliding the switch again stops the

motion.

> Automatic opening and closing:

Slide the switch beyond the resistance

point in the desired direction. The glass

roof moves initially into the conven-

ience position. To open or close fully at

a standstill, slide the switch beyond the

resistance point in the desired direc-

tion.

Sliding the switch again stops the

motion

> To raise: slide switch

To lower: slide switch forward.

Sliding the switch again stops the

motion.

Ventilation setting

In the ventilation setting, the glass roof is

raised and the sliding panel opens to a gap:

Press the switch twice within 2 seconds.

Pressing the switch again stops the

motion.

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Opening and closing

If the glass roof and sliding panel are

closed:

Press the switch once.<

Anti-trapping mechanism

If the glass roof and sliding panel encoun-

ter resistance when closing from roughly

one third of the roof opening or when clos-

ing from the raised position, the closing

action is interrupted and the glass roof and

sliding panel reopen a little.

Despite the anti-trapping mechanism

you should always inspect the roof's

travel path prior to closing it, as the safety

system might fail to detect certain kinds of

obstructions, such as very thin objects, and

the window would continue closing.

The anti-trapping mechanism for closing

the panorama glass roof is deactivated if

the switch is pressed beyond the resis-

tance point and held there. The closing

action is interrupted when you release the

switch.<

Following interruptions in electrical

power supply

Following interruptions in electrical power,

for instance, when the battery is discon-

nected, it is possible that the glass roof will

extend to its tilt-up position, but fail to

respond to other commands. For initializa-

tion, please contact your BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center.

Manual operation

In the event of an electrical malfunction,

you can operate the glass roof manually:

1. Pull the cover downward

2. Insert the Allen key from the compart-

ment beneath the cargo area floor, refer

to page 103, in the proper opening and

turn the panorama glass roof in the

desired direction. Direction of rotation

for closing, refer to arrow.

Alarm system*

The concept

The vehicle alarm system responds:

> When a door, the hood, or the tailgate is

opened

> To movement in the vehicle's interior –

interior motion sensor

> To variations in the vehicle tilt angle

such as occur during attempts to steal

the wheels or tow the vehicle

> To interruption of battery voltage.

The system responds to unauthorized vehi-

cle entry and attempted theft by simulta-

neously activating:

> An acoustic alarm, which lasts for a

period of approx. 30 seconds

> The hazard warning flashers for approx.

5 minutes

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

> The high beams, which flash on and off

in the same rhythm.

Arming and disarming 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.

If the alarm system has been properly

armed, the hazard warning flashers light up

once.

You can have different acknowledg-

ment signals set to confirm arming

and disarming.<

You can also open the tailgate with the sys-

tem armed using the button on the

remote control, refer to page 19. When you

close the tailgate, the system is rearmed.<

Switching off the alarm

> Unlock the vehicle using the remote

control, refer to page 19

> Turn the ignition key to position 1.

Indicator lamp displays

> The indicator lamp below the interior

rearview mirror flashes continuously:

the system is armed

> The indicator lamp flashes during arm-

ing: door(s), the hood or tailgate are not

completely closed. Even if you do not

close the alerted area, the system

begins to monitor the remaining areas,

and the indicator lamp flashes continu-

ously after 10 seconds. However, the

interior motion sensor is not activated

> If the indicator lamp goes out when the

system is disarmed: no manipulation or

attempted intrusions have been

detected in the period since the system

was armed

> If the indicator lamp flashes for 10 sec-

onds after the system is disarmed: an

attempted entry has been detected in

the period since the system was armed.

Following triggering of an alarm, the indica-

tor 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 a false

alarm from being triggered in garages with

elevator ramps, for instance, or when the

vehicle is transported by trailer or train:

Lock twice:

> Press the button on the remote

control twice consecutively

> Lock using the door lock twice.

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.

If you wish, the tilt alarm sensor and

interior motion sensor are perma-

nently switched off. You can have this set

at your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Cen-

ter.<

Interior motion sensor

In order for the interior motion sensor to

function properly, the windows and pan-

orama glass roof must be completely

closed.

However, be sure to switch off the interior

motion sensor – refer to Avoiding uninten-

tional alarms – when you

> leave children or animals in the vehicle

> the windows or panorama glass roof

are to remain open.

The tilt alarm sensor and interior

motion sensor are switched off inad-

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Opening and closing

vertently if convenience closing of windows

and panorama glass roof is interrupted

within the first 10 seconds and then reiniti-

ated. If this has occurred, the system must

be disarmed and then rearmed.<

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Adjustments

Sitting safely

The ideal sitting position can make a vital

contribution to relaxed driving that is as

fatigue-free as possible. The sitting posi-

tion plays an important role together with

the safety belts and airbags in providing

occupants with maximum levels of passive

safety in an accident. Therefore, observe

the following instructions, as otherwise the

protective function of the safety systems

may be impaired.

For additional information on transporting

children safely, refer to page 34.

Sitting safely with airbags

Always maintain an adequate dis-

tance between yourself and the air-

bags. Always hold the steering wheel by

its rim with hands at the 9 o'clock and

3 o'clock positions, to minimize the risk of

injuries to your hands and arms in the event

of airbag deployment.

No one and nothing is to come between the

airbags and the seat occupant.

Do not use the cover of the front airbag on

the front passenger side as a storage area.

Make sure that the front passenger is cor-

rectly seated, i.e. feet or legs not resting on

the instrument panel, as otherwise leg inju-

ries can result if the knee and front airbag is

triggered.

Never let an occupant's head rest near or

on a side airbag because the inflating air-

bag could cause a serious or fatal injury.<

Even if you adhere to all the instructions

injuries resulting from contact with airbags

cannot be fully excluded, depending on the

circumstances. The ignition and inflation

noise may provoke a mild – usually tempo-

rary – hearing loss in extremely sensitive

individuals.

For airbag locations and additional infor-

mation on airbags, refer to page 54.

Sitting safely with safety belts

Even though there is an airbag, wear a

safety belt every time you get in the vehi-

cle. Although airbags enhance safety by

providing added protection, they are not a

substitute for safety belts.

Your vehicle has five seats that are all

equipped with a safety belt.

Occupants should sit upright and be

properly restrained at all times:

infants and small children in appropriate

child-restraint systems; larger children and

adults using the safety belts.

Expectant mothers should always wear

their safety belts, taking care to position

the lap belt against the lower hips, where it

will not exert pressure against the abdomi-

nal area.

Never allow more than one person to wear

a single safety belt. Never allow infants and

small children to ride in a passengers lap.

Do not route the belt across your neck, or

run it across sharp edges. Be sure that the

belt does not become caught or jammed.

Avoid twisting the belt while routing it firmly

across the hips and shoulder. Do not allow

the belt to rest against hard or fragile

objects. Otherwise, in the event of a frontal

impact, a loose lap belt could slide over

your hips, leading to abdominal injury.

Avoid wearing clothing that prevents the

belt from fitting properly and pull the lap

belt periodically to readjust the tension

across your shoulder in order to avoid a

reduction in the retention effect of the

safety belt.<

For fastening safety belts, refer to page 30.

Seats

Note before adjusting

Never try to adjust your seat while

operating the vehicle. The seat could

respond with unexpected movement, and

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Adjustments

the ensuing loss of vehicle control could

lead to an accident.

Especially on the passenger's side, do not

incline the backrest too far to the rear while

the vehicle is being driven, as otherwise

there is a danger in the event of an accident

of sliding under the safety belt, eliminating

the protection normally provided by the

belt.<

Please observe the information on using

safety belts provided on page 30 and the

information on the head restraints on

page 28.

Seat adjustment

To ensure that the safety systems

continue to provide optimized protec-

tion, please observe the adjustment

instructions above.<

1 Longitudinal direction

Pull the lever and slide the seat into the

desired position.

After you release the lever, move the

seat forward or backward slightly so

that it engages fully

2 Height

Pull the lever and apply weight to or

remove weight from the seat as

required

3 Backrest angle

Pull the lever and apply weight to or

remove weight from the backrest as

required

Adjusting the BMW sports seat*

You can also adjust the tilt and the thigh

support:

1 Upward tilt:

Pull the lever as many times as required

to set the desired tilt

2 Downward tilt:

Press the lever as many times as

required to set the desired tilt

3 Thigh support:

Pull the lever and move the thigh sup-

port in the longitudinal direction

Head restraints

Align the head restraints so that their

center is approximately at ear level,

as otherwise the risk of spinal injuries is

increased in the event of an accident.<

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Adjustments

Height adjustment: pull or press.

To reach the lowest positions, press

button 1.<

To adjust the front head restraint tilt angle:

adjust by tilting.

Removal – front

1. Pull the head restraint upward to the

stop

2. Press button 1 and remove the head

restraint.

Installation – front

1. Press button 1 and slide the head

restraint into its supports

2. Adjust the head restraint.

Power seat*

To ensure that the safety systems

continue to provide optimal protec-

tion, please observe the adjustment

instructions on page 27.<

1 Angle

2 Longitudinal direction

3 Height

4 Backrest angle

Set the head restraint manually, refer to left

column.

Lumbar support*

You can also adjust the contours of the

backrest to obtain additional support in the

lumbar region.

The upper hips and spinal column receive

supplementary support to help you main-

tain a relaxed, upright sitting position.

> Press the front or rear of the switch:

Increase or decrease curvature

> Press the upper or lower end of the

switch:

Increase the upper or lower curvature.

Seat and mirror memory*

You can store and select three different

adjustment settings for the driver's seat

and exterior mirrors.

The adjustment of the lumbar support is not

stored in the memory.

Storing

1. Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 2

2. Set the desired seat and exterior mirror

position

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Adjustments

3. Press MEMORY button:

The indicator lamp in the button lights

4. Press the desired memory button 1, 2

or 3:

The indicator lamp goes out.

Selecting a stored setting

Do not call up a position from the

memory while the vehicle is moving,

as otherwise there is a risk of accident from

unexpected seat movement.<

Convenience mode

1. Open the driver's door after unlocking

or turn the ignition key to position 1

2. Briefly press the desired memory but-

ton 1, 2 or 3.

The system immediately cancels the

adjustment procedure when you press

one of the seat adjustment buttons or

use one of the memory buttons.

Safety feature

1. Close the driver's door and turn the

ignition key to position 0 or 2

2. Press the desired memory button 1, 2

or 3 and maintain pressure until the

adjustment process has been com-

pleted.

If you press the

MEMORY button

accidentally:

Press the button a second time — the indi-

cator lamp goes out.<

You can have your vehicle pro-

grammed to automatically dial in your

own individual adjustment settings for the

seat and exterior mirror position whenever

you use your personal remote control to

unlock the vehicle.<

If you make use of this adjustment, be

sure that the footwell behind the

driver's seat is unobstructed before

unlocking the vehicle. If you fail to do so,

any persons, animals or objects behind the

seat could be injured or damaged by a

rearward movement of the seat.<

Heated seats*

The seat cushion and backrest can be

heated when the ignition key is in

position 2.

To call up different temperature levels:

Press the button repeatedly.

To switch off from a higher heat setting:

Press the button and hold it slightly longer.

Safety belts

Even though there is an airbag, wear a

safety belt every time you get in the vehi-

cle. Although airbags enhance safety by

providing added protection, they are not a

substitute for safety belts.

Fastening

Make sure you hear the latch plate engage

in the belt buckle.

Please fasten safety belt warning

lamp:

Lights up for a few seconds or until

safety belts are fastened. Depending on

you vehicle version, a signal

* sounds

simultaneously.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Releasing

1. Press the red button in the buckle

2. Hold the belt

3. Guide the belt back into its reel.

The upper shoulder strap's anchorage

point will be in the correct position for seat

occupants of every build if the seat is cor-

rectly adjusted, refer to page 27.

The two rear safety belt buckles integrated

in the rear seat are for passengers sitting

on the left and right. The belt buckle

embossed with the word CENTER is

intended exclusively for use by passengers

riding in the center position.<

Damage to safety belts

If the safety belts are damaged or

stretched in an accident: have the

entire belt system, including the tensioning

mechanisms, replaced at your BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center. Have the belt

anchorage points inspected for damage at

the same time. Failure to observe this pre-

caution may prevent the safety belts from

effectively providing optimal protection

when needed. If a child-restraint system

was in the vehicle during an accident, con-

sult the manufacturer's instructions regard-

ing replacement.<

Steering wheel

Adjustments

Do not adjust the steering wheel while

the vehicle is moving. There is a risk

of accident from unexpected movement.<

1. Fold the clamping lever downward

2. Adapt the steering wheel in the longitu-

dinal direction and height of the seat

position

3. Fold the clamping lever back up.

Steering wheel heating*

The button for steering wheel heating is

located in the steering wheel, refer to

page 14.

Steering wheel heating: switching on/off.

The steering wheel heating operates from

ignition key position 2.

Press the button to activate or deactivate

this system.

The indicator lamp within the button lights

up when the steering wheel heating is in

operation.

Mirrors

Adjusting exterior mirrors

1 Mirror switch for 4-way adjustment

2 Left/right selector switch

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Adjustments

To prevent the exterior mirrors on this

vehicle from being damaged, always

fold them in by hand before entering an

automatic car wash.<

Adjusting manually

You can also adjust the mirrors manually:

Press the edges of the mirror glass.

Storing the mirror positions, refer to Seat

and mirror memory on page 29.

Convex mirror

The mirror on the passenger's side

features a lens with a more convex

surface than the mirror installed on the

driver's side. When estimating the distance

between yourself and other traffic, bear in

mind that the objects reflected in the mirror

are closer than they appear. This means

that estimations of the distance to following

traffic should not be regarded as precise.<

Electric heaters

Both mirrors are heated automatically in

ignition key position 2.

Passenger-side exterior mirror tilt

function

Automatic curb monitor*

1. Select the driver's exterior mirror with

the switch 1

2. When you engage reverse gear or

selector-lever position R, the exterior

mirror on the front passenger side tilts

downward slightly. This allows the

driver to see the area immediately adja-

cent to the vehicle – such as a curb –

when parking, etc.

You can have the angle of downward

tilt set in dependence on the key

used.<

Interior rearview mirror

To reduce the dazzle effect of following

vehicles at night, turn the knob.

Interior and exterior mirrors,

automatic dimming feature*

These mirrors automatically dim through an

infinitely-variable range. They automatically

revert to their undimmed mode whenever

the transmission is placed in reverse gear

or selector lever in position R.

For trouble-free operation, keep the

photocells unobstructed and clean

and do not cover the area between the

interior rearview mirror and the windshield.

Do not attach any kind of stickers on the

windshield in front of the mirror, either.<

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Vehicle Memory,

Key Memory

How the system functions

You have probably frequently wished that

you could configure individual functions of

your vehicle to reflect your own personal

requirements. In developing your vehicle,

BMW has incorporated a number of

options for personal adjustment. You can

have these programmed at your BMW

Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

There are vehicle-related and person-

related adjustments: Vehicle Memory and

Key Memory. You can configure up to four

different basic adjustments for four differ-

ent persons. The only requirement is that

each person uses his or her own master

key with remote control.

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 adjust-

ments accordingly.

In order for you to distinguish between the

remote control master keys, colored decals

are supplied together with the keys.

What the system can do

Your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center

can provide you with details on the capabil-

ities of the Vehicle Memory and Key Mem-

ory systems.

You will see this symbol throughout

the Owner's Manual. It is to remind

you at appropriate places of the settings

that are available to you.<

Examples of Vehicle Memory

functions

> Different acknowledgment signals to

confirm locking/unlocking of the vehi-

cle, refer to page 18

> Activate/deactivate function for path-

way lighting, refer to page 57

> Activate/deactivate daytime driving

lamps, refer to page 57

> Setting measurement units for displays

in the instrument cluster of the time,

outside temperature, distance driven

and fuel consumption, refer to page 47

> Active PDC is indicated by an acoustic

sound signal when reverse gear or

selector-lever position R is engaged,

refer to page 49

> The rear window defroster switches on

automatically, refer to page 61

> Different acknowledgment signals to

confirm arming/disarming the alarm

system, refer to page 25

> After an ice warning has been issued,

the display of the computer returns to

the previous adjustment, refer to

page 47

> Acoustic warning if the ignition key

remains in the ignition lock after the

driver's door has been opened, refer to

page 21.

Examples of Key Memory functions

> On unlocking, first unlock the driver's

door, then the entire vehicle, refer to

page 19

> Locking the vehicle after moving off,

refer to page 20

> Automatic adjustment of the driver's

seat and exterior mirror position for

each person when unlocking the vehi-

cle, refer to page 30

> Angle of downward tilt of mirror on pas-

senger side, refer to page 32.

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Transporting children safely

The right place for children

Children always in the rear

Accident research shows that the safest

place for children in a vehicle is in the rear

seat.

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.

A child sitting in the rear seat and not

properly restrained may place his or

her head on or near the airbag, if so

equipped. For example, a child — even

though belted — may fall asleep with his or

her head against the side airbag. It may be

difficult for a driver to ensure that children

in the rear seat will remain properly posi-

tioned at all times and do not place their

heads on or near the side airbag. There-

fore, we recommend that the rear side air-

bags, if provided, be deactivated if you plan

to transport children in the rear seat.<

Deactivation of the rear seat side

airbags

The rear seat side airbags may already

have been deactivated by a BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle 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

contact your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

Center.

Child-restraint system in rear

Children under 13 years of age and

children less than 5 ft/150 cm tall

should always ride in the rear and the

restraint systems should be properly

adjusted.<

Younger children should be secured in an

appropriate forward-facing child-restraint

system that has first been properly secured

with a safety belt.

All rear seating positions in your vehicle

meet the recommendations of SAE J1819,

an industry-recommended practice for

securing child-restraint systems in motor

vehicles.

Exception for the front passenger

seat

Should it become necessary to use a

child-restraint system on the front

passenger seat, the airbags on the passen-

ger's side must be deactivated. The pas-

senger airbag indicator lamp above the

interior rearview mirror must light up con-

tinuously. Otherwise, the front passenger

airbags remain active and there is consid-

erable risk of injury to children if the airbags

are triggered, even with a child-restraint

system. In this case, children should be

seated in the rear and the system should be

checked at your BMW Sport Activity Vehi-

cle Center.<

Never install a rearward-facing child-

restraint system in the front passen-

ger seat of this vehicle if the passenger air-

bag is not deactivated. If you do so, the

child could be severely injured when the

airbag is triggered.

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 air-

bag's deployment range, you should never

mount such a system in the front passenger

seat, since the impact of the airbag against

the child restraint's backrest could lead to

serious or fatal injuries.<

More information on automatic deactiva-

tion of the front passenger airbags, refer to

page 55.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Installing child-restraint

systems

Before installing any child-restraint system

or child seat, read the following:

Observe the child-restraint system

manufacturer's instructions for instal-

lation and use. Otherwise the degree of

protection can be reduced.

After an accident, have all parts of the rele-

vant vehicle safety belt system checked by

a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center and

replaced if necessary.<

Commercially-available child-restraint sys-

tems are designed to be secured with a lap

belt or with the lap belt portion of a combi-

nation 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.

Child seat security

All of the rear belt retractors and the front

passenger's safety belt can be locked for

mounting and securing child-restraint sys-

tems.

Information regarding this is located near

the buckle latch of each safety belt.

To lock the safety belt

Pull 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 retraction mechanism

is now locked.

To unlock the safety belt

Release the buckle, remove the child-

restraint system and allow the belt retractor

to reel the belt completely in.

Child-restraint system with tether

strap

If you use a child-restraint system with a

tether strap, three additional tether anchor-

age 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 corresponding anchorage point to

secure the child-restraint system, as

shown in the illustration below.

Each seating position is fitted with a head

restraint.

Outer seating positions:

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

position.

Center seating position:

The head restraint must be adjusted into

the lowest possible position. Pass the

tether strap over the head restraint.

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Transporting children safely

Adjust the tether strap according to

the child-restraint manufacturer's

instructions.<

LATCH* child-restraint fixing

LATCH: Lower Anchor and Tethers for

CHildren.

The rear outer seating positions are pro-

vided with anchors for a LATCH child-

restraint fixing.

Access to anchorage points

The illustrations show the left rear seat as

an example. The anchorage points for the

LATCH child seat fixing are located behind

the cover caps.

Remove the cover caps toward the front.

Press on to remount.

Canadian models only:

The anchorage points for the LATCH child-

restraint fixing are identified by buttons.

To fit the child seat fixing LATCH, fol-

low the operating and safety instruc-

tions of the manufacturer.<

Before mounting the LATCH child-restraint

fixing, remove the cover caps.

1. Engage the center safety belt into the

belt buckle

2. Pull the belt away from the area of the

child seat fixing.

For driving

With side airbags in the rear, make

sure that children do not lean out of

the child's seat toward the door panel, as

otherwise major injuries can result if the

side airbags are triggered.<

You can have the rear side airbags perma-

nently deactivated.

Your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center

will be happy to advise you.

Child-safety lock of rear doors

Slide down the safety levers on the rear

doors:

The door can now be opened from the out-

side only.

Safety switch for power windows

Always press the safety switch for the elec-

tric power windows, refer to page 22, when

children are in the rear of the vehicle.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Driving

Ignition lock

0 Steering locked

The key can only be inserted or removed in

this position.

After removing the key, turn the steering

wheel slightly to the left or right until you

hear the lock engage.

Vehicles with automatic transmission:

Only move the selector lever from

position P with the engine running. To turn

the key back to position 0 or to remove it,

first place the selector lever in position P:

Interlock.<

1 Steering unlocked

A slight steering wheel movement often

makes it easier to turn the key from 0 to 1.

Individual current consumers are ready for

operation.

2 Ignition switched on

All vehicle systems are ready for operation.

3 Engine start

Engine

Do not allow the engine to warm up while

idling. Drive off immediately at moderate

engine speed.

Engine idle speed is controlled by the

engine computer system. Increased

speeds at startup are normal and should

decrease as the engine warms up. If engine

speed does not decrease, service is

required.

To prevent the battery from discharging,

always switch off electrical devices which

are not in use and the ignition when the

vehicle is not being driven.

Do not run the engine in closed

rooms, as otherwise inhaling toxic

exhaust gases can cause unconsciousness

and death. The exhaust gases contain car-

bon monoxide, an odorless and colorless,

but highly toxic gas. Do not leave the vehi-

cle unattended with the engine running,

since an unattended vehicle with a running

engine represents a safety hazard.

When driving, standing at idle and while

parking take care to avoid possible contact

between a hot exhaust system and any

highly flammable materials such as hay,

leaves, grass, etc. Such contact could lead

to a fire, resulting in serious personal injury

and property damage.<

Indicator lamps

If the Service Engine Soon indicator

lamp comes on either continuously

or intermittently, this indicates a

fault in the emissions-related electronic

systems. Although the vehicle remains

operational, you should have the systems

checked by your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center at the earliest possible

opportunity.

The illuminated indicator informs you of the

need for service, not that you need to stop

the vehicle. However, the systems should

be checked by your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center at the next opportunity.

If the indicator blinks or flashes, this indi-

cates a high level of engine misfire. Reduce

speed and contact the nearest BMW

Sports Activity Vehicle Center immediately.

Severe engine misfiring over even a short

period of time can seriously damage emis-

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Driving

sion control system components, espe-

cially the catalytic converter.

Service Engine Soon indicator lamp

for Canadian models.

Malfunction in the engine electron-

ics.

You can continue to drive with

reduced engine output or engine speed.

Please have it checked by your BMW

Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

Starting the engine

When starting the engine, do not press the

accelerator pedal.

Vehicles with manual transmission:

Step on the clutch when starting the

vehicle. A lockout prevents the engine from

starting if the clutch is not depressed.<

Do not actuate the starter for too

short a time. Do not turn it for more

than approx. 20 seconds. Release the igni-

tion key immediately as soon as the engine

starts.<

If the engine fails to start on the first

attempt, for instance, if it is very hot or cold:

> Press the accelerator pedal halfway

down while engaging the starter.

During a cold start at very low tempera-

tures, as of approx. +57/–156, at high

altitudes over 3,300 ft/1,000 m:

> For the first attempt, run the start for

longer, approx. 10 seconds

> Press the accelerator pedal halfway

down while engaging the starter.

Avoid frequent starting is quick suc-

cession or repeated start attempts in

which the engine does not start. Otherwise,

the fuel is not burned or inadequately

burned and there is a danger of overheat-

ing and damaging the catalytic converter.<

Manual transmission

1. Engage the handbrake

2. Gearshift lever in idle position

3. Press the clutch pedal

4. Start the engine.

Before leaving the vehicle with the

engine running, place the gearshift

lever in idle position and apply the hand-

brake.

Never leave an unattended vehicle with the

engine running, as such a vehicle repre-

sents a potential safety hazard.<

Automatic transmission

1. Press the brake pedal

2. Place the selector lever in position P

or N

3. Start the engine.

To prevent the vehicle from rolling,

always select position P and engage

the handbrake before leaving the vehicle

with the engine running.

Never leave an unattended vehicle with the

engine running, as such a vehicle repre-

sents a potential safety hazard.<

Switching off the engine

Do not remove the ignition key when

the vehicle is moving, as otherwise

the steering could lock.

When leaving the vehicle, always remove

the ignition key and lock the steering.

When parking on downward inclines, apply

the handbrake.<

Manual transmission

Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.

Automatic transmission

Engage selector-lever position P, turn igni-

tion key to position 1 or 0.

Handbrake

The handbrake is primarily intended to pre-

vent the vehicle from rolling while parked; it

brakes the rear wheels.

Indicator lamp

The indicator lamp lights up from

ignition switch position 2 with the

handbrake set – an acoustic signal

also sounds when starting off.

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Indicator lamp for Canadian mod-

els.

To engage

The lever engages automatically.

To release

Pull up slightly on the lever, press the but-

ton and lower the lever.

If exceptional circumstances should

make it necessary to engage the

handbrake while the vehicle is in motion,

do not pull it too strongly. In doing so, con-

tinuously press the button of the handbrake

lever.

Strong application of the handbrake can

lead to overbraking of the rear axle and

associated 'fishtailing' of the vehicle rear

end.

The brake lamps do not light up when the

handbrake is applied.

Vehicles with manual transmission:

When parking on inclines, apply the hand-

brake, as even engaging the first or reverse

gear might not under certain circum-

stances secure the vehicle against moving.

Vehicles with automatic transmission:

Engage selector-lever position P.<

To prevent corrosion and one-sided

braking action, occasionally apply the

handbrake lightly when the vehicle is

slowly coming to a standstill at a traffic light

if the traffic conditions are suitable.<

Manual transmission

While shifting gear in the 5th/6th gear

level, make sure that you press the

gearshift lever to the right to prevent inad-

vertently selecting a gear in the 3rd/4th

gear level.

Do not hold the vehicle in place on slopes

by slipping or riding the clutch. Use the

handbrake instead, since a slipping clutch

increases clutch wear.<

Reverse

Select only when the vehicle is stationary.

Press the gearshift lever to the left to over-

come the resistance.

As you do this, the backup lamps will turn

on automatically when the ignition key is in

position 2.

Automatic transmission

with Steptronic*

You can drive as with a normal automatic

transmission. In addition, you can also shift

manually.

If you move the selector lever from position

D to the left into gearshift gate M/S, this

activates the sports-style shift programs of

the automatic transmission. As soon as you

move the selector lever slightly towards +

or –, the Steptronic shifts gear and manual

operation is activated. When you wish to

use the automatic transmission mode

again, move the selector lever to the right

into the D position.

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Driving

Selector lever positions

P R N D M/S + –

Engine started

The engine can only be started in selector-

lever positions P – Park – or N – Neutral.

Range selection

An interlock prevents inadvertent gear-

shifts into selector-lever positions R and P.

To cancel the interlock, press the button on

the front of the selector-lever knob.

Shiftlock

Press the brake pedal before shifting

out of P or N; the shift command will

not be executed unless the brake is applied

– Shiftlock.<

To prevent the vehicle from 'creeping'

after you select a range, maintain

pressure on the brake pedal until you are

ready to start. If you leave the vehicle with

the engine running, engage selector-lever

position P and apply the handbrake. If you

fail to do this, the vehicle could move.

Never leave an unattended vehicle with

the engine running, as such a vehicle rep-

resents a potential safety hazard.<

P Park

Select only when the vehicle is stationary.

The transmission locks to prevent the rear

wheels from turning.

R — Reverse

Select only when the vehicle is stationary.

N – Neutral

Select only if your journey is interrupted for

a longer period.

D Drive – Automatic shift program

This position is designed for driving under

all normal operating conditions. All forward

gears are available.

Kickdown

A kickdown provides you with maximum

acceleration and the maximum road speed

in position D.

Press the accelerator pedal past the

increased resistance point at the full-

throttle position.

M/S Manual mode and

Sport Program

Shifting from D into M/S activates the Sport

program and this is indicated with SD in the

gear display. The Sport Program is

designed for performance-oriented driving.

The first time the selector lever is even

slightly touched, the automatic transmis-

sion shifts from the Sport program into

manual operation.

If you start to move the selector lever

towards

+, the transmission shifts

upwards; moving it towards

– shifts down-

wards. The gear display shows M1 through

M5.

Upshifts and downshifts are executed only

when they will result in a plausible combi-

nation of engine and vehicle speed; thus,

for example, a downshift that would cause

the engine to overrev will not be executed

by the system. The gear selected will

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

appear briefly in the instrument cluster fol-

lowed by the current gear.

To obtain maximum acceleration, for

passing maneuvers, etc., during

operation in the manual mode, use the

kickdown or downshift manually.<

Shifting from M/S to the selector-lever

positions P, R and N is only possible by

going through D.

Possible displays

P R N D SD M1 M2 M3 M4 M5

Malfunctions

If the indicator lamp lights up, there

is a function fault in the transmis-

sion system.

While it will remain still possible to move

the selector lever to any desired position,

the transmission will revert to operation in

its default mode with only a limited number

of forward gears.

Avoid high loads and drive to the nearest

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

Never work in the engine compart-

ment with any of the forward or

reverse gears engaged, as the vehicle

could start to move.<

Information on jump-starting and towing

starts on page 108.

Turn signal indicators/

headlamp flasher

1 High beams – blue indicator lamp

2 Headlamp flasher – blue indicator lamp

3 Turn signal indicators – green indicator

accompanied by periodic clicking

sound from the relay

If the flashing indicator lamp and the

clicking from the relay are both faster

than normal, this indicates that one of the

turn signal indicator bulbs is defective.<

Signaling briefly

Press the lever up to but not beyond the

resistance point. It then returns to the cen-

ter position when released.

Washer/wiper system/Rain

sensor*

0 Wipers retracted

1 Intermittent or rain sensor operation

2 Normal wipe

3 Fast wipe

4 Brief wipe

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Driving

5 Serrated dial for adjustment of the wipe

interval or the sensitivity of the rain sen-

sor

Retracted position

The right wiper is partially concealed by the

hood.

To move the wipers into a vertical position:

1. Switch on wipers in lever position 1

2. When the wipers are approximately

vertical, move the ignition key to

position 0.

For changing the wiper blades, refer to

page 99.

Fold the wipers back down onto the

windshield before you turn the igni-

tion key to position 1 or 2 again. If you do

not, they could be damaged.<

Intermittent mode

Not on vehicles with rain sensor.

You can set the wipe interval to four stages

with the serrated dial 5.

In addition, the wipe interval is varied auto-

matically depending on road speed.

Rain sensor*

The rain sensor is positioned on the wind-

shield, directly in front of the interior rear-

view mirror.

Deactivate the rain sensor when

passing through an automatic car

wash. Failure to do so could result in dam-

age caused by undesired wiper activa-

tion.<

Activating

> 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 condi-

tions.

You can leave the lever permanently in

position 1 and then only need to activate

the rain sensor as of ignition key position 1.

To do so:

> Briefly turn the serrated dial 5 or

> Cleaning windshield 1, refer to next

section.

Adjust sensitivity: turn the serrated dial 5.

Deactivating

> Move lever to position 0.

Normal wipe

The system switches automatically to inter-

mittent mode when the vehicle is not mov-

ing, not on vehicles with rain sensor.

Fast wipe

The wipers operate at normal speed when

the vehicle is not moving, not on vehicles

with rain sensor.

Cleaning windshield, rear window

and headlamps*

0 Wipers retracted

1 To clean windshield and headlamps

2 Rear window wiper intermittent mode

3 Clean the rear window

Do not use the washers if there is any

danger that the fluid will freeze on the

windshield. If you do so, your vision could

be obscured. To avoid freezing, use a

washer fluid antifreeze, refer to page 94.

Do not use the washers when the reservoir

is empty. This could cause damage to the

washer pump.<

Cleaning the windshield

The system sprays washer fluid against the

windshield and activates the wipers for a

brief period.

The windshield washer nozzles are auto-

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

matically heated as of ignition key

position 2.

Cleaning headlamps*

When the vehicle lighting system is

switched on, the headlamps are cleaned at

regular and appropriate intervals.

Rear window wiper

Rear window wiper in intermittent mode.

When reverse gear is engaged, the wiper

operates continuously.

You can also program the interval:

1. Briefly move the wiper lever from posi-

tion 0 to position 2

2. Wait for desired interval; maximum of

30 seconds

3. Move the wiper lever from position 0 to

position 2 again

To change the wiper blades, refer to

page 99.

Cruise control*

The vehicle maintains and stores the speed

that you set as of a speed of approx.

20 mph/30 km/h.

You can use cruise control whenever the

system is active while the engine is run-

ning.

Indicator lamp

Indicator lamp in the instrument

cluster lights up green:

System ready for operation using

the buttons in the steering wheel.

Activating the system

From ignition key position 2:

Press button in steering wheel; the indica-

tor lamp in the instrument cluster comes

on. You are able to use the cruise control.

Do not use the cruise control when

driving on winding roads, in heavy

traffic or in poor road conditions – e.g.

snow, rain, ice, loose road surface – that do

not permit a constant speed.<

Deactivating system

Press the button repeatedly until the indi-

cator lamp in the instrument cluster goes

out.

The cruise control is also deactivated when

the ignition key is turned to position 0. The

speed stored in the memory is deleted in

the process.

Maintaining and storing speed or

accelerating

Briefly press button +:

The system maintains and stores the cur-

rent vehicle speed. Every time you briefly

press the button, the vehicle's speed

increases by roughly 1–mph/1 km/h.

Press and hold button

The vehicle accelerates without pressure

on the accelerator pedal. When you release

the button, the system maintains and

stores the current speed.

If, on a downhill gradient, the engine's

braking effect is not sufficient, the

controlled speed can be exceeded. Speed

can drop on uphill grades if the engine out-

put is insufficient.<

Decelerating

Briefly press button –:

Every time you briefly press the button,

the vehicle's speed decreases by roughly

1 mph/1 km/h if you are already driving

with cruise control.

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 current speed.

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Driving

Interrupting the cruise control

When the system is activated, press but-

ton. The indicator lamp stays on. You can

use the cruise control again whenever

required by calling up the speed that was

stored last.

In addition, the system is automatically

interrupted in response to the following

conditions:

> When you apply pressure to the brake

pedal

> When you apply pressure to the clutch

pedal or when you move the automatic

transmission selector lever from D to N

> If you exceed or fall below the con-

trolled speed for an extended period,

by pressing the accelerator, for exam-

ple.

Recalling the stored speed

Press button:

The vehicle accelerates to and maintains

the last speed stored.

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Everything under control

Odometer

1 Odometer

2 Trip odometer

Odometer

You can activate the displays shown in the

illustration in ignition key position 0 or with

the ignition key removed by pressing the

button in the instrument cluster.

Trip odometer

To reset to zero:

1. Ignition key in position 1

2. Press the button until the trip odometer

is reset to zero.

Tachometer

Engine speeds in the red warning field

must be avoided.

In this range, the fuel supply is interrupted

to protect the engine.

Fuel gauge

If the indicator lamp 1 starts to light up con-

tinuously, there are approx. 2 gallons/

8 liters of fuel in the tank.

Fuel tank capacity:

approx. 17.7 gallons/67 liters.

If the tilt of the vehicle varies, when you are

driving in mountainous areas, for example,

the indicator may fluctuate slightly.

Refuel well before the tank is empty,

as otherwise engine functions will not

be ensured and damage can occur if you

drive down to the last drop.<

When you switch on the ignition, the indi-

cator lamp comes on briefly to confirm that

the system is operational.

Coolant temperature gauge

Blue

The engine is still cold. Drive at moderate

engine and vehicle speeds.

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Everything under control

Between the blue and red fields

Normal operating range. The dial may wan-

der into the red field.

Red

Comes on while driving:

The engine is overheated. Switch off the

engine immediately and allow it to cool

down.

Checking coolant level, refer to page 96.

When you switch on the ignition, the warn-

ing lamp 1 comes on briefly to confirm that

the system is operational.

Service Interval Display

Remaining distance until next

service due

The displays shown in the illustration

appear for a few seconds as of ignition key

position 1 or after starting the engine.

Together with the lettering OILSERVICE or

INSPECTION, the next scheduled service

and remaining distance to this service is

shown in miles/kilometers.

The remaining distance is determined on

the basis of the past driving style.

A flashing display and a – before the

numerical value mean that the service

interval has been passed by the displayed

number of miles/kilometers. Please make

an appointment with your BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center.

Replacing brake fluid

You can have the month and year for the

scheduled brake fluid replacement dis-

played by pressing the right button in the

instrument cluster while the next sched-

uled service is being displayed. With each

button touch, the display switches

between the scheduled service and

scheduled brake fluid replacement.

When the brake fluid replacement is due,

the clock symbol also lights up. Please

make an appointment with your BMW

Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

Immobilization periods in which the

battery is disconnected are not taken

into account by the display. Please remem-

ber that brake fluid should be changed

every two years at the latest, even if the

display does not yet indicate that service is

required, refer to page 96.<

Clock

If you want to have a permanent clock dis-

play, you can also have the time displayed

in the display of the car radio, refer to the

Owner's Manual for Radio.

You can adjust the clock, also for display in

the radio, as follows.

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Setting the time

As of ignition key position 1:

Hours

1. Hold button 2 pressed for a few sec-

onds until the hours are displayed and

the colon flashes

2. Press button 1 repeatedly until the

desired hour is set

Minutes

3. Press button 2 to change to the minute

display

4. Press button 1 repeatedly until the

desired minutes are set

5. Press button 2 to confirm the time.

The set time is transferred to the display of

the radio or displayed in the instrument

cluster.

Display mode

Ignition key in position 0 or removed:

Press button 1.

The time and display of the miles/kilome-

ters appear for a few seconds.

Computer*

Mode selection

As of ignition key position 1, you can call

up information from the computer using the

button in the turn signal indicator lever. By

pressing the button briefly in the direction

of the steering column, you can call up a

new function for display.

The displays appear in the following order:

Time, outside temperature, average fuel

consumption, cruising range, average

speed.

As of ignition key position 1, the last active

setting is displayed.

If you desire, you can display the fol-

lowing functions in a different unit.<

Outside temperature

Changing the unit of measure 7/6

During the display, hold down the button in

the turn indicator lever until the display

changes.

Ice warning

If the outside temperature falls below

approx. +37.57 /+36, the computer

switches automatically to the outside tem-

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Everything under control

perature display. In addition, an acoustic

signal sounds and the display flashes for a

short time.

After an ice warning has been issued,

the display returns to the previous

setting. You can have this activated/deacti-

vated.<

Please bear in mind that the ice warn-

ing does nothing to alter the fact that

glare ice may be present on roads at tem-

peratures higher than +37.57/+36, for

instance, on bridges and shaded roads.<

Clock

12 or 24 hour mode

If your vehicle is equipped with a computer,

you can have the time displayed in the 12

or 24 hour mode.

During the display, hold down the com-

puter button in the turn indicator lever until

the display changes.

Average fuel consumption

If you press the button in the turn signal

indicator lever for a longer period, the cur-

rently displayed average value for fuel con-

sumption is recalculated from that moment

onwards.

Cruising range

The cruising range is determined on the

basis of the past driving style and the

present volume of fuel.

Always refuel as soon as possible

once your cruising range falls to

below 30 miles/50 kilometers, as other-

wise engine functions are not ensured and

damage can occur.<

Average speed

If you press the button in the turn signal

indicator lever for a longer period, the cur-

rently displayed average value for speed is

recalculated from that moment onwards.

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Technology for comfort, convenience

and safety

Park Distance Control PDC*

The concept

PDC provides extra safety and conven-

ience during parking maneuvers. Signal

tones indicate the current distance to an

object behind or in front of your vehicle.

Four ultrasonic sensors in both the

bumpers monitor the distance to the near-

est object.

The front and rear sensors on the corners

have a range of approx. 2 ft/60 cm. The

two rear middle sensors have a range of

approx. 5 ft/1.50 m and the two front mid-

dle sensors of approx. 2.6 ft/80 cm.

PDC is a parking aid that can indicate

objects when they are approached

slowly, as is usually the case when parking.

Avoid approaching objects too fast, other-

wise the system may give warning of phys-

ical obstacles too late.<

If you are driving with a trailer, the rear sen-

sors are unable to make proper measure-

ments – so they do not switch on.

Automatic mode

As of ignition key position 2, the system

automatically assumes operational status

after a few seconds each time you engage

reverse gear or selector-lever position R.

Wait this short period before park-

ing.<

You can have a signal tone pro-

grammed into the system to verify

that the PDC is active.<

Automatic deactivation

After driving a distance of more than

approx. 160 ft/50 m or exceeding a speed

of approx. 20 mph/30 km/h, the system

switches off and the indicator lamp goes

out. You can reactivate the system manu-

ally as needed.

Manual mode

Press the button; the indicator lamp comes

on.

Manual deactivation

Press the button again; the indicator lamp

goes out.

Signal tones

The distance to an object behind the vehi-

cle is signaled in accordance with the posi-

tion by an intermittent tone from a loud-

speaker in the rear-end.

The distance to an object in front of the

vehicle is signaled by an intermittent tone

from a loudspeaker beneath the instrument

cluster.

As the distance between vehicle and object

decreases, the intervals between the tones

become shorter. The signal tone becomes

continuous once the distance to the near-

est object falls to below roughly 1 ft/30 cm.

The warning signal is canceled after

approx. 3 seconds when the distance to an

object remains constant during this time,

if you are moving parallel to a wall, for

instance.

Malfunction

The indicator lamp flashes and a short

steady signal tone is sounded.

Switch the system off and have the cause

of the malfunction corrected by your BMW

Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

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Technology for comfort, convenience and safety

Limits of the system

Even with PDC, final responsibility for

estimating the distance between the

vehicle and any obstructions always

remains with the driver. Even when sensors

are involved, there is a blind spot in which

objects cannot be detected. The system is

also subject to the physical limits that apply

to all forms of ultrasonic measurement,

such as those encountered with tow bars

and trailer couplings, or thin and wedge-

shaped objects etc. Low objects already

displayed, e.g. a curb, can also disappear

from the detection area of the sensors

again before a continuous tone sounds.

Loud sources of sound, inside and outside

the vehicle, could drown out the PDC sig-

nal tone.<

Keep the sensors clean and free of ice

or snow in order to ensure that they

will continue to operate effectively.

Do not apply high pressure spray to the

sensors for a prolonged period of time.

Keep the spray at least 4 in/10 cm away

from the sensors.<

Driving stability control

systems

Your BMW is equipped with an extended

array of systems designed to enhance and

maintain vehicle stability under extreme

conditions. The following section describes

these functions based on ABS, DSC, HDC

and xDrive.

Antilock Brake System ABS

ABS enhances active safety by preventing

the wheels from locking under braking. The

vehicle continues to be steerable during

hard braking.

ABS also includes Electronic brake-force

distribution EBV.

Safe braking, refer to page 77.

Electronic brake-force distribution

EBV

EBV controls the brake system's applica-

tion pressure at the rear wheels to ensure

stable deceleration.

Dynamic Brake Control DBC

The Dynamic Brake Control actively sup-

ports the driver in dangerous braking situa-

tions. Quickly pumping the brake pedal

increases the braking effect with low pedal

pressure so that the shortest possible

braking distance is achieved. This system

exploits all of the benefits provided by ABS.

Do not reduce the pressure on the brake

pedal for the duration of the brake applica-

tion. DBC is deactivated when you release

the brake pedal.

Dynamic Stability Control DSC

The concept

DSC maintains vehicle stability, even in

critical driving situations.

The DSC is operational every time you start

the engine.

The system optimizes the driving stability

during acceleration and when starting from

a standstill. The system recognizes any

tendency for the vehicle to assume an

unstable attitude such as oversteer or

understeer; it then counteracts this ten-

dency with a combination of graduated

reductions in engine torque and selective

braking intervention at individual wheels.

DSC provides optimal stability within the

limits defined by the laws of physics.

The laws of physics cannot be

repealed, even with DSC. An appro-

priate driving style always remains the

responsibility of the driver. Avoid using the

additional safety margin provided by the

system as an excuse for taking unneces-

sary risks.

Do not make any modifications to the DSC

system. Never allow anyone other than

authorized professional technicians to

carry out service or repairs on the system.<

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Indicator lamp

The indicator lamp in the instrument

cluster goes out soon after you start

the engine.

If the indicator lamp flashes:

DSC is active and is regulating the drive

and braking forces.

The indicator lamp stays lit:

DSC has been switched off using the but-

ton and the stabilizing interventions are no

longer available.

Switching off DSC

Press the button; the indicator lamp comes

on and stays on.

Stabilizing interventions of the chassis con-

trol system DSC are no longer available.

However, the braking interventions that

simulate the function of the differential lock

continue to be active.

In the following exceptional circumstances,

it may be effective to switch off the DSC for

a short period:

> When rocking the vehicle and starting

off in deep snow or on loose road sur-

faces

> On sandy road surfaces

> On poor surfaces with deep ruts

> If the wheels churn on muddy surfaces

> When driving with snow chains.

As a result of the braking interven-

tions, the brakes may be subjected to

additional loads when the system is

switched off. In order to limit the brake tem-

perature, brief automatic masking of the

brake activation is possible.

To maintain vehicle stability, always drive

with the system switched on when possi-

ble.<

Switching DSC on

Press the DSC button again; the indicator

lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

DSC is now activated.

xDrive

xDrive is the all-wheel drive system of your

BMW X3. The combined effects of xDrive

and DSC further optimize the traction and

dynamic driving characteristics. The all-

wheel drive system xDrive variably distrib-

utes the drive torque to the front and rear

axle depending on the driving situation and

prevailing road conditions.

Hill Descent Control HDC

The concept

HDC is a system for hill descent assistance

that reduces the speed on steep downward

inclines and makes it even easier to control

the driving characteristics of your BMW

under these conditions.

The vehicle moves at slightly more than

walking speed without active intervention

from the driver.

HDC is available for activation at vehicle

speeds below approx. 20 mph/35 km/h.

When driving down steep hills with a speed

below approx. 20 mph/35 km/h, the vehi-

cle reduces speed automatically down to

slightly more than walking speed, approx.

5 mph/8 km/h, and then maintains this

speed at a constant.

You can use the accelerator or brakes to

vary this automatically controlled speed

within a range extending from approx.

3 mph/5 km/h to 15 mph/25 km/h.

You can specify a target speed within the

same range by using the +/– buttons of the

cruise control in the steering wheel.

HDC is automatically deactivated once

vehicle speed again exceeds approx.

35 mph/60 km/h.

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Technology for comfort, convenience and safety

Activating the system

Press the button; the indicator lamp comes

on.

The indicator lamp flashes when the brakes

are applied automatically.

Deactivating the system

Press the button again; the indicator lamp

goes out.

Above approx. 35 mph/60 km/h HDC is

immediately deactivated, and when the

ignition is switched off after approx.

10 seconds.

Using HDC

On manual transmission vehicles:

Use HDC in first gear and in reverse gear,

as in the higher gears the engine braking

effect diminishes.

On automatic transmission vehicles:

You can use HDC in every drive position.

Malfunction

If the indicator lamp in the button goes out

in the HDC mode or fails to light up when

the button is pressed:

HDC is temporarily not available, as the

brake temperature is too high.

Malfunctions of the driving stability

control systems

The red brake warning lamp lights

up together with the warning lamps

for ABS and DSC/xDrive. In addi-

tion, a warning signal sounds:

ABS, DSC and xDrive have failed.

Drive may then only be carried out

via the rear axle. Please have it

checked by the nearest BMW Sports Activ-

ity Vehicle Center.

Proceed cautiously and defensively.

When driving on poor roads, refrain

from using full throttle and avoid pressing

the accelerator beyond the kickdown point.

Otherwise the drive train may be damaged

or accidents can occur.<

If the brake warning lamp lights up yellow in

the described combination, the Electronic

brake-force distribution EBV is still avail-

able.

Indicator and warning lamps for

Canadian models.

The warning lamp in the instrument

cluster lights up in yellow.

Dynamic Brake Control DBC is

defective. Have the system checked and

repaired at your BMW Sports Activity Vehi-

cle Center as soon as possible.

Warning lamp for Canadian models.

The warning lamp lights up continu-

ously and a warning signal sounds:

DSC or the xDrive all-wheel system

has failed.

The stabilizing interventions of DSC or the

all-wheel drive system xDrive are no longer

available. Drive may then only be carried

out via the rear axle. Please have it

checked by the nearest BMW Sports Activ-

ity Vehicle Center.

Proceed cautiously and defensively.

When driving on poor roads, refrain

from using full throttle and avoid pressing

the accelerator beyond the kickdown point.

Otherwise the drive train may be damaged

or accidents can occur.<

The warning lamp lights up:

Malfunction in the driving stability

control systems. HDC is no longer

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

available. See your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center to have the system

repaired.

Flat Tire Monitor

The concept

The Flat Tire Monitor keeps track of the

inflation pressures in the four fitted tires as

you drive. The system provides an alert

whenever the inflation pressure drops sig-

nificantly in relation to the pressure another

tire.

The check of the tire inflation pressure is

based on monitoring the relative speeds of

the wheels. A flat tire is detected and

reported on the basis of a deviation in cer-

tain speed ratios.

Functional requirement

So that the Flat Tire Monitor can learn the

correct inflation pressure, please perform

the following:

1. Check the inflation pressures in all tires

2. Compare with the inflation pressure

table on page 87 and correct if neces-

sary

3. Initialize the system.

Limits of the system

The Flat Tire Monitor cannot indicate

sudden severe tire damage caused

by outside factors and does not detect a

natural, even pressure drop in all four

tires.<

In the following situations, on the other

hand, there can be delays in detecting tire

pressure losses, and even system failure:

> When driving on snow-covered or slip-

pery road surfaces

> In the case of performance-oriented

driving: slip on the drive wheels, high

lateral acceleration

> False alarms and undetected loss of

pressure may occur when you are driv-

ing with snow chains fitted

> When driving with a compact wheel, the

Flat Tire Monitor cannot operate.

Initializing the system

Perform the initialization immediately

every time you correct the inflation

pressure, change a tire or change a wheel

or all wheels. A drive is required for this

purpose.<

1. Before the start of driving, start the

engine, but do not drive off

2. Press the button until the yellow indica-

tor lamp in the instrument cluster lights

up for a few seconds

3. Drive off.

It takes a few minutes until the Flat Tire

Monitor can detect and indicated a flat tire.

Do not initialize the system when driv-

ing with snow chains or with a com-

pact wheel.<

Flat tire

Indicator lamp

The symbol in the instrument clus-

ter lights up in yellow.

1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle

carefully. Avoid sudden braking and

steering maneuvers

2. Identify damaged tire

If identification is not possible,

contact your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center.<

3. Replace the damaged tire, refer to

Changing a wheel on page 103.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Technology for comfort, convenience and safety

Brake force display

The brake force display indicates the inten-

sity with which you are applying your

brakes to drivers of following vehicles.

The display consists of two stages:

> Normal braking:

Brake lamp 1 lights up on both sides of

the vehicle together with the center

brake lamp

> Heavy braking and braking with ABS:

Brake lamps 1 and 2 light up on both

vehicle sides together with the center

brake lamp.

Airbags

The following airbags are located beneath

the marked covers:

1 Front airbags for driver and front pas-

senger

2 Head airbags in front and rear

3 Side airbags in front and rear

Protective effect

The front airbags help protect the driver

and front passenger by responding to fron-

tal impacts in which safety belts alone can-

not provide adequate restraint. When

needed, the head and side airbags help

provide protection in the event of side

impact. The relevant side airbag supports

the side upper body area. The relevant

head airbag supports the head and pro-

vides protection against objects entering

the vehicle.

The airbags are deliberately not triggered

in every impact situation, e.g. less severe

accidents, certain roll-over situations or

rear-end collisions.

The rear seat side airbags may

already have been deactivated by a

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

Labels in the rear door opening should indi-

cate the status of your rear seat side air-

bags. If you are uncertain of their status, or

wish to have the airbags activated or deac-

tivated, please contact your BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center.<

For information on the correct sitting posi-

tion, refer to page 27.

Do not apply adhesive materials to

the cover panels of the airbags, cover

them or modify them in any other way.

Do not attempt to remove the airbag reten-

tion system from the vehicle. Never modify

or tamper with either the wiring or the indi-

vidual components in the airbag system.

This category includes the upholstery in the

center of the steering wheel, on the instru-

ment cluster, the side trim panels on the

doors, and the roof pillars along with the

sides of the headliner. Do not attempt to

remove or dismantle the steering wheel.

Do not touch the individual components

directly after the system has been trig-

gered, because there is a danger of burns.

If you note any indication of system mal-

function, if you desire to have an airbag

deactivated, or if the airbag retention sys-

tem is triggered in response to an accident,

you should always entrust all inspection,

repair and dismantling operations to your

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

Unprofessional attempts to service the sys-

tem could lead to failure in an emergency

or undesired airbag activation, either of

which could result in personal injury.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

To ensure compliance with official safety

regulations, please also entrust disposal of

airbag generators to a BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center.<

Airbag warning information is also provided

on the sun visors.

Automatic deactivation of the front

passenger airbags

Your BMW has a seat occupation detection

system. By evaluating the weight on the

front passenger's seat, the system detects

whether or not the seat is occupied by a

child in the child-restraint system or an

adult.

> When a child is seated in the child-

restraint system or with an empty seat,

the front and side airbags are deacti-

vated on the passenger's side

> When an adult is traveling in the front

seat, the front and side airbags remain

active on the passenger side.

With heavier children, the front pas-

senger airbags can remain active, or

with very light adults or teenagers the front

passenger airbags can be deactivated

unintentionally.

The condition of the front passenger air-

bags is indicated via the telltale lamp, refer

to Indicator lamps in the following. In this

case transport the corresponding persons

on the rear seat.

Except when persons to be transported, do

not increase the load on the front passen-

ger seat with additional items. Do not fit

seat covers, seat cushion padding, ball

mats or other items to the front passenger

seat unless they are specifically recom-

mended by BMW. Do not place any items

under the seat. Otherwise, the function of

the seat occupation detection could be

impaired.<

Indicator/warning lamp

Airbag system operational

The airbag indicator lamp in the instrument

cluster indicates the operational readiness

of the entire airbag system and the safety

belt tensioners as of ignition key position 1.

The indicator lamp goes out after a few

seconds.

The telltale lamp above the interior rear-

view mirror indicates whether the passen-

ger airbag system is activated or deacti-

vated as of ignition key position 1.

The telltale lamp refers exclusively to

the passenger airbag system.<

> The telltale lamp goes out after a few

seconds.

The front passenger airbags are active,

e.g. when transporting an adult

> The telltale lamp lights up continuously.

The front passenger airbags are deacti-

vated, e.g. when a child is traveling in

the vehicle in the child-restraint system

or when the seat is empty.

For more information on the operating prin-

ciple of the front passenger airbag system

and seat occupation detection, refer to

Automatic deactivation of the front passen-

ger airbags.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Technology for comfort, convenience and safety

Airbag system malfunction

A system malfunction could prevent

the system from responding in the

expected manner to an impact occurring

within its normal response range.

Please have the airbag system checked

immediately by a BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center.<

There is a fault in the airbag system

if the airbag indicator lamp in the

instrument cluster behaves as fol-

lows:

> Indicator lamp does not light up as of

ignition key position 1

> Indicator lamp remains lit continuously

> Indicator lamp lights up while the vehi-

cle is being driven.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Lamps

Parking lamps/low beams

Parking lamps

The front, rear and side vehicle

lighting is switched on. You can use

the parking lamps for parking. For

lighting on one side for parking as an addi-

tional feature, refer to page 58.

Low beams

When you switch on the ignition

with the headlamps on, the head-

lamps go out and only the parking

lamps remain on.

Lamp defective

The indicator lamp lights up:

At least one bulb of the exterior

lighting on the vehicle is defective.

Replacing the bulbs, refer to page 99.

Pathway lighting

When you activate the headlamp flasher

after parking the vehicle and switching off

the lamps, the low beams will come on for

a brief period.

You may also have this function deac-

tivated if you wish.<

Lights on warning

If you turn the ignition key to position 0, an

acoustic signal sounds when you open the

driver's door for a few seconds to remind

you that the light has not yet been switched

off

Daytime driving lamps*

You can leave the light switch in the second

position: all external lamps go out when

you switch off the ignition.

Always observe all applicable laws govern-

ing the use of daytime driving lamps.

You can switch on the parking lamps when

needed using the standard procedure

described under Parking lamps.

You can have the daytime driving

lamp circuit activated on your vehi-

cle.<

Automatic headlamp control*

When you set the switch to this

position, the system activates and

switches on and off the low beams

in response to changes in ambient light

conditions, for instance, in tunnels, at dawn

and dusk, and in rain and snow.

Following automatic activation the

vehicle's external lighting remains on

when you switch on the fog lamps.<

Automatic headlamp control cannot

serve as a substitute for the driver's

judgment in determining when the vehicle

lamps should be switched on. For example,

the system cannot detect fog. To avoid

safety risks, you should always switch on

the lamps manually under these condi-

tions.<

You can have the sensitivity of the

headlamp control adjusted.<

Adaptive Head Light*

The concept

Adaptive Head Light is a variable headlamp

control system that enables dynamic illumi-

nation of the road surface. Depending on

the steering angle and other assumptions,

the light from the headlamp follows the

course of the road.

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Lamps

Activating the Adaptive Head Light

In ignition key position 2, turn the

light switch to the position 'Auto-

matic headlamp control'.

When the vehicle is backing up, the

Adaptive Head Light is inactive; when

the vehicle is at a standstill, it is only active

in one direction.<

Malfunction

The LED above the symbol for automatic

headlamp control flashes. Please have it

checked by your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center.

Instrument lighting

Turn the serrated dial to adjust the illumina-

tion intensity.

High beams/standing lamps

1 High beams – blue indicator lamp

2 Headlamp flasher – blue indicator lamp

3 Standing lamps

Standing lamps, left or right*

You also enjoy the option of lighting up just

one side of your vehicle when parking.

When using this function, comply with

national regulations:

In ignition key position 0 or with ignition key

removed:

Allow the lever to engage in the corre-

sponding turn signal indicator position.

Fog lamps*

A green indicator lamp appears in

the instrument cluster to indicate

that the front fog lamps are on.

If the automatic headlamp control is

activated, the low beams will come on

automatically when you switch on the fog

lamps.<

Interior lamps

The interior lamps operate automatically.

If you desire, the interior lamps are

switched on after mechanical unlock-

ing of the vehicle. You may have this func-

tion activated/deactivated if you wish.<

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Switching the interior lamps on and

off

Briefly press button 1.

If you want the interior lamps to remain off

all the time, press and hold the button for

approx. 3 seconds.

Press the button briefly to revert to normal

operation.

You can have soft dimming of the

interior lamps set.<

Front reading lamps*

Switch on and off with the buttons 2.

Rear reading lamps*

Switch on and off with the button.

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A congenial climate

Air conditioner

1 Airflow directed toward the windshield

and side windows

2 Airflow for the upper body 61

3 Front footwell ventilation 61

4 Air supply/blower 61

5 Outside air/recirculated-air mode 61

6 Temperature 61

7 Air distribution 61

8 Rear window defroster 61

9 Air conditioner 61

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Air supply/blower

You can select blower speeds 1

to 4. The heating and ventilation

become more and more effec-

tive as the air supply settings

are increased. In position 0, the

blower and heater are switched off. The air

supply is blocked in position 0.

Temperature

To increase the temperature of

the interior, turn to the right.

Air distribution

You can direct air to flow onto

the windows , toward the

upper body and into the

footwell . All intermediate

settings are possible. In the

setting, there is a low flow of air onto the

windows to keep them free of condensa-

tion.

Rear window defroster

When the rear window

defroster is activated,

the indicator lamp comes on.

The rear window defroster switches off

automatically.

You can have your vehicle pro-

grammed in such a way that the rear

window defroster switches on automati-

cally. It is then switched on at outside tem-

peratures of less than approx. +46/397

within 5 minutes of the engine start.<

Air conditioning

The air is cooled and dehumidi-

fied and — depending on the

temperature setting — warmed

again. Depending on the weather, the

windshield may fog over briefly when the

engine is started. You can reduce conden-

sation forming on the windows by switch-

ing on the air conditioning.

During air conditioning condensation

forms, which then exits under the

vehicle. Traces of condensed water of this

kind are thus normal.<

Outside air/recirculated-air mode

You can respond to unpleasant

odors outside the vehicle by

temporarily switching off the

outside air supply. The system then recir-

culates the air currently within the vehicle.

If condensation starts to form on the

inside window surfaces during opera-

tion in the recirculated-air mode, you

should switch it off while also increasing air

supply as required. The recirculated-air

mode should not be used over a sustained

longer period of time, as the air quality

inside the vehicle deteriorates.<

Ventilation

The air vents for the upper body area can

be adjusted:

1 Serrated dials 1 for steplessly opening

and closing the air vents

2 Selector levers for airflow direction

3 Use the serrated dial 3 to adjust the

amount of cool air that is added to the

airflow emerging from the vent outlets

for the upper body

Ventilation for cooling

Adjust the vents to direct the flow of cool

air in your direction, for instance, if the inte-

rior has become too warm, etc.

Draft-free ventilation

Set the vent outlets so that the air flows

past you and is not directed straight at you.

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A congenial climate

Microfilter

The built-in microfilter removes dust and

pollen from the incoming outside air. it is

replaced when maintenance is performed

by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Cen-

ter. A substantial reduction in air supply

indicates that the filter must be replaced

before normal maintenance.

Defrosting windows and removing

condensation

1 Fan blower rotary switch for air supply

at setting 4

2 Turn the rotary temperature switch as

far to the right as it will go

3 Rotary switch for air distribution in posi-

tion

4 Switch on the rear window defroster to

defrost the rear window

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Automatic climate control*

1 Airflow directed toward the windshield

and side windows

2 Airflow for the upper body 65

3 Air to footwell 65

4 Individual air distribution 64

5 Temperature 64

6 Display for temperature 64

and air supply 64

7 Air supply/blower 64

8 Defrosting windshield and windows

and removing condensation 64

9 Rear window defroster 65

10 Air conditioner 64

11 Outside air/AUC Automatic recircu-

lated-air control/Recirculated-air

mode 64

12 Automatic air distribution and

supply 64

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A congenial climate

Use the automatic facility by operating the

AUTO button 12. Select an interior tem-

perature that is comfortable for you.

Detailed setting options are described for

you in the following section.

Your vehicle has been designed to

automatically select your personal cli-

mate-control settings whenever you unlock

the doors using your individually pro-

grammed remote control.<

If you want, you can have this function

deactivated.<

Automatic air distribution and supply

The AUTO program adjusts the

airflow and distribution patterns

for you while also using your

preselected temperature setting as the

basis for adjusting the interior climate to

adapt to external influences – summer, win-

ter.

Individual air distribution

You can cancel the AUTO pro-

gram by selecting specific air

distribution patterns for your

personal comfort, the auto-

matic air supply remains in

operation. You can direct air to

flow onto the windows , toward the

upper body , and into the footwell .

You can reactivate the automatic air distri-

bution mode by selecting the AUTO button.

Temperature

The figures in the display pro-

vide a general indication of inte-

rior temperature. When you

start the vehicle, this system

ensures that the selected tem-

perature is achieved as quickly

as possible. It then maintains this tempera-

ture, regardless of the season.

Air supply/blower

You can vary the air supply by

pressing the upper or lower

button. This switches off the

automatic program for the air

supply, and the word AUTO

goes out in the display. The automatic

mode for air distribution remains in opera-

tion as before. You can reactivate the auto-

matic air supply mode by selecting the

AUTO button.

If you press the lower button when at the

lowest blower speed, all displays go out:

the blower, heating and air conditioner are

switched off. The outside air supply is

closed. You can restart the automatic cli-

mate control by pressing any of its buttons.

Defrosting windows and removing

condensation

This program quickly removes

ice and condensation from the

windshield and door windows.

Air conditioner

The air is cooled and dehumid-

ified and — depending on the

temperature setting — warmed

again. Depending on the weather, the

windshield may fog over briefly when the

engine is started. The window mist is

reduced during A/C operation.

The air conditioner comes on automatically

when you select the AUTO program.

During air conditioning condensation

forms, which then exits under the

vehicle. Traces of condensed water of this

kind are thus normal.<

Outside air/AUC Automatic

recirculated-air control/

Recirculated-air mode

You can respond to unpleasant

odors or pollutants in the imme-

diate environment by tempo-

rarily suspending the supply of outside air.

The system then recirculates the air cur-

rently within the vehicle. Press the button

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

repeatedly to run through the following

control sequence:

> Indicator lamps off: outside air flows

into the vehicle

> Left-hand indicator lamp on – AUC

mode: the system recognizes pollutants

in the outside air and blocks the flow of

air when necessary. The system then

recirculates the air currently within the

vehicle.

Depending on the air quality, the auto-

matic system then switches back and

forth between outside air supply and

recirculation of the air within the vehicle

> Right-hand indicator lamp on: the out-

side air supply into the vehicle is com-

pletely blocked. The system then recir-

culates the air currently within the

vehicle.

If condensation starts to form on the

inside window surfaces during opera-

tion in the recirculated-air mode, you

should switch it off while also increasing air

supply as required. The recirculated-air

mode should not be used over a sustained

longer period of time, as the air quality

inside the vehicle deteriorates.<

Rear window defroster

When the rear window

defroster is activated,

the indicator lamp comes on.

The rear window defroster switches off

automatically.

You can have your vehicle adjusted in

such a way that the rear window

defroster switches on automatically. It is

then switched on at outside temperatures

of less than approx. +46/397within

5 minutes of the engine start.<

Ventilation

The air vents for the upper body area can

be adjusted:

1 Serrated dials for opening and closing

the vent outlets through an infinitely-

variable range

2 Selector levers for airflow direction

3 Use the serrated dial 3 to adjust the

amount of cool air that is added to the

airflow emerging from the vent outlets

for the upper body

Ventilation for cooling

Adjust the vents to direct the flow of cool

air in your direction, for instance, if the inte-

rior has become too warm, etc.

Draft-free ventilation

Set the vent outlets so that the air flows

past you and is not directed straight at you.

Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter*

The built-in microfilter removes dust and

pollen from the incoming air. The activated-

charcoal filter provides additional protec-

tion by filtering gaseous pollutants from the

outside air. This combined filter is replaced

when maintenance is performed by your

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center. A

substantial reduction in air supply indicates

that the filter must be replaced before nor-

mal maintenance.

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Practical interior accessories

Integrated universal remote

control*

The concept

The integrated universal remote control

replaces up to three different hand-held

transmitters for various items of radio-con-

trolled equipment such as door openers

and house alarm systems. The integrated

universal remote control recognizes and

learns the transmitted signal of each of the

original hand-held transmitters.

The signal of an original hand-held trans-

mitter can be programmed on one of the

three memory buttons 1. Following that,

each of the devices can be actuated with

the appropriately programmed memory

button 1. The indicator lamp 2 flashes to

confirm transmission of the signal.

If the vehicle is sold, the memory of the

memory buttons 1 should be cleared, refer

to page 67.

To prevent possible damage or injury,

before programming or using the inte-

grated universal remote control, always

inspect the immediate area to make certain

that no people, animals or objects are

within the travel range of the device. Also,

comply with the safety precautions of the

original hand-held transmitter.<

Checking the compatibility

If you see this symbol on the pack-

aging or in the manual supplied with

the original hand-held transmitter, it

is safe to assume that it is compatible with

the integrated universal remote control.

If you have additional questions,

please consult your BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center or call

1-800-355-3515.

You can also visit these websites:

www.bmwusa.com or

www.homelink.com.

HomeLink is a registered trademark owned

by Johnson Controls, Inc.<

Programming

1 Memory buttons

2 Indicator lamp

Fixed-code hand-held transmitter

1. Turn the ignition key to position 2

2. For initial use:

Press both outer buttons 1 for approx.

20 seconds, maintaining pressure until

the indicator lamp 2 starts to flash. The

three memory buttons 1 are cleared

3. Hold the original hand-held transmitter

at a distance of approx. 2 in/5 cm to

8 in/20 cm to the memory buttons 1

The required distance between

the hand-held transmitter and

memory keys 1 depends on the relevant

system of the original hand-held trans-

mitter used.<

4. Simultaneously press the transmit but-

ton on the original hand-held transmit-

ter and the desired memory key 1 of the

integrated universal remote control. Ini-

tially, the indicator lamp 2 flashes

slowly. Release both buttons as soon

as the indicator 2 lamp flashes rapidly. If

the indicator lamp 2 does not flash rap-

idly after approx. 15 seconds, change

the distance

5. To program other original hand-held

transmitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

The corresponding memory button 1 is now

programmed with the signal of the original

hand-held transmitter.

The equipment can be used as of ignition

key position 2.

If the device cannot be operated after

repeated programming, check

whether the original hand-held transmitter

uses an alternating-code system. To do so,

either read the instructions of the original

hand-held transmitter or press and hold

down the programmed memory button 1 of

the integrated universal remote control. If

the indicator lamp 2 on the integrated uni-

versal remote control flashes rapidly for a

short time then lights up for approx. 2 sec-

onds, this indicates that the original hand-

held transmitter uses an alternating-code

system. In the case of an alternating-code

system, program the memory buttons 1 as

described at the section on alternating-

code transmitters.<

Alternating-code transmitters

Consult the operating instructions of the

unit you wish to set when programming the

universal remote control. You will find infor-

mation there on the possibilities for syn-

chronization.

When programming hand-held transmitters

that employ an alternating code, please

observe the following supplementary

instructions:

Programming will be easier with the

aid of a second person.<

1. Park your vehicle within the range of the

remote-controlled device

2. Program the integrated universal

remote control as described above at

Fixed-code hand-held transmitters

3. Locate the button at the receiver of the

equipment to be set, e.g. on the drive

4. Press the button on the receiver of the

device you want to set up. After step 4,

you have approx. 30 seconds for step 5

5. Press the programmed memory

button 1 of the integrated universal

remote control three times.

The corresponding memory button 1 is now

programmed with the signal of the original

hand-held transmitter.

If you have questions, please contact

your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

Center.<

Clearing the memory buttons

Press both outer buttons 1 of the inte-

grated universal remote control for approx.

20 seconds, maintaining pressure until the

indicator lamp 2 starts to flash. All three

memory buttons are cleared.

The memory of individual memory

buttons 1 cannot be cleared.

Beverage holders

Front

Depending on your optional equipment, the

center console contains either one or two

beverage holders.

Passenger's side*

The beverage holder for the front passen-

ger is located beneath the air/heating vent.

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Practical interior accessories

1. Press the trim piece below the air/heat-

ing vent, arrow 1

2. Insert beverage

3. Adapt the holding arm to the size of the

beverage container, refer to arrow 2.

Rear

A beverage holder is located in the center

armrest at the rear:

Press the button to open.

Glove compartment

Opening

Pull the handle. The lamp inside the glove

compartment comes on.

Closing

Fold the cover up.

To prevent injury in the event of an

accident, close the glove compart-

ment immediately after use.<

Locking

Use one of the master keys. A master key is

also required for unlocking.

If you only hand over the spare key,

e.g. in a hotel for valet parking, refer

to page 18, the glove compartment cannot

be accessed.<

Storage compartments

Front center armrest*

The center armrest contains two storage

compartments.

> CD storage compartment:

Press button 1

> Coin and oddments compartment:

Press button 2.

Rear center armrest

A storage compartment holder is located in

the center armrest at the rear:

To open, pull the cover upward.

Storage package*

Your convenience is enhanced by:

> Sliding lashing eyes in luggage com-

partment, refer to page 73

> Floor cover in luggage compartment

that can be used on both sides, refer to

page 72

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

> Nets in the luggage compartment and

on the rear of the front seats.

Front ashtray*

Press the edge of the opened cover:

The ashtray moves up and can be

removed.

On vehicles with the non-smoking pack-

age, the insert is removed in the same way.

Cigarette lighter, front*

Press the lighter 1 in.

The lighter can be removed as soon as it

retracts.

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 operational

when the ignition key has been removed.

For this reason, do not leave unsupervised

children in the vehicle.<

Lighter socket

The socket can be used to plug in hand

flashlights, car vacuum cleaners, etc., with

power ratings of up to approx. 200 W at

12 V. Avoid damage to the socket caused

by inserting plugs of a different shape or

size.

Non-smoking package

On vehicles with the non-smoking pack-

age, the socket is located in the same

position.

Access to the socket: lift off cap.

Sockets

You will find additional power outlets in the

cargo area, refer to page 73.

Ashtray, rear*

Remove the insert tray.

Cigarette lighter, rear*

Depending on your optional equipment, the

lighter can be located on the top or end

face of the center console.

Press the lighter in.

The lighter can be removed as soon as it

retracts.

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 operational

when the ignition key has been removed.

For this reason, do not leave unsupervised

children in the vehicle.<

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Practical interior accessories

Car phone preparation*

Hands-free system

On vehicles with car phone preparation*

the hands-free microphone is located on

the headliner near the interior lamp.

For more information on the car phone,

refer to Owner's Manual for Telephone.

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 ski bag itself plus the additional capac-

ity provided by the luggage compartment

make it possible to transport skis with a

length of up to 2.10 m. When skis of 2.10 m

in length are loaded the ski bag will tend to

contract, reducing its overall capacity.

1. Pull down the center armrest, press the

button and take out the cover

2. Press the button again; the cover in the

luggage compartment opens. If you

press the button firmly the first time, this

also opens the cover in the luggage

compartment

3. Extend the ski bag between the front

seats. The zipper allows more conve-

nient access to stored objects and can

also be left open to allow the ski bag to

dry

4. Insert the belt tongue of the ski bag belt

in the center safety belt buckle.

Please ensure that the skis are clean before

loading them into the bag. Take care to

avoid damage from sharp edges.

Securing the load

Secure the bag's contents by tightening

down the strap at the buckle.

Secure the ski bag in this way. If you

fail to do so, it could move around and

endanger occupants during braking or eva-

sive maneuvers.<

To store the ski bag, perform the above

steps in reverse order.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Removing the ski bag

Pull the handle forward and remove the ski

bag upward.

Do not position cargo at the opening.

If you do, it can endanger the passen-

gers during braking or evasive maneu-

vers.<

Cargo area

When loading, observe the information on

page 78.

Folding rear seat back

Reach into the opening and pull forward,

refer to arrow.

When you fold back the backrest, be

sure that the catch engages securely.

The red warning indicator disappears in the

recess when the catch is engaged.<

Ski bag*

To create a flat load area floor, you can

remove the ski bag before folding the rear

seat back and replace it with a cover. You

will find the cover in the cargo area under

the floor cover.

Cargo area cover

Pull the cargo area cover out by the handle

and hook it in the rear holders.

You can carry light objects such as articles

of clothing on the cargo area cover.

Do not place heavy and hard objects

on the cover. If you do so, they could

endanger occupants during braking

maneuvers. Do not allow the cover to snap

back into place, as otherwise it could be

damaged.<

Removal

1. Press the side buttons, refer to arrow 1

2. Pull the cassette towards the rear, refer

to arrow 2.

Installation

Push the cassette forward into the two side

holders until it locks in place.

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Practical interior accessories

Loading cargo with the rear seat

back folded down

Holders for the cassette are fitted to the

backs of the rear seat backs, refer to

arrow 1.

Guide in the cassette from the right side

until it locks in place, refer to arrow 2. Here,

the cargo area cover must always point in

the direction of travel and the loop of the

partition net must point upward.

You can pull out the partition net and insert

it in the holders in the roof area above.

Partition net*

Pull the partition net by the loop from the

cassette; hold the bar on both sides and

insert in the holder.

Do not allow the partition net to snap

back into place, as otherwise there is

a danger of injury and the partition net

could be damaged.<

Behind the side trim panel

Press the button to open.

Floor cover

Opening

For access to the compact wheel etc.

To open, raise the cover by the handle,

refer to arrow.

If required, you can remove or raise the

floor cover.

Raising

Swing up the floor cover and hook it onto

the handle of the cargo area cover with its

catch.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Lashing eyes, rail*

You can secure load-securing devices to

the lashing eyes on the cargo area floor.

To shift the lashing eyes, press the button.

The lashing eyes can be removed at the

openings in the rails.

Read and comply with the information

enclosed with the load-securing

devices.<

Sockets

When the cover is folded up, you have

access to another socket.

The sockets can be used to plug in hand

flashlights, car vacuum cleaners, etc., with

power ratings of up to approx. 200 W at

12 V. Do not damage the socket with

unsuitable plugs, also refer to page 69.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Driving tips

This section is designed to provide you

with extra support by supplying information

useful in dealing with specific driving and

operating conditions.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Things to remember when driving

Break-in procedures

To ensure that your vehicle provides maxi-

mum economy throughout a long service

life, we request that you observe the fol-

lowing instructions:

Engine and differential

Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km:

During this initial period you should attempt

to avoid constant, steady-state operation

and vary both vehicle and engine speeds

as often as possible. Until the break-in

period has been completed you should

also refrain from exceeding the following:

> 4,500 rpm or 100 mph/160 km/h.

Always obey all official speed limits.

Refrain from using full throttle and avoid

pressing the accelerator beyond the kick-

down point.

Once you have driven 1,200 miles/

2,000 km, the engine and vehicle speeds

can be gradually increased.

You should also comply with these break-in

procedures should the engine or one of the

differentials be replaced later in the course

of the vehicle's service life.

Tires

Due to technical factors associated with

their manufacture, tires do not achieve their

full traction potential until after an initial

break-in period. For this reason, drive with

extra care during the initial 200 miles/

300 km.

Obey your local and state maximum speed

limits.

When the vehicle is operated on wet

or slushy roads, a wedge of water

may form between the tire and the road

surface. This phenomenon is referred to as

hydroplaning and can lead to partial or

complete loss of traction, vehicle control

and braking effectiveness. Reduce your

speed on wet roads.<

Brake system

Approx. 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 handbrake drums,

apply the handbrake lightly when coasting

to a standstill – at a traffic signal, for

instance; use caution to avoid posing a

danger to other road users.

To avoid corrosion, repeat this procedure

from time to time.

The brake lamps do not come on when the

handbrake is set.

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 off – e.g.

by towing – substantially higher levels of

pedal force will be required to brake the

vehicle.<

Clutch

The function of the clutch is also only at its

optimized level after a distance driven of

approx. 300 miles/500 km. During this

break-in period, engage the clutch gently.

General driving notes

High temperatures

Extreme temperatures occur at the

catalytic converter on this and every

catalyst-equipped vehicle. Do not remove

the heat shields installed adjacent to vari-

ous sections of the exhaust system, and

never apply undercoating to them. When

driving, standing at idle and while parking

take care to avoid possible contact

between the hot exhaust system and any

highly flammable materials such as hay,

leaves, grass, etc. Such contact could lead

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

to a fire, and with it the risk of serious prop-

erty damage as well as personal injury.<

Parking the vehicle

Condensation forms in the air conditioner

system during operation, and then exits

under the vehicle. Traces of condensed

water under the vehicle are thus normal.

Before driving into the car wash

Fold in the exterior mirrors, refer to

page 31, as otherwise they could be dam-

aged due to the width of the vehicle.

Deactivate the rain sensor as otherwise

damage could result from undesired wiper

activation, refer to page 42.

Hydroplaning

When driving on wet or slushy roads,

reduce road speed. If you do not, a

wedge of water can form between tires and

road surface. This phenomenon is referred

to as hydroplaning, and is characterized by

a partial or complete loss of contact

between tires and road surface, ultimately

undermining your ability to steer and brake

the vehicle.<

Driving through water

Do not drive through water on the

road if it is deeper than 20 in/50 cm,

and then only at walking speed. Otherwise,

the vehicle's engine, the electrical systems

and the transmission may be damaged.<

Safe braking

Emergency stops

The best way to brake is to apply maximum

pressure to the brake pedal during emer-

gency – panic stops. Since the vehicle

maintains steering responsiveness, you

can nevertheless avoid possible obstacles

with a minimum of steering effort.

Pulsation at the brake pedal combined with

sounds from the hydraulic circuits indicates

to the driver that ABS is in its active mode.

Do not drive with your foot resting on

the brake pedal. Otherwise, even light

but consistent pedal pressure can lead to

high temperatures, brake wear and possi-

bly even brake failure.<

Wet conditions

While driving in wet conditions and in

heavy rain, it is a good idea to apply light

pressure to the brake pedal every few

miles. Watch traffic conditions to ensure

that this maneuver does not endanger

other road users. The heat which is gener-

ated by the brake applications helps to dry

the brake pads and rotors. The required

braking force will then be available when

you need it.

On a grade

You can retain full and unimpaired braking

efficiency by downshifting to a gear in

which only minimal brake applications are

needed when descending long or steep

downhill stretches.

You can further enhance the engine's brak-

ing effect by selecting a lower gear in the

automatic transmission's manual mode,

downshifting as far as first gear on

extremely steep stretches, refer to

page 38. This strategy helps you avoid

placing excessive loads on the brake sys-

tem.

During slower downhill driving, use the Hill

Descent Control HDC, refer to page 51.

Never drive with the clutch pressed,

with the transmission in Neutral or

with the engine switched off, as otherwise

there is no engine braking when the trans-

mission is in Neutral, and no power-assist

for brakes and steering.

Never allow floor mats, carpets or any other

objects to protrude into the area around the

accelerator and brake pedals and obstruct

their movement.<

Corrosion

When the vehicle is driven only occasion-

ally, during extended periods when the

vehicle is not used at all, and in operating

conditions where brake applications are

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Things to remember when driving

less frequent, there is an increased ten-

dency for corrosion to form on rotors, while

contaminants accumulate on the brake

pads. This occurs because the minimal

pressure which must be exerted by the

pads during brake applications to clean the

rotors is not reached.

Should corrosion form on the brake rotors,

the brakes will tend to respond with a pul-

sating effect that even extended applica-

tion will fail to cure.

Cargo loading

To avoid loading the tires beyond

their approved carrying capacity,

never overload the vehicle. Overloading

can lead to overheating and increases the

rate at which damage develops inside the

tires. The ultimate result can assume the

form of a sudden air loss.<

Determining the load limit

1. Locate the following statement on the

driver's door pillar:

The combined weight of occu-

pants and cargo should never

exceed XXX lbs or YYY kg. Failure to

observe this can compromise your

vehicle's driving stability and cause

vehicle damage.<

2. Determine the combined weight of the

driver and passengers that will be riding

in your vehicle

3. Subtract the combined weight of the

driver and passengers from XXX

pounds or YYY kilograms

4. The resulting figure equals the available

amount of cargo and luggage load

capacity.

For example, if the XXX amount equals

1,400 lbs and there will be five 150-lbs

passengers in your vehicle, the amount

of available cargo and luggage load

capacity is 650 lbs:

1,400 lbs minus 750 lbs = 650 lbs

5. Determine the combined weight of lug-

gage and cargo being loaded on the

vehicle. That weight should never

exceed the available cargo and luggage

load capacity calculated in Step 4

6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer,

part of the load from your trailer will be

transferred to your vehicle. Consult the

manual for transporting a trailer to

determine how this may reduce the

available cargo and luggage load

capacity of your vehicle.

Load

The permitted load is the total of the weight

of occupants and cargo/luggage. The

greater the weight of occupants, the less

cargo/luggage can be transported.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Stowing cargo

> Load heavy cargo as far forward and as

low as possible, placing it directly

behind the bulkhead behind the rear

seats

> Cover sharp edges and corners

> Pull out the partition net, refer to

page 72, making sure that objects can-

not penetrate the partition net

> For very heavy cargo when the rear seat

is not occupied, secure each safety belt

in the opposite buckle.

Cargo, securing

> Use the luggage net* to hold down

small and lightweight luggage and

cargo, refer to page 72

> For larger and heavier pieces, load

securing equipment

* is available from

your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Cen-

ter. Lashing eyes for attaching these

heavy-duty straps have been provided

in your vehicle's luggage compartment,

refer to page 73

> Read and comply with the information

enclosed with the load-securing

devices.

Always position and secure the load

correctly. If you do not, it can even

endanger the passengers during braking or

evasive maneuvers.

Never exceed either the approved gross

vehicle weight or either of the approved

axle loads, refer to page 116, as excessive

loads can pose a safety hazard, and may

also place you in violation of freeway safety

laws.

You should never transport heavy or hard

objects unsecured in the passenger com-

partment, as they could fly around and

pose a safety hazard to the vehicle's occu-

pants even during abrupt braking or eva-

sive maneuvers.<

Roof-mounted luggage

rack*

Because roof racks raise the vehicle's cen-

ter of gravity when loaded, they have a

major effect on its handling and steering

response.

You should therefore always remember not

to exceed the approved roof weight, the

approved gross vehicle weight or the axle

loads when loading the rack.

You can find the specified weights in the

Technical data section on page 116.

Make sure that the load is not too heavy,

and that it does not extend outward to

beyond the limits of the loading surface.

Always load the heaviest pieces first – on

the bottom. Be sure that adequate clear-

ance is maintained for raising the glass

roof, and that objects do not project into

the opening path of the tailgate.

Secure roof-mounted cargo correctly and

securely to prevent it from shifting or being

lost during the trip.

Drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration

and braking maneuvers. Take corners gen-

tly.

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Things to remember when driving

Driving on bad roads

Your BMW X3 is at home on all paved and

unpaved roads. It combines all-wheel drive

with the advantages of a normal passenger

car.

Driving on unpaved terrain can cause

damage to the vehicle.<

When you are driving on bad roads, there

are a few points which you should strictly

observe — for your own safety, for that of

your passengers, and for the safety of the

vehicle:

> Familiarize yourself with the vehicle

before you begin driving. Do not take

risks with the vehicle under any circum-

stances

> Always adapt the driving speed to the

road conditions. The more steep and

uneven the roadway is, the lower the

speed should be

> You can operate your vehicle on uphill

and downhill gradients with a maximum

slope of 50%. If you wish to drive on

uphill and downhill grades of this

nature, make sure beforehand that the

engine oil and coolant levels are near

the max mark, refer to pages 94 and 96

> For very steep downhill driving, use Hill

Descent Control HDC, refer to page 51.

Driving off is possible on upward

inclines of up to 33%.

The permitted side inclination is 50%

> While driving, watch carefully for obsta-

cles such as rocks or holes. Try to avoid

these obstacles whenever possible

> Avoid that the body makes contact with

the ground, e.g. on the crests of hills

and bumpy roads

> Do not drive in water that is deeper than

20 in/50 cm. If you must drive through

water up to that depth, drive at a walk-

ing speed and do not stop.

After leaving the water, press on the

footbrake gently several times while

driving at a low speed. The brake appli-

cations will help to dry the brakes, thus

preventing a reduction in braking per-

formance caused by the moisture.

For cleaning the handbrake, apply the

lever slightly at approx. 25 mph/40 km/

h and continue to drive for approx. 200

yards/200 meters, provided that traffic

conditions allow you to do so.

Please bear the following points in mind

after driving on poor roads, in order to pre-

serve the road safety of your BMW:

> Clean the heavy dirt from the body

> Clean mud, snow, ice and other materi-

als from the wheels and tires. Check the

tires for damage.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Mobility

This section helps you maintain your

mobility by supplying important information

on vital topics including fuels and

lubricants, wheels and tires, service,

maintenance and how to deal with any

problems that may occur.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Refueling

Fuel filler door

To open and close: press the rear edge of

the fuel filler door.

Manual release

In the event of an electrical defect in the

system, you can release the fuel filler door

manually:

1. Open the cover flap in the luggage

compartment on the right-hand side

panel, refer to page 72

2. Pull the green button.

When handling fuels always observe

any safety guidelines posted at the

service station.<

Simple and environmentally friendly

Put the filler cap in the bracket attached to

the fuel filler door.

When handling fuels, comply with all

of the applicable safety precautions

posted at the service station.<

When refueling, insert the filler nozzle com-

pletely into the filler pipe. Lifting the filler

nozzle during refueling

> results in premature pump shutoff

> can lead to reduced efficiency in the

fuel-vapor recovery system.

The fuel tank is full when the filler nozzle

clicks off the first time.

To close the fuel filler cap

Fit the cap and turn it clockwise until you

clearly hear a click – bayonet fitting.

Close the filler cap carefully after refu-

eling, until a click is heard. While clos-

ing, be sure not to squeeze the strap which

is fastened to the cap. A loose or missing

cap will activate the Check Gas Cap

lamp.<

Check Gas Cap

This indicator lamp comes on when

the fuel filler cap is loose or missing.

Close the fuel filler cap tightly as described

above.

Fuel tank capacity

> approx. 17.7 gallons/67 liters, of which

> approx. 2 gallons/8 liters are reserve.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Never attempt to continue driving

until the tank is completely empty, as

engine functions could be affected, and the

vehicle could sustain damage as a result.<

Fuel specifications

The engine uses lead-free gasoline only.

Required fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline,

minimum 91 AKI

AKI = Anti Knock Index.

Do not use leaded fuels. The use of

leaded fuels will cause permanent

damage to the system's oxygen sensor and

the catalytic converter.<

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Wheels and tires

Tire inflation pressure

Information for your safety

It is not merely the tire's service life, but

also driving comfort and – to a great extent

– driving safety that depend on the condi-

tion of the tires and the maintenance of the

specified tire pressure.

Check the tire inflation pressure regu-

larly and correct it if necessary,

including compact wheel: at least every

two weeks and before beginning a longer

trip. If you fail to observe this precaution

you may be driving on tires with incorrect

tire pressures, a condition that cannot only

compromise your vehicle's driving stability,

but also lead to tire damage and the risk of

an accident.

Do not drive with a depressurized, i.e. flat

tire. A flat tire will seriously impair your

vehicle's handling and braking response.

Attempts to drive on a flat tire can lead to

loss of control over the vehicle.<

Checking the pressure

Only check tire inflation pressure when the

tires are cold. That means after a maximum

of 1.25 miles/2 km driving or when the

vehicle has been parked for at least 2

hours. When tires are warm, the tire infla-

tion pressure increases.

After correcting the inflation pressure(s),

always reinitialize the Flat Tire Monitor,

refer to page 53.

Checking inflation pressure

The inflation pressures for your standard

tires can be seen on the door pillar when

you open the driver's door.

After correcting the inflation pres-

sure(s), always reinitialize the Flat Tire

Monitor, refer to page 53.<

Inflation pressure for other tire sizes

The table below provides all the correct

inflation pressures for the specified tire

sizes at ambient temperature.

For correct identification of the right

tire inflation pressure for your tires,

observe the specifications for the corre-

sponding tire size.<

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

X3 2.5i/3.0i

Tire size Pressure specifications in psi/kPa

All pressure specifications in the

table are indicated in psi / kilopas-

cal with cold tires – cold = ambient

temperature

215/60 R 17 96 H M+S

215/60 R 17 96 Q, T, H M+S

235/50 R 18 97 H M+S

235/50 R 18 97 V

32/220 35/240 35/240 41/280

235/55 R 17 99 H M+S

235/55 R 17 99 Q, T, H M+S

29/200 32/220 32/220 38/260

Front: 235/50 R 18 97 V

Rear: 255/45 R 18 99 V

32/220

–

32/220

35/240

–

38/260

Front: 235/45 R 19 95W

Rear: 255/40 R 19 96W

32/220

–

35/240

–

41/280

Compact wheel

T 135/90 R 17 104 M

61/420

More details on the permitted load and weights can be found on page 116.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Wheels and tires

Tire identification marks

Knowledge of the labeling on the side of

the tire makes it easier to identify and

choose the right tires.

Tire size

Speed code letter

T = up to 118 mph/190 km/h

H = up to 131 mph/210 km/h

V = up to 150 mph/240 km/h

W = up to 167 mph/270 km/h

Y = up to 186 mph/300 km/h

Tire Identification Number

Tires with DOT codes meet the guidelines

of the U.S. Department of Transport.

DOT code:

Tire age

The tire's date of manufacture is indicated

on the sidewall:

DOT ... 3603 indicates that a tire was man-

ufactured in week 36 of the year 2003.

BMW recommends that you replace all

tires after 6 years at the latest, indepen-

dently of the fact that tires can reach an age

of 10 years.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Quality grades can be found where appli-

cable on the tire sidewall between tread

shoulder and maximum section width.

For example:

Tread wear 200 Traction AA

Temperature A

DOT Quality Grades

Treadwear

Traction AA A B C

Temperature A B C

All passenger car tires must conform

to Federal Safety Requirements in

addition to these grades.<

Treadwear

The treadwear grade is a comparative rat-

ing based on the wear rate of the tire when

tested under controlled conditions on a

specified government test course.

For example, a tire graded 150 would wear

one and one-half (1 g) times as well on the

government course as a tire graded 100.

The relative performance of tires depends

upon the actual conditions of their use,

however, and may depart significantly from

the norm due to variations in driving habits,

service practices and differences in road

characteristics 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 specified govern-

ment 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 brak-

ing traction tests, and does not include

acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or

peak traction characteristics.<

Temperature

The temperature grades are A – the

highest – B, and C, representing the tire's

e.g.

Nominal width

in mm

Aspect ratio in X

Radial type

Rim diameter in inches

Load rating

(not on ZR tires)

Speed rating

(before R on ZR tires)

205/60 R 1591W

e.g.

Manufacturer code

for tire make

Tire size and

tire design

Tire age

DOT xxxx xxx 3603

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resistance to the generation of heat and its

ability to dissipate heat when tested under

controlled conditions 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 temperature

can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C

corresponds to a level of performance

which all passenger car tires must meet

under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

Standard No. 109. Grades B and A repre-

sent 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 load-

ing, either separately or in combination,

can cause heat buildup and possible tire

failure.<

M+S

Winter and all-season tires.

These have better winter properties than

summer tires.

Tire condition

Inspect your tires frequently for treadwear,

signs of damage and for foreign objects

lodged in the tread. Check the tread pat-

tern depth.

Tire tread

The tread depth should not drop below

0.12 in/3 mm, although, for example, Euro-

pean legislation only specifies a minimum

tread depth of 0.063 in/1.6 mm. At tread

depths below 0.12 in/3 mm, there is an

increased risk of high-speed hydroplaning,

even when only small amounts of water are

present on the road surface.

As winter tires display a noticeable loss in

their ability to cope with cold-weather driv-

ing conditions once the tread wears to

below 0.16 in/4 mm, to ensure continued

safety you should always have such tires

replaced.

Wear indicators at the tread-groove base,

refer to arrow, are distributed over the tire's

circumference and are marked on the tire

sidewall with TWI – Tread Wear Indicator.

At a tread depth of 0.063 in/1.6 mm these

indicators, signal that the tires have

reached the legally permissible wear limit.

Tire damage

Unusual vibrations encountered dur-

ing normal vehicle operation can indi-

cate tire failure or some other vehicle

defect. This can, for example, be caused by

driving over curbs. These kinds of prob-

lems may also be signaled by other

changes in vehicle response, such as a

strong tendency to pull to the left or right.

Should this occur, respond by immediately

reducing your speed. Proceed carefully to

the nearest BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

Center or professional tire center, or have

the vehicle towed in to have it, its wheels

and tires inspected.

Tire damage, extending to sudden and

complete loss of pressure in extreme

cases, can pose a potentially lethal safety

hazard for the vehicle's occupants and

other road users alike.<

Replacing wheels/tires

Unprofessional attempts by laymen to

service tires can lead to damage and

accidents.

Have this work performed by skilled pro-

fessionals only. All BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Centers will be happy to help you

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 157 631 - © 07/03 BMW AG

Wheels and tires

with specialized knowledge and corre-

sponding equipment.<

The correct wheel and tire combination

affects various systems whose function

would otherwise be impaired, e.g. ABS,

DSC or xDrive.

Have the wheel and tire assemblies bal-

anced every time either a wheel or a tire is

replaced.

BMW does not recommend the use of

retreaded tires, as otherwise driving

safety may be reduced. Possible variations

in the design and the age – which could be

substantial – of the carcasses can lead to

unusually rapid wear.<

The right wheels and tires

BMW recommends that you use only

wheel and tire combinations that

BMW has tested and approved for your

particular vehicle. Variations in factors such

as manufacturing tolerances mean that

even wheels and tires with identical official

size ratings could actually have different

dimensions than the approved units – these

differences could lead to body contact, and

with it the risk of severe accidents. If non-

approved wheels and tires are used, BMW

cannot evaluate their suitability, and there-

fore cannot be held liable for driving

safety.<

To maintain good handling and vehicle

response, use only tires of a single tread

configuration from a single manufacturer.

After a flat tire, always remember to have

the specified wheel and tire combination

remounted on the vehicle as soon as pos-

sible.

Recommended tire brands

BMW tests certain tire brands for each tire

size, classifies them as road-safe and

approves them. You can obtain a list of

these from your BMW Sports Activity Vehi-

cle Center. Observe any country-specific

regulations, e.g. on making a correspond-

ing entry in the vehicle documents.

The factory-mounted tires have been spe-

cially selected to provide optimized perfor-

mance when installed on your vehicle; if

properly cared for, they will provide a com-

bination of safety and excellent ride com-

fort.

Special characteristics of winter

tires

BMW recommends winter tires for use in

cold winter driving conditions. Although all-

season M+S tires provide better winter

traction than summer tires, they generally

fail to provide the same levels of cold-

weather performance as winter tires.

When switching to winter tires, observe the

descriptions at Tire condition and Replac-

ing wheels/tires, refer to page 89.

Observing speed ratings

Never exceed the maximum speed for

which the winter tires are rated.

Unprofessional attempts by laymen to ser-

vice tires can lead to damage and acci-

dents. Have this work performed by skilled

professionals only. The technicians at your

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center will be

glad to assist you with the required profes-

sional knowledge and specialized equip-

ment.<

Storage

Store wheels or tires in a cool, dry place,

protecting them against light whenever

possible. Protect the tires against contact

with oil, grease and fuel.

Do not exceed the maximum tire inflation

pressure specified on the side of the tire.

Snow chains*

Do not exceed a vehicle speed of

30 mph/50 km/h with snow chains

mounted.<

Only certain snow chains have been tested

by BMW and classified and approved as

safe. You can obtain a list of these from

your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

BMW recommends the use of approved

narrow-link snow chains only. These snow

chains are approved exclusively for use on

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

summer or winter tires in pairs on the rear

wheels.

Observe the manufacturer's instructions

when installing snow chains.

After mounting snow chains, do not

initialize the Flat Tire Monitor.

When you are driving with snow chains, it

can be beneficial to switch off DSC briefly,

refer to page 51.<

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Under the engine hood

Never attempt to perform any service

or repair operations on your vehicle

without the required professional technical

training. If you are unaware of the regula-

tions that need to be observed, BMW rec-

ommends that you have this work per-

formed at a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

Center, as otherwise unqualified handling

of parts and materials can lead to safety

risk for vehicle occupants and other road

users.<

Hood

Unlocking

Pull the lever located under the left side of

the instrument cluster.

Opening

Press the release handle and open the

engine hood.

Closing

Let the engine hood fall from approx. 1 ft/

30 cm so that it can be heard to engage.

Observe the same precautions that

apply to all closing operations by

ensuring that the hood's travel range is

clear and unobstructed before allowing the

hood to fall into position.

If you see any signs that the hood is not

completely closed while driving your vehi-

cle, you should stop at once and close it

securely.<

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Engine compartment

1 Reservoir for windshield and headlamp

washer system 94

2 Body ground – negative terminal 108

3 Auxiliary terminal for jump-starting 108

4 Engine oil filler neck 95

5 Brake fluid reservoir 96

6 Dipstick for engine oil 94

7 Coolant expansion tank 96

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Under the engine hood

Washer fluid

Windshield and headlamp washer

system

Antifreeze agent for the washer sys-

tems is inflammable. For this reason,

keep it away from sources of flame and

store it only in its original containers. Store

it so that it is inaccessible to children.

Always observe the instructions for use

provided on the containers.<

We recommend that you mix the

washer ﬂuid before adding it to the

reservoir.<

Capacity:

approx. 6.9 US quarts/6.5 liters.

Fill with water and, if required, with an anti-

freeze additive according to manufac-

turer's recommendations.

Engine oil

Indicator lamp

Engine oil pressure

The indicator lamp lights up red:

Stop the vehicle immediately and

switch off the engine. Check the

engine oil level; top up as required. If the oil

level is correct: contact the nearest BMW

Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

Do not continue driving. The engine

could be damaged because of inade-

quate lubrication.<

Engine oil level

The indicator lamp lights up yellow

while driving:

The oil level is at the absolute mini-

mum. Add engine oil as soon as possible.

Until then, do not drive more than

approx. 30 miles/50 km.

The indicator lamp lights up yellow

after the engine is switched off:

Top up engine oil at the earliest

opportunity – when refueling.

Engine oil sensor

The indicator lamp lights up yellow

within 20 seconds after starting the

engine:

The oil level sensor is defective. Please

have it checked by a BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center.

Checking oil level

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface

2. Switch the engine off after it has

reached normal operating temperature

3. After approx. 5 minutes, pull the dip-

stick out and wipe it off with a clean lint-

free cloth, paper towel, or similar mate-

rial

4. Carefully push the dipstick all the way

into the guide tube and pull it out again

5. The oil should extend to between the

two marks on the dipstick.

As is the case with fuel economy, the rate

at which the engine uses oil is strongly

influenced by driving style and operating

conditions.

The oil quantity between the two marks of

the dipstick is approx. 1.1 US quarts/1 liter.

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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Do not fill beyond the upper mark on the

dipstick. Excess oil can damage the

engine.

Adding engine oil

While you should wait until the level has

dropped to just above the lower mark

before adding oil, you should never allow

the oil level to fall below this mark.

BMW engines are designed to oper-

ate without additives, and their use

could even lead to damage in some cases.

This also applies to the manual transmis-

sion, automatic transmission, the differen-

tial and the power steering system.<

Recommendation: have the oil change

conducted by your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center.

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.

Always store oils, grease and similar mate-

rials so that they are inaccessible to chil-

dren. Comply with warning labels and

information on containers.<

Always observe all applicable rules

and regulations for environmental

protection when disposing of used oil.<

Approved engine oils

The quality of the engine oil selected has

critical significance for the operation and

service life of an engine. Based on exten-

sive testing, BMW has approved only cer-

tain engine oils.

Use only approved BMW High Perfor-

mance Synthetic Oil.

If you are unable to obtain BMW High Per-

formance Synthetic Oil, you can add small

amounts of another synthetic oil between

oil changes. Use only oils with the API SH

specification or higher.

Ask your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

Center for details concerning the spe-

cific BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil

or synthetic 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 informa-

tion.

Viscosity ratings

Viscosity is the oil flow rating as defined in

SAE classes.

The selection of the correct SAE class

depends on the climate 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.

Coolant

Indicator lamp

The indicator lamp lights up:

Coolant level is too low; top up at

the earliest opportunity.

Do not add coolant to the cooling sys-

tem when the engine is hot. Escaping

coolant can cause burns.

Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents are

hazardous to health. You should always

store them in their original containers and

in a location which is inaccessible to chil-

dren. Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents

are flammable. Therefore, do not pour over

hot engine parts, as otherwise they could

catch fire and cause burns. Always observe

the instructions for use provided on the

containers.<

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Under the engine hood

Checking coolant level and topping

up coolant

Check the coolant level with the engine

cold, approx. 687/206:

1. Turn the cap of the expansion tank

counterclockwise to allow any accumu-

lated pressure to escape, then continue

turning to open

2. The coolant level is correct if the upper

end of the red float bar is at least at the

same height as the top edge of the filler

neck, refer to arrow. The bar end may

only protrude by a maximum of i in/

2 cm, i.e. up to the second mark on the

float bar, refer also to sketch beside the

filler neck

3. If necessary, add coolant. Slowly add

coolant until the correct level is reached

– do not overfill.

Always observe all applicable rules

and regulations for environmental

protection when disposing of used anti-

freeze and anticorrosion agents.<

Brake system

Malfunction

Brake fluid

The warning lamp lights up red

despite the handbrake being

released: stop immediately.

The brake fluid in the reservoir has fallen to

below the minimum level. At the same time,

a considerably longer brake pedal travel

may be noticeable. Contact the nearest

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

During continued driving increased

brake pedal pressure may be neces-

sary, and considerably longer braking dis-

tances may result. Please adapt your driv-

ing style accordingly.<

Warning lamp for Canadian models.

Brake pads

The indicator lamp comes on.

The brake pads have reached their

minimum pad thickness. See your

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center imme-

diately to have the pads replaced.

For your own safety: use only brake

pads that BMW has released for your

particular vehicle model. As BMW cannot

assess the suitability of other brake pads

for use on your vehicle, we are unable to

assume continued responsibility for the

vehicle's operating safety if non-approved

pads are installed.<

For additional information on the brake sys-

tem, refer to page 77.

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Maintenance

The BMW maintenance

system

The BMW maintenance system is designed

in such a way that it reliably ensures the

road safety and operating reliability of the

vehicle – keeping the cost for you as low as

possible.

Regular maintenance is not only required

for the safety of the vehicle, it also

improves the resale value.

Service Interval Display

The BMW Maintenance System takes the

driving conditions of the vehicle into

account when determining service inter-

vals:

From the point of view of maintenance,

62,000 miles/100,000 km accumulated in

short-distance urban driving are not the

equivalent of the same distance covered at

moderate speeds in long-distance high-

way travel.

The BMW maintenance system is divided

into engine oil service as well as Inspec-

tions I and II.

Determining the maintenance intervals

according to the actual loads on the vehi-

cle covers every kind of operating situa-

tion. However, even those who drive only

short distances – significantly less than

6,200 miles/10,000 km annually – should

have the engine oil changed at least every

2 years since oil deteriorates over time,

regardless of use.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic: it absorbs

moisture from the atmosphere over

the course of time. To ensure that the brake

system continues to provide safe and reli-

able performance, remember to have the

brake fluid changed every two years at the

latest by a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

Center, also refer to page 46 and to the

Service and Warranty Information Booklet

for US models or the Warranty and Service

Guide Booklet for Canadian models.<

Service and Warranty Information

Booklet for US models/Warranty and

Service Guide Booklet for Canadian

models

For detailed information on required main-

tenance items and the work involved,

please refer to the Service and Warranty

Information Booklet for US models or to the

Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for

Canadian models.

Depending on operating conditions, it may

be advisable to have the body checked for

damage from rocks or gravel as a precau-

tion against corrosion.

BMW recommends that you have

your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

Center perform the maintenance and

repair.

Check that the maintenance work is

recorded in the Service and Warranty

Information Booklet for US models or the

Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for

Canadian models. These entries will serve

as proof that the vehicle has received reg-

ular maintenance.<

Care

For all information on this subject, refer to

the Caring for your vehicle brochure.

Laws and regulations

California Proposition 65

Warning

California laws require us to state the fol-

lowing warning:

Engine exhaust and a wide variety of

automobile components and parts,

including components found in the interior

furnishings in a vehicle, contain or emit

chemicals known to the State of California

to cause cancer and birth defects and

reproductive harm. In addition, certain flu-

ids contained in vehicles and certain prod-

ucts 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 chemi-

cals that have caused cancer in laboratory

animals. Always protect your skin by wash-

ing thoroughly with soap and water.<

OBD connector

The interface socket for the Onboard Diag-

nostic is located on the left of the driver's

side at the bottom of the instrument cluster

and under a cover. The cover has the let-

ters OBD on it.

The most important components for the

composition of the emissions can be

checked by a device across this interface.

If the Service Engine Soon indicator

lamp comes on either continuously

or intermittently, this indicates a

fault in the emissions-related electronic

systems. Although the vehicle remains

operational, you should have the systems

checked by your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center at the earliest possible

opportunity.

The illuminated indicator lamp informs you

of the need for service, not that you need to

stop the vehicle. However, the systems

should be checked by your BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center at the next opportu-

nity.

If the indicator lamp blinks or flashes, this

indicates a high level of engine misfire.

Reduce speed and contact the nearest

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center imme-

diately. Severe engine misfiring over even a

short period of time can seriously damage

emission control system components,

especially the catalytic converter.

Service Engine Soon indicator lamp

for Canadian models.

If the fuel filler cap is not on tight

enough, the OBD system can detect

leaking vapor and the indicator lamp will

light up. If the fuel filler cap is then tight-

ened, the indicator lamp will usually go out

after a short period of time.<

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

Replacing components

Onboard tool kit

The onboard tool kit is located in a com-

partment on the left under the cargo area.

Replacing wiper blades

Front

1. Move the wiper to a fold-out position,

refer to page 42

2. Lift the wiper arm and press the secur-

ing spring, refer to arrow

3. Pull the wiper blade off toward the

wiper arm

4. Insert the new blade and snap it into

place.

Fold the wipers back down onto the

windshield before you turn the igni-

tion key to position 1 or 2 again. If you do

not, they could be damaged.<

Rear

1. Lift the wiper arm

2. Pull off the wiper blade, refer to arrow

3. Insert a new wiper blade.

Lamps and bulbs

The lamps and bulbs make essential contri-

butions to the safety of your vehicle. There-

fore, comply fully with the following instruc-

tions during bulb replacement. If you are

not familiar with the specified procedures,

BMW recommends having the replace-

ments carried out at your BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center.

Never touch the glass of new bulbs

with your bare fingers, as even minute

amounts of contamination will burn into the

bulb's surface and reduce its service life.

To install, use a clean cloth, napkin etc. or

hold the bulb by its metal socket.<

A replacement bulb set is available from

your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

To prevent short circuits, before

working on any electrical system,

equipment or accessory you should always

switch it off and disconnect the cable from

the battery's negative terminal before start-

ing.

To avoid possible injury or equipment dam-

age when changing bulbs, observe any

instructions provided by the bulb manufac-

turer.<

Replacing components

100

When maintaining the headlamps,

please comply with the instructions in

the separate Caring for your vehicle bro-

chure.<

Halogen low beams

H7 bulb, 55 Watts

Always wear gloves and eye protec-

tion – the atmosphere within the bulb

is pressurized. Failure to observe this pre-

caution can lead to personal injury should

the bulb be damaged.<

Driver's side

1. Apply the screwdriver from the on-

board tool kit and pull off the lamp

cover

Caution when handling the screw-

driver, as otherwise personal

injury can occur or the vehicle can be

damaged.<

2. Press the bulb holder downward and

remove

3. Remove the bulb, mount a new bulb

4. Apply the bulb holder with the lower

edge to the bracket and press it in until

the lamp base locks in place.

Front passenger side

Before replacing the bulb, remove the res-

ervoir for the windshield washing system

from the bracket. To do so, loosen the bolt,

refer to arrow, and place the reservoir to

one side.

Bear in mind that the windshield

washing system reservoir is heavy. If

you do not, injuries or damage to the vehi-

cle can occur.<

For bulb replacement procedure, refer to

Driver's side.

Halogen high beams

H7 bulb, 55 Watts

Always wear gloves and eye protec-

tion – the atmosphere within the bulb

is pressurized. Failure to observe this pre-

caution can lead to personal injury should

the bulb be damaged.<

Driver's side

1. Open the clip and remove the lamp

cover

2. Press the bulb holder downward and

remove, refer to Low beams

3. Pull off the lamp base; fit a new lamp

base

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

101

4. Apply the lamp base with the lower

edge to the bracket and press it in until

the lamp base locks in place.

Make sure that the cover does not fall

into the engine compartment, as oth-

erwise the vehicle can be damaged or

other road users can be endangered.<

Front passenger side

Before replacing the bulb, remove the res-

ervoir for the windshield washing system

from the bracket. To do so, loosen the bolt,

refer to arrow, and place the reservoir to

one side.

Bear in mind that the windshield

washing system reservoir is heavy. If

you do not, injuries or damage to the vehi-

cle can occur.<

For bulb replacement procedure, refer to

Driver's side.

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 continue driving with great cau-

tion using the fog lamps, provided traffic

laws in your area do not prohibit this.

To avoid risk of potentially fatal inju-

ries: owing to the extremely high volt-

ages at which these units operate, service

work should always be entrusted to quali-

fied personnel.<

Parking and standing lamps

5 Watt bulb

In case of a defect, please contact your

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

Turn signal indicator, front

21 Watt bulb

Access to the turn signal indicator is at the

edge of the lamp unit, refer to arrow.

Make sure that the lamp base does

not fall into the engine compartment,

as otherwise the vehicle can be damaged

or other road users can be endangered.<

1. Turn the lamp base and remove it

2. Replace the bulb

3. Insert the lamp base. If it does not snap

in place immediately, turn the lamp

base until it does.

Side-mounted turn signal indicators

5 Watt bulb

1. Use finger pressure against the rear

end of the lamp, refer to arrow, to press

it forward for removal

2. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb while

turning it to the left and pull it out

3. Install in the opposite order.

Replacing components

102

Front fog lamps

H11 bulb, 55 Watts

Always wear gloves and eye protec-

tion – the atmosphere within the bulb

is pressurized. Failure to observe this pre-

caution can lead to personal injury should

the bulb be damaged.<

1. Pull the cover in front of the fog lamp

forward

2. Loosen the screws, refer to arrow, and

pull out the headlamp

3. Turn the lamp base at the back of the

headlamp to the left and remove it

4. Replace the bulb.

Tail lamps

21 Watt bulb

1 Turn signal indicator

2 Backup lamps

3 Rear lamp

4 Rear lamp/brake lamp

Replacing tail lamps

1. Open the flap in the side panel, refer to

page 72

2. Lift the side panel if necessary

3. To release the plug-in connection of the

cable, press the spring, refer to arrow 1

4. To remove the back panel of the lamp,

release the retainer, refer to arrow 2

5. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb fitting

while turning it to the left for removal

and replacement

6. Install in the opposite order.

Lamps in the tailgate are defective:

Please contact your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center.

License plate lamp

10 Watt bulb

1. Press the lamp out to the side with a

screwdriver

2. Remove the lamp and replace the bulb.

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

103

Tailgate lamp

5 Watt bulb

1. Pull off the bulb holder

2. Replace the bulb.

Light-emitting diodes LEDs

Light-emitting diodes installed behind

translucent lenses serve as the light source

for many of the controls and displays in

your vehicle. These light-emitting diodes,

which operate using a concept similar to

that applied in conventional lasers, are offi-

cially designated as Class 1 light-emitting

diodes.

Do not remove the covers, and never

stare into the unfiltered light for sev-

eral hours, as irritation of the retina could

result.<

Changing a wheel

Safety precautions to observe in the

event of a flat tire and during all tire

changes:

Park the vehicle as far as possible from

passing traffic. Park on a firm, flat, surface.

Switch on the hazard warning flashers.

Lock the steering wheel in straight-ahead

setting of the wheels. Set the handbrake

and engage first gear, reverse gear or

selector-lever position P.

All passengers should be outside the vehi-

cle and well away from your immediate

working area, behind a guardrail, for

instance.

If a warning triangle or portable hazard

warning lamp is required, set it up on the

roadside at an appropriate distance from

the rear of the vehicle. Comply with all

safety guidelines and regulations.

Change the wheel only on a level, firm sur-

face which is not slippery. The vehicle or

the jack could slip to the side if you attempt

to raise the vehicle on a soft or slippery sur-

face such as snow, ice, tiles, etc.

Position the jack on a firm support surface.

Do not use a wooden block or similar

object as a support base for the jack, as

this would prevent it from extending to its

full support height and reduce its load-car-

rying capacity.

To avoid serious or fatal injury: never lie

under the vehicle, and never start the

engine while it is supported by the jack.<

What you will need

Open tailgate and raise or remove floor

cover, refer to page 72.

1 Vehicle jack

2 Chock

3 Lug wrench

In order to avoid rattling noises later, note

the position of the tools when you remove

them and return them to their original posi-

tion when you are through using them.

Compact wheel

The compact wheel is located under the

cargo area on the floor of the vehicle.

Replacing components

104

1. Unscrew bolt, refer to arrow 1

2. Fold up lifting handle, refer to arrow 2

3. Turn the handle to the left as far as pos-

sible, refer to arrow 3

Turning the handle releases the

compact wheel. Weight approx.

18 lbs/8 kg. It must be held with the

handle.<

4. Slowly lower the handle as far as possi-

ble, refer to arrow 4

5. Take out the compact wheel towards

the back

6. Refit the compact wheel holder in

reverse order.

The defective wheel cannot be fitted

in the compact wheel holder in place

of the compact wheel.<

Preparing wheel change

Observe the safety precautions on

page 103.<

1. Secure the vehicle to prevent it from

rolling:

Place the wheel chock against the rear

surface of the front tire on the side

opposite the side being raised. If the

vehicle is parked on a downward slope,

place the wheel chock securely in front

of the tire. If the wheel must be changed

on a surface with a more severe slope,

take additional precautions to secure

the vehicle from rolling

2. Loosen the lug bolts by a g turn.

Jacking up vehicle

1. Position the vehicle jack at the jacking

point closest to the wheel so that the

entire surface of the jack base perpen-

dicularly contacts the ground under the

jacking point

2. Guide the jack head into the rectangular

recess of the jacking point when crank-

ing up, refer to section of illustration

3. Jack the vehicle up until the wheel you

are changing is raised from the ground.

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

105

Mounting compact wheel

1. Unscrew the lug bolts and remove the

wheel

2. Remove accumulations of mud or dirt

from the mounting surfaces of the

wheel and hub. Clean the lug bolts

3. Position the new wheel or compact

wheel. Secure the wheel by turning at

least two lug bolts into opposite bolt

holes

4. Screw in the remaining lug bolts.

Tighten all the bolts securely in a diag-

onal pattern

5. Lower the jack and remove it from

beneath the vehicle

6. Tighten the lug bolts in a diagonal pat-

tern

7. Check and correct the tire inflation

pressure at the earliest opportunity.

Protect valve stems and valve stem

seal caps against dirt and contamina-

tion. Dirt in valve stems is a frequent source

of gradual air loss.<

After mounting the compact wheel or cor-

recting the inflation pressure, reinitialize

the Flat Tire Monitor, refer to page 53.

The vehicle jack is designed for

changing wheels only. Do not attempt

to raise another vehicle model with it or to

raise any load of any kind. To do so could

cause accidents and personal injury.

To ensure safety, always have the lug bolts

checked with a calibrated torque wrench to

ensure that they are tightened to the spec-

ified torque of 101 lb ft/140 Nm as soon as

possible.<

Stow the defective wheel in the luggage

compartment.

When you mount wheels other than Genu-

ine BMW light-alloy wheels, different lug

bolts may also be required.

Replace the defective tire as soon as pos-

sible and have the new wheel/tire bal-

anced.

Driving with the compact wheel

Drive reservedly and do not exceed a

speed of 50 mph/80 km/h. Do not

deactivate DSC, as otherwise unstable

driving conditions may result.<

The driving characteristics change, for

example reduced track stability on braking,

extended braking distance, and altered

self-steering characteristics in the limit

range. In conjunction with winter tires,

these characteristics are more pro-

nounced.

Only one compact wheel may be

mounted. You should re-equipping to

wheels and tires of the original size as

quickly as possible.<

Battery

Battery care

The battery is 100% maintenance-free, i.e.,

the electrolyte will last for the life of the bat-

tery when the vehicle is operated in a tem-

perate climate.

Please contact your BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center with any ques-

tions concerning the battery.<

Do not disconnect the battery when

the engine is running. If you do so, the

ensuing voltage surge will damage the

vehicle's onboard electronics.<

Indicator lamp

The battery charge-current indica-

tor lamp lights up:

The battery is no longer being

charged. There is a defect on the alternator

V-belt or charge current circuit of the alter-

nator. Contact the nearest BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center.

Do not continue driving if the V-belt is

defective. The engine could be dam-

aged due to overheating.

Moreover, an increased amount of force is

required for steering if the onboard supply

voltage falls dramatically.<

Replacing components

106

Charging the battery

Charge the battery in the vehicle only when

the engine is not running. Use the connec-

tions provided in the engine compartment.

For correct connections, refer to Jump-

starting on page 108.

Disposal

Bring old batteries to a collection

point or your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center. Maintain the battery in an

upright position for transport and storage.

Always restrain the battery to prevent it

from tipping over during transport.<

Fuses

Never attempt to repair a blown fuse,

and do not replace a defective fuse

with a substitute of another color or amper-

age rating, as this could lead to a circuit

overload, ultimately resulting in a fire in the

vehicle.<

Open the glove compartment and turn the

two quick-release fasteners to the left,

refer to arrows.

Spare fuses, plastic tweezers and details of

the fuse assignment are located in the

compartment for the onboard tool kit.

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

107

Giving and receiving assistance

Receiving assistance

The Roadside Assistance of the BMW

Group offers you assistance in the event of

a breakdown around the clock, also at

weekends and on public holidays.

The phone numbers of the Roadside Assis-

tance control center in your home country

can be found in the BMW Dealer Directory.

In the case of vehicles with the corre-

sponding equipment, you can use buttons

in the headlining to contact Roadside

Assistance or start an emergency call.

When an emergency call is started, a tele-

phone connection is set up to the general

emergency call center.

In vehicles where BMW Assist is enabled,

the phone system will also automatically

establish contact with the BMW Assist

emergency call center. If the current loca-

tion of your vehicle can be determined, this

is transferred to the BMW Assist emer-

gency call center.

The condition for starting an emergency

call or contacting Roadside Assistance:

> The car phone is logged on to a mobile

telephone network

> The emergency call system is operable.

Starting an emergency call*

Press button, refer to arrow, for at least

2 seconds.

The indicator lamp above the buttons lights

up. As soon as the voice connection to the

general emergency number has been set

up, the indicator lamp flashes.

If the indicator lamp flashes, but you are

unable to hear the emergency call center,

you can still be heard by the emergency

call center.

For technical reasons, the emergency

call cannot be guaranteed under

unfavorable conditions.<

Under certain conditions, an emergency

call is started automatically immediately

after a severe accident. The automatic

emergency call is not affected by the but-

ton being pressed.

Roadside Assistance*

Press button, refer to arrow, for at least

2 seconds.

The indicator lamp above the buttons lights

up. As soon as the voice connection to

Roadside Assistance has been set up, the

indicator lamp flashes.

On a country-specific basis, with BMW

Assist enabled, the current location of your

vehicle is determined at the same time.

Giving and receiving assistance

108

Warning triangle*

To open the side trim panel: press the but-

ton.

Comply with legal requirements

requiring you to carry a hazard warn-

ing triangle in the vehicle.<

First-aid kit*

Beneath the front passenger's seat.

To open: pull the handle and fold the cover

downward.

To close: fold the cover up.

Some of the articles in the first-aid kit

may be used within a limited time

only. For this reason, check the expiration

dates of each of the items regularly, and

replace any whose expiration dates have

passed. You can find replacements in any

pharmacy.

Always observe all legal regulations

requiring a first-aid kit to be carried in the

vehicle.<

Jump-starting

When your battery is discharged you can

use two jumper cables to start your vehicle

with power from the battery in a second

vehicle. You can also use the same method

to help start another vehicle. Use only

jumper cables with fully-insulated clamp

handles.

To avoid the risk of potentially fatal

injury, always avoid all contact with

electrical components while the engine is

running. Carefully observe the following

instructions to avoid personal injury and/or

damage to one or both vehicles.<

Preparing

1. Check whether the battery of the other

vehicle has a voltage of 12 Volts and

approximately the same capacitance

in Ah. This information can be found on

the battery

2. Switch off the engine of the support

vehicle

3. Switch off any electrical systems and

components in both vehicles.

Ensure that no contact exists

between the bodywork on the two

vehicles, otherwise there is a danger of

short circuits.<

Connecting the jumper cables

To avoid personal injury from sparks,

always observe this sequence when

connecting jumper cables.<

On your BMW, the auxiliary terminal for

jump-starting in the engine compartment

serves as the battery positive terminal,

refer also to Engine compartment overview

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

109

on page 93. The symbol + is embossed on

the cover.

1. Open the cover of the BMW auxiliary

terminal for jump-starting, refer to

arrow 1

2. Connect one terminal clamp of the pos-

itive/+ jumper cable to the positive ter-

minal of the battery or a auxiliary termi-

nal of the vehicle providing starting

assistance

3. Connect the second terminal clamp of

the positive/+ jumper cable to the posi-

tive terminal of the battery or to a auxil-

iary terminal of the vehicle to be started.

On your BMW, there is a special nut as

body ground or negative terminal on the

suspension strut dome, refer to arrow 2

4. Attach one end of the jumper cable

minus/– to the negative terminal of the

battery or to an engine or body ground

of the vehicle providing assistance

5. Connect the second terminal clamp of

the negative/– jumper cable to the neg-

ative terminal of the battery or to the

engine or body ground of the vehicle to

be started.

Starting the engine

1. Start the support vehicle's engine and

let it run at an increased idling speed for

a few minutes

2. Start the engine on the other vehicle in

the usual way.

If the first start attempt is not success-

ful, wait a few minutes before another

attempt in order to allow the discharged

battery to recharge

3. Allow the engines to run for several

minutes

4. Disconnect the jumper cables by

reversing the connection sequence.

If necessary, have the battery checked and

recharged at a BMW Sports Activity Vehi-

cle Center.

Never use spray fluids to start the

engine.<

Towing

Always observe all applicable towing

laws and regulations. Do not tow the

BMW X3 with the axle raised, as otherwise

the transfer case can be damaged.<

Towing with a commercial tow truck

> Use only a flatbed carrier

> Do not tow with sling-type equipment

> Do not use a wheel lift.

Never allow passengers to ride on a

towed vehicle for any reasons.<

Tow fitting

The threaded tow fitting is stored in the tool

kit mounted on the inside of the compart-

ment and should always remain in the vehi-

cle. This fitting is designed for installation in

the tow sockets located at the front and

rear of the vehicle.

Access to tow sockets

Front

Use a screwdriver to lever out the cover

upward at the recess.

Giving and receiving assistance

110

Rear

Use a screwdriver to lever out the cover

upward at the recess.

Only use the tow fitting that comes

with the vehicle and screw it in as far

as it will go. Only use the tow fitting to tow

on the roadway. Adhere to these specifica-

tions, as otherwise the tow fitting can be

torn out and damage the vehicle.

Never attempt to tow or tie down the vehi-

cle using suspension components, as this

could lead to damage that might ultimately

result in an accident.<

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

111

Reference

This is where to look to find

information on any desired topic as

quickly as possible.

This chapter includes the section

with technical information as well

as the manual's index.

Technical data

114

Technical data

Engine specifications

An engine performance test is authorized only on an appropriate chassis dynamometer.

BMW X3 2.5i BMW X3 3.0i

Displacement

Number of cylinders

cu in/cmm 152.2/2,494

181.8/2,979

Maximum output

at engine speed

rpm

184

6,000

225

5,900

Maximum torque

at engine speed

lb ft/Nm

rpm

175/237

3,500

214/290

3,500

Compression ratio e 10.5 10.2

Stroke

Bore

in/mm

2.95/75

3.31/84

3.53/89.6

3.31/84

Fuel-injection system Digital electronic engine-management system DME

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

115

Dimensions

All dimensions in inches/millimeters. Smallest turning circle dia.: 38.4 ft/11.7 m.

Height with roof railing

*: 66.0 in/1,674 mm.

Technical data

116

Weights

Never exceed either the approved axle loads or the gross vehicle weight.

BMW X3 2.5i BMW X3 3.0i

Curb weight

with manual transmission

with automatic transmission

lbs/kg

4,001/1,815

4,045/1,835

4,023/1,825

4,067/1,845

Approved gross vehicle weight

with manual transmission

with automatic transmission

lbs/kg

4,993/2,265

5,049/2,290

5,104/2,315

Load

with manual transmission

with automatic transmission

lbs/kg

992/450

1,003/455

1,025/465

1,036/470

Approved front axle load lbs/kg 2,425/1,100 2,425/1,100

Approved rear axle load lbs/kg 2,756/1,250 2,778/1,260

Approved roof load capacity lbs/kg 165/75 165/75

Cargo area capacity cu ft/l 71/2,010 71/2,010

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

117

Capacities

Notes

Fuel tank

Reserve

gal./liters

approx. 17.7/67

approx. 2/8

Fuel specification:

page 85

Windshield / Headlamp washer

system

quarts/liters approx. 6.9/6.5 For details: page 94

Cooling system including heater quarts/liters 10.6/10.0 for

manual

transmission

10.8/10.2 for

automatic

transmission

For details: page 95

Engine oil and filter change quarts/liters approx. 6.6/6.2 For details: page 94

Manual, automatic transmission

and differential

– Lifetime fluid, no fluid

change required

Technical data

118

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

119

Everything from A to Z

Index

A/C operation

– air conditioner 60

– automatic climate

control 63

ABS Antilock Brake

System 50

– indicator lamp 50

Accessories 6

Activated-charcoal filter 65

Adaptive Head Light 57

Adding engine oil 95

Adjusting seats 27

– electric 29

– mechanical 28

Air, drying, refer to A/C

operation 61, 64

Airbags 54

– deactivating 34

– indicator lamp 55

– sitting safely 27

Air circulation, refer to

Recirculated-air

mode 61, 64

Air conditioner 60, 63

Air distribution

– air conditioner 61

– automatic climate

control 64

Airing, refer to

Ventilation 61, 65

Air outlets, refer to

Ventilation 61, 65

Air pressure, refer to Tire

inflation pressure 86

Air supply

– air conditioner 61

– automatic climate

control 64

Air vents, refer to

Ventilation 61, 65

AKI, refer to Fuel

specifications 85

Alarm system 24

– avoiding unintentional

alarms 25

Anchorages 73

Antifreeze

– coolant 95

– washer fluid 94

Antifreeze protection

– coolant 95

Anti-theft alarm system 18

– refer to Alarm system 24

Anti-trapping mechanism

– panorama glass roof 24

– power windows 22

Approved engine oils 95

Approved gross vehicle

weight 116

Armrest 68

– front 68

– rear 68

Artificial leather, refer to

Caring for your vehicle

brochure

Ashtray 69

– front 69

– rear 69

AUC Automatic

recirculated-air

control 64

Automatic

– air distribution 64

– air supply 64

Automatic car wash, refer

to Caring for your vehicle

brochure

Automatic climate

control 63

Automatic cruise control 43

Automatic curb monitor 32

Automatic headlamp

control 57

Automatic program, refer to

automatic air-

distribution 64

Automatic rear window

cleaning 43

Automatic recirculated-air

control AUC 64

Automatic transmission

– malfunction 41

Automatic transmission

with Steptronic 39

– indicator lamp 41

– interlock 37

– selector lever interlock 40

– shiftlock 40

Average fuel

consumption 48

Average speed 48

Avoiding unintentional

alarms 25

Axle load, permitted 116

Backrests, refer to

Adjusting seats 28

Backup lamps 39

– replacing bulbs 102

Bad roads 80

Bar, towing 109

Batteries, disposal 106

Battery 105

– indicator lamp 12, 105

– jump-starting 108

Belts, refer to Safety

belts 30

Beverage holders 67

Black ice, refer to Ice

warning 47

Blower

– air conditioner 61

– automatic climate

control 64

BMW maintenance

system 97

BMW sports seat 28

Bore, refer to Engine

data 114

Everything from A to Z

120

Bottle holder, refer to

Beverage holders 67

Brake fluid 96

– indicator lamp 96

– level 96

– replacing 96

Brake force display 54

Brake lamps

– defect 57

– indicator lamp 12

– replacing the bulbs 102

Brake pads and rotors

– breaking-in procedure 76

Brakes 77, 96

– ABS 77

– brake fluid 96

– break-in procedure 76

– handbrake 38

– indicator/warning

lamp 38

Brake system

– brake-fluid level 96

– brake pads 96

– corrosion 77

– disc brakes 76, 77

– indicator lamp 96

– rotors 76, 77

Brake wear warning

– brake pads 96

– indicator lamp 96

Break-in procedures 76

Bulbs and lamps 99

Buttons in steering

wheel 14

California Proposition

65 Warning 98

Capacities 117

Car care, refer to Caring for

your vehicle brochure

Car-care products, refer to

Caring for your vehicle

brochure

Care, refer to Caring for

your vehicle brochure

Cargo area 71

– capacity 116

– cover 71

– floor cover 72

– folding rear seat

backrest 71

– increasing volume 71

– lashing eyes 73

– manual unlocking 21

– opening, remote

control 19

– opening/closing 21

– opening from the

outside 21

– sockets 73

– volume 116

Cargo bay, refer to Cargo

area 71

Cargo loading 78

Caring for leather, refer to

Caring for your vehicle

brochure

Caring for the carpet, refer

to Caring for your vehicle

brochure

Caring for the vehicle finish,

refer to Caring for your

vehicle brochure

Car keys, refer to Key

set 18

Car phone preparation 70

Car wash 77

Car wash, refer to Caring

for your vehicle brochure

Catalytic converter, refer to

High temperatures 76

Central locking system 18

– interior 20

Changes, technical, refer to

For your own safety 6

Changing a wheel 103

Check Gas Cap

– indicator lamp 12, 84

Checking inflation

pressure 86

Child's seats, refer to

Child-restraint

systems 34

Child-restraint systems 34

Child-safety locks 36

Chock 103

Chrome parts, care, refer to

Caring for your vehicle

brochure

Cigarette lighter

– front 69

– rear 69

Circulation of air, refer to

Recirculated-air

mode 61, 64

Cleaning, vehicle, refer to

Caring for your vehicle

brochure

Cleaning the windshield 42

Cleaning windows,

reservoir 94

Clean the rear window 42

Clock 46

– 12/24 hour mode 48

– setting, refer also to

Owner's Manual for

Radio/Onboard

computer 46

Clutch 76

– breaking in 76

Cockpit 10

Cold start, refer to Starting

the engine 37

Comfort operation

– panorama glass roof 20

Compact wheel

– wheel changes 103

Compression ratio, refer to

Engine data 114

Computer 47

Computer, functions 48

Condensation, refer to A/C

operation 61, 64

Connecting a vacuum

cleaner, refer to Lighter

socket 69

Consumption, refer to

Average fuel

consumption 48

Consumption indicator,

refer to Fuel gauge 45

Contents 3

Controls, refer to

Cockpit 10

Convenience operation

– from outside 20

– windows 20

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

121

Coolant 95

– indicator lamp 95

– level 96

– temperature gauge 45

Coolant temperature

gauge 45

Cooling, refer to

Temperature 61

Cruise control

– buttons in steering

wheel 14

– indicator lamp 43

Cruise control, refer to

– Programmable cruise

control 43

Cruising range 48

Cup holder, refer to

Beverage holders 67

Curb weight 116

Cylinders, refer to Engine

data 114

Dashboard system, refer to

Cockpit 10

Data, technical

– dimensions 115

– engine 114

– filling capacities 117

– weights 116

Daytime driving lamp 57

DBC Dynamic Brake

Control 50

– indicator lamp 50

Decommissioning the

vehicle, refer to Caring for

your vehicle brochure 97

Defect, refer to Manual

operation

Defects 7

Defrosting, windows 61

– air conditioner 62

– automatic climate

control 64

– rear window

defroster 61, 65

Defrosting windows and

removing condensation

– air conditioner 62

– automatic climate

control 64

Defrosting windshield, refer

to Defrosting

windows 62, 64

Defrost position, refer to

Defrosting

windows 62, 64

Digital clock 46

Dimensions 115

Dipstick, engine oil 94

Directional indicators, refer

to Turn signal

indicators 41

Discs brakes 76, 77

Displacement, refer to

Engine data 114

Display lighting, refer to

Instrument lighting 58

Displays, refer to

Instrument

cluster 11

Disposal

– batteries 106

– oil 95

Doors

– locking and unlocking 20

– manual operation 20

DOT Quality Grades 88

Draft-free ventilation 61, 65

Drawbar support load 116

Driving lamps, refer to

Parking lamps/low

beams 57

Driving notes 76

Driving on bad roads 80

Driving stability control

systems 50

Driving through water 80

DSC Dynamic Stability

Control 50

– indicator lamp 51

Electrical malfunction

– door lock 20

– doors 20

– driver's door 20

– fuel filler door 84

– panorama glass roof 24

– tailgate 21

Electric power windows 22

Electronic Stability

Program ESP, refer to

Dynamic Stability

Control 50

Emergency actuation, refer

to Manual operation

Emergency call 107

Engine

– breaking in 76

– data 114

– indicator lamp 37

– malfunction in electronic

circuitry 38

– speed 45

Engine compartment 93

Engine coolant 95

Engine hood 92

Engine oil 95

– indicator/warning

lamp 94

– prescribed oils 95

Engine oil grades 95

Engine oil level 94

– indicator/warning

lamp 94

Engine oil pressure 94

– indicator/warning

lamp 94

Engine oil sensor 94

– indicator/warning

lamp 94

Engine output, refer to

Engine data 114

Engine temperature, refer

to Coolant

temperature 45

Equipment range, refer to

Service and Warranty

Information Booklet for

Everything from A to Z

122

US models, Warranty and

Service Guide Booklet for

Canadian models

ESP Electronic Stability

Program, refer to DSC

Dynamic Stability

Control 50

Exhaust system, refer to

High temperatures 76

Exterior mirror

– automatic dimming

feature 32

Exterior mirrors 31

Fan, refer to Air

supply 61, 64

Filling the windshield

washer reservoir 94

Filter

– refer to Microfilter 62

– refer to Microfilter/

Activated charcoal

filter 65

First-aid kit 108

Fittings, tow-starting and

towing 109

Flat tire 103

– compact wheel 103

– Flat Tire Monitor 53

Flat Tire Monitor 53

– indicator lamp 53

Flooding, refer to Driving on

bad roads 80

Floor cover 72

Fluid level

– indicator lamp 94

Fog lamps 58

– replacing bulbs 102

Folding rear seat back 71

Folding rear seat

backrest 71

Footbrake, refer to Brake

system 77, 96

Footbrake, refer to General

driving notes 77, 96

Front/rear reading

lamps 58

Front airbags 54

Front center armrest 68

Front seat adjustment 27

Fuel 85

– average

fuel consumption 48

– capacity 117

– gauge 45

– quality 85

– volume 48

Fuel capacity 117

Fuel clock, refer to Fuel

gauge 45

Fuel display, refer to Fuel

gauge 45

Fuel filler cap 84

Fuel filler door 84

– releasing in the event of

electrical defect 84

Fuses 106

Garage-door opener, refer

to Integrated universal

remote control 66

Gasoline, refer to Fuel

quality 85

Gasoline consumption,

refer to Average fuel

consumption 48

Gasoline display, refer to

Fuel gauge 45

Gear changes, refer to

Automatic transmission

with Steptronic 40

Gear display 41

Gear lever

– automatic transmission

with Steptronic 39

– manual transmission 39

General driving notes 76

Glove compartment 68

Grills, refer to

Ventilation 61, 65

Ground clearance 80

Halogen lamps 100

Handbrake

– indicator lamp 38

Hands-free microphone,

refer to Car phone

preparation 70

Hands-free system 70

Hazard warning flashers 10

HDC Hill Descent

Control 51

Headlamp control,

automatic 57

Headlamp flasher 41

– indicator lamp 41

Headlamps 100

– bulb replacement 99

Headlamps, care, refer to

Caring for your vehicle

brochure

Headlamp washer

reservoir 94

Headlamp washer

system 94

– cleaning headlamps 42

– tank capacity, refer to

Filling capacities 117

– washer fluid 94

Head restraints 28

Heated mirrors 32

Heated rear window

– air conditioner 61

– automatic climate

control 65

Heated seats 30

Heated steering wheel 31

Heated windshield,

automatic climate

control 64

Heating

– exterior mirror 32

– rear window 61, 65

– seats 30

– steering wheel 31

Heating and

ventilation 60, 63

Heavy cargo, refer to Cargo

loading 78

Height, refer to

Dimensions 115

Height adjustment

– seats 28

– steering wheel 31

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

123

High beams

– bulb replacement 100

– headlamp flasher 58

– indicator lamp 12

High Performance

Synthetic Oil 95

Hill-climbing ability, refer to

Driving on bad roads 80

Hill descent assistance,

refer to HDC 51

Hill Descent Control

HDC 51

Hills 77

Holder for beverage

cans 67

Horn 10

Hydraulic Brake Assistant,

refer to DBC 50

Hydroplaning 77

Ice warning 47

Ignition 37

Ignition key 18

Ignition lock 37

Imprint 2

Indicator/warning lamp

– airbags 55

– alarm system 25

– brake system 96

– DSC 51

– Flat Tire Monitor 53

– fog lamps 58

– reserve 45

– safety belt warning 30

Indicator/warning lamps 12

Individual settings, refer to

Vehicle Memory, Key

Memory 33

Inflation pressure, tires 86

Inflation pressure

monitoring, refer to Flat

Tire Monitor 53

Instrument cluster 10, 11

Instrument illumination 58

Instrument lighting 58

Integrated universal remote

control 66

Interior lamps 58

Interior mirror

– automatic dimming

feature 32

Interior motion

sensor 22, 25

– switching off 19

Interior rearview mirror 32

Interlock, refer to Ignition

lock 37

Intermittent

– operation, wipers 41

Jacking points 104

Jumping, refer to Jump-

starting 108

Jump-starting 108

Key Memory 33

Keys 18

Kickdown 40

Lamps and bulbs 99

Lashing eyes, refer to

Securing the load 79

Leather care, refer to

Caring for your vehicle

brochure

LEDs light-emitting

diodes 103

License plate lamp

– bulb replacement 102

Lifting handle, compact

wheel 104

Light-alloy wheels, care,

refer to Caring for your

vehicle brochure

Light-emitting diodes

LEDs 103

Lighter 69

Lighter socket 69

Lighting of instruments 58

Lighting of the instruments,

refer to Instrument

lighting 58

Lights, refer to Parking

lamps/low beams 57

Lights on warning 57

Load, refer to Loading 78

– securing the load 79

– stowing cargo 79

– vehicle 78

Loading area

– lid, refer to Tailgate 21

Load securing devices 79

Locking

– from inside 20

– from outside 18

Locking and unlocking

doors

– from inside 20

– from outside 18

Longlife oils

– approved oils 95

Low beams 57

– automatic 57

– bulb replacement 100

– indicator lamp 57

Low-fuel warning light,

refer to Fuel gauge 45

Lug bolts 104

Luggage compartment,

refer to Cargo area

Luggage rack, refer to

Roof-mounted luggage

rack 79

Lumbar support 29

Maintenance 97

Maintenance system,

BMW 97

Malfunction in automatic

transmission system 41

Manual operation

– doors 20

– driver's door 20

– fuel filler door 84

– glass roof 24

– panorama glass roof 24

– tailgate 21

Manual transmission 39

Master keys with remote

control 18

Everything from A to Z

124

Maximum axle loads 116

Maximum roof weight 116

MD operation, refer to

Owner's Manual for

Radio/Onboard computer

Mechanical seats 28

Memory, refer to Seat and

mirror memory 29

Memory, refer to Vehicle

Memory, Key Memory 33

Microfilter

– air conditioner 62

– automatic climate

control 65

Microphone, refer to Car

phone preparation 70

Microphone for

telephone 70

Mileage, refer to Engine

data 114

Mini-Disc operation, refer

to Owner's Manual for

Radio/Onboard computer

Mirror

– automatic curb

monitor 32

– mirror heating 32

– mirror memory, refer to

Seat and mirror

memory 29

Mirror dimming feature 32

Mirrors 31

Mobile Service, refer to

Roadside Assistance 107

Modifications, technical 6

Multifunction switch

– turn signal indicators/

headlamp flasher 41

– washer/wiper system 41

Neck support, refer to Head

restraints 28

Next Service

indicator 46, 97

Nozzles, refer to

Ventilation 61, 65

Nylon rope 109

OBD connector 98

Octane number, refer to

Fuel quality 85

Odometer 45

Oil

– approved engine oils 95

– dipstick 94

Oil change interval, refer to

Next Service indicator 97

Oil change interval, refer to

Service Manual

Oil consumption 94

Oil grades 95

Oil level 94

Oil pressure 94

Oil sensor

– indicator lamp 94

OILSERVICE 46, 97

Onboard Diagnostic OBD

interface socket 98

Onboard tool kit 99

Opening and closing 18

– from inside 20

– from outside 18

– using the door lock 20

– using the remote

control 18

Operating on bad roads 80

Output, refer to Engine

data 114

Outside air 61

– air conditioner 61

– automatic climate

control 64

Outside temperature

display

– changing unit of

measure 47

– in computer 47

Overview indicator/warning

lamps 12

Package tray, refer to

Cargo area 71

Panorama glass roof 23

– comfort operation 20

– manual operation 24

– protective function 24

Park Distance Control

PDC 49

Parking

– vehicle 38

Parking aid, refer to Park

Distance Control PDC 49

Parking brake, refer to

Handbrake 38

Parking lamps 57

– bulb replacement 101

Parking lamps/low

beams 57

Parking the vehicle 38

Particulate filter, refer to

Microfilter 62

Partition net 72

PDC Park Distance

Control 49

Plastic, refer to Caring for

your vehicle brochure

Pollen, refer to

Microfilter 62

Pollen, refer to Microfilter/

Activated charcoal

filter 65

Power seat 29

Pressure, tires 86

Pressure monitoring,

tires 53

– Flat Tire Monitor 53

Programming settings,

refer to Vehicle Memory,

Key Memory 33

Protective function

– panorama glass roof 24

Puncture

– Flat Tire Monitor 53

Radiator, refer to

Coolant 95

Radio, refer to separate

Owner's Manual

Radio navigation, refer to

separate Owner's Manual

Rain sensor 42

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

125

Range

– setting units 47

Rear armrest, refer to

Center armrest 68

Rear backrests

– folding 71

Rear center armrest 68

Rear fog lamps

– bulb replacement 102

Rear lamps

– bulb replacement 102

Rear seat back

– folding 71

Rearview mirrors

– exterior 31

Rear window defroster

– air conditioner 61

– automatic climate

control 65

Rear window safety

switch 22

Rear window wiper 43

Recirculated-air mode

– air conditioner 61

– automatic climate

control 64

Reclining seat 28

Refueling 84

– fuel filler door 84

Remaining distance to next

vehicle service 46

Remote control

– fault 19

– garage-door opener 66

– tailgate 19

Removing condensation,

windows

– air conditioner 62

– automatic climate

control 64

Replacement fuses 106

Replacement of tires

– wheel changes 103

Replacement tire 103

Replacing bulbs, refer to

Lamps and bulbs 99

Replacing light bulbs 99

Reporting safety defects 7

Reservoir, washer

system 94

Restraint systems, refer to

Safety belts 30

Reverse 39

Reverse gear

– automatic transmission

with Steptronic 40

– manual transmission 39

Rims 90

Roadside Assistance 107

Roll-up cover, refer to

Cargo area cover 71

RON, refer to Fuel

quality 85

Roof-mounted luggage

rack 79

Rope, refer to Tow-starting

and towing 109

Rotating coin holder, refer

to Storage

compartments 68

Safe sitting position with

safety belts 27

Safety belts 30

– sitting safely 27

– warning lamp 30

Safety belt tensioners, refer

to Safety belts 27

Safety belt warning

– indicator lamp 30

Safety defects, reporting 7

Safety feature

– power windows 22

Safety systems, refer to

ABS Antilock Brake

System 50

Safety systems, refer to

DSC Dynamic Stability

Control 50

Screwdriver, refer to

Onboard tool kit 99

Seat, electric power 29

Seat heating 30

Seat memory, refer to Seat

and mirror memory 29

Securing cargo 79

Selector lever, automatic

transmission 40

Selector lever interlock,

refer to Shiftlock 40

Service and warranty

notes 7

Service Engine

Soon 38, 98

Service Interval

Display 46, 97

Setting the units 47

Setting units 47

Shiftlock, changing the

selector-lever

positions 40

Side airbags 54

Side lamps 57

Side tilt 80

Side turn signal indicators

– bulb replacement 101

Sitting safely 27

– with airbag 27

– with safety belts 27

Ski bag 70

Smokers' package, refer to

Ashtray 69

Sockets 69, 73

SOS, refer to Starting an

emergency call 107

Spare fuses 106

Spare key 18

Spare tire, refer to Wheel

changes 103

Special oils, refer to

Approved oils 95

Special washing

program 42

Specified oils 95

Speedometer 11

Speedometer, refer to

Instrument

cluster 11

Sport program

– automatic transmission

with Steptronic 40

Sports seat 28

Stability control, refer to

DSC Dynamic Stability

Control 50

Standing lamps 58

Starting, engine 37

Starting, refer to Starting

the engine 37

Everything from A to Z

126

Starting assistance, refer to

Jump-starting 108

Starting difficulties

– temperature 38

Starting-off assistance,

DSC 50

Starting the engine 38

Startup difficulties

– jump-starting 108

Status of this Owner's

Manual at time of

printing 5

Steering lock 37

Steering wheel 10, 14

– adjustment 31

– lock 37

Steering wheel heater 31

Steering wheel with

buttons 14

Steptronic 39

Storage compartments 68

Storage package 68

Storage package nets 68

Storage space, refer to

Cargo area 71

Storing seat position, refer

to Seat and mirror

memory 29

Storing the seat

adjustment 29

Straps, refer to Loading 78

Stroke, refer to Engine

data 114

Supply reservoir cleaning

systems 94

Switches, refer to

Cockpit 10

Switching off the engine 38

Symbols 4

Table of contents 3

Tachometer 45

Tailgate

– closing 21

– emergency operation 21

– opening from the

outside 21

– remote control 19

Tailgate lamp

– bulb replacement 103

Tail lamps

– bulb replacement 102

– indicator lamp 57

Tank capacity 117

Technical modifications 6

Telephone, refer to

separate Owner's Manual

Temperature

– air conditioner 61

– automatic climate

control 64

Temperature, tires 88

Temperature display

– ice warning 47

– outside temperature 47

– setting the units 47

Temperature gauge 45

Thigh support

adjustment 28, 29

Three-point belt 30

Tightening torque 105

Tilt alarm sensor 25

– switching off 25

Tilt function, passenger-

side mirror 32

Tire inflation pressures 86

Tire pressure monitoring,

refer to Flat Tire

Monitor 53

Tires

– age 88

– break-in procedure 76

– changing 89

– condition 89

– DOT Quality Grades 88

– flat 103

– inflation pressure 86, 87

– replacing 89

– storage 90

– temperature 88

– traction 88

– treadwear 88

– Uniform Tire Quality

Grading 89

– wear indicators, refer to

Tire tread/damage 89

– wheel change 103

Tools, refer to Onboard tool

kit 99

Torque of lug bolts 105

Tow bar 109

Tow fittings 109

Towing 109

Towing the vehicle 109

Tow rope 109

Tow sockets for tow

fitting 109

Tow-starting 109

Track width, refer to

Dimensions 115

Traction 88

Traction control

– DSC 50

Trailer loads 116

Transmission 39

– automatic transmission

with Steptronic 39

– manual transmission 39

Transmission lockout, refer

to P Parking 40

Transmission

malfunction 41

Transporting children 34

Transporting children

safely 34

Tread depth, refer to Tire

tread 89

Treadwear 88

Trip-distance counter, refer

to Trip odometer 45

Trip odometer 45

Trunk, refer to Cargo

area 71

Trunk lid, refer to

Tailgate 21

Turning circle, refer to

Dimensions 115

Turn signal indicators 41

– bulb replacement 101

Turn signal indicators, side

– bulb replacement 101

Underbody protection,

refer to Caring for your

vehicle brochure

Uniform Tire Quality

Grading 89

Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility

127

Units 47

– outside temperature 47

Universal garage-door

opener, refer to

Integrated universal

remote control 66

Universal remote

control 66

Unlocking

– engine hood 92

– from inside 21

– from outside 19

Upholstery care, refer to

Caring for your vehicle

brochure

Vacuum cleaner

connection 69

Vehicle

– battery 105

– dimensions 115

– loading 78

Vehicle battery 105

Vehicle jack 103

Vehicle Memory 33

Ventilation 61, 65

– draft-free 61, 65

Voice control, refer to

separate Owner's Manual

Warning and indicator

lamps 12

Warning triangle 108

Warranty, refer to Service

and Warranty Information

Booklet for US models,

Warranty and Service

Guide Booklet for

Canadian models 97

Warranty and service

notes 7

Washer fluid 94

Washer fluid reservoir, refer

to Windshield/headlamp

washer system 94

Weights 116

Wheel/tire combination,

refer to Replacing

wheels/tires 89

Wheelbase, refer to

Dimensions 115

Wheel bolts

– wrench 103

Wheel changes

– compact wheel 103

Wheels and tires 90

Width, refer to

Dimensions 115

Windows 22

– convenience operation 20

Window wipers

– replacing 99

Windshield

– cleaning 42

Windshield washer

– washer fluid 94

Windshield washer system

– washer/wiper system 41

Windshield wiper blade

replacement 99

Windshield wipers, refer to

Wiper/washer system 41

Winter tires

– changing 103

– condition 89

– storage 90

Wiper/washer reservoir 94

Wiper blade

replacement 99

Wiper system 94

Working in the engine

compartment 92

Wrenches, refer to

Onboard tool kit 99

xDrive 51

Xenon lamps 101

– replacing the bulbs 101

Refueling

To ensure that you always have all the

essential data at hand when refueling, we

recommend that you fill in the following

tables with the specifications and informa-

tion that apply to your vehicle. Consult the

index for individual specifications.

Fuel

Engine oil

The oil quantity between the two marks on

the dipstick is approx. 1.1 US quarts/1 liter.

Tire inflation pressures

Designation

Please enter your preferred fuel here.

Quality

Summer tires

Front Rear

Winter tires

Front Rear

4 persons

5 persons or 4 plus luggage

01 41 0 157 631 ue

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Driving Machine

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