M3 convertible
BMW recommends Castrol
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW M3 convertible.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced security and
control 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 M3
convertible. The manual contains important data and instructions intended to assist
you in obtaining maximum satisfaction from your BMW M3 convertible's unique
array of advanced technical features. It also contains information on care and main-
tenance designed to enhance operating safety while simultaneously helping you to
maintain your BMW's value throughout an extended service life.
BMW M also offers BMW driver training courses specifically designed to serve as
an important element within our overall drive to promote greater highway safety.
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.
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet
(US models) or a Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
We recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.
Your BMW M3 convertible is covered by the following warranties:
– New Vehicle Limited Warranty
– Limited Rust Perforation Warranty
– Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
– Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
– California Emission Control System Limited Warranty
Detailed information about these warranties is listed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW M
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
© 2001 BMW M GmbH
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW M GmbH, Munich.
Part number 01 41 0 155 719
US English XII/00
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper
(bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling).
4n
Notes on the Owner's Manual
We have made every effort to ensure
that you are able to find what you need
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as
possible. The fastest way to find certain
topics is by using the detailed index at
the end. If you wish to gain only an
initial overview of your vehicle, you will
find this in the first chapter.
The table of contents is intended to
pique your interest regarding your
BMW and to encourage you to read the
manual.
Should you wish to sell your BMW at
some time in the future, please
remember to hand over the Owner's
Manual to the new owner; it is part of
the vehicle.
Should you have any further questions,
your BMW center will be glad to assist
at any time.
Symbols used
Indicates instructions or precau-
tions that must be followed
precisely in order to avoid the possi-
bility 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
environment.
<
<
Marks the end of a specific item of
information.
*
Indicates special equipment,
country-specific equipment and
optional extras.
t
Identifies index entries that refer
to owner service procedures or topics
on car care.
Identifies systems or components,
which your BMW center can either
activate or adapt to suit an individual
driver's requirements ("Car Memory",
"Key Memory"). Refer to page 55.
<
Your individual vehicle
In buying your BMW, you have decided
in favor of a model with individualized
equipment and features. This Owner's
Manual describes all of the equipment
that the BMW M3 convertible has to
offer you.
We hope you will understand that
equipment and features are included
which you might not have chosen for
your vehicle. You can easily spot any
possible differences, since all optional
accessories are marked with an
asterisk
*
.
If your BMW features equipment which
is not described in this Owner's Manual
(car radio or telephone, for instance),
Supplementary Owner's Manuals are
enclosed. We ask you to read these
manuals as well.
Notes
Symbols
The individual vehicle
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
5n
Status at time of printing
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development that is conceived
to ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality and safety
standards combined with advanced,
state-of-the-art technology. For this
reason, it is possible that the features
described in this Owner's Manual could
differ from those on your vehicle. Nor
can errors and omissions be entirely
ruled out. You are therefore asked to
appreciate that no legal claims can be
entertained on the basis of the data,
illustrations or descriptions in this
Owner's Manual.
Status at time of printing
For your own safety
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
6n
For your own safety
Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels
containing up to and including
10% ethanol or other oxygenates with
up to 2.8% oxygen by weight (i.e. 15%
MTBE or 3% methanol plus an equiva-
lent amount of co-solvent) will not void
the applicable warranties covering
defects in materials or workmanship.
Field experience has indicated signifi-
cant differences in fuel quality (volatility,
composition, additives, etc.) among
gasolines offered for sale in the United
States and Canada. The use of poor-
quality fuels may result in drivability,
starting and stalling problems espe-
cially under certain environmental
conditions, such as high ambient
temperature and high altitude.
Should you encounter driveability prob-
lems which you suspect could be
related to the fuel you are using, we
recommend that you respond by
switching to a recognized high-quality
brand.
Failure to comply with these recom-
mendations may result in unscheduled
maintenance.
Obey pertinent safety rules when you
are handling gasoline.
<
Important safety information!
For your own safety, use genuine parts
and accessories approved by BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested
and approved by BMW and Original
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire
the assurance that they have been thor-
oughly tested by BMW to ensure
optimum performance when installed
on your vehicle.
BMW warrants these parts to be free
from defects in material and workman-
ship.
BMW will not accept any liability for
damage resulting from installation of
parts and accessories not approved by
BMW.
BMW cannot test every product on the
market to verify if it can be used on a
BMW safely and without risk to either
the vehicle, its operation, or its occu-
pants.
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 CB, walkie-
talkie, ham radio or similar) may cause
extensive damage to the vehicle,
compromise its safety, interfere with
the vehicle's electrical system or affect
the validity of the BMW Limited
Warranty. Contact your BMW center for
additional information.
<
Maintenance, replacement, or
repair of the emission control
devices and systems may be performed
by any automotive repair establishment
or individual using any certified auto-
motive part.
<
Symbol on vehicle parts
Indicates that you should consult
the relevant section of this
Owner's Manual for information on a
specific part or assembly.
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7n
The following only applies to vehicles owned and operated in the US.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect that could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should
immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying BMW of
North America, Inc., PO. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone (201) 307-4000.
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, Inc.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can
also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
9n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Contents
Overview
Controls and features
Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 24
Hazard warning flashers 25
Warning triangle 25
Refueling 26
Fuel specifications 27
Tire inflation pressures 27
Opening and closing:
Keys 32
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 33
Central locking system 33
Opening and closing – via the
door lock 34
Opening and closing – via the
remote control 35
Opening and closing – from
inside 38
Luggage compartment lid 39
Luggage compartment 40
Alarm system 42
Electric power windows 44
Convertible top 45
Adjustments:
Seats 48
Mirrors 52
Seat and mirror memory 54
Steering wheel 55
Car Memory, Key Memory 55
Passenger safety systems:
Safety belts 57
Transporting children safely 58
Airbags 61
Rollover protection system 64
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 66
Starting the engine 66
Switching off the engine 67
Parking brake 67
Manual transmission 68
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp
flasher 69
Washer/Wiper system 69
Rear window defroster 71
Cruise control 71
Everything under control:
Odometer 73
Tachometer 73
Engine oil temperature gauge 73
Fuel gauge 74
Coolant temperature gauge 74
Service Interval Display 75
Check Control 76
Clock 76
Computer 77
Technology for safety and
convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 79
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 80
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) 81
M Engine dynamics control 83
Contents
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11n
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Lamps:
Side lamps/Low beam
headlamps 84
Instrument lighting 84
High beams/Parking lamps 85
Fog lamps 85
Interior lamps 86
Reading lamps 86
Controlling the climate
for pleasant driving:
Automatic climate control 88
Heated seats 93
Interior conveniences:
Glove compartment 94
Storage compartments 95
Cellular phone 96
Ashtray, front 96
Cigarette lighter 97
Ashtray, rear 97
Loading and transporting:
Ski bag 98
Cargo loading 100
Roof-mounted luggage rack for
the hardtop 101
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 104
Driving notes 105
Catalytic converter 105
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 106
Disc brakes 108
Brake system 109
Winter operation 110
Power steering 112
Cellular phone 112
Radio reception 112
Hardtop 113
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressures 115
Tire condition 115
Tire replacement 116
Tire rotation 117
Wheel and tire
combinations 118
Special features of winter
tires 119
Snow chains 119
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 120
Under the hood:
Hood 121
Engine compartment 124
Washer fluids 126
Washer nozzles 126
Engine oil 127
Coolant 129
Brake fluid 130
Vehicle Identification 130
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 131
Caring for your vehicle 132
Cleaning and caring for the
convertible top 137
Airbags 139
Storing your vehicle 140
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 141
California Proposition 65
Warning 141
OBD connector 142
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Contents
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technical data
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 146
Windshield wiper blades 146
Lamps and bulbs 146
Repairing a flat tire 153
Battery 157
Fuses 160
Replacing microfilter and
activated-charcoal filter 161
In case of electrical
malfunction:
Fuel filler door 161
Convertible top 162
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 164
Towing the vehicle 165
Airbags 168
Radio reception 169
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 170
Safety belt tensioner 170
M3 Engine concept 171
Rain sensor 172
Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimming
feature 173
Xenon lamps 174
Rollover protection system 175
Engine data 178
Dimensions 179
Weights 180
Capacities 181
Electrical system 182
Drive belts 182
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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
15n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 24
Hazard warning flashers 25
Warning triangle 25
Refueling 26
Fuel specifications 27
Tire inflation pressures 27
Overview
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Cockpit
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Cockpit
1 Side lamps/Low beam
headlamps 84
2
d
Turn signal indicator 69
>
Parking lamps 85
>
High beams 85
>
Headlamp flasher 69
>
Computer 77
3 Washer/Wiper system 69
4 Hazard warning flashers 25
5 Shift lever 68
6 Rear window defroster 71
7 Central locking system 33
8 Adjusting steering wheel 55
9 Horn: the entire surface
10 Fog lamps 85
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Instrument cluster
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Instrument cluster
1 Fuel gauge with indicator lamp for
fuel reserve 74
2 Turn signal indicator 23
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for
>
Battery charge current 20
>
High beams 23
>
Engine oil pressure/Engine oil
level 20, 21
5 Tachometer and engine oil temper-
ature gauge 73
6 Engine coolant temperature gauge
with "Coolant temperature too high"
indicator 74
7 Indicator and warning lamps (clock-
wise) for
>
Parking brake/Brake system
hydraulic circuits/Cornering
Brake Control (CBC) 20, 21
>
Antilock Brake System (ABS) 21
>
Brake pads 22
>
Tire Pressure Warning
(RDW) 20, 22
>
Rollover protection system 22
>
Airbags 21
>
Please fasten safety belts, lock
backrest 21
>
Cruise control 23
8 Reset button for
>
Clock 76
>
Unit of measure for outside
temperature display 77
9 Indicator lamp for Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) 22
10 Display panel for
>
Odometer 73
>
Trip odometer 73
>
Clock 76
>
Service Interval 75
Computer display, using the turn
signal lever to operate, refer to
page 77:
>
Clock
>
Outside temperature
>
Average fuel consumption
>
Cruising range
>
Average speed
11 Check Control display 76
12 Trip odometer, reset to zero 73
13 Indicator and warning lamps (clock-
wise) for
>
Fog lamps 23
>
Add washer fluid 22
>
Coolant level 22
>
Electronic Engine Power Control
(EML) 22
>
Service Engine Soon 22
You can have the outside temper-
ature and distance traveled shown
in other units of measurement.
<
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20n
Indicator and warning lamps
Technology
that monitors itself
Many of the systems in your BMW
monitor themselves automatically, both
during engine starts and while you are
driving. Indicator and warning lamps
identified by "
●
" are tested for proper
operation whenever the ignition key is
turned. They each light up once for
different 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 below.
Red: stop immediately
Battery charge current
●
The battery is no longer being
charged. Indicates a problem
with the alternator's drive belt or a
defect in the charging circuit. Please
contact the nearest BMW center.
Never attempt to continue driving
with a defective alternator drive
belt, as this could result in overheating
and serious engine damage. A defec-
tive belt also leads to a substantial
increase in the amount of effort
required to steer the vehicle.
<
Engine oil pressure
●
Stop vehicle immediately and
switch off engine. Check the
engine oil and top up as required. If the
oil level is correct: please contact the
nearest BMW center.
Do not attempt to continue
driving, as lack of adequate lubri-
cation can lead to serious engine
damage.
<
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
This display is accompanied by
an audible warning signal: the
vehicle has a flat tire. Reduce your
speed immediately and avoid all abrupt
braking or steering maneuvers as you
bring the vehicle to a halt.
For additional information, refer to
page 81.
Brake warning lamp ●
If the lamp comes on when the
parking brake is not engaged:
Check the brake fluid level. Before
driving further, be sure to comply with
the information on pages 109 and 130.
Brake warning lamp for Cana-
dian models.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Indicator and warning lamps
Red: an important reminder
Parking brake ●
Comes on when the parking
brake is applied – an additional
acoustic signal sounds when starting
off.
For additional information, refer to
page 67.
Brake warning lamp for Cana-
dian models.
Lock backrest/Please fasten
safety belt ●
The warning lamp flashes if a
backrest detent is not locked in place,
or comes on continuously if a safety
belt has not (yet) been fastened. The
visual warning is supplemented by an
acoustic signal.
For detailed information on locking the
backrest, refer to page 51.
For additional information on safety
belts, refer to page 57.
Airbags ●
Please respond to any defects
by having the system checked
at your BMW center as soon as
possible.
For additional information, refer to
pages 61, 168.
Red and yellow:
continue driving cautiously
The red brake warning lamp
comes on together with the
yellow indicator lamps for ABS
and DSC:
The entire ABS, CBC and DSC
control system has failed.
Continue driving cautiously and
defensively. Avoid hard brake
applications. Please have the system
checked by your BMW center as soon
as possible.
For additional information, refer to
page 80, 107.
ABS, CBC and DSC indicator
and warning lamps for Canadian
models.
Yellow: check as soon as possible
Antilock Brake System (ABS) ●
ABS has been deactivated in
response to a system malfunc-
tion. Conventional braking efficiency is
available without limitations. Please
have the system checked by your BMW
center.
For additional information, refer to
page 106.
ABS warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Engine oil level
Lights up while driving:
The oil level is at the absolute
minimum; therefore, add engine oil as
soon as possible. Do not drive more
than approx. 30 miles (50 km) until you
do.
For additional information, refer to
page 127.
Engine oil level
Comes on after the engine has
been shut off: add more engine
oil the next time you stop for gas.
For additional information, refer to
page 127.
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22n
Indicator and warning lamps
Brake pads
●
Have the brake pads checked.
For additional information, refer
to page 109.
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
●
RDW has been switched off or
has been deactivated in
response to a malfunction. In the event
of a malfunction, have the system
checked by your nearest BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
pages 27, 81.
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC)
●
If the indicator lamp flashes:
The system is active and governs drive
force and braking force.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or if it comes on
during normal driving and stays on:
DSC has been switched off or has been
deactivated in response to a malfunc-
tion. In the event of a malfunction, have
the system checked by your nearest
BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
page 80.
Add washer fluid
The washer fluid is too low. Top
up the fluid at the earliest
opportunity.
For additional information, refer to
page 126.
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 142.
Warning lamp: Service Engine
Soon for Canadian models.
Engine electronics
●
There is a fault in the engine's
electronic control system. The
electronics allow for continued driving
with reduced engine output or speed.
Please have the system checked by
your BMW center.
Add coolant
The coolant level is too low. Add
coolant at the earliest opportu-
nity.
For additional information, refer to
page 129.
Rollover protection system
●
The rollover protection system
has been deactivated in
response to a malfunction. Please have
the system checked by your BMW
center as soon as possible.
For additional information, refer to
page 64.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Indicator and warning lamps
Green: for your information
Turn signal indicator
Flashes when the turn signal is
on. Rapid flashing indicates a
system malfunction.
For additional information, refer to
page 69.
Cruise control
Lights up when the cruise
control is activated: available for
operation via the multifunction steering
wheel.
For additional information, refer to
page 71.
Fog lamps
Comes on whenever you switch
on the fog lamps.
For additional information, refer to
page 85.
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 69, 85.
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24n
Multifunction steering wheel (MFL)
The buttons integrated in the multi-
function steering wheel (MFL) are
provided so that you can operate a
number of accessories quickly and
without being distracted from traffic
conditions. You can operate:
> selected radio functions
> the cruise control
> selected cellular phone functions
*.
In order to operate a system via
the MFL, the corresponding
systems must be activated.<
1 Horn: the entire surface
2 Radio/Telephone: select
3 Cellular phone: receive a call, start
dialing, terminate a call
4 Radio/Telephone: volume
5 Radio/Telephone: scan backward or
scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings
6 Radio/Telephone: scan forward or
scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings
7 Cruise control: activate stored
setting (resume)
8 Cruise control: accelerate and
store (+) as well as decelerate and
store (–)
9 Cruise control: activate/interrupt/
deactivate
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Hazard warning flashers Warning triangle*
Activating and deactivating: press
button.
The button flashes rhythmically when
the hazard warning flashers are on.
To help you locate the button in an
emergency, the button is also illumi-
nated whenever the vehicle's lamps are
on.
The turn signal function takes
precedence over the hazard
warning flasher function. Starting from
ignition key position 1, you are there-
fore able to use the turn signal, even if
the hazard warning flashers have been
activated.<
The hazard warning triangle is readily
accessible. It is stored in the container
for the onboard tool kit mounted in the
luggage compartment lid.
To open the container, loosen the wing
nut.
Always observe all legal regula-
tions requiring a warning triangle
to be carried in the vehicle.<
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26n
Refueling
Fuel filler door
Before filling the tank, shut off the
engine. If you do not, fuel cannot
be filled into the tank and the "Service
Engine Soon" lamp may come on.<
Press on the rear edge of the fuel filler
door to open and close it.
To unlock the filler door if the central
locking system fails, refer to page 161.
When handling fuels, comply with
all of the applicable safety precau-
tions and regulations pertaining to
fuels.
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 friendly to the
environment
Open the filler cap carefully to
prevent fuel from spraying out.
Fuel spray may cause injury.<
Keep the filler cap in the bracket
attached to the fuel filler door.
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle
completely into the filler pipe. Pulling
the nozzle out of the pipe during refu-
eling
> results in premature pump shutoff
> and will reduce the effect of the vapor
recovery system on the pump.
The fuel tank is full, whenever the fuel
nozzle shuts off the first time, as is
specified for proper service.
Tank capacity, refer to page 181.
Close the fuel 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
"Service Engine Soon" warning lamp.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Fuel specifications Tire inflation pressures
The engine uses lead-free gasoline
only.
Required fuel:
> Premium Unleaded Gasoline,
min. 91 AKI.
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Do not use leaded fuels. The use
of leaded fuels will cause perma-
nent damage to the system's oxygen
sensor and the catalytic converter.<
The correct tire inflation pressures are
on a sticker attached to the B-pillar and
visible with the driver's door open.
Checking tire pressures
All tire pressure and ambient air
temperature specifications are stated in
the units usually used in your country
(psi; kilopascal) (also see the following
tire inflation pressure table).
After correcting the tire inflation pres-
sure, re-initialize the Tire Pressure
Warning system (RDW) so that it can
monitor the tire inflation pressure. Refer
to page 81.
Check tire inflation pressures
regularly – at least every two
weeks and before beginning a longer
trip. Otherwise, incorrect tire pressure
can lead to poor handling, tire damage
and accidents.<
Comply with tire approval
specifications
The inflation pressures in the table
apply to tires made by BMW approved
manufacturers. Your BMW center is
familiar with these pressures. Higher
pressures may be specified for tires
made by other manufacturers. You will
find a list of approved tire sizes on
page 120.
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.
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28n
BMW Tires
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) with cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
225/45 ZR 18 33 (230) - 41 (280) -
255/40 ZR 18 - 35 (240) - 48 (330)
M3 convertible 225/40 ZR 19 33 (230) - 41 (280) -
255/35 ZR 19 - 35 (240) - 48 (330)
225/45 R 17 91H M+S 33 (230) 38 (260) 36 (250) 46 (320)
Tire inflation pressures
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
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Locks and security systems:
Keys 32
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 33
Central locking system 33
Opening and closing – via the
door lock 34
Opening and closing – via the
remote control 35
Opening and closing – from
inside 38
Luggage compartment lid 39
Luggage compartment 40
Alarm system 42
Electric power windows 44
Convertible top 45
Adjustments:
Seats 48
Mirrors 52
Seat and mirror memory 54
Steering wheel 55
Car Memory, Key Memory 55
Passenger safety systems:
Safety belts 57
Transporting children safely 58
Airbags 61
Rollover protection system 64
Controls
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 66
Starting the engine 66
Switching off the engine 67
Parking brake 67
Manual transmission 68
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp
flasher 69
Washer/Wiper system 69
Rear window defroster 71
Cruise control 71
Everything under control:
Odometer 73
Tachometer 73
Engine oil temperature gauge 73
Fuel gauge 74
Coolant temperature gauge 74
Service Interval Display 75
Check Control 76
Clock 76
Computer 77
Technology for driving comfort
and safety:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 79
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 80
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) 81
M Engine dynamics control 83
Lamps:
Side lamps/Low beam
headlamps 84
Instrument lighting 84
High beams/Parking lamps 85
Fog lamps 85
Interior lamps 86
Reading lamps 86
Controlling the climate
for pleasant driving:
Automatic climate control 88
Heated seats 93
Cabin convenience:
Glove compartment 94
Storage compartments 95
Cellular phone 96
Ashtray, front 96
Cigarette lighter 97
Ashtray, rear 97
Loading and transporting
cargo:
Ski bag 98
Cargo loading 100
Roof-mounted luggage rack for
the hardtop 101
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Keys
The key set
1 Master key with remote control
This key sets the functions for Key
Memory. Refer to page 55.
You can also identify individual keys
by applying the colored decals that
you received when accepting delivery
of your vehicle.
There is an extended-life battery
in every master key with remote
control that is charged automatically in
the ignition lock as you drive. For this
reason, if you have a master key with
remote control that is otherwise not
used, use that key at least once every
year while driving for an extended
period to charge the battery. Refer to
page 35 as well.<
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,
such as in your wallet.
This key is not intended for constant
use
3 Door key
The locks for the luggage compart-
ment lid and the glove compartment
cannot be operated with this key –
this is recommended for valet
parking, for instance.
Replacement keys
are available exclusively through your
BMW center. Since the keys are part of
a security system, vehicle ownership
must be checked before a replacement
key can be issued (refer to "Electronic
vehicle immobilizer" on page 33).
When picking up the replacement
key, take along all master keys
with remote control and spare keys
belonging to the vehicle. Whenever you
receive a new replacement key, turn
that key to position 2 in the ignition lock
once (ignition switched on) and then
back. This allows the electronic vehicle
immobilizer to "recognize" the new
key.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Electronic vehicle immobilizer Central locking system
The key to security
Your BMW is equipped with a passive
anti-theft system. This electronic immo-
bilization system is designed to reduce
the susceptibility of the vehicle to theft
by making it impossible to start the
engine using any means other than the
special keys furnished with the vehicle.
Your BMW center can cancel the elec-
tronic system authorization for indi-
vidual keys (in the event of loss, for
instance). A deactivated key can no
longer be used to start the engine.
How the electronics work
At the heart of this system is an elec-
tronic chip that is integrated into the
key. The lock mechanism itself is actu-
ally a dual-function device, simulta-
neously serving as a communications
interface designed to allow the security
system to maintain a continuous stream
of variable, vehicle-specific signals with
the electronic circuitry in the key. The
system will not release the ignition, fuel
injection and starter unless it recog-
nizes an "authorized" key.
Force applied to the key can
damage the integrated electronic
circuitry. A damaged key can no longer
be used to start the engine.<
The concept
The following can be unlocked or
locked simultaneously with the central
locking system:
> Doors
> Luggage compartment lid
> Fuel filler door
> Glove compartment.
The central locking system is ready for
operation whenever the driver's door is
closed.
The central locking system can be
operated
> from outside via the door lock and
using the remote control
> from inside by pressing a button.
If it is operated from inside, the fuel
filler door will not be locked (refer to
page 38).
If it is operated from outside, the anti-
theft protection is activated at the same
time. This prevents the doors from
being unlocked via the locking buttons
or the door handles. The alarm system
is also activated or deactivated.
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Central locking system Opening and closing – via the door lock
Information for your safety:
If locked from the inside, the central
locking system unlocks automatically in
the event of an accident. In addition,
the hazard warning flashers and interior
lamps come on.
Using the key
Turn the key once to unlock the driver's
door, the fuel filler door and the glove
compartment.
Turn it a second time to release the
locks for the passenger-side door and
the luggage compartment lid.
You can have a signal set to
confirm that the vehicle's locks
have engaged securely.<
For further details on the alarm
system
*, refer to page 42.
Convenience operation
With the door closed, you can also
operate the electric windows and the
convertible top via the door lock.
To open: after turning the key a second
time, hold it in place in the "unlock"
position.
To close: hold the key in the "lock"
position.
Watch during the closing process
to make sure that nobody is
injured accidentally. Releasing the key
stops the operation.<
Manual operation
(in the event of electrical malfunction)
Turn the key all the way to the extreme
left or right to unlock/lock the door.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Opening and closing – via the remote control
The concept
The remote control gives you an excep-
tionally convenient method for
unlocking and locking your vehicle.
Furthermore, it provides two additional
functions which you can only execute
via the remote control:
> Switch on the interior light. Refer to
page 36
With this function, you can also
"search for" your vehicle – when
parked in an underground garage, for
instance.
> Open the luggage compartment lid.
Refer to page 37
The luggage compartment lid will
open slightly, regardless of whether it
was locked or unlocked.
Whenever you unlock (lock) the vehicle,
you simultaneously deactivate (activate)
the anti-theft system, disarm (arm) the
alarm system
* and switch the interior
lamps on (off).
You can have a signal set to
confirm that the vehicle's locks
have engaged securely.<
To end the alarm: press button 1
(unlock, refer to page 36) or turn the
ignition key to position 1.
For further details on the alarm
system
*, refer to page 42.<
Master key with remote control
Children might 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.<
Master keys with remote control
that are used repeatedly are
always ready for operation since the
battery in the key is charged automati-
cally in the ignition lock as you drive.
If it is no longer possible to unlock the
vehicle via the remote control, the
battery is discharged. Use this key to
drive for an extended period in order to
recharge the battery. Refer also to
page 32.
Guard the remote control against unau-
thorized use by only surrendering the
spare key or the door key (refer to
page 32), for valet parking, for instance.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your BMW center. You
can also obtain replacement keys
there.<
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Opening and closing – via the remote control
To unlock
Press button 1 to unlock the driver's
door only.
Press the button twice to unlock the
entire vehicle.
If you desire you can have this
function programmed into the
selected individual keys of your
choice.<
To lock and secure
Press button 2.
Switching on the interior lamps
After locking the vehicle, press
button 2.
To deactivate the tilt alarm
sensor
* and interior motion
sensor
*
Press button 2 a second time immedi-
ately after locking.
For additional information, refer to
page 43.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Opening and closing – via the remote control
To open the luggage
compartment lid
Press button 3.
The lid will open slightly, no matter
whether it was locked or unlocked.
Before and after a trip, be sure
that the luggage compartment lid
has not been opened unintentionally.<
Panic mode (trigger alarm)
By pressing button 3 for more than
2 seconds, the alarm can be sounded
in the event of danger, if it is armed.
The alarm is switched off after button 1
is pressed.
Non-BMW systems
External systems or devices may cause
local interference in the functions of the
remote control.
If this should occur, you can still open
and close the vehicle using the master
key in both the door and luggage
compartment lid locks.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units
comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communication Commission) regula-
tions. Operation is governed by the
following:
FCC ID: LX8EWS
LX8FZVS
LX8FZVE
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
> This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
> this device must accept any interfer-
ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications or
changes to these devices could
void the user's authority to operate this
equipment.<
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Opening and closing – from inside
Use this button to operate the central
locking system whenever the doors are
closed. The doors and luggage
compartment lid are unlocked or locked
only. The anti-theft alarm system is not
activated.
When you open the driver's door
after unlocking it from the outside,
you can press the button to unlock the
passenger door, luggage compartment
lid, fuel filler door and glove compart-
ment.
When the driver's door is closed, this
same action relocks it.<
If you desire, the central locking
system will secure the locks as
soon as you start to drive. You can have
this function programmed into each
individual key.<
To unlock and open the doors
> Either unlock the doors together with
the button for the central locking
system and then pull each of the
release handles above the armrests
or
> pull the release handle for each door
twice: the first pull unlocks the door,
and the second one opens it.
To engage the locks
> Either use the central locking button
to lock all doors at once, or
> press the individual safety lock
buttons down. As an added design
feature to prevent the driver from
being inadvertently locked out of the
vehicle, the driver's door safety lock
button will not engage as long as the
door is open.
Children might be able to lock the
doors from the inside. For this
reason, always take the vehicle's keys
with you so that the vehicle can be
opened again from the outside at any
time.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Luggage compartment lid
The lock
Only the master keys (refer to page 32)
fit in the lock for the luggage compart-
ment lid.
To secure separately
Lock the glove compartment using the
master key.
This also locks the luggage compart-
ment lid and disconnects it from the
central locking system. If you surrender
only the door key (refer to page 32), this
will prevent unauthorized access via the
luggage compartment lid, for valet
parking, for instance.
Opening from outside
Press the button in the handle recess
(arrow):
The luggage compartment lid opens
slightly.
The luggage compartment is lit when
the luggage compartment lid is opened.
Manual operation
(in the event of electrical malfunction)
Turn the master key to the right as far
as it will go, the luggage compartment
lid will open slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as you close the lid.
Opening from the inside
If the luggage compartment lid has not
been locked separately, you can open it
with this button in the footwell on the
driver's side when the vehicle is
stationary.
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Luggage compartment lid Luggage compartment
Closing
The handle recesses in the interior trim
panel of the luggage compartment lid
(arrows) make it easier to pull the lid
down.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the luggage
compartment lid is clear when it is
closed, as with all closing procedures.<
Do not drive with the luggage
compartment lid open, since
exhaust fumes could penetrate the inte-
rior of the vehicle. Nevertheless, should
it be absolutely necessary to operate
the vehicle with the luggage compart-
ment lid open (with closed convertible
top):
> Close all windows
> Increase the airflow of the automatic
climate control to a high level. Refer
to page 88.<
The fittings at the inner corners of the
luggage compartment provide you with
a convenient means of attaching
luggage nets
* and flexible straps for
securing suitcases and luggage.
Refer also to "Cargo loading" on
page 100.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Luggage compartment
Fold up the floor panel and attach
1 Grab handle and pull up
2 Press the button (arrow) to release
the attachment fitting from the handle
3 Hook the attachment fitting to the
rubber weatherstrip (arrow).
Carefully replace the hanger in its
holder when lowering the floor
panel back into place.<
Enlarging the luggage
compartment
With the convertible top closed, you
can enlarge the luggage compartment.
To do this, flip the handle outward and
press it down and toward the front of
the vehicle (arrow). The convertible top
compartment base is now raised and
secured.
Folding down the convertible top
compartment base
To open the convertible top the base of
the convertible top compartment must
be folded down. To do this, fold out the
handle and pull it toward the rear of the
vehicle.
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Luggage compartment Alarm system*
When opening the convertible top,
refer to page 45, make sure that
the luggage compartment is set up
properly, as otherwise damage may
occur.<
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
> When a door, the hood or the
luggage compartment lid is opened
> To movement inside the vehicle (inte-
rior motion sensor)
> Altering the vehicle tilt angle, e.g. as
would occur while attempting to steal
the wheels or tow the vehicle (tilt
alarm sensor)
> To interruption of battery voltage.
The system responds to unauthorized
vehicle entry and attempted theft by
simultaneously activating the following:
> Sounding an acoustical alarm for
30 seconds
> The hazard warning flashers are acti-
vated for approx. five minutes
> The high beams flash on and off in
the same rhythm.
To activate and deactivate the
alarm system
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked
by using a key or with the remote
control, the alarm system is also simul-
taneously armed or disarmed.
The interior motion sensor is activated
approx. 30 seconds after you have
locked the vehicle.
If the alarm system has been armed
correctly, the hazard warning flashers
flash once.
You can have a signal set as
acknowledgment for both setting
and deactivating the alarm.<
You can also open the luggage
compartment lid when the system is
armed by pressing button 3 of the
remote control (refer to page 37). When
it is closed, the lid is once again
secured.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Alarm system*
Indicator lamp displays
The indicator lamp is located under the
interior rearview mirror.
> When the indicator lamp flashes
continuously: the system is armed
> If the indicator lamp flashes while the
system is being set: the door(s), the
hood or luggage compartment lid are
not completely closed. Even if you do
not close the alerted area, the
remaining areas are deadlocked, and
the indicator lamp flashes continu-
ously after 10 seconds. However, the
interior motion sensor is not activated
> If the indicator lamp goes out when
the system is disarmed: no manipula-
tion or attempted intrusions have
been detected in the period since the
system was armed
> If the indicator lamp flashes for
10 seconds when the system is
disarmed: an attempted entry has
been detected in the period since the
system was armed.
Following triggering of an alarm, the
indicator lamp will flash continuously.
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion
sensor may be switched off at the same
time. You can do this to prevent any
unwanted alarm, e.g. in garages with
elevator ramps or when the vehicle is
being transported on car trains:
Lock the vehicle twice (= setting the
alarm): press button 2 on the remote
control twice in succession or lock the
vehicle twice with the key. Refer to
page 36.
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. Reset the alarm to reactivate
the tilt alarm sensor and the interior
motion sensor.
Interior motion sensor
Transmitter and receiver for the interior
motion sensor are located in the front
part of the center console, invisible to
the driver, and in the back part of the
center console under a rack.
However, be sure to deactivate the
interior motion sensor (see previous
column) if children or animals are to
remain in the vehicle.
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Alarm system* Electric power windows
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units
comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communication Commission) regula-
tions. Operation is governed by the
following:
FCC ID: LTQSDR2G5
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
> This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
> this device must accept any interfer-
ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications to
these devices could void the
user's authority to operate the equip-
ment.<
To open and close windows
From ignition key position 1:
After the ignition has been switched off:
You can still use the electric power
windows for up to 15 minutes, as long
as no one opens any of the doors.
To open:
> Press the switch up to but not past
the resistance point: the window will
continue to lower as long as you
continue to hold the switch
> Press the switch briefly past the
resistance point: the window moves
automatically. Tapping the switch
again stops the opening cycle.
To close: you can close the windows in
the same manner by pulling the switch.
Remove the key from the ignition
lock and close the doors when
you leave the vehicle, so that children
cannot operate the power windows and
possibly injure themselves.<
To use the convenience mode via the
door lock, refer to page 34.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Electric power windows Convertible top
Operating all the side windows
From ignition key position 1:
To open:
> Press the switch up to but not past
the resistance point:
All windows will continue to lower as
long as you continue to press the
switch
> Press the switch briefly past the
resistance point:
All windows will move automatically.
Pressing the switch again stops the
opening cycle.
To close: you can close all windows in
the same manner by pulling the switch.
The fully automatic convertible top
combines assured protection from the
weather together with simple and easy
handling.
So that you will get the most out of your
convertible, here are a few tips:
> It is advisable to close the convertible
top when the vehicle is being parked.
The closed convertible top not only
protects the passenger compartment
from unforeseeable damage from the
weather, it also provides a certain
degree of theft protection. In addi-
tion, keep valuables only in the
locked luggage compartment, even
with the convertible top closed.
> Never mount a roof-mounted luggage
rack on the convertible top.
> At temperatures below 15 7
(–10 6) do not open or close the
convertible top to prevent damage.
Never store the convertible top
while it is wet to avoid permanent
damage from moisture.<
Driving the vehicle before the top
has opened or closed completely
can lead to vehicle damage and/or
personal injury.
Whenever possible, always ensure that
the vehicle remains stationary for the
entire duration of the opening/closing
process. Setting the vehicle in motion
before the process is completed may
cause the top to stop moving prema-
turely.
If you initiated convertible top operation
while the vehicle was standing still, and
then started to drive off, at a traffic light,
for example, you can complete the
process while traveling at a moderate
rate of speed. To do this, keep pressing
the proper button.
Traffic laws applicable in your area take
precedence when you operate the
convertible top, however, otherwise
you may be breaking the law.
Before closing the convertible top,
remove any objects from the windshield
frame that could keep the convertible
top from closing properly.
Do not lay objects on the convertible
top, since they would fall off when the
convertible top is operated and cause
damage or injuries.
Do not reach into the convertible top
mechanism during opening and closing.
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Convertible top
Keep children away from the travel path
of the convertible top while it is in
motion.<
To close the electric power
windows while driving, always be
sure to first close either the rear
windows, or all 4 windows at the same
time, otherwise, at high speed, the
windows may not close tightly.<
At higher speeds, the ensuing
vacuum in the passenger
compartment can cause the convertible
top to begin fluttering. Increase the air
supply via the ventilation controls so
that a vacuum does not occur in the
vehicle.<
1 Closing
2 Opening
Opening and closing
With ignition key in position 1 or 2 and
the vehicle stationary.
To avoid discharging the battery, when
possible you should start the engine
before opening or closing the top.
1 Observe the preceding safety
precautions.
2 Before opening the convertible top,
make sure that the base of the
convertible top compartment in the
luggage compartment is folded
down. Refer to page 41.
3 Make sure the luggage compartment
lid is closed.
4 Press and hold the corresponding
button for convertible top operation.
The red indicator lamp will light up
while the convertible top is in motion.
It goes out as soon as the opening or
closing operation is completed.
If the red indicator lamp flashes when
you release the button, this indicates
that the top has not completely
finished opening or closing. You can
press the corresponding button to
resume the process in the desired
direction.
If the yellow indicator lamp remains
on while you are pressing the button,
this indicates that the convertible top
compartment's lower panel has been
folded up and the top cannot be
moved, refer to step 2.
The automatic sequence will be
interrupted immediately if you
release the button that operates the
top. The sequence can be continued in
the desired direction by pressing this
button.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Convertible top
During convertible top operation
the rear window moves toward the
passenger compartment and presses
the heads of the rear passengers
slightly forward. As a rule, this is not
dangerous. To avoid possibly being
pinched, passengers in the back seat
should lean their heads slightly forward
while the convertible top is in motion.<
The side windows move downward
somewhat when the button for convert-
ible top operation is pressed, and then
up again after the opening or closing
operation is completed if you continue
to hold the button for longer than
2 seconds after the indicator lamp goes
out.
During convertible top operation the
luggage compartment lid cannot be
opened.
Do not close the side power
windows using the buttons if the
convertible top has been interrupted
while in motion. <
If the convertible top has been
stored in the convertible top
compartment for longer periods, e.g.
during the winter months while the
hardtop is being used, it may be neces-
sary to manually support the first auto-
matic closing operation: if the
convertible top should halt just before
the closing phase is completed, press
against the front part of the convertible
top frame from the outside to help the
closing process along. Keep pressing
the button while doing so until the top
starts up again on its own.<
If the opening or closing operation
is interrupted, the convertible top
remains in the respective position for
15 minutes, and the process can be
continued in the desired direction with
the button. Then the convertible top
can be moved and operated manually,
refer to page 162. This is also possible
in ignition key position 0.
In certain cases, the luggage compart-
ment lid cannot be opened if the
opening or closing operation has been
interrupted.<
One-touch operation from the
driver side door lock
Refer to page 34.
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For your personal safety when adjusting
the seat position, please follow the
instructions below carefully:
Never try to adjust your seat while
driving the vehicle. The seat could
respond with an unexpected move-
ment, and the ensuing loss of vehicle
control could lead to an accident.
Be sure that the safety belt remains
firmly against your body at all times. In
the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap
belt could slide over the hips, leading to
abdominal injury. In addition, the safety
belt's restraint effectiveness is reduced
if the belt is worn loosely.
Never ride with the backrest reclined to
an extreme angle (especially important
for the front passenger to remember). If
you do so, there is a risk that you will
slide under the safety belt in an acci-
dent, thus reducing the protection
provided by the safety belt.<
Correct sitting posture
To reduce strain on the spinal column,
sit all the way back in the seat and rest
your back fully against the backrest.
The ideal sitting posture is achieved
with your head extending from your
spine in a straight line.
For long-distance driving, you may wish
to increase the backrest tilt angle
slightly to reduce muscular tension. You
should be able to grasp the steering
wheel at its highest point with your
arms slightly bent.
1 Tilt angle
2 Backward/Forward adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle
Comply with the preceding adjust-
ment instructions, as otherwise
personal safety will be diminished.<
Seat adjustment
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Seat adjustment
Thigh support
Pull the lever and adjust the position of
the cushion for thigh support as
desired.
Lumbar support*
You can adjust the backrest's contour
for additional support in the curvature
of your spine's lumbar region.
The upper hips and spinal column
receive supplementary support to help
you maintain a relaxed, upright posture.
> Increase/decrease curvature:
Press the front/rear of the switch
> Increase the upper/lower curvature:
Press the upper/lower end of the
switch.
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Head restraints
Head restraints – front
1 Height
Head restraints can reduce the
risk of injury to the neck and spinal
column in the event of an accident.
Adjust the head restraint so that its
center is approximately at the height of
your ears.
To guard against injuries, avoid placing
your hands and fingers between the
head restraint and the backrest while
adjusting.<
2 Tilt angle
Position the head restraint in the
preferred position.
Head restraints – rear
The rear head restraints may only
be lowered when there are no
passengers in the rear, as otherwise
laws may be violated. Raise the rear
head restraints before taking on any
passengers in the back.<
To completely lower the rear head
restraints:
1 Press the button (arrow) and hold it
down
2 Push the head restraint down from
above.
To extend the rear head restraints: raise
the head restraints until you hear them
click into place.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Head restraints Entering the rear
Do not remove the rear head
restraints as this would damage
them.<
For further information, please consult
your BMW center.
Do not use the rear head
restraints as storage shelves.
Always keep the travel path clear for
the rollover protection system. Never
attach any type of protective coverings
to the head restraints (refer also to the
labeling on the head restraints).<
The seat-integrated safety belt system
(SGS) ensures easier entry in the rear.
1 Lift lever 1 up and tilt the backrest
forward
2 Press and hold down button 2 in the
direction of travel until the seat has
moved into the desired position
3 Fold back and lock the backrest after
entering the rear
4 Press and hold button 2 against the
direction of travel. The seat moves
back into its previous position. If you
release button 2 beforehand, the seat
will stop in its current position.
You can lock a backrest that has
been tilted forward. This makes
sense when, for instance, someone is
climbing into the rear on an incline. To
do this, press against the backrest until
you hear it click into place. To move it
back into place, you do not need to
unlock it first by moving lever 1.<
Lock both backrests while driving,
otherwise there is a danger of an
unexpected movement causing an
accident.<
The indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster flashes when the backrest is not
locked, refer to page 21.
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Mirrors
Exterior mirrors
1 Switch for 4-way adjustment
2 Selection switch for changing
between mirrors
You can also adjust the mirrors manu-
ally by pressing against the outer edges
of their lenses.
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. Estimates of the
distance to following traffic should
therefore not be regarded as precise.<
Electric defrosting*
Both mirrors are automatically
defrosted with the ignition key in posi-
tion 2.
Passenger side exterior mirror tilt
function
(automatic curb monitor)
Move the mirror selector switch 1 to the
"driver's mirror" position. When reverse
gear is engaged, the passenger side
mirror tilts downward. This allows the
driver to see the area directly adjacent
to the vehicle during parking (curbs,
etc.).
You can deactivate this automatic
feature: set the mirror selection switch
to the "passenger mirror" position.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Mirrors
Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimming feature
By responding to the effects of ambient
light and the glare from following traffic,
this mirror automatically dims through
an infinitely variable range.
The mirror switches to its clear,
undimmed mode whenever you shift
into reverse.
There are two photocells for automatic
dimming. One photocell (arrow) is posi-
tioned in the mirror's glass, while the
other is slightly offset on the opposite
side of the mirror. For an explanation of
the electrochromic technology used in
this mirror, refer to page 173.
For the mirror to function perfectly,
keep the photocells clean and the area
between the inside rearview mirror and
the windshield free of any obstructions,
such as stickers, etc.
Sun visors
These can be folded down toward the
windshield or swiveled out against the
side windows.
Vanity mirrors
Fold down the sun visor and slide the
cover panel to the side as required.
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Seat and mirror memory
You can store and recall three different
driver's seat and outside mirror posi-
tions.
Memory will not retain the adjust-
ments made to the lumbar
supports.<
If you press the
MEMORY button acci-
dentally: press the button again; the
indicator lamp goes out.
To store
1 Turn the key to ignition key position
1 or 2.
2 Adjust your seat and outside mirrors
to the desired position.
3 Press the
MEMORY button: the indi-
cator lamp in the button lights up.
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.<
Convenience function:
1 The driver's door is open after
unlocking or the ignition key is in
position 1.
2 Briefly press memory button 1, 2 or 3,
as desired.
Movement stops immediately when
one of the seat-adjustment or
memory buttons is activated during
the adjustment process.
Security function:
1 The driver's door is closed and the
ignition key is either removed or in
position 0 or 2.
2 Press and hold the desired memory
button 1, 2 or 3 until the adjustment
process is completed.
Your BMW center can adjust your
vehicle's systems in such a
manner that your personalized settings
are automatically set for the seat and
outside mirror positions when you
unlock the vehicle with your personal
remote control.<
If you make use of this method of
adjustment, be sure that the foot-
well behind the driver's seat is unob-
structed before unlocking the vehicle. If
you fail to do so, any persons or objects
behind the seat could be injured or
damaged by rearward movement of the
seat.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Adjusting steering wheel Car Memory, Key Memory
1 Push the locking lever downward.
2 Adjust the steering wheel (forward/
back and up/down) to the desired
position.
3 Pull the lever back in to clamp the
steering wheel in the new position.
Do not adjust the steering wheel
while the vehicle is moving, other-
wise you run the risk of an accident
occurring due to unexpected move-
ment.<
How the system functions
You have probably frequently wished
that you could configure individual
functions of your vehicle to reflect your
own personal requirements. In engi-
neering your vehicle, BMW has
included several user-defined func-
tions in the vehicle's design. Your BMW
center can program these settings for
you in accordance with your wishes.
There are settings related to the vehicle
("Car Memory") and settings related to
individuals ("Key Memory"). You can
have up to four different basic settings
adjusted for four different persons. The
only requirement is that each person
uses his or her own master key with
remote control.
When your vehicle is unlocked with the
remote control, the vehicle recognizes
the individual user by means of a data
exchange with the key, and makes
adjustments accordingly.
In order for you to distinguish between
different keys, colored decals are
supplied together with the keys.
What the system can do
Your BMW center can provide you with
details on the possibilities that the Car
Memory and Key Memory systems
offer.
Examples for Car Memory:
> Various signals that can serve as
acknowledgment for locking and
unlocking the vehicle, refer to
pages 34, 35
> Activating/deactivating operation of
"Follow-me-home lamps", refer to
page 84
> Activating/deactivating daylight
driving lamps
*, refer to page 84
> Setting the units of measure to indi-
cate outside temperature and
distance traveled on the instrument
cluster, refer to page 18.
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Car Memory, Key Memory
Examples for Key Memory:
> Locking the vehicle after driving off,
refer to page 38
> Unlocking and simultaneously
lowering the driver's window, refer to
page 36
> Automatically moving the seat and
outside mirror into position for that
particular person when unlocking the
vehicle, refer to page 54
> Calling up customized settings for the
automatic climate control when
unlocking using the remote control,
refer to page 90.
You will see this symbol
throughout the Owner's Manual. It
is to remind you at appropriate places
of the settings that are available to
you.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
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.<
For care instructions, refer to page 135.
Drive with your safety belt on
Fasten your safety belt before starting
off.
Before putting your safety belts on
in the rear, take them out of the
holder.<
To fasten: make sure you hear the
catch engage in the belt buckle.
To release: press the red button in the
buckle. Hold the belt and guide it back
into its reel.
For your safety, comply with the
following instructions for wearing
safety belts. If you do not, the safety
belts may not be able to provide their
maximum protection. The following
information also applies to your
passengers:
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.
Untwist the safety belt before putting it
on, and wear it so that it lies as snugly
as possible over your abdomen and
shoulder, and do not let it rub against
any hard or fragile objects. Never route
the belt across your neck, do not run it
across sharp edges and ensure that the
belt does not become caught
or jammed.
Avoid wearing bulky clothing and pull
on the belt periodically to re-tension it
over your shoulders. In the event of a
frontal impact, a loose lap belt could
slide over your hips, leading to abdom-
inal 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,
Safety belts
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Safety belts Transporting children safely
where it will not exert pressure against
the abdominal area.
Leave the rear safety belts in the
holders, if they are not needed, to avoid
unwanted movement from the safety
belts at high speeds.<
Safety belt height adjustment
The front safety belts automatically
adjust to your height based on the
height adjustment of the head
restraints, refer to page 51.
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.<
Child restraint systems*
Never install a rearward-facing
child restraint device in the front
passenger's seat. If the airbag is trig-
gered, any child in a rear-facing
restraint located within the airbag's
deployment range could sustain serious
injuries.
Children should always travel in the rear
seats, where they should be secured in
a suitable child restraint device
attached to the safety belts in the
outboard positions.
Do not use the center belts to secure a
child restraint unless the two outboard
positions are already occupied, and a
third safety seat is needed.
Never attempt to modify or change a
child restraint device in any way, as
tampering could reduce the protection
it provides in an accident.<
Commercially available child seats
complying with the legal standard are
designed to be secured with a lap belt
or with the lap belt portion of a combi-
nation lap/shoulder belt. Improperly or
inadequately installed restraint systems
can increase the risk of injury to chil-
dren. Always read and follow the
instructions that come with the system.
If you use a child restraint system with a
tether strap, two additional tether
anchorage points (refer to the arrows in
the illustration) have been provided.
They are located under the convertible
top compartment lid.
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.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Transporting children safely
Lift the head restraint and pass the
tether strap between the headrest and
the seat back.
Adjust the tether strap according to the
child restraint manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
Before installing any child restraint
device or child seat, please read
the following:
Never install a rear-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 rear-facing child restraint
system (of the kind designed for infants
under 1 year and 20 - 30 lbs/9 - 14 kg)
would be within the airbag's deploy-
ment range, you should never mount
such a device in the front passenger
seat, as 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 dashboard as possible. This
important precaution is intended to
maximize the distance between the
airbag and the child. Older children
should be tightly secured with the
safety belt.
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 rear-facing child restraint
system in the front passenger seat.
We strongly urge you to carefully read
and comply with the instructions for
installation and use provided by the
child restraint's manufacturer when-
ever you use such a device.
Always ensure that all occupants (of all
ages) remain properly and securely
restrained at all times.c
All rear seating positions in your vehicle
meet the recommendations of SAE
J1819, an industry recommended stan-
dard for securing child restraint
systems in motor vehicles.
LATCH attachment for child seat
The brackets for the LATCH child
restraint system are not visible from the
outside and are located at the points
marked with the arrows.
Carefully press the brackets through
the seam between backrest and seat
upholstery at the locations indicated.
To mount the LATCH child
restraint system, please follow the
manufacturer's operating and safety
precautions.c
Leave the rear safety belts in the
holders, if they are not needed, to
avoid unwanted movement from the
safety belts at high speeds.c
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Transporting children safely
Child seat security
All of the rear belt retractors and the
front passenger's safety belt can be
locked for mounting and securing child
restraint 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.
The belt cannot be extracted further.
Always comply with the installation
instructions provided by the manufac-
turer of the child restraint system.
To unlock the safety belt
Release the safety belt, remove the
child's seat and retract the safety belt
to its end position on the belt retractor.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Airbags
1 Front airbags on the driver and front
passenger side
2 Side airbags on the driver and
passenger sides (front and rear
*)
Protective effect
The front airbags help protect the driver
and passenger in the event of a head-
on collision where the protection
provided by the safety belt alone would
not be adequate. The side airbags help
provide protection in the event of a
collision from the side. Each of the side
airbags is designed to help support the
occupant's upper body.
The side airbags in the rear
passenger area
* of your vehicle
may already have been deactivated
either at the time of manufacture or 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 illustration depicts schematically
the primary directions of vehicle impact
that initiate airbag deployment.
The airbags will not be triggered in
the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle rollover, or collisions from the
rear.<
Functional status
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster shows the airbag
system's functional status
starting from ignition key position 1.
System operational:
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
then goes out.
System malfunction:
> The indicator lamp fails to come on
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
before going out and then lighting up
again.
A system malfunction could prevent the
system from responding to an impact
occurring within its normal response
range.
Please have your BMW center inspect
the system as soon as possible.
The airbag indicator lamp also
comes on if the safety belt
tensioners have been triggered.<
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Airbags
Sitting correctly with airbags
For your safety, comply with the
following instructions for the
airbags. If you do not, the airbags may
not be able to provide their maximum
protection. All passengers in the vehicle
should be aware of and comply with
this information:
The airbags are supplemental restraint
devices designed to provide extra
protection; they are not a substitute for
safety belts. Wear your safety belt at all
times. The airbags will not be triggered
in the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle rollover, or collisions from the
rear. In these instances, the safety belt
provides optimal protection.
Airbags are located under cover panels
in the steering wheel, in the instrument
panel and in the side trim panels in the
front and rear
*.
Adjust your seat to a position that
provides maximum distance between
you and the steering wheel, the instru-
ment panel and the door while still
allowing comfortable and safe access
to all vehicle controls.
To avoid sustaining hand and arm inju-
ries, always grasp the steering wheel
on the rim with the hands at the 9 and
3 o'clock positions. Do not place your
hands on the center pad.
Never allow any objects to obstruct the
area between the airbag and an occu-
pant.
Do not use the cover panel above the
passenger side airbag as a storage
area.
Do not apply adhesive materials to the
cover panels of the airbags, cover them
or modify them in any other way.
Do not install a rear-facing child
restraint system in the front passenger
seat of this vehicle.
Children under 13 years of age and
children less than 5 feet (150 cm) tall
should ride only in the rear seat.
Infants or small children should never
be held on the lap of a passenger.
If your vehicle is equipped with side
airbags in the rear passenger area
*, be
sure that child restraints are mounted
correctly and provided with the
greatest-possible distance between the
airbags in the side trim panels. Do not
allow children to lean out of the child's
seat in the direction of the side trim
panels. If they do so, serious injuries
can occur if the airbag is triggered.<
At all times, occupants should sit
upright and be properly restrained
(infants and small children in appro-
priate child restraint systems; larger
children 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 indicates the airbag's loca-
tion.
Accident research shows that the
safest place for children in an automo-
bile is in the rear seat. However, a child
sitting in the rear seat and not properly
restrained may place his or her head on
or near the airbag, if so equipped. For
example, a child — even though belted
— may fall asleep with his or her head
against the side airbag. It may be 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 so equipped, be
deactivated if children will travel in the
rear seat.
The rear seat side airbags may already
have been deactivated, either at the
time of manufacture or by a BMW
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Airbags
center. Labels in the door opening
should indicate the status of your rear
seat side airbags. If you are uncertain of
their status, or wish to have the airbags
activated or deactivated, please
contact your BMW center.<
Even when all these guidelines are
observed, there is still a small residual
risk of injuries to the face, hands and
arms occurring in isolated instances.
The ignition and inflation noise may
induce a mild temporary hearing loss in
sensitive individuals.
For additional information concerning
the airbag system, refer to pages 139
and 168.
This is the right way for a child to sit in a
child restraint when rear side airbags
(arrow) are provided.
This is the right way for a larger child to
sit wearing the safety belt when rear
side airbags (arrow) are provided.
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Rollover protection system
In the event of an accident or some
other critical driving situation (extreme
tilting in the longitudinal or transverse
axis, loss of contact with the ground),
the rollover protection system will be
automatically activated. The protective
bars located in the rear head restraints
extend upward within fractions of a
second.
In addition to the integrated rollover bar
in the windshield frame, the rollover
protection system can help provide all
the vehicle occupants with necessary
headroom in certain rollover accidents.
Always keep the travel path clear
for the rollover protection system.
Never attach any type of protective
coverings to the head restraints.
In the event of less serious accidents,
the safety belt will protect you and,
depending on the nature and severity of
the accident, the safety belt tensioner
and the multi-stage airbag restraint
system will as well.<
If, after being automatically triggered,
the protective function is not needed,
then the rollover protection system can
be lowered back into place. No special
tool is needed for this.
1 Using a screwdriver from the on-
board tool kit, remove the cover
panel; to do this, position the screw-
driver under the notch (arrow)
2 Pull up on the lever (arrow) toward
the front of the vehicle and keep it in
this position
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Rollover protection system
3 Keep pressing down on the protec-
tive bar 1 from above until you hear it
click into place
4 Put the cover panel back in place,
and press down firmly
5 Press the rear part of the head
restraint 2 closed.
Do the same for the second protective
bar. If you are not familiar with any of
the procedures, consult your BMW
center.
Have the rollover protection system
checked by your BMW center after it
has been inadvertently triggered.
Do not move the convertible top
under any circumstances if the
rollover protection system has
deployed.
Do not use the rear head restraints as
storage shelves.
Absolutely no modifications are to be
made to any of the rollover protection
system's individual components or any
of its wiring.
Only your BMW center is authorized to
carry out any work on the rollover
protection system.
Work done on the system that is carried
out improperly could lead to failure in
an emergency or inadvertent triggering.
Regarding having the system checked
to ensure long-term operation: be scru-
pulous in adhering to the Service
Interval Display for maintenance inter-
vals. The rollover protection system
must be checked by a BMW center at
least every 2 years.<
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0 Steering locked
1 Steering unlocked
2 Ignition switched on
3 Starting the engine
Steering locked
The key can be inserted and removed in
this position only.
To lock the steering column after you
have taken the key out, turn the
steering wheel until you hear it lock.
Steering unlocked
Individual electrical accessories are
ready for operation.
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.
Ignition switched on
All electrical equipment and accesso-
ries are available for use.
1 Engage the parking brake
2 Move the shift lever to the neutral
position
3 Depress the clutch pedal
4 Turn the key to position 3 to start the
engine.
Do not actuate the starter for too short
a time, but not turn it for more than
approx. 20 seconds. Release the igni-
tion key immediately when the engine
starts.
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 run the engine in enclosed
areas. The exhaust gases contain
carbon monoxide, an odorless and
colorless, but highly toxic gas.
Breathing the exhaust gases poses an
extreme health risk, and can lead to
unconsciousness and death.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unat-
tended vehicle with a running engine
represents a potential safety hazard.<
Steering/Ignition lock Starting the engine
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Starting the engine Switching off the engine Parking brake
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 starts at very low temperatures,
starting at approx. 5 7 (–15 6) and at
high altitudes (over 1,000 meters):
> On the first start attempt, engage the
starter for a longer period (approx.
10 seconds)
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Engine idle speed is controlled by the
engine computer system. Increased
speeds at startup are normal and
should decrease as the engine warms
up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.
To prevent the battery from
discharging, always deactivate elec-
trical devices that are not in use. Switch
the ignition off when the vehicle is not
being driven.
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Do not remove the ignition key
while the vehicle is still moving.
If you did so, the steering lock would
engage when the steering wheel is
turned.
When you leave the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key and engage the
steering lock.
Set the parking brake when parking on
steep hills, because under certain
conditions, putting the vehicle into first
or reverse gear may not be enough to
prevent it from rolling away.
The power assist is not available when
the engine is not on. This means that
more effort is required for braking.<
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 lever engages automatically, the
indicator lamp in the instrument cluster
comes on when the ignition key is in
position 2. Refer to page 21.
To release
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the
button (arrow) and lower the lever.
If, in exceptional circumstances,
it should be necessary to engage
the parking brake while the vehicle is
in motion, do not pull the lever with
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Parking brake Manual transmission
excessive pressure. Keep your thumb
pressed against the release button
while carefully pulling up the lever to
apply moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)
at the rear axle.
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is engaged.
Set the parking brake when parking on
steep hills, because under certain
conditions, putting the vehicle into first
or reverse gear may not be enough to
prevent it from rolling away.<
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
instance), provided that it is safe to do
so.
The shift lever's neutral plane is located
between 3rd and 4th gears.
When shifting from each gear into
"Neutral," the shift lever automatically
springs back to the gear lever's home
position.
When shifting gears in the 5th/6th-
gear plane, be sure to press the
gear lever to the right in order to
prevent inadvertent selection of a gear
in the 3rd/4th-gear plane.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or "riding" the clutch.
Use the parking brake instead. Other-
wise, riding the clutch will cause
tremendous wear and tear to the
clutch.<
Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is
stationary. Press the shift lever to the
left to overcome the slight resistance.
As you do this, the backup lamps will
turn on automatically when the ignition
key is in position 2.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp flasher Washer/Wiper system
1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator
lamp)
3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator
accompanied by periodic clicking
sound from the relay).
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond
the detent. It then returns to the center
position when released.
When the turn signal indicator
lamp in the instrument cluster
flashes and the blinker relay clicks, a
turn indicator lamp has failed.<
0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent operation or rain sensor
*
2 Normal wipe
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
5 Rotary dial for controlling the wipe
interval or the sensitivity of the rain
sensor
*
Intermittent operation
(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.
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Washer/Wiper system
Rain sensor*
When the rain sensor is activated, the
windshield wiper is controlled automati-
cally, depending on the degree of
wetness of the windshield (in both snow
and rain). You do not have to be
concerned with switching the wind-
shield wiper on or off or adjusting the
wipe interval between intermittent and
full wipe. Instead, you can concentrate
fully on the traffic conditions. This is
especially important under adverse
weather conditions.
The rain sensor is positioned on the
windshield, directly ahead of the inte-
rior rearview mirror.
To activate the rain sensor:
> From ignition key position 1 and up,
move the lever to position 1. The
wipers travel once across the wind-
shield, regardless of the weather
> You can leave the lever permanently
in position 1. It is then only necessary
to activate the rain sensor from igni-
tion key position 1 and up. To do this
give rotary dial 5 a quick turn.
To adjust the sensitivity of the rain
sensor: turn rotary dial 5.
Deactivating the rain sensor: put lever
in position 0.
Deactivate the rain sensor when
passing through an automatic car
wash. Failure to do so could result in
damage caused by undesired wiper
activation.<
Normal wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers switch automatically to intermit-
tent wipe (not on vehicles with rain
sensor).
Fast wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers operate at normal speed (not on
vehicles with rain sensor).
0 Wipers retracted
1 Clean the windshield
Clean the windshield
The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and activates the wipers
for a brief period.
If you pull the lever only briefly, the
system sprays washer fluid onto the
windshield without activating the
wipers.
Do not use the washers if there
is any danger that the fluid will
freeze on the windshield. If you do so,
your vision could be obscured. For this
reason, use an antifreeze agent. Refer
to page 126.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Washer/Wiper system Rear window defroster Cruise control
Do not use the washers when the reser-
voir is empty, since this could cause
damage to the washer pump.<
Clean the headlamps*
When the vehicle's lighting system is
switched on, the headlamps will also be
cleaned every fifth time the automatic
windshield washer is activated.
Windshield washer jets
The windshield washer jets are warmed
automatically when the ignition key is in
position 2.
To activate
With the convertible top closed or the
hardtop
* mounted, press the button: as
long as the indicator lamp remains on,
the rear window defroster continues at
high output (rapid thaw).
After the indicator lamp goes out, the
defroster continues operating at
reduced power for a limited period
before deactivating automatically.
To deactivate
Press the button if the indicator lamp is
on.
Starting at about 20 mph (30 km/h), you
can maintain and store any vehicle
speed that you specify.
You can use cruise control, whenever
the system is active while the engine is
running.
1 Accelerate and store
2 Decelerate and store
3 Activate/interrupt/deactivate the
system
4 Recall the stored speed
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Cruise control
To activate the system
From ignition key position 2.
Press button 3 and the indicator lamp
on the instrument cluster (refer to
page 23) will come on. You can now
use the cruise control.
Do not use cruise control on
twisting roads, when high traffic
density prevents driving at a constant
speed, when the road surface is slick
(snow, rain, ice), or when the road
surface is loose (rocks, sand).<
To deactivate the system
Press button 3 as often as you need to
until the indicator lamp on 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 1 briefly: the system regis-
ters 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 1: the vehicle
accelerates without pressure on the
accelerator pedal. When you release
the button, the system registers and
maintains the current speed.
If, on a downhill gradient, the
engine braking effect is not suffi-
cient, the controlled speed may be
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill
grades if the engine output is insuffi-
cient.<
To decelerate
Press button 2 briefly: if you are already
driving with active cruise control, the
speed is decreased by approx. 0.6 mph
(1 km/h) every time you tap the button.
Press and hold button 2: with the cruise
control active, the system automatically
reduces the throttle opening to slow the
vehicle. When you release the button,
the system registers and maintains the
current speed.
To interrupt the cruise control
When the cruise control is on, press
button 3. The indicator lamp will stay
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
> if the brakes are applied
> when you depress the clutch pedal,
> if you exceed or fall below the
programmed speed for an extended
period (by depressing the acceler-
ator, for example).
Recall the stored speed.
Press button 4: the vehicle accelerates
to and maintains the last speed stored.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
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 button
(arrow) in the instrument cluster.
Trip odometer
To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the button (arrow) with the igni-
tion key in position 1 and up.
Variable pre-warning zone
The orange pre-warning zone displays
current permissible engine speeds,
depending on the engine temperature.
As the engine temperature climbs, the
sectors for this pre-warning zone will
go out one after the other.
Avoid engine speeds in the pre-warning
zone if possible.
Warning zone
Always avoid engine speeds in the
red warning zone, as otherwise
the engine may be damaged.<
To protect the engine, the fuel supply is
automatically interrupted in this zone;
you will notice a loss of power.
The general operating temperature is
between 175 7 (80 6) and 250 7
(120 6). During performance-oriented
driving, do not exceed the maximum
temperature of 300 7 (150 6).
Odometer Tachometer Engine oil temperature
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Fuel gauge Coolant temperature gauge
Once the indicator lamp stays on
continuously, there are still approx.
2 gallons (8 liters) of fuel in the fuel
tank.
For fuel tank capacity, refer to
page 181.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies (extended
driving in mountainous areas, for
example), there may be slight fluctua-
tions of the needle.
Fill the fuel tank well before it is
empty. Driving to the last drop of
fuel can result in damage to the engine
and/or the catalytic converter.<
When the ignition is switched on, the
indicator lamp in the fuel display will
light up briefly to confirm that the
system is operational.
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at
moderate engine and vehicle speeds.
Red
To confirm that the system is opera-
tional, the warning lamp in the coolant
temperature gauge will light up briefly
when the ignition is switched on.
If the lamp comes on while operating
the vehicle: the engine is overheated.
Stop and switch the engine off immedi-
ately and allow it to cool down.
Checking coolant level, refer to
page 129.
Between the blue and red zones
Normal operating range. It is not
unusual for the needle to rise as far as
the edge of the red zone in response to
high outside temperatures or severe
operating conditions.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Service Interval Display
Remaining distance for service
The displays shown in the illustration
appear for a few seconds when the
ignition key is in position 1 or after the
engine is started.
The next service due appears with the
message OILSERVICE or INSPECTION,
together with the distance remaining
before the next scheduled service.
The computer bases its calculations of
the remaining distance on the previous
driving style.
A flashing message and a "–" in front of
the number mean that the service
interval has already been exceeded by
the distance shown on the display.
Please contact your BMW center for an
appointment.
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Display
The following information or conditions
are displayed from ignition key posi-
tion 2 on, until the cause has been
corrected:
1 Inspect the low beam and high beam
headlamps, as well as the side lamps
2 Door open
3 Luggage compartment lid open
4 Check brake and tail lamps.
After completion of a trip and upon
opening the driver's door, an acoustic
signal will sound yet not be displayed,
as a reminder that the low beam head-
lamps have not been turned off.
If you wish to have a permanent time
display, you can make this adjustment
in the radio display
* (refer to the Radio
Owner's Manual).
You can set the time of day, and the
display for the car radio
*, as follows.
Adjustments
From ignition key position 1:
To set ahead: turn the button to the
right.
To set back: turn the button to the left.
The adjustment speed will increase the
longer you continue to hold the button.
To change the display mode: press the
knob briefly.
Every time you press the knob, 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 "Odom-
eter" on page 73).
Check Control Clock
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Computer
Mode selection
From ignition key position 1 on, you can
use the button in the turn signal lever to
retrieve information from the computer
for display in the instrument cluster. By
pressing the button briefly in the direc-
tion of the steering column, you can call
up a new function for display.
The displays appear in the following
order:
Time of day, outside temperature,
average fuel consumption, cruising
range, average vehicle speed.
From ignition key position 1 on, the last
active setting is displayed.
Outside temperature
You can change the units of measure
(6/7) for the outside temperature
display by pressing the right-hand reset
button in the instrument cluster while
the temperature display is active.
Ice warning
If the outside temperature drops to
about 37.5 7 (+3 6), then the
computer will automatically switch to
show the outside temperature. In addi-
tion, a signal sounds as a warning and
the display flashes for a brief period.
This warning will repeat itself whenever
the temperature has climbed to at least
43 7 (+6 6) since the last warning,
and has then dropped back to 37.5 7
(+3 6).
Ice warnings do not exclude the
possibility that surface ice can still
occur at temperatures above 37.5 7
(+3 6), e.g. on bridges and shady
roads.<
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Computer
Average fuel consumption
If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average fuel
consumption last displayed is recalcu-
lated from that point in time.
Cruising range
The computer bases its calculations
of the cruising range on the previous
driving style.
Average speed
If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average speed last
displayed is recalculated from that
point in time.
Any time spent when the vehicle is
stationary and the engine is shut off is
ignored for the calculation.
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The concept
The PDC assists you when you back
into a parking space. A signal warns
you of the distance to an obstacle.
To do this, four ultrasonic sensors in
the rear bumper measure the distance
to the nearest object. The range for the
sensors located at both rear corners
ends approx. 2 ft. (60 cm) behind
the bumpers. The range for the two
middle sensors is approx. 4.9 feet
(1.50 meters).
The system is activated automatically
about one second after you engage
reverse with the ignition key in
position 2. PDC is deactivated when
you shift back out of reverse.
Acoustic signals
The distance to the nearest object is
indicated by a tone sounding at various
intervals. As the distance between
vehicle and object decreases, the inter-
vals between the tones become
shorter. A continuous tone indicates the
presence of an object less than 1 ft.
(30 cm) away.
The warning signal is interrupted after
approx. three seconds if the distance to
the obstacle 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.
The PDC does not remove the
driver's personal responsibility for
evaluating the distance between the
vehicle and any obstacles. 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 ultra-
sonic measurement, as occurs with tow
bars and trailer couplings, and in the
vicinity of thin and painted objects.
Certain sources of sound, such as a
loud radio, could drown out the PDC
signal tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free
of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they 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).<
Park Distance Control (PDC)*
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Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
The concept
DSC helps maintain vehicle stability,
even in critical driving situations.
The system optimizes vehicle stability
during acceleration and when starting
from a full stop, as well as optimizing
traction. In addition, the system recog-
nizes unstable vehicle conditions
(understeering or oversteering in
curves, for example) and holds the
vehicle on course by intervening via the
engine and by braking intervention at
the individual wheels within the limits
defined by the laws of physics.
The system starts up automatically
each time you start the engine.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. The
results of driving irresponsibly rest with
the driver. We therefore urge you to
avoid using the additional safety margin
of the system as an excuse for taking
risks. Do not make any modifications to
the DSC system. Service procedures
on the system are to be performed by
authorized technicians only.<
You will find additional details
concerning DSC in the chapter
"Advanced technology" on page 170.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp on the instru-
ment cluster will go out shortly
after the ignition has been
switched on. Refer to page 21.
> Indicator lamp flashes: the system is
active and is controlling the drive
torque based on driving conditions
> If the indicator lamp fails to go out
after the engine has been started, or
if it comes on during normal driving
and stays on: there is a system
malfunction or the system was deac-
tivated with the button. You can
continue to drive the vehicle
normally, but without DSC. Please
consult your BMW center for repairs.
To deactivate the system
Press the button – the indicator lamp
comes on and stays on.
When DSC is deactivated, you are
driving with conventional power
transfer.
We recommend that you turn the
system off for increased traction:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
> When driving with snow chains.
Refer also to page 110.
To help maintain driving stability,
drive with the DSC activated
whenever possible.<
To reactivate the system
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
The concept
The Tire Pressure Warning system
(RDW) monitors the tire inflation pres-
sure in all four tires while driving. The
system is designed to detect whenever
the inflation pressure in a tire drops off
significantly.
By monitoring the speeds of the tires
relative to each other, a flat tire can be
detected and reported because its
speed suddenly deviates drastically
from that of the other tires.
Initializing the system
Initializing is necessary to familiarize the
system with the correct inflation pres-
sure.
Repeat this process after any changes
in tire inflation pressure, tire rotation or
replacement. Do not carry out further
system initialization after correcting the
inflation pressure and letting the system
"learn" what condition is required.
1 Check the tire inflation pressure in all
the tires, comparing them with the
inflation pressure table (page 28),
and adjusting their pressure if neces-
sary
2 Turn the ignition key to position 2
3 Press button until the yellow indicator
lamp on the instrument cluster lights
up. After a little while, the indicator
lamp will go out automatically
4 After a few minutes, the RDW will
accept the current inflation pressure
as its reference value, and from that
point on, can detect and report a flat
tire.
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Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
Activating/deactivating the
system
The system is automatically active in
ignition key position 2 and is therefore
always on during driving.
To deactivate the system: tap the
button, the indicator lamp will light up
yellow.
To activate the system: tap the button
again; the indicator lamp goes out.
Deactivate the system while driving
with snow chains, since false warnings
and undetected losses in pressure are
possible under these kinds of condi-
tions.
In the event of a flat tire
The indicator lamp on the instru-
ment cluster will light up red in
the event of a significant loss in
tire pressure. In addition, an acoustic
signal is sounded. To come to an imme-
diate stop, reduce speed, while
avoiding any sudden, jerky braking or
steering maneuvers.
Fix the flat tire using the M Mobility
system (refer to page 153).
Resetting the indicator lamp: the red
indicator lamp has to be turned off
manually after putting on a new wheel.
At this point, hold the RDW button
down until the indicator lamp goes out.
Re-initialize the system afterward.
The RDW cannot alert you to
severe and sudden tire damage
caused by external factors.
The RDW will not identify the natural,
even loss of pressure in all four tires,
either.<
Check the tire inflation pressure
on a regular basis and correct if
necessary. Refer to page 27.
Under certain circumstances, there
may be false warnings or a delayed
detection of losses in pressure when
driving on snow-covered or slippery
road surfaces.
A sporty driving style (slip at the wheels
receiving the torque, high lateral accel-
erations) can lead to delayed RDW
warnings.<
System malfunction
As long as there is still a malfunction,
the indicator lamp on the instrument
cluster will remain yellow.
Please contact your BMW center for
additional information.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
M Engine dynamics control
The system (sport mode identification)
will cause the engine to respond more
spontaneously to the motion of the
accelerator pedal.
Activating/deactivating sport
mode identification
Activating: with the key in ignition key
position 2, press the sport button. The
indicator lamp will light up.
Deactivating: press the sport button
again; the indicator lamp will go out.
The sporty mode is deactivated every
time the engine is started.
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Parking lamps/Side marker lamps
With the switch in this position,
vehicle lighting is illuminated on
both sides. You can use the side
lamps for parking. Refer to page 85 for
one-sided lighting as an additional
possibility for parking.
Low beam headlamps
When you switch the ignition off
with the low beam headlamps
on, only the side lamps will
remain on.
"Follow-me-home lamps":
If you turn the headlamp flasher
on after you have parked the vehicle,
the low beam headlamps will remain on
for a short period of time. You can also
have this function deactivated.<
"LAMPS ON" warning
Whenever you open the driver's door,
after having turned the ignition key to
position 0, you will hear a buzzing
sound for a few seconds to remind you
that the lamps have not been switched
off.
Daylight 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.
In order to spare the battery, all of
the lamps in the vehicle are
switched off automatically approx.
15 minutes after the ignition key has
been turned to position 0.<
Turn the rotary dial to control the
lighting when the side lamps or low
beam headlamps are on.
Side lamps/Low beam headlamps Instrument lighting
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
High beams/Side marker lamps Fog lamps
1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator
lamp)
3 Parking lamps
Side marker lamps, left or right
As an additional feature, you can illumi-
nate your vehicle on either side for
parking, if you wish to do so:
With the ignition key in position 0,
engage the lever in the appropriate turn
signal position.
Front fog lamps
A green indicator lamp appears
in the instrument cluster to indi-
cate that the front fog lamps are
on.
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Interior lamps Reading lamps
The interior lamps operate automati-
cally.
To switch the interior lamps on
and off manually
Press the button briefly.
If you want the interior lamps to remain
off all the time, press and hold the
button for approx. 3 seconds.
To revert to normal operation, press the
button briefly.
Footwell lamps
The footwell lamps operate in the same
way as the interior lamps.
Front reading lamps*
Switch on and off with the switch adja-
cent to each lamp.
Rear reading lamps
On the hardtop* there are also reading
lamps in the back. Switch on and off
with the switch adjacent to each lamp.
In order to spare the battery, all of
the lamps in the vehicle are
switched off automatically approx.
15 minutes after the ignition key has
been turned to position 0.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
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Automatic climate control
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Automatic climate control
1 Air onto the windshield and onto the
side windows
2 Airflow toward the upper body
The side rotary dials allow you to
open and close the air supply
through an infinitely-variable range,
while the levers change the airflow
direction. The center rotary dial
adjusts the temperature of the
emerging air, see page 92
3 Ventilation for the front footwell
There are corresponding air vents in
the rear footwell as well
4 Recirculated air mode/Automatic
recirculated air control (AUC) 91
5 Air supply (fan) 91
6 Temperature 90
7 Automatic air distribution 90
8 Individual air distribution 90
9 Air grille for interior temperature
sensor – please keep clear and
unobstructed
10 Display for temperature and air
supply 90
11 To defrost the windows and remove
condensation 91
12 Air conditioner 91
13 Rear window defroster 71, 92
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Automatic climate control
Tips for pleasant driving
Use the automatic system (switch on
AUTO – button 7).
> Select an interior temperature that is
comfortable for you — e.g. 72 7
(+22 6).
> Whenever the outside temperature is
above 41 7 (+5 6), you can also
use the air conditioner 12. This will
dry the air as well as preventing
condensation on the window
surfaces – if there are passengers
with damp clothing, for example.
> Set the outlets 2 so that the air flows
past you and is not directed straight
at you.
> Set the rotary dial between the air
outlets 2 for the upper body to a
medium position, since air that is
somewhat cooler promotes driving
without fatigue.
Detailed setting options are described
for you in the following sections.
Your vehicle is set in such a
manner that, when you unlock the
vehicle with your individualized remote
control, your own personalized setting
for the automatic climate control is initi-
ated.<
Automatic air distribution
The automatic program will take
over
> automatically distributing the air
supply to the vents, as well as
> automatically adjusting the amount of
incoming air.
It will adapt to the settings you have
made for the temperature that you want
in the passenger compartment – taking
outside influences into account
(summer, winter) – and will privide you
with a comfortable climate in the
vehicle at any time of the year.
> Select an interior temperature that is
comfortable for you — e.g. 72 7
(+22 6). The temperature selected
and AUTO for air supply will
appear in display 10. Refer to the
overview on page 88
> Open up the vents for the upper body
> Switch on the air conditioner in warm
weather. The maximum cooling
capacity is achieved when you set
rotary dial 3 (refer to page 92) to cold.
Individual air distribution
You can cancel the AUTO
program by selecting specific
distribution patterns to suit your
own individual requirements.
You can direct air to flow onto the
windows , toward the upper body
, and into the footwell .
Temperature
The figures in the display
provide a general indication of
interior temperature. We recommend
72 7 (+22 6) as a comfortable setting,
even if the air conditioner is on. When
you start the vehicle, the system
ensures that the selected temperature
is reached as quickly as possible. It
then maintains this temperature,
regardless of the season.
Set rotary dial 3 (refer to "Draft-free
ventilation" on page 92) to a medium
setting, since air that is somewhat
cooler promotes driving without fatigue.
You can use this setting for mixing air to
make minor comfort modifications.
You can set uncontrolled heater
output up to 90 7 (+32 6). The
air conditioner is at full cooling output
at 60 7 (+16 6).<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Automatic climate control
Air supply (fan)
By pressing the left or right half
of the button, you can vary the
air supply. By doing this, you switch off
the automatic control of the air supply.
Nevertheless, the automatic air distri-
bution remains unchanged.
When you set the lowest blower speed
by pressing the left half of the button,
all of the displays are canceled: the
blower, heating and air conditioner are
switched off, and the air supply is
stopped. You can reactivate the system
by pressing any button for the auto-
matic climate control.
Defrosting the windows and
removing condensation
This program quickly removes
ice and condensation from the
windshield and side windows.
Air conditioner
The air is cooled and dehumidi-
fied and – depending on the
temperature setting – rewarmed when
the air conditioner system is switched
on.
Depending on the weather, the wind-
shield may fog over briefly when the
engine is started.
Use the button to switch the air condi-
tioner off at outside temperatures
below approx. 41 7(+5 6). This will
help to prevent the windows from
fogging over.
If the windows fog over after switching
the air conditioner off, switch it back
on.
Condensation forms in the air
conditioner system during opera-
tion, that then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
Automatic recirculated air control
(AUC)
If there are unpleasant odors or
pollutants in the outside air, you
can temporarily block the airflow from
the outside. The system then recircu-
lates the air already within the vehicle.
By repeated actuation of the button,
you can select one of three different
operation modes.
> Indicator lamps off: outside air always
flowing into the vehicle
> Left-hand indicator lamp on – Auto-
matic mode: the system detects
pollutants in the outside air and
responds by deactivating the outside
airflow as required. The system then
recirculates the air already within the
vehicle.
Depending on air quality require-
ments, the system automatically
switches between outside air supply
and recirculation of the air already
within the vehicle
> Right-hand indicator lamp on: the
flow of outside air is permanently
blocked. The system recirculates the
air already within the vehicle.
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Automatic climate control
If the windows fog over in the
recirculated air mode, switch the
recirculated air off and increase the air
supply as required.<
Rear window defroster
When the rear window defroster
is activated, the indicator lamp
comes on. The rear window defroster
switches off automatically. Refer to
page 71.
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the vents for the upper
body area to select the optimum airflow
rates and directions for your personal
requirements:
1 Rotary dials for opening and closing
the vents at any setting desired
2 Lever for changing the direction of
the airflow.
Set the outlets so that the air flows
past you and is not directed straight
at you
3 Using the rotary dial, you can mix
more or less cool air with the air
coming out of the vents aimed at the
upper body
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 will replace the combined
filter as a standard part of your sched-
uled maintenance. A substantial reduc-
tion in airflow indicates that the filter
needs to be replaced early.
For additional details on changing the
filter, refer to page 161.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Heated seats*
The seat cushion and backrest can be
heated with the ignition key in
position 2.
Heating levels
You can select different heating levels
by repeatedly pressing the buttons.
When the three indicator lamps are illu-
minated, the highest heating mode is
activated. One lamp indicates the
lowest heating mode. The temperature
is thermostatically controlled in each
mode.
To deactivate
Press repeatedly or hold down until all
of the indicator lamps go out.
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Opening and closing
To open: pull the handle. The glove
compartment lamp will light up.
To close: fold the cover up.
To prevent injury in the event of
a crash, close the glove compart-
ment immediately after use.<
To lock
Lock with one of the master keys. A
master key must also be used for
unlocking.
If, for example you turn over only
your door key for valet parking
(refer to page 32), access to the glove
compartment and luggage compart-
ment is not possible.<
Glove compartment
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Storage compartments
Front center armrest*
To open: press the button (arrow) and
lift upward.
Other compartments and nets
You will find additional storage
compartments in the doors and in the
center console above the ashtray.
Storage nets are on the front seat back-
rests.
Beverage holder, coin box
A coin box and two beverage holders
are provided in the center console.
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Cellular phone* Ashtray, front
Hands-free system
On vehicles with telephone prepara-
tion
* the trim piece for the hands-free
microphone is located above the inside
mirror on the driver's side.
For further information on the cellular
phone, refer to the separate Owner's
Manual.
To open
Press briefly in the direction indicated
by the arrow.
To empty
Press on the edge of the open cover
(arrow): you can now pull the ashtray
upward for removal.
Extinguishing cigarettes
Tap off the ash and gently press the tip
into the funnel.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Cigarette lighter Ashtray, rear
Press the lighter in. Remove as soon as
the lighter jumps back out.
Hold or touch the hot cigarette
lighter by the knob only. Holding
or touching it in other areas could result
in burns.
The cigarette lighter remains opera-
tional when the ignition key has been
removed. For this reason, children
should never be left in the vehicle unat-
tended.<
Cigarette lighter socket
It can be used for attaching power
supplies for flashlights, car vacuum
cleaners and other similar appliances
up to a rating of approx. 200 watts at
12 volts. Avoid damaging the socket by
attempting to insert plugs of different
shapes or sizes.
To open
Push the cover open.
To empty
Press on the edge of the raised cover
in the opening direction (arrow). The
ashtray will pop up and can be
removed.
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Ski bag*
The ski bag allows the safe and clean
transport of up to 3 pairs of standard
skis or up to two snowboards.
The length of the ski bag and the addi-
tional space provided in the luggage
compartment make it possible to carry
skis with a length of up to 6.8 feet
(2.10 meters). Because of the tapered
shape of the bag, the ski bag can only
accommodate two pairs of skis with a
length of 6.8 feet (2.10 meters).
Loading
1 Remove the safety belts in the rear
from their holders
2 Press down the lever (arrow) and
remove the center piece toward the
front
3 Extend the ski bag between the front
seats. The zipper provides conve-
nient access to stored items. It may
be opened to allow the ski bag to dry.
4 Press the release button in the
luggage compartment (arrow)
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Ski bag*
5 Secure the cover panel on the rear
panel with the magnetic retainers and
pull out the ski bag.
Securing the load
Secure the skis or other objects in
the bag by tightening the strap
with the buckle.<
Please be sure that your skis are clean
before loading them into the bag. Avoid
damage from sharp edges during
loading.
Stowing the ski bag
When stowing the ski bag, proceed in
the reverse order of loading.
When remounting the center
piece, guide the two bars into the
strip and press back the center piece.
Secure the safety belts in their holders
again.<
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Cargo loading
Always position and secure the
load correctly. If you do not, it can
endanger the passengers during
braking or evasive maneuvers.
Do not exceed the permissible gross
weight and axle load (refer to
page 180), otherwise the vehicle's
operating safety is no longer assured
and you are in violation of the law.
Do not stow heavy or hard objects in
the passenger compartment without
first securing them. Otherwise they
would be thrown around during braking
and evasive maneuvers and endanger
the occupants.<
Stowing cargo
If you are transporting a load in your
BMW:
> Load heavy cargo as far forward as
possible – directly behind the back-
rests or the luggage compartment
partition – and as low as possible.
> Cover sharp edges and corners.
With the convertible top closed
you can increase the size of the
luggage compartment, refer to page 41,
by folding up the convertible top
compartment base.
It is advisable to always fold down the
convertible top compartment base as
soon as you have removed your load
from the luggage compartment. This
way, you can be sure that you can
always operate the convertible top at
any time.
Conversely, when the convertible top is
closed, raise the convertible top
compartment base before stowing your
cargo in the luggage compartment to
avoid any damage to the convertible
top compartment or your load.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Cargo loading Roof-mounted luggage rack for the hardtop*
Securing the cargo in the luggage
compartment
> Secure smaller and lighter pieces
with a luggage compartment net
* or
tensioning straps (refer to page 40)
> For large, heavy pieces, see your
BMW center for load-securing
devices
*. Lashing eyes (arrow) are
provided at the corners of the
luggage compartment for attaching
these load-securing devices.
Comply with the information enclosed
with the load-securing devices.
A special roof-rack system is available
for your BMW as an optional extra.
Please comply with the precautions
included with the installation instruc-
tions.
Anchorage points
Access to the anchors:
To fold up the cover (arrow), please use
the tool provided with the roof-rack
system.
Loading and driving notes
Because roof racks raise the center of
gravity of the vehicle when loaded, they
exercise a major effect on its handling
and steering response.
When loading, be sure to remember not
to exceed the approved roof weight or
the approved gross vehicle weight or
the axle loads. You will find the specifi-
cations under "Technical Data" on
page 180.
Make sure that the load is not too
heavy, and attempt to distribute it
evenly. Always load the heaviest pieces
first (on the bottom). Make sure that no
objects get in the way when the
luggage compartment lid is opening or
closing.
Secure the roof luggage correctly and
tightly to prevent it from shifting or
being lost during driving (danger to
following traffic).
Drive smoothly and avoid sudden
acceleration or braking. Do not corner
at high speeds.
The luggage rack and roof luggage
increase the amount of surface
exposed to the wind: increased fuel
consumption and additional stresses on
the vehicle's body result from this.
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 104
Driving notes 105
Catalytic converter 105
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 106
Disc brakes 108
Brake system 109
Winter operation 110
Power steering 112
Cellular phone 112
Radio reception 112
Hardtop 113
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressures 115
Tire condition 115
Tire replacement 116
Tire rotation 117
Wheel and tire
combinations 118
Special features of winter
tires 119
Snow chains 119
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 120
Under the hood:
Hood 121
Engine compartment 124
Washer fluids 126
Washer nozzles 126
Engine oil 127
Coolant 129
Brake fluid 130
Vehicle Identification
Number 130
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 131
Caring for your vehicle 132
Cleaning and caring for the
convertible top 137
Airbags 139
Storing your vehicle 140
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 141
California Proposition 65
Warning 141
OBD connector 142
Car care
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To ensure that your vehicle continues to
provide maximum economy throughout
an extended service life, we request
that you devote careful attention to the
following section.
Your BMW M3 convertible is a
masterpiece of superlative tech-
nology. To create the basis for many
years of driving pleasure, we urge you
to observe the following precautions
during the initial operation period.<
Engine and differential
> Up to 1,200 miles (2,000 km): drive at
varying engine and road speeds, but
do not exceed the following engine or
road speeds: 5,500 rpm or 105 mph
(170 km/h)
Do not depress the accelerator pedal to
the full throttle position.
> Following the Break-In Inspection at
1,200 miles (2,000 km), you can
gradually increase engine or road
speeds.
Follow the same break-in procedure if
either the engine or the differential is
replaced in the future.
Tires
Due to technical factors associated
with their manufacture, tires do not
achieve their full traction potential until
after an initial break-in period. You
should therefore 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 aquaplaning, or hydro-
planing, and can lead to partial or
complete loss of traction, vehicle
control and braking effectiveness.
Reduce your speed on wet roads.<
Brake system
Approximately 300 miles ( 500 km) must
elapse before the brake pads and discs
achieve the optimal pad-surface and
wear patterns required for troublefree
operation and long service life later on.
To break-in the separate parking brake
drums, apply the parking brake lightly
when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic
signal, for instance), provided that
traffic conditions allow you to do so. To
avoid corrosion, repeat this procedure
from time to time.
The brake lamps do not come on
when the parking brake is
engaged.
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
towing, for example – substantially
higher levels of pedal force will be
required to brake the vehicle.<
Clutch
The clutch will also begin to function
optimally after about 300 miles
(500 km). Drive cautiously during this
break-in period and do not shift at high
engine speeds.
Break-in procedures
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Brakes: do not rest your foot on
the brake pedal while driving.
Even light but consistent pressure on
the brake pedal can lead to high
temperatures, brake wear and possibly
even brake system failure.
Aquaplaning: when driving on wet or
slushy roads, reduce vehicle speed. If
you do not, a wedge of water may form
between the tires and the road surface.
This phenomenon is referred to as
aquaplaning, or hydroplaning, and can
lead to partial or complete loss of
contact between the tires and road
surface, vehicle control and braking
ability.
Driving through water: do not drive
through water on the road if it is deeper
than 1 foot (30 cm), and then only at
walking speed at the most. Otherwise,
the vehicle's engine, the electrical
systems and the transmission may be
damaged.<
The catalytic converter reduces harmful
pollutants in the exhaust emissions.
It is designed for use with unleaded fuel
only. Even minute quantities of lead
would be enough to permanently
damage both the catalytic converter
and the system's oxygen sensor.
To ensure efficient, trouble-free engine
operation and to avoid potential
damage:
> Be sure to comply with the required
scheduled maintenance work and
repair procedures.
> Fill the fuel tank well before it is
empty.
> Tow-start only when the engine is
cold, otherwise unburned, residual
fuel in the catalytic converter could
ignite and cause damage. It is better
to jump-start the vehicle with outside
assistance.
> Avoid other situations where the fuel
is not burned, or burns incompletely,
such as engaging the starter
frequently or for extended periods, or
repeated start attempts in which the
engine does not start (stopping and
restarting an engine which is running
properly does not present a problem).
Never let the engine run with any of
the spark plug cables disconnected.
Be sure to observe the instruc-
tions above to prevent unburned
fuel from reaching the catalytic
converter. Otherwise there is danger of
overheating and damage to the cata-
lytic converter.
High temperatures occur in any vehicle
equipped with a catalytic converter.
Heat shields are installed adjacent to
some sections of the exhaust system.
Never remove these shields; do not
apply undercoating to their surfaces.
When driving, standing at idle, and
parking the vehicle, take extra care to
avoid contact between the exhaust
system and flammable materials (grass,
hay, leaves, etc.). Such contact could
start a fire, resulting in personal injury
and property damage.<
Driving notes Catalytic converter
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Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The concept
ABS helps prevent the wheels from
locking while braking, thereby
enhancing active driving safety. This is
because locked wheels are dangerous.
When the front wheels slide, the driver
loses steering control over the vehicle.
Traction loss at the rear wheels can
cause the rear end to break into an
uncontrolled skid.
Under any given road conditions, ABS
can brake the vehicle within the
shortest possible distance and with the
greatest possible driving stability (on
straight-aways and curves, asphalt, ice,
wet road surfaces, etc.).
ABS is designed to meet two essential
requirements during every brake appli-
cation:
> To help provide vehicle stability
> To help maintain steering control and
maneuverability – on all types of road
surfaces (asphalt, concrete, mud, wet
road surfaces, snow, ice).
Braking with ABS
The system is operative once the
vehicle exceeds a speed of approx.
6 mph (10 km/h). The ABS is deacti-
vated whenever the vehicle's speed
drops back below approx. 4 mph
(6 km/h). This means that the wheels
can lock in the final phase of a panic
stop – a factor of no significance in
actual use.
If you are in a situation that requires full
braking, you will exploit the full benefits
of the ABS system if you apply
maximum pedal pressure ("panic stop").
Do not let up on the brake pedal even
after it starts pulsating. Since the
vehicle maintains steering response,
you retain the ability to avoid obstacles
using careful steering inputs.
The ABS system's closed-loop control
circuit cycles in fractions of a second.
Pulsation at the brake pedal shows you
that ABS is active and that you are thus
approaching the limits of the brake
system's effective response range. In
addition, a pulsation – a result of the
control function cycles – indicates to
the driver that vehicle speed should be
reduced to adapt to road surface condi-
tions when there is reduced traction
and grip between tires and road surface
(slippery road surface).
On road surfaces with a loose surface
layer over a firm base, e.g. on gravel or
snow, as well as when driving with
snow chains on, braking distances may
be longer than with the wheels locked.
However, ABS continues to provide
enhanced vehicle stability and steering
response under these conditions.
Information for your safety
Not even ABS can suspend the laws of
physics. The consequences of brake
applications with inadequate clear-
ances for safety between vehicles,
excessive speed or if aquaplaning
occurs are always the responsibility of
the driver. You should never allow the
added safety of ABS to lull you into a
false sense of security, or mislead you
into taking risks that could affect your
own safety and that of others.
Do not make any modifications to
the ABS system.
Service procedures on ABS are to be
performed by authorized technicians
only.<
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Antilock Brake System (ABS)
Antilock Brake System (ABS)/
Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
CBC is an advanced engineering
feature of the ABS. When braking while
cornering at high speed or braking
during high lateral acceleration in
curves, or when braking during a lane
change, vehicle stability is improved
and steering response is enhanced.
In the event of a malfunction
If the ABS warning lamp comes
on, refer to page 21. The brake
system will continue to function
the same as on vehicles without ABS.
However, have the brake system
checked by your BMW center as soon
as possible. To prevent undetected
defects and cumulative faults from
adversely affecting the brake system,
refer any problems to your BMW center
at the earliest opportunity.
ABS warning lamp for Canadian
models.
If the brake warning lamp
comes on together with the indi-
cator lamps for ABS and DSC,
refer to page 21: then the entire
ABS, CBC and DSC
control
system has failed. Continue
driving cautiously and defen-
sively. Avoid full brake applica-
tions. This could cause the vehicle to
lose stability and you might no longer
be able to control it.
Have the system checked by your BMW
center as soon as possible.
CBC, ABS and DSC indicator
and warning lamps for Canadian
models.
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Disc brakes
Disc brakes furnish optimum decelera-
tion and braking control with greater
fade resistance under heavy use.
Using your vehicle only occasionally,
leaving your vehicle parked for
extended periods, and making only
minimal demands on your brakes
promotes brake disc corrosion and
brake pad contamination, because the
minimal loads required for your disc
brakes to self-clean have not been
reached.
If the brake discs are corroded, they will
tend to respond to braking with a
pulsating effect that even extended
brake applications will fail to cure.
For your own safety: use only
brake pads that BMW has
approved for your particular vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
Driving notes
When driving in wet conditions and in
heavy rain, it is effective to apply light
pressure to the brakes every few miles.
Be aware of traffic conditions to ensure
that this maneuver does not endanger
other road users. The heat which is
generated by the brake applications
helps to dry the brake pads and discs.
Maximum braking force is obtained
while the wheels are not locked, but
rather when they are still barely turning
immediately prior to locking. ABS main-
tains this state automatically. If the ABS
should ever fail, pump the brakes if
possible (refer to page 111).
Drive down long or steep descents in
the mountains using a gear that
requires the least amount of braking.
Doing this prevents putting excessive
loads on the brakes, which in turn
keeps the brake system from possibly
being damaged. Stay within the allow-
able engine speed range. For further
information, refer to page 73.
Braking effect on the engine can be
further increased by downshifting, into
first gear, if necessary.
Should the braking effect from the
engine prove inadequate, you should
still avoid extended, continuous
braking. Instead, decelerate the vehicle
by stepping hard on the brake pedal
(while watching out for drivers behind
you), and, if necessary, continue to
decelerate by pumping the brakes
(staggered braking). This staggered
braking technique allows the brakes to
cool in the intervals between active
braking phases. This prevents over-
heating and ensures that full braking
capacity remains available at all times.
Do not coast with the clutch
depressed, with the shift lever in
neutral or with the engine shut off. The
engine does not provide any braking
effect with the transmission in neutral or
with the engine shut off.
Do not allow floor mats, carpets or any
other objects to protrude into the area
around the brake pedal, the clutch or
the accelerator which could obstruct
their freedom of movement.<
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Brake system
Brake fluid level
If the brake warning lamp
comes on with the parking
brake released: the brake fluid
level is too low in the reservoir (refer to
page 130).
If the brake fluid level is too low and
brake pedal travel has become notice-
ably longer, there may be a defect in
one of the brake system's hydraulic
circuits.
Brake warning lamp for Cana-
dian models.
Proceed to the nearest BMW
center. Greater pressure on the
brake pedal may be necessary under
these conditions, and brake pedal
travel may be significantly longer.
Please remember to adapt your driving
style accordingly.<
Brake pads
If the warning lamp for the brake
pads comes on: only the
minimum pad thickness still
remains on the brake pads. Proceed to
the nearest BMW center as soon as
possible to have the pads replaced.
For your own safety: use only
brake pads that BMW has
approved for your particular vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
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Winter operation
The onset of winter is often accompa-
nied by rapid changes in weather.
Adaptations in driving style should be
accompanied by preparations on the
vehicle itself to ensure that your
progress through the winter remains
safe and trouble-free.
Coolant
Be sure that the coolant mixture
contains the year-round ratio of 50:50
water and extended-duty antifreeze/
corrosion inhibitor. This mixture
provides protection against freezing
down to approx. –34 7 (–37 6). Have
the coolant replaced every 3 years.
Locks
BMW door lock deicer can be used to
free them if frozen. This deicer also
contains lubricant.
After using the deicer, treatment with
BMW lock cylinder grease is recom-
mended.
Rubber components
To prevent the weather-stripping from
freezing, apply a spray-on rubber treat-
ment or silicone spray to the door, hood
and luggage compartment lid seals.
A full range of car care products is
available from your BMW center.<
Snow chains
Mount BMW snow chains* only in pairs
on rear tires and always follow the
manufacturer's safety precautions. Do
not exceed a maximum speed of
30 mph (50 km/h) with snow chains. In
rare situations like these, it may be a
good idea to turn the DSC off briefly,
refer to page 80.
Deactivate the Tire Pressure Warning
system (RDW) when driving with snow
chains mounted. Snow chains can
cause the system to generate false
alarms and/or fail to detect pressure
loss, refer to page 81
Starting off
When trying to drive out of deep snow,
or when "rocking" the vehicle to free it,
it may be prudent to temporarily deacti-
vate the DSC system. Refer to page 80.
Driving on low-traction road
surfaces
Use smooth, gentle pressure to control
the accelerator pedal. Avoid excessive
engine speeds and shift to the next
higher gear at an early point. Adapt
your speed and driving style when
approaching grades or slopes. Maintain
an adequate distance between yourself
and the vehicle ahead.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Winter operation
Brakes
Winter road conditions substantially
reduce the amount of traction available
between the tires and the road surface;
the resulting increase in braking
distance is considerable and should
always be kept in mind.
ABS is intended to prevent the wheels
from locking during brake applications,
thus helping to maintain vehicle stability
and steering response.
If the ABS does not respond in a critical
braking situation and the wheels lock:
reduce the pressure on the brake pedal
until the wheels just start to roll again
while still maintaining enough force to
continue braking.
Then increase the pressure, reduce the
pressure when the wheels lock, reapply
pressure etc.
Pumping the brakes will reduce braking
distance while helping you maintain
steering control over the vehicle.
You can then attempt to steer around
hazards after you have reduced pres-
sure on the brake pedal.
Do not downshift to decelerate on
slick road surfaces. Doing so
could cause loss of traction at the rear
wheels, which could result in the loss of
vehicle control.<
Depress the clutch during hard
braking on road surfaces that
provide only poor or uneven traction.<
Skid control
Depress the clutch and release the
accelerator pedal. Countersteer care-
fully and attempt to regain control of the
vehicle.
Parking
Engage either 1st gear or reverse.
Apply the parking brake whenever you
park on inclined surfaces. In order to
prevent the parking brake pads from
locking due to frost or corrosion, dry
them by gently applying the parking
brake as the vehicle is coming to a
stop. Make sure that following traffic is
not endangered.
The brake lamps do not come on
when the parking brake is
applied.<
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Power steering Cellular phone* Radio reception
If the steering response changes, e.g.
high steering effort:
Consult a BMW center to have it
checked.
If the power steering fails,
increased effort will be required to
steer the vehicle.<
Mobile communications systems
(cellular phone, radio, etc.) are
permitted with an output up to 10 watts
only. Mobile communications devices
not specifically designed for use in your
vehicle may trigger malfunctions while
operating your vehicle. BMW can
neither test nor assume responsibility
for every individual product being
offered on the market. We recommend
that you consult your BMW center
before purchasing any device of this
kind.
To ensure that your BMW continues to
provide reliable and trouble-free opera-
tion, do not use a cellular phone or
other radio device with an antenna
located inside the passenger compart-
ment. The antenna should always be
mounted on the outside of the vehicle.
Before loading the vehicle on a
car-carrier train or driving it
through a car wash, remove the
antenna.<
The reception and sound quality
obtained from mobile radios vary
according to a variety of factors,
including the broadcast range of the
transmitter and the directional orienta-
tion of the antenna. Interference factors
such as high-tension power lines, build-
ings and natural obstructions can all
lead to unavoidable reception interfer-
ence, regardless of how well the
vehicle's sound system is operating.
Climatic factors such as intense solar
radiation, fog, rain and snow can also
interfere with reception.
Car telephones or cellular phones not
approved by BMW can also cause
interference in the radio during a tele-
phone call. This phenomenon assumes
the form of a low-pitched hum
emanating from the speaker system.
Please refer to the separate Owner's
Manual that came with your vehicle for
information on setting and operating
your car radio.
You will find additional details
concerning car radio reception in the
chapter "Advanced technology" on
page 169.
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Hardtop*
It is not necessary to remove the fabric
top even in the winter, when the
hardtop is generally in constant use.
But you can also remove it at any time
with no problem. Before the fabric top
is stored in the convertible top
compartment, it must be absolutely dry
in order to prevent water spots and
mildew from forming.
The hardtop is equipped with reading
lamps in the rear and clothes hooks
operated simply by pressing. In addi-
tion, a roof-rack assembly is available.
In this regard, please contact your
BMW center.
When suspending clothing from
the hooks, ensure 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.<
Two people are required for installation
or removal. Work with extreme caution
in order to avoid paint damage and
damage to the body or hardtop.
To facilitate hardtop installation or
removal, you can obtain a specially
designed hardtop lift
* or hardtop rack*
at your BMW center.
Storage
Storing the hardtop on the floor:
shove the styrofoam block that
came with the hardtop forward to its
center. The arrow on top of the styro-
foam block has to be pointing upward
when you are doing this.<
Installation
1 Lower the side windows completely
and flip the sun visors down. If
necessary, remove the antenna rod
to avoid any damage
2 Open the convertible top compart-
ment lid slightly with the button for
convertible top operation, refer to
page 46
3 Remove the trim pieces on both
sides by pulling them off toward the
back (arrow), and reclose the
convertible top compartment lid
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Hardtop*
4 Open the two front locking levers on
the hardtop by pressing the buttons
(arrow). The levers will release
slightly. Raise the levers as far as the
stop will allow
5 Before installing, first flip down the
cover panels that are located under-
neath the left and right interior lamps.
To do this, press on the slight bump
on the cover panel. There is a holder
in the cover panel to securely store
the covers 1 that have been removed
6 Open the red release lever 2 as far as
the stop will allow
7 Position the hardtop onto the
supports with the help of a second
person. Be sure to put the mountings
exactly into the proper brackets
Lift the hardtop carefully. Be
extremely careful not to shift the
seals. Seals that have accidentally been
shifted or pulled out cause leaks.<
8 In the back, close the red locking
lever by turning to the inside as far as
the stop located behind the trim will
allow. Flip the cover panels back into
place
9 To lock the hardtop in the front, keep
pressing on the front locking levers
until you hear them engage.
Removal
Reverse the installation sequence to
install the hardtop.
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Information for your safety
The factory-approved radial tires are
matched to the vehicle and have been
selected to provide optimum safety and
driving comfort on your vehicle.
It is not merely the tire's service life, but
also driving comfort and – above all
else – driving safety that depend on the
condition of the tires and the mainte-
nance of the specified tire pressure.
Incorrect inflation pressure is a frequent
cause of tire damage. It also signifi-
cantly influences the roadholding ability
of your BMW.
Check tire inflation pressures on a
regular basis (refer to page 27), at
least every two weeks and before
beginning a longer trip. If this is not
done, incorrect tire pressures can
cause driving instability and tire
damage, ultimately resulting in acci-
dents.<
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 0.12 in (3 mm), even though
the legally specified minimum tread
depth is only 0.063 in (1.6 mm). At a
tread depth of 0.063 in (1.6 mm), tread
depth indicators (arrow) in the tread-
groove base will indicate that the legally
permissible wear limit has been
reached. Below 0.12 in (3 mm) tread
depth, there is an increased risk of
aquaplaning, even at relatively
moderate speeds and with only small
amounts of water on the road.
Do not drive on a deflated (flat)
tire. A flat tire greatly impairs
steering and braking response, and can
lead to complete loss of control over
the vehicle.
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that
the permitted load on the tires is not
exceeded. Overloading can lead to
overheating and increases the rate at
which damage develops inside the
tires. You could have a blowout as a
result.
Unusual vibrations encountered during
normal vehicle operation can indicate a
flat tire or some other vehicle defect.
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
and carefully proceeding to the nearest
BMW center or professional tire center,
or having the vehicle towed in to have it
and its tires inspected.
Tire damage (up to and including
sudden and complete air loss) can
endanger the lives of both the vehicle
occupants and other road users.<
Tire inflation pressures Tire condition
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To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single
tread configuration from a single manu-
facturer. BMW tests and approves
wheel and tire combinations. Refer to
page 120.
DOT Quality Grades
Treadwear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
All passenger vehicle tires must
conform to Federal Safety
Requirements 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 g) times as
well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance
of tires depends upon the actual condi-
tions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due
to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road char-
acteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on speci-
fied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straight-
ahead braking traction tests, and does
not include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<
Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B, and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to degenerate
and reduce tire life, and excessive
temperature can lead to sudden tire
failure. The grade C corresponds to a
level of performance which all
passenger vehicle 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
Tire replacement
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Tire replacement Tire rotation
Do not use retreaded tires. Driving
safety may be impaired by their
use. The reason for this are possible
variations in tire casing structures and,
in part, because they are already quite
old, which can lead to a deterioration in
their durability.<
Tire age
The date on which the tire was manu-
factured is indicated by the code on the
sidewall:
DOT ... 1101 means that the tire was
produced in the 11th week of the year
2001.
BMW recommends replacing all tires
after 6 years at the latest, even if a tire
life of 10 years is possible.
Spare tires over 6 years old should be
used only in case of emergency. A tire
in this condition should be replaced by
a new tire immediately, and should not
be mounted together with new tires.
Re-initialize the Tire Pressure Warning
(RDW) after rotating the tires. Refer to
page 81 for further information.
Summer tires
Due to different tire sizes on the
front and rear axles (refer to
page 120), the tires may not be rotated
from one axle to the other.<
Winter tires
The wheels are designed specifically
for use at the front or rear only.
Because the front and rear wheels
feature different rim depths (refer to
page 120), you should never attempt to
switch wheels from the front to rear or
vice versa.
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Wheel and tire combinations
The right choice
Only use wheels and tires that
have been approved by BMW for
the corresponding vehicle model, as
otherwise body contact and serious
accidents can result despite the use of
the same nominal size, e.g. due to
tolerances. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved wheels and tires to determine
if they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
For wheel and tire sizes approved by
BMW, refer to page 120.
Failure to use the specified wheel
and tire combinatons can have an
adverse effect on the performance of
various systems such as ABS and DSC.
For this reason, use only tires made by
the same manufacturer and that have
the same tread configuration on the
vehicle. And after a flat tire, for
instance, restore the approved wheel
and tire combination as soon as
possible.<
Codes on the tires and wheels
The marking on the tire has the
following meaning.
The codes on radial tires:
The speed rating indicates the
approved maximum speed for the tire.
Summer tires:
S = up to 112 mph (180 km/h)
T = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
V = up to 150 mph (240 km/h)
W = up to 167 mph (270 km/h)
Y = up to 187 mph (300 km/h)
ZR = over 150 mph (240 km/h)
Example:
Nominal width
in mm
Aspect
ratio in %
Radial tire ID code
Rim diameter in inches
Load rating
(not on ZR tires)
Speed rating
(before R on ZR tires)
225/45 R 1892W
Winter tires:
Q M+S = up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
T M+S = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H M+S = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
Codes stamped on light-alloy wheels:
Protect tire valve from dirt by using
screw-on valve stem caps. Dirt in the
valves frequently leads to slow leaks.
Storage
Always store tires in a cool, dry place.
Store them away from light whenever
possible. Protect the tires against
contact with oil, grease and fuel.
Example:
Rim width
in inches
Code letter for
flange type
Symbol for full-drop
center rim
Rim diameter in inches
Hump on the 2 rim shoulders
8 x 18 H 2J
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Use narrow-link BMW snow chains on
winter tires in pairs only and only on the
rear wheels. Comply with all manufac-
turer's safety precautions when
mounting the chains.
Deactivate the Tire Pressure
Warning system (RDW) when
using snow chains. Malfunction warn-
ings and undetected losses in pressure
are a possibility when driving with snow
chains.
For further information, refer to
page 81.<
Tire condition, tire pressure
Once winter tires wear to a tread depth
of less than 0.16 in (4 mm), their perfor-
mance under winter driving conditions
deteriorates noticeably. Worn tires
should therefore be replaced to ensure
continued safety.
Inflate tires to specified pressure and
have the wheels balanced every time
the tires or wheels have been rotated;
re-initialize the Tire Pressure Warning
system (RDW) as well. Refer to page 81
for further information.
Special features of winter tires Snow chains*
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends winter tires (M+S
radial tires) for driving in adverse winter
road conditions. So-called all-season
tires with the M+S identification mark
do indeed possess better winter trac-
tion than summer tires that have the H,
V, W, Y and ZR speed ratings, but they
generally fail to provide the same levels
of performance as winter tires.
In the interest of safe tracking and
steering response, install winter tires
made by the same manufacturer with
the same tread configuration on all four
wheels.
Do not exceed specified
maximum speeds
Never exceed the maximum
speed for which the tires are
rated.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
service tires can lead to damage and
accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled
professionals only. Any BMW center
has the required technical knowledge
and the proper equipment and will be
happy to assist you.<
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Approved wheel and tire specifications
Depending on the tire size, certain tire brands tested by BMW have been
classified and approved as safe in traffic. Contact your BMW center for a list
of these tires.
Observe any country-specific regulations, e.g. on making a corresponding
entry in the vehicle documents.
Tire specifications Light-alloy wheel
BMW M3 convertible
Summer tires
Front: 225/45 ZR 18 8J x 18 EH2
Rear: 255/40 ZR 18 9J x 18 EH2
Front: 225/40 ZR 19 8J x 19 EH2
Rear: 255/35 ZR 19 9.5J x 19 EH2
Winter tires (M+S)
Front: 225/45 R 17 91 H
Rear: 225/45 R 17 91 H
7.5J x 17 EH2 IS47
7.5J x 17 EH2 IS25
Snow chains*
It is not possible to mount snow chains
on tires with 18-/19-inch wheels.
Deactivate the Tire Pressure
Warning system (RDW) when
using snow chains. Malfunction warn-
ings and undetected losses in pressure
are a possibility when driving with snow
chains.
For further information, refer to
page 81.<
Winter tires
When selecting winter tires,
always remember the different rim
depths on the front and rear wheels.
Failure to mount the tires approved for
each wheel can lead to damage.<
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Do not work on your vehicle
without appropriate skills. Always
switch off the engine and allow it to
cool down before working in the engine
compartment. Always disconnect the
battery before working on any electrical
systems or equipment, especially when
these are located within the engine
compartment. Comply with all appli-
cable instructions and warnings. Failure
to work in an informed, professional
manner when servicing components
and materials constitutes a safety
hazard for vehicle occupants and other
road users. If you are not familiar with
the guidelines, please have the opera-
tions performed by your BMW center.<
To unlock
Pull the lever located under the left-
hand side of the instrument panel.
To open
Pull the release handle and open the
hood.
Hood
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Hood
To close
Lower the hood and then allow it to fall
the last few inches. You should hear the
lock mechanism engage. Then attempt
to move the hood above the left and
right headlamps to ensure that the lock
has engaged securely.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the hood is clear
when it is closed, as with all closing
procedures. If it is determined that the
hood is not completely closed while
driving, stop immediately and close
it securely.<
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Engine compartment
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Engine compartment
1 Filler neck for headlamp and wind-
shield washer system 126
2 Coolant expansion tank 129
3 Auxiliary terminal for jump-starting –
positive terminal 164
4 Engine oil filler cap 127
5 Engine oil dipstick 127
6 Brake fluid reservoir 130
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Washer fluids Washer nozzles
Headlamp* and windshield
washer system
Capacity: approx. 5.6 US quarts
(5.3 liters).
Fill with water and – if required – with a
washer antifreeze (according to manu-
facturer's recommendations).
It is more convenient to mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
Antifreeze for the washer systems
is flammable. For this reason,
keep it away from sources of flame and
store it in its original container. Store it
out of reach of children. Comply with
the instructions on the containers.<
Headlamp washer system
Have this system adjusted by your
BMW center as required.
Windshield washer system
The spray nozzles are not adjustable.
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Engine oil
Checking oil level
1 Park the vehicle on a level surface
2 Shut the engine off after it has
reached normal operating tempera-
ture
3 After approx. one minute, pull the
dipstick out and wipe it off with a
clean lint-free cloth, paper towel, or
similar material
4 Carefully push the dipstick all the way
into the guide tube and pull it out
again
5 The oil level should be between the
two marks on the dipstick.
As with fuel economy, oil consumption
is directly influenced by your driving
style and vehicle operating conditions.
The oil volume between the two marks
on the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.4 US quarts (1.3 liters).
Adding engine oil
Wait until the level has dropped to just
above the lower mark before adding oil.
However, never let the oil drop below
the lower mark.
Do not fill beyond the upper mark on
the dipstick. Excess oil will damage the
engine.
To obtain a correct reading when
rechecking the oil level after adding
lubricant, start the engine and allow it
to run, then switch it off and proceed as
described in the section on "Checking
oil level".
BMW engines are designed to
operate without oil additives; the
use of additives could lead to damage
in some cases. This is also true for the
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Engine oil
manual transmission, the differential,
and the power steering system.<
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW center only.
Continuous exposure to used oil
has caused cancer in laboratory
testing. For this reason, thoroughly
wash any areas of skin that come into
contact with oil using soap and water.
Always store oils, grease and similar
materials so that they are inaccessible
to children. Comply with warning labels
and information on containers.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of used oil.<
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil is extre-
mely important for the function and life
of an engine. Based on extensive
testing, BMW approves only certain
types of engine oil.
Use only approved "BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil."
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil," you may
use small volumes of other approved
synthetic oils for topping up between oil
changes. Use only oils with the specifi-
cation API SH or higher.
Ask your BMW center for details
concerning the specific "BMW
High Performance Synthetic Oil" or
synthetic oils that have been
approved.<
You can also call BMW of North
America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this
website: www.bmwusa.com to obtain
this information.
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as defined
in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class
depends on the climatic conditions in
the area where you drive your BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These kinds of oil may be used for
driving in all ambient temperatures.
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Coolant
Do not add coolant to the cooling
system when the engine is hot. If
you do, escaping coolant can cause
scalds.
To avoid the possibility of damage later
on, never use anything other than
factory-approved, nitrite and amino-
free extended-duty antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor. Your BMW center is
familiar with the official specifications.
Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents are
hazardous to health. You should always
store it in its original container and in a
location which is out of reach of chil-
dren. Extended-duty antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor contains ethylene
glycol, a flammable substance. For this
reason, do not spill long-life antifreeze
with corrosion inhibitor on hot engine
parts. It could catch fire and cause
serious burns.<
Checking the coolant level and
adding coolant
Check the coolant level when the
engine is cold (approx. 68 7 or
+20 6). The coolant gauge needle in
the instrument cluster must be located
in the blue field; otherwise you could be
scalded when adding more fluid.
1 Open the cap for the expansion tank
by turning it slightly counterclockwise
to allow accumulated pressure to
escape. Then open.
2 The coolant level is correct whenever
the upper end of the red float rod is
aligned with the upper edge of the
filler neck (refer to the arrow in the
illustration and the schematic
diagram next to the filler neck as
well).
3 If necessary, add coolant. If the
coolant is low, slowly add coolant
until the correct level is reached – do
not overfill.
The coolant is a mixture of water and
extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion
inhibitor. Always maintain the pres-
cribed all-season 50:50 mixture ratio for
year-round protection against internal
corrosion. No other additives are
required.
Change the coolant
Replace the coolant every three years.
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of extended-duty antifreeze
with corrosion inhibitor.<
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Brake fluid Vehicle Identification
If the brake warning lamp comes on
and the parking brake has been
released: check the brake fluid level
and if necessary, fill it up to the "MAX"
mark.
For adding brake fluid or for deter-
mining 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).
Low brake fluid levels can result in
increased pedal travel along with
reduced braking efficiency. Comply
with the instructions on page 109.
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 also to pages 75
and 159 and to the Service and
Warranty Information Booklet (US
models) or the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
Brake fluid is toxic and damages the
vehicle's paint. You should always store
it in its original container and in a loca-
tion which is out of reach of children.
Do not spill the 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.<
In the engine compartment, on the
right-hand strut dome (arrow).
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The BMW Maintenance System has
been designed as a reliable means of
providing maximum driving and oper-
ating safety – and as cost-effectively as
possible for you.
Please keep in mind that regular main-
tenance is not only necessary for the
safety of your vehicle, but also plays a
significant role in maintaining the resale
value of the vehicle.
Service Interval Display
Advanced technology is employed to
calculate the optimal maintenance
intervals. These are then indicated in
the Service Interval Display. While
conventional systems rely solely on
distance traveled to determine when
service is due, the BMW Maintenance
System considers the actual conditions
under which the vehicle operates,
because miles can be traveled in many
different ways:
From the point of view of maintenance,
for example, 62,000 miles (100,000 km)
short-distance driving are not equal to
the same 62,000 miles (100,000 km) of
long-distance 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
vehicle covers every kind of operating
situation. Those who are outright
"Sunday drivers," driving fewer than
6,000 miles (10,000 km) per year –
should, nevertheless have their oil
changed every 2 years at the most, no
matter what the Service Interval Display
indicates, since engine oil breaks down
over time, regardless of use.
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models)/Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet (Cana-
dian models)
For additional information on required
maintenance intervals and procedures,
please refer to the Service and
Warranty Information Booklet
(US models), or the Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet (Canadian
models).
As a precaution against rust, it is advis-
able to have the body checked for
damage from rocks or gravel at the
same time, depending upon operating
conditions.
Have your BMW center perform
maintenance and repair.
Your BMW center is always informed on
the latest maintenance work and repair
techniques and equipped with the
required special tools. In addition,
checking parts known from experience
to be subject to wear is a permanent
part of the maintenance specifications.
Be sure that all maintenance work is
confirmed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models), or in
the Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian models). These
entries are your verification for the
regular maintenance of your vehicle
and are required for the performance of
warranty repairs.<
The BMW Maintenance System
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Washing your vehicle
You can wash your BMW at an auto-
matic car wash, even when it is new.
Car wash systems that do not employ
brushes are preferable.
Wipe away tough dirt and loosen and
remove dead insects before washing
the vehicle.
In order to avoid spots, do not wash the
vehicle when the hood is warm, or
during or immediately after exposure to
strong sunlight.
When using an automatic car wash, be
sure that:
> The car wash system is suited for the
dimensions of your vehicle.
> No damage will occur on vehicles
with attached body accessories (such
as spoilers or antennas). Consult the
car wash operator if necessary.
> The wheels and tires of your vehicle
cannot be damaged by the convey-
ance devices of the car wash system.
> The vehicle is cleaned with minimum
brush pressure, and that plenty of
water is available for washing and
rinsing.
Vehicles with rain sensor
*:
Clean the windshield regularly. Wax
from automatic car washes or insects
can cause malfunctions in the rain
sensor
* function.
Turn the rain sensor off (refer to
page 69) when going through an
automatic car wash, otherwise, damage
could occur from unintended wiper
activation.<
Parts of the vehicle that are inacces-
sible to the automatic washer – such as
door sills, door and hood edges, etc. –
should be cleaned by hand.
In the winter months, it is especially
important to be sure that the vehicle is
washed on a regular basis. Large quan-
tities of dirt and road salt are difficult to
remove, and they also damage the
vehicle.
If spray wands or high-pressure
washers are used, be sure to
maintain an adequate distance between
the spray source and the vehicle's
surface. Inadequate distance and
excessive pressure can damage or
weaken the finish, making it more
susceptible to subsequent attack. In
addition, moisture could penetrate to
vehicle components, leading to long-
term damage.<
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
> Do not clean by wiping with a dry
cloth (this causes scratches). Never
use abrasives or strong solvents to
clean the covers.
> Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with plenty
of water.
> Always use a deicer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – never
use a scraper.<
After washing the vehicle, apply
the brakes briefly to dry them.
Braking efficiency might otherwise be
reduced by the moisture and the brake
discs could also corrode.<
Caring for your vehicle
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Caring for your vehicle
Exterior finish
To provide effective corrosion protec-
tion, multilayer paintwork is applied at
the factory. Cataphoretic immersion
priming techniques are supplemented
with special body-cavity protectants
and application of specially developed
and extensively tested materials.
A layer of flexible PVC is first applied to
the undercarriage. Following this, a
comprehensive undercoating treat-
ment with a wax-based protectant is
applied. Regular maintenance makes
an important contribution to maintaining
the safety and value of your vehicle.
Increasing awareness of the effects of
harmful environmental factors on
vehicle finishes have led paint and
vehicle manufacturers to initiate
ongoing programs designed to further
improve the durability of their finishes.
Despite this, regional environmental
factors can have negative effects on
your vehicle's finish. Consider these
factors in determining the frequency
and extent of your efforts to maintain
the vehicle finish.
Depending upon material and type of
impact (perforation of paint layer), phys-
ical stresses from sand, road salt,
gravel, etc., can cause corrosion to
start extending beneath the finish,
starting at the point of impact.
Road dirt, tar spots, dead insects,
animal droppings (strong alkali effect)
and tree excretions (resins and pollen)
all contain substances capable of
causing damage when allowed to
remain on the finish of your vehicle for
any period of time. This includes spots,
etching, flaking, and separations in the
top coat.
In industrial areas, deposits of flue dust,
lime, oily soot, precipitation containing
sulfur-dioxide (acid rain) and other envi-
ronmental pollutants will damage the
vehicle's finish unless adequate care is
provided – even though this is generally
limited to the outside horizontal
surfaces.
In coastal regions, high levels of atmo-
spheric salt and humidity promote
corrosion.
In tropical zones, high humidity and
heavy ultraviolet radiation prevail, in
addition to temperatures of over 105 7
(+40 6) in the shade. Under these
conditions, light paints can reach
temperatures up to 175 7 (+80 6) and
dark ones up to 250 7 (+120 6).
Caring for the vehicle finish
Regular washing is a preventive
measure against long-term effects from
substances that are harmful to the
vehicle's finish, especially if you drive
your vehicle in areas with high levels of
air pollution or aggressive natural
substances (tree resins, pollen).
Nevertheless, you should immediately
remove especially aggressive
substances. Failure to do so can lead to
changes in the paint's chemical struc-
ture or to discoloration. Gasoline spilled
during refueling, oil, grease and brake
fluid should always be cleaned away
immediately, as should bird droppings.
Any contamination remaining on the
surface of the vehicle will be especially
conspicuous after washing. Use
cleaning fluid or alcohol with a clean
cloth or cotton pad to remove these
stains. Remove tar spots with tar
remover. After cleaning, the affected
areas should be waxed to ensure
continued protection.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products available at your BMW
center.<
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Caring for your vehicle
Waxing your car
Protect the finish using only carnauba
or synthetic-based waxes.
The best way to determine when the
finish needs to be waxed is by noting
when water stops beading on the
surface.
You can use a glass cleaner to remove
any wax or silicone that may have been
left on the windows during waxing.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products available at your BMW
center.<
Paint damage
You can touch up small areas of paint
damage with a BMW spray paint or a
BMW touchup stick.
The paint color code for your vehicle is
provided on a sticker located on the
right hand side under the hood and on
the first page of your Service and
Warranty Information Booklet (US
models) or Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian models).
Damage caused by flying stones,
scratches, etc., must be touched up
without delay to prevent rust from
forming.
If corrosion has started to form in an
area with paint damage, remove all rust
and clean the area. Then prime the area
with a BMW Primer Stick. Finally, apply
the finish coat. Wait a few days, then
polish the repaired area. Finish by
applying a wax preservative.
More extensive paint damage should
be repaired professionally in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions. Your BMW center uses original
BMW finish materials in accordance
with approved repair procedures.
Window care
You can use window and glass cleaner
to clean inside window surfaces and
mirrors without smearing and streaking.
Never use polishing pastes or abrasive
(quartz) cleansers on mirror lenses.
Clean the wiper blades with soapy
water. The wiper blades should be
replaced twice a year – before and after
the cold season. This is especially
important for vehicles equipped with a
rain sensor
*.
Use only wiper blades approved
by BMW.<
Caring for other vehicle
components and materials
Light-alloy wheels should be treated
with alloy wheel cleaner, especially
during the winter months. However, do
not use aggressive products containing
acids, strong alkalis or abrasives. Do
not use steam cleaners operating at
temperatures above 140 7 (+60 6).
Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
If your vehicle has chrome parts
* such
as window moldings, door handles or
similar items, clean these parts carefully
with ample clean water, and possibly a
shampoo additive, especially if there is
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Caring for your vehicle
an accumulation of road salt. Use a
chrome polish for an additional treat-
ment.
Plastic components, vinyl upholstery,
headliners, lamp lenses, the clear cover
of the instrument cluster and compon-
ents with a sprayed matt black surface
can be cleaned with water (add plastic
shampoo as required). Do not allow
moisture to soak through the seats or
headliner. Never use solvents such as
lacquer thinner, heavy-duty grease
remover, fuels, or similar substances.
Rubber components should be cleaned
with water only; a rubber treatment or
silicone spray may also be applied.
Do not remove safety belts to clean
them. Clean them with mild soapy
water only. Do not use chemicals or dry
cleaners to clean safety belts, since this
could damage the belt fabric.
After cleaning, never allow the inertia
reel to retract the belts until they are
completely dry. Dirty safety belts
prevent the inertia reel mechanism from
retracting the strap properly, and thus
constitute a safety hazard.
Heavily soiled floor carpets and mats
*
can be cleaned with an interior cleaner.
The floor mats can be removed from
the vehicle for cleaning.
Use only a damp cloth to clean trim
panels made of real wood
* and other
parts constructed of real wood
*. Follow
up by drying with a soft cloth.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products available at your BMW
center.<
Care of upholstery materials
Depressions in the upholstery that
result from everyday use can be
brushed smooth by brushing against
the nap with a lightly dampened brush.
The tendency of the pile to lie in a
particular direction on velour upholstery
is not a quality defect, and, just as on
home textiles or clothing, cannot be
avoided.
Lint on upholstery materials, textile or
leather remnants that have been worn
into the upholstery may be removed
with a lint brush or a Velcro brush. A
cleaning glove is available for particu-
larly "stubborn" lint. Stains and fairly
large areas of dirt should be cleaned off
without delay, using lukewarm water
and an interior cleaner, stain remover or
appropriate cleaning fluid. Brush the
fabric afterwards to restore its appear-
ance.
If the vehicle will be stored for an
extended period or if it is exposed to
intense sunlight, cover all the seats or
the windows to prevent fading.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products available at your BMW
center.<
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Caring for your vehicle
The buildup of an electrostatic charge
on the seat covers, particularly if atmo-
spheric humidity is low, can give the
occupants an unpleasant electric shock
if they touch metal body parts after
leaving the vehicle. Although this is not
dangerous in any way, it can be
avoided by touching a bare or polished
metal part of the vehicle while getting
out.
Alcantara*
Clean using a gentle detergent, taking
care not to rub or scratch. Then finish
off by wiping it with a wet cloth.
Leather care
The leather upholstery* used by BMW
is a natural product of the highest
quality, processed using state-of-the-
art methods to ensure that it will main-
tain its high quality for years to come,
provided that it is properly cared for.
Because this product is manufactured
using natural materials, you must make
allowance for its particular characteris-
tics and for the special care and atten-
tion this material needs in daily use.
Regular periodic cleaning and care are
essential, as dust and road dirt act as
abrasives in the pores and creases of
the material. This leads to wear spots
and premature brittleness of the leather
surface. We therefore suggest that you
clean the leather with a vacuum cleaner
or dust cloth at frequent intervals.
For cleaning, use BMW leather cleaning
foam.
Since dirt and grease gradually attack
the protective layer of the leather, the
cleaned surfaces should be treated
with BMW leather care agent. This also
acts as an antistatic agent.
For protection against dampness or
moisture, treat the leather with a
BMW impregnating agent.
We recommend that you perform this
procedure twice a year on leather
exposed to normal use.
Spills should be wiped up immediately.
Remove grease and oil stains by
dabbing with spot remover. Avoid
rubbing.
If the upholstery is exposed to intense
sunlight or if the vehicle is going to be
left parked for an extended period of
time, cover all leather surfaces or all the
windows to prevent fading.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products available at your BMW
center.<
Cleaning agents can contain
substances that are dangerous or
that pose health risks. For this reason,
always comply with the warnings and
danger notices on the packaging.
Open the doors or windows on your
vehicle when cleaning the interior.
Never clean your vehicle with solvents
or other materials not specifically
intended for this purpose.<
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Cleaning and caring for the convertible top
Care
The appearance and life of the convert-
ible top depend in large part on proper
care and handling. You should pay
particular attention to the following
instructions if your vehicle has a light-
colored top.
Whenever possible, protect the vehicle
from exposure to intense sunlight by
parking it in the shade so that the paint,
rubber and fabric-covered parts are not
harmed.
Never fold up the convertible top and
store it in the convertible top compart-
ment when wet, dirty or frozen, as
mildew stains and rub spots may result.
To prevent mildew stains, do not keep
the convertible top enclosed in the
convertible top compartment for any
extended period of time.
If the vehicle will be parked for lengthy
periods in an enclosed space, be sure
that the convertible top is dry and that
there is adequate ventilation.
Clean off bird droppings immediately,
since they attack the convertible top
and cause the rubber seals to swell due
to their caustic characteristics.
Besides water, treat rubber seals only
with talcum powder, rubber care prod-
ucts or silicone spray, particularly when
they feel dry or tend to stick.
Eliminate noises such as squeaks with
lubricant spray.
Depressions and discoloration may
occur in the convertible top as a result
of improper maintenance and cleaning
or as the result of stresses from exces-
sive use. The convertible top and its
seams may also develop leaks. The
warranty does not cover these situa-
tions. For repairs, please consult your
BMW center.
Washing your vehicle
You can wash your BMW M3 convert-
ible in automatic car washes. Car wash
systems that do not employ brushes
are preferable.
If a brushless car wash is unavailable
and a brush car wash must be used,
modern systems with soft brushes are
preferable. Do not select the wax finish
option. The small amount of beading
wax always used in automatic car
washes will not harm your vehicle's
finish.
In the case of more extensive dirt,
which is definitely visible on light-
colored top materials, clean the top
with the BMW Convertible Cleaning
Set. Please proceed as follows:
Spray the convertible top with the
cleaning agent and then rub with a well-
dampened sponge using circular
motions until a foam develops. Then
you can finish washing the vehicle in an
automatic car wash. After washing your
vehicle 3 to 5 times, you should treat
the convertible top with a special
convertible top impregnating spray.
Please follow the instructions on the
spray can.
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Cleaning and caring for the convertible top
Do not use spot removers, paint thin-
ners, solvents, gasoline or similar
substances for removing spots from the
convertible top or from the rear
window. These materials destroy the
rubber seals, which will lead to leaks.
Use only BMW approved cleaners.
Cleaning agents can contain
substances that are dangerous or
that pose health risks. For this reason,
always comply with the warnings and
danger notices on the packaging.
Open the doors or windows on your
vehicle when cleaning the interior.
Never clean your vehicle with solvents
or other materials not specifically
intended for this purpose.<
Positioning for cleaning
For unhindered access to the convert-
ible top compartment, lean the rear
convertible top frame against the
convertible top compartment lid (see
illustration).
Release the convertible top lid
locks beforehand with the button
for convertible top operation, refer to
page 46.<
Hardtop*
Please observe and follow the instruc-
tions for caring for your vehicle starting
on page 132.
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Airbags
1 Front airbags on the driver and
passenger side
2 Side airbags on the driver and
passenger side (front and rear
*)
Important safety notices
Do not attempt to remove the gas
generators of the airbag supple-
mental restraint system from the
vehicle. Have testing and service
procedures performed by specially-
qualified technicians only. In the event
of a malfunction, deactivation, or trig-
gered actuation (as a response to an
accident) of the airbag restraint system,
consult your BMW center for repairs or
service operations.
No modifications may be made on
either the wiring or to individual compo-
nents. This also includes the uphol-
stered covers on the steering wheel, on
the instrument panel, in the door side
trim panels or in the rear. Never apply
adhesive materials to these compo-
nents or cover or modify them in any
way. Do not attempt to remove or
dismantle the steering wheel.
To ensure compliance with official
safety regulations, entrust disposal of
airbag generators to a BMW center.
Unprofessional attempts to service the
system could lead to failure in an emer-
gency or undesired airbag activation,
either of which could result in personal
injury.<
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Storing your vehicle
If you intend to store the vehicle
for more than 3 months, be sure to
follow the maintenance instructions on
this page.<
Storage preparations
Have your BMW center perform the
following procedures:
1 Clean and apply a rustproofing agent
or other treatment to the engine,
engine compartment, undercarriage,
axles and major components in
accordance with approved repair
procedures. First wash the vehicle
surface, then clean the interior,
following up with paint- and chrome
care, after which you clean the
rubber seals for the hood and doors.
2 Change the engine oil and oil filter
with the engine warm. As an addi-
tional corrosion protection measure,
an anticorrosive agent can be added
to the engine in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
3 Check the coolant level and concen-
tration, top up if necessary.
4 Check the fluid level of the wind-
shield washer fluid reservoir; top up if
necessary.
5 Fill the fuel tank completely to
prevent the formation of condensa-
tion.
6 Increase the tire inflation pressure to
51 psi (350 Kilopascal).
Before parking the vehicle
1 To prevent the brake discs and
drums from corroding, dry the
parking and footbrake by applying
the brakes.
2 Park the vehicle in a covered, dry,
and well-ventilated area. Place the
transmission in first gear or, if neces-
sary, chock the wheels to prevent the
vehicle from rolling. Do not set the
parking brake.
3 Remove the battery, charge it
completely and store it in a cool (but
frost-free) room.
4 Remove the hardtop and store it
separately. Refer to page 114.
5 Close the convertible top.
During storage
Recharge the battery every six months.
If it is not recharged, it will not be
useable. Every time the battery is
discharged, especially over extended
periods, its service life is reduced.
Removing the vehicle from
storage
Recharge the battery if the "Magic
Eye
*" turns black. Refer to page 157.
Then have Inspection I performed by
your BMW center, including a brake
fluid replacement if necessary.
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Technical modifications California Proposition 65 Warning
Any BMW center will be happy to
advise you concerning the advisability,
legal implications and factory recom-
mendations for technical modifications
to the vehicle. For this purpose, the
BMW center will require the Vehicle
Identification Number and, in some
cases, the engine number as well.
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
Light-emitting diodes installed behind
translucent lenses serve as the light
source for many of the controls and
displays in your vehicle. The concept
behind their operation is related to that
employed for lasers, and they are offi-
cially designated as Class 1 light-emit-
ting diodes.
Do not remove the protective lens
and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for extended periods
(several hours). To do so could result in
inflammation of the iris.<
California laws require us to state the
following warning:
Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.<
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OBD connector
The data link connector for onboard
diagnostics is located on the left-hand
side of the driver's side, on the under-
side of the instrument panel and under
a cover panel. The cover has the letters
"OBD" on it.
The purpose of the OBD system is to
assure proper emission control system
operation for the vehicle's lifetime by
monitoring emission-related compo-
nents and systems for deterioration and
malfunction.
An illuminated indicator informs
you of the need for service, not
that you need to stop the
vehicle. Your system should be
checked, however, at the earliest
possible opportunity.
If the indicator blinks or flashes, this
indicates a high level of engine misfire.
Reduce speed and contact your
nearest BMW center immediately.
Severe engine misfiring over even a
short period of time can seriously
damage emission control system
components, especially the catalytic
converter.
"Service Engine Soon" warning
lamp for Canadian models.
If the fuel filler cap is not on tight
enough, the OBD system can
detect leaking vapor and the indicator
will light up.
If the fuel filler cap is then tightened,
the indicator will usually go out after a
short period of time.<
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
145n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 146
Windshield wiper blades 146
Lamps and bulbs 146
Repairing a flat tire 153
Battery 157
Fuses 160
Replacing microfilter and
activated-charcoal filter 161
In case of
electrical malfunction:
Fuel filler door 161
Convertible top 162
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 164
Towing the vehicle 165
Repairs
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The onboard tool kit is located in the
luggage compartment lid.
Loosen the wingnut to open.
Tow fitting storage location, refer to
page 165.
1 Fold the wiper arm completely out
from the windshield.
2 Position the wiper blade at an angle
and pull the release spring (arrow).
3 Fold the wiper blade down and
unhook it toward the windshield.
4 Pull the wiper blade past the wiper
arm toward the top.
5 Insert a new wiper blade and apply
pressure until you hear it engage.
Use only BMW approved wiper
blades.<
The lamps and bulbs make essential
contributions to the safety of your
vehicle. For this reason, follow the
instructions below carefully when
replacing a bulb. If you are not familiar
with any of the procedures, consult
your BMW center.
Do not touch the glass portion of a
new bulb with your bare hands
since even small amounts of impurities
burn into 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.
Whenever working on the elec-
trical system, switch off the elec-
trical accessory you are working on or
disconnect the cable from the negative
terminal of the battery. Failure to do this
could result in short circuits.
To prevent injuries and damage when
changing a bulb, be sure to comply with
any instructions provided by the bulb
manufacturer.<
Onboard tool kit Windshield wiper blades Lamps and bulbs
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Lamps and bulbs
Low beam headlamps and high
beam headlamps
> Low beam headlamps: H7 bulb,
55 watts
> High beam headlamps: H7 bulb,
55 watts
The H7 bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to comply
with this precaution could lead to injury
if the bulb is damaged during replace-
ment.<
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.
Parking lamps
5 watt bulb
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
> Do not clean by wiping with a dry
cloth (scratches). Never use abra-
sives or strong solvents to clean the
covers
> Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with plenty
of water.
Always use a deicer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – never use
a scraper.<
Xenon lamps*
The service life of these bulbs is very
long and the probability of a failure is
very low, provided that they are not
switched on and off an unusual number
of times. If one of these bulbs should
nevertheless fail, it is possible to
continue driving with great caution
using the fog lamps, provided traffic
laws in your area do not prohibit this.
Because of the extremely high
voltages involved, any work on the
xenon lighting system should be carried
out by technically-qualified personnel
only. Otherwise, there is a risk of fatal
injury.<
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Lamps and bulbs
Front turn signal indicators
21 watt bulb
1 Using a screwdriver, release the inner
hook through the upper opening.
2 Remove lamp by pulling it out toward
the front.
3 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and exchange the
bulb.
4 Insert the 2 pins on the lamp into the
guides on the vehicle.
5 Push the lamp in. Carefully apply
pressure until you hear it snap into
place.
Side turn signal indicators
5 watt bulb
1 Use finger pressure against the rear
end of the lamp (arrow) to press it
forward for removal.
2 Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
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Lamps and bulbs
Fog lamps
HB4 bulb, 51 watt
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to comply
with this precaution could lead to injury
if the bulb is accidentally damaged
during replacement.<
1 Pull the headlamp cover forward to
remove.
2 Loosen the screw (arrow) and pivot
the headlamp outward.
3 Release the spring on the rear of the
headlamp and swivel the cover to the
left.
4 Release the clip, pull off the terminal
caps and replace the bulb.
Tail lamp assembly
Tail lamp 4: bulbs 21/4 watts
Remaining bulbs: 21 watts
1 Turn signal yellow
2 Backup lamp white
3 Tail lamp red
4 Tail lamp/Brake lamp red
The illustration shows the right-hand
luggage compartment opening.
Bulbs in the fender
All of the bulbs are integrated in a
central bulb holder.
1 Release the bulb holder (arrow).
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Lamps and bulbs
2 Take out the bulb holder.
3 Disconnect the power supply plug.
Set the bulb holder aside (on the
luggage compartment floor, for
example).
4 Apply light pressure while turning the
bulb to the left. Remove and
exchange the bulb.
5 Plug in the power supply receptacle.
6 Reattach the bulb holder until you
hear it snap into place (illustration).
Bulbs in the luggage
compartment lid
1 Using a screwdriver, loosen the clip.
2 Fold the trim panel down (arrow 1).
Disengage the bulb holder (arrow 2)
and remove it.
3 Apply light pressure while turning the
bulb to the left. Remove and
exchange the bulb.
4 Press the bulb holder into position
until you hear it engage.
5 Reinstall the trim with the clip.
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Lamps and bulbs
Center (high-mount) brake lamp
LED strip in luggage compartment lid.
Please contact a 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 (arrow) to
release the lens.
2 Replace the bulb.
Interior lamps
Front:
Interior lamps (6 watt bulb)
Reading lamps (2 x 6 watt bulbs)
1 Using a screwdriver, press the lamp
out toward the front.
2 Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove.
3 Remove and replace the bulb.
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Lamps and bulbs
Rear (only with hardtop*):
Interior lamp (6 watt bulb)
Reading lamp (6 watt bulb)
1 Press the lamp out using a screw-
driver.
2 Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove.
3 Remove and replace the bulb.
Footwell lamps
5 watt bulb
1 Press the lamp out using a screw-
driver.
2 Replace the bulb.
Glove compartment lamp
5 watt bulb
1 Press the lamp out using a screw-
driver.
2 Replace the bulb.
Luggage compartment lamps
One lamp each in the bulb holder of the
tail lamp assembly: 10 watt bulb.
1 Apply a screwdriver to the recess and
remove the lens.
2 Replace the bulb.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Repairing a flat tire
Precautions in case of a flat tire:
Stop the vehicle as far as possible
from passing traffic; turn on the hazard
warning flashers.
Turn the steering wheel to the straight-
ahead position and engage the steering
lock. Engage the parking brake and
shift into 1st or reverse.
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 safety guidelines and regula-
tions.<
M Mobility system
An M Mobility system for fixing flat tires
is included with your BMW M3 convert-
ible. With the aid of this system, you
can apply a liquid sealant to the inside
of the tire, thereby sealing off the
damaged area, and then continue
driving.
The M Mobility system makes trans-
porting a spare wheel superfluous,
thereby reducing the amount of weight
you have to carry around.
The M Mobility system is located in the
luggage compartment under the floor
panel:
1 Raise the floor panel (refer to
page 41).
2 Loosen the M Mobility system from
its storage location.
Note that the fluid bottle in the
system's sealant container has to
be replaced every three years by your
BMW center, if the system is not
used.<
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Repairing a flat tire
The components of the M Mobility
system
1 On/Off switch
2 Hose with pressure gauge for
connecting the compressor with the
sealant container or to connect the
compressor to the wheel
3 Pressure gauge for indicating tire
pressure
4 Connector hose from the sealant
container to the wheel
5 Sticker with maximum speed
6 Plug and cable for the cigarette
lighter socket
7 Protective gloves (not shown)
Use the M Mobility system
If possible, leave the foreign
object in the tire.<
Do not exceed the maximum
speed limits described below,
otherwise it could lead to accidents.
Before you use the M Mobility system,
read the warnings and danger notices
on the device carefully.<
1 Pull sticker 5 off for maximum speed
and affix it to the steering wheel.
2 Take the round cover off and hose 4
out. Unscrew the valve stem cover
from the defective wheel and screw
the hose to the valve.
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Repairing a flat tire
3 Flip open the cover and pull out the
enclosed protective gloves. Take out
hose 2 with the pressure gauge and
screw it to the terminal for the sealant
container as shown in the illustration.
4 Make sure that the system has been
switched off (position 0).
Take out plug 6 and insert it into the
cigarette lighter socket in the
passenger compartment (refer to
page 97).
5 Make sure that the screw on the rear
of pressure gauge 3 is tightened
down. Turn on the M Mobility system
(position I, refer to illustration) and
allow 3 minutes to elapse, to let the
sealant flow in. The tire's inflation
pressure is insignificant at this stage.
6 Turn the device off.
Disconnect the connector hose from
the sealant container and the tire
valve. Stow the M Mobility system in
the luggage compartment.
7 Right afterward, drive at least
1.2 miles (2 km), so that the liquid
sealant distributes evenly throughout
the inside of the tire.
Do not exceed 40 mph (60 km/h), and
if possible, do not drop below 10 mph
(20 km/h).
Stop at an appropriate spot.
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Repairing a flat tire
8 Take the hose with the pressure
gauge out and screw it onto the
valve.
Take the plug out and plug it into the
cigarette lighter socket in the
passenger compartment.
9 Reset the air pressure to 29 psi
(200 kilopascal):
> To increase the tire pressure: turn
on the M Mobility system
(position I). To check the new tire
pressure briefly turn off the device.
> To reduce the tire pressure: turn
the screw on the back of the pres-
sure gauge, this will open the air
release valve.
If the air pressure won't hold,
carry out step 10 anyway and then
repeat steps 7 through 10 again.
The use of the M Mobility system may
be ineffective if the damaged area in
the tire is larger than approx. 0.16 in
(4 mm). Please consult the nearest
BMW center if the tire cannot be
temporarily repaired with the M Mobility
system.<
10 Unscrew the hose from the valve
and stow the M Mobility system in
the luggage compartment.
After the flat tire has been fixed and you
start driving again, do not exceed a
maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
You will find corresponding instructions
for using the M Mobility system on the
device.
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the new wheel/tire
balanced. Re-initialize the Tire Pressure
Warning system (RDW), and refer to
page 81 for further information. Have
the M Mobility system refilled. Contact
your BMW center for this.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Battery
Installation location
The battery is located at the rear right of
the luggage compartment. Raise the
luggage compartment floor panel (refer
to page 41). Using a screwdriver or coin
and a f turn, release and pull off both
caps as shown in the illustration.
Remove the storage tray.
Battery posts, terminals, and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.<
Charge condition
You can read the charge condition of
the battery with the "Magic Eye
*" (a
hydrometer):
> Green: adequate charge.
> Black: not adequately charged. The
battery must be recharged. Please
contact your BMW center for addi-
tional information.
> Yellow: replace the battery.
The service life specified for the
battery can be achieved only if it is
always kept adequately charged. If the
vehicle is primarily used for stop-and-
go traffic, be sure to check the charge
state often.<
Battery care
The battery is completely maintenance-
free. That means that the original elec-
trolyte will normally last for the service
life of the battery under moderate
climatic conditions.
For all questions that regard the
battery, please consult your BMW
center. Since the battery is absolutely
maintenance-free, the following is for
your information only.<
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Battery
Symbols
You will find the following symbols on
your vehicle battery. To avoid injury,
please comply with the corresponding
precautions whenever you work with or
near the battery.
Before handling the battery,
please read the following infor-
mation.
A highly-explosive gas is gener-
ated when the battery is
charged.
Never allow sparks or open
flame in the vicinity of the
battery. Avoid sparks from elec-
trical cables or electrical equipment.
Turn the key to position 0 in the ignition
lock when disconnecting or connecting
the battery. Do not short-circuit the
battery terminals. This creates a risk of
injury from high-energy sparks.
In order to protect the battery
case from ultraviolet radiation,
do not expose it to direct
sunlight. A discharged battery can
freeze. Store the battery in areas where
temperature remains above freezing.
Battery acid is extremely corro-
sive. Wear eye protection and
protective gloves. Do not tip the
battery. Battery acid can leak from the
ventilation openings.
Do not allow children access to
batteries and battery acid.
Wear eye protection. Do not
allow particles containing
battery acid or lead to come into
contact with your eyes, your skin, or
your clothing.
If you happen to get acid in your
eyes, rinse thoroughly for
15 minutes with clear water.
Following that, consult a physician
immediately. If your skin or clothing are
splashed by acid, rinse immediately
with plenty of soap and water. If elec-
trolyte is accidentally ingested, consult
a physician immediately.
Removal and installation
Do not disconnect the battery
when the engine is running. If you
do so, the ensuing voltage surge will
damage the vehicle's onboard elec-
tronics. Do not make any modifications
in the wires to the positive terminal. If
you do so, the protective function of the
safety battery terminal is no longer
ensured. Repair and disposal must be
performed by trained technicians
only.<
When removing the battery, disconnect
the cable on the negative terminal first,
then the cable on the positive terminal.
Loosen the center adjusting screw on
the battery retaining strap (use the
screwdriver included with the onboard
tool kit) and disconnect the strap.
When installing a battery, connect the
positive terminal first, then connect the
negative terminal.
When installing a battery, be sure
that it is mounted properly and
that the retaining bracket is installed
with the center adjustment screw. If this
is not done, the battery will not be
adequately secured in case of an acci-
dent.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Battery
Charging the battery
Charge the battery in the vehicle only
when the engine is not running.
Before doing any work on the
electrical system, be sure to
disconnect the cable from the battery's
negative terminal. Failure to do so can
result in short-circuits, a fire or personal
injury.<
If you plan to park the vehicle for longer
than 4 weeks, disconnect the battery
from the vehicle electrical system by
disconnecting the cable at the negative
terminal. Then recharge the battery with
an appropriate battery charger.
If the vehicle is parked for more than
12 weeks, remove the battery, recharge
it and store it in a cool yet frost- and
dust-free area. During storage, have the
battery recharged every 3 months.
Also, recharge the battery before it is
reinstalled. If this is not done, the
battery will not be serviceable. Every
time the battery is discharged, espe-
cially over extended periods, its service
life is reduced.
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW center.
Maintain the battery in an upright posi-
tion for transport and storage. Secure
the battery to prevent it from tilting
during transport.<
Storage periods during which the
battery is disconnected are not
taken into consideration by the Service
Interval Display for changing the brake
fluid.
For this reason, be sure that the brake
fluid is changed every two years,
regardless of the information displayed.
Comply with the information on this
subject on page 130.<
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Fuses
If an electrical accessory should fail,
switch it off and check the fuse.
In glove compartment
1 Open the glove compartment and
turn the two white quick-release
fasteners outward. Spare fuses and
plastic tweezers are located on the
fuse holder.
2 Use the plastic tweezers to remove
the fuse for the accessory or equip-
ment that has stopped working.
3 If the fuse is burned through (the
metal strip will have melted and
separated), replace it with a new fuse
of the same ampere rating (color
code).
A list of fuses, their respective ampere
ratings and the equipment in their
circuits is located below the fuse
holder.
To close the fuse holder, snap it into
position at the top and turn the two
fasteners inward.
Do not attempt to repair a burned
fuse or replace it with a fuse
having a different color or ampere
rating. To do this could cause a fire in
the vehicle resulting from a circuit over-
load.<
If a fuse blows repeatedly, refer the
problem to your BMW center for repair.
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Replacing microfilter and activated-charcoal filter Fuel filler door
1 Open the hood.
2 Release the three fasteners (arrow)
with f turn.
3 Remove the filter cover.
4 Remove the filter by pulling toward
the front and install a new one.
5 Position the filter cover and secure it
with the three fasteners.
Manual release
Pull the knob with the fuel pump symbol
(arrow) on the right trim panel of the
luggage compartment.
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Convertible top
Closing manually in event of
electrical failure
1 Emergency operation
2 Allen wrench
3 Recess
You can use the emergency
procedure for manual operation to
close the top, but never to open it. If the
convertible top were opened manually,
the lid on its storage compartment
would fail to lock, and would open
during subsequent vehicle operation.<
Manual closing is best carried out
with two persons from outside
with the driver's door open and the
driver's seat folded forward. No one is
to be in the rear seat while you are
doing this.<
1 Remove the center piece between
the rear seats. Take the trim off the
guide rod and flip it forward. Press
down hard on the emergency lock
(arrow 1). After a brief pause, the
drive systems for the convertible top
compartment lid will be unlocked.
If the drives for the convertible top
compartment lid fail to release,
mount the double angled Allen wrench
(2) in the recess (1) and turn clockwise
until the drives release.c
2 With the luggage compartment lid
closed, open the convertible top
compartment lid up as far as the stop
will allow.
3 Lift out the convertible top by holding
on to the lateral guide section (1) and
the front convertible top frame (2).
Position the rear convertible top
frame vertically and close the
convertible top compartment lid.
Then fold down the rear convertible
top frame.
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Convertible top
4 Pry out the cover in the center of the
front convertible top frame.
5 Insert the double angled Allen
wrench 2 (refer to page 162) in the
inside hexagon (arrow).
6 Pull down on the front convertible top
frame as far as possible. Complete
the closing process by continuing to
turn the wrench clockwise. Do this
until the front convertible top frame
has locked onto the windshield
frame. The rear convertible top frame
will automatically be pressed down
onto the convertible top compart-
ment lid and because of the tension,
will close completely.
To prevent personal injury and/or
damage to the vehicle, do not
interrupt the closing process before it is
completed.<
Please consult your BMW center
to have the defect corrected.<
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Do not use spray starter fluids to start
the engine.
If the battery is discharged, the engine
can be started using two jumper cables
and another vehicle's battery. Use only
jumper cables with fully insulated
handles on the terminal clamps.
Do not touch the parts conducting
electrical current while the engine
is running. Failure to comply with this
creates a risk of fatal injury.
Carefully comply with the following
instructions to avoid personal injury or
damage to one or both vehicles.<
1 Ensure that the battery on the
support vehicle is also rated at
12 volts, and that the capacities of
the two batteries (Ah) are roughly
comparable (the rating is printed on
the battery).
2 Leave the discharged battery
connected to the vehicle's electrical
system.
3 Do not allow contact between the
two vehicle bodies – this creates the
risk of a short circuit.
4 Start by connecting the jumper cable
from the positive terminal of the
support vehicle to the positive
terminal connector located in your
BMW's engine compartment. The
cover of the positive terminal
connector is marked with a "+" sign.
Refer to the illustration. Remove by
pulling the tab (arrow 1).
5 Then connect the negative terminals.
Attach the cable to either the support
vehicle's negative battery terminal (–),
or to a suitable ground on its engine
or bodywork. Then connect the other
end of the cable to a ground on the
engine or on the bodywork of the
vehicle that is to be started. There is
a special nut provided for this on the
BMW (arrow 2).
Follow the same sequence for
connecting the jumper cables
when helping other vehicles. If you do
not, there is the risk of injury if sparks
are generated at the battery.<
6 Start the support vehicle's engine
and let it run.
7 Start the engine on the vehicle
needing the jump-start, and allow it
to run as usual. If the first start
attempt is not successful, wait a few
minutes before another attempt in
order to allow the discharged battery
to recharge.
8 Before disconnecting the jumper
cables from your BMW, turn on the
rear window defroster and set the
blower to the highest speed; allow
the engine to run approx.
10 seconds. This will prevent a
voltage surge from the voltage regu-
lator to the electrical accessories.
9 Then disconnect the jumper cables in
reverse sequence.
Depending on the cause of the fault,
recharge the battery.
Jump-starting
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Towing the vehicle
Tow fitting
The tow fitting, which can be
unscrewed, is in the luggage compart-
ment under the floor panel and must
remain in the vehicle. This fitting is
designed for installation in the tow
sockets located at the front and rear of
the vehicle. It is intended for towing on
paved road surfaces only. This fitting
should not be used to pull a vehicle out
of deep snow, mud, sand, etc.
Always comply with all applicable
towing laws and regulations.
Access to tow sockets
Front:
Press out the cover panel by inserting a
screwdriver in the recess at the top.
Rear:
Press out the cover panel by inserting a
screwdriver in the recess at the top.
Screw the tow fittings in
completely and tightly. If you do
not, the threads could be damaged. Do
not tow the vehicle by any components
of the running gear, or lash them down
in any way. If you do so, the compo-
nents could be damaged, leading to
possible accidents.
Do not use any other tow fitting except
the one provided with your vehicle.<
Towing with a commercial tow
truck
> Do not tow with sling-type equipment
> Use wheel lift or flat bed equipment
> Please comply with applicable state
towing laws.
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, leading to
possible accidents.c
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
Airbags 168
Radio reception 169
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 170
Safety belt tensioner 170
M3 Engine concept 171
Rain sensor 172
Interior rearview mirror
with automatic dimming
feature 173
Xenon lamps 174
Rollover protection system 175
Tech-
Owner service procedures
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Deceleration sensors continuously
monitor the acceleration forces acting
upon the vehicle. If there is deceleration
because of a collision, where the
protection normally afforded by the
safety belts is no longer sufficient by
itself, then the gas generators for the
front airbag will be simultaneously
ignited on both the driver and
passenger sides. The front airbag on
the passenger side, however, will be
deployed only if a second sensor has
detected that the passenger seat is
occupied.
In the event of a side impact, the front
side airbags will deploy and/or the rear
ones
* if necessary. They will deploy on
the side where the impact occurs.
The airbags located under the marked
covers inflate and unfold in a matter of
a few milliseconds. In this process, they
tear through the designed separation
points of the upholstered covers and
press them out.
Because the inflation process must be
virtually instantaneous, it is accompa-
nied by a certain amount of ignition and
inflation noise, which, however, is lost
in the general accident situation. The
gas required to inflate the airbags is not
dangerous, and the associated smoke
soon dissipates.
The entire process is completed within
fractions of a second.
Airbags
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The AM frequency bands (medium-
wave, long-wave and short-wave) allow
the reception of stations from great
distances because the broadcast
signals – propagated at ground level in
the form of surface waves – are also
reflected from the ionosphere as atmo-
spheric waves.
Frequency-modulation (FM) provides
substantially better sound quality than
the other frequencies. However,
because FM transmissions rely on line-
of-sight broadcast waves, their effec-
tive reception range is limited.
The limitations inherent to radio recep-
tion in a moving vehicle have been
minimized by a number of innovative
systems:
The "Radio Data System" (RDS) makes
sure that, for broadcast stations
sending on several frequencies, the
radio automatically tunes to the
frequency with the best reception
quality.
The Diversity Antenna integrates
several FM antennas within the
convertible top compartment lid to
provide three separate sources for
receiving broadcast waves. An integral
processor automatically selects the
antenna with the best FM reception
quality at any given time. The selection
of the antenna takes place within milli-
seconds, and is therefore not noticed
by the radio listener.
Radio reception
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Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Safety belt tensioner
Highly sensitive sensors monitor the
number of revolutions of the wheels,
steering angle, lateral acceleration,
brake pressure and the movement of
the vehicle around its vertical axis.
If differences in wheel speed should
occur, the system will recognize the
potential dangers associated with
wheel spin and will reduce the drive
torque; if necessary, it will do so using
brake intervention at the rear wheels as
well.
When instable vehicle operating condi-
tions are detected, the application of
the brakes with DSC can also act on the
front wheels to stabilize the vehicle.
You may need some time to become
accustomed to this system's interven-
tion. However, it provides optimum
drive force and vehicle stability.
The braking intervention may be
accompanied by a certain degree of
noise.
The safety belt tensioner makes sure
that the belt tightens during a head-on
collision to ensure that occupants
remain firmly positioned in their seats.
A gas-pressure system retracts the
buckle assembly to tension the
shoulder and lap belts within fractions
of a second. This tends to reduce the
tendency to slide under the lap belt
even more.
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M3 Engine concept
BMW M will continue to develop BMW
engines for the performance-oriented,
yet responsible driver. That is why value
is placed on an engine design that
guarantees maximum thrust over a
wide range of engine speeds.
This is done by using high-grade mate-
rials and optimum components. The
engine thereby produces higher engine
speeds than can be achieved with
conventional engines.
Combined with appropriate transmis-
sion ratios and a performance-oriented
engine electronics system, the torque
from this so-called "high-speed aspi-
rated engine" is abundant throughout
the entire engine speed range – from
1,000 to a max. 8,000 per minute.
In practice, this means improved accel-
eration and more spontaneous
response throughout the engine speed
range, thus providing even more driving
pleasure.
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Rain sensor*
Depending on the amount of moisture
on the windshield, the rain sensor
controls the operation of the windshield
wipers.
Infrared light is carried along the
surface of the windshield in an optical
conductor in such a manner that it is
reflected completely when the wind-
shield is dry. The quantity of reflected
light is measured.
If there is moisture on the glass, the
amount of light reflected is reduced
since the infrared light at the surface of
the windshield can escape. The quan-
tity of reflected light is thus a means of
gauging the amount of moisture on the
windshield.
When the system is set to the "intermit-
tent" wiper speed, the wipers react
immediately – if water is splashed onto
the windshield by vehicles traveling
ahead of you, for example. As a result,
the rain sensor makes a contribution to
driving safety and comfort.
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Interior rearview mirror with automatic dimming feature
The interior rearview mirror with auto-
matic dimming feature reduces glare
from following traffic by adapting the
intensity of the reflected images to
correspond to levels of light registered
by the unit's sensors. The mirror reverts
to its undimmed setting as soon as the
light source disappears. One lamp
sensor is mounted on the front of the
mirror housing. This sensor, which is
directed forward, measures light inten-
sity in the area ahead of the vehicle.
The second sensor is integrated within
the mirror's glass. The electronic
control system compares the light
intensity from front and rear. The differ-
ence provides the basic parameter
used to modulate an electrical current
and induce chemical changes in a
semisolid layer incorporated in the lens.
The semisolid reacts chemically to this
electrical current, thus providing
dimming of the mirror through an infi-
nitely-variable range (electrochromic
technology).
As a result, it is no longer necessary to
dim the mirror manually, and the driver
can concentrate completely on traffic
conditions.
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Xenon lamps*
The xenon lamps provide forward illu-
mination with significantly more bright-
ness and uniformity than the traditional
halogen lamps.
In a xenon lamp, an electric arc
replaces the filament in order to
generate intense illumination. A gas
mixture in a quartz glass tube with
metal vapor is ignited by a high electric
voltage. The arc that is generated is
then sustained by a lower voltage.
When the lamp is turned on there is a
brief period of high intensity. Maximum
brightness is attained in approx.
15 seconds.
Xenon lamps provide significantly
improved visibility, especially during
adverse weather conditions and difficult
driving situations (e.g. driving at night in
heavy rain or through road repair areas
where there are no lane markers).
Xenon lamps make a significant contri-
bution to highway safety since other
highway users, bicyclists and motorcy-
clists in the right lane, and pedestrians
are more easily detected.
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Rollover protection system
The rollover protection system offers
protection in addition to the airbags and
the safety belts. It uses highly sensitive
sensors that respond immediately to
any unstable vehicle condition encoun-
tered while driving, e.g. a steep angle
or loss of wheel contact with the
ground. The protective bar in each rear
head restraint is triggered in this type of
situation.
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
177n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Engine data 178
Dimensions 179
Weights 180
Capacities 181
Electrical system 182
Drive belts 182
Data
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Displacement
Number of cylinders
cu in (cmm) 198.1 (3,246)
6
Max. output
at engine speed
hp (kW)
rpm
333 (248)
7,900
Maximum torque
at engine speed
lb ft (Nm)
rpm
262 (355)
4,900
Compression ratio e
11.5
Stroke
Bore
in (mm)
in (mm)
3.58 (91)
3.43 (87)
Fuel-injection system Digital-electronic engine management system
Engine data
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Minimum turning circle dia.: 36.1 ft (11.0 m)
Dimensions
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Weights
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation,
full tank of fuel, options not included)
lbs. (kg) 3,782 (1,715)
Approved gross vehicle weight lbs. (kg) 4,630 (2,100)
Approved front axle load lbs. (kg) 2,183 (990)
Approved rear axle load lbs. (kg) 2,579 (1,170)
Approved roof load with hardtop lbs. (kg) 165 (75)
Luggage compartment capacity
with the convertible top compartment raised
cu ft (l) 9.2 (260)
10.6 (300)
Approved axle loads and approved gross vehicle weight may not be exceeded.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
181n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Capacities
Notes
Fuel tank
Reserve
gal. (liters)
gal. (liters)
approx. 16.6 (approx. 63)
approx. 2.1 (approx. 8)
Fuel specification: page 27
Windshield washer system/
Headlamp washer system quarts (liters) approx. 5.6 (approx. 5.3) Specifications: page 126
Cooling system including heater circuit quarts (liters) approx. 7.1 (approx. 6.7) Specifications: page 129
Engine oil and filter change quarts (liters) approx. 5.8 (approx. 5.5) BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil
Specifications: page 128
Manual transmission quarts (liters) approx. 1.9 (approx. 1.8) Changing the oil during the
Break-In Inspection, and at every
Inspection II
Differential quarts (liters) approx. 1.2 (approx. 1.1) Changing the oil during the
Break-In Inspection, and at every
Inspection II
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
182n
Electrical system Drive belts
Battery
12V, 70 Ah
Spark plugs
NGK DCPR8EKP
Coolant pump – alternator –
power steering
Drive belt 6 PK x 1470
A/C compressor
Drive belt 5 PK x 829
You can obtain Original BMW
Parts and Accessories, as well as
professional advice from your BMW
center.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
183n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
184n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
A
ABS (Antilock Brake
System) 21, 106
Acceleration 181
Accessories 6
Activated-charcoal filter 92
replacing 161t
Adding
brake fluid 125t, 130t
coolant 129t
engine oil 127t
washer fluid 126t, 181
Adjusting
clock 76
head restraints 50
interior temperature 90
steering wheel 55
thigh support area 49
Adjusting seats
lumbar support 49
Air conditioner 91
Air distribution,
automatic 90
Air outlets 88
Air pressure 115
Air supply 91
recirculated air mode 91
vents 91
Airbags 61, 139, 168
warning lamp 21, 22
Alarm system 42
avoiding unintentional
alarms 43
indicator lamp 43
interior motion sensor 42
tilt sensor alarm
system 42
Alcantara care 136
Antenna 112
Antenna, Diversity 169
Antifreeze 129
radiator 110
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 21, 106
Anti-theft alarm system 42
Anti-theft protection 33
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 120
Aquaplaning 105, 115
Armrest 95
Ashtray
front 96
rear 97
AUC (Automatic recirculated
air control) 91
Automatic climate
control 88
Automatic cruise
control 71
Automatic recirculated air
control (AUC) 91
Automatic windshield
washer 70
Auxiliary terminal for jump-
starting 125t
Average fuel
consumption 78
Average speed 78
Axle loads 180
B
Backrest
releasing 51
Backup lamps 68
replacing bulb 149t
Battery 157, 182
add distilled water 157t
capacity 182
charging 159t
current check lamp 20
removal and
installation 158
symbols 158
Belts 57
Beverage holder 95
BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oils 128
BMW Maintenance
System 131
BMW Sports seat 49
Bore 178
Bottle holder, refer to
Beverage holder
Brake system 20, 109
ABS 21t, 106
brake faults 109t
brake fluid change 75
brake fluid level, warning
lamp 20, 109
brake lamp, center 151
brake lamps, replacing
bulb 149t
brake pads, indicator
lamp 22, 109
disc brakes 108
driving notes 105
warning lamp 20, 109
Break-in procedure 104
Bulbs and lamps 146
C
California Proposition
65 Warning 141
Can holder, refer to
Beverage holder
Capacities 181
Car battery 182
Car Memory 55
Car radio 112
reception 113, 169
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
187n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Car telephone 96
Car wash 132
Care
convertible top 137
exterior 133
interior 134
upholstery 135
wool velour 135
Cargo loading 100
Cassette operation, refer to
the radio Owner's Manual
Catalytic converter 105
starting problems 105
CBC (Cornering Brake
Control) 107
warning lamp 21
CD operation, refer to the
radio Owner's Manual
Cellular phone 96, 112
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Center armrest 95
Center brake lamp 151
Central locking system 33
key 38
Check Control 76t
Checking brake fluid
level 130t
Checking coolant
level 129t
Checking engine oil
level 127t
Child restraint systems 58
Child seat security 60
Cigarette lighter 97
Cleaning headlamps 71
Cleaning windshield 70
Clock 76
refer to the "Radio and
Information Systems"
Owner's Manual or to the
"Onboard Computer"
Owner's Manual
Cockpit 16
Code, refer also to the radio
Owner's Manual
Coin holder 95
Combination switch 69
Compression 178
Computer 77
refer to the "Onboard
Computer" Owner's
Manual
Configuring settings
car memory, key
memory 55
Connecting portable vacuum
cleaner 97
Consumption 78
Consumption display 74
Convertible top
compartment panel 41
electrical defect 162t
fold down convertible top
compartment base 41
operation 45
Coolant 110, 125t, 129
antifreeze 110
temperature gauge 74
Cooling system 181
Copyright 4
Cornering Brake Control
(CBC) 107
warning lamp 21
Cruise control 71
Cruising range 78
Cup holder, refer to
Beverage holder
Curb weight 180
D
Dash panel lighting 84
Dashboard 16
Data
dimensions 179
engine 178
technical 178
vehicle performance 181
weights 180
Data link connector for
onboard diagnosis 142
Daylight driving lamps
switch 84
Deep water 105
Defrost position 91t
Defrostable rear window 92
Defrosting, windows 91t
Difficult steering 112t
Digital clock 76
Dimensions 179
Dipstick 127
Disarm tilt alarm
sensor 43t
Disc brakes 108
Displacement 178
Display lighting 84
Displays 18
Disposal of used
batteries 159t
Disposal of used engine
oil 128t
Distance warning 79
Diversity Antenna 169
Door locks, care 110
Doors
emergency lock
operation 34t
keys 32
manual opening and
closing 34
opening and closing via
remote control 35
unlocking and locking 35
DOT Quality Grades 116
Draft-free ventilation 92
Drive belts 182
Driving in winter 110
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Driving lamps 84
Driving notes
aquaplaning 105
brakes 105
disc brakes 108
general 105
sliding 111
slippery roads 110
DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control) 22, 80, 170
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 22, 80, 170
indicator lamp 22
E
Electric power windows 44
Electrical accessories,
failure 160t
Electrical defect
convertible top 162t
doors 34t
fuel filler door 161t
Electrical system 182
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 33
Elements of operation 16
Emergency lock operation
doors 34t
Emergency operation
convertible top 162t
fuel filler door 161t
Engine
coolant 129, 181
data 178
displacement 178
high-speed engine 171
output 178
speed 178
starting 66
torque 178
Engine compartment 124
working in the engine
compartment 121t
Engine oil 127
add 127t
additives 127
capacity 181
consumption 127
level, indicator
lamp 20, 21
oil dipstick 127
pressure 20
quality 128t
specifications 128t
thermometer 73
viscosity 128t
Exterior mirror
automatic dimming
feature 53
Eyelets, towing 165
F
Failure messages 76t
Failure of ABS 107
Fan 91
Fault displays, Check
Control 76t
Filler cap cover 26
Filling capacities 181
Filling washer
reservoir 126t, 181
Fittings, tow-starting and
towing 165t
Flat tire 115
repairing 153
Fog lamps 85
bulb replacement 149t
Follow-me-home lamps 84
Foot brake 108
refer also to brake system
Footwell lamps 86
bulb replacement 152t
Front seat adjusting 48
Frost protection,
radiator 129
Fuel 27
consumption 78
consumption, display 74
gauge 74
preparation 178
quality 27
reserve indicator lamp 74
specifications 27
tank capacity 181
tank gauge 74
Fuel filler door
manual release after
electrical fault 161t
Fuses 160
replacing 160t
G
Gasoline 27
gauge 74
Glass holder, refer to
Beverage holder
Glove compartment 94
Glove compartment lamp,
bulb replacement 152t
Grilles 88
Gross vehicle weight 180
H
Handbrake 67
Hands-free system 96
Hardtop 113
care 138
Hazard warning flashers 25
Hazard warning triangle 25
Head protection system 61
Head restraints 50
Headlamp cleaning
system 125, 126, 181
Headlamp cover,
care 132, 147t
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
189n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Headlamp flasher 69, 85
Headlamp washer
system 125, 126, 181
Heated mirror 52
Heated seats 93
Heater and ventilation 88
Heavy loads 100
Height 50, 179
High beam lamps 69, 85
indicator lamps 23
High Performance Synthetic
Oils 128
High-speed engine 171
Holder for beverage
cans, refer to Beverage
holder
Hood 121
opening 121
unlocking 121
Horn 17
I
Ice warning 77
Identification number,
vehicle 130
Identification, tires 118, 120
Ignition key 32
Ignition key position 66
Ignition lock 66
Imprint 4
Indicator lamps 20t
Individual settings
car memory, key
memory 55
Inflation pressures 115t
INSPECTION 75
Instrument cluster 18
Instrument lighting 84
Instruments 18
Interference
cellular phone 112
Interior lamps 36, 86
bulb replacement 151t
remote control 36
Interior mirror
automatic dimming
feature 53
Interior motion sensor 42
disarm 43t
Interior rearview mirror
automatic dimming
feature 53, 173
Intermittent operation 69
J
Jump-starting 164
K
Key Memory 55
Keys 32
with remote control 32
L
Lamp switch 84
Lamps
footwell lamps 86
high beam headlamps 85
instrument lighting 84
interior lamps 86
parking lamp 85
reading lamps 86
Lamps and bulbs 146
LAMPS ON warning 84
Lashing eyes 101
LATCH attachment for child
seat 59
Leather care 136
Length 179
License plate lamp
bulb replacement 151t
Lighter 97
Load-securing devices 101
Low beam headlamps 84
lamp malfunction 147t
Lower rollover protection
system 64t
Luggage
compartment 40, 41
capacity 180
emergency release 39t
enlarging 41
floor mat 41
floor panel 41
fold down convertible top
compartment base 41
remote control 37
Luggage compartment
lamps 39
bulb replacement 152t
Luggage compartment
lid 39
emergency release 39t
Luggage rack 101
Lumbar support 49
M
M Engine dynamics
control 83
M Mobility system 153
M+S-tires 119
M3 engine concept 171
Maintenance 75, 131
Make-up mirror 53
Malfunction of ABS 107
Manual convertible
top operation in case of
electrical defect 162t
Manual transmission 68
Manual-shift gear lever 68
Master key 32
Maximum speed 181
Memory 54
MFL (Multifunction steering
wheel) 24
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Microfilter 92
replacing 161t
Mirrors 52
automatic curb
monitor 52
heating 52
memory 54
outside 52
Mobile phones 112
Mobility system 153
Modifications,
technical 6, 141
Mounting the hardtop 113
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 24
N
Navigation system, refer to
the separate Owner's
Manual
Nozzles 88
O
Odometer 73
Oil
additives 127
capacity 181
consumption 127
dipstick 127
filter change 181
level, indicator
lamp 20, 21
pressure, indicator
lamp 20
quality 128t
specifications 128t
viscosity 128t
Oil change intervals, refer to
the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US
models) or to the Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
OILSERVICE 75
Onboard tool kit 146t
Opening and closing
from inside 38
via the door lock 34
via the remote control 35
Opening the hood 121t
Outlets, ventilation 88
Outside mirror 52
Outside temperature
display 77
P
Paint blemishes 133
Paint, care 133
Paintwork
care 133
minor repairs 134
waxing 134
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 79
Parking brake 67
Parking help 79
Parking lamps 84, 85
Parking, winter 111
PDC (Park Distance
Control) 79
Performance 178
Pollen from outside air 92
Power steering 112
Power windows 44
Powerplant data 178
Pressure, tires 115
Prevent any unwanted
alarm 43t
R
Radiator 181
Radio Data System
(RDS) 169
Radio reception 113, 169
Radio, refer to the separate
Owner's Manual
Rain sensor 70, 172
RDS (Radio Data
System) 169
RDW (Tire Pressure
Warning) 81
Reading lamps 86
Rear entry 51
aid 51
Rear fog lamps 85
replacing bulb 149t
Rear lamps 149t
Rear window
defroster 71, 92
Rearview mirror 52
Recirculated air mode 91
Reclining seat 48
Refueling 26
Remote control 35
Removing condensation,
windows 91t
Replacement keys 32
Replacing bulbs 146t
Replacing microfilter and
activated-charcoal
filter 161
Replacing windshield wiper
blades 146t
Reporting safety defects 7
Restraint system 58
Returning used
batteries 159t
Reverse 68
Rollover protection
system 64, 175
indicator lamp 22
lower 64t
Roof load capacity 180
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 101
Rubber components 110
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
191n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
S
Safety belt tensioner 170
Safety belts 57
seat-integrated safety
belts (SGS) 51
Safety buttons 38
Safety defects, reporting 7
Seat heating 93
Seat memory 54
Seat-integrated safety belts
(SGS) 51
Seats, adjusting 48
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet 131
Service Interval
Display 75, 131
Service Manual 131
Side airbags 61
Side impact 61
Side marker lamps 84
lamp malfunction 147t
Side turn signals, bulb
replacement 148t
Ski bag 98
Snow chains 110, 119, 120
Socket 97
Spark plugs 182
Speaker 96
Special features of winter
tires 119
Speedometer 18
Sport mode
identification 83
Sports seat 49
Starting
problems 67t, 105
Starting the engine 66
Steering 112
Steering lock 66
Steering wheel
adjusting 55
refer also to Multifunction
steering wheel (MFL) 24
Stopping the vehicle 67
Storage compartments 95
Storing your vehicle 140
Stowing cargo 100
Stroke 178
Summer tires 118, 120
Sun visors 53
Surface ice warning 77
Switching off the engine 67
Symbols, used 4
Synthetic oils 128
T
Tachometer 73
Tail lamps 149
replacing bulbs 149t
Tank capacity 181
Technical data 178
Technical
modifications 6, 141
Telephone hookup 96
Temperature display
ice warning 77
interior temperature 90
outside temperature 77
Temperature gauge
engine coolant 74
Temperature layering 92
Tilt alarm 36, 43
remote control 36
Tire
codes 118, 120
condition 115
damage 115t
failure, repairing 153
inflation pressure 28, 115
pressure monitor 81
pressure
specifications 28
replacement 116
rotation 117
summer 117
treads 115
wear indicator 115
winter 117
Tire and wheel
specifications 120
Tire Pressure Warning
(RDW) 81
indicator lamp 22
Tire Quality Grading 116
Tires and wheels 118
Tools 146t
Torque 178
Tow fittings 165t
Towing eyelets 165
Towing the vehicle 165t
Track 179
Traction Control System
refer to DSC 80
Transmission 68
Transporting children
safely 58
Tread depth, tire 115
Trip odometer 73
Trunk, refer to luggage
compartment 40
Turn signal indicator 23, 69
bulb replacement 148t
Turning radius 179
Two-way radios 112
U
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading 116
Used batteries,
disposal 159t
Used engine oil,
disposal 128t
V
Vacuum cleaner 97
Vehicle battery 157
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Vehicle care
exterior 133
interior 134
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) 130
Vehicle immobilizer 33
Vehicle paintwork 133
Vehicle performance 181
Vehicle storage 140
Vehicle weight 180
Ventilation 88
draft-free 92
Vinyl, care 135
W
Warning lamps 20t
Warnings 76t
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet 131
Washer nozzles 126
Washing your vehicle 132
Water on roadways 105
Waxing, paintwork 134
Wear indicator in tires 115
Weights 180
Wheel and tire
specifications 120
Wheel rims 118, 120
Wheelbase 179
Wheels and tires 118, 120
Width 179
Windows
convenience mode 34, 35
remote control 35
Windshield washer reservoir,
filling 181
Windshield wiper 69
Winter operation 110
Winter tires 118, 119, 120
Wiper system 69
X
Xenon lamps 147, 174
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
So that you will have important
specifications available when you
stop to refuel, we recommend
that you supplement this table
with data which apply to your
vehicle.
Fuel
Engine oil
The oil volume between the
two marks on the oil dipstick
corresponds to approx.
1.4 US quarts (1.3 liters).
Designation Premium Unleaded
Gasoline
AKI: minimum 91
Quality
Tire inflation pressures
Summer Winter
Front Rear Front Rear
2 persons
4 persons plus luggage
Refueling
BMW recommends Castrol
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
The Ultimate Driving Machine
01 41 0 155 719 ue
We wish you an enjoyable
driving experience.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
M3 Convertible US-En
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG
