M3 Convertible
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 596 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Thank you for deciding on a BMW M3 Convertible.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced control and
security when you drive it. Therefore, we have one request:
Read the information contained in this Owner's Manual before driving your new
BMW M3 Convertible for the first time. It contains important information on vehicle
operation that will enable you to make full use of the advanced technical equipment
of your BMW M3 Convertible. In addition, you will receive information on vehicle
maintenance to help ensure operating and traffic safety as well as the best possible
value retention of your BMW. For more detailed information refer to the supplemen-
tal manuals.
BMW M also makes decisive contributions toward greater safety in traffic through
its BMW driver training.
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It
should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important
operating, safety and maintenance information.
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW M
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 596 - © 09/03 BMW AG
4
Notes
© 2003 BMW M GmbH
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW M GmbH, Munich.
Order No. 01 41 0 157 596
US English VIII/03
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper,
bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling.
About this Owner's Manual
We have made every effort to ensure
that you are able to find what you need
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as
possible. The fastest way to find certain
topics is by using the detailed index at
the end. If you wish to gain an initial
overview of your vehicle, you will find
this in the first chapter.
Should you wish to sell your BMW at
some time in the future, please remem-
ber to hand over this Owner's Manual
to the new owner; it is an important part
of the vehicle.
Additional sources of information
Should you have any further questions,
your BMW center will be glad to assist
at any time.
You can find more information about
BMW, for example on its technology,
on the Internet at www.bmw.com.
Symbols used
Indicates precautions that must
be followed precisely in order to
avoid the possibility of personal injury
and serious damage to the vehicle.
Contains information that will
assist you in gaining the optimum
benefit from your vehicle and enable
you to care more effectively for your
vehicle.
Refers to measures that can be
taken to help protect the environ-
ment.
Marks the end of a specific item of
information.
Indicates special equipment, coun-
try-specific equipment and optional
extras when available.
Vehicle Memory, Key Memory,
refer to page 64. Identifies func-
tions that can be specifically adapted
for a particular key or vehicle. These
adjustments can be performed either by
yourself or by your BMW center.
<
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5
Notes
Your individual vehicle
On purchasing your BMW, you have
decided in favor of a model with individ-
ualized equipment and features. This
Owner's Manual will describe all of the
equipment that the BMW M3 Convert-
ible has to offer you.
We hope you will understand that
equipment and features are included
that you might not have chosen for your
vehicle. You can easily identify any dif-
ferences with the aid of the asterisk
used to identify all optional equipment
and accessories.
If your BMW features equipment that is
not described in this Owner's Manual,
such as a car radio or telephone, we
have enclosed Supplementary Owner's
Manuals. We ask you to read these
manuals as well.
Status at time of printing
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development that is conceived
to ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality and safety
standards combined with advanced,
state-of-the-art technology. For this
reason, the features described in this
Owner's Manual could differ from those
on your vehicle. Nor can errors and
omissions be entirely ruled out. You are
therefore asked to appreciate that no
claims can be recognized on the basis
of the data, illustrations or descriptions
in this Owner's Manual.
For your own safety
Fuels
Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels
containing up to and including
10% ethanol or other oxygenates with
up to 2.8% oxygen by weight – that is,
15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an
equivalent amount of co-solvent – will
not void the applicable warranties
respecting defects in materials or work-
manship. Field experience has indi-
cated significant differences in fuel
quality – volatility, composition, addi-
tives, etc. – among gasolines offered for
sale in the United States and Canada.
The use of poor quality fuels may result
in driveability, starting and stalling
problems especially under certain envi-
ronmental conditions, such as high
ambient temperature and high altitude.
Should you encounter driveability prob-
lems which you suspect could be
related to the fuel you are using, we
recommend that you respond by
switching to a recognized high-quality
brand.
Failure to comply with these recom-
mendations may result in unscheduled
maintenance.
Obey pertinent safety rules when you
are handling gasoline.
<
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6
Notes
Maintenance and repair
Advanced technology, e.g. the
use of modern materials and high-
performance electronics, requires spe-
cially adapted maintenance and repair
methods. Therefore, only have corre-
sponding work on your BMW carried
out by a BMW center or a workshop
that works according to BMW repair
procedures with correspondingly
trained personnel. If work is carried out
improperly there is a danger of conse-
quential damage and the related safety
risks.
<
Parts and accessories
Important safety information!
For your own safety, use genuine
parts and accessories approved by
BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested
and approved by BMW and Original
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire
the assurance that they have been thor-
oughly tested by BMW to ensure opti-
mum performance when installed on
your vehicle.
BMW warrants these parts to be free
from defects in material and workman-
ship.
BMW will not accept any liability for
damages resulting from installation of
parts and accessories not approved by
BMW.
BMW cannot test every product made
by other manufacturers to verify if it can
be used on a BMW safely and without
risk to either the vehicle, its operation,
or its occupants.
Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories
and other products approved by BMW,
together with professional advice on
using these items, are available from all
BMW centers.
Installation and operation of non-BMW
approved accessories such as alarms,
radios, amplifiers, radar detectors,
wheels, suspension components, brake
dust shields, telephones – including
operation of any portable cellular phone
from within the vehicle without using an
externally mounted antenna – or trans-
ceiver equipment, such as CB, walkie-
talkie, ham radio or similar, may cause
extensive damage to the vehicle, com-
promise its safety, interfere with the
vehicle's electrical system or affect the
validity of the BMW Limited Warranty.
Contact your BMW center for additional
information.
Do not use key or remote control to
lock doors or luggage compartment
with anyone inside the car. Refer to the
Owner’s Manual for more details.
<
Maintenance, replacement, or
repair of the emission control
devices and systems may be performed
by any automotive repair establishment
or individual using any certified auto-
motive part.
<
Symbol on vehicle parts
Indicates that you should consult
the relevant section of this
Owner's Manual for information on a
particular part or assembly.
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7
Notes
Service and warranty
This manual is supplemented by a Ser-
vice and Warranty Information Booklet
for US models or a Warranty and Ser-
vice Guide Booklet for Canadian mod-
els.
We recommend that you read this pub-
lication thoroughly.
Your BMW is covered by the following
warranties:
>
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
>
Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
>
Federal Emissions System Defect
Warranty
>
Federal Emissions Performance War-
ranty
>
California Emission Control System
Limited Warranty.
Detailed information about these war-
ranties is listed in the Service and War-
ranty Information Booklet for US mod-
els or in the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet for Canadian models.
Reporting safety defects
The following only applies to vehicles
owned and operated in the US.
If you believe that your vehicle has a
defect which could cause a crash or
could cause injury or death, you should
immediately inform the National High-
way Traffic Safety Administration
NHTSA in addition to notifying BMW of
North America, LLC, P.O. Box 1227,
Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227,
telephone toll-free 1-800-831-1117.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it
may open an investigation, and if it
finds that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order a recall
and remedy campaign. However,
NHTSA cannot become involved in indi-
vidual problems between you, your
dealer, or BMW of North America, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call
the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at
1-800-424-9393 or 366-0123 in the
Washington, D.C. area, or write to:
NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transpor-
tation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You
can also obtain other information about
motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 596 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Contents
Notes
About this Owner's Manual 4
Additional sources of
information 4
Symbols used 4
Your individual vehicle 5
Status at time of printing 5
For your own safety 5
Symbol on vehicle parts 6
Service and warranty 7
Reporting safety defects 7
Overview
Cockpit 14
Instrument cluster 16
Indicator and warning lamps 18
Buttons in steering wheel 22
Hazard warning triangle* 23
First-aid kit* 23
Refueling 24
Fuel specifications 25
Tire inflation pressure 25
Controls and features
Opening and closing:
Keys 30
Central locking system 30
Opening and closing – via the
remote control 31
Opening and closing – via the
door lock 33
Opening and closing – from the
inside 34
Luggage compartment lid 35
Luggage compartment 37
Electric power windows 38
Convertible top 39
Wind deflector* 44
To adjust:
Safe seating position 46
Seats 47
Power seat adjustment 47
Head restraints 48
Entering the rear 49
Safety belts 50
Seat and mirror memory 51
Seat heating* 52
Steering wheel 53
Mirrors 53
Passenger safety systems:
Airbags 55
Transporting children safely 58
Rollover protection system 62
Vehicle Memory, Key
Memory 64
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Contents
9
Driving:
Ignition lock 65
Starting the engine and driving
off 66
Switching off the engine 68
Parking brake 68
Manual transmission 69
Sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic* 70
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp
flasher 75
Washer/wiper system/Rain
sensor* 76
Cruise control 77
Everything under control:
Odometer 79
Tachometer 79
Engine oil temperature 79
Fuel gauge 80
Engine coolant temperature
gauge 80
Service interval display 81
Check Control 81
Clock 82
Computer 83
Technology for safety and
driving convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC)* 85
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC 86
Flat Tire Monitor 87
M Engine dynamics control 90
Brake force display 90
Lamps:
Parking lamps/Low beams 91
Instrument lighting 92
High beams/Standing lamps 92
Fog lamps 93
Interior lamps 93
Reading lamps 93
Controlling the climate for
pleasant driving:
Automatic climate control 96
Interior conveniences:
Glove compartment 101
Storage compartments 101
Cellular phone* 102
Ashtray, front* 103
Ashtray, rear* 103
Loading and transporting:
Ski bag* 104
Cargo loading 106
Roof-mounted luggage rack for
the hardtop* 108
Operation, maintenance
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 112
General driving notes 113
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 114
Brake system 114
Hardtop* 115
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 118
Tire condition 118
Tire replacement 119
Wheel and tire
combinations 121
Winter tires 122
Snow chains* 122
In the engine compartment:
Hood 123
Engine compartment
essentials 124
Washer fluids 126
Engine oil 126
Coolant 128
Brake fluid 129
Maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 130
Laws and regulations:
California Proposition 65
warning 132
OBD interface socket 132
Controls and features
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Contents
Owner service procedures
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 136
Windshield wiper blades 136
Lamps and bulbs 137
Repairing a flat tire 140
Battery 144
Fuses 145
Giving and receiving
assistance:
Receiving assistance 146
Jump-starting 147
Towing the vehicle 148
Technical data
Engine data 154
Dimensions 155
Weights 156
Capacities 157
Index
Everything from A to Z 160
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
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Cockpit
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1 Parking lamps/Low beams 91
2
>
Turn signal indicators 75
>
Standing lamps 92
>
High beams 92
>
Headlamp flasher 75
>
Computer 83
3 Washer/wiper system/Rain
sensor 76
4 Hazard warning flashers
5 Rear window defroster 99
6
>
Initiating an emergency call 146
>
Mobile Service 146
7 Central locking system 30
8 Horn: the entire surface
9 Steering wheel adjustment 53
10 Fog lamps 93
Cockpit
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Instrument cluster
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1 Fuel gauge 80
2 Turn signal indicator 20
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator and warning lamps 18
to 21
5 Tachometer and engine oil
temperature gauge 79
6 Engine coolant temperature
gauge 80
7 Indicator and warning lamps 18
to 21
8 Control button for
>
Clock 82
>
Unit of measure of outside
temperature display 83
9 Display for sequential M gearbox
with Drivelogic 71
10 Indicator lamp for Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) 86
11 Display for
>
Trip odometer 79
>
Clock 82
>
Service interval 81
>
Computer 83
12 Check Control 81
13 Trip odometer, reset to zero 79
14 Indicator and warning lamps 18
to 21
Instrument cluster
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Indicator and warning lamps
Technology that monitors itself
Indicator and warning lamps that are
identified by
●
are tested for proper
functioning whenever the ignition key is
turned. They each light up once for dif-
ferent periods of time.
If a fault should occur in one of these
systems, the corresponding lamp does
not go out after the engine is started, or
it lights up while the vehicle is moving.
You will see how to react to this below.
Red: stop immediately
Battery charge current
●
The battery is no longer being
charged. There is a malfunction
of the alternator drive belt or in the
charging circuit of the alternator. Please
contact the nearest BMW center.
If the drive belt is defective, stop
and switch off the engine immedi-
ately to prevent overheating and seri-
ous engine damage. If the drive belt is
defective, increased steering effort is
also required.
<
Engine oil pressure
●
An alarm sounds at the same
time. Stop vehicle immediately
and switch off engine. Check the
engine oil level and 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 dam-
age from inadequate lubrication.
<
Flat Tire Monitor
●
In addition, an acoustic signal is
sounded: there is a flat tire.
Reduce speed and carefully come to a
stop. Avoid sudden braking and steer-
ing maneuvers.
For additional information: refer to
page 87
Brake warning lamp
●
If the lamp comes on when the
parking brake is not engaged:
check the brake fluid level. Before driv-
ing further, be sure to comply with the
instructions on pages 114 and 129.
Brake warning lamp for Cana-
dian models.
Red: an important reminder
Brake warning lamp
●
Comes on when the parking
brake is engaged – an additional
acoustic signal sounds when starting
off. For additional information: refer to
page 68
Brake warning lamp for Cana-
dian models.
Lock backrest/Please fasten
safety belts
●
Comes on together with an
acoustic signal until the safety belts are
fastened. Flashes when the backrest is
not locked.
For additional information on locking
the backrest, refer to page 49
For additional information on safety
belts: refer to page 50
Airbags
●
Please have the system
inspected at your BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 55
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Red and yellow: continue driving
cautiously
The brake warning lamp comes
on together with the yellow indi-
cator lamps for ABS
●
and
DSC:
The entire ABS, CBC and DSC
control system has failed. Con-
tinue to drive; drive cautiously
and defensively and avoid full
brake applications. Please have the
system checked by your BMW center
as soon as possible.
For additional information: refer to
pages 86, 114
Indicator and warning lamps
CBC, ABS and DSC for Cana-
dian models.
Orange: consult the nearest BMW
center
Sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic
If the indicator lamp fails to go
out after the engine is started, or if it
comes on during normal driving: this
indicates a malfunction in the system.
Please consult the nearest BMW cen-
ter.
Indicator lamp flashes: a system over-
load has occurred.
For additional information: refer to
page 74
Yellow: check as soon as possible
Engine oil level
Comes on while driving and is
accompanied by an alarm: the
engine oil level has fallen to the abso-
lute minimum; refill as soon as possible.
Do not drive more than 30 miles/50 km
before refilling.
For additional information: refer to
page 126
Engine oil level
Comes on after the engine has
been shut off and is accompa-
nied by an alarm: add engine oil at your
earliest opportunity such as when you
stop to refuel
For additional information: refer to
page 126
Brake pads
●
Have the brake pads checked.
For additional information: refer
to page 114
Flat Tire Monitor
●
The Flat Tire Monitor has been
deactivated, either at the button
or in response to a system malfunction.
In the event of a malfunction, have the
system checked by your BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 87
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC
●
The indicator lamp flashes and
an acoustic signal sounds: the system
is active and governs drive and braking
force.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or if it comes on
during normal driving and stays on:
DSC has been deactivated, either at the
Indicator and warning lamps
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button or in response to a system mal-
function. In the event of a malfunction,
have the system checked by your near-
est BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 86
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
●
Malfunction in DBC system.
Conventional braking efficiency
is available and unrestricted.
Have the system checked and repaired
at your BMW center as soon as possi-
ble.
For additional information: refer to
page 114
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Add washer fluid
The washer fluid is too low. Top
off the fluid at the earliest
opportunity.
For additional information: refer to
page 126
SERVICE ENGINE SOON
●
If the indicator lamp comes on
either continuously or intermit-
tently, this indicates a fault in the emis-
sions-related electronic systems.
Although the vehicle remains opera-
tional, you should have the systems
checked by your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
For additional information: refer to
page 132
Service Engine Soon indicator
lamp for Canadian models.
Engine electronics
●
There is a fault in the electronic
engine-management system.
You can continue to drive with reduced
engine output or engine speed. Please
have the system inspected at your
BMW center.
Add coolant
Coolant level too low, top up as
soon as possible.
For additional information: refer to
page 128
CHECK GAS CAP*
●
This indicator lamp comes on
when the gas cap is loose or
missing.
Close the gas cap tightly: refer to
page 24
Rollover protection system
●
The rollover protection system is
deactivated due to a malfunc-
tion. Please have the system inspected
immediately at your BMW center.
For additional information: refer to
page 62
Green: for your information
Turn signal indicator
Flashes when turn signals are
on. Rapid flashing: indicates a
system malfunction.
For additional information: refer to
page 75
Cruise control
Lights up when the cruise con-
trol is activated. Ready for oper-
ation via the buttons in the steering
wheel.
For additional information: refer to
page 77
Front fog lamps
Lights up whenever the fog
lamps are on.
For additional information: refer to
page 93
Indicator and warning lamps
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Buttons in steering wheel
These buttons let you operate the fol-
lowing functions quickly and without
being distracted from traffic conditions:
>
Selected radio functions
>
The cruise control
>
Selected telephone functions.
*
The controls are active only when
the corresponding systems and
accessories are switched on.
<
Press briefly:
Accept incoming call, start dialing, ter-
minate call.
Switch between phone and radio, cas-
sette and CD.
Forward:
> Radio
Press briefly: next station in station
memory
Extended pressure: station search
> CD
Press briefly: jump to next track
Extended pressure: search function
in track
> Cassette
Press briefly: jump to next track or
stop fast forward
Extended pressure: fast forward
> Phone
Scan personal phone book.
Rewind: same functions as forward.
Volume.
Cruise control: select a stored setting.
Cruise control: store and accelerate +
or decelerate and store –.
Cruise control: activate/interrupt/deac-
tivate.
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Hazard warning triangle*
The hazard warning triangle is stored
ready to use in the luggage compart-
ment lid inside the toolbox for the
onboard tool kit.
To open the container, loosen the wing
nut.
Always observe all legal regula-
tions requiring a warning triangle
to be carried in the vehicle.<
First-aid kit*
The first-aid kit is located under the
front passenger's seat.
To open: pull the handle and fold the
cover down.
To fasten: fold the cover up and press it
until the tab engages.
Several of the items contained in
the first-aid kit have a limited ser-
vice life. For this reason, check the
expiration dates of each of the items
regularly, and replace any with passed
dates. 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 possi-
ble to add fuel with the engine running,
and attempts may also trigger the
SERVICE ENGINE SOON lamp.<
Press on the rear edge of the fuel filler
door to open and close it.
If an electrical malfunction occurs, you
can unlock the fuel filler door manually:
Pull the knob with the fuel pump symbol
on the right trim panel of the luggage
compartment.
When handling fuels, comply with
all of the applicable safety precau-
tions posted at the service station.
Never carry spare fuel containers in
your vehicle. Whether empty or full,
these containers can leak, cause an
explosion, or lead to fire in the event of
a collision.<
Simple and environmentally
friendly
Open the gas cap carefully to pre-
vent fuel from spraying out. Fuel
spray may cause injury.<
Keep the gas cap in the bracket
attached to the fuel filler door.
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle
completely into the filler pipe. Lifting the
nozzle during refueling
> results in premature pump shutoff
> and will reduce the effect of the vapor
recovery system on the pump.
The fuel tank is full when the filler noz-
zle shuts off the first time.
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Close the gas cap carefully after
refueling until a click is heard.
While closing, be sure not to squeeze
the strap which is fastened to the cap.
A loose or missing cap will activate the
CHECK GAS CAP* lamp.<
Fuel tank capacity
> Approx. 16.6 gal./63 liters, of which
> approx. 2.1 gal./8 liters are reserve
capacity.
Do not drive to the last drop of
fuel. This can prevent the engine
from operating properly and result in
damage.<
Fuel specifications
The engine uses lead-free gasoline
only.
Required fuel:
> Premium Unleaded Gasoline,
min. 91 AKI.
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Never use leaded fuel, as it would
cause permanent and irreversible
damage to the oxygen sensor and the
catalytic converter.<
Tire inflation pressure
Checking tire pressures
Tire pressures in psi/kilopascal are
shown on the driver's door post and are
visible when the door is open.
Only check the tire inflation pressures
of cold tires. This means after driving a
maximum of 1.25 miles/2 km or after
the vehicle has been parked for at least
2 hours. Warm tires have higher infla-
tion pressures.
In the following tire inflation pressure
table, all pressures are specified in the
standard units of pressure, psi and kilo-
pascal, and apply to cold tires, i.e. tires
at ambient temperature.
After correcting the tire inflation pres-
sure, reinitialize the Flat Tire Monitor so
that it can monitor the tire inflation
pressure, refer to page 87.
Refueling
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Check the tire pressures on a reg-
ular basis – at least twice a month
– and before every extended journey. If
this is not done, incorrect tire pressures
can cause driving instability and tire
damage, ultimately resulting in acci-
dents.<
Comply with tire approval
specifications
The inflation pressures in the table
apply to BMW-approved tire sizes and
tire manufacturers. Your BMW center
will be glad to supply this information.
Other pressures may be required for
tires made by other manufacturers.
Your vehicle is equipped with tires
which not only meet US standards, but
also European standards. We recom-
mend the exclusive use of BMW
approved tires.
Tire inflation pressure
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BMW Tires
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi/
kilopascal with cold tires –
cold = ambient temperature
225/45 ZR 18 33/230 – 41/280 –
255/40 ZR 18 – 35/240 – 48/330
M3 225/40 ZR 19 33/230 – 41/280 –
255/35 ZR 19 – 35/240 – 48/330
225/45 R 17 91 H M+S 33/230 38/260 36/250 46/320
225/40 R 18 92 V M+S 36/250 38/260 39/270 51/350
Tire inflation pressure
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
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Opening and closing
Keys
The key set
1 Master keys with remote control unit
– these keys determine the functions
of the Key Memory. Refer to page 64.
You can mark the individual keys for
subsequent identification by apply-
ing the colored decals that you
received when accepting delivery of
your vehicle
In every master key with remote
control there is an extended-life
battery that is charged automatically in
the ignition lock as you drive.
For this reason, if you have a master
key with remote control that is other-
wise not used, use that key at least
once every year while driving for an
extended period to charge the bat-
tery.<
2 Spare key – for storage in a safe
place, such as in your wallet. This key
is not intended for constant use. The
luggage compartment lid and the
glove compartment cannot be locked
and unlocked with this key. This is
useful for valet parking, for example.
Central locking system
The concept
The central locking system engages
and releases the following locks at the
same time:
> doors
> luggage compartment lid
> fuel filler door and
> glove compartment.
The central locking system is ready for
operation whenever the driver's door is
closed.
The central locking system can be
operated
> from outside via the door lock and
using the remote control
> from inside via the central locking
system button.
If it is operated from inside, the fuel
filler door will not be locked, refer to
page 34.
Operating it from outside simulta-
neously activates the anti-theft system,
which prevents the doors from being
unlocked via the door lock buttons or
the door release handles.
The central locking system unlocks
automatically in the event of an acci-
dent. In addition, the hazard warning
flashers and interior lamps come on.
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Opening and closing – via the remote control
The concept
The remote control also provides two
additional functions beyond the central
locking feature:
> Switch on the interior lamps, refer to
page 32.
With this function you can also
search for your vehicle – when
parked in an underground garage, for
instance
> Open the luggage compartment lid,
refer to page 32.
The luggage compartment lid will
open slightly, regardless of whether it
was locked or unlocked.
Whenever you unlock or lock the vehi-
cle, you simultaneously deactivate/acti-
vate the anti-theft system and switch
the interior lamps on/off.
You can have a signal set to con-
firm that the vehicle's locks have
engaged securely.<
Master keys with remote control
Since passengers or animals
remaining in the vehicle might be
able to lock the doors from the inside,
always take the vehicle's keys with you
so that the vehicle can be opened again
from the outside at any time.<
If it is no longer possible to lock
the vehicle via the remote control,
the battery is discharged. Use this key
while driving for an extended period in
order to recharge the battery. To pre-
vent unauthorized use of the remote
control, surrender only the spare key
when leaving the vehicle for valet park-
ing, for example.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your BMW center. You
can also obtain replacement keys
there.<
1 Unlocking and convenience opening
2 Locking and securing, turning on
interior lamps,
3 Opening luggage compartment lid
To release
Press button to unlock the driver's door
only.
Press the button twice in order to
unlock the entire vehicle.<
Convenience opening mode
Press and hold button. The windows
and the fully-automatic convertible top
open.
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To lock and secure
Press button.
To switch on the interior lamps
After locking the vehicle, press button
again.
To open the luggage
compartment lid
Press button.
The lid will open slightly, no matter
whether it was locked or unlocked.
If the luggage compartment lid
was locked, it will be locked again
after it is reclosed.
Before and after a trip, be sure that the
luggage compartment lid has not been
opened unintentionally.<
External systems
Locally, external systems or devices
may interfere with remote control func-
tions.
If this should occur, you can still open
and close the vehicle using the master
key in both the door and luggage com-
partment locks.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units com-
ply with part 15 of the FCC Federal
Communications Commission regula-
tions. Operation is governed by the fol-
lowing:
FCC ID:
> LX8EWS
> LX8FZVS
> LX8FZVE.
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
> This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
> this device must accept any interfer-
ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications to
these devices could void the
user's authority to operate the equip-
ment.<
Opening and closing – via the remote control
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Opening and closing – via the door lock
Turning the key in the door lock once
unlocks the driver's door, the fuel filler
door and the glove compartment.
Turning the key a second time unlocks
the passenger's door and the luggage
compartment lid.
You can have a signal set to con-
firm that the vehicle's locks have
engaged securely.<
Convenience operation
With the door closed you can also
operate the power windows and the
convertible top with the door lock.
> To open: with the door closed after
turning the key for the second time,
hold the key in the Unlock position
> To fasten: with the door closed, hold
the key in the Lock position.
Whenever closing the windows or
sliding/tilt sunroof you should
always monitor their path and progress
to ensure that no one is injured. Releas-
ing the key stops the operation.<
Manual operation
In the event of electrical malfunction
Turn the key all the way to the left or
right to unlock or lock the driver's door.
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Opening and closing – from the inside
You can use this button to control the
central locking system whenever the
doors are closed. The doors and lug-
gage compartment lid are unlocked or
locked only. The anti-theft system is not
activated.
If only the driver's door was
unlocked from the outside and
you press the button, then, with the
driver's door still open, the passenger's
door, the luggage compartment lid, the
fuel filler door and the glove compart-
ment will unlock, too.
If the driver's door is closed, it will be
locked.<
If you desire, the central locking
system can be activated automati-
cally as soon as you begin to drive. You
may also have this adjusted so that it is
specific to keys.<
To unlock and open the doors
1. Press the button for the central lock-
ing system
2. Pull the release handle above the
armrest on the door you wish to open
or
pull the release handle for any door
twice: to unlock and open the door.
To lock
> Either use the central locking button
to lock all doors at once
or
> press the individual door lock buttons
down. 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.
Since passengers or animals
remaining in the vehicle might be
able to lock the doors from the inside,
always take the vehicle's keys with you
so that the vehicle can be opened again
from the outside at any time.<
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Luggage compartment lid
The lock
Only the master keys fit in the lock for
the luggage compartment lid, refer to
page 30.
To secure separately
Lock the glove compartment using the
master key.
The luggage compartment lid is locked
and disconnected from the central lock-
ing system. This feature can be used to
prevent unauthorized access to the lug-
gage compartment when you surrender
the spare key only, refer to page 30.
This can be advantageous for valet
parking, for example.
To open from the outside
Press the button in the handle recess:
the luggage compartment lid opens
slightly.
The luggage compartment is lit when
the luggage compartment lid is opened.
Manual operation
In the event of electrical malfunction
Turn the master key to the right as far
as it will go, the luggage compartment
lid will open slightly.
The luggage compartment lid is locked
again as soon as you close the lid.
To open from the inside
If the luggage compartment lid has not
been locked separately, you can open it
with this button in the footwell on the
driver's side when the vehicle is sta-
tionary.
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To close
The handle recesses in the interior trim
panel of the luggage compartment lid
make it easier to pull the lid down.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the luggage com-
partment lid is clear when it is closed,
following the same precautions as with
all closing procedures.<
Operate the vehicle only when the
luggage compartment lid is com-
pletely closed. Otherwise, exhaust
fumes could penetrate the interior of
the vehicle.<
Nevertheless, should it be absolutely
necessary to operate the vehicle with
the luggage compartment lid open, with
closed convertible top:
1. Close all windows
2. Greatly increase the quantity of air
from the automatic climate control
system, refer to page 98.
Emergency release
This lever releases the luggage com-
partment lid from the luggage compart-
ment's interior.
Luggage compartment lid
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Luggage compartment
To fold up and secure the floor
panel
1. Pull up at the handle and fold the
panel up
2. Press the button to release the
hanger from the handle
3. Hook the handle into the rubber seal
of the drip rail.
Carefully replace the hanger in its
holder when lowering the floor
panel back down.<
The fittings at the corners of the lug-
gage compartment provide you with a
convenient means of attaching luggage
nets* and flexible straps for securing
luggage.
Refer also to Cargo loading on
page 106.
Enlarging luggage compartment
With the convertible top closed, you
can enlarge the luggage compartment.
To do this, flip the handle outward and
press it down and toward the front of
the vehicle. The convertible top com-
partment panel is now raised and
secured.
To fold down the convertible top
compartment panel
To open the convertible top, the con-
vertible top compartment panel must
be lowered. To do this, fold out the
handle and pull opposite the direction
of travel.
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When opening the convertible top,
refer to page 39, make sure that
the convertible top compartment panel
is folded down in the luggage compart-
ment; otherwise you may damage
something.<
Electric power windows
To open and close windows
When leaving the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key from the
lock and remember to close the doors
to prevent children from operating the
power windows and injuring them-
selves, etc.<
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher
> Press the switch until you feel resis-
tance: the window continues to move
as long as you continue to press the
switch
> Press the switch briefly past the pres-
sure point: the window moves auto-
matically. Touching the switch again
stops the opening cycle.
You can close the windows in the same
manner by pulling the switch. The rear
windows do not close automatically.
Luggage compartment
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Operating all windows at once
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher
> Press the switch until you feel resis-
tance: all of the windows will con-
tinue to lower as long as you con-
tinue to press the switch
> Press the switch briefly past the pres-
sure point: all windows will move
automatically. Pressing the switch
again stops the opening cycle.
You can close the windows in the same
manner by pulling the switch. The win-
dows cannot be closed automatically
using this switch.
For the convenience mode via the
remote control or the door lock, refer to
page 31 or 33.
After the ignition has been
switched off
After the ignition has been switched off:
you can still use the electric power win-
dows for up to 15 minutes, as long as
no one opens any of the doors.
Protective function
If the closing force of a front window
exceeds a certain value as the window
is being closed, the closing procedure
is immediately interrupted and the win-
dow opens again slightly.
Despite this protective function,
you must still make sure that there
are no obstacles within the closing
range of the windows. Otherwise, it
cannot be guaranteed that the closing
procedure will be interrupted in certain
cases, e.g. when very thin objects are
in the closing range.
This protective function is deactivated
when the switch is pulled past the
resistance point and held there.<
After power loss
After the battery has been discon-
nected, the protective function must be
reinitialized. Please contact your BMW
center.
Convertible top
The completely automatically operated
convertible top combines assured pro-
tection against the elements with sim-
ple and easy handling.
To gain maximum satisfaction from your
convertible, please observe the follow-
ing:
> It is advisable to close the convertible
top when the vehicle is being parked.
The closed convertible top not only
protects the passenger compartment
from unforeseeable damage from the
weather, it also provides a certain
degree of theft protection. In addi-
tion, keep valuables only in the
locked luggage compartment, even
when the convertible top is closed
> Never mount a roof-mounted luggage
rack on the convertible top
> At temperatures below 147/–106
do not operate the convertible top to
prevent damage.
Never store the convertible top in
its compartment for more than
one day while it is wet to avoid perma-
nent damage from moisture.<
Do not lay objects on the convert-
ible top, as they could fall off
when it moves, causing vehicle damage
or personal injury.<
Electric power windows
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Driving when the opening or clos-
ing process has not been com-
pleted can cause vehicle damage or
personal injuries.
Do not reach into the convertible top
mechanism during opening and closing.
Keep children away from the moving
parts of the convertible top during
operation.<
If possible, only operate the con-
vertible top with the vehicle
stopped, as otherwise the process may
be interrupted.
If you set the convertible top in motion
with the vehicle stationary and then
have to start suddenly – for instance, at
a traffic light – you can still complete
the operation by driving as slowly as
possible and again pressing and main-
taining pressure on the button.<
To close the electric power win-
dows while driving, always be
sure to first close either the rear win-
dows, or all 4 windows at the same
time, otherwise, at high speed, the win-
dows may not close tightly.<
At higher speeds, the ensuing
vacuum in the passenger com-
partment can cause the convertible top
to begin fluttering. Increase the air sup-
ply via the ventilation controls so that a
vacuum does not occur in the vehicle.<
Opening and closing
1 To close
2 To open
To avoid placing unnecessary
loads on the battery, you should
avoid operating the top when the
engine is switched off.
Before closing the convertible top,
remove any objects from the windshield
frame that could keep the convertible
top from closing properly.<
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher, and with the vehicle stationary
1. Read and comply with the preceding
safety precautions
Convertible top
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2. Ensure that the convertible top com-
partment panel in the luggage com-
partment is folded down, see
page 37; otherwise, it will not be
possible to open the convertible top
3. Make sure that the luggage compart-
ment lid is closed
4. Press and hold the corresponding
button for convertible top operation.
The luggage compartment lid can-
not be opened while the convert-
ible top is in motion.<
During convertible top operation
the rear window moves toward the
passenger compartment. To prevent
injuries, make sure that the closing path
of the convertible top is unobstructed.<
After having been stored for an
extended period of time in the
convertible top compartment, e.g. dur-
ing the winter months because the
hardtop was being used, you may have
to support the convertible top by hand
when closing it for the first time.
If the convertible top should halt right
before the closing phase is completed,
press against the front part of the con-
vertible top frame from the outside to
help the closing process along. Keep
pressing the button while doing so until
the top starts up again on its own.<
Indicator lamps
> The red indicator lamp is lit whenever
the convertible top is in motion. It
goes out as soon as the opening or
closing operation has been com-
pleted
> If the red indicator lamp flashes after
the button is released, the convertible
top has not yet been opened or
closed completely. You can resume
operation in the desired direction by
pressing the button again
> If the yellow indicator lamp lights up
continuously with the button pressed,
the convertible top compartment
panel has been raised and the top
cannot be moved.
The side windows move down slightly
whenever the button for operating the
convertible top is pressed.
They will go back up if you keep holding
the button down for more than
2 seconds after the opening or closing
process has been completed and the
indicator lamp has gone out.
Interruption
The convertible top stops moving
immediately when the button is
released. You can resume operation in
the desired direction by pressing the
button again
Do not close the side windows
using the power window switches
if the convertible top has not been
closed completely. Otherwise, the side
windows may not seal properly with the
rubber seals of the convertible top.<
If the opening or closing operation is
interrupted by releasing the buttons,
the convertible top remains in the
respective position for 15 minutes
before it slowly moves into a stable
position. The operation can be contin-
ued by pressing the buttons.
Convertible top
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Do not repeatedly interrupt and
resume the closing operation, as
otherwise the fully-automatic convert-
ible top mechanism could be dam-
aged.<
In certain cases, the luggage compart-
ment lid cannot be opened if the open-
ing or closing operation has been inter-
rupted.
Operate the convertible top manu-
ally in emergency situations only
to avoid causing damage due to incor-
rect operation.<
Convenience operation via
remote control and driver's door
lock
Refer to pages 31 and 33.
Closing manually in the event of
an electrical malfunction
1 Emergency operation
2 Allen wrench
3 Recess
Only operate the convertible top
manually to close it. Never open it
manually since the convertible top
compartment lid cannot be locked and
would open during driving.<
Manual closing is best carried out
by two persons from outside with
the driver's door open and the driver's
seat folded forward. No one is to be in
the rear seat while you are doing this.<
1. Remove the center piece between
the rear seats. Take the trim off of the
guide rod and flip it forward
2. Press down hard on the emergency
lock 1 – see previous illustration.
After a brief pause, the mechanisms
for the convertible top compartment
lid will be released
If the mechanism for the convert-
ible top compartment lid does not
unlock, then insert the Allen wrench 2
into the recess 3 and turn clockwise to
release it.<
3. If the luggage compartment lid is
closed, open the convertible top
compartment lid up as far as the stop
will allow
Convertible top
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4. Grasp the convertible top by the lat-
eral guide section – see arrow 1 –
and the front convertible top frame –
see arrow 2. Lift out the top and
swing forward until you encounter a
perceptible resistance at a stop.
Position the rear convertible top
frame vertically and close the con-
vertible top compartment lid. Fold
down the rear convertible top frame
To avoid damaging the side trim,
always fold the convertible top
forward before folding the rear frame
brace up into its vertical position.<
5. Use a screwdriver to lift out the cover
panel that is in the center of the front
convertible top frame
6. Insert the Allen wrench 2 – refer to
page 42 – into the recess – see arrow
7. Pull down on the front convertible
top frame as far as possible. Close
the convertible top further by turning
the wrench in a clockwise direction;
continue turning until the front con-
vertible top frame is locked to the
windshield frame. The rear convert-
ible top frame will automatically be
pressed down onto the convertible
top compartment lid and, because of
the tension, will close completely.
The closing operation must be
completed, as otherwise damage
and/or injuries may result.<
Please consult your BMW center
to have the defect corrected.<
Convertible top
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Position for cleaning
To be able to access the convertible
top compartment, lean the rear frame of
the convertible top against the cover of
the convertible top compartment.
First, use the button for activating
the convertible top to unlock the
locks of the convertible top compart-
ment. Refer to page 40.<
For additional information on vehi-
cle care, refer to the Caring for
your vehicle brochure.<
Wind deflector*
With the convertible top open, the wind
deflector keeps air movement in the
passenger compartment to a minimum,
thus providing you with a pleasant
drive, even at higher speeds. The wind
deflector comes in a protective sleeve,
and because of its slim dimensions, can
be easily stored in the luggage com-
partment.
Installation
1. Remove wind deflector from the pro-
tective sleeve
2. Flip out both sides and lock into
place. It is essential for the two com-
ponents marked in the illustration to
mesh at this point
Convertible top
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3. Hold the wind deflector so that the
smaller half points toward the front
and guide the mounting pin for the
side piece into the proper opening
4. Pull back on the mounting pin for the
other side piece by using a slide, so
that the mounting pin can be guided
into the opening provided
5. Unlock the convertible top compart-
ment lid via the convertible top con-
trol button, refer to page 40, and
open the convertible top compart-
ment lid
6. Flip the back half of the wind deflec-
tor backward, so that the mounts are
lying on the vehicle
7. Close the convertible top compart-
ment lid via the convertible top con-
trol button. The wind deflector is now
attached so that it is theft-proof.
Operate the convertible top com-
partment lid from above only in
order to avoid any pinching.
With the wind deflector in place: to
avoid damaging the wind deflector
never push the front seats all the way
back.<
Removal
Follow the same procedure as when
installing, just reverse the steps.
Wind deflector*
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To adjust
Safe seating position
For driving that is relaxed and less likely
to cause fatigue, you should select a
sitting position that reflects your per-
sonal requirements. In combination
with the safety belts and airbags, the
correct seating position also plays an
important role in enhancing occupant
safety in the event of an accident. To
ensure that the vehicle's safety systems
provide you with optimal protection, we
request that you direct your careful
attention to the following section.
For supplementary information on
transporting children, refer to page 58.
Sitting safely with airbags
Always maintain an adequate dis-
tance between yourself and the
airbags. Always hold the steering wheel
by the rim to keep any chance of injury
to hands or arms to an absolute mini-
mum should the airbag be deployed.
Never allow any objects, individuals or
animals to obstruct the areas between
passengers and airbags. Never use the
front airbag's cover as a storage tray or
support for objects of any kind. Never
allow front passengers to rest their feet
or legs on the airbag cover.<
For airbag locations and additional
information on airbags, refer to
page 55.
Sitting safely with safety belts
Your vehicle is equipped with four
seats, each of which is provided with a
safety belt.
Never allow more than one person
to wear a single safety belt. Never
allow infants or small children to ride in
a passenger's lap. Avoid twisting the
belt while routing it firmly across the
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. Be sure that the
belt does not become caught or
jammed. Avoid wearing bulky clothing
and pull on the lap belt periodically to
retension it over your shoulders. In the
event of a frontal impact, a loose lap
belt could slide over the hips, leading to
abdominal injury. In addition, the safety
belt's restraint effectiveness is reduced
if the belt is worn loosely. Expectant
mothers should always wear their
safety belts, taking care to position the
lap belt against the lower hips, where it
will not exert pressure against the
abdominal area.<
For information on using the safety
belts, refer to page 50.
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Seats
When adjusting your seat, always
observe the following precautions
Never try to adjust your seat while
operating the vehicle. The seat
could respond with 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. If you do so, there is a risk
that you will slide under the safety belt
in an accident, thus reducing the pro-
tection provided by the safety belt.
With the wind deflector in place:
Do not push the front seats all the way
back, otherwise the wind deflector will
be damaged.<
Adjusting the seats
> Power seat adjustment, refer to
page 47
> Head restraint, refer to page 48
> Entering the rear, refer to page 49
Power seat adjustment
Seat adjustment
1 Tilt angle
2 Forward/backward adjustment
3 Height
4 Backrest angle
You can manually adjust the thigh sup-
port.
Thigh support
Pull the lever and adjust the position of
the cushion for thigh support as
desired.
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Adjusting the 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 position.
> Increase/decrease curvature: press
front/rear of the switch
> Increase the upper/lower curvature:
press the upper/lower end of the
switch.
Head restraints
Front head restraints
1 Height
Head restraints reduce the risk of
spinal injury in the event of an
accident.
Adjust the head restraint.
When moving the head restraints up or
down, do not grab on between the
head restraint and the upper edge of
the backrest to avoid the possibility of
injury.<
Tilt:
Position the head restraints manually in
the preferred position.
Power seat adjustment
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Rear head restraints
The rear head restraints may only
be lowered if there are no passen-
gers in the rear seats. If you do so, you
are in violation of the law. Raise the rear
head restraints before taking on any
passengers in the back.<
To completely lower the rear head
restraints:
1. Press the button and hold it down
2. Push the head restraint down from
above.
Raising the rear head restraints
Raise the head restraints until you hear
them click into place.
Do not remove the rear head
restraints as this would damage
them.<
For further information, please consult
your BMW center.
Do not use the rear head
restraints as storage shelves.
Always keep the travel path for the roll-
over protection system free and clear.
Under no circumstances should you put
any kind of cover such as an antima-
cassar on the head restraints, refer also
to the labeling on the head restraints.<
Entering the rear
The seat-integrated safety belt system
allows for easy access to the rear.
1. Lift the lever 1 up and tilt the back-
rest forward
2. Press and hold button 2 in driving
direction until the seat moves to the
desired position
3. After entering the rear, fold back and
lock the backrest
4. Press button 2 opposite the direction
of travel and hold. The seat moves
back into its previous position. If the
button 2 is released beforehand, the
seat stops in the respective position.
Head restraints
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The seat can be locked into posi-
tion when it is tilted forward. This
is particularly convenient when entering
the vehicle on an incline, for example.
Press against the backrest until you
hear it snap into place. Lever 1 does
not have to be released to fold the seat
back.<
Lock both backrests while driving,
otherwise there is a danger of an
unexpected movement causing an
accident.<
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster flashes when the
backrest is not locked, refer to
page 18.
Safety belts
Always wear your safety belt
Always fasten your safety belt before
starting off. As supplemental restraint
devices, the airbags are designed to
enhance the effectiveness of the safety
belts, and not to replace them.
Before putting your safety belts on
in the rear, take them out of the
holder.<
Leave the rear safety belts in the
holders if they are not needed, in
order to avoid unwanted movement
from the safety belts at high speeds.<
To close
Make sure you hear the lock engage in
the belt buckle.
To release
1. Press the red button in the belt
buckle
2. Hold the belt
3. Guide the belt back into its reel.
Safety belt height
The front safety belt automatically
adapts to your body size via the setting
of the head restraint height, refer to
page 48.
If the safety belt system has been
subjected to the stresses involved
in an accident or otherwise damaged:
have the entire safety belt mechanism
replaced by your BMW center, includ-
ing the safety belt tensioner. In addi-
tion, have your BMW center inspect the
safety belt anchors. If a child-restraint
system was in the vehicle during an
accident, consult the manufacturer's
instructions regarding replacement.<
Entering the rear
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Seat and mirror memory
You can store and recall three different
driver's seat and outside mirror posi-
tions.
Memory will not retain the adjust-
ment made to the lumbar sup-
port.<
To store
1. Ignition key in position 1 or 2
2. Adjust your seat and outside mirrors
to the desired position
3. Press the M
EMORY button: the indica-
tor lamp in the button lights up
4. Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as
desired. The indicator lamp goes out.
To select a stored setting
Do not select a memory position
while the vehicle is moving. If you
do so, there is a risk of accident from
unexpected seat movement.<
Driver's door open after unlocking or
ignition key in position 1:
> Briefly press memory button 1, 2 or 3,
as desired.
Movement stops immediately when
one of the seat-adjustment or mem-
ory buttons is operated during the
adjustment process.
With the driver's door closed and the
ignition key either removed or in posi-
tion 0 or 2:
> Press and hold the desired memory
button – 1, 2 or 3 – until the adjust-
ment process is completed.
If you press the M
EMORY button acci-
dentally: press the button again; the
indicator lamp goes out.
You can have this feature pro-
grammed so that when you use
the remote control from your personal-
ized key to unlock your door, your seat
and the exterior mirrors will move into
your own preferred positions.<
Before activating the programmed
adjustment feature, ensure that
the footwell behind the driver's seat is
empty and unobstructed. If you fail to
do so, persons, animals or objects
could be injured or damaged if the seat
should move backward.<
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Passenger-side exterior mirror tilt
function
Automatic curb monitor*
1. Move mirror selector switch 1 to the
driver's mirror position
2. When shifting into Reverse, or plac-
ing the selector lever in position R,
the passenger-side mirror tilts down-
ward. This brings the lower area
adjacent to the vehicle – curbs, etc. –
into the driver's field of vision while
parking.
How far the passenger mirror tilts
can be set individually for each
ignition key.<
You can deactivate this automatic fea-
ture by setting the mirror selection
switch to the passenger side position.
Seat heating*
The seat cushion and backrest can be
heated with the ignition key in
position 2.
You can call up different heating modes
by repeatedly pressing the buttons.
You can also switch the higher heating
modes off directly:
Press the button and hold it slightly
longer.
Seat and mirror memory
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Steering wheel
To adjust
Never attempt to adjust the steer-
ing wheel while driving the vehicle
– it could respond with unexpected
movement, posing a potential accident
hazard.<
1. Push the locking lever downward
2. Adjust steering column reach and
height for your selected seating posi-
tion
3. Pull the lever back up.
Mirrors
To adjust exterior mirrors
1 Switch for 4-way adjustment
2 Selection switch for changing
between mirrors
To adjust manually
The mirrors can also be adjusted manu-
ally:
Press the edges of the lens.
To store the mirror setting, refer to Seat
and mirror memory on page 51.
The passenger-side mirror fea-
tures a convex lens. When esti-
mating the distance between yourself
and other traffic, bear in mind that the
objects reflected in the mirror are closer
than they appear. This means that esti-
mations of the distance to following
traffic should not be regarded as pre-
cise.<
Electric defrosting
Both mirrors are heated automatically in
ignition key position 2.
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Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimming feature
This mirror automatically responds to
ambient light and headlamp glare from
following vehicles by dimming through
an infinitely variable range and auto-
matically reverts to its clear, undimmed
setting whenever you shift into Reverse
or move the selector lever into
position R.
There are two photocells for automatic
dimming. One photocell – see arrow – is
positioned in the mirror's frame, while
the other is slightly offset on the oppo-
site side of the mirror.
For the mirror to function perfectly,
keep the photocells clean and the area
between the inside rearview mirror and
the windshield free of any obstruction
like stickers, etc.
Mirrors
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Passenger safety systems
Airbags
1 Front airbags on the driver and pas-
senger sides
2 Side airbags on the driver and pas-
senger sides – 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 side airbags provide
protection in the event of a collision
from the side. They help support the
respective seat occupant's upper body.
For information on the correct sitting
position, refer to page 46.
The side airbags in the rear pas-
senger area* of your vehicle may
already have been deactivated by a
BMW center. You may have them acti-
vated if you desire to do so. Please
contact your BMW center for additional
information.<
The airbags will not be triggered in
the event of a minor accident, cer-
tain vehicle rollover situations or colli-
sions from the rear.<
Do not apply adhesive materials to
the cover panels of the airbags,
cover them or modify them in any other
way. Do not attempt to remove the air-
bag restraint system from the vehicle. In
the event of a malfunction, deactivation
or triggered activation – as a response
to an accident – of the airbag restraint
system, consult your BMW center for
inspection, repair or disassembly. Mod-
ifications may not be made on either
the wiring or the individual components
in the airbag system. These include the
upholstered covers on the steering
wheel, instrument panel, side trim pan-
els of the doors and front roof pillars
and on the sides of the headliner. Do
not attempt to remove or dismantle the
steering wheel. Unprofessional
attempts to service the system could
lead to failure in an emergency or
undesired airbag activation, either of
which could result in personal injury. Do
not touch the individual components
directly after the system has been trig-
gered, as otherwise there is a danger of
burns.<
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At all times, occupants should sit
upright and be properly restrained
– infants and small children in appropri-
ate child-restraint systems; larger chil-
dren and adults using the safety belts.
Never let an occupant's head rest near
or on a side airbag because the inflating
airbag could cause a serious or fatal
injury. Please note that the word Airbag
imprinted on the door trim panel indi-
cates the airbag's location.
Accident research shows that the saf-
est place for children in an automobile
is in the rear seat. However, a child sit-
ting in the rear seat and not properly
restrained may place his or her head on
or near the side airbag, if so equipped.
For example, a child – even though
belted – may fall asleep with his or her
head against the side airbag. It may be
difficult for a driver to ensure that chil-
dren in the rear seat will remain prop-
erly positioned at all times and not
place their heads on or near the side
airbag. Therefore, we recommend that
the rear seat side airbags, if provided,
be deactivated if you plan to transport
children in the rear seat.
The rear seat side airbags may already
have been deactivated by a BMW cen-
ter. If you are uncertain of their status,
or wish to have the airbags activated or
deactivated, please contact your BMW
center.<
Even when all these guidelines are
observed, there is still a small residual
risk of injuries to the face, hands and
arms occurring from airbag deployment
in isolated instances.
In sensitive individuals, the ignition and
inflation noise may induce a mild hear-
ing loss that is temporary in most
cases.
Airbag warning information is also pro-
vided on the sun visors.
This is the right way a child should sit in
a child restraint when rear side airbags
are provided.
Airbags
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This is the right way a larger child
should sit wearing the seat belt when
rear side airbags are provided.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp indicates the
operational status of the airbag
system when the ignition key is
in position 1 or higher.
System operational:
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
when the ignition key is turned to
position 1 or higher.
System malfunction:
> Indicator lamp does not come on or
> indicator lamp lights up continuously.
If there is a system malfunction,
there is a risk that the airbags will
not be triggered within their normal
response range, even if the level of
impact would normally have triggered
them. Have your BMW center inspect
the airbag system immediately.<
Airbags
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Transporting children safely
Leave the rear safety belts in the
holders if they are not needed to
avoid unwanted movement from the
safety belts at high speeds.<
Commercially available child seats
complying with the legal standard are
designed to be secured with a seat belt
or with the seat belt portion of a combi-
nation lap/shoulder belt. Improperly or
inadequately installed restraint sys-
tems can increase the risk of injury to
children. Always read and follow the
instructions that come with the system.
Correct location for installing
In your BMW, all seats equipped with a
three-point safety belt – except for the
driver's seat – are suitable for installing
universal child-restraint systems of all
age classes and which have been
approved for the age group in question.
Child-restraint system with tether
strap
If you use a child-restraint system with
a tether strap, two additional tether
anchorage points have been provided.
Depending on the location selected for
seating in the rear passenger area,
attach the tether strap to the corre-
sponding anchorage point to secure the
child-restraint system, as shown in the
illustration.
1. Open the convertible top compart-
ment lid, refer to page 39
2. Lift the headrest and pass the tether
strap between the headrest and the
seat back. It is recommended that
you return the head restraint back to
its lowest possible position
3. Adjust the tether strap according to
the child-restraint manufacturer's
instructions
4. Close the convertible top compart-
ment panel.
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It is recommended to cover the child-
restraint attaching clip with a soft mate-
rial to prevent damage to the stored
soft top.
Should a hard top be installed, the
fitting of child harness tether
strap/s – if child seat is required – is
necessary before installation of the
hard top.<
Before installing any child-
restraint device or child seat,
please read the following:
Never install a rearward-facing child-
restraint system in the front passenger
seat of this vehicle.
Your vehicle is equipped with an airbag
supplemental restraint system for the
front passenger. Because the backrest
on any rearward-facing child-restraint
system – of the kind designed for
infants under 1 year and 20 lbs/9 kg –
would be within the airbag's deploy-
ment range, you should never mount
such a device in the front passenger
seat, as the impact of the airbag against
the child restraint's backrest could lead
to serious or fatal injuries.
If it is necessary for a child – not an
infant – to ride in the front seat, certain
precautions should be taken. First,
move the passenger seat as far away
from the instrument panel as possible.
This important precaution is intended to
maximize the distance between the air-
bag and the child. Older children
should be tightly secured with the
safety belt after they have outgrown a
booster seat that is appropriate for their
age, height, and weight.
Younger children should be secured in
an appropriate forward-facing child-
restraint system that has first been
properly secured with a safety belt.
Never install a rearward-facing child-
restraint system in the front passenger
seat.
We strongly urge you to carefully read
and comply with the instructions for
installation and use provided by the
child restraint's manufacturer when-
ever you use such a device.
Do not attempt to modify child-restraint
systems. If you do this, the protection
provided by these systems could be
impaired.
Be sure that all occupants – of all ages –
remain properly and securely restrained
at all times.<
All rear seating positions in your vehicle
meet the recommendations of
SAE J1819, an industry-recommended
practice for securing child-restraint sys-
tems in motor vehicles.
Transporting children safely
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Securing child-restraint system
All of the rear belt retractors and the
front passenger's safety belt can be
locked for mounting and securing child-
restraint systems.
A label with the appropriate instructions
for this is located in the immediate
vicinity of the buckle latch of each
safety belt.
To lock the safety belt
Extract the entire length of the belt from
the inertia reel mechanism. Allow the
reel to retract the belt somewhat and
engage the buckle, then tighten the belt
against the child-restraint system. The
retraction mechanism is now locked.
The belt cannot be extracted further.
Always observe the installation instruc-
tions provided by the manufacturer of
the child-restraint system.
To unlock the safety belt
Release the safety belt, remove the
child seat and retract the safety belt to
its end position on the belt retractor.
LATCH child-restraint mounting
system
LATCH: Lower Anchors and Tether for
CHildren
The left and right rear seats are both
equipped with a LATCH child-restraint
mounting system.
Transporting children safely
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Canadian models only:
The LATCH anchorage points are iden-
tified by buttons.
The anchorage points for the LATCH
child-restraint system installation are
located behind the upholstery at the
positions indicated by the arrows.
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 mounting system.
Leave the rear safety belts in the hold-
ers if they are not needed to avoid
unwanted movement from the safety
belts at high speeds.<
To prevent damage to the upholstery,
you can purchase an insertion aid* from
your BMW center.
Firmly press the insertion aid into the
gap between the seat cushion and
backrest, continuing until the two
guides snap into place on the LATCH
brackets in the seat.
The illustration is an example showing
the anchorages for a LATCH child-
restraint system on the right rear seat.
Transporting children safely
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Rollover protection system
In the event of an accident or some
other critical driving situation – extreme
tilting in the longitudinal or transverse
axis, loss of contact with the ground –
the rollover protection system will be
automatically activated. The protective
bars located in the rear head restraints
extend within fractions of a second.
In addition to the integrated rollover bar
in the windshield frame, the rollover
protection system affords all the vehicle
occupants necessary headroom.
Always keep the travel path for the
rollover protection system free
and clear. Under no circumstances
should you cover the head restraints.
In the event of less serious accidents,
the safety belt will protect you and,
depending on the severity of the acci-
dent, so will the safety belt tensioner
and the multi-stage airbag restraint sys-
tem as well.<
If, after being automatically triggered,
the protective function is not needed,
then the rollover protection system can
be lowered back into place. No special
tool is needed for this.
1. Using a screwdriver from the
onboard tool kit, remove the cover
panel; to do this, position the screw-
driver under the notch
2. Push the lever toward the front of the
vehicle and keep it in this position
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3. Keep pressing down on the protec-
tive bar from on top – see arrow 1 –
until you hear it click into place
4. Put the cover panel back in place
and press down firmly
5. Push the back panel of the head
restraint closed – see arrow 2.
Do the same for the second protective
bar. If you are not familiar with any of
the procedures, consult your BMW
center.
Have the rollover protection system
checked out by your BMW center after
it has been inadvertently triggered.
Do not move the convertible top
under any circumstances if the
rollover protection system has
extended.
Do not use the rear head restraints as
storage shelves.
Absolutely no modifications are to be
made to any of the rollover protection
system's individual components or any
of its wiring.
Only your BMW center is to carry out
any work on the rollover protection sys-
tem.
Work done on the system that is carried
out improperly could lead to failure in
an emergency or accidental activation.
Regarding having the system checked
to ensure long-term operation: be scru-
pulous in adhering to the Service Inter-
val Display for maintenance intervals.
Every two years at the latest, the roll-
over protection system must be
inspected by a BMW center.<
Rollover protection system
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Vehicle Memory, Key Memory
How the system functions
You have probably frequently wished
that you could configure individual
functions of your vehicles to reflect your
own personal requirements. In engi-
neering your vehicle, BMW has pro-
vided for a number of options for per-
sonal adjustment 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. You can have up to four
different basic settings adjusted for four
different persons. The only require-
ment is that each person uses his or her
own remote control key.
When your vehicle is unlocked with the
remote control, the vehicle recognizes
the individual user by means of a data
exchange with the key, and makes
adjustments accordingly.
Distinguishing between keys
In order for you to be able to distinguish
between different keys, colored decals
are supplied together with the keys.
What the system can do
Your BMW center can provide you with
details on the possibilities that the Vehi-
cle and Key Memory systems offer.
You will see this symbol through-
out the Owner's Manual. It is to
remind you at appropriate places of the
settings that are available to you.<
Examples for Vehicle Memory:
> Various signals that can serve as
acknowledgment for locking and
unlocking the vehicle, refer to
page 31
> Activates/deactivates the 'Follow me
home' lamps function, to page 91
> Activates/deactivates daytime driv-
ing lamps, refer to page 91
> Sets the units of measure for display-
ing time, outside temperature, dis-
tance traveled and fuel consumption
in the instrument cluster
> When you shift into Reverse, an
acoustic signal indicates that PDC
has been activated, refer to page 85
> Switches on rear window defroster
automatically, refer to page 99
> After giving an ice warning, the
onboard computer display returns to
the previous setting, refer to page 83.
Examples for Key Memory:
> Locks the vehicle automatically after
you start off, refer to page 34
> Automatically moves the seat and
outside mirror into position for the
programmed driver when unlocking
the vehicle, refer to page 51
> Automatic tilting of the passenger-
side mirror, refer to Automatic curb
monitor, page 52
> After the engine is started, calls up
the last selected driving program for
each shifting mode, refer to page 73.
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Driving
Ignition lock
Ignition key positions
0 Steering locked
1 Steering unlocked
2 Ignition on
3 Start engine
Steering locked
The key can only be inserted and
removed in this position.
After removing the key, turn the steer-
ing wheel slightly to the left or right until
you hear the lock engage.
If the key is not removed, an acoustic
signal sounds when the driver door is
opened.
Steering unlocked
You will find that it is often easier to turn
the ignition key from position 0 to posi-
tion 1 when you move the steering
wheel slightly to help disengage the
lock.
Individual electrical accessories are
ready for operation.
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Starting the engine and driving off
Do not allow the engine to warm
up by leaving it running while the
vehicle remains stationary. Instead,
drive off immediately at a moderate
engine speed.<
Do not allow the engine to run in
enclosed spaces. Otherwise,
breathing the exhaust fumes can lead
to unconsciousness and death. The
exhaust gases contain carbon monox-
ide, an odorless and colorless, but
highly toxic gas. Do not leave the vehi-
cle unattended with the engine running.
An unattended vehicle with a running
engine represents a safety hazard.<
If the engine does not start on the first
attempt – if it is very hot or cold, for
instance:
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Cold starts at very low temperatures
below about 57/–156 and at high
altitudes above 3,300 ft/1,000 m:
> On the first start attempt, it may be
necessary to engage the starter for a
longer period, but no longer than
20 seconds.
Extended starting attempts, char-
acterized by excessively frequent
or long periods with the starter
engaged, can damage the catalytic
converter.<
When driving, standing at idle or
parking the vehicle, take care to
avoid contact between the hot exhaust
system and flammable materials –
grass, hay, leaves, etc. Such contact
could lead to a fire, resulting in serious
personal injury and property damage.<
Manual transmission
1. Engage the parking brake
2. Gearshift lever in idling position
3. Start the engine. Do not press the
accelerator pedal. Do not actuate the
starter for too short a time. Do not
turn it for more than approx.
20 seconds. Release the ignition key
immediately when the engine starts.
Sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic
1. Depress footbrake
2. Move selector lever into position N
3. Start the engine. Do not actuate the
starter for too short a time. Do not
turn it for more than approx.
20 seconds. Release the ignition key
immediately when the engine starts
4. Engage a driving position
5. Release footbrake and slowly
depress accelerator pedal.
With the engine running, the gear
indicator in the SMG Drivelogic
display flashes to indicate that a driving
position is engaged with the driver's
door open or if the hood is not closed
properly, refer to page 71.
If neither the pedals, the shift paddles,
nor the selector lever are actuated, then
the gearbox is automatically taken out
of gear after approx. four seconds. It
will then be necessary to move the
selector lever back to position N before
engaging the desired driving position.
Driving off is not possible with the hood
open.<
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Before exiting the vehicle with the
engine running, move the selector
lever into position N and apply the
parking brake.
Never leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unat-
tended vehicle with a running engine
represents a safety hazard.<
Engine idle speed is controlled by the
engine computer system. Increased
speeds at start-up are normal and
should decrease as the engine warms
up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.
To prevent the battery from discharg-
ing, always deactivate electrical
devices that are not in use. Switch the
ignition off when the vehicle is not
being driven.
Starting the engine and driving off
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Switching off the engine
You should never remove the igni-
tion key when the vehicle is in
motion, as the steering lock could
engage.
When you leave the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key and engage the
steering lock.<
Always engage the parking brake
when parking on downhill roads.
Engaging a gear may not provide ade-
quate resistance to rolling.<
Manual transmission
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic
If you turn the ignition key to position 1
or 0 with the selector lever in the for-
ward or reverse position, a gear auto-
matically remains engaged.
If you turn the ignition key to position 1
or 0 with the selector lever in
position N, a warning tone and the
flashing gear indicator in the SMG
Drivelogic display remind you that no
gear is engaged to secure the vehicle
against rolling.
The warning stops after approx. ten
seconds. If you move the selector lever
into a forward or reverse position dur-
ing this time, a gear is automatically
engaged.
Parking brake
The parking brake is primarily designed
to prevent the vehicle from rolling while
parked. It operates on the rear wheels.
To engage
The detent engages automatically, and
the indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster comes on when the ignition key
is in position 2, refer to page 18.
To release
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the
button and lower the lever.
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If exceptional circumstances
make it necessary to engage the
parking brake while the vehicle is in
motion, do not pull it with excessive
pressure. Keep your thumb pressed
against the release button while care-
fully pulling the lever up.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
braking and loss of traction – fishtailing
– at the rear axle.
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is engaged.
Always engage the parking brake when
parking on slopes and inclined sur-
faces. Engaging a gear may not provide
adequate resistance to rolling, not even
in first or reverse gear.<
To avoid corrosion and one-sided
braking, apply the parking brake
lightly from time to time when coasting
to a standstill – at a traffic light, for
example – provided that it is safe to do
so.<
Manual transmission
When shifting gears in the
fifth/sixth gear plane, be sure to
press the gearshift lever to the right in
order to prevent inadvertent selection
of a gear in the third/fourth gear plane.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or 'riding' the clutch.
Use the parking brake instead. Riding
the clutch leads to severe and prema-
ture clutch wear.<
Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is station-
ary. Press the gearshift lever to the left
to overcome the slight resistance.
When you select reverse the backup
lamps will light up automatically when
the ignition key is in position 2.
Parking brake
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Sequential M gearbox with Drivelogic*
The concept
The sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic is an automated manual
gearbox with which clutching and shift-
ing is assumed by an electro-hydraulic
system.
The SMG Drivelogic is operated via two
shift paddles on the steering wheel and
the selector lever in the center console.
It offers the following functions:
> Sequential and automated shifting
mode
> Ability to choose between different
driving programs – Drivelogic
> Gradient assistance, refer to page 73
> Upshift display and shift lights, refer
to page 74
> RPM matching on downshifts
> Driving dependent functions:
The respective driving situation, e.g.
cornering, mountain driving or brak-
ing, is detected by sensors and taken
into account for shifting, e.g. to
achieve optimum gear selection dur-
ing deceleration and subsequent
acceleration
> Slip recognition at the rear axle for
increasing driving stability, e.g. dur-
ing downshifting on slippery road
surfaces
> Operating safety through protection
against misshifting.
Under normal operating conditions, fuel
consumption is lowest when driving in
the first driving program of the auto-
mated shifting mode.
Selector lever positions
R: Reverse position
N: Neutral position
Forward position with one-touch mode:
> S: sequential mode
> D: automated mode
> +: upshifting in sequential mode
> –: downshifting in sequential mode.
The SMG Drivelogic is ready for opera-
tion from ignition key position two or
higher.
For your safety, it is only possible to
engage a driving position with the vehi-
cle stopped approx. two seconds after
engaging position N with the footbrake
depressed – shift-lock function.
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Display in instrument cluster
The selector lever position, currently
engaged gear and selected driving pro-
gram are displayed in the instrument
cluster.
1 Engaged gear
2 Selected driving program, corre-
sponds to the number of illuminated
fields, refer to page 73
3 Tapping the selector lever to the right
switches over into the displayed shift
mode
4 'D' indicates an activated automated
shift mode
R – Reverse position
Only engage with the vehicle stopped
or at low speed, e.g. for rocking free in
deep snow.
An intermittent signal tone indi-
cates that the reverse position has
been engaged.<
N - Neutral
Always engage before starting the
engine.
If the driving situation requires, e.g.
when downshifting on slippery roads,
the SMG Drivelogic automatically dis-
engages and reengages the clutch, i.e.
it is not necessary to manually engage
position N.
S – Sequential mode
In the sequential mode all forward
gears are to be shifted by the driver.
To switch from automated to sequential
mode:
> Tap the selector lever to the right
toward 'S' or
> change gears with the selector lever
or the shift paddles on the steering
wheel.
You do not need to reduce the throttle
for shifting.
Sequential M gearbox with Drivelogic*
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Shifting gears with shift paddles on
steering wheel:
> To upshift, briefly pull the right pad-
dle +
> To downshift, briefly pull the left pad-
dle –.
Shift paddles with various widths
matched to the shape of your
hand are available from your BMW cen-
ter.<
Shifting gears with selector lever:
> To upshift, pull the selector lever
backward in the '+' direction
> To downshift, push the selector lever
in the '–' direction.
No automatic upshifting is carried out in
the sequential mode.
You accelerate from higher gears, e.g.
during passing, by manually downshift-
ing.
In the following situations the
SMG Drivelogic anticipates your
actions in the sequential mode:
> Upshifts and downshifts are only exe-
cuted at appropriate combinations of
engine rpm and vehicle speed. For
instance, downshifts that would
result in excessive engine speed are
not executed
> During a stop the gearbox is auto-
matically downshifted into the first
gear so that, e.g. before a traffic light,
it is only necessary to accelerate to
continue driving
> As speed diminishes, the gearbox
downshifts automatically, without you
taking any action, just before the
vehicle slows to below each gear's
minimum speed.
D - Automated mode
Each time the engine is started, the
automated mode is activated as soon
as you move the selector lever into the
forward driving position.
In the automated mode all forward
gears are shifted automatically.
To switch from sequential to automated
mode: tap the selector lever to the right
toward 'D'. Watch the display in the
instrument cluster, refer to page 71.
For rapid acceleration, e.g. during
passing, depress the accelerator pedal
completely – kickdown. The gearbox
now downshifts depending on the
selected driving program.
Even in the automated mode, you can
help specify the shifting point: if a gear-
dependent minimum speed is
exceeded, you can upshift by slowly
reducing pressure on the accelerator
pedal. In the process, the respective
driving situation is detected by sensors
and taken into account.
Sequential M gearbox with Drivelogic*
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Drivelogic
Drivelogic makes various driving pro-
grams available to you.
Press the Drivelogic repeatedly until the
desired driving program is shown in the
SMG display of the instrument cluster,
refer to page 71.
In the automated mode you can select
from five driving programs ranging from
convenience mode/winter operation to
sporty and highly dynamic.
In the first automated driving program,
starting off takes place in second gear,
which is advisable under winter road
conditions with ice and snow.
In the sequential mode you can choose
from six driving programs ranging from
balanced, dynamic driving – 1 – to
sporty, puristic driving – 6. The sporty,
puristic driving program can only be
activated with the Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) deactivated, refer to
page 86.
To maintain vehicle stability,
always drive with the DSC acti-
vated on whenever possible.<
Following each change between the
sequential and the automated mode,
the last driving program selected in the
respective mode is active. Exception:
instead of the last selected sequential
driving program 6, program 5 is acti-
vated only after the engine has been
started again.
Your vehicle is set so that when
the engine is started, the last
selected driving program saved in your
key is activated for each shifting
mode.<
Gradient assistance
The gradient assistance enables start-
ing off on grades with virtually no roll-
back. It can be activated in the sequen-
tial and automated mode with the vehi-
cle stopped and can be used for both
forward and reverse driving.
The vehicle may roll slightly before
it is held by the gradient assis-
tance after releasing the footbrake.
Two seconds after the footbrake is
released, the vehicle begins to roll, as it
is no longer held with the gradient
assistance.<
1. Depress footbrake with vehicle
stopped
2. Activate the gradient assistance by
pulling the left paddle for at least
0.5 seconds. An increase in the
engine speed indicates that the gra-
dient assistance is activated
Briefly pulling the left paddle again
deactivates the gradient assis-
tance again.<
3. Release the footbrake and start off
within two seconds.
The gradient assistance must be reacti-
vated before each use.
Sequential M gearbox with Drivelogic*
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Indicator lamp
The gearbox indicator lamp in
the instrument cluster goes out
after the engine is started.
> If it does not go out, or if it lights up
during driving, a malfunction has
occurred. The available functions
may be limited under certain circum-
stances.
Drive carefully and with the Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) activated.
Have the system checked by the
nearest BMW center
> If the indicator lamp flashes while
driving, the system is overloaded.
Avoid high loads until the indicator
lamp goes out again permanently.
Shift lights
To achieve the best possible vehicle
acceleration with a sporty driving style
in the sequential mode, shift lights in
the instrument cluster indicate the opti-
mum shifting point shortly before the
maximum engine speed is reached.
1. When the maximum engine speed is
approached, yellow indicator fields –
shift lights – in the tachometer light
up consecutively to indicate the
approaching upshift time
2. Shift at the latest when the last indi-
cator field lights up red.
Tire replacement, snow chains
Following a tire or wheel change and
after mounting or removing snow
chains, the slip recognition of the
SMG Drivelogic must become familiar
with the changed condition.
Reinitialize the system afterwards:
1. Move the selector lever into
position N on a straight stretch of
road at a speed of over 20 mph /
30 km/h
2. Pull both shift paddles for approx.
two seconds.
If you do not carry out the initialization,
the system automatically learns the
changed condition gradually during
driving. This can become apparent due
to brief opening and closing of the
clutch.
Sequential M gearbox with Drivelogic*
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Turn signal indicator/Headlamp flasher
1 High beams – blue indicator lamp
2 Headlamp flasher – blue indicator
lamp
3 Turn signal indicator – green indicator
lamps accompanied by a periodic
clicking sound from the relay
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond
the detent. It then returns to the center
position when released.
If the flashing indicator lamp and
the clicking from the relay are
both faster than normal, one of the turn
signal indicators has failed.<
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Washer/wiper system/Rain sensor*
0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent mode or rain sensor
2 Normal wipe
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
5 Rotary dial for control of the wipe
interval or the sensitivity of the rain
sensor
Intermittent mode
Not on vehicles with rain sensor.
You can select any of four sweep inter-
vals with rotary dial 5. In addition, the
wipe interval varies automatically
depending on road speed.
Rain sensor
The rain sensor is located on the wind-
shield directly behind the rearview mir-
ror.
To activate the rain sensor:
> With the ignition key in position 1
or higher, move the lever to
position 1. The wipers travel once
across the windshield, regardless of
the weather
> You can leave the lever in position 1
at all times. With the ignition key in
position 1 or higher, all you then need
to do to activate the rain sensor Acti-
vate by briefly turning rotary dial 5.
To adjust the sensitivity of the rain sen-
sor: turn rotary dial 5.
To switch off the rain sensor: put lever
in position 0.
Turn the rain sensor off in auto-
matic car washes. Failure to do so
could result in damage caused by
undesired wiper activation.<
Normal wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the wip-
ers switch automatically to intermittent
wipe – not on vehicles with rain sensor.
Fast wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the wip-
ers operate at normal speed – not on
vehicles with rain sensor.
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0 Wipers retracted
1 Clean windshield and headlamps
Clean windshield and headlamps*
Do not use the washers if there is
any danger that the fluid will
freeze on the windshield, as your vision
could be obscured. Always use a wind-
shield washer antifreeze in cold
weather. Refer to page 126.
Do not use the washers when the reser-
voir is empty. This could cause damage
to the washer pump.<
The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and activates the wipers
for a brief period.
When the vehicle's lighting system is
switched on, the headlamps will also be
cleaned at reasonable intervals.
Windshield washer nozzles
The windshield washer jets are warmed
automatically when the ignition key is in
position 2.
Cruise control
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
In ignition key position 2:
Press the button in the steering wheel.
The indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster comes on, refer to page 20. You
can now use the cruise control.
Do not use cruise control on twist-
ing roads, when high traffic den-
sity prevents driving at a constant
speed, or when the road surface is slick
– snow, rain, ice – or loose – rocks or
gravel, sand.<
To deactivate the system
Press the button as often as needed
until the indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster goes out.
Cruise control is also deactivated when
the ignition key is in position 0.
Washer/wiper system/Rain sensor*
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The speed stored in memory is deleted.
To store and maintain speed or to
accelerate
Press button + briefly:
The system maintains and stores the
current vehicle speed. Every time you
tap the button, the speed increases by
approx. 0.6 mph / 1 km/h.
Press and hold button +:
The vehicle accelerates without pres-
sure on the accelerator pedal. When
you release the button, the system
maintains and stores 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 activated
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 sys-
tem automatically reduces the throttle
opening to slow the vehicle. When you
release the button, the system main-
tains and stores 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 pressing down the clutch pedal
> If you exceed or fall below the pro-
grammed speed for an extended
period – by depressing the accelera-
tor, for example
> Sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic 70: when shifting in the
sequential mode, refer to page:.
To recall the stored setting
Press the button:
The vehicle accelerates to and main-
tains the last speed stored.
Cruise control
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Everything under control
Odometer
1 Odometer
2 Trip odometer
Odometer
You can activate the displays shown in
the illustration with the ignition key in
position 0 by pressing the left button in
the instrument cluster.
Trip odometer
To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the left button with the ignition
key in position 1 or higher.
Tachometer
Variable pre-warning zone
The yellow pre-warning zone displays
current permissible engine speeds,
depending on the engine temperature.
As the engine temperature climbs,
some of the sectors for this pre-warning
zones will go out one after the other.
Avoid engine speeds in the early warn-
ing zone if possible.
Never allow the engine to operate with
the needle in the red overspeed zone of
the gauge.
To protect the engine, the fuel supply is
interrupted when you approach this
sector.
Engine oil temperature
The general operating temperature lies
between 1757/806 and 2507/
1206. During high-performance driv-
ing, do not exceed a maximum value of
3007/1506.
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Fuel gauge
Once the indicator lamp stays on con-
tinuously, there are still approx.
2 gallons/8 liters of fuel in the fuel tank.
Fuel tank capacity approx. 16.6 gal./
63 liters.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies – when
you are driving in mountainous areas,
for example – the needle may fluctuate
slightly.
Fill the fuel tank before it is com-
pletely empty. Driving to the last
drop of fuel can prevent the engine
from operating properly and result in
damage.<
When you switch on the ignition, the
indicator lamp lights up briefly as an
operation check.
Engine coolant temperature gauge
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at moder-
ate engine and vehicle speeds.
Between the blue and red zones
Normal operating range. The needle
may rise as far as the edge of the red
sector during normal operation.
Red
When you switch on the ignition, the
warning lamp comes on briefly as an
operation check.
If the lamp comes on while operating
the vehicle: the engine has overheated.
Switch off the engine immediately and
allow it to cool down.
To check the coolant level, refer to
page 128.
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Service interval display
Remaining distance to next
service
The displays shown in the illustration
appear for a few seconds when the
ignition key is in position 1 or higher or
after the engine is started.
The next service due appears with the
message OIL SERVICE or
INSPECTION, together with the dis-
tance remaining in miles – in kilometers
in Canada – before the next scheduled
service.
The computer bases its calculations of
the remaining distance on the preced-
ing driving style.
A flashing message and a '–' in front of
the number mean that the service inter-
val has already been exceeded by the
distance shown on the display. Please
contact your BMW center for an
appointment.
Check Control
Display
When the ignition key is in position 2,
the following information and/or condi-
tions are indicated using symbols until
the conditions have been corrected.
1 Inspect the low-beam and high-beam
headlamps, as well as the parking
lamps
2 Door open
3 Luggage compartment lid open
4 Check brake and tail lamps
When you open the driver's door after
having turned the ignition key to posi-
tion 0, you will hear an acoustic signal
for a few seconds to remind you that
the lamps have not been switched off.
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Clock
If you wish to have a permanent time
display, you can make this adjustment
in the car radio display, refer to the
Owner's Manual for Radio.
You can set the time of day, and the
display for the car radio, as follows.
Setting
Before the clock can be set, the
time must be showing in the
instrument cluster display.<
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher
To set ahead: turn the right button to
the right.
To set back: turn the right button to the
left.
The adjustment speed will increase the
longer you continue to hold the right
button.
To change the display mode: press the
right button briefly.
Every time you press the button, the
clock display alternates between the
12-hour and 24-hour mode.
In ignition key position 0: the time is
displayed for a few seconds after you
press the left button, refer to Odometer
on page 79.
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Computer
Mode selection
With the ignition key in position 1 and
higher, you can use the button in the
turn signal lever to retrieve information
from the computer for display in the
instrument cluster. Each time you press
the button briefly in the direction of the
steering column, a new function is
called up in the display.
The displays appear in the following
order:
Time of day, outside temperature, aver-
age fuel consumption, cruising range,
average vehicle speed.
When the ignition key is in position 1 or
higher, the last active setting is dis-
played.
Outside temperature
You can change the units of measure –
6/7 – for the outside temperature dis-
play by pressing the right-hand reset
button in the instrument cluster while
the temperature display is active. The
units of measure – 6/7 – in the tem-
perature display of the automatic cli-
mate control change automatically,
refer to page 96.
Ice warning
If the outside temperature drops to
about 37.57/+36, then the computer
will automatically switch to a display of
the outside temperature. In addition, a
signal sounds as a warning and the dis-
play flashes for a brief period.
After giving an ice warning, the
display returns to the previous
setting.<
The ice warning does not alter the
fact that surface ice can form at
temperatures above 37.57/+36, on
bridges or shaded road surfaces, for
instance.<
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Average fuel consumption
If you continue to press and hold the
button on the turn signal lever, the aver-
age fuel consumption being displayed
is recalculated from that point.
If you wish, you can have the aver-
age fuel consumption displayed in
a different unit of measure.<
Range
The computer bases its calculations of
the cruising range on the preceding
driving style and on the remaining fuel
in the tank.
It is important that you refuel when
the cruising range falls below
approx. 35 miles/50 kilometers. Other-
wise, the engine cannot be guaranteed
to operate properly and damage may
result.<
Average speed
If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average speed
being displayed is recalculated from
that point in time.
Any time spent when the vehicle is sta-
tionary and the engine is shut off is
ignored for the calculation.
Computer
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Technology for safety and driving convenience
Park Distance Control (PDC)*
The concept
PDC assists you when you back into a
parking space. Acoustic signals alert
you to the momentary distance to an
object behind your vehicle. To do this,
four ultrasonic sensors in the rear
bumper measure the distance to the
nearest object. The range for the sen-
sors located at both rear corners ends
approx. 2 ft/60 cm behind the bumpers.
The range for the two middle sensors is
slightly less than 5 ft/1.50 m.
PDC is a parking aid that can
identify objects if they are
approached slowly, as is generally the
case when parking. Avoid driving
towards objects rapidly; due to underly-
ing physical principles, the system may
otherwise alert you too late for you to
take evasive steps.<
The system starts to operate automati-
cally approx. one second after you shift
into Reverse or move the selector lever
into the R position with the ignition key
in position 2.
Let this short period elapse before
driving backwards.<
PDC is deactivated when you shift back
out of Reverse.
You can have a signal set to con-
firm that the PDC has been acti-
vated. The signal then sounds when
you shift into Reverse or move the
selector lever into the R position.<
Acoustic signals
The distance to the nearest object is
indicated by a tone sounding at various
intervals. As the distance between vehi-
cle and object decreases, the intervals
between the tones become shorter. A
continuous tone indicates the pres-
ence of an object less than 1 ft/30 cm
away.
The warning signal is canceled after
approx. three seconds if the distance to
the object remains constant during this
time – if you are moving parallel to
a wall, for instance.
System malfunctions will be indicated
by a continuous high-pitched tone
when the system is activated the first
time. Please have your BMW center
resolve the problem.
PDC does not remove the driver's
personal responsibility for evaluat-
ing the distance between the vehicle
and any objects. Even when sensors
are involved, there is a blind spot in
which objects cannot be detected. This
applies especially in those cases where
the system approaches the physical
limits of ultrasonic measurement, as
occurs with tow bars and trailer cou-
plings, and in the vicinity of thin or
wedge-shaped objects. Moreover, low
objects that have already been
detected – such as a curb edge – can
disappear out of the detection range of
the sensors before a continuous tone
sounds.
Loud sources of sound from outside or
inside the vehicle could drown out the
PDC signal tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free
of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they will continue to operate effec-
tively.
Do not apply high pressure spray to the
sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Always maintain a distance of more
than 4 in/10 cm.<
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Dynamic Stability Control DSC
The concept
DSC maintains vehicle stability, even in
critical driving situations.
The system optimizes vehicle stability
during acceleration and when starting
from a full stop, as well as optimizing
traction. In addition, it recognizes
unstable vehicle conditions, such as
understeering or oversteering, and,
within physically feasible limits, helps
keeping the vehicle on a steady course
by reducing the engine speed and
brake applications to the individual
wheels.
The system starts up automatically
each time you start the engine.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. The
results of driving irresponsibly rest with
the driver. We therefore urge you to
avoid using the additional safety margin
of the system as an excuse for taking
risks. Do not make any modifications to
the DSC system. Allow only authorized
technicians to perform service proce-
dures on the DSC.
At first, you may need some time to
become accustomed to this system's
intervention. However, it guarantees
optimum drive force and at the same
time, the best possible vehicle stabil-
ity.<
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster will go out shortly
after the ignition has been
switched on, refer to page 19.
> Indicator lamp flashes: the system is
active and is controlling the drive
torque based on driving conditions
> If the indicator lamp fails to go out
after the engine has been started, or
if it comes on during normal driving
and stays on: the system has been
deactivated via the button or is
defective.
Please consult your BMW center for
repairs.
You can continue to drive the vehicle
normally without DSC.
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To deactivate the system
Press the button; the indicator lamp
comes on and stays on.
The vehicle does not execute the stabil-
ity-enhancement and traction-control
functions when DSC is deactivated.
We recommend that you deactivate the
system for increased traction:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
> When driving with snow chains
> When driving on snow-covered
grades, in deep snow, or on a snow-
covered surface that has been
packed down from being driven on.
To maintain vehicle stability,
always drive with the system
switched on whenever possible.<
To reactivate the system
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
Flat Tire Monitor
The concept
As you drive, the Flat Tire Monitor
keeps track of pressure levels in all four
tires. The system alerts you whenever
the inflation pressure of a tire falls sig-
nificantly below the pressure of another
tire.
Controlling the tire pressure is based
on monitoring the rpm that the tires
have relative to each other. A flat tire is
detected and reported because the rpm
suddenly deviate drastically from one
another.
Functional requirements
In order for the Flat Tire Monitor to learn
the correct tire inflation pressure,
please do the following:
1. Check the tire inflation pressures in
all tires
2. Compare them with the tire inflation
pressure table on page 25 and cor-
rect them, if necessary
3. Initialize the system.
Dynamic Stability Control DSC
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System limitations
The Flat Tire Monitor cannot pro-
vide you with advance warning of
sudden and severe tire damage caused
by external factors and does not detect
the balanced and very gradual pressure
loss that takes place in all four tires
over an extended period of time.<
On the other hand, the following situa-
tions can lead to a delayed detection of
pressure loss and even to the system
not functioning:
> Driving on snow-covered or slippery
roads
> Performance-oriented driving: slip at
the drive wheels, high levels of lateral
acceleration
> When driving with snow chains, false
warnings and undetected pressure
losses may occur.
Initializing the system
Each time you correct the pres-
sure in a tire, or change a wheel or
tire, reinitialize the system immediately
afterwards. This requires a bit of driv-
ing.<
1. Before driving off, start the engine
but do not start driving
2. Press the button as long as you need
to until the yellow indicator lamp in
the instrument cluster lights up for a
few seconds
3. Drive off.
It takes a few minutes before the Flat
Tire Monitor can detect a flat tire and
issue a warning.
When driving with snow chains,
do not initialize the system.<
Flat Tire Monitor
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To activate/deactivate the system
The system is automatically activated in
ignition key position 2 and conse-
quently is on whenever the vehicle is
operated.
To deactivate the system: tap the but-
ton; the indicator lamp will light up yel-
low.
To activate the system: tap the button
again; the indicator lamp goes out.
Deactivate the system when snow
chains are mounted, since false warn-
ings and undetected losses in pressure
are possible under these kinds of con-
ditions.
Flat tire
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster lights up red. In
addition, an acoustic signal is
sounded.
1. Carefully reduce speed and come to
a stop. Avoid sudden braking and
steering maneuvers
2. Determine which wheel is damaged
If this cannot be determined, con-
tact your BMW center.<
3. Fix the flat tire using the M Mobility
system, refer to page 140.
After replacing the damaged tire, initial-
ize the system.
System malfunction
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster lights up yellow.
The Flat Tire Monitor is malfunc-
tioning or out of order. Please contact
your BMW center.
Flat Tire Monitor
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M Engine dynamics control
The system – Sport mode – will cause
the engine to respond more spontane-
ously to any motion of the accelerator
pedal.
Activating/deactivating Sport
mode
Activating: with the ignition key in posi-
tion 2, press the SPORT button. The
indicator lamp will come on.
When the system is activated, the
vehicle may gain speed without
any additional pressure on the acceler-
ator pedal.<
Deactivating: press the SPORT button
again; the indicator lamp will go out.
The Sport mode is deactivated every
time the engine is started.
Brake force display
The brake force display indicates to the
driver of the vehicle behind you how
hard you are braking your vehicle.
The display has two levels:
> Normal braking: the brake lamps
among the rear lamps and the center
brake lamp light up
> Hard braking or use of ABS: the tail
lamps light up with the same bright-
ness as the brake lamps and thereby
intensify the visual effect of the brake
lamps.
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Lamps
Parking lamps/Low beams
Parking lamps
The front, rear and side vehicle
lighting is switched on. You can
use this to signal the position of
the vehicle when it is parked. For light-
ing on one side for parking as an addi-
tional feature, refer to page 92.
Low beams
When you switch the ignition off
with the low-beam headlamps
on, only the parking lamps will
remain on.
Follow me home lamps
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 can also have this function
deactivated.<
LIGHTS ON warning
Whenever you open the driver's door
after having turned the ignition key to
position 0, you will hear an acoustic
signal for a few seconds to remind you
that the lamps have not been switched
off.
Daytime driving lamps*
If you desire, the light switch can be left
in the low-beam position: when the
ignition is switched off, the external
lighting is also switched off.
Observe the legal regulations regarding
the use of daytime driving lamps.
When required, switch on the parking
lamps as usual as described under
Parking lamps.
You can have the activation set-
tings for the daytime driving lamps
programmed on your vehicle.<
Automatic headlamp control*
When the switch is in this posi-
tion, the system automatically
responds to changes in ambient
light – in tunnels, at dusk, etc. – and to
rain and snow by switching the low
beams on or off.
The vehicle's external lamps
remain on constantly when you
switch on the front fog lamps after the
headlamps have come on automati-
cally.<
Automatic headlamp control can-
not serve as a substitute for your
personal judgement in determining
when the lamps should be switched on.
For example, the sensors are not able
to detect fog. In such situations switch
on the lamp manually, as otherwise a
safety hazard will result.<
You can have the sensitivity of
your vehicle's automatic head-
lamp control adjusted.<
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Instrument lighting
Turn the rotary dial to control the light-
ing when the parking or low beam
lamps are on.
High beams/Standing lamps
1 High beams – blue indicator lamp
2 Headlamp flasher – blue indicator
lamp
3 Standing lamps
Standing lamps, left or right
As an additional feature, you can illumi-
nate your vehicle on either side for
parking, 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.
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Fog lamps
Front fog lamps
The green indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster lights up to
indicate that the front fog lamps
are on.
If the automatic headlamp control
is on, the low beams will come on
automatically whenever you activate
the front fog lamps.<
Interior lamps
The interior lamps operate automati-
cally.
To switch the interior lamps on
and off manually
Press the button briefly.
If you want the interior lamps to remain
off all the time, press and hold the but-
ton for approx. three seconds.
Press the button briefly to revert to nor-
mal operation.
Reading lamps
Front reading lamps
Switch on and off with the button adja-
cent to each lamp.
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Rear reading lamps
With the hardtop reading lamps are also
located in the rear, refer to page 115.
Switch on and off with the button adja-
cent to each lamp.
In order to prevent battery dis-
charge, all of the lamps in the
vehicle are automatically switched off
approx. 15 minutes after you turn the
ignition key to position 0.<
Light-emitting diodes
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) installed
behind translucent lenses serve as the
light sources for many of the controls
and displays in your vehicle. These
light-emitting diodes are related to con-
ventional lasers, and legislation defines
them as light-emitting diodes, Class 1.
Do not remove the protective lens
and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for several hours, as
inflammation of the retina could
result.<
Reading lamps
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Controlling the climate for pleasant driving
Automatic climate control
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1 Air onto the windshield and the side
windows
2 Air for the upper body area 99
3 Air to the footwell
4 Interior temperature sensor – please
keep clear and unobstructed
5 Outside air/Automatic recirculated-
air control (AUC)/Recirculated
air 99
6 Automatic air distribution and
supply 98
7 Individual air distribution 98
8 Temperature 98
9 Display for temperature and air
supply 98
10 Air supply/Blower 98
11 To defrost windows and remove
condensation 98
12 Air conditioning 98
13 Rear window defroster 99
Automatic climate control
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Tips for pleasant driving
Use the automatic mode – switch on
with AUTO button 6. Select the desired
interior temperature.
Detailed setting options are described
for you in the following sections.
You can make the settings of your
vehicle in such a manner that,
when you unlock the vehicle with the
remote control of your personal key,
your own personalized setting for the
automatic climate control is initiated.<
Automatic air distribution and
supply
The AUTO program adjusts the
air distribution and the air sup-
ply for you and in addition adapts the
temperature to external influences –
summer, winter – to meet preferences
you can specify.
Individual air distribution
You can cancel the AUTO pro-
gram by selecting specific dis-
tribution patterns to suit your
own individual requirements.
While the AUTO program is then deacti-
vated, the automatic airflow control
remains in operation. Air flows onto
the windows , toward the upper
body , and into the footwell . You
can reactivate the automatic air supply
by pressing the AUTO button.
Temperature
The interior temperature that
appears in the display panel is a
general figure intended for refer-
ence purposes. We recommend
727/+226 as a comfortable setting,
even if the air conditioning is on. When
you start the vehicle, the system
ensures that the selected temperature
is reached as quickly as possible. It
then maintains this temperature,
regardless of the season.
To select the units of measure 6/7
of the display, refer to page 83.
Air supply/Blower
By pressing the upper or lower
button, you can vary the air sup-
ply. This deactivates the auto-
matic air supply – the AUTO display dis-
appears from the panel. Nevertheless,
the automatic air distribution remains
unchanged. You can reactivate the
automatic air supply by pressing the
AUTO button.
When the lowest blower speed is set
and you press the lower button, all of
the displays are canceled: the blower,
heating and air conditioner are
switched off, and the air supply is
stopped. You can reactivate the system
by pressing any button for the auto-
matic climate control.
To defrost windows and remove
condensation
This program quickly removes
ice and condensation from the
windshield and the side windows.
Air conditioning
The air is cooled and dehumidi-
fied and – depending on the
temperature setting – rewarmed.
Depending on the weather, the wind-
shield may fog over briefly when the
engine is started. Air conditioning helps
prevent the windows from fogging up.
Condensation forms during opera-
tion of the air conditioning system,
which then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
Automatic climate control
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Outside air/Automatic
recirculated-air control (AUC)/
Recirculated air
You can respond to unpleasant
external odors or pollutants by
temporarily stopping the flow of outside
air. The system then recirculates the air
currently within the vehicle.
By repeatedly pressing the button, you
can select one of three different operat-
ing modes.
> Indicator lamps off: outside air always
flowing into the vehicle
> Left-hand indicator lamp on – auto-
matic mode: the system detects pol-
lutants in the outside air and
responds by deactivating the outside
airflow as required. The system then
recirculates the air currently within
the vehicle.
Depending on air quality require-
ments, the system automatically
switches between outside air supply
and recirculation of the air already
within the vehicle
> Right-hand indicator lamp on: the
flow of outside air is permanently
blocked. The system recirculates the
air already within the vehicle.
If the windows fog over in the
recirculated-air mode, switch the
recirculated-air mode off and increase
the air supply as required.<
Rear window defroster
With the convertible top closed
or with the hardtop* mounted,
press the button. The indicator lamp
remains on. The rear window defroster
switches off automatically.
You can have your vehicle pro-
grammed in such a way that the
rear window defroster switches on
automatically. This occurs within 5 min-
utes after starting the engine when out-
side temperatures are below approx.
397/+46.<
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the blower controls for
the upper body area to obtain the opti-
mum airflow rates and directions for
your personal requirements:
1 Rotary dials for opening and closing
the vents at any setting desired
2 Lever for adjusting airflow direction
3 With the rotary dial you can adjust the
temperature of the outgoing air:
> Turn toward blue – colder
> Turn toward red – warmer
Automatic climate control
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Microfilter, activated-charcoal
filter
The built-in microfilter removes dust
and pollen from the incoming air. The
activated-charcoal filter provides addi-
tional protection by filtering gaseous
pollutants from the outside air. Your
BMW center will replace the combined
filter as a standard part of your sched-
uled maintenance. A substantial reduc-
tion in airflow indicates that the filter
needs to be replaced early.
Automatic climate control
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Interior conveniences
Glove compartment
To open
Pull the handle. The glove compartment
will light up.
To close
Fold up cover.
To prevent injury in the event of an
accident, close the glove com-
partment immediately after use.<
To lock
Lock with one of the master keys. A
master key can also be used for unlock-
ing.
If – for example for valet parking –
you turn over only your spare key,
refer to page 30, then access to the
glove compartment and luggage com-
partment is not possible.<
Storage compartments
Front center armrest*
To open: press the button and fold up.
Additional compartments and
nets
You will find additional storage areas in
the doors and in the center console
above the ashtray. Storage nets are
located on the backrests of the front
seats.
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Beverage holders, coin box
A coin box and two beverage holders
are provided in the center console.
Storage package*
The following are available for your
convenience:
> Two flip-out power sockets on the
rear center console
> An eyeglasses storage compart-
ment*, not shown, in the center con-
sole.
Cellular phone*
Hands-free system
In vehicles equipped with telephone
preparation* or with the communica-
tions package*, the cover for the
hands-free microphone is located
above the interior rearview mirror on
the driver side.
For further information on using your
cellular phone, refer to the separate
Owner's Manual for the telephone.
Storage compartments
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Ashtray, front*
To empty
Press on the edge of the open cover.
you can now pull the ashtray upward for
removal.
Extinguishing cigarettes
Tap off the ash and gently press the tip
into the funnel.
Cigarette lighter
Hold or touch the hot cigarette
lighter by the knob only. Holding
or touching it in other areas could result
in burns.
The cigarette lighter remains opera-
tional when the ignition key has been
removed. For this reason, children
should never be left in the vehicle unat-
tended.<
Press lighter 1 in. As soon as the lighter
jumps back out, it can be removed.
Cigarette lighter socket
It can be used for attaching power sup-
plies for flashlights, car vacuum clean-
ers and other similar appliances up to a
rating of approx. 200 watts at 12 volts.
Avoid damaging the socket due to
inserting plugs of different shapes or
sizes.
Ashtray, rear*
To empty
Press on the edge of the open cover in
the opening direction: you can now pull
the ashtray upward for removal.
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Loading and transporting
Ski bag*
The ski bag allows the safe and clean
transport of up to 3 pairs of standard
skis or up to two snowboards.
The length of the ski bag and the addi-
tional space provided in the luggage
compartment make it possible to carry
skis up to 6 ft 10 in / 2.10 m long.
Because of the tapered shape of the
bag, only two pairs of skis longer than
6 ft 10 in / 2.10 m can be carried.
Loading
1. Release the safety belts from their
holders
2. Press lever downward and remove
the center piece by pulling it forward
3. Extend the ski bag between the front
seats. The zipper provides conve-
nient access to stored items. It may
be opened to allow the ski bag to dry
4. Press the button in the luggage com-
partment
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5. Secure the cover panel with the
magnetic retainer on the rear wall
and pull out the ski bag.
Securing cargo
Secure skis and any other objects
stored in the bag by tightening the
retaining strap at the buckle.<
Please be sure that the skis are
clean before loading them into the
bag. Be careful to avoid damage from
sharp edges.<
Storing the ski bag
To store the ski bag, perform the above
steps in reverse sequence.
When reattaching the center
piece, guide both bars into the
guide and press the center piece back
into place. Secure the safety belts in
their holders again.<
Ski bag*
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Cargo loading
Avoid overloading the vehicle so
that the permitted load on the tires
is not exceeded. Overloading can lead
to overheating and internal tire damage.
This can result in a sudden loss of tire
inflation pressure.<
Determining the maximum load
1. Locate the following statement on
your vehicle's placard*:
The combined weight of occu-
pants and cargo should never
exceed XXX kg or YYY lbs., as this
could otherwise result in damage to the
vehicle or unstable driving conditions.<
2. Determine the combined weight of
the driver and passengers that will be
riding in your vehicle
3. Subtract the combined weight of the
driver and passengers from
XXX kilograms or YYY pounds
4. The resulting figure equals the avail-
able amount of cargo and luggage
load capacity.
For example, if the XXX amount
equals 1,400 lbs. and there will be
five 150 lbs. passengers in your vehi-
cle, the amount of available cargo
and luggage load capacity is
650 lbs.:
1,400 lbs. minus 750 lbs. = 650 lbs.
5. Determine the combined weight of
luggage and cargo being loaded on
the vehicle. That weight may not
safely exceed the available cargo
and luggage load capacity calculated
in Step 4
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer,
load from your trailer will be trans-
fered to your vehicle. Consult the
manual for transporting a trailer to
determine how this may reduce the
available cargo and luggage load
capacity of your vehicle.
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Stowing cargo
> Load heavy cargo as far forward as
possible – directly behind the lug-
gage compartment partition – and as
low as possible
> Cover sharp edges and corners.
You can enlarge the luggage com-
partment when the convertible top
is closed, refer to page 37. To do this
you have to fold the convertible top
compartment panel up.
We recommend that you always fold
the convertible top compartment panel
down as soon as you have removed
your cargo from the luggage compart-
ment. This way, you can be sure that
you can always operate you convertible
top at any time.
At the same time, when the top is
raised you should fold the convertible
top compartment panel back up before
stowing large objects in the luggage
compartment; this precaution will help
reduce the likelihood of damage to
either the convertible top compartment
or your luggage.<
Securing the cargo in the luggage
compartment
> For small, light items, use the rubber-
lined, non-skid side of the floor mat
or secure using the luggage compart-
ment net* or elastic straps, refer to
page 37
> For large, heavy pieces, see your
BMW center for load-securing
devices*. Lashing fittings located in
the luggage compartment can be
used for fastening the load-securing
devices.
Comply with the information enclosed
with the load-securing devices.
Cargo loading
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Always position and secure the
load correctly. If you do not, it can
endanger the passengers during brak-
ing or evasive maneuvers.
Do not exceed the approved gross
vehicle weight or the approved axle
loads, refer to page 156, otherwise the
vehicle's operating safety is no longer
assured and the vehicle will not be in
compliance with the certification regu-
lations.
Do not stow heavy or hard objects in
the passenger compartment without
first securing them. Otherwise they
would be thrown around during braking
and evasive maneuvers and endanger
the occupants.<
Roof-mounted luggage rack for the hardtop*
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 mounting points:
To fold up the covers, please use the
tool provided with the roof-rack system.
Loading and driving notes
Because roof racks raise the center of
gravity of the vehicle when loaded, they
exercise a major effect on its handling
and steering response.
When loading, be sure to remember not
to exceed the approved roof weight or
the approved gross vehicle weight or
the axle loads. You will find the specifi-
cations under Technical data on
page 156.
Make sure that the load is not too bulky,
and attempt to distribute it evenly.
Always load the heaviest pieces first so
that they are at the bottom. Make sure
that no objects get in the way when the
luggage compartment lid is opening or
closing.
Secure the roof-mounted luggage cor-
rectly and safely to prevent it from shift-
ing or being lost during driving.
Drive smoothly and avoid sudden
acceleration or braking. Do not corner
at high speeds.
Cargo loading
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
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Special operating instructions
Break-in procedures
To ensure that your vehicle continues to
provide maximum economy throughout
an extended service life, we request
that you devote careful attention to the
following instructions.
Because of its engineering design,
the BMW M3 Convertible is an
especially high-quality vehicle. It is in
your best interest to follow the break-in
tips very closely. Doing this, you will
create the basis for a long, optimum
service life.<
Engine and differential
> The first 1,250 miles/2,000 km: drive
at varying engine and road speeds,
but do not exceed the following
engine or road speeds:
5,500 rpm or 105 mph / 170 km/h.
Always obey all official speed limits.
Do not depress the accelerator pedal to
the full-throttle position.
Vehicles with SMG Drivelogic, refer to
page 70: refrain from using driving pro-
gram 6 in the sequential mode during
the break-in period.
> Following the break-in inspection at
1,250 miles/2,000 km, you can grad-
ually increase engine or road speeds.
Please remember to observe the same
break-in procedures if either the engine
or the differential should have to be
replaced later in the course of the vehi-
cle's 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.
We thus ask you to drive with extra care
during the first 200 miles/300 km.
Always obey 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 hydroplaning, and can
lead to partial or complete loss of trac-
tion, vehicle control and braking effec-
tiveness. 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 an extended service life
later on.
To break in the separate parking brake
drums, apply the parking brake lightly
when coasting to a standstill – at a traf-
fic signal, for instance; use caution to
avoid posing a danger to other road
users.
You can prevent corrosion in the drums
by periodically repeating this proce-
dure.
The brake lamps do not come on
when the parking brake is set.
Vacuum for the brake system servo unit
on your BMW is available only when the
engine is running. When you move the
vehicle with the engine off – when tow-
ing, for example – substantially higher
levels of pedal force will be required to
brake the vehicle.<
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Clutch
The clutch will also begin to function
optimally after about 300 miles/500 km.
Drive cautiously during this break-in
period and do not press the clutch or
shift at high engine speeds.
General driving notes
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.
Hydroplaning: when driving on wet or
slushy roads, reduce vehicle speed. If
you do not, a wedge of water may form
between the tires and the road surface.
This phenomenon is referred to as
hydroplaning, and can lead to partial or
complete loss of traction, vehicle con-
trol and braking effectiveness.
Driving through water: do not drive
through water on the road if it is deeper
than 1 ft/30 cm, and then only at walk-
ing speed. Otherwise, the vehicle's
engine, the electrical systems and the
transmission may be damaged.<
Portable phone in the vehicle
BMW recommends using mobile com-
munications devices, e.g. portable
phones, inside the vehicle with a suit-
able outside antenna. Otherwise, it can-
not be ruled out that the vehicle elec-
tronics and portable phone may
interfere with each other.
Break-in procedures
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Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The concept
ABS keeps the wheels from locking
during braking, thereby enhancing
active driving safety.
Braking with ABS
If you are in a situation that requires full
braking, you will exploit the full benefits
of ABS system if you apply maximum
pedal pressure – panic stop. Since the
vehicle maintains steering responsive-
ness, you can avoid possible obstacles
with a minimum of steering effort,
despite the full brake application.
Pulsation at the brake pedal combined
with sounds from the hydraulic circuits
indicates to the driver that ABS is in its
active mode.
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
DBC is included in the DSC, refer to
page 86.
If you apply the brakes rapidly, this sys-
tem automatically generates maximum
braking force boost and thus helps to
achieve the shortest possible braking
distance in panic braking situations. All
of the benefits of the ABS are exploited
under these circumstances.
Do not reduce the pressure on the
brake pedal for the duration of the
brake application. When the brake
pedal is released, the DBC is deacti-
vated.
Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
CBC is an advanced engineering devel-
opment of ABS. When braking during
cornering with high lateral accelera-
tion, or when braking during a lane
change, vehicle stability is improved
and the steering response is enhanced.
Brake system
Brake fluid level
Low brake fluid level in the reservoir
combined with longer than usual pedal
travel may indicate a defect in one of
the brake system's hydraulic circuits.
Proceed to the nearest autho-
rized BMW center. Higher brake
application pressure may be necessary
when stopping, and the vehicle may
exhibit a slight tendency to pull to one
side. Brake distances may even 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 brak-
ing is restricted to gentle, low-pressure
applications will all increase the ten-
dency for corrosion to form on the
rotors; this is often accompanied by a
simultaneous accumulation of contami-
nation 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.
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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 useful 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 undi-
minished efficiency when you need it.
Extended or steep mountain descents
should be driven in the gear in which
only minimal periodic brake applica-
tions are required. By minimizing the
loads placed on the brake system, this
strategy helps ensure that optimal
brake system response will remain
available at all times. Stay within the
allowable rpm range. For additional
information, refer to page 79.
Do not coast with the clutch
depressed or with the gearshift
lever in idle. Do not coast with the
engine switched off. If you do so the
engine provides no braking effect and
there is no power assist for braking or
steering when the engine is not run-
ning.<
Brake pads
For your own safety: use only
brake pads that BMW has
released for your particular vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suitable for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
Hardtop*
It is not necessary to remove the fabric
top even in the winter, when the hard-
top is generally in constant use. But you
can also remove it easily at any time.
Before the fabric top is stored in the
convertible top compartment, it must
be absolutely dry in order to avoid
water spots and mildew from forming.
The hardtop offers reading lamps and
clothes hooks that can be used just by
pressing. It is also possible to mount a
luggage rack on the roof. Please con-
sult your BMW center.
When hanging clothing from the
hooks, be sure that they will not
obstruct the driver's vision. Do not hang
heavy objects on the hooks. If you do
so, they could cause personal injury
during braking or evasive maneuvers.<
Two people are required for installation
or removal. Work with extreme caution
in order to avoid paint damage and
damage to the body or hardtop.
To facilitate hardtop installation or
removal, you can obtain a specially
designed hardtop lift* or hardtop rack*
at your BMW center.
Brake system
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Storage
Storing the hardtop on the floor:
slide the styrofoam block that
came with the hardtop onto its center.
The arrow on top of the styrofoam block
has to be pointing upward when you
are doing this.<
Installation
1. Lower the side windows com-
pletely and flip the sun blinds
down. If necessary, remove the
antenna rod to avoid any damage
2. Open the convertible top compart-
ment lid slightly by pressing the
button for the convertible top oper-
ation, refer to page 40
3. Remove the trim pieces on both
sides by pulling them off toward
the back and reclose the convert-
ible top compartment lid
4. Open the two front locking levers
on the hardtop. Press on the but-
tons to do so. The levers will
release slightly. Open the levers as
far as possible
Hardtop*
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5. Before installing, first flip the cover
panels that are located underneath
the left and right interior lamps
down. To do this, press on the
slight bump on the cover panel.
There is a holder in the cover panel
to securely store the trim pieces
that have been removed – see
arrow 1
6. Open the red release levers as far
as the stop will allow – see arrow 2
7. Position the hardtop onto the sup-
ports with the help of a second
person. Be sure to put the mount-
ings exactly into the proper brack-
ets
Lift the hardtop carefully. Be
extremely careful not to shift the
seals. Seals that have been shifted out
of place or actually pulled out cause
leaks.<
8. In the back, close the red locking
levers by turning to the inside as far
as the stop located behind the trim
will allow. Flip the cover panels
back into place
9. To lock the hardtop in the front,
keep pressing on the front locking
levers until you hear them engage
10. Check the rubber weather-strip-
ping between the windshield frame
and the hardtop on both the left
and right sides. If it is folded or
bent out of place, you should
smooth it back into position by
hand to ensure secure and reliable
sealing.
Removal
Follow the same procedure as when
installing, just reverse the steps.
Hardtop*
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Wheels and tires
Tire inflation pressure
Information for your safety
The factory-approved tires are matched
to your vehicle and have been selected
to provide optimum safety and driving
comfort when used properly.
It is not merely the tire's service life, but
also driving comfort and – above all else
– driving safety that depend on the con-
dition of the tires and the maintenance
of the specified tire pressure.
Incorrect tire inflation pressure is
a frequent cause of tire damage. It
also significantly influences the road-
holding ability of your BMW. Check tire
inflation pressures on a regular basis,
refer to page 25, at least every two
weeks and before beginning a longer
trip. If this is not done, incorrect tire
pressures can cause driving instability
and tire damage, ultimately resulting in
accidents.<
Tire condition
Tire tread – tire damage
Inspect your tires frequently for tread
wear, signs of damage and for foreign
objects lodged in the tread. Check the
tread depth.
Tread depth should not be allowed to
go below 1/8 in / 3 mm, even though
the legally specified minimum tread
depth is only 1/16 in / 1.6 mm.
Below 1/8 in / 3 mm tread depth, there
is a great risk of hydroplaning, even at
relatively moderate speeds and with
only small amounts of water on the
road. Tread wear indicators in the
tread-groove base – see arrow – are
distributed around the wheel circumfer-
ence and are labeled on the tire side-
wall with TWI – Tread Wear Indicator. At
a tread depth of 1/16 in / 1.6 mm, the
indicators signal that the legally permis-
sible wear limit has been reached.
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Do not drive on a deflated – flat –
tire. A flat tire greatly impairs
steering and braking response, and can
lead to complete loss of control over
the vehicle.
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that
the permitted load on the tires is not
exceeded. Overloading can lead to
overheating and internal tire damage.
This can result in a sudden loss of tire
inflation pressure.
Unusual vibrations encountered during
normal vehicle operation can indicate
tire failure or some other vehicle defect.
This type of problem can be caused by
contact with curbs, etc. This is also true
for irregularities in the vehicle's han-
dling characteristics, such as a pro-
nounced tendency to pull to the left or
right. Should this occur, respond by
immediately reducing your speed. Pro-
ceed carefully to the nearest BMW cen-
ter or professional tire center, or have
the vehicle towed in to have it, its
wheels or its tires inspected.
Tire damage, up to and including blow-
outs, can endanger the lives of both the
vehicle occupants and other road
users.<
Tire replacement
To maintain good handling characteris-
tics, only use a full set of tires of the
same brand and tread configuration.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressures, and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assembly balanced
every time you change a tire or wheel.
DOT quality grades
> Treadwear
> Traction AA A B C
> Temperature A B C
All passenger car tires must con-
form to Federal Safety Require-
ments in addition to these grades.<
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative
rating based on the wear rate of the tire
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified government test
course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would
wear one and one-half – 1
1
/
2
– times as
well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance
of tires depends upon the actual condi-
tions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due
to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road char-
acteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on speci-
fied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straight-
ahead braking traction tests, and does
not include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<
Temperature
The temperature grades are A – the
highest – B and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel.
Tire condition
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Sustained high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to degenerate
and reduce tire life, and excessive tem-
perature can lead to sudden tire failure.
The grade C corresponds to a level of
performance which all passenger car
tires must meet under the Federal
Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109.
Grades B and A represent higher levels
of performance on the laboratory test
wheel than the minimum required by
law.
The temperature grade for this tire
is established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not overloaded.
Excessive speed, under-inflation, or
excessive loading, either separately or
in combination, can cause heat buildup
and possible tire failure.<
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall between
tread shoulder and maximum section
width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
Tire age
The date on which the tire was manu-
factured is indicated by the code on the
sidewall:
DOT ... 3603 indicates that the tire was
manufactured in week 36 of the year
2003.
BMW recommends the replacement of
all tires when the tires are no more than
6 years old, even if a tire life of 10 years
is possible.
Following wheel/tire changes
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressures, and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assembly balanced
every time you change a tire or wheel.
Following wheel and/or tire changes
you will need to reinitialize both the
sequential M gearbox with Drivelogic
and the Flat Tire Monitor, refer to
pages 74, 88.
Tire replacement
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Wheel and tire combinations
The right choice
BMW recommends using only
wheels and tires that have been
approved by BMW for your particular
vehicle model, as otherwise body con-
tact and serious accidents can result
despite the use of the same nominal
size, e.g. due to manufacturing toler-
ances. If non-approved wheels and
tires are used, BMW cannot evaluate
their suitability, and therefore cannot be
held liable for driving safety.<
BMW tests certain tire brands for each
tire size, classifies them as road-safe
and approves them. Consult your BMW
center for more information. Observe
any country-specific regulations, e.g.
on making a corresponding entry in the
vehicle documents.
The correct wheel and tire combi-
nation affects different systems
such as ABS, DSC, Flat Tire Monitor.
The function of these systems is
impaired if improper wheel and tire
combinations are used.
Therefore, only use tires of the same
brand and same tread configuration on
the vehicle and, for example following a
tire failure, restore the approved wheel
and tire combination as soon as possi-
ble.<
The use of rims and lug bolts that
do not meet the specifications of
the original factory-installed equipment
will affect the safe operation of your
vehicle and may cause an accident 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 con-
trol.<
Storage
Always store tires in a cool, dry place.
Store them away from light whenever
possible. Protect the tires against con-
tact with oil, grease and fuel.
Do not exceed the maximum tire infla-
tion pressures specified on the tire
sidewall.
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Winter tires
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends the use of winter
tires for operation under winter road
conditions. While all-season tires – with
M+S designation – provide better winter
traction than the corresponding sum-
mer tires, they generally do not achieve
the performance of winter tires.
In the interest of safe tracking and
steering response, install radial tires
made by the same manufacturer and
with the same tread configuration on all
four wheels if you elect to mount winter
tires.
When mounting winter wheels,
observe the different recesses of
the front and rear wheels, as otherwise
damage may result.<
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. Your BMW center
will be glad to assist you with both their
expertise and the proper equipment for
your vehicle.<
Tire condition, tire pressure
At tread depths below approx. 3/16 in /
4 mm, tire performance under winter
driving conditions deteriorates notice-
ably. Worn tires should therefore be
replaced for safety considerations.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressures, and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assembly balanced
every time you change a tire or wheel.
Snow chains*
Only certain snow chains have been
tested by BMW and determined and
approved as roadworthy. Consult your
BMW center for more information.
BMW recommends using only these
approved fine-link snow chains. Use
them in pairs on winter tires, but only on
both rear wheels.
Comply with all manufacturer's safety
precautions when mounting the chains.
Do not exceed a speed of 30 mph /
50 km/h with snow chains.
After mounting or removing snow
chains, always reinitialize the sequential
M gearbox with Drivelogic, refer to
page 88.
It is not possible to mount snow
chains on tires with 18- and 19-
inch wheels.
Deactivate the Flat Tire Monitor when
using snow chains. Malfunction warn-
ings and undetected losses in pressure
are a possibility when driving with snow
chains.
For additional information, refer to
page 87.<
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In the engine compartment
Hood
To release
Pull the lever located under the left-
hand side of the instrument panel.
Do not attempt to service your
vehicle if you do not have the
required technical background. Failure
to work in an informed, professional
manner when servicing components
and materials constitutes a safety haz-
ard for vehicle occupants and other
road users. If you are not familiar with
the guidelines, BMW recommends that
you have the operations performed by
your BMW center.<
To open
Pull the release handle and open the
hood.
It is not possible to drive off using
SMG Drivelogic when the hood is
open.<
To close
Pull the hood downwards and allow the
hood to fall from a minimum height of
1 ft/30 cm so that it audibly engages.
Check for proper locking by pulling on
the hood at the left and right above the
headlamps.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the hood is clear
when it is closed, following the same
safety precautions used in all closing
procedures.
If you notice while driving that the hood
is not completely closed, stop immedi-
ately and close it securely.<
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Engine compartment essentials
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1 Filler neck for windshield and head-
lamp washer cleaning system 126
2 Coolant expansion tank 128
3 Auxiliary terminal for jump-starting –
positive terminal 147
4 Engine oil filler neck 127
5 Expansion tank for SMG Drivelogic
hydraulic unit – checking and possi-
ble refilling by your BMW center 70
6 Engine oil dipstick 126
7 Filler neck for brake fluid 129
Engine compartment essentials
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Washer fluids
Headlamp* and windshield
washer system
Capacity approx.
5.6 US quarts/5.3 liters.
Fill with water and, if required, with a
washer antifreeze additive according to
manufacturer's recommendations.
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
Antifreeze agents for the washer
fluid are highly flammable. For this
reason, keep them away from sources
of flame and store them only in their
closed original containers, inaccessible
to children. Comply with the instruc-
tions on the containers.<
Engine oil
Checking the oil level
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface
2. Switch the engine off after it has
reached normal operating tempera-
ture
3. After approx. 1 minute, pull the dip-
stick out and wipe it off with a clean
lint-free cloth, paper towel, or similar
material
4. Carefully push the dipstick all the
way into the guide tube and pull it
out again
5. The oil level should be between the
two marks on the dipstick.
As with fuel economy, oil consumption
is directly influenced by your driving
style and vehicle operating conditions.
The oil volume between the two marks
on the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.4 US quarts/1.3 liters.
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Adding engine oil
Only add engine oil when the oil level
has dropped to just above the lower
mark on the dipstick.
Do not fill beyond the upper mark on
the dipstick. Excess oil will damage the
engine.
Before checking the engine oil level
after topping up, restart the engine and
allow it to run to obtain a correct dis-
play. Then proceed as described under
Checking the oil level.
BMW engines are designed to
operate without oil additives; the
use of additives could lead to damage
in some cases. This also applies to the
manual transmission, the differential,
and the power steering system.<
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW center.
Continuous exposure to used oil
has caused cancer in laboratory
testing. For this reason, thoroughly
wash any areas of skin that come into
contact with oil using soap and water.
Store oils, grease and similar materials
so that they are inaccessible to chil-
dren. Comply with warning labels and
information on containers.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the dis-
posal of used oil.<
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil is
extremely important for the function
and life of an engine. Based on exten-
sive testing, BMW has approved only
certain grades of engine oil.
Use only oils approved for your vehicle
model.
Ask your BMW center for details
concerning oils that have been
approved. You can also call BMW of
North America toll-free at 1-800-831-
1117 or visit this website:
www.bmwusa.com to obtain this infor-
mation.<
Alternative oil types
If a High Performance Synthetic Oil
approved by BMW should be unavail-
able, you may use small volumes of
other synthetic oils for topping up
between oil changes. The following
data must appear on the packaging:
> Viscosity
preferred: SAE 10W-60
alternative: SAE 5W-40 or
SAE 10W-40
> Specifications
preferred: API SJ/CF
alternative: API SJ – also SK, SL, S
etc.
Low ambient temperatures
The oils used by BMW at the factory for
your vehicle model can be used at virtu-
ally any ambient temperature.
Engine oil
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However, if the vehicle is exposed to
temperatures below –47/–206 for
extended periods, please have your
BMW center recommend a suitable oil.
Coolant
Do not add coolant to the cooling
system when the engine is hot. If
you attempt to do so, escaping coolant
can cause burns.
Antifreeze and anti-corrosion agents
are hazardous to health. You should
always store them in their closed origi-
nal containers and in a location inac-
cessible to children. Antifreeze and
anti-corrosion agents are inflammable.
For this reason, do not spill them on hot
engine parts. They could ignite and
cause burns. Comply with the instruc-
tions on the containers.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the dis-
posal of antifreeze agents with corro-
sion inhibitor.<
Checking coolant level and
adding coolant
Check the coolant level when the
engine is cold, approx. 687/+206.
1. Open the cap for the expansion tank
by turning it slightly counterclock-
wise to allow accumulated pressure
to escape. Then open
2. The coolant level is correct when the
upper end of the red float is at least
even with the upper edge of the filler
neck – refer to the arrow in the illus-
tration – but no more than 3/4 in /
2 cm above it – that is, up to the sec-
ond mark on the float. Refer also to
the schematic diagram next to the
filler neck
Engine oil
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3. If necessary, add coolant. If the cool-
ant is low, slowly add coolant until
the correct level is reached — do not
overfill.
Brake fluid
Indicator lamp
The brake warning lamp comes
on when the parking brake is
not engaged: brake fluid level
too low, refer to page 18.
Brake warning lamp for Cana-
dian models.
Adding brake fluid
For adding brake fluid or for determin-
ing and correcting the cause of brake
fluid loss, consult your BMW center.
Your BMW center is familiar with the
specifications for factory-approved
brake fluids – DOT 4.
Due to loss in brake fluid, pedal travel
can lengthen and braking efficiency
may be reduced. Refer to the informa-
tion on page 114.
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 for
US models or the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet for Canadian models.
Brake fluid is toxic and damages the
vehicle's paint. You should always store
it in its closed original container and in
a location inaccessible to children.
Do not spill the brake fluid and do not
fill the brake fluid reservoir beyond the
MAX mark. The brake fluid could ignite
upon contact with hot engine parts and
cause serious burns.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating
the disposal of brake fluid.<
Coolant
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Maintenance
The BMW Maintenance System
The BMW Maintenance System has
been designed as a reliable means of
providing maximum driving and operat-
ing safety – and as cost-effectively for
you as possible. Please keep in mind
that regular maintenance is not only
necessary for the safety of your vehicle,
but also plays a significant role in main-
taining the resale value of the vehicle.
Service interval display
While conventional systems rely on dis-
tance traveled alone to determine when
service is due, the BMW Maintenance
System has for years taken the actual
conditions under which the vehicle
operates into consideration, because
miles can be traveled in many different
ways:
For example, 62,000 miles/100,000 km
short-distance driving are not equal to
the same 62,000 miles/100,000 km of
long-distance travel.
The BMW Maintenance System
includes the Engine Oil Service and
Inspections I and II.
Have a break-in inspection per-
formed at 1,250 miles/2,000 km
regardless of the service interval indi-
cated on the display.<
Determining the maintenance intervals
according to the actual loads on the
vehicle covers every kind of operating
situation. Minimal-use drivers – those
who drive significantly fewer than
6,200 miles/10,000 km annually –
should have the engine oil changed at
least every 2 years since oil deterio-
rates over time, regardless of use.
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models/Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet for
Canadian models
For additional information on required
maintenance intervals and procedures,
please refer to the Service and War-
ranty Information Booklet for US mod-
els, or the Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models.
As a precaution against corrosion, it is
advisable to have the body checked for
damage from rocks or gravel at the
same time, depending upon operating
conditions.
Have your BMW center perform
maintenance and repair.
Be sure that all maintenance work is
recorded in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet for US models, or
in the Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models. These
entries are your verification for the reg-
ular maintenance of your vehicle and
are required for the performance of
warranty repairs.<
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Care
You can find everything you need to
know on this topic by consulting the
separate Caring for your vehicle bro-
chure.
The BMW Maintenance System
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Laws and regulations
California Proposition 65 warning
California laws require us to state the
following warning:
Engine exhaust and a wide variety
of automobile components and
parts, including components found in
the interior furnishings in a vehicle, con-
tain or emit chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects and reproductive harm. In
addition, certain fluids contained in
vehicles and certain products of com-
ponent wear contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
Battery posts, terminals and related
accessories contain lead and lead com-
pounds. Wash your hands after hand-
ling.
Used engine oil contains chemicals that
have caused cancer in laboratory ani-
mals. Always protect your skin by
washing thoroughly with soap and
water.<
OBD interface socket
The 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
assure proper emission-control system
operation for the vehicle's lifetime by
monitoring emission-related compo-
nents and systems for deterioration and
malfunction.
An illuminated indicator informs
you of the need for service, not
that you need to stop the vehi-
cle. However, the systems should be
checked by your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
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If the indicator blinks or flashes, this
indicates a high level of engine misfire.
Reduce speed and contact your near-
est BMW center immediately. Severe
engine misfiring for even a short period
of time can seriously damage emission-
control system components, especially
the catalytic converter.
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
If the gas cap is not on tight
enough, the OBD system can
detect leaking vapor and the indicator
will light up. If the gas cap is then tight-
ened, the indicator will usually go out
after a short period of time.<
OBD interface socket
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
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Replacement procedures
Onboard tool kit
The onboard tool kit is located in the
luggage compartment lid.
To open, loosen the wing nut. For stor-
age place of towing eyelet, refer to
page 148.
Windshield wiper blades
1. Switch off the engine
2. Fold the wiper arm completely out
from the windshield
3. Position the wiper blade at an angle
and pull the release spring – see
arrow
4. Fold the wiper blade down and
unhook it toward the windshield
5. Pull the wiper blade past the wiper
arm toward the top
6. Insert a new wiper blade and apply
pressure until you hear it engage.
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Lamps and bulbs
The lamps and bulbs make essential
contributions to the safety of your vehi-
cle. Therefore, proceed carefully when
handling bulbs. BMW recommends that
you have such work performed by your
BMW center if you are not familiar with
the procedures.
Do not touch the glass portion of
a new bulb with your bare hands
since even small amounts of impurities
burn in to the surface and reduce the
service life of the bulb. Use a clean
cloth, paper napkin, or a similar mate-
rial, or hold the bulb by its metallic
base.<
A replacement bulb set is available from
your BMW center.
Before working on the electrical
system, switch off the electrical
accessory you are working on or dis-
connect the cable from the negative
terminal of the battery. Failure to
observe this precaution could result in
short circuits.
To prevent injuries and damage when
changing a bulb, be sure to comply with
any instructions provided by the bulb
manufacturer.<
Low beams and high beams
> Low beams: H7 bulb, 55 watts
> High beams: H7 bulb, 55 watts
The H7 bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and pro-
tective gloves. Failure to comply with
this precaution could lead to injury if the
bulb is damaged.<
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.
Parking lamps
5 watt bulb
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.
When cleaning the headlamps, please
follow the instructions in the Caring for
your vehicle brochure.
Xenon lamps*
The service life of these bulbs is very
long and the probability of a failure is
very low, provided that they are not
switched on and off an unusual number
of times. If one of these bulbs should
nevertheless fail, it is possible to con-
tinue driving with great caution using
the fog lamps, provided traffic laws in
your area do not prohibit this.
Because of the extremely high
voltages involved, any work on the
xenon lighting system, including bulb-
changing, should be carried out by
technically qualified personnel only.
Otherwise, there is a risk of fatal
injury.<
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Front turn signal indicators
21 watt bulb
1. Extend a screwdriver through the
upper opening, loosen the screw and
remove it
2. Remove lamp by pulling it out toward
the front
3. Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and exchange the
bulb
4. Insert the 2 pins on the lamp into the
guides on the vehicle
5. Slide in the lamp and screw the bulb
in place through the upper opening.
Side turn signal indicators
5 watt bulb
1. Press the back edge of the lamp
toward the front with the tip of your
finger and remove
2. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
Lamps and bulbs
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Rear lamps
1 Turn signal indicator
2 Backup lamp
21 watt bulb
3 Tail lamp/brake lamp
All bulbs in the fender are
designed using LED technology.
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.<
Bulbs in the luggage compartment lid
1. Using a screwdriver, loosen the clip
2. Fold the trim panel down – see
arrow 1. Disengage the bulb holder –
see arrow 2 – and remove it
3. Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and exchange the
bulb
4. Press the bulb holder into position
until you hear it engage
5. Reinstall the trim with the clip.
Lamps and bulbs
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Center high-mount brake lamp
LED strip in luggage compartment lid.
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.
License plate lamps
5 watt bulb
1. Place a screwdriver in the slot and
press toward the left to release the
lens
2. Replace the bulb.
Repairing a flat tire
Precautions in case of a flat tire:
Stop the vehicle as far as possible
from passing traffic; switch on the haz-
ard warning flashers.
Turn the steering wheel to the straight-
ahead position and engage the steering
lock. Shift into 1st or reverse and
engage the parking brake.
All passengers should be outside the
vehicle and well away from your imme-
diate working area – behind a guardrail,
for instance.
If necessary, set up your warning trian-
gle or portable hazard warning lamp on
the roadside at an appropriate distance
from the rear of the vehicle. Comply
with all safety guidelines and regula-
tions.<
M Mobility system
You will find an M Mobility system in
your BMW M3 Convertible for repairing
flat tires. With this system you can
apply a sealing liquid to the inside of
the tire that seals off the damaged point
and then continue driving.
The M Mobility system makes trans-
porting a spare wheel superfluous,
thereby reducing the amount of weight
you have to carry around.
Lamps and bulbs
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Using the M Mobility system
To repair a flat tire using the M Mobility
system, proceed as follows:
> Preparing the M Mobility system for
use, refer to the next column
> Components of the M Mobility sys-
tem, refer to page 142
> Filling with sealant, refer to page 142
> Distributing sealant, refer to
page 143
> Inflating tire to correct pressure, refer
to page 143.
Preparing the M Mobility system
for use
The M Mobility system is located in the
luggage compartment under the floor
panel:
1. Lift the floor panel
2. Loosen the M Mobility system from
its storage location.
Before you use the M Mobility sys-
tem, read the warnings and dan-
ger notices on the device carefully.<
If possible, leave the foreign object in
the tire.
Pull off the sticker 5, refer to the second
column below, for the speed limit and
apply it to the steering wheel.
Please keep in mind that the fluids
bottle in the system's sealant con-
tainer has to be changed every 3 years
by your BMW center, if the unit has not
been used.<
Repairing a flat tire
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Components of the M Mobility
system
1 On/Off switch
2 Connection hose with manometer for
connecting the compressor with the
sealant container or to connect the
compressor to the wheel
3 Manometer for indicating the tire
pressure
4 Connector hose from the sealant
container to the wheel
5 Sticker with speed limit
6 Plug and cable for the cigarette
lighter socket
7 Protective gloves, not shown
Filling with sealant
1. Take off the round cover and take out
hose 4. Unscrew the valve dust cap
from the defective wheel and screw
the hose to the valve. Keep the dust
cap in a safe place
2. Flip open the cover and pull out the
enclosed protective gloves. Take out
hose 2 with the manometer and
screw it to the terminal for the seal-
ant container as shown in the illustra-
tion
3. Make sure that the system has been
switched off, position 0.
Take out plug 6 and insert it into the
cigarette lighter socket in the pas-
senger compartment, refer to
page 103
Repairing a flat tire
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4. Make sure that the screw on the rear
of the pressure gauge 3 is tightened
down. Turn on the M Mobility sys-
tem, position I, refer to illustration,
and allow minutes to elapse, to let
the sealant flow in. It does not matter
afterward, what the tire's inflation
pressure is
5. Turn the system off.
Disconnect the connector hose from
the sealant container and the wheel
valve. Stow the M Mobility system in
the luggage compartment.
Distributing the sealant
Right afterward, drive at least
1 1/4 miles / 2 km, so that the liquid
sealant distributes evenly throughout
the inside of the tire.
Do not exceed a maximum speed
of 40 mph / 60 km/h. If possible,
keep the vehicle speed above 10 mph /
20 km/h.
Stop in a suitable spot.<
Inflating tire to correct pressure
1. Take out the hose with the pressure
gauge and screw it onto the valve.
Take the plug out and plug it into the
cigarette lighter socket in the pas-
senger compartment
2. Reset the air pressure to
29 psi/200 kilopascal, and:
> Increase tire pressure: switch on
the M Mobility System, position I.
Switch off the unit briefly to check
the current tire pressure
> Decrease tire pressure: turn the
screw on the back of the manome-
ter, a valve located there will open
Repairing a flat tire
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Even if the tire fails to hold the
pressure, you should still carry out
Step 3 before proceeding to drive the
vehicle again, refer to Distributing the
sealant for more information. Then
repeat Steps 1 through 3.
The use of the M Mobility system may
be ineffective if the damaged area in
the tire is larger than approx. 1/8 in /
4 mm. Please consult the nearest BMW
center if the tire cannot be temporarily
repaired with the M Mobility system.<
3. Unscrew the hose from the valve and
stow the M Mobility system in the
luggage compartment. Screw the
dust cap onto the valve again.
Do not exceed the maximum
speed limit described below, oth-
erwise it could lead to accidents.<
When you start driving again, do not
exceed the permissible maximum
speed of 45 mph / 80 km/h.
You will find corresponding
instructions for using the
M Mobility system on the device.
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the new wheel bal-
anced. Reinitialize the Flat Tire Monitor,
and refer to page 88 for further informa-
tion. Have the M Mobility system
refilled. Contact your BMW center for
this.<
Protect valve stems against dirt using
screw-on dust caps. Dirty valve stems
frequently lead to slow pressure loss.
Battery
Battery posts, terminals, and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.<
Maintenance
The battery is completely maintenance-
free. That means that the original bat-
tery acid will normally last for the ser-
vice life of the battery under moderate
climate conditions.
Please consult your BMW center
whenever you have any questions
concerning the battery.<
Charging the battery
Charge the battery in the vehicle only
when the engine is not running. Use the
connections provided in the engine
compartment. For information on the
connections, see Jump-starting,
page 147.
Disposal
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW center.
Maintain the battery in an upright posi-
tion for transport and storage. Secure
the battery against tilting in transit.<
Repairing a flat tire
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Fuses
You will find the fuses and information
on their respective allocation in the
glove compartment behind a panel with
two snap clips.
Do not attempt to repair a blown
fuse or replace it with a fuse
having a different color or amperage
rating. To do this could cause a fire in
the vehicle resulting from a circuit over-
load.<
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Giving and receiving assistance
Receiving assistance
The BMW Group's Mobile Service
offers you 24-hour assistance in the
event of a breakdown, even on week-
ends and holidays.
The telephone numbers of the Mobile
Service control center in your country
are listed in the BMW Dealer Directory.
If your vehicle has the necessary equip-
ment, you can contact the Mobile Ser-
vice or issue an emergency call using
buttons in the interior rearview mirror.
When an emergency call is initiated, a
telephone connection is established
with the general emergency call center.
In vehicles with activated BMW Assist
function, a telephone connection is set
up to the BMW Assist emergency call
center. If the current location of your
vehicle can be determined, this location
is transmitted to the BMW Assist emer-
gency call center.
Fold down the cover.
1 Emergency call
2 Mobile Service
Requirements for initiating an emer-
gency call or contacting Mobile Service:
> The car phone is registered with a
mobile network
> The emergency call system is opera-
tional.
Initiating an emergency call*
Press button 1 for at least 2 seconds.
The indicator lamp above the buttons
lights up. As soon as a telephone con-
nection has been set up to the main
emergency call center, the indicator
lamp flashes.
If the indicator lamp is flashing but you
cannot hear the emergency call center,
you may still be heard by the emer-
gency call center.
For technical reasons, the emer-
gency call function cannot be
guaranteed in certain unfavorable con-
ditions.<
If certain requirements are met, an
emergency call is automatically initiated
after a serious accident. The automatic
emergency call will not be hindered by
pressing the button.
Mobile Service*
To establish contact with the BMW
Group's Mobile Service:
Press button 2 for at least 2 seconds.
The indicator lamp above the buttons
lights up. As soon as a telephone con-
nection has been set up with the Mobile
Service, the indicator lamp flashes.
Depending on the country you are in,
your vehicle's current location will also
be transmitted if your vehicle is
equipped with an activated BMW Assist
function.
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Jump-starting
When your battery is discharged, you
can use two jumper cables to start your
vehicle with power from the battery in a
second vehicle. You can also use the
same method to help start another
vehicle. Use only 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.
Carefully observe the following instruc-
tions to avoid personal injury and/or
damage to one or both vehicles.<
Preparations
1. Check whether the battery of the
support vehicle has 12 volts and
approximately the same capacity –
measured in Ah. This information is
provided on the battery
2. Stop the engine of the support vehi-
cle
3. Switch off all electrical components
in both vehicles.
Make absolutely certain that there
is no contact between the body-
work of the two vehicles, otherwise
there is a short circuit hazard.<
Connecting the jumper cables
Always adhere to this sequence
when connecting jumper cables;
failure to observe this procedure can
lead to sparks at the battery terminals
and pose an injury hazard.<
The auxiliary jump-starting terminal
located in your BMW's engine compart-
ment acts as the positive battery termi-
nal. Refer to the engine compartment
overview on page 124. The cover of this
auxiliary terminal is marked with a +.
1. Open the cover of the BMW auxiliary
jump-starting terminal. Do so by pull-
ing the tab – see arrow 1
2. Connect one terminal clamp of the
plus/+ jumper cable to the positive
terminal of the battery or to an auxil-
iary jump-starting terminal of the
support vehicle
3. Connect the second terminal clamp
of the plus/+ jumper cable to the
positive terminal of the battery or to
an auxiliary jump-starting terminal of
the vehicle to be started
4. Your BMW is equipped with a special
nut – see arrow 2 – to serve as the
ground or negative terminal.
Attach a terminal clamp of the
minus/– jumper cable to the negative
terminal of the support vehicle's bat-
tery or to a suitable ground on its
engine or bodywork
5. Attach the second terminal clamp of
the minus/– jumper cable to the neg-
ative terminal of the battery or to a
suitable ground on the engine or
bodywork of the vehicle to be
started.
Starting the engine
1. Start the engine of the support vehi-
cle and let it run for several minutes
at a slightly elevated engine idle
speed
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2. Start the engine of the other vehicle
as usual.
If the first start attempt is not suc-
cessful, wait a few minutes before
another attempt in order to allow the
discharged battery to recharge
3. Allow the engines to run for several
minutes
4. Disconnect the jumper cables in
reverse sequence.
Have the battery recharged at your
BMW center as required.
Do not use spray starter fluids to
start the engine.<
Towing the vehicle
Always observe all applicable
towing laws and regulations.<
Towing with a commercial tow
truck
> Use wheel lift or flat bed carrier
> Do not tow with sling-type equip-
ment.
Never allow passengers to ride in
a towed vehicle for any reason.
Never attach tie-down hooks, chains,
straps, or tow hooks to tie rods, control
arms, or any other part of the vehicle
suspension, as severe damage to these
components will occur, possibly lead-
ing to accidents.<
Jump-starting
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Towing the vehicle with the front
axle raised
Vehicles with sequential manual gear-
box SMG:
While the ignition is on move the selec-
tor lever to position N, then turn off the
ignition.
Towing eyelet
The screw-in towing eyelet is in the lug-
gage compartment under the floor mat
and must remain in the vehicle. It can
be attached at the front or rear of the
vehicle.
The towing eyelet should not be used
to pull a vehicle out of deep snow, mud,
sand, etc.
Comply with all applicable towing laws
and regulations at all times.
Access to tow sockets
Front:
Press out the cover panel with a screw-
driver at the top of the recess.
Rear:
Press out the cover panel with a screw-
driver at the top of the recess.
Use only the towing eyelet sup-
plied with the vehicle and screw it
in firmly until it stops. Use the towing
eyelet for towing on paved roads only. If
you do not follow these instructions, the
towing eyelet could be torn out and
vehicle damage could occur.
Do not tow the vehicle by any compo-
nents of the running gear, or lash them
down in any way. If you do, the compo-
nents could be damaged, possibly
leading to accidents.<
Towing the vehicle
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Keep the vehicles in line and avoid
towing at an offset angle. Ensure
that the towing strap connecting the
two vehicles is tight, with no slack,
before starting off.<
Use only a nylon towing strap to tow
the vehicle, since the inherent resil-
ience of this material helps protect both
vehicles from sudden jerking move-
ments.
The towed vehicle should always
be the lighter of the two vehicles.
If this is not the case, it will not be pos-
sible to control vehicle handling.<
Tow-starting
For instructions on jump-starting, refer
to page 147.
Never attempt to use your vehicle to
push another vehicle, since damage to
the energy-absorbing bumpers could
result.
Towing the vehicle
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
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Engine data
Displacement
Number of cylinders
cu in/cm
3
198.1/3,246
6
Max. power output
at engine speed
hp
rpm
333
7,900
Maximum torque
at engine speed
lb ft/Nm
rpm
262/355
4,900
Compression ratio ε 11.5
Stroke
Bore
in/mm
in/mm
3.58/91
3.43/87
Fuel mixture preparation Digital electronic engine-management
system
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Dimensions
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Weights
Curb weight lbs/kg 3,782/1,715
Approved gross vehicle weight lbs/kg 4,608/2,090
Approved front axle load lbs/kg 2,183/990
Approved rear axle load lbs/kg 2,513/1,140
Permissible roof load for the hardtop lbs/kg 165/75
Luggage compartment capacity
with the convertible top compartment raised
cu ft/l
cu ft/l
9.2/260
10.6/300
Approved axle loads and approved gross vehicle weight must never be exceeded.
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157
Capacities
Notes
Fuel tank
Reserve
gal./liters
gal./liters
approx. 16.6/63
approx. 2.1/8
Fuel specification, refer to page 25
Windshield washer system/
Headlamp cleaning system quarts/liters approx. 5.6/5.3
Specifications, refer to page 126
Engine with oil filter change quarts/liters approx. 5.8/5.5 Specifications, refer to page 127
Manual transmission quarts/liters approx. 1.9/1.8 Oil change during running-in check
and during each inspection II
Differential quarts/liters approx. 1.2/1.1 Oil change during running-in check
and during each inspection II
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
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Everything from A to Z
A
ABS Antilock Brake
System 114
indicator lamp 19
Accessories, refer to For
your own safety 5
Accident, refer to Emer-
gency call 146
Activated-charcoal filter 100
Adding brake fluid 129
Adding liquid sealant
Mobility system 142
Additional sources of infor-
mation 4
Air conditioning mode
automatic climate
control 98
Air distribution
automatic climate
control 98
Air distribution, individual 98
Air outlets, refer to Ventila-
tion 96
Air pressure, refer to Tire
inflation pressure 25, 118
Air recirculation, refer to
Recirculated-air mode 99
Air supply
automatic climate
control 98
Air, drying, refer to Air con-
ditioning mode 98
Airbags 55
deactivating 55
indicator lamp 18, 57
sitting safely 46
Airing out, refer to Ventila-
tion 96
AKI, refer to Fuel specifica-
tions 25
All-season tires, refer to
Winter tires 122
Alternative oils 127
Antifreeze
coolant 128
washer fluid 126
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 114
indicator lamp 19
Anti-theft system 30
Approved axle loads, refer
to Weights 156
Approved gross weight,
refer to Weights 156
Armrest 101
Artificial leather, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Ashtray
front 103
rear 103
Assistant systems, refer to
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 86
AUC Automatic recircu-
lated-air control 99
AUTO program, refer
to Automatic air distribu-
tion 98
Automatic
air distribution 98
air supply 98
cruise control 77
headlamp control 91
Automatic car wash, refer to
the Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Automatic climate control 96
Automatic curb monitor 52
Automatic dimming, interior
rearview mirror 54
Automatic recirculated-air
control (AUC) 99
Automatic windshield
washer, refer to Rain sen-
sor 76
Average fuel
consumption 84
Average speed 84
Axle loads, refer to
Weights 156
B
Backrest
unlocking 49
Backrest, refer to Seat
adjustment 47
Backup lamps 69
bulb replacement 139
Bandages, refer to First-aid
kit 23
Bar, towing 149
Battery 144
charge 144
disposal 144
indicator lamp 18
jump-starting 147
remote control 30, 31
Battery charge current 18
Battery charge indicator
lamp 18
Belts, refer to Safety
belts 50
Beverage holders 102
Blower
automatic climate
control 98
BMW Maintenance
System 130
BMW sports seat 47
Bore, refer to Engine
data 154
Bottle holders, see Bever-
age holders 102
Brake fluid 129
indicator lamp 18, 129
level 129
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Everything from A to Z
161
Brake force display 90
Brake hydraulics 114
Brake lamps
bulb replacement 139
indicator lamp, defective
lamp 81
Brake lights
brake force display 90
Brake pads 115
brake fluid level
18, 114, 129
breaking in 112
disc brakes 114
Brake rotors
brake system 114
breaking in 112
Brake system
brake pads, indicator
lamp 19
Brake wear warning
indicator lamp 19
Brakes
ABS 114
brake fluid 129
breaking in 112
indicator/warning lamp
18, 19
parking brake 68
Break-in procedures 112
Bulb replacement 137
Bulb replacement, refer to
Lamps and bulbs 137
Buttons in steering wheel 22
C
California Proposition
65 warning 132
Can holders, see Beverage
holders 102
Capacities 157
Car battery 144
Car care, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Car keys, refer to Keys 30
Car radio, refer to the
Owner's Manual for Radio
Car telephone
preparation 102
Car telephone, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Car vacuum cleaner, con-
necting 103
Car wash, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Carpet care, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Cassette operation, refer to
the Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
CBC Cornering Brake Con-
trol 114
warning lamp 19
CD changer, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
CD operation, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Cellular phone 102
Center armrest
front 101
Center high-mount brake
lamp
bulb replacement 140
Central locking system 30
button 34
passenger
compartment 34
Check Control 81
Check Gas Cap
indicator lamp 19
Child seats, refer to Child-
restraint systems 58
Child-restraint mounting
system LATCH 60
Child-restraint systems 58
Cigarette lighter 103
Cigarette lighter socket 103
Cleaning chrome parts, refer
to the Caring for your vehi-
cle brochure
Cleaning light alloy wheels,
refer to the Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Cleaning position, convert-
ible top 44
Cleaning the vehicle, refer to
the Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Cleaning windshield 77
Clock 82
12-/24-hour mode 82
setting, refer also to the
Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Closing
from inside 34
from outside 31
Clothes hooks 113
Clutch
breaking in 113
Cockpit 14
Code, refer to the Owner's
Manual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
Coin box 102
Cold start, refer to Starting
the engine 66
Compact disc operation,
refer to the Owner's Man-
ual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
Compression ratio, refer to
Engine data 154
Computer 83
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Everything from A to Z
Condensation, refer to Air
conditioning mode 98
Configuring settings, refer to
Vehicle Memory, Key
Memory 64
Connecting a vacuum
cleaner, refer to Cigarette
lighter 103
Consumption, refer to Aver-
age fuel consumption 84
Control elements, refer to
Cockpit 14
Convenience operation
from outside 33
glass sunroof 31
windows 31
Convertible top 39
cleaning position 44
convenience operation
31, 33
electrical malfunction 42
emergency operation 42
indicator lamps 41
opening and closing 40
remote control 31
Coolant 128
indicator lamp 19, 80
level 128
temperature gauge 80
Coolant water, refer to Cool-
ant 128
Cooling, refer to Tempera-
ture 98
Copyright 4
Cornering Brake Control
(CBC) 114
warning lamp 19
Correct tires 121
Cruise control 77
indicator lamp 20
Cup holders, see Beverage
holders 102
Curb weight, refer to
Weights 156
Cylinders, refer to Engine
data 154
D
Dashboard, refer to
Cockpit 14
Data
capacities 157
dimensions 155
engine 154
technical 154
weights 156
Daytime driving lamps 91
DBC Dynamic Brake Control
19, 114
Deep water, refer to Water
on roadways 113
Defrost position, refer to
Defrosting windows 98
Defrosting and demisting
windows
automatic climate
control 98
Defrosting windows 98
Defrosting windshield, refer
to Defrosting windows 98
Demisting windows
automatic climate
control 98
Determining the maximum
load 106
Differential
breaking in 112
Digital clock 82
Dimensions 155
Dipstick, engine oil 126
Disc brakes 114
Displacement, refer to
Engine data 154
Display lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting 92
Displays, refer to Instrument
cluster 16
Disposal
oil 127
vehicle battery 144
Distance warning, refer to
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 85
Door key 30
Door lock 33
Doors
emergency operation 33
Draft-free ventilation 99
Drivelogic 73
Driving light, refer to Parking
lamps/Low beams 91
Driving notes 113
Dry air, refer to Air condi-
tioning mode 98
DSC Dynamic Stability Con-
trol 86
indicator lamp 19, 86
DTC Dynamic Traction Con-
trol
indicator lamp 19
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC) 19, 114
indicator lamp 19
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 19, 86
Dynamic Traction Control
(DTC)
indicator lamp 19, 86
E
Easy entry, refer to Entering
the rear 49
Electric power windows 38
Electrical accessories, fail-
ure 145
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Everything from A to Z
163
Electrical malfunction
door lock 33
driver's door 33
fuel filler door 24
luggage compartment
lid 35
Electronic Stability Program
(ESP), refer to Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) 86
Emergency call 146
Emergency operation
doors 33
driver's door 33
fuel filler door 24
luggage compartment
lid 35
Emergency release
luggage compartment
lid 36
Engine
breaking in 112
data 154
electronics 19
indicator lamp 19
speed 79, 154
starting 66
switching off 68
Engine compartment 124
Engine coolant 128
refilling 128
Engine oil
adding 127
additives, refer to Adding
engine oil 127
alternative oils 127
capacity 157
consumption 126
dipstick 126
indicator/warning lamp 19
quality 127
specified oils 127
temperature gauge 79
types 127
Engine oil level 19
check 126
indicator/warning lamp 18
Engine oil pressure
indicator/warning lamp 18
Engine oil temperature 79
Engine output, refer to
Engine data 154
Engine speed 79, 154
Entering the rear 49
Equipment range, refer to
the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet for US
models / Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet for
Canadian models
ESP Electronic Stability Pro-
gram, refer to Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) 86
Exterior mirrors 53
Eyeglasses
compartment 102
Eyelet, towing 149
F
Fastening the safety belts 50
Fault displays 81
Filling the windshield washer
reservoir 157
First aid, refer to First-aid
kit 23
First-aid kit 23
Flat tire 140
Flat Tire Monitor 87
Mobility system 140
repairing 140
Flat Tire Monitor 87
activating/deactivating 89
indicator lamp 18, 19, 89
Flat tire, refer to Tire condi-
tion 118
Fluid reservoir for washer
systems 126
Fog lamps 93
indicator/warning lamp 20
Folding down convertible
top compartment panel 37
Follow me home lamps 91
Footbrake, refer to General
driving notes 113
Front airbags 55
Front fog lamps 93
indicator/warning lamp 20
Front seat adjustment 47
Fuel
display 80
specifications 25
volume 157
Fuel consumption
display 84
Fuel display, refer to Fuel
gauge 80
Fuel filler door 24
release following an elec-
trical malfunction 24
Fuel level indicator, refer to
Fuel gauge 80
Fuel mixture preparation 154
Fuel reserve indicator, refer
to Fuel gauge 80
Fuel tank capacity 157
Fuses 145
G
Gasoline consumption, refer
to Average fuel consump-
tion 84
Gasoline, refer to Fuel spec-
ifications 25
Gear indicator 71
Gearbox
manual transmission 69
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Everything from A to Z
Gearbox malfunction
sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic 74
Gearbox, sequential 70
Gearshift lever
manual transmission 69
sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic 70
General driving notes 113
Glove compartment 101
Gradient assistance 73
Grills, refer to Ventilation 96
Gross weight, refer to
Weights 156
H
Handbrake, refer to Parking
brake 68
Hands-free system 102
Hardtop 115
Hardtop preparation 115
Hardtop, refer to the sepa-
rate Owner's Manual 115
Hazard warning flashers 14
Hazard warning triangle 23
Head restraints 48
Headlamp cleaning system
cleaning headlamps 77
washer fluid 126, 157
Headlamp control, auto-
matic 91
Headlamp flasher 92
indicator lamp 21
Headlamps
bulb replacement 137
care, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Heated mirrors 53
Heated rear window
automatic climate
control 99
Heated seats 52
Heating
exterior mirrors 53
rear window 99
seats 52
Heating and ventilation 96
Heavy loads, refer to Cargo
loading 107
Height adjustment
seats 47
steering wheel 53
Height, refer to
Dimensions 155
High beams 75, 92
bulb replacement 137
headlamp flasher 92
indicator lamp 21
Holder for beverages 102
Hood release 123
Horn 14
Hydraulic brake assistant,
refer to DBC 114
Hydraulic system
brakes 114
Hydroplaning 113
I
Ice warning 83
Ignition 65
Ignition key 30
positions 65
Ignition lock 65
Imprint 4
Indicator lamps 18
Indicator/warning lamp
airbags 18
brakes 18, 19
Check Gas Cap 19
convertible top 41
coolant 19, 80
DSC 19
Flat Tire Monitor
18, 19, 89
fog lamps 20
Please fasten safety
belts 18
reserve 80
rollover protection
system 19
Service Engine Soon 19
Individual air distribution 98
Individual settings, refer to
Vehicle Memory, Key
Memory 64
Inflation pressure monitor-
ing, refer to Flat Tire Moni-
tor 87
Inflation pressure, tires
25, 118
INSPECTION 81
Instrument cluster 16
Instrument lighting 92
Instrument panel 14
Interface socket for onboard
diagnostics (OBD) 132
Interior lamps 93
remote control 32
Interior rearview mirror
automatic dimming
feature 54
Interior temperature
adjusting 98
Intermittent
mode, wipers 76
Interval
display, service 81
J
Jump-starting 147
K
Key Memory 64
Keys 30
with remote control 30
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Everything from A to Z
165
L
Lamp defect 137
Lamps
reading lamps 93
Lamps and bulbs 137
Lashing down loads, refer to
Cargo loading 106
Lashing eyelets, refer to
Securing cargo 107
Lashing fittings, refer to
Securing cargo 107
LATCH child-restraint
mounting system 60
Leather care, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
LEDs light-emitting
diodes 94
Length, refer to
Dimensions 155
License plate lamp
bulb replacement 140
Light switch 91
Light-emitting diodes
(LEDs) 94
Lighter 103
LIGHTS ON warning 91
Lights, refer to Parking
lamps/Low beams 91
Load, refer to Cargo
loading 106
Loading
vehicle 106
Load-securing devices 107
Lock buttons on doors, refer
to Locking 34
Lock, steering wheel 65
Locking
from inside 34
from outside 31, 33
Locking and unlocking
doors
from inside 34
from outside 31, 33
Low beams 91
automatic 91
bulb replacement 137
indicator lamp, defective
lamp 81
Luggage compartment 37
capacity 156
emergency operation,
refer to Manual
operation 35
floor panel 37
increase volume 37
lid 35
lighting 35
opening from outside 35
opening, remote
control 32
opening/closing, refer
to Luggage compartment
lid 35
remote control 32
securing separately 35
volume 156
Luggage compartment lid 35
emergency operation 35
emergency release 36
indicator lamp 81
opening from inside the
vehicle 35
opening from outside 35
remote control 32
unlocking manually 35
Luggage rack, refer to Roof-
mounted luggage rack 108
Lumbar support 48
M
M Engine dynamics
control 90
M Mobility system 140
M+S tires, refer to Winter
tires 122
Maintenance 81, 130
Maintenance system 130
Making telephone calls,
refer to the telephone
Owner's Manual
Malfunction
convertible top 42
door lock 33
fuel filler door 24
Malfunction displays 81
Manual operation
convertible top 42
door lock 33
driver's door 33
fuel filler door 24
luggage compartment
lid 35
power convertible top 42
Manual transmission 69
Master keys
with remote control 30
Maximum speed
with winter tires 122
MC operation, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 596 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
MD operation, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Memory, refer to Seat and
mirror memory 51
Memory, refer to Vehicle
Memory, Key Memory 64
Microfilter
automatic climate
control 100
Microphone, refer to Cellular
phone 102
Mini disc operation, refer to
the Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Mirrors 53
automatic curb monitor 52
heated 53
memory, refer to Seat and
mirror memory 51
Mobile Service 146
Mobility system 140
Modifications, technical,
refer to For your own
safety 5
Multifunction steering
wheel 22
Multifunction switch
turn signal indicator/head-
lamp flasher 75
washer/wiper system 76
N
Navigation system, refer to
the Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Neck restraints, refer to
Head restraints 48
Nets 101
Nozzles, refer to
Ventilation 96
Nylon rope, refer to Towing
the vehicle 149
O
OBD interface socket 132
Odometer 79
Oil
additives, refer to Adding
engine oil 127
alternative oils 127
capacity 157
dipstick 126
quality 127
specified engine oils 127
Oil change interval, refer
to Service interval
display 130
Oil change intervals, refer to
the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet for US
models / Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet for
Canadian models
Oil filter change 157
Oil level
checking 126
indicator lamp 18
Oil pressure
indicator lamp 18
OIL SERVICE 81
Oil temperature 79
Oil types 127
Old batteries, refer to Dis-
posal 144
Onboard computer 83
Onboard computer, refer
also to the Owner's Man-
ual for Onboard Computer
Onboard tool kit 136
Opening and closing
from inside 34
from outside 31
via door lock 33
via remote control 31
Outlets, ventilation 96
Outside temperature dis-
play 83
changing unit of
measure 83
P
Paintwork care, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 85
Parking aid, refer to Park
Distance Control (PDC) 85
Parking brake 68
indicator lamp 18
Parking lamps 91
bulb replacement 137
Parking lamps/Low
beams 91
Parts and accessories, refer
to Your individual vehicle 5
Passenger-side exterior mir-
ror tilt function 52
PDC Park Distance
Control 85
Plastic, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Please fasten safety belts
indicator lamp 18
Pollen, refer to Microfilter/
activated-charcoal
filter 100
Power output, refer to
Engine data 154
Power seat 47
Power socket, cigarette
lighter 103
Power windows
electric 38
Pressure monitoring, tires
Flat Tire Monitor 87
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Everything from A to Z
167
Pressure, tires 25, 118
inflating with Mobility sys-
tem 143
Protective function
electric power windows 39
R
Radio remote control key,
refer to Master key with
remote control 30
Radio, refer to the Owner's
Manual for Radio
Rain sensor 76
Raising the floor panel 37
Range 84
Reading lamps
rear 94
Rear lamps
bulb replacement 139
indicator lamp, defective
lamp 81
Rear window heating
automatic climate
control 99
Rear-entry assist 49
Rearview mirror 53
Receiving assistance 146
Recirculated-air mode
automatic climate
control 99
Recirculating the air, refer to
Recirculated-air mode 99
Reclining seat, refer to Seat
adjustment 47
Refueling 24
fuel filler door 24
Releasing
hood 123
Remaining distance to ser-
vice 81
Remaining distance, refer to
Range 84
Remote control 31
luggage compartment
lid 32
malfunction 32
Replacement key 31
Replacing lamps, refer to
Lamps and bulbs 137
Replacing tires 119
Reporting safety defects 7
Restraint systems
for children 58
Restraint systems, refer to
Safety belts 50
Reverse gear
manual transmission 69
Rollover protection
system 62
indicator lamp 19
lowering 62
Roof load capacity 156
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 108
Rope, refer to Towing the
vehicle 149
S
Safe seating position 46
Safety belt height adjust-
ment 50
Safety belts 50
height adjustment 50
seat-integrated safety belt
system 49
sitting safely 46
warning lamp 18
Safety systems, refer to
Antilock Brake
System 114
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 86
Screwdriver, refer to
Onboard tool kit 136
Seat adjustment 47
BMW sports seat 47
lumbar support 47, 48
power seats 47
Seat belt tensioner, refer to
Safety belts 50
Seat heating 52
Seat memory, refer to Seat
and mirror memory 51
Seat positions, storing 51
Seats 47
Securing cargo 107
Securing child-restraint sys-
tem 60
Securing the vehicle
from inside 34
from outside 31, 33
Selector lever
sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic 70
Selector lever positions
sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic 70
Sequential M gearbox with
Drivelogic 70
indicator lamp 19, 74
Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet 130
SERVICE ENGINE SOON
warning lamp 19
Service interval display
81, 130
Shift lights 74
Shift paddles 71
Side airbags 55
Side turn signal indicators
bulb replacement 138
Sitting safely
with airbags 46
with safety belts 46
Size 155
Ski bag 104
Slipstream deflector, refer to
Wind deflector 44
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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 596 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
SMG Drivelogic 70
Smokers' package, refer to
Ashtray 103
Snow chains 122
SOS, refer to Emergency
call 146
Spare key 30
Special oils 127
Special oils, refer to Speci-
fied engine oils 127
Specified engine oils 127
Specified oils 127
Speed
winter tires 122
Speed gauge, refer to
Speedometer 16
Speedometer 16
Sport mode 90
Sports seat 47
Stability control, refer to
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 86
Standing lamps 92
bulb replacement 137
Starting difficulties
jump-starting 147
temperature 66
Starting help DSC 86
Starting the engine 66
Starting, refer to Starting the
engine 66
Status of the Owner's Man-
ual 5
Steering wheel lock 65
Steering wheel, adjusting 53
Storage compartments 101
Storage nets 101
Storing seat positions,
refer to Seat and mirror
memory 51
Storing tires 121
Stroke, refer to Engine
data 154
Surface ice, refer to Ice
warning 83
Switches, refer to
Cockpit 14
Switching off
engine 68
vehicle 68
Symbols 4
T
Tachometer 79
Tail lamps
bulb replacement 139
Tail lamps, refer to Rear
lamps 139
Tank capacity, refer to Fuel
tank capacity 157
Tank indicator, refer to Fuel
gauge 80
Technical data 154
Technical modifications 5
Technical modifications,
refer to For your own
safety 5
Telephone hookup 102
Telephone, refer to the sep-
arate Owner's Manual
Television, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Onboard Computer
Temperature
automatic climate
control 98
Temperature adjustment 98
Temperature display
engine coolant 80
ice warning 83
outside temperature 83
setting units 83
Temperature layering 99
Tempomat, refer to Cruise
control 77
Thigh support area, adjust-
ing 47
Third brake lamp, refer to
Center high-mount brake
lamp 140
Three-point safety belt 50
Tilting passenger-side exte-
rior mirror 52
Time 82
Tire pressure monitoring,
refer to Flat Tire
Monitor 87
Tire replacement 119
Tires
age 120
breaking in 112
condition 118, 122
damage 118
flat 140
inflation pressure 25, 118
replacing 119
size, refer to Wheel and
tire combinations 121
storing 121
tread 118
treadwear indicator,
refer to Tire tread – tire
damage 118
winter tires 122
Tools, refer to Onboard tool
kit 136
Torque
engine 154
Tow sockets for towing eye-
let 149
Towing bar 149
Towing eyelet 149
Towing rope 149
Towing the vehicle 149
Track width, refer to Dimen-
sions 155
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Everything from A to Z
169
Transport securing devices,
refer to Securing
cargo 107
Transporting children
safely 58
Trap protection
electric power windows 39
Tread depth, refer to Tire
tread 118
Treadwear indicator in the
tires, refer to Tire tread –
tire damage 118
Treadwear, tires 118
Trip distance recorder, refer
to Trip odometer 79
Trip meter, refer to Trip
odometer 79
Trip odometer 79
Trunk lid, refer to Luggage
compartment lid 35
Trunk lighting, refer to
Luggage compartment
lighting 35
Turn signal indicator 75
bulb replacement 138
indicator lamp 20
Turn signal indicator, side
bulb replacement 138
Turning circle, refer to
Dimensions 155
TV function, refer to the
Owner's Manual for
Onboard Computer
U
Underbody protection, refer
to the Caring for your vehi-
cle brochure
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading 120
Units
average fuel
consumption 84
temperature 83
Unlocking
from inside 34
from outside 31, 33
Upshift indicator, refer to
Shift Lights 74
Using antifreeze 128
V
Vehicle
battery 144
break-in procedures 112
dimensions 155
loading 106
starting 66
switching off 68
washing, refer to the Car-
ing for your vehicle bro-
chure 76
weight 156
Vehicle Memory 64
Vehicle weight 156
Ventilation 96
draft-free 99
Viscosity 127
Voice Input System 22
Voice recognition, refer to
separate Owner's Manual
Volume
luggage compartment 156
W
Warning and indicator
lamps 18
Warning lamp 'Please fas-
ten safety belts' 18
Warning messages 81
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet 130
Warranty, refer also to sepa-
rate booklet 7
Washer fluid
adding 126, 157
Washer fluid reservoir 126
volume 126
Washer jets, refer to Wind-
shield washer jets 77
Washer/wiper system 76, 77
washer fluid 126
Waste tray, refer to
Ashtray 103
Water on roadways, deep
water 113
Weights 156
Wheel and tire
combinations 121
Wheelbase, refer to Dimen-
sions 155
Wheels and tires 121
Wheelslip control DSC 86
Width, refer to
Dimensions 155
Wind deflector 44
Window condensation
removing 98
Windows
convenience operation
31, 33
remote control 31
Windshield washer
nozzles 77
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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 596 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Windshield washer reservoir
volume, see
Capacities 157
Windshield wiper blades,
replacing 136
Windshield wipers, refer to
Washer/wiper system 76
Winter tires 122
condition 122
storing 121
Wiper blades, replacing 136
Work in the engine compart-
ment 123
X
Xenon lamps
bulb replacement 137
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171
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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 596 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 157 596 - © 09/03 BMW AG
Refueling
To ensure that you always have conve-
nient access to all essential information
when you stop for fuel, we recommend
that you take the time to fill out the
adjoining chart by entering the data that
apply to your vehicle. Consult the index
for individual specifications.
Fuel
Please enter your preferred fuel here.
Engine oil
The oil quantity between the two marks
on the dipstick is approx.
1.4 US quarts/1.3 liters.
Tire inflation pressure
Designation
Quality
Summer tires Winter tires
front rear front rear
Up to 2 persons
4 persons plus luggage
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