M3
BMW recommends Castrol
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
We are pleased you have decided on a BMW M3.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced control and
security when you drive it. We therefore have this request:
Please read the information summarized for you in this Owner's Manual, before
starting off in your new BMW M3. It contains important instructions for operating
your vehicle that will allow you to get the most out of your BMW M3's technologi-
cally advanced qualities. In addition, you will find information on maintenance and
care, there to ensure operating and driving safety, as well as to maintain the best
possible value of your vehicle.
BMW M also makes a decisive contribution 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.
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet
(US models) or a Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
We recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.
Your BMW M3 is covered by the following warranties:
– New Vehicle Limited Warranty
– Limited Warranty Rust Perforation
– Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
– Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
– California Emission Control System Limited Warranty
Detailed information about these warranties is listed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW M
Preface
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
© 2000 BMW M GmbH
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts,
only with the written consent of
BMW M GmbH, Munich.
Part number 01 41 0 155 433
US English VIII/00
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper
(bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling).
4n
Notes on the Owner's Manual
We have made every effort to ensure
that you are able to find what you need
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as
possible. The fastest way to find certain
topics is by using the detailed index at
the end. If you wish to gain only an
initial overview of your vehicle, you will
find this in the first chapter.
The table of contents is intended to
pique your interest regarding your
BMW and to encourage you to read the
manual.
Should you wish to sell your BMW at
some time in the future, please
remember to hand over this Owner's
Manual to the new owner; it is part of
the vehicle.
Should you have any further questions,
your BMW center will be glad to assist
at any time.
Symbols used
Indicates instructions or precau-
tions that must be followed
precisely in order to avoid the possi-
bility of personal injury and serious
damage to the vehicle.
<
Contains information that will
assist you in gaining the optimum
benefit from your vehicle and enable
you to care more effectively for your
vehicle.
<
Refers to measures that can
be taken to help protect the
environment.
<
<
Marks the end of a specific item of
information.
*
Indicates special equipment,
country-specific equipment and
optional extras.
t
Identifies index entries that refer to
owner service procedures or topics on
car care.
Identifies systems or components,
which your BMW center can either
activate or adapt to suit an individual
driver's requirements ("Car Memory",
"Key Memory"). Refer to page 52.
<
Your individual vehicle
On buying your BMW, you have
decided in favor of a model with individ-
ualized equipment and features. This
Owner's Manual describes all of the
equipment that the BMW M3 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 spot any
possible differences, since all optional
accessories are marked with an
asterisk
*
.
If your BMW features equipment that is
not described in this Owner's Manual (a
car radio or telephone, for instance), we
have enclosed Supplementary Owner's
Manuals. We ask you to read these
manuals as well.
Notes
Symbols
Your individual vehicle
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
5n
Status at time of printing
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development conceived to
ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality and safety
standards combined with advanced,
state-of-the-art technology. For this
reason, it is possible that the features
described in this Owner's Manual could
differ from those on your vehicle. Nor
can errors and omissions be entirely
ruled out. You are therefore asked to
appreciate that no legal claims can be
entertained on the basis of the data,
illustrations or descriptions in this
manual.
Status at time of printing
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
6n
For your own safety
Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels
containing up to and including
10% ethanol or other oxygenates with
up to 2,8% oxygen by weight (i.e. 15%
MTBE or 3% methanol plus an equiva-
lent amount of co-solvent) will not void
the applicable warranties respecting
defects in materials or workmanship.
Field experience has indicated signifi-
cant differences in fuel quality (volatility,
composition, additives, others) among
gasolines offered for sale in the United
States and Canada. The use of poor
quality fuels may result in drivability,
starting and stalling problems espe-
cially under certain environmental
conditions, such as high ambient
temperature and high altitude.
Should you encounter driveability
problems which you suspect could be
related to the fuel you are using, we
recommend that you respond by
switching to a recognized high-quality
brand.
Failure to comply with these recom-
mendations may result in unscheduled
maintenance.
Obey pertinent safety rules when you
are handling gasoline.
<
Important safety information.
For your own safety, use genuine parts
and accessories approved by BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested
and approved by BMW and Original
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire
the assurance that they have been thor-
oughly tested by BMW to ensure
optimum performance when installed
on your vehicle.
BMW warrants these parts to be free
from defects in material and workman-
ship.
BMW will not accept any liability for
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,
compromise its safety, interfere with
the vehicle's electrical system or affect
the validity of the BMW Limited
Warranty. See your BMW center for
additional information.
Do not use a key or remote control to
lock doors or luggage compartment
with anyone inside the car. See page 34
for more details.
<
Symbol on vehicle parts
Indicates that you should consult
the relevant section of this
Owner's Manual for information on a
particular part or assembly.
For your own safety
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
7n
The following applies only to vehicles owned and operated in the US.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should
immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying BMW of
North America, Inc., P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone (201) 307-4000.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in indi-
vidual problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of North America, Inc.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can
also obtain other information about engine vehicle safety from the Hotline.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
8n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
9n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Contents
Overview
Controls and features
Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 23
Hazard warning flashers 24
Warning triangle 24
First-aid kit 24
Refueling 25
Fuel specifications 26
Tire inflation pressure 26
Opening and closing:
Keys 30
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 31
Central locking system 31
Opening and closing –
via the door lock 32
Opening and closing –
via the remote control 33
Opening and closing –
from the inside 36
Luggage compartment lid 37
Luggage compartment 39
Alarm system 40
Electric power windows 42
Sliding/tilt sunroof 43
Adjustments:
Seats 45
Mirrors 49
Seat and mirror memory 51
Steering wheel 52
Car Memory, Key Memory 52
Passenger safety systems:
Safety belts 54
Airbags 56
Transporting children safely 59
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 62
Starting the engine 62
Switching off the engine 63
Parking brake 63
Manual transmission 64
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp
flasher 65
Washer/Wiper system/Rain
sensor 65
Rear window defroster 67
Cruise control 67
Everything under control:
Odometer 69
Tachometer 69
Engine oil temperature gauge 69
Fuel gauge 70
Coolant temperature gauge 70
Service Interval Display 71
Check Control 72
Computer 72
Technology for driving comfort
and safety:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 75
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 76
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) 78
M Engine dynamics control 80
Contents
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
11n
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Lamps:
Side lamps/Low beams 81
Instrument lightning 81
High beams/Parking lamps 82
Fog lamps 82
Interior lamps 82
Reading lamps 83
Controlling the climate
for pleasant driving:
Automatic climate control 84
Heated seats 89
Roller sun blind 89
Interior conveniences:
HiFi system 90
Glove compartment 90
Storage compartments 91
Cellular phone 92
Ashtray, front 92
Cigarette lighter 93
Ashtray, rear 93
Clothes hooks 94
Loading and transporting:
Through-loading system 95
Ski bag 96
Cargo loading 97
Roof-mounted luggage rack 98
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 102
Driving notes 103
Catalytic converter 103
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 104
Disk brakes 106
Brake system 107
Winter operation 108
Power steering 110
Cellular phones 110
Radio reception 110
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 111
Tire condition 111
Tire replacement 112
Tire rotation 113
Wheel and tire
combinations 114
Winter tires 115
Snow chains 115
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 116
Under the hood:
Hood 118
Engine compartment 120
Washer fluids 122
Washer nozzles 122
Engine oil 123
Coolant 125
Brake fluid 126
Vehicle Identification
Number 126
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 127
Caring for your vehicle 128
Airbags 133
Vehicle storage 133
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 134
California Proposition
65 Warning 134
OBD connector 135
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Contents
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technical data
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 138
Windshield wiper blades 138
Lamps and bulbs 138
Repairing a flat tire 145
Battery 148
Fuses 151
Microfilter/Activated charcoal
filter 152
In case of
electrical malfunction:
Fuel filler door 152
Sliding/tilt sunroof 153
Giving and receiving
assistance:
Jump-starting 154
Towing 155
Airbags 158
Radio reception 158
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 159
Safety belt tensioner 159
M3 Engine concept 160
Rain sensor 160
Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimming
feature 161
Self-diagnostics 162
Xenon lamps 163
Engine data 166
Dimensions 167
Weights 168
Capacities 169
Electrical system 170
Drive belts 170
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
14n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
15n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 23
Hazard warning flashers 24
Warning triangle 24
First-aid kit 24
Refueling 25
Fuel specifications 26
Tire inflation pressure 26
Overview
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
16n
Cockpit
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
17n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Cockpit
1 Side lamps/Low beams 81
2
d
Turn signal indicator 65
>
Parking lamp 82
>
High beams 82
>
Headlamp flasher 65
>
Computer 72
3 Washer/Wiper system 65
4 Hazard warning flashers 24
5 Shift lever 64
6 Rear window defroster 67
7 Central locking system 31
8 Adjusting steering wheel 52
9 Horn, entire surface
10 Fog lamps 82
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
18n
Instrument cluster
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
19n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Instrument cluster
1 Fuel gauge with indicator lamp for
fuel reserve 70
2 Turn signal indicator 22
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for:
>
Battery charge current 20
>
High beams 22
>
Engine oil pressure/Engine oil
level 20, 21
5 Tachometer and engine oil
temperature gauge 69, 69
6 Engine coolant temperature gauge
with "Coolant temperature too high"
indicator 70
7 Indicator and warning lamps
(clockwise) for:
>
Parking brake/Brake hydraulic
system/Cornering Brake Control
(CBC) 20
>
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 21
>
Brake pads 21
>
Tire Pressure Warning
(RDW) 20, 22
>
Airbags 21
>
Please fasten safety belts 21
>
Cruise control 22
8 Set button for the clock 73
9 Indicator lamp for Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) 22
10 Indicator for:
>
Odometer 69
>
Trip odometer 69
>
Clock 73
>
Service Interval 71
Indicator for computer, operation
using the turn signal lever, refer to
page 72:
>
Clock
>
Outside temperature
>
Average fuel consumption
>
Crusing range
>
Average speed
11 Indicator for Check Control 72
12 Trip odometer, reset to zero 69
13 Indicator and warning lamps
(clockwise) for:
>
Fog lamps 22
>
Add washer fluid 22
>
Coolant level 22
>
Electronic Throttle Control
(EML) 22
>
Service engine soon 22
You can have the outside temper-
ature and distance traveled shown
in other units of measurement.
<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
20n
Indicator and warning lamps
Technology
that monitors itself
Many of the systems of your BMW
monitor themselves automatically, both
during engine starts and while you are
driving. Indicator and warning lamps
that are identified by "
●
" are tested for
proper functioning whenever the igni-
tion key is turned. They each light up
once for different periods of time.
If a fault should occur in one of these
systems, the corresponding lamp does
not go out after the engine is started or
it lights up while the vehicle is moving.
You will see how to react to this below.
Red: stop immediately
Battery charge current
●
The battery is no longer being
charged. 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, do not
continue driving. The engine could
be damaged due to overheating. If the
V-belt is defective, increased steering
effort is also required.
<
Engine oil pressure
●
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, other-
wise, the engine could be
damaged because of inadequate lubri-
cation.
<
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
In addition, an acoustic signal is
sounded: a flat tire has
occurred. To come to an immediate
stop, reduce speed, while avoiding any
sudden, jerky braking or steering
maneuvers.
For additional information, refer to
page 78.
Brake hydraulic system
●
If the lamp comes on when the
parking brake is not engaged:
Check the brake fluid level. Before
driving further, be sure to read the addi-
tional information on pages 107
and 126.
Brake lamp for Canadian
models.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
21n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Indicator and warning lamps
Red: an important reminder
Parking brake
Comes on when the parking
brake is applied – an additional
acoustic signal sounds when starting
off.
For additional information, refer to
page 63.
Parking brake lamp for Cana-
dian models.
Please fasten safety belts
●
A warning signal will sound at
the same time. Lights up for a
few seconds or until the safety belt is
fastened.
For additional information on safety
belts, refer to page 54.
Airbags
●
Please have the system
inspected by your authorized
BMW center.
For additional information,refer to
pages 56, 158.
Red and yellow: continue driving
cautiously
If the brake warning lamp
comes on together with the
yellow indicator lamps for ABS
and DSC:
The entire ABS, CBC and DSC
control system has failed.
Continue driving cautiously and
defensively. Avoid hard brake
applications. Please have the system
checked by your BMW center as soon
as possible.
For additional information, refer to
pages 76, 105.
ABS, CBC and DSC indicator
and warning lamps for Canadian
models.
Yellow: check as soon as possible
Antilock Brake System (ABS) ●
ABS has been deactivated in
response to system malfunction.
Conventional braking efficiency is avail-
able and unrestricted. Please have the
system inspected by your BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
page 104.
ABS warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Engine oil level
Lights up while driving:
The oil level is at the absolute
minimum; therefore, add engine oil as
soon as possible. Do not drive more
than 30 miles (50 km) until you do.
For additional information, refer to
page 123.
Engine oil level
Comes on after the engine has
been shut off: add more engine
oil the next time you stop for gas.
For additional information, refer to
page 123.
Brake pads ●
Have the brake pads checked.
For additional information, refer
to page 107.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
22n
Indicator and warning lamps
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) ●
RDW has been switched off or
has been deactivated because
of a malfunction. In the event of a
malfunction, have the system checked
by your BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
pages 26, 78.
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) ●
The indicator lamp flashes when
the system is active and governs drive
force and braking force.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or if it comes on
during normal driving and stays on:
DSC has been switched off via the
button or because of a malfunction.
In the event of a malfunction, have the
system checked by the nearest BMW
center.
For additional information, refer to
page 76 and on.
Add washer fluid
The washer fluid is too low.
Top up the fluid at the earliest
opportunity.
For additional information, refer to
page 122.
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 135.
Warning lamp: Service Engine
Soon for Canadian models.
Engine electronics ●
There is a fault in the engine's
electronic control system. The
electronics allow for continued driving
with reduced engine output or speed.
Please have the system inspected by
your BMW center.
Add coolant
The coolant level is too low.
Add coolant at the earliest
opportunity.
For additional information, refer to
page 125.
Green: for your information
Turn signal indicator
Flashes when the turn signal is
on. Rapid flashing: indicates a
system malfunction.
For additional information, refer to
page 65.
Cruise control
Lights up when the cruise
control is activated. Available for
operation via the multifunction steering
wheel (MFL).
For additional information, refer to
page 67.
Fog lamps
Lights up whenever fog lamps
are on.
For additional information, refer to
page 82.
Blue: for your information
High beams
Lights up when the high beams
are on or the headlamp flasher
is actuated.
For additional information, refer to
pages 65, 82.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
23n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Multifunction steering wheel (MFL)
The buttons integrated in the multifunc-
tion steering wheel (MFL) are provided
so that you can operate a number of
accessories quickly and without being
distracted from traffic conditions. You
may operate:
> Selected radio functions
> the cruise control
> selected cellular phone functions
*
> the voice recognition*.
In order to operate a system via
the MFL, the corresponding
system controls must be switched on.<
1 Horn, entire surface
2 Radio/Cellular phone: select
3 Press briefly:
Cellular phone: receive a call, initiate
dialing, terminate a call
Press longer:
Turn the voice recognition on and off
4 Radio/Cellular phone: volume
5 Radio/Cellular phone: scan backward
or scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings
6 Radio/Cellular phone: scan forward
or scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings
7 Cruise control: activate stored
setting (resume)
8 Cruise control: accelerate and store
(+) as well as decelerate and store (–)
9 Cruise control: activate/interrupt/
deactivate
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
24n
Hazard warning flashers Warning triangle* First-aid kit*
Switching on and off:
Press button.
The button flashes intermittently when
the hazard flashers are on.
To help you locate the button in an
emergency, the button is also illumi-
nated whenever the car lamps are on.
The turn signal function takes
precedence over the warning
lamp function. Starting with ignition key
position 1, you are therefore able to use
the turn signal, even if the hazard
warning system has been activated.<
The hazard warning triangle is stored
on the left-hand side in the luggage
compartment.
Comply with legal requirements
that cover the availability of a
hazard warning triangle in the vehicle.<
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.
Some of the articles in the first-aid
kit may be used within a limited
time only. For this reason, check the
expiration dates of each of the items
regularly, and replace any whose expi-
ration dates have passed. You can
acquire replacements in any drugstore
or pharmacy.
Comply with legal requirements
regarding keeping a first-aid kit in the
vehicle.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
25n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Refueling
Fuel filler door
Before filling the tank, shut off the
engine. If you do not, fuel cannot
flow into the tank and the "Service
Engine Soon" lamp may come on.<
Press on the rear edge of the fuel filler
door to open and close it.
To unlock if the central locking system
malfunctions, refer to page 152
When handling fuels, comply with
all of the applicable safety
precautions and regulations pertaining
to fuels.
Never carry spare fuel containers in
your vehicle. Whether empty or full,
these containers can leak, cause an
explosion, or lead to fire in the event
of a collision.<
Simple and friendly to the
environment
Open the filler cap carefully to
prevent fuel from spraying out.
Fuel spray may cause injury.<
Keep the filler cap in the bracket
attached to the fuel filler door.
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle
completely into the filler pipe. Pulling
the nozzle out of the pipe during refu-
eling
> results in premature pump shutoff
> and will reduce the effect of the vapor
recovery system on the pump.
As long as the filler nozzle is used prop-
erly, the fuel tank is full whenever the
nozzle shuts off the first time.
Tank capacity, refer to page 169.
Close the fuel cap carefully after
refueling until a "click" is heard.
While closing, be sure not to squeeze
the strap which is fastened to the cap.
A loose or missing cap will activate the
Service Engine Soon warning lamp.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
26n
Fuel specifications Tire inflation pressure
Refuel with lead-free
The engine uses lead-free gasoline
only.
Required fuel:
> Premium Unleaded Gasoline,
min. 91 AKI
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Do not use leaded fuels. The use
of leaded fuels will cause perma-
nent damage to the system's oxygen
sensor and the catalytic converter.<
Proper inflation pressures are on a
sticker attached to the B-pillar and
visible with the driver's door open.
Check tire pressures
On the next page you will find all the tire
pressure specifications, for tires at
ambient air temperature, stated in the
units usually used in your country (psi;
kilopascal).
After correcting the tire inflation pres-
sure, re-initialize the Tire Pressure
Warning system (RDW) so that it can
monitor the tire inflation pressure, refer
to page 78.
Check tire inflation pressures
regularly – at least every two
weeks and before beginning a longer
trip.
Incorrect tire pressure can otherwise
lead to driving instability, tire damage
and accidents.<
Comply with tire approval
specifications
The inflation pressures in the table
apply to tires made by BMW-approved
manufacturers. Your BMW center is
familiar with these pressures. Higher
pressures may be specified for tires
from other manufacturers. You will find
a list of approved tire sizes on
page 116.
Your vehicle is equipped with tires that
not only meet US standards, but also
European standards. We recommend
the exclusive use of BMW-approved
tires.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
27n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Tire inflation pressure
Tires
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) for cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
225/45 ZR 18 33 (230) - 41 (280) -
255/40 ZR 18 - 35 (240) - 48 (330)
225/45 R 17 91 H M+S 33 (230) 38 (260) 36 (250) 46 (320)
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
28n
Locks and security systems:
Keys 30
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 31
Central locking system 31
Opening and closing –
via the door lock 32
Opening and closing –
via the remote control 33
Opening and closing –
from the inside 36
Lugagge compartment lid 37
Luggage compartment 39
Alarm system 40
Electric power windows 42
Sliding/tilt sunroof 43
Adjustments:
Seats 45
Mirrors 49
Seat and mirror memory 51
Steering wheel 52
Car Memory, Key Memory 52
Passenger safety systems:
Safety belts 54
Airbags 56
Transporting children safely 59
Controls
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
29n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 62
Starting the engine 62
Switching off the engine 63
Parking brake 63
Manual transmission 64
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp
flasher 65
Wiper/Washer system/Rain
sensor 65
Rear window defroster 67
Cruise control 67
Everything under control:
Odometer 69
Tachometer 69
Engine oil temperature gauge 69
Fuel gauge 70
Coolant temperature gauge 70
Service Interval Display 71
Check Control 72
Computer 72
Technology for driving comfort
and safety:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 75
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 76
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) 78
M Engine dynamics control 80
Lamps:
Side lamps/Low beams 81
Instrument lighting 81
High beams/Parking lamp 82
Fog lamps 82
Interior lamps 82
Reading lamps 83
Controlling the climate
for pleasant driving:
Automatic climate control 84
Heated seats 89
Roller sun blind 89
Interior conveniences:
HiFi system 90
Glove compartment 90
Storage compartments 91
Cellular phone 92
Ashtray, front 92
Cigarette lighter 93
Ashtray rear 93
Clothes hooks 94
Loading and transporting
cargo:
Through-loading system 95
Ski bag 96
Cargo loading 97
Roof-mounted luggage rack 98
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
30n
Keys
The key set
1 Master key with remote control
This key sets the functions for Key
Memory. Refer to page 52
There is an extended-life battery
in every master key that is
charged automatically in the ignition
lock as you drive. For this reason, if you
have a master key that is otherwise not
used, use that key at least once every
year while driving for an extended
period to charge the battery. Refer also
to page 33.<
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,
such as in your wallet. This key is not
intended for continuous use
3 Door key
The locks for the luggage compart-
ment lid and the glove compartment
cannot be operated with this key –
this is recommended for valet
parking, for instance.
Replacement keys
are available exclusively through your
BMW center. Since the keys are part of
a security system, vehicle ownership
must be checked before a replacement
key can be issued (refer to "Electronic
vehicle immobilizer" on page 31).
If possible, take all of the master
keys that belong to the vehicle
with you when you pick up your
replacement key.
Whenever you receive a new replace-
ment key, turn that key to position 2 in
the ignition lock once (ignition switched
on) and then back. This allows the elec-
tronic vehicle immobilizer to "learn" the
new key.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
31n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Electronic vehicle immobilizer Central locking system
The key to security
Your BMW is equipped with a passive
anti–theft system. This electronic immo-
bilization system is designed to reduce
the susceptibility of your vehicle to theft
by making it impossible to start the
engine using any means other than the
special keys furnished with the vehicle.
Your BMW center can cancel the elec-
tronic system authorization for indi-
vidual keys (in the event of loss, for
instance). A deactivated key can no
longer be used to start the engine.
How the electronics work
At the heart of this system is an elec-
tronic chip which is integrated into the
key. The lock mechanism itself is actu-
ally a dual-function device, simulta-
neously serving as a communications
interface designed to allow the security
system to maintain a continuous stream
of variable, vehicle-specific signals with
the electronic circuitry in the key. The
system will not release the ignition, fuel
injection and starter unless it recog-
nizes an "authorized" key.
Force applied to the key can
damage the integrated electronic
circuitry. A damaged key can no longer
be used to start the engine.<
The concept
The system engages and releases the
locks on the:
> Doors
> Luggage compartment lid
> Fuel filler door.
The central locking system is ready for
operation whenever the driver's door is
closed. The central locking system can
be operated
> from outside via the door lock and
using the remote control
> from inside by pressing a button.
If it is operated from inside, the fuel
filler door will not be locked (refer to
page 36).
When the system is actuated from
outside the vehicle, the antitheft protec-
tion is simultaneously activated. Both
the door locks and release handles
remain locked. The alarm system is also
activated or deactivated.
For your safety: if locked from inside,
the central locking system unlocks
automatically in the event of an acci-
dent. In addition, the hazard warning
flashers and interior lamps come on.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
32n
Opening and closing – via the door lock
Using the key
Turning the key once in the driver's
door will unlock only the driver's door.
Turning the key a second time will
unlock the passenger's door, the
luggage compartment lid and the fuel
filler door.
You can have a signal set as an
acknowledgment message that
the vehicle is closed correctly.<
Convenience operating mode
You can also open the electric windows
and the sliding/tilt sunroof via the door
lock.
With the door closed, turn the key to
the "Unlock" position and hold it.
Manual operation
(in the event of electrical malfunction)
Turn the key all the way to the extreme
left or right to unlock/lock the door.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
33n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Opening and closing – via the remote control
The concept
The remote control makes opening and
locking the doors of your vehicle very
convenient. Furthermore, it provides
two additional functions which you can
only execute via the remote control:
> Switch on the interior lamps, refer to
page 34.
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 34.
The luggage compartment lid will
open slightly, regardless of whether it
was locked or unlocked.
The anti-theft system is also deacti-
vated/activated simultaneously with the
unlocking or locking of the vehicle, and
the alarm system is disarmed/armed,
and the interior lamps are switched on/
off.
You can have a signal set as an
acknowledgment message that
the vehicle is closed correctly.<
Master keys
Keys with remote control are master
keys. Refer to page 30.
Children might be able to lock the
doors from the inside. For this
reason, always take the vehicle keys
with you so that the vehicle can be
opened again from the outside at any
time.<
Master keys that are used repeat-
edly are always ready for opera-
tion since the battery in the key is
charged automatically in the ignition
lock as you drive.
If it is no longer possible to unlock the
vehicle via the remote control, the
battery is discharged. Use this key
while driving for an extended period in
order to charge the battery. Refer also
to page 30.
Guard the remote control against unau-
thorized use by only surrendering the
spare key or the door key (refer to
page 30) e.g. for valet parking.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your BMW center. You
can also obtain replacement keys
there.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
34n
Opening and closing – via the remote control
To unlock the vehicle
Press button 1.
After unlocking the driver's door, press
button 1 again to unlock the entire
vehicle.
Convenience opening mode
Press and hold button 1. The windows
and the sliding/tilt sunroof are opened.
To lock and secure
Press button 2.
To switch on the interior lamps
After locking the vehicle, press
button 2.
To deactivate the alarm system tilt
sensor and interior motion sensor
Press button 2 a second time immedi-
ately after locking.
For additional information, refer to
page 41.
To open the luggage
compartment lid
Press button 3.
The lid will open slightly, no matter
whether it was locked or unlocked.
Before and after a trip, be sure
that the luggage compartment lid
was not opened unintentionally.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
35n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Opening and closing – via the remote control
Panic mode (trigger alarm)
By pressing button 3 for more than two
seconds, the alarm can be sounded in
the event of danger, if it is armed.
Pressing on button 1 will turn the alarm
off.
External systems
The proper functioning of the remote
control system may be affected by
other units or equipment operating in
the immediate vicinity of your vehicle.
If this should occur, you can still open
and close the vehicle using the master
key in both the door and luggage
compartment locks.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units
comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communication Commission) regula-
tions. Operation is governed by the
following:
FCC ID: LX8EWS
LX8FZVS
LX8FZVE
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
> This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
> this device must accept any interfer-
ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications to
these devices could void the
user's authority to operate the equip-
ment.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
36n
Opening and closing – from the inside
Use this button to operate the central
locking system whenever the doors are
closed. The doors and luggage
compartment lid are unlocked or locked
only. The antitheft alarm system is not
activated.
If only the driver's door was
locked from the outside and you
press the button, then, when you open
the driver's door, the passenger's door,
the luggage compartment lid and the
fuel filler door will unlock as well.
The driver's door will be locked if it is
closed.<
The central locking system can be
unlocked automatically as soon as
you begin to drive if you desire. You
may also have this adjusted so that it is
specific to keys.<
To unlock and open the doors
> Either unlock the doors together with
the button for the central locking
system and then pull each of the
release handles above the armrests
or
> pull the release handle for each door
twice: the first pull unlocks the door,
and the second one opens it.
To engage locks
> Either use the central locking button
to lock all doors at once
or
> press down the individual door lock
buttons. As an added design feature
to prevent the driver from being inad-
vertently locked out of the vehicle,
the driver's door lock button will not
engage as long as the door is open.
Children might be able to lock the
doors from the inside. For this
reason, always take the vehicle's keys
with you so that the vehicle can be
opened again from the outside at any
time.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
37n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Lugagge compartment lid
The lock
Only the master keys (refer to page 30)
fit in the lock for the luggage compart-
ment lid.
To secure separately
Turn the master key to the right past the
resistance point and then pull it out in
the horizontal position.
This locks the luggage compartment lid
and disconnects it from the central
locking system. If you surrender only
the door key (refer to page 30), this will
prevent unauthorized access via the
luggage compartment lid. This is
convenient for valet parking, for
instance.
To open from outside
Press the button in the handle recess
(arrow): the luggage compartment lid
opens slightly.
The luggage compartment is lighted
when the luggage compartment lid is
opened.
Manual operation
(in the event of electrical malfunction)
Turn the master key to the left to the
stop – the luggage compartment lid will
open slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as you close the lid.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
38n
Lugagge compartment lid
To opening from the inside
If the luggage compartment lid has not
been locked separately, you can open it
with this button in the footwell on the
driver's side when the vehicle is
stationary.
To close
The handle recesses in the interior trim
panel of the luggage compartment lid
(arrows) make it easier to pull the lid
down.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the luggage
compartment lid is clear when it is
closed, as with all closing procedures.<
Operate the vehicle only when the
luggage compartment lid is
completely closed. Otherwise, exhaust
fumes could penetrate the interior of
the vehicle. Should it be absolutely
necessary to operate the vehicle with
the luggage compartment lid open:
> Close all windows. Shut the sliding/
tilt sunroof.
> Increase the airflow of the automatic
climate control to a high level. Refer
to page 84.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
39n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Luggage compartment
Floor panel
To raise and secure the floor panel, lift
it by the ring and hook it into the rubber
seal of the run-off gutter with the
hanger (arrow).
Floor mat
You can turn the floor mat over if
required (for transporting soiled objects
for instance). The rubberized side may
be washed. It reduces movement of
objects placed on it.
The fittings at the inner corners of the
luggage compartment provide you with
a convenient means of attaching
luggage nets
* and flexible straps for
securing suitcases and luggage.
Refer also to "Cargo loading," page 97.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
40n
Alarm system*
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
> When a door, the hood or the
luggage compartment lid is opened.
> To movement inside the vehicle (inte-
rior motion sensor).
> Altering the angle of the vehicle tilt
sensor, e.g. as would occur while
attempting to steal the wheels or tow
the vehicle (tilt sensor alarm system).
> To interruption of battery voltage.
The system responds to unauthorized
vehicle entry and attempted theft by
simultaneously activating the following:
> Sounding an acoustical alarm for
30 seconds.
> Activating the hazard warning
flashers for approx. five minutes.
> Flashing the high beams on and off in
rhythm with the hazard warning
flashers.
To activate and deactivate the
alarm system
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked
by using a key or the remote control,
the alarm system is also simultaneously
armed or disarmed.
The interior motion sensor and the
alarm system tilt sensor are activated
approx. 30 seconds after the last door
has been locked.
If the alarm system has been armed
correctly, the hazard warning flashers
flash once.
You can have a signal set as
acknowledgment for both setting
and deactivating the alarm.<
You can also open the luggage
compartment lid when the system is
armed by pressing button 3 of the
remote control (refer to page 34). When
it is closed, the lid is once again
secured.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp is located under the
interior rearview mirror.
> When the indicator lamp flashes
continuously: the system is armed.
> The indicator lamp flashes when it is
armed: the door(s), the hood or
luggage compartment lid are not
completely closed. Even if you do not
close the alerted area, the remaining
areas are deadlocked, and the indi-
cator lamp flashes continuously after
10 seconds. However, the interior
motion sensor is not activated.
> If the indicator lamp goes out when
the system is disarmed: no manipula-
tion or attempted intrusions have
been detected in the period since the
system was armed.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
41n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Alarm system*
> If the indicator lamp flashes for
10 seconds when the system is
disarmed: an attempted entry has
been detected in the period since the
system was armed.
Following triggering of an alarm, the
indicator lamp will flash continuously.
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion
sensor may be switched off at the same
time. You can do this to prevent a false
alarm from being triggered (in garages
with elevator ramps, for instance), or
when the vehicle is transported by
trailer or train:
Lock the vehicle twice (= setting the
alarm). Press button 2 on the remote
control twice in succession or lock the
vehicle twice with the key. Refer to
page 34.
The indicator lamp lights up briefly and
then flashes continuously. The tilt alarm
sensor and the interior motion sensor
are deactivated as long as the system is
armed.
Reset the alarm to reactivate the tilt
sensor alarm system and the interior
motion sensor.
Interior motion sensor
The transmitter and receiver of the inte-
rior motion sensor are located in a trim
panel in the vehicle's roof.
In order for the interior motion sensor to
function properly, the windows and
sliding/tilt sunroof must be completely
closed.
However, be sure to deactivate the
interior motion sensor (see "Avoiding
unintentional alarms") when you wish to
leave the windows or sliding/tilt sunroof
open.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
42n
Electric power windows
To open and close windows
From ignition key position 1.
After the ignition has been switched off:
You can still operate the electric power
windows for up to 15 minutes, as long
as no door is opened during that time.
To open:
> Press the switch up to the resistance
point: the window will lower or the
rear vent windows will open, as long
as you continue pressing the switch.
> Press the switch past the resistance
point: the window moves automati-
cally. Pressing the switch again stops
the opening cycle.
To close: you can close the windows in
the same manner by pulling the switch.
The rear vent window does not close
automatically.
The window will not close automatically
when the door is open.
Remove the key from the ignition
and close the doors when you
leave the vehicle so that children
cannot operate the power windows and
possibly injure themselves.<
To use the convenience mode via the
door lock or the remote control, refer to
page 32 or 33.
Safety feature
A contact strip is located on the inside
upper frame of each of the windows. If
pressure is exerted against this contact
strip while a window is being raised, the
system will respond by stopping the
window and then opening it again
somewhat.
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful to ensure that
the closing path of the window is not
obstructed. Otherwise, an object might
not touch the contact strip in some situ-
ations (very thin objects, for instance).
You can disable this safety feature by
pulling the switch beyond the resis-
tance point and holding it.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
43n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Sliding/tilt sunroof*
To prevent injuries, exercise care
when closing the sliding/tilt
sunroof and keep it in your field of
vision until it is shut.
Remove the key from the ignition and
close the doors when you leave the
vehicle so that children cannot operate
the sunroof and possibly injure them-
selves.<
A vacuum or a draft in the passenger
compartment can be avoided when the
roof is opened or raised by keeping the
vent outlets on the instrument panel
open and possibly increasing the air
supply. Refer to page 87.
If the sunroof is completely open, air
disturbances may be caused in the
vehicle when you are driving at higher
speeds. Close the roof as far as neces-
sary until this natural phenomenon
ceases.
Lifting – opening – closing
From ignition key position 1.
After turning the ignition off, you can
operate the sunroof for up to
15 minutes, as long as no door is
opened during that time.
Lifting/opening/closing: press the
switch or slide it in the desired direction
until you feel resistance.
When the roof is open, tap the switch in
the "lifting" direction. The sunroof will
then move into the end position for
"lifting".
The headliner insert slides back some-
what when you raise the sunroof. When
the sunroof is opened the headliner
retracts with it.
Do not close the headliner insert
with force when the sunroof is
open, otherwise the mechanism will be
damaged.<
For the convenience operating mode
via the door lock or the remote control,
refer to page 32.
Automatic opening and closing
Press the switch past the resistance
point: the sunroof moves to either the
fully-closed or fully-open position.
Tapping the switch again stops the
motion immediately.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
44n
Sliding/tilt sunroof*
Safety feature
If the sliding/tilt sunroof encounters
resistance at a point roughly past the
middle of its travel when it is closing,
the closing cycle is interrupted and the
sunroof will open again slightly.
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful to ensure that
the closing path of the roof is not
obstructed. Otherwise, triggering the
closing-force limitation may not be
ensured in some situations (with very
thin objects, for instance).
You can override this safety feature by
pressing the switch beyond the resis-
tance point and holding it.<
Power loss or malfunction
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
the sliding/tilt sunroof can be operated
manually. Refer to page 153.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
45n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
For maximum safety when adjusting the
seat position, please observe the
following:
Never try to adjust your seat while
operating the vehicle. The seat
could respond with unexpected move-
ment, and the ensuing loss of vehicle
control could lead to an accident.
Be sure that the safety belt remains
firmly against your body at all times. In
the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap
belt could slide over the hips, leading to
abdominal injury. In addition, the safety
belt's restraint effectiveness is reduced
if the belt is worn loosely.
Never ride with the backrest reclined to
an extreme angle (especially important
for the front passenger to remember). If
you do so, there is a risk that you will
slide under the safety belt in an acci-
dent, thus reducing the protection
provided by the safety belt.<
Correct sitting posture
To reduce strain on your spinal column,
sit all the way back in the seat and rest
your back fully against the backrest.
The ideal sitting posture is achieved
with your head extending from your
spine in a straight line.
For long-distance driving, you may wish
to increase the backrest tilt-angle
slightly to reduce muscular tension. You
should be able to grasp the steering
wheel at its highest point with your
arms slightly bent.
After a seat adjustment, adjust the
height of the safety belt also. Refer to
page 55.
1 Longitudinal adjustment
Pull the lever and slide the seat to the
desired position.
After releasing the lever, apply pres-
sure to the cushion to ensure that the
seat engages securely.
2 Cushion height
Pull the lever and apply weight to or
remove weight from the seat as
required.
Seat adjustment Mechanical seat
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
46n
Mechanical seat Head restraints
3 Backrest angle
Pull the lever and apply weight to or
remove weight from the backrest as
required.
Adjustments
Height: adjust by pulling up or pushing
down.
In order to move to the lowest
positions, press button 1.<
Adjust the angle of the front head
restraints: by tilting.
Head restraints reduce the risk of
spinal injury in the event of an
accident.
Adjust the head restraint so that its
center is approximately at the height
of your ears.<
Removal
1 Pull the head restraint upward to the
stop
2 Press the button (arrow) and remove
the head restraint.
Installation
1 Press the button (arrow) and insert
the head restraint into the guides
2 Adjust the head restraint.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
47n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Entering the rear Power seat* Seat adjustment
Pull up on the lever and push the
backrest toward the front.
Lock both backrests while driving,
otherwise there is a danger of an
unexpected movement causing an
accident.<
1 Tilt angle
2 Longitudinal adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle
The head restraint is adjusted manually.
Thigh support
Pull the lever and adjust the position of
the cushion for thigh support as
desired.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
48n
Seat adjustment
Lumbar support*
You can adjust the backrest's contour
for additional support in the curvature
of your spine's lumbar region.
The upper hips and spinal column
receive supplementary support to help
you maintain a relaxed, upright posture.
> Increase/decrease curvature:
Press the front/rear end of the switch
> Increase the upper/lower curvature:
Press the upper/lower end of the
switch.
Adjusting the width of the
backrests
*
The backrest width can be changed
with the sides to adjust the side support
to your individual needs.
Decreasing/increasing the width of the
backrest: press the front/rear end of the
switch.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
49n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors
1 Switch for 4-way adjustment
2 Selection switch for changing
between mirrors
You can also adjust the mirrors manu-
ally by pressing against the outer edges
of their lenses.
The mirror on the passenger's
side features a lens with a more
convex surface than the mirror installed
on the driver's side. When estimating
the distance between yourself and
other traffic, bear in mind that the
objects reflected in the mirror are closer
than they appear. Estimations of the
distance to following traffic should
therefore not be regarded as precise.<
Electric heaters
Both mirrors are automatically
defrosted with the ignition key in
position 2.
Passenger side exterior mirror tilt
function
(automatic curb monitor*)
Move the mirror selector switch 1 to the
"driver's mirror" position. When the
selector lever is placed in "Reverse,"
the passenger-side mirror tilts down-
ward. This allows the driver to see the
area directly adjacent to the vehicle
during parking (curbs, etc.).
You can deactivate this automatic
feature by setting the mirror selection
switch to the "passenger mirror" posi-
tion.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
50n
Mirrors
Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimming feature
By responding to the effects of ambient
light and the glare from following traffic,
this mirror automatically dims through
an infinitely variable range.
The mirror switches to its clear,
undimmed mode whenever you shift
into reverse.
There are two photocells for automatic
dimming. One photocell (arrow) is posi-
tioned in the mirror's glass, while the
other is slightly offset on the opposite
side of the mirror. For further informa-
tion regarding the mirror's electro-
chromic technology, refer to page 161.
For the mirror to function properly, keep
the photocells clean and the area
between the inside rearview mirror and
the windshield free of any obstruction,
such as stickers etc.
Sun visors
The sun visors can be folded down
toward the windshield or swiveled out
against the side windows.
Lighted vanity mirror*
Fold down the sun visor and slide the
cover panel to the side as required.
The mirror lamps operate from ignition
key position 1 on.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
51n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Seat and mirror memory
You can store and recall three different
driver's seat and outside mirror posi-
tions. The illustration shows the buttons
located on the side of the seat.
The memory will not retain the
adjustments made to the lumbar
supports or the width of the back-
rests.<
If you press the
MEMORY button acci-
dentally: press the button again; the
indicator lamp goes out.
To store
1 Turn the key to ignition key position
1 or 2
2 Adjust your seat and outside mirrors
to the desired position
3 Press the MEMORY button: the indi-
cator lamp in the button lights up
4 Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as
desired: indicator lamp goes out.
To select a stored setting
Do not select a memory position
while the vehicle is moving. If you
do so, there is a risk of accident from
unexpected seat movement.<
Convenience function:
1 The driver's door remains open after
unlocking or the ignition key is in
position 1
2 Briefly press memory button 1, 2 or 3,
as desired.
Movement stops immediately when
one of the seat-adjustment or
memory buttons is activated during
the adjustment process.
Security function:
1 The driver's door is closed and the
ignition key is either removed or in
position 0 or 2
2 Maintain pressure on the desired
memory button 1, 2 or 3, until the
adjustment process is completed.
Your can have your vehicle's
systems adjusted in such a
manner that your personalized settings
are automatically set for the seat and
outside mirror positions when you
unlock the vehicle with your personal
remote control.<
If you make use of this method of
adjustment, be sure that the foot-
well behind the driver's seat is unob-
structed before unlocking the vehicle. If
you fail to do so, any persons or objects
behind the seat could be injured or
damaged by a rearward movement of
the seat.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
52n
Adjusting steering wheel Car Memory, Key Memory
1 Push the locking lever downward
2 Adjust the steering wheel (forward/
back and up/down) to the desired
position
3 Pull the lever back in to clamp the
steering wheel in the new position.
Do not adjust the steering wheel
while the vehicle is moving, other-
wise there is a risk of an accident from
unexpected movement.<
How the system functions
You have probably frequently wished
that you could configure individual
functions of your vehicle to reflect your
own personal requirements. In devel-
oping this vehicle, BMW has "built in" a
few options that, should you so desire,
your BMW center can adjust for you.
There are settings related to the vehicle
("Car Memory") and settings related to
individuals ("Key Memory"). You can
have up to four different basic settings
adjusted for four different persons. The
only requirement is that each person
uses his or her own master key with
remote control.
When your vehicle is unlocked with the
remote control, the vehicle recognizes
the individual user by means of a data
exchange with the key, and makes
adjustments accordingly.
In order for you to distinguish between
different keys, colored decals are
supplied together with the keys.
What the system can do
Your BMW center can provide you with
details on the possibilities that the Car
Memory and Key Memory systems
offer.
Examples for Car Memory:
> Various signals that can serve as
acknowledgement for locking and
unlocking the vehicle, refer to
pages 32, 33
> Deactivating/activating the "Follow-
Me-Home lamps" function, refer to
page 81
> Activating/deactivating daytime
running lamps
*, refer to page 81
> Set the units of measure to indicate
outside temperature and distance
traveled on the instrument panel,
refer to page 19.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
53n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Car Memory, Key Memory
Examples for Key Memory:
> Locking your vehicle after starting off,
refer to page 36
> Unlocking and lowering the driver's
window at the same time, refer to
page 34
> Automatically moving the seat and
outside mirror into position for the
respective person when unlocking
the vehicle, refer to page 51
> Calling up customized settings for
the automatic climate control when
unlocking using the remote control,
refer to page 86.
You will see this symbol
throughout the Owner's Manual. It
is to remind you at appropriate places
of the settings that are available to
you.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
54n
If the safety belt system has been
subjected to the stresses involved
in an accident or damaged in any other
way: have your BMW center replace the
entire safety belt mechanism, including
the safety belt tensioner and any child
restraint systems
*. Have them inspect
the safety belt anchors, as well.<
For care instructions, refer to "Car care"
page 131.
Drive with your safety belt on
Fasten your safety belt before starting
off.
To fasten: make sure you hear the
catch engage in the belt buckle.
To release: press the red button in the
buckle. Hold the belt and guide it back
into its reel.
In the rear, the belt buckle with the
word "CENTER" is provided exclu-
sively for the passenger sitting in the
middle.
For your safety, comply with the
following instructions for wearing
safety belts. If you do not, the safety
belts may not be able to provide their
maximum protection. The following
information also applies to your
passengers:
Never allow more than one person to
wear a single safety belt. Infants or
small children should never be held on
the lap of a passenger.
Avoid twisting the belt while routing it
firmly across the hips and shoulder,
wear it as snugly against your body as
possible. Do not allow the belt to rest
against hard or fragile objects. Do not
route the belt across your neck, or run it
across sharp edges. Be sure that the
belt does not become caught or
jammed.
Avoid wearing bulky clothing and pull
on the belt periodically to retension it
over your shoulders. In the event of a
frontal impact, a loose lap belt could
slide over your hips, leading to abdom-
inal injury. In addition, the safety belt's
restraint effectiveness is reduced if the
belt is worn loosely.
Expectant mothers should always wear
their safety belts, taking care to position
the lap belt against the lower hips,
where it will not exert pressure against
the abdominal area.<
Safety belts
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
55n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Safety belts
Safety belt height adjustment
You can adjust the safety belts to fit
your own physical dimensions by using
the safety belt height adjustment.
Slide the button downward or upward.
For child restraint system installation,
refer to page 59.
For care instructions, refer to "Car care"
page 131.
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,
including the safety belt tensioner. In
addition, have your BMW center
inspect the safety belt anchors. If a
child restraint system was in the vehicle
during an accident, consult the manu-
facturer's instructions regarding
replacement.<
Child restraint systems*
Do not install a rear-facing child
restraint system in the front
passenger seat of your vehicle. If you
do so, the child could be injured in an
accident when the airbag is triggered.
Always transport children in the rear,
securing their restraint systems using
the outside safety belts.
Use the middle safety belt only if it is
necessary to install three child restraint
systems.
Do not modify the child restraint
systems in any way, as otherwise, their
protective function may be impaired.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
56n
Airbags
1 Front airbags on the driver and
passenger sides
2 Side impact Head Protection System
on the driver's side (front)
3 Side airbags on the driver and
passenger sides (front and rear
*)
Protective effect
The front airbags provide additional
protection for the front-seat occupants
in the event of a severe frontal collision
on which the protection afforded by the
belts alone may no longer be sufficient.
The side impact Head Protection
System and the side airbags help
provide protection in the event of a
collision from the side. Each of the side
airbags is designed to help support the
occupant's upper body.
The side airbags in the rear
passenger area
* of your vehicle
may already have been deactivated
either at the time of manufacture or by a
BMW center. You may have them acti-
vated if you desire to do so. Please
contact your BMW center for additional
information.<
The illustration schematically depicts
the primary directions of vehicle impact
that initiate an airbag deployment.
The airbags will not be triggered in
the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle roll-over or collisions from the
rear.<
Functional status
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster shows the airbag
system status starting in ignition
key position 1.
Indicator lamp displays:
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
then goes out: system operational
> The indicator lamp fails to come on:
system malfunction
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
before going out, and then lights up
again: system malfunction.
If there is a system malfunction, there is
a risk that the airbags will not be trig-
gered within their normal response
range, even if the level of impact would
normally have triggered them.
Have the system checked by a BMW
center immediately.
The airbag indicator lamp also
comes on if the safety belt
tensioners have been triggered.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
57n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Airbags
Sitting correctly with airbags
Comply with the following instruc-
tions for the airbags. If you do not,
the airbags may not be able to provide
their maximum protection, with
resulting risks to personal safety. The
following information pertains to all
occupants:
Even though there is an airbag, wear a
safety belt every time you get in the
vehicle, because airbags supplement
the safety belts as an additional
restraint device.
Assume a sitting posture that is
comfortable and allows the greatest
possible distance between you and the
airbags.
Always hold the steering wheel by the
rim to keep any chance of injury to
hands or arms to an absolute minimum,
should the airbag deploy. Keep the
instructions regarding sitting properly in
your seat on page 45 in mind as well.
No one and nothing is to come between
the airbag and the seat occupant.
Do not use the cover panel above the
front passenger-side airbag as a
storage area.
Do not apply adhesive materials to the
cover panels of the airbags, cover them
or modify them in any other way.
Do not use any child restraint systems
on the passenger side. Children under
12 years of age, who are smaller than
5 feet (150 cm), may ride in the back
only.
If your vehicle is equipped with side
airbags in the rear passenger area, be
sure that child restraints are mounted
correctly and provided with the
greatest-possible distance between the
airbags in the side trim panels. Do not
allow children to lean out of the child's
seat in the direction of the side trim
panels. If they do so, serious injuries
can occur if the airbag is triggered.<
At all times, occupants should sit
upright and be properly restrained
(infants and small children in appro-
priate child restraint systems; larger
children and adults using the safety
belts). Never let an occupant's head
rest near or on a side airbag because
the inflating airbag could cause a
serious or fatal injury. Please note that
the word "Airbag" imprinted on the door
trim panel indicates the airbag's loca-
tion.
Accident research shows that the
safest place for children in an automo-
bile is in the rear seat. However, a child
sitting in the rear seat and not properly
restrained may place his or her head on
or near the airbag, if so equipped. For
example, a child — even though belted
— may fall asleep with his or her head
against the side airbag. It may be diffi-
cult for a driver to ensure that children
in the rear seat will remain properly
positioned at all times and not place
their heads on or near the side airbag.
Therefore, we recommend that the rear
seat side airbags, if so equipped, be
deactivated if children will travel in the
rear seat.
The rear seat side airbags may already
have been deactivated, either at the
time of manufacture or by a BMW
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
58n
Airbags
center. Labels in the door opening
should indicate the status of your rear
seat side airbags. If you are uncertain of
their status, or wish to have the airbags
activated or deactivated, please
contact your BMW center.<
Even when all these guidelines are
observed, there is still a small residual
risk of injuries to the face, hands and
arms occurring from airbag deployment
in isolated instances. The ignition and
inflation noise may cause a mild tempo-
rary hearing loss in extremely sensitive
individuals.
For additional information concerning
the airbag system, refer to pages 133
and 158.
This is the proper way for a child to sit
in a child restraint when rear side
airbags (arrow) are provided.
This is the right way for a larger child to
sit wearing the safety belt when rear
side airbags (arrow) are provided.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
59n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Transporting children safely
Commercially available child restraint
systems are designed to be secured
with a lap belt or with the lap belt
portion of a combination lap/shoulder
belt. Improperly or inadequately
installed restraint systems can increase
the risk of injury to children. Always
read and follow the instructions that
come with the system.
If you use a child restraint system with a
tether strap, three additional tether
anchorage points have been provided
(refer to the arrows in the illustration).
Depending on the location selected for
seating in the rear passenger area,
attach the strap hook to the corre-
sponding anchorage point to secure the
child restraint system. Remove the
cover first on the middle location.
If the respective seating position is
fitted with a headrest, lift the headrest
and pass the tether strap between the
headrest and the seat back.
Adjust the tether strap according to the
child restraint manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
Before installing any child restraint
device or child seat, please read
the following:
Never install a rear-facing child restraint
system in the front passenger seat of
this vehicle.
Your vehicle is equipped with an airbag
supplemental restraint system for the
front passenger. Because the backrest
on any rear-facing child restraint
system (of the kind designed for infants
under 1 year and 20 lbs/kg) would be
within the airbag’s deployment range,
you should never mount such a device
in the front passenger seat, since the
impact of the airbag against the child
restraint’s backrest could lead to
serious or fatal injuries.
If it is necessary for a child (not an
infant) to ride in the front seat, certain
precautions should be taken. First,
move the passenger seat as far away
from the instrument panel as possible.
This important precaution is intended to
maximize the distance between the
airbag and the child. Older children
should be tightly secured with the
safety belt. Younger children should be
secured in an appropriate forward-
facing child restraint system that has
first been properly secured with a
safety belt. Never install a rear-facing
child restraint system in the front
passenger seat. We strongly urge you
to carefully read and comply with the
instructions for installation and use
provided by the child restraint's manu-
facturer whenever you use such a
device.
Be sure that all occupants (of all ages)
remain properly and securely restrained
at all times.c
All rear seating positions in your vehicle
meet the recommendations of SAE
J1819, an industry recommended prac-
tice for securing child restraint systems
in motor vehicles.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
60n
Transporting children safely
LATCH attachment of the child
seat
*
Remove the cover cap on the outer
mount by pulling it toward the front.
When reattaching it, make sure that the
recess points upward.
The illustration shows the mounts for a
LATCH child-restraint system on the
left rear seat.
To attach the LATCH child-
restraint system, please follow the
manufacturer's operating and safety
precautions.<<
<<
Child seat security
All of the rear belt retractors and the
front passenger's safety belt can be
locked for mounting and securing child
restraint systems.
A label with the appropriate instructions
for this is located in the immediate
vicinity of the buckle latch of each
safety belt.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
61n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Transporting children safely
To lock the belt
Extract the entire length of the belt from
the inertia reel mechanism. Allow the
reel to retract the belt somewhat and
engage the buckle, then tighten the belt
against the child restraint system. The
retraction mechanism is now locked.
The belt cannot be extracted further.
Always comply with the installation
instructions provided by the manufac-
turer of the child restraint system.
To release the belt
Release the safety belt, remove the
child's seat and retract the safety belt
to its end position on the belt retractor.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
62n
0 Steering locked
1 Steering unlocked
2 Ignition switched on
3 Starting the engine
Steering locked
The key can be inserted or removed in
this position only.
To lock the steering column after you
have removed the key, turn the steering
wheel until you hear it lock.
If the key is not removed, an acoustic
signal sounds after the driver's door
has been opened.
Steering unlocked
Individual electrical accessories are
ready for operation.
You will find that it is often easier to turn
the ignition key from position 0 to posi-
tion 1 when you move the steering
wheel slightly to help disengage the
lock.
Ignition switched on
All electrical equipment and accesso-
ries are available for use.
1 Engage the parking brake
2 Put manual-shift gear lever in idling
position
3 Step on the clutch pedal
4 Turn the key to position 3 to 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 igni-
tion key immediately when the engine
starts.
Do not allow the engine to run in
enclosed spaces. The exhaust
gases contain carbon monoxide, an
odorless and colorless, but highly toxic
gas. Breathing the exhaust gases poses
an extreme health risk, and can lead to
unconsciousness and death.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unat-
tended vehicle with a running engine
represents a potential safety hazard.<
Do not allow the engine to warm
up by leaving it running while the
vehicle remains stationary. Instead,
begin driving immediately at a
moderate engine speed.<
Steering/Ignition lock Starting the engine
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
63n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Starting the engine Switching off engine Parking brake
If the engine does not start on the first
attempt (if the engine is very hot or
cold, for instance):
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Cold starts at very low temperatures,
starting at about +5 7 (–15 6) and
at high altitudes over 3,300 ft
(1,000 meters):
> On the first start attempt, engage the
starter for a longer period (approx.
10 seconds)
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Engine idle speed is controlled by the
engine computer system. Increased
speeds at startup are normal and
should decrease as the engine warms
up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.
To prevent the battery from
discharging, always deactivate elec-
trical devices that are not in use. Switch
the ignition off when the vehicle is not
being driven.
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Do not remove the ignition key
while the vehicle is still moving. If
you do so, the steering will lock, making
it impossible to steer the vehicle.
When you leave the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key and engage
the steering lock.
Set the parking brake when parking on
steep hills, because under certain
conditions, putting the vehicle into first
gear or reverse may not be enough to
prevent it from rolling away.
The power assist is not available when
the engine is not on. This means that
more effort is required to apply the
brakes.<
The parking brake is primarily designed
to prevent the vehicle from rolling while
parked. It operates against the rear
wheels.
To engage
The lever engages automatically, the
indicator lamp in the instrument panel
comes on when the ignition key is in
position 2. Refer to page 21.
To release
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the
button (arrow) and lower the lever.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
64n
Parking brake Manual transmission
If, in exceptional circumstances, it
should be necessary to engage
the parking brake while the vehicle is in
motion, do not pull the lever with
excessive pressure. Keep your thumb
pressed against the release button
while carefully pulling the lever up to
apply moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)
at the rear axle.
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is engaged.
Set the parking brake when parking on
steep hills, because under certain
conditions, putting the vehicle into first
gear or reverse may not be enough to
prevent it from rolling away.<
To avoid corrosion and one-sided
braking, apply the parking brake lightly
from time to time when coasting to a
standstill (at a traffic signal, for
instance), provided that it is safe to do
so.
The shift lever's neutral plane is located
between 3rd and 4th gear.
When shifting from each gear into
"Neutral," the shift lever automatically
springs back to the gear lever's home
position.
When shifting gears in the
5th/6th-gear plane, be sure to
press the gear lever to the right in order
to prevent inadvertent selection of a
gear in the 3rd/4th-gear plane.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or "riding" the clutch.
Use the parking brake instead. Riding
the clutch causes the clutch assembly
to wear out sooner.<
Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is
stationary. Press the shift lever to the
left to overcome the resistance.
As you do this, the backup lamps will
turn on automatically when the ignition
key is in position 2.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
65n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp flasher Washer/Wiper system
1 High beam (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator
lamp)
3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator
accompanied by periodic clicking
sound from the relay)
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond
the detent. It then returns to the center
position when released.
If the flashing indicator lamp and
the clicking from the relay are
both faster than normal, one of the turn
signal indicators has failed.<
0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent mode or rain sensor
2 Normal wiper speed
3 Fast wiper speed
4 Brief wipe
5 Rotary dial for control of the wipe
interval or the sensitivity of the rain
sensor
Intermittent mode
(not on vehicles with rain sensor)
You can set the wipe interval at four
stages with rotary dial 5. In addition, the
wipe interval is varied automatically
depending on road speed.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
66n
Washer/Wiper system/Rain sensor
Rain sensor*
When the rain sensor is activated, the
windshield wiper is controlled automati-
cally, depending on the degree of
wetness of the windshield (in both snow
and rain). You do not have to be
concerned with switching the wind-
shield wiper on or off or adjusting the
wipe interval between intermittent and
full wipe. Instead, you can concentrate
fully on the traffic conditions. This is
especially important under adverse
weather conditions.
The rain sensor is positioned on the
windshield, directly ahead of the inte-
rior rearview mirror.
To activate the rain sensor:
> From ignition key position 1, move
the lever to position 1. The wipers
travel once across the windshield,
regardless of the weather.
> You can leave the lever permanently
in position 1. It is then only necessary
to activate the rain sensor from igni-
tion key position 1. To do this
> give rotary dial 5 a quick turn or
> clean the windshield 5, refer to
page 66.
To adjust the sensitivity of the rain
sensor: turn rotary dial 5.
Deactivating the rain sensor: put lever
in position 0.
Deactivate the rain sensor when
passing through an automatic car
wash. Failure to do so could result in
damage caused by undesired wiper
activation.<
Normal wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers switch automatically to intermit-
tent wipe (not on vehicles with rain
sensor).
Fast wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers operate at normal speed (not on
vehicles with rain sensor).
0 Wipers retracted
1 Clean the windshield
Clean the windshield
The system sprays washer fluid onto
the windshield and activates the wipers
for a brief period.
If you only pull the lever briefly, the
system sprays washer fluid onto the
windshield without activating the
wipers.
Do not use the washers if there is
any danger that the fluid will
freeze on the windshield. If you do so,
your vision could be obscured. For this
reason, use an antifreeze agent. Refer
to page 122.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
67n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Washer/Wiper system Rear window defroster Cruise control
Do not use the washers when the reser-
voir is empty, since this could cause
damage to the washer pump.<
Clean the headlamps*
When the vehicle's lighting system is
switched on, the headlamps will also be
cleaned every fifth time the automatic
windshield washer is activated.
Windshield washer jets
The windshield washer jets are warmed
automatically when the ignition key is in
position 2.
To activate
Press the button: as long as the indi-
cator lamp remains on, the rear window
defroster continues at high output
(rapid thaw).
After the indicator lamp goes out, the
defroster continues operating at
reduced power for a limited period
before deactivating automatically.
To deactivate
If the indicator lamp is still on, press the
button.
Starting at about 20 mph (30 km/h), you
can maintain and store any vehicle
speed that you specify.
You can use cruise control whenever
the system is active while the engine is
running.
1 Accelerate and store
2 Decelerate and store
3 Activate/interrupt/deactivate the
system
4 Recall the stored speed.
To activate the system
From ignition key position 2.
Press switch 3 and the indicator lamp in
the instrument cluster (refer to page 22)
will come on. You can now use the
cruise control.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
68n
Cruise control
Do not use cruise control on
winding roads, when high traffic
density prevents driving at a constant
speed, when the road surface is slick
(snow, rain, ice), or when the road
surface is loose (rocks, sand).<
To deactivate the system
Press switch 3 repeatedly until the indi-
cator lamp in the instrument cluster
goes out.
The cruise control is also deactivated
when the ignition key is in position 0.
The speed stored in the memory is
deleted.
To store and maintain speed as
well as to accelerate
Press button 1 briefly:
The system registers and maintains the
current vehicle speed. Each additional
tap on the button increases the speed
by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Press and hold button 1:
The vehicle accelerates without pres-
sure on the accelerator pedal. When
you release the button, the system
records and maintains the current
speed.
If, on a downhill gradient, the
engine braking effect is not suffi-
cient, the controlled speed can be
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill
grades if the engine output is insuffi-
cient.<
To decelerate
Press button 2 briefly:
Whenever cruise control is active,
your speed will reduce by approx.
0.6 mph (1 km/h) each time you tap
the button.
Press and hold button 2:
With the cruise control active, the
system automatically reduces the
throttle opening to slow the vehicle.
When you release the button, the
system records and maintains the
current speed.
To cancel the cruise control
When the cruise control is on, press
and hold button 3. The indicator lamp
will stay on.
You can use the cruise control again
whenever required by calling up the
speed that was stored last.
In addition, the cruise control is
canceled automatically:
> If the brakes are applied
> When pressing down the clutch pedal
> If the cruise speed is either exceeded
or not met for an extended length of
time (if you depress the accelerator
pedal and exceed the set speed, for
example).
Recal the stored speed
Press button 4:
The vehicle accelerates to and main-
tains the last speed stored.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
69n
Index Data Technol- Repairs Car care Controls Overview
1 Odometer
2 Trip odometer
Odometer
You can activate the displays shown in
the illustration with the ignition key in
position 0 by pressing the button in the
instrument cluster (arrow).
Trip odometer
To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the button (arrow) with the igni-
tion key in position 1 or higher.
Variable pre-warning zone
The orange pre-warning zone displays
current permissible engine speeds,
depending on the engine temperature.
As the engine temperature climbs,
some of the sectors of this pre-warning
zone will go out one after the other.
Avoid engine speeds in the early
warning zone if possible.
Warning zone
Be sure to avoid engine sppeds in
the red warning zone, as other-
wise, the engine can be damaged.<
In this range the fuel supply will be
interrupted to protect the engine; the
resulting effect resembles that associ-
ated with a sudden loss of power.
The general operating temperature is
between 175 7 (80 6) and 250 7
(120 6). During performance-oriented
driving, do not exceed the maximum
temperature of 300 7 (150 6).
Odometer Tachometer Engine oil temperature
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
70n
Fuel gauge Coolant temperature gauge
Once the indicator lamp stays on
continuously, there are still approx.
2 gallons (8 liters) of fuel in the fuel
tank.
For fuel tank capacity, refer to
page 169.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies (when you
are driving in mountainous areas, for
example), the needle may fluctuate
slightly.
Please refuel early, since driving
to the last drop of fuel can result in
damage to the engine and/or catalytic
converter.<
When the ignition is turned on, the indi-
cator lamp in the fuel display will light
up briefly as a functional check.
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at
moderate engine and vehicle speeds.
Red
To check the function, the warning
lamp in the coolant temperature gauge
will light up briefly when the ignition is
turned on.
If the lamp comes on while operating
the vehicle, the engine has overheated.
Switch the engine off immediately and
allow it to cool down.
Checking coolant level, refer to
page 125.
Between the blue and red zones
Normal operating range. It is not
unusual for the needle to rise as far as
the edge of the red zone in response to
high outside temperatures or severe
operating conditions.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
71n
Index Data Technol- Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Service Interval Display
Remaining distance for service
The displays shown in the illustration
appear for a few seconds when the
ignition key is in position 1 or after the
engine is started.
The next service due appears with the
message OILSERVICE or INSPECTION,
together with the distance remaining
before the next scheduled service.
The computer bases its calculations of
the remaining distance on the previous
driving style.
A flashing message and a "–" in front of
the number mean that the service
interval has already been exceeded by
the distance shown on the display.
Please contact your BMW center for an
appointment.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
72n
Display
The following information or conditions
are displayed from ignition key posi-
tion 2 until the cause has been
corrected:
1 Inspect the low beam and high beam
headlamps, as well as the side lamps
2 Door open
3 Luggage compartment lid open
4 Check brake and tail lamps.
After completion of a trip and upon
opening the driver's door, an acoustic
signal will sound yet not be displayed, if
the low beam headlamps have not been
turned off.
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. By pressing the
button briefly in the direction of the
steering column, you can call up a
new function for display.
The displays appear in the following
order:
Time of day, outside temperature,
average fuel consumption, cruising
range, average vehicle speed.
Starting with ignition key position 1, the
last active setting is displayed.
Clock
If you wish to have a permanent time
display, you can make this adjustment
in the radio display (refer to the Radio
Owner's Manual).
You can set the time of day, including
for the car radio display, as follows.
Check Control Computer
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
73n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Computer
Adjustments
From ignition key position 1:
To set ahead: turn the button to the
right.
To set back: turn the button to the left.
The adjustment speed will increase the
longer you continue to hold the button.
To change the display mode: press the
knob briefly. Every time you press the
knob, the clock display alternates
between the 12-hour or 24-hour mode.
In ignition key position 0: the time is
displayed for a few seconds after you
press the left button (refer to "Odom-
eter", page 69).
Outside temperature
You can change the units of measure
(6/7) for the outside temperature
display by pressing the right-hand reset
button in the instrument cluster while
the temperature display is active.
Ice warning
If the outside temperature drops to
about 37.5 7 (+3 6), then the
computer will automatically switch to
show the outside temperature. In addi-
tion, a signal sounds as a warning and
the display flashes for a brief period.
This warning will repeat itself whenever
the temperature has reached at least
43 7 (+6 6) since the last warning,
and has then dropped further to
37.5 7 (+3 6).
Ice warnings do not exclude the
possibility that surface ice can still
occur at temperatures above 37.5 7
(+3 6), e.g. on bridges and shady
roads.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
74n
Computer
Average fuel consumption
If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average fuel
consumption last displayed is recalcu-
lated from that point.
Cruising range
The computer bases its calculations of
the cruising range on the previous
driving style.
Average speed
If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average fuel
consumption last displayed for that
speed is recalculated from that point in
time.
Any time spent when the vehicle is
stationary and the engine is shut off is
ignored for the calculation.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
75n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
The concept
The PDC assists you when you back
into a parking space. A signal warns
you of the distance to an obstacle. To
do this, four ultrasonic sensors in the
rear bumper measure the distance to
the nearest object. The range for the
sensors located at both rear corners
ends approx. 2 ft (60 cm) behind the
bumpers. The range for the two middle
sensors is slightly less than 4.9 ft
(1.50 meters).
The system is activated automatically
about one second after you engage
reverse with the ignition key in posi-
tion 2. PDC is deactivated when you
shift back out of reverse.
Acoustic signals
The distance to the nearest object is
indicated by a tone sounding at various
intervals. As the distance between
vehicle and object decreases, the inter-
vals between the tones become
shorter. A continuous tone indicates the
presence of an object less than 1 ft.
(30 cm) away.
The warning signal is canceled after
approx. three seconds if the distance to
the obstacle remains constant during
this time (if you are moving parallel to a
wall, for instance).
System malfunctions will be indicated
by a continuous high-pitched tone
when the system is activated the first
time. Please have your BMW center
resolve the problem.
The PDC does not remove the
driver's personal responsibility for
evaluating the distance between the
vehicle and any obstacles. Even when
sensors are involved, there is a blind
spot in which objects cannot be
detected. This applies especially in
those cases where the system
approaches the physical limits of ultra-
sonic measurement, as occurs with tow
bars and trailer couplings, and in the
vicinity of thin and painted objects.
Certain sources of sound, such as a
loud radio, could drown the PDC signal
tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free
of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they continue to operate effec-
tively.
Do not apply high pressure spray to the
sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Always maintain a distance of more
than 4 in (10 cm). <
Park Distance Control (PDC)*
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
76n
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 also recognizes
unstable driving conditions such as
understeering or oversteering in curves,
and helps the vehicle remin on a steady
course by using the engine and brake
system to intervene at the different
wheels. This, of course, is true only
within physically teasible limits.
The DSC is operational every time you
start the engine.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. It will
always be the driver's responsibility to
drive in a manner that matches road
conditions. 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 stability.
For additional details concerning DSC,
refer to the chapter "Advanced tech-
nology" on page 158.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster will go out shortly
after the ignition has been
switched on. Refer to pages 21, 22.
> Indicator lamp flashes: the DSC 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 DSC has been
switched off via the button or there is
a malfunction. You can continue to
drive the vehicle normally, but
without DSC. Please consult your
BMW center for repairs.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
77n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Deactivating the DSC
Press the DSC button briefly; the indi-
cator lamp will light up and stay on.
When the DSC is deactivated, you are
operating the vehicle in the conven-
tional drive mode.
We recommend that you switch the
DSC off for increased traction:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
> When driving with snow chains.
Refer also to page 108.
To maintain vehicle stability,
always drive with the DSC
switched on whenever possible.<
Reactivating the DSC
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
78n
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
The concept
The Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) moni-
tors the tire pressure in all four wheels
while driving. The system detects
whenever the inflation pressure in a tire
drops significantly.
Controlling the tire pressure is based
on monitoring the speed of the tires
relative to each other. A flat tire is
detected and reported because the
speed suddenly deviate drastically from
one another.
Initializing the system
Initializing is necessary to familiarize the
system with the correct inflation pres-
sure.
Repeat this process after any changes
in tire inflation pressure, tire rotation or
replacement. Do not carry out further
system initialization after correcting the
inflation pressure and letting the system
"learn" what condition is required.
1 Check the tire inflation pressure in all
the tires, comparing them with the
inflation pressure table (page 27),
and adjusting their pressure if neces-
sary
2 Turn the ignition key to position 2
3 Continue to press the button until the
yellow indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster lights up. After a short
time, the indicator lamp will go out
automatically
4 After a few minutes, the RDW will
accept the current inflation pressure
as the value to be measured against,
and from that point on, can detect
and report a flat tire.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
79n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
Activating/deactivating the
system
The system is automatically active in
ignition key position 2 and is therefore
always on during driving.
To deactivate the system: tap the
button, the indicator lamp will light up
yellow.
To activate the system: tap the button
again, the indicator lamp goes out.
Deactivate the system while driving
with snow chains, since false warnings
and undetected losses in pressure are
possible under these kinds of condi-
tions.
Flat tire
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster will light up red in
the event of tire pressure loss.
In addition, an acoustic signal is
sounded. To come to an immediate
stop, reduce speed, while avoiding any
sudden, jerky braking or steering
maneuvers.
Fix the flat tire using the M Mobility
system (refer to page 145).
Reset the indicator lamp: the red indi-
cator lamp must be switched off manu-
ally after mounting a new wheel. At this
point, hold the RDW switch down until
the indicator lamp goes out. Reinitialize
the system afterward.
The RDW cannot alert you to
severe and sudden tire damage
caused by external factors.
The RDW will not identify the natural
loss of pressure in all four tires, either.<
Check the tire inflation pressure
on a regular basis and correct if
necessary. Refer to page 26.
Under certain circumstances, there
may be false warnings or a delayed
detection of pressure losses when
driving on snow-covered or slippery
road surfaces.
A sporty driving style (slip at the wheels
receiving the torque, high lateral accel-
eration) can lead to delayed RDW warn-
ings.<
System malfunction
As long as there is still a malfunction,
the indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster will stay lit up yellow.
Please contact your BMW center for
additional information.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
80n
M Engine dynamics control
The system (sport-mode identification)
will cause the engine to respond more
spontaneously to the motion of the
accelerator pedal.
Activating/deactivate sport-mode
identification
Activating: with the key in ignition key
position 2, press the Sport button; the
indicator lamp will light up.
Deactivating: press the Sport button
again; the indicator lamp will go out.
The sport-mode is deactivated every
time the engine is started.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
81n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Side lamps
With the switch in this position,
the front, rear and side vehicle
lighting comes on. You can use
the side marker lamps for parking.
Refer to page 82 for one-sided lighting
as an additional possibility for parking.
Low beam headlamps
When you switch the ignition off
with the low beam headlamps
on, only the side lamps will
remain on.
"Follow-Me-Home" lamps:
If you activate the headlamp
flasher after you have parked the
vehicle, the low beam lamps will remain
on for a short period of time. You may
also have this function deactivated if
you wish.<
"LIGHTS ON" warning
Whenever you open the driver's door,
after having turned the ignition key to
position 0, you will hear a buzzing
sound for a few seconds to remind you
that the lamps have not been switched
off.
Daytime running lamps*
If you desire, the lamp switch can be
left in the second position. When the
ignition is switched off, the external
lighting is also switched off.
Turn the rotary dial to control the
lighting when the side or low beam
lamps are on.
Side lamps/Low beams Instrument lighting
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
82n
High beams/Parking lamp Fog lamps Interior lamps
1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator
lamp)
3 Parking lamps
Parking lamp, left or right
As an additional feature, you can illumi-
nate your vehicle on either side for
parking, if you wish to do so:
With the ignition key in position 0,
engage the lever in the appropriate turn
signal position.
Front fog lamps
A green indicator lamp appears
in the instrument cluster to indi-
cate that the front fog lamps are
on.
The interior lamps operate automati-
cally.
Switching the interior lamps on
and off
Press the button briefly.
If you want the interior lamps to remain
off all the times, press and hold the
button for approx. 3 seconds.
Press the button briefly to revert to
normal operation.
Footwell lamps
The footwell lamps operate in the same
way as the interior lamps.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
83n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Reading lamps
The reading lamps are located in the
front near the interior lamp and in the
rear (illustration). They can be switched
on and off with the button adjacent to
each lamp.
To keep the battery from
discharging, all of the lamps in the
vehicle are switched off automatically
approx. 15 minutes after the ignition
key has been turned to position 0.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
84n
Automatic climate control
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
85n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Automatic climate control
1 Air onto the windshield and onto the
side windows
2 Airflow toward the upper body
The side rotary dials allow you to
open and close the air supply
through an infinitely-variable range,
while the levers change the airflow
direction. The center rotary dial
adjusts the temperature of the air as
it flows out, see page 88
3 Ventilation for the front footwell
There are corresponding air vents in
the rear footwell as well
4 Recirculated air mode/Automatic
recirculated air control (AUC) 87
5 Air supply (fan) 87
6 Temperature 86
7 Automatic air distribution 86
8 Individual air distribution 86
9 Air grill for interior temperature
sensor – please keep clear and
unobstructed
10 Display for temperature and air
supply 86
11 To defrost windshield and side
windows 87
12 Air conditioner 87
13 Rear window defroster 67, 88
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
86n
Automatic climate control
Tips for pleasant driving
Use the automatic system (switch on
AUTO – button 7).
> Select an interior temperature that is
comfortable for you, e.g. 72 7
(+22 6)
> Whenever the outside temperature is
above 41 7 (+5 6), you can also
use the air conditioner 12. This will
dry the air as well as preventing
condensation on the window
surfaces – if there are passengers
with damp clothing, for example
> Set the outlets 2 so that the air flows
past you and is not directed straight
at you
> Set the rotary dial between the air
outlets 2 for the upper body to a
medium position, since air that is
somewhat cooler promotes driving
without fatigue.
Detailed setting options are described
for you in the following sections.
Your vehicle is set in such a
manner that, when you unlock the
vehicle with your individualized remote
control, your own personalized setting
for the automatic climate control is initi-
ated.<
Automatic air distribution
The automatic program will take
over
> automatically distributing the air
supply to the vents, as well as
> automatically adjusting the amount of
incoming air.
It will adapt to the settings you have
made for the temperature desired in the
passenger compartment – taking
outside influences into account
(summer, winter) – and will provide you
with a comfortable climate in the
vehicle at any time of the year.
> Select an interior temperature that is
comfortable for you e.g. 72 7
(+22 6). The temperature selected
and AUTO for air supply will
appear in the display 10. Refer to the
overview on page 84
> Open up the vents for the upper body
> Switch on the air conditioner in warm
weather. The maximum cooling
capacity is achieved when you set
rotary dial 3 (refer to page 88) to cold.
Individual air distribution
You can cancel the AUTO
program by selecting specific
distribution patterns to suit your
own individual requirements.
You can direct air to flow onto the
windows , toward the upper body
and into the footwell .
Temperature
The figures in the display
provide a general indication of
interior temperature. We recommend
72 7 (+22 6) as a comfortable setting,
even if the air conditioner is on. When
you start the vehicle, the system
ensures that the selected temperature
is reached as quickly as possible. It
then maintains this temperature,
regardless of the season.
Set rotary dial 3 (refer to "Draft-free
ventilation" on page 88) to a medium
setting, since air that is somewhat
cooler promotes driving without fatigue.
You can use this setting for mixing air to
make minor comfort modifications.
You can set uncontrolled heater
output up to 90 7 (+32 6). The
air conditioner is at full cooling output
at 60 7 (+16 6).<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
87n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Automatic climate control
Air supply (fan)
By pressing the left or right half
of the button, you can vary the
air supply. By doing this, you switch off
the automatic control of the air supply.
Nevertheless, the automatic air distri-
bution remains unchanged.
When you set the lowest blower speed
by pressing the left half of the button,
all of the displays are canceled: the
blower, heating and air conditioner are
switched off, and the air supply is
stopped. You can reactivate the system
by pressing any button for the auto-
matic climate control.
Defrosting the windshield and
removing condensation from the
windows
This program quickly removes
ice and condensation from the
windshield and side windows.
Air conditioner
The air is cooled and dehumidi-
fied and – depending on the
temperature setting – rewarmed when
the air conditioner system is switched
on.
Depending on the weather, the wind-
shield may fog over briefly when the
engine is started.
Use the button to switch the air condi-
tioner off at outside temperatures
below approx. 41 7 (+5 6). This will
prevent the windows from fogging over.
If the windows fog over after switching
the air conditioner off, switch it back
on.
Condensation forms in the air
conditioner system during opera-
tion, that then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
Automatic recirculated air control
(AUC)
If there are unpleasant odors or
pollutants in the outside air, you
can temporarily block the airflow from
the outside. The system then recircu-
lates the air already within the vehicle.
By repeatedly pressing the button, you
can select one of three different opera-
tion modes.
> Indicator lamps off: outside air always
flowing into the vehicle
> Left-hand indicator lamp on – Auto-
matic mode: the system detects
pollutants in the outside air and
responds by deactivating the outside
airflow as required. The system then
recirculates the air already within the
vehicle.
Depending on air quality require-
ments, the system automatically
switches between outside air supply
and recirculation of the air already
within the vehicle
> Right-hand indicator lamp on: the
flow of outside air is permanently
blocked. The system recirculates the
air already within the vehicle.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
88n
Automatic climate control
If the windows fog over in the
recirculated air mode, switch the
recirculated air off and increase the air
supply as required.<
Rear window defroster
When the rear window defroster
is activated, the indicator lamp
comes on. The rear window defroster
switches off automatically. Refer to
page 67.
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the vents for the upper
body area to select the optimum airflow
rates and directions for your personal
requirements:
1 Rotary dials for opening and closing
the vents at any setting desired
2 Lever for changing the direction of
the airflow.
Set the vents so that the air flows
past you and is not directed straight
at you.
3 Using the rotary dial, you can mix
more or less cool air with the air
coming out of the vents aimed at the
upper body.
Microfilter/Activated-charcoal
filter
The built-in microfilter removes dust
and pollen from the incoming air. The
activated-charcoal filter provides addi-
tional protection by filtering gaseous
pollutants from the outside air. Your
BMW center will replace the combined
filter as a standard part of your sched-
uled maintenance. A substantial reduc-
tion in airflow indicates that the filter
needs to be replaced early.
For additional details on changing the
filter, refer to page 152.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
89n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Heated seats* Roller sun blind**
**
The seat cushion and backrest can
be heated with the ignition key in
position 2.
Heating levels
You can call up different heating levels
by repeatedly pressing the buttons.
When the three indicator lamps are illu-
minated, the highest heating mode is
activated. One lamp indicates the
lowest heating mode. The temperature
is regulated with a thermostat in each
mode.
To deactivate
Press repeatedly or hold down, until all
of the indicator lamps go out.
To actuate, press the button briefly with
the ignition key in position 1.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
90n
HiFi system – harman kardon
When the system is activated, the
impression of a significantly larger
passenger compartment is created in
all seats, together with an improvement
of the stereo effect.
When radio reception is weak, the
system will frequently switch back
and forth between stereo and mono
mode. If this happens, turn the HiFi
system off.<
Opening and closing
To open: pull the handle. The glove
compartment lamp will light up.
To close: fold up cover.
To prevent injury in the event of a
crash, close the glove compart-
ment immediately after use.<
To lock
Use one of the master keys to lock the
vehicle. A master key can also be used
for unlocking.
If, for example, you turn over only
your door key for valet parking,
(refer to page 30), access to the glove
compartment is not possible.<
HiFi system* Glove compartment
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
91n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Storage compartments
Front center armrest*
To open: press the button (arrow) and
lift upward.
Other compartments and nets
You will find additional storage areas in
the doors and in the center console
above the ashtray. Storage nets are
located on the backrests of the front
seats.
Beverage holder, coin box
A coin box and two beverage holders
are provided in the center console.
Rear center armrest*
You will find a beverage holder (for two
drink containers) and a garbage bag
holder in the rear center armrest.
Opening the beverage holder: press
(arrow).
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
92n
Storage compartments Cellular phone* Ashtray, front
Storage package*
For your convenience, there are:
> Two flip-out sockets on the rear
center console (arrows)
> An eyeglass storage compartment
* in
the front center console above the
ashtray.
Hands-free system
In vehicles with telephone preparation*
or a communications package
*, the
trim piece for the hands-free micro-
phone is located in the headliner near
the interior lamp.
For further information on the cellular
phone, refer to the separate Owner's
Manual.
To open
Press briefly in direction indicated by
arrow.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
93n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Ashtray, front Cigarette lighter Ashtray, rear
To empty
Press on the edge of the open cover
(arrow): you can now pull the ashtray
upward for removal.
Extinguishing cigarettes
Tap off the ash and gently press the tip
into the funnel.
Press the lighter in. Remove as soon as
the lighter jumps back out.
Hold or touch the hot cigarette
lighter by the knob only. Holding
or touching it in other areas could result
in burns. The cigarette lighter remains
operational when the ignition key has
been removed. For this reason, children
should never be left in the vehicle unat-
tended.<
Cigarette lighter socket
It can be used for attaching power
supplies for flashlights, car vacuum
cleaners and other similar appliances
up to a rating of approx. 200 watts at
12 volts. Avoid damaging the socket
due to inserting plugs of different
shapes or sizes.
To open
Push the cover open.
To empty
Press on the edge of the raised cover in
the opening direction (arrow). You can
now pull the ashtray upward for
removal.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
94n
Clothes hooks
Press on the upper edge to fold it up.
For additional information, refer to
page 103
When suspending 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, e.g. during braking or
evasive maneuvers.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
95n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Through-loading system
The rear backrest is divided into two
sections, one-third and two-thirds of
the seat respectively. For carrying
longer objects, you can fold down
either section of the backrest sepa-
rately.
Folding the rear backrest back
1 To unlock, pull the lever correspond-
ing to the section (arrow)
2 The rear backrest section will move
forward slightly when it is unlocked.
Reach into the gap and pull the back-
rest down.
When you close the backrest, be
sure that the retainer engages
correctly. If it is not correctly engaged,
transported cargo could enter the
passenger compartment from the
luggage compartment during brake
applications or evasive maneuvers and
endanger the vehicle occupants.<
Center 3-point-safety belt in the
rear
*
You can retract the 3-point-safety belt
in the rear before folding the through-
loading system back.
Retracting the 3-point-safety belt:
Loosen the safety belt and insert the
buckle latch into the support mount
provided on the rear window shelf
(arrow).
Always use the outside safety
belts to mount the child restraint
systems. Use the middle safety belt
only if it is necessary to install three
child restraint systems.
Do not modify the child restraint system
in any way. If you do so, it will not
provide your child with maximum
protection.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
96n
Ski bag*
The ski bag allows the safe and clean
transport of up to 4 pairs of standard
skis or up to two snowboards.
The length of the ski bag and the addi-
tional space provided in the luggage
compartment make it possible to carry
skis up to 6.8 ft long (2.10 meters).
Because of the tapered shape of the ski
bag, it can only accommodate two pairs
of skis 6.8 ft long (2.10 meters).
Loading
1 Fold the center armrest outward.
Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest
2 Press button 1 downward and swing
the cover forward
3 Extend the ski bag between the
front seats. The zipper provides
convenient access to stored items.
It may be opened to allow the ski bag
to dry
4 Press knob 2: the cover in the
luggage compartment is unlocked.
To store the ski bag, perform the above
steps in reverse sequence.
Securing the load
Secure the bag's contents by tightening
down 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.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
97n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Cargo loading
Always position and secure the
load correctly. If you do not, it
can endanger the passengers during
braking or evasive maneuvers.
Do not exceed the permissible gross
weight and axle load (refer to
page 168), otherwise the vehicle's
operating safety is no longer assured
and you are in violation of the law.
Do not stow heavy or hard objects in
the passenger compartment without
first securing them. Otherwise they
would be thrown around during braking
and evasive maneuvers and endanger
the occupants.<
Stowing cargo
If you are transporting a load in your
BMW:
> Load heavy cargo as far forward as
possible – directly behind the back-
rests or the luggage compartment
partition – and as low as possible
> Cover sharp edges and corners
> Do not pile objects higher than the
top edge of the backrest
> If you are transporting very heavy
loads when the rear seat is not
occupied, secure the outer safety
belts in the opposite buckles (refer
to the illustration).
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
98n
Cargo loading Roof-mounted luggage rack*
Securing the cargo in the luggage
compartment
> For small, light items, use the rubber-
lined non-skid side of the floor mat or
secure with a luggage compartment
net
* or elastic straps (refer to
page 39)
> For large, heavy pieces, see your
BMW center for load-securing
devices
*. Lashing eyes (arrow) are
provided at the inner corners of the
luggage compartment for attaching
these load-securing devices.
Read and comply with the information
enclosed with the load-securing
devices.
A special luggage system is available
as an option for your BMW. Please
observe the precautions included with
the installation instructions.
Mounting points
Access to the mounting points:
To fold up the cover (arrow), please
use the tool which is provided with the
luggage 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,
the approved gross vehicle weight or
the axle loads. You will find the specifi-
cations under "Technical Data" on
page 168.
Make sure that the load is not too
heavy, and attempt to distribute it
evenly. Always load the heaviest pieces
first (on the bottom). Be sure that
adequate clearance is maintained for
raising the sliding/tilt sunroof, and that
objects do not project into the opening
path of the luggage compartment lid.
Secure the roof luggage correctly and
securely to prevent it from shifting or
being lost during driving (danger to
following traffic).
Drive smoothly and avoid sudden
acceleration or braking. Do not corner
at high speeds.
The luggage rack and roof luggage
increase the amount of surface
exposed to the wind: increased fuel
consumption and additional strains on
the vehicle's body result from this.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
99n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
100n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
101n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 102
Driving notes 103
Catalytic converter 103
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 104
Disk brakes 106
Brake system 107
Winter operation 108
Power steering 110
Cellular phones 110
Radio reception 110
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 111
Tire condition 111
Tire replacement 112
Tire rotation 113
Wheel and tire
combinations 114
Winter tires 115
Snow chains 115
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 116
Under the hood:
Hood 118
Engine compartment 120
Washer fluids 122
Washer nozzles 122
Engine oil 123
Coolant 125
Brake fluid 126
Vehicle Identification
Number 126
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 127
Caring for your vehicle 128
Airbags 133
Vehicle storage 133
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 134
California Proposition
65 Warning 134
OBD connector 135
Car care
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
102n
To ensure that your vehicle provides
maximum economy throughout a long
service life, we request that you
observe the following instructions:
Because of its engineering design,
the BMW M3 is an especially high-
quality vehicle. It is in your best interest
to follow the break-in procedure very
closely. Doing this, you will create the
basis for a long, optimum service life.<
Engine and differential
> Until a mileage reading of 1,200 miles
(2,000 km): drive at varying engine
and road speeds, but do not exceed
the following engine speeds or road
speeds:
5,500/rpm or 105 mph (170 km/h)
Obey your local and state maximum
speed limits.
Do not depress the accelerator pedal to
the full-throttle position.
> After you have monitored the break-
in period for 1,200 miles (2,000 km),
you can begin to gradually increase
both the engine speed and road
speed.
You should also comply with these
break-in procedures if the engine or
differential is replaced later in the
course of the vehicle service life.
Tires
Due to technical factors associated
with their manufacture, tires do not
achieve their full traction potential until
an initial break-in period has elapsed.
Thus drive with extra care during the
initial 200 miles (300 km).
Obey your local and state maximum
speed limits.
When the vehicle is operated on
wet or slushy roads, a wedge of
water may form between the tire and
the road surface. This phenomenon is
referred to as aquaplaning, or hydro-
planing, and can lead to partial or
complete loss of traction, vehicle
control and braking effectiveness.
Reduce your speed on wet roads.<
Brake system
Approximately 300 miles (500 km) must
elapse before the brake pads and disks
achieve the optimal pad-surface and
wear patterns required for trouble -free
operation and long service life later on.
To break-in the separate parking brake
drums, apply the parking brake lightly
when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic
signal, for instance), provided that
traffic conditions allow you to do so. To
avoid corrosion, repeat this procedure
from time to time.
The brake lamps do not come on
when the parking brake is set.
Vacuum for the brake system servo unit
on your BMW is available only when the
engine is running. When you move the
vehicle with the engine off – when
towing, for example – substantially
higher levels of pedal force will be
required to brake the vehicle.<
Clutch
The clutch will also begin to function
optimally after about 300 miles
(500 km). Drive cautiously during this
break-in period and do not shift
roughly.
Break-in procedures
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
103n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Brakes: do not drive with your foot
resting on the brake pedal. Even
light but consistent pedal pressure can
lead to high temperatures, brake wear
and possibly even brake failure.
Aquaplaning:
When driving on wet or slushy roads,
reduce vehicle speed. If you do not, a
wedge of water may form between the
tires and the road surface. This
phenomenon is referred to as aqua-
planing, or hydroplaning, and can lead
to partial or complete loss of traction,
vehicle control and braking effective-
ness.
Driving through water:
Do not drive through water on the road
if it is deeper than 1 foot (30 cm), and
then only at walking speed. Otherwise,
the vehicle's engine, the electrical
systems and the transmission may be
damaged.
Rear window shelf:
Never use it to store heavy or hard
objects, otherwise, occupants could be
injured if the vehicle is braked hard.<
The catalytic converter reduces harmful
exhaust emissions.
It is designed for use with unleaded fuel
only. Even minute quantities of lead
would be enough to permanently
damage both the catalytic converter
and the system oxygen sensor.
To ensure efficient, trouble-free engine
operation and avoid potential damage:
> Be sure to comply with the scheduled
maintenance requirements
> Fill the fuel tank well before it is
empty
> Tow-start only when the engine is
cold. If you attempt to tow-start with
a warm engine, unburned residual
fuel in the catalytic converter could
ignite and cause damage. It is better
to start the vehicle with an outside
starting aid
> Avoid other situations in which the
fuel is not burned or burns incom-
pletely such as frequent or extended
starter engagement or repeated start
attempts in which the engine does
not start. Stopping and restarting an
engine which is running properly
does not present a problem. Never
allow the engine to run with any of
the spark plug cables disconnected.
Be sure to observe the instruc-
tions above to prevent unburned
fuel from reaching the catalytic
converter. Otherwise there is danger of
overheating and damage to the cata-
lytic converter.
Extreme temperatures occur at the
catalytic converter on this and every
catalyst-equipped vehicle. Heat shields
are installed adjacent to some sections
of the exhaust system. Never remove
these shields; do not apply under-
coating to their surfaces. When driving,
standing at idle or when parking, take
precautions to avoid contact between
the hot exhaust system and easily flam-
mable materials (grass, hay or leaves,
for example). Such contact could lead
to a fire, resulting in personal injury and
property damage.<
Driving notes Catalytic converter
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
104n
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The concept
ABS keeps the wheels from locking
while braking, thereby enhancing active
driving safety. The reason: locked
wheels are dangerous. When the front
wheels slide, the driver loses steering
control over the vehicle. Traction loss at
the rear wheels can cause the rear end
to break into an uncontrolled skid.
Based on current road conditions, ABS
can brake the vehicle within the
shortest possible distance and with the
greatest possible driving stability (on
straight-aways and curves, asphalt, ice,
wet road surfaces, etc.).
ABS is designed to meet two essential
requirements during every brake appli-
cation:
> To help provide vehicle stability
> To help maintain steering control and
maneuverability – on all types of road
surfaces (asphalt, concrete, mud,
wet, snow, ice).
Braking with ABS
The system becomes operative once
the vehicle exceeds a speed of approx.
6 mph (10 km/h). Whenever the
vehicle's speed drops below approx.
4 mph (6 km/h), the ABS is deactivated.
This means that the wheels can lock in
the final phase of a panic stop – a factor
of no significance in actual use.
The ABS system works best in situa-
tions requiring maximum pressure on
the pedal ("panic stop"). Do not let up
on the brake pedal even after it starts
pulsating. Since the vehicle maintains
steering responsiveness, you can
nevertheless avoid possible obstacles
with a minimum of steering effort.
The ABS closed-loop control circuit
cycles in fractions of a second. Pulsa-
tion at the brake pedal shows you that
ABS is active, that you are braking
within the ABS' braking range and that
you are thus pushing the limit of the
system. In addition, a pulsation – a
result of the control function cycles –
indicates to the driver that the vehicle
speed should be reduced to adapt to
road surface conditions when there is
reduced traction and grip between tires
and road surface (slippery road
surface).
On road surfaces with a loose surface
layer over a firm base, e.g. on gravel or
snow, as well as when driving with
snow chains on, braking distances may
be longer for a locked-wheel condition.
However, ABS continues to provide
enhanced vehicle stability and steering
response under these conditions.
Information for your safety
Not even ABS can suspend the laws of
physics. The consequences of hitting
the brakes when there is inadequate
distance between vehicles, when the
vehicle is driven at excessive speeds
through curves, or during aquaplaning,
remain the driver's responsibility. You
should never allow the added safety of
ABS to lull you into a false sense of
security, or mislead you into taking risks
that could affect your own safety and
that of others.
Do not make any modifications to
the ABS system.
Service procedures on ABS are to be
performed by authorized technicians
only.<
Antilock Brake System (ABS)/
Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
CBC is an advanced engineering
design of the ABS. When braking while
cornering at high speed or braking
during high lateral acceleration, or
when braking during a lane change,
vehicle stability is improved and
steering response is enhanced.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
105n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
In the event of a malfunction
If the ABS warning lamp does
come on, refer to page 21. The
brake system will then function
the same as on vehicles without ABS.
However, have the brake system
checked by your BMW center as soon
as possible. To prevent undetected
defects and cumulative faults from
adversely affecting the brake system,
refer any problems to your BMW center
at the earliest opportunity.
ABS warning lamp for Canadian
models.
If the brake warning lamp
comes on together with the
indicator lamps for ABS and
DSC, refer to page 21, the entire
ABS, CBC and DSC control
system has failed. Continue
driving cautiously and defen-
sively. Avoid full brake applica-
tions. This could cause the vehicle to
lose stability and you might no longer
be able to control it.
Have the system checked by your BMW
center as soon as possible.
ABS, CBC and DSC indicator
and warning lamps for Canadian
models.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
106n
Disk brakes
Disk brakes furnish optimum decelera-
tion and braking control and greater
fade resistance under heavy use.
When the vehicle is driven only occa-
sionally, during extended periods when
the vehicle is not used at all, and in
operating conditions where brake appli-
cations are less frequent, there is an
increased tendency for corrosion of the
disks and accumulation of contamina-
tion on the brake pads. This occurs
because the minimal pressure that must
be exerted by the pads to clean the
disks by brake applications is not
reached.
If the brake disks are corroded, they will
tend to respond to braking with a
pulsating effect which even extended
application will fail to cure.
For your own safety: use only
brake pads which BMW has
approved for your specific vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
Driving notes
While driving on wet roads or in heavy
rain, it is a good idea to apply light
pressure to the brake pedal every few
miles or kilometers. Watch traffic condi-
tions to ensure that this maneuver does
not endanger other road users. The
heat which is generated by the brake
applications helps to dry the brake
pads and disks.
Maximum braking force is obtained
while the wheels continue to rotate,
peaking when the wheels remain on the
verge of locking without actually doing
so. ABS maintains this state automati-
cally. If the ABS should ever fail, pump
the brakes if possible (refer to
page 109).
Extended or steep mountain descents
should be driven in the gear in which
only minimal periodic brake application
is required. This avoids excessive strain
on the brakes and possible
impairment of the braking effect. Stay
within the allowable engine speed
range. For further information, refer to
page 69.
The braking effect of the engine can be
further increased by downshifting, into
first gear, if necessary.
Should engine braking prove inade-
quate, you should still avoid extended,
continuous braking. Instead of main-
taining low to moderate pressure over
an extended period of time, you should
decelerate the vehicle by applying more
substantial force on the pedal (watch
for following traffic). Pause before
repeating the brake application. This
staggered braking technique allows the
brakes to cool in the intervals between
active braking phases, preventing over-
heating and ensuring that full braking
capacity remains available at all times.
Do not coast with the clutch
depressed, with the shift lever in
neutral or with the engine shut off. The
engine does not provide any braking
effect with the transmission in neutral or
with the engine shut off.
Do not allow floor mats, carpets or any
other objects to protrude into the area
around the brake pedal, the clutch or
the accelerator which could obstruct
their freedom of movement.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
107n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Brake system
Brake fluid level
If the brake warning lamp
comes on with the parking
brake released:
The brake fluid level is too low in the
reservoir (refer to page 126).
If the brake fluid level is too low and
brake pedal travel has become notice-
ably longer, there may be a defect in
one of the brake system's hydraulic
circuits.
Brake warning lamp for Cana-
dian models.
Proceed to the nearest BMW
center. Higher brake application
pressure may be necessary under these
conditions, and brake pedal travel may
be significantly longer. Please
remember to adapt your driving style
accordingly.<
Brake pads
If the warning lamp for the brake
pads lights up: only the
minimum pad thickness still
remains on the brake pads. Proceed to
the nearest BMW center as soon as
possible to have the pads replaced.
For your own safety: use only
brake pads which BMW has
approved for your specific vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
108n
Winter operation
The onset of winter is often accompa-
nied by rapid changes in weather.
Adaptations in driving style should be
accompanied by preparations on the
vehicle itself to ensure that your
progress through the winter remains
safe and trouble-free.
Coolant
Be sure that the coolant mixture
contains the year-round ratio of 50:50
water and antifreeze/corrosion inhibitor.
This mixture provides protection
against freezing down to approx.
–34 7 (–37 6). Have the coolant
replaced every 4 years.
Locks
BMW door lock deicer can be used to
free them if frozen. This deicer also
contains lubricant.
After using deicer, treatment with BMW
lock barrel grease is recommended.
Rubber seals and components
To prevent the weather-stripping from
freezing, apply a spray-on rubber treat-
ment or silicone spray to the door, hood
and luggage compartment lid seals.
A full range of car-care products is
available from your BMW center.<
Snow chains
Mount BMW snow chains*, whether on
summer or winter tires, in pairs on the
rear wheels only, keeping the manufac-
turer's safety instructions in mind. Do
not exceed a maximum speed of
30 mph (50 km/h) with snow chains. In
rare situations like these, it is advisable
to turn off the DSC and RDW. Refer to
page 76 or page 78.
Starting off
When trying to drive out of deep snow,
or when "rocking" the vehicle to free it,
it may be advisable to temporarily
deactivate the DSC system. Refer to
page 76.
Driving on low-traction road
surfaces
Use smooth, gentle pressure to control
the accelerator pedal. Avoid excessive
engine speeds and shift to the next
higher gear at an early point. Adapt
your speed and driving style when
approaching grades or slopes. Maintain
an adequate distance between yourself
and the vehicle ahead.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
109n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Winter operation
Braking
Winter road conditions substantially
reduce the amount of traction available
between the tires and the road surface;
the resulting increase in braking
distance is considerable and should
always be kept in mind.
ABS is intended to prevent the wheels
from locking during brake applications,
thus helping to maintain vehicle stability
and steering response.
If the ABS does not respond in a critical
braking situation and the wheels lock:
Reduce the pressure on the brake
pedal until the wheels just start to roll
again while still maintaining enough
force to continue braking. Then
increase the pressure, reduce the pres-
sure when the wheels lock, reapply
pressure etc.
This staggered braking procedure will
reduce stopping distances while
helping you maintain steering control.
You can then attempt to steer around
hazards after you have reduced pres-
sure on the brake pedal.
Do not shift down on slick road
surfaces. Doing so could cause
the rear wheels to lose traction and
skid, which could result in the loss of
vehicle control.<
Depress the clutch during hard
braking on road surfaces which
provide only poor or uneven traction.<
Skid control
Depress the clutch and let up on the
gas. Countersteer carefully and attempt
to regain control of the vehicle.
Parking
Engage first or reverse gear. Depending
on the steepness of the incline, you can
apply the parking brake as well. In order
to prevent the parking brake pads from
locking due to frost or corrosion, dry
them by gently applying the parking
brake as the vehicle is coming to a
stop. Make sure that following traffic
is not endangered.
The brake lamps do not light up
when the parking brake is
applied.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
110n
Power steering Cellular phone* Radio reception
If the steering response changes, e.g.
high steering effort:
Consult a BMW center to have it
checked.
If the power steering fails,
increased effort will be required to
steer the vehicle.<
Only mobile communications systems
(cellular phone, radio, etc.) with an
output up to 10 watts are permitted.
Mobile communications devices not
specifically designed for use in your
vehicle may trigger malfunctions while
operating your vehicle. BMW can
neither test nor assume responsibility
for every individual product being
offered on the market. We recommend
that you consult your BMW center
before purchasing any device of this
kind.
To ensure that your BMW continues to
provide reliable and trouble-free opera-
tion, do not use a cellular phone or
other radio device with an antenna
located inside the passenger compart-
ment. The antenna should always be
mounted on the outside of the vehicle.
Before loading the vehicle on
a car-carrier train or driving it
through a car-wash, remove the
antenna.<
The reception and sound quality
obtained from mobile radios vary
according to a variety of factors,
including the broadcast range of the
transmitter and the directional orienta-
tion of the antenna. Interference factors
such as high-tension power lines,
structural or natural obstructions can all
lead to unavoidable reception interfer-
ence, regardless of how well the vehicle
sound system is operating.
Climatic factors such as intense solar
radiation, fog, rain and snow can also
interfere with reception.
Telephones without formal BMW
approval can also generate interfer-
ence. This phenomenon assumes the
form of a low-pitched hum emanating
from the speaker system.
Please refer to the separate Owner's
Manual that came with your vehicle for
information on setting and operating
your car radio.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
111n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Information for your safety
The factory-approved radial tires are
matched to the vehicle and have been
selected to provide optimum safety and
driving comfort on your vehicle.
It is not merely the tire's service life, but
also driving comfort and – above all else
– driving safety that depend on the
condition of the tires and the mainte-
nance of the specified tire pressure.
Incorrect inflation pressure is a frequent
cause of tire damage. It also signifi-
cantly influences the roadholding ability
of your BMW.
Check tire inflation pressures on a
regular basis (refer to page 27), at
least every two weeks and before
beginning a longer trip. If this is not
done, incorrect tire pressures can
cause driving instability and tire
damage, ultimately resulting in acci-
dents.<
Tire tread – Tire damage
Inspect your tires frequently for tread
wear, signs of damage and for foreign
objects lodged in the tread. Check the
tread depth.
Tread depth should not be allowed to
go below 0.12 in (3 mm), even though
the legally specified minimum tread
depth is only 0.063 in (1.6 mm). At a
tread depth of 0.063 in (1.6 mm), tread
depth indicators (arrow) in the tread-
groove base will indicate that the legally
permissible wear limit has been
reached. Below 0.12 in (3 mm) tread
depth, there is an increased risk of
aquaplaning, even at relatively
moderate speeds and with only small
amounts of water on the road.
Do not drive on a deflated (flat)
tire. A flat tire greatly impairs
steering and braking response, and can
lead to complete loss of control over
the vehicle.
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that
the permitted load on the tires is not
exceeded. Overloading can lead to
overheating and increases the rate at
which damage develops inside the
tires. You could have a blowout as a
result.
Unusual vibrations encountered during
normal vehicle operation can indicate
tire failure or some other vehicle defect,
This is also true for irregularities in the
vehicle's handling characteristics, such
as a pronounced tendency to pull to the
left or right. Should this occur, respond
by immediately reducing your speed.
Proceed carefully to the nearest BMW
center or professional tire center, or
have the vehicle towed in to have it and
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 inflation pressure Tire condition
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
112n
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single
tread configuration from a single manu-
facturer. BMW tests and approves
wheel/tire combinations. Refer to
page 116.
DOT Quality Grades
Treadwear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
All passenger vehicle tires must
conform to Federal Safety
Requirements in addition to these
grades.<
Tread wear
The tread wear grade is a comparative
rating based on the wear rate of the tire
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified government test
course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would
wear one and one-half (1 g) times as
well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance
of tires depends upon the actual condi-
tions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due
to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road char-
acteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on speci-
fied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straight-
ahead braking traction tests, and does
not include acceleration, cornering,
aquaplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<
Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B, and C, representing the
tire’s resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to degenerate
and reduce tire life, and excessive
temperature can lead to sudden tire
failure. The grade C corresponds to a
level of performance which all
passenger vehicle tires must meet
under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard No. 109. Grades B and A
represent higher levels of performance
on the laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.
The temperature grade for this tire
is established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not overloaded.
Excessive speed, 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:
Tread wear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
Do not use retreaded tires, since
driving safety may be impaired by
their use. This is due to the possible
variations in casing structures and, in
some cases, to their extreme age,
factors that can lead to a decrease in
their durability.<
Tire replacement
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
113n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Tire replacement Tire rotation
Tire age
The date on which the tire was manu-
factured is indicated by the code on the
sidewall:
DOT ... 4100 means that the tire was
produced in the 41st week of the year
2000.
BMW recommends the replacing all
tires after 6 years at the latest, even if a
tire life of 10 years is possible.
Re-initialize the Tire Pressure Warning
(RDW) after rotating the tires. See
page 78 for further information.
Summer tires
Due to different tire sizes on the
front and rear axles (refer to
page 116), the tires may not be rotated
from one axle to the other.<
Winter tires
The tread wear patterns at the front end
differ from those at the rear – the actual
patterns will vary according to indi-
vidual driving conditions. In the inter-
ests of safety and maintaining optimal
handling characteristics, tire rotation is
not recommended.
If a proposed interaxle rotation of tires
is based on economic considerations,
one should consider whether the costs
for the rotation are likely to be recap-
tured by any increase in the service life
of the tires that might be realized.
Rotation must always be carried out
at short intervals (max. 3,000 miles/
5,000 km). Consult your BMW center
for more information.
Should you decide to rotate the tires, it
is essential that you comply with the
following: rotate tires on the same side
only, since braking characteristics and
road grip could otherwise be adversely
affected.
Following rotation, correct the tire infla-
tion pressure.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
114n
Wheel and tire combinations
The right choice
Use only wheels and tires approved by
BMW for the corresponding vehicle
model, as otherwise the tires may make
contact with the body as the result of
tolerances despite the same nominal
size being used,
resulting in serious accidents. If non-
approved wheels and tires are used,
BMW cannot evaluate their suitability,
and therefore cannot be held liable for
driving safety.<
For wheel and tire specifications
approved by BMW, refer to page 116.
The correct wheel-tire combina-
tion affects different systems that
otherwise will not function properly,
e.g. ABS, DSC.
For this reason, use only tires of the
same brand and tread pattern on the
vehicle and, for example, restore the
approved wheel-tire combination
following a flat tire as soon as
possible.<
Codes on tires and wheels
The code on tires has the following
meaning.
Codes on radial tires:
The speed rating indicates the
approved maximum speed for the tire.
Summer tires:
S = up to112 mph (180 km/h)
T = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
V = up to 150 mph (240 km/h)
W = up to 167 mph (270 km/h)
Y = up to 187 mph (300 km/h)
ZR= over 150 mph (240 km/h)
e.g.
Nominal width
in mm
Aspect
ratio in X
Radial tire code
Rim diameter in inches
Load rating
(not on ZR tires)
Speed rating
(before R on ZR tires)
225/45 R 1892W
Winter tires:
Q M+S = up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
T M+S = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H M+S = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
Codes on light-alloy wheels:
Protect valve stems and valves from dirt
using screw-on valve stem caps. Dirt in
the valves frequently leads to slow
leaks.
Storage
Store tires in a cool, dry place,
protecting them against light when-
ever possible. Protect the tires against
contact with oil, grease and fuel.
e.g.
Rim width
in inches
Code letter for
flange type
Symbol for full-drop
center rim
Rim diameter in inches
Hump on the 2 rim shoulders
8x8H 2J
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
115n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Winter tires Snow chains
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends winter tires (M+S
radial tires) for operation under inclem-
ent winter driving conditions. While
so-called all season tires (M+S desig-
nation) provide better winter traction
than summer tires with the load ratings
H, V, W, Y and ZR, they generally do
not achieve the performance of winter
tires.
In the interests of safe tracking and
steering response, install radial tires
made by the same manufacturer and
with the same tread configuration on all
four wheels if you elect to mount winter
tires.
Do not exceed specified
maximum speeds
In Germany: attach a corresponding
sign in accordance with the Federal
Motor Vehicles Safety Standards in
your field of vision if the maximum
speed of the vehicle is higher. This
sticker is available from the tire dealer
or your BMW center.
Never exceed the maximum speed
for which the tires are rated.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
service tires can lead to damage and
accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled
professionals only. Your BMW center
will be glad to assist you with both their
expertise and the proper equipment for
your vehicle.<
Tire condition, tire pressure
Winter tires display a perceptible loss in
their ability to cope with winter driving
conditions once the tread wears to
below 0.16 in (4 mm), and should thus
be replaced.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressure and be sure to have the
wheels balanced each time a tire or
wheel is changed. In addition, also have
the Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) reini-
tialized, for details refer to page 78.
The use of narrow-link BMW snow
chains on winter tires is approved only
in pairs and only on the rear wheels.
Comply with all manufacturer's safety
precautions when mounting the chains.
Deactivate the Tire Pressure
Warning (RDW) when using snow
chains. The snow chains can lead to
malfunction warnings and undetected
losses in pressure.
For further information, refer to
page 78.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
116n
Approved wheel and tire specifications
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 regulations applicable in the country of use, e.g. requiring
entry in the vehicle documents.
Tire specifications Light-alloy
wheels
BMW M3
Summer
Front: 225/45 ZR 18 8J x 18 EH2
Rear: 255/40 ZR 18 9J x 18 EH2
Front: 225/40 ZR 19 8J x 19 EH2
Rear: 255/35 ZR 19 9.5J x 19 EH2
Winter tires (M+S)
225/45 R 17 91 H 7.5Jx17 EH2
Snow chains*
It is not possible to mount snow chains
on 18 and 19-inch wheels.
Deactivate the tire pressure
control (RDW) when using snow
chains. The snow chains can lead to
malfunction warnings and undetected
losses in pressure.
For further information, refer to 78.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
117n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
118n
Do not work on your vehicle
without appropriate skills. Always
switch off the engine and allow it to
cool down before working in the engine
compartment. Always disconnect the
battery before working on any electrical
systems or equipment, especially when
these are located within the engine
compartment. Comply with all applica-
ble instructions and warnings. Failure to
work in an informed, professional man-
ner when servicing components and
materials constitutes a safety hazard
for vehicle occupants and other road
users. If you are not familiar with the
guidelines, please have the operations
performed by your BMW center.<
To unlock
Pull the lever located under the left-
hand side of the instrument panel.
To open
Pull the release handle and open the
hood.
Hood
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
119n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Hood
To close
Allow the hood to fall from a height of
about 12 in (30 cm) so that it audibly
engages.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the hood is clear
when it is closed, as with all closing
procedures. If it is determined that the
hood is not completely closed while
driving, stop immediately and close it
securely.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
120n
Engine compartment
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
121n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Engine compartment
1 Filler neck for headlamp and wind-
shield washer cleaning system 122
2 Coolant expansion tank 125
3 Positive terminal connection (for jump
starting) (positive terminal) 154
4 Engine oil filler neck 123
5 Engine oil dipstick 123
6 Filler neck for brake fluid 126
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
122n
Washer fluids Washer nozzles
Headlamp and windshield washer
system
Capacity: approx. 5.6 US quarts
(5.3 liters).
Fill with water and – if required – with a
washer antifreeze (according to manu-
facturer's recommendations).
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
Antifreeze for the washer systems
is flammable. For this reason,
keep them away from sources of flame
and store them only in their original
containers. Store them so that they are
inaccessible to children. Comply with
the instructions on the containers.<
Headlamp washer system*
Have this system adjusted by your
BMW center as required.
Windshield washer system
Windshield:
The spray nozzles are permanently set
and ensure effective cleaning even at
high speeds.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
123n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Engine oil
Checking the oil level
1 Park the vehicle on a level surface
2 Shut the engine off after it has
reached normal operating tempera-
ture
3 After approx. 5 minutes, pull the
dipstick out and wipe it off with a
clean lint-free cloth, paper towel or
similar material
4 Carefully push the dipstick all the way
into the guide tube and pull it out
again
5 The oil level should be 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 quantity between the two marks
on the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter).
To add oil
Wait until the level has dropped to just
above the lower mark before adding oil.
However, never let the oil drop below
the lower mark.
Do not fill beyond the upper mark on
the dipstick. Excess oil will damage the
engine.
BMW engines are designed to
operate without oil additives; the
use of additives could lead to damage
in some cases. This is also true for the
manual transmission, the differential,
and the power steering system.<
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW center only.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
124n
Engine oil
Continuous exposure to used oil
has caused cancer in laboratory
testing. For this reason, thoroughly
wash any areas of skin that come into
contact with oil using soap and water.
Always store oils, grease and similar
materials so that they are inaccessible
to children. Comply with warning labels
and information on containers.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of used oil.<
Approved engine oil
The quality of the engine oil is extre-
mely important for the function and life
of an engine. Based on extensive
testing, BMW has approved only
certain types of engine oils.
Use only approved "BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil".
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil," you may
use small quantities of other approved
synthetic oils for topping up between oil
changes. Use only oils with the specifi-
cation API SH or higher.
Ask your BMW center for details
concerning the specific "BMW
High Performance Synthetic Oil" or
synthetic oils that have been
approved.<
You can also call BMW of North
America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit the
website www.bmwusa.com to obtain
this information.
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as esta-
blished in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class
depends on the climatic conditions in
the area where you drive your BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These oils may be used for driving in all
ambient temperatures.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
125n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Coolant
Do not add coolant to the cooling
system when the engine is hot. If
you do, escaping coolant can cause
burns.
To avoid the possibility of damage later
on, never use anything other than
factory-approved, nitrite and amino-
free extended-duty antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor. Your BMW center is
familiar with the official specifications.
Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents are
hazardous to health. You should always
store them in original containers and in
a location inaccessible to children.
Extended-duty antifreeze with corro-
sion inhibitor contains ethylene glycol,
a flammable substance. For this reason,
do not spill long-life antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor on hot engine parts.
It could catch fire and cause burns.<
Check the coolant level and add
coolant
Check the coolant level when the
engine is cold (approx. 68 7 or
+20 6). The coolant gauge needle in
the instrument cluster must be located
in the blue field, as otherwise you could
be scalded when adding more fluid.
1 Open the cap for the expansion tank
by turning it slightly counter-clock-
wise to allow accumulated pressure
to escape. Then open
2 The coolant level is correct whenever
the upper end of the red float rod is
aligned with the upper edge of the
filler neck (refer to the arrow in the
illustration and the schematic
diagram next to the filler neck as well)
3 If the coolant is low, slowly add
coolant until the correct level is
reached – do not overfill.
The coolant is a mixture of water and
extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion
inhibitor. Always maintain the
prescribed all-season 50:50 mixture
ratio for year-round protection against
internal corrosion. No other additives
are required.
Change the coolant
Replace the coolant every three years.
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of extended-duty antifreeze
with corrosion inhibitor.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
126n
Brake fluid Vehicle Identification
If the brake warning lamp comes on
and the parking brake has been
released: check the brake fluid level
and if necessary, fill it up to the "MAX"
mark.
For adding brake fluid or for deter-
mining and correcting the cause of
brake fluid loss, consult your BMW
center. Your BMW center is familiar
with the specifications for factory-
approved brake fluids (DOT 4).
Due to loss of brake fluid, pedal travel
can lengthen and braking efficiency
may be reduced. Comply with the
instructions for this found on page 107.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,
it absorbs moisture from the air
over time.
In order to ensure the brake system's
safety and reliability, have the brake
fluid changed every two years by an
authorized BMW center. Refer also to
pages 71, 151 and to the Service and
Warranty Information Booklet (US -
models) or the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
Brake fluid is toxic and damages the
vehicle's paint. You should always store
it in its original container and in a loca-
tion inaccessible to children.
Do not spill brake fluid and fill the brake
fluid reservoir only as far as the "MAX"
mark. The brake fluid could ignite upon
contact with hot engine parts and
cause burns.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of brake fluid.<
In the engine compartment, on the
right-hand strut dome (arrow).
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
127n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
The BMW Maintenance System has
been designed as a reliable means of
providing maximum driving and operat-
ing safety – and as cost-effectively as
possible for you.
Please keep in mind that regular main-
tenance is not only necessary for the
safety of your vehicle, but also plays a
significant role in maintaining the resale
value of the vehicle.
Service Interval Display
Advanced technology is employed to
calculate the optimal maintenance
intervals. These are then indicated in
the Service Interval Display. While
conventional systems rely on distance
traveled alone to determine when
service is due, the BMW Maintenance
System has for years considered the
actual conditions under which the
vehicle operates, because miles can be
traveled in many different ways: for
example, 62,000 miles (100,000 km) of
short-distance driving are not equal to
the same 62,000 miles (100,000 km) of
long-distance travel. In response to this
fact, the BMW Maintenance System
monitors operating conditions as the
basis for determining the service inter-
vals for your vehicle, it includes the
Engine Oil Service and Inspections I
and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals
according to the actual loads on the
vehicle covers every kind of operating
situation. Those who drive fewer than
6,000 miles (10,000 km) per year
should, nevertheless have their oil
changed every 2 years at the most, no
matter what the Service Interval Display
indicates, since engine oil ages over
time, regardless of loading.
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models)/Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
For additional information on required
maintenance intervals and procedures,
please refer to the Service and
Warranty Information Booklet (US
models), or the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
As a precaution against rust, it might be
a good idea to have the body checked
for damage from rocks or gravel at the
same time, depending upon operating
conditions.
Have your BMW center do the
maintenance and repair.
Your BMW center is always "up to date"
on the latest maintenance work and
repair techniques and equipped with
the required special tools. In addition,
checking parts known from experience
to be subject to wear is a permanent
part of the maintenance specifications.
Be sure that all maintenance work is
confirmed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models), or in
the Warranty and Service Guide Book-
let (Canadian models). These entries
are your proof that the vehicle has
received regular maintenance. They
are also a requirement for warranty
claims.<
The BMW Maintenance System
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
128n
Washing your vehicle
You can have your BMW washed in an
automatic car wash, even when it is
new. Car wash systems that do not
employ brushes are preferable.
Wipe away tough dirt and loosen and
remove dead insects before washing
the vehicle.
To prevent spots, avoid washing when
the hood is still warm, or immediately
after and during exposure to strong
sunlight.
When using an automatic car wash, be
sure that:
> The car wash system is suited for the
dimensions of your vehicle
> No damage will occur on vehicles
with attached body accessories (such
as spoilers or antennas). Consult the
car wash operator if necessary
> The wheels and tires of your vehicle
cannot be damaged by the convey-
ance devices of the car wash system
> The vehicle is cleaned with minimum
brush pressure, and that plenty of
water is available for washing and
rinsing.
Vehicles with rain sensor:
Clean the windshield regularly. Wax
from automatic car washes or insects
can cause malfunctions in the rain
sensor function.
Turn the rain sensor off (refer to
page 66) when going through an
automatic car wash, otherwise, damage
could occur from unintended wiper
activation.<
Parts of the vehicle which are inacces-
sible to the automatic washer – such
as door sills, door and hood edges, etc.
– should be cleaned by hand.
In the winter months, it is especially
important to ensure that the vehicle is
washed on a regular basis. Large
quantities of dirt and road salt are
difficult to remove, and they also cause
damage to the vehicle.
If spray wands or high-pressure
washers are used, be sure to
maintain an adequate distance between
the spray source and the vehicle's
surface. Inadequate distance and
excessive pressure can damage or
weaken the finish, making it more
susceptible to subsequent attack. In
addition, moisture could penetrate to
vehicle components, leading to long-
term damage.<
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
Do not wipe dry with a cloth
(scratches). Never use abrasives or
strong solvents. Remove dirt and
contamination (such as insects) by
soaking with BMW Car Shampoo and
then rinsing with plenty of water.
Always use a deicer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – never use
a scraper.<
After washing the vehicle, apply
the brakes briefly to dry them.
Braking efficiency might otherwise be
reduced by the moisture and the brake
rotors could also corrode.<
Caring for your vehicle
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
129n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Caring for your vehicle
Exterior finish
To provide effective corrosion protec-
tion, multilayer paintwork is applied at
the factory. Cataphoretic immersion
priming techniques are supplemented
with special body-cavity protectants, by
applying specially developed and
extensively tested materials.
A layer of flexible PVC is first applied to
the undercarriage. Following this, a
comprehensive undercoating treat-
ment with a wax-based protectant is
applied. Regular maintenance makes
an important contribution to maintaining
the safety and value of your vehicle.
Increasing awareness of the effects of
harmful environmental factors on
vehicle finishes have led paint and
vehicle manufacturers to initiate
programs designed to further improve
the durability of their finishes. Despite
this, regional environmental factors can
have negative effects on your vehicle's
finish. These should guide you in deter-
mining the frequency and extent of your
efforts to maintain the vehicle finish.
Depending upon material and type of
impact (perforation of paint layer),
physical stresses from sand, road salt,
gravel etc., can cause corrosion to
extend beneath the finish, starting at
the point of impact.
Road dirt, tar spots, dead insects,
animal droppings (strong alkali effect)
and tree excretions (resins and pollen)
all contain substances capable of
causing damage when allowed to
remain on the finish of your vehicle
for any period of time (spots, etching,
flaking, separation in the top coat).
In industrial areas, deposits of flue dust,
lime, oily soot, precipitation containing
sulfur-dioxide (acid rain) and other
environmental pollutants will damage
the vehicle's finish unless adequate
care is provided – even though this
is generally limited to the outside hori-
zontal surfaces.
In coastal regions, high levels of
atmospheric salt and humidity promote
corrosion.
In tropical zones, high humidity and
heavy ultraviolet radiation prevail, in
addition to temperatures of over 105 7
(+40 6) in the shade. Under these
conditions, light paints can reach tem-
peratures up to 175 7 (+80 6) and
dark ones up to 250 7 (+120 6).
Caring for the vehicle finish
Regular washing is a preventive
measure against long-term effects from
substances that are harmful to the
vehicle's finish, especially if you drive
your vehicle in areas with high levels
of air pollution or aggressive natural
substances (tree resins, pollen).
Nevertheless, you should immediately
remove especially aggressive
substances. Failure to do so can lead to
changes in the paint's chemical
structure or to discoloration. Gasoline
spilled during refueling, oil, grease and
brake fluid should always be cleaned
away immediately, as should bird
droppings (finish damage).
Any contamination remaining on the
surface of the vehicle will be especially
conspicuous after washing. Use
cleaning fluid or alcohol with a clean
cloth or cotton pad to remove. Remove
tar spots with tar remover. After
cleaning, the affected areas should be
waxed to ensure continued protection.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products that you can obtain at
your BMW center.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
130n
Caring for your vehicle
Waxing your vehicle
Protect the finish using only carnauba
or synthetic-based waxes.
The best way to determine when the
finish needs to be waxed is by noting
when water stops beading on the
surface.
You can use a glass cleaner to remove
any wax or silicone that may have been
left on the windows during waxing.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products that you can obtain at
your BMW center.<
Paint damage
You can touch up small areas of paint
damage with a BMW spray paint or a
BMW touchup stick.
The paint color code for your vehicle is
provided on a sticker located on the
right hand side under the hood and on
the first page of your Service and
Warranty Information Booklet (US
models) or Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian models).
Damage caused by flying stones,
scratches, etc., must be touched up
without delay to prevent rust from
forming.
If corrosion has started to form in an
area with paint damage, remove all rust
and clean the area. Then prime the area
with a BMW Primer Stick. Finally, apply
the finish coat. Wait a few days, then
polish the repaired area. Finish by
applying a wax preservative.
More extensive paint damage
should be professionally repaired in
accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions. Your BMW center uses
original BMW finish materials in
accordance with factory-approved
repair procedures.
Window care
You can use window and glass cleaner
to clean inside window surfaces and
mirrors without smearing and streaking.
Never use polishing pastes or abrasive
(quartz) cleansers on mirror lenses.
Clean the wiper blades with soapy
water. The wiper blades should be
replaced twice a year – before and after
the cold season. This is especially
important for vehicles equipped with
rain sensor.
Use only wiper blades approved
by BMW.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
131n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Caring for your vehicle
Caring for other vehicle
components and materials
Light-alloy wheels should be treated
with alloy wheel cleaner, especially
during the winter months. However, do
not use aggressive products contain-
ing acids, strong alkalis or abrasives.
Do not use steam cleaners operating at
temperatures above 140 7 (+60 6).
Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
If your vehicle has chrome parts
* such
as window moldings, door handles or
similar items, clean these parts carefully
with ample clean water, and possibly a
shampoo additive, especially if there is
an accumulation of road salt. Use
chrome polish as an additional treat-
ment.
Plastic components, vinyl upholstery,
headliners, lamp lenses, the clear cover
of the instrument cluster and compon-
ents with a sprayed dull black surface
can be cleaned with water (add plastic
shampoo as required). Do not allow
moisture to soak through the seats or
headliner. Never use solvents such as
lacquer thinner, heavy-duty grease
remover, fuels, or similar substances.
Rubber components should be cleaned
with water only; a rubber treatment or
silicone spray may also be applied.
The safety belts should be cleaned with
a mild soap and water solution without
being removed from the vehicle. Never
attempt chemical or dry cleaning, as
damage to the belt fabric could result.
After cleaning, never allow the inertia
reel to retract the belts until they are
completely dry. Dirty safety belts pre-
vent the inertia reel mechanism from
retracting the strap properly, and thus
constitute a safety hazard.
Heavily soiled floor carpets and mats
*
can be cleaned with an interior cleaner.
The floor mats can be removed from
the vehicle for cleaning.
Use only a damp cloth to clean trim
panels made of real wood
* and other
parts constructed of real wood
*. Follow
up by drying with a soft cloth.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products that you can obtain at
your BMW center.<
Care of upholstery materials
Depressions in the upholstery that
result from everyday use can be
brushed smooth by brushing against
the nap with a lightly dampened brush.
The tendency of the pile to lie in a par-
ticular direction on velour upholstery is
not a quality defect. Just as with home
textiles or clothing, this cannot be
avoided.
Lint on upholstery materials, textile or
leather remnants that have been worn
into the upholstery may be removed
with a lint brush or a Velcro brush. A
cleaning glove is available for particu-
larly "stubborn" lint. Stains and fairly
large areas of dirt should be cleaned off
without delay, using lukewarm water
and an interior cleaner, stain remover or
appropriate cleaning fluid. Brush the
fabric afterwards to restore its appear-
ance.
If the vehicle will be stored for an
extended period or if it is exposed to
intense sunlight, cover all the seats or
the windows to prevent fading.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products that you can obtain at
your BMW center.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
132n
Caring for your vehicle
The buildup of an electrostatic charge
on the seat covers, particularly if atmo-
spheric humidity is low, can give the
occupants an unpleasant electric shock
if they touch metal body parts after
leaving the vehicle. Although this is not
dangerous in any way, it can be
avoided by touching a bare or polished
metal part of the vehicle while getting
out.
Alcantara*
Clean using a gentle detergent, taking
care not to rub or scratch. Then finish
off by wiping it with a wet cloth.
Leather care
The leather upholstery* used by BMW
is a natural product of the highest qual-
ity, processed using state-of-the-art
methods to ensure that it will maintain
its high quality for years to come, pro-
vided that it is properly cared for.
Because this product is manufactured
using natural materials, you must make
allowance for its special characteristics
as well as for the peculiarities of its use
and care.
Regular periodic cleaning and care are
essential, as dust and road dirt act as
abrasives in the pores and creases of
the material. This leads to wear spots
and premature brittleness on the sur-
face of the leather. We therefore sug-
gest that you clean the leather with a
vacuum cleaner or cloth at frequent
intervals.
For cleaning, use BMW leather cleaning
foam.
Since dirt and grease gradually attack
the protective layer of the leather, the
cleaned surfaces should be treated
with BMW leather care agent. This also
acts as an antistatic agent.
For protection against dampness or
moisture, treat the leather with a
BMW impregnating agent.
We recommend that you perform this
procedure twice a year on leather
exposed to normal use.
Spills should be wiped up immediately.
Remove grease and oil stains without
rubbing, but rather by dabbing with
spot remover.
If the upholstery is exposed to intense
sunlight or if the vehicle is going to be
left parked for an extended period of
time, cover all leather surfaces or all the
windows to prevent fading.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products that you can obtain at
your BMW center.<
Cleaning agents can contain sub-
stances that are dangerous or
pose health risks. Therefore, always
comply with the warnings and danger
notices on the package.
Open the doors or windows on your
vehicle when cleaning the interior.
Never clean your vehicle with solvents
or other materials not specifically
intended for this purpose.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
133n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Airbags Vehicle storage
Important safety notices
Don't remove the airbag restraint
system's gas generator. Have
testing and service procedures per-
formed by specially-qualified techni-
cians only. In the event of any faults, if
the airbag stops working, or in the
event of function-oriented use (deploy-
ment) of the airbag restraint system,
entrust your BMW center alone with
repair or disassembly.
No modifications may be made to either
the wiring or to individual components.
These include the padded steering
wheel hub, the instrument panel, the
side trim panels of the front or rear
doors and the roof pillars or the sides of
the headliner. Do not apply adhesive
materials to these components, cover
or modify them in any way. Do not
remove or dismantle the steering wheel
yourself.
To ensure compliance with official
safety regulations, entrust disposal of
airbag generators to a BMW center.
Unprofessional attempts to service the
system could lead to failure in an emer-
gency or undesired airbag activation,
either of which could result in personal
injury.<
Consult your BMW center regarding
special procedures if you intend to
store the vehicle for more than three
months.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
134n
Technical modifications California Proposition 65 Warning
Any BMW center will be happy to
advise you concerning the advisability,
legal implications and factory recom-
mendations for technical modifications
to the vehicle. For this purpose, the
BMW center will require the Vehicle
Identification Number and, in some
cases, the engine number as well.
Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
Light-emitting diodes installed behind
translucent lenses serve as the light
source for many of the controls and
displays in your vehicle. The concept
behind their operation is related to that
employed for lasers, and they are offi-
cially designated as Class 1 light-emit-
ting diodes.
Do not remove the protective lens
and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for extended periods
(several hours). To do so could result in
inflammation of the iris.<
California laws require us to state the
following warning:
Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
135n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
OBD connector
The data link connector for onboard
diagnostics is located on the left-hand
side of the driver's side, on the under-
side of the instrument panel and under
a cover panel. The cover is marked with
the letters "OBD".
The purpose of the OBD system is to
assure proper emission control system
operation for the vehicle's lifetime by
monitoring emission-related compo-
nents and systems for deterioration and
malfunction.
An illuminated indicator informs
you of the need for service, not
that you need to stop the
vehicle. Your system should be
checked, however, at the earliest
possible opportunity.
If the indicator blinks or flashes, this
indicates a high level of engine misfire.
Reduce speed and contact your
nearest BMW center immediately.
Severe engine misfire over even a short
period of time can seriously damage
emission control system components,
especially the catalytic converter.
"Service Engine Soon" warning
lamp for Canadian models.
If the fuel filler cap is not on tight
enough, the OBD system can
detect leaking vapor and the indicator
will light up. If the fuel filler cap is then
tightened, the indicator will usually go
out after a short period of time.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
136n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
137n
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 138
Windshield wiper blades 138
Lamps and bulbs 138
Repairing a flat tire 145
Battery 148
Fuses 151
Microfilter/Activated charcoal
filter 152
In case of
electrical malfunction:
Fuel filler door 152
Sliding/tilt sunroof 153
Giving and receiving
assistance:
Jump-starting 154
Towing the vehicle 155
Repairs
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
138n
The onboard tool kit is located in the
luggage compartment lid.
Loosen the wingnut to open.
1 Rotate the wiper arm completely out
from the windshield
2 Position the wiper blade at an angle
and pull the release spring (arrow)
3 Fold the wiper blade down and
unhook it toward the windshield
4 Pull the wiper blade past the wiper
arm toward the top
5 Insert a new wiper blade and apply
pressure until you hear it engage.
Use only BMW approved wiper
blades.<
The lamps and bulbs make essential
contributions to the safety of your
vehicle. Therefore, comply fully with the
following instructions during bulb
replacement. If you are not familiar with
any of the procedures, consult your
authorized BMW center.
Do not touch the glass portion of a
new bulb with your bare hands
since even small amounts of impurities
burn into the surface and reduce the
service life of the bulb. Use a clean
cloth, paper napkin, or a similar mate-
rial, or hold the bulb by its metallic
base. <
A replacement bulb set is available from
your BMW center.
Whenever working on the elec-
trical system, switch off the elec-
trical accessory you are working on or
disconnect the cable from the negative
terminal of the battery. Failure to do this
could result in short circuits.
To prevent injuries and damage when
changing a bulb, be sure to comply with
any instructions provided by the bulb
manufacturer.<
Onboard tool kit Windshield wiper blades Lamps and bulbs
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
139n
Lamps and bulbs
Low/high beam headlamps
> Low beams: H7 bulb, 55 watts
> High beams: H7 bulb, 55 watts
The H7 bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to comply
with this precaution could lead to injury
if the bulb is damaged during replace-
ment.<
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.
Parking lamps
5-watt bulb
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following: do
not wipe dry with a cloth (this causes
scratches). Never use abrasives or
strong solvents to clean the covers.
Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with ample
water. Always use a deicer spray to
remove accumulated ice and snow –
never use a scraper.<
Xenon lamps*
The service life of these bulbs is very
long and the probability of a failure is
very low, provided that they are not
switched on and off an unusual number
of times. If one of these bulbs should
nevertheless fail, it is possible to
continue driving with great caution
using the fog lamps, provided traffic
laws in your area do not prohibit this.
Because of the extremely high
voltages involved, any work on the
xenon lighting system including bulb
replacement should be carried out by
technically-qualified personnel only.
Otherwise, there is a risk of fatal
injury.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
140n
Lamps and bulbs
Front turn signal indicator
21 watt bulb
1 Using a screwdriver, release the inner
hook through the upper opening
2 Remove lamp by pulling it out toward
the front
3 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and exchange the
bulb
4 Insert the 2 pins on the lamp into the
guides on the vehicle
5 Push the lamp in. Carefully apply
pressure until you hear it snap into
place.
Side turn signal indicator
5 watt bulb
1 Use finger pressure against the rear
end of the lens (arrow) to press it
forward for removal
2 Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
141n
Lamps and bulbs
Front fog lamps
HB4, 55 watt bulb
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to comply
with this precaution could lead to injury
if the bulb is damaged during replace-
ment.<
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.
Tail lamp assembly
Tail lamps (4): bulbs 21/4 watts
Remaining bulbs: 21 watts
1 Turn signal yellow
2 Backup lamps white
3 Tail lamp red
4 Tail lamp/Brake lamp red
The illustration shows the right-hand
luggage compartment opening.
Bulbs in the fender
All of the bulbs are integrated in a
central bulb holder.
1 Releasing the bulb holder (arrow)
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
142n
Lamps and bulbs
2 Removing the bulb holder
3 Unplug the power supply receptacle
Set the bulb holder aside (on the
luggage compartment floor, for
example)
4 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and exchange the
bulb
5 Plug in the power supply receptacle
6 Reattach the bulb holder until you
hear it snap into place (Illustration).
Bulbs in the luggage
compartment lid
1 Using a screwdriver, loosen the clip
2 Fold the trim panel down (arrow 1).
Disengage the bulb holder (arrow 2)
and remove it
3 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.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
143n
Lamps and bulbs
Center (high-mount) brake lamp
LED light bar on the rear window.
Please contact a BMW center in case of
a malfunction.
License plate lamps
5 watt bulb
1 Place a screwdriver in the slot and
press toward the left (arrow) to
release the lens
2 Replace the bulb.
Interior lamps
Front:
Interior lamps (6 watt bulb)
Reading lamps (2 x 6 watt bulbs)
1 Using a screwdriver, press the lamp
out toward the front
2 Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove it
3 Remove and replace the bulb.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
144n
Lamps and bulbs
Rear:
Interior lamp (6 watt bulb)
Reading lamp (6 watt bulb)
1 Press the lamp out using a screw-
driver
2 Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove it
3 Remove and replace the bulb.
Lighted make-up mirror
10 watt bulb
1 Remove the bulb housing – use a
screwdriver if necessary
2 Replace the bulb.
Footwell lamps
5 watt bulb
1 Press the lamp out using a
screwdriver
2 Replace the bulb.
Glove compartment lamp
5 watt bulb
1 Press the lamp out using a
screwdriver
2 Replace the bulb.
Luggage compartment lamps
One lamp each in the bulb holder of the
tail lamp assembly: 10 watt bulb.
1 Apply a screwdriver to the recess and
remove the lens
2 Replace the bulb.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
145n
Repairing a flat tire
Precautions in case of a flat tire:
Stop the vehicle as far as possible
from passing traffic; switch on the
hazard warning flashers.
Switch on the hazard warning flashers.
Turn the steering wheel to the straight-
ahead position, remove the key and
engage the steering lock. Shift into 1st
or reverse gear and engage the parking
brake.
All passengers should be outside the
vehicle and well away from your imme-
diate working area (behind a guardrail,
for instance).
If a warning triangle or portable hazard
warning lamp is available, set it up on
the roadside at an appropriate distance
from the rear of the vehicle.
Comply with all safety guidelines and
regulations.<
M Mobility system
With the BMW M3, you will find an
M Mobility system for fixing flat tires.
With the aid of this system, you can
apply a liquid sealant to the inside of
the tire, thereby sealing off the
damaged area, and then continue
driving.
The M Mobility system makes trans-
porting a spare wheel superfluous,
thereby reducing the amount of weight
you have to carry around.
The M Mobility system is located in the
luggage compartment under the floor
panel:
1 Lift up the floor panel
2 Loosen the M Mobility system from
its storage location.
Note that the fluid bottle in the
system's sealant container must
be replaced every 3 years by your BMW
center if the system is not used.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
146n
Repairing a flat tire
The components of the M Mobility
system
1 On/Off switch
2 Connection hose with pressure
gauge for connecting the compressor
with the sealant container or to
connect the compressor to the wheel
3 Pressure gauge for indicating the tire
pressure
4 Connector hose from the sealant
container to the wheel
5 Sticker for maximum speed
6 Plug and cable for the cigarette
lighter socket
7 Protective gloves (not shown).
Use the M Mobility system
If possible, leave the foreign
object in the tire.<
Do not exceed the maximum
speed limits described below,
otherwise accidents could result.
Before you use the M Mobility system,
read the warnings and danger notices
on the device carefully.<
1 Pull sticker 5 off for speed limit and
affix it to the steering wheel
2 Remove the round cover and take out
hose 4. Unscrew the valve stem
cover from the defective wheel and
screw the hose to the valve
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
147n
Repairing a flat tire
3 Flip open the cover and pull out the
enclosed protective gloves. Take out
hose 2 with the pressure gauge and
screw it to the terminal for the sealant
container as shown in the illustration
4 Make sure that the system has been
switched off (position 0).
Take out the plug 6 and insert it into
the cigarette lighter socket in the
passenger compartment (refer to
page 93)
5 Make sure that the screw on the rear
of pressure gauge 3 is tightened
down. Turn on the M Mobility system
(position I, refer to illustration) and
allow three minutes to elapse to let
the sealant flow in. It does not matter
afterward what the tire's inflation
pressure is
6 Turn the device off.
Disconnect the connector hose from
the sealant container and the tire
valve. Stow the M Mobility system in
the luggage compartment
7 Then immediately drive at least
1.2 miles (2 km), so that the liquid
sealant distributes evenly throughout
the inside of the tire.
Do not exceed 40 mph (60 km/h), and
if possible, do not drop below
10 mph (20 km/h).
Stop at an appropriate spot
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
148n
Repairing a flat tire Battery
8 Take out the hose with the pressure
gauge and screw it onto the valve.
Take out the plug and plug it into the
cigarette lighter socket in the
passenger compartment
9 Inflate the tire pressure:
> To increase the tire pressure: turn
on the M Mobility system
(position I). To check the new tire
pressure briefly turn off the device
> To reduce the tire pressure: turn
the screw on the back of the pres-
sure gauge; this will open the air
release valve
If the air pressure won't hold, still
carry out step 10 and then repeat
steps 7 through 10 again.
The use of the M Mobility system may
be ineffective if the damaged area in
the tire is larger than approx. 0.16 in
(4 mm). Please consult the nearest
BMW center if the tire cannot be
temporarily repaired with the M Mobility
system.<
10 Unscrew the hose from the valve
and stow the M Mobility system in
the luggage compartment.
After the flat tire has been fixed and you
start driving again, do not exceed a
maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
You will find corresponding instructions
for using the M Mobility system on the
device.
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the new wheel/tire
balanced. Re-initialize the Tire Pressure
Warning system (RDW), refer to
page 78 for further information. Have
the M Mobility system refilled. Contact
your BMW center for this.
Battery location
The battery is located at the right-rear
of the luggage compartment. Raise the
luggage compartment floor panel (refer
to page 39). Using a screwdriver or a
coin and f turn, release both of the
caps as shown in the illustration, taking
them out along with an additional cap in
the top center of the right side trim
panel. Remove the fasteners. In order
to remove the storage tray, slide the
side trim panel slightly upward.
Battery posts, terminals, and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
149n
Battery
Charge condition
You can read the charge condition of
the battery with the "Magic Eye
*" (a
hydrometer):
> Green: adequate charge
> Black: not charged adequately. The
battery must be recharged. Please
contact your BMW center for addi-
tional information
> Yellow: replace the battery.
The projected service life of the
battery can only be reached if the
battery is fully-charged at all times. If
the vehicle is primarily used for stop-
and-go traffic, be sure to check the
charge state often.<
Maintenance
The battery is completely maintenance-
free. That means that the original
battery acid will normally last for the
service life of the battery under
moderate climate conditions.
For all questions that regard the
battery, please consult your BMW
center. Since the battery is absolutely
maintenance-free, the following infor-
mation is for your use only.<
Symbols
You will find the following symbols on
your car battery. For your safety, please
be cautious whenever you work with or
near the battery.
Before handling the battery,
please read the following
information.
A highly-explosive gas is
generated when the battery is
charged.
Never allow sparks or open
flame near the battery. Do not
smoke in the vicinity of the
battery. Avoid creating sparks when
working around electrical cables or
equipment. Turn the key to position 0 in
the ignition when disconnecting or
connecting the battery. Don't short-
circuit the battery terminal. If you do so,
you could be injured by electrical
sparks.
In order to protect the battery
case from ultraviolet radiation,
do not place it in direct sunlight.
A discharged battery can freeze. Store
the battery in areas where temperature
remains above freezing.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
150n
Battery
Battery acid is extremely corro-
sive. Wear eye protection and
protective gloves. Do not tip the
battery. Battery acid can leak from the
ventilation openings.
Be sure that children keep well
away from batteries and battery
acid.
Wear eye protection. Do not
allow particles containing
battery acid or lead to come into
contact with your eyes, your skin, or
your clothing.
If you happen to get acid in your
eyes, rinse thoroughly for
15 minutes with clear water.
Following that, consult a physician
immediately. If your skin or clothing are
splashed with acid, rinse immediately
with plenty of soap and water. If acid is
accidentally swallowed, consult a
physician immediately.
Removal and installation
Do not disconnect the battery
when the engine is running.
Disconnecting the battery cable when
the engine is running will cause a
voltage surge which will damage the
vehicle's onboard electronics. Do not
make any modifications in the wires to
the positive terminal. If you do so, the
protective function of the safety battery
terminal is no longer ensured. Repairs
and disposal may only be performed by
specially-trained personnel.<
When removing the battery, disconnect
the cable on the negative terminal first,
then the cable on the positive terminal.
Loosen the center adjusting screw on
the battery retaining strap (use the
screwdriver included with the onboard
tool kit) and disconnect the strap.
When installing a battery, connect the
positive terminal first, then connect the
negative terminal.
When installing a battery, be sure
that it is mounted properly and
that the retaining bracket is installed
with the center adjustment screw. If this
is not done, the battery will not be
adequately secured in case of an acci-
dent.<
Charging the battery
Charge the battery in the vehicle only
when the engine is not running.
Before performing any work on
the electrical system, disconnect
the cable from the negative terminal. If
you do not, short circuits can create the
risk of fire or personal injury.<
If you plan to park the vehicle for longer
than 4 weeks, disconnect the battery
from the vehicle electrical system by
disconnecting the cable at the negative
terminal. Then recharge the battery with
an appropriate battery charger.
If you intend to store the vehicle for
longer than 12 weeks, remove the
battery, charge it and store it in a cool
and dust-free room where there is no
danger of freezing. During storage,
have the battery recharged every 3
months. Also, recharge the battery
before it is reinstalled. If this is not
done, the battery will not be service-
able. Every time the battery is drained,
especially over extended periods, its
service life is reduced.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
151n
Battery Fuses
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your authorized
BMW center. Maintain the battery in an
upright position for transport and
storage. Secure the battery against
tilting in transit.<
Storage periods during which the
battery is disconnected are not
taken into consideration by the Service
Interval Display for changing the brake
fluid.
For this reason, be sure that the brake
fluid is changed every two years,
regardless of the information displayed.
Please read the information on
page 126.<
If an electrical accessory should fail,
switch it off and check the fuse.
In glove compartment
1 Open the glove compartment and
turn the two white quick-release
fasteners outward. Spare fuses and
plastic tweezers are located on the
fuse holder
2 Use the plastic tweezers to remove
the fuse for the accessory or equip-
ment that has stopped working
3 Replace a blown fuse, recognizable
by its melted metal strip, with a new
fuse that has the same color or
ampere rating.
A list of fuses, their respective ampere
ratings and the equipment in their
circuits is provided below the fuse
holder.
To close the fuse holder, snap it into
position at the top and turn the two
fasteners inward.
Do not attempt to repair a burned
fuse or replace it with a fuse
having a different color or ampere
rating. To do this could cause a fire in
the vehicle resulting from a circuit
overload.<
If the fuse continues to burn through,
have the problem taken care of by a
BMW center.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
152n
Microfilter/Activated-charcoal filter Fuel filler door
1 Open the hood
2 Release the three fasteners (arrow)
with a f turn
3 Remove the filter cover
4 Remove the filter by pulling toward
the front and install a new one
5 Position the filter cover and secure it
with the three fasteners.
Manual release
Pull the knob with the fuel pump symbol
(arrow) on the right trim panel of the
luggage compartment.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
153n
Sliding/tilt sunroof*
Manual operation
1 Remove the interior lamp (refer to
page 143), reaching into the opening
and pushing out the panel
2 Use an Allen wrench from the
onboard tool kit (refer to page 138) to
turn the sunroof's steel crank in the
desired direction.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
154n
Do not use spray starter fluids to start
the engine.
If the battery is discharged, the engine
can be started using two jumper cables
and another vehicle's battery. Use only
jumper cables with fully insulated
handles on the terminal clamps.
Do not touch high-voltage wiring
and cables on a running engine.
There is a risk of fatal injury if you do
this.
Carefully comply with the following
instructions to avoid personal injury or
damage to one or both vehicles.<
1 Be sure that the battery on the
support vehicle is also rated at
12 volts, and that the capacities of
the two batteries (Ah) are roughly
comparable (printed on casing)
2 Leave the discharged battery
connected to the vehicle's electrical
system
3 Make sure that there is no contact
between the bodywork of the two
vehicles – short circuit risk
4 Start by connecting the jumper cable
from the positive terminal of the
support vehicle to the positive
terminal connector located in your
BMW's engine compartment. The
cover of the positive terminal
connector is marked with a "+" sign.
Refer to the illustration. Remove by
pulling the tab (arrow 1)
5 Then connect the negative terminals.
Attach the cable to either the support
vehicle's negative battery terminal (–),
or to a suitable ground on its engine
or bodywork. Then connect the other
end of the cable to a ground on the
engine or on the bodywork of the
vehicle that is to be started. There is
a special nut provided for this on the
BMW (arrow 2)
Follow the same sequence for
connecting the jumper cables if
you assist in jump-starting another
vehicle. If you do not, there is a risk of
injury caused by spark generation at the
battery.<
6 Start the support vehicle's engine
and let it run
7 Start the engine on the vehicle
needing the jump-start, and allow it
to run as usual. If the first start
attempt is not successful, wait a few
minutes before another attempt in
order to allow the discharged battery
to recharge
8 Before disconnecting the jumper
cables from your BMW, turn on the
rear window defroster and set the
blower to the highest speed;
allow the engine to run approx.
10 seconds. This will prevent a
voltage surge from the voltage regu-
lator to the electrical accessories
9 Then disconnect the jumper cables in
reverse sequence.
Depending on the cause of the fault,
recharge the battery.
Jump-starting
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
155n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Towing the vehicle
Tow fitting
The tow fitting, which can be
unscrewed, is in the luggage compart-
ment under the floor mat and must
remain in the vehicle. This fitting is
designed for installation in the tow
sockets located at the front and rear of
the vehicle. It is intended for towing on
paved road surfaces only. This fitting
should not be used to pull a vehicle out
of deep snow, mud, sand, etc.
Always comply with all applicable
towing laws and regulations.
Access to tow sockets
Front:
Press out the cover panel with a screw-
driver above on the recess.
Rear:
Press out the cover panel with a screw-
driver above on the recess.
Screw the tow fitting in until it
bottoms firmly. If this is not done,
the threads could be damaged.
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, leading to
possible accidents.
Do not use any other tow-fitting except
the one provided with your vehicle.<
Towing with a commercial tow
truck
> Do not tow with sling-type equipment
> Use wheel lift or flat bed equipment
> Please comply with applicable state
towing laws.
Never allow passengers to ride in
a towed vehicle for any reason.
Never attach tie-down hooks, chains,
straps, or tow hooks to tie rods, control
arms, or any other part of the vehicle
suspension, as severe damage to these
components will occur, leading to
possible accidents.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
156n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
157n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
Airbags 158
Radio reception 158
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 159
Safety belt tensioner 159
M3 Engine concept 160
Rain sensor 160
Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimming
feature 161
Self-diagnostics 162
Xenon lamps 163
Technology
Owner service procedures
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
158n
Deceleration sensors continuously
monitor the physical forces acting upon
the vehicle. If there is a deceleration
because of a head-on collision in which
the protection normally afforded by the
safety belts is no longer sufficient by
itself, then the gas generators for the
front airbags will be simultaneously
ignited on both the driver and
passenger sides. However, the
passenger-side airbag is only triggered
if an additional sensor has recognized
that the passenger seat is occupied.
In the event of a side impact, the front
head and side airbags or rear side
airbags
* will deploy if necessary on the
side where the impact occurs.
The airbags located under the marked
covers inflate and unfold in a matter of
a few milliseconds. In this process, they
tear through the designed separation
points of the upholstered covers or
press them out.
The gas required to inflate the airbags
is not dangerous, and it dissipates
together with the associated smoke.
The gas required to inflate the airbags
is not dangerous, and the smoke asso-
ciated with it dissipates.
The entire process is completed within
fractions of a second.
The AM frequency bands (medium-
wave, long-wave and short-wave) make
it possible to receive stations from a
great distance, because the broadcast
signals travel not only along the ground
as surface waves, but also as atmo-
spheric waves that are reflected from
the ionosphere.
Frequency-modulation (FM) provides
substantially better sound quality than
on the. However, because FM trans-
missions rely on line-of-sight broadcast
waves, their effective reception range is
limited.
Airbags Radio reception
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
159n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
The limitations inherent to radio recep-
tion in a moving vehicle have been
minimized by a number of innovative
system designs:
The "Radio Data System" (RDS) makes
sure that, for broadcast stations
sending on several frequencies, the
radio automatically tunes to the
frequency with the best reception
quality.
The Diversity Antenna system employs
several FM antennas integrated within
the rear window to provide three sepa-
rate sources for receiving broadcast
waves. An integral processor automati-
cally selects the antenna with the best
FM reception quality at any given time.
The selection of the antenna takes
place within milliseconds, and is there-
fore not noticed by the radio listener.
The primary goal in developing the
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) for the
BMW M3 is to achieve the greatest
amount of safety while at the same time
getting the most pleasure out of perfor-
mance-oriented driving.
Using highly sensitive sensors, the DSC
monitors current operating conditions
for your vehicle as they relate to driving
stability and traction. In addition, wheel
speeds, steering angle, lateral acceler-
ation, brake pressure and vehicle
movement around its vertical axis are
also ascertained and evaluated.
If the DSC detects unstable conditions
on a curve, then the DSC will intervene
in engine management within millisec-
onds, reducing drive torque or, if the
need arises, will individually slow one or
more wheels down to keep the vehicle
on a steady course.
If differences in wheel speed should
occur, the system will recognize the
dangers associated with wheel spin
and will reduce the drive torque; if
necessary, it will do so using brake
intervention at the rear wheels as well.
DSC offers the highest degree of
driving stability and safety not only
when you first start your vehicle, are
driving on straightaways or when
braking, but also when driving through
curves.
The safety belt tensioner makes sure
that the belt tightens during a head-on
collision to ensure that occupants
remain firmly positioned in their seats.
A gas-pressure system retracts the
buckle assembly to tension the
shoulder and lap belts within fractions
of a second. This reduces the tendency
to slide under the lap belt.
Radio reception DSC Safety belt tensioner
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
160n
M3 Engine concept Rain sensor*
BMW M will continue to develop BMW
engines for the performance-oriented,
yet responsible driver. That is why value
is placed on an engine design that
guarantees maximum thrust over a
wide engine speed range.
This is done by using high-grade mate-
rials and components with optimized
details. The engine thereby produces
higher speeds than can be achieved
with conventional engines.
Associated with the proper transmis-
sion gear ratio and an especially perfor-
mance-oriented engine electronics
system, the torque opens up with this
so-called "high-speed aspirated
engine" extremely evenly throughout
the entire engine speed range from
1,000 to max. 8,000 rpm.
In actual usage, this means improved
acceleration and more spontaneous
response throughout the engine speed
range, thus affording more driving plea-
sure.
Depending on how wet the windshield
is, the rain sensor controls the opera-
tion of the windshield wipers.
Infrared light is carried along the
surface of the windshield in an optical
conductor in such a manner that it is
reflected completely when the wind-
shield is dry. The quantity of reflected
light is measured.
If there is moisture on the glass, the
amount of light reflected is reduced
since the infrared light at the surface of
the windshield can escape. The quan-
tity of reflected light is thus a means of
gauging the degree of wetness on the
windshield.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
161n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Rain sensor* Interior rearview mirror, automatic dimming feature
When the "intermittent wiper" speed
position is selected, the wiper reacts
immediately if water is splashed onto
the windshield from vehicles traveling
ahead, for example. As a result, the rain
sensor contributes to driving safety and
comfort.
The interior rearview mirror with auto-
matic dimming feature reduces blinding
from following traffic by adapting the
intensity of the reflected images to
correspond to levels of light registered
by the unit's sensors. The mirror reverts
to its undimmed setting as soon as the
light source disappears. One lamp
sensor is mounted on the front of the
mirror housing. This sensor is directed
forward. It measures light intensity in the
area ahead of the vehicle. The second
sensor is integrated within the mirror's
glass. The electronic control system
compares the light intensity from front
and rear. The difference provides the
basic parameter used to modulate an
electrical current and induce chemical
changes in a semisolid layer incorpo-
rated in the mirror glass.
The semisolid reacts chemically to this
electrical current, thus providing infi-
nitely-variable dimming of the mirror
(electrochromic technology).
As a result, it is no longer necessary to
dim the mirror manually, and the driver
can concentrate completely on traffic
conditions.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
162n
Self-diagnostics
All of the important electrical and elec-
tronic systems in the vehicle are tested
regularly and automatically – the driver
does not have to perform any extra
operations or adjustments.
The indicator lamps also come on
briefly after the ignition has been turned
on.
In the same manner, the electrical
resistance of the airbag ignition genera-
tors and all of the remaining airbag
components are constantly being
measured. Any fault in this system
would be detected immediately by a
current fluctuation that would neces-
sarily accompany it. The fault would be
indicated immediately by the airbag
warning lamp.
Even after you shut off the engine, the
overall functional status of your vehicle
is monitored. For example, all of the
flaps of the heating and ventilation
system travel to the nearest limit posi-
tion. This action ensures that the
defrost function will be preserved,
regardless of the circumstances, even
if, for example, a malfunction in the
heating or ventilation system should
occur during the night while the vehicle
is parked.
A calibration cycle runs every tenth time
the engine is shut off. During this cycle,
the actuator motors of all the heating
and ventilation flaps travel to their limit
stops in both directions. The limit posi-
tions and the return travel paths are
checked in this manner in order to
ensure that appropriate adjustments for
the operating elements can be made at
any time.
You can hear the vent flaps of the
heating or ventilation system
performing their self-diagnostics
routine after turning off the ignition. All
of the other self-diagnostics functions
operate silently in the background.
Any possible faults detected during
these self-diagnostics can be read out
and corrected by your BMW center
during the next regularly scheduled
maintenance.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
163n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Xenon lamps*
The xenon lamp provides forward illu-
mination with significantly more bright-
ness and uniformity than the traditional
halogen lamp.
In a xenon lamp, an electric arc
replaces the filament in order to
generate intense illumination. A gas
mixture in a quartz glass tube with
metal vapor is ignited by a high electric
voltage. The arc that is generated is
then sustained by a lower voltage.
When the lamp is turned, on there is a
brief warm-up period. Maximum bright-
ness is attained in approx. 15 seconds.
Xenon lamps improve the driver's visi-
bility and orientation to the road, espe-
cially in adverse weather conditions
and driving situations (driving at night in
heavy rain or through road repair areas
where there are no lane markers, for
instance).
Vehicles with xenon lamps are
equipped with automatic headlamp
range control. As a result, the highway
is always optimally lighted, regardless
of load conditions, and drivers in
oncoming traffic are not blinded.
Xenon lamps make a significant contri-
bution to highway safety since other
highway users, bicyclists and motorcy-
clists in the right lane, and pedestrians
are more easily detected.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
164n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
165n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Engine data 166
Dimensions 167
Weights 168
Capacities 169
Electrical system 170
Drive belts 170
Data
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
166n
Displacement
Number of cylinders
cu in (cmm) 198.1 (3,246)
6
Max. output
at engine speed
hp (kW)
rpm
333 (245)
7,900
Maximum torque
at engine speed
lb-ft (Nm)
rpm
262 (355)
4,900
Compression ratio e
11.5
Stroke
Bore
in (mm)
in (mm)
3.58 (91)
3.43 (87)
Fuel-injection system Digital electronic
engine-management system
Engine data
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
167n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Smallest turning radius dia.: 36.1 feet (11.0 m).
Dimensions
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
168n
Weights
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation,
full tank of fuel, options not included)
lbs. (kg) 3,415 (1,549)
Approved gross vehicle weight lbs. (kg) 4,453 (2,020)
Approved front axle weight lbs. (kg) 2,138 (970)
Approved rear axle weight lbs. (kg) 2,535 (1,150)
Approved roof load capacity lbs. (kg) 165 (75)
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft (l) 14.5 (410)
Permitted axle loads and permitted total vehicle weight may not be exceeded.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
169n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Capacities
Notes
Fuel tank
Reserve
gal. (liters)
gal. (liters)
approx. 16.6 (approx. 63)
approx. 2.1 (approx. 8)
Fuel specification: page 26
Windshield washer system/
Headlamp washer system quarts (liters) approx. 5.6 (approx. 5.3)
For details: page 122
Cooling system including heater
circuit
quarts (liters) approx. 6.3 (approx. 6.0) For details: page 125
Engine oil and filter change quarts (liters) approx. 6.9 (approx. 6.5) BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil
For details: page 124
Manual transmission and differential – – Changing the oil during the
breaking-in inspection, after which
it is considered permanently filled
and not changed again
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
170n
Electrical system Drive belts
Battery
12V, 70 Ah
Spark plugs
NGK DCPR8EKP
Water pump – Generator –
Power steering
Drive belt 6 PK x 1470
Compressor for the automatic
climate control
Drive belt 5 PK x 829
You can obtain Original BMW
Parts and Accessories, as well as
professional advice from your BMW
center.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
171n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
172n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
A
ABS (Antilock Brake
System) 21, 104
Accessories 6
Activated-charcoal filter 88
Add brake
fluid 121t, 126t
Adding engine oil 123t
Adding washer fluid 122t
Adjusting the backrest 46
Adjusting the lumbar
support 48
Adjusting the seat 47
Adjusting the steering
wheel 52
Adjusting the
temperature 86
Adjusting the thigh
support 47
Adjusting the width of the
backrests 48
Air conditioner 87
Air distribution,
automatic 86
Air nozzles 84
Air outlets 84
Air pressure, tires 26, 111
Air supply 87
vents, recirculated air
mode 87
Airbags 56, 133, 158
warning lamps 21
Alarm system 40
Alcantara care 132
Antenna 110
Antenna, Diversity 159
Antifreeze 125
radiator 108
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 21, 104
Anti-theft alarm system 40
Anti-theft protection 31
Aquaplaning 103, 111
Armrest 91
Ashtray
front 92
rear 93
Attach vacuum cleaner 93
AUC (Automatic recirculated
air control) 87
Automatic car washes 128
Automatic climate
control 84
Automatic cruise
control 67
Automatic dimming, interior
rearview mirror 50
Automatic recirculated air
control (AUC) 87
Auxiliary terminal for jump-
starting 121t
Average consumption 74
Average speed 74
Avoiding unwanted
alarm 41
Axle loads 168
B
Backrest
adjusting 45
releasing 47
Backup lamps 64
bulb replacement 141t
Battery 148, 170
add distilled water 149t
capacity 170
charging 150t
current check lamp 20
removal and
installation 150
symbols 149
Belts 54
Beverage holder 91
BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil 124
BMW sports seat 46, 47
Bore 166
Bottle holder, refer to
beverage holder 91
Brake hydraulic system 20
Brake lamps, bulb
replacement 141t
Brake pads 107
indicator lamp for 21
Brakes
driving notes 103
faults 107t
fluid change 71
fluid level 107
warning lamps 20
Break-in procedure 102
C
California Proposition
65 Warning 134
Can holder, refer to
beverage holder 91
Capacities 169
Car Memory 52
Car phone 92
Car radio 110
reception 110, 158
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Car vacuum cleaner,
connecting 93
Car wash 128
Care
exterior 129
interior 131
rubber seals and
components 108
upholstery 131
wool velour 131
Cargo loading 97
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
175n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Caring for the vehicle
finish 129
Cassette operation, refer to
the radio Owner's Manual
Catalytic converter 103
starting problems 103
CBC (Cornering Brake
Control) 21, 104
CD operaton, refer to the
radio Owner's Manual
Cellular phone 110
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Center armrest 91
Center (high-mount) brake
lamp 143
Central locking system 31
key 36
Check Control 72t
Checking air pressure 26t
Checking engine oil
level 123t
Child restraint
system 55, 59
Child seat safety 55, 60
Cigarette lighter 93
Clean the headlamps 67
Clean the windshield 66
Clock 73
Clothes hooks 94
Cockpit 16
Code, refer to the radio
Owner's Manual
Coin box 91
Combination switch 65
Compression 166
Computer 72
Configuring the settings 52
Consumption 74
Consumption display 70
Control elements 16
Coolant 108, 121t, 125
antifreeze 108
Coolant temperature
gauge 70
Cooling system 169
Copyright 4
Cornering Brake Control
(CBC) 21, 104
Cruise control 67
Cruising range 74
Cup holder, refer to
beverage holder 91
Curb weight 168
D
Dashboard 16
Data
dimensions 167
engine 166
technical 166
weights 168
Daytime-driving lamp
switch 81
Deep water 103
Defrost position 87t
Defrostable rear window 88
Defrosting the
windows 87t
Difficult steering 110t
Digital clock 73
Dimensions 167
Dipstick 123
Disk brakes 106
Displacement 166
Display lighting 81
Displays 18
Disposal
used batteries 151
used engine oil 124
Distance warning 75
Diversity Antenna 159
Door key 30
Door locks, care 108
Doors
emergency
actuation 32t
operating manually 32
remote control 33
unlocking and
locking 32, 33
DOT Quality Grades 112
Draft-free ventilation 88
Drive belts 170
Driving in winter 108
Driving lamps 81
Driving notes
aquaplaning 103
brakes 103
disk brakes 106
sliding 109
slippery roads 108
DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control) 22, 76, 159
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 22, 76, 159
E
Electric power windows 42
Electrical accessories,
failure 151t
Electrical failure
fuel filler door 152t
sliding/tilt sunroof 153t
Electrical system 170
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 31
Emergency actuation
doors 32t
fuel filler door 152t
sliding/tilt sunroof 153t
Engine
compartment 120
coolant 125, 169
data 166
displacement 166
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
high-speed aspirated
engine 160
speed 166
starting 62t
torque 166
Engine concept M3 160
Engine oil
add 123t
capacity 169
consumption 123
pressure 20
temperature 69
Entry to the rear 47
Exterior mirrors 49
Eyelets, towing 155t
F
Failure messages 72t
Fan 87
Fault, ABS 105
Filler cap cover 25
Filling capacities 169
Filling the washer
reservoir 122t
First-aid kit 24t
Flat tire 111
repairing 145
Fog lamps 82
bulb replacement 141t
Folding rear backrest 95
Follow-Me-Home lamps 81
Footbrake 106
Footwell lamps 82
bulb replacement 144t
Frost protection,
radiator 125
Fuel 26
consumption 74
consumption display 70
gauge 70
preparation 166
quality 26
reserve indicator lamp 70
Fuel filler door
manual release after
electrical fault 152t
Fuel tank capacity 169
Fuel tank gauge 70
Functional status, electrical
and electronic
systems 162
Fuses 151
replacing 151t
G
Gasoline 26
Gasoline gauge 70
Glove compartment 90
Glove compartment lamp,
bulb replacement 144t
Gross vehicle weight 168
H
Handbrake 63
Handsfree system 92
Hazard warning
flashers 24t
Hazard warning triangle 24
Head restraint 46
Headlamp cleaning
system 121, 122, 169
Headlamp cover,
care 139t
Headlamp flasher 82
Headlamp washer system,
refer to headlamp cleaning
system
Heated seats 89
Heavy loads 97
Height 167
HiFi system – harman
kardon 90
High beams 65, 82
indicator lamp 22
High engine speed 160
High Performance Synthetic
Oil 124
High-mount brake lamp 143
Holder for beverages 91
Hood release 118t
Horn 17
I
Ice warning 73
Identification, tires 114
Ignition key 30
Ignition lock 62
Imprint 4
Indicator lamps 20t
Individual settings 52
Inflation
pressure 26t, 111t
INSPECTION 71
Instrument cluster 18
Instrument lighting 81
Instrument panel 18
Interaxle tire rotation 113t
Interface socket
for Onboard
Diagnostics 135
Interference
cellular phone 110
Interior lamps 34, 82
bulb replacement 143t
remote control 34
Interior motion sensor 40
Interior rearview mirror
automatic dimming
feature 50, 161
Intermittent mode, wiper
system 65
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
177n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
J
Jump-starting 154
K
Key 30
with remote control 30
Key Memory 52
L
Lamps
fog lamps 82
footwell lamps 82
interior lamps 82
reading lamps 83
LAMPS ON warning 81
Lashing eyes 98
LATCH attachment of the
child seat 60
Leather care 132
Length 167
License plate lamp, bulb
replacement 143t
Light switch 81
Light-alloy wheels 116
Lighter 93
Load-securing devices 98
Louvers 84
Low beam headlamps 81
bulb replacement 139t
Luggage compartment 37
capacity 168
emergency release 37t
floor mat 39
floor panel 39
lid 37
lighting 37
locking separately 37
remote control 34
Luggage compartment
lamps, bulb
replacement 144t
Luggage rack 98
Lumbar support 48
M
M Engine dynamics
control 80
M Mobility system 145
components 146
using 146
Maintenance 71, 127t
Make-up mirror 50
Malfunction displays 72t
Manual transmission 64
Manual-shift gear lever 64
Master key 30
Mechanical seat 45
Memory 51
MFL (Multifunction steering
wheel) 23
Microfilter/Activated-
charcoal filter 88
changing 152t
Mirror memory 51
Mirrors 49
automatic curb
monitor 49
with automatic dimming
feature 161
Mobile phone 110
Modifications,
technical 6, 134
Motion sensor, interior 40
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 23
M+S radial tires 115
N
Navigation system, refer to
the separate Owner's
Manual
Neckrest 46
O
OBD interface socket 135
Obstruction protection 42
Odometer 69
Oil
additives 123
capacity 169
consumption 123
Oil change intervals, see the
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US
models)/Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
Oil filter change 169
Oil level, indicator lamp 21
Oil pressure, indicator
lamp 20
OILSERVICE 71
Onboard computer, refer to
computer 72
Onboard monitor, refer to
the separate Owner's
Manual
Onboard tool kit 138t
Opening and closing
from inside 36
via remote control 33
via the door lock 32
Outside temperature
display 73
P
Paint blemishes 129
Paintwork
minor repairs 130
waxing 130
Paint, care 129
Panic mode 35
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 75
Parking brake 63
Parking help 75
Parking lamp 82
Parking, winter 109
PDC (Park Distance
Control) 75
Performance 166
Phone hookup 92
Phone, mobile 110
Pollen 88
Power seat 47
Power windows 42
Pressure specifications for
tires 26
Pressure,
tires 26, 26t, 111
Protective gloves 141
Q
Quality Grades 112
R
Radiator 169
Radio
please refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
reception 110, 158
Radio Data System
(RDS) 159
Rain sensor 66, 160
RDS (Radio Data
System) 159
RDW (Tire Pressure
Warning) 78
indicator lamp 22
Reading lamps 83
Rear backrest, folding 95
Rear lamps 141t
Rear window
defroster 67, 88
Rear-entry assist 47
Rearview mirror 49
Recirculated air mode 87
Reclining seat 45
Refueling 25
Remote control 33
Removing condensation
from the windows 87t
Repairing a flat tire 145t
Replace windshield wiper
blades 138t
Replacement key 30t
Replacing bulbs 138t
Reporting safety defects 7
Restraint system 55, 59
Return used
batteries 151t
Reverse 64
Roller blind, sun
protection 89
Roof load capacity 168
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 98
Rubber seals and
components 108
S
Safety belt tensioner 159
Safety belts 54
height adjustment 55
three-point safety belt 95
Safety buttons 36
Safety defects, reporting 7
Safety feature, electric
power windows 42
Safety glasses 141
Seat
mechanical 45
power 47
Seat adjusting 45
Seat heating 89
Seat memory 51
Securing cargo 97
Securing loads 97
Self-defrosting mirrors 49
Self-diagnostics 162
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet 127
Service Interval
Display 71, 127
Service Manual 127
Side airbags 56
Side impact Head Protection
System 56
Side lamps 81
Side marker lamp, bulb
replacement 139t
Side turn signals, bulb
replacement 140t
Ski bag 96
Sliding/tilt sunroof 43
closing after electrical
fault 153t
convenience
operation 32, 33
remote control 33
Snow chains 108, 115
Socket 93
for flashlights 93
for power supplies 93
for vacuum cleaner 93
Spare key 30t
Spark plugs 170
Speaker 92
Speedometer 18
Sport-mode,
identification 80
Sports seat 46, 47
Starting
problems 63t, 103
Starting the engine 62
Steel wheels 116
Steering 110
Steering lock 62
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
179n
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Stopping the vehicle 63
Storage areas 91
Storing your vehicle 133
Stroke 166
Summer tires 114
Sun roller blind 89
Sun visors 50
Surface ice warning 73
Switching off the engine 63
Switching off the interior
motion sensor 41
Symbols, used 4
Synthetic oils 124
T
Tachometer 69
Tail lamps 141
bulb replacement 141t
Tank capacity 169
Technical data 166
Technical
modifications 6, 134
Temperature display
outside temperature 73
Temperature gauge
engine coolant 70
Temperature layering 88
Third brake lamp 143
Through-loading system 95
Tilt alarm 34, 41
remote control 34
Tire codes 114
Tire damage 111t
Tire inflation
pressure 26, 111
Tire Pressure Warning
(RDW) 78
indicator lamp 22
Tire Quality Grading 112
Tire
replacement 112, 113t
Tire specifications 116
Tire tread 111
Tools 138t
Torque 166
Towing eyelets 155t
Towing the vehicle 155t
Track 167
Transmission 64
Transporting children
safely 59
Tread depth, tires 111
Tread wear indicator 111
Trip odometer 69
Trunk, refer to luggage
compartment 37
Turn signal indicator 22, 65
bulb replacement 140t
Turning radius 167
Two-way radios 110
U
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading 112
Used batteries,
disposal 151
Used engine oil,
disposal 124
V
Vacuum cleaner,
connecting 93
Vanity mirror
bulb replacement 144t
Vehicle battery 148, 170
Vehicle care
exterior 129
interior 131
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) 126
Vehicle immobilizer 31
Vehicle painting 129
Vehicle storage 133
Vehicle weight 168
Ventilation 84
draft-free 88
Vinyl, care 131
Voice recognition 23
W
Warning lamps 20t
Warning messages 72t
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet 127
Washing your vehicle 128
Water on roadways 103
Waxing, paintwork 130
Wear indicator in the
tires 111
Weights 168
Wheel rims 114
Wheelbase 167
Wheels and tires 114, 116
Width 167
Windows
convenience
operation 32, 33
remote control 33
Windshield washer reservoir,
filling
Windshield wiper 65
Winter operation 108
Winter tires 114, 115
Wiper system 65
Work in the engine
compartment 118t
X
Xenon lamps 139, 163
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
So that you will have important
specifications available when you
stop to refuel, we recommend
that you supplement this table
with data which apply to your
vehicle.
Fuel
Engine oil
The oil volume between the
two marks on the oil dipstick
corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter).
Designation Premium Unleaded
Gasoline
AKI: minimum 91
Quality
Tire inflation pressures
Summer Winter
Front Rear Front Rear
4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage
Refueling
BMW recommends Castrol
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
The Ultimate Driving Machine
01 41 0 155 433 ue
We wish you an enjoyable
driving experience.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
M3 Coupe US-En
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 433 - © 08/00 BMW AG
