325i
325xi
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 605 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced control and
security when you drive it. Therefore we have one request:
Please take the time to read this Owner's Manual and familiarize yourself with the
information that we have compiled for you before starting off in your new BMW. The
manual contains important data and instructions intended to assist you in obtaining
maximum satisfaction from your BMW's unique array of advanced technical fea-
tures. It also contains information on vehicle maintenance designed to enhance
operating safety while simultaneously helping you to maintain your BMW's value
throughout an extended service life. For additional information refer to the supple-
mental manuals.
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It
should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important
operating, safety and maintenance information.
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW AG
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 605 - © 09/03 BMW AG
4
Notes
© 2003 Bayerische Motoren Werke
Aktiengesellschaft
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW AG, Munich.
Order No. 01 41 0 157 605
US English VIII/03
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper,
bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling.
About this Owner's Manual
We have made every effort to ensure
that you are able to find what you need
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as
possible. The fastest way to find spe-
cific topics is by using the detailed
index at the end. If you wish to gain an
initial overview of your vehicle, you will
find this in the first chapter.
Should you wish to sell your BMW at
some time in the future, please remem-
ber to hand over this Owner's Manual
to the new owner; it is an important part
of the vehicle.
Additional sources of information
If you have any additional questions,
your BMW center will be glad to advise
you.
You can find more information about
BMW, for example on its technology,
on the Internet at www.bmw.com.
Symbols used
Indicates precautions that must
be followed precisely in order to
avoid the possibility of personal injury
and serious damage to the vehicle.
Contains information that will
assist you in gaining the optimum
benefit from your vehicle and enable
you to care more effectively for your
vehicle.
Refers to measures that can be
taken to help protect the environ-
ment.
Marks the end of a specific item of
information.
Indicates special equipment, coun-
try-specific equipment and optional
extras when available.
Vehicle Memory, Key Memory,
refer to page 61. Identifies func-
tions that can be specifically adapted
for a particular key or vehicle. These
adjustments can be performed either by
yourself or by your BMW center.
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5
Notes
Your individual vehicle
On purchasing your BMW, you have
decided in favor of a model with individ-
ualized equipment and features. This
Owner's Manual describes all models
and equipment that BMW offers within
the same group.
We hope you will understand that
equipment and features are included
that you might not have chosen for your
vehicle. You can easily identify any dif-
ferences with the aid of the asterisk
used to identify all optional equipment
and accessories.
If your BMW features equipment, such
as a car radio or telephone, which is not
described in this Owner's Manual, sup-
plementary Owner's Manuals are
enclosed. We ask you to read these
manuals as well.
Status at time of printing
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development designed to
ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality and safety
standards combined with advanced,
state-of-the-art technology. For this
reason, the features described in this
Owner's Manual could differ from those
in your vehicle. Nor can errors and
omissions be entirely ruled out. You are
therefore asked to appreciate that no
claims can be recognized on the basis
of the data, illustrations or descriptions
in this Owner's Manual.
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 – that is,
15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an
equivalent amount of co-solvent – will
not void the applicable warranties
respecting defects in materials or work-
manship. Field experience has indi-
cated significant differences in fuel
quality – volatility, composition, addi-
tives, etc. – among gasolines offered for
sale in the United States and Canada.
The use of poor-quality fuels may result
in driveability, starting and stalling
problems especially under certain envi-
ronmental 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 recom-
mendations may result in unscheduled
maintenance.
Obey all applicable safety rules when
you are handling gasoline.
<
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6
Notes
Maintenance and repair
Advanced technology, e.g. the
use of modern materials and high-
performance electronics, requires spe-
cially adapted maintenance and repair
methods. Therefore, only have corre-
sponding work on your BMW carried
out by a BMW center or a workshop
that works according to BMW repair
procedures with correspondingly
trained personnel. If work is carried out
improperly there is a danger of conse-
quential damage and the related safety
risks.
<
Parts and accessories
Important safety information!
For your own safety, use genuine
parts and accessories approved by
BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested
and approved by BMW and Original
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire
the assurance that they have been thor-
oughly tested by BMW to ensure opti-
mum performance when installed on
your vehicle.
BMW warrants these parts to be free
from defects in material and workman-
ship.
BMW will not accept any liability for
damage resulting from installation of
parts and accessories not approved by
BMW.
BMW cannot test every product made
by other manufacturers to ascertain
whether it can be used on a BMW
safely and without risk to either the
vehicle, its operation, or its occupants.
Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories
and other products approved by BMW,
together with professional advice on
using these items, are available from all
BMW centers.
Installation and operation of non-BMW
approved accessories such as alarms,
radios, amplifiers, radar detectors,
wheels, suspension components, brake
dust shields, telephones – including
operation of any portable cellular phone
from within the vehicle without using an
externally mounted antenna – or trans-
ceiver equipment such as a CB, walkie-
talkie, ham radio or similar, may cause
extensive damage to the vehicle, com-
promise its safety, interfere with the
vehicle's electrical system or affect the
validity of the BMW Limited Warranty.
See your BMW center for additional
information.
Do not use key or remote control to
lock doors or cargo area with anyone
inside the vehicle. Refer to the Owner's
Manual for more details.
<
Maintenance, replacement, or
repair of the emission control
devices and systems may be performed
by any automotive repair establishment
or individual using any certified auto-
motive part.
<
Symbol on vehicle parts
Indicates that you should consult
the relevant section of this
Owner's Manual for information on a
particular part or assembly.
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7
Notes
Service and warranty
This manual is supplemented by a Ser-
vice and Warranty Information Booklet
for US models or a Warranty and Ser-
vice Guide Booklet for Canadian mod-
els.
We recommend that you read this pub-
lication thoroughly.
Your BMW is covered by the following
warranties:
>
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
>
Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
>
Federal Emissions System Defect
Warranty
>
Federal Emissions Performance War-
ranty
>
California Emission Control System
Limited Warranty.
Detailed information about these war-
ranties is listed in the Service and War-
ranty Information Booklet for US mod-
els 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 High-
way Traffic Safety Administration
NHTSA in addition to notifying 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 indi-
vidual problems between you, your
dealer, or BMW of North America, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call
the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at
1-800-424-9393 or 366-0123 in the
Washington, D.C. area, or write to:
NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transpor-
tation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You
can also obtain other information about
motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 605 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Contents
Notes
About this Owner's Manual 4
Additional sources of
information 4
Symbols used 4
Your individual vehicle 5
Status at time of printing 5
For your own safety 5
Symbol on vehicle parts 6
Service and warranty 7
Reporting safety defects 7
Overview
Cockpit 14
Instrument cluster 16
Indicator and warning lamps 18
Buttons in steering wheel* 22
Hazard warning triangle* 23
First-aid kit* 23
Refueling 24
Fuel specifications 25
Tire inflation pressure 25
Controls and features
Opening and closing:
Keys 30
Central locking system 30
Opening and closing – via the
remote control 31
Opening and closing – via the
door lock 34
Opening and closing – from the
inside 35
Tailgate 35
Rear window 36
Cargo area 37
Alarm system* 38
Electric power windows 40
Glass sunroof, electric* 41
To adjust:
Safe seating position 44
Seats 45
Manual seat adjustment 45
Power seat adjustment* 47
Lumbar support* 47
Head restraints 48
Safety belts 48
Seat and mirror memory* 50
Seat heating* 51
Steering wheel 52
Mirrors 52
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Contents
9
Passenger safety systems:
Airbags 54
Transporting children safely 57
Vehicle Memory, Key
Memory 61
Driving:
Ignition lock 63
Starting the engine 63
Switching off the engine 65
Parking brake 65
Manual transmission 66
Sequential manual gearbox
SMG* 67
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic* 71
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp
flasher 74
Washer/wiper system/Rain
sensor* 75
Cruise control* 77
Everything under control:
Odometer 79
Tachometer 79
Energy control 79
Fuel gauge 80
Engine coolant temperature
gauge 80
Service interval display 81
Check Control 81
Clock 82
Computer* 83
Technology for safety and
driving convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC)* 85
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 86
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) –
325xi 88
Hill Descent Control (HDC)* 90
Flat Tire Monitor* 91
Brake force display 92
Lamps:
Parking lamps/Low beams 93
Instrument lighting 94
High beams/Standing lamps 94
Fog lamps* 95
Interior lamps 95
Controlling the climate for
pleasant driving:
Air conditioning 96
Automatic climate control* 100
Interior conveniences:
Premium sound system* 105
Glove compartment 105
Storage compartments 106
Cellular phone* 107
Ashtray, front* 108
Ashtray, rear* 108
Socket 109
Loading and transporting:
Ski bag* 110
Cargo area 111
Cargo loading 113
Roof-mounted luggage
rack* 116
Controls and features
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Contents
Operation, maintenance
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 120
General driving notes 121
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 121
Brake system 122
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 124
Tire condition 124
Tire replacement 125
Wheel and tire
combinations 127
Winter tires 127
In the engine compartment:
Hood 129
Engine compartment
essentials 130
Washer fluids 132
Engine oil 132
Coolant 134
Brake fluid 135
Maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 136
Laws and regulations:
California Proposition 65
warning 138
OBD interface socket 138
Owner service procedures
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 142
Windshield wiper blades 142
Lamps and bulbs 143
Changing a wheel 147
Run Flat tires* 150
Battery 151
Fuses 151
Giving and receiving
assistance:
Receiving assistance 152
Jump-starting 153
Towing the vehicle 154
Technical data
Engine data 160
Dimensions 161
Weights 162
Capacities 163
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13
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
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Cockpit
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1 Parking lamps/Low beams 93
2
>
Turn signal indicators 74
>
Standing lamps 94
>
High beams 94
>
Headlamp flasher 74
>
Computer 83
3 Washer/wiper system/Rain
sensor 75
4 Hazard warning flashers
5 Central locking system 30
6
>
Initiating an emergency call 152
>
Mobile Service 152
7 Rear window defroster 98, 103
8 Horn: the entire surface
9 Adjusting the steering wheel 52
10 Fog lamps 95
Cockpit
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Instrument cluster
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1 Fuel gauge 80
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 20
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator and warning lamps 18
to 21
5 Tachometer and Energy Control 79,
79
6 Engine coolant temperature
gauge 80
7 Indicator and warning lamps 18
to 21
8 Control button for
>
Time 82
>
Service interval display 81
>
Outside temperature display 83
9 Selector lever and program display
for automatic transmission/sequen-
tial manual gearbox 19, 67, 73
10 Display for
>
Trip odometer/Odometer 79
>
Clock 82
>
Service interval 81
>
Computer 82
11 Check Control 81
12 Trip odometer, reset to zero 79
13 Indicator and warning lamps 18
to 21
Instrument cluster
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Indicator and warning lamps
Technology that monitors itself
Indicator and warning lamps that are
identified by
●
are tested for proper
functioning whenever the ignition key is
turned. They each light up once for dif-
ferent periods of time.
If a fault should occur in one of these
systems, the corresponding lamp does
not go out after the engine is started, or
it lights up while the vehicle is moving.
You will see how to react to this in the
following section.
Red: stop immediately
Battery charge current
●
The battery is no longer being
charged. Indicates a defective
alternator drive belt or a problem with
the alternator's charge circuit. Please
contact the nearest BMW center.
If the drive belt is defective, stop
and switch off the engine immedi-
ately to prevent overheating and seri-
ous engine damage. If the drive belt is
defective, increased steering effort is
also required.
<
Engine oil pressure
●
Stop the vehicle immediately
and switch off the engine.
Check the engine oil level and top off as
required. If the oil level is correct:
please contact the nearest BMW cen-
ter.
Do not continue driving, as the
engine could sustain serious dam-
age from inadequate lubrication.
<
Brake warning lamp
●
If the lamp comes on when the
parking brake is not engaged:
check the brake fluid level. Before driv-
ing further, be sure to comply with the
instructions on pages 122 and 135.
Brake warning lamp for Cana-
dian models.
Flat Tire Monitor
●
In addition, an acoustic signal is
sounded: there is a flat tire.
Reduce speed and carefully come to a
stop. Avoid sudden braking and steer-
ing maneuvers.
For additional information: refer to
page 91
Red and yellow: continue driving
cautiously
The brake warning lamp comes
on together with the yellow indi-
cator lamps for ABS
●
and
DSC:
The entire ABS, CBC, DSC and
ADB-X/DBC control system has
failed. Continue driving cau-
tiously and defensively. Avoid
full brake applications. Please have the
system checked by your BMW center
as soon as possible.
Additional information beginning on
page 86
CBC, ABS, DSC and
ADB-X/DBC indicator and warn-
ing lamps for Canadian models.
Red: an important reminder
Brake warning lamp
●
Comes on when the parking
brake is engaged – an additional
acoustic signal sounds when starting
off. For additional information: refer to
page 65
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Brake warning lamp for Cana-
dian models.
Please fasten safety belts
●
Comes on together with an
acoustic signal until the safety
belts are fastened.
For additional information on safety
belts: refer to page 48
Airbags
●
Please have the system
inspected at your BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 54
Orange: consult the nearest BMW
center
Automatic tranmission/sequen-
tial manual gearbox
The respective transmission has
responded to a malfunction by reverting
to operation in its emergency default
program. Please consult the nearest
BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
pages 67, 71
Yellow: check as soon as possible
Engine oil level
If the lamp comes on during
normal vehicle operation: the
engine oil level has fallen to the abso-
lute minimum; refill as soon as possible.
Do not drive more than approx.
30 miles/50 km before refilling.
For additional information: refer to
page 132
Engine oil level
Comes on after the engine has
been switched off: add engine
oil at the earliest opportunity – next time
you stop to refuel.
For additional information: refer to
page 132
Brake pads
●
Have the brake pads checked.
For additional information: refer
to page 122
Flat Tire Monitor
●
The Flat Tire Monitor is malfunc-
tioning or out of order. Please
have the system inspected at your
BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 91
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC)
●
Indicator lamp flashes:
The system is actively regulating drive
torque and braking force.
The indicator lamp stays lit:
DSC has been switched off with the
button; DTC is operational.
Please contact the nearest BMW center
in case of a malfunction.
Additional information beginning on
page 86
325xi:
DSC has been switched off manually or
there is a system malfunction.
ADB-X is operational. If the indidator
lamp fails to go out when you press the
DSC button again, this indicates a sys-
tem malfunction affecting both DSC
and ADB-X.
Please consult the nearest BMW cen-
ter.
For additional information: refer to
page 88
Indicator and warning lamps
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Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
and brake warning lamp
●
The indicator lamps remain on:
DSC/DTC have been switched
off with the button or are faulty.
Please consult the nearest BMW
center.
Additional information beginning on
page 86
325xi:
DSC and ADB-X system malfunction.
There is no provision for switching off
ADB-X.
Please consult the nearest BMW cen-
ter.
DSC indicator and brake warn-
ing lamps for Canadian models.
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
●
Malfunction in DBC system.
Conventional braking efficiency
is available and unrestricted.
Have the system repaired at your BMW
center as soon as possible.
Additional information beginning on
page 121
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Add washer fluid
The washer fluid level is too low.
Top off the fluid at the earliest
opportunity.
For additional information: refer to
page 132
CHECK GAS CAP*
●
This indicator lamp comes on
when the gas cap is loose or
missing.
Close the gas cap tightly: refer to
page 24
SERVICE ENGINE SOON
●
If the indicator lamp comes on
either continuously or intermit-
tently, this indicates a fault in the emis-
sions-related electronic systems.
Although the vehicle remains opera-
tional, you should have the systems
checked by your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
For additional information: refer to
page 138
Service Engine Soon
indicator lamp for Canadian
models.
Engine electronics
●
There is a fault in the electronic
engine-management system.
You can continue to drive with reduced
engine output or engine speed. Please
have the system inspected at your
BMW center.
Add coolant
The coolant level is too low. Add
coolant at the earliest opportu-
nity.
For additional information: refer to
page 134
Green: for your information
Turn signal indicator
Flashes when the turn signals
are on.
Rapid flashing indicates a system mal-
function.
For additional information: refer to
page 74
Cruise control
Lights up when the cruise con-
trol is activated: ready for oper-
ation via the buttons in the steering
wheel.
For additional information: refer to
page 77
Indicator and warning lamps
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Front fog lamps
Lights up whenever you switch
on the fog lamps.
For additional information: refer to
page 95
Blue: for your information
High beams
Comes on when the high beams
are on or the headlamp flasher
is actuated.
For additional information: refer to
pages 74, 94
Indicator and warning lamps
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Buttons in steering wheel*
These buttons let you operate the fol-
lowing functions quickly and without
being distracted from traffic conditions:
>
Selected radio functions
>
The cruise control
>
Selected telephone functions
> The voice recognition system.
The controls are active only when
the corresponding systems and
accessories are switched on.<
Press briefly:
Receive a phone call, initiate dialing,
terminate a call.
Extended pressure:
Switch voice recognition on and off.
Switch between phone, radio, cassette
and CD.
Forward:
> Radio
Press briefly: next station in station
memory
Extended pressure: station search
> CD
Press briefly: jump to next track
Extended pressure: search function
in track
> Cassette
Press briefly: jump to next track or
stop fast forward
Extended pressure: fast forward
> Phone
Scan personal phone book.
Rewind/reverse: same functions as for-
ward.
Volume.
Cruise control: select a stored setting.
Cruise control: store and accelerate +
or decelerate and store –.
Cruise control: activate/interrupt/deac-
tivate.
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Hazard warning triangle*
The warning triangle is located on the
left side of the cargo area behind the
cover panel.
To open: press the button and remove
the cover.
Always observe all legal regula-
tions requiring a warning triangle
to be carried in the vehicle.<
First-aid kit*
The first-aid kit is located under the
passenger seat.
To open: pull the handle and fold the
cover down.
To close: fold the cover up and press it
until the tab engages.
Some of the articles in the first-aid
kit have a limited period of use
before expiration. For this reason,
check the expiration dates of each of
the items regularly and replace any
whose expiration dates have passed.
You can purchase replacements in any
drugstore or pharmacy.
Always observe all legal regulations
requiring a first-aid kit to be carried in
the vehicle.<
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Refueling
Fuel filler door
Always switch off the engine
before refueling, as it is not possi-
ble to add fuel with the engine running,
and attempts may also trigger the
SERVICE ENGINE SOON lamp.<
Press on the rear edge of the fuel filler
door to open and close it.
If an electrical malfunction occurs, you
can unlock the fuel filler door manually:
1. Release the side trim on the right-
hand sidewall of the cargo area
2. Pull the knob with the fuel pump
symbol.
Always observe all safety precau-
tions posted at the service station
when handling fuel. Never carry spare
fuel containers in your vehicle. Whether
empty or full, these containers can leak,
cause an explosion, or lead to fire in the
event of a collision.<
Simple and environmentally
friendly
Open the gas cap carefully to pre-
vent fuel from spraying out. Fuel
spray may cause injury.<
Keep the gas cap in the bracket
attached to the fuel filler door.
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle
completely into the filler pipe. Lifting the
nozzle during refueling
> results in premature pump shutoff
> and will reduce the effectiveness of
the vapor recovery system on the
pump.
The fuel tank is full when the filler noz-
zle shuts off the first time.
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25
Close the gas cap carefully after
refueling until a click is heard.
While closing, be sure not to squeeze
the strap which is fastened to the cap.
A loose or missing cap will activate the
CHECK GAS CAP* lamp.<
Fuel tank capacity
> Approx. 16.6 gal./63 liters, of which
> approx. 2.1 gal./8 liters are reserve
capacity.
Do not drive to the last drop of
fuel. This can prevent the engine
from operating properly and result in
damage.<
Fuel specifications
The engine uses lead-free gasoline
only.
Required fuel:
> Premium Unleaded Gasoline,
min. 91 AKI.
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Never use leaded fuel, as it would
cause permanent and irreversible
damage to the oxygen sensor and the
catalytic converter.<
Tire inflation pressure
Checking tire pressures
Tire pressures in psi/kilopascal are
shown on the driver's door post and are
visible when the door is open.
Only check the tire inflation pressures
of cold tires. This means after driving a
maximum of 1.25 miles/2 km or after
the vehicle has been parked for at least
2 hours. Warm tires have higher infla-
tion pressures.
In the following tire inflation pressure
table, all pressures are specified in the
standard units of pressure, psi and kilo-
pascal, and apply to cold tires, i.e. tires
at ambient temperature.
Refueling
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Vehicles with Flat Tire Monitor:
After correcting the inflation pressures,
reinitialize the system. Refer to
page 91.
Check the tire pressures on a reg-
ular basis – at least twice a month
– and before every extended journey. If
this is not done, incorrect tire pressures
can cause driving instability and tire
damage, ultimately resulting in acci-
dents.
Remember to check the inflation pres-
sure in the space-saver or standard
spare tire, refer to page 147.
Inflate the spare tire to the highest infla-
tion pressure specified for your vehi-
cle.<
Comply with tire approval
specifications
The inflation pressures in the table
apply to BMW approved tire sizes and
tire manufacturers. Your BMW center
can provide you with more information
about these. Other pressures may be
required for tires made by other manu-
facturers.
Your vehicle is equipped with tires that
not only meet US standards, but also
European standards. We recommend
the exclusive use of BMW approved
tires.
Tire inflation pressure
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27
BMW Tires
All pressure specifications in the table are
indicated in psi/kilopascal with cold tires
cold = ambient temperature
325i
325xi
205/55 R 16 91 H M+S
205/55 R 16 91 H
225/50 R 16 92 W – not 325xi
225/45 R 17 91 W
32/220 38/260 38/260 45/310
225/45 ZR 17
245/40 ZR 17
32/220
–
–
38/260
38/260
–
–
45/310
205/50 R 17 93 V M+S extra load
205/50 R 17 93 W extra load
205/55 R 16 91 Q M+S
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S – not 325xi
205/50 R 17 93 Q M+S extra load
225/45 R 17 91 Q M+S
35/240 41/280 41/280 48/330
Space-saver spare tire in cargo area 61/420
Tire inflation pressure
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
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Opening and closing
Keys
The key set
1 Master keys with remote control unit
– these keys determine the functions
of the Key Memory. Refer to page 61.
You can mark the individual keys for
subsequent identification by apply-
ing the colored decals that you
received when accepting delivery of
your vehicle
In every master key there is an
extended-life battery that is
charged automatically in the ignition
lock as you drive.
For this reason, if you have master keys
that are not being used, you should use
those keys at least once a year while
driving for an extended period to
charge the battery, refer also to
page 31.<
2 Spare key – for storage in a safe
place, such as in your wallet. This key
is not intended for constant use. The
glove compartment cannot be locked
and unlocked with this key – which is
useful for valet parking, for example
Central locking system
The concept
The central locking system is ready for
operation whenever the driver's door is
closed. The system simultaneously
engages and releases the locks on the
> doors
> tailgate and rear window
> fuel filler door.
The central locking system can be
operated
> from outside via the remote control
as well as via the driver's door lock
> from inside by pressing a button.
The fuel filler door is not locked when
the central locking system is activated
from the inside, refer to page 35. When
the system is actuated from the out-
side, the anti-theft system is also acti-
vated. This prevents the doors from
being unlocked via the lock buttons or
the release handle. The alarm system is
also activated or deactivated.
If locked from the inside, the central
locking system unlocks automatically in
the event of an accident, except on
doors that have been locked individu-
ally using the lock buttons, refer to
page 35. In addition, the hazard warn-
ing flashers and interior lamps come on.
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Opening and closing – via the remote control
The concept
The remote control also provides two
additional functions beyond the central
locking feature:
> To switch on interior lamps, refer to
page 32.
With this function you can also
search for the vehicle when parked in
an underground garage, for instance
> Opening the rear window, refer to
page 32.
The rear window will open slightly,
regardless of whether it was previ-
ously locked or unlocked.
Whenever you unlock or lock the vehi-
cle, you simultaneously deactivate/acti-
vate the anti-theft system, disarm/arm
the alarm system and switch the interior
lamps on/off.
You can have a signal set to con-
firm that the vehicle's locks have
engaged securely.<
Master keys with remote control
Persons or animals inside the
vehicle may be able to lock the
doors from the inside. For this reason,
always take the vehicle keys with you
so that the vehicle can be opened again
from the outside at any time.<
If it is no longer possible to lock
the vehicle via the remote control,
the battery is discharged. Use this key
while driving for an extended period in
order to recharge the battery. To pre-
vent unauthorized use of the remote
control, surrender only the spare key
when leaving the vehicle for valet park-
ing, for example.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your BMW center. You
can also obtain replacement keys
there.<
1 Unlock, convenience opening mode,
and disarm alarm system
2 Lock and secure, arm alarm system,
activate interior lamps, disarm tilt
alarm sensor and interior motion sen-
sor
3 Open the rear window,
Panic mode – trigger alarm
To release
Press the button once to unlock the
driver's door.
Press the button a second time to
unlock all vehicle locks.
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Convenience opening mode
Press and hold button: to open the
electric power windows and glass sun-
roof.
To lock and secure
Press button.
To switch on the interior lamps
After locking the vehicle, press button
again.
To deactivate the tilt alarm* and
interior motion sensors*
Press button a second time immedi-
ately after locking.
For additional information, refer to
page 39.
To open the rear window
Press button.
the rear window opens slightly. It can
now be tilted up.
If the vehicle is locked, the rear
window will be locked again after
it is closed.
Before and after a trip, be sure that the
rear window has not been opened unin-
tentionally.<
If you prefer, the tailgate will open
instead of the rear window.<
Panic mode – trigger alarm
By pressing the button for more than
2 seconds, the alarm system can be
triggered in the event of danger, if it is
armed.
To switch of the alarm:
Press button.
External systems
The remote control system's operation
may be affected by other units or
equipment operating in the immediate
vicinity of your vehicle.
If this should occur, you can still open
and close the vehicle using the master
key in the door lock.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units com-
ply with part 15 of the FCC/Federal
Communications Commission regula-
tions. Operation is governed by the fol-
lowing:
FCC ID:
> LX8EWS
> LX8FZVS
> LX8FZVE.
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
> This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
> this device must accept any interfer-
ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Opening and closing – via the remote control
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Any unauthorized modifications to
these devices could void the
user's authority to operate the equip-
ment.<
Opening and closing – via the remote control
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Opening and closing – via 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 con-
firm that the vehicle's locks have
engaged securely.<
Convenience operation
You can also operate the power win-
dows and the glass sunroof via the door
lock.
> To open: with the door closed, hold
the key in the Unlock position
> To close: with the door closed, hold
the key in the Lock position.
Whenever closing the windows or
sliding/tilt sunroof you should
always monitor their path and progress
to ensure that no one is injured. Releas-
ing the key stops the operation.<
Manual operation
In the event of electrical malfunction
Turn the key all the way to the left or
right to unlock or lock the driver's door.
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Opening and closing – from the inside
You can use this button to operate the
central locking system when the front
doors are closed. With this button, only
the doors, the tailgate and rear window
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 unlock, too.
If the driver's door is closed, it will be
locked.<
If you desire, the central locking
system can be activated automati-
cally as soon as you begin to drive. This
can be adjusted to be key-specific.<
To unlock and open the doors
1. Press the button for the central lock-
ing system
2. Pull the release handle above the
armrest on the door you wish to open
or
pull the release handle for any door
twice: to unlock and open the door.
To lock
> Either use the central locking button
to lock all doors at once or
> press the individual door lock buttons
down. To prevent the driver from
being inadvertently locked out of the
vehicle, the driver's door lock button
will not engage as long as the door is
open.
Persons or animals inside the
vehicle may be able to lock the
doors from the inside. For this reason,
always take the vehicle's keys with you
so that you can open the vehicle again
from the outside at any time.<
Tailgate
To open from the outside
To avoid damage, check to ensure
that you have adequate clearance
before opening the tailgate.<
Press the button in the handle recess:
the tailgate opens slightly.
The cargo area is illuminated when the
tailgate is open.
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Manual operation
> Fold rear center armrest or rear back-
rest forward
> Remove cover 1 – this operation is
easy to carry out with the aid of the
ignition key
> Press the lever – see arrow – to the
right.
The tailgate is locked again as soon as
you close the lid.
To open from the inside*
If the tailgate has not been locked sep-
arately, you can open it with this button
in the footwell on the driver's side when
the vehicle is stationary.
Rear window
To close
The handle recesses in the interior trim
panel of the tailgate make it easier to
pull the tailgate down.
Both before starting off and after
completing every journey, check
to ensure that neither the rear window
nor the tailgate has been opened inad-
vertently.<
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the tailgate is clear
when it is closed, following the same
precautions as with all closing proce-
dures.<
Tailgate
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Always drive with both the tailgate
and the rear window securely
closed, as exhaust gases might other-
wise be drawn into the interior of the
vehicle.<
Should it be absolutely necessary to
operate the vehicle with the tailgate or
the rear window open:
1. Close all windows and the glass sun-
roof
2. Greatly increase the quantity of air
coming from the air conditioning or
automatic climate control system,
refer to page 96 or 100.
To open from the outside
Small items can be loaded or unloaded
quickly if the rear window is opened
separately.
Press button – see arrow: the rear win-
dow opens slightly. It can now be tilted
up.
Opening with the remote control, refer
to page 32.
Push the window down to close it.
If pointed or sharp-edged objects
could strike the rear window while
driving, be sure to provide protection
around all edges. If you do not do this,
the heating conductors of the rear win-
dow could be damaged.<
Cargo area
Luggage straps
Use the retaining straps on the cargo
area floor to secure smaller items of
luggage.
Movement is reduced when objects are
placed on the straps.
To secure your luggage, use the lug-
gage compartment nets* or flexible
straps that you can attach to the fittings
at the inner corners of the cargo area.
Refer also to Cargo loading on
page 113.
For additional details in the cargo area
and for the cargo area cover, please
refer to Cargo area beginning on
page 111.
Rear window
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Alarm system*
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
> When a door, the hood, the tailgate
or the rear window is opened
> To movement inside the vehicle –
interior motion sensor
> To variations in the vehicle's tilt angle
such as those occurring during
attempts to steal the wheels or tow
the vehicle
> To interruption of battery voltage.
The system responds to unauthorized
vehicle entry and attempted theft by
simultaneously activating the following:
> Sounding an acoustic alarm for
30 seconds
> The hazard warning flashers are acti-
vated for approx. five minutes
> Flashing the high beams on and off in
rhythm with the hazard warning flash-
ers.
To arm and disarm the alarm
system
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked
via the driver's door lock or with the
remote control, the alarm system is also
simultaneously armed or disarmed.
You can have different acknowl-
edgment signals set to confirm
arming and disarming.<
You can also open the rear window
when the system is armed by pressing
the remote control button, refer to
page 32. The window is once again
secured when it is closed.
Extended pressure on the button sets
off the alarm – Panic mode, refer to
page 32.
Indicator lamp displays
> The indicator lamp below the interior
rearview mirror flashes continuously:
The system is armed
> The indicator lamp flashes while the
system is armed: a door, the hood,
the tailgate or rear window is not
completely closed. Even if you do not
close the alerted area(s), the remain-
ing areas are secured, and the indi-
cator lamp will flash continuously
after 10 seconds. However, the inte-
rior motion sensor is not activated
> The indicator lamp goes out when the
system is disarmed: no manipulation
or attempted intrusions have been
detected in the period since the sys-
tem was armed
> The indicator lamp flashes for
10 seconds when the system is dis-
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armed: an attempted entry has been
detected in the period since the sys-
tem was armed.
Following triggering of an alarm, the
indicator lamp will flash continuously.
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion
sensor may be switched off at the same
time. You can do this to prevent a false
alarm from being triggered in garages
with elevator ramps, for instance, or
when the vehicle is transported by train:
Lock the vehicle twice to arm the sys-
tem. Press the button on the remote
control twice in succession or lock the
vehicle twice with the key.
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.
You can have the tilt alarm sensor
and the interior motion sensor
permanently deactivated.<
Interior motion sensor
In order for the interior motion sensor to
function properly, the windows and the
glass sunroof must be completely
closed.
Nevertheless, you should deactivate
the interior motion sensor, refer to
Avoiding unintentional alarms, if
> persons or animals are left in the
vehicle
> the windows or the glass sunroof are
being left open.
The system deactivates the tilt-
alarm sensor and the interior
motion sensor if the convenience clos-
ing of windows and the glass sunroof is
interrupted in the first 10 seconds and
then restarted. The alarm must then be
disarmed and reactivated before it will
resume operation.<
Alarm system*
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Electric power windows
To open and close windows
When leaving the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key from the
lock and remember to close the doors
to prevent persons or animals from
operating the power windows and injur-
ing themselves, etc.<
After the ignition has been switched off:
You can still operate the electric power
windows for up to 15 minutes, as long
as no one opens either of the front
doors.
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher
> Press the switch until you feel resis-
tance: the window retracts as long as
you maintain pressure on the switch
> Press the switch briefly past the pres-
sure point: the windows move auto-
matically. Pressing the switch again
stops the opening cycle.
You can close the windows in the same
manner by pulling the switch.
If your vehicle is equipped with optional
electric power windows in the rear*
separate switches will be located below
the windows.
For convenience operation via the door
lock, refer to page 34.
Safety feature
The front windows are each equipped
with contact strips located in the upper
window frames. If pressure is exerted
against this contact strip while a win-
dow is being raised, the system will
respond by stopping the window and
then retracting it a small distance.
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful to ensure that
the closing path of the window is not
obstructed. Some types of objects
might fail to trigger the contact strip in
some situations – very thin objects, for
instance.
You can override this safety feature by
pressing the switch beyond the resis-
tance point and holding it.<
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Safety switch
With the safety switch, you can prevent
the rear windows from being opened or
closed via the switches in the rear pas-
senger area, for example by children.
Press the safety switch whenever
persons or animals are riding in
the rear of the vehicle. Careless use of
the power windows can lead to injury.<
Glass sunroof, electric*
To prevent injuries, exercise care
when closing the glass sunroof
and keep it in your field of vision until it
is shut.
When leaving the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key from the lock
and remember to close the doors to
prevent persons or animals from oper-
ating the sunroof and injuring them-
selves, etc.<
Electric power windows
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Opening and closing
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher
> Slide the switch until you feel resis-
tance: the sunroof opens and closes
as long as you hold the switch
> Slide the switch briefly past the pres-
sure point: the sunroof moves auto-
matically.
Tapping the switch again stops the
motion immediately.
The headliner insert retracts with the
sunroof while it is opening.
After the ignition has been switched off:
You can still operate the sunroof for up
to 15 minutes, as long as no one opens
either of the front doors.
For convenience operation via the door
lock, refer to page 32 or 34.
Raising the glass sunroof
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher: tap the switch.
Tapping the switch again stops the
motion immediately.
If you briefly press the switch in the
raise direction while the sunroof is
open, the sunroof will rise to its upper-
most position.
After the ignition has been switched off:
You can still operate the sunroof for up
to 15 minutes, as long as no one opens
either of the front doors.
The headliner insert slides back some-
what when you raise the sunroof.
Do not use force to close the
headliner insert with the sunroof in
its raised position, as damage to the
mechanism could result.<
Safety feature
If the glass sunroof encounters resis-
tance
> when it is closing from the raised
position
> when it is closing from a point
roughly past the middle of its travel,
the closing cycle is interrupted and the
glass sunroof will open again slightly.
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful that the travel
path of the sunroof is not obstructed
whenever it is closed. Remember that
the safety mechanism may not be able
to detect obstructions under all circum-
stances – with very thin objects, for
instance.
You can disable this safety feature by
pressing the switch beyond the pres-
sure point and holding it.<
Glass sunroof, electric*
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Manual operation
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can also operate the glass sunroof
manually
1. Remove the interior lamp, then reach
into the exposed opening and press
out the cover
2. Use the Allen key from the onboard
tool kit, refer to page 142, to turn the
glass sunroof in the desired direc-
tion.
Glass sunroof, electric*
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To adjust
Safe seating position
For driving that is relaxed and less likely
to cause fatigue, you should select a
sitting position that reflects your per-
sonal requirements. In combination
with the safety belts and airbags, the
correct seating position also plays an
important role in enhancing occupant
safety in the event of an accident. To
ensure that the vehicle's safety systems
provide you with optimal protection, we
request that you direct your careful
attention to the following section.
For additional information on transport-
ing children refer to page 57.
Sitting safely with airbags
Always maintain an adequate dis-
tance between yourself and the
airbags. Always hold the steering wheel
by the rim to keep any chance of injury
to hands or arms to an absolute mini-
mum should the airbag be deployed.
Never allow any objects, individuals or
animals to obstruct the areas between
passengers and airbags. Never use the
front airbag's cover as a storage tray or
support for objects of any kind. Never
allow front passengers to rest their feet
or legs on the airbag cover.<
For airbag locations and additional
information on airbags, refer to
page 54.
Sitting safely with safety belts
Your vehicle offers five sitting positions,
each of which is provided with a safety
belt.
Never allow more than one person
to wear a single safety belt. Never
allow infants or small children to ride in
a passenger's lap. Avoid twisting the
belt while routing it firmly across the
hips and shoulder, wear it as snugly
against your body as possible. Do not
allow the belt to rest against hard or
fragile objects. 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
wearing loose or bulky clothing. You
should remember to retension the lap
belt periodically by pulling the shoulder
strap to take up any slack in the mecha-
nism. In the event of a frontal impact, a
loose lap belt could slide over your
hips, leading to abdominal injury. In
addition, the safety belt's restraint
effectiveness is reduced if the belt is
worn loosely. Expectant mothers
should always wear their safety belts,
taking care to position the lap belt
against the lower hips, where it will not
exert pressure against the abdominal
area.<
For information on using the safety
belts, refer to page 48.
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Seats
When adjusting your seat, always
observe the following precautions
Never try to adjust your seat while
operating the vehicle. The seat
could respond with unexpected move-
ment, and the ensuing loss of vehicle
control could lead to an accident. Never
ride with the backrest reclined to an
extreme horizontal angle. This is espe-
cially important for front passengers to
remember. Keep the backrest relatively
upright to minimize the risk of sliding
under the safety belt and sustaining
injury in an accident.<
Seat adjustment
> Manual seat adjustment, refer to
page 45
> Power seat adjustment, refer to
page 47
> Head restraint, refer to page 48.
Manual seat adjustment
Seat adjustment
1 Backward/forward adjustment
Pull the lever and slide the seat to the
desired position.
After you release the lever, move the
seat forward or backward slightly so
that it engages fully
2 Cushion 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
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BMW sport seat* adjustment
You can also adjust the tilt angle and
the thigh support:
1 To raise:
Pull the lever repeatedly, continuing
until the seat is at the desired tilt
angle
2 To lower:
Push the lever repeatedly, continuing
until the seat is at the desired tilt
angle
3 Thigh support:
Pull the lever and adjust the position
of the thigh support for your personal
comfort
Manual seat adjustment
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Power seat adjustment*
Seat adjustment
1 Tilt angle
2 Backward/forward adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle
The head restraint is adjusted manually,
refer to page 48.
The thigh support and the head
restraint are adjusted manually, refer to
pages 46, 48.
Please refer to the adjustment
instructions on page 45 to reduce
the risk of personal injury.<
Lumbar support*
To adjust
You can adjust the backrest's contour
for additional support in the curvature
of your spine's lumbar region.
The upper hips and spinal column
receive supplementary support to help
you maintain a relaxed, upright posture.
> Press front/rear of switch:
increase/decrease curvature
> Press the upper/lower end of the
switch: increase the upper/lower cur-
vature.
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Head restraints
To adjust
To adjust height: pull the head restraint
up or push it down.
Press button – see arrow 1 – to
retract to the lowest position.<
To adjust tilt angle of front head
restraints: tilt them to the desired angle.
You can reduce the risk of spinal
injury and whiplash by adjusting
the head restraint to a height at which it
is centered roughly at ear level.<
Removal – front
1. Pull the head restraint up to the end
of its travel
2. Press button – see arrow 1 – and
remove the head restraint.
Installation – front
Slide the head restraint into its guides.
Safety belts
Always wear your safety belt
Always fasten your safety belt before
starting off. As supplemental restraint
devices, the airbags are designed to
enhance the effectiveness of the safety
belts, and not to replace them.
To close
Make sure you hear the lock engage in
the belt buckle.
To release
1. Press the red button in the buckle
2. Hold the belt
3. Guide belt into its inertia reel.
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The rear belt buckle with the word
CENTER is intended exclusively
for the passenger sitting in the mid-
dle.<
Adjusting safety belt height
Use the height adjustment mechanism
to adapt the shoulder strap to the ideal
level for your own body:
> Slide the button up or down.
Please refer to the seat adjustment
instructions on page 44.
If the safety belt system has been
subjected to the stresses involved
in an accident or otherwise damaged:
have the entire safety belt mechanism
replaced by your BMW center, includ-
ing the safety belt tensioner. In addi-
tion, have your BMW center inspect the
safety belt anchors. If a child-restraint
system was in the vehicle during an
accident, consult the manufacturer's
instructions regarding replacement.<
Safety belts
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Seat and mirror memory*
You can store as many as three differ-
ent driver's seat and mirror adjustment
settings into the system for later selec-
tion.
Memory will not retain the adjust-
ment made to the lumbar sup-
port.<
To store
1. In ignition key position 1 or 2
2. Adjust the seat and door mirrors to
the desired position
3. Press the MEMORY button: indica-
tor lamp in the button comes on
4. Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as
desired: indicator lamp goes out.
To select a stored setting
Do not select a memory position
while the vehicle is moving. If you
do so, there is a risk of accident from
unexpected seat movement.<
Ignition key in position 1:
> Briefly press memory button 1, 2 or 3,
as desired. Movement stops immedi-
ately when one of the seat-adjust-
ment or memory buttons is activated
during the adjustment process.
The driver's door is closed and the igni-
tion key is either removed or in position
0 or 2:
> Maintain pressure on the desired
memory button – 1, 2 or 3 – until the
adjustment process is completed.
If you press the
MEMORY button acci-
dentally: press the button again; the
indicator lamp goes out.
Your BMW center can adjust your
vehicle's systems in such a man-
ner that your personalized settings are
automatically set for the seat and exte-
rior mirror positions when you unlock
the vehicle with your personal remote
control.<
Before activating the programmed
adjustment feature, ensure that
the footwell behind the driver's seat is
empty and unobstructed. If you fail to
do so, persons, animals or objects
could be injured or damaged if the seat
should move backward.<
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Passenger-side exterior mirror tilt
function
Automatic curb monitor*
1. Set the mirror selection switch 1 to
the driver's door mirror position
2. When shifting into Reverse or placing
the selector lever in position R, the
passenger-side mirror tilts down-
ward to help the driver monitor the
area directly adjacent to the vehicle
during parking – curbs, etc.
How far the passenger mirror tilts
can be set individually for each
ignition key.<
You can deactivate this automatic fea-
ture by setting the mirror selection
switch to the passenger side position.
Seat heating*
The seat cushion and backrest can be
heated with the ignition key in
position 2.
You can call up different heating modes
by repeatedly pressing the button.
You can also switch the higher heating
modes off directly:
Press the button and hold it slightly
longer.
Seat and mirror memory*
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Steering wheel
To adjust
Never attempt to adjust the steer-
ing wheel while driving the vehicle
– it could respond with unexpected
movement, posing a potential accident
hazard.<
1. Fold down the detent lever
2. Adjust steering column reach and
height for your selected seating posi-
tion
3. Fold the detent lever back up to
engage the lock.
Mirrors
To adjust exterior mirrors
1 Switch for 4-way adjustment
2 Selection switch for changing
between mirrors
To adjust manually
You can also adjust the mirrors manu-
ally:
Press against the edges of the lens.
For storing mirror settings, refer to Seat
and mirror memory on page 50.
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 esti-
mations of the distance to following
traffic should not be regarded as pre-
cise.<
Electric defrosting*
Both mirrors are automatically heated
when you turn the ignition key to
position 2.
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Interior rearview mirror
To reduce glare from vehicles behind
you when you are driving at night, tilt
the mirror by turning the knob.
Vehicles not equipped with an alarm
system:
Fold the small lever forward.
Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimming feature*
This mirror automatically responds to
ambient light and headlamp glare from
following vehicles by dimming through
an infinitely variable range and auto-
matically reverts to its clear, undimmed
setting whenever you shift into Reverse
or move the selector lever into
position R.
To ensure that the mirror continues to
operate efficiently, ensure that the area
adjacent to the photocells remains
clean and unobstructed. One photocell
is integrated within the mirror's lens –
see arrow – while the other is located at
an offset position on the rear of the mir-
ror. Refrain from attaching stickers or
other objects to the windshield in the
area immediately behind the rearview
mirror.
Mirrors
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Passenger safety systems
Airbags
1 Front airbags on the driver and pas-
senger sides
2 Head airbags for driver and front pas-
senger
3 Side airbags on the driver and pas-
senger sides – front and rear*
Protective effect
The front airbags supplement the three-
point safety belts by providing addi-
tional protection in the event of a
severe frontal collision in which the pro-
tection afforded by the belts alone may
no longer be sufficient. The head and
side airbags help provide protection in
the event of a collision from the side.
The respective side airbag helps sup-
port the seat occupant's upper body.
For information on the correct sitting
posture, refer to page 44.
The side airbags in the rear pas-
senger area* of your vehicle may
already have been deactivated by a
BMW center. You may have them acti-
vated if you desire to do so. Please
contact your BMW center for additional
information.<
The airbags do not deploy in
response to minor collisions, rear
impacts and certain kinds of vehicle
rollover.<
Do not apply adhesive materials to
the cover panels of the airbags,
cover them or modify them in any other
way. Do not remove the airbag restraint
system. In the event of a malfunction,
deactivation or triggered activation – as
a response to an accident – of the air-
bag restraint system, consult your BMW
center for inspection, repair or disas-
sembly. Do not modify or tamper with
either the wiring or the individual com-
ponents in the airbag system. These
include the upholstered covers on the
steering wheel, instrument panel, side
trim panels of the doors and front roof
pillars and on the sides of the headliner.
Also, do not attempt to remove the
steering wheel. Unprofessional
attempts to service the system could
lead to failure in an emergency or
undesired airbag activation, either of
which could result in personal injury. Do
not touch the individual components
immediately after the system has been
activated, as this could result in per-
sonal injury.<
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At all times, occupants should sit
upright and be properly restrained
– infants and small children in appropri-
ate child-restraint systems; larger chil-
dren and adults using the safety belts.
Never let an occupant's head rest near
or on a side airbag because the inflating
airbag could cause a serious or fatal
injury. Please note that the word Airbag
imprinted on the door trim panel indi-
cates the airbag's location.
Accident research shows that the saf-
est place for children in an automobile
is in the rear seat. However, a child sit-
ting 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
in — may fall asleep with his or her head
against the side airbag. It may be diffi-
cult for a driver to ensure that children
in the rear seat will remain properly
positioned at all times and not place
their heads on or near the side airbag.
Therefore, we recommend that the rear
seat side airbags, if installed in the
vehicle, be deactivated if children will
travel in the rear seat.
The rear seat side airbags may already
have been deactivated by a BMW cen-
ter. If you are uncertain of their status,
or wish to have the airbags activated or
deactivated, please contact your BMW
center.<
Even when all these guidelines are fol-
lowed, there is still a small residual risk
of injuries to the face, hands and arms
occurring from airbag deployment in
isolated instances.
In sensitive individuals, the ignition and
inflation noise may induce a mild hear-
ing loss that is temporary in most
cases.
Corresponding airbag warning labels
are found on both sun visors.
This is the right way a child should sit in
a child-restraint when rear side airbags
are provided.
Airbags
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This is the right way a larger child
should sit wearing the seat belt when
rear side airbags are provided.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp indicates the
operational status of the airbag
system with the ignition key in
position 1 or higher.
System operational:
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
when you turn the ignition key to
position 1 or higher.
System malfunction:
> The indicator lamp does not come on
or
> the indicator lamp lights up continu-
ously.
If there is a system malfunction, there is
a risk that the airbags will not be trig-
gered within their normal response
range, even if the level of impact would
normally have triggered them.
Have your BMW center inspect the air-
bag system immediately.
Airbags
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Transporting children safely
Commercially available child-restraint
systems are designed to be secured
with a lap belt or with the lap belt por-
tion of a combination lap/shoulder belt.
Improperly or inadequately installed
restraint systems can increase the risk
of injury to children. Always read and
follow the instructions that come with
the system.
Correct location for installing
In your BMW, all seats equipped with a
three-point safety belt – except for the
driver's seat – are suitable for installing
universal child-restraint systems of all
age classes and which have been
approved for the age group in question.
Child-restraint system with
tether strap
If you use a child-restraint system with
a tether strap, three additional tether
anchorage points have been provided.
To gain access to this anchor fitting lift
the plastic plug with the help of a
screwdriver.
Depending on the location selected for
seating in the rear passenger area,
attach the tether strap to the corre-
sponding anchorage point to secure the
child-restraint system, as shown in the
illustration.
If the respective seating position is fit-
ted with a head restraint lift the head
restraint and pass the tether strap
between the head restraint and the seat
back.
It is recommended to readjust the head
restraint in the lowest possible position.
Adjust the tether strap according to the
child-restraint manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
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Before installing any child-
restraint device or child seat,
please read the following:
Never install a rearward-facing child-
restraint system in the front passenger
seat of this vehicle.
Your vehicle is equipped with an airbag
supplemental restraint system for the
front passenger. Because the backrest
on any rearward-facing child-restraint
system – of the kind designed for
infants under 1 year and 20 lbs/9 kg –
would be within the airbag's deploy-
ment range, you should never mount
such a device in the front passenger
seat, since the impact of the airbag
against the child-restraint's backrest
could lead to serious or fatal injuries.
If it is necessary for a child – not an
infant – to ride in the front seat, certain
precautions should be taken. First,
move the passenger seat as far away
from the instrument panel as possible.
This important precaution is intended to
maximize the distance between the air-
bag and the child. Older children
should be tightly secured with a safety
belt after they have outgrown a booster
seat that is appropriate for their age,
height, and weight. Younger children
should be secured in an appropriate
forward-facing child-restraint system
that has first been properly secured
with a safety belt.
Never install a rearward-facing child-
restraint system in the front passenger
seat.
We strongly urge you to carefully read
and comply with the instructions for
installation and use provided by the
child-restraint's manufacturer whenever
you use such a device. Do not attempt
to modify child-restraint systems. If you
do this, the protection provided by
these systems could be impaired.
Be sure that all occupants – of all ages –
remain properly and securely restrained
at all times.<
All rear seating positions in your vehicle
meet the recommendations of
SAEJ1819, an industry-recommended
practice for securing child-restraint sys-
tems in motor vehicles.
Securing child-restraint system
All of the rear belt retractors and the
front passenger's safety belt can be
locked for mounting and securing child-
restraint systems.
A label with the appropriate instructions
for this is located in the immediate
vicinity of the buckle latch of each
safety belt.
To lock the safety belt
Extract the entire length of the belt from
the inertia reel mechanism. 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.
Transporting children safely
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The belt cannot be extracted further.
Always observe the installation instruc-
tions provided by the manufacturer of
the child-restraint system.
To unlock the safety belt
Release the safety belt, remove the
child seat and retract the safety belt to
its end position on the belt retractor.
LATCH child-restraint mounting
system
LATCH: Lower Anchors and Tethers for
CHildren
The left and right rear seats are both
equipped with a LATCH child-restraint
mounting system.
Canadian models only:
The LATCH anchorage points are iden-
tified by buttons.
The illustration is an example showing
the anchorages for a LATCH child seat
system on the right rear seat.
The anchorages for the LATCH child
seat system are concealed behind plas-
tic covers that reclose when the LATCH
child seat is removed.
Always follow all manufacturer's
instructions and observe all safety
precautions when installing the LATCH
child-restraint mounting system.<
Transporting children safely
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Child safety locks
Slide down the safety lever on the rear
door:
The door can now be opened from the
outside only.
Transporting children safely
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Vehicle Memory, Key Memory
How the system functions
No doubt you have often reflected on
how great it would be if you could per-
manently configure your vehicle's vari-
ous features and adjustments to mirror
your own personal preferences. In engi-
neering your vehicle, BMW has
included a number of options for stor-
ing personal adjustment data. These
can be programmed at your BMW cen-
ter.
The available configuration data fall into
two categories, according to whether
their primary orientation is the vehicle –
Vehicle Memory – or the individual –
Key Memory. Provided that each per-
son has a separate remote-control key,
you can have your BMW center enter
basic adjustment data for up to four
individuals in the system.
The system relies on a bilateral data
exchange to identify the individual user
and executes the selected settings
whenever the remote control unit is
used to disengage the locks.
Distinguishing between keys
Color-coded decals have been pro-
vided to help you distinguish the differ-
ent keys with their individual settings.
What the system can do
You can learn about the entire array of
features this system offers at your BMW
center. Here are just a few examples:
You will see this symbol through-
out the Owner's Manual. It is to
remind you at appropriate places of the
settings that are available to you.<
Examples for Vehicle Memory:
> Various signals as acknowledgment
when locking or unlocking your vehi-
cle, refer to pages 31, 34
> Activates/deactivates the 'Follow me
home' function, refer to page 93
> Activates/deactivates daytime driv-
ing lamps, refer to page 93
> Sets the units of measure for display-
ing time, outside temperature, dis-
tance traveled and fuel consumption
in the instrument cluster
> When you shift into Reverse, an
acoustic signal indicates that PDC
has been activated, refer to page 85
> Switches on rear window defroster
automatically, to pages 98, 103
> Activates/deactivates various alarm
system functions, refer to page 39
> After giving an ice warning, the
onboard computer display returns to
the previous setting, to page 83.
Examples for Key Memory:
> Locks the vehicle automatically after
starting off, refer to page 35
> Unlocks the driver's door first, then
the vehicle's remaining locks, refer to
page 35
> Opens the tailgate instead of the rear
window with the remote control, refer
to page 32
> Automatically adjusts the driver's
seat to the personal programmed
settings when the vehicle is
unlocked, refer to page 50
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Driving
Ignition lock
Ignition key positions
0 Steering locked
1 Steering unlocked
2 Ignition switched on
3 Starting engine
Vehicles with automatic transmis-
sion:
Do not move the selector lever from
position P until the engine is running,
ignition key position 2.
Your vehicle is equipped with an inter-
lock. Therefore, the ignition key cannot
be turned to position 0 or removed until
the selector lever is in position P.<
Vehicles with manual transmis-
sion:
Step on the clutch when starting the
vehicle. A lockout prevents the engine
from starting if the clutch is not
depressed.<
Steering locked
The key can only be inserted and
removed in this position.
After removing the key, turn the steer-
ing wheel slightly to the left or right until
the lock engages.
If the key is not removed, an acoustic
signal is sounded after the driver's door
has been opened.
Steering unlocked
You will find that it is often easier to turn
the ignition key from position 0 to posi-
tion 1 when you move the steering
wheel slightly to help disengage the
lock.
Individual electrical accessories are
ready for operation.
Starting the engine
Do not allow the engine to warm
up by leaving it running while the
vehicle remains stationary. Instead,
drive off immediately at a moderate
engine speed.<
Do not allow the engine to run in
enclosed spaces. Otherwise,
breathing the exhaust fumes can lead
to unconsciousness and death. The
exhaust gases contain carbon monox-
ide, an odorless and colorless, but
highly toxic gas. Do not leave the vehi-
cle unattended with the engine running.
An unattended vehicle with a running
engine represents a safety hazard.
When driving, standing at idle or park-
ing the vehicle, take care to avoid con-
tact between the hot exhaust system
and flammable materials – grass, hay,
leaves, etc. Such contact could lead to
a fire, resulting in serious personal
injury and property damage.<
Start the engine. Do not press the
accelerator pedal.
Do not actuate the starter for too
short a time, but do not actuate it
for more than approx. 20 seconds.
Release the ignition key immediately
when the engine starts.<
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If the engine does not start on the first
attempt – if it is very hot or cold, for
instance:
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Cold start at very low temperatures of
under approx. +57/–156 at high alti-
tudes of over 3,300 ft/1,000 m:
> On the first start attempt, it may be
necessary to engage the starter for a
longer period, but no longer than
20 seconds
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Extended starting attempts, char-
acterized by excessively frequent
or long periods with the starter
engaged, can damage the catalytic
converter.<
Engine idle speed is controlled by the
engine computer system. Increased
speeds at start-up are normal and
should decrease as the engine warms
up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.
To prevent the battery from discharg-
ing, always deactivate electrical
devices that are not in use. Switch the
ignition off when the vehicle is not
being driven.
Manual transmission
1. Engage the parking brake
2. Gearshift lever in idling position
3. Start the engine.
Automatic transmission
1. Depress footbrake
2. Place the selector lever in position P
or N
3. Start the engine.
To prevent the vehicle from start-
ing off on its own, always move
the selector lever to position P and
engage the parking brake before leav-
ing your vehicle with the engine run-
ning.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a safety hazard.<
Sequential manual gearbox SMG
1. Depress footbrake
2. Place the selector lever in neutral
position N
3. Start the engine.
If the engine does not start, reen-
gage the gear last selected, refer
to the gear indicator in the display, and
move the selector lever into neutral
position N again.
The gearbox is automatically taken out
of gear if the driver's door is opened
while the engine is running and the
driver does not actuate the pedals, the
shift paddles or the selector lever. This
is accompanied by a warning tone and
the flashing gear indicator. The gear
display N appears in the instrument
cluster.<
Before exiting the vehicle with the
engine running, move the selector
lever into position N and apply the park-
ing brake.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a safety hazard.<
Starting the engine
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Switching off the engine
You should never remove the igni-
tion key when the vehicle is in
motion, as the steering lock could
engage.
When you leave the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key and engage the
steering lock.
Always engage the parking brake when
parking on downhill roads. Engaging a
gear may not sufficiently secure the
vehicle against rolling.<
Manual transmission
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Automatic transmission
Move the selector lever into position P,
and turn the ignition key to position 1 or
0.
SMG gearbox
If you turn the ignition key to position 1
or 0 with the selector lever in position
R, or in sequential mode, a gear auto-
matically remains engaged.
If you turn the ignition key to position 1
or 0 with the selector lever in neutral
position N, a warning tone and the
flashing gear indicator in the display
remind you that no gear is engaged to
secure the vehicle against rolling.
The warning stops after approx.
9 seconds.
Parking brake
The parking brake is designed primarily
to prevent the vehicle from rolling when
it is parked. It operates against the rear
wheels.
To engage
The detent engages automatically, and
the indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster comes on when the ignition key
is in position 2, refer to page 18.
To release
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the
button and lower the lever.
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If exceptional circumstances
make it necessary to engage the
parking brake while the vehicle is in
motion, do not pull it with excessive
pressure. Keep your thumb pressed
against the release button while care-
fully pulling the lever up.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
braking and loss of traction – fishtailing
– at the rear axle.
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is engaged.
Vehicles with manual or SMG gearbox:
Engage the parking brake when parking
on downhill roads, since engaging a
gear may not provide adequate resis-
tance to rolling, not even in first or
reverse gear.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
place the selector lever in P.<
To avoid corrosion and one-sided
braking, apply the parking brake
lightly from time to time when coasting
to a standstill – at a traffic signal, for
example – provided that it is safe to do
so.<
Manual transmission
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or 'riding' the
clutch. Use the parking brake instead.
Riding the clutch leads to severe and
premature clutch wear.<
6-speed transmission*
When changing gear in the 5th/6th gear
plane, be sure to press the gearshift
lever to the right to prevent inadvert-
ently shifting to a gear of the 3rd/4th
gear plane.
Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is station-
ary. Press the shift lever to the left to
overcome the resistance.
As you do this, the backup lamps will
light up automatically when the ignition
key is in position 2.
Parking brake
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Sequential manual gearbox SMG*
The concept
The sequential manual gearbox SMG is
an automated manual gearbox with
which clutching and shifting is assumed
by an electro-hydraulic system.
The SMG is operated via the selector
lever in the center console and two shift
paddles on the steering wheel.
It offers the following functions:
> Sequential mode: manual mode
> Drive mode: automatic operation
> Ability to choose between two differ-
ent driving programs: Standard,
Sport
> Operating safety through protection
against misshifting
> Automatic upshifts and downshifts in
the drive mode
> Automatic downshifts at minimum
engine rpm
> Kickdown function in the drive mode.
> Acceleration assistant, refer to
page 70.
Selector lever positions
The current selector lever position is
indicated by a light-emitting diode in
the center console.
R: Reverse
N: Neutral
Position for forward driving with one-
touch functions:
Sequential mode
+: manual upshifts
—: manual downshifts
D: drive mode.
The SMG is ready for operation in igni-
tion key position 2.
The gearbox is automatically
placed in neutral gear if the
driver's door is opened while the engine
is running and the driver does not actu-
ate the pedals, the shift paddles or the
selector lever.
This is accompanied by an acoustic
signal and the flashing gear indicator.
The gear display N appears in the
instrument cluster.
A driving position can only be engaged
when the driver's door is closed.
When the vehicle is unlocked, a buzzer
in the area of the transmission indicates
that the system is ready for operation.<
Shiftlock
When the car is at a standstill, a safety
function requires you to depress the
brake pedal if you want to move the
selector lever from the neutral
position N to a driving position.
Driving precautions
Use enough acceleration to pull
away speedily when moving off on
an uphill gradient. Never try to prevent
the car from rolling back on an uphill
gradient by depressing the accelerator
pedal; always apply the handbrake.
Otherwise you could overheat the SMG
gearbox.<
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R Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is station-
ary.
N Neutral
Always engage before starting the
engine, refer to Starting the engine on
page 64.
Sequential mode
Each time the engine is started, the
sequential mode is activated as soon as
you move the selector lever into the for-
ward driving position while the brake is
depressed.
The gears are shifted via the shift pad-
dles or the selector lever.
It is also possible to drive off in second
gear, e.g. on snow-covered roads.
D Drive mode
In the drive mode all forward gears are
shifted automatically.
To switch from sequential to drive
mode: tap the selector lever to the right
toward D.
For rapid acceleration, e.g. during
passing, depress the accelerator pedal
completely: kickdown.
To switch back to sequential mode: tap
the selector lever again to the right
toward D or change the current gear via
the shift paddles or the selector lever.
Kickdown
You can achieve maximum acceleration
using kickdown.
Depress the accelerator pedal past the
increased resistance point at the full-
throttle position.
Shifting gears
With selector lever:
> To upshift, tap the selector lever
toward +
> To downshift, tap the lever toward —.
With shift paddles on steering wheel:
> To upshift, pull one of the shift pad-
dles
> To downshift, push the paddle.
You accelerate from higher gears, e.g.
during passing, by manually downshift-
ing.
In the following situations, the SMG in
the sequential mode assists you:
> The transmission will only execute
upshifts and downshifts that will
result in an appropriate combination
of vehicle speed and engine rpm. For
Sequential manual gearbox SMG*
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instance, downshifts that would
result in excessive engine speed can-
not be executed
> When you brake the car to a stop, the
transmission automatically shifts
down to first gear
> As speed diminishes, the transmis-
sion will shift down automatically,
without any action on your part, just
before the vehicle slows to below
each gear's minimum speed.
Available displays
R N 1 2 3 4 5 6
D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6
The currently engaged gear, the
selected mode, and any malfunctions
are displayed in the instrument cluster.
Indicator lamp
If the indicator lamp comes on,
there is a malfunction in the
transmission system.
All selector lever positions can still be
engaged, but in the forward driving
positions only certain gears are actually
available when the vehicle is driven.
Avoid extreme loads and proceed to
the nearest BMW center.
For information on jump-starting and
towing the vehicle, refer to page 153.
Warning tone
An acoustic signal sounds if the SMG
gearbox overheats; if possible you
should either stop or increase your pull-
away speed so that the system can
cool down.
Sequential manual gearbox SMG*
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Sport program
You can choose between two driving
programs: smoothly dynamic or Sport.
With the Sport program, gearshifts are
faster in sequential mode and the shift
points are adapted in drive mode.
To activate the Sport program: press
the SPORT button. The LED in the but-
ton lights up.
Acceleration assistant
The acceleration assistant permits opti-
mum racing-style acceleration on roads
with good grip.
Do not use the acceleration assis-
tant frequently as this could other-
wise cause premature wear of the com-
ponents.<
1. Activate the Sport program
2. Press and hold the DSC button, refer
to page 86, for more than three sec-
onds
3. Quickly press the accelerator pedal
down fully: kickdown. The optimum
rpm for driving off will be adjusted.
To maintain vehicle stability,
always drive with the DSC acti-
vated whenever possible.<
Sequential manual gearbox SMG*
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
You can drive as with a normal auto-
matic transmission. In addition, you can
also shift manually.
When you move the selector lever from
the D position to the left into the M/S
range, the performance-oriented shift
programs of the automatic transmission
are engaged. Steptronic enters the
manual selection mode and executes
the desired shift whenever you tap the
selector lever in the direction indicated
by + or –. Whenever you want to use
automatic again, just move the selector
lever toward the right to position D.
Under normal operating conditions, fuel
consumption is lowest when driving in
position D.
Selector lever positions
P R N D M/S + –
Starting the engine
The engine can only be started in selec-
tor lever positions P – for Park – or N –
for Neutral.
Range selection
A catch prevents inadvertent movement
of the selector lever to positions R and
P. To deactivate the catch, press the
button on the front of the selector lever
knob, see arrow.
While the vehicle is stationary and
before shifting out of Park or Neu-
tral, depress the footbrake in order to
disengage the selector lever's lock
mechanism – Shiftlock.<
Hold the footbrake down until
starting off. The vehicle will other-
wise 'creep' when a drive position is
engaged. To prevent the vehicle from
starting off on its own, always move the
selector lever to position P and engage
the parking brake before leaving your
vehicle with the engine running.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a safety hazard.<
P Park
Select only when the vehicle is station-
ary. Transmission locks to prevent rear
wheels from turning.
R Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is station-
ary.
N Neutral
Select only when stopping for an
extended period.
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D Drive – automatic shift program
This position is designed for driving
under all normal operating conditions.
All forward gears are available.
Kickdown
In the kickdown mode, you achieve
maximum acceleration and top speed
in position D.
Depress the accelerator pedal past the
increased resistance point at the full-
throttle position.
M/S manual operation and Sport
program
Move the selector lever from D to M/S
to activate the Sport program; SD
appears in the display panel. The M/S
mode is recommended for perfor-
mance-oriented driving.
Once in the M/S mode, you can tap the
selector lever to switch the automatic
transmission from the Sport program to
its manual mode.
This mode allows you to execute
upshifts manually by tapping the lever
toward +, while downshifts are selected
by tapping in the – direction. The dis-
plays M1 through M5 appear in the dis-
play panel to indicate your current gear
selection.
The transmission will only execute
upshifts and downshifts that will result
in an appropriate combination of vehi-
cle speed and engine rpm. For
instance, downshifts that would result
in excessive engine speed are not exe-
cuted. The desired, then the actual
gear, briefly appear in the instrument
cluster.
To accelerate quickly in the man-
ual mode for maneuvers such as
passing another vehicle, shift down
manually or employ the kickdown
mode.<
Shifting from M/S to the selector lever
positions P, R and N is possible only by
going through D.
Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
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Available displays
P R N D SD M1 M2 M3 M4 M5
Electronic transmission control
module
If the indicator lamp comes on,
there is a malfunction in the
transmission system.
Bring the vehicle to a stop. Move the
transmission selector lever to P. Set the
parking brake and turn the engine off –
ignition key to position 0.
Wait a few seconds, then start the
engine.
If the indicator lamp goes out after a
few seconds, normal transmission per-
formance has been restored. You may
continue to drive as usual.
If the indicator lamp does not go out,
you can place the selector lever in all
positions. However, the vehicle will now
only operate in 3rd and 4th gear.
If this happens, avoid extreme engine
loads and consult the nearest autho-
rized BMW center.
Never work in the engine com-
partment when a drive gear – for-
ward or reverse – is engaged. If you do
this, the vehicle could move.<
For towing or jump-starting, refer to the
information beginning on page 153.
Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
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Turn signal indicator/Headlamp flasher
1 High beams – blue indicator lamp
2 Headlamp flasher – blue indicator
lamp
3 Turn signal indicator – green indicator
lamps accompanied by a periodic
clicking sound from the relay
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond
the resistance point. It then returns to
the center position when released.
If the flashing indicator lamp and
the clicking from the relay are
both faster than normal, one of the turn
signal indicators has failed.<
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Washer/wiper system/Rain sensor*
0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent operation or rain sensor
2 Normal wiper speed
3 Fast wiper speed
4 Brief wipe
5 Rotary dial for control of the wipe
interval or the sensitivity of the rain
sensor
Intermittent mode
Not on vehicles with rain sensor.
You can set the wipe interval at four
stages with rotary dial 5.
In addition, the wipe interval is varied
automatically depending on road
speed.
Rain sensor
The rain sensor is positioned on the
windshield, directly behind the interior
rearview mirror.
To activate the rain sensor:
> With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher, move the lever to position 1.
The wipers will make at least one
sweep across the windshield.
You can leave the lever permanently
in position 1. With the ignition key in
position 1 or higher, all you then need
to do to activate the rain sensor is
> briefly turn the rotary dial 5, or
> clean the windshield 1, refer to
page 76.
To adjust the sensitivity of the rain sen-
sor: turn rotary dial 5.
To deactivate the rain sensor: put lever
in position 0.
Turn the rain sensor off in auto-
matic car washes. Failure to do so
could result in damage caused by
undesired wiper activation.<
Normal wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the wip-
ers switch automatically to intermittent
wipe – not on vehicles with rain sensor.
Fast wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the wip-
ers revert to operation at normal speed
– not on vehicles with rain sensor.
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Cleaning windshield and
headlamps*
0 Wipers retracted
1 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, as your vision
could be obscured. Always use a wind-
shield washer antifreeze in cold
weather. Refer to page 132.
Do not use the washers when the reser-
voir is empty. This could cause damage
to the washer pump.<
The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and activates the wipers
for a brief period. When the vehicle's
lighting system is switched on, the
headlamps will also be cleaned at rea-
sonable intervals.
Rear window wiper
Rear window wiper in intermittent
mode. When reverse gear is engaged,
continuous operation is switched on
automatically.
You can also program the interval:
> Briefly move the wiper lever from
position 0 to position 2
> The period that elapses until the wip-
ers again start to move – from
position 0 to 2 – is the programmed
interval for intermittent operation –
max. 30 seconds.
Cleaning the rear window
The system sprays washer fluid onto
the rear window.
To change the wiper blades refer to
page 142.
Windshield washer nozzles
The windshield washer nozzles are
heated automatically* when the ignition
key is in position 2.
Washer/wiper system/Rain sensor*
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Cruise control*
Starting at about 20 mph / 30 km/h, you
can maintain and store any vehicle
speed that you specify.
The cruise control is operational when-
ever the engine is running and the sys-
tem has been activated.
To activate the system
In ignition key position 2: press the but-
ton in the steering wheel. The indicator
lamp in the instrument cluster comes
on, refer to page 20. You can now use
the cruise control.
Do not use cruise control on twist-
ing roads, when high traffic den-
sity prevents driving at a constant
speed, or when the road surface is slick
– snow, rain, ice – or loose – rocks or
gravel, sand.<
To deactivate the system
Press button as often as you need to
until the indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster goes out.
Cruise control is also deactivated when
the ignition key is in position 0.
The speed stored in memory is deleted.
To store and maintain speed or to
accelerate
Press button + briefly:
The system stores and maintains the
current vehicle speed. Every time you
tap the button, the speed increases by
approx. 0.6 mph / 1 km/h.
Press and hold button +:
The vehicle accelerates without pres-
sure on the accelerator pedal. When
you release the button, the system
stores and maintains the current speed.
If on a downhill gradient the
engine braking effect is not suffi-
cient, the controlled speed can be
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill
grades if the engine output is insuffi-
cient.<
To decelerate
Press button – briefly:
When cruise control is active, every tap
of the button reduces the speed by
approx. 0.6 mph / 1 km/h.
Press and hold button –:
With the cruise control active, the sys-
tem automatically reduces the throttle
opening to slow the vehicle. When you
release the button, the system stores
and maintains the current speed.
To interrupt the cruise control
When the system is activated, press the
button. The indicator lamp stays on.
You can use the cruise control again
whenever you want by calling up the
speed that was stored last.
In addition, cruise control is interrupted
automatically:
> When the brakes are applied
> When you 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 preset
speed for an extended period – by
depressing the accelerator, for exam-
ple.
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To recall the stored setting
Press button:
The vehicle accelerates to and main-
tains the last speed stored.
Cruise control*
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Everything under control
Odometer
1 Odometer
2 Trip odometer
Odometer
You can activate the displays shown in
the illustration with the ignition key in
position 0 by pressing the left button in
the instrument cluster.
Trip odometer
To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the left button with the ignition
key in position 1 or higher.
Tachometer
Do not operate the engine with the nee-
dle in the red overspeed zone of the
gauge.
To protect the engine, the fuel supply is
interrupted when you approach this
sector.
Energy control
Indicates the current fuel consumption
in mpg – in liters/100 km on Canadian
models. You can check your current
driving style to see whether it is condu-
cive to economy and minimum exhaust
emissions.
When the vehicle is stationary, the dis-
play goes to Maximum – zero on Cana-
dian models.
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Fuel gauge
Once the indicator lamp stays on con-
tinuously, there are still approx.
2 gallons/8 liters of fuel in the fuel tank.
Fuel tank capacity approx.
16.6 gallons/63 liters
Certain operating conditions, such as
those encountered in mountainous
areas, may cause the needle to fluctu-
ate slightly.
Fill the fuel tank before it is com-
pletely empty. Driving to the last
drop of fuel can prevent the engine
from operating properly and result in
damage.<
When you switch on the ignition, the
indicator lamp lights up briefly as an
operation check.
Engine coolant temperature gauge
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at moder-
ate engine and vehicle speeds.
Between the blue and red zones
Normal operating temperature. The
needle may rise as far as the edge of
the red sector in normal operation.
Red
When you switch on the ignition, the
warning lamp comes on briefly to con-
firm that the system is operational.
If the lamp comes on during normal
vehicle operation: the engine has over-
heated. Switch off the engine immedi-
ately and allow it to cool down.
To check coolant level, refer to
page 134.
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Service interval display
Remaining distance to service
The displays shown in the illustration
appear for a few seconds when the
ignition key is in position 1 or higher or
after the engine is started.
The next service due appears with the
message OIL SERVICE or
INSPECTION, together with the dis-
tance remaining in miles – in kilometers
in Canada – before the next scheduled
service.
The computer bases its calculations of
the remaining distance on the preced-
ing driving style.
A flashing message and a "–" in front of
the number mean that the service inter-
val has already been exceeded by the
distance shown on the display. Please
contact your BMW center for an
appointment.
Check Control
When the ignition key is in position 2,
the following information and/or condi-
tions are indicated using symbols until
the conditions have been corrected.
1 Check the low beams and high
beams, as well as the parking lamps
2 Door open
3 Tailgate open
4 Check brake and tail lamps
When you open the driver's door, after
having turned the ignition key to posi-
tion 0, you will hear an acoustic signal
for a few seconds to remind you that
the lamps have not been switched off.
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Clock
If you wish to have a permanent time
display, you can make this setting in the
radio display, refer to the Owner's Man-
ual for Radio.
You can set the clock and the time dis-
play in the car radio as follows.
Setting
Before the clock can be set, the
time must be showing in the
instrument cluster display.<
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher
To set ahead: turn the right button to
the right.
To set back: turn the right button to the
left.
The adjustment speed will increase the
longer you continue to hold the right
button.
To change the display mode: press the
right button briefly.
Every time you press the button, the
clock display alternates between the
12-hour or 24-hour mode.
In ignition key position 0: the time is
displayed for a few seconds after you
press the left button, refer to Odometer
on page 79.
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Computer*
Mode selection
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher, you can call up information from
the computer using the button in the
turn signal lever. By pressing the button
briefly toward the steering column, you
can call up a new function for display.
The displays appear in the following
order:
Time of day, outside temperature, aver-
age fuel consumption, cruising range,
average vehicle speed.
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher, the last active setting is dis-
played.
Outside temperature
You can change the units of measure
6/7 for the outside temperature dis-
play by pressing the right-hand reset
button in the instrument cluster while
the temperature display is active. The
units of measure 6/7 in the tempera-
ture display of the automatic climate
control change automatically, refer to
page 100.
Ice warning
If the outside temperature drops to
about 37.57/+36, then the computer
will automatically switch to a display of
the outside temperature. In addition, a
signal sounds as a warning and the dis-
play flashes for a brief period.
After giving an ice warning, the
display returns to the previous
setting.<
The ice warning does not alter the
fact that surface ice can form at
temperatures above 37.57/+36, on
bridges or shaded road surfaces, for
instance.<
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Average fuel consumption
If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average fuel con-
sumption last displayed is recalculated
from that point in time.
If you wish, you can have the aver-
age fuel consumption displayed in
a different unit of measure.<
Range
The computer bases its calculations for
the cruising range on operating condi-
tions in the preceding period and on the
remaining fuel in the tank.
It is important that you refuel when
the cruising range falls below
approx. 35 miles/50 kilometers. Other-
wise, the engine cannot be guaranteed
to operate properly and damage may
result.<
Average speed
If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average speed
being displayed is recalculated from
that point in time.
Any time spent when the vehicle is sta-
tionary and the engine is switched off is
ignored for the calculation.
Computer*
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Technology for safety and driving convenience
Park Distance Control (PDC)*
The concept
PDC assists you when you back into a
parking space. Acoustic signals alert
you to the momentary distance to an
object behind your vehicle. The system
features four ultrasonic sensors
mounted in your rear bumper. The mon-
itoring range for the two corner sensors
extends outward roughly 2 ft/60 cm,
while two centrally located sensors
detect objects at distances of up to
approx. 5 ft/1.50 m.
PDC is a parking aid that can
identify objects if they are
approached slowly, as is generally the
case when parking. Avoid driving
towards objects rapidly; due to underly-
ing physical principles, the system may
otherwise alert you too late for you to
take evasive steps.<
The system starts to operate automati-
cally approx. one second after you shift
into Reverse or move the selector lever
into the R position with the ignition key
in position 2.
Let this short period elapse before
driving backwards.<
PDC is deactivated when you shift back
out of reverse.
You can have a signal set to con-
firm that the PDC has been acti-
vated. The signal then sounds when
you shift into Reverse or move the
selector lever into the R position.<
Acoustic signals
The distance to the nearest object is
indicated by a tone sounding at various
intervals. As the distance between vehi-
cle and object decreases, the intervals
between the tones become shorter. A
continuous tone indicates the pres-
ence of an object less than 1 ft/30 cm
away.
The warning signal is canceled after
approx. three seconds if the distance to
the object remains constant during this
time – if you are moving parallel to
a wall, for instance.
System malfunctions will be indicated
by a continuous high-pitched tone
when the system is activated the first
time. Please refer the problem to your
BMW center.
PDC does not remove the driver's
personal responsibility for evaluat-
ing the distance between the vehicle
and any objects. Even when sensors
are involved, there is a blind spot in
which objects cannot be detected. This
applies especially in those cases where
the system approaches the physical
limits of ultrasonic measurement, as
occurs with tow bars and trailer cou-
plings, and in the vicinity of thin or
wedge-shaped objects. Moreover, low
objects that have already been
detected – such as a curb edge – can
disappear out of the detection range of
the sensors before a continuous tone
sounds.
Loud sources of sound from outside or
inside the vehicle could drown out the
PDC signal tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free
of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they will continue to operate effec-
tively.
Do not apply high pressure spray to the
sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Always maintain a distance of more
than 4 in/10 cm.<
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Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
The concept
DSC maintains vehicle stability, even in
critical driving situations.
DSC is operational every time you start
the engine.
DSC incorporates the Dynamic Traction
Control (DTC) and Cornering Brake
Control (CBC) functions.
For information on vehicles with all-
wheel drive, refer to page 88 ff.
Indicator lamps
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster goes out shortly
after you switch on the ignition,
refer to page 19.
> The indicator lamp flashes: DSC con-
trols the drive and braking forces
> The indicator lamp stays lit: DSC has
been switched off with the button;
DTC and DBC are operational. DTC
control intervention is not indicated.
The indicator lamp and the
brake warning lamp continu-
ously light up in yellow:
The DSC, DTC and DBC have
been switched off manually or
there is a system malfunction.
The vehicle will remain completely
operational, however, without DSC. In
the event of a fault, please consult your
BMW center.
Indicator and warning lamp for
Canadian models.
Deactivating the DSC/activating
the DTC
Press the DSC button briefly, the indi-
cator lamp comes on and remains lit.
DSC is deactivated; DTC is operational.
In the following rare situations, it may
prove useful to activate the DTC for a
brief period:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
> When driving on snow-covered
grades, in deep snow, or on a snow-
covered surface that has been
packed down from being driven on
> When driving with snow chains.
Traction is increased by deactivating
the control systems that enhance trac-
tion under normal conditions.
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Deactivating the DSC and the
DTC
Hold the DSC button down for at least
3 seconds. The indicator lamp and the
yellow brake warning lamp will remain
on continuously.
The systems for enhancing stability and
traction are deactivated, and there is no
active braking intervention or torque
control.
To maintain vehicle stability,
always drive with the DSC acti-
vated whenever possible.<
Reactivating the DSC
Press the button again briefly; the indi-
cator lamp or the indicator lamps will go
out. DTC is deactivated.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. It will
always be the driver's responsibility to
drive in a manner that matches road
conditions. This is why you should not
use the additional safety margin the
system provides as an excuse to take
risks.
Whenever the DTC is activated, the
DSC is switched off and performs minor
stabilizing intervention.
Do not make any modifications to the
DSC system. Allow only authorized
technicians to perform service proce-
dures on the DSC.<
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
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Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) – 325xi
The concept
DSC maintains vehicle stability, even in
critical driving situations.
DSC is operational every time you start
the engine.
DSC incorporates the Automatic Differ-
ential Brake (ADB-X) and Cornering
Brake Control (CBC) functions.
Indicator lamps
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster goes out shortly
after you switch on the ignition,
refer to page 19.
> The indicator lamp flashes: DSC con-
trols the drive and braking forces
> The indicator lamp stays lit: DSC has
been switched off with the button;
ADB-X is operational. ADB-X control
intervention is not indicated.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out
when you press the DSC button
again, this indicates a malfunction in
the DSC and ADB-X systems; the sta-
bility enhancement functions are no
longer available.<
The vehicle will remain completely
operational, however, without DSC. In
the event of a fault, please consult your
BMW center.
To deactivate DSC
Press the DSC button; the indicator
lamp comes on and remains lit.
DSC is switched off, and ADB-X reverts
to its maximum torque-transfer mode.
In the following rare situations, it may
be effective to deactivate the DSC for a
brief period:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
> When driving with snow chains.
To maintain vehicle stability,
always drive with the DSC acti-
vated whenever possible.<
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Reactivating the DSC
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. It will
always be the driver's responsibility to
drive in a manner that matches road
conditions. This is why you should not
use the additional safety margin the
system provides as an excuse to take
risks.
The system does not intervene to
enhance vehicle stability when
switched off.
Do not make any modifications to the
DSC system. Allow only authorized
technicians to perform service proce-
dures on the DSC.<
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) – 325xi
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Hill Descent Control (HDC)*
The concept
By reducing the vehicle's speed on
steep downhill stretches, HDC main-
tains predictable vehicle handling
response to provide you with control of
your BMW during extreme descents.
The vehicle slows to a pace just slightly
faster than walking speed.
HDC is available for activation at vehi-
cle speeds below approx. 22 mph /
35 km/h. When driving down steep
hills, the vehicle reduces speed auto-
matically down to about double walking
speed – approx. 7.5 mph / 12 km/h –
and then maintains this speed at a con-
stant.
You can use the accelerator or brakes
to vary this speed within a range from
approx. 3 mph / 5 km/h to approx.
15 mph / 25 km/h.
In conjunction with the multifunction
steering wheel you can use the +/–
button to set the cruise control to a tar-
get speed in the range from approx.
3 mph / 5 km/h to approx. 15 mph /
25 km/h.
HDC is automatically deactivated once
vehicle speed again exceeds approx.
37 mph / 60 km/h.
To activate the system
Press the HDC button; the green indi-
cator lamp integrated within the button
comes on.
The indicator lamp flashes whenever
the system is actively intervening to
control your speed with automatic
brake applications.
To deactivate the system
Press the button again, the indicator
lamp goes out.
HDC is automatically deactivated once
the vehicle accelerates to more than
37 mph / 60 km/h, as well as whenever
you switch off the ignition.
To use HDC
With manual transmission:
You should always ensure that either
reverse or first gear is engaged before
using HDC, as the engine's braking
effect is most pronounced in these
gears, and only reduced engine braking
is available in higher gears.
With automatic transmission: HDC is
available for use in all ranges.
System malfunctions
Signaled by the indicator lamp, which
responds to problems by going out
while HDC is in operation or by failing
to come on when you activate the sys-
tem:
HDC is temporarily not available if
brake temperature is too high.
If the DSC indicator lamp comes
on at the same time:
There is a fault in the HDC and
DSC systems. Have your BMW center
inspect this system as soon as possi-
ble.
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Flat Tire Monitor*
The concept
As you drive, the Flat Tire Monitor
keeps track of pressure levels in all four
tires. The system alerts you whenever
the inflation pressure of a tire falls sig-
nificantly below the pressure of another
tire.
The system actually detects pressure
loss by monitoring differences in the
relative speeds of the four wheels. It
interprets variations outside specified
limits as severe pressure loss, and then
responds by generating a warning.
Functional requirements
In order for the Flat Tire Monitor to learn
the correct tire inflation pressure,
please do the following:
1. Check the tire inflation pressures in
all tires
2. Compare them with the tire inflation
pressure table on page 26 and cor-
rect them, if necessary
3. Initialize the system.
System limitations
The Flat Tire Monitor cannot pro-
vide you with advance warning of
sudden and severe tire damage caused
by external factors and does not detect
the balanced and very gradual pressure
loss that takes place in all four tires
over an extended period of time.<
On the other hand, the following situa-
tions can lead to a delayed detection of
pressure loss and even to the system
not functioning:
> Driving on snow-covered or slippery
roads
> Performance-oriented driving: slip at
the drive wheels, high levels of lateral
acceleration
> When driving with snow chains, false
warnings and undetected pressure
losses may occur
> When driving with a space-saver
spare tire, the Flat Tire Monitor can-
not function.
Initializing the system
Each time you correct the pres-
sure in a tire, or change a wheel or
tire, reinitialize the system immediately
afterwards. This requires a bit of driv-
ing.<
1. Before driving off, start the engine
but do not start driving
2. Press the button as long as you need
to until the yellow indicator lamp in
the instrument cluster lights up for a
few seconds
3. Drive off.
It takes a few minutes before the Flat
Tire Monitor can detect a flat tire and
issue a warning.
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When driving with snow chains or
a space-saver spare tire, do not
initialize the system.<
Flat tire
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster lights up red. This
visual alert is accompanied by
an acoustic warning signal.
1. Carefully reduce speed and come to
a stop. Avoid sudden braking and
steering maneuvers
2. Determine which wheel is damaged
If this cannot be determined, con-
tact your BMW center.<
3. Replace the damaged wheel, refer to
Changing a wheel on page 147.
After replacing the damaged tire, initial-
ize the system.
Vehicles with Run Flat tires:
1. Carefully reduce your speed to under
50 mph / 80 km/h. Avoid strong
braking and steering maneuvers. Do
not exceed a speed of 50 mph /
80 km/h.
Because the sides of Run Flat
tires are reinforced, a drop in infla-
tion pressure usually cannot be
detected from the outside, refer to Run
Flat tires, page 150.<
2. To continue driving, follow the
instructions under Driving with a
damaged tire on page 151.
System malfunction
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster lights up yellow.
The Flat Tire Monitor is malfunc-
tioning or out of order. Please refer the
problem to your BMW center.
Brake force display
The brake force display indicates to the
driver of the vehicle behind you how
hard you are braking your vehicle.
The display has two levels:
> Normal braking: the brake lamps
among the rear lamps and the center
brake lamp light up
> Hard braking or use of ABS: the tail
lamps light up with the same bright-
ness as the brake lamps and thereby
intensify the visual effect of the brake
lamps.
Flat Tire Monitor*
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Lamps
Parking lamps/Low beams
Parking lamps
The front, rear and side vehicle
lighting is switched on. You can
use the parking lamps to signal
the position of the vehicle when it is
parked. For lighting on one side for
parking as an additional feature, refer to
page 94.
Low beams
When the ignition is switched off
while the low beams are on, the
headlamps go out and only the
parking lamps remain on.
Follow me home lamps
When you activate the headlamp
flasher after parking the vehicle with the
lamps turned off, the low-beam head-
lamps will come on for a short time.
You can also have this function
deactivated.<
LIGHTS ON warning
When you open the driver's door, after
having turned the ignition key to posi-
tion 0, you will hear an acoustic signal
for a few seconds to remind you that
the lamps have not been switched off.
Daytime driving lamps*
If you desire, the lamp switch can be
left in the second position: when the
ignition is switched off, the external
lighting is also switched off.
You can have the activation set-
tings for the daytime driving lamps
programmed on your vehicle.<
Automatic headlight control*
When the switch is set to this
position the system automati-
cally activates and cancels the
low beams in response to changes in
ambient light – in tunnels, at dusk, etc. –
and in the event of rain and snow.
The vehicle's external lights
remain on constantly when you
switch on the front fog lamps after the
headlights have come on automati-
cally.<
Automatic headlight control can-
not serve as a substitute for the
driver's judgement in determining when
the vehicle lights should be switched
on. For example, the sensors are not
able to detect fog. To avoid safety risks,
you should respond to these kinds of
low-visibility situations by switching the
headlights on manually.<
You can have the sensitivity of
your vehicle's automatic head-
light control adjusted.<
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Instrument lighting
Turn the rotary dial to adjust the illumi-
nation 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
As an additional feature, you can illumi-
nate your vehicle on either side for
parking:
In ignition key position 0, engage the
lever in the appropriate turn-signal
position.
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Fog lamps*
Front fog lamps
The green indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster lights up to
indicate that the front fog lamps
are on.
If the automatic headlight control
is on, the low beams will come on
automatically whenever you activate
the front fog lamps.<
Interior lamps
The interior lamps operate automati-
cally.
To switch the interior lamps on
and off manually
Press button 1 briefly:
If you want the interior lamps to remain
off all the times, press and hold the but-
ton for approx. 3 seconds.
Press the button briefly to revert to nor-
mal operation.
Front reading lamps*
Switch on and off with the button 2
adjacent to each lamp.
Rear reading lamps
Switch on and off with the button adja-
cent to each lamp.
In order to prevent battery dis-
charge, all of the lamps in the
vehicle are automatically switched off
approx. 15 minutes after you turn the
ignition key to position 0.<
Light-emitting diodes
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) installed
behind translucent lenses serve as the
light sources for many of the controls
and displays in your vehicle. These
light-emitting diodes are related to con-
ventional lasers, and legislation defines
them as light-emitting diodes, Class 1.
Do not remove the protective lens
and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for several hours, as
inflammation of the retina could
result.<
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Controlling the climate for pleasant driving
Air conditioning
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1 Air onto the windshield and the side
windows
2 Air for the upper body area 99
3 Air to the footwell
4 Air supply/Blower 98
5 Temperature 98
6 Air distribution 98
7 Rear window defroster 98
8 Air conditioning 98
9 Outside air/Recirculated-air
mode 98
Air conditioning
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Air supply/Blower
You can select blower speeds
from 1 to 4. The heating and
ventilation become more and
more effective as the air sup-
ply settings are increased. In position 0,
the blower and the heater are switched
off. The outside air supply is blocked in
position 0.
Temperature
In order to increase the tem-
perature of the passenger
compartment, turn to the
right, red. The temperature of
the incoming air is kept constant.
Air distribution
You can direct air to flow onto
the windows , toward your
upper body or into the
footwell . All intermediate
settings are possible. In the setting ,
there is a low flow of air onto the win-
dows 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
automatically. This occurs within 5 min-
utes after starting the engine when out-
side temperatures are below approx.
397/+46.<
Air conditioning
The air is cooled and dehumidi-
fied and – depending on the
temperature setting – rewarmed.
Depending on the weather, the wind-
shield may fog over briefly when the
engine is started. Switching on the air
conditioning will reduce condensation
forming on the windows.
Condensation forms during opera-
tion of the air conditioning system,
which then exits under the vehicle. It is
thus not unusual for a small puddle to
form under the car while the system is
running.<
Outside air/Recirculated-air mode
You can respond to unpleasant
external odors by temporarily
excluding the supply of outside air. The
system then recirculates the air cur-
rently within the vehicle.
If the windows should fog over in
the recirculated-air mode, switch
this mode off and increase the air sup-
ply as required.<
Air conditioning
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Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the blower controls for
the upper body area to obtain the opti-
mum airflow rates and directions for
your personal requirements:
1 Rotary dials for infinitely variable
opening and closing of the vent out-
lets
2 Selector levers for airflow direction
3 Rotary dial allows you to control the
temperature of the airflow from these
outlets as desired
Microfilter
The built-in microfilter removes dust
and pollen from the incoming air. Your
BMW center will replace it during regu-
larly scheduled maintenance. A sub-
stantial reduction in airflow indicates
that the filter needs to be replaced
before scheduled maintenance.
To defrost windows and remove
condensation
1. Set the blower speed control for the
air supply to position 4
2. Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the right – red
3. Rotary control for air distribution to
position
4. Switch on the rear window defroster
to defrost the rear window.
Air conditioning
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Automatic climate control*
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1 Air onto the windshield and the side
windows
2 Air for the upper body area 103
3 Air to the footwell 103
4 Air inlet for interior temperature
sensor – please keep clear and
unobstructed
5 Outside air/Automatic recirculated-
air control (AUC)/Recirculated
air 103
6 Automatic air distribution 102
7 Individual air distribution 102
8 Temperature 102
9 Display for temperature 102
and air supply 102
10 Air supply/Blower 102
11 To defrost windows and remove
condensation 102
12 Air conditioning 102
13 Rear window defroster 103
Automatic climate control*
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Tips for pleasant driving
Use the automatic mode by pressing
AUTO button 6. Select an interior tem-
perature that is comfortable for you.
Detailed setting options are described
for you in the following section.
You can make the settings of your
vehicle in such a manner that
when you unlock the vehicle with the
remote control of your personal key,
your own personalized setting for the
automatic climate control is initiated.<
Automatic air distribution and
supply
The AUTO program adjusts the
air distribution and the air sup-
ply for you and in addition adapts the
temperature to external influences –
summer, winter – to meet preferences
you can specify.
Individual air distribution
You can cancel the AUTO pro-
gram by selecting specific dis-
tribution patterns to suit your
own individual requirements.
While the AUTO program is then deacti-
vated, the automatic airflow control
remains in operation. Air flows onto
windows , toward the upper body
, and into the footwell . You can
switch the automatic distribution of air
back on by selecting the AUTO button.
Temperature
The interior temperature that
appears in the display panel is a
general figure intended for refer-
ence purposes. We recommend
727/+226 as a comfortable setting,
even if the air conditioning is on. When
you start the vehicle, the system
ensures that the selected temperature
is achieved as quickly as possible
regardless of the season. It then main-
tains this temperature.
To select the units of measure 6/7 of
the display, refer to page 83.
Air supply/Blower
By pressing the upper or lower
button, you can vary the air sup-
ply. This deactivates the auto-
matic control of the air supply, AUTO
disappears from the display panel. Nev-
ertheless, the automatic air distribution
remains unchanged. You can reactivate
the automatic air distribution mode by
selecting the AUTO button.
When the lowest blower speed is set
and you press the lower button, all of
the displays are canceled: the blower,
heating and air conditioning are
switched off. The outside air supply is
blocked. You can reactivate the system
by pressing any button for the auto-
matic climate control.
To defrost windows and remove
condensation
This program quickly removes
ice and condensation from the
windshield and the side windows.
Air conditioning
The air is cooled and dehumidi-
fied and – depending on the
temperature setting – rewarmed.
Depending on the weather, the wind-
shield may fog over briefly when the
engine is started. Air conditioning helps
prevent the windows from fogging up.
Condensation forms during opera-
tion of the air conditioning system,
which then exits under the vehicle. It is
thus not unusual for a small puddle to
form under the car while the system is
running.<
Automatic climate control*
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Outside air/Automatic
recirculated-air control (AUC)/
Recirculated air
You can respond to unpleasant
external odors or pollutants by
temporarily stopping the flow of outside
air. The system then recirculates the air
currently within the vehicle.
Press the button repeatedly to select
one of three different operating modes.
> Indicator lamps off: outside air supply
is on
> Left 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 automatic system then
switches back and forth between
outside air supply and recirculation of
the air within the vehicle
> Right indicator lamp on: the flow of
external air into the vehicle is perma-
nently blocked. The system then
recirculates the air currently within
the vehicle.
If the windows should fog over in
the recirculated-air mode, switch
this mode off and increase the air sup-
ply as required.<
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
automatically. This occurs within 5 min-
utes after starting the engine when out-
side temperatures are below approx.
397/+46.<
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the blower controls for
the upper body area to obtain the opti-
mum airflow rates and directions for
your personal requirements:
1 Rotary dials for infinitely variable
opening and closing of the vent out-
lets
2 Selector levers for airflow direction
3 Rotary dial allows you to control the
temperature of the airflow from these
outlets as desired
Automatic climate control*
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Microfilter/activated-charcoal
filter
The built-in microfilter removes dust
and pollen from the incoming air. The
activated-charcoal filter provides addi-
tional protection by filtering gaseous
pollutants from the outside air. Your
BMW center replaces this combined fil-
ter as a standard part of your scheduled
maintenance. A substantial reduction in
airflow indicates that the filter needs to
be replaced before scheduled mainte-
nance.
Automatic climate control*
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Interior conveniences
Premium sound system*
Harman Kardon premium sound
system
Press the button to activate and deacti-
vate the acoustic enhancement.
The system creates the acoustic
impression of a much larger passenger
compartment accompanied by
improved stereophonic sound at all
seating positions.
The system responds to poor reception
conditions by repeatedly alternating
between the stereo and monophonic
modes. You should then switch the sys-
tem off.
Glove compartment
To open
Pull the handle. The lamp in the glove
compartment will come on.
To close
Fold the cover up.
To prevent injury in the event of an
accident, close the glove com-
partment immediately after use.<
To lock
Lock with one of the master keys. A
master key will also be required to
unlock the glove compartment.
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If – for example for valet parking –
you turn over only your spare key,
refer to page 30, then access to the
locked glove compartment is not possi-
ble.<
Rechargeable flashlight
The flashlight is located on the left side
of the glove compartment.
It features integral overload protection,
so it can be left in its holder continu-
ously.
To avoid completely discharging
and possibly damaging the flash-
light, always ensure that it is switched
off before inserting it in the socket.<
Storage compartments
Front center armrest
To open: press the button and fold up.
Additional compartments and
nets*
You will find additional storage com-
partments in the front doors and in the
center console. Storage nets are on the
front seat backrests.
Beverage holders, coin box
A coin box and two beverage holders
are provided in the center console.
Glove compartment
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Rear center armrest
The rear center armrest includes a stor-
age compartment, a beverage holder
and a litter bag holder.
1 Storage compartment: pull up
2 Beverage holder: press
Storage package*
For your convenience, there are:
> Two flip-out sockets on the rear cen-
ter console
> An eyeglasses compartment*, not
shown, in the front center console.
Cellular phone*
Hands-free system
On vehicles that are wired for a tele-
phone* or equipped with a communica-
tions package*, the cover for the
handsfree microphone is located in the
headliner near the interior lamp.
For further information on using your
cellular phone, refer to the Owner's
Manual for the telephone.
Storage compartments
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Ashtray, front*
To empty
Press on the edge of the open cover:
the ashtray moves up and can be
removed.
Cigarette lighter
Hold or touch the hot cigarette
lighter by the knob only. Holding
or touching it in other areas could result
in burns.
The cigarette lighter remains opera-
tional when the ignition key has been
removed. For this reason, children
should never be left in the vehicle unat-
tended.<
Press the lighter 1 in. You can remove
the lighter from its socket for use as
soon as it snaps back out.
Cigarette lighter socket
Suitable for attaching power supplies
for flashlights, car vacuum cleaners,
etc., up to a rating of approx. 200 watts
at 12 volts. Avoid damage to the socket
caused by inserting plugs of different
shapes or sizes.
Ashtray, rear*
To empty
Press on the edge of the open cover in
the opening direction. The ashtray
moves up and can be removed.
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Socket
A fold-out power socket – 12 volts – is
located in the cargo area.
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Loading and transporting
Ski bag*
The ski bag allows the safe and clean
transport of up to 4 pairs of standard
skis or up to two snowboards.
The length of the ski bag and the addi-
tional space provided in the cargo area
make it possible to carry skis up to
6 ft 10 in / 2.10 m long. Because of the
tapered shape of the bag, only two
pairs of skis longer than 6 ft 10 in /
2.10 m can be carried.
Loading
1. Fold the center armrest outward.
Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest
2. Press the button – see arrow 1, from
inside the passenger compartment:
the cargo hatch drops onto the floor
of the cargo area
3. Press down the detent lever – see
arrow 2 – and fold the cover forward
4. Extend the ski bag between the front
seats. The zipper provides conve-
nient access to stored items. It may
be opened to allow the ski bag to
dry.
To store the ski bag, perform the above
steps in reverse sequence.
Securing cargo
Secure skis and any other objects
stored in the bag by tightening the
retaining strap at the buckle.<
Be sure that your skis are clean
before loading them into the bag.
Avoid damage from sharp edges during
loading.<
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Cargo area
Folding rear backrest
Reach into the recess and pull forward.
When you fold back the backrest,
be sure that the catch engages
securely. The red warning indicator in
the recess disappears when the
retainer is locked.<
Cargo area cover
Never use the cover to carry
heavy or hard objects, as such
objects could pose a hazard to the
vehicle's occupants during sudden
braking maneuvers.
Guide the cover back into place; do not
allow it to snap back, as it could sustain
damage.<
Pull out the cover and suspend it by
attaching it to the holders.
You can carry light objects such as arti-
cles of clothing on the cover.
Partition net*
Use the loop to pull out the partition
net, then grasp both sides of the rod
and insert it into its holder. It is easiest
to do this from the back seat.
Do not allow the partition net to
snap back. Doing so could pose a
risk of injury and the partition net could
be damaged.<
If the backrests are folded forward, the
partition net's case can be stored on
the backrests; you can then extract the
partition net and hold it in place by
inserting the retainers into the front
holders, refer to next page.
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To remove cargo cover and
partition net
1. Press the buttons on the sides – see
arrow 1
2. Extract the case by pulling to the rear
– see arrow 2.
Installation
Simply slide the case forward in the two
side holders until it engages.
Storing with backrests folded
forward
Supports for the case are provided on
the rear sides of the backrests – see
arrow 1.
Insert the case from the right as shown
in the illustration, continuing until the
detent engages – see arrow 2. Ensure
that the cargo cover points toward the
front of the vehicle, with the partition
net's loop on the top.
You can pull the partition net out and
insert it into the holders above it in the
upper roof area.
To ensure that the case is properly
positioned, remember to insert it
on both guides from the right side,
always continuing until the detents
snap into place. Failure to observe the
prescribed insertion procedure could
also result in damage to the door's
upholstery.<
Cargo area
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Lifting the floor panel
1. Lift up the floor panel slightly at
loop 1
2. Release the loop end from the under-
side of the floor panel
3. Hook the loop end with the tab onto
the rubber weather-stripping.
Before folding the floor panel back
down, attach the loop end to the
holder on the underside of the floor
panel.<
Side covers
Open the side covers by pressing the
button.
Cargo loading
Avoid overloading the vehicle so
that the permitted load on the tires
is not exceeded. Overloading can lead
to overheating and internal tire damage.
The ultimate result can assume the
form of a sudden air loss.<
Cargo area
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Determining the maximum load
1. Locate the following statement on
your vehicle‘s placard*:
The combined weight of occu-
pants and cargo should never
exceed XXX kg or YYY lbs., as this
could otherwise result in damage to the
vehicle or unstable driving conditions.<
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 kilograms or YYY pounds
4. The resulting figure equals the avail-
able 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 vehi-
cle, 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
luggage and cargo being loaded on
the vehicle. That weight may not
safely exceed the available cargo
and luggage load capacity calculated
in Step 4
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer,
load from your trailer will be trans-
fered 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.
Stowing cargo
> Load heavy cargo as far forward as
possible – directly behind the back-
rests or the cargo area partition – and
as low as possible
> Cover sharp edges and corners
> Do not pile objects higher than the
top edge of the backrest
> Pull out the partition net*, refer to
previous page, taking care to ensure
that there is no danger that any of the
objects stored in the cargo area will
protrude through the net*
Cargo loading
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> For very heavy loads when the rear
seat is not occupied, secure each
safety belt in the opposite buckle.
Securing cargo
> Small and light luggage and cargo
can be secured with the aid of flexi-
ble straps or a luggage compartment
net*, refer to page 37
> For large, heavy pieces, see your
BMW center for load-securing
devices*. Anchorages located in the
cargo area can be used for fastening
the load-securing devices.
Read and comply with the instructions
enclosed with the load-securing
devices.
Always position and secure loads
correctly. If you do not, the load
can endanger the passengers during
braking or evasive maneuvers.
Do not exceed the approved gross
vehicle weight or the approved axle
loads, refer to page 162, otherwise the
vehicle's operating safety is no longer
assured and the vehicle will not be in
compliance with the certification regu-
lations.
Do not stow heavy or hard objects in
the passenger compartment without
securing them. Otherwise they would
be thrown around during braking and
evasive maneuvers and could endanger
the passengers.<
Cargo loading
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Roof-mounted luggage rack*
A special roof-rack system is available
as an optional extra for your BMW.
Please observe the precautions
included with the installation instruc-
tions.
Anchorages
Access to the anchorages:
To fold up the covers, please use the
tool provided with the roof-rack system.
Loading and driving notes
Roof-mounted luggage racks raise the
center of gravity of the vehicle when
they are loaded. For this reason, they
exercise a major effect on the vehicle's
handling and steering response.
You should therefore always remember
not to exceed the approved roof load
capacity, the approved gross vehicle
weight or the axle loads when loading
the rack. These weights are listed under
Technical data on page 162.
Make sure that the load is not too bulky,
and attempt to distribute it evenly.
Always load the heaviest pieces first so
that they are at the bottom. Be sure that
adequate clearance is maintained for
raising the glass sunroof, and that
objects do not project into the opening
path of the tailgate.
Secure the roof-mounted luggage cor-
rectly and securely to prevent it from
shifting or being lost during driving.
Drive smoothly and avoid sudden
acceleration and braking. Do not corner
at high speeds.
The roof-mounted luggage rack and the
roof load increase the aerodynamic
resistance: increased fuel consumption
and additional stress on the vehicle's
body are the result.
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
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Special operating instructions
Break-in procedures
To ensure that your vehicle provides
maximum economy throughout a long
service life, we request that you
observe the following suggestions.
Engine and differential
Up to 1,250 miles/2,000 km:
Constantly vary both vehicle and engine
speeds, remembering not to exceed
4,500 rpm or vehicle speeds of over
100 mph / 160 km/h:
Obey your local and state maximum
speed limits.
Do not use full throttle, and avoid
pressing the accelerator beyond the
kickdown point during these initial
miles.
You can then proceed to increase
engine or vehicle speeds once the ini-
tial 1,250 miles/2,000 km have elapsed.
You should also observe the same
break-in procedures if the engine or dif-
ferential should have to be replaced
later in the course of the vehicle's life.
Tires
Due to technical factors associated
with their manufacture, tires do not
achieve their full traction potential until
an initial break-in period has elapsed.
Thus drive with extra care during the
initial 200 miles/300 km.
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 trac-
tion, as well as loss of 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 parking brake
drums, apply the parking brake lightly
when coasting to a standstill – at a traf-
fic signal, for instance – provided that
traffic conditions allow you to do so.
To avoid corrosion, repeat this proce-
dure from time to time.
The brake lamps do not come on
when the parking brake 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 – when tow-
ing, for example – substantially higher
levels of pedal force will be required to
brake the vehicle.<
Clutch
Approx. 300 miles/500 km must elapse
before the clutch starts to operate at
optimum efficiency. Remember to
engage the clutch carefully during this
initial period.
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General driving notes
Brakes: do not rest your foot on
the brake pedal while driving.
Even light but consistent pedal pres-
sure can lead to high temperatures,
brake wear and possibly even brake
failure.
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 can lead to partial or
complete loss of contact between the
tires and road surface, as well as loss of
vehicle control and braking ability.
Driving through water: do not drive
through water on the road if it is deeper
than 1 ft/30 cm, and then only at walk-
ing speed. Otherwise, the vehicle's
engine, the electrical systems and the
transmission may be damaged.
Cargo area cover: never use it to store
heavy or hard objects; otherwise, occu-
pants could be injured if the vehicle is
braked hard.
Clothes hooks: when hanging clothing
from the hooks, be sure that they will
not obstruct the driver's vision. Do not
hang heavy objects on the hooks. If you
do so, they could cause personal injury
during braking or evasive maneuvers.<
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The concept
ABS keeps the wheels from locking
during braking, thereby enhancing
active driving safety.
Braking with ABS
If you are in a situation that requires full
braking, you will exploit the full benefits
of ABS system if you apply maximum
pedal pressure – panic stop. Since the
vehicle maintains steering responsive-
ness, you can avoid possible obstacles
with a minimum of steering effort,
despite the full brake application.
Pulsation at the brake pedal combined
with sounds from the hydraulic circuits
indicates to the driver that ABS is in its
active mode.
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
DBC is included in the DSC, refer to
page 86.
The system responds to sudden, high-
intensity applications of force to the
brake pedal by automatically braking
the vehicle with maximum boost to
achieve the shortest possible braking
distances during panic stops. This sys-
tem exploits all the benefits of ABS.
Do not reduce the pressure exerted
against the brake pedal until the brak-
ing maneuver has been completed.
DBC is deactivated when you release
the brake pedal.
Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
CBC is an advanced engineering
design of the ABS. When braking while
cornering at high speed or braking dur-
ing high lateral acceleration, or when
braking during a lane change, vehicle
stability is improved and steering
response is enhanced.
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Brake system
Brake fluid level
Low brake fluid level in the reservoir
combined with longer than usual pedal
travel may indicate a defect in one of
the brake system's hydraulic circuits.
Proceed to the nearest BMW cen-
ter. It may be necessary to apply
higher levels of pressure to the pedal
when stopping and braking distances
may also be longer. Please remember
to adapt your driving style accord-
ingly.<
Disc brakes
When the vehicle is driven only occa-
sionally, during extended periods when
the vehicle is not used at all, and in
operating conditions where brake appli-
cations are less frequent, there is an
increased tendency for corrosion of the
rotors and accumulation of contamina-
tion on the brake pads. This occurs
because the minimal pressure that must
be exerted by the pads to clean the
rotors by brake applications is not
reached.
Corrosion on brake rotors is signaled by
a running or pulsation during braking;
even extended subsequent braking will
not cure this phenomenon.
It is a good idea to periodically dry the
brakes with a gentle application when
driving in rain and on wet roads. Watch
traffic conditions to ensure that this
maneuver does not endanger other
road users. The heat generated in this
process helps dry the pads and rotors
to ensure that your brake system will
respond with undiminished efficiency
when you need it.
When descending steep hills and
extended grades, downshift to a gear
that will allow you to continue safely
with only a minimal amount of braking.
This helps avoid placing excessive
loads on the brake system. Use care to
avoid exceeding the approved engine-
speed range, refer to page 79.
Do not coast with the clutch
depressed or with the transmis-
sion or selector lever in Neutral. Do not
coast with the engine shut off. The
engine provides no braking effect when
the clutch is depressed and there is no
power-assist for braking or steering
when the engine is not running.
325xi: always refer all brake inspection
and service work to your BMW center,
as failure to observe the special proce-
dures could result in damage to com-
ponents of the all-wheel drive.
Never allow floor mats, carpets or any
other objects to protrude into the area
around the accelerator, clutch and
brake pedals and obstruct their move-
ment.<
Brake pads
For your own safety: use only
brake pads which BMW has
approved for your specific vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suitable for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
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Portable phone in the vehicle
BMW recommends using mobile com-
munications devices, e.g. portable
phones, inside the vehicle with a suit-
able outside antenna. Otherwise, it can-
not be ruled out that the vehicle elec-
tronics and portable phone may
interfere with each other.
Brake system
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Wheels and tires
Tire inflation pressure
Information for your safety
The factory-approved tires are matched
to your vehicle and have been selected
to provide optimum safety and driving
comfort when used properly.
It is not merely the tire's service life, but
also driving comfort and – above all else
– driving safety that depend on the con-
dition of the tires and the maintenance
of the specified tire inflation pressure.
Incorrect tire inflation pressure is a fre-
quent cause of tire damage. It also sig-
nificantly influences the roadholding
ability of your BMW.
Be sure to check the tire inflation
pressure, including the space-
saver spare tire or the spare tire, on a
regular basis, at least twice a month
and before every extended journey,
refer to page 25. If this is not done,
incorrect tire pressures can cause driv-
ing instability and tire damage, ulti-
mately resulting in accidents.<
Tire condition
Tire tread – tire damage
Inspect your tires frequently for tread
wear, signs of damage and for foreign
objects lodged in the tread. Check the
tread depth.
Tread depth should not be allowed to
go below 1/8 in / 3 mm, even though
the legally specified minimum tread
depth is 1/16 in / 1.6 mm.
Below 1/8 in / 3 mm tread depth, there
is a great risk of hydroplaning, even at
relatively moderate speeds and with
only small amounts of water on the
road. Tread wear indicators – see arrow
– are embedded in the base of the tire's
tread. Their locations are indicated by
the letters TWI – Tread Wear Indicator –
at various points on the tire's shoulder.
When the tread reaches a depth of
1/16 in / 1.6 mm, these indicators
appear and signal that the tires have
worn to the minimum legal level.
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Do not drive on a deflated – flat –
tire unless your vehicle is
equipped with Run Flat tires. A flat tire
greatly impairs steering and braking
response, and can lead to complete
loss of control over the vehicle.
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that
the permitted load on the tires is not
exceeded. Overloading can lead to
overheating and internal tire damage.
The ultimate result can assume the
form of a sudden air loss.
Unusual vibrations encountered during
normal vehicle operation can indicate a
damaged tire or some other vehicle
malfunction. This type of problem can
be caused by contact with curbs, etc.
This is also true for irregularities in the
vehicle's handling characteristics, such
as a pronounced tendency to pull to the
left or right. Should this occur, respond
by immediately reducing your speed.
Proceed carefully to the nearest BMW
center or professional tire center, or
have the vehicle towed in to have it, its
wheels or its tires inspected.
Tire damage, up to and including sud-
den and complete air loss, can endan-
ger the lives of both the vehicle occu-
pants and other road users.<
Tire replacement
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single
tread configuration from a single manu-
facturer.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressures — and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assembly balanced
every time you change a tire or wheel.
DOT quality grades
Tread wear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
All passenger car tires must con-
form to Federal Safety Require-
ments in addition to these grades.<
Tread wear
The tread wear grade is a comparative
rating based on the wear rate of the tire
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified government test
course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would
wear one and one-half – 1
1
/
2
– times as
well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance
of tires depends upon the actual condi-
tions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due
to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road char-
acteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on speci-
fied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straight-
ahead braking traction tests, and does
not include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<
Temperature
The temperature grades are A – the
highest – B, and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel.
Tire condition
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Sustained high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to degenerate
and reduce tire life, and excessive tem-
perature 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 represent higher levels
of performance on the laboratory test
wheel than the minimum required by
law.
The temperature grade for this tire
is established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not overloaded.
Excessive speed, underinflation, or
excessive loading, either separately or
in combination, can cause heat buildup
and possible tire failure.<
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall between
tread shoulder and maximum section
width. For example:
Tread wear 200
Traction AA
Temperature A
BMW advises against using
retreaded tires, since driving
safety may be impaired. This is due to
the possible variations in casing struc-
tures and, in some cases, to their
extreme age, which can lead to a
decrease in their durability.<
Tire age
The date on which the tire was manu-
factured is indicated by the code on the
sidewall:
DOT... 3603 indicates that the tire was
manufactured in week 36 of the year
2003.
BMW recommends the replacement of
all tires – including the spare tire* –
when the tires are no more than 6 years
old, even if a tire life of 10 years is pos-
sible.
Run Flat tires*
Before purchasing tires, check if your
BMW is equipped with Run Flat tires.
These are indicated by a circular sym-
bol containing the letters RSC on the
tire sidewall, refer to Changing a wheel.
In this case, use only Run Flat tires,
since no spare wheel is available in the
event of a flat. For more information on
Run Flat tires, refer to page 150.
Run Flat tires are available only in
combination with the Flat Tire
Monitor.<
Tire replacement
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Wheel and tire combinations
The right choice
BMW recommends using only
wheels and tires that have been
approved by BMW for your particular
vehicle model, as otherwise body con-
tact and serious accidents can result
despite the use of the same nominal
size, e.g. due to manufacturing toler-
ances. BMW cannot evaluate all tires
and wheels on the market, and is thus
unable to guarantee that the vehicle will
continue to perform safely if unap-
proved tires and/or wheels are
mounted.<
For each tire size, BMW has assessed
the safe performance of specific tire
brands and approved them for use.
Consult any BMW center for details.
Comply with any local/national regula-
tions, for example by recording the tire
type in the vehicle documents.
The correct wheel-tire combina-
tion affects different systems such
as ABS, DSC and ADB-X/DBC. The
function of these systems is impaired if
improper wheel-tire combinations are
used. For this reason, use only tires of
the same manufacture and tread con-
figuration. In the event of a flat tire, for
example, remount the approved wheel
and tire combination as soon as possi-
ble.<
Storage
Always store tires in a cool, dry place.
Store them away from light whenever
possible. Protect the tires against con-
tact with oil, grease and fuel.
Do not exceed the maximum tire infla-
tion pressures specified on the tire
sidewall.
Winter tires
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends the use of winter
tires for operation under winter road
conditions. While all-season tires – with
M+S designation – provide better winter
traction than the corresponding sum-
mer tires, they generally do not achieve
the performance of winter tires.
In the interest of safe tracking and
steering response, install winter tires
made by the same manufacturer and
having the same tread configuration on
all four wheels.
Never exceed the maximum
speed for which the winter tires
are rated.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
service tires can lead to damage and
accidents.
Have this work performed by trained
professionals only. Any BMW center
has the required technical knowledge
and the proper equipment and will be
happy to assist you.<
Run Flat tires*
Before purchasing winter tires, check if
your BMW is eqipped with Run Flat
tires. These are indicated by a circular
symbol containing the letters RSC on
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the tire sidewall, refer to Changing a
wheel. In this case, use only Run Flat
winter tires, since no spare tire is pro-
vided in the event of a flat tire.
Tire condition, tire pressure
At tread depths below approx. 3/16 in /
4 mm, winter tires display a perceptible
decrease in their ability to cope with
winter driving conditions, and should be
replaced in the interest of safety.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressures — and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assembly balanced
every time you change a tire or wheel.
Snow chains*
Only certain snow chains have been
tested by BMW and determined and
approved as roadworthy. Consult any
BMW center for details. BMW recom-
mends using only these approved fine-
link snow chains. Use them in pairs on
either summer or winter tires, but only
on both rear wheels.
325xi: in an extreme emergency – for
instance, with the vehicle stuck on one
side, or when obstructions make it
impossible to reach one tire – a chain
may also be mounted on just one tire
for the limited period needed to resolve
the problem.
Comply with all manufacturer's safety
precautions when mounting the chains.
Do not exceed a speed of 30 mph /
50 km/h when using snow chains.
You cannot mount snow chains on the
following tires:
225/50 R 16
225/45 R 17
245/40 R 17
225/40 R 18
255/35 R 18
Do not initialize the Flat Tire Moni-
tor after mounting snow chains to
the tires.
When driving with snow chains, it may
be useful to turn off the DSC for a short
time, refer to page 87 or 88.<
Winter tires
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In the engine compartment
Hood
To release
Pull the lever located under the left-
hand side of the instrument panel.
Do not attempt to service your
vehicle if you do not have the
required technical background. Failure
to work in an informed, professional
manner when servicing components
and materials constitutes a safety haz-
ard for vehicle occupants and other
road users. If you are not familiar with
the guidelines, BMW recommends that
you have the operations performed by
your BMW center.<
To open
Pull the release handle and open the
hood.
To close
Allow the hood to fall from a height of
about 1 ft/30 cm so that it audibly
engages.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the hood is clear
when it is closed, following the same
safety precautions used in all closing
procedures.
If you determine while driving that the
hood is not completely closed, stop
immediately and close it securely.<
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Engine compartment essentials
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1 Brake fluid reservoir 135
2 Dipstick, engine oil 132
3 Coolant expansion tank 134
4 Reservoir for the headlamp and
windshield washer system 132
5 Engine oil filler neck 132
6 Auxiliary terminal for jump-
starting 153
Engine compartment essentials
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Washer fluids
Headlamp* and windshield
washer system
Capacity approx.
5.6 US quarts/5.3 liters.
Fill with water and, if required, with a
washer antifreeze additive according to
manufacturer's recommendations.
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
Rear window washer reservoir
Capacity approx.
2.4 US quarts/2.3 liters.
Fill with water and, if required, with a
washer antifreeze additive according to
manufacturer's recommendations.
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
Antifreeze agents for the washer
fluid are highly flammable. For this
reason, keep them away from sources
of flame and store them only in their
closed original containers. Store it inac-
cessible to children. Comply with the
instructions on the containers.<
Engine oil
Checking the oil level
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface
2. Switch the engine off after it has
reached normal operating tempera-
ture
3. After approx. 5 minutes, pull the dip-
stick out and wipe it off with a clean
lint-free cloth, paper towel, or similar
material
4. Carefully push the dipstick all the
way into the guide tube and pull it
out again
5. The oil level should be between the
two marks on the dipstick.
As with fuel economy, oil consumption
is directly influenced by your driving
style and vehicle operating conditions.
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The oil volume between the two marks
on the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts/1 liter. Do not fill beyond
the upper mark on the dipstick. Excess
oil will damage the engine.
Adding engine oil
Only add engine oil when the oil level
has dropped to just above the lower
mark on the dipstick.
BMW engines are designed to
operate without oil additives; the
use of additives could lead to damage
in some cases. This also applies to the
manual transmission, the automatic
transmission, the differential, and the
power steering system.<
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW 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.
Store oils, grease and similar materials
so that they are inaccessible to chil-
dren. Comply with warning labels and
information on containers.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the dis-
posal of used oil.<
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil is
extremely important for the function
and service life of an engine. Based on
extensive testing, BMW has approved
only certain grades of engine oil.
Use only approved BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil.
If an approved BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil should be unavailable, you
may use small volumes of other syn-
thetic oils for topping up between oil
changes. Use only oils with the specifi-
cation API SH or higher.
Engine oil
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Ask your BMW center for details
concerning the specific BMW
High Performance Synthetic Oil or syn-
thetic oils that have been approved.<
You can also call BMW of North Amer-
ica toll-free at 1-800-831-1117 or visit
this website: www.bmwusa.com to
obtain this information.
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is the oilflow rating as estab-
lished in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class
depends on the climatic conditions in
the area you drive your BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These kinds of oil may be used for driv-
ing in all ambient temperatures.
Coolant
Do not add coolant to the cooling
system when the engine is hot. If
you attempt to do so, escaping coolant
can cause burns.
Antifreeze and anti-corrosion agents
are hazardous to health. You should
always store them in their closed origi-
nal containers and in a location which is
out of reach of children. Antifreeze and
anti-corrosion agents are inflammable.
For this reason, do not spill them on hot
engine parts. They could ignite and
cause burns. Comply with the instruc-
tions on the containers.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the dis-
posal of antifreeze agents with corro-
sion inhibitor.<
Checking the coolant level and
adding coolant
Check the coolant level when the
engine is cold, approx. 687/+206:
1. Open the cap for the expansion tank
by turning it slightly counterclock-
wise to allow accumulated pressure
to escape, then open
2. The coolant level is correct when the
upper end of the red float is at least
even with the upper edge of the filler
neck; see arrow. The end of the float
may stick out by a maximum of
3/4 in / 2 cm – that is, up to the sec-
ond mark on the float
3. If necessary, add coolant. If the cool-
ant is low, slowly add coolant until
the correct level is reached – do not
overfill.
Engine oil
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Brake fluid
Indicator lamp
The brake warning lamp comes
on when the parking brake is
not engaged: the brake fluid
level is too low, refer to page 18.
Brake warning lamp for Cana-
dian models.
Adding brake fluid
For adding brake fluid or for determin-
ing and correcting the cause of brake
fluid loss, consult your BMW center.
Your BMW center is familiar with the
specifications for factory-approved
brake fluids – DOT 4.
Brake fluid loss results in extended
brake pedal travel. Refer to the informa-
tion on page 122.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,
it absorbs moisture from the air
over time.
In order to ensure the brake system's
safety and reliability, have the brake
fluid changed every two years by a
BMW center. Refer to the Service and
Warranty Information Booklet for US
models or the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet for Canadian models.
Brake fluid is toxic and damages the
vehicle's paint. You should always store
it in its closed original container and in
a location which is out of reach of chil-
dren.
Do not spill the brake fluid and do not
fill the brake fluid reservoir beyond the
MAX mark. The brake fluid could ignite
upon contact with hot engine parts and
cause serious burns.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating
the disposal of brake fluid.<
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Maintenance
The BMW Maintenance System
The BMW Maintenance System has
been designed as a reliable means of
providing maximum driving and operat-
ing safety – and as cost-effectively as
possible for you.
Please keep in mind that regular main-
tenance is not only necessary for the
safety of your vehicle, but also plays a
significant role in maintaining the resale
value of the vehicle.
Service interval display
While conventional systems rely on dis-
tance traveled alone to determine when
service is due, the BMW Maintenance
System has for years taken the actual
conditions under which the vehicle
operates into consideration, because
miles can be traveled in many different
ways:
From a maintenance point of view,
62,000 miles/100,000 km of short-dis-
tance urban driving cannot be com-
pared with 62,000 miles/100,000 km of
long-distance highway travel.
The BMW Maintenance System
includes the Engine Oil Service and
Inspections I and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals
according to the actual use of the vehi-
cle covers every kind of operating situa-
tion. Minimal use drivers – those who
drive significantly fewer than
6,200 miles/10,000 km annually –
should have the engine oil changed at
least every 2 years since oil deterio-
rates over time, regardless of use.
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models/
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models
For additional information on required
maintenance intervals and procedures,
please refer to the Service and War-
ranty Information Booklet for US mod-
els, or the Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models.
As a precaution against corrosion, it is
advisable to have the body checked for
damage from rocks or gravel at the
same time, depending upon operating
conditions.
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Have your BMW center perform
maintenance and repair.
Be sure that all maintenance work is
recorded in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet for US models, or
in the Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models. These
entries confirm that your vehicle has
benefitted from regular maintenance,
and are also required for warranty
claims.<
Care
You can find everything you need to
know on this topic by consulting the
separate Caring for your vehicle bro-
chure.
The BMW Maintenance System
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Laws and regulations
California Proposition 65 warning
California laws require us to state the
following warning:
Engine exhaust and a wide variety
of automobile components and
parts, including components found in
the interior furnishings in a vehicle, con-
tain or emit chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects and reproductive harm. In
addition, certain fluids contained in
vehicles and certain products of com-
ponent 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 com-
pounds. Wash your hands after hand-
ling.
Used engine oil contains chemicals that
have caused cancer in laboratory ani-
mals. Always protect your skin by
washing thoroughly with soap and
water.<
OBD interface socket
The interface socket for onboard diag-
nostics is located on the left-hand side
of the driver's side, below the instru-
ment panel and under a cover panel.
The cover has the letters OBD on it.
This interface makes it possible to
access data on emissions-related com-
ponents using special equipment.
An illuminated indicator informs
you of the need for service, not
that you need to stop the vehi-
cle. Your system should be checked,
however, at the earliest opportunity.
If the indicator blinks or flashes, this
indicates a high level of engine misfire.
Reduce speed and contact the nearest
BMW center immediately. Severe
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engine misfiring for even a short period
of time can seriously damage emission
control system components, especially
the catalytic converter.
SERVICE ENGINE SOON warn-
ing lamp for Canadian models.
If the gas cap is not on tight
enough, the OBD system can
detect leaking vapor and the indicator
will light up. If the gas cap is then tight-
ened, the indicator will usually go out
after a short period of time.<
OBD interface socket
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
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Replacement procedures
Onboard tool kit
The onboard tool kit is located beneath
the floor panel in the cargo area.
For information on raising the floor
panel, refer to page 113.
Windshield wiper blades
Windshield
1. Switch off the engine
2. Fold the wiper arm completely out
from the windshield
3. Position the wiper blade at an angle
and pull the release spring – see
arrow
4. Fold the wiper blade down and
unhook it toward the windshield
5. Pull the wiper blade past the wiper
arm toward the top
6. Insert a new wiper blade and apply
pressure until you hear it engage.
Rear window
1. Switch off the engine
2. Fold the wiper arm completely out
from the windshield
3. Pull out the wiper blade – see arrow
4. Guide the new wiper blade into
place, continue to apply pressure
until you hear the detent engage.
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Lamps and bulbs
The lamps and bulbs make essential
contributions to the safety of your vehi-
cle. Therefore, proceed carefully when
handling bulbs. BMW recommends that
you have such work performed by your
BMW center if you are not familiar with
the procedures.
Do not touch the glass portion of
a new bulb with your bare hands
since even small amounts of impurities
burn in to the surface and reduce the
service life of the bulb. Use a clean
cloth, paper napkin, or a similar mate-
rial, or hold the bulb by its metallic
base.<
A replacement bulb set is available from
your BMW center.
Before working on the electrical
system, switch off the electrical
accessory you are working on or dis-
connect the cable from the negative
terminal of the battery. Failure to
observe this precaution could result in
short circuits.
To prevent injuries and damage, com-
ply with any instructions provided by
the bulb manufacturer.<
Low beams and high beams
Engine compartment, left side:
1 Low beams
2 High beams
H7 bulb, 55 watts
The H7 bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and pro-
tective gloves. Failure to comply with
this precaution could lead to injury if the
bulb is damaged.<
1. Turn the two release catches at the
front to the left – see arrow – to
remove the bulb holder
2. Remove and replace the bulb.
Insert the new bulb as shown in
the inset.
When attaching the bulb holder, ensure
that the lock snaps in place properly.<
When cleaning the headlamps,
please follow the instructions in
the Caring for your vehicle brochure.<
Xenon lamps
The service life of these bulbs is very
long and the probability of a failure is
very low, provided that they are not
switched on and off an unusual number
of times. If one of these bulbs should
nevertheless fail, it is possible to con-
tinue driving with great caution using
the fog lamps, provided local traffic
laws do not prohibit this.
Because of the extremely high
voltages involved, any work on the
xenon lighting system, including bulb-
changing, should be carried out by
technically-qualified personnel only.
Otherwise, there is a risk of fatal
injury.<
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Parking lamps
5 watt bulb
Engine compartment, left side:
1. Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove
2. Remove and replace the bulb.
Front turn signal indicators
21 watt bulb
1. Extend a screwdriver through the
upper opening and loosen the screw,
continuing until you can extract the
bulb by removing it from the front
2. Disconnect the plug
3. Apply gentle pressure and turn the
bulb toward the letters AUF – refer to
the marking on the housing– then
remove it for replacement
4. Connect the plug
5. Align the lamp assembly's two ridges
and the centering pin with the guides
on the vehicle when installing
6. Slide in the lamp, applying gentle
pressure to seat it firmly
7. Tighten the screw.
Lamps and bulbs
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Side turn signal indicators
5 watt bulb
1. Press the back edge of the lamp
toward the front with the tip of your
finger and remove
2. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
Rear lamps
All bulbs: 21 watts
1 Turn signal indicator
2 Backup lamp
3 Tail lamp
4 Tail lamp/brake lamp
Section of the left cargo area:
Bulbs in the fender:
All of the bulbs are integrated in a cen-
tral bulb holder.
1. Release and remove the cargo area
side panel
2. Release and remove the bulb holder
– see arrow
3. Remove the power plug and lay the
bulb holder to one side, for instance,
on the floor of the cargo area
4. Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and replace the
bulb
5. Plug in the power supply fitting
6. Press the bulb holder into position
until you hear it engage.
Lamps and bulbs
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Bulbs in tailgate:
1. Insert a screwdriver in the recess –
see arrow – and press down to
release the assembly
2. Fold the trim panel down, release the
bulb holder and remove
3. Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and replace the
bulb
4. Press the bulb holder into position
until you hear it engage
5. Press the trim panel back in, continu-
ing until you hear it snap into place.
Center high-mount brake lamp
LED strip on the rear window.
Please contact your BMW center in
case of a malfunction.
License plate lamps
5 watt bulb
1. Place a screwdriver in the slot and
press toward the left to release the
lens
2. Replace the bulb.
Lamps and bulbs
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Tailgate lamp
5 watt bulb
1. Pull out the bulb socket
2. Replace the bulb.
Changing a wheel
Safety precautions in the event of
a flat tire or wheel change:
Stop the vehicle as far as possible from
passing traffic. Park on a firm, flat, sur-
face. Switch on the hazard warning
flashers. Turn the steering wheel to the
straight-ahead position and engage the
steering lock. Shift into 1st or Reverse,
or if you have an automatic transmis-
sion position the selector lever in Park,
and engage the parking brake.
All passengers should be outside the
vehicle and well away from your imme-
diate working area, behind a guardrail,
for instance.
If a warning triangle or portable hazard
warning lamp is available, set it up on
the roadside at an appropriate distance
from the rear of the vehicle. Comply
with all local safety guidelines and reg-
ulations.
Change the wheel only on a level, firm
surface which is not slippery. Avoid
jacking the vehicle on a soft or slippery
support surface – snow, ice, loose
gravel, etc. – as either the vehicle or the
jack could slip sideways.
Position the jack on a firm support sur-
face.
Do not place wooden blocks or similar
objects under the jack. They could pre-
vent the jack from extending to its full
height and reduce its support capacity.
Do not lie under the vehicle or start the
engine when the vehicle is supported
by the jack. There is otherwise a risk of
fatal injury.<
Your BMW is equipped with a spare tire
or a space-saver spare tire designed for
temporary use in maintaining the vehi-
cle's mobility in an emergency.
To remove the spare tire, lift the
floor panel in the cargo area com-
pletely out, refer to page 113.<
Lamps and bulbs
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What you will need
In order to avoid rattling noises later,
note the position of the tools when you
remove them and return them to their
original position when you are done
using them.
> Jack 1
Open the left side cover and remove.
Fold up the floor panel, lift away the
spare tire cover, and screw off the
red wing nut.
When you have completed work,
screw the jack all the way back
down. Fold the handle back and
insert it in its holder
> Chock 2
Behind the vehicle jack. Loosen the
wing nut to remove it
> Lug wrench 3
> Spare tire or space-saver spare tire –
Located next to the jack.
Loosen the wing nut by hand, remove
the storage shelf and take the wheel
out.
Procedure
1. Read and comply with the safety
precautions provided on the previ-
ous page
2. Secure the vehicle to prevent it
from rolling:
Place the chock against the rear
surface of the front tire on the side
opposite the side being raised. If
the vehicle is parked on a down-
ward slope, place the chock
securely in front of the tire. If the
wheel must be changed on a sur-
face with a more severe slope, take
additional precautions to secure
the vehicle from rolling
3. Wheels with full wheel covers*:
reach into the ventilation openings
and pull the cover off
4. Loosen the lug bolts by rotating
half a turn
Changing a wheel
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5. Position the jack at the jacking
point closest to the flat tire with the
jack base vertically below the jack-
ing point. The entire surface of the
head of the jack moves into the
square recess of the jacking point –
refer to the detail in the next illus-
tration – when the jack is cranked
6. Jack the vehicle up until the wheel
you are changing is raised from the
ground
7. Unscrew the lug bolts and remove
the wheel
8. Remove accumulations of mud or
dirt from the mounting surfaces of
the wheel and hub. Clean the lug
bolts
9. Position the new wheel or the
space-saver spare tire on the hub
and screw at least two lug bolts fin-
ger-tight into opposite bolt holes
10. Screw in the remaining lug bolts.
Screw in all the bolts in a diagonal
pattern
11. Lower the jack and remove it from
beneath the vehicle
12. Tighten the lug bolts securely in a
diagonal pattern
13. Wheels with full wheel covers*:
place the wheel cover with the
valve opening over the valve. Use
both hands to press the cover
securely onto the rim
14. Check and correct the tire inflation
pressure at the earliest opportunity.
Vehicles with Flat Tire Monitor:
after mounting the spare tire or
correcting the tire inflation pres-
sure, reinitialize the system, refer to
page 91.
Protect valve stems and valves from dirt
using screw-on valve stem caps. Dirty
valve stems frequently lead to slow
pressure loss.
Changing a wheel
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Do not attempt to install the full
wheel cover on the space-saver
spare tire, since this could damage the
cover.<
The vehicle jack is designed for
changing wheels only. Do not
attempt to raise another vehicle model
with it or to raise any other type of load.
To do so could cause accidents and
personal injury.
To ensure continued safety, have the
tightness of the torque bolts checked
with a calibrated lug wrench – torque
specification: 88.5 lb ft/120 Nm – at the
earliest opportunity.<
When storing a wheel in the spare tire
recess, take care to avoid bending the
threaded rod.
If the original BMW light-alloy wheels
have been replaced with other light-
alloy wheels, different lug bolts may be
required.
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the new wheel/tire
balanced.
Driving with the space-saver
spare tire
Drive cautiously. Do not exceed a
speed of 50 mph / 80 km/h.
Be aware that vehicle handling may be
altered. Anticipate, e.g., reduced track-
ing during braking, longer braking dis-
tances, and changed steering charac-
teristics when approaching limit
conditions. These handling characteris-
tics will be even more pronounced if
winter tires are mounted.
Only one space-saver spare tire
may be mounted at one time.
Mount a wheel and tire of the original
size at the earliest possible opportu-
nity.<
Driving with a spare tire*
For certain wheel/tire combina-
tions, the size of the spare tire will
differ from that of the remaining tires.
The spare tire is fully functional at all
loads and speeds. However, the spare
tire should be replaced at the earliest
possible opportunity in order to achieve
the original operating conditions.<
Run Flat tires*
Run Flat tires are labeled on the side-
wall with a circular symbol containing
the letters RSC. Run Flat tires consist of
self-supporting tires and special rims.
The tire reinforcement ensures that
driving remains possible to a restricted
degree in the event of pressure drop or
even if the tire is deflated.
When mounting or replacing sum-
mer tires with winter tires, or vice
versa, use Run Flat tires since no spare
wheel is available in the event of a flat.
In this event, BMW recommends con-
sulting your BMW center. Your BMW
center has the information needed for
working with Run Flat tires and is
equipped with the necessary special
tools.<
Changing a wheel
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Driving with a damaged tire
Depending on the cargo load, Run Flat
tires allow you to continue driving at a
maximum speed of 50 mph / 80 km/h. If
there is a total loss of tire inflation pres-
sure, 0 psi/0 kPa, or obvious tire dam-
age, you can determine the distance
you may continue driving based on the
following values:
> With a light load:
1 to 2 persons without luggage:
approx. 150 miles/250 km
> With a medium load:
2 persons, full cargo area; or 5 per-
sons without luggage:
approx. 100 miles/150 km
> With a full load:
5 persons, full cargo area:
approx. 30 miles/50 km.
Drive cautiously. Do not exceed a
speed of 50 mph / 80 km/h. Be
aware that vehicle handling will be
altered when there is a loss in inflation
pressure. Anticipate, e.g., reduced
tracking during braking, longer braking
distances and changed steering char-
acteristics.
For safety reasons, BMW recommends
not having damaged Run Flat tires
repaired. In this case, consult your
BMW center.<
Battery
Maintenance
The battery is absolutely maintenance-
free, that is, the original electrolyte will
normally last for the service life of the
battery under moderate climatic condi-
tions.
Please consult your BMW center
whenever you have any questions
concerning the battery.<
Charging the battery
When charging the battery in the vehi-
cle, leave the engine off at all times.
Connect the charge cables to the termi-
nals in the engine compartment. For
terminal locations, refer to Jump-start-
ing on page 153.
Disposal
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW center.
Maintain the battery in an upright posi-
tion for transport and storage. Secure
the battery against tilting during trans-
port.<
Fuses
You will find the fuses and information
on their respective allocation in the
glove compartment behind a panel with
two snap clips.
Do not attempt to repair a blown
fuse or replace it with a fuse
having a different color or amperage
rating. To do this could cause a fire in
the vehicle resulting from a circuit over-
load.<
Run Flat tires*
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Giving and receiving assistance
Receiving assistance
The BMW Group's Mobile Service
offers you 24-hour assistance in the
event of a breakdown, even on week-
ends and holidays.
The telephone numbers of the Mobile
Service control center in your country
are listed in the BMW Dealer Directory.
If your vehicle has the necessary equip-
ment, you can contact the Mobile Ser-
vice or issue an emergency call using
buttons in the interior rearview mirror.
When an emergency call is initiated, a
telephone connection is established
with the general emergency call center.
In vehicles with activated BMW Assist
function, a telephone connection is set
up to the BMW Assist emergency call
center. If the current location of your
vehicle can be determined, this location
is transmitted to the BMW Assist emer-
gency call center.
Fold down the cover.
1 Emergency call
2 Mobile Service
Requirements for initiating an emer-
gency call or contacting Mobile Service:
> The car phone is registered with a
mobile network
> The emergency call system is opera-
tional.
Initiating an emergency call*
Press button 1 for at least 2 seconds.
The indicator lamp above the buttons
lights up. As soon as a telephone con-
nection has been set up to the main
emergency call center, the indicator
lamp flashes.
If the indicator lamp is flashing but you
cannot hear the emergency call center,
you may still be heard by the emer-
gency call center.
For technical reasons, the emer-
gency call function cannot be
guaranteed in certain unfavorable con-
ditions.<
If certain requirements are met, an
emergency call is automatically initiated
after a serious accident. The automatic
emergency call will not be hindered by
pressing the button.
Mobile Service*
To establish contact with the BMW
Group's Mobile Service:
Press button 2 for at least 2 seconds.
The indicator lamp above the buttons
lights up. As soon as a telephone con-
nection has been set up with the Mobile
Service, the indicator lamp flashes.
Depending on the country you are in,
your vehicle's current location will also
be transmitted if your vehicle is
equipped with an activated BMW Assist
function.
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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. Only use jumper cables with
fully insulated handles on the terminal
clamps.
Do not touch high-voltage wiring
and cables on a running engine.
Contact with components carrying high
voltage can be harmful or fatal. Care-
fully observe the following instructions
to avoid personal injury and/or damage
to one or both vehicles.<
Preparations
1. Check whether the battery of the
support vehicle has 12 volts and
approximately the same capacity –
measured in Ah. This information is
provided on the battery
2. Stop the engine of the support vehi-
cle
3. Switch off all electrical components
in both vehicles.
Make absolutely certain that there
is no contact between the body-
work of the two vehicles, otherwise
there is a short circuit hazard.<
Connecting the jumper cables
Always adhere to this sequence
when connecting jumper cables;
failure to observe this procedure can
lead to sparks at the battery terminals
and pose an injury hazard.<
The auxiliary jump-starting terminal
located in your BMW's engine compart-
ment acts as the positive battery termi-
nal. Refer to the engine compartment
overview on page 130. The cover of this
auxiliary terminal is marked with a +.
1. Open the cover of the BMW auxiliary
jump-starting terminal. Do so by pull-
ing the tab – see arrow 1
2. Connect one terminal clamp of the
plus/+ jumper cable to the positive
terminal of the battery or to an auxil-
iary jump-starting terminal of the
support vehicle
3. Connect the second terminal clamp
of the plus/+ jumper cable to the
positive terminal of the battery or to
an auxiliary jump-starting terminal of
the vehicle to be started
4. Your BMW is equipped with a special
nut – see arrow 2 – to serve as the
ground or negative terminal.
Attach a terminal clamp of the
minus/– jumper cable to the negative
terminal of the support vehicle's bat-
tery or to a suitable ground on its
engine or bodywork
5. Attach the second terminal clamp of
the minus/– jumper cable to the neg-
ative terminal of the battery or to a
suitable ground on the engine or
bodywork of the vehicle to be
started.
Starting the engine
1. Start the engine of the support vehi-
cle and let it run for several minutes
at a slightly elevated engine idle
speed
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2. Start the engine of the other vehicle
as usual.
If the first start attempt is not suc-
cessful, 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 in
reverse sequence.
Depending on the cause of the fault,
have the battery checked and
recharged by your BMW center.
Do not use spray starter fluids to
start the engine.<
Towing the vehicle
Always observe all applicable
towing laws and regulations.<
Towing with a commercial tow
truck
> Use wheel lift or flat bed carrier
> Do not tow with sling-type equip-
ment.
Never allow passengers to ride in
a towed vehicle for any reason.
Never attach tie-down hooks, chains,
straps, or tow hooks to tie rods, control
arms, or any other part of the vehicle
suspension, as severe damage to these
components will occur, possibly lead-
ing to accidents.<
Jump-starting
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Towing the vehicle with the front
axle raised
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
1. Towing speed: maximum 45 mph /
70 km/h
2. Towing distance: maximum
90 miles/150 km.
Vehicles with sequential manual gear-
box SMG:
While the ignition is on, move the selec-
tor lever to position N, then turn off the
ignition.
325xi: towing the vehicle with the
front or rear axle raised
1. Place the transmission in Neutral
2. Switch off the engine
3. Towing speed:
max. 30 mph / 50 km/h
4. Towing distance:
max. 90 miles/150 km.
Remove the rear driveshaft for
longer towing distances with the
front axle lifted; remove the front drive-
shaft for towing over longer distances
with the rear axle lifted. Failure to com-
ply with this will result in damage to the
transfer box.<
Towing eyelet
The screw-in towing eyelet is stored in
the onboard tool kit; be sure that it
remains in the vehicle at all times. It can
be attached at the front or rear of the
vehicle. The towing eyelet should not
be used to pull a vehicle out of deep
snow, mud, sand, etc. Always observe
all applicable towing laws and regula-
tions.
Access to tow sockets
Front:
Press out the cover panel with a screw-
driver inserted in the recess at the top.
Towing the vehicle
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Rear:
Press out the cover panel with a screw-
driver inserted in the recess at the top.
Use only the towing eyelet sup-
plied with the vehicle and screw it
in firmly until it stops. Use the towing
eyelet for towing on paved roads only. If
you do not follow these instructions, the
towing eyelet could be torn out and
vehicle damage could occur. Never
attach tie-down hooks, chains, straps,
or tow hooks to tie rods, control arms,
or any other part of the vehicle suspen-
sion, as severe damage to these com-
ponents will occur, possibly leading to
accidents.<
Avoid staggered towing and be
careful that the towing strap is
taut before starting to drive the vehicle
doing the towing.<
Use only a nylon towing strap to tow
the vehicle, since the inherent resil-
ience of this material helps protect both
vehicles from sudden jerking move-
ments.
The towed vehicle should always
be the lighter of the two vehicles.
If this is not the case, it will not be pos-
sible to control vehicle handling.<
Tow-starting
For instructions on jump-starting, refer
to page 153.
Never attempt to use your vehicle to
push another car, since damage to the
energy-absorbing bumpers could
result.
Towing the vehicle
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
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Engine data
325i, 325xi
Displacement
Number of cylinders
cu in/cm
3
152.2/2,494
6
Maximum power output
at engine speed
hp
rpm
184
6,000
Maximum torque
at engine speed
lb ft/Nm
rpm
175/237
3,500
Compression ratio ε 10.5
Stroke
Bore
in/mm
in/mm
2.95/75
3.31/84
Fuel mixture preparation Digital electronic engine-management system (DME)
325xi: power can be tested only on a suitable dynamometer.
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Dimensions
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Weights
325i 325xi
Curb weight
with manual transmission/SMG
with automatic transmission
lbs/kg
lbs/kg
3,362/1,525
3,450/1,565
3,594/1,630
3,627/1,645
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission/SMG
with automatic transmission
lbs/kg
lbs/kg
4,509/2,045
4,597/2,085
4,696/2,130
4,729/2,145
Approved front axle load lbs/kg 1,984/900 2,139/970
Approved rear axle load lbs/kg 2,668/1,210 2,657/1,205
Approved roof load capacity lbs/kg 165/75 165/75
Cargo area capacity cu ft/l 15.4-57.1/435-1,617 15.4-57.1/435-1,617
Approved axle loads and approved gross vehicle weight must never be exceeded.
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Capacities
Notes
Fuel tank
Reserve
gal./liters
gal./liters
approx. 16.6/63
approx. 2.1/8
Fuel specification, refer to
page 25
Windshield/
Headlamp washer reservoir front
Rear window washer reservoir
quarts/liters
quarts/liters
approx. 5.6/5.3
approx. 2.4/2.3
Specifications, refer to
page 132
Engine oil and filter change quarts/liters 325i: approx. 6.9/6.5
325xi: approx. 7.9/7.5
BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil
Oil specifications, refer to
page 132
Manual and automatic transmission,
transfer box and differential
– Lifetime lubricant, no oil
change required
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
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Everything from A to Z
A
ABS Antilock Brake
System 121
indicator lamp 18
Acceleration assistant 70
Accessories, refer to For
your own safety 5
Accident, refer to Emer-
gency call 152
Activated-charcoal filter 104
ADB-X Automatic Differen-
tial Brake, all-wheel 88
Adding brake fluid 135
Additional sources of infor-
mation 4
Air conditioning 96
Air conditioning mode 98
automatic climate
control 102
Air distribution
air conditioning 98
automatic climate
control 102
Air distribution,
individual 102
Air outlets, refer to Ventila-
tion 96, 100
Air pressure, refer to Tire
inflation pressure 25, 124
Air recirculation, refer to
Recirculated-air mode
98, 103
Air supply
air conditioning 98
automatic climate
control 102
Air, drying, refer to Air con-
ditioning mode 98, 102
Airbags 54
indicator lamp 18, 56
sitting safely 44
Airing out, refer to Ventila-
tion 96, 100
Alarm system 38
avoiding unintentional
alarms 39
All-season tires, refer to
Winter tires 127
Antifreeze 134
coolant 134
washer fluid 132
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 121
indicator lamp 18
Anti-theft system 30
Anti-theft warning system,
refer to Alarm system 38
Approved axle loads, refer
to Weights 162
Approved gross weight,
refer to Weights 162
Armrest
front 106
rear 107
Artificial leather, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Ashtray
front 108
rear 108
AUC Automatic recircu-
lated-air control 103
AUTO program, refer
to Automatic air distribu-
tion 102
Automatic
air distribution 102
air supply 102
cruise control 77
headlamp control 93
Automatic car wash, refer to
the Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Automatic climate
control 100
Automatic curb monitor 51
Automatic Differential Brake,
all wheel ADB-X 88
Automatic dimming, interior
rearview mirror 53
Automatic recirculated-air
control (AUC) 103
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 71
indicator lamp 19, 73
interlock 63
selector lever lock 71
shiftlock 71
Automatic windshield
washer, refer to Rain sen-
sor 75
Average fuel
consumption 84
Average speed 84
Avoiding unintentional
alarms 39
Axle loads, refer to
Weights 162
B
Backrest, adjusting 46
Backrest, refer to Seat
adjustment 45, 47
Backup lamps 66
bulb replacement 145
Bandages, refer to First-aid
kit 23
Battery 151
charge 151
disposal 151
indicator lamp 18
jump-starting 153
remote control 30, 31
Battery charge current 18
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167
Belts, refer to Safety
belts 48
Beverage holders 106, 107
Blower
air conditioning 98
automatic climate
control 102
BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oils 133
BMW Maintenance
System 136
BMW sports seat 46
Bore, refer to Engine
data 160
Bottle holders, see Bever-
age holders 106, 107
Brake fluid 135
indicator lamp 18, 135
level 135
Brake force display 92
Brake hydraulic system 122
Brake lamps
bulb replacement 145
indicator lamp, defective
lamp 81
Brake lights
brake force display 92
Brake pads
brake fluid level
18, 122, 135
breaking in 120
disc brakes 122
Brake rotors
brake system 122
breaking in 120
Brake system
brake pads, indicator
lamp 19
Brake wear warning
indicator lamp 19
Brakes
ABS 121
brake fluid 135
breaking in 120
indicator/warning lamp
18, 19
parking brake 65
Break-in procedures 120
Bulb replacement, refer to
Lamps and bulbs 143
Bulb, replacing 143
Buttons in steering wheel 22
C
California Proposition 65
warning 138
Can holders, see Beverage
holders 106, 107
Capacities 163
Car battery 151
Car care, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Car keys, refer to Keys 30
Car radio, refer to Owner's
Manual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
Car telephone
preparation 107
Car telephone, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Car vacuum cleaner, con-
necting 108
Car wash, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Cargo area 37, 111
cover 111
emergency release, refer
to Manual operation 36
floor panel 113
lamps 35
lid, refer to Tailgate 35
opening, remote
control 32
volume 162
Cargo, securing 115
Carpet care, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Cassette operation, refer to
the Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
CBC Cornering Brake Con-
trol 121
warning lamp 18
CD changer, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
CD operation, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Cellular phone 107
Center high-mount brake
lamp
bulb replacement 146
Central locking system 30
button 35
passenger
compartment 35
Charge indicator lamp 18
Check Control 81
Check Gas Cap
indicator lamp 19
Child safety locks 60
Child seats 57
Child-restraint mounting
system (LATCH) 59
Child-restraint systems 57
Chock 148
Cigarette lighter 108
Cigarette lighter socket 108
Clean rear window 76
Cleaning chrome parts, refer
to the Caring for your vehi-
cle brochure
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 605 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Cleaning light alloy wheels,
refer to the Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Cleaning the vehicle, refer to
the Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Cleaning windshield 76
Clock 82
12-/24-hour mode 82
setting, refer also to the
Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Closing
from inside 35
from outside 31
Clothes hooks 121
Clutch
breaking in 120
Cockpit 14
Code, refer to the Owner's
Manual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
Coin box 106
Cold start, refer to Starting
the engine 63
Compact disc operation,
refer to the Owner's Man-
ual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
Compartments 106
Compartments in cargo
area 113
Compression ratio, refer to
Engine data 160
Computer 83
Condensation, refer to Air
conditioning mode 98, 102
Configuring settings, refer to
Vehicle Memory, Key
Memory 61
Connecting a vacuum
cleaner, refer to Cigarette
lighter 108
Consumption
display 79
Consumption, refer to Aver-
age fuel consumption 84
Control elements, refer to
Cockpit 14
Convenience operation
from outside 34
glass sunroof 32
windows 32
Coolant 134
indicator lamp 19, 80
level 134
temperature gauge 80
Coolant water, refer to Cool-
ant 134
Cooling, refer to Tempera-
ture 98, 102
Copyright 4
Cornering Brake Control
(CBC) 121
warning lamp 18
Correct tires 127
Cover, refer to Cargo area
cover 111
Cruise control 77
indicator lamp 20
Cup holders, see Beverage
holders 106, 107
Curb weight, refer to
Weights 162
Current consumption, refer
to Energy control 79
Cylinders, refer to Engine
data 160
D
Dashboard, refer to
Cockpit 14
Data
capacities 163
dimensions 161
engine 160
technical 160
weights 162
Daytime driving lamps 93
DBC Dynamic Brake Control
19, 121
Deep water, refer to Water
on roadways 121
Defrost position, refer
to Defrosting windows
99, 102
Defrosting and demisting
windows
air conditioning 99
automatic climate
control 102
Defrosting windows 99, 102
Defrosting windshield,
refer to Defrosting win-
dows 99, 102
Demisting windows
air conditioning 99
automatic climate
control 102
Determining the maximum
load 114
Differential
breaking in 120
Digital clock 82
Dimensions 161
Dipstick, engine oil 132
Disc brakes 122
Displacement, refer to
Engine data 160
Display lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting 94
Displays, refer to Instrument
cluster 16
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169
Disposal
oil 133
vehicle battery 151
Distance warning, refer to
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 85
Door key 30
Door lock 34
Doors
emergency operation 34
Draft-free ventilation 99, 103
Driving light, refer to Parking
lamps/Low beams 93
Driving notes 121
Dry air, refer to Air condi-
tioning mode 98, 102
DSC Dynamic Stability Con-
trol 86
indicator lamp 19, 86
DTC Dynamic Traction Con-
trol 86
indicator lamp 19, 86
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC) 19, 121
indicator lamp 19
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 19, 86
Dynamic Traction Control
(DTC) 86
indicator lamp 19, 86
E
Electric glass sunroof 41
Electric power windows 40
Electrical accessories, fail-
ure 151
Electrical malfunction
automatic transmission
with Steptronic 73
door lock 34
driver's door 34
fuel filler door 24
glass sunroof 43
tailgate 36
Electronic Stability Program
(ESP), refer to Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) 86
Emergency call 152
Emergency operation
doors 34
driver's door 34
fuel filler door 24
glass sunroof 43
Emergency release
tailgate 36
Emissions, minimum, refer
to Energy control 79
Energy control 79
Engine
breaking in 120
data 160
electronics 19
indicator lamp 19
speed 79, 160
starting 63
switching off 65
Engine compartment 130
Engine coolant 134
adding 134
Engine oil
adding 133
additives, refer to Adding
engine oil 133
capacity 163
indicator/warning lamp 19
quality 133
viscosity 134
Engine oil consumption 132
Engine oil level 19
check 132
indicator/warning lamp 18
Engine oil pressure
indicator/warning lamp 18
Engine oil types 133
Engine output, refer to
Engine data 160
Engine speed 79, 160
Environmentally-friendly
driving, refer to Energy
control 79
ESP Electronic Stability Pro-
gram, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control DSC 86
Exterior mirrors 52
Eyeglasses
compartment 107
Eyelet, towing 155
F
False alarm, refer to
Avoiding unintentional
alarms 39
Fastening the safety belts 48
Fault displays 81
First aid, refer to First-aid
kit 23
First-aid kit 23
Flashlight 106
Flashlight, refer to
Rechargeable
flashlight 106
Flat tire 147
Flat Tire Monitor 91
space-saver spare tire 147
Flat Tire Monitor 91
indicator lamp 18, 19, 92
Flat tire, refer to Tire condi-
tion 124
Floor panel, lifting 113
Fluid reservoir for washer
systems 132
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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 605 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Fog lamps 95
indicator/warning lamp 20
Folding rear backrest 111
Follow me home lamps 93
Footbrake, refer to General
driving notes 121
Front airbags 54
Front center armrest 106
Front fog lamps 95
indicator lamp 20
Fuel
display 80
quality 25
volume 163
Fuel consumption
display 84
Fuel display, refer to Fuel
gauge 80
Fuel economy, refer to
Energy control 79
Fuel filler door 24
release following an elec-
trical malfunction 24
Fuel gauge 79
Fuel level indicator, refer to
Fuel gauge 80
Fuel mixture preparation 160
Fuel reserve indicator, refer
to Fuel gauge 80
Fuel tank capacity 163
Fuses 151
G
Gasoline consumption, refer
to Average fuel consump-
tion 84
Gasoline, refer to Fuel spec-
ifications 25
Gear indicator 69, 73
Gear lever
automatic transmission
with Steptronic 71
sequential manual gear-
box SMG 67
Gearbox
manual transmission 66
Gearshift lever
manual transmission 66
General driving notes 121
Glass sunroof
convenience operation
32, 34
remote control 31, 32
Glass sunroof, electric 41
closing following an elec-
trical malfunction 43
Glove compartment 105
Grills, refer to Ventilation
96, 100
Gross weight, refer to
Weights 162
H
Handbrake, refer to Parking
brake 65
Hands-free system 107
Harman Kardon premium
sound system 105
Hazard warning flashers 14
Hazard warning triangle 23
HDC Hill Descent Control 90
Head airbags 54
Head restraints 48
Headlamp cleaning system
cleaning headlamps 76
washer fluid 132, 163
Headlamp control, auto-
matic 93
Headlamp flasher 94
indicator lamp 21
Headlamps
bulb replacement 143
care, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Heated mirrors 52
Heated rear window
air conditioning 98
automatic climate
control 103
Heated seats 51
Heating
exterior mirrors 52
rear window 98, 103
seats 51
Heating and ventilation
96, 100
Heavy loads, refer to Cargo
loading 114
Height adjustment
seats 45, 47
steering wheel 52
Height, refer to
Dimensions 161
High beams 74, 94
bulb replacement 143
headlamp flasher 94
indicator lamp 21
Hill Descent Control
(HDC) 90
Holder for
beverages 106, 107
litter bag 107
Hood release 129
Horn 14
Hub cap 148
Hydraulic brake assistant,
refer to DBC 121
Hydraulic system
brakes 122
Hydroplaning 121
I
Ice warning 83
Ignition 63
Ignition key 30
positions 63
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171
Ignition lock 63
Imprint 4
Indicator lamps 18
Indicator/warning lamp
airbags 18
alarm system 38
brakes 18, 19
Check Gas Cap 19
coolant 19, 80
DSC 19
Flat Tire Monitor
18, 19, 92
fog lamps 20
Please fasten safety
belts 18
reserve 80
Service Engine Soon 19
Individual air distribution 102
Individual settings, refer to
Vehicle Memory, Key
Memory 61
Inflation pressure 124
Inflation pressure monitor-
ing, refer to Flat Tire Moni-
tor 91
Inflation pressure, tires 25
INSPECTION 81
Instrument cluster 16
Instrument lighting 94
Instrument panel 14
Interface socket for onboard
diagnostics (OBD) 138
Interior lamps 95
remote control 32
Interior motion sensor 38
switching off 39
Interior rearview mirror 53
automatic dimming
feature 53
Interior temperature
adjusting 98, 102
Interlock, refer to Steering
wheel lock 63
Intermittent
mode, wipers 75
Interval
display, service 81
J
Jack 147
Jacking points 148
Jump-starting 153
K
Key Memory 61
Keys 30
with remote control 30
Kickdown 68, 72
L
Lamp defect 143
Lamps and bulbs 143
Lashing down loads, refer to
Cargo loading 113
Lashing eyelets, refer to
Securing cargo 115
Lashing fittings, refer to
Securing cargo 115
LATCH child-restraint
mounting system 59
Leather care, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
LEDs light-emitting
diodes 95
Length, refer to
Dimensions 161
License plate lamp
bulb replacement 146
Light switch 93
Light-emitting diodes
LEDs 95
Lighter 108
LIGHTS ON warning 93
Lights, refer to Parking
lamps/Low beams 93
Litter bag holder 107
Load, refer to Cargo
loading 113
Loading
vehicle 113
Lock buttons on doors, refer
to Locking 35
Lock, steering wheel 63
Locking
from inside 35
from outside 31, 34
Locking and unlocking
doors
from inside 35
from outside 31, 34
Low beams 93
automatic 93
bulb replacement 143
indicator lamp, defective
lamp 81
Lug bolts 148
key 148
torque 148
Luggage area cover, see
Cargo area cover 111
Luggage compartment, refer
to Cargo area 37
Luggage net, refer to Parti-
tion net 111
Luggage rack, refer to Roof-
mounted luggage rack 116
Luggage straps 37
Lumbar support 47
M
M+S tires, refer to Winter
tires 127
Maintenance 81, 136
Maintenance system 136
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 605 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Making telephone calls,
refer to the telephone
Owner's Manual
Malfunction
door lock 34
fuel filler door 24
Malfunction displays 81
Manual operation
door lock 34
driver's door 34
fuel filler door 24
glass sunroof 43
tailgate 36
Manual transmission 66
Master keys
with remote control 30
MC operation, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
MD operation, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Mechanical seats 45
Memory, refer to Seat and
mirror memory 50
Memory, refer to Vehicle
Memory, Key Memory 61
Microfilter
air conditioning 99
automatic climate
control 104
Microphone, refer to Cellular
phone 107
Mini disc operation, refer to
the Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Mirror
automatic curb monitor 51
Mirrors 52
heated 52
memory, refer to Seat and
mirror memory 50
Mobile Service 152
Modifications, technical,
refer to For your own
safety 5
Multifunction steering
wheel 22
Multifunction switch
turn signal indicator/head-
lamp flasher 74
washer/wiper system 75
N
Navigation system, refer to
the Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Neck restraints, refer to
Head restraints 48
Nets 106
Nozzles, refer to Ventilation
96, 100
O
OBD interface socket 138
Odometer 79
Oil
additives, refer to Adding
engine oil 133
capacity 163
dipstick 132
quality 133
viscosity 133
Oil change interval, refer
to Service interval
display 136
Oil change intervals, refer to
the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet for US
models/Warranty and Ser-
vice Guide Booklet for
Canadian models
Oil consumption 132
Oil dipstick 132
Oil filter change 163
Oil level
checking 132
indicator lamp 18
Oil pressure
indicator lamp 18
OIL SERVICE 81
Oil types 133
Old batteries, refer to Dis-
posal 151
Onboard computer 83
Onboard computer, refer to
the Owner's Manual for
Onboard Computer
Onboard tool kit 142
Opening and closing
from inside 35
from outside 31
via door lock 34
via remote control 31
Outlets, ventilation 96, 100
Outside temperature dis-
play 83
changing unit of
measure 83
P
Paintwork care, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Panic mode – trigger
alarm 32
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 85
Parking aid, refer to Park
Distance Control (PDC) 85
Parking brake 65
indicator lamp 18
Parking lamps 93
bulb replacement 144
Parking lamps/Low
beams 93
Partition net 111
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173
Parts and accessories, refer
to Your individual vehicle 5
Passenger-side exterior mir-
ror tilt function 51
PDC Park Distance
Control 85
Pinch protection
glass sunroof 42
Plastic, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Please fasten safety belts
indicator lamp 18
Pollen, refer to Microfilter 99
Pollen, refer to Microfil-
ter/Activated charcoal fil-
ter 104
Power output, refer to
Engine data 160
Power seat 47
Power supply, refer to Ciga-
rette lighter socket 108
Power windows
safety switch 41
Pressure monitoring, tires
Flat Tire Monitor 91
Pressure, tires 25, 124
Protective function
electric power windows 40
Putting the vehicle into stor-
age
refer to the Caring for your
vehicle brochure
R
Radio remote control key,
refer to Master key with
remote control 30
Radio, refer to the Owner's
Manual for Radio
Rain sensor 75
Range 84
Reading lamps
front 95
rear 95
Rear armrest, refer to Rear
center armrest 107
Rear backrest, folding 111
Rear center armrest 107
Rear lamps
bulb replacement 145
indicator lamp, defective
lamp 81
Rear window
remote control 32
Rear window defroster
air conditioning 98
Rear window heating
automatic climate
control 103
Rear window shelf, refer to
Cargo area cover 111
Rear window wiper 76
changing 142
Rearview mirror 52
Receiving assistance 152
Recirculated-air mode
air conditioning 98
automatic climate
control 103
Recirculating the air, refer
to Recirculated-air mode
98, 103
Reclining seat, refer to Seat
adjustment 45, 47
Refueling 24
fuel filler door 24
Releasing
hood 129
Remaining distance to ser-
vice 81
Remaining distance, refer to
Range 84
Remote control 31
malfunction 32
Replacement key 31
Replacing lamps, refer to
Lamps and bulbs 143
Replacing tires 125
Reporting safety defects 7
Restraint systems
for children 57
Restraint systems, refer to
Safety belts 48
Reverse
automatic transmission
with Steptronic 71
SMG gearbox 68
Reverse gear
manual transmission 66
Roof load capacity 162
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 116
Run Flat tires 126, 150
S
Safe seating position 44
Safety belt height adjust-
ment 49
Safety belts 48
sitting safely 44
warning lamp 18
Safety feature
glass sunroof 42
Safety instructions 5
Safety switches for rear win-
dows 41
Safety systems
refer to Antilock Brake
System 121
refer to Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) 86
Screwdriver, refer to
Onboard tool kit 142
Seat adjustment 45
BMW sports seat 46
mechanical 45
power 47
Seat belt tensioner, refer to
Safety belts 48
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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 605 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Seat heating 51
Seat memory, refer to Seat
and mirror memory 50
Seat positions, storing 50
Seats 45
Securing cargo 115
Securing the vehicle
from inside 35
from outside 31, 34
Selector lever
automatic transmission 71
sequential manual gear-
box SMG 67
Selector lever lock, refer to
Shiftlock 67, 71
Selector lever positions
automatic transmission 71
sequential manual gear-
box SMG 67
Sequential manual gearbox
SMG 67
indicator lamp 19
Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet 136
SERVICE ENGINE SOON
warning lamp 19
Service interval display
81, 136
Shift paddles 68
Shifting gears
automatic transmission
with Steptronic 71
sequential manual gear-
box SMG 68
Shiftlock 67
Shiftlock, refer to Range
selection 71
Side airbags 54
Side turn signal indicators
bulb replacement 145
Sitting safely
with airbags 44
with safety belts 44
Size 161
Ski bag 110
Sliding/tilt sunroof, refer to
Electric glass sunroof 41
SMG sequential manual
gearbox 67
indicator lamp 19
Smokers' package, refer to
Ashtray 108
Snow chains 128
SOS, refer to Emergency
call 152
Space-saver spare tire
changing a wheel 147
Spare key 30
Spare tire 147
Spare wheel 150
Speed gauge, refer to
Speedometer 16
Speedometer 16
Split rear backrest, refer to
Folding rear backrest 111
SPORT button 70
Sport program
automatic transmission
with Steptronic 72
Sports seat 46
Stability control, refer to
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 86
Standing lamps 94
Starting difficulties
jump-starting 153
temperature 63
Starting help DSC 86
Starting the engine 63
Starting, refer to Starting the
engine 63
Status of the Owner's Man-
ual 5
Steering wheel lock 63
Steering wheel, adjusting 52
Steptronic, refer to Manual
operation 72
Storage compartments 106
Storage nets 106
Storage space, refer to
Cargo area 111
Storing seat positions,
refer to Seat and mirror
memory 50
Storing tires 127
Stroke, refer to Engine
data 160
Surface ice, refer to Ice
warning 83
Switches, refer to
Cockpit 14
Switching off
engine 65
vehicle 65
Symbols 4
Synthetic oils 133
T
Tachometer 79
Tail lamps
bulb replacement 145
Tail lamps, refer to Rear
lamps 145
Tailgate 35
emergency operation 36
indicator lamp 81
opening from inside the
vehicle 36
opening from outside 35
opening, remote
control 32
remote control 32
unlocking manually 36
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Everything from A to Z
175
Tailgate lamp
bulb replacement 147
Tank capacity, refer to Fuel
tank capacity 163
Tank indicator, refer to Fuel
gauge 80
Technical data 160
Technical modifications 5
Technical modifications,
refer to For your own
safety 5
Telephone hookup 107
Telephone, refer to the sep-
arate Owner's Manual
Television, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Onboard Computer
Temperature
air conditioning 98
automatic climate
control 102
Temperature adjustment
98, 102
Temperature display
engine coolant 80
ice warning 83
outside temperature 83
setting units 83
Temperature layering
99, 103
Tempomat, refer to Cruise
control 77
Thigh support area, adjust-
ing 46
Third brake lamp, refer to
Center high-mount brake
lamp 146
Three-point safety belt 48
Through-loading system 111
Tilt alarm sensor 32
remote control 32
switching off 39
Tilting passenger-side exte-
rior mirror 51
Time 82
Tire change 147
Tire pressure monitoring,
refer to Flat Tire
Monitor 91
Tire replacement 125, 147
Tires
age 126
breaking in 120
changing 147
condition 128
damage 124
flat 147
inflation pressure 25, 124
replacing 125
size, refer to Wheel and
tire combinations 127
storing 127
tread 124
treadwear indicator,
refer to Tire tread – tire
damage 124
winter tires 127
Tools, refer to Onboard tool
kit 142
Torque 160
engine 148
lug bolts 148
Tow sockets for towing eye-
let 155
Towing eyelet 155
Towing the vehicle 154
Track width, refer to Dimen-
sions 161
Transmission
automatic transmission
with Steptronic 71
sequential manual gear-
box SMG 67
Transmission lock, refer to P
Park 71
Transmission malfunction
automatic transmission
with Steptronic 73
sequential manual gear-
box SMG 69
Transport securing devices,
refer to Securing
cargo 115
Transporting children
safely 57
Trap protection
electric power windows 40
Tread depth, refer to Tire
tread 124
Treadwear indicator in the
tires, refer to Tire tread –
tire damage 124
Treadwear, tires 124
Trigger alarm – Panic
mode 32
Trip distance recorder, refer
to Trip odometer 79
Trip meter, refer to Trip
odometer 79
Trip odometer 79
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 605 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Trunk lid, refer to Tailgate 35
Trunk lighting, refer to cargo
area lighting 35
Trunk, refer to Cargo area
Turn signal indicator 74
bulb replacement 144
indicator lamp 20
Turn signal indicator, side
bulb replacement 145
Turning circle, refer to
Dimensions 161
TV function, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Onboard Computer
U
Underbody protection, refer
to the Caring for your vehi-
cle brochure
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading 126
Units
average fuel
consumption 84
temperature 83
Unlocking
from inside 35
from outside 31, 34
V
Valve
screw caps 148
Vehicle
battery 151
break-in procedures 120
care, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
dimensions 161
loading 113
starting 63
switching off 65
washing, refer to the Car-
ing for your vehicle bro-
chure 75
weight 162
Vehicle Memory 61
Vehicle storage
refer to the Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Vehicle weight 162
Ventilation 96, 100
draft-free 99, 103
Viscosity 134
Voice Input System 22
Voice recognition, refer to
separate Owner's Manual
Volume
cargo area 162
W
Warning and indicator
lamps 18
Warning lamp
Please fasten safety
belts 18
Warning messages 81
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet 136
Warranty, refer to separate
booklet 7
Washer fluid
adding 132, 163
Washer fluid reservoir 132
volume 132
Washer jets, refer to Wind-
shield washer jets 76
Washer/wiper system 75, 76
washer fluid 132
Waste tray, refer to
Ashtray 108
Water on roadways, deep
water 121
Weights 162
Wheel and tire
combinations 127
Wheelbase, refer to Dimen-
sions 161
Wheels and tires 127
Wheelslip control DSC 86
Width, refer to
Dimensions 161
Window condensation
removing 99, 102
Windows
convenience operation
32, 34
power 40
remote control 31, 32
Windshield washer
nozzles 76
Windshield washer reservoir
volume, see
Capacities 163
Windshield washer reser-
voir, filling 132, 163
Windshield wipers, refer to
Washer/wiper system 75
Winter tires 127
condition 128
storing 127
Wiper blades
replacing 142
Work in the engine compart-
ment 129
Wrench, refer to Onboard
tool kit 142
X
Xenon lamps
bulb replacement 143
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 605 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Refueling
To ensure that you always have conve-
nient access to all essential information
when you stop for fuel, we recommend
that you fill out the adjoining chart by
entering the data that apply to your
vehicle. Consult the index for individual
specifications.
Fuel
Please enter your preferred fuel here.
Engine oil
The oil volume between the two marks
on the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts/1 liter.
Tire inflation pressure
Designation
Quality
Summer tires Winter tires
Front Rear Front Rear
Up to 4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 605 - © 09/03 BMW AG
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