525i
530i
540i
sedan
sport wagon
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.
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. The
manual contains important data and instructions intended to assist you in obtaining
maximum satisfaction from your BMW's unique array of advanced technical
features. It also contains information on vehicle maintenance designed to enhance
operating safety while simultaneously helping you to maintain your BMW's value
throughout an extended service life.
For more detailed information refer to the supplemental manuals.
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It
should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important
operating, safety and maintenance information.
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 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 AG
Foreword
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
Contents
© 2001 Bayerische Motoren Werke
Aktiengesellschaft
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW AG, Munich.
Order No. 01 41 0 156 213
US English VIII/2001
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper
(bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling).
Overview
Controls and features
Cockpit 14
Instrument cluster 15
Indicator and warning lamps 19
Steering wheel with multifunction
buttons 22
Warning triangle 23
First-aid kit 23
Refueling 24
Fuel specifications 25
Tire inflation pressure 26
Locks and security systems:
Keys 32
Central locking system 32
Opening and closing – via the
door lock 33
Opening and closing – via the
remote control 34
Opening and closing – from the
inside 37
Luggage compartment lid/
Tailgate 38
Rear window 40
Luggage compartment 42
Alarm system 42
Electric power windows 44
Sliding/tilt sunroof 46
Adjustments:
Correct sitting posture 48
Seats 48
Manually-adjusted seat 49
Electric power seats 50
Head restraints 52
BMW actice seat 52
Safety belts 53
Seat, mirror and steering wheel
memory 54
Seat heating 55
Adjusting steering wheel 56
Heated steering wheel 56
Mirrors 57
Passenger safety systems:
Airbags 58
Transporting children safely 61
Vehicle Memory, Key
Memory 64
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 66
Starting the engine 66
Switching off the engine 68
Parking brake 68
Manual transmission 69
Automatic transmission 70
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 73
Indicator/Headlamp flasher 76
Washer/Wiper system/Rain
sensor 76
Cruise control 78
Everything under control:
Odometer, outside temperature
display 80
Tachometer 81
Energy control 81
Fuel gauge 81
Coolant temperature gauge 82
Service Interval Display 82
Check Control 83
Computer 86
Multi-Information Display
(MID) 87
Digital clock in the MID 89
Computer in the MID 91
Contents
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Technology for safety and
driving convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 96
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) 97
Level control system 99
Tire Pressure Monitor (RDC) 99
Lamps:
Parking lamps/Low beams 101
Instrument lighting 102
High beams/Standing
lamps 102
Fog lamps 102
Interior lamps 103
Reading lamps 103
Controlling the climate for
pleasant driving:
Air conditioning 104
Automatic climate control 107
Roller sun blind 112
Parked-car ventilation
system 112
Cabin convenience:
BMW Universal Transmitter 113
Glove compartment 116
Storage compartments 116
Cellular phone 117
Beverage holder 117
Ashtray, front 117
Cigarette lighter 118
Ashtray, rear 118
Loading and transporting
cargo:
Through-loading system 119
Ski bag 120
sport wagon:
Luggage compartment 123
Roll-up cover 123
Partition net 123
Storage areas in the luggage
compartment 124
Cargo loading 126
Roof-mounted luggage rack 127
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 130
Driving notes 131
Antilock Brake System 131
Brake system 132
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 133
Tire condition 133
Tire replacement 134
Wheel and tire
combinations 135
Special characteristics of winter
tires 136
Snow chains 136
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Contents
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Under the hood:
Hood 137
Engine compartment
essentials 138
Washer fluids 139
Engine oil 140
Coolant 142
Brake fluid 143
Maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 144
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 145
California Proposition
65 Warning 145
OBD interface socket 146
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 150
Windshield wiper blades 150
Lamps and bulbs 151
Changing a wheel 156
Battery 160
Fuses 160
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 162
Towing the vehicle 163
Engine specifications 168
Dimensions 169
Weights 171
Capacities 173
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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 are looking for a brief
initial summary of the essentials, please
turn to the first chapter.
We hope that the detailed table of
contents on the preceding pages will
stimulate your interest and encourage
you to explore the remainder of 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.
If you have any questions, your BMW
center will be glad to advise you.
Symbols used
Indicates precautions that must
be followed precisely in order to
avoid the possibility of personal injury
and serious damage to the vehicle.
<
Contains information that will
assist you in gaining the optimum
benefit from your vehicle and enable
you to care more effectively for your
vehicle.
<
Refers to measures that can be
taken to help protect the environ-
ment.
<
<
Marks the end of a specific item of
information.
*
Indicates special equipment, country-
specific equipment and optional extras.
t
Identifies index entries that refer
to owner service procedures or topics
on vehicle maintenance.
Identifies systems or components,
which can either be activated or
adapted to suit an individual driver's
requirements ("Vehicle Memory", "Key
Memory"). Refer to page 64.
Remember that activation and adjust-
ments on some of these systems can
only be performed at your BMW
center.
<
Notes
Symbols
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
The individual vehicle
On buying your BMW, you have
decided in favor of a model with individ-
ualized equipment and features. This
Owner's Manual describes all models
and equipment that BMW offers within
the same group.
We hope you will understand that
equipment and features are included
which you might not have chosen for
your vehicle. You can easily identify any
differences with the aid of the asterisk
*
used to identify all optional equipment
and accessories.
If your BMW features equipment which
is not described in this Owner's Manual
(car radio or telephone, for instance),
Supplementary Owner's Manuals are
enclosed. We ask you to read these
manuals as well.
Status at time of printing
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development designed to
ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality and safety
standards combined with advanced,
state-of-the-art technology. For this
reason, it is possible that the features
described in this Owner's Manual could
differ from those on your vehicle. Nor
can errors and omissions be entirely
ruled out. We therefore request your
understanding for the fact that we are
unable to recognize any legal claims
based on the data, illustrations or
descriptions in this manual.
The individual vehicle
Status at time of printing
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10n
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 driveability,
starting and stalling problems, espe-
cially under certain environmental
conditions, such as high ambient
temperature and high altitude.
Should you encounter driveability prob-
lems that you suspect could be related
to the fuel you are using, we recom-
mend that you respond by switching to
a recognized high-quality brand.
Failure to comply with these recom-
mendations may result in unscheduled
maintenance.
Follow all applicable 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 from
other manufacturers to confirm that it
can be used on a BMW safely and
without risk to either the vehicle, its
operation, or its occupants.
Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories
and other products approved by BMW,
together with professional advice on
using these items, are available from all
BMW centers.
Installation and operation of non-BMW
approved accessories such as alarms,
radios, amplifiers, radar detectors,
wheels, suspension components, brake
dust shields, telephones (including
operation of any portable cellular phone
from within the vehicle without using an
externally-mounted antenna) or trans-
ceiver equipment (for instance, CBs,
walkie-talkie, ham radio or similar
accessories) may cause extensive
damage to the vehicle, compromise its
safety, interfere with the vehicle's elec-
trical system, or affect the validity of the
BMW Limited Warranty. See your BMW
center for additional information.
<
Maintenance, replacement, or
repair of the emission control
devices and systems may be performed
by any automotive repair establishment
or individual using any certified auto-
motive part.
<
Symbol on vehicle parts
Indicates that you should consult
the relevant section of this
Owner's Manual for information on a
particular part or assembly.
For your own safety
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
The following applies only 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, LLC, P.O. 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, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can
also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Overview
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1 Parking lamps/Low beams 101
2
>
Turn signal 76
>
Standing lamps 102
>
High beams 102
>
Headlamp flasher 76
>
Computer 86
3 Fog lamps 102
4 Washer/Wiper system 76
5 Central locking system 32
6 Hazard warning flashers
7 Rear window defroster 104, 107
8 Horn, the entire surface
9 Adjusting the steering wheel 56
Cockpit
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1 Fuel gauge 81
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 21
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for high beams 21
5 Tachometer and Energy Control 81
6 Coolant temperature gauge 82
7 Indicator and warning
lamps 19 to 21
8 Selector lever and program display
for automatic transmission
*
70, 73
9 Service Interval Display 82
Instrument cluster
390us740
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Instrument cluster
10 Display for the computer
(operation via the turn signal lever,
refer to page 86):
>
Outside temperature
>
Average fuel consumption
>
Cruising range
>
Average speed
11 Indicator lamp for Automatic
Stability Control plus Traction
(ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC)
*
21
12 Indicator lamp for self-leveling
suspension
*
20
13 Odometer and trip odometer 80
14 Indicator for Check Control 83
15 Reset trip odometer to zero 80
16 Indicator and warning
lamps 19 to 21
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Instrument cluster
*
1 Fuel gauge 81
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 21
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for high beams 21
5 Tachometer and Energy Control 81
6 Coolant temperature gauge 82
7 Indicator and warning
lamps 19 to 21
8 CHECK button 83
9 Selector lever and program display
for automatic transmission
*
70, 73
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Instrument cluster
*
10 Outside temperature display 80
11 Indicator lamp for Automatic
Stability Control plus Traction
ASC+T/Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC)
*
21
12 Trip odometer 80
13 Check Control display 83
14 Odometer 80
15 Service Interval Display 82
16 Reset button for trip odometer 80
17 Indicator and warning
lamps 19 to 21
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Indicator and warning lamps
Technology that monitors itself
The system runs a check on the
warning and indicator lamps marked by
"
●
" each time you switch on the igni-
tion. 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.
The following section describes how
you should respond.
Red: stop immediately
Battery charge current
●
The battery is no longer being
charged. This indicates a defect
in the alternator drive belt or in the
charging circuit of the alternator. Please
contact the nearest BMW center.
Stop and switch off the engine
immediately to prevent over-
heating and serious engine damage. If
the drive belt is defective, increased
steering effort is also required.
<
Engine oil pressure
●
May be accompanied by the
message "STOP!ENGINE
OILPRESS" in the Check Control
display panel
*
: stop the vehicle imme-
diately and switch off the engine. Check
the engine oil level; top up as required.
If the oil level is correct: please contact
the nearest BMW center.
Do not continue driving, as the
engine could sustain serious
damage from inadequate lubrication.
<
Tire Pressure Monitor (RDC)
*
●
Accompanied by an acoustic
warning signal: a tire failure has
occurred. Reduce vehicle speed imme-
diately and stop the vehicle. Avoid hard
brake applications. Do not oversteer.
For additional information: refer to
page 98
Parking brake
*
/
brake system hydraulic circuits
●
Comes on when you engage the
parking brake.
For additional information: refer to
page 68
Comes on although the parking brake
is released: have the brake fluid level
checked. Before continuing your
journey, be sure to read the notes on
pages 132 and 143
Also comes on with the message
"CHECK BRAKE LININGS" in the
Check Control.
Parking brake warning lamp
*
/
brake system hydraulic circuits
for Canadian models.
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Indicator and warning lamps
Red: as important reminder
Parking brake
*
Comes on when you engage the
parking brake.
For additional information: refer to
page 68
Parking brake warning lamp
*
for
Canadian models.
Please fasten safety belts
●
Accompanied by warning tone
and message
*
in the Check
Control panel. Remains on until the
safety belts are fastened.
For additional information on safety
belts: refer to page 53.
Airbags
●
Please have the system
inspected by your BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 58
Yellow: please have checked at
your earliest opportunity
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
●
ABS has been deactivated in
response to system malfunction.
Conventional braking efficiency is avail-
able without limitations. Please have
the system inspected by your BMW
center.
For additional information: refer to
page 131
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Engine oil level
*
Comes on while driving: the
engine oil level has fallen to the
absolute minimum; refill as soon as
possible. Do not drive more than
approx. 30 miles (50 km) until you do.
For additional information: refer to
page 140
Engine oil level
*
Comes on after the engine has
been shut off: add engine oil at
your earliest opportunity (when you
stop to refuel).
For additional information: refer to
page 140
Automatic transmission
*
Because of a malfunction, the
automatic transmission shifts
only in the emergency program. Please
consult the nearest BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
pages 72 and 75
Brake pads
*
●
Have the brake pads checked.
For additional information: refer
to page 132
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
*
●
Malfunction in DBC system.
Conventional braking efficiency
is available without limitations.
Have the system repaired by your BMW
center at the earliest possible opportu-
nity.
For additional information: refer to
page 98
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Tire Pressure Monitor (RDC)
*
●
Check the tire inflation pressure.
Refer to pages 26, 98
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Indicator and warning lamps
Self-leveling suspension
*
●
The level control system is inac-
tive. Please consult the nearest
BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 99
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC)
*
●
ASC+T/DSC has been deactivated,
either manually at the button or auto-
matically in response to a system
malfunction. In the event of a malfunc-
tion, have the system checked by your
BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 97
Engine-management system
*
There is a fault in the electronic
engine-management system.
You can continue to drive with reduced
engine output and engine speed.
Please have the system inspected by
your BMW center.
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 146
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
Check Filler Cap
*
●
If the indicator lamp comes on
although the fuel cap is secured
correctly: this indicates a malfunction in
the fuel system. Have the system
inspected at your BMW center at the
earliest opportunity.
Additional information: refer to page 25
Green: for your information
Turn signal
Flashes when the turn signal is
on. Rapid flashing indicates a
system malfunction.
For additional information: refer to
page 76
Cruise control
Lights up when the system is
switched on: available for oper-
ation via the multifunction steering
wheel.
For additional information: refer to
page 78
Front fog lamps
Lights up whenever you switch
on the front fog lamps.
For additional information: refer to
page 102
Blue: for your information
High beams
Lights up when the high beams
are on or the headlamp flasher
is actuated.
For additional information: refer to
pages 76 and 102
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Steering wheel with multifunction buttons
The controls integrated within the multi-
function steering wheel (MFL) and the
sports steering wheel
* have been
designed to allow you to operate a
number of accessories both quickly and
safely, without taking your eyes from
the road:
> selected control functions for the
radio along with CD, MD and
cassette player
> recirculated-air control of the air
conditioner system or the heated
steering wheel
* (MFL only)
> the cruise control
> various phone functions
* and
> voice entry
*.
The controls are active only when
the corresponding systems and
accessories are switched on.<
Press briefly:
Receive a phone call, initiate dialing,
terminate a call.
Extended pressure:
Activate/deactivate voice entry.
Switch between phone and radio,
cassette, CD and MD.
Forward:
> Radio
Press briefly: station scan in FM band
Extended pressure: search function
> CD/MD
Press briefly: jump to next track
Extended pressure: search function
in track
> Cassette
Press briefly: stop track scan or fast
forward
Extended pressure: fast forward
> Phone
Scan personal phone book.
Rewind: functions as forward.
Volume
Cruise control: to select a stored
setting.
Cruise control: store and accelerate (+)
or decelerate and store (–).
Cruise control: activate/interrupt/deac-
tivate.
Recirculated-air mode and automatic
recirculated-air control (AUC) or heated
steering wheel: activate/deactivate.
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Warning triangle* First-aid kit*
The hazard warning triangle is readily
available, stored in the onboard tool kit
mounted on the inside of the luggage
compartment lid/tailgate.
To open the container, loosen the wing
screw.
Always observe all legal regula-
tions requiring a warning triangle
to be carried in the vehicle.<
394de053
The first-aid kit is located under the
front passenger's seat.
To remove: lift the release lever on the
front (arrow) and pull the first-aid kit
forward out of its support.
To store: place the back of the kit into
the support, then push back until the
lever engages.
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Several of the items contained in
the first-aid kit have a limited
service life. For this reason, check the
expiration dates of each of the items
regularly, and replace any whose
expiration dates have passed. You can
acquire replacements in any drugstore
or pharmacy.
Always observe all legal regulations
requiring a first-aid kit to be carried in
the vehicle.<
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Refueling
Fuel filler door
Always switch off the engine
before refueling, as it is not
possible to add fuel with the engine
running, and attempts may also trigger
the Service Engine Soon lamp.<
To open the filler door, press on the
front edge.
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can also open the fuel filler door
manually:
sedan
1. Use the handle to lower the trim
panel on the right side of the luggage
compartment
2. Pull the button with the fuel pump
symbol.
394de729
sport wagon
1. Release the right-hand panel in the
luggage compartment with the
button and fold the panel down
2. Pull the button with the fuel pump
symbol.
If a subwoofer
* is installed, loosen the
T-screw and swing the subwoofer to
the side.
Always observe all safety precau-
tions posted at the service station
when handling fuel. Never carry spare
fuel containers in your vehicle. Whether
empty or full, these containers can leak,
cause an explosion, or lead to fire in the
event of a collision.<
Simple and environmentally
friendly
Open the filler cap carefully to
prevent fuel from spraying out.
Fuel spray may cause injury.
Do not attempt to continue adding fuel
to the last drop, as this practice can
cause fuel spillage.<
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 effectiveness of
the vapor recovery system on the
pump.
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Refueling Fuel specifications
As long as the filler nozzle is used prop-
erly, the fuel tank is full whenever the
nozzle shuts off the first time.
Refill early to avoid damaging the
catalytic converter; never attempt
to drive to the last drop of fuel in the
tank.<
Tank capacity: approximately 18.5 gal.
(70 liters), with a reserve capacity of
> BMW 525i, 530i: 2.0 gal. (8 liters)
> BMW 540i: 2.5 gal. (10 liters).
After refueling, close the filler cap
carefully, continuing until you hear
the detent engage. While closing, be
sure not to squeeze the strap which is
fastened to the cap. A loose or missing
cap will activate the message "CHECK
FILLER CAP" in the Check Control
* or
the Check Filler Cap lamp
*.<
The engine uses lead-free gasoline
only.
Required fuel:
> Premium Unleaded Gasoline,
min. 91 AKI
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Never use leaded fuel, as it would
cause permanent and irreversible
damage to the oxygen sensor and the
catalytic converter.<
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Tire inflation pressure
The inflation pressures are indicated on
a sticker attached to the B-pillar behind
the driver's door (visible with door
open).
Check tire pressures
All pressure specifications are indicated
in psi (kilopascal) for tires at ambient
temperature (refer also to the next
pages).
Vehicles with Tire Pressure Monitor
(RDC)
*:
After correcting tire inflation pressures,
reactivate the system, refer to page 99.
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Check your tire pressures on a
regular basis – at least twice a
month – and before every extended
journey. Incorrect tire pressure can lead
to driving instability, tire damage and
accidents.
Check the inflation pressure of the
spare tire also. Inflate the spare tire to
the highest pressure of any tire on your
vehicle.<
Comply with tire approval
specifications
The inflation pressures in the tables
apply to BMW approved tires sizes and
tire manufacturers. Your BMW center is
familiar with these pressures. Higher
pressures may be specified for tires
from other manufacturers.
Your vehicle is equipped with tires that
not only meet US, but also European
standards. We recommend the exclu-
sive use of BMW approved tires.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Tire inflation pressure
sedan Tires
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) with cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
525i
225/60 R 15 96 H M+S
225/55 R 16 95 H M+S
225/60 R 15 96 W
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
205/65 R 15 94 Q M+S
225/60 R 15 96 Q M+S
225/55 R 16 95 Q M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q M+S
Front: 235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W/Y
–
29 (200)
–
33 (230)
33 (230)
33 (230)
41 (280)
41 (280)
530i
225/55 R 16 95 H M+S
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
225/55 R 16 95 Q M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q M+S
Front: 235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W/Y
–
29 (200)
–
33 (230)
33 (230)
33 (230)
41 (280)
41 (280)
(outside US/CDN)
(outside US/CDN)
(US/CDN)
(US/CDN)
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Tire inflation pressure
sedan Tires
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) with cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
540i
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
35 (240) 39 (270) 41 (280) 48 (330)
Front: 235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W/Y
35 (240)
–
–
39 (270)
41 (280)
–
–
48 (330)
225/55 R 16 95 Q/T/H M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q/T/H M+S
30 (210) 35 (240) 36 (250) 44 (300)
540iA
225/55 R 16 95 H M+S
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
225/55 R 16 95 Q M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q M+S
30 (210) 35 (240) 36 (250) 44 (300)
Front: 235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W/Y
30 (210)
–
–
35 (240)
36 (250)
–
–
44 (300)
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Tire inflation pressure
sport
wagon
Tires
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) with cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
525i
225/55 R 16 95 H M+S
225/60 R 15 96 H M+S
225/60 R 15 96 W
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
30 (210) 35 (240) 36 (250) 44 (300)
225/60 R 15 96 Q M+S
225/55 R 16 95 Q M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q M+S
33 (230) 38 (260) 39 (270) 46 (320)
540i
225/55 R 16 95 H M+S
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
30 (210) 35 (240) 36 (250) 44 (300)
225/55 R 16 95 Q M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q M+S
33 (230) 38 (260) 39 (270) 46 (320)
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Controls
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
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Keys Central locking system
1 Master key with remote control unit,
for information on programming the
key memory refer to page 64.
You can mark individual keys for
subsequent identification by applying
the colored decals that you received
when accepting delivery of your
vehicle
There is an extended-life battery
in every master key that is
charged automatically in the ignition
lock as you drive.
For this reason, if you have a master
key that is not in regular use, you
should use that key approx. once every
year while driving for an extended
period. This will charge the battery.
Refer also to page 34.<
463de023
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,
such as in your wallet. This key is not
intended for continuous use
3 Door and ignition key
The locks for the luggage compart-
ment lid/tailgate, rear backrest and
glove compartment cannot be oper-
ated with this key. This is recom-
mended for valet parking, for
instance
The concept
The central locking system is ready for
operation as soon as you close the front
doors. The system engages and
releases the locks on the
> doors
> luggage compartment lid/tailgate
and rear window
*
> fuel filler door.
The central locking system can be
operated
> from outside via the driver's door lock
as well as via the remote control
> from inside via the central locking
system button.
Activation from inside does not lock the
fuel filler door (refer to page 37). Activa-
tion from outside simultaneously arms
the anti-theft system. The alarm system
is also activated or deactivated.
When you use the central locking
system to lock the doors from inside
the vehicle, it will automatically disen-
gage the locks if an accident occurs,
except on doors that have been locked
individually using the lock buttons, refer
to page 37. The accident response
routine also includes automatic activa-
tion of the hazard warning flashers and
the interior lamps.
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Opening and closing – via the door lock
Using the key
One turn of the key in the driver's door
lock unlocks the driver's door only.
Turning the key a second time unlocks
all of the remaining doors, the luggage
compartment lid/tailgate and the fuel
filler door.
You can have a signal set to
confirm that the vehicle's locks
have engaged securely.<
390de723
Convenience operation
You can also operate the windows and
sliding/tilt sunroof via the door lock.
> To open: with the door closed, turn
the key to the "Unlock" position and
hold it
> To close: with the door closed, turn
the key to the "Lock" position and
hold it.
Watch the closing process care-
fully and be sure that no one is
trapped by the closing motion. The
closing process stops immediately
when you release the key.<
Manual operation
in the event of an electrical malfunction
Turn the key to the extreme left or right
to unlock/lock the driver's door.
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Opening and closing – via the remote control
The concept
The remote control makes opening and
locking the doors of your vehicle very
convenient. Furthermore, it provides
three additional functions which you
can only execute via the remote control:
> To switch on interior lamps, refer to
page 35.
With this function, you can also
"search for" your vehicle, when
parked in an underground garage, for
instance
> To open the luggage compartment
lid/tailgate, refer to page 35.
The luggage compartment lid/tailgate
will open slightly, regardless of
whether it was previously locked or
unlocked
> Panic mode
In case of danger, you can trigger the
alarm.
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.<
1 Unlock, convenience opening and
alarm system
2 Lock and secure, interior lamp activa-
tion, disarming tilt alarm sensor and
interior motion sensor
3 Open the luggage compartment lid/
tailgate, panic mode
390de793
Master keys with remote control
Since passengers or animals
remaining in the vehicle might be
able to lock the doors from the inside,
take the vehicle's keys with you so that
the vehicle can be opened again from
the outside at any time.<
Master keys that are used repeat-
edly are always ready for opera-
tion, since the battery in the key is
charged automatically in the ignition
lock as you drive.
If it is no longer possible to lock the
vehicle via the remote control, the
battery is discharged. Use this key
while driving for an extended period in
order to charge the battery. Refer also
to page 32.
To prevent unauthorized use of the
remote control, surrender only the door
and ignition key 3 or the spare key 2
(refer to page 32) when leaving the
vehicle for valet parking, for example.
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.
Press the button once to unlock the
driver's door only; press a second time
to unlock all remaining doors as well as
the luggage compartment lid/tailgate
and fuel filler door.
Convenience opening mode
Press and hold button to open the elec-
tric power windows and sliding/tilt
sunroof.
To lock and secure
Press button.
Vehicles without armored glass:
do not lock the vehicle if anyone
will be remaining inside, as it would
then be impossible for the occupant(s)
to disengage the locks from the
inside.<
To deactivate the tilt alarm sensor
and interior motion sensor
Press button a second time immedi-
ately after locking.
For additional information, refer to
page 43.
To switch on the interior lamps
With the vehicle locked, press button.
To open the luggage
compartment lid/tailgate
Press button.
The luggage compartment lid/tailgate
will open slightly, regardless of whether
it was previously locked or unlocked.
Before and after a trip, be sure
that the luggage compartment lid/
tailgate has not been opened uninten-
tionally.<
Panic mode
Provided that the alarm system is
armed, you can respond to imminent
danger by holding down the button for
between two and five seconds.
To cancel alarm
Press button.
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Opening and closing – via the remote control
External systems
The remote control system may be
affected by other units or equipment
operating in the immediate vicinity of
your vehicle.
If this should occur, you can unlock and
lock the vehicle via the door lock with a
master key.
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 to
these devices could void the
user's authority to operate the equip-
ment.<
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Opening and closing – from the inside
You can operate the central locking
system with this button when the
driver's door is closed. With this button,
only the doors, the luggage compart-
ment lid/tailgate and rear window are
unlocked or locked. The anti-theft
system is not activated. Also, the fuel
filler door remains unlocked to allow
refueling.
The central locking system can be
locked automatically as soon as
you begin to drive if you desire. You
may also have this function
programmed into individual keys.<
390de691
If only the driver's door was
unlocked from the outside and
you press the button
> all other doors, the luggage compart-
ment lid/tailgate, rear window and
the fuel filler door will be unlocked if
the driver's door is open
> the driver's door will be locked again
when it is closed.<
To unlock and open the doors
> Either unlock the doors together with
the button for the central locking
system and then pull the door handle
above the armrest or
> pull the release handle for each door
twice: the first pull unlocks the door,
and the second one opens it.
To engage the locks
> Use the central locking button to lock
all of the doors simultaneously,
or
> press down the individual door lock
buttons. As an added design feature
to prevent the driver from being inad-
vertently locked out of the vehicle,
the driver's door lock button will not
engage as long as the door is open.
When the vehicle is moving, you
should not lock the doors with
their lock buttons since doors locked in
this manner would not open automati-
cally in the event of an accident.
Since passengers or animals remaining
in the vehicle might be able to lock the
doors from the inside, take the vehicle's
keys with you so that the vehicle can be
opened again from the outside at any
time.<
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Luggage compartment lid/Tailgate
Lock – sedan only
Only the master keys (refer to page 32)
fit in the lock in the luggage compart-
ment lid.
Opening separately
Turn the master key to the left in the
luggage compartment lock, continuing
until it stops – the luggage compart-
ment lid will open slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as you close the lid.
394de783
Secure separately
Turn the master key to the right past the
resistance point and then pull it out in
the horizontal position.
This locks the luggage compartment lid
and disconnects it from the central
locking system. This feature can be
used to prevent unauthorized access to
the luggage compartment when you
hand over the door and ignition key
(refer to page 32) for valet parking, etc.
394de731
Manual operation
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can also open the luggage
compartment lid/tailgate manually:
sedan:
Turn the master key to the left in the
luggage compartment lock, continuing
all the way to the end of its travel – the
luggage compartment lid will open
slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as you close the lid.
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Luggage compartment lid/Tailgate
sport wagon:
1. From inside the luggage compart-
ment, open the two side covers
(arrow). Remove the covers
392de778
2. Release the two quick-release
fasteners of the cover for the
onboard tool kit in the tailgate. Raise
the cover
3. Remove the plastic plugs (arrow) and
pull toward the interior. The tailgate
will be released
4. Open the tailgate. Press the plugs
back into place and close the cover
with the quick-release fasteners
5. Position the two side covers and
close them.
392de776
To open from the outside
Press the button (arrow): the tailgate
opens slightly.
The luggage compartment (cargo area)
is illuminated whenever the tailgate is
opened (for additional information refer
to page 103).
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Luggage compartment lid/Tailgate
To open from the inside
You can use this button to open the tail-
gate when the vehicle is stationary (not
possible if the tailgate has been locked
separately).
When the tailgate of the sport
wagon is opened, the clearance
from the ground to the upper edge is
more than 6.6 ft (two meters). Please
keep this in mind when opening the tail-
gate (in a garage, for example).<
For additional details concerning the
luggage compartment, please refer to
"Luggage compartment" beginning on
page 123.
390de692
Rear window – sport wagon
Small items can be loaded or unloaded
quickly if the rear window is opened
separately.
Press the button (arrow): the rear
window opens slightly. It can now be
tilted up.
Push the window down to close it.
When loading sharp or pointed
objects in the area adjacent to the
rear window always wrap their edges in
soft material if there is any chance that
these objects could shift and rub
against the window while the vehicle is
underway. Failure to observe this
precaution can result in damage to the
rear window defroster's resistor
elements.<
392de727
Closing – sedan
The handle recess (arrow) next to the
lock mechanism is designed to assist
you in closing the luggage compart-
ment lid.
394de128
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Luggage compartment lid/Tailgate
Closing – sport wagon
You can pull the tailgate down by
placing both hands in the handle
recesses (arrows).
To close the tailgate, merely press it
down gently. The closing process will
then be carried out automatically.
392de689
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the luggage
compartment lid/tailgate is clear when
it is closed, observing the same precau-
tions as with all closing procedures.
Operate the vehicle only when the
luggage compartment lid/tailgate or
rear window is completely closed.
Otherwise, exhaust fumes could pene-
trate the interior of the vehicle. Should it
be absolutely necessary to operate the
vehicle with the luggage compartment
lid/tailgate or rear window open:
> Close all windows. Shut the sliding/
tilt sunroof
> Increase the air supply for the air
conditioner or automatic climate
control to a high level. Refer to
page 105 or 109.<
Emergency release – sedan only
This lever releases the luggage
compartment lid from the luggage
compartment's interior.
390de792
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Luggage compartment Alarm system
Luggage straps
Use the straps on the floor of the
luggage compartment to secure smaller
items of luggage.
Movement is reduced when objects are
placed on the straps.
The fittings at the 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 126.
394de302
Hanger
On the left-hand side of the luggage
compartment is a hanger for fastening
shopping bags, packages and similar
items.
394de144
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds
> when a door, the hood, the luggage
compartment lid/tailgate or the rear
window is opened
> to movement inside the vehicle (inte-
rior motion sensor)
> to variations in the vehicle's tilt angle
such as those occurring during
attempts to steal the wheels or tow
the vehicle
> to interruption of battery voltage.
The system responds to unauthorized
vehicle entry and attempted theft by
simultaneously activating the following
> an acoustic alarm for 30 seconds
> the hazard warning flashers, for
approx. five minutes
> the high beams flash on and off in the
same rhythm as the hazard warning
flashers.
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Alarm system
To arm and disarm the alarm
system
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked
with the key or the remote control, the
alarm system is also simultaneously
armed or disarmed.
You can have different acknowl-
edgment signals set to confirm
arming and disarming.<
You can also open the luggage
compartment lid/tailgate when the
system is armed by pressing the button
on the remote control (refer to page 35).
When you close the luggage compart-
ment lid/tailgate, the luggage compart-
ment is secured again.
Indicator lamp displays
> The indicator lamp below the interior
rearview mirror flashes continuously:
the system is armed
> The indicator lamp flashes during
arming: door(s), the hood or luggage
compartment lid/tailgate are not
completely closed. Even if you do not
secure the indicated area, the system
begins to monitor the remaining
areas, and the indicator lamp flashes
continuously 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
390de020
> 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. To prevent a false alarm from
being triggered (in garages with
elevator ramps, for instance), or when
the vehicle is transported by trailer or
train:
Lock the vehicle (arm the alarm system)
twice in succession: press button 2 on
the remote control transmitter twice
(refer to page 35), or turn the key in the
door lock to the right (lock) twice in
succession (refer to page 33).
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.
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Alarm system Electric power windows
Interior motion sensor
In order for the interior motion sensor to
function properly, the windows and
sliding/tilt sunroof must be completely
closed.
Nevertheless, you should deactivate
the interior motion sensor (refer to
"Avoiding unintentional alarms") if you
> leave children or animals in the
vehicle
> intend to leave the windows or
sliding/tilt sunroof open.
To open and close windows
From ignition key position 1:
> Depress the rocker switch until you
feel resistance:
The window continues moving for as
long as you maintain pressure on the
switch
> Press the rocker switch beyond the
resistance point:
The window moves automatically.
Press the switch a second time to
stop the window.
390de055
After the ignition has been switched off:
> You can still operate the windows as
long as neither of the front doors has
been opened. To open the window,
press the switch beyond the resis-
tance point.
When leaving the vehicle, always
extract the ignition key from the
lock and remember to close the doors
to prevent children from operating the
power windows and injuring them-
selves, etc.<
For the convenience mode via the door
lock or the remote control, refer to
pages 33 or 35.
Safety feature
A contact strip is integrated into the
inner side of each of the upper window
frame sections. If pressure is exerted
against this contact strip while a
window is being raised, the system will
respond by stopping the window and
then retracting it a small distance.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Electric power windows
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful that the closing
path of the window is not obstructed.
Otherwise, an object might not touch
the contact strip in some situations
(very thin objects, for instance).
You can override this safety feature by
pressing the switch beyond the resis-
tance point and holding it.
Because the power windows are sealed
at high pressure to prevent wind noise
when closed, a powerful motor is
required for efficient closing. When
closing the windows, always ensure
that they are not obstructed in any way.
Unsupervised use of these systems can
result in serious personal injury.
Remove the ignition key to deactivate
the electric power windows whenever
you leave the vehicle. Never leave the
keys in the vehicle with unsupervised
children. Never place anything that
could obstruct the driver's vision on or
next to the windows.<
Safety switch
With the safety switch, you can prevent
the rear windows from being opened or
closed via the switch in the rear
passenger area (by children, for
example).
Press the safety switch whenever
children are riding in the rear of
the vehicle. Careless use of the power
windows can lead to injury.<
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Sliding/tilt sunroof*
To prevent injuries, exercise care
when closing the sliding/tilt
sunroof and keep it in your field of
vision until it is shut.
Before leaving the vehicle, switch off
the electric sunroof mechanism by
taking out the ignition key. Do not leave
children unattended in the vehicle with
access to vehicle keys. The key could
be used to start the engine and operate
vehicle systems such as the power
sunroof, etc. Unsupervised use of these
systems can result in serious personal
injury.<
For the convenience mode via the door
lock or the remote control, refer to
page 33 or 35.
Raising – Opening – Closing
With the ignition key in position 1 or 2,
press the switch or slide it in the
desired direction until you feel resis-
tance.
When lifting, the headliner retracts
several inches.
The headliner insert can not be
closed with the sunroof in its
raised position.<
After the ignition has been switched off,
you can still operate the sliding/tilt
sunroof as long as neither of the front
doors has been opened.
390de724
Automatic* opening and closing
Press the switch past the resistance
point and then release it.
Other automatic operations are:
> With the sunroof open, press the
switch briefly toward "Lift:" the
sunroof automatically extends to its
fully-raised position
> With the sunroof lifted, press the
switch briefly toward "Open:" the
sunroof automatically opens all the
way.
Pressing the switch again briefly stops
the motion.
Safety feature
If the sliding/tilt sunroof encounters
resistance at a point roughly past the
middle of its travel when it is closing,
the closing cycle is interrupted and the
sliding/tilt sunroof will open again
slightly.
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Sliding/tilt sunroof*
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful that the travel
path of the sunroof is not obstructed
whenever it is closed. Remember that
the safety mechanism may not be able
to detect obstructions under all circum-
stances (with very thin objects, for
instance). You can disable this safety
feature by pressing the switch beyond
the pressure point and holding it.<
Sliding/tilt sunroof with glass
moonroof
*
The options and control procedures are
essentially the same as those previ-
ously described for the sliding/tilt
sunroof. In order to open the raised
roof, press the control switch towards
"Open" and maintain pressure until the
roof has reached the desired position.
The headliner insert slides back some-
what when you raise the sunroof, and
retracts along with the sunroof panel
when you slide it back. The insert then
remains open, and you can slide it back
and forth to adjust it whenever the
sunroof is not fully retracted.
Interruption in the electrical
supply
After interruptions in the electrical
supply (when the battery is discon-
nected, for instance), the sunroof may
only lift. To reinitialize the mechanism:
1. Raise the sliding/tilt sunroof fully
2. Press and hold the switch for approx
twenty seconds.
390de725
Manual operation
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can also operate the sliding/tilt
sunroof manually:
1. Remove the interior lamp, then reach
into the exposed opening and press
out the cover
2. Use the Allen key from the onboard
tool kit (refer to page 150) to turn the
sliding/tilt sunroof in the desired
direction.
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For relaxed and fatigue-free driving you
should select a sitting position that
reflects your personal requirements.
Correct posture combines with safety
belts and airbags to enhance occupant
safety in the event of an accident. To
ensure that the vehicle's safety systems
provide you with optimal protection, we
request that you direct your careful
attention to the following section.
For additional information on trans-
porting children, refer to page 61.
Sitting correctly with airbags
Always maintain an adequate
distance between yourself and the
airbags. Always hold the steering wheel
by the rim to keep any chance of injury
to hands or arms to an absolute
minimum should the airbag be
deployed. Never allow any objects,
individuals or animals to obstruct the
areas between passengers and airbags.
Never use the front airbag's cover as a
storage tray or support for objects of
any kind. Never allow front passengers
to rest their feet or legs on the airbag
cover.<
For airbag locations and additional
information on airbags refer to page 58.
Safe with safety belts
Never allow more than one person
to wear a single safety belt. Never
allow infants or small children to ride in
a passenger's lap. Avoid twisting the
belt while routing it firmly across the
pelvis and shoulder, wear it as snugly
against your body as possible. Do not
allow the belt to rest against hard or
fragile objects in your pockets. Do not
route the belt across your neck, or run it
across sharp edges. Avoid wearing
bulky clothing and pull on the lap belt
periodically to retention it over your
shoulders. In the event of a frontal
impact, a loose lap belt could slide over
the hips, leading to abdominal injury. In
addition, the safety belt's restraint
effectiveness is reduced if it is worn
loosely. Expectant mothers should
always wear their safety belts, taking
care to position the lap belt against the
lower hips, where it will not exert pres-
sure against the abdominal area.<
For information on using the safety
belts refer to page 53.
When adjusting your seat, always
observe the following precautions
Never try to adjust your seat while
operating the vehicle. The seat
could respond with an unexpected
movement, and the ensuing loss of
vehicle control could lead to an acci-
dent. Never ride with the backrest
reclined to an extreme horizontal angle
(important for front passengers to
remember), otherwise, there is a risk
that you will slide under the safety belt
in an accident, thus negating the
protection the safety belt provides.
Do not move the seats to the rear when
the vehicle is at an extreme angle (on
garage ramps or steep slopes, for
example). If you do so, the automatic
safety belt height adjustment can be
disengaged.<
Seat adjustment
> Manually-adjusted seat, refer to
page 49
> Electric power seats, refer to page 50
> Head restraints, refer to page 52
> BMW active seat, refer to page 52
Correct sitting posture Seats
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Manually-adjusted seat
Seat adjustment
1 Backward/Forward adjustment
Pull the lever and slide the seat to the
desired position.
After you release the lever, move the
seat forward or backward slightly to
engage the detent
2 Cushion height
Pull the lever and apply weight to
or remove weight from the seat as
required
390us731
3 Backrest angle
Pull the lever and apply weight to or
remove weight from the backrest as
required.
Comply with the adjustment
instructions on page 48. Failure to
do so could result in diminished
personal safety.<
390us732
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Electric power seats*
1 Tilt angle (driver's seat only)
2 Backward/Forward adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle
5 Head restraint height
Adjust the tilt angle of the head restraint
manually by rotating it.
Read and comply with the adjust-
ment instructions on page 48.
Failure to do so could result in dimin-
ished personal safety.<
380de023
Adjusting BMW sports seat*
With this seat, you can also adjust the
thigh support:
Press the front/rear of the switch to
adjust the thigh support for your
maximum personal comfort.
390de696
Adjusting BMW comfort seat*
This seat allows you to make additional
adjustments for
1 Lumbar support
2 Shoulder support
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.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Electric power seats*
> Press the front/rear of the switch:
Increase/decrease curvature
> Press the upper/lower end of the
switch:
Increase the upper/lower curvature.
Shoulder support:
Press the front/rear of the switch: the
support angle of the upper backrest
section is adjusted.
You can use the adjustable upper back-
rest for supplementary support in the
shoulder region. This provides a
relaxed sitting posture and helps relieve
stress on the shoulder muscles.
To obtain the optimal shoulder support
position, we recommend:
Driver and front passenger:
1. Adjust the upper backrest section to
its extreme rear position
2 Adjust for the optimal sitting position
as described on page 48
3. Bring the upper backrest section
forward until your shoulders enjoy
firm support.
530de252
Front passenger's seat adjusted for
relaxed traveling:
1. Adjust the upper backrest section
to its extreme rear position
2. Lower the backrest slightly to
increase the tilt angle
3 Bring the upper backrest section
forward until your shoulders enjoy
firm support.
Make corrections in the forward/
backward adjustment of the seat
to ensure that the safety belt still fits
firmly against your body. Failure to
observe this precaution can reduce the
amount of protection provided by your
safety belt.<
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Head restraints BMW active seat*
Adjusting
To adjust the height of the front or rear
head restraints, pull up or push down.
For electric height adjustment, refer to
page 50.
To adjust the angle of the front head
restraints, tilt to the desired angle.
390de715
Head restraints reduce the risk
of spinal injury in the event of an
accident.
Adjust the head restraint so that its
center is approximately level with your
ears.
Leave the center-rear head restraint in
the fully-lowered position at all times.
Extending it limits its function.<
Active changes in the seat's surface
help to avoid muscle cramps, pain in
the spine's lumbar region and fatigue.
To activate, press the button.
390us725
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Safety belts
Drive with your safety belt on
Always fasten your safety belt before
starting off. As supplemental restraint
devices, the airbags are designed to
enhance the effectiveness of the safety
belts, and not to replace them.
To close
Make sure you hear the catch engage in
the belt buckle.
To open
1. Press the red button in belt buckle
2. Hold the end of the belt
3. Guide belt back into the inertia reel.
The shoulder belt anchor automatically
adjusts to continue providing an
optimum fit when you move the seat
forward or back.
390de653
The rear belt buckle with the word
"CENTER" is intended exclusively
for the passenger sitting in the middle.
Sedan with through-loading system
*:
please comply with the instructions for
the center safety belt on page 119.
sport wagon: if it is not possible to
extract the center belt, this indicates
that the detent for the larger backrest is
not securely engaged, refer to
page 123.<
If the safety belt system has been
subjected to the stresses involved
in an accident or otherwise damaged:
to ensure that the safety belts continue
to provide effective protection, always
have the entire safety belt mechanism
replaced and the belt anchorages
inspected at your BMW center.
If a child-restraint system was in the
vehicle during an accident, consult the
manufacturer's instructions regarding
replacement.c
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Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory
You can store and call up three different
seat, exterior mirror and steering wheel
positions. The illustration shows the
buttons on the driver's door for making
these position adjustments.
The adjustment of the lumbar support is
not stored in the memory.
390de032
To store
1 Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 2
2 Adjust to the desired positions for the
seat, exterior mirror and steering
wheel
3 Press the
MEMORY button: the indi-
cator lamp in the button comes on
4 Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as
desired: the indicator lamp goes out.
To select a stored setting
Convenience function:
1 Open the driver's door after
unlocking the vehicle or turn the igni-
tion key to 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 With the driver's door closed and the
ignition key either removed or in posi-
tion 0 or 2
2 Maintain pressure on the desired
memory button (1, 2 or 3) until the
adjustment process is completed.
If you press the
MEMORY button
accidentally: press the button a second
time; the indicator lamp goes out.
Do not select a new stored
memory setting while the vehicle
is moving. There is a risk of accident
from unexpected movement of the seat
or steering wheel.<
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Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory Seat heating*
Your BMW center can adjust your
vehicle's systems in such a
manner that your personalized settings
are automatically called up for the seat,
mirror and steering wheel positions
when you unlock the vehicle with your
personal remote control key.<
Before using the key memory
feature to unlock the vehicle
always ensure that no objects are
stored in the footwell behind the
driver's seat. If you fail to do so,
persons or objects could be injured or
damaged if the seat should move back-
ward.<
Passenger-side exterior mirror tilt
function
(automatic curb monitor)
1 Move the mirror selector switch
(arrow) to the "driver's mirror" posi-
tion
2 When the selector lever is placed in
"Reverse," the passenger-side mirror
tilts downward to help the driver
monitor the area directly adjacent to
the vehicle during parking (curbs,
etc.).
You can deactivate this automatic
feature by setting the mirror selection
switch to the "passenger-side" posi-
tion.
390de720
The seat cushion and backrest can be
heated with the ignition key in
position 2.
You can select from different heating
modes by repeatedly pressing the keys.
You can also switch the higher heating
modes off directly:
Press the key and hold it slightly longer.
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Adjusting steering wheel Heated steering wheel*
The steering wheel can be moved in
any of four directions. Adjust by moving
the control lever in the desired direc-
tion.
Do not adjust the steering wheel
while the vehicle is moving. There
is a risk of accident from unexpected
movement.<
To store the steering wheel setting,
refer to "Seat, mirror and steering
wheel memory" on page 54.
390de711
Automatic steering wheel
adjustment
In order to make it easier to get into and
out of the vehicle, the steering wheel
automatically moves into the top posi-
tion and returns to the driving (memory)
position.
This automatic feature is controlled by
the position of the ignition key and by
the driver's door.
The heated steering wheel feature is
available for operation when the ignition
key is in position 2.
Press the button to switch on and off.
The lamp within the button lights up
when the steering wheel heater is in
operation.
If you have a multifunction steering
wheel without steering wheel heating,
the button for the recirculated-air mode
is in this location (refer to page 22).
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Mirrors
Exterior mirrors
1 Mirror switch for 4-way adjustment
2 Left/right selection switch
To adjust manually
The mirrors can also be adjusted by
hand:
Press the edge of the lens.
To store mirror settings, refer to "Seat,
mirror and steering wheel memory" on
page 54.
390us733
Curved-lens mirror
The passenger-side mirror
features a convex lens. When esti-
mating the distance between yourself
and other traffic, bear in mind that the
objects reflected in the mirror are closer
than they appear.<
Self-defrosting mirrors
Both mirrors are defrosted automati-
cally when the ignition key is in
position 2.
Interior rearview mirror
To reduce glare from vehicles behind
you after dark, tilt the mirror by moving
the small lever.
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Mirrors Airbags
Interior and exterior mirrors with
automatic dimming feature
*
These mirrors automatically respond to
glare from following vehicles by
dimming through an infinitely-variable
range. The mirrors automatically revert
to their clear, undimmed setting when-
ever you select reverse.
The dimming function is regulated by
two photocells; one is integrated in the
mirror's lens (arrow), while the other is
located at an offset position on the rear
of the mirror.
To ensure that the mirror continues to
operate efficiently, ensure that the
photocells remain clear and unob-
structed. Refrain from attaching
stickers to the windshield in the area
immediately in front of the mirror.
390de031
1 Front airbags on the driver and
passenger sides
2 Head protection airbags on driver
and passenger side (front and rear
*)
3 Side airbags on driver and passenger
side (front and rear
*)
Protective effect
The front airbags protect the driver and
passenger in the event of a head-on
collision where the protection provided
by the safety belt alone would not be
adequate. The head protection airbags
and side airbags help provide protec-
tion in the event of a collision from the
side. Each of the side airbags is
designed to help support the upper
body.
380de643
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.c
For information on the correct sitting
position, refer to page 48.
The airbags will not be triggered in
the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle rollover or a collision from the
rear.<
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Airbags
Never apply stickers or adhesive-
backed objects of any kind to the
airbag covers. Never attempt to reup-
holster the covers or modify them in any
way. If the airbags deploy in response
to an accident, if you note any signs of
system malfunction, or if you wish to
have any parts of the airbag passenger-
restraint system deactivated, always
contact your BMW center, to whom we
strongly urge you to entrust all testing,
repair and dismantling operations.
Never attempt to modify or tamper with
either the system's electrical wiring or
any of its individual components.
System components include the uphol-
stered surfaces on the steering wheel,
instrument panel, the trim panels on the
front and rear doors (with rear airbags)
and the roof braces as well as the sides
of the headliner above the doors.
Never attempt to remove or dismantle
the steering wheel.
To ensure compliance with official
safety regulations, always entrust
disposal of airbag generators to your
BMW center. Attempts to carry out
service procedures undertaken by
anyone other than specially-trained
professionals can result in system
failure or undesired airbag deployment,
both of which can lead to personal
injury. If the airbags deploy in response
to an accident, always remember to
avoid all contact with system compo-
nents, as they are hot and can cause
burns in the period immediately
following deployment.<
All vehicle occupants should
always sit upright and be properly
restrained (infants and small children in
appropriate child-restraint systems;
larger children and adults using the
safety belts). Never let an occupant's
head rest near or on a side airbag: the
inflating airbag could cause a serious or
fatal injury. Please note that the word
"Airbag" imprinted on the door trim
panel indicates the airbag's location.
Accident research shows that the
safest place for children in an automo-
bile is in the rear seat. However, a child
sitting in the rear seat and not properly
restrained may place his or her head on
or near the side airbag, if installed. For
example, a child – even though belted –
may fall asleep with his or her head
against the side airbag. It may be diffi-
cult for a driver to ensure that children
in the rear seat will remain properly
positioned at all times and do not place
their heads on or near the side airbag.
Therefore, we recommend that the
rear-seat side airbags, if provided, be
deactivated if you plan to transport chil-
dren in the rear seat.
The rear-seat side airbags may already
have been deactivated, either at the
time of manufacture or by a BMW
center. Labels in the rear door opening
should indicate the status of your rear-
seat side airbags. If you are uncertain of
their status, or wish to have the airbags
activated or deactivated, please
contact your BMW center.<
Even when all these guidelines are
followed, there is still a small residual
risk of injuries to the face, hands and
arms occurring in isolated instances.
The ignition and inflation noise may
provoke a mild temporary hearing loss
in extremely sensitive individuals.
Airbag warning information is also
provided on the sun visors.
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Airbags
This is the right way for a child to sit in a
child restraint when rear side airbags
(arrow) are provided.
380de637
This is the right way for a larger child to
sit wearing the safety belt when rear
side airbags (arrow) are provided.
380de638
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp indicates the
operational status of the airbag
system from ignition key posi-
tion 1.
System operational:
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
then goes out.
System malfunction:
> The indicator lamp fails to come on
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
before going out and then lighting up
again.
Please respond to any malfunctions in
the system by immediately having it
inspected at your BMW center; other-
wise the airbag could fail to respond to
an accident in which both the angle and
the severity of the impact would
normally trigger airbag deployment.
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Transporting children safely
Commercially-available child-restraint
systems are designed to be secured
with a lap belt or with the lap belt
portion of a combination lap/shoulder
belt. Improperly or inadequately
installed restraint systems can increase
the risk of injury to children. Always
read and follow the instructions that
come with the system.
380us123
If you use a child-restraint system with
a tether strap, three additional tether
anchorage points (refer to the arrows –
the illustration shows the sport wagon)
have been provided. Depending on the
location selected for seating in the rear
passenger area, attach the tether strap
to the corresponding anchorage point
to secure the child-restraint system.
Remove the cover first on the middle
location.
If the respective seating position is
fitted with a headrest, lift the headrest
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.
392au001
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 Ibs./9 kg) would be
within the airbag's deployment range,
you should never mount such a device
in the front passenger seat, since the
impact of the airbag against the child-
restraint's backrest could lead to
serious or fatal injuries. If it is necessary
for a child (not an infant) to ride in the
front seat, certain precautions should
be taken. First, move the passenger
seat as far away from the dashboard as
possible. This important precaution is
intended to maximize the distance
between the airbag and the child.
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Transporting children safely
Older children should be tightly secured
with a 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 whenever
you use such a device.
Be sure that all occupants (of all ages)
remain properly and securely restrained
at all times.<
All rear seating positions in your
vehicle meet the recommendations
of SAE J1819, an industry-recom-
mended practice for securing child-
restraint systems in motor vehicles.
Child-restraint installation
All of the rear belt retractors and the
front passenger's safety belt can be
locked for mounting and securing child-
restraint systems.
Information regarding this is located
near the buckle latch of each safety
belt.
To lock the belt
Pull the entire length of the belt from
the belt retractor. Allow the reel to
retract the belt somewhat and engage
the buckle, then tighten the belt against
the child-restraint system. The retrac-
tion mechanism is now locked.
365us146
To release the belt
Release the buckle, remove the child-
restraint device and allow the belt
retractor to reel the belt completely in.
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Transporting children safely
LATCH child-restraint anchorage
points
* – sedan
The anchorage points for the LATCH
child-restraint system are located
behind the upholstery at the positions
indicated by the arrows.
The illustration shows the right rear seat
as an example.
Snap the rear center lap belt into the
buckle with the word "CENTER" and
then pull the belt away from the area
where the child restraint will be
mounted.
Vehicles with through-loading
system
*: use the small lock to join
together the two sections of the belt,
refer to page 119.<
390de786
Carefully slide the brackets through the
gaps in the upholstery at the indicated
locations.
Always follow all manufacturer's
instructions and observe all safety
precautions when installing the LATCH
child-restraint system.<
To help avoid damage to the uphol-
stery, you can obtain an insertion
guide
* (funnel) at your BMW center.
Firmly press the insertion guide into the
gap between the seat cushion and
backrest, continuing until the two
guides snap into place on the LATCH
brackets in the seat.
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Transporting children safely
Vehicle Memory, Key Memory
LATCH child-restraint anchorage
points
* – sport wagon
Guide the child-restraint's brackets into
the mounts in the rear seat (arrows),
then slide the seat all the way back.
The illustration shows the left rear seat
as an example.
Always follow all manufacturer's
instructions and observe all safety
precautions when installing the LATCH
child-restraint system.<
390de784
Child-safety locks
Insert the key to the slot of a rear door
lock and turn it outward:
The door can now be opened from the
outside only.
390de698
How the system functions
No doubt you have reflected at one
time or another on how great it would
be if you could permanently configure
your vehicle's various features and
adjustments to mirror your own indi-
vidual preferences. In engineering your
vehicle, BMW has incorporated a
number of options for personal adjust-
ment that can be programmed into your
vehicle at your BMW center.
The available configuration data fall into
two categories, according to whether
their primary orientation is the vehicle
("Vehicle Memory") or the individual
("Key Memory"). Provided that each
person has a separate remote-control
key, you can have your BMW center
enter two personal adjustments for two
different individuals into the system.
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Vehicle Memory, Key Memory
The system then relies on a bilateral
data exchange to identify the individual
user and dial in the selected settings
whenever the remote control unit is
used to disengage the door locks.
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 capabilities of the Vehicle
Memory and Key Memory systems. A
few examples follow below:
Examples for Vehicle Memory:
> Various signals as acknowledgment
when locking or unlocking your
vehicle
> Activates/deactivates the "Follow me
home" function.
Examples for Key Memory:
> Locks the vehicle when you start off
> Automatically adjusts the driver’s
seat, the exterior mirrors and the
steering wheel position to your
personal programmed settings when
you unlock the vehicle
> The automatic climate control
assumes your preset comfort settings
when you unlock the vehicle.
You will see this symbol through-
out the Owner's Manual. It is to
remind you at appropriate places of the
settings that are available to you.<
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0 Steering locked
1 Steering unlocked
2 Ignition switched on
3 Starting engine
Steering locked
The key can be inserted or removed in
this position only.
After removing the key, turn the
steering wheel slightly to the left or right
until the lock engages.
An acoustic warning is sounded when
you fail to remove the ignition key after
opening the driver's door.
390de010
Vehicles with automatic transmis-
sion:
Do not move the selector lever from the
"Park" position until the engine is
running (ignition key in position 2).
To turn the key back to position 0 (for
instance, prior to removal), start by
moving the selector lever to position P
(Interlock).<
Steering unlocked
You will find that it is often easier to turn
the ignition key from position 0 to posi-
tion 1 when you move the steering
wheel slightly to help disengage the
lock.
Individual electrical accessories are
ready for operation.
Starting engine
Vehicles with manual transmis-
sion: depress the clutch when
starting the engine. A lockout prevents
the engine from starting with the clutch
engaged.<
Before starting
> Engage the parking brake
> Be sure that the transmission is in
"Neutral" (or "Park" if the vehicle is
equipped with an automatic trans-
mission)
> Step on the clutch pedal.
Do not allow the engine to run in
enclosed spaces. The exhaust
gases contain carbon monoxide, an
odorless and colorless, but highly toxic
gas. Breathing the exhaust gases poses
an extreme health risk, and can lead to
unconsciousness and death.
Never leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.<
Steering/Ignition lock Starting the engine
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Starting the engine
Starting the engine
Do not press the accelerator pedal
while starting the engine.
While it is important not to release
the key prematurely, you should
also avoid allowing the starter to
operate continuously for more than
20 seconds at a time. Release the igni-
tion key immediately as soon as the
engine starts.
BMW 540i with automatic transmission:
Your BMW is equipped with the conve-
nience starting feature. Simply turn the
key to position 3 (starter) and then
release it immediately.
The starter continues to operate auto-
matically and will be deactivated as
soon as the engine starts.
The automatic starting mode will not
operate if the battery voltage is low.
The engine can be jump-started using
an external power source (refer to
page 162).<
Do not allow the engine to warm up
by leaving it running while the vehicle
remains stationary. Instead, begin to
drive immediately at a moderate engine
speed.
Should the engine fail to 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 extremely low tempera-
tures of roughly +5 7 (–15 6) or below
and at altitudes of over 3,300 ft
(1,000 m):
> Allow the starter to turn somewhat
longer (approximately 10 seconds)
during your initial starting attempt.
Engine idle speed is controlled by the
engine-management system. Higher
idle 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 electrical devices
that are not in use. Switch the ignition
off when the vehicle is not being driven.
Extended starting attempts, char-
acterized by excessively frequent
or long periods with the starter
engaged, can lead to catalyst
damage.<
When driving, standing at idle,
and parking the vehicle, take care
to avoid contact between the exhaust
system and flammable materials (grass,
hay, leaves, etc.). Such contact could
lead to a fire, resulting in serious
personal injury and property damage.<
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Switching off the engine Parking brake
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Do not remove the ignition key
while the vehicle is rolling. The
steering locks, making it impossible to
steer the vehicle.
Always remove the ignition key and
engage the steering lock before leaving
the vehicle.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Always engage the parking brake
when parking on hills and inclined
surfaces, as first gear or reverse may
not provide adequate resistance to
rolling.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Place the selector lever in "Park."<
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
The vehicle must be stationary and the
selector lever in "Park" before you can
remove the ignition key.
The parking brake is primarily designed
to prevent the vehicle from rolling while
parked. It operates on the rear wheels.
To engage
The lever engages automatically and
the "PARK BRAKE" or "BRAKE" (in
Canada "P") indicator lamp comes on in
the instrument cluster in ignition key
position 2. Refer to pages 19 and 20.
To release
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the
button and lower the lever.
390de714
If, in exceptional circumstances, it
should be necessary to engage
the parking brake while the vehicle is in
motion, do not pull it with excessive
pressure. Keep your thumb pressed
against the release button while care-
fully pulling up the lever to apply
moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)
at the rear.
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is applied.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Always engage the parking brake
when parking on hills and inclined
surfaces, as first gear or reverse may
not provide adequate resistance to
rolling.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Place the selector lever in "Park."<
You can help prevent corrosion and
avoid uneven braking response by
gently engaging the parking brake from
time to time when coasting to a stop at
traffic lights (ensure that you will not
pose a hazard to other road users).
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Manual transmission
BMW 525i, 530i
Every time you shift gears, always
depress the clutch pedal all the way,
pushing the manual gearshift
lever into the respective end position.
Depress the clutch when starting the
vehicle, as the lockout will prevent the
engine from starting if the clutch is not
depressed.
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BMW 540i
When shifting gears, always depress
the clutch pedal all the way to the end
of its travel, then move the shift lever
until it engages securely in the desired
gear.
You will also need to depress the clutch
when starting the engine, as an auto-
matic lockout prevents the starter from
operating when the clutch is engaged.
When shifting gears in the
5th/6th-gear plane, be sure to
press the shift lever to the right in order
to prevent inadvertent selection of a
gear in the 3rd/4th-gear plane.<
380de044
Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is
completely stopped. Press the shift
lever to the left to overcome the resis-
tance.
When you engage reverse, the backup
lamps will come on automatically when
the ignition key is in position 2.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or "riding" the
clutch. Use the parking brake instead.
Riding the clutch causes increased
clutch wear.<
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Automatic transmission*
The automatic transmission of your
BMW is equipped with Adaptive Trans-
mission Control (ATC), a system which
reacts with precision to your individual
driving style and vehicle operating
conditions. ATC operates by automati-
cally selecting from among a range of
available control programs.
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Selector lever positions
P R N D 4 3 2
The transmission range display varies
according to the equipment of your
vehicle (refer to the illustrations).
Starting the engine
The selector lever must be in "Park" or
"Neutral" before it is possible to start
the engine.
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Range selection
A detent prevents inadvertent shifts into
some selector lever positions. To disen-
gage the detent, press the button on
the front of the shift knob (arrow).
While the vehicle is stationary and
before shifting out of "Park" or
"Neutral," depress the footbrake in
order to disengage the selector lever's
lock mechanism (Shiftlock).
Hold the footbrake down until starting
off. Otherwise the vehicle will "creep"
when a drive position is engaged.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Automatic transmission*
Before leaving the vehicle when
the engine is running, shift the
selector lever to the "Park" or "Neutral"
position and apply the parking brake to
prevent the vehicle from rolling.
Never leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.
If you should accidentally select
"Neutral" while traveling at high speed,
remove your foot from the accelerator
pedal immediately. Allow the engine
speed to drop to idle before selecting
the desired drive position. Damage
could otherwise occur due to excessive
engine speed.<
P Park
Select only when the vehicle is
completely stopped. The transmission
locks to prevent the rear wheels from
turning.
R Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is
completely stopped.
N Neutral
Select only if your journey is interrupted
for a longer period.
D Drive
(automatic shift program)
This position is designed for driving
under all normal operating conditions.
All forward gears are available.
4 – Sport Program
The Sport Program is designed for
performance-oriented driving.
3 and 2 – shift limiter
Select this range when you wish to limit
gear changes (on steep uphill or down-
hill slopes, for instance). The transmis-
sion shifts up only as far as the selected
gear.
"Kickdown"
In the "kickdown" mode, you achieve
maximum performance.
Depress the accelerator pedal past the
detent at the full-throttle position.
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Automatic transmission*
Electronic transmission control
module
If the indicator lamp comes on
and/or if the message "TRANS.
FAILSAFE PROG" appears in
the Check Control
* display panel, this
indicates a malfunction in the transmis-
sion control system.
Bring the vehicle to a stop, select the
"Park" position, apply the parking brake
and shut the engine off (ignition key
position 0). Restart the engine after a
few seconds. If the indicator lamp goes
out again after a few seconds, the
normal transmission functions have
been restored. You may continue to
drive as usual.
If the indicator lamp does not go out,
you can move the selector lever to all
positions. However, the vehicle will now
only drive forward with limited gear
selection.
You should respond by avoiding
extreme engine loads and referring the
problem to the nearest BMW center.
Never perform work in the engine
compartment without first
ensuring that the transmission is in
"Park" or "Neutral" as the vehicle could
otherwise start to move off on its own.<
For jump-starting, towing and tow-
starting, refer to pages 162 and 163.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
You can drive as with a normal auto-
matic transmission. In addition, you can
also shift manually.
When you move the selector lever from
the "D" position to the left into the M/S
range, the performance-oriented shift
programs of the automatic transmission
are engaged. Steptronic enters the
manual selection mode and executes
the desired shift whenever you tap the
selector lever in the direction indicated
by "+" or "–." When you wish to use the
automatic transmission mode again,
move the selector lever to the right into
the "D" position.
Selector lever positions
P R N D M/S
Starting the engine
The engine can only be started in
selector lever positions P ("Park") or N
("Neutral").
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Range selection
A detent prevents inadvertent shifts to
the "Reverse" or "Park" selector lever
positions. To disengage the detent,
press the button on the front side of
the shift knob (arrow).
While the vehicle is stationary and
before shifting out of "Park" or
"Neutral," depress the footbrake in
order to disengage the selector lever's
lock mechanism (Shiftlock).
Hold the footbrake down until starting
off. The vehicle will otherwise "creep"
when a drive position is engaged.<
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
To prevent the vehicle from
starting off on its own, always
move the selector lever to position P or
N and engage the parking brake before
leaving your car with the engine
running. Do not leave the vehicle unat-
tended with the engine running. An
unattended vehicle with a running
engine represents a potential safety
hazard.
P Park
Select "Park" only when the vehicle is
completely stopped. The transmission
locks to prevent the rear wheels from
turning.
R Reverse
Select "Reverse" only when the vehicle
is completely stopped.
N Neutral
Select "Neutral" only if your journey is
interrupted for a longer period.
D Drive
(automatic shift program)
This position is designed for driving
under all normal operating conditions.
All forward gears are available.
"Kickdown"
In the "kickdown" mode, you achieve
maximum acceleration and top speed
in position D.
Depress the accelerator pedal past the
detent at the full-throttle position.
M/S Manual mode and
Sport Program
When you change from "D" to "M/S,"
the Sport Program is activated. This is
indicated by "D S" in the gear selection
display. The Sport Program is designed
for performance-oriented driving.
With the first brief touch, the automatic
transmission shifts from the Sport
Program to the manual mode. When-
ever you move the selector lever in the
"+" direction, the transmission upshifts,
and when you move it in the "–" direc-
tion, the transmission downshifts.
M1...M5 will be displayed in the gear
indicator.
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
ATC executes upshifts and downshifts
only when the new gear will provide a
suitable combination of vehicle and
engine speed, i.e., ATC will not execute
downshifts that would cause the engine
to overrev. The gear selected will
appear briefly in the instrument cluster
followed by the current gear.
If you are driving in the manual
mode and wish to accelerate
rapidly from low road speeds (when
passing, for instance), you must shift
down manually or with the "kickdown"
function.<
You can only change from "S/M" to
selector lever positions "P," "R," and
"N" via the "D" position.
Electronic transmission control
module
If the indicator lamp comes on
or the message "TRANS. FAIL-
SAFE PROG" appears in the
Check Control
*, there is a fault in the
transmission system.
Bring the vehicle to a stop. Move the
transmission selector lever to "P."
Engage the parking brake and turn the
engine off (ignition key to position 0).
Wait a few seconds, then start the
engine.
If the indicator lamp goes out after a
few seconds, normal transmission
performance has been restored. You
may continue to drive as usual. If the
indicator lamp does not go out, you can
place the selector lever in all positions.
However, the vehicle will now only drive
forward with limited gear selection.
If this happens, avoid extreme engine
loads and refer the problem to the
nearest BMW center.
Never perform work in the engine
compartment without first
ensuring that the transmission is in
"Park" or "Neutral" as the vehicle could
otherwise start to move off on its own.<
For jump-starting, towing and tow-
starting, refer to pages 162 and 163.
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Indicator/Headlamp flasher
Washer/Wiper system
1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher
(blue indicator lamp)
3 Turn signal indicator
(green indicator lamp accompanied
by periodic clicking sound from the
relay)
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond
the detent. It then returns to the center
position when released.
If the indicator lamp and the
clicking from the relay are both
faster than normal, one of the turn
signal indicators has failed.<
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0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent mode or rain sensor
*
2 Normal wipe
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
5 Clean the windshield
6 Intensive cleaning
*
7 Rotary dial for controlling sweep
intervals in the intermittent mode and
for setting the rain sensor's sensitivity
level
*
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Intermittent mode or rain sensor*
Intermittent mode:
You can set the wipe interval to four
stages with rotary dial 7.
In addition, the wipe interval is varied
automatically depending on road
speed.
Rain sensor:
The rain sensor is positioned on the
windshield, directly ahead of the inte-
rior rearview mirror.
To activate the rain sensor:
Move the lever to position 1 with the
ignition key in position 1 or higher. The
wipers travel once across the wind-
shield, regardless of the weather
conditions.
You can leave the lever permanently in
position 1. Whenever the ignition key is
in position 1 or 2, all you then need to
do to activate the rain sensor is briefly
turn the rotary dial 7.
To adjust the sensitivity of the rain
sensor:
Turn rotary dial 7.
Deactivating the rain sensor:
Move lever to position 0.
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Washer/Wiper system
Turn the rain sensor off in auto-
matic car washes. Failure to do so
could result in damage caused by
undesired wiper activation.<
Normal wiper speed
The system automatically reverts to
operation in the intermittent mode
whenever the vehicle is stationary (not
on vehicles with rain sensor
*).
Fast wiper speed
The wipers revert to operation at stan-
dard speed when the vehicle stops (not
on vehicles with rain sensor
*).
Clean the windshield
The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and activates the wipers
for a brief period.
Intensive cleaning*
As in setting 5. In addition, an intensive-
action washer fluid is first sprayed on
the windshield.
For changing the wiper blades, refer to
page 150.
Cleaning headlights*
When the headlights are on, they are
also cleaned automatically every fifth
time you activate the clean the wind-
shield (5) or intensive cleaning (6)
mode.
Do not use the washers if there is
any danger that the fluid will
freeze on the windshield, as your vision
could be obscured. Always use an anti-
freeze agent. Refer to page 139.
Do not use the washers when the reser-
voir is empty. This could cause damage
to the washer pump.<
Windshield washer jets
The windshield washer jets are warmed
automatically when the ignition key is in
position 2.
Rear window wiper – sport wagon
0 Retracted (home) position of the rear
window wiper
1 Rear window wiper in intermittent
operation. Automatically switches to
continuos operation when reverse is
engaged
2 Clean the rear window
You can also program the interval:
> Switch briefly from position 0 to posi-
tion 1
> The time until reactivation (from posi-
tion 0 to 1) is the programmed
interval (max. 30 seconds).
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Washer/Wiper system Cruise control
The programmed interval is deleted
> approx. 10 seconds after the lever is
placed in position 0 or
> after the engine is switched off.
When the rear window is opened, the
rear window wiper is switched off. It
must be switched on again after the
window has been closed.
For changing the wiper blade, refer to
page 150.
You can store and automatically main-
tain any desired vehicle speed above
approx. 20 mph (30 km/h).
The cruise control is available whenever
the engine is running and the system
has been activated.
To activate the system
From ignition key position 2:
Press the button and the indicator lamp
on the instrument cluster (refer to
page 21) will come on. You can now
use the cruise control.
Do not use cruise control on
twisting roads, when high traffic
density prevents driving at a constant
speed, or when the road surface is slick
(snow, rain, ice) or loose (rocks or
gravel, sand).<
To deactivate the system
Press button as often as needed until
the indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster goes out.
Cruise control is also deactivated when
the ignition key is in position 0.
The speed stored in memory is deleted.
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Cruise control
To store and maintain speed
or to accelerate
Press button (+) briefly:
The system registers and maintains the
current vehicle speed. Every time you
tap the button, the speed increases by
approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Press and hold button (+):
The vehicle accelerates without pres-
sure on the accelerator pedal. When
you release the button, the system
stores and maintains the current speed.
If, on a downhill gradient, the
engine braking effect is not suffi-
cient, the controlled speed can be
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill
grades if the engine output is insuffi-
cient.<
To decelerate
Press button (–) briefly:
If you are already driving with active
cruise control, the speed is decreased
by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h) every time
you tap the button.
Press and hold button (–):
With the cruise control active, the
system automatically reduces the
throttle opening to slow the vehicle.
When you release the button, the
system registers and maintains the
current speed.
To interrupt the cruise control
When the system is activated, press the
button. The indicator lamp stays on.
You can use the cruise control again
whenever you want by calling up the
speed that was stored last.
In addition, cruise control is interrupted
automatically:
> When the brakes are applied
> When you depress the clutch pedal
> If you exceed or fall below the
programmed speed for an extended
period (by depressing the acceler-
ator, for example).
To recall the stored setting
Press button:
The vehicle accelerates to and main-
tains the last speed stored.
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1 Odometer
2 Trip odometer
3 Outside temperature display
Odometer
You can activate the displays shown in
the illustration with the ignition key in
position 0 by pressing the button in the
instrument cluster (arrow).
The range of available displays varies
according to your individual vehicle's
equipment.
Trip odometer
To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the button (arrow) with the igni-
tion key in position 1 or 2.
390us608
Outside temperature display
The outside temperature appears in the
display at ignition key position 1 and 2.
You can change the units of measure
(7/6) by
1. pressing and holding down the
button (arrow) with the ignition key in
position 1
2. and then turning the ignition key to 0.
Refer also to page 86.
Ice warning
If the outside temperature drops to
approx +37.5 7 (+3 6), a warning
signal sounds and the display flashes
briefly.
The ice warning does not alter the
fact that surface ice can form at
temperatures above +37.5 7 (+3 6),
on bridges and shaded road surfaces,
etc.<
Odometer, outside temperature display
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Tachometer Energy control Fuel gauge
Do not operate the engine with the
needle in the red overspeed zone of the
gauge.
To protect the engine, the engine-
management system interrupts the fuel
supply when you approach this sector.
390us004
Indicates the current fuel consumption
in mpg (in liters/100 km on Canadian
vehicles). This allows you to see
whether your current driving style is
conducive to fuel economy with
minimum exhaust emissions.
When the vehicle is stationary, the
display goes to "Maximum" (zero on
Canadian models).
390us005
When you switch on the ignition, the
indicator lamp comes on briefly to
confirm that the system is operational.
If the indicator lamp stays on, there are
approx.
> 2.0 gal (8 liters) –
BMW 525i, BMW 530i
> 2.5 gal (10 liters) – BMW 540i
of fuel still in the tank.
Tank capacity: refer to page 173
Certain operating conditions (such as
those encountered in mountainous
areas) may cause the needle to fluc-
tuate slightly.
Please refuel early, since driving
to the last drop of fuel can result in
damage to the engine and/or catalytic
converter.<
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Coolant temperature gauge Service Interval Display
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at
moderate engine and vehicle speeds.
Red
When you switch on the ignition, the
warning lamp
* comes on briefly to
confirm that the system is operational.
If the warning lamp lights up during
normal vehicle operation, or the
message "COOLANT TEMPERATURE"
appears in the Check Control
*, the
engine is overheated. Shut off the
engine immediately and allow it to cool
down.
390de007
Between the blue and red zones
Normal operating range. The needle
may rise as far as the edge of the red
sector in normal operation.
Checking coolant level: refer to
page 142.
The range of available displays varies
according to your individual vehicle's
equipment.
Green lamps
The number of illuminated lamps
decreases as the time for your next
maintenance visit approaches.
Yellow lamp
This field appears together with
OILSERVICE or INSPECTION.
Maintenance is due. Please contact
your BMW center for an appointment.
Red lamp
The maintenance deadline has been
passed.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Check Control
Graphic display*
The following alerts and status
messages are displayed with icons from
ignition key position 2 and remain in the
display until the defects are corrected:
1 Check low beams
2 Add washer fluid (goes out after
approx. 1 minute)
3 Door open
4 Luggage compartment lid/tailgate
open
5 Check brake and tail lamps.
A defective center brake lamp is indi-
cated by the upper symbol
When you open the door after stopping,
a warning signal sounds without a
visual indicator for:
> "LIGHTS ON" and
> "KEY IN IGNITION LOCK."
390de121
Alphanumeric display*
Text messages are used to alert the
driver to system malfunctions when the
ignition key is turned to position 2. The
alert is accompanied by a gong.
1 Status report symbol
2 Display
3 CHECK button
Messages warning of system malfunc-
tions are assigned one of two priority
levels:
390us111
Priority 1
These defects are immediately indi-
cated by a gong and a flashing warning
symbol 1. Simultaneous defects will be
displayed consecutively. These status
messages remain in the display until the
defects are corrected. They cannot be
deleted by pressing the CHECK
button 3.
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Check Control
> "RELEASE PARKINGBRAKE"
> "COOLANT TEMPERATURE"
The coolant is overheated. Stop the
vehicle immediately and switch off
the engine. Refer to pages 82
and 142
> "STOP! ENGINE OILPRESS"
The oil pressure is too low. Stop the
vehicle immediately and switch off
the engine. Refer to pages 19, 140
> "CHECK BRAKE FLUID"
Indicates that brake fluid is down to
roughly minimum level. Have the
reservoir topped up at the earliest
opportunity, refer to page 143. Have
the source of the brake fluid loss
repaired at your BMW center
> "TIRE DEFECT"
*
Reduce vehicle speed immediately
and stop the vehicle. Avoid hard
brake applications. Do not oversteer.
Refer to page 100
> "SELFLEVEL SUSP.INACT"
Please consult the nearest BMW
center. Refer to page 99
> "SPEED LIMIT"
*
Display if the programmed speed
limit has been exceeded, refer to
page 91
Priority 2
These displays appear for 20 seconds
when the ignition key is turned to posi-
tion 2. The warning symbols remain
after the message disappears. You can
display the messages again by pressing
the CHECK button 3:
> "TRUNKLID OPEN"
Message appears only when the
vehicle is initially set in motion
> "DOOR OPEN"
This message appears after a defined
road speed has been exceeded
> "FASTEN SEAT BELTS"
*
In addition to this message, a
warning lamp with the safety belt icon
appears and an acoustic signal
sounds
> "WASHER FLUID LOW"
Too low; top up fluid at the next
opportunity. Refer to page 139
> "CHECK ENGINE OIL LEV"
The engine oil level is at the absolute
minimum. You should respond by
topping up the oil as soon as
possible, refer to page 140. Do not
continue for more than approximately
30 miles (50 km) before adding oil
> "CHECK FILLER CAP"
Inspect the cap to make sure that it is
closed properly, refer to page 24. If
the cap is not closed securely it will
trigger the "Service Engine Soon"
lamp
> "OUTSIDE TEMP. +20 7 (–5 6)"
This display is only an example. The
current temperature is displayed at
outside temperatures of +37.5 7
(+3 6) and below. Refer also to
page 80
> "SET TIRE PRESSURE"
*
The RDC has imported the current
inflation pressure in the tires as the
target values which the system will
monitor.
Refer to page 99
> "CHECK TIRE PRESSURE"
*
Check and correct the tire inflation
pressure to specifications at the
earliest opportunity (next stop for
fuel).
Refer to page 99
> "TIRECONTROL INACTIVE"
*
A temporary interference of the RDC
or a system fault. Refer to page 100
> "CHECK BRAKE LIGHTS"
A lamp has failed or the electrical
circuit has a fault. Refer to pages 154
and 160 or consult a BMW center
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Check Control
> "CHECK LOWBEAM LIGHTS"
"CHECK SIDE LIGHTS"
"CHECK REAR LIGHTS"
"CHECK FRONT FOGLAMPS"
"CHECK LICPLATE LIGHT"
"CHECK HIGHBEAM LIGHT"
"CHECK BACK UP LIGHTS"
Defective bulb or circuit. Refer to
pages 151 and following, page 160
or consult your BMW center.
> "TRANS. FAILSAFE PROG"
Please consult the nearest BMW
center. Refer to pages 72 and 75
> "CHECK BRAKE LININGS"
Have the brake pads inspected by
your BMW center. Refer to page 132
> "CHECK COOLANT LEVEL"
Coolant too low, top up at the next
opportunity. Refer to page 142
> "ENGINE FAILSAFE PROG"
*
Indicates a malfunction in the elec-
tronic engine-management system,
which then reverts to an emergency
default program allowing continued
operation at reduced power and
lower engine speeds.
Please have the system inspected at
your BMW center.
Displays after completion of trip
All of the malfunctions registered during
the trip appear consecutively when the
ignition key is turned to position 0.
The following displays will appear when
appropriate:
> "LIGHTS ON"
> "KEY IN IGNITION LOCK"
> "CHECK ENGINE OIL LEV"
Add engine oil at the next opportunity
(next stop for fuel). Refer to
page 140.
This display appears when you open
the driver's door after parking the
vehicle. A supplementary gong is also
heard.
Status reports remain available for a
period of approx. three minutes after
the display goes out and the key is
removed from the ignition. Press the
CHECK button 3. If there were multiple
reports, press the CHECK button
repeatedly to view them all in
sequence.
To check the Check Control
Press the CHECK button 3 with the
ignition key in position 2:
CHECK CONTROL OK appears in the
display.
No malfunctions are present in the
monitored systems.
Computer
You can find a description of the
computer on pages 86 and 91 as well
as in the "Owner's Manual for Onboard
Computer."
You can select the language in
which the Check Control displays
and the status reports from the
computer will appear.<
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Computer
Mode selection
When the ignition key is in position 1
or 2, you can press the button in the
turn signal lever to retrieve information
from the computer for display. Tap the
button toward the steering column to
scroll to the next status display in the
sequence.
The displays appear in the following
order: outside temperature, average
fuel consumption, cruising range,
average speed.
Starting with ignition key position 1,
the last active setting is displayed.
The range of available displays varies
according to your individual vehicle's
equipment.
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Outside temperature and
average fuel consumption
You can change the units of measure
(7/6) for the outside temperature
display by
1. pressing and holding the trip
odometer reset button (in ignition key
position 1)
2. and then turning the ignition key to 0.
Refer also to page 80.
Cruising range and average speed
The computer bases its calculations of
the cruising range on the previous
driving style and conditions.
The computer ignores any time spent
when the vehicle is stationary and the
engine is not running in its average
speed calculations.
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To delete the display
Press the button in the turn signal lever
while the average speed is being shown
to cancel the display of computer infor-
mation.
To restart calculations
You can maintain pressure on the
button within the turn signal lever to
reset the computer and initiate new
calculations of average speed and fuel
consumption. This feature is only avail-
able when the engine is running.
Computer with alphanumeric
display
*
If you vehicle is equipped with Check
Control featuring an alphanumeric
display, a description of the corre-
sponding computer can be found
starting on page 91 as well as in the
"Owner's Manual for Onboard
Computer."
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Multi-Information Display (MID)*
Central display
The MID serves as the central display
and operation for the following onboard
systems:
> Digital clock (e.g. time display, date)
> Audio systems (radio, cassette, CD)
> Computer (e.g. fuel consumption,
cruising range)
> Cellular phone (e.g. dialing).
You will find explanations and informa-
tion on operating the digital clock and
the computer on the following pages.
Please refer to the separate Owner's
Manual instructions for operating the
audio systems, the cellular phone and
the computer.
The system rejects implausible
numerical entries.
Any interruption in the supply of elec-
trical power from the battery will result
in the loss of all stored data. Once the
power has been restored, you will need
to reset the clock and re-enter any
times for activating the auxiliary heater/
parked-car ventilation. Distance and
vehicle speed data must also be
entered again.<
1 Function button for audio systems
2 Function button for the cellular
phone
*
3 Indicator lamp for independent
ventilation
*
> remains on if switch-on time is
active
> flashes while operating
4 Function button for the digital clock
and computer
5 Indicator display for the various
computer systems
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6 Display for the entry and display
buttons. Depending on the operating
mode, the functions and alternatives
which can be selected at the buttons
are displayed here
7 Entry and display buttons for oper-
ating the various computer systems
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Multi-Information Display (MID)*
Only make entries when the
vehicle is standing still – to avoid
endangering yourself or other road
users.<
To call up time or date
Press the left side of the button.
Display shows:
You can have the time displayed in
12 or 24 hours.
To change the display:
Press the left side of the button.
If the 12-hour time display is in use, AM
or PM appear after the time.
To change the time display
Press the left side of the button.
Press the right side of the button:
The dots flash in the display.
To alter the setting:
Press on the left or right, or hold the
button down.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
To change the date
Press the left side of the button.
Press.
Press the right side of the button:
The dots and the DATE display flash.
To alter the setting:
Press on the left or right, or hold the
button down.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
The clock takes leap years into account
and therefore does not have to be reset
manually.
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Digital clock in the MID*
Reminder signal
You can program a reminder signal
(Memo) to be heard every hour, so that
you are sure not to miss a news broad-
cast, for example.
Press the left side of the button.
Press:
MEMO OFF appears in the display for
entry and query buttons, and the tone
symbol will appear in the upper right of
the display.
A signal is then heard 15 seconds
before each hour.
Timer
Press the left side of the button.
Press.
Display shows:
To start the stopwatch function:
Press the right side of the button.
To take an intermediate time reading:
Press.
Press:
The stopwatch display can be seen
counting up; the stopwatch continues
to run.
To halt the stopwatch:
Press the right side of the button.
The stopwatch is halted when the
ignition switch is turned back to 0,
but starts to run again when the ignition
key is turned to 1.<
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Digital clock in the MID*
Enter the switch-on times for the
parked-car ventilation
*
You can enter two different activation
times.
The ventilation will shut off automati-
cally after 30 minutes.
To use the parked-car ventilation
system, please refer to the infor-
mation provided starting on page 112.<
Press the left side of the button.
Press on the left or right.
Display shows:
Press the right side of the button:
Display flashes, e.g. TIMER 1.
To enter the time:
Press on the left or right, or hold the
button down.
To confirm the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
The activated time is marked with an
asterisk.
The activation times remain stored until
new entries are made.
You can change switch-on times that
have already been memorized by
making a new time entry as described
above.
When the switch-on time is active, the
LED comes on in the MID. During actual
operation of the ventilation, the LED
flashes. The LED goes out when the
system is switched off.
To activate/deactivate the time:
Press twice.
Directly switching the parked-car
ventilation
* on and off
The parked-car ventilation func-
tion is only available in ignition key
position 1.<
Press the left side of the button.
Press.
Or
Press.
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Computer in the MID*
Only make entries when the
vehicle is standing still to avoid
endangering yourself or other road
users.<
Computer calculations begin at the
start of the journey.
Information can also be accessed for
display by remote control, refer to
page 95.
Speed limit
Speed limit entry:
You can enter the road speed at which
you wish to hear and see a reminder
signal: a signal will sound, the word
LIMIT will flash, and for a moment, the
speed limit warning stored in the
memory will appear on the instrument
cluster as an alphanumeric display
*,
along with the Check Control.
The speed limit reminder is only
repeated if the vehicle has in the
meantime been driven at least 3 mph
(approx. 5 km/h) slower.
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
Press the right side of the button.
Display shows:
Enter the limit by pressing the function
buttons.
To correct an entry:
Press the left side of the button and
repeat the entry.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
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Computer in the MID*
To adopt the current speed as the
speed limit:
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
Press twice at right.
Deactivating the speed limit:
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
The LIMIT display goes out, but the
stored value is not lost and can be
reactivated by pressing the LIMIT
button.
Distance from destination
The remaining distance to the destina-
tion will be displayed on the screen.
This is of course only possible if you
entered the entire distance before
starting the journey.
Enter:
Press the right side of the button.
Press the left side of the button.
Press the right side of the button.
Display shows:
You can enter the distance by pressing
the function buttons.
To correct an entry:
Press the left side of the button and
repeat the entry.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
Checking stored value:
Press the right side of the button.
Press the left side of the button.
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Computer in the MID*
Estimated time of arrival
When you have entered the distance
from your destination, you can obtain
an estimated time of arrival display
which is continuously updated by the
computer as your average driving
period varies.
Press the right side of the button.
Press the right side of the button:
The estimated time of arrival is
displayed.
Cruising range
The distance which the vehicle should
cover on the remaining fuel in the tank
is displayed.
Press the right side of the button.
Press:
The display shows the probable range.
Always refuel when the range falls
below 30 miles (50 km), as other-
wise the engine or the catalytic
converter could be damaged.<
The computer will only register fuel
amounts over 1.8 gal (6 liter).
Fuel consumption
You can have the average fuel
consumption displayed for two different
distances, for example a complete
journey and part of the journey.
To start the calculation, select the func-
tion with the engine running:
Press the right side of the button.
Press on the left or right:
The display will show the average fuel
consumption.
To restart the fuel consumption
calculation:
Press on the left or right.
Press the right side of the button.
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Computer in the MID*
Speed
You can call up a display of the
vehicle's average speed.
To start the calculation, select the func-
tion with the engine running:
Press the right side of the button.
Press:
The display shows the average speed.
To recalculate the speed:
Press the right side of the button.
Extended immobilizer function
You can enter a code that will prevent
the engine from being started unless
the code is entered.
If you do not have access to the code,
the emergency deactivation procedure
will have to be carried out, refer to the
next page.
Entering and activating the code:
Press the right side of the button.
Press the left side of the button.
Display shows:
Enter the code with the function
buttons.
To correct an entry:
Press the left side of the button and
repeat the entry.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
Turn the ignition key to position 0.
Deactivate the code:
When you are asked to enter the code
(ignition key in position 1 or 2):
> Enter the code with the function
buttons.
Press the right side of the button.
After the code has been entered
correctly and confirmed with the SET
button, the time display appears.
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Computer in the MID*
After three incorrect code entries, or
three attempts to start the engine
without a code entry, the alarm will
sound for 30 seconds on vehicles
equipped with an alarm.
Deactivating the alarm in an emer-
gency:
If you have forgotten the code, proceed
as follows:
1. Disconnect the battery, wait approx.
2 minutes, then reconnect it. Note
that on vehicles with an alarm, this
will sound
2. Set the ignition key to position 1:
The time display will count down for
the next ten minutes
3. After ten minutes, start the engine.
If the code becomes available
again in the meantime, it can be
entered during the waiting period after
pressing the CODE button.<
Remote control
The button on the turn signal indicator
lever can be used to select the
computer data which are to be
displayed.
To do this, press
> the button on the lever until PROG 1
shows on the display
> the MID buttons in the order in which
you wish the information to be
displayed.
Each time an entry is stored, the
program number appears on the
display.
To terminate the selection procedure:
Press the right side of the button.
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To have all the available information
displayed, press
> the button on the lever until the
display shows PROG 1
> the SET button.
To obtain individual items of informa-
tion, press the button briefly as often as
necessary.
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The concept
PDC provides extra safety and conve-
nience during parking maneuvers by
providing an acoustic signal to indicate
the distance between your front and
rear bumpers and the nearest object.
The monitoring range for the front and
two rear sensors extends outward
roughly 2 ft (60 cm), while the rear
bumper's two centrally located sensors
detect objects at distances of up to
approx. 5 ft (1.50 meters).
Automatic function
The system starts to operate automati-
cally approx. one second after you
select reverse or move the selector
lever into the "R" position with the igni-
tion key in position 2.
Manual activation
Press the button, the indicator lamp
lights up.
When you subsequently drive a
distance of more than approx. 160 ft
(50 meters) or exceed a speed of
approx. 20 mph (30 km/h), the system
switches off and the indicator lamp
goes out. Reactivate the system as
required.
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Acoustic signals
The distance from an obstacle is indi-
cated in front with a higher intermittent
tone, at the rear with a lower intermit-
tent tone. As the distance between
vehicle and object decreases, the inter-
vals between the tones become
shorter. A continuous tone indicates the
presence of an object less than 1 ft
(30 cm) away.
The warning signal is canceled after
approx. three seconds if you are
moving parallel to a wall.
If there is a malfunction of the system:
The indicator lamp flashes and a brief
continuous signal tone is heard
> if you activate PDC with the button
> when you first select reverse or move
the selector lever into the "R" posi-
tion after switching on the ignition
> if a malfunction occurs while the PDC
system is active.
Switch the system off and have the
cause of the malfunction corrected at
your BMW center.
Park Distance Control (PDC)*
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Park Distance Control (PDC)* ASC+T/DSC*
PDC does not remove the driver's
personal responsibility for evalu-
ating the distance between the vehicle
and any obstacles. Even with the
sensors, there is a blind spot in which
objects cannot be detected. This
applies especially in those cases where
the system approaches the physical
limits of ultrasonic measurement, as
occurs with tow bars and trailer
couplings, and in the vicinity of thin or
wedge-shaped objects.
Certain sources of sound, such as a
loud radio, could drown out the PDC
signal tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free
of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they continue to operate effec-
tively.
Do not apply high pressure spray to the
sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Maintain an adequate distance of more
than 4 in (10 cm).<
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC)
*
These systems contribute to additional
vehicle stability, especially during
acceleration and when cornering.
The DSC system enhances the benefits
of the ASC+T. In addition to optimizing
vehicle stability and traction during
acceleration or when starting from a
standstill, a further benefit is realized in
cornering. This, of course, is true only
within physically feasible limits.
The system activates automatically
each time you start the engine.
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ASC+T/DSC*
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster goes out shortly
after you switch on the ignition.
Refer to page 21.
Indicator lamp flashes:
The system is active and governs drive
torque and braking force.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or if it comes on
during normal driving:
There is a system malfunction or the
system was deactivated with the
button. You can still drive the vehicle
normally without ASC+T/DSC.
Please consult your BMW center for
repairs.
To deactivate the system
Press the button, the indicator lamp
lights up and remains on continuously.
Depending on equipment options, the
button is marked with ASC or DSC.
With deactivated ASC+T/DSC you are
driving with conventional, unregulated
torque transfer.
In the following exceptional situations,
it may be effective to deactivate the
ASC+T/DSC for a brief period:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
> When driving with snow chains.
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To reactivate the system
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with ASC+T/DSC.
An appropriate driving style always
remains the responsibility of the driver.
Do not use the extra safety margins
furnished by these systems as an
excuse for taking unnecessary risks.<
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)*
DBC is an integral component of the
DSC system.
The system responds to sudden, high-
intensity applications of force to the
brake pedal by automatically braking
the vehicle with maximum boost to
achieve the shortest possible braking
distances during "panic stops." This
system exploits all the benefits of ABS.
Do not reduce the pressure exerted
against the brake pedal until the
braking maneuver has been completed.
DBC is deactivated when you release
the brake pedal.
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Level control system* Tire Pressure Monitor (RDC)*
The warning lamp for the level
control system comes on, or the
message "SELFLEVEL
SUSP.INACT" appears in the Check
Control: there is a malfunction in the
self-level control system.
Stop and inspect the vehicle. If it is
riding significantly lower in the rear than
in the front, or if it is sitting at an incline
(left rear compared to right rear),
consult the nearest BMW center. Drive
with appropriate caution in the mean-
time. The vehicle has reduced ground
clearance or driving comfort is notice-
ably reduced.
Even if the attitude of the vehicle is
normal, you should consult the nearest
BMW center if the warning lamp indi-
cates a system fault.
The concept
RDC monitors the tire pressures at all
four wheels, even when the vehicle is
moving. The system provides an alert
whenever the inflation pressure drops
significantly below the specified pres-
sure in one or more tires.
In order for the system to "learn" the
correct tire inflation pressure, check the
inflation pressure in all tires. Refer to
the table of "Tire inflation pressures"
beginning on page 27 and make any
necessary corrections. Then activate
the system.
This indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster or the Check
Control will inform you if the tire
pressure is not correct.
Activate the system
1. Turn the ignition key to position 2 (do
not start the engine)
2. Maintain pressure on the button until
the yellow indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster comes on for
several seconds or the message
"SET TIRE PRESSURE" appears in
the Check Control panel
3. After you have driven for a few
minutes, the RDC will import the
current inflation pressure in the tires
as the reference values which the
system will monitor.
You will only have to repeat this proce-
dure if the tire inflation pressure must
be corrected. Otherwise, the RDC func-
tions automatically when the ignition
key is in position 2, and thus operates
whenever the vehicle is driven.
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Tire Pressure Monitor (RDC)*
Loss of tire pressure
If, after a certain period of time, the air
pressure has gone down significantly
(which is normal for any tire), the yellow
indicator lamp comes on or the
message "CHECK TIRE PRESSURE"
appears in the Check Control.
This alerts you that you should have the
tires inflated to the specified pressures
as soon as possible.
If you are prompted to check the
tire pressure shortly after a
correction has been made, this indi-
cates that the corrected values were
not accurate. Please check the inflation
pressure again and make corrections
according to the inflation pressure
table.<
Flat tire
If there is a tire failure with a loss of air
pressure, the red indicator lamp comes
on or the message "TIRE DEFECT"
appears in the Check Control. In addi-
tion, a gong sounds.
If this occurs, reduce vehicle speed
immediately and stop the vehicle in a
safe location. Avoid hard brake applica-
tions. Do not oversteer. Replace the flat
tire.
The spare tire which is available in
your vehicle as standard equip-
ment is equipped with the electronics
required for RDC and, following activa-
tion of the system, is also monitored
after it is mounted.<
The RDC cannot alert you to
severe and sudden tire damage
caused by external factors.<
Have the tires changed at your
BMW center.
Your BMW center has the information
needed for working with RDC and is
equipped with the necessary special
tools.<
System interference
During the period of the malfunction,
the yellow indicator lamp comes on
or the message "TIRECONTROL INAC-
TIVE" appears in the Check Control.
You will also see the same message
> in the event of a system fault
> if a wheel is mounted without the
RDC electronics
> if, in addition to the spare tire, addi-
tional wheels with RDC electronics
are on board.
Please contact your BMW center for
additional information.
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Parking lamps (side marker
lamps)
With the switch in this position,
the front, rear and side vehicle
lighting is switched on.
For lighting on one side for parking as
an additional feature, refer to page 102.
Low beams
When the ignition is switched off
while the low beams are on, the
headlamps go out and only the
parking lamps (side marker lamps)
remain on.
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"Follow me home":
When you activate the headlamp
flasher after parking the vehicle and
switching off the lights, the low beams
will come on for a brief period. You may
also have this function deactivated if
you wish.<
"LIGHTS ON" warning
When the driver's door is opened with
the ignition key at position 0 a chime
will sound for several seconds to
remind you that you have forgotten to
switch off the lights
.
Vehicles with alphanumeric Check
Control
*:
The reminder is provided by the Check
Control, refer to page 85.
Daytime driving lamps*
The headlamps are automatically
switched on for daytime driving at
ignition key position 2.
Automatic headlamp control*
When the switch is set to this
position the system automati-
cally activates and cancels the
low beams in response to changes in
ambient light (in tunnels, at dusk, etc.)
as well as rain and snow.
The vehicle's external lights
remain on constantly when you
switch on the front fog lamps after the
headlamps have come on automati-
cally.<
Automatic headlamp control
cannot serve as a substitute for
the driver's judgement in determining
when the vehicle lights should be
switched on. For example, the sensors
are not able to detect fog.To avoid
safety risks, you should respond to
these kinds of low-visibility situations
by switching the headlamps on manu-
ally.<
You can have the sensitivity of
your vehicle's automatic head-
lamp control adjusted.<
Parking lamps/Low beams
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Instrument lighting
High beams/Standing lamps
Fog lamps
Turn the rotary dial to adjust the illumi-
nation intensity.
390de733
1 High beams
(blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher
(blue indicator lamp)
3 Standing lamps
Standing lamps, left or right
As an additional feature, you can
illuminate your vehicle on either side
for parking, if you wish to do so:
With the ignition key in position 0, push
the lever in the appropriate direction.
The lever engages in the turn signal
position.
390de722
Front fog lamps
The green indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster lights up to
indicate that the front fog lamps
are on.
If the high beams are switched on, the
fog lamps go out.
If the automatic headlight control
is on, the low beams will come on
automatically whenever you activate
the fog lamps.<
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Interior lamps Reading lamps
The interior lamps operate automati-
cally.
Switching the interior lamps on
and off manually
Press the button (arrow) briefly.
If you want the interior lamps to remain
off all the times, press and hold the
button for approx. 3 seconds.
Press the button briefly to revert to
normal operation.
The lamp in the sport wagon's cargo
area operates the same way.
390de638
The reading lamps are located in the
front near the interior lamp. There are
also reading lamps in the rear. They can
be switched on and off with the switch
(arrow) adjacent to each lamp.
To avoid subjecting the battery to
excessive loads, all of the lamps
within the vehicle are automatically
switched off approximately 15 minutes
after you turn the ignition key to posi-
tion 0.<
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1 Airflow directed toward the
windshield and side windows
2 Airflow for the upper body
area 106
3 Footwell ventilation
4 Rear footwell ventilation
5 Airflow for the upper body area
in the rear seat 106
6 Temperature 105
7 Air distribution 105
8 Air supply 105
9 Rear window defroster 105
10 Cooling 105
11 Recirculated-air mode 105
Air conditioning
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Air conditioning
Temperature
The numbers in the display
panel are reference figures for
general orientation. We
recommend a setting of 70 7
(22 6) for a congenial in-car climate.
When you start the vehicle, this system
adjusts the air to the selected tempera-
ture as quickly as possible, and then
maintains that temperature constantly.
Air distribution
You can direct the emerging
air toward the windows ,
toward your upper body or
into the footwell . All inter-
mediate settings are also available. In
the setting, there is a low flow of air
onto the windows to keep them free of
condensation.
Air supply
You can control the emerging
air's flow rate through an infi-
nitely-variable range. The
heating and ventilation
become more and more effective as the
air supply settings are increased. In the
"0" setting, the blower and climate
control are switched off and the outside
air supply is blocked.
Rear window defroster
The indicator lamp comes
on to indicate that the rear
window defroster is in operation. The
rear window defroster switches off
automatically.
Cooling
The air conditioning cools
and dehumidifies the
incoming air before reheating it to the
selected temperature. Depending on
the weather, the windshield may fog
over briefly when the engine is started.
You can reduce condensation forming
on the windows by switching on the air
conditioning.
Condensation forms in the air
conditioning system during opera-
tion, which then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
Recirculated-air mode
You can respond to
unpleasant odors in the
surrounding environment by using this
mode to temporarily suspend the flow
of outside air into the vehicle's interior.
The system then recirculates the air
currently within the vehicle.
If your vehicle is equipped with a multi-
function steering wheel
featuring a
recirculated-air button then you can
also select the recirculated-air mode
from this location (refer to page 22).
If the windows should fog over in
the recirculated-air mode, switch
the recirculated-air mode off and
increase the air supply as required.<
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Air conditioning
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the air outlets for the
upper body area for optimal personal
comfort:
1 Rotary dials for opening and closing
the vent outlets through an infinitely-
variable range
2 Levers for adjusting airflow direction
3 Rotary dial allows you to control the
temperature of the airflow as desired:
> Turn toward blue – colder
> Turn toward red – warmer.
390de685
Rear passenger area ventilation
1 Rotary dial for opening and closing
the vent outlets through an infinitely
variable range
2 Levers for selecting airflow direction.
The air that flows out here is somewhat
cooler than the air delivered to the foot-
well.
Microfilter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen
from the incoming air. Your BMW
center will replace it during routine
maintenance. A substantial reduction in
airflow indicates that the filter needs to
be replaced early.
390de687
To defrost windows and remove
condensation
1. Use the rotary temperature selector
to set the system for an interior
temperature that you find comfort-
able, such as 70 7 (22 6)
2. Set the air distribution rotary dial
to
3. Set the blower/air supply rotary dial
completely to the right
4. Close the air outlets in the rear
seating area
5. Switch on the rear window defroster
to defrost the rear window.
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1 Airflow directed toward the wind-
shield and side windows
2 Airflow for the upper body
area 111
3 Footwell ventilation
4 Rear footwell ventilation
5 Airflow for the upper body area in
the rear 111
6 Automatic air distribution 109
7 Individual air distribution 109
8 Temperature control –
left-hand side 109
9 Display for temperature and
air supply 109
Automatic climate control*
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Automatic climate control*
10 Temperature control –
right-hand side 109
11 To defrost windshield and
windows 109
12 Air conditioning 110
13 Automatic recirculated-air control
(AUC) 110
14 Rear window defroster 110
15 Air supply 109
16 Maximum cooling 110
Residual heating mode 111
17 Air grill for interior temperature
sensor – please keep clear and
unobstructed
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Automatic climate control*
Tips for pleasant driving
Use the automatic system, that is,
press AUTO button 6. Select an interior
temperature that you find comfortable.
Detailed setting options are described
for you in the following section.
You can make the settings of your
vehicle in such a manner that,
when you unlock the vehicle with the
remote control of your personal key,
your own personalized setting for the
automatic climate control is initiated.<
Automatic air distribution
The AUTO program
assumes the adjustment of
the air distribution and the air supply for
you and also adapts the temperature to
external influences (summer, winter) to
meet preferences you can specify.
Individual air distribution
You can cancel the AUTO
program by selecting
specific distribution patterns
to suit your own individual
requirements. While the
AUTO program is then deactivated, the
automatic airflow control remains in
operation. The system directs air to the
windows , the upper body and
into the footwells . You can reacti-
vate the automatic air distribution mode
by selecting the AUTO button.
Temperature
You can make individual
temperature settings on the
driver's side or the front
passenger side. Your selection appears
in display panel 7. The numbers that
appear in the panel are reference
figures for interior temperature. We
recommend a setting of 72 7 (22 6)
for a congenial interior climate, even
when the air conditioner is in operation.
When you start the vehicle, the system
ensures that the selected temperature
is achieved as quickly as possible. It
then maintains this temperature,
regardless of the season.
Air supply
AUTO appears in display
panel 9, while the AUTO
program automatically controls the flow
of incoming air, refer to overview on
page 107. You can use "+" and "–" to
vary the airflow. When your setting is
displayed by bars, the automatic airflow
is switched off. Automatic air distribu-
tion maintains its setting. You can reac-
tivate the automatic airflow by pressing
the AUTO button.
When you press "–" during operation at
minimum blower speed all displays are
canceled: the blower, heating and air
conditioner are switched off. The
outside air supply is deactivated. By
pressing any button of the automatic
climate control (except the MAX
button 16), you can switch the system
back on.
To defrost windshield and
windows
This program quickly
removes ice and conden-
sation from the windshield and the side
windows.
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Automatic climate control*
Air conditioning
The air is cooled and
dehumidified and –
depending on the temperature setting –
warmed again when the air conditioning
is switched on. Depending on the
weather, the windshield may fog over
briefly when the engine is started. You
can reduce condensation forming on
the windows by switching on the air
conditioning.
Condensation forms in the air
conditioning system during opera-
tion, which then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
Maximum cooling
With the engine running
this program provides
maximum cooling at outside tempera-
tures above approximately 41 7 (5 6).
60 7 (16 6) appears in the tempera-
ture display 9, and the system reverts to
the recirculated-air mode while simulta-
neously providing maximum airflow
through the vent outlets only. That is
why you need to keep these open if you
select this program.
Automatic recirculated-air
control (AUC)
You can respond to
unpleasant external odors
by temporarily stopping the flow of
outside air. The system then recircu-
lates the air currently within the vehicle.
Press the button repeatedly to run
through the following control sequence:
> Indicator lamps off: outside airflow
operational
> Left-hand indicator lamp on – AUC
mode: the system recognizes pollut-
ants in the outside air and blocks the
flow of air when necessary. The
system then recirculates the air
currently within the vehicle.
Depending on the air quality, the
automatic system then switches back
and forth between outside air supply
and recirculation of the air within the
vehicle
> Right-hand indicator lamp on: the
flow of external air into the vehicle is
permanently blocked. The system
then recirculates the air currently
within the vehicle.
If you have a multifunction steering
wheel with the recirculated-air button
(refer to page 22), you can also use it to
switch between "Off" and the recircu-
lated-air mode or AUC and the recircu-
lated-air mode.
If the windows should fog over in
the recirculated-air mode, switch
the recirculated-air mode off and
increase the air supply as required.<
Rear window defroster
When the rear window
defroster is activated, the
indicator lamp comes on. The rear
window defroster switches off automat-
ically.
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Automatic climate control*
Residual heating mode
The heat which is stored in
the engine is utilized for
heating the interior when the engine
has been switched off (while waiting at
a railroad crossing, for instance).
In ignition key position 1, you can alter
the settings of the automatic climate
control. In ignition key position 0, the
system automatically directs heated air
to the windshield, side windows and
footwells.
This function is available for oper-
ation when the outside tempera-
ture is below approximately 59 7
(15 6), with the engine warm from
recent operation and an adequate
charge in the battery. The LED on the
button will light up when all conditions
have been met.<
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the air outlets for the
upper body area completely for your
personal comfort:
1 Rotary dials for infinitely-variable
opening and closing of the vent
outlets
2 Selector levers for airflow direction
3 Rotary dial allows you to control the
temperature of the airflow as desired:
> Turn toward blue – colder
> Turn toward red – warmer.
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Rear passenger area ventilation
1 Rotary dial for infinitely-variable
opening and closing of the vent
outlets
2 Selector levers for airflow direction
3 The rotary dial operates in the same
way as the front dial to adjust the
temperature of the emerging air.
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Automatic climate control
*
Roller sun blind* Parked-car ventilation*
Microfilter, activated-charcoal
filter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen
from the incoming air. The activated-
charcoal filter provides additional
protection by filtering gaseous pollut-
ants from the outside air. Your BMW
center replaces this combined filter as a
standard part of your scheduled main-
tenance. A substantial reduction in
airflow indicates that the filter must be
replaced before scheduled mainte-
nance.
To operate, press the button briefly with
the ignition key in position 1 or 2.
Sun blinds
for rear side windows
*
Use the strap to extract the blinds, then
hook them in the attachment provided.
390us730
This system allows you to ventilate the
interior and lower its temperature using
the blower of the automatic climate
control.
The parked-car ventilation system is
operated via the Multi-Information
Display (MID) – refer to page 90 – or
the onboard computer. Refer to the
separate Owner's Manual.
You can set two different times for the
system to start; it will remain active for
30 minutes. You can also turn it on and
off directly. Since the system uses a
substantial amount of electrical current,
you should not activate it twice in
succession without allowing the battery
to be recharged in normal operation
between use.
The parked-car ventilation system is
available for timer-controlled operation
at outside temperatures above 60 7
(16 6) as well as for manual operation
at any temperature, provided that the
vehicle is stationary.
The air emerges via the vent outlets
for the upper body. Therefore, the
vents must be open for the system to
operate.
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The concept
The BMW Universal Transmitter
replaces up to three hand-held transmit-
ters to control different devices such as
a garage door opener, alarm systems or
a door locking system. The BMW
Universal Transmitter recognizes and
"learns" the transmitted signal from each
of the original hand-held transmitters.
The signal of an original hand-held
transmitter can be programmed on one
of the three channel buttons. Following
that, each of the devices can be actu-
ated with the appropriately-programmed
channel button. The indicator lamp
flashes to confirm transmission of the
signal.
Before you sell your vehicle, the
programmed channel buttons should
be cleared. Refer to page 115 for the
description of this process.
To prevent potential injuries or
damage during the programming
operation and before every remote trig-
gering of a programmed device using
the BMW Universal Transmitter, be sure
that there are no persons, animals or
objects within the range of movement
of the respective device. Also, comply
with the safety precautions of the orig-
inal hand-held transmitter.<
To Canadian residents:
During programming, your hand-
held transmitter may automatically stop
transmitting after two seconds. This
may not be long enough to program the
BMW Universal Transmitter. If you are
programming from one of these hand-
held transmitters, the Universal Trans-
mitter's lamp may begin to flash in a
series of double flashes. If this occurs,
continue to hold the button on the
Universal Transmitter while you reacti-
vate your hand-held transmitter. You
may have to repeat this function several
times while programming.<
Before programming, read the
"User's information" section on
page 115.<
The original hand-held transmitter
If this symbol is depicted on the
packaging or in the user's
instructions for the original
hand-held transmitter, it may be
assumed that this original hand-held
transmitter is compatible with the BMW
Universal Transmitter.
Checking for the change code
In order to determine whether the orig-
inal hand-held transmitter is equipped
with a change code system, you may
either refer to the instructions for the
original hand-held transmitter or
program a channel button as described
in the left column on page 114 under
"Programming."
Following that, press and hold the
programmed channel button of the
BMW Universal Transmitter. If the indi-
cator lamp of the BMW Universal
Transmitter flashes rapidly for two
seconds and then stays on continu-
ously, the original hand-held transmitter
is equipped with a change code
system. If the change code system is
available, program the channel buttons
as described in the right-hand column
on page 114 under "Programming a
hand-held transmitter with change
code."
If you have additional questions,
please consult your BMW center
or call 1-800-355-3515.<
BMW Universal Transmitter*
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BMW Universal Transmitter*
Programming
1 Channel buttons
2 Indicator lamp
3 Receiver for programming
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on page 113.<
1. Ignition key in position 2
2. For initial operation: press and hold
the two outer buttons 1 until the indi-
cator lamp 2 flashes. Release the
buttons. The three channel buttons
are cleared
390de640
3. Hold the original hand-held trans-
mitter at the receiver 3 a maximum of
2 in (5 cm) away
4. Simultaneously press the transmit-
ting button of the original hand-held
transmitter (arrow 2) and the desired
channel button of the BMW Universal
Transmitter (arrow 1). Release both
buttons as soon as the indicator
lamp flashes rapidly
5. To program other original hand-held
transmitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.
The corresponding channel button is
now programmed with the signal of the
original hand-held transmitter.
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Programming a hand-held
transmitter with change code
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on page 113.<
Consult the operating instructions for
the individual device when program-
ming the BMW Universal Transmitter.
Read and comply with the following
programming instructions for the use of
the BMW Universal Transmitter with a
change code system:
A second person simplifies
programming of the BMW
Universal Transmitter.<
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BMW Universal Transmitter*
1. Program the BMW Universal Trans-
mitter as described above under
"Programming"
2. Press and hold the programming
button on the receiver of the device
for about two seconds or until the
programming lamp on the device
comes on
3. Press the desired channel button of
the BMW Universal Transmitter three
times.
If you have additional questions,
please consult your BMW center.<
Clearing the channel buttons
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on page 113.<
The memory of individual channel
buttons cannot be deleted. However,
the three channel buttons can be
cleared together in the following
manner:
> Press and hold the two outer channel
buttons of the BMW Universal Trans-
mitter until the indicator lamp flashes,
and then release the buttons.
All of the channel buttons are cleared.
User's information
Do not use this BMW Universal Trans-
mitter with any garage door opener that
lacks safety "stop" and "reverse"
features as required by federal safety
standards (this includes any garage
door opener model manufactured
before April 1, 1982).
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
(2) This device must accept any inter-
ference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
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Glove compartment Storage compartments
To open
Pull the handle and the lamp comes on.
To close
Fold the cover up.
To prevent injury in the event of an
accident, close the glove
compartment immediately after use.<
390de738
To lock
Use one of the master keys. A master
key is also required for unlocking.
For example, if you turn over only
your door and ignition keys for
valet parking (refer to page 32), access
to the glove compartment is not
possible.<
Rechargeable flashlight*
Located on the left-hand side of the
glove compartment.
Features integral overload-protection,
so it can be left in its holder continu-
ously.
Be sure that the flashlight is
switched off when it is inserted
into its holder. To avoid completely
discharging and possibly damaging the
lamp, always ensure that it is switched
off before inserting it in the socket.<
The cover of the storage compartment
on the vertical surface of the center
console can be pushed open or closed
(illustration). If your vehicle is equipped
with a cassette holder
*, open each
cassette compartment by pressing on
the small button.
Storage compartment on the center
console between the front seats: to
open, reach into the recess at the front
and pull upward.
You will find a coin holder in the door
pocket on the driver's side.
You will find additional storage
compartments in all of the doors as well
as on the backrests of the front seats.
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Cellular phone* Beverage holder* Ashtray, front
Hands-free system
On vehicles with a telephone hookup*,
the hands-free speaker is positioned in
the headliner.
For further information on the cellular
phone, refer to the separate Owner's
Manual.
390de639
Two holders for canned drinks have
been provided in the front center
console (illustration).
Press to open; fold back inward to
close.
390us736
To empty
Press the edge of the lid (arrow):
The ashtray moves up and can be
removed.
On vehicles equipped for non-
smokers, the insert is removed in
the same way.
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Cigarette lighter* Ashtray, rear
Press the cover panel for access
(arrow), then push the lighter down.
You can remove the lighter from its
socket for use as soon as it snaps 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, do not leave unsuper-
vised children in the vehicle.<
390us737
Cigarette lighter socket
This socket is suitable for attaching
power supplies for flashlights, car
vacuum cleaners and other appliances
up to a rating of approx. 200 watts at
12 volts. Avoid damage to the socket
caused by inserting plugs of different
shapes or sizes.
Non-smoker's equipment
package
On vehicles with the non-smoker's
equipment package, the socket is
concealed by a cover.
For access to the socket: lift off the
cover.
To empty
Press the edge of the cover (arrow).
The ashtray moves up and can be
removed.
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Through-loading system*
Fold the rear backrests down
Reach into the recess and pull forward
(arrow 1).
When you close the backrest, be sure
that the catch engages securely. The
red slide (arrow 2) must go underneath.
394de745
The central belt has an additional small
buckle.
> If you connect the two belt sections,
you can use the central belt as any
normal 3-point belt
> It is easier to fold the rear-seat back-
rest up and down if you unbuckle the
belt (arrow).
394de746
With a master key, you can lock each
backrest in the rear seat.
This also prevents access to the
luggage compartment from the interior
of the vehicle when you turn over the
door and ignition key 3 to someone else
(refer to page 32), for valet parking, etc.
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Ski bag*
The ski bag allows the safe and clean
transport of up to 4 pairs of standard
skis or up to two snowboards.
The length of the ski bag and the addi-
tional space provided in the luggage
compartment make it possible to carry
skis with a length of up to 6.8 ft
(2.10 meters). Because of the tapered
shape of the bag, the ski bag can only
accommodate two pairs of skis with a
length of 6.8 ft (2.10 meters).
Removing the center armrest
(Not for vehicles with the through-
loading system and for the sport
wagon, refer to page 122.)
1. Fold the center armrest completely
outward
2. Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest
3. Grasp the front of the armrest with
one hand, then use your other hand
to reach down behind the armrest
and pull up sharply (arrow).
394de748
Installing the center armrest
Guide the armrest into position from
above, then apply pressure until you
hear it snap into position.
When removing and installing the
center armrest, be sure that the
seat covers are not damaged by the
side pins.<
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Ski bag*
Loading
1. Press the release button (arrow 1) to
unlock the cover panel in the luggage
compartment
2. Press the detent levers (arrows 2)
inward and fold the cover to the front
3. Extend the ski bag between the front
seats. The zipper provides conve-
nient access to the inside of the bag,
and can also be left open to promote
drying
394de749
4. Use the magnetic retainers to attach
the cover panel to the upper surface
(metal surface below rear tray) of the
luggage compartment.
To store the ski bag, perform the above
steps in reverse sequence.
An unsecured ski bag could lead
to loss of vehicle control and in
case of an accident to personal injury.<
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Securing the load
Secure the bag's contents by
tightening down the retaining
strap at the buckle.<
Please ensure that the skis are clean
before loading them into the bag. Take
care to avoid damage from sharp
edges.
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Ski bag*
With through-loading system
1. Fold the center armrest outward.
Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest
2. Press button 1 downward and swing
the cover forward
3. Press knob 2: the cover in the
luggage compartment is unlocked.
394de751
In the sport wagon
1. Fold the center armrest outward.
Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest
2. Press button 1 downward and swing
the cover forward
3. Press button 2: the cover in the
cargo area is unlocked.
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Luggage compartment – sport wagon
Fold the rear backrests down
Reach into the recess and pull upward
(arrow).
The rear backrest is divided into two
sections (one-third and two-thirds of
the width of the seat). You can fold
either section of the backrest down
separately in order to increase the
capacity of the cargo area.
When you close the backrest, be
sure that the catch engages
securely. The red warning indicator
disappears in the recess when the
retainer is locked.
The center safety belt can be retracted
only when the larger backrest is
engaged.<
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Roll-up cover
Pull the roll-up cover out and hook it
into the rear bracket.
The cover will support light objects
such as items of clothing.
Do not place heavy or bulky
objects on the roll-up cover,
otherwise, they could endanger occu-
pants while braking hard, during
evasive maneuvers, or in an accident,
for example.
Do not allow the cover to snap back,
since this could damage it.<
For storing the case, refer to the next
page.
392de754
Partition net
Pull out the partition net by the strap
and hold the bar firmly in the other
hand. Then grasp the bar on both sides,
pull it up and engage it in the holders. It
is easiest to do this from the back seat.
Do not allow the partition net to
snap back. Doing so could pose a
risk of injury and the partition net could
be damaged.<
When the rear backrests are folded
down, you can store the case in front of
the rear seats, pull the partition net out
from there and insert it in the front
holders (refer to the next page).
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Luggage compartment – sport wagon
Removing the roll-up cover and
partition net
1. Press on the buttons (arrow 1) to
release the case on both sides
2. Holding the case straight, pull out to
the rear (arrow 2).
Installation
Simply slide the case forward in the two
side holders until it engages.
392de755
Storage
There are holders for the case in front
of the rear seats.
Guide the case in from the side as
shown in the illustration. The strap of
the partition net must be directed
upward, while the end of the roll-up
cover must be laid around and under
the case to the rear.
You can pull the partition net out and
insert it in the holders above it in the
upper roof area.
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Side covers
Open the side covers by pressing the
button.
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Luggage compartment – sport wagon
Floor compartment
To release: press the handle in the
recess and fold the cover upward on
the handle (large arrow).
You can lock the cover with a master
key.
The dividers in the compartment can be
rearranged. If you remove the divider
and turn the divider retainer to the left
and remove it, you have a level storage
compartment.
392de779
Fold the floor cover up
Lift up the black retainer on the lower
side of the panel and hook it into the
upper frame of the tailgate cutout.
Before you fold the floor cover down,
return the retainer to its original posi-
tion.
392de168
Fold up the spare tire cover
Lift up the cover and hook it into the red
retainer on the floor panel (arrow).
Before you fold the cover down, return
the retainer to its original position.
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Luggage compartment Cargo loading
Raise the cargo floor
For access to the compartment under
the floor or to the spare tire, etc.:
> Raise the cargo floor and secure it
with the support rod (arrow)
> Open the quick-release fasteners on
the spare tire cover.
392de756
Stowing cargo
When transporting loads in your BMW:
> Position heavy loads as far forward
as possible – directly behind the
backrests or the luggage compart-
ment partition panel – and at the
bottom (the illustration shows the
sport wagon)
> Cover sharp edges and corners
> Do not pile objects higher than the
top edge of the backrest
> Pull out the partition net
* (refer to
page 123) and ensure that carried
items cannot pass through the parti-
tion net
> For very heavy loads when the rear
seat is not occupied, secure each
safety belt in the opposite buckle.
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Securing the load
> Secure smaller, light pieces with the
retaining straps or a luggage net
*, or
use elastic straps (refer to page 42)
> For large, heavy pieces, visit your
BMW center for load-securing
devices
*. Anchorages are provided
at the corners of the luggage
compartment for attaching these
load-securing devices (the illustration
shows the sport wagon)
> Read and comply with the informa-
tion enclosed with the load-securing
devices.
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Cargo loading Roof-mounted luggage rack
Always position and secure the
load correctly. If you do not, it can
endanger the passengers during
braking or evasive maneuvers.
Do not exceed the approved gross
vehicle weight or the permissible axle
weights (refer to page 171). If you do,
the operating safety of the vehicle is no
longer ensured and you are in violation
of the law.
Do not carry hard or heavy objects
unsecured in the passenger compart-
ment. If you do so, they may be
projected through the air during braking
and evasive maneuvers, thus endan-
gering vehicle occupants.<
A special roof-rack system is available
as an optional extra for your BMW.
Please observe the precautions
included with the installation instruc-
tions.
Anchorages
Access to the anchorages:
To fold up the cover (arrow), please use
the tool provided with the roof-rack
system.
Loading and driving notes
Roof-mounted luggage racks raise the
center of gravity of the vehicle when
they are loaded. For this reason, they
exercise a major effect on the vehicle's
handling and steering response.
394de757
You should therefore always remember
not to exceed the approved roof
weight, the approved gross vehicle
weight or the axle weights when
loading the rack. You will find the spec-
ifications under "Technical data" on
page 171.
Make sure that the load is not too bulky,
and attempt to distribute it evenly.
Always load the heaviest pieces first (on
the bottom). Ensure that adequate room
remains for the tilt sunroof to extend
upward and that no objects protrude
into the tailgate's travel range on the
sport wagon.
Always ensure that roof-mounted
loads are tightly secured, as loose
loads can shift or even fly off the roof,
posing a serious hazard for following
traffic.<
Drive smoothly and avoid sudden
acceleration and braking. Do not corner
at high speeds.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Mainte-
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Break-in procedures
To ensure that your vehicle provides
maximum economy throughout a long
service life, we request that you
observe the following suggestions.
Engine and differential
Up to 1,200 miles (2,000 km):
Drive at varying engine speeds and
road speeds, but do not exceed
4,500 rpm and the following road
speeds during this initial period:
BMW 525i, 530i: 100 mph (160 km/h)
BMW 540i: 106 mph (170 km/h).
Comply with all official speed limits.
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid
pressing the accelerator beyond the
kickdown point.
Once you have driven 1,200 miles
(2,000 km), engine and vehicle speeds
can gradually be increased.
You should also comply with these
break-in procedures if the engine or
differential is replaced later in the
course of the vehicle service life.
Tires
Owing to technical factors associated
with their manufacture, tires do not
achieve their full traction potential until
an initial break-in period has elapsed.
For this reason, you should drive with
extra care during the initial 200 miles
(300 km).
Comply with all official speed limits.
When the vehicle is operated on
wet or slushy roads, a wedge of
water may 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
Approx. 300 miles (500 km) must
elapse before the brake pads and
rotors achieve the optimal pad-surface
and wear patterns required for trouble-
free operation and long service life later
on.
To break-in the separate parking brake
drums, apply the parking brake lightly
when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic
signal, for instance), provided that
traffic conditions allow you to do so.
To avoid corrosion, repeat this proce-
dure from time to time.
The brake lamps do not come on
when the parking brake is applied.
Vacuum for the brake system servo unit
on your BMW is available only when the
engine is running. When you move the
vehicle with the engine shut off – when
towing, for instance – substantially
higher levels of pedal force will be
required to brake the vehicle.<
Clutch
The clutch will also begin to function
optimally after about 300 miles
(500 km). Engage the gears carefully
during the break-in period.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Driving notes Antilock Brake System
Brakes:
Do not drive with your foot resting
on the brake pedal. Even light but
consistent pedal pressure can lead to
high temperatures, brake wear and
possibly even brake 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 aqua-
planing or hydroplaning. It is character-
ized by a partial or complete loss of
contact between the tires and the road
surface. The ultimate results are loss of
steering and braking control.
Driving through water:
When there is water on the roads, do
not drive in it if it is deeper than
1 ft (30 cm), and even then, only at
walking speed, otherwise the vehicle
can sustain damage to the engine, the
electrical systems and the transmission.
Rear parcel tray:
Do not place heavy or hard objects on
the cargo area cover. These objects
could endanger vehicle occupants
during heavy brake applications or
evasive maneuvers.
Clothes hooks:
Hang items of clothing from the hooks
so 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.<
The concept
The Antilock Brake System (ABS) keeps
the wheels from locking during braking,
thereby enhancing active driving safety.
Braking with ABS
If you are in a situation that requires full
braking, you will exploit the full benefits
of the ABS system if you apply
maximum pedal pressure ("panic stop").
Since the vehicle maintains steering
responsiveness, you can avoid possible
obstacles with a minimum of steering
effort, despite the full brake application.
Pulsation at the brake pedal combined
with sounds from the hydraulic circuits
indicates to the driver that ABS is in its
active mode.
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Brake system
Brake fluid level
If the brake fluid level is too low and
brake pedal travel has become notice-
ably longer, there may be a defect in
one of the brake system's hydraulic
circuits.
Proceed to the nearest BMW
center. Higher brake application
pressure may be necessary under these
conditions, and the vehicle may exhibit
a slight tendency to pull to one side
when the brakes are applied. Braking
distances may also be longer. Please
remember to adapt your driving style
accordingly.<
Disc brakes
Limited vehicle use, extended periods
with the vehicle parked or in storage,
and operating conditions in which
braking is restricted to gentle, low-
pressure applications will all increase
the tendency for corrosion to form on
the rotors; this is often accompanied by
a simultaneous accumulation of
contamination on the brake pads. The
pads must exert a certain minimal level
of pressure against the rotors for the
disc brakes' inherent self-cleaning
effect to remain effective; the pressure
available under the above conditions
may not provide adequate cleansing.
If the brake rotors are corroded, they
will tend to respond to braking with a
pulsating effect that even extended
brake applications will fail to cure.
When driving in heavy rain and on wet
roads it is a good idea to apply light
pressure to the brake pedal every few
miles. Monitor traffic conditions to
ensure that this maneuver does not
pose a hazard to you or to other road
users. The heat generated in this
process helps dry the pads and rotors
to ensure that your brake system will
respond with undiminished efficiency
when you need it.
When descending steep hills and
extended grades, downshift to a gear
that will allow you to continue safely
with only a minimal amount of braking.
By minimizing the loads placed on the
brake system, this strategy helps
ensure that optimal brake system
response will remain available at all
times.
Do not coast with the clutch
depressed or with the transmission
or selector lever in Neutral. Do not coast
with the engine shut off. The engine
provides no braking effect when the
clutch is depressed and there is no
power-assist for braking or steering
when the engine is not running.
Never allow floor mats, carpets or any
other objects to protrude into the area
around the accelerator, clutch and brake
pedals and obstruct their movement.<
Brake pads
For your own safety: use only
brake pads that BMW has
approved for your particular vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
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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.
It is not merely the tire's service life, but
also driving comfort and – above all else
– driving safety which depend on the
condition of the tires and the mainte-
nance of the specified tire pressure.
Incorrect inflation pressures are a
frequent cause of tire problems
and tire damage. Tire pressure also has
a major effect on your BMW's handling
response. We recommend that you
check the tire pressure – remember to
check the spare as well – before every
extended trip, as well as at least every
two weeks in normal use (refer to
page 26). Failure to observe these
precautions can result in incorrect tire
pressures, which cause instable
handling response as well as tire
damage, and can ultimately lead to an
accident.<
Tire tread – Tire damage
Inspect your tires frequently for tread
wear, signs of damage and for foreign
objects lodged in the tread. Check the
tread depth.
Tread depth should not be allowed to
go below 0.12 in (3 mm), even though
the legally specified minimum tread
depth is 0.063 in (1.6 mm). Tread wear
indicators (arrow) are embedded in the
base of the tire's tread. Their locations
are indicated by the legend "TWI" –
Tread Wear Indicator – at various points
on the tire's shoulder. When the tread
reaches a depth of 0.063 in (1.6 mm),
these indicators appear to signal that
the tires have worn to the minimum
legal level. Below 0.12 in (3 mm) tread
depth, there is an increased risk of
aquaplaning, even at relatively
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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 leads to over-
heating and causes damage inside the
tires. The ultimate result can assume
the form of a sudden air loss.
Unusual vibrations encountered during
normal vehicle operation can indicate a
flat tire or some other vehicle malfunc-
tion. The type of problem can be
caused by contact with curbs, etc. This
is also true for irregularities in the
vehicle's handling characteristics, such
as a pronounced tendency to pull to the
left or right. Should this occur, respond
by immediately reducing your speed.
Proceed carefully to the nearest BMW
center or professional tire center, or
have the vehicle towed in to have it, its
wheels and tires inspected.
Tire damage (up to and including blow-
outs) can endanger the lives of both the
vehicle occupants and other road
users.<
Tire inflation pressure Tire condition
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Tire replacement
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single
tread configuration from a single manu-
facturer. BMW tests wheel and tire
combinations and approves them.
DOT Quality Grades
Treadwear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
All passenger vehicle tires must
conform to Federal Safety
Requirements in addition to these
grades.<
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative
rating based on the wear rate of the tire
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified government test
course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would
wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as
well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance
of tires depends upon the actual condi-
tions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due
to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road char-
acteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on speci-
fied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straight-
ahead braking traction tests, and does
not include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<
Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel.
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.<
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Tire replacement Wheel and tire combinations
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall between
tread shoulder and maximum section
width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
Do not use retreaded tires, since
driving safety may be impaired.
This is due to the possible variations in
casing structures and, in some cases,
to their extreme age, which can lead to
a decrease in their durability.<
Tire age
The date on which the tire was manu-
factured is indicated by the code on the
sidewall:
DOT ... 2601 indicates that the tire was
manufactured in Week 26 of the year
2001.
Although tires may have a theoretical
service life of up to 10 years, BMW
strongly recommends that you replace
all tires after an absolute maximum of
6 years.
The right choice
Never mount wheels and tires that
have not been specifically
approved by BMW for use on your
particular model. Although other wheels
and tires may theoretically have the
same dimensions, variations in factors
such as manufacturing tolerances can
result in contact between tire and body-
work, ultimately leading to serious acci-
dents. If non-approved wheels and tires
are used, BMW cannot evaluate their
suitability, and therefore cannot be held
liable for driving safety.<
BMW has tested certain tires for each
tire size, rated them according to road
safety and approved them. Your BMW
center can inform you which tires have
been tested in this way. Observe
possible national guidelines, e.g.
regarding entry into vehicle documents.
The correct wheel and tire combi-
nation affects different systems
such as ABS, ATC, ASC+T/DSC. The
function of these systems is impaired if
improper wheel and tire combinations
are used.
Always ensure that all of the tires
mounted on the vehicle are the same
series, from the same manufacturer and
with the same tread pattern. If you have
to mount the spare tire in response to a
flat, etc., you should remount a tire of
the correct specifications as soon as
possible.<
The use of rims and wheel bolts
that do not meet the specifica-
tions of the original factory-installed
equipment will affect the safe operation
of your vehicle and may cause an acci-
dent and personal injury.
Never mix tires of different design, such
as steel-belted radials with radial bias-
belted or bias-ply tires, etc. Mixing tire
types will adversely affect roadholding
and can lead to loss of vehicle
control.<
Storage
Store tires in a cool, dry place,
protecting them against light whenever
possible. Protect the tires against
contact with oil, grease and fuel.
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Special characteristics of winter tires Snow chains*
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends winter tires (M+S
radial tires) for operation under
inclement winter driving conditions.
While all-season tires (M+S designa-
tion) provide better winter traction than
summer tires with the load ratings H, V,
W, Y and ZR, they generally do not
achieve the performance of winter tires.
In the interests of safe tracking and
steering response, install radial tires
made by the same manufacturer and
with the same tread configuration on all
four wheels if you elect to mount winter
tires.
Do not exceed specified
maximum speeds
Never exceed the maximum
speed for which the winter tires
are rated.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
service tires can lead to damage and
accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled
professionals only. Any BMW center
has the required technical knowledge
and the proper equipment and will be
happy to assist you.<
Tire condition, tire pressure
Winter tires display a perceptible loss in
their ability to cope with winter driving
conditions once the tread wears to
below 0.16 in (4 mm), and should thus
be replaced.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressures — and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assemblies balanced
every time you change the tires.
BMW close-mesh tire chains
are
approved exclusively for use in combi-
nation with winter tires on the rear
wheel only. Comply with all manufac-
turer's safety precautions when
mounting the chains. Do not exceed a
speed of 30 mph (50 km/h) while
driving with mounted snow chains.
It is not possible to mount snow
chains on tires with 17-inch
wheels.<
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Hood
To unlock
Pull the lever located under the left-
hand side of the instrument panel.
Do not work on your vehicle
without appropriate skills. 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.<
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To open
Pull the release handle and open the
hood.
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To close
Allow the hood to fall from a height
of about 12 in (30 cm) so that it audibly
engages.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the hood is clear
when it is closed, as with all closing
procedures.
If you notice that the hood is not
completely closed while driving, stop
immediately and close it securely.<
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1 Reservoir for brake fluid (under the
housing of the microfilter) 143
2 Auxiliary terminal for
jump-starting 162
3 Engine oil dipstick 140
4 Engine oil filler neck 140
5 Coolant expansion tank 142
6 Reservoir for intensive-cleaning
system
* 139
7 Reservoir for windshield and
headlamp washer system
* 139
Engine compartment essentials
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Washer fluids
Headlamp* and windshield
washer system
Capacity in US quarts (liters).
Windshield washer:
approx. 3.7 (3.5) – sedan
approx. 6.3 (6.0) – sport wagon
Incl. headlamp washing system:
approx. 6.3 (6.0)
Fill with water and — if required — with a
washer antifreeze (according to manu-
facturer's recommendations).
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
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Intensive-cleaning washer
reservoir
*
Capacity approx. 1.1 US quarts
(1.0 liter).
Fill with intensive-cleaning washer fluid.
It resists freezing to approx. –17 7
(–276) and is available from your BMW
center.
Antifreeze agents or intensive-
cleaning washer fluids for the
washer systems are highly flammable.
For this reason, keep them away from
sources of flame and store only in orig-
inal containers. Store it so that it is
inaccessible to children. Comply with
the instructions on the containers.<
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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. 5 minutes, 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 in between
the two marks on the dipstick.
As with fuel economy, oil consumption
is directly influenced by your driving
style and vehicle operating conditions.
390de647
The oil volume between the two marks
on the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter). Do not fill beyond
the upper mark on the dipstick. Excess
oil will damage the engine.
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Adding engine oil
While you should wait until the level has
dropped to just above the lower gradu-
ation before adding oil, you should
never allow the oil level to fall below
this marking.
BMW engines are designed to
operate without oil additives; the
use of additives could lead to damage
in some cases. This is also true for the
manual transmission, the automatic
transmission, the differential, and the
power steering system.<
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW center only.
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Engine oil
Continuous exposure to used oil
has caused cancer in laboratory
testing. For this reason, any skin areas
that come into contact with oil should
be thoroughly washed with soap and
water.
Always store oil, grease, etc., out of
reach of children. Comply with all
warning labels and information on lubri-
cant containers.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of used oil.<
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil selected
has critical significance for the opera-
tion and service life of an engine.
Based on extensive testing, BMW has
approved only certain engine oils.
Use only approved "BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil."
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil," you can
add small amounts of synthetic oil in
between oil changes. Only use oils with
the API SH specification or higher.
Ask your BMW center for details
concerning the specific "BMW
High Performance Synthetic Oil" or
"synthetic oils" which have been
approved.<
You can also call BMW of North
America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit the
website: www.bmwusa.com to obtain
this information.
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is the oilflow rating as estab-
lished in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class
depends on the climatic conditions in
the area where you typically drive your
BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These oils may be used for driving in all
ambient temperatures.
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Coolant
Do not add coolant to the cooling
system when the engine is hot. If
you attempt to do so, escaping coolant
can cause burns.
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 factory specifications.
Antifreeze and anti-corrosion agents
are hazardous to health. You should
always store it in its original container
and in a location which is out of reach
of children.
Extended-duty antifreeze with corro-
sion inhibitor contains the flammable
substance ethylene–glycol. For this
reason, do not spill antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor on hot engine parts.
It could catch fire and cause burns.<
Checking coolant level and
adding coolant
Correct coolant level when the engine
is cold (approx. 687/206):
Unscrew the cap from the expansion
tank.
The coolant level is correct when the
upper end of the red float is at least
even with the upper edge of the filler
neck (refer to the arrow in the illustra-
tion), but no more than 0.8 in (2 cm)
above it – that is, up to the second mark
on the float (refer also to the schematic
diagram next to the filler neck).
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1. Start by turning the cap counter-
clockwise. Pause to allow any accu-
mulated pressure to escape, then
open
2. If the coolant is low, slowly add
coolant until the correct level is
reached — do not overfill.
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of extended-duty antifreeze
with corrosion inhibitor.<
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Brake fluid
The warning lamp for the brake
system's hydraulic circuits
comes on/the message
"CHECK BRAKE FLUID"
appears in the Check Control
display panel: Brake fluid level
too low.
To add brake fluid
The brake fluid reservoir is located
under the microfilter housing on the
driver's side of the vehicle. For adding
brake fluid or for determining and
correcting the cause of brake fluid loss,
consult your BMW center. Your BMW
center is familiar with the specifications
for factory-approved brake fluids
(DOT 4).
Brake fluid loss may result in extended
brake pedal travel. Should this occur,
refer to the notes on page 132.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,
it absorbs moisture from the air
over time.
In order to ensure the safety and reli-
ability of the brake system, have
the brake fluid changed every two years
by a BMW center. Refer also to the
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models) or to 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.<
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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 its resale
value.
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Service Interval Display
While conventional systems rely on
distance traveled alone to determine
when service is due, the BMW Mainte-
nance System has for years considered
the actual conditions under which the
vehicle operates, because mileage can
be accumulated in very different ways.
From a maintenance standpoint,
62,000 miles (100,000 km) accumulated
in short-distance urban driving are not
the equivalent of the same distance
covered at moderate speeds in long-
distance highway travel.
The BMW Maintenance System
includes the Engine Oil Service and
Inspections I and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals
according to the actual loads on the
vehicle covers every kind of operating
situation. However, even those who
drive only short distances – significantly
less than 6,000 miles (10,000 km) annu-
ally – should have the engine oil
changed at least every 2 years since oil
deteriorates over time, regardless of
use.
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models) or Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
For additional information on mainte-
nance intervals and procedures, please
refer to the Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet (US models) or the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
As a precaution against corrosion, it is
advisable to have the body checked for
damage from rocks or gravel at the
same time, depending upon operating
conditions.
Have your BMW center do the
maintenance and repair.
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 will constitute your proof
that the vehicle has received regular
maintenance. They are also required in
the event of a warranty claim.<
The BMW Maintenance System
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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), as inflammation of the
iris could result.<
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.<
Technical modifications California Proposition 65 Warning
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OBD interface socket
The Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) inter-
face socket is located on the left of the
driver's side at the bottom of the instru-
ment panel and under a cover. The
cover has the letters "OBD" on it.
The purpose of the OBD system is to
ensure proper operation of the emis-
sion control system for the vehicle’s
lifetime. The system monitors emis-
sions-related components and systems
to detect deterioration and malfunction.
390us739
An illuminated lamp informs you
of the need for service, not of
the need to stop the vehicle.
However, the systems should be
checked by your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
Under certain conditions, the indicator
will blink or flash. This indicates a rather
severe level of engine misfire. When
this occurs, you should reduce speed
and consult the nearest BMW center as
soon as possible. Severe engine misfire
over only a short period of time can
seriously damage emissions-control
components, especially the catalytic
converter.
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
When the filler cap is not properly
tightened, the OBD system can
detect the vapor leak and the indicator
will light up. If the filler cap is subse-
quently tightened, the indicator should
go out within a few days.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Repairs
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Attached to the underside of the
luggage compartment lid/tailgate.
Unscrew the wingnut for access.
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Front
1. Pull the wiper arm up slightly and
hold it firmly
2. Press back the release (arrow) and
pull the wiper blade back toward the
base of the wiper arm
3. Install the new blade and slide the
release back into position.
390de766
Rear*
1. Hold the wiper blade on the window
and remove/unclip the wiper arm at
the articulated joint (arrow)
2. Insert a new wiper blade and press it
on/clip it into the wiper arm.
Use only wiper blades approved
by BMW.<
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Onboard tool kit Windshield wiper blades
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Lamps and bulbs
The lamps and bulbs are essential
factors contributing to the safety of your
vehicle. For this reason, you should
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,
comply with any instructions provided
by the bulb manufacturer.<
The right side of the engine compart-
ment.
1 Low beams
2 High beams
For checking and adjusting head-
lamp aim, please contact your
BMW center.<
Low and high beams
H7 bulb, 55 watts
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, you should always wear
safety glasses and protective gloves.
Failure to observe these precautions
can result in physical injury if the bulb
breaks.<
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1. Turn the bulb holder to the left
(arrow) and remove
2. Remove and replace the bulb.
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
> Do not wipe dry (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.<
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Lamps and bulbs
Xenon lamps*
The operating life of these lamp units is
extremely long and the likelihood of
failure very low, provided that they are
not switched on and off an excessive
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
lighting system should be carried out by
technically-qualified personnel only.
Otherwise, there is a risk of fatal
injury.<
Standing lamps
10 watt bulb
The bulb holder and reflector are a
single unit and are both changed
at the same time.<
1. Turn the bulb holder with reflector to
the left and remove
2. Disconnect the plug
3. Plug the new bulb holder into the
plug connector. Be sure that it is
securely engaged
4. Insert the reflector with bulb holder
and turn to the right as far as
possible.
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Turn signal indicator/Parking
lamps (side marker lamps)
Dual-filament bulb, 21 watt
1. Turn the bulb to the left and remove
2. Remove and replace the bulb.
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Lamps and bulbs
Side turn signals
5 watt bulb
1. Use finger pressure against the rear
end of the lens (arrow) to press it
forward for removal
2. Press gently on the bulb and turn it to
the left to remove it.
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Front fog lamps
H8 bulb, 35 watt
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to observe
these precautions can result in physical
injury if the bulb breaks.<
1. Using a screwdriver, remove the
mounting clip for the air grill (arrow)
and remove the grill by bringing it
toward the front
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2. Loosen both screws (arrows)
3. Take off the cover panel next to the
headlamp
4. Turn the headlamp 903 to the left and
remove it by bringing it toward the
front
5. Disconnect the plug
6. Turn the lamp to the left and remove
it.
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Lamps and bulbs
Tail lamps – sedan
Rear lamp/Side marker lamps: LEDs
Remaining bulbs: 21 watts
1 Turn signal
indicator yellow or white
2 Rear lamp/Side marker lamps red
3 Backup lamps white
4 Brake lamps red
5 Reflector red
Please contact your BMW center
if there is a defect in the rear
lamp/side marker lamp assembly.<
394us721
1. Use the upper handle to fold down
the side panel in the luggage
compartment
2. Turn the corresponding bulb holder
to the left (arrow) and remove it
3. Press the defective bulb gently and
turn it to the left. Remove the bulb
and replace it
4. Insert the bulb holder and turn to the
right as far as possible.
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Tail lamps – sport wagon
Rear lamp/Side marker lamps: LEDs
Remaining bulbs: 21 watts
1 Turn signal indicator red
2 Rear lamp/Side marker lamps red
3 Backup lamps white
4 Brake lamps, reflector red
5 Reflector red
Please contact your BMW center
if there is a defect in the rear
lamp/side marker lamp assembly.<
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Lamps and bulbs
Lamps in the rear apron panel:
1. Open the cover in the side panel
2. Turn the quick-release fastener and
remove the trim panel in front of the
bulb holder
3. Open the quick-release fastener
(arrow) and remove the bulb holder
4. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
If a subwoofer
* is installed behind the
right-hand panel, unscrew the T-screw
and swing the subwoofer to the side.
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Lamps in the luggage compartment lid/
tailgate:
1. Open the trim panel in the luggage
compartment lid/tailgate
2. Open the quick-release fastener
(arrow) and remove the bulb holder
3. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
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Center (high-mount) brake lamp
21 watt bulb
1. Open the luggage compartment lid
2. Unclip the cover panel (on the
underside of the parcel tray) with
a screwdriver (arrow)
3. Turn the bulb to the left and remove
4. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
sport wagon: LED strip in the tailgate.
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.
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Lamps and bulbs Changing a wheel
License plate lamps
5 watt bulb
1. Insert a screwdriver into the slot and
press to the left (arrow); this disen-
gages the lamp
2. Remove the lamp and replace the
bulb.
394de772
Safety measures in the event of a
flat tire or wheel change:
Stop the vehicle as far as possible from
passing traffic. Park on a firm, flat,
surface. Switch on the hazard warning
flashers.
Turn the steering wheel to the straight-
ahead position, remove the key and
engage the steering lock. Shift into 1st
or reverse (selector lever in Park with
automatic transmission) and engage
the parking brake.
All passengers should be outside the
vehicle and well away from your imme-
diate working area (behind a guardrail,
for instance).
If necessary, set up your warning
triangle or portable hazard warning
lamp on the roadside at an appropriate
distance from the rear of the vehicle.
Comply with all safety guidelines and
regulations.
Change the wheel only on a level, firm
surface which is not slippery. Avoid
jacking the vehicle up on a soft or slip-
pery surface (snow, ice, very smooth
surfaces, etc.), since it could slide side-
ways.
Position the jack on a firm support
surface.
Do not place wooden blocks or similar
objects under the jack. If this is done,
the jack might not be able to reach its
full support capacity because of the
limited height.
Do not lie under the vehicle or start the
engine when the vehicle is supported
by the jack – risk of fatal injury.<
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Changing a wheel
What you will need
In order to avoid rattling noises later,
note the position of the tools when you
remove them and return them to their
original positions when you are through
using them.
> Car jack
sedan: fold back the luggage
compartment floor mat for access,
then unscrew the wingnut to release
the jack (arrow).
sport wagon: raise the floor panel
and spare tire cover (refer to
page 125).
When you have completed work,
screw the jack all the way back
down. Fold the handle back and
insert it in its holder
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> Wedge (wheel chock)
Located next to the jack. Loosen the
wing nut to remove it
> Spare tire and adapter
* for removing
the lug bolt cover
* (refer to the next
column)
Both are next to the jack. Remove the
adapter or the plastic cover. Unscrew
the wing nut (arrow) by hand and
remove the wheel
> Lug wrench and screwdriver
In the onboard tool kit under the
luggage compartment lid (refer to
page 150).
sport wagon: the lug wrench is next
to the spare tire.
394de091
Procedure
1. Carefully read and comply with the
safety precautions on the previous
page
2. Secure the vehicle to prevent it
from rolling:
Place the wedge against the rear
surface of the front tire on the side
opposite the side being raised. If
the vehicle is parked on a down-
ward slope, place the wedge
securely in front of the tire. If the
wheel must be changed on a
surface with a more severe slope,
take additional precautions to
secure the vehicle from rolling
3. Wheels with full wheel covers
*:
Reach into the ventilation openings
and pull the cover off
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Changing a wheel
4. Wheels with adapter*: position the
lug bolt adapter on the lug bolt
cover. Then apply the lug wrench
and turn it to the left (refer to the
illustration)
5. Wheels with hub cover
*: pry the
hub cover off with the screwdriver
in the slot
6. Loosen the lug bolts 1/2-turn
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7. Position the jack at the jacking
point closest to the flat tire so that
the jack base is vertically below the
jacking point and the entire surface
of the head of the jack will move
into the square recess of the
jacking point (refer to the illustration
detail) when the jack is cranked
8. Jack the vehicle up until the wheel
you are changing is raised from the
ground
9. Unscrew the lug bolts and remove
the wheel
10. Remove accumulations of mud or
dirt from the mounting surfaces of
the wheel and hub. Clean the lug
bolts
390de707
11. Position the spare wheel. Secure
the wheel by turning at least two lug
bolts into opposite bolt holes
12. Screw in the remaining lug bolts.
Tighten all the bolts securely in a
diagonal pattern
13. Lower the jack and remove it from
beneath the vehicle
14. Tighten the lug bolts in a diagonal
pattern
15. Wheels with full wheel covers:
Place the wheel cover with the
valve opening over the valve
(arrow). Use both hands to press
the cover securely onto the rim
For this light-weight wheel, use
only the full wheel cover installed
by the factory. Other wheel covers may
not fit securely.<
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Changing a wheel
16. Wheels with hub covers:
Position the hub cover and press it
on tightly
17. If equipped with lug bolt covers:
Align the arrow on the cover with
the line in the wheel and press the
cover into place
18. Check and correct the tire inflation
pressure at the earliest opportunity.
For vehicles with Tire Pressure
Monitor (RDC)
*:
After mounting the spare tire or
correcting the inflation pressure,
reactivate the system. Refer to
page 99.
The vehicle jack is designed for
changing tires only. Do not
attempt to raise another vehicle model
with it or to raise any load of any kind.
To do so could cause accidents and
personal injury.
To ensure continued safety, have the
lug bolts checked with a calibrated
torque wrench [torque specification
72 lb-ft (100 Nm)] at the earliest
opportunity.<
When storing the wheel, take care to
ensure that you do not damage the
retaining pin in the spare tire recess.
If light-alloy wheels other than original
BMW light-alloy wheels have been
mounted, it may be necessary to use
different lug bolts for those wheels.
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the new wheel/tire
balanced.
Protect valve inserts against dirt using
screw-on valve stem caps. Dirty valve
stems frequently lead to slow pressure
loss.
Size 255/40 R17 94 W
* tires on
the rear axle:
In the event of a puncture or other tire
failure, it may be necessary to mount
the spare tire of different size at the
rear. This tire is suitable for use in all
load and speed ranges. Nevertheless,
you should remount a tire of the correct
size as soon as possible.<
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Battery Fuses
Battery posts, terminals and other
components contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash hands after
handling.<
Battery care
The battery is maintenance-free, that is,
the original electrolyte 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. The battery is completely main-
tenance-free; the following section is
provided for your information only.<
Do not disconnect the battery
when the engine is running, as the
ensuing voltage surge would damage
the vehicle's onboard electronics.<
Charging the battery
When charging the battery in the
vehicle, leave the engine off at all times.
Connect the charge cables to the termi-
nals in the engine compartment (for
terminal locations, refer to "Jump-
starting" on page 162.
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW center.
Maintain the battery in an upright posi-
tion for transport and storage. Secure
the battery against tilting during trans-
port.<
In the glove compartment
Open the glove compartment and turn
the two white quick-release fasteners
to the left.
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Fuses
In the luggage compartment
Use the handle to pull down the trim on
the right wall.
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In the luggage compartment –
sport wagon
Open the right access door by pressing
the button and pull the trim panel to the
side.
If a subwoofer
* is installed, loosen the
T-screw and swing the subwoofer to
the side.
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.<
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Do not use spray starter fluids to start
the engine.
When your battery is discharged you
can used two jumper cables to start
your car with power from the battery in
a second vehicle. You can also use the
same method to help start another
vehicle. Always use jumper cables with
fully insulated handles on the terminal
clamps.
Do not touch high-voltage wiring
and cables on a running engine.
Contact with components carrying high
voltage can be harmful or fatal. Care-
fully observe the following instructions
to avoid personal injury and/or damage
to one or both vehicles.<
1. Ensure that the battery in the
support vehicle is also rated at
12 volts. This information is
provided on the top of the battery
casing
2. Do not disconnect your battery from
your vehicle's electrical system.
Switch off all electrical accessories
in both vehicles
3. Make absolutely certain that there
is no contact between the body-
work of the two vehicles – short
circuit hazard
4. Start the engine on the support
vehicle and allow it to run
5. Use one jumper cable (+) to
connect the positive terminal of the
battery in the support vehicle with
the auxiliary positive terminal
provided in the engine compart-
ment of your BMW specifically for
jump-starting. The cover on this
auxiliary terminal is identified by a
"+" symbol, refer to the illustration.
Pull up to open the cover
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6. Next, connect one end of the other
jumper cable (–) to either the
support vehicle's negative battery
terminal or a suitable ground on its
engine or bodywork. Connect the
other end to the negative battery
terminal or a suitable ground on the
vehicle being started. There is a
special nut on the strut dome of
your BMW; refer to the arrow in the
illustration
Always adhere to this sequence
when connecting jumper cables;
failure to observe this procedure can
lead to sparks at the battery terminals
and pose an injury hazard.<
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Jump-starting
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Jump-starting Towing the vehicle
7. Start the support vehicle's engine
and let it run at an increased idling
speed for a few minutes. Start the
engine on the vehicle needing the
jump-start, and allow it to run as
usual. If the first start attempt is not
successful, wait a few minutes
before another attempt in order to
allow the discharged battery to
recharge
8. Before disconnecting the jumper
cables let the engines run for a few
minutes
9. Then disconnect the jumper cables
in reverse sequence.
Depending on the cause of the fault,
have the battery recharged by your
BMW center.
Tow fitting
The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the
onboard tool kit; be sure that it remains
in the vehicle at all times. This fitting is
designed for installation in the tow
sockets located at the front and rear of
the vehicle, and is intended for towing
on paved road surfaces only.
It should not be used to pull a vehicle
out of deep snow, mud, sand, etc.
Always observe all applicable towing
laws and regulations.
Access to tow sockets
Front:
Apply pressure to the arrow symbol on
the cover panel to remove.
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Rear:
Apply pressure to the arrow symbol on
the cover panel to remove.
Screw the tow fitting in until it
bottoms firmly. Failure to screw
the fitting all the way in can cause
thread damage.
Never attach tie-down hooks, chains,
straps, or tow hooks to tie rods, control
arms, or any other part of the vehicle
suspension, as severe damage to these
components will occur, leading to
possible accidents.<
Use only a nylon towing strap to tow
the vehicle, since the inherent resil-
ience of this material helps protect both
vehicles from sudden jerking move-
ments.
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Towing the vehicle
The towed vehicle should always
be the lighter of the two vehicles.
If this is not the case, it is no longer
possible to control vehicle response.<
Tow-starting
It is not possible to start the engine of
vehicles equipped with an automatic
transmission by towing or pushing.
For instructions on jump-starting: refer
to page 162.
Never attempt to use your vehicle to
push another vehicle, since damage to
the energy-absorbing bumpers could
result.
Towing a vehicle with automatic
transmission
1. Place the selector lever in position N
2. Towing speed:
Max. 45 mph (70 km/h)
3. Towing distance:
Max. 95 miles (150 km)
4. Leave the ignition key in position 1 to
ensure that the brake lamps, turn
signals, horn and windshield wipers
remain operative, and to prevent the
steering lock detent from engaging
5. Switch on the hazard warning
flashers (observe official regulations).
Find some means of identifying the
vehicle in tow, for instance, place a sign
or warning triangle in the rear window.
Make sure that the ignition key
remains in position 1 even when
the electrical system has failed to
prevent the steering lock from
engaging. The steering and brakes are
without power-assist when the engine
is off. This means that increased effort
is required for steering and braking.<
Towing with a commercial
tow truck
> Do not tow with sling-type equipment
> Use a wheel-lift or flatbed carrier
> Please comply with applicable towing
laws.
Never allow passengers to ride in
a towed vehicle for any reason.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Index
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BMW 525i/sport wagon BMW 530i BMW 540i/sport wagon
Displacement
Number of cylinders
cu in (cm
3
) 152.2 (2,494)
6
181.8 (2,979)
6
268.4 (4,398)
8
Maximum output
at engine speed
hp
rpm
184
6,000
225
5,900
290
5,400
Maximum torque
at engine speed
Ib ft (Nm)
rpm
175 (236)
3,500
214 (289)
3,500
324 (440)
3,600
Compression ratio e 10.5 10.2 10.0
Stroke
Bore
in (mm)
in (mm)
2.95 (75.0)
3.31 (84.0)
3.53 (89.6)
3.31 (84.0)
3.26 (82.7)
3.62 (92.0)
Fuel-injection system
Digital electronic engine-management system
Engine specifications
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Dimensions – sedan
All dimensions are given in inches (mm).
Min. turning circle dia.: BMW 525i, 530i: 37.1 ft (11.3 m); BMW 540i: 37.4 ft (11.4 m)
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Dimensions – sport wagon
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All dimensions are given in inches (mm). Height with roof-mouted luggage rack*: 57.4 (1,459)
Min. turning circle dia.: BMW 525i: 37.1 ft (11.3 m); BMW 540i: 37.4 ft (11.4 m)
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Weights – sedan
BMW 525i BMW 530i BMW 540i
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included)
with manual transmission
with automatic transmission
lbs. (kg)
lbs. (kg)
3,450 (1,565)
3,505 (1,590)
3,494 (1,585)
3,549 (1,610)
3,748 (1,700)
3,803 (1,725)
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission
with automatic transmission
lbs. (kg)
lbs. (kg)
4,464 (2,025)
4,520 (2,050)
4,509 (2,045)
4,563 (2,070)
4,762 (2,160)
4,817 (2,185)
Approved front axle weight lbs. (kg)
2,138 (970)
2,138 (970) 2,381 (1,080)
Approved rear axle weight lbs. (kg) 2,579 (1,170) 2,579 (1,170) 2,635 (1,195)
Approved roof load capacity lbs. (kg) 220 (100) 220 (100) 220 (100)
Never exceed either the approved axle weights or the gross vehicle weight.
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft (l) 16.2 (460) 16.2 (460) 16.2 (460)
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Weights – sport wagon
BMW 525i BMW 540i
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included)
with manual transmission
with automatic transmission
lbs. (kg)
lbs. (kg)
3,682 (1,670)
3,715 (1,695)
–
4,056 (1,840)
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission
with automatic transmission
lbs. (kg)
lbs. (kg)
4,773 (2,165)
4,828 (2,190)
–
5,093 (2,310)
Approved front axle weight lbs. (kg)
2,116 (960)
2,381 (1,080)
Approved rear axle weight lbs. (kg) 2,844 (1,290) 2,910 (1,320)
Approved roof load capacity lbs. (kg) 220 (100) 220 (100)
Never exceed either the approved axle weights or the gross vehicle weight.
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft (l) 14.5 – 53.9 (410 – 1,525) 14.5 – 53.9 (410 – 1,525)
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Capacities
Notes
Fuel tank
Reserve
gal. (liters)
gal. (liters)
approx. 18.5 (approx. 70)
approx. 2.0 (approx. 8) – BMW 525i, 530i
approx. 2.5 (approx. 10) – BMW 540i
Fuel specification: page 25
Windshield washer system
with headlamp washer system
Intensive cleaning system
quarts (liters)
quarts (liters)
quarts (liters)
approx. 3.7 (approx. 3.5)
approx. 6.3 (approx 6.0)
approx. 1.1 (approx 1.0)
For details: page 139
Cooling system including
heater circuit
quarts (liters) 11.1 (10.5) – BMW 525i, 530i
12.7 (12.0) – BMW 540i
For details: page 142
Engine oil and filter change quarts (liters) 6.9 (6.5) – BMW 525i, 530i
7.9 (7.5) – BMW 540i
"BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil."
For details: page 141
Manual transmission, automatic
transmission and differential
– – Lifetime fluid, no fluid
change required
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Key words
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
A
ABS (Antilock Brake
System) 20, 131
Accessories 10
Activated-charcoal
filter 112
Active seat 52
Adaptive Transmission
Control (ATC) 70, 73
Add
antifreeze 142t
brake fluid 143t
engine coolant 142t
engine oil 140t
washer fluid 139t
Adjusting
backrest 50
head restraints 52
mirrors 57
seats 48
steering wheel 56
temperature 105, 109
thigh support 50
Air conditioning 104
Air distribution 105, 109
Air outlets 104, 107
Air pressure 26t, 133
Air supply 105, 109
Air vent 104, 107
Airbags 20, 58
Alarm system 42
Anchorages to secure the
load 126
Antifreeze, disposal 142t
Antifreeze, radiator 142
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 20, 131
Anti-theft alarm system 42
Anti-theft protection 34
Approved axle weight 171
Approved gross vehicle
weight 171
Aquaplaning 131, 133
ASC+T (Automatic Stability
Control plus Traction) 21
ASC+T/DSC (Automatic
Stability Control plus
Traction/Dynamic Stability
Control) 97
Ashtray, front 117
Ashtray, rear 118
ATC (Adaptive Transmission
Control) 70, 73
Attach vacuum cleaner 118
AUC (Automatic
recirculated-air
control) 110
Automatic climate
control 107
removing condensation
from windows 109
Automatic cruise control 78
Automatic curb monitor 55
Automatic rear window
cleaning 77
Automatic recirculated-air
control (AUC) 110
Automatic Stability Control
plus Traction (ASC+T) 21
Automatic Stability Control
plus Traction/Dynamic
Stability Control (ASC+T/
DSC) 97
Automatic
transmission 20, 70
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 20, 73
Average fuel
consumption 86
Average speed 86, 94
Avoid false alarms 43t
Avoiding unintentional
alarms 44
B
Backrest, adjusting 50
Backup lamps
bulb replacement 154t
Battery 160
care 160t
charging 160t
discharged 162t
disposal 160t
Belts 53
Beverage holder 117
Blower 105, 109
BMW active seat 52
BMW comfort seat 51
BMW Maintenance
System 144t
BMW Universal
Transmitter 113
Bottle holder, refer to
beverage holder 117
Brake fluid 143
adding 143
Brake hydraulic system 19
Brake lamps, bulb
replacement 154t
Brake malfunctions 132
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
177n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Brake system 132
brake fluid level 132
brake pads 20, 132
disc brakes 132
malfunctions 132
Break-in procedures 130
Bulbs and lamps 151t
C
California Proposition
65 Warning 145
Capacities 173
Car care, refer to the "Caring
for your vehicle" manual
Car wash systems, refer to
the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Care of paintwork, refer to
the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Care of upholstery materials,
refer to the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Cargo area
lamps 103
opening from the
inside 40
Cargo loading 126
Cellular phone 117
Center (high-mount) brake
lamp 155
Central locking
system 32, 37
Changing a wheel/
tire 157t
Charge indicator lamp 19
CHECK button 83
Check Control 83t
Check engine oil
level 140t
Child seat safety 62
Child seats 61
Child-restraint systems 61
Child-safety locks 64
Cigarette lighter 118
Clean rear window 77
Cleaning windshield 77
Climate control, refer to
Automatic climate
control 107
Clock 88
for additional information
refer to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Cockpit 14
Code, refer to immoblizer
function 94
Cold start 67
Combination switch 76
Comfort seat 51
Compartments 116
Computer 86
for additional information
refer to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
remote control 95
Computer in the MID 91
Configuring personal
adjustments, Vehicle and
Key Memory 64
Consumption display 81
Consumption, fuel 86, 93
Convenience operation of
windows and sliding/tilt
sunroof 33
Convenience starting
feature 67
Coolant 142
Coolant temperature
gauge 82
Copyright 4
Cover, sun blinds 112
Cruising range 86, 93
Cup holder 117
Cup holder, refer to
beverage holder 117
Curb monitor 55
D
Data link connector for
Onboard Diagnostics 146
Date
calling up 88
changing 88
Daytime driving lamps 101
DBC (Dynamic Brake
Control) 20
Deactivating 95
alarm system tilt
sensor 43
interior motion sensor 43
Deep water 131
Defrost windows 106, 109
Defroster mode 106, 109
Digital clock in the MID 88
Dimensions 169
Dipstick, engine oil 140t
Displacement 168
Display lighting 102
Displays 16, 17
Disposal
antifreeze with corrosion
inhibitor 142t
used batteries 160t
used oils 141t
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Distance from
destination 92
Distance warning 96
Divided rear-seat
backrest 119
Doors
manual operation 33
opening and closing 34
opening/closing from the
inside 34
operation via remote
control 34
DOT Quality Grades 134
Driving notes 131
DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control) 21, 97
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC) 20
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 21, 97
E
Electric power seat 50
Electric power windows 44
Electrical malfunction
doors 33
fuel filler door 24
luggage compartment
lid 38
sliding/tilt sunroof 47
tailgate 39
Elements of operation 14
Emergency release of
luggage compartment lid
from luggage
compartment's interior 41
Energy control 81
Engine compartment 138
Engine coolant 82, 142
Engine oil 140
consumption 140
disposal 141t
level 20
pressure 19
specifications 141t
viscosity ratings 141
Engine specifications 168
Estimated time of arrival 93
Exterior mirrors 57
F
Failure messages 83t
Filling the washer
reservoir 139t
First-aid kit 23
Fittings, tow-starting and
towing 163t
Flashlight 116
Flat tire 133, 157t
Fog lamps 102
bulb replacement 153t
Follow me home 101
Front ashtray 117
Front fog lamps 102
Front seat adjustment 48
Fuel 25
gauge 81
quality 25
specifications 25
tank capacity 173
Fuel consumption 86, 93
average 86, 93
indicator 81
Fuel filler door 24
electrical malfunction 24
manual release 24
Fuses 160
G
Gasoline 25
gauge 81
quality 25
Glass moonroof 47
Glove compartment 116
Grilles 107
Gross vehicle weight 171
H
Handbrake 68
Hands-free system 117
Hazard warning triangle 23
Head restraints 50
Headlamp covers,
care 151t
Headlamp flasher 76
Headlight washer
system 139
Heated steering wheel 56
Heating and
ventilation 104, 107
Heating while stopped 111
Heavy cargo 126
Height adjustment
seats 50
steering wheel 56
Height of vehicle 169
High beams 21, 102
bulb replacement 151t
High Performance Synthetic
Oils 141
High-mount brake lamp 155
Holder for canned
beverages 117
Hood 137
release 137t
Horn 14
Hydraulic Braking Assistant,
refer to DBC 20
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
179n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
I
Ice warning 80
Identification, tires 135
Ignition lock 66
Immoblizer function 94
activating code 94
deactivating code 94
selecting code 94
Important in the engine
compartment 138
Imprint 4
Independent ventilation
system 112
Indicator and warning
lamps 19
Inflation pressure 26t
monitoring 99
Inflation pressure,
tires 26, 133
INSPECTION 82
Instrument
cluster 15, 16, 17
Instrument displays 15
Instrument lighting 102
Instrument panel 16, 17
Instrument panel switch 76
Instruments 15
Intensive cleaning 139
Interior lamps 103
Interior mirror 58
Interior motion sensor 42
avoiding unintentional
alarms 44
deactivate 35
Interior rearview mirror 57
automatic dimmer 58
Interlock 66
J
Jack 157
Jump-starting 162t
K
Key Memory 64
Key with remote control 32
Keys 32
Kickdown 71, 74
L
Lamps and bulbs 151t
LATCH child-restraint
system 63
LATCH child-restraint
system, sport wagon 64
Leather care, refer to the
"Caring for your vehicle"
manual
Length of vehicle 169
Level control system 21, 99
inactive 99t
License plate lamps
bulb replacement 156t
Liftgate, refer to tailgate 40
Light switch 101
Lighter 118
LIGHTS ON warning 101
LIMIT 91
Load-securing devices 126
Louvers 104, 107
Low beams 101
bulb replacement 151t
Low-fuel warning lamp 81
Lug bolts 158
Lug wrench 157t
Luggage
compartment 38, 42, 123
capacity 171
manual operation 38t
Luggage compartment
lid 38
electrical malfunction 38
emergency release from
luggage compartment's
interior 41
opening from the
outside 39
opening separately 38
remote control 35
secure separately 38
Luggage compartment's
interior, emergency
release 41
Luggage net 42
Luggage straps 42
Lumbar support 50
M
M+S tires 136
Maintenance 82, 144t
Malfunction displays 83t
Manual operation
doors 33
fuel filler door 24
luggage compartment
lid 38
sliding/tilt sunroof 47
tailgate 39
Manual transmission 69
Manually controlled
recirculated-air 110
Manually-adjusted seat 50
Master key 32
Maximum cooling 110
Memory settings
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
for seat, mirror and
steering wheel 54
related to individuals ("Key
Memory") 64
related to the vehicle
("Vehicle Memory") 64
Microfilter 106, 112
MID (Multi-Information
Display) 87
Mirrors 57
adjusting 57
defrosting 57
memory setting 54
Modifications,
technical 10, 145
Monitoring inflation
pressure, tires 99
Moonroof 47
Multifunction buttons,
steering wheel 22
Multi-Information Display
(MID) 87
N
Non-smoker's
equipment 118
O
OBD interface socket 146
Odometer 16, 80
Oil additives 140
Oil change interval, refer to
the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US
models) or to the Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
Oil consumption 140
Oil dipstick 140t
Oil level, indicator lamp 20
Oil pressure, indicator
lamp 19
Oil specifications 141t
Oil viscosity 141
Oils, disposal 141t
OILSERVICE 82
Old batteries 160
Onboard computer, refer to
the "Owner's Manual for
Onboard Computer"
Onboard Diagnostic (OBD)
system 146
Onboard tool kit 150t
Opening and closing
from the inside 37
from the outside 33
using the key 33
using the remote
control 33
Opening the rear
window 40
Operating range 86
Outlets,
ventilation 104, 107
Outside temperature
display 80, 86
P
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 96
Parked-car ventilation
system 112
for additional information
refer to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Parking aid 96
Parking brake 20, 68
Parking lamps 101
bulb replacement 152t
Partition net 123
Passenger-side mirror tilt
function 55
PDC (Park Distance
Control) 96
Pocket light 116
Pollen filter 106, 112
Power windows 45
safety switch 45
Power-slip control, refer to
ASC+T/DSC 97
Q
Quality Grades, tires 134
R
Rain sensor 76
RDC (Tire Pressure
Monitor) 99
Reading lamps 103
Rear ashtray 118
Rear window 40
defroster 105, 110
sun blinds 112
wiper 77
Rear window cleaning 77
Rear-seat backrest
folding 119
remove 119
Rearview mirror 57
Recirculated-air mode 105
Reclining seat 48
Refueling 24
Releasing hood 137
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
181n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Reminder signal (Memo) 89
Remote control 34
computer 95
Removable rear-seat
backrest 119
Remove condensation from
windows 106, 109
Replacing
fuses 160t
lamps and bulbs 151t
wiper blades 150t
Reporting safety defects 11
Reservoir, washer
system 139t
Residual heat 111
Rims 135
Roller sun blind 112
Roll-up cover 123
Roof load capacity 171
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 127
S
Safety belts 53
Safety defects, reporting 11
Safety lock buttons 37
Seat belts 53
Seats
electric power 50
manually-adjusted 50
memory setting 54
Secure the load 126
Securing cargo 42, 126
Selector lever, automatic
transmission 70, 73
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US
models) 144
Service Interval
Display 82, 144
Shiftlock 70, 73
Shoulder support 51
Side airbags 58
Side Impact Head Protection
System 58
Side lamps
bulb replacement 152t
Side turn signal
bulb replacement 153t
Ski bag 120
Ski bag in the sport
wagon 122
Sliding/tilt sunroof 46
manual operation 47
with glass moonroof 47
Snow chains 136
Socket for attaching
electrical appliances 118
Spare tire 157t
Speaker 117
Special characteristics of
winter tires 136
Special oil 141t
Speed 94
Speed limit 91
Speed, average 86, 94
Speedometer 15, 16, 17
sport wagon
anchorages 126
compartments in the
luggage
compartment 124
cover in the luggage
compartment 124
folding down the rear
backrest 123
LATCH child-restraint
system 64
load-securing
devices 126
luggage
compartment 123
opening the rear
window 40
partition net 123
rear window wiper, blade
replacement 150t
releasing the tailgate after
an electrical
malfunction 39
roll-up cover 123
securing a load 126
ski bag 122
tail lamp assembly, bulb
replacement 154t
transporting children
safely 64
Standing lamps 102
Starting assistance 162t
Starting problems 67t
Starting the engine 67
Steering wheel
heating 56
lock 66
memory setting 54
Steering wheel with
multifunction buttons 22
Steptronic 73
Stopwatch 89
for additional information
refer to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Storage compartments 116
in the cargo area 124
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Summer tires 135
Sun blind cover 112
Sunroof 46
Switching off the engine 68
Switch-on times for parked-
car ventilation 90
Symbols 8
T
Tachometer 81
Tail lamps 154
bulb replacement 154t
Tailgate
manual operation 39
manual release 39
opening from the
inside 40
opening from the
outside 39
Technical
modifications 10, 145
Telephone hookup 117
Temperature display 80, 86
Temperature gauge 82
Temperature
layering 106, 111
Third brake lamp 155
Through-loading
system 119
Tilt alarm sensor 42, 43
avoiding unintentional
alarms 44
deactivate 35
Tilt function, passenger-side
mirror 55
Time
calling up 88
changing 88
of arrival, estimated 93
Timer 88
for additional information
refer to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Tire
change 157t
damage 133t
inflation pressure 26, 133
pressure
monitoring 99, 133
renewal 134
tread 133
Tire inflation pressure 26
Tire Pressure Monitor
(RDC) 99
Tire Quality Grading 135
Tools 150t
Torque 168
Tow fittings 163t
Towing the vehicle 163t
Track 169
Traction control system,
refer to ASC+T/DSC
Transmission 69, 70, 73
Transmitter key 32
Transporting children
safely 61
Tread depth, tires 133
Trip odometer 80
Trunk lid
refer to luggage
compartment lid 38
Trunk, refer to luggage
compartment 42
Turn signal
bulb replacement 152t
Turn signal indicator 76
Turning circle 169
U
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
(UTQR) 135
Universal Transmitter 113
Use antifreeze,
radiator 142t
Used batteries,
disposal 160t
Used oils, disposal 141t
V
Vacuum cleaner, attach 118
Valve caps 159
Vehicle Memory 64
Ventilation 104, 106, 111
draft-free 106, 111
in the rear 106
Ventilation while
parked 112
for more information on
ventilation with vehicle
stationary, refer to the
"Owner's Manual for
Onboard Computer"
Viscosity ratings, oils 141
W
Warm feet – cool
head 106, 111
Warning and indicator
lamps 19
Warning lamps 19t
Warning messages 83t
Warning triangle 23
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
183n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian
models) 144
Washer system 76
Washing your vehicle, refer
to the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Water on the roads 131
Weights 171
Wheel and tire
combinations 135
Wheel change 157t
Wheelbase 169
Width of vehicle 169
Windshield wipers 76
blade replacement 150t
Winter tires 136
Wiper blade
replacement 150t
Wiper system 76
Work in the engine
compartment 137t
X
Xenon lamps 152
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 213 - © 09/01 BMW AG
To ensure that you always have conve-
nient access to all essential information
when you stop for fuel, we recommend
that you take the time to fill out the
adjoining chart by entering the data that
apply to your vehicle.
Consult the index for individual specifi-
cations.
Fuel
Please enter your preferred fuel here.
Engine oil
The space between the two marks on
the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter).
Designation
Quality
Tire inflation pressures
Summer tires Winter tires
Front Rear Front Rear
Up to 4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage
Refueling
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