Z3 roadster 2.5i
Z3 roadster 3.0i
Z3 coupe 3.0i
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced control and
security when you drive it. We therefore have this request:
Please take the time to read this Owner's Manual and familiarize yourself with the
information that we have compiled for you before starting off in your new BMW.
It contains important data and instructions intended to assist you in gaining maxi-
mum use and satisfaction from the unique range of technical features on your BMW.
The manual also contains information on vehicle maintenance designed to enhance
operating safety and contribute to maintaining the value of your vehicle throughout
an extended service life.
For more detailed information refer to the supplemental manuals.
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet
(US models) or a Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models). We
recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.
Your BMW is covered by the following warranties:
– New Vehicle Limited Warranty
– Limited Rust Perforation Warranty
– Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
– Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
– California Emissions Control System Limited Warranty
Detailed information about these warranties is listed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW AG
Preface
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
© 2001 Bayerische Motoren Werke
Aktiengesellschaft
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW AG, Munich.
Order No. 01 41 0 156 441
US English IX/2001
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
detailed table of contents is intended to
stimulate your interest and encourage
you to read the remainder of the
manual.
Should you wish to sell your BMW at
some time in the future, please
remember to pass the Owner's Manual
on to the new owner – the manual
represents a legally-required element of
the vehicle.
If you have additional questions, your
BMW center will be glad to advise you.
Symbols used
Indicates precautions that must
be followed precisely in order to
avoid the possibility of personal injury
and serious damage to the vehicle.
<
Contains information that will
assist you in gaining the optimum
benefit from your vehicle and enable
you to care more effectively for your
vehicle.
<
Refers to measures that can
be taken to help protect the
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
vehicle maintenance.
The individual vehicle
On buying your BMW, you have
decided in favor of a model with individ-
ualized equipment and features. This
Owner's Manual describes all models
and equipment that BMW offers within
the same group.
We hope you will understand that
equipment and features are included
which you might not have chosen for
your vehicle. Any differences can easily
be identified, since all optional acces-
sories and special equipment are
marked with an asterisk
*
.
If your BMW features equipment which
is not described in this Owner's Manual
(a car radio or telephone, for instance),
Supplementary Owner's Manuals are
enclosed. We ask you to read these
manuals as well.
Notes
Symbols
The individual vehicle
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
5n
Status at time of printing
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development which is
conceived to ensure that our vehicles
continue to embody the highest quality
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 0 156 441 - © 10/01 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
equivalent amount of co-solvent) will
not void the applicable warranties
respecting defects in materials or work-
manship. Field experience has indi-
cated significant differences in fuel
quality (i.e. volatility, composition or
additives, etc.) among gasolines offered
for sale in the United States and
Canada. The use of poor-quality fuels
may result in driveability, starting and
stalling problems especially under
certain environmental conditions such
as high ambient temperature and high
altitude.
Should you encounter driveability prob-
lems that you suspect could be related
to the fuel you are using, we recom-
mend that you respond by switching
to a recognized high-quality brand.
Failure to comply with these recom-
mendations may result in unscheduled
maintenance.
Follow the relevant safety rules when
you are handling gasoline.
<
Important safety information!
For your own safety, use genuine parts
and accessories approved by BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested
and approved by BMW and Original
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire
the assurance that they have been thor-
oughly tested by BMW to ensure
optimum performance when installed
on your vehicle.
BMW warrants these parts to be free
from defects in material and workman-
ship.
BMW will not accept any liability for
damage resulting from installation of
parts and accessories not approved
by BMW.
BMW cannot test every product 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. Consult your BMW center for
additional information.
<
Maintenance, replacement, or
repair of the emission control
devices and systems may be performed
by any automotive repair establishment
or individual using any certified auto-
motive part.
<
Symbol on vehicle parts
Indicates that you should consult
the relevant section of this Owner's
Manual for information on a particular
part or assembly.
For your own safety
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
7n
The following only applies to vehicles owned and operated in the US.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect 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, LLC, P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone (201) 307-4000.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in indi-
vidual problems between you, your dealer or BMW of North America, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 202-366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can
also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
9n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
Contents
Overview
Controls and features
Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
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 32
Opening and closing from the
outside 32
With the key 32
With the remote control 33
Opening and closing from the
inside 36
Luggage compartment lid 36
Electric power windows 38
Sunroof, coupe 39
Convertible top 40
Adjustments:
Seats 49
Mirrors 50
Safety systems:
Safety belts 52
Airbags 54
Transporting children safely 56
Driving:
Ignition lock 58
Starting the engine 59
Switching off the engine 60
Parking brake 60
Manual transmission 61
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 62
Turn signals/High beams 64
Washer/Wiper system 65
Rear window defroster 66
Cruise Control 67
Everything under control:
Odometer 68
Tachometer 68
Fuel gauge 68
Coolant temperature gauge 69
Service Interval Display 69
Clock 70
Computer 70
Technology for safety and
convenience:
Automatic Stability Control
plus Traction (ASC+T) 73
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 74
Lamps:
Parking lamps/Low beams 76
Fog lamps 76
Interior lamps 77
Reading lamps 78
Controlling the climate
for pleasant driving:
Heating and ventilation 80
Heating and ventilation/
Air conditioner 84
Seat heating 89
Contents
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11n
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Cabin convenience:
Glove compartment 90
Storage compartments 90
Storage boxes 90
Beverage holder 91
Ashtray 91
Cigarette lighter 92
Loading and transporting:
coupe:
Roll-up cover 93
Partition net 93
Cargo loading 94
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 95
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedure 98
Driving notes 99
Catalytic converter 100
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 101
Disc brakes 103
Brake system 104
Winter operation 105
Power steering 106
Cellular phone 107
Car radio reception 107
Hardtop – roadster 108
Wheels and tires:
Notes on inflation pressures 110
Tire condition 110
Tire replacement 111
Tire rotation 113
Wheel and tire
combinations 114
Special features of winter
tires 115
Snow chains 115
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 116
In the engine compartment:
Hood 118
Engine compartment 120
Fluids for the washer
systems 122
Washer nozzles 122
Engine oil 123
Coolant 125
Brake fluid 126
Vehicle Identification 127
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 128
Airbags 130
Storing your vehicle 130
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 132
California Proposition
65 Warning 132
OBD interface socket 133
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Contents
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technical data
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 136
Windshield wiper blades 136
Lamps and bulbs 137
Master key with battery
lamp 143
Remote control 144
Wheel change 146
Battery 153
Fuses 156
In case of electrical
malfunction:
Power convertible top 157
Fuel filler door 157
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 158
Towing the vehicle 159
Adaptive Transmission Control
(ATC) 164
Airbags 164
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) 165
Car radio reception 166
Safety belt tensioner 166
Engine specifications 170
Dimensions 171
Weights 172
Capacities 173
Electrical system 174
Drive belts 174
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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
15n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Hazard warning flashers 24
Warning triangle 24
First-aid kit 24
Refueling 25
Fuel specifications 26
Tire inflation pressures 26
Overview
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
16n
367us722
Cockpit
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
1 Parking lamps/Low beams 76
2 Horn
3 Washer/Wiper system 65
4 Hazard warning flashers 24
5 Cruise control
*
67
6
>
Turn signals 64
>
High beams 64
>
Headlamp flasher 64
>
Computer
*
70
7 Fog lamps 76
8 Hood release 118
Cockpit
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Instrument cluster
367us705
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Instrument cluster
1 Fuel gauge with indicator lamp
for reserve range 68
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 23
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator and warning lamps for:
>
Battery charge current 20
>
High beams 23
>
Engine oil pressure 20
5 Tachometer 68
6 Coolant temperature gauge 69
7 Indicator and warning lamps for:
>
Brake pad wear 22
>
Brake hydraulic
system 20, 21, 22
>
Parking brake 21
>
Airbags 21
8 Indicator and warning lamps for:
>
Service Engine Soon 22
>
Automatic transmission
*
22
>
Safety belts 21
>
Engine oil level 21
>
Antilock Brake System (ABS) 21
9 Indicator lamp for Automatic
Stability Control plus Traction
(ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC
*
) 22
10 Trip odometer/Gear indicator for
automatic transmission with
Steptronic
*
68
11 Service Interval Display 69, 128
12 Odometer 68
13 Indicator and warning lamps for:
>
Front fog lamps
*
23
>
Engine electronics 22
14 Trip odometer reset button 68
The illustration shows the instrument
cluster in the US version. In the Cana-
dian models, some of the indicator and
warning lamps have a different appear-
ance, refer to pages 20 to 23.
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20n
Indicator and warning lamps
Technology that monitors itself
Indicator and warning lamps that are
identified by "
●
" are tested for proper
functioning whenever the ignition key is
turned. They each light up once for
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 in the
following section.
Red: stop immediately
Battery charge current
●
The battery is no longer being
charged. The alternator drive
belt is defective or there is a malfunc-
tion in the charging circuit of the alter-
nator. Please contact the nearest BMW
center.
If the drive belt is defective, stop
and switch off the engine immedi-
ately to prevent overheating and
serious engine damage. If the drive belt
is defective, increased steering effort is
also required.
<
Engine oil pressure
●
Stop the vehicle immediately
and switch off the engine.
Check the engine oil level and top off as
required. If the oil level is correct,
please contact the nearest BMW
center.
Do not continue driving, as the
engine could sustain serious
damage from inadequate lubrication.
<
Brake hydraulic system
●
The brake fluid level is too low.
Before driving further, be sure to
read the notes on pages 104 and 126.
Brake hydraulic system warning
lamp for Canadian models.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Indicator and warning lamps
Red and yellow: continue to drive
cautiously
The red warning lamp for the
brake hydraulic system comes
on together with the yellow indi-
cator lamps for ABS, ASC+T/
DSC
*
:
The entire ABS, CBC, ASC+T/
DSC
*
and
ADB/DBC
control
system has failed. Continue
driving cautiously and defen-
sively. Avoid hard brake applications.
Have the system checked by your BMW
center as soon as possible.
For additional information, refer to
pages 73, 74 and 102.
Warning lamps for Canadian
models.
Red: an important reminder
Parking brake
Comes on when the parking
brake is engaged.
For additional information, refer to
page 60.
Parking brake warning lamp for
Canadian models.
Please fasten your safety belt
●
Together with an acoustic signal.
Comes on until the safety belts
are fastened.
For additional information on safety
belts, refer to page 52.
Airbags
●
Please have the system
inspected by your BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
pages 54 and 164.
Yellow: check as soon as possible
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
●
Comes on during normal vehicle
operation: ABS has been deac-
tivated in response to system malfunc-
tion. Conventional braking efficiency
is available without limitations. Please
have the system inspected by your
BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
page 101.
Antilock Brake System warning
lamp for Canadian models.
Engine oil level
Comes on while driving: the
oil level is at the absolute
minimum; refill as soon as possible. Do
not drive more than approx. 30 miles
(50 km) until you do.
For additional information, refer to
page 123.
Engine oil level
Comes on after the engine has
been switched off: add engine
oil at your earliest opportunity (when
you stop to refuel).
For additional information, refer to
page 123.
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22n
Indicator and warning lamps
Automatic transmission
*
Because of a malfunction, the
automatic transmission shifts
only in the emergency program. Please
consult the nearest BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
page 64.
Brake pads
●
Have the brake pads checked.
For additional information, refer
to page 104.
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC)
*
●
Indicator lamp flashes:
The system is actively regulating drive
torque and braking force.
The indicator lamp stays lit:
ASC+T has been switched off with the
button or it is defective, or the DSC
*
has been switched off, ADB is
operational.
Please consult the nearest BMW center
in case of a malfunction.
For additional information, refer to
pages 73, 74.
Indicator lamp for Automatic
Stability Control plus Traction
(ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC)
*
and brake
hydraulic system warning
lamp
●
The indicator lamps remain on:
The DSC
*
and ADB/DBC have been
switched off with the button or there is
a system malfunction.
Please consult the nearest BMW
center.
For additional information, refer to
page 74.
Indicator and warning lamps for
Canadian models.
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 133.
"Service Engine Soon" warning
lamp for Canadian models.
Engine electronics ●
There is a fault in the engine's
electronic control system. You
can continue to drive with reduced
engine output or engine speed. Please
have the system inspected by your
BMW center.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Indicator and warning lamps
Green: for your information
Turn signal indicators
Flashes when the turn signal
indicators are in operation.
Rapid flashing indicates a system
malfunction.
For additional information, refer to
page 64.
Front fog lamps
*
Lights up whenever you switch
on the front fog lamps.
For additional information, refer to
page 76.
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
page 64.
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24n
Hazard warning flashers Warning triangle* First-aid kit*
The button flashes rhythmically when
the hazard flashers are on.
To help you locate the button in an
emergency, the button is also illumi-
nated whenever the vehicle lamps
are on.
367de025
Z3 coupe
The warning triangle is located in the
luggage compartment under the floor
mat so that it is readily accessible (refer
to the illustration).
Grasp the floor mat by the straps on the
left and right. Pull it upward and remove
it.
Z3 roadster
The warning triangle is located in the
luggage compartment in the area of the
sill.
Always observe all legal regula-
tions requiring a warning triangle
to be carried in the vehicle.<
367de684
Z3 cou
p
e
Z3 coupe
In the luggage compartment at the left
rear. Release the Velcro
® fasteners.
Z3 roadster
In the luggage compartment on the
right in a storage tray.
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. Always observe all legal
regulations requiring a first-aid kit to be
carried in the vehicle.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Refueling
Before filling the tank, switch off
the engine, as otherwise fuel
cannot flow into the tank and the
"Service Engine Soon" warning lamp
may come on, refer to page 22.<
Open the fuel filler cap:
To open the fuel filler door, turn the fuel
filler cap counterclockwise and remove
the cap. Place the filler cap in the
bracket attached to the fuel filler door.
Open the filler cap carefully. If you
do not, fuel could spray out.<
To unlock the fuel filler door manually in
the event of an electrical malfunction of
the central locking system, refer to
page 157.
367de391
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle
completely into the filler pipe. Pulling
the nozzle out of the pipe during refu-
eling
> results in premature shutoff
> and will reduce the effect of the vapor
recovery system.
If the filler nozzle is operated correctly,
the fuel tank is full when it shuts off the
first time.
Tank capacity, approx. 13.5 gal.
(51 liters), incl. a reserve capacity of
approx. 2.1 gal. (8 liters).
Close the fuel filler cap:
Position the cap on the neck. Turn the
cap clockwise to the stop.
Close the filler 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" lamp.<
Close the fuel filler door.
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 they are empty or
full, these containers can leak, cause an
explosion, or lead to fire in the event of
a collision.<
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26n
Fuel specifications Tire inflation pressures
The engine uses lead-free gasoline
only.
Required fuel:
> Premium Unleaded Gasoline,
min. 91 AKI.
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Do not use leaded fuels. The use
of leaded fuels will cause perma-
nent damage to the system's oxygen
sensor and the catalytic converter.<
The inflation pressures are indicated on
a label attached to the B-pillar behind
the driver's door (visible with door
open).
Check tire pressures
All pressure specifications are indicated
in psi (kilopascal [kPa]) with the tires at
ambient temperature (refer also to the
next page).
Check tire inflation pressures
regularly – at least every two
weeks and before every extended
journey. Incorrect tire pressure can
otherwise lead to tire damage and acci-
dents.
Check the inflation pressure of the
spare tire as well. Refer to the following
table and to page 110.<
367de388
Comply with tire approval
specifications
The inflation pressures in the table apply
to tires made by BMW-approved manu-
facturers. Your BMW center is familiar
with these pressures. Higher pressures
may be specified for tires made by other
manufacturers. You will find a list of
approved tires beginning on page 116.
Your vehicle is equipped with tires that
meet both US standards and European
standards. We recommend the exclu-
sive use of BMW-approved tires.
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27n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Tire inflation pressures
BMW Tires
All tire pressures are in psi
(kilopascals [kPa])
Z3 roadster 2.5i
225/50 R 16 92 V
225/50 ZR 16
29 (200) 32 (220)
Front: 225/45 ZR 17
Rear: 245/40 ZR 17
29 (200)
–
–
32 (220)
205/60 R 15 91 Q M+S
205/55 R 16 91 Q M+S
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
225/45 R 17 91 Q M+S
32 (220) 35 (240)
Spare tire:
T 115/90 R 16 92 M
61 (420) 61 (420)
Z3 roadster 3.0i
Z3 coupe 3.0i
225/50 R 16 92 V
225/50 ZR 16
29 (200) 32 (220)
Front: 225/45 ZR 17
Rear: 245/40 ZR 17
29 (200)
–
–
32 (220)
205/55 R 16 91 Q M+S
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
225/45 R 17 91 Q M+S
32 (220) 35 (240)
Spare tire:
T 115/90 R 16 92 M
61 (420) 61 (420)
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28n
Opening and closing:
Keys 30
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 31
Central locking system 32
Opening and closing from the
outside 32
Opening and closing from the
inside 36
Luggage compartment lid 36
Electric power windows 38
Sunroof, coupe 39
Convertible top 40
Adjustments:
Seats 49
Mirrors 50
Safety systems:
Safety belts 52
Airbags 54
Transporting children safely 56
Driving:
Ignition lock 58
Starting the engine 59
Switching off the engine 60
Parking brake 60
Manual transmission 61
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 62
Controls
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
29n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Turn signals/High beams 64
Washer/Wiper system 65
Rear window defroster 66
Cruise control 67
Everything under control:
Odometer 68
Tachometer 68
Fuel gauge 68
Coolant temperature gauge 69
Service Interval Display 69
Clock 70
Computer 70
Technology for safety
and convenience:
Automatic Stability Control
plus Traction (ASC+T) 73
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 74
Lamps:
Parking lamps/Low beams 76
Fog lamps 76
Interior lamps 77
Reading lamps 78
Controlling the climate
for pleasant driving:
Heating and ventilation 80
Heating and ventilation/
Air conditioner 84
Seat heating 89
Cabin convenience:
Glove compartment 90
Storage compartments 90
Storage boxes 90
Beverage holder 91
Ashtray 91
Cigarette lighter 92
Loading and transporting
cargo:
coupe:
Roll-up cover 93
Partition net 93
Cargo loading 94
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 95
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Keys
1 Master key with battery-powered
lamp (switch on by pressing the BMW
symbol)
2 Master key without lamp
3 Spare key for storage in a safe place
such as your wallet. This key is not
intended for continuous use
4 Door and ignition key
The luggage compartment lid and the
storage boxes
* cannot be opened
with this key – this is useful for valet
parking, for instance
365de122
Key with remote control unit*
1 Master key with remote control unit
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,
such as in your wallet. This key is not
intended for constant use
3 Door and ignition key
The locks for the luggage compart-
ment lid and the storage boxes
*
cannot be operated with this key –
this is useful for valet parking, for
instance.
Some symbols on the remote
control buttons can differ from
those shown in the illustration.<
365de122
Replacement keys
are available exclusively through your
BMW center. Your BMW center is obli-
gated to ensure that a person
requesting a key is authorized to do so
since the keys belong to a security
system (refer to "Electronic vehicle
immobilizer" on the next page).
If possible, take all master keys
that belong to the vehicle with you
when you pick up your replacement
keys.
Whenever you receive a new
replacement key, turn that key to
position 2 in the ignition lock once (igni-
tion switched on) and then back. This
allows the electronic vehicle immobi-
lizer to "learn" the new key.<
New master key with remote control,
refer to page 144.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Electronic vehicle immobilizer
The key to security
The electronic vehicle immobilization
unit increases the anti-theft protection
of your BMW – you do not have to
adjust or activate anything. This elec-
tronic immobilization system is
designed to reduce the susceptibility of
the vehicle to theft by making it impos-
sible 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 a key is lost,
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.<
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Central locking system Opening and closing – from the outside
The concept
The central locking system becomes
operational when the doors are closed.
The system simultaneously engages
and releases the locks on the
> doors
> luggage compartment
> fuel filler door.
The central locking system can be
operated
> from outside via the door locks, the
luggage compartment lock as well as
via the remote control
*
> from inside via the safety lock
buttons (locks doors only).
The anti-theft system is automatically
activated whenever you activate the
central locking system from outside the
vehicle. It prevents the doors from
being unlocked with the lock buttons or
release handles.
The central locking system unlocks
automatically in the event of an acci-
dent. In addition, the hazard warning
flashers and interior lamps come on.
With the key
Never lock the doors when leaving
passengers in the vehicle, as they
would then be unable to unlock the
door from the inside.<
Convenience locking mode
The electric power windows can also
be closed via the door locks:
When the doors are closed, hold the
key in the "Lock" position.
367de011
Watch the closing process care-
fully and be sure that no one is
trapped by the closing motion. The
closing process stops immediately
when you release the key.<
Manual operation
(in the event of electrical malfunction)
Turn the key all the way to the extreme
left or right to unlock/lock the driver's
door.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Opening and closing – from the outside
With the remote control*
The remote control gives you an excep-
tionally convenient method for
unlocking and locking your vehicle.
Furthermore, it provides an additional
function which you can only execute via
the remote control:
> To switch on the interior lamps, refer
to page 34.
With this function, you can also
"search for" the vehicle, when parked
in an underground garage, for
instance.
Whenever you unlock (lock) the vehicle,
you simultaneously deactivate (activate)
the anti-theft system and switch the
interior lamps on (off).
Master key
Keys with remote control units are
master keys, refer to page 30.
Since passengers or animals
remaining in the vehicle might be
able to lock the doors from the inside,
always take the vehicle keys with you
so that the vehicle can be opened again
from the outside at any time.<
Every transmission is indicated by a
light signal. If the signal no longer lights
up when a button is pressed and
locking with the remote control is no
longer possible:
Change the battery, refer to page 144.
367de383
To prevent unauthorized use of
the remote control, surrender only
the door and ignition key 3 or the spare
key 2 (refer to page 30) when leaving
the vehicle for valet parking, for
example.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your BMW center. You
can also obtain replacement keys
there.<
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Opening and closing – from the outside
To unlock
Press button 1.
The interior lamps are activated at the
same time.
367de326
To lock and secure
Press button 2.
Never use the remote control to
lock the doors when leaving
passengers in the vehicle, as they
would then be unable to unlock the
door from the inside.<
367de327
To switch on the interior lamps
With the vehicle locked, press button 3.
367de328
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Opening and closing – from the outside
External systems
External systems or devices may cause
local interference in the functions of the
remote control.
Should this occur, you can still open
and close the vehicle using the master
key in either the door or luggage
compartment locks.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units
comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communications Commission) regula-
tions. Operation is governed by the
following:
FCC ID: LX8EWS
LX8FZVS
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
> This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
> this device must accept any interfer-
ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications to
these devices could void the
user's authority to operate the equip-
ment.<
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Opening and closing – from the inside Luggage compartment lid
To unlock and open the doors
> Pull the release handle of a door
twice: the initial pull unlocks the door,
and the second opens it.
To lock the doors
When the safety lock button of any door
is pressed down, the doors and
luggage compartment are locked. The
anti-theft system is not activated.
The fuel filler door also remains
unlocked to allow refueling.
To avoid being accidentally locked out
of the vehicle:
> The vehicle cannot be locked with
the lock button when the driver's
door is open
> The lock button on the passenger's
door only operates the central
locking system if both doors are
closed.
Since passengers or animals
remaining in the vehicle might be
able to lock the doors from the inside,
always take the vehicle keys with you
so that the vehicle can be opened again
from the outside at any time.<
The lock
The illustration depicts the luggage
compartment lock of the Z3 roadster
as an example.
The controls and function for the
Z3 coupe are the same as for
the Z3 roadster.
Only the master keys (refer to page 30)
will fit in the luggage compartment lock.
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Z3 roadster
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Luggage compartment lid
To lock separately
Turn the master key to the right past the
pressure point and then pull it out in the
horizontal position
This locks the luggage compartment
and disengages it from the central
locking system. If you then surrender
only the door and ignition key (refer to
page 30), access to the vehicle through
the luggage compartment is not
possible. This is recommended for valet
parking, for instance.
Manual operation
(in the event of electrical malfunction)
Turn the master key in the lock of the
luggage compartment lid to the left to
the stop – the luggage compartment lid
opens slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as it is closed.
To close
The illustration depicts the luggage
compartment lid of the Z3 coupe.
The handle recess in the interior trim
panel of the luggage compartment lid
(arrow) makes it easier to pull the lid
down.
On the Z3 roadster, the handle recess
is located to the left of the lock mecha-
nism.
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.<
367de625
Z3 cou
p
e
Operate the vehicle only when the
luggage compartment lid is
closed, since exhaust fumes could
penetrate the interior of the vehicle.
Should it be absolutely necessary to
operate the vehicle with the luggage
compartment lid open (coupe; roadster
with closed convertible top):
> Close all windows. On the coupe,
close the sunroof
> Increase the air supply of the heating
and ventilation system to a high level.
Refer to page 82 or 86.<
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Luggage compartment lid Electric power windows
Emergency release – roadster
only
This lever releases the luggage
compartment lid from the luggage
compartment's interior.
390de792
Z3 roadster
Opening and closing windows
From ignition key position 1 and up:
> Press the rocker switch up to the
pressure point:
The window continues moving for as
long as you maintain pressure on the
switch
> Press the rocker switch beyond the
pressure point (one-touch mode):
The window moves automatically.
Press the switch a second time to
stop the window.
367de668
After the ignition has been switched off:
Operation is still possible for up to
15 minutes in ignition key position 0 or
if the ignition key has been removed, as
long as no doors have been opened.
Because the power windows are
sealed at high pressure to prevent
wind noise when closed, a powerful
motor is required for efficient closing.
When closing the windows, always
ensure that they are not obstructed in
any way. Unsupervised use of these
systems can result in serious personal
injury. Remove the ignition key to deac-
tivate the electric power windows
whenever you leave the vehicle. Never
leave the keys in the vehicle with unsu-
pervised children.
Never place anything that could
obstruct the driver's vision on or next to
the windows.<
For convenience closing via the door
lock, refer to page 32.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Electric power windows Sunroof*, coupe
Jam protection
If one of the windows comes into
contact with an object between the
window and roof frame when it is
closing, the closing cycle is interrupted
immediately and the window will open
again slightly.
You can override this jam protec-
tion function (if there is an
attempted unauthorized entrance from
the outside, for instance) by pressing
the switch beyond the resistance point
and holding it.<
Lifting – Closing
From ignition key position 1 and up:
To lift: press button 1.
To close: press button 2.
367de689
Z3 cou
p
e
To prevent injuries, exercise care
when closing the sunroof. Keep it
in your field of vision until it is closed.<
To avoid pressure or drafts in the
passenger compartment when the
sunroof is open, keep the air vents in
the instrument panel open and increase
the air supply if necessary, refer to
pages 82 and 86.
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Manual convertible top, roadster
Weather protection
The convertible top combines reliable
protection from the elements with
simple, convenient operation. Here are
a few tips to ensure that you have plea-
sure with your roadster.
It is advisable to close the convertible
top when the vehicle is parked. The
closed convertible top not only protects
the passenger compartment from
unforeseeable damage from the
weather, it also provides a certain
degree of theft protection. In addition,
keep valuables only in the locked
luggage compartment, even with the
convertible top closed.
Never mount a roof-mounted luggage
rack on the convertible top. Please
contact your BMW center for suitable
securing devices and additional acces-
sories.
To prevent damage, do not operate the
convertible top at temperatures at the
freezing point.
To open
1. With the doors closed, lower the side
windows a few inches (centimeters)
2. To release the convertible top: pull
the levers outward on the left and the
right of the convertible top frame
(refer to the illustration)
367de046
3. Raise the convertible top approx. 8 in
(20 cm) from the convertible top
frame on the inside to relieve tension
on the top, refer to arrow 1
Be sure that the convertible top
folds at the front linkage joints
first, refer to arrow 2. If it does not, the
convertible top linkage could be bent.<
4. Continue to raise the top at the front
and push it toward the rear into the
convertible top compartment.
In the process, make sure the rear
window is laid down evenly and free
of creases. To prevent the rear
window from being scratched, a soft
cloth should be laid in the window
fold
367de399
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Manual convertible top, roadster
5. Fold the release levers against the
convertible top frame.
In order to avoid subsequent
moisture damage, do not open
and store the convertible top when it is
wet.<
To mount the cover
The illustration depicts a representative
schematic of the fasteners for the
convertible cover.
To secure, press the outer ring of the
cover fastener onto the mating piece on
the vehicle (refer to the arrows).
367de274
The attachment points of the cover are
indicated by the four arrows in the illus-
tration.
1. Position the convertible cover on the
convertible top compartment and
align the upper portions of the
fasteners with the lower portions on
the vehicle
2. Lift the cover at the rear, reach
underneath it and engage the two
middle fasteners
3. Attach the front fasteners
367us669
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Manual convertible top, roadster
4. Push the peripheral frame of the
cover under the edge of the convert-
ible top compartment
5. Check the convertible cover to be
sure it is properly secured.
In order to avoid damage and
soiling of the inside of the convert-
ible top, always drive with the cover
secured in place.<
Be sure that the cover is secured
properly on the vehicle. If it is not
firmly secured, the flow of air while
driving could loosen the cover at higher
speeds.<
367us077
To close
1. To remove the convertible top cover:
>Loosen the fasteners. Pull the cap
of the latch upward, refer to the
arrow
367de724
> Loosen the front fasteners (outer
arrows)
> Pull the outer frame of the cover
under the edge of the convertible
top compartment
> Lift the cover from the rear and
release the middle fasteners
(middle arrows)
367us670
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Manual convertible top, roadster
> To avoid damage, carefully fold the
cover and store it in the luggage
compartment.
Do not position heavy objects on
the cover.
If you store the cover away from the
vehicle, the cover should be spread
out.<
2. When the doors are closed, lower the
side windows slightly
367de247
3. Pull the release lever away from the
frame as far as possible
4. Holding the convertible top at the
front convertible top frame, lift it out
of the convertible top compartment
and fold it forward
When folding the convertible top
forward, do not grasp it by the
side linkage. If you do so, there is a risk
of injury to your hands and fingers.<
5. Insert the pins 1, on the left and the
right, into the guides in the wind-
shield frame. Using the handle
recess in the center of the convert-
ible top frame, pull the convertible
top down. Hold the top in this posi-
tion and secure both fasteners, refer
also to page 109.
367de047
Be sure that the fastener hooks 2
on the left and right are securely
engaged in the frame of the windshield.
If they are not, the convertible top could
open while the vehicle is moving.<
At higher speeds, it may occur
that the lower air pressure which
is created in the passenger compart-
ment will cause the top or the rear
window to flutter. Increase the air
supply via the ventilation controls so
that a low pressure draft does not occur
in the vehicle.<
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Power convertible top, roadster*
Weather protection
The convertible top combines reliable
protection from the elements with
simple, convenient operation. Here are
a few tips to ensure that you have plea-
sure with your roadster.
It is advisable to close the convertible
top when the vehicle is parked. The
closed convertible top not only protects
the passenger compartment from
unforeseeable damage from the
weather, it also provides a certain
degree of theft protection. In addition,
keep valuables only in the locked
luggage compartment, even with the
convertible top closed.
Never mount a roof-mounted luggage
rack on the convertible top. Please
contact your BMW center for suitable
securing devices and additional acces-
sories.
To prevent damage, do not operate the
convertible top at temperatures at the
freezing point.
To conserve the battery, it is advisable
to operate the top only with the engine
running.
Operate the convertible top only
when the vehicle is stationary.
Do not lay objects on the convertible
top, since they would fall off when the
convertible top is operated and cause
damage or injuries.
Do not reach into the convertible top
mechanism during opening and closing.
Keep children away from the moving
parts of the convertible top during
operation.
The automatic sequence is interrupted
immediately if the button for actuating
the top (pages 45 and 48) is released.
The sequence can be continued in the
desired direction by pressing the
button.<
To open
1. With the doors closed, lower the side
windows a few inches (centimeters)
2. To release the convertible top: pull
the levers outward on the left and the
right of the frame of the top (refer to
the illustration)
367de046
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Power convertible top, roadster*
3. Raise the convertible top approx. 8 in
(20 cm) from the convertible top
frame on the inside to relieve tension
on the top, refer to arrow 1
Be sure that the convertible top
folds at the front linkage joints
first, refer to arrow 2. If it does not, the
convertible top linkage could be bent.<
4. Press the release lever against the
frame of the top
367de399
5. Hold the footbrake down during the
entire opening procedure
6. Lift the convertible top frame. Press
and hold the button for convertible
top operation in the "Open"
direction (2) until the opening
process is completed and the
convertible top is folded into the
convertible top compartment.
367us366
If the convertible top has not been
lifted far enough, or if the foot-
brake is not applied, the motor which
operates the convertible top will not
operate.<
In order to avoid subsequent
moisture damage, do not leave
the convertible top open when it is
wet.<
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Power convertible top, roadster*
To mount the cover
The illustration depicts a representative
schematic of the fasteners for the
convertible cover.
To secure, press the outer ring of the
cover fastener onto the mating piece on
the vehicle (refer to the arrows).
367de274
The attachment points of the cover are
indicated by the four arrows in the illus-
tration.
1. Position the convertible cover on the
convertible top compartment and
align the upper portions of the
fasteners with the lower portions on
the vehicle
2. Lift the cover at the rear, reach
underneath it and engage the two
middle fasteners
3. Attach the front fasteners
367us669
4. Push the peripheral frame of the
cover under the edge of the convert-
ible top compartment
5. Check the convertible cover to be
sure it is properly secured.
In order to avoid damage and
soiling of the inside of the convert-
ible top, always drive with the cover
secured in place.<
Be sure that the cover is secured
properly on the vehicle. If it is not
firmly secured, the flow of air while
driving could loosen the cover at higher
speeds.<
367us077
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Power convertible top, roadster*
To close
1. To remove the convertible top cover:
>Loosen the fasteners. Pull the cap
of the latch upward, refer to the
arrow
367de724
> Release the front fasteners (outer
arrows)
> Pull the outer frame of the cover
under the edge of the convertible
top compartment
> Lift the cover from the rear and
release the middle fasteners
(middle arrows)
367us670
> To avoid damage, carefully fold the
cover and store it in the luggage
compartment.
Do not position heavy objects on
the cover.
The cover should be spread out if you
store it away from the vehicle.<
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Power convertible top, roadster*
2. When the doors are closed, lower the
side windows slightly
3. Pull the release lever away from the
frame as far as possible
4. Hold the footbrake down during the
entire closing procedure
5. Press and hold the button for
convertible top operation in the
"Close" direction (1) until the closing
process is completed and the
convertible top frame has docked
against the windshield frame
367us366
6. Insert the pins 1, on the left and the
right, into the guides in the wind-
shield frame. Using the handle
recess in the center of the convert-
ible top frame, pull the convertible
top down. Hold the top in this posi-
tion and secure both fasteners, refer
also to page 109.
If the footbrake is not applied, the
motor which operates the
convertible top will not operate.<
Be sure that the fastener hooks 2
on the left and right are securely
engaged in the frame of the windshield.
If they are not, the convertible top could
open while the vehicle is moving.<
367de047
At higher speeds, it may occur
that the lower air pressure which
is created in the passenger compart-
ment will cause the top or the rear
window to flutter. Increase the air
supply via the ventilation controls so
that a low pressure draft does not occur
in the vehicle.<
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Index Data Technology Repiars Maintenance Controls Overview
For maximum safety, please comply
with the following:
Never try to adjust your seat while
operating the vehicle. The seat
could respond with an unexpected
movement, and the ensuing loss of
vehicle control could result in an acci-
dent.
Be sure that the safety belt is fastened
firmly against your body at all times. In
the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap
belt could slide over your hips, leading
to abdominal injury. In addition, the
safety belt's restraint effectiveness is
reduced if the belt is worn loosely.
When adjusting your seat, select a
position that provides the maximum
distance between you and the steering
wheel, instrument panel and door while
still allowing comfortable and safe
access to all vehicle controls.<
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.
In the ideal sitting posture, your head
extends along a straight line from your
spine.
For long-distance driving, you may wish
to increase the backrest tilt angle
slightly to reduce muscular tension.
You should also be able to grasp the
highest point of the steering wheel with
your arms slightly bent.
After a seat adjustment in the coupe,
adjust the height of the safety belt also,
refer to page 52.
1 Height
*
2 Backward/forward adjustment
367de015
Seat adjustment
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Seat adjustment Mirrors
Backrest angle
Pull the lever and apply or remove
weight as required.
Read and comply with the adjust-
ment instructions on page 49.
Failure to do so can result in diminished
personal safety.<
367de076
Head restraints
The head restraints are integrated into
the backrests.
Head restraints reduce the risk of spinal
injury in the event of an accident.
Exterior mirrors
Make adjustments with the large, four-
directional mirror switch.
Change to the other rearview mirror
with the smaller switch:
> Push the switch up – mirror on the
driver's side
> Push the switch down – mirror on the
passenger's side.
You can also adjust the mirrors manu-
ally by pressing against the outer edges
of their lenses.
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Mirrors
The mirror on the passenger's
side features a lens with a convex
surface. When estimating the distance
between yourself and other traffic, bear
in mind that the objects reflected in the
mirror are closer than they appear. This
means that estimates of the distance to
following traffic should not be regarded
as precise.<
Electric defrosting*
Both mirrors are defrosted automa-
tically when the ignition key is in
position 2.
Interior rearview mirror
To reduce the glare effect from the rear
while driving at night, tilt the mirror by
moving the small lever.
Vanity mirrors
Fold the sun visors down and push the
cover (coupe only) to the side.
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Drive with your safety belt on
Fasten your safety belt before begin-
ning every trip.
To fasten: make sure you hear the
catch engage in the belt buckle during
the closing process.
To release: press the red button in the
buckle. Hold the belt and guide it back
to its reel.
The safety belt locks:
> In an abrupt stop or a collision
> If it is pulled out very quickly
> During sudden braking or accelera-
tion
> When the vehicle is at an extreme
angle.
367de018
Z3 roadster
Make sure the safety belts are routed
through the belt guides on the seat
backrests.
367de019
Z3 roadster
Safety belt height adjustment –
Z3 coupe
You can adjust the safety belts to fit
your own physical dimensions by using
the safety belt height adjustment mech-
anism.
Downward adjustment:
Press the button down (arrow 1).
Upward adjustment:
Grasp the deflection fitting on the sides
and slide it upward (arrows 2).
367de636
Z3 coupe
Safety belts
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Safety belts
Comply with the following instruc-
tions for wearing safety belts. If
you do not, maximum personal protec-
tion will not be provided and the safety
function of the belt is limited. These
instructions also apply for vehicle
passengers:
Never allow more than one person to
wear a single safety belt. Never allow
infants or small children to ride in a
passenger's lap.
Avoid twisting the belt while routing it
firmly across your pelvis and shoulder.
Do not route the belt across 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 which will
prevent proper belt fit. Pull the safety
belt across your shoulders frequently to
retension it. In the event of a frontal
impact, a loose lap belt could slide over
your hips, leading to abdominal injury.
In addition, the safety belt's restraint
effectiveness is reduced if the belt is
worn loosely.
Expectant mothers should also wear
their safety belt at all times, taking care
to ensure that the lap belt fits against
the lower hips and does not exert pres-
sure on the abdominal area.<
For care and cleaning, refer to the
"Caring for your vehicle" manual.
If the safety belt system has been
stressed as a result of an accident
or if it has been damaged in any other
way: have the belt system, including the
safety belt tensioner replaced by a
BMW center. In addition, have your
BMW center inspect the safety belt
anchors.
If a child-restraint system was in your
vehicle during an accident, consult the
manufacturer's instructions regarding
replacement.<
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Airbags
1 Front airbags on the driver and
passenger side
2 Side airbags on the driver and
passenger side
Protective effect
The front airbags help protect the driver
and passenger in the event of a head-
on collision where the protection
provided by the safety belt alone would
not be adequate. The side airbags help
provide protection in the event of a side
collision. Each side airbag provides
support to the side chest area.
367de730
The illustration depicts schematically
the primary directions of vehicle impact
which initiate airbag deployment.
The airbags will not be triggered in
the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle roll-over, or an impact from the
rear.<
367de736
Operational readiness
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster shows the airbag-
system's operational readiness
starting with ignition key position 1.
System operational:
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly.
System malfunction:
> The indicator lamp fails to come on
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
before going out and then lighting up
again.
A system malfunction could prevent the
system from responding to a high-
intensity frontal impact occurring within
its normal response range.
Please have your BMW center inspect
and repair the system as soon as
possible.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Airbags
Sitting correctly with airbags
For your safety, comply with the
following instructions for the
airbags. If you do not, the airbags may
not be able to provide their maximum
protection. All passengers in the vehicle
should be aware of and comply with this
information:
The airbags are supplemental restraint
devices designed to provide extra
protection; they are not a substitute for
safety belts. Wear your safety belt at
all times.
Adjust your seat to a position that is
comfortable for you, allowing unre-
stricted vehicle operation, and is not
closer to the steering wheel than neces-
sary.
Always grasp the steering wheel by the
steering wheel rim, keeping your hands
at the "9-o'clock" and "3-o'clock" posi-
tions in order to minimize any risk of
injury to hands or arms if the airbag does
deploy.
There should not be any other persons,
animals or objects between the airbag
and the passenger in that seat.
Do not use the cover panel for the front
airbag on the passenger side 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.
If you use a child-restraint system, read
carefully and comply with the instruc-
tions on page 56.
Be sure that child-restraint systems are
installed correctly and with the greatest
possible distance from the airbag in the
side trim panel. Do not allow children to
lean out of the child-restraint system in
the direction of the side trim panel.
Otherwise, serious injuries could occur
if the airbag is triggered.<
Even when you have complied with all
of these guidelines, there is still a small
residual risk of minor facial, hand and
arm injuries from airbag deployment
occurring in isolated instances.
The ignition and inflation noise may
cause a mild temporary hearing loss in
extremely sensitive individuals.
Corresponding airbag safety precau-
tions are provided on both sun visors
and the instrument panel (US models).
For additional information concerning
the airbag system, refer to pages 130
and 164.
This is the correct way a child should sit
in a child restraint when side airbags
(arrow) are provided.
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Airbags Transporting children safely
This is the correct way a larger child
should sit wearing the safety belt when
side airbags (arrow) are provided.
367de360
Before installing any child-
restraint system, please read the
following:
Never install a rear-facing child-
restraint system in the passenger seat
of this vehicle.
If the airbag deploys and hits the back-
rest of the rear-facing child seat, it is
likely that the child sitting in the rear-
facing child-restraint system will be
seriously injured or killed.
If it is necessary for a child (not an
infant) to ride in the vehicle, 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 secured with a safety belt.
In the interest of the child's safety,
please read carefully and comply with
the instructions for installation and use
provided by the child restraint's manu-
facturer whenever you use such a
device.
Do not allow children to lean out of a
child-restraint system toward the door
or instrument panel, as otherwise
serious injuries may result if the airbag
deploys. Always ensure that all occu-
pants (of all ages) remain properly and
securely restrained at all times.
Read carefully and comply with the
safety precautions covering safety belts
on pages 52, 53. If you do not, the
protective function of the safety belts
will be limited.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Transporting children safely
Child-restraint system installation
The safety belt on the passenger side
can be locked for mounting and
securing child-restraint systems.
A label with operating instructions is
attached to the belt next to the sliding
latch plate.
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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 retracted further.
Comply with the installation instructions
provided by the manufacturer of the
child-restraint system.
To release the belt
Release the buckle, remove the child-
restraint system and allow the inertia
reel to retract the belt completely.
Z3 coupe
For the use of child-restraint systems
with a tether strap, an additional
mounting point is provided in the coupe
at the right rear on the roof frame.
Attach the tether strap hook to the
mounting point. Adjust the tether strap
according to the child-restraint manu-
facturer's instructions.
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Z3 coupe
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0 Steering locked
This is the only position in which the
ignition key can be inserted and
removed.
An acoustic warning sounds when you
fail to remove the ignition key after
opening the driver's door.
After removing the key, turn the
steering wheel slightly to the left or right
until the lock engages.
367de009
Vehicles with automatic transmis-
sion
*:
Your vehicle is equipped with an inter-
lock. This means that the ignition key
cannot be turned to position 0 and
removed until the selector lever is in
position "P".
Furthermore, the selector lever is
locked in position "P" when the ignition
key is in position 0 or removed from the
ignition lock.
To turn the key back to position 0 or to
remove it, first move the selector lever
to position "P".<
1 Steering unlocked
You will often find that it is easier to turn
the ignition key from position 0 to 1 if
you move the steering wheel slightly to
help disengage the detent.
Individual electrical equipment and
accessories are available for use.
2 Ignition on
All electrical equipment and accesso-
ries are available for use.
3 Starting the engine
Vehicles with manual transmission:
When starting, depress the clutch,
since a lock otherwise prevents the
engine from being started.
Ignition lock
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Starting the engine
Before starting
> Engage the parking brake
> Be sure that the gearshift lever is in
"Neutral" (or the selector lever in "P"
if the vehicle is equipped with auto-
matic transmission)
> Depress the clutch pedal.
Do not run the engine 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 unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.<
Starting the engine
> Do not press the accelerator pedal
while starting the engine.
Do not actuate the starter for too
short a time. Do not turn it for
more than approx. 20 seconds. Release
the ignition key immediately after the
engine starts.
Do not allow the engine to warm up
by leaving it running while the vehicle
remains stationary. Instead, begin to
drive immediately at a moderate engine
speed.<
Should the engine fail to start on the
first attempt (if it is very hot or cold, for
instance):
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Cold starts at very low temperatures,
from approx. +5 7 (–15 6) and at
altitudes above approx. 3,300 ft
(1,000 m):
> On the first start attempt, engage the
starter for a longer period (approx.
10 seconds).
If these temperature conditions are
anticipated for a longer period, have the
engine oil changed to a special oil, refer
to page 124. Please contact your BMW
center for additional information.
Usually, it is not necessary to depress
the accelerator pedal. However, at high
altitudes or in very hot or very cold
weather, depress the pedal halfway
down when starting the engine.
Engine idle speed is controlled by the
engine computer system. Increased
speeds at start-up are normal and
should decrease as the engine warms
up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.
To prevent the battery from
discharging, always switch off any
accessories which are not required.
Switch off the ignition when the vehicle
is not being driven.
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Switching off the engine Parking brake
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Do not remove the ignition key
while the vehicle is rolling. The
steering locks and it is impossible to
steer the vehicle.
Always remove the ignition key and
engage the steering lock before leaving
the vehicle.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Always engage the parking brake when
parking on slopes and inclined
surfaces, since even placing the gear-
shift lever in 1st gear or reverse may not
provide adequate resistance to rolling.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Place the selector lever in "P".<
The parking brake is designed primarily
to prevent the vehicle from rolling when
parked. It operates against the rear
wheels.
To engage
The lever engages automatically when
you pull it up, and 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 and lower the lever.
367de028
If, in exceptional circumstances,
it should be necessary to engage
the parking brake while the vehicle is
in motion, do not pull it with excessive
pressure. Keep your thumb pressed
against the release button while care-
fully pulling up the lever to apply
moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
braking and loss of traction at the rear
(fishtailing).
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is engaged.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Always engage the parking brake when
parking on slopes and inclined
surfaces, since even placing the gear-
shift lever in 1st gear or reverse may not
provide adequate resistance to rolling.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Place the selector lever in "P".<
To avoid corrosion and one-sided
braking, apply the parking brake lightly
from time to time when coasting to a
standstill (at a traffic signal, for
instance), provided that it is safe to do
so.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Manual transmission
Press the clutch pedal all the way down
each time you shift, pressing the gear-
shift lever into its proper end position.
Depress the clutch when starting the
vehicle, too, otherwise, lockout will
prevent the engine from starting.
The gearshift lever's neutral plane is
located between 3rd and 4th gear.
When shifting from each gear into
"Neutral", the gearshift lever returns
automatically to this neutral position
because of its spring loading.
367de353
Reverse
Select reverse only when the vehicle is
stationary. Press the gearshift 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.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or "riding" the
clutch. Use the parking brake instead,
otherwise, the ensuing friction to the
clutch plates will cause a great deal of
wear and tear on the clutch.<
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
You can drive as with a normal auto-
matic transmission. In addition, you can
also shift manually.
When you move the selector lever from
the "D" position to the left into the M/S
range, the performance-oriented shift
programs of the automatic transmission
are engaged. As soon as you briefly tab
the selector lever in the "+" or "–" direc-
tion, Steptronic changes the gear. The
manual mode is engaged. When you
wish to use the automatic transmission
mode again, move the selector lever to
the right into the "D" position.
The automatic transmission of your
BMW is equipped with Adaptive Trans-
mission Control (ATC), a system which
reacts with precision to your individual
driving style and the driving conditions.
To achieve this, different shift programs
are automatically engaged.
For additional details concerning the
ATC, please refer to the chapter
"Advanced technology" on page 164.
Selector lever positions
P R N D M/S + –
Starting the engine
The engine can only be started in
selector lever positions P ("Park") or
N ("Neutral").
Range selection
A detent prevents inadvertent shifts to
the "Reverse" or "Park" selector lever
positions. To disengage the detent,
press the button on the front side of
the selector lever knob (arrow).
367de703
While the vehicle is stationary and
before shifting out of "Park" or
"Neutral", depress the footbrake in
order to disengage the selector lever's
lock mechanism (Shiftlock).
Hold the footbrake down until starting
off. The vehicle will otherwise "creep"
when a drive position is engaged.<
If you leave the vehicle with the
engine running, move the selector
lever to the "Park" or "Neutral" position
and apply the parking brake. If you fail
to do this, the vehicle could move.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
P — Park
Select only when the vehicle is
stationary. The transmission locks to
prevent the rear wheels from turning.
R — Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is
stationary.
N — Neutral
Select only if your journey is interrupted
for a longer period.
D — Drive
(automatic shift program)
This position is designed for driving
under all normal operating conditions.
All forward gears are available.
Kickdown
In the kickdown mode, you achieve
maximum performance and in
position D, you reach maximum speed.
Depress the accelerator pedal past the
increased resistance point at the full-
throttle position.
M/S – manual mode and
Sport Program
When you change from D to M/S, the
Sport Program is activated. This is
indicated by "S" in the gear selection
display. The M/S mode is recom-
mended for performance-oriented
driving.
With the first brief touch, the automatic
transmission shifts from the Sport
Program to the manual mode. When
you tab the selector lever in the "+"
direction, the transmission shifts up.
When the lever is tabbed in the
"–" direction, the transmission shifts
down. M1 to M5 is indicated in the
transmission range display.
Upshifts or downshifts will only be
carried out by the ATC at appropriate
engine speeds and road speeds. If the
367de704
engine speed is too high, for instance,
the downshift will not be executed. The
gear selected will appear briefly in the
instrument cluster followed by the
current gear.
If you are driving in the manual
mode and wish to accelerate
rapidly – to pass another vehicle, for
example – shift down manually or with
the "Kickdown" function.<
You can only change from M/S to
selector lever positions "P", "R" and "N"
via the "D" position.
In the following situations, the Steptronic
"thinks" for you in the manual mode:
> In order to prevent engine over-
speeding, the transmission shifts
automatically to the next higher gear
shortly before the engine speed
cutoff point
> At low speeds, the transmission
shifts down automatically – you do
not have to act
> In the kickdown mode, the transmis-
sion shifts down to the lowest possible
gear based on the engine speed
> Depending on the situation – when
driving in adverse winter conditions,
for example – the transmission may
also start out in 2nd or 3rd gear.
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic* Turn signals/High beams
Available displays
S M1 M2 M3 M4 M5
Electronic transmission control
module
If the indicator lamp comes on
there is a fault in the transmis-
sion system.
All of the selector lever positions can
continue to be used; in the forward
drive positions, however, the vehicle
will be operating with restricted gear
availability.
If this happens, avoid extreme engine
loads and consult the nearest BMW
center.
367us723
Do not work in the engine
compartment when a drive gear
(forward or reverse) is engaged. If you
do so, the vehicle could move.<
Information on jump-starting, tow-
starting and towing, refer to
pages 158, 159.
1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator
lamp)
3 Turn signal indicators (green indicator
lamp and rhythmic clicking of the
relay)
If the indicator lamp and the clicking
from the relay are both faster than
normal, one of the turn signal indicators
has failed.
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond
the pressure point. It then returns to the
center position when released.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Washer/Wiper system
Windshield
0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent operation
2 Normal wipe
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
5 Cleaning the windshield
Rear window – Z3 coupe only
6 Intermittent operation/cleaning the
rear window
367de631
0 Wipers retracted
The wipers are partially hidden behind
the hood. To bring the wipers up into
their vertical position (important when
changing the blades, or folding up
when frost is expected):
Switch on the wipers and switch off the
ignition when the wipers are approxi-
mately vertical.
Fold the wipers down onto the
windshield before turning on the
ignition key. Failure to do this could
result in damage to the wiper/washer
system and hood.<
1 Intermittent operation
The length of the interval is varied auto-
matically according to the vehicle's
actual road speed.
2 Normal wipe
The wipers automatically revert to inter-
mittent operation when the vehicle is
stationary.
3 Fast wipe
When the vehicle is stationary, the
system does not switch to a lower
wiper speed.
4 Brief wipe
The wipers move once across the wind-
shield.
5 Cleaning the windshield
The system sprays washer fluid against
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.
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Washer/Wiper system Rear window defroster
6 Intermittent operation/
Cleaning the rear window
Press the lever briefly:
The intermittent setting of the rear
window wiper is switched on or off.
Press and hold the lever:
The system sprays washer fluid against
the rear window and activates the
wiper. After the lever is released, the
wiper continues to cycle for a few
seconds.
To change the wiper blades, refer to
page 136.
Cleaning the headlamps*
If the headlamps are on, they will also
be cleaned every fifth time you activate
the cleaning the windshield 5 mode.
Do not use the washers if there is
any danger that the fluid will freeze
on the windshield, otherwise vision
could be obscured. For this reason, use
an antifreeze agent, refer to page 122.
Do not use the washers when the reser-
voir is empty, otherwise damage to the
washer pump could result.<
Windshield washer nozzles
The windshield washer nozzles are
heated automatically
* when the ignition
key is in position 2.
The Z3 coupe is equipped with a rear
window defroster.
To switch on
Press the button, the indicator lamp
comes on.
To switch off
Press the button if the indicator lamp is
on.
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Z3 coupe
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Cruise control*
You can maintain and store any desired
vehicle speed above approx. 25 mph
(40 km/h).
The system is switched off and the
stored speed deleted from its memory
when you turn the ignition key to posi-
tion 0.
Do not use the 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 or gravel,
sand).<
365us059
To maintain and store speed/
to accelerate
Press the lever briefly in direction 1:
The system maintains and stores the
current vehicle speed. Every time you
briefly press the lever, the speed
increases by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Hold the lever in position 1:
The vehicle accelerates without pres-
sure on the accelerator pedal. When
you release the lever, the system main-
tains and stores the current speed.
If, on a downhill grade, the engine
braking effect is not sufficient, the
controlled speed can be exceeded.
Speed can drop on uphill grades if the
engine output is insufficient.<
To decelerate
Press the lever briefly in direction 2:
If you are already driving with active
cruise control, the speed is decreased
by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h) every time
you briefly touch the lever.
Hold the lever in position 2:
With the cruise control active, the
system automatically reduces the
throttle opening to slow the vehicle.
When you release the lever, the system
maintains and stores the current speed.
Call up stored setting (resume)
Press the lever briefly in direction 3:
The vehicle accelerates to and main-
tains the last speed stored.
To deactivate
Press the lever briefly in direction 4:
The cruise control is deactivated imme-
diately.
In addition, the system is also automati-
cally deactivated in response to the
following conditions:
> When you apply the brakes
> When you depress the clutch or move
the automatic transmission selector
lever from "D" to "N"
> If you exceed or fall below the preset
speed for an extended period (by
depressing the accelerator, for
example).
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1 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).
2 Trip odometer/Gear indicator
for automatic transmission with
Steptronic
*
Trip odometer:
To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the button (arrow) with the igni-
tion key in position 1 or higher.
Gear indicator:
> S for Sport Program
> M1 to M5 for manual mode.
367us710
Never allow the engine to operate with
the needle in the red overspeed sector
of the gauge.
To protect the engine, the engine-
management system automatically
interrupts the fuel supply in this range;
you will notice a loss of power.
367de005
When you switch on the ignition, the
indicator lamp comes on briefly to
confirm that the system is operational.
Once the indicator lamp stays on
continuously, there are still approx.
2.1 gallons (8 liters) of fuel in the fuel
tank.
Tank capacity: page 173.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies (extended
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.<
367us006
Odometer Tachometer Fuel gauge
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Coolant temperature gauge Service Interval Display
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at
moderate engine and vehicle speeds.
Red
When you switch on the ignition, the
warning lamp comes on briefly to
confirm that the system is operational.
Comes on while driving: the engine is
overheated. Switch off the engine
immediately and allow it to cool down.
367de007
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.
Checking coolant level, refer to
page 125.
Green lamps
The number of illuminated lamps
decreases as the time for your next
maintenance visit approaches.
Yellow lamp
This field appears together with
OILSERVICE or INSPECTION.
This alerts you that maintenance is due.
Please arrange for an appointment with
your BMW center.
Red lamp
Maintenance is overdue.
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Clock Computer*
You can correct the time by pressing
the buttons (arrows) with a sharp object
such as a ball-point pen.
Set the clock forward by pressing the
right button; set the clock back by
pressing the left button.
367de728
Mode selection
You can call up the computer data in
the display from ignition switch posi-
tion 1 with the turn indicator lever.
Press the button briefly to select the
next display mode.
In addition, you can display the time by
pressing the button.
With the button, the calculations
for average fuel consumption and
speed are reset and begin again.
367us041
Time
The display is provided at ignition key
position 1 or higher. In ignition key
position 0, the time is displayed for
approx. 8 seconds by pressing the
button.
Following a power loss, the clock auto-
matically switches to the setting mode:
the colon flashes. Two dashes are
displayed for entering the hour.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Computer*
To enter the time
Enter the numbers for hours and
minutes by pressing the button.
Enter the hour first. Each time the
button is pressed, the hour display
increases by one. Pressing and holding
the button starts the rapid advance.
Confirm the time set with the
button. Now enter the minutes when
two zeros appear.
Enter the minutes in the same manner
as the hours.
Press the save button : the time is
started exactly on the second. The
colon stops flashing.
To reset the time
Press and hold the button for
approx. 3 seconds: enter the hour when
the colon begins to flash.
Enter the numbers by pressing the
button in the same manner as when
entering the time.
Setting the 12-hour or 24-hour
mode
Press and hold the buttons
simultaneously for approx. 1 second.
Then press the button. Now, the
mode changes from 12 to 24 hours
whenever you press the button.
When you select the 12-hour mode,
AM or PM will appear on the right-hand
side of the display panel.
The last mode selected is adopted
when you press or automatically
stored approx. 5 seconds after the last
setting.
Outside temperature
If the outside temperature drops to
approx. +37.5 7 (+3 6), a warning
signal sounds (ice warning). The
temperature display appears automati-
cally and flashes for 8 seconds.
The warning is repeated whenever the
temperature has reached at least
+43 7 (+6 6) and then drops to
+37.5 7 (+3 6) again.
The ice warning does not alter the
fact that surface ice can form at
temperatures above +37.5 7 (+3 6),
on bridges or shaded road surfaces, for
instance.<
367us712
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Computer*
Average fuel consumption
The calculation is made when the
engine is running. Periods when the
vehicle is parked and the engine is not
running are not included.
New calculation:
When this function has been activated
and you press the button, the fuel
consumption is recalculated from that
point in time.
367us713
Estimated cruising range
The computer bases its calculations of
the cruising range on the previous
driving style and on the remaining fuel.
When three dashes flash in the display,
the cruising range is below 9 miles
(15 km). You should refuel as soon as
possible.
Refueling is registered by the computer
with the ignition key in position 1 or
higher.
If the vehicle has been parked at
an angle, the cruising range
cannot be displayed accurately. The
display will be corrected while the
vehicle is moving.<
367us714
Average speed
Periods when the vehicle is parked and
the engine is switched off are not
included in the calculation.
At speeds below 100 mph or 100 km/h,
the display includes decimals.
New calculation:
When this function has been activated
and you press the button, the
average speed is recalculated from that
point in time.
367us715
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
The concept
This system helps provide additional
dynamic stability, particularly when
starting off, accelerating and cornering.
ASC+T recognizes the danger present
in traction loss and will increase driving
stability and traction by reducing the
engine's output, and if necessary, by
applying the brakes individually to the
rear wheels.
ASC+T is available as soon as the
engine starts up.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster goes out shortly
after you switch on the ignition,
refer to page 22.
The indicator lamp flashes:
ASC+T controls the drive and braking
forces.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or if it comes on
during normal driving and stays on:
There is a system malfunction or the
system was switched off with the
button. Consequently, interventions to
increase driving stability (as described
in the preceding column) are not avail-
able. You can still drive the vehicle
normally without ASC+T.
In the event of a malfunction, please
consult your BMW center.
Switch off ASC+T
Press the button (arrow); the indicator
lamp comes on and stays on.
In the following rare situations, it may
be effective to switch off the ASC+T for
a brief period:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
> When driving with snow chains.
To maintain vehicle stability, drive
with the ASC+T switched on
whenever possible.<
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Automatic Stability Control plus Traction (ASC+T)
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ASC+T Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)*
Reactivate the ASC+T
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with ASC+T. 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.<
For additional details concerning
ASC+T, please refer to the chapter,
"Advanced technology," page 165.
The concept
DSC maintains vehicle stability, even in
critical driving situations.
The system optimizes vehicle stability
during acceleration and when starting
from a full stop, as well as optimizing
traction. In addition, it recognizes
unstable vehicle conditions, such as
understeering or oversteering, and, as
far as is possible within the laws of
physics, helps keep the vehicle on a
steady course by reducing the engine
speed and brake applications to the
individual wheels.
The DSC is operational every time you
start the engine. DSC includes the
functions of ADB and CBC, refer to
page 102.
The ADB (Automatic Differential
Braking) copies the function of conven-
tional differential and transverse locks
through brake intervention, and
increases traction whenever conditions
merit, e.g. when driving on snow-
covered roads.
If the DSC is deactivated the ADB is in
ready mode.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster goes out shortly
after you switch on the ignition,
refer to page 22.
The indicator lamp flashes:
DSC controls the drive and braking
forces.
The indicator lamp stays lit:
DSC has been switched off via the
button; ADB is in ready mode.
ADB control intervention is not indi-
cated.
The indicator lamp and the
brake warning lamp remain on:
The DSC, ADB and DBC have
been switched off via the button
or are defective.
The vehicle will remain completely
operational, however without DSC. In
the event of a fault, please see your
BMW center.
Indicator and warning lamps for
Canadian models.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)*
Switch off DSC/activate ADB
Press the DSC switch (arrow) – the indi-
cator lamp comes on and remains on.
DSC has been switched off; ADB is in
ready mode.
In the following exceptional circum-
stances, it may be effective to activate
the ADB for a short period:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
> When driving on snow-covered
grades, in deep snow, or on a snow-
covered surface that has been
packed down from being driven on
> When driving with snow chains.
367de739
Switch off DSC and ADB
Hold the DSC switch down for at least
3 seconds. The indicator lamp and the
red warning lamp for the brake
hydraulic system remain on.
In this case, no interventions to
increase stability and traction for engine
and brakes are carried out.
To maintain vehicle stability, drive
with the DSC switched on when-
ever possible.<
Reactivate DSC and ADB
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp or the indicator lamps will go out.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. It will
always be the driver's responsibility to
drive in a manner that matches road
conditions. We therefore urge you to
avoid using the additional safety margin
of the system as an excuse for taking
risks.
The DSC is deactivated and will not
carry out any stabilizing intervention
when the ADB is in ready mode.
Do not make any modifications to the
DSC system. Allow only authorized
technicians to perform service proce-
dures on the DSC.<
You will find additional details
concerning DSC in the chapter
"Advanced technology" on page 165.
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Parking lamps/Low beams Fog lamps
Parking lamps (position lamps/
side marker lamps)
Position 1
With the switch in this position,
vehicle lighting on both sides is
on.
Low beams
Position 2
When you switch the ignition off
while the low beams are still on,
only the parking lamps (position lamps/
side marker lamps) remain on.
Instrument panel lighting
In order to adjust the illumination
intensity, turn the pulled switch.
367us021
LIGHTS ON warning
When you open the driver's door after
turning the ignition key to position 0,
a warning signal sounds for a few
seconds to remind you if the headlamps
have not been switched off.
Daytime driving lamps*
The headlamps are automatically
switched on for daylight driving at
ignition key position 2.
Front fog lamps*
A green indicator lamp comes
on in the instrument cluster to
indicate that the front fog lamps
are on.
It is not possible to switch on the front
fog lamps together with the high
beams.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Interior lamps
Z3 roadster
1 Continuously off
2 Automatically controlled
3 Continuously on
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Z3 roadster
Z3 coupe – front
1 Continuously on
2 Continuously off
3 Automatically controlled
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Z3 cou
p
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Z3 coupe – rear
1 Continuously on
2 Continuously off
3 Automatically controlled
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Z3 coupe
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Reading lamps
The Z3 coupe is equipped with reading
lamps:
1 Continuously on
2 Continuously off
3 Automatically controlled
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p
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In order to conserve the battery,
all of the lamps in the vehicle are
switched off about 15 minutes after the
ignition key is turned to position 0.<
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Heating and ventilation
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Heating and ventilation
1 Airflow toward the windshield and
side windows
2 Airflow toward upper body
The rotary dials allow infinitely-vari-
able regulation of the air supply. You
can change the airflow direction with
the lever in the center of the vent or
by rotating the vent grille 82
3 Front footwell ventilation
4 Air distribution onto the
> windows
> upper body
> footwell
All intermediate settings are
possible 82
5 Temperature 82
6 Air supply
The heating and ventilation are oper-
ational beginning with position 1 82
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Heating and ventilation
Air distribution
You can direct the airflow onto
the windows , toward the
upper body and into the foot-
well . All intermediate settings are
possible. In this position , a small
volume of air is directed onto the
windows in order to keep them free of
condensation.
A "6 o'clock" position is recommended
as the normal operating setting.
Temperature
In order to increase the temper-
ature of the passenger compart-
ment, turn to the right (red). For
rapid heating, turn completely to the
right. Then select an interior tempera-
ture which is pleasant for you.
Air supply
You can select blower speeds
from 1 to 4. Both heating and
ventilation become more effec-
tive as the air supply rate is increased.
In position 0, the blower and the heater
are switched off.
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the air outlets for the
upper body area completely for your
personal comfort:
Use the rotary dial 2 to open and close
the vent throughout an infinitely-vari-
able range. With the levers 1, you can
direct the airflow to the side. Adjust the
airflow up or down by rotating the vent
grill.
Set the outlets so that the air flows past
you and is not directed straight at you.
367de224
Rapid ventilation
1. Set the blower speed control for the
air supply rate to position 4
2. Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the left (blue). Then
select an interior temperature which
is pleasant for you
3. Rotary control for air distribution in
position
4. Open the outlets for the upper body
area.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Heating and ventilation
Rapid heating
1. Set the blower speed control for the
air supply rate to position 3
2. Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the right (red). Then
select an interior temperature which
is pleasant for you
3. Rotary dial for air distribution in posi-
tion .
367de706
Heating
This setting is recommended if the
windows are free of ice or condensa-
tion:
1. Set the blower speed control for the
air supply rate to position 2
2. Use the rotary temperature control to
select an interior temperature which
is pleasant for you
3. Rotary control for air distribution in
position .
367de707
To defrost windows and
remove condensation
1. Set the blower speed control for the
air supply rate to position 4
2. Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the right (red)
3. Rotary control for air distribution in
position
4. To defrost the rear window on the
coupe, switch on the rear window
defroster.
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Heating and ventilation/Air conditioner*
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Heating and ventilation/Air conditioner*
1 Airflow toward the windshield and
side windows
2 Airflow toward upper body
The rotary dials allow infinitely-vari-
able regulation of the air supply. You
can change the airflow direction with
the lever in the center of the vent or
by rotating the vent grille 87
3 Front footwell ventilation
4 Air distribution onto the
> windows
> upper body
> footwell
All intermediate settings are
possible 86
5 Temperature 86
6 Air supply
The heating and ventilation are oper-
ational beginning with position 1 86
7 Recirculated-air mode 86
8 Air conditioner 86
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Heating and ventilation/Air conditioner*
Air distribution
You can direct the flow of air
onto the windows , toward
the upper body and into the
footwell . All intermediate settings
are possible. In position , a small
volume of air is directed onto the
windows in order to keep them free of
condensation.
A "6 o'clock" position is recommended
as the normal operating setting.
Temperature
In order to increase the temper-
ature of the passenger compart-
ment, turn to the right (red). For
rapid heating, turn completely to the
right. Then select an interior tempera-
ture which is pleasant for you.
Air supply
You can select blower speeds
from 1 to 4. Both heating and
ventilation become more effec-
tive as the air supply rate is increased.
In position 0, the blower and the heater
are switched off.
Air conditioner
The air is cooled and dehumidi-
fied and – depending on the
temperature setting – warmed
again when the air conditioner system
is switched on. Depending on the
weather, the windshield may fog over
briefly when the engine is started.
Use the button to switch the air condi-
tioner off at outside temperatures
below approx. 41 7(+5 6). This will
help to prevent condensation from
forming on the windows.
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, which then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
Recirculated-air mode
If there are unpleasant odors in
the outside air, you can tempo-
rarily block the supply of the
incoming air. The system then recircu-
lates the air currently within the vehicle.
If the windows fog over in the
recirculated-air mode, switch this
mode off and increase the air supply as
required.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Heating and ventilation/Air conditioner*
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the air outlets for the
upper body area completely for your
personal comfort:
Use the rotary dial 2 to open and close
the vent throughout an infinitely-vari-
able range. With the levers 1 you can
direct the airflow to the side, and up or
down by rotating the vent grill.
Set the outlets so that the air flows past
you and is not directed straight at you.
367de224
Rapid ventilation
1. Set the blower speed control for the
air supply rate to position 4
2. Switch on the air conditioner
*
3. Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the left (blue). Then
select an interior temperature which
is pleasant for you
4. Rotary control for air distribution in
position
5. Open the outlets for the upper body
area.
367de709
Cooling
1. Set the blower speed control for the
air supply rate to position 2
2. Switch on the air conditioner
*
3. Use the rotary temperature control to
select an interior temperature which
is comfortable for you
4. Rotary control for air distribution in
position
5. Open the outlets for the upper body
area.
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Heating and ventilation/Air conditioner*
Heating
This setting is recommended if the
windows are free of ice and condensa-
tion:
1. Set the blower speed control for the
air supply rate to position 2
2. Use the rotary temperature control to
select an interior temperature which
is pleasant for you
3. Rotary control for air distribution in
position .
367de711
Rapid heating
1. Set the blower speed control for the
air supply rate to position 3
2. Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the right (red). Then
select an interior temperature which
is pleasant for you
3. Rotary dial for air distribution in posi-
tion .
367de712
To defrost the windows and
remove condensation
1. Set the blower speed control for the
air supply rate to position 4
2. Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the right (red)
3. Rotary control for air distribution in
position
4. To defrost the rear window on the
coupe, switch on the rear window
defroster.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Seat heating*
The seat cushion and backrest can be
heated at ignition key position 2.
Press the buttons with the heating
symbols:
Rapid heating as long as the
button comes on brightly. Auto-
matic changeover to regular
heating.
Heating as long as the button
comes on brightly. Heating
switches off automatically.
To switch over while heating: press the
section of the button that is dimly lit.
To switch off early: press the section of
the button that is brightly lit.
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To open
Pull the handle and push down the
door.
To close
Push the door up.
To prevent injury in the event of
an accident, close the glove
compartment immediately after use.<
367us034
Storage compartments are located in
the center console, in the doors and, on
the Z3 coupe, between the backrests
(refer to the illustration).
A coin box
* is located in the door
pocket on the driver's side.
A storage net is mounted on the
passenger side of the center console.
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Z3 cou
p
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The Z3 roadster has locking storage
boxes
*:
Small storage box
Press button 1 to open the box.
Large storage box
Press button 3 and lift the lid of the box.
Both of the storage boxes can be
locked with the master keys (refer to
page 30) at lock 2.
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Z3 roadster
Glove compartment Storage compartments Storage boxes*
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Beverage holder* Ashtray*
The beverage holder is located in the
center console next to the parking
brake.
You will find a coin box in front of the
beverage holders.
367us743
To open
Press down on the left of the lid (arrow).
To extinguish a cigarette, tap off the
ash and gently press the tip into the
funnel.
367de038
To empty
Open the lid and press down (arrow):
The ashtray insert pops up and can be
removed.
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Cigarette lighter*
Press in. The lighter can be removed as
soon as it pops up.
Hold or touch the hot cigarette
lighter by the knob only. Holding
or touching it in other areas could result
in burns.
The cigarette lighter remains opera-
tional when the ignition key has been
removed. For this reason, children
should never be left in the vehicle unat-
tended.<
367de734
Cigarette lighter socket
This socket can be used for connecting
a flashlight, car vacuum cleaner, or
other appliances up to approx.
200 watts at 12 volts. Do not damage
the socket by inserting plugs of a
different shape or size.
Non-smoker's equipment
package
*
On vehicles with the non-smoker's
equipment package, the socket is
concealed by a cover.
For access to the socket: lift the cover
off.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Pull out the roll-up cover and hook it
into the holders at the rear.
The roll-up cover can carry light items
such as articles of clothing.
Do not place heavy or hard
objects on the roll-up cover.
These objects could endanger vehicle
occupants during heavy brake applica-
tions and evasive action or in a crash.
Do not allow the roll-up cover to snap
back when it is retracted. This could
damage it.<
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Z3 cou
p
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Pull out the partition net on the strap
and grip the bar firmly with the other
hand. Then grasp the bar on both sides,
pull it up and position it into the
holders. This process will work out best
if you do it from inside the passenger
compartment.
Do not allow the partition net to
snap back when it is retracted. If
this is done, there is a risk of personal
injury, and the partition net could be
damaged.<
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p
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Roll-up cover Partition net*
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Cargo loading
Stowing cargo
If you are transporting cargo in your
coupe:
> Load heavy cargo as far forward as
possible – directly behind 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
> Pull the partition net
* out (refer to
page 93). Be sure that no items are
able to penetrate the partition net.
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p
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Securing cargo
For securing luggage, you can obtain
load-securing devices
* from your BMW
center. The lashing eyes located in the
luggage compartment serve for
mounting these load-securing devices.
Comply with the information enclosed
with the load-securing devices.
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p
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Always position and secure the
cargo correctly. If you do not, it
can endanger the passengers during
braking or evasive maneuvers, for
example.
Do not exceed the approved gross
vehicle weight or the specified
maximum axle loads (refer to
page 172), otherwise the vehicle's
operating safety is no longer assured
and you are in violation of the law.
Do not carry hard or heavy objects
unsecured in the passenger compart-
ment. If you do so, they may be
projected through the air during braking
and evasive maneuvers, for example,
thus endangering vehicle occupants.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Roof-mounted luggage rack
A special roof-rack system is available
for your coupe as an optional acces-
sory. Please comply with the precau-
tions included with the installation
instructions.
Roof-mounted luggage racks raise the
center of gravity of the vehicle when
they are loaded. For this reason, they
have a major effect on the vehicle's
handling and steering response.
You should therefore always remember
not to exceed the approved roof load
capacity, the approved gross vehicle
weight or the axle loads when loading
the rack. You will find the specifications
for this under "Technical Data" on
page 172.
Make sure that the load is not too large
in size, and distribute it evenly. Always
load the heaviest pieces first (on the
bottom). Be sure that adequate clear-
ance is maintained for raising the
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 and braking. Do not corner
at high speeds.
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
97n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedure 98
Driving notes 99
Catalytic converter 100
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 101
Disc brakes 103
Brake system 104
Winter operation 105
Power steering 106
Cellular phone 107
Car radio reception 107
Hardtop – roadster 108
Wheels and tires:
Notes on inflation pressures 110
Tire condition 110
Tire replacement 111
Tire rotation 113
Wheel and tire
combinations 114
Special features of winter
tires 115
Snow chains 115
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 116
In the engine compartment:
Hood 118
Engine compartment 120
Fluids for the washer
systems 122
Washer nozzles 122
Engine oil 123
Coolant 125
Brake fluid 126
Vehicle Identification 127
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 128
Airbags 130
Storing your vehicle 130
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 132
California Proposition
65 Warning 132
OBD interface socket 133
Maintenance
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To ensure that your vehicle provides
maximum economy throughout a long
service life, we request that you
observe the following:
Engine and differential
Up to 1,200 miles (2,000 km):
Drive with varying engine and road
speeds, but do not exceed 4,500 rpm
or 100 mph (150 km/h).
Comply with local and state maximum
speed limits.
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid
pressing the accelerator beyond the
kickdown point.
After you have driven 1,200 miles
(2,000 km), you can gradually increase
the engine and road speeds.
You should also comply with these
break-in procedures if the engine or
differential is replaced later in the
course of the vehicle's 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. You should
therefore drive with extra caution during
the initial 200 miles (300 km).
Comply with 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
Approx. 300 miles (500 km) must
elapse before the brake pads and
rotors achieve the optimal surface and
wear pattern.
To break-in the separate parking brake
drums, apply the parking brake lightly
when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic
signal, for instance), provided that
traffic conditions allow you to do so.
To avoid corrosion, repeat this proce-
dure from time to time.
The brake lamps do not light up
when the parking brake is applied.
Vacuum for the brake system booster
on your BMW is available only when the
engine is running. When you move the
vehicle with the engine off – for instance
,
by towing – substantially higher levels
of pedal force will be required to brake
the vehicle.<
Clutch
The clutch will reach optimal function
after approx. 300 miles (500 km). Shift
gears carefully during the break-in
period.
Break-in procedure
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Driving notes
Brakes:
Do not drive with your foot resting
on the brake pedal. Even light but
consistent pedal pressure can lead to
high temperatures, brake wear and
possibly even brake failure.
Aquaplaning:
When driving on wet or slushy roads,
reduce vehicle speed. If you do not, a
wedge of water may form between the
tires and the road surface. This
phenomenon is referred to as aqua-
planing or hydroplaning. It is character-
ized by a partial or complete loss of
contact between the tires and the road
surface. The ultimate results are loss of
steering and braking control.
Driving through water:
When there is water on the roads, do
not drive in it if it is deeper than 1 ft
(30 cm). If the water is at that depth,
drive only at walking speed, otherwise
the vehicle can sustain damage to the
engine, the electrical systems and the
transmission.
Clothes hooks (coupe):
Hang items of clothing on the hooks in
such a manner that they do not obstruct
the driver's vision. Do not hang heavy
objects on the hooks. If you do so, they
could cause personal injury during
braking or evasive maneuvers.<
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Catalytic converter
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's
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
> If the engine runs roughly, shut it off
as soon as possible
> Tow-start the vehicle only when the
engine is cold. Tow-starting when the
engine is warm could cause unburned
fuel to ignite on the way to the cata-
lytic converter, resulting in significant
damage. It is better to start the vehicle
with an outside starting aid
> Avoid any other situations in which
the fuel would not be (completely)
burned, for instance:
Frequent or consecutive extended
starting attempts or repeated starting
attempts when the engine fails to
start. (Shutting down 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 comply with the
instructions above to prevent
unburned fuel from reaching the cata-
lytic converter. Otherwise, the catalytic
converter could respond by over-
heating, leading to serious damage.
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 while the engine
is idling, or when parking, be careful to
avoid contact between the hot exhaust
system and easily-flammable materials
(hay, dry grass, leaves, etc.). Such
contact could cause a fire, resulting in
personal injuries and property
damage.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The concept
The Antilock Brake System (ABS) keeps
the wheels from locking during 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.
The system can achieve the shortest
braking distances possible under most
conditions (on straight-aways or in
curves, on the various road surfaces).
ABS is designed to meet two essential
requirements during every brake appli-
cation:
> To help provide vehicle stability
> Assured ability to steer and maneuver
on the various road surfaces (asphalt,
concrete, dirt, wet conditions, snow
and ice).
Braking with ABS
The system is operative once the
vehicle exceeds a speed of approx.
6 mph (10 km/h). It is inactive once
again below approx. 4 mph (6 km/h).
Therefore, the wheels could theoreti-
cally tend to lock in the final phase of a
braking action, but this is insignificant in
actual practice.
If you are in a situation which requires
full braking, you will exploit the full
benefits of the ABS system if you apply
maximum brake pressure ("panic stop").
Since the vehicle maintains steering
responsiveness, you can avoid possible
obstacles with a minimum of steering
effort, despite the full brake application.
The ABS closed-loop control circuit
cycles in fractions of a second. The
pulsation at the brake pedal, together
with sounds generated by the hydraulic
control system, indicate to you that the
vehicle is approaching its maximum
braking range. It is a reminder to you
that you must adapt the vehicle's road
speed to existing road conditions.
On road surfaces that have a loose
surface layer on a firm base with good
traction (on gravel, deep sand or snow,
for example), braking distances may be
longer than with locked wheels. This
also applies for driving with snow
chains. However, ABS continues to
provide enhanced vehicle stability and
steering response under these condi-
tions.
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Antilock Brake System (ABS)
Information for your safety
Not even ABS can suspend the laws
of physics. ABS alone cannot prevent
accidents if the brakes are applied
without an adequate, safe distance
between vehicles or if the speed limit
has been exceeded. Nor can it prevent
the hazards of aquaplaning. Responsi-
bility for these types of situations
remains in the hands (and at the feet) of
the driver. You should never allow the
added safety of ABS to lull you into a
false sense of security, or mislead you
into taking increased 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.
In the event of a fault
The ABS warning lamp comes
on, refer to page 21. The brake
system then reverts to conven-
tional operation as on vehicles
without ABS. However, have the
brake system checked by your
BMW center as soon as possible. To
prevent undetected defects and cumu-
lative faults from adversely affecting the
brake system, refer any problems to
your BMW center at the earliest oppor-
tunity.
The red warning lamp for the
brake hydraulic system comes
on together with the yellow indi-
cator lamps for ABS, ASC+T/
DSC
and ADB/DBC (refer to
page 21), the entire ABS, CBC,
ASC+T/DSC and ADB/DBC
control system has failed.
Continue to drive cautiously and
defensively. Avoid full brake applica-
tions because the vehicle could
become unstable and go out of control.
Have the system checked by your BMW
center as soon as possible.
Warning lamps for Canadian
models.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
ABS Disc brakes
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)*
DBC is included in the DSC, refer to
information beginning on page 74.
If you step on the brake rapidly, this
system automatically produces
maximum braking force boost and thus
helps to achieve the shortest possible
braking distance during "panic stops".
All of the benefits of the ABS system
are exploited under these circum-
stances.
Do not reduce the pressure on the
brake pedal for the duration of the
brake application. When the brake
pedal is released, the DBC is deacti-
vated.
In the event of a malfunction,
the brake warning lamp lights up
yellow. Normal braking effi-
ciency is still fully available.
Have the system checked and
repaired at your BMW center as
soon as possible.
Please observe the section "Infor-
mation for your safety" concerning
the ABS system, which also applies to
the DSC system.<
Disc 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, or in oper-
ating conditions where brake applica-
tions are less frequent, there is an
increased tendency for corrosion of the
rotors and accumulation of contamina-
tion on the brake pads. This occurs
because the minimal pressure which
must be exerted by the pads to clean
the rotors by brake applications is not
reached.
If the brake rotors 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 that 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 in the event of their use.<
Driving notes
While driving in wet conditions and in
heavy rain, it is advisable to apply light
pressure to the brake pedal every few
miles – watch traffic conditions to
ensure that this maneuver does not
endanger other road users. The heat
generated in this process helps dry the
pads and rotors.
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 fails, you should revert
to the staggered braking technique
described on page 106.
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.
You can increase the engine's braking
effect by selecting progressively lower
gears, downshifting into first gear, if
necessary. You can also downshift into
first gear if you are using the manual
mode in a vehicle with automatic trans-
mission, refer to page 63.
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Disc brakes Brake system
Should engine braking prove inade-
quate, you should still avoid extended,
continuous braking. Instead, decelerate
the vehicle with increased pressure on
the brake pedal (watch for following
traffic), release the pedal and then
repeat the brake application (staggered
braking). This staggered braking tech-
nique allows the brakes to cool in the
intervals between active braking
phases, preventing overheating and
ensuring that full braking capacity
remains available at all times.
Do not coast with the clutch
depressed or with the transmis-
sion or selector lever in Neutral. Do not
coast with the engine switched off. The
engine provides no braking effect when
the clutch is depressed and there is no
power-assist for braking or steering
when the engine is not running.
Never allow floor mats, carpets or any
other objects to protrude into the area
around the accelerator, clutch and
brake pedals and obstruct their move-
ment.<
Brake fluid level
The warning lamp for the
hydraulic brake system comes
on:
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
noticeably longer, there may be a
defect in one of the two brake system's
hydraulic circuits.
Proceed to the nearest BMW
center. Higher brake application
pressure may be necessary under these
conditions, and braking distances may
be significantly longer. Please
remember to adapt your driving style
accordingly.<
Brake pads
The warning lamp for the brake
pads comes on:
The brake pads have reached
their minimum pad thickness. Proceed
to the nearest BMW center as soon as
possible to have the pads replaced.
For your own safety: use only
brake pads that BMW has
approved for your 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 in the event of their use.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
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 vehicle
operation through the winter remains
safe and trouble-free.
Coolant
Ensure that the coolant contains the
year-round 50:50 ratio of water and
antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor. This
mixture provides protection against
freezing down to approx. –34 7
(–37 6 ). Replace the coolant every
three years.
Locks
BMW door lock deicer can be used to
free the doors if they are frozen. This
deicer also contains lubricant.
After using deicer, treatment with BMW
lock cylinder grease is recommended.
Rubber seals and components
In order to prevent freezing, apply BMW
rubber treatment to weather-stripping
on the doors, hood, luggage compart-
ment and to convertible top seals.
A full range of car-care products is
available from your BMW center.<
Snow chains
BMW snow chains* can be mounted on
both summer and winter tires. Mount
them in pairs on the rear wheels only.
Comply with the manufacturer's safety
precautions. Do not exceed a speed
limit of 30 mph (50 km/h) when driving
with chains. As an exception in this
situation, we recommend that you
switch off the ASC+T/DSC
* system
when snow chains are mounted. Refer
to pages 73, 74.
Starting off
When starting from a full stop or
"rocking" free in deep snow, we recom-
mend that you switch off the ASC+T/
DSC
* system, refer to pages 73, 74.
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. Shift down
into the next lowest gear when
approaching uphill or downhill grades.
Maintain an adequate distance between
yourself and the vehicle ahead.
Brakes
Winter road conditions substantially
reduce the traction available between
the tires and the road surface.
Remember that – in every situation –
braking distances will be significantly
longer as a result of this.
ABS is intended to prevent the wheels
from locking during brake applications,
thus helping to maintain vehicle stability
and steering response.
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Winter operation Power steering
If it should occur that the ABS does not
respond in a critical braking situation
and the wheels lock: reduce the pres-
sure on the brake pedal until the wheels
just start to roll again while still main-
taining enough force to continue
braking. Following that, increase pedal
pressure again. Reduce the pressure as
the wheels lock, then reapply pressure.
Repeat this process.
This type of staggered braking will
shorten the braking distance, and the
vehicle still remains responsive to
steering.
You can still attempt to steer around
hazards once you have reduced the
pressure 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.<
Declutch during hard braking on
road surfaces which provide only
poor or uneven traction.<
Skid control
Depress the clutch and release the
accelerator pedal, or place the selector
lever of the automatic transmission into
the "Neutral" position. Countersteer
carefully and attempt to regain control
of the vehicle.
Parking
Engage 1st or reverse gear. If your
vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transmission, place the selector lever in
"Park". On vehicles with manual trans-
mission, also apply the parking brake
when parking on inclined surfaces. In
order to prevent the parking brake
linings 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.<
If you notice a change in steering
response (high steering effort, for
example):
Consult a BMW center to have the
system checked.
If the power steering fails,
increased effort will be required
to steer the vehicle.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Cellular phone* Car radio reception
Mobile communications systems
(cellular phones, two-way radios, etc.)
are approved only up to a power output
of 10 watts. Nonetheless, they may
cause interference in the operation of
your vehicle if they are not specifically
designed for use in your vehicle. BMW
can neither test nor assume responsi-
bility 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, refrain from using a cellular phone
or other radio device with an antenna
located inside the passenger compart-
ment. The antenna should always be
fitted 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 varies
according to a variety of factors,
including the broadcast range of the
transmitter and the directional orienta-
tion of the antenna. Interference factors
such as high-tension power lines, build-
ings and natural obstructions can all
lead to unavoidable reception interfer-
ence, regardless of how well the
vehicle's sound system is operating.
Climatic factors such as intense solar
radiation, fog, rain and snow can also
interfere with reception.
Cellular phones without official BMW
approval can also generate interference
during use. This phenomenon assumes
the form of a low-pitched hum
emanating from the speaker system.
Please refer to the Owner's Manual
provided with your sound system for
detailed information on its use.
Whenever necessary (when
entering a car wash, for instance),
remove the rod antenna
*. To remove
the antenna, grasp the rod at the
bottom and unscrew it to the left from
the antenna base.<
You will find additional information
concerning car radio reception in the
chapter "Advanced technology" on
page 166.
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Hardtop* – roadster
The fabric top does not have to be
removed even in winter, when the
hardtop is normally in constant use. In
order to prevent water spots and
mildew stains, the fabric top must be
completely dry before it is stored in the
convertible top compartment.
Two people are necessary for the
installation and removal of the hardtop.
Work with extreme caution during this
operation to avoid paint damage and
damage to the body and hardtop.
You may purchase a hardtop lift
* from
your BMW center. This accessory is
especially designed to facilitate installa-
tion and removal of the hardtop.
Installation
Hook the protective fabric on the
convertible top linkage (arrow).
Open the convertible top and fold it
down in the convertible top compart-
ment, refer to pages 40 and 44.
When doing this, make sure the rear
window is laid down evenly and free
of creases. To prevent the rear window
from being scratched, position the
protective fabric in the window fold.
Do not install the convertible top cover.
Lower the side windows and remove
the rod antenna if necessary to avoid
damage.
367de384
Rotate the cover panel which is located
in the right and left trim panels behind
the seats in the direction of the arrow
until the opening for the hardtop mount
is completely free.
Remove the hardtop from the protec-
tive cover. Clean any dirt and dust from
the contact surfaces between the
hardtop and the vehicle body in order
to protect against abrasion.
Position the hardtop on the mounts with
the assistance of a second person.
367de385
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Hardtop* – roadster
Using the wrench from the onboard tool
kit (fastened to the jack with a Velcro®
strip), turn the screw (arrow) two to
three turns into the windshield frame on
the right and left sides.
367de386
Turn the right and left locking levers of
the rear hardtop mounting fasteners in
the direction of the arrow to the stop.
The rear mounting fasteners are
locked correctly when the locking
levers engage audibly and point to the
rear of the vehicle.<
Finally, tighten the screws in the wind-
shield frame (refer to the left column)
and secure the wrench in the onboard
tool kit.
After you have driven approx.
30 to 60 miles (50 to 100 km),
check the front hardtop fasteners to be
sure that they are seated securely.<
367de387
Removal
Reverse the above procedure for
removal of the hardtop.
The two screws of the front
hardtop fasteners remain perma-
nently in the windshield frame of your
vehicle to prevent their loss.<
Following the initial delivery of the
vehicle, or after the hardtop has been in
use for an extended period, closing the
convertible top requires increased
effort. You may find this operation
easier with the assistance of a second
person. Following that, the convertible
top should remain closed for at least
12 hours.
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Information for your safety
The factory-approved radial tires are
matched to the vehicle and have been
selected to provide optimum safety and
driving comfort on your vehicle.
In a very real sense, both tire life and
your own safety are riding on correct
tire specifications and inflation pres-
sures, refer to page 26.
Incorrect tire inflation pressure is
a frequent cause of tire damage. It
also significantly influences the road-
holding ability of your BMW. Be sure to
check the tire inflation pressures,
including the spare tire, on a regular
basis, at least twice a month and before
doing any extended driving, refer to
page 26. If this is not done, incorrect
tire pressures can cause driving insta-
bility and tire damage, ultimately
resulting in accidents.<
Check the inflation pressure of
the spare tire
For checking tire pressures, there is a
valve extension (arrow) on the storage
tray of the spare wheel which is acces-
sible from outside.
367de309
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 pattern depth.
Tread depth should not be allowed to
go below 0.12 in (3 mm), even though
the legally specified minimum tread
depth is 0.063 in (1.6 mm). Tread wear
indicators (arrow) are embedded in the
base of the tire's tread. Their locations
are indicated by the legend TWI – Tread
Wear Indicator – at various points on
the tire's shoulder. When the tread
reaches a depth of 0.063 in (1.6 mm),
these indicators appear to signal that
the tires have worn to the minimum
legal level. Below 0.12 in (3 mm) tread
depth, there is an increased risk of
aquaplaning, even at relatively
390de331
Notes on inflation pressures Tire condition
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Tire condition Tire replacement
moderate speeds and with only small
amounts of water on the road.
Never continue driving 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 causes over-
heating and damage inside the tires.
The ultimate result can assume the
form of a sudden air loss.
Unusual vibrations encountered during
normal vehicle operation can indicate a
flat tire or some other vehicle malfunc-
tion. The type of problem can be
caused by contact with curbs, etc. This
is also true for irregularities in the
vehicle's handling characteristics, such
as a pronounced tendency to pull to the
left or right. Should this occur, respond
by immediately reducing your speed.
Proceed carefully to the nearest BMW
center or professional tire center, or
have the vehicle towed in to have it, its
wheels and tires inspected.
Tire damage (up to and including
sudden and complete air loss) can pose
an extreme hazard for both vehicle
occupants and other road users.<
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single tread
configuration from a single manufac-
turer. BMW tests and approves wheel
and tire combinations, refer to page 116.
DOT Quality Grades
Tread wear
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 (1g) 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.
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Tire replacement
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on speci-
fied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straight-
ahead braking traction tests, and does
not include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<
Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to degenerate
and reduce tire life, and excessive
temperature can lead to sudden tire
failure. The grade C corresponds to a
level of performance which all
passenger vehicle tires must meet
under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard No. 109. Grades B and A
represent higher levels of performance
on the laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.
The temperature grade for this tire
is established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not overloaded.
Excessive speed, 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 as this
could negatively affect driving
safety. This is due to the possible varia-
tions in casing structures and, in some
cases, to their extreme age, factors
which can lead to a decrease in their
durability.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance 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 ... 2501 indicates that the tire was
manufactured in week 25 of 2001.
BMW recommends the replacement
of all tires when the tires are no more
than 6 years old, even if a tire usage of
10 years is possible.
Spare tires over 6 years old should be
used only in case of emergency. A tire
of this age should be replaced by a new
tire immediately, and should not be
fitted together with new tires.
Between the axles
Tread wear at the front and rear axle is
different and will vary according to indi-
vidual driving conditions. In the interest
of safety and optimal vehicle response,
we advise against rotating tires from
front to rear and vice versa.
If rotating the tires between the axles is
under consideration for economic
reasons, the costs for remounting the
wheels must be calculated against any
savings which might result from the
anticipated extension in tire life. Rota-
tion should always be carried out at
short intervals, with a maximum of
3,000 miles (5,000 km). Consult your
BMW center for more information.
Should you decide to rotate the tires,
it is essential to comply with the
following:
Rotate wheels on the same side of the
vehicle only, otherwise braking effi-
ciency and road grip could be adversely
affected.
Following rotation, correct the tire infla-
tion pressure.
If tires with different sizes are
mounted on the front and rear
axles (refer to the information beginning
on page 116), the wheels may not be
rotated from one axle to the other.<
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Wheel and tire combinations
The right choice
Use only wheels and tires
approved by BMW for the corre-
sponding 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 the informa-
tion beginning on page 116.
The correct wheel and tire combi-
nation affects different systems
such as ABS and ASC+T/DSC
*. The
function of these systems is impaired if
improper wheel and tire combinations
are used.
For this reason, use only tires of the
same manufacture and tread configura-
tion. In the event of a flat tire, for
example, remount the approved wheel
and tire combination as soon as
possible.<
Codes on tires and wheels
The code on the tires has the following
meaning.
Codes on radial tires:
The speed rating indicates the
approved maximum speed for the tire.
Summer tires:
S = up to 112 mph (180 km/h)
T = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
V = up to 149 mph (240 km/h)
W = up to 167 mph (270 km/h)
Y = up to 186 mph (300 km/h)
ZR = over 149 mph (240 km/h)
Example:
Nominal width
in mm
Aspect ratio in %
Belt rating ID code
for radial tires
Wheel diameter in inches
Load rating
(not on ZR tires)
Speed rating
(before R on ZR tires)
205/60 R 15 91 H
All season and 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 inserts against dirt by
using screw-on valve caps. Dirt in the
valve inserts frequently causes a slow
loss in tire pressure.
Storage
Store tires in a cool, dry place,
protecting them against light whenever
possible. Protect the tires against
contact with oil, grease and fuel.
Example:
Rim width
in inches
Code letter for
flange type
Symbol for full-drop
center rim
Rim diameter in inches
Hump on the 2 rim shoulders
7x15H2J
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Special features of winter tires Snow chains*
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends winter tires (M+S
radial tires) for operation under
inclement winter driving conditions.
While so-called all season tires (M+S
designation) provide better winter trac-
tion than summer tires with the load
ratings H, V, W, Y and ZR, they gener-
ally do not achieve the performance of
winter tires.
In the interests of sure tracking and safe
steering response, mount winter tires
which are made by the same manufac-
turer and which have the same tread
configuration at all four wheels.
Comply with recommended speed
Never exceed the maximum
speed for which the winter tires
are rated.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
service tires can lead to damage and
accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled
professionals only. Any BMW center
has the required technical knowledge
and the proper equipment and will be
happy to assist you.<
Tire condition, tire pressure
Once the tire wears to below 0.16 in
(4 mm), winter tires display a percep-
tible decrease in their ability to cope
with winter driving conditions, and
should be replaced in the interest of
safety.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressures – and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assemblies balanced
every time you change the tires.
BMW narrow-link snow chains are
intended for mounting in pairs at the
rear wheels only. Comply with all manu-
facturer's safety precautions when
mounting the chains. Do not exceed a
speed of 30 mph (50 km/h) while
driving with mounted snow chains.
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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 Suitable for
snow chains
Steel wheel
(rim)
Light-alloy
wheel
Z3 roadster 2.5i
Summer
225/50 R 16 92 V
225/50 ZR 16
✻ – 7Jx16
Front: 225/45 ZR 17
Rear: 245/40 ZR 17
–
–
–
–
7.5Jx17
8.5Jx17
Winter (M+S)
205/60 R 15 91 Q/T/H ✻ 6.5Jx15 7Jx15
205/55 R 16 91 Q/T/H
225/50 R 16 92 Q/T/H
✻ 7Jx16 7Jx16
225/45 R 17 91 Q/T/H ✻
–
–
7.5Jx17
8Jx17
Spare tire
T 115/90 R 16 92 M – 3.00Bx16 –
Use the spare wheel only for short
distances (to reach the nearest BMW
center, for instance). Due to the altered
handling characteristics, do not exceed
a maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
Mounting snow chains on the spare tire
is not possible. Be sure that all tires are
properly inflated, refer to page 27.
The use of rims and lug bolts that
do not meet the specifications of
the original factory-installed equipment
will affect the safe operation of your
vehicle and may cause an accident and
personal injury.
Never mix tires of different design, such
as steel-belted radials with bias-belted
or bias-ply tires etc. Mixing tire types
will adversely affect road-holding and
can lead to loss of vehicle control.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
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.
Z3 roadster 3.0i, Z3 coupe 3.0i
Summer
225/50 R 16 92 V
225/50 ZR 16
✻ – 7Jx16
Front: 225/45 ZR 17 – – 7.5Jx17
Rear: 245/40 ZR 17 – – 8.5Jx17
Winter (M+S)
205/55 R 16 91 Q/T/H
225/50 R 16 92 Q/T/H
✻ 7Jx16 7Jx16
225/45 R 17 91 Q ✻
–
–
7.5Jx17
8Jx17
Spare tire
T 115/90 R 16 92 M – 3.00Bx16 –
Use the spare tire only for short
distances (to reach the nearest BMW
center, for instance). Due to the altered
handling characteristics, do not exceed
a maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
Mounting snow chains on the spare tire
is not possible. Be sure that all tires are
properly inflated, refer to page 27.
The use of rims and lug bolts that
do not meet the specifications of
the original factory-installed equipment
will affect the safe operation of your
vehicle and may cause an accident and
personal injury.
Never mix tires of different design, such
as steel-belted radials with bias-belted
or bias-ply tires etc. Mixing tire types
will adversely affect road-holding and
can lead to loss of vehicle control.<
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Do not work on your vehicle
without appropriate skills. Always
switch off the engine and allow it to
cool down before working in the engine
compartment. Always disconnect the
battery before working on any electrical
systems or equipment, especially when
these are located within the engine
compartment. Comply with all appli-
cable instructions and warnings. If you
are not familiar with all guidelines, have
the work performed by your BMW
center. Otherwise, safety hazards for
vehicle occupants and other road users
may occur as a result of improper
handling of components and mate-
rials.<
To release
Pull the lever located under the left-
hand side of the instrument panel.
365de063
To open
Grasp the hood on both sides on the
level of the latch (arrow 1); press the
latch upward and simultaneously lift the
hood with both hands.
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Hood
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance 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.<
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Engine compartment – Z3 roadster 2.5i, 3.0i, Z3 coupe 3.0i
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Engine compartment – Z3 roadster 2.5i, 3.0i, Z3 coupe 3.0i
1 Engine oil dipstick 123
2 Brake fluid reservoir,
the illustration shows the reservoir for
Z3 roadster 3.0i, Z3 coupe 3.0i 126
3 Fuse box 156
4 Coolant expansion tank 125
5 Engine oil filler neck 123
6 Reservoir for windshield and
headlamp
* washer fluid 122
7 Auxiliary terminal for jump-starting –
negative terminal 158
8 Auxiliary terminal for jump-starting –
positive terminal 158
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Fluids for the washer systems Washer nozzles
Headlamp* and windshield
washer system
Capacity: approx. 5.3 US quarts
(5.0 liters).
Fill with water and – if required – with an
antifreeze agent (according to the
manufacturer's recommendations).
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
367de345
Antifreeze agent for the washer
systems is flammable. For this
reason, keep it away from sources of
flame and store it only in its original
container. Store it so that it is inacces-
sible to children. Comply with the
instructions on the containers.<
Windshield washer system
Windshield:
The spray from the nozzles should be
directed so as to ensure effective
cleaning, even at high speeds.
If necessary, correct the adjustment
with a needle, or have the adjustment
made by your BMW center.
Rear window – Z3 coupe only:
Have this system adjusted by your
BMW center as required.
Headlamp washer system*
Have this system adjusted by your
BMW center as required.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Engine oil
To check oil level
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface
2. Switch the engine off after it has
reached normal operating tempera-
ture
3. After approx. 5 minutes, pull the
dipstick out and wipe it off with a
clean lint-free cloth, paper towel, or
similar material
4. Push the dipstick carefully 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.
367de738
The space between the two marks on
the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter). Do not fill beyond
the upper mark on the dipstick. Excess
oil will damage the engine.
460de189
To add oil
While you should wait until the level has
dropped to just above the lower mark
before adding oil, you should never
allow the oil level to fall below this
mark.
BMW engines are designed to
operate without oil additives; the
use of additives could lead to damage
in some cases. This also applies to the
manual and automatic transmission, the
differential and the power steering
system.<
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Engine oil
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil which is
selected has critical significance for the
operation and service life of an engine.
Based on extensive testing, BMW has
approved only certain engine oils.
Use only approved "BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil".
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil", you can
add small amounts of synthetic oil in
between oil changes. Only use oils with
the API SH specification or higher.
Ask your BMW center for details
concerning the specific "BMW
High Performance Synthetic Oil" or
"synthetic oils" which have been
approved.<
You can also call BMW of North
America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this
website: www.bmwusa.com to obtain
this information.
Viscosity – ratings
Viscosity is the oilflow rating as estab-
lished in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class
depends on the climatic conditions in
the area where you drive your BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These oils may be utilized in all ambient
temperatures.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Engine oil Coolant
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of used oil.<
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW center only.
Continuous exposure to used oil
has caused cancer in laboratory
testing. Any skin areas that come in
contact with oil should thus be thor-
oughly washed with soap and water.
Store oil, grease, etc., out of reach of
children. Comply with warning labels
and information on containers.
If you use SAE 15W-40 engine oil in low
temperatures (below +14 7/–10 6),
the engine may become difficult to
start.
Special engine oils individually
approved by BMW are preferred for use
in your engine. Please contact your
BMW center for details.<
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, do not use anything other than
factory-approved, nitrite and amino-
free extended-duty antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor which can be used
with aluminum radiator cores. Your
BMW center is familiar with the
approved specifications.
Antifreeze and anti-corrosion agents
are hazardous to health. Store them in
their original containers. Keep the
containers tightly closed and out of
reach of children.
Extended-duty antifreeze with corro-
sion inhibitor contains the flammable
substance ethylene glycol. For this
reason, do not spill extended-duty anti-
freeze with corrosion inhibitor on hot
engine components. If you do, it could
be ignited and cause burns.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of extended-duty antifreeze
with corrosion inhibitor.<
Checking coolant level
Correct coolant level when the engine
is cold (approx. +68 7/+20 6):
Unscrew the cap from the expansion
tank.
The coolant level is correct when the
upper end of the red float is at least
even with the upper edge of the filler
neck (refer to the arrow in the illustra-
tion), but no more than 0.8 in (2 cm)
above it – that is, up to the second mark
on the float (refer also to the schematic
diagram next to the filler neck).
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Coolant Brake fluid
To add coolant
Wait until the engine cools before
removing the cap from the expansion
tank. The needle of the coolant gauge
in the instrument cluster must be
located in the blue field; otherwise,
there is a danger of scalding.
1. Turn the cap slightly counterclock-
wise in order to allow accumulated
pressure to escape, then open
2. 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.
Replace the coolant regularly. Refer to
the Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models) or the Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian
models).
If the warning lamp for the brake
hydraulic system comes on:
The brake fluid level is too low, refer
also to the instructions on page 104.
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).
367de741
Z3 roadster 2.5i
Brake fluid loss may result in extended
brake pedal travel. If this occurs, refer
to the notes on page 104.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,
it absorbs moisture from the air
over time.
In order to ensure the operating safety
and reliability of the brake system, have
the brake fluid changed every two years
by a BMW center, refer also to the
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models) or the Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian
models).
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Z3 roadster 3.0i, Z3 coupe 3.0i
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Brake fluid Vehicle Identification
Brake fluid is hazardous to health and
will damage the vehicle's paint. You
should always store it in its original
container and in a location which is
inaccessible to children. Avoid brake
fluid spills. Do not fill brake fluid beyond
the "MAX" level in the
reservoir. The brake fluid could ignite
upon contact with hot engine parts and
cause serious burns.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of brake fluid.<
The Vehicle Identification Number is
located in the engine compartment
below the windshield and on the top
of the instrument panel.
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The BMW Maintenance System has
been designed as a reliable means of
providing maximum driving and oper-
ating safety – and as cost-effectively as
possible for you.
Please keep in mind that regular main-
tenance is not only necessary for the
safety of your vehicle, but also plays a
significant role in maintaining the resale
value of your vehicle.
367us709
Service Interval Display
Advanced technology is employed to
calculate the optimal maintenance
intervals, which are then indicated in
the Service Interval Display. While
conventional systems rely solely on
distance traveled to determine when
service is due, the BMW Maintenance
System considers the actual conditions
under which the vehicle operates.
From the point of view of maintenance,
62,000 miles (100,000 km) accumulated
in short-distance urban driving are not
the equivalent of the same distance
covered at moderate speeds in long-
distance highway travel. In response
to this fact, the BMW Maintenance
System monitors operating conditions
as the basis for determining the
optimum service intervals for your indi-
vidual vehicle.
The BMW Maintenance System
includes the Engine Oil Service as well
as Inspections I and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals
according to the actual loads on the
vehicle covers every kind of operating
situation. However, since oil deteriorates
over time regardless of use, even those
who drive only short distances – signifi-
cantly less than 6,200 miles (10,000 km)
annually – should have the engine oil
changed regularly. Refer to the Service
and Warranty Information Booklet (US
models) or to the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
The BMW Maintenance System
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
The BMW Maintenance System
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models)/Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
For detailed information on required
maintenance items and the work
involved, please refer to the Service
and Warranty Information Booklet (US
models) or to the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
Depending upon operating conditions,
it may be advisable to have the body
checked for damage from rocks or
gravel as a precaution against rust.
Have your BMW center perform
the maintenance and repair.
Your BMW center is always informed on
the latest maintenance work and repair
techniques and is 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 the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models). These entries will
constitute your proof that the vehicle
has received regular maintenance. They
are also required for warranty claims.<
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Airbags Storing your vehicle
1 Front airbags on the driver and
passenger side
2 Side airbags on the driver and
passenger side
Important safety notices
Do not attempt to remove the gas
generators of the airbag restraint
system from the vehicle or to disas-
semble them.
Have inspection and service proce-
dures performed by specially-trained
personnel only.
If the airbag restraint system malfunc-
tions, is deactivated or triggered as a
response to an accident, have the
system repaired by a BMW center only.
367de730
Do not make modifications of any kind
to the individual components or system
wiring. These include the upholstered
covers on the steering wheel hub, in the
instrument panel and in the side trim
panels of the doors. Never apply adhe-
sive materials to these components or
cover or modify them in any way. Do
not attempt to disassemble the steering
wheel itself.
To ensure compliance with applicable
safety regulations, have the airbag
generators disposed of by a BMW
center only.
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.<
If you intend to store the vehicle
for longer than three months, have
the maintenance operations described
on this page performed.<
Preparation for storage
Have the following operations
performed by your BMW center:
1. Clean and apply a rust-proofing
agent or other treatment to the
engine, engine compartment, under-
carriage, axles and major compo-
nents in accordance with approved
repair procedures. Wash the vehicle,
clean the interior and treat painted
and chromed parts. Clean the rubber
seals around the hood, luggage
compartment and doors
2. Change the engine oil and oil filter
with the engine at operating temper-
ature. As an additional corrosion
protection measure, an anticorrosive
agent can be added to the engine in
accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions
3. Check the coolant level and concen-
tration and top up if necessary
4. Check the fluid level of the wind-
shield washer fluid reservoir; top up if
necessary
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Storing your vehicle
5. Fill the fuel tank completely to
prevent the formation of condensa-
tion
6. Increase the tire inflation pressure to
51 psi (350 kPa).
Before parking the vehicle for
storage
1. Dry the parking brake and footbrake
by brake applications to prevent the
brake rotors and drums from
corroding
2. Park the vehicle in a covered, dry,
and well-ventilated room. Place the
transmission in 1st gear or set the
selector lever to the "P" position.
Chock the wheels to prevent the
vehicle from rolling if necessary. Do
not set the parking brake
3. Remove the battery, charge it
completely and store it in a cool (but
frost-free) room
Z3 roadster:
4. Remove the hardtop
* and store it
separately, refer to page 109
5. Close the convertible top.
During storage
Recharge the battery every six months.
If it is not recharged, it will not be
serviceable. Every time the battery is
discharged, especially over extended
periods, its service life is reduced.
Removing the vehicle from
storage
Recharge the battery if the "Magic Eye"
turns black, refer to page 154.
Then have Inspection I performed by
your BMW center, including a brake
fluid replacement if necessary, refer to
the Service Manual.
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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. The engine
number is also required in some
instances.
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. These LEDs
are similar to conventional laser tech-
nology.
Do not remove the protective lens
and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for extended periods
(several hours), since inflammation of
the iris could result.<
California laws require us to state the
following warning:
Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.<
Technical modifications California Proposition 65 Warning
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
OBD interface socket
Access to the interface socket for the
Onboard Diagnostic system (OBD):
Lift off the side cover in the center
console on the passenger's side
(arrow).
The purpose of the OBD system is to
ensure proper operation of the emis-
sion control system throughout the
vehicle's lifetime by monitoring emis-
sion-related components and systems
for deterioration and malfunction.
367us235
An illuminated indicator informs
you of the need for service,
but not of the need to stop the
vehicle. However, the systems should
be checked by your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
Under certain conditions, the indicator
will blink or flash. This indicates a rather
severe level of engine misfire. When
this occurs, you should reduce speed
and consult the nearest BMW center as
soon as possible. Severe engine misfire
over only a short period of time can
seriously damage emission control
components, especially the catalytic
converter.
"Service Engine Soon" warning
lamp for Canadian models.
When the filler cap is not properly
tightened, the OBD system can
detect the vapor leak and the indicator
will light up. If the filler cap is subse-
quently tightened, the indicator should
go out within a few days.<
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Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
135n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 136
Windshield wiper blades 136
Lamps and bulbs 137
Master key with battery
lamp 143
Remote control 144
Wheel change 146
Battery 153
Fuses 156
In case of electrical
malfunction:
Power convertible top 157
Fuel filler door 157
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 158
Towing the vehicle 159
Repairs
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The onboard tool kit is located in the
luggage compartment, under the floor
mat.
Z3 coupe:
Grasp the floor mat by the straps on the
left and right. Pull it upward and remove
it.
Z3 roadster:
Lift the floor mat from the rear by the
strap and fold it forward.
Front
1. Position the wipers vertically. To do
this, switch on the wipers and switch
off the ignition when the wipers are
approximately vertical
2. Raise the wiper arm completely
3. Press the spring retainer (arrow) and
extract the blade, pulling toward the
wiper arm
4. Insert a new wiper blade and apply
pressure until you hear it engage.
365de097
Rear window wiper – Z3 coupe
Follow the same procedure as
described for changing the front wiper
blades, except that the wiper does not
have to be positioned vertically.
Fold the wipers back onto the
window before you turn the igni-
tion key to position 1 or 2.<
Use only wiper blades which have
been approved by BMW.<
Onboard tool kit Windshield wiper blades
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Lamps and bulbs
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
BMW center.
Do not touch the glass portion of
a new bulb with your bare hands
since even small amounts of impurities
burn in to the surface and reduce the
service life of the bulb. Use a clean
cloth, paper napkin, or a similar mate-
rial, or hold the bulb by its metallic
base.<
A replacement bulb set is available from
your BMW center.
Before working on the electrical
system, switch off the electrical
accessory you are working on or
disconnect the cable from the negative
terminal of the battery. Failure to
observe this precaution could result in
short circuits.
To prevent injuries and damage,
comply with any instructions provided
by the bulb manufacturer.<
The illustration depicts the right side
of the engine compartment.
1 High beams
HB3 bulb, 65 watts
2 Low beams
HB4 bulb, 55 watts
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to comply
with these precautions could result in
physical injury if the bulb breaks.<
367us067
1. Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to
the left and remove toward the rear
2. Pull off the plug
3. Push the new bulb holder with the
bulb into the plug – ensure proper
locking
4. Reinstall in reverse order.
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
> Do not wipe dry (this causes
scratches) and never use abrasives
or strong solvents to clean the covers
> Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with plenty
of water
> Always use a deicer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – never
use a scraper.<
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Lamps and bulbs
Position lamps
5 watt bulb
1. Using your fingertip, press forward
on the rear edge of the lamp (arrow)
and remove
2. Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to
the right and remove it from the lamp
3. Pull the bulb out of the socket and
replace
4. Install in the reverse order.
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Front turn signals
21 watt bulb
1. Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to
the left and remove toward the rear
2. Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and exchange the
bulb
3. Insert the bulb holder and turn to the
right as far as possible.
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Side turn signals
5 watt bulb
1. Use finger pressure against the front
edge of the lamp (arrow) to press it
toward the rear for removal
2. Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to
the right and remove it from the lamp
3. Pull the bulb out of the socket and
replace
4. Install in the reverse order.
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Lamps and bulbs
Front fog lamps*
H1 bulb, 55 watts
1. Unclip the plastic cover (on the
inside of the lamp) with a screwdriver
2. Loosen two screws, tilt the fog lamp
outward and remove it
3. Release the plastic cap on the back
of the fog lamp and remove it
4. Remove the plug
5. Detach the wire clamp
6. Replace the bulb
7. Install in the reverse order.
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Tail lamp assembly – Z3 roadster
Tail lamp, side marker lamps:
5 watt bulbs
Remaining bulbs: 21 watt
1 Turn signal
indicator yellow or white
2 Brake lamp red
3 Backup lamp white
4 Tail lamp, reflector red
5 Side marker lamp red
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Z3 roadster
1. Open the quick-release fastener
(arrow) and remove the cover
2. Turn the corresponding bulb holder
to the left and remove it
3. Press gently while turning the defec-
tive bulb to the left. Remove the bulb
and replace it
4. Insert the bulb holder and turn to the
right as far as possible
5. Secure the cover.
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Lamps and bulbs
Tail lamp assembly – Z3 coupe
Tail lamp, side marker lamp:
5 watt bulbs
Remaining bulbs: 21 watt
1 Turn signal
indicator yellow or white
2 Backup lamp white
3 Tail lamp, reflector red
4 Brake lamp red
5 Side marker lamps red
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Z3 cou
p
e
1. Lift up the luggage compartment
floor mat
2. To loosen, turn the mounting clips
(arrows) of the right-hand trim panel
on the rear wall of the luggage
compartment approx. f turn with a
coin or screwdriver
3. Pull out the clips and remove the trim
panel
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Z3 coupe
4. Turn the corresponding bulb holder
to the left (arrow) and remove it
5. Press gently while turning the defec-
tive bulb to the left. Remove the bulb
and replace it
6. Insert the bulb holder and turn to the
right as far as possible
Side marker lamps:
Pull the bulb holder out of the tail lamp
assembly toward the front.
7. Reinstall the trim panel in the oppo-
site order:
Insert the clips and turn them approx.
f turn to secure them.
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Z3 coupe
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Lamps and bulbs
Center (high-mount) brake lamp –
Z3 roadster
In the event of a malfunction, please
consult your BMW center.
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Z3 roadster
Center (high-mount) brake lamp –
Z3 coupe
In the event of a malfunction, please
consult your BMW center.
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License plate lamps
5 watt bulb
1. Press the lamp to the left and remove
it
2. Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to
the left and remove it from the lamp
3. Pull the bulb out of the bulb socket
and replace
4. Install in the reverse order.
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Lamps and bulbs
Interior lamp – Z3 roadster
10 watt bulb
1. Use a screwdriver to press out the
lens at the left recess
2. Pull the bulb out of the contact lugs.
When reinstalling the lens, first
position it on the left, then snap it
into place.<
Luggage compartment lamp –
Z3 roadster
5 watt bulb
The lamp is located above in the
luggage compartment.
1. Use a screwdriver to pry out the
lamp
2. Pull the bulb out of the contact lugs.
Interior lamps – Z3 coupe
Front:
15 watt bulb
1. Use a screwdriver to press out the
lamp at the left recess
2. Press back the plastic tab on the
reflector, open the reflector and
replace the bulb.
Rear:
10 watt bulb
1. Use a screwdriver to press out the
lamp at the side recess
2. Press back the plastic tab on the
reflector, open the reflector and
replace the bulb.
Reading lamps – Z3 coupe
10 watt bulbs
1. Use a screwdriver to press out the
lamp at the left recess
2. Press gently while turning the defec-
tive bulb to the left. Remove the bulb
and replace it.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Master key with battery lamp
If light intensity drops, renew the
battery to safeguard against acid
escaping.
Battery change
1. Remove the cover on the back of the
key with a screwdriver
2. Insert a new battery (refer to the illus-
tration) of the same type (CR 2025)
so that it touches the contacts
3. Snap the cover into place and apply
uniform pressure to seat it.
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Return used batteries to a
recycling point or to your BMW
center.<
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Remote control
Changing battery
Renew when the LED no longer lights
up when a button is pressed and it is
not possible to lock the vehicle using
the remote key.
Install only a battery of the specification
(CR 2016) indicated in the battery
compartment and make sure that the
battery is installed in the correct posi-
tion.
1. Use a screwdriver to lift the cover at
the recess (arrow)
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2. Loosen the two screws (arrows) and
remove the cover.
The battery type and its installation
position are stamped into the base of
the battery compartment.
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW center.<
365de018
New master key with remote
control
If you place a new master key with
remote control into service (either a
replacement or an additional key), it
must be initialized together with all
existing master keys (with remote
control):
1. Have all existing master keys with
remote control as well as the spare-
or ignition key present, refer to
page 30
2. Enter the vehicle and close the doors
3. Briefly turn the spare key 2 or the
ignition key 3 (max. 5 seconds) to
position 1 in the steering lock, then
return it to position 0
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Remote control
4. Press and hold down button 1 (see
illustration). Maintain pressure on
button 1 while rapidly pressing
button 2 three times in succession
within a period of 10 seconds
5. Release button 1. LED 3 flashes
slowly for a maximum of 10 seconds
6. The central locking system engages
and releases all lock mechanisms in
rapid succession to indicate that the
initialization procedure has been
successfully completed.
If the LED does not flash or if the
central locking system fails to respond,
the initialization procedure will have to
be repeated.
All additional master keys with remote
control for your vehicle (up to a
maximum of four units) must now be
initialized. Make sure that no more than
30 seconds is allowed to elapse
between the individual initialization
procedures. Repeat steps 4 and 5. The
central locking system will respond to
each initialization procedure as
descriped in step 6.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your BMW center, who
can also provide you with replacement
keys.
Turn each new master key into
ignition position 2 (ignition
switched on) and back again to allow
the electronic vehicle immobilizer (refer
to page 31) to recognize the new key.
To prevent unauthorized use of the
master key, surrender only the door and
ignition key 3 or the spare key 2 (refer
to page 30) for valet parking, for
instance.<
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Wheel change
Safety measures in the event of a
flat tire or a wheel change:
Stop the vehicle on a firm, level surface
as far as possible from the flow of
traffic. Turn on the hazard warning
flashers.
Turn the steering wheel to the straight-
ahead position and engage the steering
lock, engage the parking brake and
shift into 1st or reverse gear (selector
lever in "Park" with automatic transmis-
sion).
All passengers should be outside the
vehicle and well away from your imme-
diate working area (for instance, behind
the guardrail).
If a warning triangle or portable hazard
warning lamp is available, set it up on
the roadside at an appropriate distance
from the rear of the vehicle. Comply
with all safety guidelines and regula-
tions.
Change the wheel only on a level, firm
surface which is not slippery. Avoid
jacking the vehicle on a soft or slippery
support surface (snow, ice, tiles, loose
gravel, etc.), since it could slide side-
ways.
Place the jack on a firm support
surface.
Do not place wooden blocks or similar
objects under the jack. If this is done,
the jack might not be able to reach its
full support capacity because of the
limited height.
Do not lie under the vehicle or start the
engine when the vehicle is supported
by the jack. This creates the risk of fatal
injury.<
What you will need
The illustration depicts an example of
the onboard tool kit of the Z3 coupe.
Other than the warning triangle, the
same tools are arranged somewhat
differently in the storage compartment
of the Z3 roadster.
In order to avoid rattling noises later,
note the position of the tools when you
remove them and return them to their
original position when you are through
using them.
> Jack
Release the Velcro® fastener in the
luggage compartment under the floor
mat next to the battery.
After use, wind down the jack
completely
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Wheel change
> Wedge (wheel chock)
Next to the jack
> Lug wrench, centering pin, spark-
plug wrench and lifting handle
In the luggage compartment under
the floor mat
> Spare wheel
Stored under the luggage compart-
ment on the vehicle floor and
protected with a storage tray.
Remove the spare wheel
Z3 coupe:
Remove the floor of the storage
compartment (arrow) at the right in the
luggage compartment.
Release the Velcro
® fastener and
remove the warning triangle.
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Z3 roadster:
Loosen the screw connection on the
floor of the storage tray (arrow) at the
right in the luggage compartment and
remove the compartment.
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Z3 roadster
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Wheel change
Raise and secure the floor panel in the
luggage compartment.
The spare wheel is secured at two
mounting points.
Left-hand attachment point – arrow 1.
Right-hand attachment point – arrow 2.
367de312
Right-hand attachment point:
Place the spark plug wrench on the
hexagon nut and, using the alignment
tool to assist you, loosen the hexagon
nut. Remove the hexagon nut and the
protective cap.
Place the hexagon nut in a secure
location.<
367de268
Left-hand attachment point:
Take the lifting handle from the tool kit,
lower it on the rope and fit it on the
hexagon nut. Hold the rope at the top
and unscrew the nut with the lifting
handle.
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Wheel change
Pull the lifting handle up until the spare
wheel tray is lifted slightly. At the same
time, compress the locking spring
(arrow). This releases the spare wheel
(weight: approx. 8.8 lbs/4 kg). The
spare wheel must then be held with the
lifting handle.
Using the lifting handle, lower the spare
wheel bracket with storage tray and
spare wheel and place it on the ground.
Do not put your feet beneath the
rear of the vehicle because the
spare wheel could fall as it is being
lowered.<
367de270
Pull the storage tray with the spare
wheel completely out of the spare
wheel bracket toward the rear.
367de276
Lift the spare wheel at the front. Lay it
down toward the rear next to the
storage tray and with the valve facing
upward. Quickly unscrew the valve
extension from the valve of the spare
wheel. Unscrew the valve cap from the
storage tray and mount it on the spare
wheel.
When the valve extension is
screwed onto or off of the spare
wheel, you may hear a brief hissing as
air escapes.<
The procedure for removing the spare
wheel is also illustrated with picto-
graphs located on the floor mat of the
luggage compartment.
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Wheel change
The wheel with the flat tire cannot
be placed in the spare wheel
bracket in the place of the spare
wheel.<
There is a plastic bag in the onboard
tool kit. Put the flat tire and the storage
tray into this bag.
Do not reposition the storage tray
in the spare wheel bracket without
the spare wheel.<
Using the lifting handle, pull the spare
wheel bracket upward until the spring
retainer catches. Secure the bracket
with the hexagon nut – ensure that it is
tightened down correctly.
The spare wheel is returned to its orig-
inal position in the same manner as it is
removed, however in the reverse order.
When doing so, make sure that:
> The valve extension is mounted on
the spare wheel valve
> The storage tray is facing toward the
rear (see arrow) with the valve exten-
sion pointing to the inside left to
ensure that it is possible to check the
tire inflation pressure.
367de271
Mount the spare wheel
1. Secure the vehicle to prevent it from
rolling:
Place the wedge against the rear
surface of the front tire on the side
opposite the side being raised. If the
vehicle is parked on a downward
slope, place the wedge securely in
front of the tire. If the wheel must be
changed on a surface with a more
severe slope, take additional precau-
tions to secure the vehicle from
rolling
2. Wheels with full wheel covers
*:
reach into the ventilation openings
and pull the cover off
3. For wheels equipped with hub
covers
*: position a screwdriver in the
slot and pry the hub cover off
4. Loosen the lug bolts g a turn
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Wheel change
5. Position the jack on the vehicle:
> Plastic elements are mounted on
the vehicle floorpan for positioning
the jack. These positions (refer to
the arrows) are located approx.
16 in (40 cm) from the front wheel
opening and
10 in (25 cm) from the rear wheel
opening
> If necessary, remove snow, ice or
mud from the plastic elements
> Screw the jack arm up until the
jack just fits under the vehicle
367de382
> Position the jack at the jacking
point closest to the flat tire so that
the jack base is vertically below
the jacking point and the entire
surface of the head of the jack will
move squarely into the recess of
the plastic element when the jack
is cranked
> Crank the jack until the wheel you
are changing is off of the ground.
6. Unscrew the lug bolts and remove
the wheel
7. Remove accumulations of mud or
dirt from the mounting surfaces of
the wheel and hub. Clean the lug
bolts
367de065
8. Take the centering pin from the
vehicle tool kit. Insert the centering
pin together with the plastic cap
into one of the bolt sockets
9. Position the spare wheel and screw
at least two lug bolts into opposite
bolt sockets. Remove the centering
pin
10. Screw in the remaining lug bolts.
Tighten all the bolts down correctly
11. Lower the jack and remove it from
beneath the vehicle
12. Tighten the lug bolts in a diagonal
pattern
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Wheel change
13. Wheels with full wheel covers:
Place the wheel cover with the
valve opening over the valve. Use
both hands to press the cover
securely onto the rim
14. Check and correct the inflation
pressure at the earliest opportunity.
Use only the full wheel cover
installed by the factory. Other
wheel covers may not fit securely. The
full wheel cover may not be installed on
the spare wheel because the cover
could be damaged.<
The jack is designed for changing
wheels only. Do not attempt to lift
a different vehicle model or any other
type of load with the jack. To do so
could lead to property damage or
personal injury.
To ensure continued safety, check the
tightness of the lug bolts at the earliest
opportunity (torque specification:
72 lbs ft [100 Nm]).<
If light-alloy wheels other than Original
BMW light-alloy wheels have been
mounted, it may be necessary to use
different lug bolts for those wheels.
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the new wheel/tire
balanced.
Driving with the spare wheel
Drive cautiously and do not exceed a
speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
Be aware that vehicle handling will be
altered. Slower brake response time,
longer braking distances and changed
steering characteristics may be antici-
pated when approaching limit condi-
tions.
Only one spare wheel may be
mounted at any time. Mount a
wheel and tire with the same size and
specifications as the others at the
earliest possible opportunity. Maintain
the specified tire inflation pressures,
refer to the table on page 27.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Battery
Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.<
Battery location
The battery is located in the luggage
compartment under the floor mat.
Z3 coupe:
Grasp the floor mat by the straps on the
left and right. Pull it upward and remove
it.
Z3 roadster:
Lift the floor mat from the rear by the
strap and fold it forward.
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Z3 d Z3
Battery care
The battery is completely maintenance-
free. That means that the original elec-
trolyte will normally last for the service
life of the battery under moderate
climatic conditions.
Symbols
You will find the following symbols on
your vehicle battery. To avoid injury,
please comply with the corresponding
precautions whenever you work with or
near the battery.
Please read the following infor-
mation before working with the
battery.
Wear eye protection. Do not
allow particles containing
battery acid or lead to come into
contact with your eyes, your skin, or
your clothing.
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.
Ensure that children keep well
away from batteries and battery
acid.
Do not allow sparks or open
flame near the battery. Do not
smoke near the battery. Avoid
sparks from electrical cables or elec-
trical equipment. Turn the key to
position 0 in the ignition lock when the
battery is disconnected or connected.
Do not short circuit the battery termi-
nals. This creates a risk of personal
injury from high-voltage sparks.
A highly-explosive gas is gener-
ated when the battery is charged.
If acid is accidentally splashed
into your eyes, rinse them thor-
oughly for 15 minutes with clear
water. Following that, consult a physi-
cian immediately. If acid splashes onto
your skin or clothing, rinse immediately
with ample clean water. If acid is acci-
dentally swallowed, consult a physi-
cian immediately.
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.
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Battery
Charge condition
You can read the charge condition of
the battery with the "Magic Eye"
(hydrometer):
> Green: adequate charge
> Black: not charged adequately.
The battery must be recharged
Please contact your BMW center.
> Yellow: replace the battery.
The projected service life of the
battery can only be reached if the
battery is fully-charged at all times.
Check the charge condition of the
battery frequently if the vehicle is used
primarily for driving short distances. <
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Charging the battery
Charge the battery in the vehicle only
when the engine is switched off.
Charge the battery using the auxiliary
jump-start terminal and a ground in the
engine compartment, refer to Jump-
starting on page 158.
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 your vehicle for
longer than twelve weeks: remove the
battery, charge it and store it in a cool
(but frost- and dust-free) room. Every
three months and before reinstalling the
battery, have it recharged. If it is not
recharged, it will not be serviceable.
Every time the battery is discharged,
especially over extended periods, its
service life is reduced, refer also to
page 131.
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW center.
Maintain the battery in an upright posi-
tion for transport and storage. Secure
the battery against tilting when trans-
porting.<
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Battery
Removal and installation
Do not disconnect the battery
cables when the engine is running.
Disconnecting the battery cables 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 leading to the positive terminal. If
you do so, the battery safety terminal's
safety function will no longer be guaran-
teed. Repair and disposal must be
performed by trained technicians only.<
When removing the battery, disconnect
the negative terminal first, then the
positive terminal.
Unscrew the battery retaining clamp.
Z3 coupe:
Loosen the screw (arrow) on the battery
safety bar and remove the bar.
When installing the battery, connect the
positive terminal first, then connect the
negative terminal.
When installing the battery, be
sure that the battery and the
safety bar (Z3 coupe) are mounted
properly. If this is not done, the battery
will not be adequately secured in case
of an accident.<
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Fuses
If an electrical accessory should fail,
switch it off and check the fuse.
The fuse box (electrical distribution
center), which contains spare fuses,
relays and plastic tweezers, is located
on the left-hand side of the engine
compartment, refer to page 120.
1. Press the retaining flap in and lift off
the cover
2. Use the plastic tweezers to remove
the fuse for the accessory or equip-
ment that has stopped working
3. If the fuse is burned through
("blown"), the metal strip will have
melted and separated. Replace the
blown fuse with a new fuse of the
same ampere rating (color code).
365de080
A listing of the fuses, their respective
ampere ratings and the equipment in
their circuits is provided on the cover of
the fuse box.
When you close the fuse box, be sure
that the cover is seated securely.
Do not attempt to repair a burned
fuse or replace it with a fuse
having a different color or ampere
rating. To do this could cause a fire in
the vehicle resulting from a circuit over-
load.<
If a fuse burns through again, have the
source of the fault checked and
corrected by a BMW center.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Power convertible top* Fuel filler door
Closing manually
For roadsters with electrical power
convertible top
*, the convertible top
drive unit is located in the luggage
compartment behind the left side trim
panel.
Turn the clip at the top of the trim panel
to the left or right and swing the trim
panel to the side.
Turn the T-pin a half turn to the left
(refer to the illustration).
The convertible top drive unit is disen-
gaged and the convertible top can be
operated manually, refer to page 40.
Please have your BMW center eliminate
the defect and reengage the drive.
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Z3 roadster
Releasing manually
The illustration shows the example
of the Z3 roadster.
Operation and function for the
Z3 coupe is the same as for the
Z3 roadster.
Pull the button at the right in the
luggage compartment sharply (arrow).
Please consult your BMW center to
have the defect corrected.
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Jump-starting
Never use spray starter fluids to start
the engine.
When your battery is discharged you can
used two jumper cables to start your
vehicle with power from the battery in a
second vehicle. You can also use the
same method to help start another
vehicle. Always use jumper cables with
fully insulated handles on the terminal
clamps.
Do not touch components
carrying high-voltage on a running
engine. Contact with components
carrying high voltage can cause fatal
injury. Carefully observe the following
instructions to avoid personal injury
and/or damage to one or both vehi-
cles.<
1. Ensure that the battery in the support
vehicle is also rated at 12 volts. This
information is provided on the top of
the battery casing
2. Do not disconnect the battery from
your vehicle's electrical system.
Switch off all electrical accessories in
both vehicles
3. Make absolutely certain that there is
no contact between the bodywork of
the two vehicles – short circuit
hazard
4. Start the engine on the support
vehicle and allow it to run
5. Use the jumper cable (+) to connect
the positive terminal of the battery in
the support vehicle with the auxiliary
positive terminal provided in the
engine compartment of your BMW
specifically for jump-starting. The
cover on this auxiliary terminal is
identified by a "+" symbol, refer to
the illustration. Pull up to open the
cover
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6. Then connect the negative terminals.
Connect one end of the other jumper
cable (–) to either the support
vehicle's negative battery terminal or
a suitable ground on its engine or
bodywork. Connect the other end to
the negative battery terminal or a
suitable ground on the vehicle being
started. There is a special nut on the
strut dome of your BMW; refer to the
arrow in the illustration
Always adhere to this sequence
when connecting jumper cables;
failure to observe this procedure can
lead to sparks at the battery terminals
and pose an injury hazard.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Jump-starting Towing the vehicle
7. Start the support vehicle's engine
and let it run at an increased idling
speed for a few minutes. Start the
engine on the vehicle needing the
jump-start, and allow it to run as
usual. If the first start attempt is not
successful, wait a few minutes
before another attempt in order to
allow the discharged battery to
recharge
8. Before disconnecting the jumper
cables let the engines run for a few
minutes
9. Then disconnect the jumper cables
in reverse sequence.
Depending on the cause of the fault,
have the battery recharged by your
BMW center.
Tow fitting
The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the
onboard tool kit; be sure that it remains
in the vehicle at all times. This fitting
is designed for installation in the tow
sockets located at the front and rear of
the vehicle, and is intended for towing
on paved road surfaces only.
It should not be used to pull a vehicle
out of deep snow, mud, sand, etc.
Comply with all applicable towing laws
and regulations at all times.
Access to tow sockets
Front:
Use a screwdriver to press the cover
out.
367de375
Rear:
Use a screwdriver to press the cover
out.
Screw the tow fitting in until it is
tight against the stop. If you do
not, the threads can 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 so, the
components could be damaged,
leading to possible accidents.<
Use only a nylon towing strap to tow
the vehicle, since the inherent resil-
ience of this material helps protect both
vehicles from sudden jerking move-
ments.
367de376
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160n
Towing the vehicle
The towed vehicle should always
be the lighter of the two vehicles.
If this is not the case, it will not be
possible to control vehicle handling.<
Tow-starting
It is not possible to start the engine of a
vehicle with an automatic transmission
by towing or pushing the vehicle.
For instructions on jump-starting, refer
to page 158.
Never attempt to use your vehicle to
push another vehicle. This could result
in damage to the energy-absorbing
bumpers.
Towing a vehicle with automatic
transmission
1. Place the selector lever in
position "N"
2. Towing speed:
max. 45 mph (70 km/h)
3. Towing distance:
max. 95 miles (150 km)
4. Leave the ignition key in position 1 to
ensure that brake lamps, turn signal
indicators, horn and windshield
wipers remain operative, and to
prevent the steering lock from
engaging
5. Switch on the hazard-warning
flashers (observe applicable legal
regulations).
Find some means of identifying the
vehicle in tow. Place a sign or warning
triangle in the rear window, for
instance.
Even when the electrical system
has failed, make sure that the igni-
tion key remains in position 1 to prevent
the steering lock from engaging.
The steering and brakes are without
power assist when the engine is off.
This means that increased effort is
required for steering and braking.<
Towing with a commercial tow
truck
> Do not tow with sling-type equipment
> Use a wheel-lift or flatbed equipment
> Comply with applicable 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.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
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162n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
163n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Adaptive Transmission Control
(ATC) 164
Airbags 164
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) 165
Car radio reception 166
Safety belt tensioner 166
Technology
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164n
For vehicles with automatic transmis-
sion, Adaptive Transmission Control
(ATC) performs the optimum gear selec-
tion based on a number of factors. This
system reacts to your individual driving
style and the current driving conditions.
The ATC recognizes your individual
driving style from the positions and
movements of the accelerator pedal,
delays during braking, and the vehicle's
lateral acceleration when cornering.
ATC makes the appropriate selection
from different shift characteristics
which range from comfort-oriented to
performance-oriented.
367us358
In order to take driving conditions into
account, ATC registers corners and
both uphill and downhill gradients. For
example, if you maintain speed through
a curve, the transmission does not
upshift.
On uphill gradients, it shifts only when
the engine speed increases in order to
make more efficient use of power
reserves. On downhill gradients ATC
downshifts when the speed of the vehi-
cles increases causing the driver to
step on the brakes.
Deceleration sensors continuously
monitor the physical forces acting upon
the vehicle. In the event of a severe
frontal impact, the gas generators of
the driver and passenger-side front
airbags are ignited simultaneously.
However, the passenger-side airbag is
only triggered if an additional sensor
has recognized that the passenger seat
is occupied.
If it is necessary during a side impact, a
side airbag will be triggered on the side
where the collision occurs.
390de012
ATC* Airbags
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165n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
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 breaking
points of the upholstered covers or
press them out.
Because the inflation process must be
virtually instantaneous, it is necessarily
accompanied by a certain amount of
ignition and inflation noise. The gas
required to inflate the airbags is not
dangerous, and it dissipates together
with the associated smoke.
The entire process is completed within
fractions of a second.
Precision sensors monitor the number of
revolutions of the wheels. When
equipped with DSC, they also monitor
steering angle, lateral acceleration,
brake pressure and the movement of the
vehicle around its vertical axis.
If differences in the wheel speeds occur,
ASC+T recognizes the danger of wheel-
spin and reduces the drive torque. If
necessary, the system also responds
with additional applications of the brakes
at the rear wheels.
In addition, DSC permanently monitors
the vehicle's current operating condition
and compares it with an ideal condition
that is calculated from the sensor's
signals. If deviations from this occur
(understeering or oversteering, for
instance), DSC can stabilize the vehicle
in fractions of a second by adjusting
engine output and with the assistance of
braking intervention at individual wheels.
Within physically possible limits
dangerous skids can be prevented even
as they are just beginning.
You may need some time to become
accustomed to this system's interven-
tion. However, it provides optimum
propulsive force and driving stability.
The braking intervention may be accom-
panied by a certain degree of noise.
Airbags ASC+T/DSC*
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166n
Car radio reception Safety belt tensioner
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
AM. However, because FM transmis-
sions rely on line-of-sight broadcast
waves, their effective reception range
is limited.
The limitations which are inherent to
radio reception in a moving vehicle
have been minimized by the use of
innovative systems.
365de062
The safety belt tensioner responds to
severe collisions by tightening the belts
to ensure that occupants remain firmly
positioned in their seats. A gas-pres-
sure system retracts the buckle
assembly to tension the shoulder and
lap belts within fractions of a second.
This tends to further reduce the
tendency to slide under the lap belt.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
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168n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
169n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Engine specifications 170
Dimensions 171
Weights 172
Capacities 173
Electrical system 174
Drive belts 174
Data
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170n
Z3 roadster 2.5i Z3 roadster 3.0i,
Z3 coupe 3.0i
Displacement
Number of cylinders
cu. in (cm
m
) 152.2 (2,494)
6
181.8 (2,979)
6
Maximum power output
at engine speed
hp
rpm
184
6,000
225
5,900
Maximum torque
at engine speed
lb-ft (Nm)
rpm
175 (237)
3,500
214 (290)
3,500
Compression ratio e 10.5 10.2
Stroke
Bore
in (mm)
in (mm)
2.95 (75.0)
3.31 (84.0)
3.53 (89.6)
3.31 (84.0)
Fuel-injection system Digital electronic engine-management system
Engine specifications
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Z3 roadster 2.5i, 3.0i Z3 coupe 3.0i
Length in (mm) 159.4 (4,050) 158.5 (4,025)
Width in (mm) 68.5 (1,740) 68.5 (1,740)
Height (unloaded) in (mm) 50.9 (1,293) 51.4 (1,306)
Wheelbase in (mm) 96.3 (2,446) 96.3 (2,446)
Track, front in (mm) 55.6 (1,413) 55.6 (1,413)
Track, rear in (mm) 58.8 (1,494) 58.8 (1,494)
Min. turning circle dia. ft (m) 32.8 (10.0) 32.8 (10.0)
Dimensions
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172n
Weights
Z3 roadster 2.5i Z3 roadster 3.0i Z3 coupé 3.0i
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included)
with manual transmission
with automatic transmission
lbs (kg)
lbs (kg)
2,899 (1,315)
2,987 (1,355)
2,910 (1,320)
2,998 (1,360)
2,943 (1,335)
3,031 (1,375)
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission
with automatic transmission
lbs (kg)
lbs (kg)
3,450 (1,565)
3,538 (1,605)
3,461 (1,570)
3,549 (1,610)
3,494 (1,585)
3,582 (1,625)
Approved front axle load lbs (kg) 1,852 (840) 1,852 (840) 1,830 (830)
Approved rear axle load lbs (kg) 1,918 (870) 1,918 (870) 1,918 (870)
Approved roof load capacity lbs (kg) 77 (35) 77 (35) 110 (50)
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft (liters) 5.8 (165) 5.8 (165) 7.2 - 14.3 (205 - 405)
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Capacities
Notes
Fuel tank
reserve
gal. (liters)
gal. (liters)
approx. 13.5 (approx. 51)
approx. 2.1 (approx. 8.0)
Fuel specification: page 26
Windshield washer system/
Headlamp washer system quarts (liters) approx. 5.3 (approx. 5.0)
For details: page 122
Cooling system including heating circuit quarts (liters) 11.1 (10.5) For details: page 125
Engine with oil filter renewal quarts (liters) 6.9 (6.5) "BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil"
For details: page 124
Manual transmission, automatic
transmission and differential
– Lifetime fluid, no fluid change
required
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Electrical system Drive belts
Battery
12V, 70 Ah
Spark plugs
NGK BKR 6 EQUP
This spark ignition system meets all
requirements of the Canadian Interfer-
ence-Causing Equipment Regulations
(ICES-2).
Generator – Water pump –
Power steering
Drive belt 6 PK x 1538
A/C compressor
Drive belt 5 PK x 863
You can obtain Original BMW
parts and accessories, as well as
professional advice from your BMW
center.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
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176n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
A
ABS (Antilock Brake
System) 101
Accessories 6
Adaptive Transmission
Control (ATC) 62, 164
ADB (Automatic Differential
Braking) 74
Adding
brake fluid 126t
engine coolant 126t
engine oil 123t
washer fluid 122t
Additional storage areas 90
Adjusting
backrest 50
mirrors 50, 51
seat 49
washer nozzles 122t
Air conditioner 84
Air distribution 82, 86
Air outlets 80, 84
ventilation 85
Air supply 82, 86
Air vents 80, 84
Airbags 21, 54, 164
important safety
notices 130
sitting correctly 55
Antenna 107
Antifreeze 126
Antifreeze protection,
radiator 105, 125
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 101
Anti-theft system 32
Approved gross vehicle
weight 172
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 116
Aquaplaning 99, 111
ASC+T (Automatic Stability
Control plus
Traction) 73, 165
Ashtray 91
ATC (Adaptive Transmission
Control) 62, 164
Automatic cruise control 67
Automatic Differential
Braking (ADB) 74
Automatic rear window
washer 65
Automatic Stability Control
plus Traction
(ASC+T) 73, 165
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 62
gear indicator 68
Automatic windshield
washer 122
Average fuel
consumption 72
Average speed 72
B
Backrest, adjusting 50
Backup lamps 61
bulb replace-
ment 139t, 140t
Battery 153, 174
capacity 174
charge condition 154
charging 154
discharged 158
disposal 154t
removal and
installation 155
Battery change, keys 143
Battery charge indicator
lamp 20
Battery safety terminal 155
Beverage holder 91
BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil 124
Brake fluid 126
disposal 127t
Brake hydraulic system 20
Brake lamps, bulb replace-
ment 139t, 140t
Brake pads 22, 104
Brake system 103, 104
brake fluid 126
fluid level 104
winter road
conditions 105
Brakes, malfunctions 104
Break-in procedure 98
Bulb replacement 137t
C
California Proposition
65 Warning 132
Capacities 173
Car jack 146t
Car keys 30
Car radio
reception 107, 166
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Car wash systems, refer to
the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
From A to Z
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Everything from A to Z
179n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Care of paintwork, refer to
the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Care of upholstery materials,
refer to the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Cargo loading 94
Caring for the vehicle finish,
refer to the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Catalytic converter 100
CBC (Cornering Brake
Control) 102
Cellular phone 107
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Center (high-mount) brake
lamp 141
Central locking system 32
Changing a wheel 146t
Charge condition of the
battery 154t
Charging the battery 154t
Chassis number 127
Checking oil level 123t
Checking tire
pressure 26t, 110
Child seat 56
Child-restraint device 56
Child-restraint system 56
installation 57
Z3 coupe with tether
strap 57
Cigarette lighter 92
Cleaning the headlamps 66
Cleaning the rear
window 66
Cleaning the windshield 65
Clock 70
Cockpit 16
Coin box 91
Cold start 59
Compartments 90
Computer 70
refer also to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Connecting a car vacuum
cleaner 92
Controls, cockpit 16
Convertible top
electrical
malfunction 157t
manual operation 157t
operation 40, 44
weather protection 44
Coolant 105, 126
Coolant temperature 69
Coolant, antifreeze
protection 105
Copyright 4
Cornering Brake Control
(CBC) 102
Cover, convertible
top 41, 46
Cruise control 67
Cruising range 72
Cup holder, refer to
beverage holder 91
Curb weight 172
D
Dashboard 16
Data link connector for
Onboard Diagnostics 133
Daytime driving lamps 76
DBC (Dynamic Brake
Control) 103
Deep water 99
Defrost windows and
remove
condensation 83, 88
Defrosting
rear window 66
mirrors 51
Difficult steering 106t
Digital clock 70
Dimensions 171
Dipstick, engine oil 123
Disc brakes 103
Displacement 170
Display lighting 76
Displays 18
Disposal
batteries 154t
brake fluid 127t
coolant 125t
engine oil 125t
Door key 30
Doors
electrical
malfunction 32t
manual operation 32t
operating with the remote
control 33
unlocking and locking 32
DOT Quality Grades,
tires 111
Drive belts 174
Driving notes 99
Driving through water 99
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Everything from A to Z
DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control) 74, 165
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC) 103
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 74, 165
E
Electric convertible top
operation 44
Electric power windows 38
Electrical malfunction
convertible top 157t
doors 32t
fuel filler door 157t
luggage compartment
lid 37t
power convertible
top 157t
Electrical system 174
Electronic immobilizer 31
Emergency release of
luggage compartment lid
from luggage
compartment's interior 38
Engine
compartment 120, 121
Engine coolant 126
adding 126t
Engine oil 123
adding 123t
dipstick 123
disposal 125t
grades 124
level 21, 123t
pressure 20
viscosity 124
Engine output 170
Engine specifications 170
Exterior mirrors 50
F
Failure of an electrical
accessory 156t
Fan 82, 86
Filler cap cover 25
Filling the washer
reservoir 122t
First-aid kit 24
Fittings, tow-starting and
towing 159t
Flasher, headlamp 64
Flat tire 111
Z3 roadster,
Z3 coupe 146t
Folding top 40
Footbrake 103
Front airbags 54, 130
Front fog lamps 76
bulb replacement 139t
Frost protection,
radiator 105
Fuel 26
Fuel consumption,
average 72
Fuel filler door
electrical
malfunction 157t
manual operation 157t
Fuel gauge 68
Fuel specifications 26
Fuel tank capacity 173
Fuses 156
G
Gasoline 26
Gear indicator 68
Glass sunroof 39
Glove compartment 90
Grilles 80, 84
Gross vehicle weight 172
H
Hardtop 108
Hazard warning
flashers 24t
Hazard warning system 24
Hazard warning
triangle 24t
Head restraints 50
Headlamp cleaning
system 122
Headlamp cover,
care 137t
Headlamp flasher 64
Headlamp washers 66
Headlamps, high
beam 23, 64
bulb replacement 137t
Headlamps, low beam 76
bulb replacement 137t
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Everything from A to Z
181n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Heated seats 89
Heating and
ventilation 80, 84
Heat-up, rapid 83
Height 171
Height adjustment, seats 49
Help with jump starting 158
High beams 23, 64
bulb replacement 137t
High Performance Synthetic
Oil 124
High-mount brake lamp
(center) 141
Hood release 118t
Horn 17
Hub cover 150
Hydraulic brake assistant,
refer to DBC
I
Ice warning 71
Identification number of the
vehicle 127
Identification, tires 114
Ignition key 30
Ignition switch 58
Immobilizer, electronic 31
Immobilizer, vehicle 31
Imprint 4
Indicator lamps 20
Inflation
pressures 26t, 110
Inflation pressures,
tires 26t
INSPECTION 69
Instrument panel 16
lighting 76
Instruments 18
Interface socket for onboard
diagnostics (OBD) 133
Interior lamps 77
bulb replacement 142t
Interlock 58
Intermittent wipe switch 65
J
Jack 146t
Jump-starting 158t
K
Keys 30
Keys with remote
control 30, 33
Key, battery change 143t
Kickdown 63
L
Lamp switch 76
Lashing eyes 94
Leather care, refer to the
"Caring for your vehicle"
manual
Length 171
License plate lamps
bulb replacement 141t
Light-alloy wheel 116
LIGHTS ON warning 76
Limited slip differential 166
Load-securing devices 94
Lock buttons 36
Locks, care 105
Low beams 76
bulb replacement 137t
Low-fuel indicator lamp 68
Lug bolts 150, 151
Lug wrench 147t
Luggage compartment 36
capacity 172
locking separately 37
Luggage compartment lamp
bulb replacement 142t
Luggage compartment
lid 36
electrical
malfunction 37t
emergency release from
luggage compartment's
interior 38
manual operation 37t
M
M + S tires 115
Magic Eye
refer to Battery charge
condition 154
Maintenance 69, 128
Malfunction, cellular
phone 107
Manual operation
doors 32t
fuel filler door 157t
luggage
compartment 37t
luggage compartment
lid 37t
Manual transmission 61
Master key with battery
lamp 143
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Everything from A to Z
Master keys 30
changing battery 144
initializing 144
replacements 144
Mirrors 50
adjusting 51
defrosting 51
Mobile phone 107
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Modifications,
technical 6, 132
Multifunction switch 64
M+S radial tires 115
N
Net 93
Non-smoker's equipment
package 92
Notes on driving 99
O
OBD interface socket 133
Odometer 68
Oil
adding 123t
additives 123
consumption 123
grades 124
Oil change intervals, refer to
the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US
models) or the Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
Oil dipstick 123
Oil level, checking 123t
Oil level, indicator lamp 21
Oil pressure, indicator
lamp 20
OILSERVICE 69
Old batteries 154
Onboard computer 70
refer to the "Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer"
Onboard Diagnostics, data
link connector 133
Onboard tool kit 136t
Opening and closing
from the inside 36
from the outside 32
with the remote control 33
Outside mirrors 50
Outside temperature
display 71
P
Parking brake 21, 60
Parking lamps 76
Parking, winter 106
Partition net 93
Phone, mobile 107
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Please wear your safety belt
warning lamp 21
Position lamps
bulb replacement 138t
Power convertible top
electrical
malfunction 157t
manual operation 157t
Power seat adjustment 49
Power steering 106
Pressures, tires 26, 110
Pressure, tires 110
Q
Quality Grades, tires 111
R
Radiator, frost
protection 105
Radio reception 166
Radio, refer to the separate
Owner's Manual
Rapid heating 83, 88
Reading lamps 78
Rear lamps, bulb
replacement 139t
Rear window defroster 66
Rear window washer,
automatic 65
Rear window wiper 65
blade replacement 136t
Rearview mirrors 50
Recirculated air mode 86
refer to spare wheel 147t
Refueling 25
Releasing the hood 118t
Remote control 33, 144
for computer 70
Remove condensation from
windows 83
Replacement keys 30
Replacement,
tires 111, 112
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Everything from A to Z
183n
Index Data Technology Repairs Maintenance Controls Overview
Replacing fuses 156t
Replacing windshield wiper
blades 136t
Reporting safety defects 7
Reservoir, washer
system 122t
Roll-up cover 93
Roof load capacity 172
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 95
Rubber seals and
components, winter 105
S
Safety belt tensioner 166
Safety belts 52
Safety defects, reporting 7
Seals and components,
winter 105
Seat adjustment 49
Seat heating 89
Securing cargo 94
Selector lever, automatic
transmission 62
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet
(US models) 129
Service Interval
Display 69, 128
Set temperature 82, 86
Shiftlock 62
Side airbags 54, 130
Side marker lamps, bulb
replacement 139t
Sitting correctly with
airbags 55
Skid control 106
Slippery roads 105
Snow chains 105t
Socket 92
electrical appliances 92
flashlight 92
vacuum cleaner 92
Spare keys 30
Spare tire 147t
Spare wheel 147t
Spark plugs 174
Special features of winter
tires 115
Special oils 124
Specifications, engine 170
Speed, average 72
Speed control 67
Starting assistance 158t
Starting problems
59, 100, 158
Starting the engine 59
Steel wheel 116
Steering 106
Steering wheel lock 58
Steptronic 62
Storage boxes 90
Storage compartments 90
Storage trays 90
Storing the vehicle 130
Summer tires 114
Sunroof 39
Switching off the engine 60
Symbols 4, 153
T
Tachometer 68
Tail lamp assembly, bulb
replacement 139t
Tail lamps 139, 140
bulb replace-
ment 139t, 140t
Tank capacity 173
Technical Data 169
Technical
modifications 6, 132
Telephone
refer to the separate
Owner's Manual
Temperature display
engine coolant 69
outside temperature 71
Temperature
layering 82, 87
Third brake lamp 141
Tire change, refer to wheel
change 146t
Tire condition 110
Tire failure, Z3 roadster,
Z3 coupe 146
Tire inflation pressures 110
checking 26t
Tire Quality Grading 112
Tire replacement 111, 112
Tire rotation between front
and rear 113
Tire size 116
Tire tread 110
Tires, identification 114
Tools 136t
Torque 170
Tow fittings 159t
Towing the vehicle 159t
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Everything from A to Z
Track width 171
Traction Control System
refer to ASC+T/DSC
Transmission 61, 62
Tread depth, tires 111
Trip odometer 68
Turn signals 23, 64
bulb replace-
ment 138t, 139t
Turning circle 171
Two-way radios 107
U
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading 112
Use of antifreeze 126t
Used batteries 154t
V
Vacuum cleaner,
connecting 92
Valve caps 114
Vanity mirrors 51
Vehicle battery 153, 174
Vehicle Identification
Number 127
Vehicle immobilizer 31
Vehicle jack 146t
Vehicle keys 30
Vehicle storage 130
Ventilation 80, 84
outlets 80, 84
Ventilation, draft-free 82, 87
Vents 80, 84
Viscosity 124
W
Warm feet – cool
head 82, 87
Warning lamps 20
Warning triangle 24
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian
models) 129
Washer fluid, adding 122t
Washer nozzles,
adjusting 122t
Washer reservoir,
filling 122t
Washers, headlamp 66
Washing your vehicle, refer
to the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Waxing your vehicle, refer to
the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Weights 172
Wheel change 146t
Wheelbase 171
Wheels and tires 114
Width 171
Windows, convenience
closing mode 32
Windshield washer 122
filling reservoir 122t
nozzles 122
Windshield wipers 65
blade replacement 136t
Winter driving 105
Winter tires 115
Wiper blade
replacement 136t
Wipers 65
Wiper/Washer system 65
Working in the engine
compartment 118t
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 156 441 - © 10/01 BMW AG
To ensure that you always have conve-
nient access to all essential information
when you stop for fuel, we recommend
that you fill out the adjoining chart by
entering the data that apply to your
vehicle.
Consult the index for individual specifi-
cations.
Fuel
Please enter your preferred fuel here.
Engine oil
The oil volume between the two marks
on the oil dipstick corresponds to
approx. 1.1 US quarts (1 liter)
Designation
Quality
Tire inflation pressures
Summer tires Winter tires
Front Rear Front Rear
2 persons
Refueling
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