M5
BMW recommends Castrol
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW M5.
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 maximum
use and satisfaction from the unique range of technical features on your BMW. In
addition, you will find information on maintenance and care, there to ensure oper-
ating and driving safety, as well as to maintain the best possible value of your
vehicle.
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It
should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important
operating, safety and maintenance information.
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet
(US models) or a Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models). We
recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.
Your BMW is covered by the following warranties:
>
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
>
Limited Warranty Rust Perforation
>
Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
>
Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
>
California Emission Control System Limited Warranty
Detailed information about these warranties is listed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW M
Foreword
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
© 2000 BMW M GmbH
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, is permitted
only with the express written approval of
BMW M GmbH, Munich.
Order no. 01 41 0 155 429
US English VIII/2000
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 desire an initial overview
of your vehicle, this can be found in the
first chapter. The detailed list of
contents that directly follows the
summary of contents is intended to
stimulate your curiosity regarding your
BMW and to encourage you to read the
manual.
Should you wish to sell your BMW at
some time in the future, please
remember to hand over the Owner's
Manual to the new owner; it is part of
the vehicle.
Should you have any further questions,
your BMW center will be glad to assist
at any time.
Symbols used
Indicates instructions or precau-
tions that must be followed
precisely in order to avoid the possi-
bility of personal injury and serious
damage to the vehicle.
<
Contains information that will
assist you in gaining the optimum
benefit from your vehicle and enable
you to care more effectively for your
vehicle.
<
Refers to measures that can
be taken to help protect the
environment.
<
<
Marks the end of a specific item of
information.
*
Indicates special equipment,
country-specific equipment and
optional extras.
t
Identifies index entries that refer to
owner service procedures or topics on
car care.
Identifies systems or components,
which your BMW center can either
activate or adapt to suit an individual
driver's requirements ("Car Memory",
"Key Memory"). Refer to page 52.
Notes
Symbols
Your individual vehicle
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
5n
The individual vehicle
On buying your BMW, you have
decided in favor of a model with individ-
ualized equipment and fittings. 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
that you might not have chosen for your
vehicle. Any differences can easily be
identified, since all optional accessories
and special equipment are marked with
an asterisk
*
.
If your BMW features equipment that is
not described in this Owner's Manual (a
car radio or telephone, for instance), we
have enclosed Supplementary Owner's
Manuals. We ask you to read these
manuals as well.
Status at time of printing
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development conceived to
ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality and safety
standards combined with advanced,
state-of-the-art technology. For this
reason, it is possible that the features
described in this Owner's Manual could
differ from those on your vehicle. Nor
can errors and omissions be entirely
ruled out. You are therefore asked to
appreciate that no legal claims can be
entertained on the basis of the data,
illustrations or descriptions in this
Owner's Manual.
Status at time of printing
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
6n
For your own safety
Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels
containing up to and including
10 % ethanol or other oxygenates with
up to 2.8 % oxygen by weight (that is,
15 % MTBE or 3 % methanol plus an
equivalent amount of co-solvent) will
not void the applicable warranties
respecting defects in materials or work-
manship. Field experience has indi-
cated significant differences in fuel
quality (volatility, composition, addi-
tives, etc.) among gasolines offered for
sale in the United States and Canada.
The use of poor-quality fuels may result
in driveability, starting and stalling
problems, especially under certain
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 from
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 (for instance, CBs,
walkie-talkie, ham radio or similar
accessories) may cause extensive
damage to the vehicle, compromise its
safety, interfere with the vehicle's elec-
trical system or affect the validity of the
BMW Limited Warranty. See your BMW
center for additional information.
<
Maintenance, replacement, or
repair of the emission control
devices and systems may be performed
by any automotive repair establishment
or individual using any certified auto-
motive part.
<
Symbol on vehicle parts
Indicates that you should consult
the relevant section of this
Owner's Manual for information on
a particular part or assembly.
For your own safety
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 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, Inc., P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone (201) 307-4000.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in indi-
vidual problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of North America, Inc.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can
also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
9n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Contents
Overview
Controls and features
Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 23
Hazard warning flashers 24
Warning triangle 24
First-aid kit 24
Refueling 25
Fuel specifications 26
Tire inflation pressure 26
Locks and security systems:
Keys 30
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 31
Central locking system 32
Opening and closing – from the
outside 32
Using the key 32
Using the remote control 33
Opening and closing – from the
inside 36
Luggage compartment lid 37
Luggage compartment 39
Alarm system 40
Electric power windows 42
Sliding/Tilt sunroof 43
Adjustments:
Seats 45
Steering wheel 48
Mirrors 49
Seat, mirror and steering wheel
memory 50
Car Memory, Key Memory 52
Passenger safety systems:
Safety belts 53
Airbags 54
Transporting children safely 58
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 61
Starting the engine 62
Switching off the engine 62
Parking brake 63
Manual transmission 64
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp
flasher 64
Washer/Wiper system/Rain
sensor 65
Rear window defroster 67
Cruise control 67
Everything under control:
Odometer, outside temperature
display 69
Tachometer 70
Engine oil temperature gauge 70
Fuel gauge 70
Coolant temperature gauge 71
Service Interval Display 71
Check Control 72
Multi-Information Display
(MID) 75
Digital clock 76
Computer 79
Contents
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11n
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Technology for safety and
driving convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 84
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 86
M Dynamic Driving Control 87
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) 88
Lamps:
Side lamps/Low beams 90
Instrument rheostat 90
High beams/Parking lamps 91
Fog lamps 91
Interior lamps 91
Reading lamps 92
Controlling the climate for
pleasant driving:
Automatic climate control 94
Integrated rear center
console 100
Seat heating 102
Roller sun blind 102
Independent ventilation
system 102
Interior conveniences:
BMW Universal Transmitter 103
Integrated rear-seat
equipment 106
Glove compartment 107
Storage compartments 108
Cellular phones 108
Beverage holder 108
Ashtray, front 109
Cigarette lighter 110
Ashtray, rear 110
Loading and transporting
cargo:
Through-loading system 111
Ski bag 112
Cargo loading 114
Roof-mounted luggage rack 115
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedure 118
Driving notes 119
Catalytic converter 120
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 121
Disc brakes 123
Brake system 124
Winter operation 125
Power steering 127
Cellular phone 127
Radio reception 127
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 128
Tire condition 128
Tire replacement 129
Tire rotation 130
Wheel and tire
combinations 131
Special features of winter
tires 132
Snow chains 133
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 134
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Contents
Operation, care and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Under the hood:
Hood 135
Engine compartment 136
Washer fluids 138
Washer nozzles 138
Engine oil 139
Coolant 141
Brake fluid 142
Vehicle Identification
Number 143
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 144
Caring for your vehicle 145
Airbags 151
Vehicle storage 151
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 152
California Proposition
65 Warning 152
OBD interface socket 153
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 156
Windshield wiper blades 156
Lamps and bulbs 157
Repairing a flat tire 162
Battery 166
Fuses 168
In case of electrical
malfunction:
Fuel filler door 170
Sliding/Tilt sunroof 170
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 171
Towing the vehicle 172
Airbags 176
Radio reception 176
BMW active seat 177
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 178
Safety belt tensioner 178
DSP sound system 179
Mirrors with
automatic dimmer 179
Integrated rear suspension 180
Rain sensor 180
Xenon lamps 181
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14n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
15n
Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 23
Hazard warning flashers 24
Warning triangle 24
First-aid kit 24
Refueling 25
Fuel specifications 26
Tire inflation pressure 26
Overview
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
16n
39mde066
Cockpit
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
17n
1 Side lamps/Low beams 90
2
d
Turn signal indicator 64
>
Parking lamp 91
>
High beams 91
>
Headlamp flasher 64
>
Computer 83
3 Fog lamps 91
4 Wiper/Washer system 65
5 Central locking system 32
6 Hazard warning flashers 24
7 Rear window defroster 67
8 Horn: the entire surface
9 Adjusting the steering wheel 48
Cockpit
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18n
Instrument cluster
39mus001
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
19n
Instrument cluster
1 Fuel gauge with indicator lamp
for fuel reserve 70
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 22
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for high beams 22
5 Tachometer and
engine oil temperature gauge 70
6 Engine coolant temperature
gauge 71
7 Indicator and warning lamps
(clockwise) for:
>
Parking brake 21
>
Brake hydraulic system, Dynamic
Brake Control (DBC)
*
20, 21
>
Antilock Brake System (ABS) 21
>
Airbags 21
>
Please fasten safety belts 21
>
Cruise control
*
22
8 CHECK button 72
9 Outside temperature display 69
10 Indicator lamp for Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) 21
11 Trip odometer 69
12 Check Control display 72
13 Odometer 69
14 Service Interval Display 71
15 Trip odometer, reset to zero 69
16 Indicator and warning lamps
(clockwise) for:
>
Fog lamps 22
>
Battery charge current 20
>
Engine oil pressure 20
>
Service Engine Soon 21
You can display the outside
temperature and distance driven
in different units of measurement.
<
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20n
Indicator and warning lamps
Technology that monitors itself
Many of the systems of your BMW
monitor themselves automatically, both
during engine starts and while you are
driving. Indicator and warning lamps
that are identified by "
●
" are tested for
proper functioning whenever the igni-
tion key is turned. They 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. There is a malfunction
of the alternator drive belt or in the
charging circuit of the alternator. Please
contact the nearest BMW center.
If the drive belt is defective, do not
continue driving. The engine could
be damaged due to overheating. If the
drive belt is defective, increased
steering effort is also required.
<
Engine oil pressure
●
If the message "STOP! ENGINE
OIL PRESSURE" appears in the
Check Control: stop the vehicle and
switch off the engine immediately.
Check the engine oil level; top up as
required. If the oil level is correct:
please contact the nearest BMW
center.
Do not continue driving. The
engine could be damaged
because of inadequate lubrication.
<
Brake hydraulic system
●
Have the brake fluid level
checked. Before continuing your
journey, be sure to read the notes on
pages 124 and 142.
The indicator lamp comes on together
with the "Check brake pads" message
in the Check Control.
Brake hydraulic system warning
lamp for Canadian models.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
21n
Indicator and warning lamps
Red: an important reminder
Parking brake
●
Comes on when you engage the
parking brake.
For additional information, refer to
page 63.
Parking brake warning lamp for
Canadian models.
Please fasten safety belts
●
An acoustical signal is sounded
and a message appears in the
Check Control for 4 to 8 seconds. The
acoustical signal ends when the belt is
fastened.
For additional information on safety
belts, refer to page 53.
Airbags
●
Please have the system
inspected by your BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
pages 54, 176.
Yellow: check as soon as possible
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
●
ABS has been deactivated in
response to a system malfunc-
tion. Conventional braking efficiency is
available without limitations. Please
have the system inspected by your
BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
page 121.
ABS warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC)
●
DSC has been switched off or
has been deactivated because of a
malfunction. In the event of a malfunc-
tion, have the system checked by your
BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
page 86.
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
*
●
Fault in the DBC system.
Conventional braking efficiency
is available without limitations.
For additional information, refer to
page 124.
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
*
warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Service Engine Soon
●
If the indicator lights up either
continuously or intermittently,
this indicates a fault in the emissions-
related electronic systems. Although
the vehicle remains operational, you
should have the systems checked by
your BMW center at the earliest
possible opportunity.
For additional information on the OBD
interface socket, refer to page 153.
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
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22n
Indicator and warning lamps
Green: for your information
Turn signal indicator
Flashes when the turn signals
are in operation. Rapid flashing
means there is a fault in the system.
For additional information, refer to
page 64.
Cruise control
Comes on when the cruise
control is activated: available for
operation via the multifunction steering
wheel.
For additional information, refer to
page 67.
Fog lamps
Comes on whenever you switch
on the fog lamps.
For additional information, refer to
page 91.
Blue: for your information
High beams
Comes on when the high beams
are on or the headlamp flasher
is actuated.
For additional information, refer to
pages 64, 91.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
23n
Multifunction steering wheel (MFL)
The controls integrated in the multi-
function steering wheel (MFL) are
provided so that you can operate a
number of accessories quickly and
without being distracted from traffic
conditions. You may operate:
> Selected functions of the radio as
well as the CD and cassette modes,
> the cruise control,
> selected cellular phone
* functions
and
> the voice recognition
*.
In order to operate a system via
the MFL, the corresponding
system controls must be activated.<
The illustration shows the maximum
possible number of controls, corre-
sponding to a full range of optional
equipment. Refer to the individual
accessory manuals for more detailed
descriptions.
1 Horn: the entire surface
2 Radio/Cellular phone: select
3 Press briefly:
Receive a phone call, initiate dialing,
and terminate a call.
Press longer:
Turn voice recognition on and off
4 Radio/Cellular phone: volume
5 Radio/Cellular phone: scan backward
or scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings.
Rewind for the CD and cassette
players
39mde093
6 Radio/Cellular phone: scan forward
or scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings.
Fast forward for the CD and cassette
players
7 Cruise control: activate stored setting
(resume)
8 Cruise control: accelerate and
store (+) as well as decelerate and
store (–)
9 Cruise control: activate/interrupt/
deactivate.
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24n
Hazard warning flashers Warning triangle* First-aid kit*
The button flashes intermittently when
the hazard warning flashers are on.
To help you locate the switch in an
emergency, the button is also illumi-
nated whenever the vehicle's lamps are
on.
390de039
The hazard warning triangle is readily
accessible. It is stored in the container
for the onboard tool kit mounted in the
luggage compartment lid.
To open the container, loosen the wing
nut(s).
Comply with legal requirements
that cover the availability of a
hazard warning triangle in the vehicle.<
394de053
Under the front passenger's seat.
To remove: lift the release lever on the
front (arrow) and pull the first-aid kit
forward out of its support.
To store: position the back of the kit
into the support, then push back until
the lever engages.
Some of the articles in the first-aid
kit may be used within a limited
time only. For this reason, check the
contents of the kit regularly. Replace
any items whose expiration dates have
passed. These items are available in
any drugstore or pharmacy.
Comply with legal requirements that
cover the availability of a first-aid kit in
the vehicle.<
390de086
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
25n
Refueling
Fuel filler door
Before filling the tank, shut off the
engine. If you do not, fuel cannot
be filled into the tank and the Service
Engine Soon lamp may come on.<
To open the filler door, press on the
front edge.
To unlock the fuel filler door if the
central locking system malfunctions,
refer to page 170.
When handling fuels, comply with
all of the applicable safety precau-
tions and regulations posted at the
filling station. Never carry spare fuel
containers in your vehicle. Whether
empty or full, these containers can leak,
cause an explosion, or lead to fire in the
event of a collision.<
394de011
Simple and environmentally
friendly
Open the filler cap carefully to
prevent fuel from spraying out.
Fuel spray may cause injury. Do not top
off. Topping off may cause fuel to
spill.<
Keep the filler cap in the bracket
attached to the fuel filler door.
394de120
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle
completely into the filler pipe. Pulling
the nozzle out of the pipe during refu-
eling
> results in premature pump shutoff
> and will reduce the effect of the vapor
recovery system on the pump.
As long as the filler nozzle is used prop-
erly, the fuel tank is full whenever the
nozzle shuts off the first time.
Tank capacity: refer to page 186.
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
message "CHECK FILLER CAP" in the
Check Control or the Service Engine
Soon lamp.<
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26n
Fuel specifications Tire inflation pressure
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) for tires at ambient
temperature (refer also to the next
page).
After you have corrected the tire
inflation pressure, reactivate the
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) system.
Refer to page 88.<
390de351
Check tire inflation pressures
regularly – at least every two
weeks and before beginning a longer
trip. Incorrect tire pressure can other-
wise lead to tire damage and acci-
dents.<
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
27n
Tire inflation pressure
Comply with tire approval
specifications
The inflation pressures in the table apply
to tires from BMW-approved manufac-
turers. Your BMW center is familiar with
these pressures. Higher pressures may
be specified for tires from other manu-
facturers. You will find a list of approved
tire sizes on page 133.
Your vehicle is equipped with tires
which not only meet US standards, but
also European standards. We recom-
mend the exclusive use of BMW-
approved tires.
BMW Tires
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) with cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
M5
245/40 ZR 18 35 (240) – 44 (300) –
275/35 ZR 18 – 38 (260) – 48 (330)
235/45 R 17 94 H M+S 35 (240) 38 (260) 39 (270) 46 (320)
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28n
Locks and security systems:
Keys 30
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 31
Central locking system 32
Opening and closing – from the
outside 32
Using the key 32
Using the remote control 33
Opening and closing – from the
inside 36
Luggage compartment lid 37
Luggage compartment 39
Alarm system 40
Electric power windows 42
Sliding/tilt sunroof 43
Adjustments:
Seats 45
Steering wheel 48
Mirrors 49
Seat, mirror and steering wheel
memory 50
Car Memory, Key Memory 52
Passenger safety systems:
Safety belts 53
Airbags 54
Transporting children safely 58
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 61
Starting the engine 62
Switching off the engine 62
Parking brake 63
Manual transmission 64
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp
flasher 64
Wiper/Washer system/Rain
sensor 65
Rear window defroster 67
Cruise control 67
Everything under control:
Odometer, outside temperature
display 69
Tachometer 70
Engine oil temperature gauge 70
Fuel gauge 70
Coolant temperature 71
Service Interval Display 71
Check Control 72
Multi-Information Display
(MID) 75
Digital clock 76
Computer 79
Controls
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
29n
Technology for safety and
convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 84
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 86
M Dynamic Driving Control 87
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) 88
Lamps:
Side lamps/Low beams 90
Instrument rheostat 90
High beams/Parking lamps 91
Fog lamps 91
Interior lamps 91
Reading lamps 92
Controlling the climate for
pleasant driving:
Automatic climate control 94
Integrated rear center
console 100
Seat heating 102
Roller sun blind 102
Independent ventilation
system 102
Interior conveniences:
BMW Universal Transmitter 103
Integrated rear-seat
equipment 106
Glove compartment 107
Storage compartments 108
Cellular phone 108
Beverage holder 108
Ashtray, front 109
Cigarette lighter 110
Ashtray, rear 110
Loading and transporting:
Through-loading system 111
Ski bag 112
Cargo loading 114
Roof-mounted luggage rack 115
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Keys
1 The master keys with remote control
determine the functions of the Key
Memory. Refer to page 52
There is an extended-life battery
in every master key which is
charged automatically in the steering
lock as you drive.
For this reason, if you have a master
key that is otherwise not used, use that
key approximately once every year
while driving for an extended period.
This will charge the battery. Refer also
to page 33.<
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,
such as in your wallet. This key is not
intended for constant use
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3 Door and ignition key
The lock for the glove compartment
cannot be operated with this key.
This is recommended for valet
parking, for instance
Replacement keys
Replacement keys are available exclu-
sively through your BMW center. Your
BMW center is obligated 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 page 31).
If possible, take all of the master
keys that belong to the vehicle
with you when you pick up your
replacement key.
Whenever you receive a new replace-
ment key, turn it once to position 2 in
the ignition lock (ignition switched on)
and then back, so that the electronic
vehicle immobilizer can "learn" the new
key.<
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Electronic vehicle immobilizer
The key to security
Your BMW is equipped with a passive
anti-theft system. This electronic immo-
bilization system is designed to reduce
the susceptibility of the vehicle to theft
by making it impossible to start the
engine using any means other than the
special keys furnished with the vehicle.
Your BMW center can cancel the elec-
tronic system authorization for indi-
vidual keys (in the event of loss, for
instance). A deactivated key can no
longer be used to start the engine.
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How the electronics work
At the heart of this system is an elec-
tronic chip that is integrated into the
key. The lock mechanism itself is actu-
ally a dual-function device, simulta-
neously serving as a communications
interface designed to allow the security
system to maintain a continuous stream
of variable, vehicle-specific signals with
the electronic circuitry in the key. The
system will not release the ignition, fuel
injection and starter unless it recog-
nizes an "authorized" key.
Force applied to the key can
damage the integrated electronic
circuitry. A damaged key can no longer
be used to start the engine.<
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Central locking system Opening and closing – from the outside
The concept
The central locking system is ready for
operation when both front doors are
closed. The system engages and
releases the locks on the
> doors
> luggage compartment lid
> fuel filler door.
The central locking system can be
operated
> from outside via the door lock and
using the remote control
> from inside by pressing a button.
The fuel filler door is not locked when
you open the vehicle from the inside
(refer to page 36). The alarm system is
automatically armed whenever you acti-
vate the central locking system from
outside of the vehicle. Both the door
locks and release handles remain
locked. The alarm system is also acti-
vated or deactivated.
If locked from inside, the central locking
system unlocks automatically (only
those doors which were not locked
separately with the safety lock buttons)
in the event of an accident. Refer to
page 36. In addition, the hazard
warning flashers and interior lamps
come on.
Using the key
One turn of the key in the driver's door
lock unlocks the driver's door only.
Turning the key a second time unlocks
all of the remaining doors, the luggage
compartment lid and the fuel filler door.
You can have a confirmation
message set to inform you that the
vehicle has been properly locked.<
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Convenience operation
You can also operate the windows and
sliding/tilt sunroof via the door lock.
> To open: with the door closed, turn
the key to the "Unlock" position and
hold it.
> To close: with the door closed, turn
the key to the "Lock" position and
hold it.
Watch during the closing process
to be sure that no one is inadvert-
ently injured. Releasing the key stops
the operation.<
Manual operation
(in the event of an electrical failure)
Turn the key to the extreme left or right
to unlock/lock the door.
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Opening and closing – from the outside
Using the remote control
The remote control makes opening and
locking the doors of your vehicle very
convenient. Furthermore, it provides
three additional functions that can only
be executed by means of the remote
control:
> Switch on interior lamps, refer to
page 34
With this function, you can also
"search for" your vehicle – when
parked in an underground garage, for
instance.
> Open the luggage compartment lid,
refer to page 35
The luggage compartment lid will
open slightly, regardless of whether
the lid was previously locked or
unlocked.
> Panic mode, refer to page 35
In case of danger, you can trigger an
alarm.
When the vehicle is unlocked or locked,
the anti-theft system is simultaneously
deactivated/activated, the alarm system
is disarmed/armed and the interior
lamps are switched on/off.
You can have a confirmation
message set to inform you that the
vehicle has been properly locked.<
Master keys
Keys with remote control are master
keys. Refer to page 30.
Children might be able to lock the
doors from the inside. For this
reason, always take the vehicle's keys
with you so that the vehicle can be
opened again from the outside at any
time.<
39mde103
Master keys that are used repeat-
edly are always ready for opera-
tion since the battery in the key is
charged automatically in the steering
lock as you drive.
If it is no longer possible to unlock the
vehicle via the remote control, the
battery is discharged. Use this key
while driving for an extended period in
order to charge the battery. Refer also
to page 30.
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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To lock and secure
Press button 2.
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Opening and closing – from the outside
Unlocking and convenience
opening mode
To unlock: press button 1.
Press the button once to unlock the
driver's door only; press a second time
to unlock all remaining doors as well as
the luggage compartment and fuel filler
door.
Convenience opening mode: press and
hold button 1. The windows and the
sliding/tilt sunroof are then opened.
463de025
Deactivate the tilt sensor alarm
system and interior motion sensor
Press button 2 a second time immedi-
ately after locking.
For additional information, refer to
page 41.
To switch on the interior lamps
After locking the vehicle, press button 2
a second time.
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Opening and closing – from the outside
Luggage compartment lid open –
Panic mode
Open the luggage compartment lid:
press button 3.
The luggage compartment lid will open
slightly, regardless of whether it was
previously locked or unlocked.
Before and after a trip, be sure
that the luggage compartment lid
was not opened unintentionally.<
Panic mode: by pressing and holding
button 3 for two to five seconds, you
can trigger the alarm system if there is
an impending danger (the system must
be armed).
The alarm is deactivated by pressing
button 1.
463de026
Non-BMW systems
The remote control system's func-
tioning may be affected by other units
or equipment operating in the imme-
diate vicinity of your vehicle.
If this should occur, you can unlock and
lock the vehicle via the door lock with a
master key.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units
comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communications Commission) regula-
tions. Operation is governed by the
following:
FCC ID: LX8EWS
LX8FZVS
LX8FZVE
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
> This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
> this device must accept any interfer-
ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications
to these devices could void the
user's authority to operate this equip-
ment.<
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Opening and closing – from the inside
Use this button to operate the central
locking system when the front doors
are closed. The doors and luggage
compartment lid are unlocked or locked
only. The antitheft alarm system is not
activated. Also, the fuel filler door
remains unlocked to allow refueling.
If you desire, the central locking
system will secure the locks as
soon as you start to drive. This can be
adjusted to be key-specific.<
390de016
If only the driver's door was
unlocked from the outside and
you press the button
> all other doors, the luggage compart-
ment lid and the fuel filler door will be
unlocked if the driver's door is open
> the driver's door will be locked again
if it is closed.<
To unlock and open the doors
> Either unlock the doors together with
the button for the central locking
system and then pull each of the
release handles above the armrests
or
> pull the release handle for each door
twice: the first pull unlocks the door,
and the second one opens it.
To engage locks
> Use the central locking button to lock
all of the doors simultaneously, or
> press down the individual door lock
buttons. The fuel filler door remains
then unlocked. To prevent the driver
from being inadvertently locked out
of the vehicle, the driver's door lock
button will not engage as long as the
door is open.
When the vehicle is moving, do
not lock the doors with the safety
lock buttons. Doors locked in this
manner would not open automatically in
the event of an accident.
Children might be able to lock the
doors from the inside. For this reason,
always take the vehicle's keys with you
so that the vehicle can be opened again
from the outside at any time.<
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Luggage compartment lid
The lock
Only the master key (refer to page 30)
fits in the lock of the luggage compart-
ment.
Opening separately
Turn the master key to the left in the
luggage compartment lock clear to the
stop – the luggage compartment lid will
open slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as you close the lid.
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Secure separately
Turn the master key to the right past the
resistance point and then pull it out in
the horizontal position.
This locks the luggage compartment lid
and disconnects it from the central
locking system. This feature can be
used to prevent unauthorized access to
the luggage compartment when you
surrender the door and ignition key
(refer to page 30) for valet parking, for
instance.
394de064
To open from outside
Press the button (arrow): the luggage
compartment lid opens slightly.
The luggage compartment is lighted
when the luggage compartment lid is
opened.
Manual operation
(in the event of an electrical failure)
Turn the master key to the left in the
luggage compartment lock clear to the
stop – the luggage compartment lid will
open slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as you close the lid.
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Luggage compartment lid
Opening from inside the vehicle
Provided the luggage compartment has
not been locked separately, you can
use this button to open it when the
vehicle is stationary.
39mde067
To close
The handle recess (arrow) next to the
lock mechanism is designed to assist
you in closing the luggage compart-
ment lid.
394de128
Operate the vehicle only when the
luggage compartment lid is
completely closed. Otherwise, exhaust
fumes could penetrate the interior of
the vehicle. Should it be absolutely
necessary to operate the vehicle with
the luggage compartment lid open:
> Close all windows. Shut the sliding/
tilt sunroof.
> Increase the air supply of the auto-
matic climate control to a high level.
Refer to page 97.<
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Luggage compartment
Luggage net
Use the luggage net to secure smaller
items of luggage.
If you place objects on the luggage net,
this helps to prevent them from moving.
The lashing eyes located at the corners
of the luggage compartment provide
you with a convenient means of
attaching draw straps
* for securing
suitcases and luggage.
Refer also to "Cargo loading" on
page 114.
39mde050
Hanger*
You will find a hanger on the left-hand
side of the luggage compartment for
fastening shopping bags, packages or
other items.
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Alarm system
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
> When a door, the hood or the
luggage compartment lid is opened.
> To movement inside the vehicle
(interior motion sensor).
> to changing the vehicle's tilt if
someone attempts to steal the
wheels or tow the vehicle.
> To an interruption in battery voltage.
The system responds to unauthorized
vehicle entry and attempted theft by
simultaneously activating the following
> Sounding an acoustical alarm for
30 seconds.
> The hazard warning flashers are acti-
vated for approx. five minutes.
> The high beams flash on and off in
the same rhythm.
To activate and deactivate the
alarm system
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked
with the key or the remote control, the
alarm system is also simultaneously
armed or disarmed.
The interior motion sensor is activated
approx. 30 seconds after you have
finished locking the vehicle.
The system indicates that it has been
correctly armed by switching on the
hazard warning flashers for a single
cycle and by emitting an acoustical
signal.
You can have various confirmation
messages set to inform you that
the alarm system has been armed or
disarmed.<
You can still open the luggage compart-
ment after the system has been armed
by pressing button 3 of the remote
control (refer to page 35). When you
close the luggage compartment, the lid
is secured again.
Indicator lamp displays
> The indicator lamp below the interior
rearview mirror flashes continuously:
the system is armed.
> The indicator lamp flashes when it is
armed: a door (or doors), the hood,
luggage compartment lid or rear
window is not completely closed.
Even if you do not close the indicated
area, the system begins to monitor
the remaining areas, and the indi-
cator lamp flashes continuously after
10 seconds. However, the interior
motion sensor is not activated.
> The indicator lamp goes out when the
system is disarmed: no manipulation
or attempted intrusions have been
detected in the period since the
system was armed.
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Alarm system
> The indicator lamp flashes for
10 seconds when the system is
disarmed: an attempted entry has
been detected in the period since the
system was armed.
Following triggering of an alarm, the
indicator lamp will flash continuously.
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion
sensor may be switched off at the same
time. You can do this to prevent a false
alarm from being triggered (in garages
with elevator ramps, for instance, or
when the vehicle is transported by
trailer or train):
Actuate the lock (= arm the system)
twice; in other words, press button 2 of
the remote control twice in succession
(refer to page 34). You may also actuate
the lock twice with the key (refer to
page 32).
The indicator lamp lights up briefly and
then flashes continuously. The tilt alarm
sensor and the interior motion sensor
are deactivated as long as the system
is armed.
Interior motion sensor
The illustration depicts the transmitter
and receiver of the interior motion
sensor.
In order for the interior motion sensor to
function properly, the windows and
sliding/tilt sunroof must be completely
closed.
Nevertheless, you should deactivate
the interior motion sensor (refer to the
previous column) if the windows or
sliding/tilt sunroof should be left open.
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Electric power windows
Open and close windows
In ignition key position 1 and 2:
> Depress the rocker switch until you
feel resistance:
The window continues to move as
long as you maintain pressure on the
switch.
> Press the rocker switch beyond the
resistance point:
The window moves automatically.
Press the switch a second time to
stop the window.
390de055
After the ignition has been switched off:
> You can still operate the power
windows as long as neither of the
front doors has been opened. To
open a window, press the switch
beyond the resistance point.
Remove the key from the ignition
key and close the doors when you
leave the vehicle so that children
cannot operate the power windows and
possibly injure themselves.<
For convenience operation via the door
lock or remote control, refer to page 32
or 34.
Safety feature
A contact strip is located on the inside
upper frame of each of the windows. If
pressure is exerted against this contact
strip while a window is being raised, the
system will respond by stopping the
window and then retracting it a small
distance.
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful to ensure that
the closing path of the window is not
obstructed. Otherwise, an object might
not touch the contact strip in some situ-
ations (very thin objects, for instance).
You can disable this safety feature by
pressing the switch beyond the pres-
sure point and holding it.
Because the power windows are sealed
at high pressure to prevent wind noise
when closed, a powerful motor is
required for efficient closing. When
closing the windows, always be sure
that they are not obstructed in any way.
Unsupervised use of these systems can
result in serious personal injury.
Remove the ignition key to deactivate
the electric power windows whenever
you leave the vehicle. Never leave the
keys in the vehicle with unsupervised
children. Never place anything that
could obstruct the driver's vision on or
next to the windows.<
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Electric power windows Sliding/tilt sunroof*
Safety switch
With the safety switch, you can prevent
the rear windows from being opened or
closed via the switch in the rear
passenger area (by children, for
example).
Press the safety switch whenever
children are riding in the rear of
the vehicle. Careless use of the power
windows can lead to injury.<
390de131
To prevent injuries, exercise care
when closing the sliding/tilt
sunroof and keep it in your field of
vision until it is shut.
Before leaving the vehicle, switch off
the electric sunroof mechanism by
taking out the ignition key. Do not leave
children unattended in the vehicle with
access to vehicle keys. Use of the key
can result in starting of the engine and
operation of vehicle systems such as
the power sunroof. Unsupervised use
of these systems can result in serious
personal injury.<
You can avoid pressure or drafts in the
passenger compartment when the
sunroof is open or lifted by opening the
air vents in the dashboard and
increasing the air supply as required.
Refer to page 97.
If the sunroof is completely open, air
disturbances may be caused in the
vehicle when you are driving at higher
speeds. Close the roof as far as is
necessary until this natural phenom-
enon ceases.
For convenience operation via the door
lock or remote control, refer to page 32
or 34.
Lifting – opening – closing
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher, press the switch or slide it to the
desired direction until you feel resis-
tance.
When lifting, the headliner retracts
several inches.
If the sliding/tilt sunroof is up, then
the headliner cannot be closed.<
After the ignition has been switched off,
you can still operate the sunroof as long
as neither front door has been opened.
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Sliding/tilt sunroof*
Automatic* opening and closing
Press the switch past the resistance
point briefly: the sunroof travels to
either the fully-closed or fully-open
position.
Other automatic operations are:
> With the sunroof open, press the
switch briefly toward "Lift:" the
sunroof automatically extends to its
fully raised position.
> With the sunroof raised, press the
switch briefly toward "Open:" the
sunroof automatically extends to the
"Open" position.
Pressing the switch again stops the
motion immediately.
Safety feature
If the sliding/tilt sunroof encounters
resistance at a point roughly past the
middle of its travel when it is closing,
the closing cycle is interrupted and the
sunroof will open again slightly.
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful to ensure that
the closing path of the roof is not
obstructed. Otherwise, triggering the
closing-force limitation may not be
ensured in some situations (with very
thin objects, for instance). You can
disable this safety feature by pressing
the switch beyond the pressure point
and holding it.<
Sliding/tilt sunroof with glass
moonroof
*
The options and control procedures are
essentially the same as those previously
described for the sliding/tilt sunroof. In
order to open the raised roof, press the
control switch towards "Open" until the
roof has reached the desired position.
The headliner insert slides back some-
what when you raise the sunroof. When
the sunroof is opened, the headliner
retracts with it. The headliner will then
automatically remain in its retracted
position, but can be repositioned as
desired.
Power loss or malfunction
Following a power interruption (if the
battery is disconnected, for instance),
the sunroof can only be raised in some
circumstances. To correct this situa-
tion:
1 Raise the sliding/tilt sunroof fully.
2 Press and hold the switch for approx.
20 seconds.
In the event of an electrical system
malfunction, the sliding/tilt sunroof can
be manually operated. Refer to
page 170.
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For maximum safety when adjusting the
seat position, please observe the
following:
Never try to adjust your seat while
driving the vehicle. The seat could
respond with unexpected movement,
and the ensuing loss of vehicle control
could lead to an accident.
Be sure that the safety belt remains
firmly against your body at all times. In
the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap
belt could slide over your hips, leading
to abdominal injury. In addition, the
safety belt's restraint effectiveness is
reduced if the belt is worn loosely.
Never travel with the backrest reclined
to an extreme angle (especially impor-
tant for front passengers). Keep the
backrest relatively upright to minimize
the risk of sliding under the safety belt
and sustaining injury in the event of a
crash.
Do not move the seats to the rear when
the vehicle is at an extreme angle (on
garage ramps or steep slopes, for
example). If you do so, the automatic
safety belt height adjustment can be
disengaged.<
Correct sitting posture
To reduce strain on your spinal column,
sit all the way back in the seat and rest
your back fully against the backrest.
The ideal sitting posture is achieved
when your head is extended from your
spine in a straight line.
For long-distance driving, you may wish
to increase the angle of the backrest
slightly to reduce muscular tension.
You should always be able to reach
the highest point on the steering wheel
without straightening your arms.
1 Tilt angle (driver's seat only)
2 Backward/Forward adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle
5 Head restraint height
Adjust the tilt angle of the head
restraint manually by rotating it
39mde009
Seat adjustment BMW M sports seat
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BMW M sports seat
Lumbar support
You can adjust the backrest's contour
for additional support in the curvature
of your spine's lumbar region.
The upper hips and spinal column
receive supplementary support to help
you maintain a relaxed, upright posture.
> Press the front/rear of switch:
increase/decrease curvature.
> Press the upper/lower end of the
switch: curvature is shifted upward or
downward.
Comply with the adjustment
instructions on page 45. Failure to
do so could result in diminished
personal safety.<
39mde010
Thigh support
You can also adjust the thigh support to
correspond with your personal comfort.
39mde011
Head restraints
Adjust the angle of the front head
restraint by rotating it forward or back.
Adjust the height of the rear head
restraint by pulling it up or pushing it
down.
Head restraints reduce the risk
of spinal injury in the event of an
accident.
Adjust the head restraint so that its
center is approximately level with your
ears.
Leave the center-rear head restraint in
the fully-lowered position at all times.
Extending it limits its function.<
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BMW comfort seat*
This seat allows you to make additional
adjustments with the power seat
system (see under BMW M sports seat,
page 45) for
1 Lumbar support
2 Shoulder support
Lumbar support
See under BMW M sport seat on
page 46.
380de024
Shoulder support
Press the rocker switch to adjust the tilt
angle of the shoulder support.
You can use the adjustable upper back-
rest for supplementary support in the
shoulder region. This provides a relaxed
driving position and helps relieve stress
on the shoulder muscles.
To obtain the optimal shoulder support
setting, we recommend:
Driver and front passenger:
1 Adjust the upper backrest section to
its extreme rear position.
2 Adjust the seat to the optimal posi-
tion as described on page 45.
3 Bring the upper backrest section
forward until your shoulders enjoy
firm support.
380de064
Front passenger's seat adjustment for
relaxed traveling:
1 Adjust the upper backrest section to
its extreme rear position.
2 Increase the seat cushion tilt.
3 Tilt the backrest somewhat further.
4 Bring the upper backrest section
forward.
Make corrections in the forward/
backward adjustment of the seat
to ensure that the safety belt still fits
firmly against your body. If you do not
do this, the protection provided by the
safety belt may be reduced.<
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BMW active seat* Adjusting the steering wheel
Active changes in the seat's surface
help to avoid muscle cramps, pain in
the spine's lumbar region and fatigue.
To activate the seat, press the button
(arrow).
For additional details concerning the
BMW active seat, please refer to the
chapter describing "Advanced tech-
nology" on page 177.
39mde096
The steering wheel can be moved in any
of four directions. Adjust by moving the
control lever in the desired direction.
Do not adjust the steering wheel
while the vehicle is moving. There
is a risk of accident from unexpected
movement.<
To store the steering wheel setting,
refer to "Seat, mirror and steering
wheel memory" on page 50.
39mde068
Automatic steering wheel
adjustment
In order to make it easier to get into and
out of the vehicle, the steering wheel
automatically moves into the top posi-
tion and returns to the driving (memory)
position.
This automatic feature is controlled by
the position of the ignition key and by
the driver's door.
Your BMW center can adjust your
vehicle's systems in such a
manner that your personalized setting is
automatically called up for the steering
wheel position when you unlock the
vehicle with your personal key.<
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Mirrors
Exterior mirrors
1 Switch for 4-way adjustment
2 Selection switch for changing
between mirrors
You can also adjust the mirrors manu-
ally by pressing against the outer edges
of their lenses.
To store the mirror settings, refer to
"Seat, mirror and steering wheel
memory" on page 50.
390us605
The mirror on the passenger's side
features a lens with a more convex
surface than the mirror installed on the
driver's side. When estimating the
distance between yourself and other
traffic, bear in mind that the objects
reflected in the mirror are closer than
they appear. This means that
estimations of the distance to following
traffic should not be regarded as
precise.<
Your BMW center can adjust your
vehicle's systems in such a
manner that your personalized setting is
automatically called up for the mirror
position when you unlock the vehicle
with your personal key.<
Electric heaters
Both mirrors are automatically
defrosted with the ignition key in
position 2.
Interior and exterior mirrors,
automatic dimming feature
By responding to the effects of ambient
light and the glare from following traffic,
these mirrors dims automatically
through an infinitely-variable range.
The mirrors automatically revert to their
clear, undimmed setting whenever you
engage reverse gear.
To ensure that the mirrors continue to
operate properly, keep the two photo-
cells in the interior mirror clean and
unobstructed. One photocell (arrow) is
in the mirror glass, while the other is
offset somewhat on the opposite side
of the mirror.
For an explanation of the electro-
chromic technology used in this mirror,
refer to page 179.
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Mirrors Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory
Sun visors
The sun visors can be folded down
toward the windshield or swiveled out
against the side windows.
Lighted vanity mirror
Fold down the sun visor and slide the
cover panel to the side as required.
The mirror lamps operate in ignition key
positions 1 and 2.
39mde083
You can store and call up three different
seat, exterior mirror and steering wheel
positions. The illustration shows the
buttons on the driver's door, for making
these position adjustments.
The adjustment setting for the lumbar
support is not saved in the memory.
To store
1 Turn the key to ignition key position
1 or 2.
2 Adjust the desired positions for the
seat, door mirror and steering wheel.
3 Press the
MEMORY button: the indi-
cator lamp in the button lights up.
4 Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as
desired: the indicator lamp goes out.
390de032
To select a stored setting
Convenience function:
1 Open the driver's door after
unlocking or put ignition key in posi-
tion 1.
2 Briefly press memory button 1, 2 or 3,
as desired.
Movement stops immediately when
one of the seat-adjustment or
memory buttons is activated during
the adjustment process.
Safety function:
1 With the driver's door closed and
ignition key either removed or in posi-
tion 0 or 2.
2 Maintain pressure on desired
memory button 1, 2 or 3 until the
adjustment process is completed.
If you press the
MEMORY button acci-
dentally: press the button a second
time, the indicator lamp goes out.
Do not call up a position from
the memory while the vehicle is
moving. There is a risk of accident from
unexpected movement of the seat or
steering wheel.<
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Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory
Your BMW center can adjust your
vehicle's systems in such a
manner that your personalized settings
are automatically called up for the seat,
mirror and steering wheel positions
when you unlock the vehicle with your
personal remote control key.<
If you make use of this setting
mode, be sure that the footwell
behind the driver's seat is unobstructed
before unlocking the vehicle. Other-
wise, persons or objects could be
injured or damaged should the seat
move backward.<
Passenger side exterior mirror tilt
function
(automatic curb monitor)
1 Move the mirror selector switch
(arrow) to the "driver's mirror"
position.
2 When reverse gear is engaged, the
passenger-side mirror tilts down-
ward. This brings the area directly
adjacent to the vehicle (curbs, etc.)
into the driver's field of vision as an
aid during parking.
You can deactivate this automatic
feature by setting the mirror selection
switch to the "passenger-side mirror"
position.
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Car Memory, Key Memory
How the system functions
You have probably frequently wished
that you could configure individual
functions of your vehicle to reflect your
own personal requirements. In devel-
oping this vehicle, BMW has "built in" a
few options that, should you so desire,
your BMW center can adjust for you.
There are settings related to the vehicle
("Car Memory") and settings related to
individuals ("Key Memory"). You can
configure two different basic settings
for two different persons. The only
requirement is that each person uses
his or her own remote control key.
463de029
When your vehicle is unlocked with the
remote control, the vehicle recognizes
the individual user by means of a data
exchange with the key, and makes
adjustments accordingly.
In order for you to distinguish between
different keys, colored decals are
supplied together with the keys.
What the system can do
Your BMW center can provide you with
details on the capabilities of the Car
Memory and Key Memory systems.
You will see this symbol
throughout the Owner's Manual. It
is to remind you at appropriate places
of the settings that are available to
you.<
An example for Key Memory is the
automatic adjustment of the driver's
power seat with stored settings for the
individual person when the vehicle is
unlocked.
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Drive with your safety belt on
Fasten your safety belt at the beginning
of every trip.
To fasten: make sure you hear the
catch engage in the belt buckle.
To release: press the red button in the
buckle. Hold the belt and guide it back
into its reel.
The shoulder belt anchor automatically
adjusts to continue providing an
optimum fit when you move the seat
forward or back.
For care instructions, refer to page 149.
39mde069
The two safety belt buckles that are
integrated in the rear seat are for
passengers sitting on the left and right.
The belt buckle with the word
"CENTER" (in the red button) is
intended exclusively for a passenger
sitting in the middle.
For your safety, comply with the
following instructions for wearing
safety belts. If you do not, the safety
belts may not be able to provide their
maximum protection. The following
information also applies to your
passengers:
Never allow more than one person to
wear a single safety belt. Never allow
infants or small children to ride in a
passenger's lap.
Avoid twisting the belt while routing it
firmly across the hips and shoulder,
wear it as snugly against your body as
possible. Do not allow the belt to rest
against hard or fragile objects. Never
route the belt across your neck, do not
run it across sharp edges and ensure
that the belt does not become caught
or jammed.
Avoid wearing bulky clothing that
prevents the belt from fitting properly.
Pull on the belt periodically to readjust
the tension over your shoulder. 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 always wear
their safety belts, taking care to position
the lap belt against the lower hips,
where it will not exert pressure against
the abdominal area.<
Vehicles with through-loading
system
*: please read and comply
with the instructions for the center
safety belt on page 111.<
If the safety belt system has been
subjected to the stresses involved
in an accident or otherwise damaged:
have the entire safety belt mechanism
replaced by your BMW center,
including the safety belt tensioner. In
addition, have your BMW center
inspect the safety belt anchors. If a
child restraint system was in the vehicle
during an accident, consult the manu-
facturer's instructions regarding
replacement.<
Safety belts
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Safety belts Airbags
Child restraint systems*
Never install a rear-facing child
restraint device on the front
passenger seat. Otherwise, injuries
could occur when the airbag is trig-
gered in the event of an accident.
Children should always ride in the rear
and the restraint systems should be
secured with the outer belts.
The center seat belt should only be
used when it is necessary to secure
three child restraint systems.
Do not attempt to modify child restraint
systems. If you do this, the protection
provided by these systems could be
impaired.<
1 Front airbags on the driver and
passenger sides
2 Head airbags on the driver and
passenger sides (front and rear
*)
3 Side airbags on the driver and
passenger sides (front and rear
*)
Protective effect
The front airbags protect the driver and
passenger in the event of a severe
frontal collision in which the protection
afforded by the belts alone may no
longer be sufficient. The head protec-
tion and side airbags help provide
protection in the event of a collision
from the side. Each of the side airbags
is designed to help support the upper
body.
39mde064
The side airbags in the rear
passenger area
* of your vehicle
may already have been deactivated,
either at the time of manufacture or by a
BMW center. You may have them acti-
vated if you desire to do so. Please
contact your BMW center for additional
information.<
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Airbags
The illustration schematically depicts
the primary directions of vehicle impact
that initiate an airbag deployment.
The airbags will not be triggered in
the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle roll-over, or an impact from the
rear.<
390de142
Functional status
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster displays the opera-
tional status of the airbag
system with the ignition key in position
1 and higher.
System operational:
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
then goes out.
System malfunction:
> The indicator lamp fails to come on.
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
before going out and then lighting
up again.
A system malfunction could prevent
the system from responding to an
impact occurring within its normal
response range.
Have the system checked by a
BMW center immediately.
Sitting correctly with airbags
For your own safety, please
observe the following precautions
concerning airbags. If you do not, their
protective function may be impaired
and your personal safety in jeopardy.
This information applies to all vehicle
occupants:
Even though there is an airbag, wear a
safety belt every time you get in the
vehicle, because airbags enhance
safety by providing added protection.
Make sure you are seated comfortably
in your seat in such a way that you
always maintain control, and are not too
close to the steering wheel.
Always hold the steering wheel by the
rim to keep any chance of injury to
hands or arms to an absolute minimum
should the airbag be deployed.
No one and nothing is to come between
the airbag and the seat occupant.
Do not use the cover panel above the
front passenger-side airbag as a
storage area.
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Airbags
Never tape the airbag cover panels,
cover them over or alter them in any
other way.
Do not install a rear-facing child
restraint system in the front passenger
seat of this vehicle. Children under
13 years of age and children less than
5 ft (150 cm) tall should only ride in the
rear seat.
If your vehicle is equipped with side
airbags in the rear passenger area, be
sure that child restraints are mounted
correctly and provided with the
greatest-possible distance between the
airbags in the side trim panels. Do not
allow children to lean out of the child
seat in the direction of the side trim
panels. Otherwise, serious injuries
could occur if the airbag is triggered (if
activated per customer request).<
At all times, occupants should sit
upright and be properly restrained
(infants and small children in appro-
priate child restraint systems; larger
children and adults using the safety
belts). Never let an occupant's head rest
near or on a side airbag because the
inflating airbag could cause a serious or
fatal injury. Please note that the word
"Airbag" imprinted on the door trim
panel indicates the airbag's location.
Accident research shows that the safest
place for children in an automobile is in
the rear seat. However, a child sitting in
the rear seat and not properly restrained
may place his or her head on or near the
side airbag, if so equipped. For
example, a child – even though belted –
may fall asleep with his or her head
against the side airbag. It may be diffi-
cult for a driver to ensure that children in
the rear seat will remain properly posi-
tioned at all times and not place their
heads on or near the side airbag.
Therefore, we recommend that the
rear-seat side airbags, if provided, be
deactivated if children will be travelling
in the rear seat.
The rear seat side airbags may already
have been deactivated, either at the
time of manufacture or by a BMW
center. Labels in the rear door opening
should indicate the status of your rear
seat side airbags. If you are uncertain of
their status, or wish to have the airbags
activated or deactivated, please
contact your BMW center.<
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Airbags
Even when all these guidelines are
observed, there is still a small residual
risk of injuries to the face, hands and
arms occurring from airbag deployment
in isolated instances.
The ignition and inflation noise may
provoke a mild temporary hearing loss
in extremely sensitive individuals.
Airbag warning information is also
provided on the sun visors.
For additional information concerning
the airbag system, refer to pages 151
and 176.
This is the right way for a child to sit in
a child restraint when rear side airbags
(arrow) are provided.
380de637
This is the right way for a larger child
to sit wearing the safety belt when rear
side airbags (arrow) are provided.
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Transporting children safely
Commercially-available child restraint
systems are designed to be secured
with a lap belt or with the lap belt
portion of a combination lap/shoulder
belt. Improperly or inadequately
installed restraint systems can increase
the risk of injury to children. Always
read and follow the instructions that
come with the system.
380us123
If you use a child restraint system with
a tether strap, three additional tether
anchorage points have been provided
(refer to the arrows in the illustration).
Depending on the location selected for
seating in the rear passenger area,
attach the strap hook to the corre-
sponding anchorage point to secure
the child restraint system.
Adjust the tether strap according to the
child restraint manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
Before installing any child restraint
device or child seat, please read
the following:
Never install a rear-facing child restraint
system in the front passenger seat of
this vehicle.
Your vehicle is equipped with an airbag
supplemental restraint system for the
front passenger. Because the backrest
on any rear-facing child restraint
system (of the kind designed for infants
under 1 year and 20 Ibs/9 kg) would be
within the airbag's deployment range,
you should never mount such a device
in the front passenger seat, since the
impact of the airbag against the child
restraint's backrest could lead to
serious or fatal injuries.
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Transporting children safely
If it is necessary for a child (not an
infant) to ride in the front seat, certain
precautions should be taken. First,
move the passenger seat as far away
from the dashboard as possible. This
important precaution is intended to
maximize the distance between the
airbag and the child. Older children
should be tightly secured with a safety
belt.
Younger children should be secured in
an appropriate forward-facing child
restraint system that has first been
properly secured with a safety belt.
Never install a rear-facing child restraint
system in the front passenger seat. We
strongly urge you to carefully read and
comply with the instructions for installa-
tion and use provided by the child
restraint's manufacturer whenever you
use such a device.
Be sure that all occupants (of all ages)
remain properly and securely restrained
at all times.<
All rear seating positions in your vehicle
meet the recommendations of SAE
J1819, an industry-recommended
practice for securing child restraint
systems in motor vehicles.
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Transporting children safely
Child seat security
All of the rear belt retractors and the
front passenger's safety belt can be
locked for mounting and securing child
restraint systems.
Information regarding this is located
near the buckle latch of each safety
belt.
Lock the safety belt
Pull the entire length of the belt from
the belt retractor. Allow the reel to
retract the belt somewhat and engage
the buckle, then tighten the belt against
the child restraint system. The retrac-
tion mechanism is now locked.
365us146
Unlock the safety belt
Release the safety belt, remove the
child's seat and retract the safety belt
to its end position on the belt retractor.
Child-safety locks
Insert the key into a rear door lock and
turn it outward:
The door can now be opened from the
outside only.
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0 Steering lock engaged
The key can be inserted and removed in
this position only.
An acoustic warning is sounded when
you fail to remove the ignition key after
opening the driver's door.
After removing the key, turn the steer-
ing wheel slightly to the left or right until
you hear the lock engage.
Once the ignition has been switched off
(ignition key in position 0 or pulled out),
the radio functions are still available for
approx. 20 minutes. Turn the radio back
on to use it.
390de010
1 Steering lock disengaged
Turning the steering wheel slightly to
the right or left often makes it easier to
turn the key from 0 to 1.
Individual electrical accessories are
ready for operation.
2 Ignition on
All electrical equipment and accesso-
ries are available for use.
3 Starting the engine
Steering/Ignition lock
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Starting the engine Switching off the engine
Before starting
> Engage the parking brake.
> Move the shift lever to the neutral
position.
> Depress the clutch pedal.
Do not allow the engine to run in
enclosed spaces. The exhaust
gases contain carbon monoxide, an
odorless and colorless, but highly toxic
gas. Breathing the exhaust gases poses
an extreme health risk, and can lead to
unconsciousness and death.
Never leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.<
Starting the engine
> Start the engine. Do not press the
accelerator pedal.
Do not actuate the starter for too
short a time. Do not turn it for
more than approx. 20 seconds. Release
the ignition key immediately as soon as
the engine starts.
Do not allow the engine to warm up by
leaving it running while the vehicle re-
mains stationary. Instead, begin driving
immediately at a moderate engine
speed.<
If the engine does not start on the first
attempt (the engine is very hot or cold,
for instance):
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Cold starts at very low temperatures,
from approx. +5 7 (–15 6) and at alti-
tudes above 3,300 ft (1,000 m):
> On the first start attempt, engage
the starter for a longer period
(approx. 10 seconds).
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Engine idle speed is controlled by the
engine computer system. Increased
speeds at startup are normal and
should decrease as the engine warms
up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.
To prevent the battery from
discharging, always switch off any
electrical devices not in use, as well
as the ignition when the vehicle is not
being driven.
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Do not remove the ignition key
while the vehicle is still moving. If
you do so, the steering will lock, making
it impossible to steer the vehicle.
When you leave the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key and engage the
steering lock.
Always engage the parking brake
when parking on slopes and inclined
surfaces, since not even placing the
lever in 1st gear or reverse may not
provide adequate resistance to roll-
ing.<
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Parking brake
The parking brake is primarily designed
to prevent the vehicle from rolling while
parked. It operates against the rear
wheels.
To engage
The lock engages automatically when
you lift the lever, and the "PARK
BRAKE" (in Canada "P") indicator lamp
comes on in the instrument cluster in
ignition key position 2. Refer to
page 21.
To release
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the
button and lower the lever.
390de042
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 mod-
erate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)
at the rear axle.
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is engaged.
Always engage the parking brake
when parking on slopes and inclined
surfaces, since even placing the
lever in 1st gear or reverse may not
provide adequate resistance to roll-
ing.<
To avoid corrosion, 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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Manual transmission
Turn signal/Headlamp flasher
Every time you shift gears, always
depress the clutch pedal all the way
down, pushing the manual-shift gear
lever into the desired position.
Alos, depress the clutch when starting
the vehicle, as otherwise lockout will
prevent the engine from starting if the
clutch is not depressed.
The shift lever's neutral gate is located
between 3rd and 4th gears.
When shifting from each gear into
"Neutral," the shift lever returns auto-
matically to this neutral position
because of its spring loading.
When the vehicle lighting is switched
on, the shift pattern is illuminated on
the shift lever.
39mde017
When shifting gears in the 5th/6th-
gear plane, be sure to press the
shift lever to the right in order to pre-
vent inadvertent selection of a gear in
the 3rd/4th-gear plane.<
Reverse
Select "Reverse" only when the vehicle
is stationary. Press the shift lever to the
left to overcome a slight 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.
A slipping clutch increases clutch
wear.<
1 High beam (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator
lamp)
3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator
lamp accompanied by periodic
clicking sound from the relay)
If the indicator lamp and the "ticking"
from the relay are both faster than
normal, one of the turn indicators has
failed.
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond
the detent. It then returns to the center
position when released.
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Washer/Wiper system
0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent mode or rain sensor
*
2 Normal wipe
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
5 Cleaning windshield
6 Intensive cleaning
*
7 Rotary dial for control of the wipe
interval or the sensitivity of the rain
sensor
39mde071
1 Intermittent mode or rain
sensor
*
Intermittent mode:
You can set the wipe interval to four
stages with rotary dial 7. In addition, the
wipe interval automatically adapts to
variations in road speed.
Rain sensor:
When the rain sensor is activated, the
windshield wiper is controlled automati-
cally, depending on the degree of
wetness of the windshield (in both snow
and rain). You do not have to be
concerned with switching the wind-
shield wiper on or off or adjusting the
wipe interval between intermittent and
full wipe. Instead, you can concentrate
fully on the traffic conditions. The is
especially important under adverse
weather conditions.
The rain sensor is positioned on the
windshield, directly ahead of the inte-
rior rearview mirror.
To activate the rain sensor:
Move the lever to position 1 with the
ignition key in position 1 or higher. The
wipers travel once across the wind-
shield, regardless of the weather condi-
tions.
You can also leave the lever perma-
nently in position 1. It is then only
necessary to activate the rain sensor
from ignition key position 1 and higher.
To do this
> turn rotary dial 7 briefly or
> use either the cleaning windshield 5
or the intensive cleaning 6.
To adjust the sensitivity of the rain
sensor:
Turn rotary dial 7.
Deactivating the rain sensor:
Move lever into position 0.
Deactivate the rain sensor in auto-
matic car washes. If you do not,
damage may occur if the wipers switch
on unintentionally.<
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Washer/Wiper system
2 Normal wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers switch automatically to intermit-
tent wipe (not on vehicles with rain
sensor).
3 Fast wiper speed
When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers operate at normal speed (not
on vehicles with rain sensor).
39mde071
5 Cleaning windshield
The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and activates the wipers
for a brief period.
If you pull the lever only briefly, the
system sprays washer fluid onto the
windshield without activating the
wipers.
6 Intensive cleaning*
As at 5. In addition, an intensive-action
washer fluid is first sprayed on the
windshield.
For changing the wiper blades, refer to
page 156.
Cleaning headlamps*
If the headlamps are on, they will also
be cleaned every fifth time you activate
cleaning windshield 5 or intensive
cleaning 6.
Do not use the washers if there is
any danger that the fluid will
freeze on the windshield. If you do so,
your vision could be obscured. For this
reason, use an antifreeze agent. Refer
to page 138. Do not press the washer
lever if the supply tank is empty. If you
do so, the washer pump will be dam-
aged.<
Windshield washer jets
The windshield washer jets are warmed
automatically when the ignition key is in
position 2.
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Rear window defroster Cruise control
To activate
Press the button: as long as the indi-
cator lamp remains on, the rear window
defroster continues at high-output
(rapid thaw).
After the indicator lamp goes out, the
defroster continues operating at
reduced power for a limited period
before deactivating automatically.
To deactivate
If the indicator lamp is still on, press the
button.
39mde100
You can store and automatically main-
tain any desired vehicle speed above
approx. 20 mph (30 km/h).
1 Accelerate and store
2 Decelerate and store
3 Activate/interrupt/deactivate the
system
4 Recall the stored speed
Do not use cruise control on
winding roads, when high traffic
density prevents driving at a constant
speed, when the road surface is slick
(snow, rain, ice), or when the road sur-
face is loose (rocks, sand).<
39mde092
To activate the system
From ignition key position 2.
Press button 3. The indicator lamp in
the instrument cluster comes on. You
can now use the cruise control.
To deactivate the system
> In the activated state: press button 3
twice.
> When the cruise control has been
interrupted: press button 3 once.
> Turn the ignition key to position 0.
The indicator lamp goes out and the
stored speed is deleted.
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Cruise control
To store and maintain speed or
to accelerate
Press button 1 briefly:
The system registers and maintains the
current vehicle speed. Every time you
briefly touch the button, the speed
increases by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Press and hold button 1:
The vehicle accelerates without pres-
sure on the accelerator pedal. When
you release the button, the system
registers and maintains the current
speed.
39mde092
If, on a downhill gradient, the
engine braking effect is not suffi-
cient, the controlled speed can be
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill
grades if the engine output is insuffi-
cient.<
To decelerate
Press button 2 briefly:
With the cruise control active, every
brief touch of the button reduces the
speed by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Press and hold button 2:
With the cruise control active, the
system automatically reduces the
throttle opening to slow the vehicle.
When you release the button, the
system registers and maintains the
current speed.
To cancel the cruise control
When the system is activated, press
button 3. The indicator lamp stays on.
If you like, you can use the cruise
control at a later time by pressing
button 4 to resume the last stored
speed.
In addition, cruise control is canceled
automatically
> if the brakes are applied,
> when you depress the clutch pedal,
> or if the cruise speed is either ex-
ceeded or not met for an extended
length of time (if you depress the
accelerator pedal and exceed the
set speed, for example).
To resume the stored setting
Press button 4:
The vehicle accelerates to and main-
tains the last speed stored.
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Odometer
You can activate the displays shown in
the illustration with the ignition key in
position 0 by pressing the button in the
instrument cluster (arrow).
The range of available displays varies
according to your individual vehicle's
equipment.
Trip odometer
To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the button (arrow) with the igni-
tion key in position 1 or higher.
39mus022
Outside temperature display
The outside temperature appears in the
display panel from ignition key posi-
tion 1 and higher.
You can change the units of measure-
ment (6/7) by
1 pressing and holding the button
(arrow) with the ignition key in
position 1
2 and then turning the ignition key to 0.
Ice warning
If the outside temperature drops to
approx. +37.5 7 (+3 6), a signal is
sounded as a warning and the display
flashes for a brief period. The warning is
repeated whenever the temperature
climbs to at least +43 7 (+6 6)
following the last warning and then
drops back to +37.5 7 (+3 6).
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.<
Odometer, outside temperature display
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Tachometer Engine oil temperature Fuel gauge
The orange early warning zone appears
depending upon the engine tempera-
ture. As the engine temperature
increases, more and more sectors of
this early warning zone disappear.
Avoid engine speeds in the early
warning zone if possible.
Do not operate the engine with the
needle in the red overspeed zone of
the gauge.
To protect the engine, the engine-
management system automatically
interrupts the fuel supply in this range;
the resulting effect resembles that
associated with a sudden loss of
power.
39mus023
The normal operating temperature is
in a range between +176 7 (+80 6)
and +248 7 (+120 6). Do not exceed
the maximum temperature of +302 7
(+150 6).
39mus024
When you switch on the ignition, the
indicator lamp comes on briefly to
confirm that the system is operational.
If the indicator lamp comes on and stays
on, there are approx. 2.5 gal (10 liters)
of fuel still in the tank.
For fuel tank capacity, refer to page 186.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies (when you
are driving in mountainous areas, for
example), the needle may fluctuate
slightly.
Please refuel early, as driving to
the last drop of fuel can result in
damage to the engine and/or catalytic
converter.<
39mus025
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Coolant temperature Service Interval Display
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at
moderate engine and vehicle speeds.
Red
If the warning, "COOLANT TEMPERA-
TURE" appears in the Check Control:
the engine is overheated. Shut off the
engine immediately and allow it to cool
down.
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: page 141.
39mde026
Green lamps
The number of illuminated lamps
decreases as the time for your next
maintenance visit approaches.
Yellow lamp
This field appears together with
OILSERVICE or INSPECTION.
Maintenance is due. Please contact
your BMW center for an appointment.
Red lamp
The maintenance deadline has been
passed.
380us008
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Text messages are used to alert the
driver to system malfunctions with the
ignition key in position 2 and higher.
The alert is accompanied by a gong.
1 Status symbol for messages
2 Display
3 CHECK button
Messages concerning system faults are
differentiated based on two priorities:
39mus027
Priority 1
These defects are immediately indi-
cated by a gong and a flashing warning
symbol (1). Simultaneous defects will
be displayed consecutively. These
status messages remain in the display
until the defects are corrected. They
cannot be deleted by pressing the
CHECK button (3):
> "RELEASE PARKING BRAKE"
> "COOLANT TEMPERATURE"
The coolant is overheated. Stop the
vehicle and switch off the engine
immediately. Refer to page 141.
> "STOP! ENGINE OILPRESS"
The oil pressure is too low. Stop the
vehicle and switch off the engine
immediately. Refer to page 139.
> "CHECK BRAKE FLUID"
The level has dropped nearly to the
minimum. Top up the brake fluid at
the next opportunity. Refer to
page 142. Have the source of the
brake fluid loss diagnosed and
corrected by your BMW center.
> "FLAT TIRE"
Reduce vehicle speed immediately
and stop the vehicle. Avoid hard
brake applications. Do not oversteer.
Refer to page 89.
> "LIMIT"
*
This is displayed if the programmed
speed limit has been exceeded.
Check Control
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Check Control
Priority 2
These displays appear for 20 seconds
with the ignition key in position 2 and
higher. The warning symbols remain
after the message disappears. You can
display the messages again by pressing
the CHECK button 3.
> "TRUNK LID OPEN"
This message appears only when you
initially begin a trip.
> "DOOR OPEN"
This message appears after a
minimal defined road speed has been
exceeded.
> "FASTEN SEAT BELTS"
*
In addition to this message, an indi-
cator lamp with the safety belt icon
appears and an acoustical signal is
sounded.
> "WASHER FLUID LOW"
Too low; top up fluid at the next
opportunity. Refer to page 138.
> "CHECK ENGINE OIL LEV"
The oil level is at the absolute
minimum, therefore add engine oil as
soon as possible. Refer to page 139.
Until then, do not drive more than
approx. 30 miles (50 km).
> "TIRE PRESSURE SET"
The RDW has transferred the current
inflation pressure in the tires as the
target values that the system will
monitor. Refer to page 88.
> "TIRE CHECK INACTIVE"
This indicates a temporary interfer-
ence in the RDW or a system fault.
Refer to page 89.
> "CHECK BRAKE LAMPS"
A lamp has failed or the electrical
circuit has a fault. Refer to page 159
and 168 or consult a BMW center.
> "CHECK LOWBEAM LAMPS"
"CHECK SIDE LAMPS"
"CHECK REAR LAMPS"
"CHECK FRONT FOGLAMPS"
*
"CHECK LICPLATE LAMP"
"CHECK HIGHBEAM LAMP"
"CHECK BACK UP LAMPS"
Defective bulb or circuit. Refer to
pages 157 ff. and 168 or consult a
BMW center.
> "CHECK BRAKE LININGS"
Have the brake linings checked by
your BMW center. Refer to page 124.
> "CHECK COOLANT LEVEL"
The coolant level is too low; top up at
the next opportunity. Refer to
page 141.
> "CHECK FILLER CAP"
Check whether the fuel filler cap has
been properly closed. Refer to
page 25. An improperly closed fuel
filler cap will activate the Service
Engine Soon lamp.
> "ENGINE FAILSAFE PROG"
There is a fault in the engine's elec-
tronic control system.
The electronics allow for continued
driving with reduced engine output
and engine speed.
Please have the system inspected by
your BMW center.
> "OUTSIDE TEMP 24 7 (–5.0 6)"
This temperature display is only an
example. The current temperature is
displayed at outside temperatures of
37.57 (+36) and below. Refer also
to page 69.
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Check Control
Displays after completion of a trip
All of the malfunctions registered during
the trip appear consecutively when the
key is turned to position 0.
The following displays will appear when
appropriate:
> "LIGHTS ON"
This display appears when you open
the driver's door after parking the
vehicle.
> "KEY IN IGNITION LOCK"
> "CHECK ENGINE OIL LEV"
Check the engine oil at the earliest
opportunity (next stop for fuel). Refer
to page 139.
Status messages remain available for a
period of approx. three minutes after
the display goes out and the key is
removed from the ignition. Press the
CHECK button (3) to display these
messages. If there were multiple
messages, press the CHECK button
repeatedly to view them all in
sequence.
To check the Check Control
Press the CHECK button (3) with the
ignition key in position 2:
CHECK CONTROL OK appears in the
display.
There are no faults in the monitored
systems.
You can have the Check Control
messages displayed in a different
language.<
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Multi-Information Display (MID)
Central display
The MID serves as the central display
and control for the following onboard
systems:
> Digital clock (e.g. time displayed in
digital numerals, date)
> Audio-systems (radio, cassette, CD)
> Computer (e.g. fuel consumption,
cruising range)
> Cellular phone (e.g. dialing)
You will find explanations and notes for
operating the digital clock and the
computer on the following pages.
Please refer to the separate Owner's
Manual on operating the audio-
systems, the cellular phone and the
onboard monitor.
Any unrealistic number entries will
not be accepted.
All stored data will be lost if the power
supply is interrupted. Time of day,
switch-on times for independent
heating and ventilation, distance and
cruise control speed limit must be
reset, once the power supply has been
re-established.<
1 Function button for sound systems
2 Function button for the cellular
phone
*
3 Indicator lamp for independent
ventilation system
> remains on if switch-on time is
active
> flashes while operating
4 Function button for the digital clock
and computer
5 Indicator display for the various
computer systems
390us705
6 Display for the entry and check
buttons. Depending on the operating
mode, the functions and alternatives
which can be selected via the keys
are displayed here
7 Entry and check buttons for
operating the various computer
systems
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Digital clock
Only make entries when the
vehicle is standing still – to avoid
endangering yourself or other road
users.<
To display time or date
Press the left side of the key.
Display shows:
You can have the clock time displayed
in 12 or 24 hours.
To change the display:
Press the left side of the key.
If the 12-hour clock display is in use,
AM or PM appear after the time.
Changing the time display
Press the left side of the key.
Press the right side of the key:
The dots flash in the display.
To alter the setting:
Press on the left or right, or keep
holding down.
To store the input:
Press the right side of the key.
To change the date
Press the left side of the key.
Press.
Press the right side of the key:
The dots and the DATE display will
flash.
To alter the setting:
Press on the left or right, or keep
holding down.
To store the input:
Press the right side of the key.
The clock takes leap years into account
and therefore does not have to be reset
manually.
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Digital clock
Reminder signal
You can program an hourly reminder
signal (Memo), that will, for example,
remind you of news broadcasts.
Press the left side of the key.
Press:
MEMO OFF appears in the display for
entry and check buttons, and the tone
symbol will appear in the upper right of
the display.
A signal is then heard 15 seconds
before each hour.
Timer
Press the left side of the key.
Press.
Display shows:
To start the stopwatch:
Press the right of the key.
To take an intermediate time reading:
Press.
Press.
The stopwatch display can be seen
counting up; the stopwatch continues
to run.
To halt the stopwatch:
Press the right side of the key.
The stopwatch is halted whenever
the ignition switch is turned back
to 0, but starts to run again when the
ignition key is turned to 1.<
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Digital clock
Enter the switch-on times for the
independent ventilation system
You can enter two different switch-on
times.
After 30 minutes, the ventilation will
switch off automatically.
Please observe the notes for
operating the independent
ventilation system on page 102.<
Press the left side of the key.
Press at left/right.
Display shows:
Press the right side of the key:
Display flashes, e.g. TIME 1.
To input the time:
Press on the left or right, or keep
holding down.
To confirm the input:
Press the right side of the key.
The activated time is marked with an
asterisk.
The switch-on times remain memorized
until new inputs are made.
You can change switch-on times that
have already been memorized by
making a new time input as described
above.
When the switch-on time is active, the
LED comes on in the MID. During actual
operation of the ventilation, the LED
flashes. The LED goes out when the
system is switched off.
To activate/deactivate the time:
Press twice.
Turning the independent
ventilation system on and off
directly
The independent ventilation
function can only be called up in
ignition key position 1.<
Press the left side of the key.
Press
or
press.
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Computer
Only make entries when the
vehicle is standing still – to avoid
endangering yourself or other road
users.<
Computer calculations begin at the
start of the journey.
Information can also be called up in the
display by remote control; see page 83.
Speed limit
Speed limit input:
You can input the road speed here at
which you wish to hear and see a
reminder signal: a signal will sound, the
word LIMIT will flash and the stored
speed will briefly flash in the Check
Control display on the instrument panel
(Limit).
The speed limit reminder is only
repeated if the vehicle has in the
meantime been driven at least 3 mph
(approx. 5 km/h) slower.
Press the right side of the key.
Press.
Press the right side of the key.
Display shows:
Input the limit by pressing the function
keys.
To correct an entry:
Press the left side of the key and repeat
the input.
To store the input:
Press the right side of the key.
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Computer
Adopting the current speed as the
speed limit:
Press the right side of the key.
Press.
Press twice at right.
Deactivating the speed limit:
Press the right side of the key.
Press.
The LIMIT display goes out, but the
memorised value is not lost and can be
reactivated by pressing the LIMIT key.
Distance to destination
The remaining distance to the destina-
tion will be displayed on the screen.
This is of course only possible if you
entered the entire distance before
starting the journey.
Input:
Press the right side of the key.
Press the left side of the key.
Press the right side of the key.
Display shows:
You can input the distance by pressing
the function keys.
To correct an entry:
Press the left side of the key and repeat
the input.
To store the input:
Press the right side of the key.
Checking memorised value:
Press the right side of the key
Press the left side of the key.
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Computer
Estimated time of arrival
When you have input the distance from
your destination, you can obtain an
estimated time of arrival display which
is continuously updated by the
computer as your average driving
period varies.
Press the right side of the key.
Press the right side of the key:
The estimated time of arrival is
displayed.
Cruising range
The distance which the vehicle should
cover on the remaining fuel in the tank
is displayed.
Press the right side of the key.
Press.
The display shows the probable range.
When there is only enough fuel to
drive less than 30 miles (50 km),
you should refuel, as otherwise the
engine or the catalytic converter could
be damaged.<
The onboard computer will only register
fuel amounts over 1.8 gal (6 liters).
Fuel consumption
You can have the average fuel
consumption displayed for two different
distances, for example a complete
journey and part of the journey.
To start the calculation, select the
CONS function with the engine running.
Press the right side of the key.
Press the left or right side of the key:
The average fuel consumption will be
indicated in the display.
To restart the fuel consumption
calculation:
Press the left or right side of the key.
Press the right side of the key.
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Computer
Speed
You can call up a display of the
vehicle's average speed.
To start the calculation, select the
SPEED function with the engine
running.
Press the right side of the key.
Press:
The display indicates the average
speed.
To recalculate the speed:
Press the right side of the key.
Extended immobiliser function
You can establish a code that will
prevent the engine from being started
unless the code is entered.
If you do not have access to the code,
the emergency deactivation procedure
will have to be carried out.
Establishing and activating the code
Press the right side of the key.
Press the left side of the key.
Display shows:
Enter the code via the function keys.
To correct an entry:
Press at the left and repeat the input.
To store the input:
Press the right side of the key.
Turn the ignition key to position 0.
Deactivate the code:
When you are asked to input the code
(ignition key in position 1 or 2):
> Input the code at the function keys.
Press the right side of the key.
After the code has been input correctly
and confirmed with the SET key, the
time display appears.
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Computer
After three incorrect code entries, or
three attempts to start the engine
without a code entry, the alarm will
sound for 30 seconds on vehicles fitted
with an alarm.
Emergency deactivation:
If you have forgotten the code, proceed
as follows:
1 Disconnect the battery, wait approx.
2 minutes, then reconnect it. Note
that on vehicles with an alarm, this
will sound.
2 Place the ignition key in position 1:
The time display will count down for
the next ten minutes.
3 After ten minutes, start the engine.
If the code becomes available
again in the meantime, it can be
input during the waiting period after
pressing the CODE key.<
Remote control
The button on the flashing turn indicator
lever can be used to select the items of
computer information which are to be
displayed.
To do this, press:
> The button on the lever until PROG 1
shows on the display.
> The MID keys in the order in which
you wish the information to be
displayed.
Each time an entry is stored, the
program number appears on the
display.
To terminate the selection procedure:
Press the right side of the key.
39mde088
To have all the available information
displayed, press:
> The button on the lever until the
display shows PROG 1.
> The SET key.
To obtain individual items of informa-
tion, press the button in briefly as often
as necessary.
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The concept
The PDC assists you when you are
parking. A signal warns you of the real
distance to an obstacle. To do this, four
ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear
bumpers measure the distance to the
nearest object. The monitoring range
for the front and both rear corner
sensors extends approx. 2 ft (60 cm)
beyond the bumper. The range for the
center rear sensors extends approx. 5 ft
(1.50 meters).
Automatic operation
The system starts to operate automati-
cally approx. one second after you
select reverse or move the selector
lever into the "R" position with the igni-
tion key in position 2.
Turn on manually
Press the button (arrow), the indicator
lamp comes on.
After driving more than approx. 160 ft
(50 meters) or exceeding approx.
20 mph (30 km/h), the system switches
off and has to be switched back on
when you want to use it again.
Turn off manually
Press the button again.
39mde063
Acoustic signals
The distance to an object is indicated
by a high beeping sound in the front
and a low beeping sound in the back.
As the distance between the vehicle
and object decreases, the intervals
between the tones become shorter.
A continuous tone indicates the pres-
ence of an object less than 1 ft (30 cm)
away.
The warning signal will be canceled
after approx. 3 seconds if the distance
to the obstruction remains constant
during this time (if you are moving
parallel to a wall, for instance).
Malfunction in the PDC system:
The indicator lamp flashes and a brief
continuous signal tone is heard
>
when the PDC system is actived via
the button
>
when you first select reverse or move
the selector lever into the "R" posi-
tion after switching on the ignition
>
when there is a malfunction while the
PDC system is active.
Switch the system off and have the
cause of the malfunction corrected by
your BMW center.
Park Distance Control (PDC)
*
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Park Distance Control (PDC)
*
The PDC does not remove the
driver's personal responsibility for
evaluating the distance between the
vehicle and any obstacles. Even when
sensors are involved, there is a blind
spot in which objects cannot be
detected. This applies especially in
those cases where the system
approaches the physical limits of ultra-
sonic measurement, as occurs with tow
bars and trailer couplings, and in the
vicinity of thin and painted objects.
Certain sources of sound, such as a
loud radio, could drown the PDC signal
tone.
<
Keep the sensors clean and free
of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they will continue to operate effec-
tively.
Do not apply high-pressure spray to the
sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Maintain an adequate distance of more
than 4 in (10 cm).
<
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Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
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, the system recog-
nizes unstable vehicle conditions
(understeering or oversteering, for
example) and holds the vehicle on a
sure course by intervening via the
engine and by braking intervention at
the individual wheels.
The system starts up automatically
each time you start the engine.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster goes out shortly
after you switch on the ignition.
Refer to page 21.
Indicator lamp flashes:
The system is active and governs 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 deactivated with the button.
You can continue to drive the vehicle
normally, but without DSC. Please
consult your BMW center for repairs.
To deactivate the system
Press the button (arrow); the indicator
lamp comes on and stays on.
When DSC is deactivated, you are
driving with conventional power
transfer.
In the following exceptional circum-
stances, it may be effective to deacti-
vate the DSC for a short period:
>
When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
>
When driving with snow chains.
Refer also to page 125.
39mde101
To reactivate the system
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. An
appropriate driving style always
remains the responsibility of the driver.
We therefore urge you to avoid using
the additional safety margin of the
system as an excuse for taking risks.
<
For additional details concerning DSC,
please refer to the chapter describing
"Advanced technology" on page 178.
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M Dynamic Driving Control
Whenever it is required, this system
changes the settings of the Servotronic
power steering, and the accelerator
pedal response from a performance-
comfort mode to a pure performance
mode. That is, steering response
becomes more performance-oriented
and the response of the accelerator
pedal is much more spontaneous
(performance recognition).
39mde102
Performance recognition
With the ignition key in position 2, press
the key (arrow). The indicator lamp illu-
minates.
Deactivating performance recognition:
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
The coordinated performance-comfort
mode is activated automatically each
time you start the engine.
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Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
The concept
The tire-pressure warning system,
RDW, monitors the tire inflation pres-
sure in all four tires while driving. The
system provides an alert whenever the
inflation pressure has dropped signifi-
cantly in one of the tires.
So that the RDW can "learn" the correct
tire inflation pressure, check the infla-
tion pressure in all the tires, comparing
them to the values in the inflation pres-
sure table (page 27), making correc-
tions if necessary. Then activate the
system.
The Check Control (refer to page 72)
will inform you if the tire pressure of one
the tires has dropped significantly.
Activate the system
1 Turn the ignition key to position 2 (do
not start the engine).
2 Press and hold the button (arrow)
until the message "SET TIRE
PRESSURE" is displayed for a few
seconds in the Check Control.
3 The RDW initiates an automatic
learning process during driving, and
stores this target condition. This
one-time learning process takes at
least 10 minutes, and from that point
on the RDW can identify and report a
flat tire.
39mde089
Repeat this process after altering the
tire inflation pressure, changing the tire
or rotating the wheels.
Do not carry out any further system
activation on the target condition that
has already been "learned" after
correcting the inflation pressure.
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Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
Flat tire
In the event of a flat tire, the message
"TIRE DEFECT" appears in the Check
Control. In addition, a gong is sounded.
If this occurs, reduce vehicle speed
immediately and stop the vehicle in a
safe location. Avoid hard brake applica-
tions. Do not oversteer. Correct the tire
failure using the M Mobility system
(refer to page 162).
The RDW cannot inform you of
sudden and severe tire damage
caused by external influences.
The RDW will not identify the natural,
even loss of pressure in all four tires,
either.
<
Check the tire inflation pressure
on a regular basis and correct if
necessary. Refer to page 26.
Do not carry out any kind of system
activation when using snow chains.
Under these kinds of conditions, false
warnings and unidentified losses in
pressure are possible.
In certain circumstances, when driving
on snow-covered or slippery road
surfaces, there may be a delay in identi-
fying any loss in inflation pressure.
A sporty driving style (slip at the wheels
receiving the torque, high lateral accel-
erations) can lead to delayed RDW
warnings.
<
System fault
The message "TIRECONTROL
INACTIVE" appears in the Check
Control if there is a system fault.
Please contact your BMW center for
additional information.
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90n
Side lamps (side marker lamps)
With the switch in this position,
the front, rear and side vehicle
lighting is switched on. For
lighting on one side for parking as an
additional feature, refer to page 91.
Low beams
When you switch off the ignition
and the low beams are still on,
only the position lamps (side
marker lamps) remain on.
390de034
"Follow-me-home lighting:"
If you actuate the headlamp
flasher after you have parked the
vehicle and shut off the engine, the low
beams will remain on for a brief period.
You may also have this function deacti-
vated if you wish.<
"LAMPS ON" warning
With the ignition key in position 0, this
message is displayed in the Check
Control after the driver's door is opened
if the headlamps have not been
switched off.
Daytime running lamps*
The headlamps are automatically
switched on for daylight driving at
ignition key position 2.
Turn the rotary dial to adjust the lighting
intensity.
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Side lamps/Low beams Instrument rheostat
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High beams/Parking lamp Fog lamps Interior lamps
1 High beam (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator
lamp)
3 Parking lamp
Parking lamp, left or right
As an additional feature, you can
illuminate your vehicle on either side
for parking, if you wish to do so:
With the ignition key in position 0, push
the lever in the appropriate direction.
The lever engages in the turn signal
position.
39mde070
Front fog lamps
A green indicator lamp appears
in the instrument cluster to indi-
cate that the front fog lamps are
on.
If the high beam is switched on, the
front fog lamps go out.
Comply with the legal regulations
concerning the use of fog lamps.<
390us037
The interior lamps operate automati-
cally.
Switching the interior lamps on
and off
Press the button (arrow).
If you wish the interior lamps to remain
off at all times, press and hold the
button for approximately 3 seconds.
Press the button briefly to revert to
normal operation.
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Interior lamps Reading lamps
Footwell lamps
The footwell lamps operate in the same
way as the interior lamps.
The reading lamps are located in the
front near the interior lamp. There are
also reading lamps in the rear. They can
be switched on and off with the switch
(arrow) next to each lamp.
In order to prevent battery
discharge, all of the lamps in the
vehicle are switched off automatically
approx. 15 minutes after the ignition
key is turned to position 0.<
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94n
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Automatic climate control
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Automatic climate control
1 Air flow directed toward the
windshield and side windows
2 Air flow for the upper body
The side rotary dials allow you to
open and close the air supply
through an infinitely-variable range,
while the levers change the airflow
direction. The center rotary dial
controls the temperature of the air
as it flows out, see page 98
3 Front footwell ventilation
4 Rear footwell ventilation
5 Air flow for the upper body in the
rear seat 99
6 Automatic air distribution 96
7 Individual air distribution 96
8 Temperature control – left-hand
side 96
9 Display for temperature and air
supply 96, 97
10 Temperature control – right-hand
side 96
11 To defrost windows and remove
condensation 97
12 Air conditioner 97
13 Automatic recirculated air control
(AUC) 98
14 Rear window defroster 67, 98
15 Air supply 97
16 Maximum cooling 97
or residual heat mode 98
17 Air grill for interior temperature
sensor – please keep clear and
unobstructed
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Automatic climate control
Tips for pleasant driving
Use the automatic system (AUTO
button 6). Select an interior tempera-
ture that is comfortable for you – we
recommend 72 7 (22 6). When the
outside temperature is above 41 7
(5 6), you can also use the air condi-
tioner 12. This will dry the air as well as
preventing condensation on the
window surfaces – if there are passen-
gers with damp clothing, for example.
Set the air outlets 2 so that the air
flows past you and is not directed
straight at you. Set the rotary dial
between the air outlets 2 for the upper
body to a medium position, since air
that is somewhat cooler promotes
driving without fatigue.
The following description will lead you
through additional individual adjust-
ments.
Your BMW center can program
the settings of your vehicle in such
a manner that, when you unlock the
vehicle with your individualized key,
your own personalized setting for the
automatic climate control is initiated.<
Automatic air distribution
The AUTO program
assumes the adjustment of
the air distribution and the air supply for
you and – in addition to that – adapts
the temperature to external influences
(summer, winter) to meet preferences
you can specify. This program main-
tains a comfortable in-car climate
regardless of the season. Select an
interior temperature that is comfortable
for you – we recommend 72 7 (22 6).
The selected temperature and AUTO
for the air supply appear in the
display 9. Refer to the overview on
page 94. Open the air outlets for the
upper body. Switch on the air condi-
tioner 12 in warm weather. The
maximum cooling capacity is achieved
when you set rotary dial 3 (refer to
page 98) to cold.
Individual air distribution
You can cancel the AUTO
program by selecting
specific distribution patterns
to suit your own individual
requirements. You can
direct air to flow onto the windows ,
toward the upper body , and into the
footwell .
Temperature
You can make individual
temperature adjustments on
the driver's side or the front
passenger side. The figures in the
display provide a general indication of
interior temperature. We recommend
72 7 (22 6) as a comfortable setting,
whether the air conditioner is operating
or not. When you start the vehicle, this
system ensures that the selected
temperature is achieved as quickly as
possible. It then maintains this temper-
ature, regardless of the season.
Set the rotary dial 3 (refer to "Draft-free
ventilation" on page 98) to a medium
setting, since air that is somewhat
cooler promotes driving without fatigue.
Utilize this method of mixing air espe-
cially for making minor adjustments for
personal comfort.
You can set uncontrolled heater
output up to 90 7 (32 6). Full
cooling output is available from the air
conditioner down to 60 7 (16 6).<
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Automatic climate control
Air supply
In the "AUTO" program,
the air supply is controlled
automatically. AUTO will appear in the
display 9. Refer to the overview on
page 94. Use "+" and "–" to vary the air
supply. Your setting is displayed with
bars and the automatic air supply is
switched off. The automatic air distribu-
tion setting is maintained. You can
reactivate the automatic air supply by
pressing the "AUTO" button.
When you press "–" during operation at
the lowest blower speed, all displays
are canceled: the fan, heating and air
conditioner are switched off. The
outside air supply is closed. You can
switch the system back on by pressing
any button of the automatic climate
control (except the MAX button 16).
To defrost windshield and side
windows
This program quickly
removes ice and conden-
sation from the windshield and the side
windows.
Air conditioner
The air is cooled and
dehumidified and –
depending on the temperature setting –
warmed again when the air conditioner
system is switched on.
Depending on the weather, the wind-
shield may fog over briefly when the
engine is started.
Switch off the air conditioner at outside
temperatures below approx. 41 7
(5 6). This will help to prevent the
windows from fogging up. 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.<
Maximum cooling
You will get maximum
cooling capacity using this
program if the engine is running and
the outside temperature is above
+41 7 (+5 6).
The temperature display 9 jumps to
+61 7 (+16 6), the system switches
over to the recirculated-air mode, and
the air will only stream out of the venti-
lation grill with the maximum amount of
air flow. That is why you need to keep
these open if you select this program.
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Automatic climate control
Automatic recirculated air control
(AUC)
You can respond to
unpleasant external odors
by temporarily excluding the flow of
outside air. The system then recircu-
lates the air currently within the vehicle.
By repeated actuations of the button,
you can select one of three different
operation modes.
> Indicator lamps off: outside air flow
operational.
> Left-hand indicator lamp on – AUC
mode: the system recognizes pollut-
ants in the outside air and blocks the
flow of air when necessary. The
system then recirculates the air
currently within the vehicle.
Depending on the air quality, the
automatic system then switches back
and forth between outside air supply
and recirculation of the air within the
vehicle.
> Right indicator lamp on – recirculated
air mode: the flow of external air into
the vehicle is completely blocked.
The system then recirculates the air
currently within the vehicle.
If the windows fog over in the
recirculated air mode, switch the
recirculated air off and increase the air
supply as required.<
Rear window defroster
When the rear window
defroster is activated, the
indicator lamp comes on. The rear
window defroster switches off auto-
matically.
Residual heat mode
The heat which is stored in
the engine is utilized for
heating the interior when the engine
has been switched off (while waiting
at a railroad crossing, for instance).
In ignition key position 1, you can alter
the settings of the automatic climate
control. With the ignition key in posi-
tion 0, the system automatically directs
heated air to the windshield, side
windows and footwells.
This function may be activated
when the outside temperature is
below approx. 59 7 (15 6), the engine
is at operating temperature, and the
battery is adequately charged. The LED
on the button will light up when all
conditions have been met.<
Draft-free ventilation
For your optimal personal comfort, you
can adjust airflow onto the upper body
area from the air outlets:
Use rotary dial 1 to open and close the
air outlets through an infinitely-variable
range. You can use the levers 2 to
adjust the direction of the airflow.
Set the air outlets so that the air flows
past you and is not directed straight at
you.
Rotary dial 3 allows you to control the
temperature of the air flow from these
air outlets as desired:
> Turn toward blue – colder.
> Turn toward red – warmer.
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Automatic climate control
Rear passenger area ventilation
Rotary dial 1 opens the air outlets in an
infinitely-variable range. You can vary
the temperature of the air as it flows out
using rotary dial 3 in the same manner
as for the front rotary dial.
You can change the direction of the air
flow with levers 2.
390de354
Microfilter, activated-charcoal
filter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen
from the incoming air. The activated-
charcoal filter provides additional
protection by filtering gaseous pollut-
ants from the outside air. Your BMW
center replaces this combined filter as a
standard part of your scheduled main-
tenance. A substantial reduction in air
supply indicates that the filter must be
replaced before normal maintenance.
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Integrated rear center console*
Climate control
1 Air supply
2 Temperature
3 Storage compartment with ventilation
390de617
Air supply
1 Maximum blower speed
2 Blower off
3 Storage compartment
You can adjust the air supply for the air
outlets and the storage compartment
through an infinitely-variable range
between the "0" and "Maximum" settings.
When set to "0" and "Storage compart-
ment," the fan is switched off and the
air supply through the air outlets is
blocked. The storage compartment is
ventilated in both settings as follows:
> "0" setting – warm air.
> "Storage compartment" setting – cold air.
Individual adjustments on the front-seat
control elements influence the air
supply of the rear passenger area
climate control.
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Temperature
Passengers in the rear seating area can
adjust their own temperature for the
adjacent air outlets:
> Turn toward blue – colder.
> Turn toward red – warmer.
When you start the vehicle, the system
ensures that the selected temperature
is achieved as quickly as possible. It
then maintains this temperature,
regardless of the season.
A temperature adjustment is
only possible when the blower is
switched on – it is not possible when
set to "0" and "Storage compart-
ment."<
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Integrated rear center console*
Storage compartment with
ventilation
Press the cover back gently to open it.
1 Slide regulator for opening and
closing the air supply:
> Regulator to the left – air supply
opened.
> Regulator to the right – air supply
closed.
2 Beverage holder insert – may also be
removed.
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102n
Seat heating* Roller sun blind* Independent ventilation system
The seat cushion and backrest can be
heated when the ignition key is in posi-
tion 2. You can call up different heating
modes by repeatedly pressing the keys.
When the three indicator lamps are illu-
minated, the highest heating mode is
activated. One lamp indicates the
lowest heating mode. The temperature
is regulated with a thermostat in each
mode.
You can also switch the higher heating
modes off directly: press the key and
hold it slightly longer.
39mde095
To actuate, press the button briefly with
ignition key in position 1.
Roller sun blinds* for rear side
windows
Use the strap to pull out the blinds, then
hook them in the provided attachment.
39mde097
This system ventilates the interior and
lowers its temperature by using the
blower of the automatic climate control,
when the vehicle is unattended.
The independent ventilation system is
operated via the Multi-Information
Display (MID) – refer to page 78 – or the
onboard monitor. Refer to the separate
onboard monitor Owner's Manual.
You may preselect two different activa-
tion times. The ventilation will remain
activated for 30 minutes. You can also
turn it on and off directly. Because of its
high current consumption, you should
not activate the system twice in
succession without allowing the battery
to be recharged while you are driving.
When a preselected activation time is
set, the independent ventilation system
is operational at outside temperatures
above 60 7 (16 6), or by direct switch
activation. It cannot be switched on
when the vehicle is moving.
The air emerges via the air outlets for
the upper body. Therefore, the air
outlets must be open for the system to
operate.
You can adjust the airflow volume and
the air distribution when the ignition key
is in position 1.
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The concept
The BMW Universal Transmitter
replaces up to three hand-held trans-
mitters that control different devices
such as a garage door opener, alarm
systems or a door locking system. The
BMW Universal Transmitter recognizes
and "learns" the transmitted signal from
each of the original hand-held transmit-
ters.
The signal of an original hand-held
transmitter can be programmed to one
of three channel keys. Following that,
each of the devices can be operated
with the channel key that you have
programmed for it. A transmission of the
signal is indicated by the indicator lamp.
Before you sell your vehicle, the
programmed channel keys should be
deleted. Refer to page 105 for the
description of this process.
To prevent potential injuries or
damage: during the programming
operation and before every remote trig-
gering of a programmed device using
the BMW Universal Transmitter, be sure
that there are no persons, animals or
objects within the range of movement of
the respective device. Read and comply
with the safety instructions for the orig-
inal hand-held transmitter also.<
To Canadian residents
During programming, your hand-
held transmitter may automatically stop
transmitting after two seconds. This
may not be long enough to program the
BMW Universal Transmitter. If you are
programming from one of these hand-
held transmitters, the Universal Trans-
mitter's lamp may begin to flash in a
series of double-blinks. If this occurs,
continue to hold the button on the
Universal Transmitter while you reacti-
vate your hand-held transmitter. You
may have to repeat this function several
times while programming.<
Before programming, read the
"User's information" section on
page 105.<
The original hand-held transmitter
If this symbol is depicted on the
packaging or in the user's
instructions for the original
hand-held transmitter, it may be
assumed that this original hand-held
transmitter is compatible with the BMW
Universal Transmitter.
Checking for the change code
In order to determine whether the
original hand-held transmitter is
equipped with a change code system,
you may either refer to the instructions
for the original hand-held transmitter or
program a channel key as described in
the left column on page 104 under
"Programming."
Following that, press and hold the
programmed channel key of the BMW
Universal Transmitter. If the indicator
lamp of the BMW Universal Transmitter
flashes rapidly for two seconds and
then stays on continuously, the original
hand-held transmitter is equipped with
a change code system. If the change
code system is available, program the
channel keys as described in the right-
hand column on page 104 under
"Programming a hand-held transmitter
with change code."
If you have additional questions,
please consult your BMW center
or call 1-800-355-3515.<
BMW Universal Transmitter*
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BMW Universal Transmitter*
Programming
1 Channel keys
2 Indicator lamp
3 Receiver for programming
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on page 103.<
1 Ignition key position 2
2 For initial operation: press and hold
the two outer keys (1) until the indi-
cator lamp (2) flashes. Release the
keys. The three channel keys are
cleared.
390de640
3 Hold the original hand-held trans-
mitter toward the receiver (3) a
maximum of 2 in (5 cm) away.
4 Simultaneously press the transmitting
key of the original hand-held trans-
mitter (arrow 2) and the desired
channel key of the BMW Universal
Transmitter (arrow 1). Release both
keys as soon as the indicator lamp
flashes rapidly.
5 To program other original hand-held
transmitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.
The corresponding channel key is now
programmed with the signal of the
original hand-held transmitter.
380de712
Programming a hand-held
transmitter with change code
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on page 103.<
Consult the operating instructions for
the individual device when program-
ming the BMW Universal Transmitter.
Read and comply with the following
programming instructions for the use of
the BMW Universal Transmitter with a
change code system:
A second person simplifies
programming of the BMW
Universal Transmitter.<
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BMW Universal Transmitter*
1 Program the BMW Universal Trans-
mitter as described above under
"Programming."
2 Press and hold the programming key
on the receiver of the device for
about two seconds or until the
programming lamp on the device
comes on.
3 Press the desired channel key of the
BMW Universal Transmitter three
times.
If you have additional questions,
please consult your BMW center
or call 1-800-355-3515.<
Clearing the channel keys
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on page 103.<
Individual channel keys cannot be
cleared. However, the three channel
keys can be cleared together in the
following manner:
> Press and hold the two outer channel
keys of the BMW Universal Trans-
mitter until the indicator lamp flashes,
and then release the keys.
All channel keys are cleared.
User's information
Do not use this BMW Universal Trans-
mitter with any garage door opener that
lacks safety "stop" and "reverse"
features as required by federal safety
standards (this includes any garage
door opener model manufactured
before April 1, 1982).
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) This device must accept any
interference received, including inter-
ference that may cause undesired
operation.
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Integrated rear-seat equipment*
Fold the armrest out and open the
cover by lifting the handle (arrow).
390de614
In order to operate certain functions
from the rear passenger area as well,
the corresponding controls are inte-
grated in the center armrest.
The illustration shows the maximum
possible number of controls, corre-
sponding to a full range of optional
equipment. Refer to the individual
Owner's Manuals for more detailed
descriptions of the equipment.
1 Multi-Information Display for opera-
tion of the radio and onboard
computer (with limited functional
range)
2 Cigarette lighter
3 Electric rear window blind
390us615
Two beverage holders are provided in
the lower section of the center armrest.
Pull the handle outward to open (arrow).
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Glove compartment
To open
Pull the handle and the lamp comes on.
To close
Fold up cover.
To lock
Use one of the master keys. A master
key is also required for unlocking.
If you turn over only your door and
ignition key for valet parking, for
example (refer to page 30), access to
the glove compartment is not possible.<
390de060
To prevent injury in the event of a
crash, close the glove compart-
ment immediately after use.<
Rechargeable flashlight*
Located on the left-hand side of the
glove compartment.
It features integral overload-protection,
so it can be left in its holder continu-
ously.
Be sure that the flashlight is
switched off when it is inserted
into its holder. Failure to comply with
this precaution could lead to over-
charging and damage.<
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108n
Storage compartments Cellular phone* Beverage holder*
The cover of the storage compartment
on the inclined surface of the center
console can be pushed open or closed
(arrow). If your vehicle is equipped with
a cassette holder
*, open each cassette
compartment by pressing the small
button.
Storage compartment on center
console between the front seats: to
open, reach into the recess at the front
and pull upward. If a cellular phone has
been installed, this compartment is
occupied by the phone.
You will find additional storage
compartments in all of the doors as well
as in the backrests of the front seats
*.
390de043
Handsfree system*
For vehicles with a telephone hookup*,
the trim cover for the handsfree
speaker is located in the headliner in
the area of the interior lamp.
For further information on the cellular
phone, refer to the separate Owner's
Manual.
39mde090
Two holders for canned drinks have
been provided in the front center
console (illustration).
Press to open; push back inward to
close.
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Ashtray, front*
To open
Press briefly in the direction indicated
by the arrow.
To extinguish a cigarette, tap off the
ash and gently press the tip into the
funnel.
390de061
To empty
Open the lid and press down (arrow):
You can now pull the ashtray upward
for removal.
On vehicles equipped for nonsmokers,
the insert is removed in the same way.
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Cigarette lighter* Ashtray, rear*
Press the cover panel for access
(arrow), then push the lighter down.
Remove as soon as the lighter retracts.
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
unattended.<
39mde099
Cigarette lighter socket
Suitable for attaching power supplies
for flashlights, vehicle vacuum cleaners,
etc., up to a rating of approx. 200 watts
at 12 volts. Avoid damage to the socket
caused by inserting plugs of a different
shape or size.
To open
Press the recess the in lid.
To empty
Press the edge of the cover (arrow).
You can now pull the ashtray upward
for removal.
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The rear backrest is divided into two
sections, one-third and two-thirds of
the seat respectively. For carrying
longer objects, you can fold down
either section of the backrest sepa-
rately.
To open:
Reach into the recess and pull forward
(arrow 1).
When you close the backrest, be sure
that the catch engages securely. The
red tab (arrow 2) must go fully down.
394de117
The center belt has an additional small
buckle.
> If you connect the two belt sections,
you can use the center belt as any
normal 3-point belt.
> It is easier to fold the rear seat back-
rest up and down if you unbuckle the
belt (arrow).
394de303
You can lock each backrest in the rear
seat with a master key.
This also prevents access to the
luggage compartment from the interior
of the vehicle when you turn over the
door and ignition key (3) to someone
else (refer to page 30). This is conve-
nient for valet parking, for instance.
394de118
Through-loading system*
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Ski bag*
The ski bag allows the safe and clean
transport of up to four pairs of standard
skis or up to two snowboards.
With the length of the ski bag and the
additional space in the luggage
compartment, you can store skis with a
length of up to 6.8 ft (2.10 meters).
Because of the tapered shape of the
bag, the ski bag can only accommodate
two pairs of skis with a length of 6.8 ft
(2.10 meters).
Removing the center armrest
(Not required for vehicles with the
through-loading system. Refer to
page 114.)
1 Fold the center armrest completely
down.
2 Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest.
3 Grasp the front of the armrest with
one hand, then use your other hand
to reach down behind the armrest
and pull up sharply (arrow).
394de067
Installing the center armrest
Guide the armrest into position from
above, then apply pressure until you
hear it snap into position.
Be sure that the seat covers are
not damaged by the side pins.<
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Ski bag*
Loading
1 Press the release button (arrow 1):
The cover panel in the luggage
compartment is unlocked.
2 Press the detent levers inward
(arrow 2) and pull the cover forward.
3 Extend the ski bag between the front
seats. The zipper provides conve-
nient access to stored items. It may
be opened to allow the ski bag to dry.
394de068
4 Use the magnetic retainers to attach
the cover panel to the upper surface
(metal surface below rear tray) of the
luggage compartment.
To store the ski bag, perform the above
steps in reverse sequence.
An unsecured ski bag could lead
to loss of vehicle control and to
personal injury in case of an accident.<
380de069
Securing the load
Secure the bag's contents by
tightening down the retaining
strap at the buckle.<
Please be sure that the skis are clean
before loading them into the bag.
Take care to avoid damage from sharp
edges.
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Ski bag* Cargo loading
With throughloading system
1 Fold the center armrest down.
Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest.
2 Press button 1 downward and swing
the cover forward.
3 Press knob 2: the cover in the
luggage compartment is unlocked.
394de119
Stowing cargo
If you are transporting a load in your
BMW:
> Load heavy cargo as far forward as
possible – directly behind the back-
rests or the luggage compartment
partition – and as low as possible.
> Cover sharp edges and corners.
> Do not pile objects higher than the
top edge of the backrest.
> If you are transporting very heavy
loads when the rear seat is not occu-
pied, secure the outer safety belts in
the opposite buckle.
39mde036
Securing the load
> Secure smaller, light pieces with the
luggage net or use draw straps
*
(refer to page 39).
> For large, heavy pieces, see your
BMW center for load-securing
devices
*. The lashing eyes provided
at the corners of the luggage
compartment serve for mounting
these load-securing devices.
> Read and comply with the informa-
tion enclosed with the load-securing
devices.
39mde037
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115n
Cargo loading Roof-mounted luggage rack*
Always position and secure the
load correctly. If you do not, it can
endanger the passengers during
braking or evasive maneuvers.
Do not exceed the permissible gross
weight and axle load (refer to
page 186), otherwise the vehicle's
operating safety is no longer assured
and a violation of the laws of the road
occurs.
Do not carry hard or heavy objects
unsecured in the passenger compart-
ment. If you do so, they may be
projected through the air during braking
and evasive maneuvers, thus endan-
gering vehicle occupants.<
Anchors
Access to the anchors:
To open the cover (arrow) please use
the tool included with the luggage
system.
A special luggage system is available
as an option for your BMW. Please
comply with the precautions included
with the installation instructions.
394de369
Roof-mounted luggage racks raise the
center of gravity of the vehicle when
they are loaded. For this reason, they
exercise a major effect on the vehicle's
handling and steering response.
You should therefore always remember
not to exceed the approved roof
weight, the approved gross vehicle
weight or the axle weights when
loading the rack. You will find the
specifications under "Technical Data"
on page 186.
Make sure that the load is not too heavy,
and attempt to distribute it evenly.
Always load the heaviest pieces first
(on the bottom). Be sure that adequate
clearance is maintained for raising the
sliding/tilt sunroof.
Secure the roof luggage correctly and
securely to prevent it from shifting or
being lost during driving (danger to
following traffic).
Drive smoothly and avoid sudden
acceleration or braking. Do not corner
at high speeds.
The roof load increases the aerody-
namic resistance. Increased fuel
consumption and additional stresses on
the vehicle's body result from this.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
117n
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedure 118
Driving notes 119
Catalytic converter 120
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 121
Disc brakes 123
Brake system 124
Winter operation 125
Power steering 127
Cellular phone 127
Radio reception 127
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 128
Tire condition 128
Tire replacement 129
Tire rotation 130
Wheel and tire
combinations 131
Special features of winter
tires 132
Snow chains 133
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 134
Under the hood:
Hood 135
Engine compartment 136
Washer fluids 138
Washer nozzles 138
Engine oil 139
Coolant 141
Brake fluid 142
Vehicle Identification
Number 143
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 144
Caring for your vehicle 145
Airbags 151
Vehicle storage 151
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 152
California Proposition
65 Warning 152
OBD interface socket 153
Car care
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118n
To ensure that your vehicle provides
maximum economy throughout a long
service life, we request that you
observe the following suggestions.
Because of its engineering design,
the BMW M5 is an especially high-
quality vehicle. To protect your own
investment, we recommend that you
follow the break-in instructions care-
fully. By doing so, you will create the
basis for optimal service life of the
vehicle.<
Engine and differential
Up to 1,200 miles (2,000 km):
Drive at varying engine speeds and
road speeds, but do not exceed
5,500 RPM or 105 mph (170 km/h)
during this period.
Obey all applicable local, state, provin-
cial or federal speed limits.
Do not depress the accelerator pedal to
the full-throttle position.
Following the break-in inspection at
1,200 miles (2,000 km), you can gradu-
ally increase engine or 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 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.
For this reason, drive with extra care
during the initial 200 miles (300 km).
Obey all applicable local, state, provin-
cial or federal speed limits.
When the vehicle is operated on
wet or slushy roads, a wedge of
water may from between the tire and
the road surface. This phenomenon is
referred to as aquaplaning, or hydro-
planing, and can lead to partial or
complete loss of traction, vehicle
control and braking effectiveness.
Reduce your speed on wet roads.<
Brake system
Approximately 300 miles (500 km)
must elapse before the brake pads and
disks achieve the optimal pad-surface
and wear patterns required for trouble-
free operation and long service life later
on.
To break in the separate parking brake
drums, apply the parking brake lightly
when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic
signal, for instance), provided that
traffic conditions allow you to do so. To
avoid corrosion, repeat this procedure
from time to time.
The brake lamps do not come on
when the parking brake is applied.
Vacuum for the brake system servo unit
on your BMW is available only when the
engine is running. When you move the
vehicle with the engine shut off – when
towing, for instance – substantially
higher levels of pedal force will be
required to brake the vehicle.<
Clutch
The clutch will also begin to function
optimally after approx. 300 miles
(500 km). During the run-in period, treat
the engine with care and do not engage
the cluth at high engine speeds.
Break-in procedure
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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:
A wedge of water can form between the
tires and the road surface when you
operate the vehicle on wet or slushy
roads. This phenomenon is referred to
as aquaplaning or hydroplaning. It is
characterized 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:
Do not drive through water that is
deeper than 1 ft (30 cm). If you must
drive through water accumulations up
to that depth, drive only at walking
speed. Driving at a faster speed could
cause damage to the engine, the elec-
trical systems and the transmission.
Rear parcel tray:
Do not place heavy or hard objects on
the rear parcel tray. If you do so, they
could pose a danger to vehicle occu-
pants during a braking or evasive
maneuver, or in a crash.
Clothes hooks:
When suspending articles of clothing
from the hooks, be sure that they will
not obstruct the driver's vision. Do not
hang heavy objects on the hooks. If you
do so, such objects could pose a
danger during braking or evasive
maneuvers.<
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Catalytic converter
The catalytic converter reduces harmful
exhaust emissions, and is designed for
use with unleaded fuel only. Even
minute quantities of lead would be
enough to permanently damage both
the catalytic converter and the system
oxygen sensor.
To ensure efficient, trouble-free engine
operation and avoid potential damage:
> Be sure to comply with the scheduled
maintenance requirements.
> Fill the fuel tank well before it is
empty.
> Do not attempt to start the engine by
tow-starting. If you do so, unburned
gasoline in the catalytic converter
could ignite and cause severe
damage. If you have starting prob-
lems, start the engine with an outside
starting aid only. Refer to page 171.
> Avoid other situations in which the
fuel is not burned or burns incom-
pletely such as frequent or extended
starter engagement or repeated start
attempts in which the engine does
not start. Stopping and restarting an
engine which is running properly
does not present a problem. Never
allow the engine to run with any of
the spark plug cables disconnected.
Be sure to 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 at idle or when parking, take
precautions to avoid contact between
the hot exhaust system and easily flam-
mable materials (grass, hay or leaves,
for example). Such contact could lead
to a fire, resulting in serious personal
injury and property damage.<
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121n
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The concept
ABS enhances active safety by helping
to prevent the wheels from locking
when the brakes are applied. This is
done because locked wheels are
dangerous. When the front wheels
slide, the driver loses steering control
over the vehicle. Traction loss at the
rear wheels can cause the rear axle to
break into an uncontrolled skid.
With ABS, the shortest possible braking
distances are achieved under most
conditions (on straight-aways and in
curves, with different road surfaces).
ABS is designed to meet two essential
requirements during every brake appli-
cation:
> To help provide vehicle stability
> To help maintain steering control and
maneuverability – on all types of road
surfaces (asphalt, concrete, mud,
wet, snow, ice).
Braking with ABS
The system becomes operative once
the vehicle exceeds a speed of approx.
6 mph (10 km/h). The ABS is deacti-
vated whenever the vehicle's speed
drops back below approx. 4 mph
(6 km/h). This means that the wheels
can lock in the final phase of a brake
application – a factor of no significance
in actual practice.
If you are in a situation that 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 system closed-loop control
circuit cycles in fractions of a second.
A pulsing of the brake pedal, combined
with the sounds associated with the
hydraulic controls, tells you that the
brake system is within its maximum
limit range and reminds you that you
should adapt your vehicle's speed to
road conditions.
On road surfaces which have a loose
layer on a firm base (on gravel or snow,
for instance), the braking distances with
ABS may be longer than with the
wheels locked. This is also true if snow
chains are mounted. However, ABS
continues to provide enhanced vehicle
stability and steering response under
these conditions.
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122n
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
Information for your safety
Not even ABS can suspend the laws of
physics. The consequences of brake
applications with an adequate safety
distance between vehicles, if the
vehicle is driven at excessive speeds in
curves, or during aquaplaning remain
the responsibility of the driver. You
should never allow the added safety of
ABS to lull you into a false sense of
security, or mislead you into taking risks
that could affect your own safety and
that of others.
Do not make any modifications to
the ABS system.
Service procedures on ABS are to be
performed by authorized technicians
only.<
In the event of a fault
If the ABS warning lamp in the
instrument cluster lights up,
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 cumulative
faults from adversely affecting the
brake system, refer any problems to
your BMW center at the earliest oppor-
tunity.
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Disc brakes
Disc brakes furnish optimum decelera-
tion and braking control and greater
fade resistance under heavy use.
Infrequent driving, extended periods
when the vehicle is parked, and driving
conditions in which brake applications
are less frequent all promote an
increase in corrosion of the brake disks
and contamination of the brake pads.
This occurs because the minimal appli-
cation force that is required to clean the
disks is not reached between the pads
and disks.
If the brake disks are corroded, they will
tend to respond to braking with a
pulsating effect which even extended
application cannot correct.
For your own safety: use only
brake linings that BMW has
released for your particular vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
Driving notes
While driving on wet roads or in heavy
rain, it is a effective to apply light pres-
sure to the brake pedal every few miles
or kilometers. Watch traffic conditions
to ensure that this maneuver does not
endanger other road users. The heat
which is generated by the brake appli-
cations helps to dry the brake disks and
pads.
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 126).
Extended or steep mountain descents
should be driven in the gear in which
only minimal periodic brake applica-
tions is required. This avoids excessive
strain on the brakes and possible
impairment of the braking effect.
The engine's braking effectiveness can
be increased even more by progres-
sively shifting down – clear into first
gear, if necessary.
If engine braking should prove to be
inadequate, you should still avoid
extended, continuous braking. Instead
of maintaining low to moderate pres-
sure over an extended period of time,
you should decelerate the vehicle by
applying more substantial force on the
pedal (watch for following traffic).
Pause before repeating the brake appli-
cation. This staggered braking tech-
nique allows the brakes to cool in the
intervals between active braking
phases. This prevents overheating and
ensures that full braking capacity
remains available at all times.
Do not coast with the clutch
depressed, with the shift lever in
neutral or with the engine shut off. The
engine does not provide any braking
effect with the transmission in neutral or
with the engine shut off.
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.<
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Disc brakes Brake system
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)*
If you apply the brakes rapidly, this
system automatically generates
maximum braking force boost and thus
helps to achieve the shortest possible
braking distance in "panic braking"
situations. All of the benefits of the ABS
system are exploited under these
circumstances.
Do not reduce the pressure on the
brake pedal for the duration of the
brake application. When the brake
pedal is released, the DBC is deacti-
vated.
In the event of a malfunction,
the yellow warning lamp comes
on. Conventional braking effi-
ciency is available without
limitations. Have the system
checked and repaired at your
BMW center as soon as possible.
Refer to the "Information for your
safety" covering the ABS system
on page 122. This information also
generally applies to DBC.<
Brake fluid level
The warning lamp for the
brake's hydraulic system comes
on or the message "CHECK
BRAKE FLUID" appears in the
Check Control:
The brake fluid level is too low in
the reservoir (refer to page 142).
If the brake fluid level is too low and
brake pedal travel has become notice-
ably longer, there may be a defect in
one of the brake system's hydraulic
circuits.
Proceed to the nearest BMW
center. Higher brake application
pressure may be necessary under these
conditions, and brake pedal travel may
be significantly longer. Please
remember to adapt your driving style
accordingly.<
The warning lamp also comes on when
the message "CHECK BRAKE
LININGS" is displayed in the Check
Control.
Brake linings
The message "CHECK BRAKE
LININGS" appears in the Check
Control:
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 linings that BMW has
released for your particular vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
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Winter operation
The onset of winter is often accompa-
nied by rapid changes in weather.
Adaptations in driving style should be
accompanied by preparations on the
vehicle itself to ensure that your
progress through the winter remains
safe and trouble-free.
Coolant
Be sure that the coolant mixture
contains the year-round ratio of 50:50
water and antifreeze/corrosion protec-
tion. This mixture provides protection
against freeze-ups down to approx.
-34 7 (-37 6). Replace the coolant
every three years.
Locks
BMW door lock deicer can be used to
free locks if they are frozen. This deicer
also contains lubricant.
After using the deicer, treatment with
BMW lock cylinder grease is recom-
mended.
Rubber seals and components
Treat the rubber parts and weather-
stripping on the doors, hood and
luggage compartment lid with BMW
rubber treatment or BMW Silicon Spray
to prevent them from freezing.
A full range of car care products is
available from your BMW center.<
Snow chains
Mount BMW snow chains* on winter
tires only. Always mount snow chains in
pairs and on the rear wheels only. Read
and comply with the chain manufac-
turer's safety precautions. Do not
exceed a maximum speed of 30 mph
(50 km/h). To achieve maximum trac-
tion, we recommend that you deacti-
vate the DSC system when snow
chains have been mounted. Refer to
page 86.
Starting off
When starting from a full stop in deep
snow or for "rocking" the vehicle to free
it, we recommend that you deactivate
the DSC system. Refer to page 86.
Driving on low-traction road
surfaces
Use smooth, gentle pressure to control
the accelerator pedal. Avoid excessive
engine speeds and shift to the next
higher gear at an early point. Adapt
your speed and driving style when
approaching grades or slopes.
Maintain an adequate distance
between yourself and the vehicle
ahead.
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126n
Winter operation
Brakes
Winter road conditions substantially
reduce the amount of traction available
between the tires and the road surface.
The resulting increases in braking
distance are considerable and should
be kept in mind at all times.
ABS is intended to prevent the wheels
from locking during brake applications,
thus helping to maintain vehicle stability
and steering response.
If the ABS system does not respond for
any reason and the wheels lock: reduce
the pressure on the brake pedal until
the wheels just start to roll again while
still maintaining enough force to
continue braking. Following that,
increase pedal pressure again. Reduce
the pressure as the wheels lock, then
reapply pressure. Repeat this braking
method as necessary.
This type of staggered braking will
reduce the braking distance, and the
vehicle still remains responsive to
steering.
You can then attempt to steer around
hazards after you have reduced pres-
sure on the brake pedal.
Do not shift down on slick road
surfaces. Doing so could cause
the rear wheels to lose traction and
skid, resulting in the loss of vehicle
control.<
Depress the clutch during hard
braking on road surfaces that
provide only poor or uneven traction.<
Skid control
Depress the clutch and release the
accelerator pedal. Countersteer care-
fully and attempt to regain control of the
vehicle.
Parking
Engage either 1st or reverse gear.
Apply the parking brake whenever you
park 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.<
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Power steering Cellular phone* Radio reception
If there is a change in steering response
(difficult steering, for example) or, espe-
cially on vehicles with Servotronic
*, if
the steering "drifts" or "floats" at
increasing speeds:
Consult a BMW center to have it
checked.
If the power steering fails,
increased effort will be required to
steer the vehicle.<
Mobile communications systems
(cellular phone, radio, etc.) are only
allowed a power output of up to
10 watts. Mobile communication
devices not specifically designed for
use in your vehicle may trigger malfunc-
tions in the operation of your vehicle.
BMW can neither test nor assume
responsibility for every individual
product being offered on the market.
We recommend that you consult your
BMW center before purchasing any
device of this kind.
To ensure that your BMW continues to
provide reliable and trouble-free opera-
tion, do not use a cellular phone or
other radio device with an antenna
located inside the passenger compart-
ment. The antenna should always be
mounted on the outside of the vehicle.
Before loading the vehicle on
a car-carrier train or driving it
through a car-wash, remove the
antenna.<
The reception and sound quality
obtained from mobile radios 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, buildings and
natural obstructions can all lead to
unavoidable reception interference,
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 formal BMW
approval can also generate interfer-
ence. This phenomenon assumes the
form of a low-pitched hum emanating
from the speaker system.
Please refer to the supplementary
Owner's Manual provided with your
sound system for detailed information
on its use.
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Information for your safety
The factory-approved radial tires are
matched to the vehicle and have been
selected to provide optimum safety and
driving comfort on your vehicle.
It is not merely the tire's service life, but
also driving comfort and – above all else
– driving safety that depend on the
condition of the tires and the mainte-
nance of the specified tire pressure.
Incorrect inflation pressure is a frequent
cause of tire damage. It also signifi-
cantly influences the roadholding ability
of your BMW.
Check tire inflation pressures on
a regular basis (refer to page 26),
at least every two weeks and before
beginning a longer trip. If this is not
done, incorrect tire pressures can
cause driving instability and tire
damage, ultimately resulting in acci-
dents.<
Tire tread – Tire damage
Inspect your tires frequently for tread
wear, signs of damage and for foreign
objects lodged in the tread. Check the
tread depth.
Tread depth should not be allowed to
go below 0.12 in (3 mm), even though
the legally specified minimum tread
depth is 0.063 in (1.6 mm). At a tread
depth of 0.063 in (1.6 mm), tread depth
indicators (arrow) in the tread-groove
base indicate that the legally-permis-
sible wear limit has been reached.
Below 0.12 in (3 mm) tread depth, there
is an increased risk of aquaplaning,
even at relatively moderate speeds and
with only small amounts of water on the
road.
390de331
Do not drive on a deflated (flat)
tire. A flat tire greatly impairs
steering and braking response, and can
lead to complete loss of control over
the vehicle.
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that
the permitted load on the tires is not
exceeded. Overloading can lead to
overheating and increases the rate at
which damage develops inside the
tires. The ultimate result can assume
the form of a sudden air loss.
Unusual vibrations encountered during
normal vehicle operation can indicate
tire failure or some other vehicle defect,
as can variations in normal vehicle
response, such as a pronounced
tendency to pull to the left or right.
Should this occur, respond by immedi-
ately reducing your speed and carefully
proceeding to the nearest BMW center
or professional tire center, or having the
vehicle towed in to have it and its tires
inspected.
Tire damage (up to and including blow-
outs) can endanger the lives of both the
vehicle occupants and other road
users.<
Tire inflation pressure Tire condition
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Tire replacement
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single
tread configuration from a single manu-
facturer. BMW tests and approves
wheel/tire combinations. Refer to
page 133.
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
characteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on speci-
fied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straight-
ahead braking traction tests, and does
not include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<
Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to degenerate
and reduce tire life, and excessive
temperature can lead to sudden tire
failure. The grade C correspods to a
level of performance which all
passenger car tires must meet under
the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Stan-
dard No. 109. Grades B and A repre-
sent higher levels of performance on
the laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.
The temperature grade for this
tire is established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not overloaded.
Excessive speed, underinflation, or
excessive loading, either separately or
in combination, can cause heat buildup
and possible tire failure.<
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall between
tread shoulder and maximum section
width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
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Tire replacement Tire rotation
Do not use retreaded tires, since
driving safety may be impaired.
This is due to the possible variations in
casing structures and, in some cases,
to their extreme age, which can lead to
a decrease in their durability.<
Tire age
The date on which the tire was manu-
factured is indicated by the code on the
sidewall:
DOT ... 3400 indicates that the tire was
manufactured during week 34 of the
year 2000.
BMW recommends the replacement of
all tires when the tires are no more than
6 years old, even if a tire life of 10 years
is possible.
Between the axles
The tread wear patterns at the front end
differ from those at the rear – the actual
patterns will vary according to individ-
ual driving conditions. In the interests of
safety and maintaining optimal handling
characteristics, interaxle tire rotation is
not recommended.
If a proposed interaxle rotation of tires is
based on economic considerations, one
should consider whether the costs for
the rotation are likely to be recaptured
by any increase in the service life of the
tires which might be realized. In prin-
ciple, interaxle tire rotation should be
performed 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 that you comply with the
following:
Rotate tires on the same side only,
since braking characteristics and road
grip could otherwise be adversely
affected.
Following rotation, correct the tire infla-
tion pressure.
If different tire sizes are mounted
on the front and rear axles (refer to
page 133), 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 page 134.
The correct wheel-tire combina-
tion affects on different systems
that otherwise will not function prop-
erly, e.g. ABS, DSC.
For this reason, use only tires of the
same brand and tread pattern on the
vehicle and, for example, restore the
approved wheel-tire combination
following a flat tire as soon as
possible.<
Codes on the tires and wheels
The code on tires has the following
meaning.
Codes on radial tires:
The speed rating indicates the
approved maximum speed for the tire.
Summer tires:
S = up 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 code
for radial
Rim diameter in inches
Load rating (not for ZR tires)
Speed rating
(before R on ZR tires)
225/60 R 1596W
Winter tires:
Q M+S = up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
T M+S = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H M+S = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
Codes on light-alloy wheels:
Protect valve stems and valves from dirt
using screw-on valve stem caps. Dirt in
the valves frequently leads to slow
leaks.
Storage
Store tires in a cool, dry place,
protecting them against light when-
ever possible. Protect the tires against
contact with oil, grease and fuel.
Rim width
in inches
Code letter for
flange type
Symbol for full-drop
center rim
Rim diameter in inches
Extended hump on the
2 rim shoulders
8x18EH2J
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Special features of winter tires
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends winter tires (M+S
radial tires) for operation under inclem-
ent winter driving conditions. While
so-called all-season tires (M+S desig-
nation) provide better winter traction
than summer tires with the load ratings
H, V, W, Y and ZR, they generally do
not achieve the performance of winter
tires.
In the interests of safe tracking and
steering response, install radial tires
made by the same manufacturer and
with the same tread configuration on all
four wheels if you elect to mount winter
tires.
Do not exceed specified
maximum speeds
In Germany: attach a corresponding
sign in accordance with the Federal
Motor Vehicles Safety Standards in
your field of vision if the maximum
speed of the vehicle is higher. This
sticker is available from the tire dealer
or your BMW center.
Never exceed the maximum speed
for which the tires are rated.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
service tires can lead to damage and
accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled
professionals only. Your BMW center
will be glad to assist you with both their
expertise and the proper equipment for
your vehicle.<
Tire condition, tire pressure
Winter tires display a perceptible loss in
their ability to cope with winter driving
conditions once the tread wears to
below 0.16 in (4 mm), and should thus
be replaced.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressure and be sure to have the
wheels balanced each time a tire or
wheel is changed. In addition, also have
the Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) reini-
tialized, for details refer to page 88.
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Snow chains*
The use of narrow-link BMW snow
chains on winter tires is approved only
in pairs and only on the rear wheels.
Comply with all manufacturer's safety
precautions when mounting the chains.
Deactivate the Tire Pressure
Warning (RDW) when using snow
chains. The snow chains can lead to
malfunction warnings and undetected
losses in pressure.
For further information, refer to
page 88.<
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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. Your BMW center can provide information in this
connection.
Observe any regulations applicable in the country of use, e.g. requiring entry
in the vehicle documents.
Tire specifications
Summer
Front: 245/40 ZR 18 8Jx18EH2
Rear: 275/35 ZR 18 9.5Jx18EH2
Winter (M+S)
235/45 R 17 94 H 8Jx17EH2
Snow chains*
It is not possible to mount snow chains
with 18-inch wheels and tires.
Deactivate the tire pressure
control (RDW) when using snow
chains. The snow chains can lead to
malfunction warnings and undetected
losses in pressure.
For further information, refer to 88.<
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To unlock
Pull the lever located under the left-
hand side of the instrument panel.
Do not work on your vehicle
without appropriate skills. Always
switch off the engine and allow it to
cool down before working in the engine
compartment. Always disconnect the
battery before working on any electrical
systems or equipment, especially when
these are located within the engine
compartment. Comply with all appli-
cable instructions and warnings. Failure
to work in an informed, professional
manner when servicing components
and materials constitutes a safety
hazard for vehicle occupants and other
road users. If you are not familiar with
390de071
the guidelines, please have the opera-
tions performed by your BMW center.<
To open
Pull the release handle and open the
hood.
390de072
To close
Allow the hood to fall from a height of
about 4 in(10 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.<
390de677
Hood
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Engine compartment
39mde057
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Engine compartment
1 Reservoir for brake fluid (under the
housing of the microfilter) 142
2 Auxiliary terminal for jump
starting 171
3 Engine oil dipstick 139
4 Engine oil filler neck 139
5 Coolant expansion tank 141
6 Reservoir for the intensive-cleaning
system 138
7 Reservoir for the windshield and
headlamp washer system
* 138
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Washer fluids Washer nozzles
Headlamp* and windshield
washer system
Capacity in US quarts (liters).
Windshield washer:
Approx. 3.7 US quarts (3.5 liters)
With headlamp-washing system:
Approx. 6.3 US quarts (6.0 liters).
Fill with water and – if required – with a
washer antifreeze (according to manu-
facturer's recommendations).
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
39mde040
Intensive-action washer
reservoir
*
Capacity approx. 1.1 US quarts
(1.0 liters).
Fill with intensive-action washer fluid.
It resists freezing to approx. -17 7
(-27 6) and is available from your
BMW center.
Antifreeze agents or intensive-
action washer fluids for the
washer systems are highly flammable.
For this reason, keep them away from
sources of flame and store them only in
their original containers. Store them so
that they are inaccessible to children.
Comply with the instructions on the
containers.<
39mde041
Windshield washer
The spray from the nozzles should be
directed so as to ensure effective
cleaning, even at high speeds. Use a
needle to adjust the nozzles as required
or have them adjusted at your BMW
center.
Headlamp washer system
Have the nozzles adjusted by your
BMW center as required.
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Engine oil
Checking oil level
1 Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2 Allow the engine to run at operating
temperature for at least 15 seconds
at idle, then shut it off.
3 After approx. one minute, pull the
dipstick out and wipe it off with a
clean lint-free cloth, paper towel, or
similar material.
4 Carefully push the dipstick all the way
into the guide tube and pull it out
again.
5 The oil level should be between the
two graduations on the dipstick.
As with fuel economy, oil consumption
is directly influenced by your driving
style and vehicle operating conditions.
39mde042
The oil volume between the two marks
on the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter). Do not fill beyond
the upper mark on the dipstick. Excess
oil will damage the engine.
460de189
To add oil
Wait until the level has dropped to just
above the lower mark before adding oil.
However, do not wait until the oil level
drops below the lower mark.
BMW engines are designed to
operate without oil additives; the
use of additives could lead to damage
in some cases. This is also true for the
manual transmission, the differential,
and the power steering system.<
39mde043
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Engine oil
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil selected
has critical significance for the opera-
tion and service life of an engine. Based
on extensive testing, BMW has
approved only certain engine oils.
Use only approved "BMW High 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. Use only 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 oil flow rating as estab-
lished in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class
depends on the climatic conditions in
the area where you typically drive your
BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes
5W-40 and 5W-30.
<
These oils may be used for driving in all
ambient temperatures.
530us200
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Engine oil Coolant
Always observe all environmental
protection guidelines and regula-
tions when disposing of used oil.<
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW center only.
Continuous exposure to used oil
has caused cancer in laboratory
testing.
For this reason, any skin areas that
come into contact with oil should be
thoroughly washed with soap and
water.
Always store oils, grease and similar
materials so that they are inaccessible
to children. Comply with warning labels
and information on containers.<
Do not add coolant to the cooling
system when the engine is hot. If
you attempt to do so, escaping coolant
can cause burns.
To avoid the possibility of secondary
damage, never use anything other than
factory-approved, nitrite and amino-
free extended-duty antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor. Your BMW center is
familiar with the official specifications.
Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents are
hazardous to health. You should always
store them in their original container
and in a location which is out of reach of
children. Extended-duty antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor contains the flam-
mable substance ethylene glycol. For
this reason, do not spill antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor on hot engine parts.
It could ignite and cause serious
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):
Visible within the transparent expansion
tank, no higher than the COLD mark.
39mde044
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Coolant Brake fluid
Adding 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 zone; otherwise,
there is a danger of scalding.
1 Turn the cap counterclockwise
slightly 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 every three years.
Brake fluid level
If the indicator lamp for the
brake hydraulic system appears
or if the "CHECK BRAKE FLUID"
message appears in the Check
Control
*: the brake fluid level is
too low in the reservoir.
The brake fluid reservoir is located
under the microfilter housing on the
driver's side of the vehicle. For adding
brake fluid or for determining and
correcting the cause of brake fluid loss,
consult your BMW center. Your BMW
center is familiar with the specifications
for factory-approved brake fluids
(DOT 4).
Brake fluid loss may result in extended
brake pedal travel. If this occurs, refer
to the information on page 124.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,
it absorbs moisture from the air
over time. In order to ensure the safety
and reliability of the brake system, have
the brake fluid changed every two years
by an BMW center. Refer also to the
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models) or the Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian
models). Brake fluid is toxic and
damages the vehicle's paint. You
should always store it in its original
container and in a location which is out
of reach of children. Do not spill the
fluid and do not fill the brake fluid reser-
voir beyond the MAX mark. The brake
fluid could ignite upon contact with hot
engine parts and cause serious burns.<
Comply with the applicable
environmental laws regulating
the disposal of brake fluid.<
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Vehicle Identification Number
In the engine compartment, stamped
on the right-hand strut dome (arrow)
and on the upper edge of the instru-
ment panel on the left-hand side.
390de074
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The BMW Maintenance System has
been designed as a reliable means of
providing maximum driving and oper-
ating safety – and as cost-effectively as
possible for you.
Please keep in mind that regular main-
tenance is not only necessary for the
safety of your vehicle, but also plays a
significant role in maintaining the resale
value of the vehicle.
380us008
Service Interval Display
Advanced technology is employed to
calculate the optimal maintenance inter-
vals, which are then indicated in the
Service Interval Display. While conven-
tional systems rely solely on distance
traveled to determine when service is
due, the BMW Maintenance System
began many years ago to take the
actual conditions under which the
vehicle is driven into consideration.
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.
The BMW Maintenance System
includes the Engine Oil Service and
Inspections I and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals
according to the actual vehicle driving
loads on the vehicle covers every kind
of operating situation. However, even
those who drive only short distances –
significantly less than 6,200 miles
(10,000 km) annually – should have the
engine oil changed at least every
2 years since oil deteriorates over time,
regardless of use.
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models)/Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
For additional information on mainte-
nance intervals and procedures, please
refer to the Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet (US models) or the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
As a precaution against rust, it might be
a good idea to have the body checked
for damage from rocks or gravel at the
same time, depending upon operating
conditions.
The BMW Maintenance System
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Caring for your vehicle
Have your BMW center perform
maintenance and repairs.
Your BMW center is always informed on
the latest maintenance work and repair
techniques and equipped with the
required special tools. In addition,
checking parts known from experience
to be subject to wear is a permanent
part of the maintenance specifications.
Be sure that all maintenance work is
confirmed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models). These entries are
your proof that the vehicle has received
regular maintenance. They are also a
requirement for warranty claims.<
Washing your vehicle
You can have your new BMW washed
in an automatic car wash. Car wash
systems that do not employ brushes
are preferable.
Wipe away tough dirt and loosen and
remove dead insects before washing
the vehicle.
To prevent spots, do not wash the
vehicle when the hood is still warm, or
immediately after and during exposure
to strong sunlight.
When using an automatic car wash, be
sure that:
> The car wash system is suited for the
dimensions of your vehicle.
> No damage will occur on vehicles
with attached body accessories (such
as spoilers or antennas). Consult the
car wash operator if necessary.
> The wheels and tires of your vehicle
cannot be damaged by the convey-
ance devices of the car wash system.
> The vehicle is cleaned with minimum
brush pressure, and that ample water
is available for washing and rinsing.
Vehicles with rain sensor
*:
Clean the windshield regularly. Wax
from automatic car washes or insects,
for example, can cause malfunctions in
the function of the rain sensor.
Deactivate the rain sensor in auto-
matic car washes. If you do not,
damage may occur if the wipers switch
on unintentionally.<
Parts of the vehicle that are inacces-
sible to the automatic washer – such as
door sills, door and hood edges, etc. –
should be cleaned by hand.
In the winter months, it is especially
important to be sure that the vehicle is
washed on a regular basis. Large quan-
tities of dirt and road salt are difficult to
remove, and they also cause damage to
the vehicle.
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Caring for your vehicle
If spray wands or high-pressure
washers are used, be sure to
maintain an adequate distance between
the spray source and the vehicle's
surface. Inadequate distance and
excessive pressure can damage or
weaken the finish, making it more
susceptible to subsequent attack. In
addition, moisture could penetrate to
vehicle components, leading to long-
term damage.<
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
> Do not wipe dry (scratches). Never
use abrasives or strong solvents to
clean the covers.
> Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with plenty
of water.
> Always use a deicer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – never
use a scraper.<
After washing the vehicle, apply
the brakes briefly to dry them.
Braking efficiency might otherwise be
reduced by the moisture and the brake
rotors could also be corroded.<
Exterior finish
To provide effective corrosion protec-
tion, multilayer paintwork is applied at
the factory. Cataphoretic immersion
priming techniques are supplemented
using special body-cavity protectants,
with the application of specially-devel-
oped and extensively tested materials.
A layer of flexible PVC is first applied
to the undercarriage. Following this, a
comprehensive undercoating treat-
ment with a wax-based protectant is
applied. Regular maintenance makes
an important contribution to maintaining
the safety and value of your vehicle.
Increasing awareness of the effects
of harmful environmental factors on
vehicle finishes have led paint and
vehicle manufacturers to initiate
ongoing programs designed to further
improve the durability of their finishes.
Despite this, environmental factors that
occur locally or regionally can have
negative effects on the finish of your
vehicle. These should guide you in
determining the frequency and extent
of your efforts to maintain the vehicle
finish.
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Caring for your vehicle
Depending upon material and type
of impact (perforation of paint layer),
physical stresses from sand, road salt,
gravel, etc., can cause corrosion to start
extending beneath the finish, starting at
the point of impact.
Road dirt, tar spots, dead insects,
animal droppings (strong alkali effect)
and tree excretions (resins and pollen)
all contain substances capable of
causing damage if they are allowed to
remain on the finish of your vehicle for
any period of time (spots, etching,
flaking, separation in the top coat).
In industrial areas, deposits of flue dust,
lime, oily soot, precipitation containing
sulfur-dioxide (acid rain) and other envi-
ronmental pollutants will damage the
vehicle's finish unless adequate care is
provided – even though this is generally
limited to the outside horizontal
surfaces.
In coastal regions, high levels of atmo-
spheric salt and humidity promote
corrosion.
In tropical zones, temperatures of over
105 7 (40 6) in the shade prevail, in
addition to heavy ultraviolet radiation
and high humidity. Under those condi-
tions, light paints can reach tempera-
tures up to 175 7 (80 6) and dark
paints up to 250 7 (120 6).
Caring for the vehicle finish
Regular washing is a preventive
measure against long-term effects from
substances that are harmful to the
vehicle's finish, especially if you drive
your vehicle in areas with high levels of
air pollution or aggressive natural
substances (tree resins, pollen).
Nevertheless, you should immediately
remove especially aggressive
substances. Failure to do so can lead to
changes in the paint's chemical struc-
ture or to discoloration. Gasoline spilled
during refueling, oil, grease and brake
fluid should always be cleaned away
immediately, as should bird droppings
(finish damage).
Any contamination remaining on the
surface of the vehicle will be especially
conspicuous after washing. Use
cleaning fluid or alcohol with a clean
cloth or cotton pad to remove. Remove
tar spots with tar remover. After
cleaning, the affected areas should be
waxed to ensure continued protection.
Use cleaning and car-care
products that you can obtain
at your BMW center.<
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Caring for your vehicle
Waxing your vehicle
Protect the finish using carnauba or
synthetic-based waxes only.
The best way to determine when the
finish needs to be waxed is by noting
when water stops beading on the
surface.
You can use a glass cleaner to remove
any wax or silicone that may have been
left on the windows during waxing.
Use cleaning and car-care
products that you can obtain
at your BMW center.<
Paint damage
You can touch up small areas of paint
damage with a BMW spray paint or a
BMW touchup stick.
The paint color code for your vehicle is
provided on a sticker located on the
right hand side under the hood and on
the first page the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or of
the Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian models).
Damage caused by flying stones,
scratches, etc., must be touched up
without delay to prevent rust from
forming.
If corrosion has started to form in an
area with paint damage, remove all rust
and clean the area. Then prime the area
with a BMW Primer Stick. Finally, apply
the finish coat. Wait a few days, then
polish the repaired area. Finish by
applying a wax preservative.
More extensive paint damage should
be professionally repaired in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions. Your BMW center uses original
BMW finish materials in accordance
with factory-approved repair proce-
dures.
Window care
You an use window and glass cleaner
to clean inside window surfaces and
mirrors without smearing and streaking.
Never use polishing pastes or abrasive
(quartz) cleansers on mirror lenses.
When caring for break-resistant
security glass
*, observe the
following instructions:
The inner surface of the side windows
is coated with a plastic film. For this
reason, do not affix any decals or adhe-
sive stickers on the inside of these
windows unless they are to be placed
there permanently. Wash the glass with
clean water. If necessary, you may add
a commercially-available mild house-
hold cleaner. Do not use abrasive
cleaners. If the windows are fogged or
iced over, treat them with an anti-
misting cloth or a deicer spray – do not
use an ice scraper.<
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Caring for your vehicle
Clean the wiper blades with soapy
water. The wiper blades should be
replaced twice a year, before and after
the cold season.
Use only wiper blades approved
by BMW. <
Caring for other vehicle
components and materials
Light-alloy wheels should be treated
with alloy wheel cleaner, especially
during the winter months. However, do
not use aggressive products containing
acids, strong alkalis or abrasives. Do
not use steam cleaners operating at
temperatures above 140 7 (60 6).
Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
If your vehicle has chrome parts
* such
as the window frames and door handles,
clean these parts carefully with ample
clean water after driving on roads that
have been salted. Add a shampoo
supplement if desired. Use chrome
polish as an additional treatment.
Plastic components, vinyl upholstery,
headliners, lamp lenses, the clear cover
of the instrument cluster and compo-
nents with a sprayed dull black surface
can be cleaned with water (add plastic
shampoo as required). Do not allow
moisture to soak through the seats or
headliner. Never use solvents such as
lacquer thinner, heavy-duty grease
remover, fuels, etc.
Rubber components should be cleaned
with water only; a rubber treatment or
silicone spray may also be applied.
The safety belts should be cleaned with
a mild soap and water solution without
being removed from the vehicle. Never
attempt chemical or dry cleaning, as
damage to the belt fabric could result.
After cleaning, never allow the inertia
reel to retract the belts until they are
completely dry. Dirty safety belts
prevent the inertia reel mechanism from
retracting the strap properly, and thus
constitute a safety hazard.
Heavily soiled floor carpets and mats
*
can be cleaned with an interior cleaner.
The floor mats can be removed from
the vehicle for cleaning.
Please use only a damp cloth to clean
wooden fascia panels and components.
Follow up by drying with a soft cloth.
Use cleaning and car-care
products that you can obtain
at your BMW center.<
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Caring for your vehicle
Leather care
The leather upholstery* used by BMW
is a natural product of the highest
quality, processed using state-of-the-
art methods to ensure that it will main-
tain its high quality for years to come,
provided that it is properly cared for.
Because this product is manufactured
using natural materials, you must make
allowance for its special characteristics
as well as for the peculiarities of its use
and care.
Regular periodic cleaning and care are
essential, as dust and road dirt act as
abrasives in the pores and creases of
the material. This leads to wear spots
and premature brittleness on the
surface of the leather. We therefore
suggest that you clean the leather with
a vacuum cleaner or dust cloth at
frequent intervals.
For cleaning use BMW leather cleaning
foam.
Since dirt and grease gradually attack
the protective layer of the leather, the
cleaned surfaces should be treated
with BMW leather care agent. This also
acts as an antistatic agent.
For protection against dampness or
moisture, treat the leather with a BMW
impregnating agent.
We recommend that you perform this
procedure twice a year on leather
exposed to normal use.
Spills should be wiped up immediately.
If the upholstery will be exposed to
intense sunlight or if the vehicle is to be
stored for an extended period, cover all
leather surfaces (or better yet, cover the
windows) to prevent fading.
Use cleaning and car-care
products that you can obtain
at your BMW center.<
Cleaning agents can contain
substances that are dangerous
or pose health risks. For this reason,
always read and comply with the
warnings and danger notices on the
package.
Open the doors or windows on your
vehicle when cleaning the interior.
Never clean your vehicle with solvents
or other materials not specifically
intended for this application.<
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Airbags Vehicle storage
1 Front airbags on the driver and
passenger sides
2 Head airbags on the driver and
passenger sides (front and rear
*)
3 Side airbags on the driver and
passenger sides (front and rear
*)
Important safety notices
Do not remove the airbag restraint
system's gas generator. Testing
and servicing are to be performed only
by trained technicians. In the event of
the air bag restraint system malfunc-
tioning, being deactivated or triggered
(in response to an accident), consult an
BMW center only for the performance
of any removal and service operations.
39mde064
Do not modify or tamper with either the
wiring or the individual components in
the airbag system. This includes the
padded steering wheel hub, the instru-
ment panel, the side trim panels of the
front or rear doors and the roof pillars or
the sides of the headliner. Never apply
adhesive materials to these compo-
nents or cover or modify them in any
way. Do not remove or dismantle the
steering wheel yourself.
To ensure compliance with official
safety regulations, have an BMW center
dispose of airbag generators.
Unprofessional attempts to service the
system could lead to failure in an emer-
gency or undesired airbag activation,
either of which could result in personal
injury.<
Consult your BMW center regarding
special procedures if you intend to
store the vehicle for more than three
months.
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Technical modifications California Proposition 65 Warning
Any BMW center will be glad to inform
you of the advisability, legal require-
ments and factory recommendations
regarding technical modifications on
your vehicle. For this purpose, the
BMW center will require the Vehicle
Identification Number and, in some
cases, also the engine number.
Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
Light-emitting diodes installed behind
translucent lenses serve as the light
source for many of the controls and
displays in your vehicle. The concept
behind their operation is related to that
employed for lasers, and they are
officially designated as Class 1 light-
emitting diodes.
Do not remove the protective lens
and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for extended periods
(several hours), as inflammation of the
iris could result.<
California laws require us to state the
following warning:
Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.<
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OBD interface socket
Access to the interface socket for the
On-Board-Diagnostics (OBD): lift the
cover (arrow) next to the steering
column.
The purpose of the OBD (Onboard
Diagnostic) system is to assure proper
emission control system operation for
the vehicle's lifetime by monitoring
emission-related components and
systems for deterioration and malfunc-
tion.
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An illuminated indicator informs
you of the need for service, not
of the need to stop the vehicle.
However, the systems should be
checked by your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
Under certain conditions, the indicator
will blink or flash. This indicates a rather
severe level of engine misfire. When
this occurs, you should reduce speed
and consult the nearest BMW center as
soon as possible. Severe engine misfire
over only a short period of time can
seriously damage emission control
components, especially the catalytic
converter.
Warning lamp: Service Engine
Soon 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, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
155n
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 156
Windshield wiper blades 156
Lamps and bulbs 157
Repairing a flat tire 162
Battery 166
Fuses 168
In case of electrical
malfunction:
Fuel filler door 170
Sliding/Tilt sunroof 170
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 171
Towing the vehicle 172
Repairs
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The onboard tool kit is located in the
luggage compartment lid.
Loosen the wingnut to open.
394de080
1 Lift the wiper arm up slightly and hold
it firmly.
2 Press back the release (arrow) and
pull the wiper blade back toward the
base of the wiper arm.
3 Install the new blade and slide the
release back into position.
Use only wiper blades approved
by BMW.<
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Onboard tool kit Windshield wiper blades
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Lamps and bulbs
The lamps and bulbs are essential fac-
tors contributing to the safety of your
vehicle. Observe the following instruc-
tions during bulb replacement carefully.
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.
Whenever working on the electri-
cal system, switch off the electri-
cal accessory you are working on or
disconnect the cable from the negative
terminal of the battery. Failure to do this
could result in short circuits.
To prevent injuries and damage,
comply with any instructions provided
by the bulb manufacturer.<
Xenon lamps
The service life of these bulbs is very
long and the probability of a failure is
very low, provided that they are not
switched on and off an unusual number
of times. If one of these bulbs should
nevertheless fail, it is possible to con-
tinue driving with great caution using
the fog lamps, provided traffic laws in
your area do not prohibit this.
Because of the extremely high
voltages involved, any work on the
Xenon lighting system should be
carried out by technically-qualified
personnel only. Otherwise, there is a
risk of fatal injury.<
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
> Do not wipe dry (this causes
scratches). Never use abrasives or
strong solvents to clean the covers.
> Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with
ample water.
> Always use a deicer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – never
use a scraper.<
Parking lamp
10 watt bulb
The bulb holder and reflector are a
single unit and are both changed
at the same time.<
1 Turn the bulb holder with reflector to
the left and remove.
2 Disconnect the plug.
3 Plug the new bulb holder into the plug
connector. Be sure that it is securely
engaged.
4 Insert the reflector with bulb holder
and turn to the right as far as possible.
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Lamps and bulbs
Turn signal indicator/Side lamps
(side marker lamps), front
Dual-filament bulb, 21 watts
1 Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove it.
2 Remove and replace the bulb.
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Side turn signals*
5 watt bulb
1 Use finger pressure against the rear
end of the lens (arrow) to press it
forward for removal.
1 Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
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Front fog lamps
HB4, 51 watt bulb
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and pro-
tective gloves. Failure to comply with
this precaution could lead to injury if the
bulb is accidentally damaged during
replacement.<
1 Pull the cover panel next to the fog
lamp forward to remove.
2 Loosen the screw (arrow) and swing
the lamp assembly out.
3 Release the spring on the back of the
lamp and turn the cover to the left.
4 Release the clamp, remove the
contact base and replace the bulb.
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Lamps and bulbs
Tail lamp assembly
Rear lamp/side marker lamps: LEDs
Remaining bulbs: 21 watts
1 Turn signal indicator yellow
2 Rear lamp/side marker lamps red
3 Backup lamp white
4 Brake lamp red
5 Reflector red
Please contact your BMW center
if there is a defect in the rear
lamp/side marker lamp assembly.<
394us721
1 Use the upper handle to fold down
the side panel in the luggage com-
partment.
2 Turn the corresponding bulb holder
to the left (arrow) and remove it.
3 Press the defective bulb gently and
turn it to the left. Remove the bulb
and replace it.
4 Insert the bulb holder and turn to the
right as far as possible.
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Center (high-mount) brake lamp*
21 watt bulb
1 Open the luggage compartment lid.
2 Unclip the cover panel (on the under-
side of the package tray) with a
screwdriver (arrow).
3 Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove.
4 Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
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Lamps and bulbs
License plate lamps
5 watt bulb
1 Insert a screwdriver into the slot and
press to the left (arrow); this disen-
gages the lamp.
2 Remove the lamp and replace the
bulb.
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Interior lamps
Front
Interior lamp (10 watt bulb) with
reading lamps (10 watt bulbs)
1 Interior lamp: press the lamp out to
the side with a screwdriver and re-
move the lens. Pull the bulb from the
contact tabs.
2 Reading lamp: gently press against
the lamp while turning it to the left to
remove it.
Indirect lighting
1 watt bulb
1 Unclip the lamp holder.
2 Remove the bulb.
Rear
Interior lamp (10 watt bulb) with reading
lamp (5 watt bulb)
1 Use a screwdriver in the upper
recesses to pry the lamp out.
2 Interior lamp: push back the tab on
the reflector and replace the bulb.
3 Reading lamp: gently press against
the lamp while turning it to the left to
remove it.
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Lamps and bulbs
Footwell lamps
5 watt bulb
1 Use a screwdriver to press the lens
out to the side.
2 Replace the bulb.
Glove compartment lamp
5 watt bulb
1 Apply a screwdriver in the recess to
pry the lamp out.
2 Remove the reflector.
3 Replace the bulb.
Luggage compartment lamps
Lamp on the underside of the rear
package tray: 10 watt halogen lamp.
Lamp in luggage compartment lid:
10 watt bulb.
1 Apply a screwdriver in the recess to
pry the lamp out.
2 Remove the reflector.
3 Replace the bulb.
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Repairing a flat tire
Precautions in case of a flat tire:
Stop the vehicle as far as possible
from passing traffic. Switch on the
hazard warning flashers.
Turn the steering wheel to the straight-
ahead position, remove the key and
engage the steering lock. Shift into 1st
or reverse and engage the parking
brake.
All passengers should be outside the
vehicle and well away from your imme-
diate working area (behind a guardrail,
for instance).
If a warning triangle or portable hazard
warning lamp is available, set it up on
the roadside at an appropriate distance
from the rear of the vehicle. Comply
with all safety guidelines and regula-
tions.<
M Mobility System
For repairing a flat tire, you will find an
M Mobility system in the BMW M5. With
the aid of this system, you can apply a
liquid sealant to the inside of the tire,
thereby sealing off the damaged area,
and then continue driving.
The M Mobility system makes the trans-
port of a spare wheel superfluous and
minimizes the curb weight.
The M Mobility system is located in the
luggage compartment under the floor
mat;
1 Lift up the floormat and then raise the
front cover panel.
2 Loosen the M Mobility system from
its storage location.
Please note that the system's
sealant container must be re-
placed every three years by your BMW
center if the device is not used.<
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Repairing a flat tire
The components of the M Mobility
system
1 On/Off switch
2 Connection hose with pressure
gauge for connecting the compressor
with the sealant container or to con-
nect the compressor to the wheel
3 Pressure gauge for indicating the tire
pressure
4 Connector hose from the sealant
container to the wheel
5 Warning sticker for maximum speed
6 Plug and cable for the cigarette
lighter socket
7 Protective gloves (not illustrated).
39mde106
Use the M Mobility System
If possible, leave the foreign
object in the tire.<
Do not exceed the maximum
speed limits described below,
otherwise it could lead to accidents.
Before you use the M Mobility System,
read the warnings and danger notices
on the device carefully.<
1 Remove the warning sticker 5 for
maximum speed that is located on
top of the device and affix it to the
steering wheel.
2 Take off the round cover and take out
hose 4. Unscrew the valve from the
defective wheel and screw the hose
to the valve.
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Repairing a flat tire
3 Flip open the cover and pull out the
enclosed protective gloves. Take out
hose 2 with the pressure gauge and
screw it to the connection on the
sealant container, as shown in the
illustration.
4 Make sure that the system has been
switched off (Position 0). Take out
plug 6 and plug it into the cigarette
lighter socket in the passenger com-
partment (refer to page 110).
39mde107
5 Make sure that the screw on the rear
of the pressure gauge 3 is tightened
down. Turn on the M Mobility System
(position 1, refer to illustration) and
allow 3 minutes to elapse, to let the
sealant flow in. At this point, it is
insignificant what the tire pressure is.
6 Turn off the device.
Disconnect the connector hose from
the sealant container and the tire
valve. Stow the M Mobility System in
the luggage compartment.
39mde108
7 Directly, afterward, drive at least
1.2 miles (2 km), so that the liquid
sealant distributes evenly throughout
the inside of the tire. If possible drive
at no less than 15 mph (20 km/h), but
not more than 40 mph (60 km/h).
Stop in a suitable spot.
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Repairing a flat tire
8 Take out the hose with the pressure
gauge and screw it onto the valve.
Take out the plug and plug it into
the cigarette lighter socket in the
passenger compartment.
9 Inflate the tire pressure:
> To increase the tire pressure: turn
on the M Mobility System (posi-
tion I). To check the new tire
pressure briefly turn off the
device.
To reduce the tire pressure: turn
the screw on the back of the
pressure gauge, this will open the
air release valve.
39mde109
If the inflation pressure does not
hold, complete step 10 and then
repeat steps 7 through 10.
The use of the M Mobility System may
be ineffective if the damaged area in
the tire is larger than approx.
0.15 inches (4 mm). Please contact the
nearest BMW center if the tire with the
M Mobility System cannot be made
roadworthy, or contact BMW Roadside
Assistance at 1-800-332-4269.<
10 Unscrew the hose from the valve
and stow the M Mobility System in
the luggage compartment.
When you start driving again, do not
exceed the permissible maximum
speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
You will find corresponding instructions
for using the M Mobility System on the
device.
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the wheel and tire
balanced. Reactivate the tire pressure
warning system (RDW), refer to
page 88. Have the M Mobility System
filled. Contact your BMW center for
this.
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Battery
Battery posts, terminals, and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.<
Installation location
The battery is located under the floor-
mat in the luggage compartment.
1 Read and comply with the warning
information on page 167.
2 Lift the floormat.
3 Press the small cover gently. Lift the
cover (arrow 1).
4 Disconnect the battery cable from the
negative terminal.
5 Loosen the three screws (arrows) and
remove the cover.
39mde047
Maintenance
The battery is absolutely maintenance-
free, that is, the original electrolyte 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.
Before handling the battery,
please read the following infor-
mation:
Wear eye protection. Do not
allow particles containing bat-
tery 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.
Do not allow children access to
batteries and battery acid.
Never allow sparks or open
flame near the battery. Do not
smoke in the vicinity of the bat-
tery. Avoid sparks from electrical cables
or electrical equipment. Turn the key
to position 0 in the steering lock when
connecting or disconnecting the bat-
tery. Don't short-circuit the battery ter-
minal. If you do so, you could be injured
by electrical sparks.
A highly-explosive gas is
generated when the battery is
charged.
If you happen to get acid in
your eyes, rinse thoroughly for
15 minutes with clear water.
Consult a physician immediately. If your
skin or clothing are splashed by acid,
rinse immediately with plenty of water.
If electrolyte is accidentally swallowed,
consult a physician 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"
(a hydrometer):
> Green: adequate charge.
> Black: not adequately charged. The
battery has to be recharged. Please
contact your BMW center for addi-
tional information.
> Yellow: replace the battery.
The service life specified for the
battery can be achieved only if it
is always kept adequately charged.
Check the charge condition of the bat-
tery frequently if the vehicle is used pri-
marily for driving short distances.<
39mde055
Removal and installation
Do not disconnect the battery
when the engine is running. If
you do so, the ensuing voltage surge
will damage the vehicle's onboard
electronics.
Do not alter the positive terminal wiring
in any way. If you do so, the Battery
Safety Terminal's safety function will no
longer be guaranteed. Repair and dis-
posal must be performed by trained
technicians only.<
39mde056
When removing the battery, disconnect
the cable on the negative terminal first,
then the cable on the positive terminal.
When installing a battery, connect the
positive terminal first, then connect the
negative terminal.
When installing the battery, be
sure that it is mounted securely in
the battery well and that the cover is
installed. If the battery is not mounted
and fastened properly, it will not be
adequately secured in case of an
accident.<
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Battery Fuses
Charging the battery
Charge the battery in the vehicle only
when the engine is not running.
Before doing any work on the
electrical system, be sure to dis-
connect the cable from the battery's
negative terminal. Failure to do so
could result in short-circuits, a fire or
personal injury.<
If the vehicle is to be parked longer
than four weeks, disconnect the battery
from the vehicle's electrical system by
disconnecting the negative terminal
cable and then recharge using a suit-
able charging device.
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.
Avoid environmental pollution
when disposing of old batteries.<
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW center.
Maintain the battery in an upright posi-
tion for transport and storage. Secure
the battery against tilting in transit.<
If an electrical accessory should fail,
switch it off and check the fuse.
In the glove compartment
1 Open the glove compartment and
turn the two white quick-release
knobs to the left. Spare fuses and
plastic tweezers are located on the
fuse holder.
2 Use the plastic tweezers to remove
the fuse for the accessory or equip-
ment that has stopped working.
3 If the fuse is burned through (the
metal strip will have melted and
separated), replace it with a new
fuse of the same ampere rating
(color code).
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Fuses
The fuses, their respective ampere rat-
ings and the equipment in their circuits
are all indicated below the fuse holder.
Close the fuse holder by holding the top
of the cover in place and screwing the
two quick-release knobs to the right.
Additional fuses are provided in the
luggage compartment (refer to the next
column).
The fuse for continuous positive current
is located in a separate fuse box above
the battery. If this fuse is defective,
refer the problem to your BMW center
for repair.
Do not attempt to repair a burned
fuse or replace it with a fuse
having a different color or amperage
rating. To do this could cause a fire in
the vehicle resulting from a circuit
overload.<
If the fuse continues to burn through,
have the problem corrected by a BMW
center.
In the luggage compartment
Use the handle to pull the trim on the
right wall down.
A list of the fuses, their respective
ampere ratings and the equipment in
their circuits is provided on the rear of
the side trim.
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Manual release
1 Use the handle to lower the trim
panel on the right side of the luggage
compartment.
2 Pull the knob with the fuel pump
symbol (arrow).
394de679
Manual operation
1 Remove the interior lamp (refer to
page 160), reach into the opening
and push out the panel.
2 Use the Allen wrench from the
onboard tool kit (refer to page 156) to
turn the sliding/tilt sunroof in the
desired direction.
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Fuel filler door Sliding/Tilt sunroof*
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Never use spray starter fluids.
If the battery is discharged, the engine
can be started with the use of two
jumper cables and the battery of another
vehicle. Always use jumper cables with
fully insulated handles on the terminal
clamps.
Do not touch the parts conducting
electrical current while the engine
is running. To do so creates the risk of
fatal injury.<
Carefully comply with the following
instructions to avoid personal injury
and damage to one or both vehicles:
1 Be sure that the battery on the
support vehicle is also rated at
12 volts, and that the capacities of
the two batteries (Ah) are roughly
comparable (printed on casing).
2 Leave your battery connected to the
vehicle electrical system.
3 Make sure that there is no contact
between the bodywork of the two
vehicles – this creates a risk of short
circuits.
4 Start by connecting the jumper cable
from the positive terminal of the
support vehicle to the positive
terminal connector located in your
BMW's engine compartment. The
cover of the auxiliary terminal for
jump starting is identified with a
"Batt. +" sign. Refer to the illustra-
tion. Flip the cap out to open.
39mde048
5 Then connect the negative terminals.
Attach the cable to either the support
vehicle's negative battery terminal (–),
or to a suitable ground on its engine
or bodywork. Then connect the other
end of the cable to a ground on the
engine or on the bodywork of the
vehicle that is to be started. There is
a special nut on the strut dome of
your BMW for this (refer to the arrow
in the illustration).
Observe the same sequence for
connecting the jumper cables
when helping other vehicles. If you do
not, there is the risk of injury if sparks
generate at the battery.<
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Jump-starting
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Jump-starting Towing the vehicle
6 Start the engine of the support vehicle
and let it run.
7 Start the engine on the vehicle
needing the jump-start, and allow it
to run as usual. If the first start
attempt is not successful, wait a few
minutes before another attempt in
order to allow the discharged battery
to recharge.
8 Before disconnecting the jumper
cables from your BMW, turn on the
headlamps, the rear window
defroster, and set the blower to the
highest speed; allow the engine to run
approx. 10 seconds. This will prevent
a voltage surge from the voltage
regulator to the electrical accessories.
9 Then disconnect the jumper cables in
reverse sequence.
Depending on the cause of the fault,
recharge the battery.
Tow fitting
The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the
onboard tool kit; be sure that it remains
in the vehicle at all times. This fitting is
designed for installation in the tow
sockets located at the front and rear of
the vehicle, and is intended for towing
on paved road surfaces only.
It should not be used to pull a vehicle
out of deep snow, mud, sand, etc.
Always observe all applicable towing
laws and regulations.
Access to tow sockets
Front:
Apply pressure to the arrow symbol on
the cover and remove the cover.
390de087
Rear:
Apply pressure to the arrow symbol on
the cover; remove the cover.
Tightly screw in the towing fittings
all the way. If you do not, the
threads could be damaged.
Never attach tie-down hooks, chains,
straps, or tow hooks to tie rods, control
arms, or any other part of the vehicle
suspension, as severe damage to these
components will occur, leading to
possible accidents.<
Use only a nylon towing strap to tow the
vehicle, since the inherent resilience of
this material helps protect both vehicles
from sudden jerking movements.
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173n
Towing the vehicle
The towed vehicle should always
be the lighter of the two vehicles.
If this is not the case, it is no longer
possible to control vehicle response.<
Tow-starting
It is better to start the vehicle's engine
by jump starting. For instructions on
jump starting, refer to page 171.
Never attempt to use your vehicle to
push another vehicle, as damage to
the energy-absorbing bumpers could
result.
Towing a vehicle
1 Place 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 at position 1 to
ensure that the brake lamps, turn
signals, horn and windshield wipers
remain operative, and to prevent the
steering lock detent from engaging.
5 Switch on the hazard-warning system
(comply with country-specific regula-
tions).
Find some means of identifying the
vehicle in tow, for instance, place a sign
or warning triangle in the rear window.
Make sure that the ignition key
remains in position 1 even when
the electrical system has failed. This will
prevent the steering lock from
engaging. The steering and brakes are
without power assist when the engine is
not running. 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 flat bed carrier.
> Please comply with applicable towing
laws.
Never allow passengers to ride in
a towed vehicle for any reason.<
380us124
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
175n
Airbags 176
Radio reception 176
BMW active seat 177
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 178
Safety belt tensioner 178
HiFi system DSP 179
Mirrors with automatic
dimmer 179
Integrated rear suspension 180
Rain sensor 180
Xenon lamps 181
Technol-
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176n
Deceleration sensors continuously
monitor the physical forces acting upon
the vehicle. If, as the result of a frontal
collision, a deceleration is reached at
which the protection of the safety belts
alone is no longer adequate, the gas
generators of the front airbag will be
simultaneously ignited on both the
driver and passenger sides. However,
the front airbag on the passenger-side
is only triggered if an additional sensor
has recognized that the passenger seat
is occupied.
Depending on which side the vehicle is
involved in a side collision, the head
protection and side airbags in the front
and rear
* are triggered if necessary.
390de319
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 the associated smoke
then dissipates.
The entire process is completed within
fractions of a second.
The AM frequency bands (medium-
wave, long-wave and short-wave) make
it possible to receive stations from a
great distance, because the broadcast
signals travel not only along the ground
as surface waves, but also as waves
bounced back to earth from the iono-
sphere.
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.
360de084
Airbags Radio reception
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177n
Although numerous factors combine to
impose inherent limitations on the
reception quality available from mobile
radios, specially designed systems can
be employed to minimize their effects:
The "Radio Data System" (RDS) makes
sure that, for broadcast stations
sending on several frequencies, the
radio automatically tunes to the
frequency with the best reception
quality.
The Diversity Antenna system employs
several FM antennas integrated within
the rear window. An integral processor
automatically selects the antenna with
the best FM reception quality at any
given time. The selection of the antenna
takes place within milliseconds, and
is therefore not noticed by the radio
listener.
BMW seats are configured for your
orthopedic well-being. The active seat
is an engineering enhancement of
BMW's seats, designed to ensure less
fatigue during extended trips while
sitting with little movement. The seat is
no longer a passive element between
the road, the running gear and the
passenger. Instead, it creates minor
and imperceptible shifts in your weight
by an active change in the contour of
the seat surface. The basic seat posi-
tion is not changed as this occurs.
Fluid cushions are located below the
surface of the seat in the seat's uphol-
stery on the left and right. The fluid is
circulated slowly back and forth
between the two cushions by means of
a pump. This causes a movement of the
spinal column which is virtually imper-
380de676
ceptible, resulting in an improved flow
of blood to the vertebral discs and the
muscles in the area of the spinal
column. Vehicle occupants can experi-
ence less muscle cramping, back pain
in the spine's lumbar region and
fatigue. The active seat thus provides a
significant contribution to your driving
comfort and safety.
Radio reception BMW active seat*
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178n
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Safety belt tensioner
Highly sensors monitor the number of
revolutions of the wheels, the steering
angle, lateral acceleration, brake pres-
sure and the movement of the vehicle
around its vertical axis.
If differences in the wheel speeds
occur, the system counteracts the
danger of wheelspin by reducing engine
torque. If necessary, the system also
responds with additional braking inter-
vention at all four wheels.
In addition, DSC permanently monitors
the vehicle's current operating condi-
tion 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
reducing engine output and with the
assistance of braking intervention at
individual wheels. As a result,
dangerous skids can be prevented even
as they are just beginning.
You may need some time to become
accustomed to this system intervention.
However, it provides optimum drive
force and vehicle stability.
The braking intervention is accompa-
nied by sounds specific to the system.
The safety belt tensioner responds to
severe frontal collisions by tightening
the belts to ensure that occupants
remain firmly positioned in their seats.
A gas-pressure system retracts the
buckle assembly to tension the
shoulder and lap belts within fractions
of a second. This reduces the tendency
to slide under the lap belt.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
179n
DSP sound system* Mirrors with automatic dimmer
The DSP Professional premium sound
system features a special amplifier
combined with Digital Sound
Processing (DSP) and integrated
speakers to surround you with crisp,
true-to-life sound reproduction. The
speaker system's subwoofers, woofers,
midrange speakers and tweeters
furnish you with an impressively full-
bodied listening experience. The loud-
speakers are oriented in such a manner
that they produce the aural sensation
that you would experience facing the
stage in a concert hall. The system also
automatically adjusts the bass and
treble settings to compensate for
changes in volume and vehicle speed.
390de109
The interior and exterior mirrors with
automatic dimming feature reduce the
glare from following traffic by adapting
the intensity of the reflected images to
correspond to levels of light registered
by the unit's sensors. The mirrors revert
to their undimmed setting as soon as
the light source disappears.
One sensor is mounted on the front
of the interior mirror housing and is
designed to monitor light levels in the
area immediately forward of the vehicle.
A second sensor is integrated within
the mirror's glass.
39mde091
The electronic control system operates
by comparing the respective levels of
luminous intensity in front of and behind
the car. The difference provides the
basic parameter used to modulate an
electrical current and induce chemical
changes in a semisolid layer incorpo-
rated in the lens.
The semisolid reacts chemically to this
electrical current, thus providing infi-
nitely-variable dimming of the mirror
(electrochromic technology).
As a result, it is no longer necessary
to dim the mirror manually, and the
driver can maintain full concentration
on traffic.
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180n
Integrated rear suspension
Rain sensor*
The control arms on the patented inte-
grated aluminum rear axle assembly are
not mounted directly on the body. They
are mounted elastically on a chassis
sub-frame which is joined in turn with
elasticity to the vehicle body. The
resulting double elastic suspension
system effectively absorbs the forces
resulting from bumps and road surface
irregularities.
The compliance rates of the integrated
rear axle assembly's control arm
mounts have been precisely calibrated
to help provide supplementary adjust-
ment in the tracking angle of the rear
wheels (programmed self-steer effect).
The ultimate result is enhanced safety
and control under all conditions.
390de114
The rain sensor controls windshield
wiper operation, depending on how wet
the windshield is.
Infrared light is carried along the surface
of the windshield in an optical
conductor in such a manner that it is
reflected completely when the wind-
shield is dry. The quantity of reflected
light is measured.
If there is moisture on the glass, the
amount of light reflected is reduced
since the infrared light at the surface
of the windshield can escape. The
quantity of reflected light is thus a
means of gauging the degree of
wetness on the windshield.
390de133
When the "Intermittent" wiper speed
position is selected, the wiper reacts
immediately if water is splashed onto
the windshield from vehicles traveling
ahead, for example. As a result, the
rain sensor provides a contribution to
driving safety and comfort.
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181n
Xenon lamps
Xenon lamps illuminate the side and
front areas of the vehicle with signifi-
cantly more brightness and uniformity
than traditional halogen lamps.
In a xenon lamp, an electric arc replaces
the filament in order to generate intense
illumination. A gas mixture in a quartz
glass tube with metal vapor is ignited by
a high electric voltage. The arc that is
generated is then sustained by a lower
voltage. When the lamp is turned on
there is a brief warm-up period.
Maximum brightness is attained in
approx. 15 seconds.
390de134
Xenon lamps improve the driver's
visibility and orientation to the road,
especially in adverse weather condi-
tions and driving situations (driving at
night in heavy rain or through road
repair areas where there are no lane
markers, for instance).
Vehicles with xenon lamps are
equipped with automatic headlamp
range control. As a result, the highway
is always optimally lighted, regardless
of load conditions, and drivers in
oncoming traffic are not blinded.
Xenon lamps make a significant contri-
bution to highway safety since other
highway users, or bicyclists and motor-
cyclists in the right lane, and pedes-
trians are more easily detected.
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Index
Advanced technology
183n
Engine data 184
Dimensions 185
Weights 186
Capacities 187
Electrical system 188
Drive belts 188
Data
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184n
BMW M5
Displacement
Number of cylinders
cu in (cm
m
) 301.5 (4,941)
8
Maximum output
at engine speed
hp
RPM
394
6,600
Maximum torque
at engine speed
lb ft (Nm)
RPM
368 (500)
3,800
Compression ratio
e
11.0
Stroke
Bore
in (mm)
in (mm)
3.50 (89.0)
3.70 (94.0)
Fuel-injection system Digital-electronic engine manage-
ment system
Engine data
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
185n
All dimensions are given in inches (mm). Minimum turning circle dia.: 38.1 ft (11.6 m)
Dimensions
39mus003
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186n
Weights
BMW M5
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included)
lbs. (kg) 4,024 (1,825)
Approved gross vehicle weight lbs. (kg) 5,049 (2,290)
Approved front axle weight lbs. (kg)
2,426 (1,100)
Approved rear axle weight lbs. (kg) 2,701 (1,225)
Approved roof load capacity
Never exceed either the approved axle weights
or the gross vehicle weight.
lbs. (kg) 220 (100)
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft (liters) 16.2 (460)
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187n
Capacities
Notes
Fuel tank
reserve
gal. (liters)
gal. (liters)
approx. 18.5 (approx. 70)
approx. 2.5 (approx. 10)
Fuel specification: page 26
Windshield washer system,
with headlamp washer system
Intensive cleaning system
quarts (liters)
quarts (liters)
quarts (liters)
approx. 3.7 (approx. 3.5)
approx. 6.3 (approx. 6.0)
approx. 1.1 (approx. 1.0)
For details: page 138
Cooling system including heater
circuit
quarts (liters) 12.7 (12.0) For details: page 141
Engine oil and filter change quarts (liters) 6.9 (6.5) "BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil"
For details: page 140
Manual transmission and differential – Oil change at the 1,200 mile service,
then the oil never needs to be changed
again
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188n
Electrical system Drive belts
Battery
12V 110 Ah
Spark plugs
NGK BKR 6 EQUP or
Bosch FGR 7 DQP
This spark ignition system meets all
requirements of the Canadian Interfer-
ence-Causing Equipment Regulations
(ICES-2).
Coolant pump – Generator – Power
steering
Drive belt 7 K x 1629
A/C compressor
Drive belt 5 K x 980
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 Car care Controls Overview
189n
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190n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
A
ABS (Antilock Brake
System) 21, 121
Accessories 6
Activated charcoal filter 99
Active seat 48, 177
Adding
antifreeze 142
brake fluid 142t
engine coolant 142t
engine oil 139t
washer fluid 138t
Adjusting
backrest 45
seats 45
steering wheel 48
temperature 96
Air conditioner 94
Air distribution 96
Air outlets 94
Air pressure 26t, 128
Air supply 95, 97
Airbags 21, 54, 151, 176
Alarm system 40
Antenna 127, 177
Antifreeze 141t
radiator 125
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 21, 121
Anti-theft alarm system 40
Anti-theft protection 31
Approved axle weight 186
Approved gross vehicle
weight 186
Approved roof load
capacity 186
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 134
Aquaplaning 119, 128
Arrival time 81
Ashtray 109
Attaching a vehicle vacuum
cleaner 110t
AUC (Automatic
recirculated-air
control) 98
Automatic car washes 145
Automatic climate
control 94
removing condensation on
the windows 96
Automatic cruise control 67
Automatic curb monitor 51
Automatic dimming
exterior rearview
mirror 49
interior rearview mirror 49
Automatic intensive-action
washer 138
Automatic recirculated-air
control (AUC) 98
Automatic windshield
washer 66
Average fuel
consumption 81
Average speed 82
Avoiding false alarms 41
Axle loads 186
B
Backrest, adjusting 45, 46
Backup lamps 64
bulb replacement 159t
Battery 166, 188
capacity 188
charge condition 167t
charging 168t
discharged 171t
removal and
installation 167t
safety terminal 167
Battery charge indicator 19
Belts 53
Beverage holder 108
Blower 97
BMW active seat 48, 177
BMW comfort seat 47
BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oils 140
BMW M sports seat 45
BMW Maintenance
System 144
BMW Universal
Transmitter 103
Body-cavity
protectants 146
Brake 123
faults 124t
fluid 142
fluid, adding 142t
hydraulic system 20, 124
lamps, bulb
replacement 159t
malfunctions 124t
pads 20, 124
Brake system, refer also to
ABS or Disc brakes
Brake-in procedure 118
Break-resistant safety glass,
care 148t
Bulb replacement 157t
Bulbs and lamps 157
C
California Proposition
65 Warning 152
Capacities 187
Car battery 166, 188
Car keys 30
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Everything from A to Z
193n
Car Memory 52
Car radio
reception 127, 176
Car radio, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Car telephone 108
Car wash 145
Care
exterior 146
interior 149
Cargo
loading 114
securing 39, 114
Caring for the vehicle
finish 147
Catalytic converter 120
Cellular phones 108, 127
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Center (high-mount) brake
lamp 159
bulb replacement 159t
Central locking
system 32, 36
Charge condition,
battery 167t
Charging the battery 168t
CHECK button 72
Check Control 72
Check engine oil
level 139t
Check tire
pressure 26t, 128
Child restraint systems 54
Child seat security 60
Child seats 58
Child-safety locks 60
Cigarette lighter 110
Cleaning headlamps 66
Cleaning windshield 65
Climate control,
automatic 94
Clock 76
refer also to the Onboard
Monitor Owner's Manual
Cockpit 16
Code 82
activating 82
de-activating 82
emergency
deactivation 83
selecting 82
Cold start 62
Comfort seat 47
Compartments 108
Computer 79, 83
cruising range 81
distance from
destination 80
extended immobiliser
function 82
fuel consumption 81
remote control 83
speed limit 79
time of arrival 81
Computer, refer also to the
separate Onboard Monitor
Owner's Manual
Condensation on windows,
removing 97
Configure settings 52
Consumption, fuel 81
Contamination on
paintwork 146
Control elements 16
Convenience operation
doors 32
luggage compartment 37
sliding/tilt sunroof 43
windows 42
Coolant 125, 141t
adding 142t
antifreeze 125
temperature gauge 71
Copyright 4
Cover, sun blinds 102
Cruise control 67
Cruising range 81
Cup holder 108
Curb monitor, automatic 51
Curb weight 186
D
Dashboard 16
Data link connector for
Onboard Diagnostics 153
Date
calling up 76
changing 76
refer also to the Onboard
Monitor Owner's Manual
Daytime running lamps 90
DBC (Dynamic Brake
Control) 21, 84, 124
Deactivating
alarm system 40t
interior motion
sensor 41t
Deep water 119
Defrosting position 96
Defrosting the windows 97
Difficult steering 127t
Digital clock 76
refer also to the Onboard
Monitor Owner's Manual
Digital sound processor 179
Dimensions 185
Dipstick, engine oil 139t
Disc brakes 123
Disconnect the
battery 171t
Displacement 184
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Everything from A to Z
Display lighting 90
Displays 18
Disposal
batteries 168t
engine oil 141t
Distance from
destination 80
Distance warning 84
Diversity, antenna 177
Divided rear backrest 111
Door keys 30
Door locks, care 125
Doors
emergency operation 32
manual operation 32
remote control 33
unlocking and locking 32
DOT Quality Grades 129
Draft-free ventilation 98
Drive belts 188
Driving notes 119
Driving through water 119
DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control) 21, 86, 178
DSP amplifier, refer to the
Radio Owner's Manual
DSP sound system 179
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC) 21, 84, 124
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 21, 86, 178
E
Electric power windows 42
safety switch 43
Electrical accessory,
failure 168
Electrical malfunction
fuel filler door 170t
sliding/tilt sunroof 170t
Electrical system 188
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 31
Elements of operation 16
Emergency deactivation,
code 83
Emergency operation
doors 32t
fuel filler door 170t
luggage compartment
lid 37t
sliding/tilt sunroof 170t
Engine
compartment 136
coolant 141t
coolant temperature
gauge 71
data 184
oil grades 140t
performance 184
Engine oil 139
adding 139t
checking
level 139, 139t
consumption 139
dipstick 139
grades 140
level 20
pressure 20
temperature gauge 70
Estimated time of arrival 81
Exterior finish 146
Exterior mirrors 49
with automatic dimming
feature 179
F
Failure messages 72
Failure of an electrical
accessory 168t
False alarms, avoiding 41
Fault displays 72
Filler cap 25
Filling capacities 187
Filling the washer
reservoir 138t
First-aid kit 24t
Fittings, tow starting and
towing 172t
Flasher 64
Flashlight 107
Flat tire 128
repairing 162t
Fog lamps 91
bulb replacement 158t
Folding rear backrest 111
Footbrake 123
Footwell lamps 92
bulb replacement 161t
Front seat adjustment 45
Frost protection,
radiator 141t
Fuel
consumption 81
gauge 70
quality 26
specifications 26
tank capacity 187
Fuel consumption,
average 81
Fuel filler door 25
releasing following an
electrical
malfunction 170t
Fuses 168
replacement 168t
G
Gasoline gauge 70
Gasoline quality 26
Glove compartment 107
bulb replacement 161t
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Everything from A to Z
195n
Grades of engine oil 140
Grilles 94
Gross vehicle weight 186
H
Handbrake 21, 63
Handsfree system 108
Hanger 39
Hazard warning
flashers 24t
Hazard warning
triangle 24t
Head restraints 46
Headlamp cover,
care 146t
Headlamp flasher 64
Headlamp washer
system 66, 138
Headlamps 90
Heated seats 102
Heater and ventilation 94
Heating while stopped 98
Heavy cargo 114
Height 185
Height adjustment
seats 45
steering wheel 48
Help with jump
starting 171t
HiFi system 179
High beams 22, 64, 91
High Performance Synthetic
Oils 140
Hood release 135t
Horn 17
Hydraulic Brake Assistant,
refer to DBC 84
I
Ice warning 69
Identification number of
vehicle 143
Identification, tires 131
Ignition key 30
Ignition lock 61
Imprint 4
Independent ventilation
system 102
activating 78
refer also to the Onboard
Monitor Owner's Manual
Indicator lamps 20
Inflation pressure 26t, 128
monitoring 88
INSPECTION 71
Instrument cluster 18
Instrument lighting 90
Instrument panel 18
Instrument rheostat 90
Integrated rear center
console 100
Integrated rear
suspension 180
Integrated rear-seat
equipment 106
Intensive cleaning 65
Intensive-action automatic
washer 138
Interaxle tire rotation 130
Interface socket for
Onboard-Diagnostics 153
Interference with car
phones 127
Interior lamps 91
bulb replacement 160t
remote control 34
Interior mirrors 49
with automatic dimming
feature 179
Interior motion sensor 40
deactivating 41
Intermittent wipe 65
J
Jump-starting 171t
K
Key Memory 52
Keys 30
Keys with remote control 30
L
Lamps and bulbs 157
LAMPS ON warning 90
Lamps switch 90
Lashing eyes 114
Leather care 150
Length 185
License plate lamps, bulb
replacement 160t
Light switch 90
Light-alloy wheels 134
Lighter 110
Loading cargo 114
Load-securing devices 114
Locking and unlocking the
doors 32
Low beams 90
Low-fuel warning lamp 70
Luggage compartment 39
bulb replacement 161t
capacity 186
hanger 39
lighting 37
net 39
Luggage compartment
lid 37
emergency operation 37
manual operation 37
opening from the
inside 38
opening separately 37
remote control 35
securing separately 37
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Everything from A to Z
Luggage net 39
Luggage straps 39
Lumbar support 46
M
M Dynamic Driving
Control 87
M Mobility System 162t
M+S radial tires 132
Magic Eye, refer to Battery
charge condition 167
Maintenance 71, 144t
Malfunction displays 72
Manual operation
doors 32t
fuel filler door 170t
luggage compartment
lid 37t
sliding/tilt sunroof 170t
Manual transmission 64
Master key 37
Memo 77
Memory 50
MFL (Multifunction steering
wheel) 23
Microfilter 99
MID (Multi-Information
Display) 75
computer 79
digital clock 76
Mirror defrosting 49
Mirror memory 50
Mirrors 49
with automatic dimming
feature 179
Mobile phones 127
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Modifications,
technical 6, 152
Moonroof 44
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 23
Multifunction switch 64
Multi-Information Display
(MID) 75
N
Navigation system, refer to
the Onboard Monitor
Owner's Manual
Non-smoking
equipment 109
Nozzles 94
O
OBD interface socket 153
Odometer 69
Oil
additives 139
consumption 139
grades 140
Oil change interval, refer to
the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US
models) or Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
Oil dipstick 139t
Oil level, checking 139t
Oil pressure, indicator
lamp 20
OILSERVICE 71
Old batteries 168t
Onboard computer, refer to
computer 79
Onboard Monitor, refer to
the separate Owner's
Manual
Onboard tool kit 156t
Opening and closing
from inside 36
from outside 32
Outlets, ventilation 94
Outside temperature
display 69
P
Paintwork
contamination 146
minor repairs 148
waxing 148
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 84
Parking brake 21, 63
Parking help 84
Parking lamp 91
bulb replacement 157t
Parking, winter 126
Passenger side mirror tilt
function 51
PDC (Park Distance
Control) 84
Performance recognition 87
Playing cassettes, refer to
the Radio Owner's Manual
Playing CDs, refer to the
Radio Owner's Manual
Pocket flashlight 107
Pollen 99
Power steering 127
Power windows 42
safety switch 43
Pressure monitoring,
tires 88
Pressure, tires 26t, 128
R
Radiator, frost
protection 141t
Radio Data System
(RDS) 177
Radio reception 127, 176
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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Everything from A to Z
197n
Radio, refer to the separate
Owner's Manual
Rain sensor 65, 180
RDS (Radio Data
System) 177
RDW (Tire Pressure
Warning) 88, 132
Reading lamps 92
Rear backrest, folding 111
Rear window
defroster 67, 98
Rearview mirrors 49
Recirculated air mode 98
Reclining seat 45
Refueling 25
Releasing the fuel filler door
after an electrical
malfunction 170t
Releasing the hood 135
Reminder signal 77
Remote control 33, 83
Removal from service of the
vehicle 151
Removing condensation
from windows 97
Repairing a flat tire 162t
Replacement keys 30
Replacing bulbs 157t
Replacing wiper
blades 156t
Reporting safety defects 7
Reservoir, washer
system 138t
Residual heat 98
Reverse 64
Rims 131
Roller sun blinds 102
Roof load capacity 186
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 115
Rubber parts 125
S
Safety belt tensioner 178
Safety belts 53, 55
Safety buttons 36
Safety defects, reporting 7
Safety terminal, battery 167
Seat
adjustment 45
heating 102
memory 50
Securing the load 39, 114
Self-dimming mirrors 179
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US
models) 144
Service Interval
Display 71, 144
Shutting off the engine 62
Side airbags 54
Side impact Head Protection
System 54
Side lamps 90
bulb replacement 158t
Ski bag 112
Skid control 126
Sliding/tilt sunroof 43
closing after an electrical
malfunction 44t, 170t
convenience
operation 32, 34
Slippery roads 125
Snow
chains 125t, 133, 134
Socket 110t
Sound system, refer to
DSP 179
Spare key 30
Spark plugs 188
Speaker 108
Special features of winter
tires 132
Special oils 140
Speed 82
Speed limit 79
Speed, average 82
Speedometer 18
Sports seat 45
Starting the engine 62
assistance 171t
help 171t
problems 120t, 171t
Steering 127
Steering wheel
adjustment 48
lock 61
memory 50
Stopwatch 77
refer also to the Onboard
Monitor Owner's Manual
Storage compartments 108
Summer tires 131
Sun blinds 102
Sun visors 50
Sunroof 44
Switching off the engine 62
Switching off the tilt sensor
alarm 41
Switch-on times for
independent ventilation
system 78
Symbols 4, 166
Synthetic oils 140
T
Tachometer 70
Tail lamp assembly, bulb
replacement 159t
Tank capacity 187
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Technical
modifications 6, 152
Telephone hookup 108
Telephone, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Temperature display
engine coolant 71
engine oil 70
outside temperature 69
Temperature gauge,
coolant 71
Temperature selection 98
Thigh support
adjustment 46
Third brake lamp, bulb
replacement 159t
Through-loading
system 111
Tilt alarm 34
Tilt function, passenger side
mirror 51
Tilt sensor alarm system
deactivating 41
Time
calling up 76
changing 76
refer also to the Onboard
Monitor Owner's Manual
Time of arrival 81
Timer 76
refer also to the Onboard
Monitor Owner's Manual
Tire
code 131
condition 128
damage 128
inflation
pressure 26t, 128
labeling 131
pressure monitoring 88
replacement 129
rotation 130
specifications 134
tread 128
Tire Pressure Warning
(RDW) 88, 132
Tools 156t
Torque 184
Tow starting 173t
Towing fittings 172t
Towing the vehicle 172t
Track width 185
Traction Control System,
refer to DSC 86
Transmission 64
Transmitter key 30
Transporting children
safely 58
Tread depth, tires 128
Tread wear indicator 128
Trip odometer 69
Trunk capacity 186
Trunk lid, refer to luggage
compartment lid 37
Turn signal indicator 22, 64
bulb replacement 158t
Turning circle 185
U
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
(UTQR) 129
Unintentional alarms,
avoiding 41
Universal Transmitter 103
Use antifreeze,
radiator 142t
Used batteries,
disposal 168t
Used oils, disposal 141t
V
Valves 163
Vanity mirror 50
Vehicle battery 166
Vehicle care
exterior 146
interior 149
Vehicle finish, caring 147
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) 143
Vehicle immobilizer 31
Vehicle removal from
service 151
Vehicle storage 151
Vehicle vacuum cleaner,
attaching 110t
Ventilation 94, 98
in the rear 99
Ventilation while parked 102
activating 78
refer also to the Onboard
Monitor Owner's Manual
Ventilation, draft-free 98
Vinyl upholstery, care 149
Viscosity ratings 140
Voice recognition 23
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
W
Warm feet – cool head 98
Warning lamps 20
Warning messages 72
Warning triangle 24t
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian
models) 144
Washer fluids 138
adding 138t
Washer nozzles 138
Washer reservoir,
filling 138t
Washer/Wiper system 65
Washing your vehicle 145
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview
Everything from A to Z
199n
Water on the roads 119
Waxing, paintwork 148
Wear indicator in the
tires 128
Weights 186
Wheelbase 185
Wheels and tires 131, 134
Width 185
Windows 42
convenience operation 32
defrosting 97
remote control 34
Windshield washer 66
Windshield washer nozzle
adjustment 138t
Windshield washer reservoir,
filling 138t
Windshield wiper 65
blades replacing 156t
Winter operation 125
Winter tires 132
special features 132
Wipers 65
Work in the engine
compartment 135t
X
Xenon lamps 157, 181
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
So that you will have important specifi-
cations available when you stop to
refuel, we recommend that you supple-
ment this table with data which apply to
your vehicle.
Fuel
Engine oil
The oil volume between the two
marks on the oil dipstick amounts
to approx. 1.1 US quarts (1 liter).
Designation Premium Unleaded
Gasoline
AKI Minimum 91
Quality
Tire inflation pressures
Summer Winter
Front Rear Front Rear
4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage
Refueling
BMW recommends Castrol
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
The Ultimate Driving Machine
01 41 0 155 429 ue
We wish you an enjoyable
driving experience.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
M5 US-En
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 429 - © 09/00 BMW AG
