Bmw 2006 325I Owners Manual

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Owner's Manual
for Vehicle

Contents
A-Z
The Ultimate
Driving Machine

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

323i
325i
325xi
330i
330xi

Owner's Manual for Vehicle
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with
enhanced control and security when you drive it. We therefore
have this request:
Please take the time to read this Owner's Manual and familiarize
yourself with the information that we have compiled for you
before starting off in your new vehicle. It contains important data
and instructions intended to assist you in gaining maximum use
and satisfaction from your BMW's unique range of technical features. The manual also contains information on maintenance
designed to enhance operating safety and contribute to maintaining the value of your BMW throughout an extended service
life.
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet for US models or a Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models.
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW AG

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

© 2006 Bayerische Motoren Werke
Aktiengesellschaft
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW AG, Munich.
Order No. 01 41 0 012 351
US English II/06
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper,
bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

The fastest way to find information on a particular topic or item is by using the index, refer to
page 152.

Using this Owner's Manual
4
6

At a glance

Contents

Notes
Reporting safety defects

At a glance
10

Cockpit

98

Things to remember when driving

Mobility
106
108
118
123
125
131
136

Refueling
Wheels and tires
Under the hood
Maintenance
Replacing components
Giving and receiving assistance
Indicator and warning lamps

Reference
148 Technical data
152 Everything from A to Z

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Driving tips

Driving tips

Mobility

76
80
86

Opening and closing
Adjustments
Transporting children safely
Driving
Everything under control
Technology for driving comfort and
safety
Lamps
Climate
Practical interior accessories

Reference

18
31
39
42
59
67

Controls

Controls

Notes

Notes
Using this Owner's Manual

Symbols used

We have tried to make all the information in this
Owner's Manual easy to find. The fastest way to
find specific topics is to refer to the detailed
index at the back of the manual. If you wish to
gain an initial overview of your vehicle, you will
find this in the first chapter.

Indicates precautions that must be followed precisely in order to avoid the possibility of personal injury and serious damage to
the vehicle.

Should you sell your BMW some day, please
remember to hand over the Owner's Manual as
well; it is an important component of your vehicle.

Additional sources of information
Should you have any other questions, your
BMW Center will be glad to advise you at any
time.
Information on BMW, e.g. on technical aspects,
can also be found on the Internet at
www.bmwusa.com.

Indicates 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, as well as
equipment and functions not yet available at the
time of printing.
Symbols on vehicle components
Indicates that you should consult the relevant section of this Owner's Manual for
information on a particular part or assembly.

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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

If equipment in your BMW is not described in
this Owner's Manual, please refer to the accompanying Supplementary Owner's Manuals.

Editorial notice
BMW pursues a policy of continuous, ongoing
development that is conceived to ensure that
our vehicles continue to embody the highest
quality and safety standards combined with
advanced, state-of-the-art technology. For this
reason, it is possible in exceptional cases that
features described in this Owner's Manual
could differ from those on your vehicle.

Advanced technology, e.g. the use of
modern materials and powerful electronics, requires specially adapted maintenance
and repair methods. You should therefore have
the corresponding work on your vehicle performed only by your BMW Center or at a workshop that works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained
personnel. If this work is not carried out properly, there is a danger of subsequent damage
and related safety hazards.<

Parts and accessories
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 thoroughly tested by BMW to ensure
optimum performance when installed on your
vehicle.
BMW warrants these parts to be free from
defects in material and workmanship.
BMW will not accept any liability for damage
resulting from installation of parts and accessories not approved by BMW.

At a glance

Please bear in mind that the manual may contain information on accessories and equipment
that you have not specified for your own vehicle.
Sections describing options and special equipment are marked by asterisks * to assist you in
identifying possible differences between the
descriptions in this manual and your own vehicle's equipment.

Maintenance and repair

Controls

When you ordered your BMW, you chose various items of equipment. This Owner's Manual
describes the entire array of options and equipment available with a specific BMW model.

For your own safety

Driving tips

The individual vehicle

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 mobile phone from
within the vehicle without using an externally
mounted antenna, or transceiver equipment, for
instance, CBs, walkie-talkies, ham radio or similar accessories, may cause extensive damage
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Reference

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.

Mobility

BMW cannot test every product made by other
manufacturers to verify if it can be used on a
BMW safely and without risk to either the vehicle, its operation, or its occupants.

Notes

to the vehicle, compromise its safety, interfere
with the vehicle's electrical system or affect the
validity of the BMW Limited Warranty. See your
BMW Center for additional information.<

Service and warranty

Maintenance, replacement, or repair of
the emission control devices and systems may be performed by any automotive
repair establishment or individual using any certified automotive part.<

Your BMW is covered by the following warranties:

California Proposition 65 warning

> Federal Emissions Performance Warranty

California law requires us to issue the following
warning:

> California Emission Control System Limited
Warranty

Engine exhaust and a wide variety of
automobile components and parts,
including components found in the interior furnishings in a vehicle, contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects and reproductive harm. In
addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and
certain products of component wear contain or
emit chemicals known to the State of California
to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.

Detailed information about these warranties is
listed in the Service and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models or in the Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models.

Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds. Wash
your hands after handling.

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect
which could cause a crash or could cause injury
or death, you should immediately inform the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,
NHTSA, in addition to notifying BMW of North
America, LLC, P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New
Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone 1-800-8311117.

Used engine oil contains chemicals that have
caused cancer in laboratory animals. Always
protect your skin by washing thoroughly with
soap and water.<

We recommend that you read this publication
thoroughly.

> New Vehicle Limited Warranty
> Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
> Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty

Reporting safety defects
For US customers
The following applies only to vehicles owned
and operated in the US.

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 individual
problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of
North America, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle
Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-327-4236
(TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to
http://www.safercar.gov; or write to: Administrator, NHTSA, 400 Seventh Street, SW.,
Washington, DC 20590. You can also obtain
other information about motor vehicle safety
from http://www.safercar.gov
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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

For Canadian customers

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Reference

Mobility

Driving tips

Controls

At a glance

Canadian customers who wish to report a
safety-related defect to Transport Canada,
Defect Investigations and Recalls, may telephone the toll free hotline 1-800-333-0510, or
contact Transport Canada by mail at: Transport
Canada, ASFAD, Place de Ville Tower C,
330 Sparks Street, Ottawa ON K1A 0N5.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

At a glance
This overview of buttons, switches and displays
is intended to familiarize you with your vehicle's
operating environment. The section will also
assist you in becoming acquainted with the
control concepts and options available for
operating the various systems.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Cockpit

Cockpit
Around the steering wheel: controls and displays

1

2

3

Safety switch for electric rear
windows 28

4

Parking lamps 76
Low beams 76

Opening and closing windows 27

Automatic headlamp control* 76
Adaptive Head Light* 77

Adjusting exterior mirrors, automatic curb
monitor* 37
5

Fog lamps* 78

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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

12 Horn: the entire surface
Turn signals 48

13 Steering wheel adjustment 38
14

High beams, headlamp flasher 78
Roadside parking lamps* 78
Computer 60
Settings and information about the
vehicle 61

Cruise control* 51
Active cruise control* 53

15 Releasing the hood 118

At a glance

6

16 Opening the luggage compartment lid*

Instrument lighting 78

Rain sensor* 50
Switching the ignition on/off and
starting/stopping the engine 42

10 Ignition lock 42
11 Buttons* on the steering wheel
Telephone*:
> Press: accepting and ending a
call, starting dialing* for a
selected phone number and
redialing if no phone number is
selected

Driving tips

9

Controls

Windshield wipers 49

> Press longer: redialing

Volume

Changing radio station
Selecting music track
Scrolling through phone book and
lists with stored phone numbers

Mobility

8

Instrument cluster 12

Next entertainment source
Recirculated-air mode 81

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Reference

7

Cockpit

Instrument cluster

8

1

Speedometer

2

Indicator lamps for turn signals

> Position of automatic transmission* 47

3

Indicator and warning lamps 13

> Sequential manual gearbox SMG* 45

Display for

4

Displays for active cruise control* 53

> Computer 60

5

Tachometer 59

6

Energy Control 60

> Date of next scheduled service, and
remaining distance to be driven 63

7

Display for

> Odometer and trip odometer 59

> Clock 59

> Initializing Flat Tire Monitor 72

> Outside temperature 59

> Checking engine oil level* 119

> Indicator and warning lamps 65

> Settings and information 61
9

Fuel gauge 60

10 Resetting trip odometer 59

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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Indicator and warning lamps

Indicator and warning lamps can light up in various combinations and colors in both the indicator area 1 and the display 2.
Some lamps are checked for proper functioning
and thus come on briefly when the engine is
started or the ignition is switched on.

Controls

At a glance

The concept

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Reference

Mobility

A list of all indicator and warning lamps, as well
as notes on possible causes of malfunctions
and on how to respond, can be found starting
on page 136.

Driving tips

What to do in case of a malfunction

Cockpit

Around the center console: controls and displays

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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Microphone for voice command system*
and for telephone in hands-free mode*

2

Initiating an emergency call*

3

Reading lamps 79

4

Glass sunroof, electric* 28

5

Interior lamps 79

6

Passenger airbag status lamp* 75

7

Hazard warning flashers

8

DTC Dynamic Traction Control 68

9

Central locking system 22

11

Heated seats* 34
PDC Park Distance Control* 67
Roller sun blind* 89
Hill Descent Control HDC* 69

At a glance

1

Air distribution for air
conditioner 81
Air distribution to the
windshield* 83

Controls

10 Air conditioner or automatic climate control*

Air distribution to the upper body
area* 83

Automatic air distribution and flow
rate* 84
Cooling function 85
AUC Automatic recirculated-air
control* 84

Driving tips

Air distribution to the footwell* 83

Recirculated-air mode 81, 84
Maximum cooling* 83

Air flow rate 81, 84
Defrosting windows* 85

Mobility

Residual heat mode* 84

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Reference

Rear window defroster 81, 85

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Controls
This chapter is intended to provide you with
information for complete control of your vehicle.
All features and accessories that are useful for
driving and your safety, comfort and
convenience are described here.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Opening and closing

Opening and closing
Keys/remote controls

1

Remote control with integrated key

2

Spare key

3

Adapter for spare key, in the glove compartment

Remote control with integrated key
Each remote control contains a rechargeable
battery that is automatically recharged when it
is in the ignition lock while the car is being
driven. Use the remote control at least twice a
year in order to keep the batteries charged. In
cars equipped with convenient access*, the
remote control contains a replaceable battery,
refer to page 27.
The settings called up and implemented when
the car is unlocked depend on which remote
control is used to unlock the car, refer to Personal Profile, page 19.
In addition, information about service requirements is stored in the remote control, refer to
Service data in the remote control, page 123.

Integrated key

Press button 1 to release the key.
The integrated key fits the following locks:
> Glove compartment, refer to page 89
> Driver's door, refer to page 22
> Luggage compartment lid, refer to page 23

New remote controls
Your BMW Center can supply new remote controls with integrated keys as additional units or
as replacements in the event of loss.

Spare key
Spare key for storage in a safe place, such as in
your wallet. This key is not intended for regular
use.
The spare key and the integrated key fit the
same locks.

Adapter for spare key
The adapter is necessary for starting the car
with the spare key or switching on radio readiness.

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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

> Automatic climate control*: AUTO program, activating/deactivating cooling function and automatic recirculated-air control,
setting temperature, air flow rate and distribution, refer to page 83 ff
> Audio volume, refer to separate Owner's
Manual

Personal Profile

Central locking system

The concept

The concept

You can set many of your BMW's functions to
suit your personal needs and preferences.
Without any action on your part, Personal Profile ensures that most of these settings are
stored for the remote control currently in use.
When you unlock the car, the remote control
used for the purpose is recognized and the settings stored for it are called up and implemented.

The central locking system is ready for operation whenever the driver's door is closed.

This means that your personal settings are
active when you return to your BMW, even if the
car was used in the meantime by someone else
with a remote control of their own and the settings were changed accordingly.

Operating from outside

Personal Profile settings
For more information on specific settings, refer
to the specified pages.
> Automatic call-up* of the driver's-seat and
exterior-mirror positions after unlocking,
refer to page 35

The system simultaneously engages and
releases the locks on the following:
> Doors
> Fuel filler door

> Via the remote control
> Via the door lock

Driving tips

> Luggage compartment lid

> In cars with convenient access*, via the
handles on the driver's and front passenger's doors
The anti-theft system is also operated at the
same time. It prevents the doors from being
unlocked using the lock buttons or door handles. The interior lamp and the courtesy lamps*
are also switched on or off with the remote control. The alarm system* is also armed or disarmed.
For further details of the alarm system, refer to
page 24.

> 12h/24h mode of the clock, refer to page 62

Operating from inside

> Date format, refer to page 62

By means of the button for central locking, refer
to page 22.

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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Mobility

You can configure a maximum of three remote
controls for three different people. The prerequisite for this is that each person has his or her
own remote control.

Controls

> Speed-dependent volume, refer to separate Owner's Manual

Reference

Take the adapter out of the bracket on the
inside of the glove compartment and slide the
spare key into the adapter before using it.

At a glance

> Units of measure for fuel consumption, distance covered/remaining distances, and
temperature, refer to page 62

Opening and closing

In the event of a sufficiently severe accident, the
central locking system unlocks automatically. In
addition, the hazard warning flashers and interior lamps come on.

3. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display.

Opening and closing: from
outside
Using the remote control
Persons or animals in a parked vehicle
could lock the doors from the inside. You
should therefore take the remote control with
you so that the car can be opened from the outside.<

4. Press button 2.
5. Use button 1 to select:
>

Unlocking
Press the
button.
The interior lamp and the doors' courtesy
lamps* come on. Exterior mirrors that were
folded in are automatically folded back out*.
You can also set the way in which the car is
unlocked. The setting is stored for the remote
control currently in use.
Operating principle, refer to page 61.
1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display accompanied by the
word "SET".

Press the
button once to unlock only
the driver's door and the fuel filler door.
Press the button twice to unlock the
entire vehicle.
>
Press the
button once to unlock the
entire vehicle.
6. Press button 2.
The setting is stored for the remote control
currently in use.

Convenience opening
Hold the
button down. The electric windows
and the glass sunroof* are opened.

Locking
Press the

button.

Switching on interior lamps

2. Press button 2.

While the car is locked:
Press the
button.
You can also use this function to locate your
vehicle in parking garages etc.

Panic mode*
You can also trigger the alarm system if you find
yourself in a dangerous situation:
Press the

button for at least three seconds.

To switch off the alarm: press any button.

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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

button for a longer period.

In order to avoid damage, make sure there
is sufficient clearance in all directions
before opening the luggage compartment lid.
A previously locked luggage compartment lid is
locked again after closing.
Before and after each trip, check that the luggage compartment lid has not been inadvertently unlocked.<

At a glance

The luggage compartment lid opens a short
distance, regardless of whether it was locked or
unlocked.

>

Confirmation signal during unlocking

>

Confirmation signal during locking

Setting confirmation signals

4. Press button 2.

You can program the vehicle to confirm when it
has been locked or unlocked.

5. Use button 1 to select:

1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display accompanied by the
word "SET".

>
The hazard warning flashers light up
during unlocking/locking.

Controls

Press the

3. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk down repeatedly until the desired
symbol appears in the display.

>
An acoustic signal sounds during
unlocking/locking.
>
The hazard warning flashers light up and
an acoustic signal sounds during
unlocking/locking.
>
The function is deactivated.

Driving tips

Unlocking the luggage compartment
lid

6. Press button 2.
The setting is stored.

The remote control may malfunction due to
local radio waves. If this occurs, unlock and lock
the car at the door lock with the integrated key.
If the car can no longer be locked with a remote
control, the battery in the remote control is discharged. Use this remote control during an
extended drive; this will recharge the battery,
refer to page 18.

Mobility

Malfunctions

For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units comply with
part 15 of the FCC/Federal Communications

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Reference

2. Press button 2.

Opening and closing

Commission regulations. Operation is governed by the following:

integrated key or the spare key to the corresponding limit positions in the door lock.

FCC ID:
LX8766S
LX8766E
LX8CAS

Opening and closing: from
inside

Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
> This device must not cause harmful interference, and
> This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications or
changes to these devices could void the
user's authority to operate this equipment.<

Using the door lock

This button serves to unlock or lock doors and
the luggage compartment lid, but does not activate the anti-theft system. The fuel filler door
remains unlocked.
You can also set the situations in which the car
locks:
Operating principle, refer to page 61.
1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display accompanied by the
word "SET".

You can set the way in which the car is
unlocked, refer to page 20.

Convenient operation
You can also operate the windows and glass
sunroof via the door lock.
Hold the key in the position for unlocking or
locking.

2. Press button 2.

Watch during the closing process to be
sure that no one is injured. Releasing the
key stops the operation.<

Manual operation
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can
lock and unlock the driver's door by turning the

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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

> press down the safety lock button of a door.
To prevent you from being locked out, the
open driver's door cannot be locked using
the lock button.
Persons or animals in a parked vehicle
could lock the doors from the inside. You
should therefore take the remote control with
you so that the car can be opened from the outside.<

At a glance

3. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display.

4. Press button 2.
5. Use button 1 to select:
>
The central locking system automatically locks the vehicle after some time if
no door has been opened.

In order to avoid damage, make sure there
is sufficient clearance in all directions
before opening the luggage compartment lid.<

Opening from inside

Controls

Luggage compartment lid

>
The central locking system automatically locks the vehicle as soon as you
drive off.
The central locking system automatically locks the vehicle after some time if
no door has been opened, or as soon as
you drive off.
>
The central locking system remains
unlocked.

Press the button: the luggage compartment lid
opens unless it has been locked.

Driving tips

>

Opening from outside

6. Press button 2.
The setting is stored.

Unlocking and opening doors

Locking

Press the button, see arrow, or the
button on
the remote control for a longer period. The luggage compartment lid will open slightly. It can
now be swung upwards.

> Use the central locking button to lock all of
the doors simultaneously, or
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Reference

> pull on the door handle of each door twice:
the first time unlocks the door, the second
time opens it.

Mobility

> Either unlock the doors together using the
button for the central locking system and
then pull the door handle above the armrest
or

Opening and closing

Unlocking separately
Push the switch in the direction of arrow 2.

Emergency release

The integrated key of the remote control and
the spare key, refer to page 18, fit the luggage
compartment lid lock.

Opening manually
Turn the integrated key of the remote control or
the spare key all the way to the left: the luggage
compartment lid opens.

Pull the lever in the luggage compartment. The
luggage compartment lid is unlocked.

Closing

If you unlock and open the luggage compartment lid with the key while the alarm
system is armed, the alarm will be triggered.
Switching off an alarm, refer to page 25.<

Locking or unlocking separately

The handle recesses on the interior trim of the
luggage compartment lid make it easier to pull
down.
Make sure that the closing path of the
luggage compartment lid is clear, otherwise injuries may result.<
The switch is located in the glove compartment.
1

Locking the luggage compartment lid

2

Unlocking the luggage compartment lid

Locking separately
Push the switch in the direction of arrow 1.
The luggage compartment lid is locked and
cannot be unlocked using the central locking
system.
If you give the remote control without the integrated key to someone else while the glove
compartment is locked, the luggage compartment lid cannot be opened. This is an advantage when valet parking, for example.

Alarm system*
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
> When a door, the hood or the luggage compartment lid is opened
> To movements inside the vehicle: Interior
motion sensor, refer to the information further below
> When the car's inclination changes, for
instance if an attempt is made to jack it up

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> An acoustic alarm
> Switching on the hazard warning flashers
> Flashing the high beams

Arming and disarming
When you lock or unlock the vehicle, either with
the remote control or at the door lock, the alarm
system is armed or disarmed at the same time.
Even when the alarm system is armed, you can
open the luggage compartment lid by means of
the
button on the remote control, refer to
page 21. When you subsequently close the luggage compartment lid, it is again locked and
monitored.

> The indicator lamp goes out after unlocking:
your vehicle has not been disturbed while
you were away.
> If the indicator lamp flashes after unlocking
until the remote control is inserted in the
ignition, but for no longer than approx.
5 minutes: your vehicle has been disturbed
while you were away.

Tilt alarm sensor
The tilt of the vehicle is monitored. The alarm
system reacts, e.g. to attempts to steal a wheel
or tow the vehicle.

Interior motion sensor
In order for the interior motion sensor to function properly, the windows and glass sunroof
must be completely closed.

Switching off an alarm

Avoiding unintentional alarms

> Unlock the car with the remote control, refer
to page 20, or

The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor
may be switched off at the same time. This prevents unintentional alarms, e.g. in the following
situations:

> insert the remote control all the way into the
ignition lock.

Indicator lamp displays

At a glance

The alarm system signals unauthorized entry
attempts for a short time by means of:

> In duplex garages
> When transporting on car-carrying trains

Controls

> When there is an interruption in the power
supply from the battery

lamp flashes continuously after approx. 10
seconds. However, the interior motion sensor is not activated.

Driving tips

and steal the wheels or to raise it prior to
towing away

> When animals are to remain in the vehicle

Switching off tilt alarm sensor and
interior motion sensor

> The indicator lamp flashes after locking:
doors, hood or luggage compartment lid are
not properly closed. Even if you do not close
the alerted area, the system begins to monitor the remaining areas, and the indicator

The indicator lamp comes on for approx. two
seconds, then begins to flash steadily. The tilt
alarm sensor and the interior motion sensor are
switched off until the next time the vehicle is
unlocked and subsequently locked again.

Convenient access*
Convenient access enables you to enter your
vehicle without needing to hold the remote con-

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Reference

> The indicator lamp under the inside rearview mirror flashes continuously: the system is armed.

button on the remote control
Mobility

Press the
twice in a row.

Opening and closing

trol in your hand. All you need to do is wear the
remote control close to your body, e.g. in your
jacket pocket. The vehicle automatically
detects the corresponding remote control
within the immediate vicinity or in the passenger compartment.

Unlocking

Convenient access supports the following
functions:
> Unlocking/locking the vehicle
> Unlocking the luggage compartment lid
separately
> Engine starting
> Convenient closure

Functional requirement
> The vehicle or the luggage compartment lid
can only be locked when the vehicle detects
that the remote control currently in use is
outside of the vehicle.
> The vehicle cannot be locked or unlocked
again until after approx. 2 seconds.
> The engine can only be started when the
vehicle detects that the remote control currently in use is inside the vehicle.

Special features in comparison to
conventional remote controls
In general, there is no difference between using
convenient access or pressing the buttons on
the remote control to carry out the functions
mentioned above. You should therefore first
familiarize yourself with the instructions on
opening and closing starting on page 18.
Special features regarding the use of convenient access are described below.

Grasp the handle on the driver's or front passenger's door completely, arrow 1. This corresponds to pressing the
button.
If a remote control is detected inside the car
after the vehicle is unlocked, the electric steering wheel lock is released, refer to page 42.

Locking
Touch the surface, arrow 2, with your finger for
approx. 1 second. This corresponds to pressing
the
button.
For convenient closure, keep your finger on the
surface, arrow 2.
If the vehicle detects that a remote control has been accidentally left inside the
locked vehicle's luggage compartment after the
luggage compartment lid is closed, the luggage
compartment lid will reopen slightly. The hazard
warning flashers flash and an acoustic signal*
sounds.<

Unlocking just the luggage
compartment lid
Press the button on the outside of the luggage
compartment lid. This corresponds to pressing
the
button.

Switching on radio readiness
Radio readiness is switched on by pressing the
start/stop button, refer to page 42.
Do not depress the brake or the clutch,
otherwise the engine will start immediately.<

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The indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster comes on: replace the battery
in the remote control.

You can start the engine or switch on the ignition when a remote control is inside the vehicle.
It is not necessary to insert a remote control into
the ignition switch, refer to page 42.

Replacing the battery

Switching off the engine in vehicles
with automatic transmission

The remote control for convenient access contains a battery that will need to be replaced from
time to time.

The engine can only be switched off when the
selector lever is in position P, refer to page 44.
To switch the engine off when the selector lever
is in position N, the remote control must be in
the ignition switch.

At a glance

Starting the engine

1. Take the integrated key out of the remote
control, refer to page 18.

Controls

Before driving a vehicle with automatic
transmission into a car wash
1. Insert remote control into ignition switch.
2. Depress the brake.

The vehicle can roll.

3. Insert the new battery with the plus side facing up.

Malfunction

4. Press the cover on to close.

Convenient access may malfunction due to
local radio waves. If this happens, open or close
the vehicle via the buttons on the remote control or using the integrated key. To start the
engine afterward, insert the remote control into
the ignition switch.

Warning lamps
The warning lamp in the instrument
cluster lights up when you attempt to
start the engine: the engine cannot
be started. The remote control is not inside the
vehicle or is malfunctioning. Take the remote
control with you inside the vehicle or have it
checked. If necessary, insert another remote
control into the ignition switch.

Take the old battery to a battery collection point or to your BMW Center.<

Windows
To prevent injuries, exercise care when
closing the windows and keep them in
your field of vision until they are shut.
Take the remote control with you when you
leave the car, otherwise children could operate
the electric windows and possibly injure themselves.<

The warning lamp in the instrument
cluster lights up while the engine is
running: the remote control is no
longer inside the vehicle. After the engine is
switched off, the engine can only be restarted
within approx. 10 seconds.

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Mobility

2. Remove the cover.

Reference

4. Switch off the engine.

Driving tips

3. Move the selector lever to position N.

Opening and closing

Opening, closing

> Press the switch to the resistance point.
The window continues to open as long as
you keep the switch pressed.

tions, such as thin objects, and the window
would continue closing.
Pulling the switch beyond the resistance point
and holding it limits the response of the antitrapping mechanism. In this case, if the closing
force exceeds a defined threshold, the window
will only open a few fractions of an inch/a few
millimeters.
If the switch is pulled past the resistance point
again within approx. 4 seconds, the anti-trapping mechanism will be deactivated.<

Safety switch

> Press the switch beyond the resistance
point.
The window opens automatically. Press the
switch again to stop the opening movement.
You can close the windows in the same manner
by pulling the switch.
There are separate switches in the rear seat
armrests.

After switching off the ignition
When the remote control is removed or the ignition is switched off, you can still operate the
windows for approx. 1 minute as long as no
door is opened.
For information on convenient operation via the
remote control or the door lock, refer to page 20
or 22. For information on closing with convenient access, refer to Locking on page 20.
Take the remote control with you when
you leave the car, otherwise children
could operate the electric windows and possibly injure themselves.<

Anti-trapping mechanism
If the closing force exceeds a specific value as
an electric window closes, the closing action is
interrupted immediately and the window
reopens slightly.
Despite the anti-trapping mechanism
check and clear the window's travel path
prior to closing it, otherwise the safety system
might fail to detect certain kinds of obstruc-

With the safety switch, you can prevent the rear
windows from being opened or closed via the
switches in the rear passenger area, by children, for example. When the safety function is
switched on, the LED comes on.
Always press the safety switch when children ride in the rear, otherwise
unchecked closing of the windows could lead to
injuries.<

Accessories in a window area
If you install accessories within the power window movement range, e.g. a clip-on antenna for
your mobile phone, the system must be initialized to teach it the new conditions. BMW recommends having this work done by your BMW
Center.

Glass sunroof*, electric
To prevent injuries, exercise care when
closing the glass sunroof and keep it in
your field of vision until it is shut.
Take the remote control with you when you

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If the glass sunroof encounters an obstruction
during closing from approximately the middle of
the opening in the roof, or during closing from
the raised position, the closing movement is
interrupted and the glass sunroof is opened
again slightly.

Press the switch.
> The closed glass sunroof is raised and the
sliding visor is opened slightly.
> When the glass sunroof is open, it automatically travels into the raised position. The
sliding visor remains completely open.
Do not close the sliding visor forcibly with
the roof in the raised position, otherwise
this could damage the mechanism.<

Opening, closing
> Press the switch backwards to the resistance point.
The glass sunroof and the sliding visor open
together as long as you hold the switch in
this position.
> Press the switch backwards past the resistance point.
The glass sunroof and the sliding visor open
automatically. Briefly press the switch again
to stop the opening movement.

Following interruptions in electrical
power supply
After a power failure, there is a possibility that
the sunroof can only be raised. The system
must be initialized. BMW recommends having
this work done by your BMW Center.

Closing manually
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can
move the glass sunroof manually:

Driving tips

Raising

Despite the anti-trapping mechanism
check and clear the sunroof's travel path
prior to closing it, otherwise the safety system
might fail to detect certain kinds of obstructions, such as very thin objects, and the sunroof
would continue closing.
Pressing the switch beyond the resistance
point and holding it there deactivates the antitrapping mechanism.<

Controls

Anti-trapping mechanism

At a glance

the glass sunroof for approx. 1 minute as long
as no door is opened.

1. Unclip the front of the cover of the interior
lamps using the screwdriver from the
onboard tool kit, refer to page 125.

You can close the glass sunroof in a similar
manner by pressing the switch forwards. The
sliding visor remains open and can be closed by
hand.
For information on convenient operation via the
remote control or door lock, refer to page 20
or 22.

Mobility

leave the car, otherwise children could operate
the sunroof and possibly injure themselves.<

When the remote control has been removed or
the ignition switched off, you can still operate

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Reference

After the ignition is switched off

Opening and closing

2. Insert the screwdriver into the openings on
each side to press the clips.

3. Remove the control unit.
4. Unplug the motor. Considerably less effort
will be required for manual operation.

5. Insert the Allen wrench supplied with the
onboard tool kit, refer to page 125, into the
opening provided. Move the glass sunroof
in the desired direction.

6. Reinstall the control unit and reattach the
lamp cover.

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Always maintain an adequate distance
between yourself and the airbags. Always
grip the steering wheel on the rim, with your
hands in the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions,
to minimize the risk of injury to the hands or
arms in the event of the airbag being triggered
off.
No one and nothing is to come between the airbags and the seat occupant.
Do not use the cover of the front airbag on the
front passenger side as a storage area. Make
sure that the front passenger is sitting correctly,
e.g. not resting feet or legs on the instrument
panel, otherwise leg injuries can occur if the
front airbag is triggered.
Make sure that passengers do not lean their
heads against the side or head airbags, otherwise serious injuries could result if the side airbags suddenly deployed.<
Even if you follow all the instructions, injuries
resulting from contact with airbags cannot be
fully excluded, depending on the circumstances. The ignition and inflation noise may
provoke a mild hearing loss in extremely sensitive individuals. This effect is usually only temporary.
For airbag locations and additional information
on airbags, refer to page 74.

Head restraints, refer to page 33.

Safety belt
Before every drive, make sure that all occupants
wear their safety belts. Airbags complement the
safety belt as an additional safety device, but
they do not represent a substitute.
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.
Expectant mothers should also wear the safety
belt, making sure that the strap in the pelvic
area is well down on the hips and does not press
against the abdominal region of the body.
Do not route the belt across your neck, or run it
across sharp edges. Be sure that the belt does
not become caught or jammed. The safety belt
should not be twisted and must be positioned
firmly over the pelvis and shoulder, as close to
the body as possible. It should not pass over
hard or fragile objects, otherwise the belt in the
pelvic area could slide over the hips in the event
of a head-on collision and injure the lower abdomen. Avoid wearing bulky clothing and regularly
pull the belt in the upper-body area taut, otherwise its restraining effect could be impaired.<
Safety belts, refer to page 36.

Controls

Airbags

Adjust the head restraint in such a way
that its center is at approx. ear level. Otherwise, there is an increased risk of injury in the
event of an accident.<

Driving tips

For additional information on transporting children safely, refer to page 39.

A correctly adjusted head restraint reduces the
risk of neck injury in the event of an accident.

Mobility

The ideal sitting position can make a vital contribution to relaxed, fatigue-free driving. In conjunction with the safety belts, the head
restraints and the airbags, the seated position
has a major influence on your safety in the event
of an accident. To ensure that the safety systems operate with optimal efficiency, we
strongly urge you to observe the instructions
contained in the following section.

Head restraint

Seats
Note before adjusting
Never attempt to adjust your seat while
the vehicle is moving. The seat could
respond with unexpected movement, and the

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Reference

Sitting safely

At a glance

Adjustments

Adjustments

ensuing loss of vehicle control could lead to an
accident.
On the front passenger seat as well, do not
incline the backrest too far to the rear while the
vehicle is being driven, otherwise there is a danger in the event of an accident of sliding under
the safety belt, eliminating the protection normally provided by the belt.<
Comply with the instructions on head restraint
height on page 33, and on damaged safety
belts on page 36.

Seat adjustment
Observe the adjustment instructions on
page 31 to ensure the best possible personal protection.<

Longitudinal direction
Pull lever 1 and slide the seat to the desired
position.
After releasing the lever, move the seat gently
forward or back to make sure it engages properly.

Height
Pull lever 2 and apply your weight to the seat or
lift it off, as necessary.

Backrest

Pull lever 3 and apply your weight to the backrest or lift it off, as necessary.

Lumbar support*

You can also adjust the contour of the backrest
to obtain additional support in the lumbar
region.
The upper hips and spinal column receive supplementary support to help you maintain a
relaxed, upright sitting position.
> Increase or decrease curvature: push
switch forward or back.
> Shift curvature up or down: push switch up
or down.

Electric seat adjustment*
Comply with the adjusting instructions
mentioned above to ensure the best possible personal protection.<

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At a glance

Angle

1

Longitudinal direction

2

Height

3

Angle

Pull the lever and apply your weight to the seat
or lift it off, as necessary.

Controls

Backrest width

Backrest

The head restraints are adjusted manually, refer
to Head restraints below.

Sports seat*
On this seat, you can manually adjust the thigh
support, the tilt angle and the width of the backrest.

You can change the width of the backrest to suit
your individual preferences by adjusting the lateral-support pads.
Push switch forward or back.
Backrest width decreases or increases accordingly.

Driving tips

4

Head restraints

Thigh support

Adjust the head restraint in such a way
that its center is at approx. ear level. Otherwise, there is an increased risk of injury in the
event of an accident.<

Mobility

A correctly adjusted head restraint reduces the
risk of neck injury in the event of an accident.

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Reference

Pull the lever and move the thigh support forward or back.

Adjustments

Front seats

seat backrest slightly forward before pulling
out a head restraint.

Height adjustment
Folding the center head restraint down
and up

> To raise: pull up.
> To lower: press the button, arrow 1, and
slide the head restraint down.

Removing
1. Pull up all the way.

Folding down:
Press the button, arrow 1.
Folding up:
Pull the head restraint.

2. Press the button, arrow 1, and pull the head
restraint all the way out.

Depending on the equipment version, it may be
possible to fold the outer rear head restraints
down and up as well.

Rear seats

Note that it is an offense to drive with the
rear seats occupied and the rear head
restraints folded down. Fold up the head
restraints before allowing passengers to
occupy the rear seats.<

Height adjustment

Heated seats*

> To raise: pull up.
> To lower: press the button, arrow 1, and
slide the head restraint down.
The center head restraint is not height-adjustable.
Press once for each temperature level.
Three lamps indicate the highest temperature.

Removing
1. Pull up all the way.
2. Press the button, arrow 1, and pull the head
restraint all the way out.
With through-loading system: Fold the rear-

To switch off:
Press button longer.
If you continue driving within the next 15 minutes, the seat heating is automatically activated
at the previously set temperature.

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Settings for the seat back width and lumbar
support are not stored in memory.

Operating principle, refer to page 61.
1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display accompanied by the
word "SET".

Storing

2. Press button 2.
1. Switch on radio readiness or the ignition,
refer to page 42.
2. Adjust the seat and exterior mirrors to the
desired positions.

3. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display.

At a glance

You can store and call up two different combinations of driver's-seat and exterior-mirror
positions.

Activating/deactivating automatic callup

Controls

Seat and mirror memory*

Driving tips

3. Press the
button.
The LED in the button lights up.
4. Press the desired memory key 1 or 2.
The LED goes out.
The driver's seat and exterior mirror positions are stored for the remote control currently in use.

Automatic call-up

4. Press button 2.

You can select at what occasion the stored
positions of the driver's seat and exterior mirrors are to be called up.

5. Use button 1 to select:

>
Call-up when the driver's door is
opened.

> Call-up when the driver's door is opened.
When this Personal Profile function is
used, first ensure that the footwell behind
the driver's seat is free of obstacles. Failure to
do so could cause injury to persons or damage
to objects as a result of a rearward movement of
the seat.<

>

Mobility

Call-up when the vehicle is unlocked.

Switch off automatic function.
6. Press button 2.
The setting is stored.

The adjusting procedure is immediately halted
when you press a seat adjustment switch or one
of the MEMORY buttons.
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Reference

> Call-up when the vehicle is unlocked

>

Adjustments

Manual call-up
Do not call up memory while you are driving, otherwise unexpected seat movement could result in an accident.<

Convenience mode
1. Unlock and open the driver's door or switch
on radio readiness, refer to page 42.
2. Briefly press the desired memory button 1
or 2.
The adjusting procedure is immediately halted
when you touch a seat adjustment switch or
one of the MEMORY buttons.

Safety feature
1. Close the driver's door and switch the ignition on or off, refer to page 42.
2. Press the desired memory button 1 or 2
and maintain pressure until the adjustment
process has been completed.
If the
button was pressed accidentally:
press the button again; the LED goes out.

Safety belts
Observe the adjustment instructions on
page 31 to ensure the best possible personal protection.<
Before every drive, make sure that all occupants
wear their safety belts. Airbags complement the
safety belt as an additional safety device, but
they do not represent a substitute.
On the rear seats, the center belt buckle marked
with the letters CENTER is solely intended for
the center passenger.

Closing
Make sure you hear the latch plate engage in
the belt buckle.
The upper belt anchor is suitable for adults of
any stature as long as the seat is adjusted properly, refer to page 31.

Opening
1. Grasp the belt firmly.
2. Press the red button in the buckle.
3. Guide the belt into its reel.

'Fasten safety belts' reminder for front
seats
The indicator lamp comes on and an
acoustic signal sounds. Check
whether the safety belt has been fastened correctly.
The 'Fasten safety belts' reminder is issued as
long as the driver's safety belt has not been fastened. The 'Fasten safety belts' reminder is also
activated at road speeds above approx. 5 mph
or 8 km/h if the front passenger's safety belt is
not fastened, if heavy objects are placed on the
front passenger seat, or if driver or front passenger unfasten their safety belts.

Damage to safety belts
If the safety belts are damaged or
stressed in an accident: have the belt system, including any belt tensioners, replaced and
the belt anchors checked. Have this work done
only by your BMW Center or at a workshop that
works according to BMW repair procedures
with correspondingly trained personnel. Other-

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1. Push the switch to the position for the
driver's-side mirror, arrow 1.

Exterior mirrors
The front passenger's mirror is more convex
than the driver's mirror. The objects seen in the
mirror are closer than they appear. Do not
gauge your distance from traffic behind you on
the basis of what you see in the mirror; otherwise there is an increased risk of an accident.<

2. Engage reverse gear or move the selector
lever to position R.
The glass of the mirror on the passenger
side tilts slightly down. This allows the
driver to see the area immediately adjacent
to the vehicle, such as a curb, when parking,
etc.
1

Adjustments

2

Switching to the other mirror or automatic
curb monitor*

3

Folding mirrors in and out*

The positions of the exterior mirrors are stored
for the remote control currently used*, refer to
Personal Profile, page 19.

Controls

Activating

Mirrors

At a glance

Passenger-side mirror tilt function –
automatic curb monitor*

Deactivating
Push the switch to the position for the passenger-side mirror, arrow 2.

Interior rearview mirror

Driving tips

wise, it is not guaranteed that the safety devices
will function properly.<

Manual adjustment

Automatic heating*
At outside temperatures below a certain limit,
both exterior mirrors are automatically heated
while the engine is running or the ignition
switched on.

Turn the knob to reduce glare from the headlamps of cars behind you when driving at night.
Automatically dimming mirrors, refer to
page 99.

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Reference

To prevent the exterior mirrors on this
vehicle from being damaged, always fold
them in by hand before entering an automatic
car wash.<

Mobility

The mirrors can also be adjusted manually:
press the edge of the glass.

Adjustments

Steering wheel
Adjustments
Do not adjust the steering wheel position
while the car is in motion, or an accident
may result from any unexpected movement.<

1. Fold the lever down.
2. Move the steering wheel to the preferred
height and angle to suit your seated position.
3. Swing the lever back up.
Do not use force to swing the lever
back up, otherwise the mechanism
will be damaged.<

Electric steering wheel lock
The steering wheel locks or unlocks automatically when the remote control is removed or
inserted, refer to page 42.

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Accident research has shown that the safest
place for children is on the rear seats.
Children under the age of 13 or smaller
than 5 ft/150 cm may be transported only
in the rear in suitable child-restraint systems
appropriate for their age, weight and size. Otherwise there is an increased risk of injury in the
event of an accident.<
Children 13 years of age or older must be buckled in with a safety belt as soon as there no
longer is any child-restraint system that is
appropriate for their age, size and weight.
All rear seats in your vehicle meet the recommendations of the SAE J1819 standard for
safely mounting child-restraint systems in
motor vehicles.

Exception for front passenger seat
Should it be necessary to use a childrestraint system on the front passenger
seat, the front and side airbags must be deactivated. Otherwise, a child traveling on that seat
will be at an increased risk of injury if the airbags
are triggered off, even with a child-restraint system. Your BMW Center will be glad to advise
you.<
For more information on automatic deactivation
of the front passenger airbags refer to page 74.

Controls

Children always in the rear

Standard child-restraint systems are designed
to be secured with a lap belt or with the lap-belt
section of a lap-and-shoulder belt. Incorrectly
or improperly installed child-restraint systems
can increase the risk of injury to children.
Always follow the installation instructions for
the system with the greatest care.

On the front passenger's seat
Before installing a child-restraint system
on the front passenger's seat, make sure
that the front and side airbags for the front passenger are deactivated, otherwise there is an
increased risk of injury if the airbags deploy.<

Seat height
Before installing a universal child-restraint system, move the front passenger's seat up as far
as it will go to ensure that the safety belt will be
ideally positioned. Do not change the seat
height afterward.

Driving tips

The rear center seat is not suitable for installing
universal child-restraint systems for all age
groups, approved for the age group in question.

Observe the child-restraint system manufacturer's instructions for selecting,
installing and using child-restraint systems.
Otherwise the protective effect may be diminished.<

Backrest width
The backrest width of the front passenger
seat must be adjusted to its widest setting, otherwise the stability of the child seat on
the front passenger seat is limited.<
1. Adjust the backrest width to its widest setting, refer to page 33.

Mobility

Do not leave children unattended in the
vehicle, otherwise they could endanger
themselves and/or other persons by opening
the doors, for example.<

Installing child-restraint
systems

2. Install the child seat.

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Reference

The right place for children

At a glance

Transporting children safely

Transporting children safely

Child seat security

Placement of the tether strap

All rear safety belts and the front passenger's
safety belt can be prevented from being pulled
out in order to fasten child-restraint systems.

Fold the anchors upward before using them.

To lock the safety belt
1. Secure the child-restraint system with the
belt.

1. Push the head restraint upward.
2. Guide the tether strap through the mounting for the head restraint.
3. Push the head restraint into its lowermost
position.

2. Pull the belt strap all the way out.

LATCH child-restraint fixing system

3. Allow the belt strap to retract and pull it taut
against the child-restraint system.

LATCH: Lower Anchor and Tethers for CHildren.

The safety belt is locked.

When installing a LATCH child seat, comply with the system manufacturer's operating and safety instructions.<

To unlock the safety belt
1. Open the belt buckle
2. Remove the child-restraint system.
3. Allow the safety belt strap to retract all the
way.

Rear seats with through-loading
system

Child-restraint system with tether
strap

The anchor points for the LATCH childrestraint fixing system are located behind the
indicated protective caps. Flip up the corresponding caps.
There are three additional anchors for childrestraint systems with tether straps, see
arrows.

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At a glance

Rear seats without through-loading
system

Controls

The anchor points for the LATCH childrestraint fixing system can be found at the locations marked by the arrows. They are not visible
from the outside.

On journeys

Driving tips

Child-safety locks for rear doors

Slide down the safety lever on the rear doors:
The door can now be opened from the outside
only.

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Reference

Press the safety switch for the power windows,
refer to page 28, if children are traveling on the
rear seat.

Mobility

Safety switch for power windows

Driving

Driving
Ignition lock

Start/stop button

Insert the remote control all the way into the
ignition lock.

Each time the start/stop button is pressed,
radio readiness or the ignition is switched on or
off.

> Radio readiness switches on.
Individual electrical consumers can operate.
> The electric steering wheel lock disengages audibly.
Insert the remote control into the ignition
lock before you move the vehicle, otherwise the electric steering wheel lock will not disengage and you will not be able to steer the
car.<

Briefly pressing the start/stop button
while the brake or clutch is depressed
starts the engine.<

Radio readiness
Individual electrical consumers can operate.
The time and the outside temperature are displayed in the instrument cluster.
Radio readiness is switched off automatically:

Removing the remote control from the
ignition lock

> Immediately when the remote control is
removed from the ignition lock

Press the remote control in briefly; it is ejected
part of the way.
At the same time:

> In cars with convenient access*, by touching the surface above the door lock, refer to
Locking on page 26

> The ignition switches off if it was on beforehand.

Ignition on

> The electric steering wheel lock engages
audibly.

Automatic transmission
You cannot take out the remote control unless
the selector lever is in the P position: interlock.

Most of the indicator and warning lamps in the
indicator area 1 of the instrument cluster, refer
to page 13, light up and remain on for different
lengths of time.

Radio readiness and ignition off
All indicator and warning lamps in the instrument cluster go out.

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When starting the engine, do not press the
accelerator pedal.
Do not allow the engine to warm up by leaving it
running while the vehicle remains stationary.
Instead, begin to drive immediately at a moderate engine speed.
Do not depress either the brake or the
clutch until you are ready to start the
engine. The engine is started immediately
when you briefly touch the start/stop button
and depress the brake if the car has automatic
transmission, or the clutch if the car has manual
transmission.<

1. Depress the brake.
3. Briefly press the start/stop button.
The starter operates automatically for a certain
time, and stops automatically as soon as the
engine has started.

At a glance

2. Move the selector lever to position P.

Sequential manual gearbox SMG*
1. Depress the brake.
2. Engage selector lever position N and make
sure that this position is displayed in the
instrument cluster.
3. Start the engine.
The starter operates automatically for a certain
time, and stops automatically as soon as the
engine has started.

Controls

Do not run the engine in closed rooms,
otherwise the inhaling of toxic exhaust
gases can cause unconsciousness and death.
The exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide,
an odorless and colorless, but highly toxic gas.
Never leave an unattended vehicle with the
engine running, otherwise such a vehicle represents a potential safety hazard.
Before leaving the car with the engine running,
place the transmission in idle or move the
selector lever to position P and apply the handbrake to prevent the car from moving.<

Automatic transmission

If the engine does not start, depress the
brake and push the selector lever to the
right, then engage position N. Observe the display in the instrument cluster while doing so.<

Special starting conditions
In the following situations, press the accelerator
pedal halfway down when starting the engine:
> If the engine does not start on the first
attempt, for instance when it is extremely
hot or cold.

Driving tips

Starting the engine

1. Apply the handbrake.
2. Depress the clutch and shift to idle position.
3. Briefly press the start/stop button.
The starter operates automatically for a certain
time, and stops automatically as soon as the
engine has started.

Switching off the engine
Always take the remote control with you
when you leave the vehicle.
When parking on a downhill incline, apply the

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Reference

Manual transmission

Avoid frequent starting in quick succession or repeated start attempts in which
the engine does not start. Otherwise, the fuel is
not burned or inadequately burned and there is
a danger of overheating and damaging the catalytic converter.<

Mobility

> If the engine is started at very low temperatures, below approx. + 57/–156, at high
altitudes above approx. 3,300 ft/1,000 m.

Driving

handbrake, otherwise the vehicle could roll
away.<

Releasing

Manual transmission
1. Apply the handbrake.
2. With the car at a standstill, briefly press the
start/stop button.
3. Shift into first gear or reverse.

Automatic transmission
1. With the car at a standstill, move the selector lever to position P.

Pull slightly upwards, press the button and
lower the lever.

2. Briefly press the start/stop button.

In exceptional cases, if the handbrake has
to be used to slow or stop the car, do not
pull the lever up too hard. In doing so, continuously press the button of the handbrake lever.
Otherwise, too violent an application of the
handbrake can overbrake the rear axle and
cause the rear of the car to swerve.<

3. Apply the handbrake.

Sequential manual gearbox SMG
1. Apply the handbrake.
2. Engage a drive position.
3. Briefly press the start/stop button.
If the engine is switched off while N is engaged,
this will be signaled visually and acoustically.

Handbrake
The handbrake is primarily intended to prevent
the vehicle from rolling while parked; it brakes
the rear wheels.

To prevent corrosion and one-sided braking action, occasionally apply the handbrake lightly when the vehicle is slowly coming
to a stop if the traffic conditions are suitable.
The brake lamps do not light up when the handbrake is applied.<

Manual transmission

Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp is lit, and when you
drive off an acoustic signal sounds in
addition. The handbrake is still applied.
Indicator lamp for Canadian models.

Applying
The lever locks in position automatically.

When shifting into 5th or 6th gear, press
the gearshift lever to the right. Otherwise
the engine could be damaged if you inadvertently shift into 3rd or 4th gear.<

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> D: Drive mode or sequential mode

Select only when the vehicle is stationary.
When the gearshift lever is pressed to the left, a
slight resistance has to be overcome.

N is automatically selected when the
driver's door is opened while the engine is
running, as long as the pedals, shift paddles and
selector lever are not operated.
This is indicated by an acoustic signal and a
flashing N in the instrument cluster.<

Sequential manual gearbox
SMG*

Gear indicator

At a glance

Reverse gear

The concept

SMG is operated via the selector lever in the
center console and two shift paddles on the
steering wheel.
> Choice of manual or automatic operation:
sequential mode or Drive mode
> Choice of two driving programs: Normal or
Sport, refer to Dynamic Driving Control,
page 46
> Automatic downshifting and prevention of
misshifting in sequential mode as well
> Acceleration assistant, refer to page 47

Selector lever positions

R N 1 to 6
The gear currently engaged is displayed, preceded by a D in Drive mode.
This indicator is the only way you can
confirm whether or not the desired selector lever position is engaged.<

Shiftlock
Before moving the lever away from N with the
vehicle stationary, first depress the brake; otherwise the desired gearshift will not be carried
out.

Driving tips

It offers you the following functions:

Controls

The sequential manual gearbox SMG is an
automated transmission in which operation of
the clutch and gearshifts are performed by an
electro-hydraulic system.

R Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is stationary.

The current selector lever position can be seen
on the center console.
> R: Reverse gear

> Sequential mode
Gears are shifted by means of the shift paddles or the selector lever.

> N: Neutral, idle

> D Drive mode
All forward gears are shifted automatically.

> One-touch functions for sequential mode:
+: manual upshifting
–: manual downshifting

You can switch from one mode to the other by
pressing the selector lever towards the right in
the direction of D.

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Reference

The gears can be changed in two different
ways.

Mobility

Gear-change mode

Driving

Sequential mode
After every engine start, sequential mode is
activated when you press the selector lever
towards the right while the brake is depressed.
You can shift up or down using the shift paddles
or the selector lever. You do not need to lift your
foot from the accelerator pedal while doing so.
It is also possible to start off in second gear, e.g.
on slippery surfaces.
SMG assists you in the following situations:

To switch from sequential mode to Drive mode:
press the selector lever towards the right in the
direction of D.
Kick-down: to accelerate rapidly, e.g. when
passing another vehicle, depress the accelerator pedal all the way. You will achieve maximum
acceleration.
To switch back to sequential mode: press the
selector lever again towards the right in the
direction of D or shift gears via the shift paddles
or the selector lever.

> Upshifts and downshifts are executed only
when they will result in a plausible combination of engine and vehicle speed; for example, a downshift that would cause the
engine to overrev cannot be executed by
the system.

On uphill slopes, drive off without delay.
Do not hold the vehicle in place by
depressing the accelerator pedal; engage the
handbrake instead. Otherwise, the transmission could overheat.<

> The system shifts down into first gear automatically when the vehicle comes to a stop.

Dynamic Driving Control

> The system shifts down automatically just
before the engine speed falls below the
minimum speed required for a certain gear;
the driver does not need to intervene.

Shifting gears via selector lever
> Pull the selector lever backwards to shift up.
> Push it forward to shift down.

Dynamic Driving Control enables you to drive
your BMW in an even more performance-oriented manner at the touch of a button:
> Gears are shifted more quickly.
> In Drive mode, the engine speed range is
utilized optimally.

Activating the system

Shifting gears via the shift paddles on
the steering wheel

Press the SPORT button while the ignition is
switched on. The LED in the button lights up.

> Pull one of the shift paddles to shift up.
> Press it to shift down.

Deactivating the system
> Press the SPORT button again or
> engage reverse gear or

D Drive mode

> switch off the engine.

In Drive mode, all forward gears are shifted
automatically.

The LED in the button goes out.

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Acceleration assistant

Displays in the instrument cluster

At a glance

The acceleration assistant provides for optimal,
racing-style acceleration when starting off on a
non-slippery surface.
Do not use the acceleration assistant too
frequently, otherwise components could
wear prematurely.<
1. Activate Dynamic Driving Control.
2. Deactivate DSC, refer to page 68.

Automatic transmission with
Steptronic*
In addition to fully automatic operation, you can
also manually shift with the Steptronic, refer to
page 48.

Vehicle parking
To prevent the vehicle from rolling,
always select position P and apply the
handbrake before leaving the vehicle with the
engine running.<

The selector lever position is displayed, or the
current gear in the manual mode.

Changing selector lever positions
> With the ignition switched on or the engine
running, the selector lever can be moved
out of position P: interlock.

Controls

To maintain driving stability, reactivate
DSC afterward.<

P R N D DS M1 to M6

> Before moving the lever away from P or N
with the vehicle stationary, first depress the
brake; otherwise the selector lever will
refuse to move: shiftlock.
To prevent the vehicle from creeping
after you select a driving position,
depress the brake until you are ready to
start.<

Driving tips

3. Quickly depress the accelerator pedal all
the way: kick-down. The optimal engine
speed for pulling away is achieved.

Disengaging the remote control

Selector lever positions
A lock prevents you from inadvertently engaging selector lever positions R and P. To cancel
the lock, press the button on the front of the
selector lever, refer to arrow.

P Park
Select only when the vehicle is stationary. The
rear wheels are locked.

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Reference

P R N D M/S + –

Mobility

In order to remove the remote control from the
ignition lock, you must first move the selector
lever to position P and switch off the engine:
interlock.

Driving

R Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is stationary.

gear selected appears briefly in the instrument
cluster, followed by the gear actually in use.

N Neutral, idle

To use the automatic function again, move the
selector lever to the right into position D.

You can select this in a car wash, for example.
The vehicle can roll.

Overriding selector lever lock

D Drive, automatic position
Position for normal vehicle operation. All forward gears are selected automatically.
Under normal operating conditions, fuel consumption is lowest when you are driving in position D.

Should the selector lever refuse to move out of
position P although the button on the selector
lever is pressed, the selector lever lock can be
overridden:
1. Unclip the sleeve of the selector lever.
2. Pull the sleeve up over the selector lever
until the sleeve is inside out.

Kick-down
Kick-down enables you to achieve maximum
performance.
Press the accelerator pedal beyond the fullthrottle resistance point.

Manual operation and Sport program
M/S
3. Using the screwdriver from the onboard
tool kit, refer to page 125, press the red
lever while moving the selector lever to the
desired position.

Turn signals/
headlamp flasher
Move selector lever from position D toward the
left into the M/S shifting slot:
The sport program is activated and DS appears
in the instrument cluster. This position is recommended for a performance-oriented driving
style.
When you press the selector lever forwards or
backwards, the manual mode is activated and
Steptronic changes gear. The instrument cluster shows M1 through M6.
Upshifts and downshifts are executed only
when they will result in a plausible combination
of engine and vehicle speed; thus, for example,
a downshift that would cause the engine to
overrev will not be executed by the system. The

1

High beams

2

Headlamp flasher

3

Turn signals

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Press the lever beyond the resistance point.
To turn off manually, press the lever to the
resistance point.

3. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display.
At a glance

Using turn signals

Unusually rapid flashing of the indicator
lamp indicates that a turn signal indicator
has failed.
After switching off the ignition, make sure that
the roadside parking lamps are not switched
on.<

Indicating a turn briefly
4. Press button 2.
>

Triple turn signal activation

Brief indication of a turn.

Press the lever as far as the resistance point.
The turn signals flash three times.
Operating principle, refer to page 61.
1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display accompanied by the
word "SET".

6. Press button 2.
The setting is stored.

Wiper system

1

Switching on wipers

2

Switching off wipers or brief wipe

3

Activating/deactivating intermittent wipe or
rain sensor*

4

Cleaning windshield and headlamps*

5

Setting speed for intermittent wipe, or sensitivity of the rain sensor

Switching on wipers
The lever automatically returns to its initial position when released.

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Reference

2. Press button 2.

Triple turn signal.

Driving tips

You can activate or deactivate this function.

>

Controls

5. Use button 1 to select:

Mobility

Press the lever as far as the resistance point for
as long as you wish to indicate a turn.

Driving

Normal wiper speed

Cleaning windshield and headlamps*

Press once.

Pull lever 4.

The system switches to operation in the intermittent mode when the vehicle is stationary.

Washer fluid is sprayed onto the windshield and
the wipers are operated for a short time.

Fast wiper speed

When the vehicle lighting system is switched
on, the headlamps are cleaned at regular and
appropriate intervals.

Press twice or press beyond the resistance
point.
The system switches to normal speed when the
vehicle is stationary.

Intermittent wipe or rain sensor*
If the car is not equipped with a rain sensor, the
intermittent-wipe time is a preset.
If the car is equipped with a rain sensor, the time
between wipes is controlled automatically and
depends on the intensity of the rainfall. The
sensor is mounted on the windshield, directly in
front of the interior rearview mirror.

Activating intermittent wipe or rain
sensor

Do not use the washers if there is any
danger that the fluid will freeze on the
windshield. If you do, your vision could be
obscured. Antifreeze should therefore be
added to the fluid, refer to Washer fluid.
Do not use the washers when the washer fluid
reservoir is empty, otherwise you will damage
the washer pump.<

Windshield washer nozzles
The windshield washer nozzles are heated
automatically while the engine is running or the
ignition switched on.

Washer fluid
Washer fluid antifreeze is flammable.
Always keep it well away from sparks and
open flames, and store it in the tightly closed
original container, well out of the reach of children. Comply with the instructions on the container.<

Washer fluid reservoir
Press button 3. The LED in the button lights up.

Setting speed for intermittent wipe or
sensitivity of the rain sensor
Slide switch 5 up or down.

Deactivating intermittent wipe or rain
sensor
Press button 3 again. The LED goes out.
Deactivate the rain sensor before entering an automatic car wash. Failure to do
so could result in damage caused by undesired
wiper activation.<

Fill with water and, if required, with a washer
antifreeze, according to manufacturer's recommendations.

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Capacity
Approx. 6.3 US quarts/6 liters.

Cruise control*
Cruise control is available for use at speeds of
approx. 20 mph or 30 km/h. The car then stores
and maintains the speed that you specify using
the lever on the steering column. In order to
maintain the specified speed, the system
brakes the vehicle when the engine braking
effect is insufficient on downhill gradients.
Do not use cruise control when driving
conditions are unfavorable for driving at a
constant speed. Otherwise you could lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident as a
result. Unfavorable driving conditions include,
for example, winding roads, heavy traffic or a
poor road surface, e.g. snow, rain, ice or loose
material.<

Manual transmission/SMG
You can shift gears while cruise control is activated. An indicator lamp notifies you that you
should shift gears when you drive for an
extended period at very high or very low engine
speeds, or the system is deactivated.
In Drive mode, the SMG acts similarly to an
automatic transmission in position D.

1

Storing and maintaining speed or accelerating

2

Storing and maintaining speed or decelerating

3

Deactivating cruise control

4

Resuming a speed stored beforehand

Maintaining current speed
Tap the lever, arrow 1, or pull it briefly, arrow 2.
The car's current speed is stored and maintained. It is displayed in the speedometer and
briefly in the instrument cluster.
On uphill gradients, it may prove impossible to
maintain the set speed if current engine power
output is insufficient. If the engine braking
effect is insufficient on downhill slopes, the system will brake the vehicle slightly.

Driving tips

The concept

Controls

At a glance

One lever for all functions

Increasing desired speed
Repeatedly press the lever to the resistance
point or beyond, arrow 1, until the desired
speed is reached.
> Each time the lever is pressed to the resistance point, the desired speed is increased
by approx. 1 mph or 1 km/h.
> Each time the lever is pressed beyond the
resistance point, the desired speed is
increased by up to 5 mph or 10 km/h.

Mobility

Mix the water and antifreeze before filling
the washer fluid reservoir to make sure
the correct concentration is maintained.<

The system stores and maintains the speed.

Accelerating using the lever
Press the lever to the resistance point, arrow 1,
until the desired speed is reached.
Accelerating significantly:
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Reference

Accelerating slightly:

Driving

Press the lever beyond the resistance point,
arrow 1, until the desired speed is reached.

deactivated by engaging the handbrake or as a
result of DSC intervening.

The vehicle accelerates without pressure on
the accelerator pedal. The system stores and
maintains the speed.

Resuming a speed stored beforehand

Decreasing desired speed
Repeatedly pull the lever to the resistance point
or beyond, arrow 2, until the desired speed is
displayed.

Briefly press the button, arrow 4. the stored
speed is resumed and maintained.
In the following instances, the stored speed is
deleted and can no longer be resumed:
> When driving stability control systems are
intervening

> Each time the lever is pulled to the resistance point, the desired speed is decreased
by approx. 1 mph or 1 km/h.

> In cars with manual transmission: when you
shift gears very slowly or shift to idle position

> Each time the lever is pulled beyond the
resistance point, the desired speed is
reduced by up to 5 mph or 10 km/h until the
minimum speed of 20 mph or 30 km/h is
achieved.

> With automatic transmission/SMG: when
you engage selector lever position N

The system stores and maintains the speed.

> When the ignition is switched off

Displays in the instrument cluster

If the speed is to be reduced significantly,
depress the brake; otherwise, deceleration may be insufficient and dangerous situations could result.<

Deactivating cruise control
Tap the lever upwards or downwards, arrow 3.
The displays in the speedometer disappear.
In addition, the system is automatically deactivated:
> When you brake the vehicle
> When you switch gears very slowly or shift
to idle in cars with manual transmission
> When you select the automatic transmission's/SMG's neutral position N
> When you activate DTC or deactivate DSC
> When DSC or ABS is intervening
Cruise control is not deactivated by depressing
the accelerator pedal. Once the accelerator
pedal is released, the stored speed is achieved
again and maintained.

1

Stored speed

2

Selected speed is displayed briefly

If --- mph or --- km/h temporarily appears
in the instrument cluster display, it is possible that the system prerequisites for operation
are currently not met.
Calling up Check Control messages, refer to
page 66.<

Malfunction
The warning lamp comes on when
the system has failed. You can find
more information starting on
page 136.

Warning lamp
The warning lamp comes on when
cruise control has been automatically

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Active cruise control is a technological advance
over the familiar cruise control and is a welcome
relief from the constant adjustment of speed
that can accompany driving in traffic on highways or other high-speed thoroughfares. Especially on longer trips, the system can reduce
fatigue and tension, while increasing your
enjoyment of driving. Please use it safely and
responsibly.

You can shift gears while cruise control is activated. An indicator lamp notifies you that you
should shift gears when you drive for an
extended period at very high or very low engine
speeds, or the system is deactivated.

Within the limits of its capability, the system
automatically adapts the car's speed to that of a
slower vehicle in front of you. You can specify
the distance to be maintained from the vehicle
in front in four stages. For safety reasons, the
distance is speed-dependent. Based on your
selected distance setting, the system automatically decreases the throttle setting and lightly
applies the brakes if necessary. The vehicle
brake lamps will automatically illuminate to signal a following driver to take action. In addition,
it may be necessary for the vehicle or the driver
to downshift, depending on the kind of transmission your vehicle is equipped with, to maintain the distance setting selected. If the vehicle
ahead speeds up or when the lane ahead
becomes clear, your vehicle will accelerate to
the speed you have selected by increasing the
throttle setting and shifting gears automatically
or by the driver as needed. Your selected speed
will be held when driving downhill, too.

The minimum desired speed is 20 mph or
30 km/h, and the maximum desired speed is
110 mph or 180 km/h.

Since this active cruise control system is a new
technology and operates differently from conventional cruise control systems which you may
be accustomed to, you are strongly urged to
read all of the pages relating to this system
before use. Pay special attention to the System
limitations section beginning on page 57.

At a glance

Manual transmission/SMG

Range of applications

As with conventional cruise control systems, active cruise control in no way
diminishes or substitutes for the driver’s own
personal responsibility, alertness and awareness in adjusting speed, braking or otherwise
controlling the vehicle. The driver should
decide when to use the system on the basis of
road, traffic, visibility, and weather conditions.
Active cruise control is intended for use on
highway-type roadways where traffic is moving
relatively smoothly. Do not use this system in
city driving; heavy traffic such as during rush
hour; on curvy, winding roads, slippery roads or
roads with sharp curves such as highway offramps; during inclement weather such as snow,
strong rain or fog; or when entering interchanges, service/parking areas or toll booths.
It is also important to regulate your vehicle's
speed and distance setting within applicable
legal limits. Always be ready to take action or
apply the brakes if necessary, especially when
the system is actively following a vehicle in front
of you. Otherwise, driving conditions could
result which violate the law or pose a risk of
accident.<

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Controls

In Drive mode, the SMG acts similarly to an
automatic transmission in position D.

Driving tips

With active cruise control, you can select a
desired speed which is not only automatically
maintained when driving on open roadways, but
also varied to maintain a selected distance setting as slower traffic is encountered.

The system's automatic brake operation results
in a braking sensation that is slightly different
from what you feel when you brake the vehicle
yourself in a similar situation. Possible noises
during automatic deceleration are normal.

Mobility

The concept

Braking sensation

Reference

Active cruise control*

Driving

One lever for all functions

e.g. when quickly approaching a truck or when
another vehicle swerves into your lane, cannot
be compensated for by the system.<

Increasing in increments
Repeatedly tap the lever to the resistance point
or beyond, arrow 1, until the desired speed is
reached.
> Each time the lever is tapped to the resistance point, the desired speed is increased
by approx. 1 mph or 1 km/h.

1

Store and increase desired speed

2

Store and decrease desired speed

3

Deactivate system, refer to page 55

4

Resume stored desired speed and distance, refer to page 56

> Each time the lever is tapped beyond the
resistance point, the desired speed is
increased by up to 5 mph or 10 km/h until
the maximum speed of 110 mph or
180 km/h is achieved.

5

Select distance to vehicle driving ahead,
refer to page 55

The speed then displayed is stored and
achieved on a clear road.

Maintaining current speed

Increasing continuously

Briefly press the lever, arrow 1, or briefly pull it,
arrow 2, at a driving speed of more than approx.
20 mph or 30 km/h.

Repeatedly press the lever to the resistance
point or beyond, arrow 1, until the desired
speed is reached.
The speed then displayed is stored and
reached as soon as the road ahead of you is
clear.

Decreasing in increments
Repeatedly pull the lever to the resistance point
or beyond, arrow 2, until the desired speed is
reached.
The car's current speed is stored and maintained. It is displayed in the speedometer and
briefly in the instrument cluster.
On uphill gradients, it may prove impossible to
maintain the set speed if current engine power
output is insufficient. If the engine braking
effect is insufficient on downhill slopes, the system will brake the vehicle slightly.

> Each time the lever is pulled to the resistance point, the desired speed is decreased
by approx. 1 mph or 1 km/h.
> Each time the lever is pulled beyond the
resistance point, the desired speed is
reduced by up to 5 mph or 10 km/h until the
minimum speed of 20 mph or 30 km/h is
achieved.
The speed then displayed is stored and
achieved on a clear road.

Adjusting desired speed
Adjust your desired speed to the traffic
conditions and remain ready to brake at
all times, otherwise there is a risk of accident.
Great differences in speed to the vehicle ahead,
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Deactivating cruise control

> Press downward:
Increase distance

Press the lever upward or downward, arrow 3.
The displays in the speedometer disappear.

> Press upward:
Decrease distance.

In addition, the system is automatically deactivated:

The selected distance is displayed in the instrument cluster.

> When you brake the vehicle

Distance 2

Distance 3
This distance is always set when
the system is used for the first
time after starting the engine.
Distance 4

> When you switch gears very slowly or shift
to idle in cars with manual transmission
> When you select the automatic transmission's/SMG's neutral position N
> When you activate the Dynamic Traction
Control DTC
> When you deactivate the Dynamic Stability
Control DSC
> When DSC or ABS is intervening
> When the system does not recognize any
objects for a longer period of time, e.g. on
infrequently traveled roads without a shoulder or guard rails, or if the radar sensor is
covered with dirt, refer to page 56

Driving tips

Distance 1

> When the speed is reduced to below
20 mph or 30 km/h due to a traffic situation

Controls

At a glance

Selecting distance

When the system is deactivated, you
must brake the vehicle yourself and/or
maneuver as necessary, otherwise there is a
risk of accident.<

Warning lamp
The warning lamp comes on when
active cruise control has been automatically deactivated due to a driving
speed below 20 mph or 30 km/h, an application
of the handbrake or a DSC intervention.

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Reference

Use good judgement to select the appropriate following distance given road conditions, traffic, applicable laws and driving recommendations for safe following distance.
Otherwise, you may be in violation of the law or
an accident could result.<

Mobility

> When you apply the handbrake

Driving

Resuming stored desired speed and
distance

are currently not met. Calling up Check Control
messages, refer to page 66.<

Briefly press the button, arrow 4.
The stored speed and distance are regained
and maintained.

Warning lamps

In the following instances, the stored speed is
deleted and can no longer be resumed:
> When driving stability control systems are
intervening
> In cars with manual transmission: when you
shift gears very slowly or shift to idle position
> With automatic transmission/SMG: when
you engage selector lever position N
> When the ignition is switched off

Displays in the instrument cluster

The indicator 2 flashes in red; a
signal sounds.
The system indicates that you
must brake and/or maneuver the
vehicle yourself. Active cruise control cannot automatically restore the distance to
the vehicle ahead.
This indicator does not release you from your
responsibility to adapt your desired speed and
driving style to prevailing driving conditions.
The indicator 2 flashes in yellow.
The prerequisites for operating
active cruise control are not met,
e.g. as a result of ABS or DSC
interventions. Active cruise control
is deactivated. You can reactivate the system, if
desired, by tapping or pulling the lever when
road and traffic conditions permit. It is not possible to resume a stored speed.

Radar sensor

1

Stored desired speed

2

Shows yellow: vehicle detected ahead
Flashes in red: system cannot maintain distance; driver must brake the vehicle
Flashes in yellow: driving stability control
systems are intervening; cruise control is
deactivated

3

Selected distance to vehicle ahead
The indicator lights up as soon as the system is activated.

4

Selected desired speed is temporarily displayed

If --- mph or --- km/h temporarily appears
in the instrument cluster display, it is possible that the system prerequisites for operation

The sensor's ability to detect vehicles ahead
may be restricted as a result of heavy rain, dirt,
snow or ice. If necessary, clean the radar sensor
located in the front bumper, see arrow. Be sure
to use particular care when removing any layers
of snow or ice from the sensor.
When the radar sensor is not properly positioned, active cruise control cannot be activated
at all.

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Malfunction

more information starting on page 136.

Active cruise control is not and must not
be used as a collision avoidance/warning
system.<
If while your vehicle is actively following a vehicle in front of you and the vehicle ahead speeds
up or the lane ahead becomes clear, then your
vehicle will accelerate to the speed you have
selected. Be aware that changing to a clear,
unobstructed lane will also result in your vehicle
accelerating.

While active cruise control is capable of
braking your vehicle automatically when
you approach a slower vehicle ahead, it is
important to be aware that the ability of the system to apply the brakes is also limited, e.g.
when you reduce your desired speed sharply.
The system cannot stop your vehicle. It uses
only a portion of braking system capacity and
does not utilize the full capacity of the vehicle
braking system. Therefore, the system cannot
decrease your speed for large differences in
speed between your vehicle and the vehicle
ahead. Examples: when you approach a vehicle
traveling at a much lower speed than your own
speed such as approaching a toll booth or when
a much slower vehicle cuts in front of you at
close range.<
Active cruise control can only decelerate the
vehicle to approx. 20 mph or 30 km/h.

Be certain to deactivate the system when
you pull into an exit lane for a highway offramp.<
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Driving tips

Also, vehicles traveling in a staggered manner
on a highway may cause a delay in the system's
reaction to a vehicle in front of you or may cause
the system to react to a vehicle actually in the
lane next to you. Always be ready to take action
or apply the brakes if necessary.

Mobility

Always remember that the range and ability of the system does have physical limitations. It will not apply the brakes or decelerate
your vehicle when there is a slow-moving vehicle, stopped vehicle or stationary object ahead
of you, as for example, at a traffic light or a
parked vehicle. Also, the system does not react
to oncoming traffic, pedestrians or other types
of potential traffic such as a rider on horseback.
It is also possible that the system may not
detect smaller moving objects such as motorcycles or bicycles. Be especially alert when
encountering any of these situations as the system will neither automatically brake, nor provide
a warning to you. Also, be aware that every
decrease in the distance setting allows your
vehicle to come closer to a vehicle in front of
you and requires a heightened amount of alertness.<

Reference

System limitations

Controls

At a glance

The warning lamp comes on when
the system has failed. You can find

Driving

Swerving vehicles

When a vehicle moves from an adjacent lane
into your lane, active cruise control will not recognize this vehicle until it is fully in your lane
ahead of your vehicle.
When a vehicle ahead suddenly swerves
into your lane, the system may not be able
to maintain the selected distance automatically.
This also applies to great differences in speed
between you and vehicles ahead, e.g. when
quickly approaching a truck. There is a risk of
collision. Once the system has established that
a vehicle is indeed in front of you, it will indicate
that you must brake and/or maneuver the vehicle yourself. Take action yourself, otherwise
there is a risk of an accident.<

Behavior in curves

In approaching a curve, it is possible that active
cruise control would react briefly to a vehicle in
the adjacent lane. In addition, the system can
sense if your vehicle is in a curve and may not
accelerate. If your vehicle decelerates in either
case, you can choose to overcome the deceleration by briefly pressing the accelerator pedal.

Your responsibility
Your actions have priority at all times. When you
press the accelerator pedal while driving with
active cruise control, the automatic braking
function will be temporarily interrupted. Once
you release the accelerator pedal, the desired
speed or the selected distance to the vehicle
ahead is achieved again.
Do not leave your foot on the accelerator
pedal and make sure that no objects such
as floor mats are lying on the accelerator pedal.
Otherwise the system may not be able to brake
the vehicle.<

Because of the limited range of the system, it is
possible that in curves or on the peaks and valleys of hilly roads, a vehicle ahead may be recognized late, or not at all. Therefore, it is up to
the driver to select a speed that is prudent in
view of the curves and terrain of the roadway.

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Odometer, outside
temperature display, clock

When the vehicle is parked
If you still want to view the time, outside temperature and odometer reading briefly after the
remote control has been removed from the ignition lock:
Press button 1 in the instrument cluster.

At a glance

Everything under control

1

Resetting trip odometer

2

Outside temperature display and clock

3

Odometer and trip odometer

Controls

Tachometer

Units of measure

Driving tips

To select the respective units of measure, miles
or km for the odometer as well as 7 or 6 for
the outside temperature, refer to page 62.

Outside temperature display, clock
Setting the time, refer to page 64.

Outside temperature warning

Odometer and trip odometer
Resetting trip odometer:
With the ignition switched on, press button 1 in
the instrument cluster.

Coolant temperature
A warning lamp will come on if the coolant, and
therefore the engine, becomes too hot.

Mobility

Black ice can also form at temperatures
above +377/+3 6. You should therefore drive carefully on bridges and shaded
roads, for example, otherwise there is an
increased risk of an accident.<

Never force the engine speed up into the red
warning field, see arrow. In this range, the fuel
supply is interrupted to protect the engine.

Check coolant level, refer to page 121.

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Reference

When the displayed temperature sinks to
approx. +377/+3 6, a signal sounds and a
warning lamp lights up. There is an increased
risk of black ice.

Everything under control

Energy Control

Computer
Displays in the instrument cluster

Displays the current fuel consumption. This
allows you to see whether your current driving
style is conducive to fuel economy with minimum exhaust emissions.

Fuel gauge

To call up the information, press the button in
the turn indicator stalk.
The following items of information are displayed in the order listed:
> Cruising range
> Average speed
> Average fuel consumption
To set the corresponding units of measure,
refer to Formats and units of measure on
page 62.

Cruising range

Fuel tank capacity: approx. 15.9 US gallons/
60 liters. You can find information on refueling
on page 106.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies for a longer period,
when you are driving in mountainous areas, for
example, the indicator may fluctuate slightly.

Reserve
Once the fuel level has fallen to the reserve
zone of approx. 2.1 US gallons/8 liters, the indicator lamp and cruising range for the remaining
amount of fuel are displayed briefly. The indicator lamp remains permanently on if the remaining range is less than approx. 30 miles/50 km.
Refuel as soon as possible once your
cruising range falls below 30 miles/
50 km, otherwise engine functions are not
ensured and damage can occur.<

Displays the estimated cruising range available
with the remaining fuel. The range is calculated
on the basis of the way the car has been driven
over the last 18 miles/30 km and the amount of
fuel currently in the tank.
Be sure to refuel as soon as possible once
your cruising range falls below 30 miles/
50 km, otherwise engine functions are not
ensured and damage can occur.<

Average speed
Periods with the vehicle parked and the engine
switched off are not included in the calculations
of average speed.
To reset average speed: press the button in the
turn indicator stalk for approx. 2 seconds.

Average fuel consumption
The average fuel consumption is calculated for
the time during which the engine is running.

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At a glance

To reset average fuel consumption: press the
button in the turn indicator stalk for approx.
2 seconds.

Settings and information

8

Setting the date 65

> Selecting display

9

Viewing service requirement display 63

> Setting values

10 Setting formats and units of measure,
resetting to factory settings 62

Button for:
> Confirming selected display or set values
> Calling up computer information 60

11 Adjusting settings
> Confirmation signals when locking and
unlocking the vehicle 21
> Response during unlocking
procedure 20

3

When the lights are switched on: instrument
lighting brightness 78

4

Calling up Check Control 65

> Automatic locking 22

5

Checking engine oil level* 119

> Pathway lighting 76

6

Initializing the Flat Tire Monitor 72

> Daytime driving lamps 77

Setting the time 64

> Triple turn signal activation 49

7

Mobility

2

Button for:

> Seat and mirror memory 35

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Reference

1

Driving tips

Controls

Operating principle

Everything under control

Exiting displays
The outside-temperature reading and the time
reappear when you press button 2 or if you
make no entries within approx. 15 seconds. If
required, complete the current setting first.

Formats and units of measure
You can set formats and units of measure. The
settings are stored for the remote control currently in use, refer also to Personal Profile on
page 19.
1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display accompanied by the
word "SET".

>
>

Fuel consumption: mpg, km/l,
l/100km
Distance covered: mls, km

>

Time: 12h, 24h mode

>

Date: day.month dd.mm,
month/day mm/dd

>

Temperature: 7, 6

4. Press button 2.
5. Use button 1 to make the setting.
6. Press button 2.
The setting is stored.

Resetting to factory settings

2. Press button 2.
3. Use button 1 to select desired format or
desired unit of measure, e.g. for fuel consumption.

You can reset the settings for formats and units
of measure to factory settings. The settings are
stored for the remote control currently in use,
refer also to Personal Profile on page 19.
1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display accompanied by the
word "SET".

2. Press button 2.
3. Use button 1 to select "RESET".

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accompanied by the words "SERVICEINFO".
3. Use button 1 to scroll through the individual
service items.

At a glance

2. Press button 2.

4. Press button 2 until
is displayed.
The settings are reset.

The remaining driving distance and the date of
the next scheduled service are displayed briefly
immediately after you start the engine or switch
on the ignition.
The extent of service work required can
be read out from the remote control by
your BMW Service Advisor.<

Driving tips

Controls

Service requirements

1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the appropriate symbol appears in the display,
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Reference

Mobility

For certain maintenance operations, you can
view the respective distance remaining or due
date individually in the instrument cluster.

Everything under control

Possible displays

1

Button for selecting functions

7

Spark plugs

2

Service requirements

8

Brakes, front

3

Engine oil

9

Brakes, rear

4

Exhaust emissions test*

10 Brake fluid

5

Roadworthiness test*

6

Microfilter

More information on the BMW Maintenance
System can be found on page 123.

Clock
Setting the time
To set the 12h/24h mode, refer to Formats and
units of measure on page 62.

priate symbol appears in the display,
accompanied by the time and the word
"SET".
2. Press button 2.
3. Use button 1 to set the hours.
4. Press button 2.
5. Use button 1 to set the minutes.
6. Press button 2.
The system displays the new time.
7. Use button 2 to save the new time.

1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the appro64
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Date
Setting the date
At a glance

To set the dd/mm or mm/dd date format, refer
to Formats and units of measure on page 62.

Indicator and warning lamps can light up in both
the indicator area 1 and the display 2 in various
combinations and colors.

1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the appropriate symbol appears in the display,
accompanied by the date and the word
"SET".

The meaning of each lamp in the event of a malfunction and tips on how to respond are listed
starting on page 136.

Hiding Check Control messages

Controls

What to do in case of a malfunction

2. Press button 2.
3. Use button 1 to set the day of the month.
5. Set the month and the year in the same way.
6. Press button 2.
The system displays the new date.
7. Use button 2 to save the new date.
Press the button in the turn indicator stalk.

The Check Control monitors vehicle functions
and alerts you to any malfunctions in the systems monitored. Such a Check Control message includes indicator or warning lamps in the
instrument cluster and, in some circumstances,
an acoustic signal.

Other Check Control messages are automatically hidden after approx. 20 seconds, but
remain stored.

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Mobility

The concept

Some Check Control messages remain visible
until the malfunction in question has been rectified. They cannot be hidden. If several malfunctions occur at the same time, the Check Control
messages are displayed in succession.

Reference

Check Control

Driving tips

4. Press button 2.

Everything under control

indicates that Check Control messages have
been stored. You can view the Check Control
messages whenever it is convenient for you.

Viewing stored Check Control
messages

1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the appropriate symbol appears in the display,
accompanied by the words "CHECK CONTROL".
2. Press button 2.
"CHECK OK" appears if there are no Check
Control messages.
If a Check Control message has been
stored, the corresponding lamp comes on.
3. Lightly push button 1 to check for other
messages.
4. Press button 2.
The display again shows the outside temperature and the time.

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The concept
The PDC assists you with maneuvering in tight
parking spaces. Acoustic signals warn you of
the presence of an object in front of* or behind
your car. To measure the distance, there are
four ultrasonic sensors in each bumper.
An acoustic warning sounds once an object is
closer than approx. 2 ft/60 cm to the front sensors* or both rear corner sensors, or closer than
approx. 5 ft/1.50 m to the rear center sensors.
PDC is a parking aid that can indicate
objects when they are approached
slowly, as is usually the case when parking.
Avoid approaching an object at high speed, otherwise physical circumstances may lead to the
system warning being issued too late.<

The system is automatically deactivated once
the vehicle travels approx. 165 ft/50 m or
exceeds a speed of approx. 20 mph or 30 km/h;
the LED goes out. You can reactivate the system as needed.

Signal tones
When nearing an object, its position is indicated
correspondingly by an interval tone. For example, the tone sounds at the rear if the system
detects an object behind the car. As the distance between vehicle and object decreases,
the intervals between the tones become
shorter. If the distance to the nearest object
falls to below roughly 1 ft/30 cm, then a continuous tone sounds.

Controls

PDC Park Distance Control*

At a glance

Technology for driving comfort and safety

The warning signal is canceled after approx.
3 seconds, if you are moving parallel to a wall.

With the engine running or the ignition switched
on, the system is activated automatically after
approx. 1 second when you engage reverse
gear or move the automatic transmission selector lever to position R. Wait this short period
before driving.

Switching on manually

The indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster comes on. PDC is malfunctioning. Have the system checked.
To avoid this problem, keep the sensors clean
and free of ice or snow in order to ensure that
they will continue to operate effectively. When
using a high-pressure cleaner, do not spray the
sensors for extended periods of time and only
from a distance of at least 4 in/10 cm.

Driving tips

Malfunction

Automatic mode

Manual mode

Press the button, the LED lights up.

Switching off manually
Press the button again; the LED goes out.

Even with PDC, final responsibility for
estimating the distance between the
vehicle and any obstructions always remains
with the driver. Even when sensors are provided, there is a blind spot in which objects can
no longer be detected. The system is also subject to the physical limits that apply to all forms
of ultrasonic measurement, such as those
encountered with trailer towbars and couplings,

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Reference

System limitations

Mobility

The LED above the button flashes in addition.

Technology for driving comfort and safety

thin and wedge-shaped objects, etc. Low
objects already indicated, such as a curb, may
enter the sensors' dead areas before a continuous audible signal is given. Higher, protruding
objects, such as ledges, may not be detectable.
Loud sound sources outside or inside the car
can drown out the PDC signal.<

Driving stability control
systems

within physical limits by reducing engine output
and through braking actions at the individual
wheels.
The laws of physics cannot be repealed,
even with DSC. An appropriate driving
style always remains the responsibility of the
driver. Therefore, do not reduce the additional
safety margin again by taking risks.<

Deactivating DSC

Your BMW has a number of systems that help
to maintain the vehicle's stability even in
adverse driving conditions.

ABS Antilock Brake System
ABS prevents locking of the wheels during
braking. Safe steering response is maintained
even during full braking. Active safety is thus
increased.
The ABS is operational every time you start the
engine. Braking safely, refer to page 99.

Electronic brake-force distribution
The system controls the brake pressure in the
rear wheels to ensure stable braking behavior.

DBC Dynamic Brake Control
When you apply the brakes rapidly, this system
automatically produces the maximum braking
force boost and thus helps to achieve the shortest possible braking distance during full braking. This system exploits all of the benefits provided by ABS.
Do not reduce the pressure on the brake for the
duration of the brake application. If the brake is
released, DBC will be switched off.

DSC Dynamic Stability Control
DSC prevents the driving wheels from losing
traction when you pull away from rest or accelerate. DSC also recognizes unstable driving
conditions, for example if the rear of the car is
about to swerve or if momentum is acting at an
angle past the front wheels. In these cases,
DSC helps the vehicle maintain a safe course

Press the button for at least 3 seconds; the indicator lamps for DSC in the instrument cluster
light up. Dynamic Traction Control DTC and
DSC have been simultaneously deactivated.
Stabilizing and drive-output promoting actions
are no longer executed.
To increase vehicle stability, activate DSC again
as soon as possible.

Activating DSC
Press the button again; the indicator lamps in
the instrument cluster go out.

To control
If the indicator lamp flashes:
DSC controls the drive forces and
brake forces.
If the indicator lamps are on:
DSC has been completely deactivated.

DTC Dynamic Traction Control
DTC is a version of DSC in which the drive output is optimized for particular road conditions,
e.g. unplowed snow-covered roads. The system assures the maximal drive output, but with

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> When driving with snow chains

Activating DTC

The warning lamps come on. xDrive
and DSC have failed.
Have the system checked as soon as
possible.

Hill Descent Control HDC 325xi, 330xi

Briefly press the button; the DTC indicator
lamps in the instrument cluster come on.

To control
If the indicator lamp flashes:
DTC controls the drive forces and
brake forces.
If the indicator lamps are on:
DTC has been activated.

Deactivating DTC
Press the button again; the DTC indicator
lamps in the instrument cluster go out.

At a glance

The warning lamps come on. xDrive
has failed.
Have the system checked as soon as
possible.

HDC is a downhill driving assistant that reduces
your speed on steep downhill gradients and
makes it even easier to control your BMW's
handling under these conditions. The vehicle
then moves slightly faster than double walking
speed without the driver needing to intervene.
HDC can be activated as long as you are driving
under approx. 20 mph or 35 km/h. When driving
downhill at a speed of under approx. 20 mph or
35 km/h, the vehicle's speed is automatically
reduced to slightly more than double walking
speed and maintained.

Controls

> When rocking a stuck vehicle free or starting off in deep snow or on loose ground

Driving tips

> When driving uphill on snow-covered roads,
in slush or on unplowed, snow-covered
roads

In case of any of the malfunctions
described below, drive cautiously and
think well ahead. Avoid driving on rough tracks
and pressing the accelerator pedal down to full
throttle or kick-down position, otherwise the
drive system could be damaged or accidents
could result.<

Increasing or decreasing speed
By accelerating or braking you can change the
speed within a range from approx. 3 to 15 mph,
approx. 5 to 25 km/h.
You can specify a target speed within the same
range using the cruise control stalk.

xDrive 325xi, 330xi
xDrive is your BMW's four-wheel-drive system.
The combined efforts of xDrive and DSC help to
further optimize traction and driving dynamics.
The xDrive four-wheel-drive system distributes
driving power variably to the front and rear axles
depending on the driving situation and road
conditions.

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Mobility

You may find it useful to briefly activate DTC
under the following special circumstances:

Malfunction

Reference

reduced driving stability. It is therefore necessary to drive with appropriate caution.

Technology for driving comfort and safety

Displays in the instrument cluster

1

To increase speed

2

To decrease speed

Activating HDC

1

Display for target speed

2

HDC display

Malfunction
The HDC display disappears during HDC operation, or does not appear:
HDC is temporarily unavailable due to excessive brake temperature, or DSC has failed.

Malfunction in driving stability control
systems
Press the button; the indicator lamp lights up.
The indicator lamp flashes when the vehicle is
being braked automatically.

Deactivating HDC
Press the button again; the indicator lamp goes
out.
HDC is deactivated instantly above a speed of
approx. 35 mph or 60 km/h, or approx.
10 seconds after the ignition is switched off.

Using HDC
In cars with manual transmission:
Use HDC in lower gears and in reverse gear.
With automatic transmission:
You can use HDC in any drive position.

The warning lamps come on. DSC
including DTC and DBC is malfunctioning.
The vehicle remains operational.
Have the system checked as soon as possible.
Drive cautiously and think well ahead,
otherwise unstable driving conditions
could result.<

323i*, 325i, 330i
The warning lamps for the brake system come on in red, together with the
yellow indicator lamps for driving stability control systems and FTM:
The driving stability control systems
and the Flat Tire Monitor have failed.
All warning lamps come on in yellow:
The driving stability control systems and the
Flat Tire Monitor have failed. The electronic
brake-force distribution is still active.
Have the system checked as soon as possible.
Drive cautiously, think well ahead and
avoid full brake applications, otherwise
accidents could result.<

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If one of the malfunctions described
below occurs, drive cautiously and think
well ahead. Also avoid situations that require full
braking, otherwise accidents could result.
Avoid driving on rough tracks and pressing the
accelerator pedal down to full throttle or kickdown position, otherwise the drive system
could be damaged.<
The warning lamps for the brake system come on in red, together with the
yellow indicator lamps for driving stability control systems and FTM:
The driving stability control systems
and the Flat Tire Monitor have failed.
All warning lamps come on in yellow:
The driving stability control systems and the
Flat Tire Monitor have failed. The electronic
brake-force distribution is still active.
Have the system checked as soon as possible.
Display* of this malfunction on Canadian models.

2. Release the brake and drive off without
delay.
The drive-off assistant holds the car in
place for approx. 2 seconds after the
brake is released. Depending on vehicle load,
the car may roll backwards a little during this
time span. Drive off without delay after releasing the brake. Otherwise, the drive-off assistant
will no longer hold the car in place after approx.
2 seconds and the car will start to roll backwards.<

Malfunction
The warning lamps for the brake system light up in yellow. The drive-off
assistant has failed. The car will not
be held in place after the brake is
released. Have the system checked as soon as
possible.
Canadian models display these warning lamps.

Flat Tire Monitor FTM
The concept
The Flat Tire Monitor monitors tire pressures
while the car is being driven. The system
reports any significant loss of pressure in one
tire in relation to another.

Display* of this malfunction on Canadian models.

At a glance

1. Hold the car in place by depressing the
brake.

Controls

With xDrive 325xi, 330xi

The drive-off assistant enables you to drive off
smoothly on uphill gradients. It is not necessary
to use the handbrake for this.

Driving tips

Display* of this malfunction on Canadian models.

Drive-off assistant

If a tire loses pressure, its rolling radius
changes, and this in turn alters the speed of
rotation. This change is detected and is
reported as a flat tire.

Mobility

Display* of this malfunction on Canadian models.

In order to assure the reliable reporting of a flat
tire, the system must be initialized for the correct tire inflation pressure.
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Reference

Functional requirement

Technology for driving comfort and safety

The system must be reinitialized each
time a tire inflation pressure has been corrected or a wheel or tire has been changed.<

4. Press button 2 for approx. 5 seconds, until
the reading shown below is displayed.

System limitations
The Flat Tire Monitor is unable to warn
the driver of sudden, severe tire damage
caused by external factors, nor can it identify
the gradual loss of pressure that will inevitably
occur in all four tires over a lengthy period of
time.<
In the following situations, the system could be
delayed or malfunction:
> System has not been initialized
> Driving on snowy or slippery road surface
> Performance-oriented style of driving: slip
in the drive wheels, high lateral acceleration
> If snow chains are attached

Initializing the system
The initialization is completed during driving, which can be interrupted at any time.
When driving resumes, the initialization is continued automatically.
Do not initialize the system while snow chains
are attached.<
Operating principle, refer to page 61.
1. Start the engine immediately before pulling
away, but do not drive off yet.

5. Start to drive.
Initialization is completed while the car is on
the move, without any feedback.

Indication of a flat tire
The warning lamps come on in yellow
and red. In addition, an acoustic signal sounds. There is a flat tire or substantial loss of tire pressure.
1. Cautiously reduce speed to below 50 mph
or 80 km/h. Avoid sudden braking and
steering maneuvers. Do not exceed a speed
of 50 mph or 80 km/h.
If the car is not equipped with RunFlat Tires, refer to page 116, the standard equipment by design, do not continue
driving. Otherwise a severe accident could
result after a tire puncture.<
2. At the next opportunity, check the air pressure in all four tires.
If all four tires are inflated to the correct pressures, the Flat Tire Monitor
might not have been initialized. The system
must then be initialized.<

2. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the appropriate symbol appears in the display,
accompanied by the word "INIT".
3. Press button 2 to confirm your choice of the
Flat Tire Monitor.

3. In the event of complete tire pressure loss,
0 psi/0 kPa, you can estimate the possible
distance for continued driving on the basis
of the following guidelines:
> With a light load:
1 to 2 persons without luggage:
approx. 155 miles/250 km
> With a medium load:
2 persons, luggage compartment full, or

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Drive cautiously and do not exceed a
speed of 50 mph or 80 km/h. In the event
of pressure loss, vehicle handling changes. This
includes reduced tracking stability in braking,
extended braking distance and altered natural
steering characteristics.
If unusual vibration or loud noises occur during
the journey, this may be an indication that the
damaged tire has finally failed. Reduce your
speed and pull over to the side of the road at the
earliest opportunity. Otherwise, parts of the tire
could come loose and cause an accident. Do
not continue driving. Contact your BMW Center.<

Malfunction
The warning lamps come on. Active
steering is no longer operational. At
low speeds, greater steering wheel
movements are required, whereas at
higher speeds the vehicle reacts more sensitively to steering wheel movements. Drive cautiously and think well ahead. Have the system
checked.
If the warning lamp lights up during the first
engine starting following a power supply interruption, the system must be activated by being
initialized.

At a glance

> With a full load:
4 or more persons, luggage compartment full:
approx. 30 miles/50 km

before the driver intervenes. This stabilizing
intervention is simultaneously deactivated
when DSC is switched off, refer to page 68.

Controls

4 persons without luggage:
approx. 90 miles/150 km

Brake Force Display*

Malfunction

Driving tips

The warning lamps come on in yellow. The Flat Tire Monitor has a malfunction or has failed. Have the system checked as soon as possible.

Active steering*

When you are driving in the low road-speed
range, e.g. in a town or when parking, the steering angle increases, i.e. the steering becomes
very direct, and less effort is required to turn the
wheels. In the higher speed range, on the other
hand, the steering angle is reduced more and
more. This improves the handling capability of
your BMW over the entire speed range.

The brake lamps light up in two stages,
depending on how sharply you apply the
brakes.
> Normal braking:
The brake lamps and the center brake lamp
light up.
> Sharp braking:
The illuminated surface of the brake lamps
is enlarged, as long as the rear fog light is
not switched on.

In critical situations, the system can make targeted corrections to the steering angle provided by the driver and thus stabilize the vehicle
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Mobility

Active steering varies the turning angle of the
front wheels in relation to steering wheel movements. It also varies the steering force required
to turn the wheels depending on the speed at
which you are driving.

Reference

The concept

Technology for driving comfort and safety

Airbags

The following airbags are located under the
marked covers:
1

Front airbags

2

Head airbags

3

Side airbags

Protective action
Observe the adjustment instructions on
page 31 to ensure the best possible personal protection.<
The front airbags help protect the driver and
front passenger by responding to frontal
impacts in which safety belts alone cannot provide adequate restraint. When needed, the
head and side airbags help provide protection in
the event of side impact. The relevant side airbag supports the side upper body area. The
head air bag supports the head.
The airbags will purposely not be activated by
every collision, e.g. not by more minor accidents, certain roll-over situations and rear-end
collisions.
Do not apply adhesive materials to the
cover panels of the airbags, cover them or
modify them in any other way. Do not attach
seat covers, cushions or other objects not specifically approved for seats with integral side airbags to the front seats. Do not hang items of
clothing such as coats or jackets over the backrests. Do not attempt to remove the airbag
retention system from the vehicle. Do not modify the individual components of the system or
its wiring in any way. This includes the upholstered covers on the steering wheel, instrument
panel, seats and roof posts, as well as the sides

of the roof lining. Do not attempt to remove or
dismantle the steering wheel.
Do not touch the individual components immediately after the system has been triggered,
because there is a danger of burns.
In the event of malfunctions, deactivation, or
triggering of the airbag restraint system, have
the testing, repair, removal, and disposal of airbag generators executed only by a BMW Center or a workshop that works according to BMW
repair procedures with correspondingly trained
personnel and has the required explosives
licenses. Unprofessional attempts to service
the system could lead to failure in an emergency or undesired airbag activation, either of
which could result in personal injury.<
Warning notices and information about the airbags can also be found on the sun visors.

Automatic deactivation of the front
passenger airbags
An analysis of the impression in the front passenger seat cushion determines whether and
how the seat is occupied. The front and side airbags for the front passenger are activated or
deactivated by the system accordingly.
The indicator lamp above the interior
rearview mirror shows the current status
of the front passenger airbags, deactivated or
activated, refer to Status of front passenger airbags below.
Before transporting a child on the front
passenger seat, read the safety precautions and handling instructions under Transporting children safely, refer to page 39.
The front and side airbags can also be deacti-

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Status of front passenger airbags

Operational readiness of airbag system

As of radio readiness, refer to page 42, the
warning lamp comes on briefly to indicate that
the entire airbag system and the belt tensioners
are operational.

Airbag system malfunction

At a glance

The front and side airbags for the front passenger are not activated.

Controls

vated by adolescents and adults sitting in certain positions; the indicator lamp for the front
passenger airbags comes on. In such cases, the
passenger should change his or her sitting
position so that the front passenger airbags are
activated and the indicator lamp goes out. If the
desired airbag status cannot be achieved by
changing the sitting position, transport the relevant passenger on a rear seat. Do not attach
seat covers, seat cushion padding, ball mats or
other items to the front passenger seat unless
they are specifically recommended by BMW.
Do not place any items under the seat which
could press against the seat from below. Otherwise a correct analysis of the seat cushion is not
ensured.<

> Warning lamp does not come on along with
radio readiness

> The indicator lamp does not come on as
long as a person of sufficient size and in a
correct sitting position is detected on the
seat.
The front and side airbags for the front passenger are activated.
> The indicator lamp does not come on if the
seat is empty.
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Mobility

> The indicator lamp comes on as intended
when a child in a specially designated childrestraint system is detected on the seat.
The front and side airbags for the front passenger are not activated.

Reference

The indicator lamp for the front passenger airbags shows the functional status of the front
passenger's front and side airbags in accordance with whether and how the front passenger seat is occupied. The indicator lamp shows
whether the front passenger airbags are activated or deactivated.

In the event of a fault in the airbag system,
have it checked without delay, otherwise
there is the risk that the system will not function
as intended even if a sufficiently severe accident occurs.<

Driving tips

> Warning lamp remains permanently on

Lamps

Lamps
Parking lamps/low beams

ing on ambient light conditions, e.g. in a tunnel,
in twilight, or if there is precipitation. The LED
next to the symbol is illuminated when the low
beams are on.
When driving into tunnels with bright overhead
lights, there may be a delay before the headlamps come on.
The headlamps may also come on when the
sun is sitting low on a blue sky.

0

Lamps off and daytime driving lamps

1

Parking lamps and daytime driving lamps

2

Low beams

3

Automatic headlamp control* and Adaptive
Head Light*

Parking lamps
In switch position 1, the front, rear and side
vehicle lighting is switched on. You can use the
parking lamps for parking. For the additional
option of roadside parking lamps on one side of
the car only, refer to page 78.
The parking lamps will discharge the battery. Therefore, do not leave them on for
unduly long periods of time, otherwise the battery might not have enough power to start the
engine.<

Low beams
The low beams light up when the light switch is
in position 2 and the ignition is on.
If desired, the light switch can remain in the lowbeam headlamp position. The exterior lamps
are automatically switched off after the vehicle
is parked.
If necessary, switch on the parking lamps as
described in the section about parking lamps.

The low beams remain switched on independent of the ambient lighting conditions when you switch on the fog lamps*.
When the daytime driving lamps are activated,
refer to page 77, the low-beam headlamps are
always switched on when the switch is in position 3 and the ignition is on.<
If desired, the light switch can remain in position
3. The exterior lamps are automatically
switched off after the vehicle is parked.
The automatic headlamp control cannot
serve as a substitute for your personal
judgment in determining when the lamps
should be switched on in response to ambient
lighting conditions. For example, the system
cannot detect fog or hazy weather. To avoid
safety risks, you should always switch on the
lamps manually under these conditions.<

Pathway lighting
If you activate the headlamp flasher after parking the car, with the lights switched off, the low
beams come on and remain on for a certain
time.
You can adjust the operating period or deactivate the function.
Operating principle, refer to page 61.
1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the symbol

Automatic headlamp control*
When the switch is in position 3, the low beams
are switched on and off automatically depend76
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appears in the display accompanied by the
word "SET".

Activating/deactivating daytime
driving lamps*
1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display accompanied by the
word "SET".

At a glance

Operating principle, refer to page 61.

2. Press button 2.

Driving tips

3. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display.

4. Press button 2.
5. Use button 1 to select:
>
The function is deactivated.

6. Press button 2.
The setting is stored.

Daytime driving lamps
If desired, the light switch can remain in the
Lamps off position or the Parking lamps position.
In the Lamps off position, the exterior lamps are
automatically switched off after the vehicle is
parked. In the Parking lamps position, the parking lamps come on after the ignition is switched
off.
If necessary, switch on the parking lamps as
described in the section about parking lamps.

4. Press button 2.
5. Use button 1 to select:
>
Daytime driving lamps activated.
>
Daytime driving lamps deactivated.
6. Press button 2.
The setting is stored.

Mobility

...
Select the corresponding duration, e.g.
40 seconds.

Adaptive Head Light*
The concept
Adaptive Head Light is a variable headlamp
control system that enables better illumination

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Reference

>

Controls

2. Press button 2.
3. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk down repeatedly until the symbol
appears in the display.

Lamps

of the road surface. Depending on the steering
angle and other parameters, the light from the
headlamp follows the course of the road.

tery might not have enough power to start the
engine.<

Activating Adaptive Head Light

Fog lamps*

With the ignition on, turn the light switch to the
automatic headlamp control position, refer to
page 76.
To avoid dazzling the drivers of oncoming vehicles, Adaptive Head Light is not active when the
car is driven in reverse, and directs the light to
the front passenger's side when the vehicle is at
a standstill.

Malfunction
The LED next to the symbol for automatic headlamp control flashes. Adaptive Head Light is
malfunctioning or has failed. Have the system
checked as soon as possible.

The parking lamps or low beams must
be switched on for the fog lamps to
operate. The green indicator lamp in
the instrument cluster lights up whenever the
fog lamps are on.

High beams/roadside parking
lamps

Depending on your vehicle's equipment version, the fog lamps are switched off when you
activate the headlamp flasher or switch on the
high beams*.
If the automatic headlamp control is activated, the low beams will come on automatically when you switch on the fog lamps.<

Instrument lighting
You can adjust the brightness of the instrument
lighting only when the parking lamps or the low
beams are switched on.

1

High beams

2

Headlamp flasher

3

Roadside parking lamps*

Roadside parking lamps, left or right*
There is an additional option of switching on the
lamps on the side of the car facing the road
when parked, if permitted in the country of use.
After parking the vehicle, press the lever up or
down beyond the pressure point, arrow 3.
The roadside parking lamps drain the battery. Therefore, do not leave them on for
unduly long periods of time, otherwise the bat-

1. Lightly push button 1 up or down repeatedly until the appropriate symbol appears in

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Reading lamps

3. Lightly push button 1 up or down to select
the brightness; the setting is stored immediately.
4. Press button 2 in the turn indicator stalk.
The display again shows the outside temperature and the time.

There are reading lamps at the front and rear*,
next to the interior lamps. To switch on and off,
press the button.

At a glance

2. Press button 2.

To switch off the lamp permanently, press the
button for the front interior lamp for about
3 seconds.

Controls

the display, accompanied by the brightness
and the word "SET".

The interior lamps, the footwell lamps*, the luggage compartment lamp and the courtesy
lamps* are controlled automatically.
The LEDs for the courtesy lamps are set in the
door handles and illuminate the ground in front
of the doors.
To avoid draining the battery, all lamps
inside the car are switched off about
15 minutes after the ignition is switched off,
refer to Start/stop button on page 42.<

Driving tips

Interior lamps

Interior lamps, front and rear*:
To switch on and off, press the button.
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Reference

Mobility

Switching interior lamps on/off
manually

Climate

Climate

Equipment versions

Air vents

Depending on the equipment version, your car
has an air conditioner or an automatic climate
control system.

3

Airflow directed toward the windshield and
side windows

4

Air to the upper body area.
The knurled wheels open and close the air
supply continuously. The levers alter the
direction of the airflow. For further details of
draft-free ventilation refer to page 85.

5

Air to the footwell

1

Air conditioner

2

Automatic climate control*

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1

Air distribution

4

Cooling function

2

Recirculated-air mode

5

Temperature

3

Air flow rate

6

Rear window defroster

Switching the system on/off

If the air outside the car has an
unpleasant odor or contains pollutants, shut off the supply to the
interior of the car temporarily. The
system then recirculates the air currently within
the vehicle.

To switch on the air conditioner, set the desired
air flow rate.

Switching cooling function on/off
The cooling function cools and
dehumidifies the incoming air
before also reheating it as
required, according to the temperature setting.

You can also activate/deactivate the recirculated-air mode by means of a button* on the
steering wheel, refer to page 11.

Depending on the weather, the windshield may
fog over briefly when the engine is started.

If condensation starts to form on the
inside window surfaces during operation
in the recirculated-air mode, you should switch
it off while also increasing the air flow rate as
required.
The recirculated-air mode should not be used
continuously for lengthy periods, otherwise the
quality of the air inside the car will gradually
deteriorate.<

Rear window defroster

Air flow rate
Adjust the air flow rate. The higher
the rate, the more effective the
heating or cooling will be.

Driving tips

Recirculated-air mode

Turn the air flow rate rotary switch to 0. Blower
and air conditioner are completely switched off
and the air supply is cut off.

The defroster switches off automatically after a certain time.

Temperature
To increase the temperature, turn
the rotary switch clockwise
towards red.
To cool the air, turn the rotary
switch counterclockwise towards blue.

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Mobility

Direct the flow of air to the windows
, to the upper body area
or to the footwell
. Intermediate settings are possible.

Reference

Air distribution

Controls

At a glance

Air conditioner

Climate

Defrosting windows and removing
condensation

1. Air distribution 1 in position

work. You can call up further information in the
service requirements display, refer to page 63.

.

2. Airflow control 2 all the way to the right.
3. Temperature 3 to the right, red.
4. Switch on rear window defroster 4 to
defrost the rear window
.

Ventilation

1

Use the knurled wheels to smoothly open
and close the air vents

2

Use the lever to change the direction of the
airflow

Ventilation for cooling
Adjust the vent outlets to direct the flow of cool
air in your direction, for instance if it has become
too hot in the car.

Draft-free ventilation
Set the vent outlets so that the air flows past
you and not straight at you.

Microfilter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen from
the incoming air. The microfilter is changed by
your BMW Center during routine maintenance
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1

Air distribution, manual

7

Residual heat

2

Temperature, left side of passenger compartment

8

Temperature, right side of passenger compartment

3

Maximum cooling

9

4

AUTO program

Defrosting windows and removing condensation

5

Air flow rate, manual

10 Switching cooling function on/off manually

6

AUC Automatic recirculated-air control/
Recirculated-air mode

11 Rear window defroster

Most settings are stored for the remote control
currently in use, refer also to Personal Profile
settings on page 19.

Switching manual air distribution on/
off
The emerging air is directed to the
windows, to the upper body area or
to the footwell.
You can switch the automatic air
distribution back on by pressing the AUTO button.

Set the desired temperatures individually for the driver's and front
passenger's sides.
The automatic climate control
achieves this temperature as quickly as possible regardless of the season, using maximum
cooling or heating power if necessary, and then
maintains it.

Driving tips

The following sections inform you in detail
about how to adjust the settings.

Temperature

When you switch between different temperature settings in quick succession, the
automatic climate control does not have
enough time to achieve the set temperature.<

Maximum cooling
At outside temperatures above
32 7/0 6 and when the engine is
running, you obtain a maximum
cooling effect as soon as possible.
The automatic climate control switches to the
lowest temperature and operates in recirculated-air mode. Air flows at maximum rate only
from the vents for the upper body area. You

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Mobility

AUTO program 4 offers the ideal air distribution
and air flow rate for almost all conditions, refer
to AUTO program below. All you need to do is
select an interior temperature which is comfortable for you.

12 Air grill for interior temperature sensor –
please keep clear and unobstructed

Reference

Comfortable interior climate

Controls

At a glance

Automatic climate control*

Climate

should therefore open them for maximum cooling.

AUTO program
The AUTO program adjusts the air
distribution to the windshield and
side windows, towards the upper
body area and into the footwell for you. The air
flow rate and your temperature specifications
will be adapted to outside influences as a result
of seasonal changes, e.g. sunlight or window
condensation.

shut off. The system then recirculates the
air currently within the vehicle.
If condensation starts to form on the
inside window surfaces during operation
in the recirculated-air mode, you should switch
it off while also increasing the air flow rate as
required.
The recirculated-air mode should not be used
over an extended period of time, otherwise the
air quality inside the car will deteriorate continuously.<

The cooling is switched on automatically with
the AUTO program.

Via the button* on the steering wheel

Adjusting air flow rate manually

> When outside air is coming in, you can use
the button on the steering wheel to switch
between outside air and recirculated-air
mode.

Press the left side of the button to
reduce airflow. Press the right side
of the button to increase it.
You can reactivate the automatic mode for the
air flow rate with the AUTO button.

Switching the system on/off
With the blower at its lowest setting, press the
left side of the button to switch off the automatic climate control. All indicators go out.
Press any button except REST to reactivate the
automatic climate control.

AUC Automatic recirculated-air
control/Recirculated-air mode
Switch on the desired operating
mode by pressing this button
repeatedly:
> LEDs off: outside air flows in continuously.
> Left-hand LED on, AUC mode: a sensor
detects pollutants in the outside air. If necessary, the system blocks the supply of outside air and recirculates the inside air. As
soon as the concentration of pollutants in
the outside air has decreased sufficiently,
the system automatically switches back to
outside air supply.

You can switch between operating modes via a
button on the steering wheel, refer to page 11:

> When recirculated-air mode or AUC mode
is switched on, you can use the button on
the steering wheel to switch between recirculated-air mode and AUC mode.

Residual heat
The heat stored in the engine is
used to heat the passenger compartment, e.g. while stopped at a
school to pick up a child.
The function can be switched on when the following conditions are met:
> Up to 15 minutes after the engine has been
switched off
> While the engine is at operating temperature
> As long as battery voltage is sufficient
> At an outside temperature below 77 7/
25 6
The LED is lit when the function is on.
As of radio readiness, you can set the interior
temperature, the air flow rate and the air distribution.

> Right-hand LED on, recirculated-air mode:
the supply of outside air is permanently

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Switching cooling function on/off
The cooling function cools and
dehumidifies the incoming air
before also reheating it as
required, according to the temperature setting.
Depending on the weather, the windshield may
fog over briefly when the engine is started.
The cooling function is automatically switched
on along with the AUTO program. The passenger compartment can only be cooled while the
engine is running.

1

Use the knurled wheel to smoothly open
and close the air vents

2

Use the knurled wheel to adjust the temperature:

Rear window defroster

> Turn toward blue: colder

The defroster switches off automatically after a certain time.

> Turn toward red: warmer
3

Ventilation

Use the lever to change the direction of the
airflow

Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter
The microfilter traps dust and pollen in the
incoming air. The activated-charcoal filter provides additional protection by filtering gaseous
pollutants from the outside air. Your BMW Center replaces this combined filter during routine
maintenance.
You can call up further information in the service
requirements display, refer to page 63.
1

Use the knurled wheels to smoothly open
and close the air vents

2

Use the lever to change the direction of the
airflow

3

Knurled wheel for more or less cool air from
the vents for the upper body area

Controls

Ventilation in the rear

At a glance

Set the vent outlets so that the air flows past
you and not straight at you.

Driving tips

Quickly removes ice and condensation from the windshield and
front side windows.

Draft-free ventilation

Mobility

Defrosting windows and removing
condensation

Ventilation for cooling

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Reference

Adjust the vent outlets to direct the flow of cool
air in your direction, for instance if it has become
too hot in the car.

Practical interior accessories

Practical interior accessories
Integrated universal remote
control*

HomeLink is a registered trademark of Johnson
Controls, Inc.<

Programming

The concept
The integrated universal remote control can
replace as many as three hand-held transmitters for various remote-controlled devices,
such as door openers and house alarm systems. The integrated universal remote control
registers and stores signals from the original
hand-held transmitters.
The signal of an original hand-held transmitter
can be programmed on one of the three memory buttons 1. After this, the programmed
memory button 1 will operate the system in
question. The LED 2 flashes to confirm transmission of the signal.
Should you sell your vehicle one day, be sure to
delete the stored programs beforehand for your
safety, refer to page 87.
To prevent possible damage or injury,
before programming or using the integrated universal remote control, always inspect
the immediate area to make certain that no people, animals or objects are within the pivoting or
travel range of the device being operated. Comply also with the safety instructions supplied
with the original hand-held transmitter.<

Checking compatibility
If this symbol appears on the package
or in the instructions supplied with the
original hand-held transmitter, you can
assume that the radio remote control device will
be compatible with the integrated universal
remote control.
For additional information, please contact your
BMW Center or call: 1-800-355-3515.
You can also obtain information on the Internet
at:
www.bmwusa.com or
www.homelink.com.

1

Memory buttons

2

LED

Fixed-code hand-held transmitters
1. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 42.
2. When starting operation for the first time:
Press both outer memory buttons 1 for
approx. 20 seconds until the LED 2 flashes.
all stored programs are cleared.
3. Hold the original hand-held transmitter at a
distance of approx. 2 to 8 in/5 to 20 cm from
the memory buttons 1.
The required distance between the
hand-held transmitter and the memory buttons 1 depends on the system of the
respective original hand-held transmitter
used.<
4. Simultaneously press the transmit key on
the original hand-held transmitter and the
desired memory button 1 on the integrated
universal remote control. The LED 2 flashes
slowly at first. As soon as the LED 2 flashes
rapidly, release both buttons. If the LED 2
does not flash rapidly after approx. 15 seconds, alter the distance.
5. To program other original hand-held transmitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.

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Alternating-code hand-held
transmitters
To program the integrated universal remote
control, consult the operating instructions for
the device to be set. You will find information
there on the possibilities for synchronization.
When programming hand-held transmitters

1. Park your vehicle within the range of the
remote-controlled device.
2. Program the integrated universal remote
control as described above in the section
Fixed-code hand-held transmitters.

At a glance

If the system fails to function even after
repeated programming, check whether
the original hand-held transmitter uses an alternating-code system. To do so, either read the
instructions for the original hand-held transmitter or hold down the programmed memory
button 1 of the integrated universal remote
control. If the LED 2 on the integrated universal
remote control flashes rapidly for a short while
and then remains lit for about two seconds, the
original hand-held transmitter uses an alternating-code system. If it uses an alternating-code
system, program the memory buttons 1 as
described under Alternating-code hand-held
transmitters.<

Programming will be easier with the aid of
a second person.<

3. Locate the button on the receiver of the
device to be set, e.g. on the drive unit.
4. Press the button on the receiver of the
device to be set. After step 4, you have
approx. 30 seconds for step 5.
5. Press the programmed memory button 1 of
the integrated universal remote control
three times.
The corresponding memory button 1 is now
programmed with the signal of the original
hand-held transmitter.

Controls

You can operate the system when the engine is
running or when the ignition is switched on.

that employ an alternating code, please observe
the following supplementary instructions:

If you have any questions, please contact
your BMW Center.<

Deleting stored programs
Press both outer memory buttons 1 for approx.
20 seconds until the LED 2 flashes: all stored
programs are cleared.
It is not possible to clear individual programs.

Driving tips

The corresponding memory button 1 is now
programmed with the signal of the original
hand-held transmitter.

Interior rearview mirror with digital compass*
Setting compass zones

1

Adjustment button

2

Display

The display shows you the main or secondary
direction in which you are driving.
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Reference

Mobility

Depending on the vehicle's geographic location, the relevant compass zone must be set.

Practical interior accessories

Refer to the world map with compass zones
below.

To set a compass zone, press the adjustment
button on the bottom of the interior rearview
mirror with a pointed object, such as a pen, for
approx. 3-4 seconds. The number of the compass zone set is shown in the display.

Procedure

To change the zone setting, press the adjustment button repeatedly until the display shows
the number of the compass zone in which you
are currently driving:

2. Set the currently valid compass zone.

The compass is operational again after approx.
10 seconds.

1. Make sure that no large metal objects or
overhead power lines are in the vicinity of
your vehicle and that you have enough
space to drive in a circle.
3. Press the adjustment button to call up C or
CAL. Then drive in one full circle at a speed
of no more than 4 mph or 7 km/h.
If calibration is successful, the C or CAL display is replaced by the cardinal directions.

Calibrating the digital compass
The digital compass must be calibrated in the
following situations:
> C or CAL is displayed.
> The compass shows the wrong cardinal
direction.
> The cardinal direction shown does not
change although the direction of travel
does.
> Not all cardinal directions are shown.

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Locking

Rear window blind

To lock the glove compartment, use the integrated key of the remote control or the spare
key, refer to page 18.

Rechargeable flashlight*
It is on the left-hand side of the glove compartment. The flashlight can remain plugged in.
Whenever required, pull the flashlight out of its
socket.

At a glance

Roller sun blinds*

Controls

Tap the button in the center console to raise or
lower the roller sun blind.

Roller sun blinds for rear side windows
Pull loop of roller sun blind and hook onto
bracket.

Opening

Only insert the flashlight back into the
socket when it is switched off, otherwise
there is a risk of damage.<

Center armrest
Storage compartment
The center armrest between the front seats
contains either a compartment or the cover for
the snap-in adapter*, depending on the equipment version.

Driving tips

Glove compartment

Mobility

Pull the handle.
The light in the glove compartment switches
on.

Closing
Fold the cover up.

Opening
Press the button, see arrow.
The lid opens.

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Reference

To prevent injury in the event of an accident while the vehicle is being driven,
close the glove compartment immediately after
use.<

Practical interior accessories

Ventilated storage compartment

Storage compartments inside
the vehicle
Depending on your vehicle's equipment, you
will find compartments beside the steering column*, in the front doors and in the center console*.
There are nets* on the front-seat backrests.

Clothes hooks
The storage compartment in the center armrest
can be ventilated: slide the switch backwards.
The temperature is controlled via the knurled
wheel for adjusting the temperature of air ventilating the rear of the passenger compartment,
refer to page 85.

Connection for external audio device
You can connect an external audio device such
as a CD or MP3 player and play audio tracks
over the car's loudspeaker system. You can set
the volume and tone by means of the car radio,
refer to the separate Owner's Manual for Radio.

Connecting
Lift up the center armrest.

1

2

Power supply for your external audio
device:
Socket with removable cap
Connection for audio playback:
3.5 mm cinch connector

To play audio tracks through the car's loudspeaker system, connect the headset or lineout port of the external device to connection 2.

There are clothes hooks on the grab handles in
the rear passenger compartment.
Items of clothing hung from the hooks
must not obstruct the driver's view. Do
not hang heavy objects from the hooks, otherwise they could endanger the car's occupants,
e.g. in case of heavy braking or sudden swerving.<

Cup holders
Do not place glassware in a cup holder;
otherwise there is an increased risk of
injury in the event of an accident.<

Front

Opening
Briefly press the center of the cover.

Closing
Briefly press the cover in the center and push in
the cup holder.

Rear
There are two additional cup holders in the rear
center armrest.

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Ashtray, front

the cigarette lighter and possibly burn themselves.<

Ashtray, rear
Opening

At a glance

Opening

Emptying
Push the ridge on the cover.

Emptying

Controls

Push the ridge on the cover.

Connecting electrical
appliances
Lift out the insert.

In your BMW, you can use electrical devices
such as a flashlight, car vacuum cleaner, etc., up
to approx. 200 watts at 12 volts, as long as one
of the following sockets is available. Avoid damaging the sockets by attempting to insert plugs
of unsuitable shape or size.

Lighter

Driving tips

Lift out the insert.

Cigarette lighter socket*

Socket in the center armrest
With the engine running or the ignition switched
on, press in the cigarette lighter.

External audio device, refer to page 90.

Mobility

Pull the cigarette lighter out of the socket, refer
to page 91.

Hold or touch the hot cigarette lighter by
the knob only. Holding or touching it in
other areas could result in burns.
When leaving the car, always remove the
remote control so that children cannot operate
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Reference

The lighter can be removed as soon as it pops
back out.

Practical interior accessories

Sockets in the rear center console*

Remove corresponding cover.

Socket in the luggage compartment*

3. Push the corresponding head restraint
down as far as it will go, refer to page 34.
4. To release the rear seat back, pull the corresponding lever in the luggage compartment.

Open the cap.

Through-loading system*

5. The unlocked rear seat back moves forward
slightly. Fold the seat back forward by the
head restraint.

Opening
1. Open the belt lock of the rear center safety
belt. To do so, press the button, see arrow,
and release the latch plate.

Closing
1. Return the rear seat back to its upright position and engage it.
2. Insert the latch plate at the end of the belt
into the specially designated fixture on the
rear window shelf.

When returning the backrest into its
seating position, make sure that the
seat's locking mechanism engages properly. Otherwise, cargo could be thrown
around in the event of sharp braking or
swerving and endanger the occupants.<

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Do not drive or close the luggage compartment lid while the drawer is pulled
out.
On uphill gradients, release the drawer with
caution, otherwise it could slide out on its own
and cause injury.
Do not exceed a maximum load of 11 lbs/5 kg
for the drawer, otherwise damage could
result.<

The lashing eyes in the luggage compartment
provide you with a way to attach luggage compartment nets* or draw straps for securing suitcases and luggage, refer to page 101.

At a glance

> Drawer for storing small items. Pull the handle firmly to release the drawer. If necessary, you can pull out the drawer entirely,
refer to the information below

Removing the drawer
1. Push the drawer all the way in.
2. Turn the catches on the left and right all the
way out.

Controls

2. Release the latch plate from the fixture on
the rear window shelf and insert it into the
belt lock of the center safety belt. Make sure
you hear the latch plate engage in the belt
buckle.

Depending on your vehicle's equipment, the
following additional storage spaces can be
found in the luggage compartment:

3. Remove the drawer by pulling it down and
backwards.

> Net* for securing smaller objects, to be
attached to the fixtures on the floor panel

Reinserting the drawer

> Hooks for hanging up, e.g., shopping bags
or tote bags

1. Hook the guides of the drawer into the front
of the yellow guide aids on the underside of
the luggage compartment.

> Rubber strap on the left trim panel for
securing small objects such as a folding
umbrella

2. Insert the catches into the mounts on the
underside of the luggage compartment.

> Retaining straps next to the rear lashing
eyes, e.g. for securing an umbrella
> Folding, removable box* under the floor
panel, e.g. for wet or dirty items
> Insertable dividers* and removable storage
tray for the storage compartment under the
floor panel

3. Turn the catches on the left and right all the
way in.

Folding up the luggage compartment
floor panel
Press the floor panel against the top of the luggage compartment; a locking device holds the
luggage compartment floor panel in place. To
detach the floor panel, pull it out of the locking
device.

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Reference

> Net for small objects on the right trim panel

Mobility

Left storage compartment, suitable e.g. for
storing a box of cleaning tissues or up to 12 CD
cases, depending on vehicle equipment version.

Driving tips

Storage spaces in the
luggage compartment

Practical interior accessories

Equipment version with drawer:
Take the retaining strap on the right-hand side
of the drawer out of the bracket and use it to fix
the cargo luggage compartment panel in place.

4. Insert the latch plate of the ski bag's retaining strap in the center belt buckle.

Do not exceed the maximum permissible
load of 55 lbs/25 kg for the storage compartment under the floor panel, otherwise damage could result.<

Lashing eyes
You will find lashing eyes in the luggage compartment for securing luggage items with nets
or tensioning straps, refer to page 101.

Make sure to load only clean skis into the ski
bag. Wrap sharp edges to prevent damage.

Securing cargo

Ski bag*
Designed for safe, clean transport of up to
4 pairs of standard skis or up to 2 snowboards.
With the ski bag you can stow skis with a length
of up to 6 ft 10 in/2.10 m. When skis of 6 ft 10 in/
2.10 m length are loaded, the overall capacity of
the ski bag is reduced due to its tapered design.

Loading
1. Fold down the center armrest.
2. Press the button, reach into the recess and
fold down the cover.

After loading, secure the ski bag and its contents. Tighten the retaining strap on the tensioning buckle for this purpose.
Secure the ski bag in the manner
described, otherwise it could endanger
the car's occupants, e.g. in case of heavy braking or sudden swerving.<
To store the ski bag, perform the steps
described for loading in reverse order.

Removing the ski bag
The ski bag can be completely removed, e.g. for
faster drying or to allow you to use other inserts.
3. Open the Velcro fastener, spread the ski
bag between the front seats and insert the
skis or snowboards.
The zip fastener makes objects in the ski
bag easier to reach.

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1. Fold down the center panel in the rear seat
backrest.

At a glance

2. Pull the handle, arrow 1.

For more information on the various
inserts available, contact your BMW Cen-

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Reference

Mobility

Driving tips

ter.<

Controls

3. Pull out the insert, arrow 2.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Driving tips
This section provides you with information
useful in dealing with specific driving and
operating conditions.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Things to remember when driving

Things to remember when driving
Break-in period
Moving parts need breaking-in time to adjust to
each other. Please follow the instructions below
in order to achieve the optimal service life and
economy of operation for your vehicle.

Engine and differential
Always obey all official speed limits.

Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Attempt to vary both engine and vehicle
speeds, but refrain from exceeding an engine
speed of 4,500 rpm or a driving speed of
100 mph or 160 km/h.
Avoid full-throttle operation and use of the
transmission's kick-down mode.

After 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Engine and vehicle speeds can be gradually
increased.

Sequential manual gearbox SMG
Do not use the acceleration assistant during the
break-in period, page 47.

300 miles/500 km. During this break-in period,
engage the clutch gently.

Following part replacement
The same break-in procedures should be
observed if any of the components mentioned
above have to be renewed in the course of the
vehicle's operating life.

General driving notes
Close the luggage compartment lid
Operate the vehicle only when the luggage compartment lid is closed. Otherwise, exhaust fumes could enter the interior of
the vehicle.<
If special circumstances make it absolutely necessary to drive with the luggage compartment
lid open:
1. Close all windows and the glass sunroof.
2. Increase the air flow rate of the air conditioner or automatic climate control considerably, refer to page 81 or 84.

Hot exhaust system

Tires
Due to technical factors associated with their
manufacture, tires do not achieve their full traction potential until after an initial break-in
period. Therefore, drive cautiously during the
first 200 miles/300 km.

Brake system
Brakes require an initial break-in period of
approx. 300 miles/500 km to achieve optimized
contact and wear patterns between brake pads
and rotors. Drive cautiously during this break-in
period.

In all vehicles, extremely high temperatures are generated in the exhaust system. Do not remove the heat shields installed
adjacent to various sections of the exhaust system, and never apply undercoating to them.
When driving, standing at idle and while parking, take care to avoid possible contact
between the hot exhaust system and any highly
flammable materials such as hay, leaves, grass,
etc. Such contact could lead to a fire, with the
risk of serious personal injuries and property
damage.<

Mobile phone in the vehicle

Clutch
The function of the clutch reaches its optimal
level only after a distance driven of approx.

BMW discourages the use of mobile
communications devices, e.g. mobile
phones, inside the vehicle without a direct con-

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Interior and exterior mirrors, automatic
dimming feature*

vehicle's engine, the electrical systems and the
transmission may be damaged.<

Use the handbrake on inclines
On inclines, do not hold the vehicle with
the clutch; use the handbrake. Otherwise
greater clutch wear will result.<

Sequential manual gearbox SMG

At a glance

nection to an outside antenna. Otherwise, the
vehicle electronics and mobile communication
device can influence one another. In addition,
there is no assurance that the radiation which
results from transmission will be dissipated
from the vehicle interior.<

Braking safely
The automatic dimming feature of the interior
and exterior mirrors* is controlled by two photo
cells in the interior rearview mirror. One photo
cell is in the mirror frame, see arrow; the other is
on the back of the mirror.
In order to ensure that the system functions
correctly, keep the photo cells clean, do not
cover the area between the interior rearview
mirror and windshield, and do not affix adhesive
labels or stickers of any kind to the windshield
directly in front of the mirror.

Your BMW is equipped with ABS as a standard
feature. Applying the brakes fully is the most
effective way of braking in situations in which
this is necessary. Since the vehicle maintains
steering responsiveness, you can still avoid
possible obstacles with a minimum of steering
effort.
Pulsation of the brake pedal, combined with
sounds from the hydraulic circuits, indicate that
ABS is in its active mode.

Driving tips

Also use the drive-off assistant, refer to
page 71.

Controls

On uphill slopes, drive off without delay.
Do not hold the vehicle in place by
depressing the accelerator pedal; apply the
handbrake instead. Otherwise, the transmission could overheat.<

When roads are wet or there is heavy rain,
briefly exert gentle pressure on the brake pedal
every few miles. Monitor traffic conditions to
ensure that this maneuver does not endanger
other road users. The heat generated in this
process helps dry the pads and rotors to ensure
that full braking efficiency will then be available
when you need it.

The risk of hydroplaning increases with declining tread depth on the tires, refer also to Minimum tread depth on page 115.

Hills

Driving through water
Drive through water on the road only if it is
not deeper than 1 ft/30 cm, and then only
at walking speed at the most. Otherwise, the

To prevent overheating and the resulting
reduced efficiency of the brake system,
drive long or steep downhill gradients in the
gear in which the least braking is required. Even
light but consistent brake pressure can lead to
high temperatures, brake wear and possibly
even brake failure.<

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Reference

When driving on wet or slushy roads,
reduce road speed. If you do not, a wedge
of water can form between tires and road surface. This situation, known as hydroplaning,
means that the tire can completely lose contact
with the road surface, so that neither the car can
be steered nor the brake be properly applied.<

Mobility

Driving in wet conditions

Hydroplaning

Things to remember when driving

You can increase the engine's braking effect by
shifting down, all the way to first gear if necessary. This strategy helps you avoid placing
excessive loads on the brake system. Downshifting in manual mode of the automatic transmission, refer to page 48.
Never drive with the clutch held down,
with the transmission in idle or with the
engine switched off; otherwise, engine braking
action will not be present or there will be no
power assistance to the brakes or steering.
Never allow floor mats, carpets or any other
objects to protrude into the area around the
pedals, otherwise pedal function could be
impaired.<

The engine can be switched off when the selector lever is in position N. Refer also to page 27.

Cargo loading
To avoid loading the tires beyond their
approved carrying capacity, never overload the vehicle. 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 blow-out.<

Determining loading limit

Corrosion on brake rotors
When the vehicle is driven only occasionally,
during extended periods when the vehicle is not
used at all, and in operating conditions where
brake applications are less frequent, there is an
increased tendency for corrosion to form on
rotors, while contaminants accumulate on the
brake pads. This occurs because the minimum
pressure which must be exerted by the pads
during brake applications to clean the rotors is
not reached.
Should corrosion form on the brake rotors, the
brakes will tend to respond with a pulsating
effect that even extended application will fail to
cure.

When the vehicle is parked
Condensation forms while the automatic climate control is in operation, and then exits
under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water
under the vehicle are therefore normal.

Before driving into a car wash
For general information about taking care of
your BMW, refer to the Caring for your vehicle
brochure.

With convenient access and automatic
transmission
Insert the remote control into the ignition
switch.

1. Locate the following statement on your
vehicle's placard*:
The combined weight of occupants
and cargo should never exceed
XXX kg or YYY lbs. Otherwise, overloading
can result in damage to the vehicle and
unstable driving conditions.<
2. Determine the combined weight of the
driver and passengers that will be riding in
your vehicle.
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver
and passengers from XXX kilograms or YYY
pounds.
4. The resulting figure equals the available
amount of cargo and luggage load capacity.
For example, if the YYY amount equals
1,400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lbs.
passengers in your vehicle, the amount of
available cargo and luggage load capacity is
650 lbs.:
1,400 lbs. minus 750 lbs. = 650 lbs.
5. Determine the combined weight of luggage
and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That
weight may not safely exceed the available

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cargo and luggage load capacity calculated
in step 4.

Securing cargo

At a glance

6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, part of
the load from your trailer will be transferred
to your vehicle. Consult the manual for
transporting a trailer to determine how this
may reduce the available cargo and luggage
load capacity of your vehicle.

Load

> Position heavy objects as low and as far forward as possible, ideally directly behind the
respective seat backs.
> Cover sharp edges and corners.
> For very heavy cargo when the rear seat is
not occupied, secure each safety belt in the
opposite buckle.

Roof-mounted luggage rack*

Driving tips

Always position and secure the cargo as
described above, so that it cannot endanger the car's occupants, for example if sudden
braking or swerves are necessary.
Never exceed either the approved gross vehicle
weight or either of the approved axle loads, refer
to page 150, as excessive loads can pose a
safety hazard, and may also place you in violation of traffic safety laws.
Heavy or hard objects should not be carried
loose inside the car, since they could be thrown
around, for example as a result of heavy braking,
sudden swerves, etc., and endanger the occupants.<

Mobility

Stowing cargo

A special rack system is available as an option
for your BMW. Comply with the precautions
included with the installation instructions.

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Reference

The permissible load is the total of the weight of
occupants and cargo/luggage. The greater the
weight of the occupants, the less cargo/luggage can be transported.

> Heavy-duty cargo straps* for securing
larger and heavier objects are available at
your BMW Center. Four lashing eyes are
provided for attaching the cargo straps.
Two are located on the inside rear wall of
the luggage compartment 1, and two others
are on the side walls of the luggage compartment 2.
Comply with the information provided with
the cargo straps.

Controls

> Smaller and relatively light items can be
retained with tensioning straps or draw
straps*.

Things to remember when driving

Mounting points

Open the covers.

Loading roof-mounted luggage rack
Because roof racks raise the vehicle's center of
gravity when loaded, they have a major effect on
vehicle handling and steering response.
You should therefore always remember not to
exceed the approved roof load capacity, the
approved gross vehicle weight or the axle loads
when loading the rack.
You can find the specified weights on page 150.
The roof load must be uniformly distributed and
should not be too large in area. Heavy items
should always be placed at the bottom. Be sure
that adequate clearance is maintained for raising the glass sunroof, and that objects do not
project into the opening path of the luggage
compartment lid.
Secure roof-mounted cargo correctly and
securely to prevent it from shifting or falling off
during the trip.
Drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and
braking maneuvers. Take corners gently.

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At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
Reference

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Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Mobility
This section helps you maintain your car's
mobility by supplying important information
on vital topics including fuels and lubricants,
wheels and tires, service, maintenance and
breakdown assistance.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Refueling

Refueling
Always switch off the engine before refueling, otherwise, fuel cannot be added to
the tank and a message will be displayed.<
Take all precautionary measures and
observe all applicable regulations when
handling fuel. Do not carry any spare fuel containers in your vehicle. They can develop a leak
and cause an explosion or cause a fire in the
event of an accident.<
1. Remove the cover from the right-hand side
panel of the luggage compartment.

Gas cap

2. Pull the knob with the fuel pump symbol.
The fuel filler door is released.

Opening

Observe the following when refueling
When handling fuels always observe any
safety guidelines posted at the service
station.<
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle completely into the filler pipe. Lifting the filler nozzle
during refueling leads to
1. Open fuel filler door. To do so, lightly press
the rear edge.
2. Turn the gas cap counterclockwise.
3. Place the gas cap in the bracket attached to
the fuel filler door.

> premature pump shutoff
> a reduced efficiency of the fuel-vapor
recovery system.
The fuel tank is full when the filler nozzle clicks
off the first time.

Fuel tank capacity

Closing
Fit the cap and turn it clockwise until you clearly
hear a click.
Do not jam the strap attached to the gas
cap between the gas cap and the vehicle.
A message will be displayed if the gas cap is
loose or missing.<

Manually releasing the fuel filler door
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can
release the fuel filler door manually:

Approx. 16.1 US gallons/61 liters, including the
reserve capacity of 2.1 US gallons/8 liters.
Refuel as soon as possible once your
cruising range falls below 30 miles/
50 km, otherwise engine functions are not
ensured and damage can occur.<

Fuel specifications
Do not fill the tank with leaded fuel, as this
would cause permanent damage to the
catalytic converter.<

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Required fuel

The minimum octane rating is 91.
If you use gasoline with this minimum octane
rating, the engine may produce knocking
sounds when starting at high outside temperatures. This has no affect on the engine life.

At a glance

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

Minimum octane rating corresponds to the Anti
Knock Index AKI and is determined according
to the so-called (R+M)/2 method.

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Driving tips

The use of poor-quality fuels may result in
drivability, starting and stalling problems
especially under certain environmental conditions such as high ambient temperature and
high altitude.
Should you encounter drivability problems
which you suspect could be related to the fuel
you are using, we recommend that you respond
by switching to a recognized high-quality
brand.
Failure to comply with these recommendations
may also result in unscheduled maintenance.<

Mobility

Field experience has indicated significant differences in fuel quality: volatility, composition,
additives, etc., among gasolines offered for sale
in the United States and Canada. 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 with respect to
defects in materials or workmanship.

Reference

Use high-quality brands

Controls

Do not fill the tank with leaded fuel, as this
would cause permanent damage to the
catalytic converter.<

Wheels and tires

Wheels and tires
Tire inflation pressures
Information for your safety
It is not merely the tires' service life, but also
driving comfort and, to a great extent, driving
safety that depend on the condition of the tires
and the maintenance of the specified tire pressure.
Check the tire inflation pressure regularly
and correct it, if necessary: at least twice a
month and before starting long trips. If you fail
to observe this precaution you may be driving
on tires with incorrect tire pressures, a condition that can not only compromise your vehicle's driving stability, but also lead to tire damage and the risk of an accident. Do not drive
with deflated, i.e. flat tires, except when using
Run-Flat Tires. A flat tire will seriously impair
your vehicle's handling and braking response.
Attempts to drive on a flat tire can lead to loss of
control over the vehicle.<

> Load conditions
> Maximum allowable driving speed

Tire inflation pressures for driving up to
100 mph or 160 km/h
For normal driving up to 100 mph or 160 km/h
and to achieve optimum driving comfort, adjust
pressures to the respective tire inflation pressures listed on the following pages in the columns for traveling speeds up to a maximum of
100 mph or 160 km/h.
These tire inflation pressures can also be found
on the driver's-side door post when the driver's
door is open.

Checking pressure
Only check tire inflation pressure when the
tires are cold. This means after a maximum of
1.25 miles/2 km driving or when the vehicle has
been parked for at least 2 hours. When tires are
warm, the tire inflation pressure is higher.

The maximum permissible speed for
these tire pressures is 100 mph or
160 km/h. Do not exceed this speed, otherwise
tire damage and accidents could occur.<

After correcting tire inflation pressures,
always reinitialize the Flat Tire Monitor,
refer to page 72.<

Tire inflation pressures for driving
above 100 mph or 160 km/h

Inflation pressure specifications
The tables below provide all the correct inflation
pressures for the specified tire sizes at ambient
temperature.
The inflation pressures apply to the tire
sizes approved and tire brands recommended by BMW; a list of these is available
from your BMW Center.<
For correct identification of the right tire inflation pressures, observe the following:

In order to drive at maximum speeds in
excess of 100 mph or 160 km/h, adjust
pressures to the respective tire inflation pressures listed on the following pages in the columns for traveling speeds including those
exceeding 100 mph or 160 km/h. Otherwise tire
damage and accidents could occur.<
Observe all national and local maximum speed
limits, otherwise violations of the laws could
occur.

> Tire sizes for your vehicle
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Tire inflation pressures for the 323i, for Canada only
Pressure specifications in psi/kPa
Traveling speeds
up to a max. of
100 mph / 160 km/h

Traveling speeds
including those exceeding
100 mph / 160 km/h

At a glance

Tire size

All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in
psi/kilopascal with cold tires.
Cold = ambient temperature

225/50 R 16 92 V
225/50 R 16 92 H M+S
205/55 R 16 91 H M+S
225/45 R 17 91 H M+S

29/200

33/230

29/200

33/230

30/210

38/260

225/45 R 17 94 V M+S XL

29/200

Front: 225/35 R 19 88 Y XL

35/240

35/240

29/200

-

30/210

35/240

32/220

39/270

-

35/240

-

Rear: 255/30 R 19 91 Y XL

-

39/270

-

33/230

-

39/270

29/200

33/230

29/200

35/240

35/240

42/290

225/45 R 17 94 V M+S XL

29/200

Front: 225/35 R 19 88 Y XL

35/240

35/240

30/210

38/260

36/250

45/310

-

33/230

-

38/260

-

Rear: 255/30 R 19 91 Y_XL

-

39/270

-

36/250

-

42/290

Controls

without Sports package

225/50 R 16 92 V
225/50 R 16 92 H M+S
205/55 R 16 91 H M+S
225/45 R 17 91 H M+S

Driving tips

with Sports package

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Reference

Mobility

More details on the permissible load and weights can be found on page 150.

Wheels and tires

Tire inflation pressures for the 325i
Tire size

Pressure specifications in psi/kPa
Traveling speeds
up to a max. of
100 mph / 160 km/h

Traveling speeds
including those exceeding
100 mph / 160 km/h

All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in
psi/kilopascal with cold tires.
Cold = ambient temperature

without Sports package
225/50 R 16 92 H M+S
205/55 R 16 91 H M+S
225/45 R 17 91 H M+S
225/45 R 17 94 V M+S XL

33/230

Front: 225/45 R 17 91 V
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 V

41/280

-

-

33/230

29/200

-

-

32/220

41/280

29/200

-

32/220

-

-

32/220

-

35/240

Front: 225/35 R 19 88 Y XL

35/240

-

32/220

-

35/240

-

Rear: 255/30 R 19 91 Y XL

-

41/280

-

35/240

-

41/280

225/50 R 16 92 H M+S
225/45 R 17 91 H M+S
205/55 R 16 91 H M+S

33/230

41/280

-

-

35/240

42/290

225/45 R 17 94 V M+S XL

33/230

41/280

-

-

38/260

45/310

Front: 225/45 R 17 91 V

29/200

-

29/200

-

35/240

-

with Sports package

Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 V

-

32/220

-

33/230

-

39/270

Front: 225/35 R 19 88 Y XL

35/240

-

33/230

-

38/260

-

Rear: 255/30 R 19 91 Y XL

-

41/280

-

36/250

-

42/290

More details on the permissible load and weights can be found on page 150.

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Tire inflation pressures for the 325xi
Pressure specifications in psi/kPa
Traveling speeds
up to a max. of
100 mph / 160 km/h

Traveling speeds
including those exceeding
100 mph / 160 km/h

At a glance

Tire size

All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in
psi/kilopascal with cold tires.
Cold = ambient temperature

30/210

Front: 225/45 R 17 91 V
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 V

36/250

30/210

30/210

-

30/210

-

32/220

33/230

35/240

41/280

-

35/240

-

32/220

-

35/240

Front: 225/35 R 19 88 Y XL

39/270

-

35/240

-

39/270

-

Rear: 255/30 R 19 91 Y XL

-

41/280

-

35/240

-

41/280

205/55 R 16 91 H M+S
225/50 R 16 92 H M+S
225/45 R 17 91 H M+S

30/210

36/250

30/210

33/230

35/240

41/280

225/45 R 17 94 V M+S XL

30/210

36/250

35/240

38/260

39/270

45/310

Front: 225/45 R 17 91 V

30/210

-

33/230

-

38/260

-

with Sports package:

Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 V

-

32/220

-

33/230

-

39/270

Front: 225/35 R 19 88 Y XL

39/270

-

38/260

-

42/290

-

Rear: 255/30 R 19 91 Y XL

-

41/280

-

38/260

-

44/300

Driving tips

205/55 R 16 91 H M+S
225/45 R 17 91 H M+S
225/50 R 16 92 H M+S
225/45 R 17 94 V M+S XL

Controls

without Sports package:

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Reference

Mobility

More details on the permissible load and weights can be found on page 150.

Wheels and tires

Tire inflation pressures for the 330i
Tire size

Pressure specifications in psi/kPa
Traveling speeds
up to a max. of
100 mph / 160 km/h

Traveling speeds
including those exceeding
100 mph / 160 km/h

All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in
psi/kilopascal with cold tires.
Cold = ambient temperature

without Sports package:
225/45 R 17 91 H M+S
225/45 R 17 94 V M+S XL

33/230

41/280

-

-

33/230

41/280

Front: 225/45 R 17 91 V

29/200

-

29/200

-

33/230

-

Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 V

-

32/220

-

32/220

-

36/250

Front: 225/40 R 18 88 W

32/220

-

32/220

-

36/250

-

Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 W

-

36/250

-

36/250

-

41/280

Front: 225/40 R 18 88 Y

-

-

29/200

-

30/210

-

Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 Y

-

-

-

32/220

-

36/250

Front: 225/35 R 19 88 Y XL

36/250

-

32/220

-

36/250

-

Rear: 255/30 R 19 91 Y XL

-

41/280

-

36/250

-

41/280

225/45 R 17 91 H M+S
225/45 R 17 94 V M+S XL

33/230

41/280

-

-

38/260

45/310

Front: 225/45 R 17 91 V

29/200

-

32/220

-

38/260

-

Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 V

-

32/220

-

35/240

-

41/280

32/220

-

35/240

-

38/260

-

Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 W

-

36/250

-

38/260

-

45/310

Front: 225/40 R 18 88 Y

-

-

30/210

-

33/230

39/270

with Sports package:

Front: 225/40 R 18 88 W

Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 Y

-

-

-

33/230

-

Front: 225/35 R 19 88 Y XL

36/250

-

35/240

-

38/260

Rear: 255/30 R 19 91 Y XL

-

41/280

-

38/260

-

More details on the permissible load and weights can be found on page 150.

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45/310

Tire inflation pressures for the 330xi
Pressure specifications in psi/kPa
Traveling speeds
up to a max. of
100 mph / 160 km/h

Traveling speeds
including those exceeding
100 mph / 160 km/h

At a glance

Tire size

All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in
psi/kilopascal with cold tires.
Cold = ambient temperature

36/250

32/220

35/240

35/240

41/280

Front: 225/45 R 17 91 V

32/220

-

32/220

-

35/240

-

Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 V

-

32/220

-

32/220

-

36/250

Front: 225/40 R 18 88 W

35/240

-

33/230

-

36/250

-

Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 W

-

36/250

-

33/230

-

39/270

Front: 225/40 R 18 88 Y

35/240

-

32/220

-

35/240

-

Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 Y

-

36/250

-

32/220

-

36/250

Front: 225/35 R 19 88 Y XL

39/270

-

35/240

-

39/270

-

Rear: 255/30 R 19 91 Y XL

-

41/280

-

35/240

-

41/280

225/45 R 17 91 H M+S

32/220

36/250

32/220

35/240

35/240

41/280

225/45 R 17 94 V M+S XL

32/220

36/250

35/240

39/270

39/270

45/310

Front: 225/45 R 17 91 V

32/220

-

35/240

-

39/270

-

Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 V

-

32/220

-

35/240

-

41/280

with Sports package:

Front: 225/40 R 18 88 W

35/240

-

38/260

-

42/290

-

Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 W

-

36/250

-

38/260

-

44/300

Front: 225/40 R 18 88 Y

35/240

-

33/230

-

36/250

-

Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 Y

-

36/250

-

33/230

-

39/270

Front: 225/35 R 19 88 Y XL

39/270

-

38/260

-

42/290

-

Rear: 255/30 R 19 91 Y XL

-

41/280

-

38/260

-

44/300

Driving tips

32/220

Mobility

225/45 R 17 91 H M+S
225/45 R 17 94 V M+S XL

Controls

without Sports package:

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Reference

More details on the permissible load and weights can be found on page 150.

Wheels and tires

Tire identification marks
Knowledge of the labeling on the side of the tire
makes it easier to identify and choose the right
tires.

Tire size
225/45 R 17 91 V

e.g.

Nominal width in mm
Aspect ratio in Ξ
Radial belt construction
Rim diameter in inches
Load rating,
not on ZR tires
Speed code letter, in
front of the R on ZR tires

Speed code letter
Q = up to 100 mph or 160 km/h
T = up to 118 mph or 190 km/h
H = up to 131 mph or 210 km/h
V = up to 150 mph or 240 km/h
W = up to 167 mph or 270 km/h
Y = up to 186 mph or 300 km/h

Tire Identification Number
Tires with DOT codes meet the guidelines of
the US Department of Transport.
DOT code:

Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable
on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and
maximum section width. For example:
Tread wear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A

DOT Quality Grades
Tread wear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
All passenger car 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 conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded
150 would wear one and one-half (1γ) times as
well on the government course as a tire graded
100. The relative performance of tires depends
upon the actual conditions 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

e.g.

DOT xxxx xxx 0705

Manufacturer's code
for tire make
Tire size and
tire design
Tire age

Tire age
The manufacturing date of tires is contained in
the tire coding: DOT … 0705 means that the
tire was manufactured in week 7 of 2005.
BMW recommends that you replace all tires
after 6 years at most, even if some tires may last
for 10 years.

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 specified 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 characteristics.<

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RSC – Run-Flat Tires
You will recognize Run-Flat Tires by a circular
symbol containing the letters RSC on the side
of the tire, refer to page 116.

M+S
Winter and all-season tires.
These have better winter properties than summer tires.

XL
Designation for specially reinforced tires.

Tire condition
Inspect your tires frequently for tread wear,
signs of damage and for foreign objects lodged
in the tread. Check the tread depth.

Minimum tread depth
The tread depth should not drop below 1/8 in/
3 mm, although, for example, European legislation only specifies a minimum tread depth of

Wheel/tire damage
Please note that low-profile tires cause wheels,
tires and suspension parts to be more susceptible to road hazard and consequential damages.
Unusual vibrations encountered during normal
vehicle operation can indicate tire failure or
some other vehicle defect. This can, for example, be caused by driving over curbs. The same
applies to any other abnormal road behavior,
such as pulling severely to the right or left.
In these cases, reduce speed immediately and have wheels and tires thoroughly checked. To do so, drive carefully to the
nearest BMW Center or tire shop that works
according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel. If necessary,
have the vehicle towed there.
Tire damage can be extremely dangerous for
vehicle occupants and other road users.<

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At a glance
Controls

Wear indicators in the base of the tread groove
are distributed around the tire's circumference;
the letters TWI, for Tread Wear Indicator, on the
tire's sidewalls identify tires that incorporate
these wear indicators. Once the tire tread has
worn down to the wear indicators, the tire has
worn to a depth of 1/16 in/1.6 mm.

Driving tips

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.<

1/16 in/1.6 mm. At tread depths below 1/8 in/
3 mm there is an increased risk of high-speed
hydroplaning, even when only small amounts of
water are present on the road surface.
When winter tires wear down past a tread depth
of 1/6 in/4 mm, they become perceptibly less
suitable for winter conditions. In the interest of
safety, new tires should be installed.

Mobility

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 conditions
on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause the
material of the tire to degenerate and reduce
tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to
a level of performance which all passenger car
tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A
represent higher levels of performance on the
laboratory test wheel than the minimum
required by law.

Reference

Temperature

Wheels and tires

Tire age
For various reasons, such as the development
of brittleness, BMW recommends tire replacement after no more than 6 years, regardless of
the actual wear of the tires.
The manufacturing date of tires is contained in
the tire coding:
DOT ... 0705 means that the tire was manufactured in week 07 of 2005.

Run-Flat Tires

be impaired. The causes for this include potentially different tire casing structures and often
wide variations in tire age, which can result in a
limited service life.<

Correct wheels and tires
BMW recommends that you use only
wheel and tire combinations that BMW
has tested and approved for your particular
vehicle. Variations in factors such as manufacturing tolerances mean that even wheels and
tires with identical official size ratings could
actually have different dimensions, which could
lead to body contact and thus to severe accidents. If non-approved wheels and tires are
used, BMW cannot evaluate their suitability,
and therefore cannot guarantee their driving
safety.<
You can inquire about the right wheel/tire combination at your BMW Center.

The symbol identifying Run-Flat Tires is a circle
with the letters RSC on the sidewall.
Run-Flat Tires comprise a conditionally selfsupporting tire and a special rim. The reinforcement in the sidewalls ensures that the tire can
continue to be used subject to certain restrictions, even if depressurized.
For information on continuing to drive with a flat
tire, refer to Indication of a flat tire, page 72.

The correct combination of wheels and tires is
also necessary to ensure reliable operation of
various vehicle systems such as ABS and DSC.
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single brand and
tread configuration. After a tire has been damaged, mount the previous wheel and tire combination again as soon as possible.

Recommended tire brands

New wheels and tires
Have new wheels and tires installed only
by your BMW Center or tire shop that
works according to BMW repair procedures
with correspondingly trained personnel. If this
work is not carried out properly, there is a danger of subsequent damage and related safety
hazards. Make sure that the new wheels are balanced.<

Retreaded tires
BMW recommends that you do not use
retreaded tires, since driving safety may

Certain makes of tire are recommended by
BMW for each tire size. They are marked with a
clearly visible BMW designation on the sidewall
of the tire.
When properly used, these tires meet the highest standards in terms of safety and handling
characteristics.

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For safety reasons, BMW recommends
that damaged Run-Flat Tires be replaced
rather than repaired.<

Special characteristics of winter tires
BMW recommends winter tires for use in cold
winter driving conditions. Although all-season
M+S tires provide better winter traction than
summer tires, they generally fail to provide the
same levels of cold-weather performance as
winter tires.

facturer's instructions when mounting snow
chains. Do not exceed a speed of 30 mph or
50 km/h.
You are not permitted to mount snow chains to
tires of the following sizes:
> 255/40 R 17
> 255/35 R 18
> 255/30 R 19

At a glance

When mounting new tires or changing over
from summer to winter tires and vice versa,
mount Run-Flat Tires for your own safety. In the
event of a flat, moreover, no spare wheel is
available. Your BMW Center will be glad to
advise you.

Do not initialize the Flat Tire Monitor if
snow chains are mounted, otherwise the
instrument might issue an incorrect reading.
When driving with snow chains, you may find it
helpful to activate DTC temporarily, refer to
page 68.<
Controls

Run-Flat Tires

Pay attention to speed

If the car is capable of speeds higher than that
permitted for the winter tires, a label stating the
maximum permitted speed for the mounted
tires must be displayed in your field of view.
Specialist tire dealers and your BMW Center
can supply these labels.

Driving tips

Always comply with the speed limit for the
winter tires mounted on your car; failure
to do so could result in tire damage and accidents.<

Always store wheels and tires in a cool, dry
place with as little exposure to light as possible.
Always protect tires against all contact with oil,
grease and fuels. Do not exceed the maximum
tire inflation pressure indicated on the sidewall
of the tire.

Mobility

Storage

Only certain fine-link snow chains have been
tested by BMW, classified as safe for use and
recommended. Consult your BMW Center for
more information. Attach snow chains in pairs
and only to the rear wheels. Observe the manu117
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Reference

Snow chains*

Under the hood

Under the hood
Do not work on the car unless you possess the necessary technical knowledge.
If you are unfamiliar with the statutory guidelines, have any work on the vehicle performed
only by a BMW Center or by a workshop that
work according to BMW repair procedures with
correspondingly trained personnel. If this work
is not carried out properly, there is a danger of
subsequent damage and related safety hazards.<

Closing

Close the hood from a height of approx. 16 in/
40 cm with momentum. It must be clearly heard
to engage.

Hood
Releasing

Make sure that the closing path of the
hood is clear, otherwise injuries may
result.
If you see any signs while driving your vehicle
that the hood is not completely closed, stop at
once and close it securely.<

Pull the lever.

Opening

In order to avoid damage, make sure that
the wiper arms are against the windshield
before you open the hood.<
Press the release handle and open the hood.

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1

Expansion tank for coolant, refer to
page 121

3

Jump-starting connection, refer to
page 132

2

Washer fluid reservoir for headlamp cleaning system and window washer system,
refer to page 50

4

Filler neck for engine oil, refer to Adding
engine oil

5

Reservoir for brake fluid, under the cover of
the microfilter

Driving tips

Controls

At a glance

Important parts of the engine compartment

Engine oil
The engine oil consumption is dependent on
driving style and driving conditions.

For a precise measurement and display of the
oil level, it is necessary that the engine be at
operating temperature, e.g. after uninterrupted
driving for at least approx. 6.5 miles/10 km. You
can have the oil level displayed while you are
driving, or while the vehicle is at a standstill on a
level surface and the engine is running.
You can have the oil level reading displayed in
the instrument cluster.

1. Lightly push button 1 in the turn indicator
stalk up or down repeatedly until the appropriate symbol is shown in the display,
accompanied by the word "OIL".
2. Press button 2 in the turn indicator stalk.
The oil level is checked and the reading displayed.

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Reference

Your car is equipped with an electronic oil-level
monitor.

Mobility

Checking oil level

Under the hood

Possible displays

Adding engine oil

Do not add the maximum amount of 1 US quart/
1 liter of engine oil until the following warning
lamp lights up in the instrument cluster, or in
cars with gasoline engines until the oil level
monitor shows "+1qts" or "+1l".

1

Oil level OK

2

Oil level is being checked.
This can take about 3 minutes if the car is at
a standstill on a level surface, or about
5 minutes while the car is on the move.

3

Oil level down to minimum:
Add 1 US quart/1 liter of engine oil as soon
as possible, refer also to Adding engine oil.

4

Oil level is too high.
Too much oil will harm the engine.
Have the vehicle checked without
delay.<

5

The oil level sensor is defective.
Do not add engine oil. You can continue
your journey. Note the newly calculated distance remaining to the next oil service, refer
to page 123. Have the system checked as
soon as possible.

Add oil within the next 125 miles/200 km,
otherwise the engine could be damaged.<
Keep oils, greases, etc. out of the reach of
children and comply with the warnings on
the containers. Otherwise, health hazards may
result.<

Oil change
Have oil changed only at your BMW Center or at
a workshop that works according to BMW
repair procedures with correspondingly trained
personnel.

Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil selected has critical
significance for the operation and service life of
an engine. BMW continuously approves specific oils after confirming their suitability for use
in its vehicles with extensive testing.
Only use approved BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil.
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Your BMW Center will be glad to answer
any questions regarding BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil or approved synthetic
oils.<

pressure to escape, then continue turning
to open.
3. The coolant level is correct if it is between
the maximum and minimum marks in the
filler neck, refer also to the diagram next to
the filler neck.

At a glance

If BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil is not
available, you can add small quantities of other
synthetic oils in between oil changes. Only use
oils with the API SH specification or higher.

You can also call BMW of North America at
1-800-831-1117 or visit the website
www.bmwusa.com to obtain this information.

Viscosity ratings

Selecting the appropriate SAE class depends
on the regional climatic conditions in which you
normally drive your BMW.
Approved oils belong to the 5W-40 and
5W-30 classes.<
These oils can be used for driving at all outside
temperatures.

4. If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant up to
the specified level; do not overfill.
5. Turn the cap until there is an audible click.

Controls

Viscosity is a measure of an oil's flow rating and
is categorized in SAE classes.

6. Have the reason for the coolant loss eliminated as soon as possible.

Malfunctions

Coolant is a mixture of water and an additive.
Not all commercially available additives are suitable for your BMW. Ask your BMW Center for
suitable additives.
Only use suitable additives, otherwise
engine damage may result. The additives
are hazardous to your health.<
Comply with the appropriate environmental protection regulations when disposing of coolant additives.<

Checking coolant level
1. The engine must be at ambient temperature.
2. Turn the cap of the expansion tank a little
counterclockwise to allow any accumulated

Brake fluid
The warning lamps light up in red
even though the handbrake has been
released. Stop immediately.
The brake fluid in the reservoir has fallen to
below the minimum level. At the same time, a
considerably longer brake pedal travel may be
noticeable. Have the system checked without
delay.
Display of this malfunction on Canadian models.

Mobility

Do not add coolant to the cooling system
when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant
can cause burns.<

If you continue to drive the car, you may
have to depress the brake more and braking distances may be significantly longer.
Please adapt your driving style accordingly.<

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Reference

Coolant

Driving tips

Brake system

Under the hood

Brake pads
The warning lamps light up in red
even though the handbrake has been
released. The brake pads have
reached the safe limit for pad wear.
Have brake pads replaced immediately.
Display of this malfunction on Canadian models.

For your own safety: use only brake pads
that BMW has approved for the corresponding vehicle model. BMW is unable to
assess the suitability of brake pads it has not
approved and therefore cannot guarantee their
safety.<

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BMW Maintenance System

> Spark plugs
> Vehicle check
> Legally mandated inspections depending
on local regulations

At a glance

Maintenance

CBS Condition Based Service
Sensors and special algorithms take the different driving conditions of your BMW into
account. Condition Based Service uses this to
determine the current and future service
requirements. By letting you define a service
and maintenance regimen that reflects your
own individual requirements, the system builds
the basis for trouble-free driving.
In the instrument cluster, you can have the
remaining times or distances for selected maintenance tasks and any legally prescribed dates
displayed, refer to page 63:
> Engine oil
> Brakes: separately for front and rear
> Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter for automatic climate control

Service and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models and Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet for
Canadian models
Please consult your Service and Warranty Information Booklet for US models and Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models
for additional information on service requirements.
BMW recommends that you have service
and repair operations performed at your
BMW Center.
Take the time to ensure that these service procedures are confirmed by entries in your vehicle's Service and Warranty Information Booklet
for US models and Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models. These entries
verify that your vehicle has received the specified regular maintenance.<

Driving tips

If and when you come to sell your BMW, a comprehensive record of servicing will prove a significant benefit.

Make sure that the date in the instrument
cluster is always set correctly, refer to
page 65; otherwise the effectiveness of Condition Based Service CBS is not assured.<

Mobility

The BMW Maintenance System supports the
preservation of the traffic and operating safety
of your BMW. The service schedule also
includes operations related to the vehicle's
comfort and convenience features, such as
replacement of the filters for the inside air. The
objective is to optimize efforts with respect to
minimal vehicle maintenance costs.

Your vehicle continuously stores servicerequirement information in the remote control
while you are driving. Your BMW Service Advisor can read out this data from the remote control unit, and propose an optimized maintenance approach. Whenever you take your car in
for servicing you should therefore hand your
BMW Service Advisor the remote control unit
that you last used.

Controls

Service data in the remote control

> Brake fluid
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Reference

> Microfilter for air conditioner

Maintenance

Socket for On-Board
Diagnosis OBD

data or information. In addition, if you have
signed a subscription contract for BMW Assist,
certain vehicle data may be transmitted or
recorded in order to facilitate the corresponding
services.

Care
Important information on the care and maintenance of your BMW is contained in the Caring
for your vehicle brochure.

Primary components that make up exhaust
emissions can be checked by a device via the
OBD socket.
This socket is located on the driver's side to the
left, on the bottom of the instrument panel
underneath a cover.

Exhaust emission values
The warning lamps come on. The
exhaust emission values have worsened. Have the car checked as soon
as possible.
Canadian models display these warning lamps.
The lamps flash under certain conditions. This indicates excessive misfiring in the
engine. If this happens, you should reduce your
speed and visit your nearest BMW Center as
soon as possible. Severe engine misfiring can
quickly lead to serious damage of emissionsrelated components, especially the catalytic
converter.
If the gas cap is not properly tightened, the OBD
system will assume that fuel vapor is escaping.
An indicator will then light up. If the gas cap is
then tightened, the indicator will go out within a
few days.

Event data recorders
Your vehicle may be equipped with one or several measuring or diagnostic modules or a
device for recording or sending certain vehicle
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In order to avoid damage, make sure that
the wiper arms are against the windshield
before you open the engine compartment.<

Lamps and bulbs

The onboard tool kit is stored in a compartment
on the right-hand side of the luggage compartment. Remove the cover.

Wiper blades

Lamps and bulbs make an essential contribution to vehicle safety. They should, therefore,
be handled carefully. BMW recommends having your BMW Center perform any work that
you do not feel competent to perform yourself
or that is not described here.
Never touch the glass of new bulbs with
your bare fingers, as even minute
amounts of contamination will burn into the
bulb's surface and reduce its service life. Use a
clean tissue, cloth or something similar, or hold
the bulb by its base.<

Controls

Onboard tool kit

At a glance

Replacing components

2. Remove the cover. To do so, press the hook
on the bottom, see arrow.

For care and maintenance of the headlamps,
please follow the instructions in the separate
Caring for your vehicle brochure.
If the routine for changing a particular
bulb is not described here, please contact
your BMW Center or a workshop that works
according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel.<

Mobility

1. Fold up the wiper arm.

When working on electrical systems,
always begin by switching off the consumer in question, otherwise short-circuits
could result. To avoid possible injury or equipment damage when replacing bulbs, observe
any instructions provided by the bulb manufacturer.<

Driving tips

You can obtain a selection of replacement bulbs
at your BMW Center.

3. Fold the wiper blade upwards.
4. Remove the wiper blade in the direction of
the windshield, see arrow.

Light-emitting diodes installed behind translucent lenses serve as the light source for many of
the controls and displays in your vehicle. These
light-emitting diodes, which operate using a
concept similar to that applied in conventional

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Reference

Light-emitting diodes LEDs

Replacing components

lasers, are officially designated as Class 1 lightemitting diodes.

low-beam headlamp is accessed through a flap
in the wheel well.

Do not remove the covers or expose the
eyes directly to the unfiltered light source
for several hours at a time, otherwise this could
cause irritation to the retina.<

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 a xenon lamp fails nevertheless, switch on the fog lamps and continue the
journey with great care, provided that local legislation does not prohibit this.
Have work on the xenon lighting system
performed only by your BMW Center or a
workshop that works according to BMW repair
procedures with correspondingly trained personnel. Due to the high electrical voltages
present, there is a risk of potentially fatal accidents if work is performed inappropriate.<

Parking lamps, roadside parking lamps
In the event of a malfunction, please contact
your BMW Center or a workshop that works
according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel.

Halogen lamps
H7 bulb, 55 watts

1

Cover for high-beam headlamp

2

Cover for low-beam headlamp

3

Turn signal bulb socket

To remove the covers:
1. Fold the respective wire bracket to the side,
see arrows.
2. Flip open the cover and take it out of the
guide.
Follow the same steps in reverse order to reattach the covers.

Access through the wheel well
Only for low-beam headlamps and turn signals:
1. Turn the wheel inwards.
2. Open the flap in the wheel well. To do so,
turn the fastener counterclockwise using a
coin, for example.

Always wear gloves and eye protection;
the atmosphere within the H7 bulb is
pressurized. Otherwise there is a risk of injury if
the bulb is damaged.<
There are separate headlamp covers for lowbeam headlamps and high-beam headlamps.
Be careful when installing the covers, otherwise leaks could occur and cause damage to the headlamp system.<
For checking and adjusting headlamp
aim, please contact your BMW Center.<

Access to the lamps
The high-beam headlamp can be accessed
from the engine compartment, whereas the

Changing low-beam and high-beam
bulbs
1. Remove the relevant cover for the headlamp.
2. Disconnect the plug from the lamp.

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1. Open the flap in the wheel well, refer to
Access through the wheel well on
page 126.

4. Remove the bulb.

2. Rotate turn signal bulb socket 1 to the left
and remove.

6. Fold up the wire bracket and engage it.
7. Connect the plug.
8. Reattach the cover.

Parking lamps, roadside parking lamps
5 watt bulb, W 5 W
1. Remove the cover for the high-beam headlamp.
2. Pull out the bulb socket, see arrow.

3. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb while
turning it to the left for removal and replacement.
4. Insert turn signal bulb socket 1.
5. Attach the flap to the wheel well.

Side-mounted turn signals
In the event of a malfunction, please contact
your BMW Center or a workshop that works
according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel.

Tail lamps
> Brake lamp in the luggage compartment lid
21 watt bulb, H 21 W

Driving tips

5. Insert new bulb as shown in the detail of the
illustration above.

Controls

At a glance

3. Push the wire bracket to the side out of the
mounting, arrow 1, and fold it down,
arrow 2.

> Other lamps:
21 watt bulb, P 21 W

3. Remove and replace the bulb.
4. Insert bulb socket.
5. Reattach the cover.

Mobility

The tail lamps are divided into two parts. One
part is in the luggage compartment lid, the other
is in the fender.

Turn signals, front

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Reference

21 watt bulb, PY 21 W
or PY 21 W Silver Vision

Replacing components

Lamps in the luggage compartment lid

1

Brake lamp

2

Roadside parking lamp/tail lamp

3

Turn signal

4

Backup lamp

5

Tail lamp

6

Brake lamp

1. Pry out the plastic plugs in the trim of the
luggage compartment lid using a screwdriver and remove the trim.
2. Unfasten the bulb holder at the clip, see
arrow, and remove.

Fender-mounted lamps

3. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb while
turning it to the left for removal and replacement.
4. Re-engage the bulb holder so that it audibly
clicks into place.
5. Reattach the trim of the luggage compartment lid.

License plate lamp
5 watt bulb, C 5 W

1. Using a screwdriver, pry off the cover in the
luggage compartment or release the turnlock fastener by turning it counterclockwise
and remove the cover.
2. Unfasten the bulb holder at the clip, see
arrow, and pull out.
3. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb while
turning it to the left for removal and replacement.
4. Re-engage the bulb holder so that it audibly
clicks into place.
5. Reattach the cover in the luggage compartment.

1. Using a screwdriver, push the lamp to the
right in the flap of the lamp housing.
2. Take out the lamp towards the left and
change the bulb.
3. Insert the lamp.

Center brake lamp
This lamp uses LED technology for operation.
In the event of a malfunction, please contact
your BMW Center or a workshop that works

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The symbol identifying Run-Flat Tires is a circle
with the letters RSC on the sidewall, refer to
Run-Flat Tires, page 116.
When mounting new tires or changing over
from summer to winter tires and vice versa,
mount Run-Flat Tires for your own safety. In the
event of a flat, moreover, no spare wheel is
available. Your BMW Center will be glad to
advise you. Refer also to New wheels and tires,
page 116.
The tools for changing wheels are available as optional accessories from your
BMW Center.<

Jack mounting points

Have old batteries disposed of by your
BMW Center or hand them in to a recycling center. Maintain the battery in an upright
position for transport and storage. Always
secure the battery against tipping over during
transport.<

Power failure
After a temporary power loss, the functioning of
some equipment may be limited and require initialization. Individual settings may likewise have
been lost and will have to be reprogrammed:
> Time and date
These values must be updated, refer to
page 64.
> Radio
Stations must be stored again, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual for Radio.
> Seat and mirror memory
The positions must be stored again, refer to
page 35.
> Inside rearview mirror with digital compass
The system must be calibrated, refer to
page 88.

The jacking points are at the positions shown in
the illustration.

Fuses

Vehicle battery

Never attempt to repair a blown fuse and
do not replace a defective fuse with a substitute of another color or amperage rating, otherwise this could lead to a circuit overload, ultimately resulting in a fire in the vehicle.<

Battery care

At a glance

Disposal

Controls

Your BMW is equipped with Run-Flat Tires as
standard. This removes the need to change a
wheel immediately in the event of a puncture.

Only charge the battery in the vehicle via the
terminals in the engine compartment with the
engine off. Connections, refer to Jump starting
on page 132.

Driving tips

Changing wheels

Charging the battery

Mobility

according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel.

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Reference

The battery is 100 % maintenance-free, the
electrolyte will last for the life of the battery
when the vehicle is operated in a temperate climate. Your BMW Center will be glad to advise in
all matters concerning the battery.

Replacing components

Open the cover in the glove compartment and
remove it.
Spare fuses and a pair of plastic forceps are set
in holders on the distributor box.
See the rear of the cover for information on fuse
assignment.

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> Full preparation package mobile phone
> BMW Assist is enabled. Enabling
BMW Assist, refer to separate Owner's
Manual.
> Radio readiness is on.
> The car phone is logged on to a mobile telephone network.
> The emergency call system is operable.
If your subscription contract with BMW Assist
expires, the car phone can be deactivated by a
BMW Center without having to schedule an
appointment at a workshop. Once the car
phone has been deactivated, emergency calls
are not possible. The car phone can be reactivated by a BMW Center after signing a new
contract.

Initiating an emergency call
1. Briefly press the cover flap to open.

If the LED is flashing but the emergency
response center cannot be heard over the
hands-free system, it is possible that the
hands-free system is malfunctioning. The
emergency response center may still be able to
hear you, however.
Under certain conditions, an emergency call is
automatically initiated immediately after a
severe accident. The automatic emergency call
is not affected by the button being pressed.
For technical reasons, the emergency call
cannot be guaranteed under unfavorable
conditions.<

Controls

Conditions for an emergency call:

If the current location of your vehicle can be
determined, it will be transmitted to the BMW
Assist response center.

Roadside Assistance
The BMW Group's Roadside Assistance service is there to assist you around the clock in
the event of a breakdown, including on weekends and public holidays.
The phone numbers of the Roadside Assistance in your home country can be found in the
Contact brochure.

Driving tips

Emergency calling*

At a glance

Giving and receiving assistance

First aid pouch*

The LED in the button lights up. As soon as the
voice connection to the BMW Assist response
center has been established, the LED flashes.
If the circumstances allow this, remain in the
vehicle until the connection has been established. You will then be able to provide a
detailed description of the situation.

The first aid pouch is located on the right-hand
side of the luggage compartment in a storage
area.

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Reference

Mobility

2. Press the button for at least 2 seconds.

Giving and receiving assistance

Some of the articles contained in the first aid
pouch have a limited service life. Therefore,
check the expiration dates of the contents regularly and replace any items in good time, if necessary.

Warning triangle*

There must not be any contact between
the bodies of the two vehicles, otherwise
there is a danger of shorting.<

Connecting jumper cables
Connect the jumper cables in the correct
order, so that no sparks which could
cause injury occur at the battery.<
Your BMW has a jump-starting connection in
the engine compartment which acts as the battery's positive terminal, refer also to the Engine
compartment overview on page 119. The cap is
marked with +.
1. Pull the cap of the BMW jump-starting connection up to remove.

The warning triangle is located on the left-hand
side of the luggage compartment. Press the tab
to take it out.

Jump starting
If the car's own battery is flat, your BMW's
engine can be started by connecting two
jumper cables to another vehicle's battery. You
can also use the same method to help start
another vehicle. Only use jumper cables with
fully-insulated clamp handles.
Do not touch any electrically live parts
when the engine is running, or a fatal accident may occur. Carefully adhere to the following sequence, both to prevent damage to one or
both vehicles, and to guard against possible
personal injuries.<

2. Attach one terminal clamp of the plus/+
jumper cable to the positive terminal of the
battery or a starting-aid terminal of the vehicle providing assistance.
3. Attach the second terminal clamp of the
plus/+ jumper cable to the positive terminal
of the battery or a starting-aid terminal of
the vehicle to be started.
4. Attach one terminal clamp of the minus/–
jumper cable to the negative terminal of the
battery or to an engine or body ground of
the assisting vehicle.

Preparation
1. Check whether the battery of the other
vehicle has a voltage of 12 volts and
approximately the same capacitance in Ah.
This information can be found on the battery.
2. Switch off the engine of the assisting vehicle.
3. Switch off any consumers in both vehicles.
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The screw-in tow fitting must always be carried
in the car. It can be screwed in at the front or
rear of the BMW.
It is stored in the onboard tool kit underneath
the cover on the right-hand side of the luggage
compartment, refer to page 125.
Use only the tow fitting provided with the
vehicle and screw it all the way in. Use the
tow fitting for towing on paved roads only. Avoid
lateral loading of the tow fitting, e.g. do not lift
the vehicle by the tow fitting. Otherwise the tow
fitting and the vehicle could be damaged.<

5. Attach the second terminal clamp of the
minus/– jumper cable to the negative terminal of the battery or to the engine or body
ground of the vehicle to be started.

Access to screw thread

Starting the engine

Rectangular cover panel in bumper:
Press on the upper edges of the cover panel.

1. Start the engine of the donor vehicle and
allow it to run for a few minutes at slightly
increased idle speed.

Front

Driving tips

2. Start the engine on the other vehicle in the
usual way.
If the first start attempt is not successful,
wait a few minutes before another attempt
in order to allow the discharged battery to
recharge.
3. Let the engines run for a few minutes.
4. Disconnect the jumper cables by reversing
the above connecting sequence.

At a glance

Using a tow fitting

Controls

Your BMW has a special nut as body ground
or negative pole.

Rear

If necessary, have the battery checked and
recharged.
Never use spray fluids to start the
engine.<

Do not transport any occupants other
than the driver in a vehicle that is being
towed.<

Being towed
Check that the car is radio-ready and that
the electric steering wheel lock is not
engaged, otherwise the car would not be steerable. If the electrical system fails, do not
attempt to tow-start or tow away the car. The
electric steering wheel lock cannot be disen-

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Reference

Observe the applicable laws and regulations for tow-starting and towing vehicles.<

Mobility

Tow-starting, towing away

Giving and receiving assistance

gaged and the car is not steerable. Jump starting, refer to page 132.
Power steering assistance is not available when
the engine is not running. Thus, braking and
steering will require increased effort.<
Switch on the hazard warning flashers, depending on local regulations.

Manual transmission
Gearshift lever in idle position.

To avoid jerking and the associated
stresses on vehicle components when
towing, always use nylon ropes or nylon straps.
Attach the tow rope to the tow fittings only, as
attaching it to other parts of the vehicle could
result in damage.<

Towing with a tow truck
323i*, 325i, 330i

Automatic transmission
Selector lever in position N.
Changing selector lever positions, refer to
page 47.
Do not exceed a towing speed of 45 mph
or 70 km/h and a towing distance of
90 miles/150 km, otherwise the automatic
transmission may be damaged.<

Sequential manual gearbox SMG

Have the BMW transported with a tow truck
with a so-called lift bar or on a flat bed.

With the ignition switched on, engage selector
lever position N, and then switch the ignition
back off.

Do not lift the vehicle by a tow fitting or
body and chassis parts, otherwise damage may result.<

Towing with a tow bar

325xi, 330xi

The towing vehicle must not be lighter
than the towed vehicle, otherwise it may
be impossible to maintain control.<

Do not tow a BMW with xDrive with just
the front or rear axle raised, otherwise the
wheels could lock up and the transfer case
could be damaged.<

The tow fittings used should be on the same
side on both vehicles. Should it prove impossible to avoid mounting the tow bar at an angle,
please observe the following:
> Clearance and maneuvering capability will
be sharply limited during cornering.
> The tow bar will generate lateral forces if it is
attached offset.
Attach the tow bar to the tow fittings only,
as attaching it to other parts of the vehicle
could result in damage.<

Towing with a tow rope
When starting off in the towing vehicle, make
sure that the tow rope is taut.

Have the BMW transported on a flatbed surface
only.

Tow-starting
If the electrical system fails, do not
attempt to tow-start or tow away the car.
The electric steering wheel lock cannot be dis-

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Do not tow-start vehicles with an automatic transmission. Only tow-start vehicles with a catalytic converter with the engine
cold. It is better to jump start the engine, refer to
page 132.<
1. Switch on the hazard warning flashers,
comply with local regulations.

At a glance

engaged and the car is not steerable. Jump
starting, refer to page 132.<

2. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 42.

4. Have the vehicle tow-started with the clutch
completely depressed and slowly release
the clutch. After the engine starts, immediately depress the clutch completely again.
5. Stop at a suitable location, remove the tow
bar or rope and switch off the hazard warning flashers.

Controls

3. Shift into 3rd gear. Vehicles with SMG, see
below.

6. Have the vehicle checked.
Vehicles with sequential manual gearbox SMG:

2. Select sequential mode. The correct gear is
automatically engaged.

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Reference

Mobility

325xi, 330xi: do not activate Hill Descent
Control HDC when the vehicle is being
tow-started, page 69.<

Driving tips

1. Have the vehicle tow-started with the selector lever in position N.

Indicator and warning lamps

Indicator and warning lamps
Indicator and warning lamps appear in indicator
area 1 and display 2. See the table for information on causes and how to react. Note whether a
lamp comes on alone or in combination with
another. Some lamps can light up in different
colors. Corresponding distinctions are made in
the text.

1

2

Cause

What to do

Turn signals
High beams/headlamp flasher
switched on
Fog lamps switched on
Fasten safety belts

Fasten your safety belt, refer also to
page 36.

Indication in US models
Handbrake engaged

Release the handbrake.

Indication in Canadian models
Handbrake engaged

Release the handbrake.

Risk of icy roads

Drive cautiously, refer also to page 59.

Lights up briefly:
Approx. 2.1 US gallons/8 liters of fuel
remain in the tank
Remains on:
Remaining operating range is no more
than 30 miles/50 km, refer to page 60
Engine refuses to start

Depress the brake or clutch in order to
start the engine, refer to page 42.

Ignition switched on and driver's door
open

Switch off the ignition, refer to page 42,
or close the driver's door.

Lights still switched on
Door open

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2

Cause

What to do

Luggage compartment lid open
Window washer fluid level too low

Add washer fluid as soon as possible,
refer to page 50.

At a glance

Engine compartment lid open

Lights up in red:
Schedule a service appointment
Check service requirements, refer to
page 63.

Remote control malfunctioning or, in
cars with convenient access, not
detected

The engine cannot be started. Have the
remote control checked, if necessary.

Battery in remote control discharged

Use the remote control for a longer journey or, in cars with convenient access,
replace the battery.

Lights up in red:
Driver's and/or front passenger's airbags malfunctioning

Have the system checked immediately.

Lights up in yellow:
Belt tensioners and/or airbag system
for rear-seat passengers malfunctioning

Have the system checked as soon as
possible.

Belt tensioners and/or airbag system
failed

Have the system checked immediately.

Active steering defective

You can continue your journey.
Steering characteristics are modified
and steering wheel could be off-center.
Steer carefully.
Have the system checked as soon as
possible.

Driving tips

Controls

Lights up in yellow:
The engine will start the next time the
start/stop button is touched, possibly
without the brake or clutch being
depressed

Mobility

Service is due

Lights up:
Emergency call system has failed or is
malfunctioning

Have the system checked as soon as
possible.

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Reference

1

Indicator and warning lamps

1

2

Cause

What to do

Lights up in red:
Engine malfunction

Stop the car and switch off the engine.
You cannot continue your journey. Contact your BMW Center.

Lights up in yellow:
Full engine power is no longer available

You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the engine checked as
soon as possible.

Indication in US models:
Indicator lamp 1 flashes:
Engine malfunction under high load.
High engine load will result in damage
to the catalytic converter

You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the vehicle checked without delay.

Indicator lamp 1 comes on:
Engine malfunction with adverse effect
on exhaust emissions

Have the car checked as soon as possible.

Indication in Canadian models:
Indicator lamp 1 flashes:
Engine malfunction under high load.
High load on the engine will result in
damage to the catalytic converter

You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the vehicle checked without delay.

Indicator lamp 1 comes on:
Engine malfunction with adverse effect
on exhaust emissions

Have the car checked as soon as possible.

Lights up in red:
Engine overheating

Carefully bring the car to a stop, switch
off the engine and allow it to cool down.
Do not open the engine compartment
lid, otherwise there would be a risk of
injury by scalding. Contact your BMW
Center.

Lights up in yellow:
Engine too hot

Continue driving at more moderate
speed so that the engine can cool
down. Have the engine checked without delay if the situation reoccurs.

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2

Cause

What to do

Battery is no longer being charged.
Alternator malfunction

Switch off all unnecessary electrical
consumers. Have the battery checked
without delay.

Lights up in yellow:
Battery charge level very low, battery
aged or not securely connected

Have the battery checked as soon as
possible.

At a glance

Lights up in red:

Indication in US models
Handbrake engaged
Indication in Canadian models
Indication in US models
Lights up in red:
Brake fluid level too low

Brake-pedal travel may be considerably
longer. You can continue your journey,
but moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Have the system checked
immediately.

Controls

Handbrake engaged

Drive-off assistant has failed. The car
will not be held in place after the brake
is released.

Have the system checked as soon as
possible.

Indication in Canadian models
Lights up in red:
Brake fluid level too low

Driving tips

Lights up in yellow:

Brake-pedal travel may be considerably
longer. You can continue your journey,
but moderate your speed and exercise
due caution. Have the system checked
immediately.

Drive-off assistant has failed. The car
will not be held in place after the brake
is released.

Have the system checked as soon as
possible.

Indication in US models
Brake pads worn

Mobility

Lights up in yellow:

Have the condition of the brake pads
checked without delay.

Indication in Canadian models
Brake pads worn

Have the condition of the brake pads
checked without delay.

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Reference

1

Indicator and warning lamps

1

2

Cause

What to do

Indication in US models
Vehicle electronics failed

You cannot continue your journey. Contact your BMW Center.

Indication* in Canadian models
Vehicle electronics failed

You cannot continue your journey. Contact your BMW Center.

Indication* in Canadian models
Vehicle electronics failed

You cannot continue your journey. Contact your BMW Center.

Lights up in red:

Have the system in question checked
without delay.

> Starter failed or

The engine cannot be restarted.

> ignition malfunctioning. Engine
restart only possible when brake is
depressed or

Depress the brake to restart the engine.

> lighting system failed. Low beams/
tail lamps and brake lamps still
operational. All other lamps failed
Lights up in yellow:
> Control of the brake lamps failed or
> fuel supply malfunctioning, or
> trailer lamps malfunctioning

You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the system in question
checked without delay.

Flashing:
Dynamic Stability Control DSC or
Dynamic Traction Control DTC is controlling drive and braking forces, refer
also to page 69
Dynamic Traction Control DTC activated, refer also to page 69
Dynamic Stability Control DSC and
Dynamic Traction Control DTC deactivated, refer also to page 69

Driving stability limited during acceleration and cornering.
Driving style must be readjusted.

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Suspension control system failed, refer
also to page 70

Driving stability limited during acceleration and cornering.
You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the system checked as
soon as possible.

xDrive has failed, refer also to page 69

You can continue your journey. Drive
cautiously and think well ahead. Avoid
driving on rough tracks, full-throttle
operation and use of the transmission's
kick-down mode. Have the system
checked immediately.

xDrive and DSC have failed, refer also
to page 69

You can continue your journey. Drive
cautiously and think well ahead. Avoid
driving on rough tracks, full-throttle
operation and use of the transmission's
kick-down mode. Have the system
checked immediately.

At a glance

What to do

Controls

Cause

The driving stability control systems,
including ABS and the Flat Tire Monitor, have failed, refer also to page 70

You can continue your journey. Drive
cautiously and think well ahead. Avoid
situations that require full braking. Have
the system checked immediately.

Indication* in Canadian models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS and the Flat Tire Monitor, have failed, refer also to page 70

You can continue your journey. Drive
cautiously and think well ahead. Avoid
situations that require full braking. Have
the system checked immediately.

Driving tips

Indication in US models

Indication* in Canadian models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS and the Flat Tire Monitor, have failed, refer also to page 70

You can continue your journey. Drive
cautiously and think well ahead. Avoid
situations that require full braking. Have
the system checked immediately.

Indication in US models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS, xDrive and the Flat Tire
Monitor, have failed, refer also to
page 70

You can continue your journey. Drive
cautiously and think well ahead. Avoid
braking with full force, driving on rough
tracks, and depressing the accelerator
pedal to full throttle or kick-down position. Have the system checked immediately.

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Mobility

2

Reference

1

Indicator and warning lamps

1

2

Cause

What to do

Indication* in Canadian models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS, xDrive and the Flat Tire
Monitor, have failed, refer also to
page 70

You can continue your journey. Drive
cautiously and think well ahead. Avoid
braking with full force, driving on rough
tracks, and depressing the accelerator
pedal to full throttle or kick-down position. Have the system checked immediately.

Indication* in Canadian models
The driving stability control systems,
including ABS, xDrive and the Flat Tire
Monitor, have failed, refer also to
page 70

You can continue your journey. Drive
cautiously and think well ahead. Avoid
braking with full force, driving on rough
tracks, and depressing the accelerator
pedal to full throttle or kick-down position. Have the system checked immediately.

Light up in yellow and red:
> Tire is deflated

Carefully bring the car to a stop. Comply
with the additional information starting
on page 71.

> Flat Tire Monitor not initialized

Initialize Flat Tire Monitor, refer to
page 72.

Light up in yellow:
Flat Tire Monitor failed. Punctures are
not indicated

Have the system checked.

Lights up in red:
> Transmission limp-home program
active with restricted range of
gears, possibly with reduced acceleration.
Gears can be engaged without
depressing the brake

You can continue your journey, but
moderate your speed and exercise due
caution. Have the system checked
without delay.
Always depress the brake to engage a
gear.

Lights up in yellow:

Have the system checked as soon as
possible.

> Automatic selector lever locked:
Selector lever locked in position P
with engine running and brake
depressed or

Overriding selector lever lock, refer to
page 48.

> brake signal malfunctioning: gear
can be engaged without depressing the brake

To engage a gear while the vehicle is at
a standstill, always step on the brake.
Before leaving the vehicle, move the
selector lever to position P and switch
off the engine.

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2

Cause

What to do

Transmission overheating

Bring the car to a stop and move the
selector lever to position P. Allow the
transmission to cool down. You can
continue your journey, but moderate
your speed and exercise due caution.
Have the system checked if the situation reoccurs.

At a glance

Lights up in red:

Lights up in yellow:
Avoid high engine loads. You can continue your journey, but moderate your
speed and exercise due caution.

Selector lever position P not engaged.
Vehicle not prevented from rolling
Selector lever position P not engaged.
Ignition cannot be switched off

Engage selector lever position P when
you wish to switch off the ignition, refer
to page 42.

Controls

Transmission too hot

Lights up in red:
The engine can no longer be started. If
applicable, do not switch off the engine.
Contact your BMW Center.

Lights up in yellow:
Electric steering wheel lock jammed

Move the steering wheel before starting
the engine.

Anti-trapping mechanism of the power
windows malfunctioning

Have the system checked.

Anti-trapping mechanism of the electric glass sunroof malfunctioning

Have the system checked.

Driving tips

Electric steering wheel lock malfunctioning

Cruise control deactivated:

Mobility

> Driving stability control systems are
active or
> handbrake is applied or
> the vehicle has not achieved a
speed of 20 mph or 30 km/h or
> engaged gear not suitable for the
speed being driven
Cruise control system failed

You can continue your journey. Have
the system checked.

Engine speed too low

Select a lower gear if the driving situation permits you to do so.

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Reference

1

Indicator and warning lamps

1

2

Cause

What to do

Engine speed too high

Select a higher gear if the driving situation permits you to do so.

Active cruise control deactivated:

Keep a safe distance.

> Driving stability control systems are
active or
> handbrake is applied or
> the vehicle has not achieved a
speed of 20 mph or 30 km/h or
> engaged gear not suitable for the
speed being driven or
> radar sensor dirty

Clean the radar sensor, refer to
page 56.

Active cruise control failed

Keep a safe distance.
Have the system checked.

Park Distance Control failed

Have the system checked.

Bulb of exterior lighting system failed

Have the exterior lighting checked as
soon as possible.

Low-beam headlamp or fog lamp failed

Have the low beams checked as soon
as possible.

High-beam headlamp failed

Have the high-beam headlamps
checked.

Headlamp beam throw adjustment
system failed

Have the headlamp beam throw adjustment system checked.

Adaptive Head Light failed
Coolant level too low

Add coolant immediately, refer to
page 121.

Engine oil pressure too low

Stop immediately and switch off the
engine. You cannot continue your journey. Contact your BMW Center.

Engine oil level too low

Add engine oil immediately; refer to
page 119 for more information.

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2

Cause

What to do

Service appointment overdue

Arrange a service appointment.
Check service requirements, refer to
page 63.

Lights up in yellow:
Service due

Arrange a service appointment.
Check service requirements, refer to
page 63.

No service due

Check service requirements, refer to
page 63.

At a glance

Lights up in red:

Set the time and date, refer to page 64.

Mobility

Driving tips

Time and date no longer correct

Controls

Preset speed limit exceeded

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Reference

1

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Reference
This chapter contains technical data and an
index that will help you find information most
quickly.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Technical data

Technical data
Engine data
Displacement

cu in/cmµ

Number of cylinders
Maximum power output
at engine speed
Maximum torque
at engine speed

323i (Canada)

325i/xi

330i/xi

152.4/2,497

182.8/2,996

182.8/2,996

6

6

hp

6

215

255

rpm

6,250

6,600

lb ft/Nm

185/251

220/298

rpm

2,750

2,750

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Driving tips

Controls

At a glance

Dimensions

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Reference

Mobility

All dimensions given in inches/mm. Smallest turning circle diam.: 36 ft 1 in/11.0 m. All wheel drive:
38 ft 9 in/11.8 m.

Technical data

Weights
323i (Canada)

325i

325xi

Curb weight
> with manual transmission

lbs/kg

3,274/1,485

3,285/1,490

3,560/1,615

> with automatic transmission

lbs/kg

3,329/1,510

3,351/1,520

3,605/1,635

Approved gross weight
> with manual transmission

lbs/kg

4,332/1,965

4,343/1,970

4,619/2,095

> with automatic transmission

lbs/kg

4,387/1,990

4,409/2,000

4,663/2,115

Load

lbs/kg

1,058/480

1,058/480

1,058/480

Approved front axle load

lbs/kg

2,083/945

2,072/940

2,282/1,035

Approved rear axle load

lbs/kg

2,403/1,090

2,425/1,100

2,480/1,125

Approved roof load capacity

lbs/kg

165/75

165/75

165/75

Luggage compartment capacity

cu ft/l

16.2/460

16.2/460

16.2/460

330i

330xi

Curb weight
> with manual transmission

lbs/kg

3,417/1,550

3,627/1,645

> with automatic transmission

lbs/kg

3,450/1,565

3,671/1,665

lbs/kg

4,475/2,030

4,685/2,125

> with automatic transmission

lbs/kg

4,508/2,045

4,729/2,145

Load

lbs/kg

1,058/480

1,058/480

Approved gross weight
> with manual transmission

Approved front axle load

lbs/kg

2,138/970

2,315/1,050

Approved rear axle load

lbs/kg

2,469/1,120

2,513/1,140

Approved roof load capacity

lbs/kg

165/75

165/75

Luggage compartment capacity

cu ft/l

16.2/460

16.2/460

Never exceed either the approved axle loads or
the gross vehicle weight.

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Capacities
Fuel tank

US gal/liters

approx. 16.1/61

including reserve of

US gal/liters

approx. 2.1/8.0

Window washer system

Fuel grade: page 107
For more details: page 50

US quarts/liters

approx. 6.3/6.0

Engine with oil filter renewal

US quarts/liters

approx. 6.9/6.5 BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil
Oil grades: page 120

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Reference

Mobility

Driving tips

Controls

including headlamp washers

At a glance

Notes

Everything from A to Z

Everything from A to Z
Index
A
ABS Antilock Brake
System 68
ACC, refer to Active cruise
control 53
Acceleration assistant with
the sequential manual
gearbox SMG 47
Accessories, refer to The
individual vehicle 5
Activated-charcoal filter for
automatic climate control 85
Active cruise control 53
– indicator lamps 56
– malfunction 57
– selecting distance 55
– sensor 56
Active steering 73
– warning lamp 73
Adapter for spare key 18
Adaptive Head Light 77
Additives
– coolant 121
Adjusting temperature inside
the car, refer to Air
conditioner 81
Adjusting temperature inside
the car, refer to Automatic
climate control 83
Airbags 74
– sitting safely 31
– warning lamp 75
Air conditioner 80
Air conditioning mode
– air conditioner 81
– automatic climate control 83
– ventilation 82, 85
Air distribution
– automatic 84
– individual 81
– manual 81
Air flow rate 81, 84

Airing, refer to
Ventilation 82, 85
Air outlets, refer to Air
vents 80
Air pressure, tires 108
Air recirculation, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode 81, 84
Air supply
– air conditioner 81
– automatic climate control 83
– ventilation 82, 85
Air vents 80
AKI, refer to Fuel
specifications 106
Alarm system 24
– avoiding unintentional
alarms 25
– interior motion sensor 25
– switching off an alarm 25
– tilt alarm sensor 25
All-season tires, refer to
Winter tires 117
Ambient air, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode 81, 84
Antifreeze
– coolant 121
– washer fluid 50
Anti-theft alarm system, refer
to Alarm system 24
Anti-theft system 19
Anti-trapping mechanism
– glass sunroof, electric 29
– windows 28
Approved axle loads, refer to
Weights 150
Approved gross vehicle
weight, refer to Weights 150
Armrest, refer to Center
armrest 89

Ashtray
– front 91
– rear 91
Assistance systems, refer to
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC 68
AUC Automatic recirculatedair control 84
Audio device, external 90
Automatic
– air distribution 84
– air flow rate 84
– cruise control 51, 53
– headlamp control 76
Automatic climate control 80
– automatic air distribution 84
Automatic curb monitor 37
Automatic recirculated-air
control AUC 84
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 47
– interlock 47
– overriding selector lever
lock 48
– shiftlock 47
– sport program 48
AUTO program for automatic
climate control 84
AUX-IN
– port 90
Average fuel consumption 60
– setting the units 62
Average speed 60
Avoiding unintentional
alarms 25
Axle loads, refer to
Weights 150

B
Backrests, refer to Seats 31
Backrest width adjustment 33

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C
California Proposition 65
warning 6
Can holders, refer to Cup
holders 90
Capacities 151
Capacity of luggage
compartment 150
Car battery, refer to Vehicle
battery 129

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At a glance
Controls
Driving tips

Car care, refer to Caring for
your vehicle brochure
Car-care products, refer to
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Care, refer to Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Cargo, securing 101
Cargo loading
– stowing cargo 101
– vehicle 100
Caring for artificial leather,
refer to Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Caring for leather, refer to
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Caring for light-alloy wheels,
refer to Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Caring for plastic, refer to
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Caring for the carpet, refer to
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Caring for the vehicle finish,
refer to Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Car jack
– jacking points 129
Car key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control 18
Car phone
– installation location, refer to
Center armrest 89
– refer to separate Owner's
Manual
Car wash 100
– also refer to Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Catalytic converter, refer to
Hot exhaust system 98
CBS Condition Based
Service 123
Center armrest 89
Center brake lamp
– replacing bulbs 128

Mobility

Brake rotors 100
– brakes 98
– breaking in 98
Brakes
– ABS 68
– BMW Maintenance
System 123
– brake fluid 121
– brake pads 122
– breaking in 98
– handbrake 44
– service requirements 63
Brakes, refer to Braking
safely 99
Brake system 98
– BMW Maintenance
System 123
– brake fluid 121
– brake pads 122
– breaking in 98
– disc brakes 100
Breakdown services, refer to
Roadside Assistance 131
Breaking in
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 98
Breaking in the clutch 98
Breaking in the differential 98
Break-in period 98
Bulb changing, refer to Lamps
and bulbs 125
Burned fuel
– refer to Average
consumption 60
Button for starting engine 42
Buttons on steering wheel 11

Reference

Back seats
– refer to Rear seats
Backup lamps
– replacing bulbs 128
Backup lamps, refer to Tail
lamps 127
Band-aids, refer to First-aid
pouch 131
Bar, refer to Tow-starting,
towing away 134
Battery 129
– charging 129
– disposal 27, 129
– jump starting 132
– temporary power failure 129
Battery renewal
– remote control 27
Being towed 133
Belts, refer to Safety belts 36
Belt tensioner, refer to Safety
belts 36
Beverage holders, refer to
Cup holders 90
Black ice, refer to Outside
temperature warning 59
Blower, refer to Air flow
rate 81, 84
BMW Homepage 4
BMW Maintenance
System 123
BMW webpage 4
Bottle holders, refer to Cup
holders 90
Brake assist, refer to Dynamic
Brake Control 68
Brake fluid 121
– level too low 121
– warning lamp 121, 122
Brake fluid, refer to Service
requirements 63
Brake Force Display 73
Brake hydraulics, refer to
Brakes 121
Brake lamps
– Brake Force Display 73
– replacing bulbs 128
Brake pads, breaking in 98

Everything from A to Z

Center console, refer to
Around the center
console 14
Central locking
– from inside 22
– from outside 19
Central locking system 19
– convenient access 25
Changing bulbs 125
Changing wheels 129
Chassis number, refer to
Engine compartment 119
Check Control 65
Check Gas Cap 106
Checking the air pressure,
refer to Tire inflation
pressure 108
Child-restraint fixing system
LATCH 40
Child-restraint systems 39
Child-safety lock 41
Child seats 39
Chrome parts, care, refer to
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Cigarette lighter 91
– socket 91
Cleaning, refer to Caring for
your vehicle brochure
Cleaning headlamps 50
– washer fluid 50
Clock 59
– 12h/24h mode 62
– setting time 64
Closing
– from inside 22
– from outside 20
Clothes hooks 90
Cockpit 10
Cold start, refer to Starting the
engine 43
Combined instrument, refer to
Instrument cluster 12
Comfort Access, refer to
Convenient access 25
Comfort area, refer to Around
the center console 14

Compartment for remote
control, refer to Ignition
lock 42
Compass 87
Computer 60
Condensation, refer to When
the vehicle is parked 100
Configuring settings, refer to
Personal Profile 19
Confirmation signals for
locking/unlocking of the
vehicle 21
Connecting vacuum cleaner,
refer to Connecting
electrical appliances 91
Consumption display
– average consumption 60
Consumption indicator
– Energy Control 60
Control Display
– settings 61
Controls and displays 10
Convenience operation
– windows 20
Convenience start, refer to
Starting the engine 43
Convenient access 25
– replacing the battery 27
– what to observe before
entering a car wash 27
Convenient operation
– windows with convenient
access 26
– with convenient access 26
Coolant 121
– adding 121
– checking level 121
Coolant temperature 59
Cooling, maximum 83
Cooling fluid, refer to
Coolant 121
Cornering lamps, refer to
Adaptive Head Light 77
Courtesy lamps 79
Cruise control 51
– active 53
– malfunction 52
Cruising range 60
Cup holders 90

Curb weight, refer to
Weights 150
Current consumption, refer to
Energy Control 60

D
Dashboard, refer to
Cockpit 10
Dashboard, refer to
Instrument cluster 12
Dashboard lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting 78
Data 148
– capacities 151
– dimensions 149
– engine 148
– weights 150
Date
– setting 65
Daytime driving lamps 77
DBC Dynamic Brake
Control 68
DCC, refer to Cruise
control 51
Deactivating front passenger
airbags 74
Deadlocking, refer to
Locking 20
Decommissioning the vehicle
– refer to Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Defect
– door lock 22
– fuel filler door 106
– glass sunroof 29
Defogging windows 82, 85
Defrosting windows 82, 85
Defrosting windows and
removing condensation
– air conditioner 82
– automatic climate control 85
Defrosting windshield, refer to
Defrosting windows 82, 85
Defrost position, refer to
Defrosting windows 82, 85
Digital clock 59
Digital compass 87
Dimensions 149

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F
Failure messages, refer to
Check Control 65
Failure of an electrical
consumer 129
False alarm, refer to Avoiding
unintentional alarms 25
Fastening safety belts, refer to
Safety belts 36

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At a glance
Controls

EBV Electronic brake-force
distribution 68
Electrical malfunction
– door lock 22
– fuel filler door 106
– glass sunroof 29
– panorama glass roof 29
Electric seat adjustment 32
Electronic brake-force
distribution 68
Electronic oil level check 119
Emergency call 131
Emergency operation, refer to
Closing manually
– glass sunroof 29
– panorama glass roof 29
Emergency operation, refer to
Manual operation
– door lock 22
– fuel filler door 106
– transmission lock, automatic
transmission 48
Emergency release
– luggage compartment lid
from inside 24
Emergency services, refer to
Roadside Assistance 131
Emissions test, refer to
Service requirements 63
Energy-conscious driving,
refer to Energy Control 60
Energy Control 60
Engine
– breaking in 98
– data 148
– overheated, refer to Coolant
temperature 59
– speed 148
– starting 43
– starting, convenient
access 25
– switching off 43

Driving tips

E

Engine compartment 119
Engine coolant, refer to
Coolant 121
Engine oil
– adding 120
– BMW Maintenance
System 123
– checking level 119
– intervals between changes,
refer to Service
requirements 63
Engine output, refer to Engine
data 148
Engine speed 148
Engine starting, refer to
Starting the engine 43
Environmentally friendly
driving, refer to Energy
Control 60
Error messages, refer to
Check Control 65
ESP Electronic Stability
Program, refer to DSC
Dynamic Stability
Control 68
Event data recorders 124
Exhaust system, refer to Hot
exhaust system 98
Exterior mirrors 37
– adjusting 37
– automatic dimming
feature 99
– automatic heating 37
External audio device 90
Eyes
– for tow-starting and towing
away 133
– for tying down loads 101

Mobility

Dynamic Driving Control 46
Dynamic Traction Control
DTC
– indicator lamps 69

Reference

Directional indicators, refer to
Turn signals 48
Displacement, refer to Engine
data 148
Display lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting 78
Displays
– instrument cluster 12
Displays and controls 10
Disposal
– coolant 121
– remote control battery 27
– vehicle battery 129
Distance control, refer to
Active cruise control 53
Distance remaining to service,
refer to Service
requirements 63
Distance warning, refer to
PDC Park Distance
Control 67
Door key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control 18
Door lock 22
Door locking, confirmation
signals 21
Doors, emergency
operation 22
DOT Quality Grades 114
Draft-free ventilation 82, 85
Drinks holders, refer to Cup
holders 90
Drive mode 46
Drive-off assistant 71
Driving lamps, refer to Parking
lamps/low beams 76
Driving notes 98
Driving stability control
systems 68
Driving through water 99
Driving tips, refer to Driving
notes 98
Dry air, refer to Cooling
function 85
DSC Dynamic Stability
Control 68
DTC Dynamic Traction
Control 68
– indicator lamps 68

Everything from A to Z

Filter
– refer to Microfilter/activatedcharcoal filter for automatic
climate control 85
– refer to Microfilter for air
conditioner 82
First aid pouch 131
Fixture for remote control,
refer to Ignition lock 42
Flashlight, refer to
Rechargeable flashlight 89
Flash when locking/
unlocking 21
Flat
– Run-Flat Tires 116
Flat Tire Monitor FTM 71
– indicating a flat tire 72
– initializing the system 72
– malfunction 73
– snow chains 72, 117
– system limits 72
Flat tires, refer to Tire
condition 115
Fog lamps 78
– indicator lamp 78, 136
Footbrake, refer to Braking
safely 99
Footwell lamps 79
For your own safety 5
Front airbags 74
Front seat adjustment 31
FTM, refer to Flat Tire
Monitor 71
Fuel 106
– display 60
– high-quality brands 106
– quality 106
– specifications 106
– tank capacity 151
Fuel clock, refer to Fuel
gauge 60
Fuel consumption, refer to
Average fuel
consumption 60
Fuel display, refer to Fuel
gauge 60
Fuel filler door 106
– releasing in the event of
electrical malfunction 106

Fuses 129

H

G

Halogen lamps
– replacing bulbs 126
Handbrake 44
– indicator lamp 44
– manual release 22
Hand lamp, refer to
Rechargeable flashlight 89
Hands-free system 14
Hazard warning flashers 14
Head airbags 74
Headlamp control,
automatic 76
Headlamp cover 126
Headlamp flasher 48
– indicator lamp 11, 14, 136
Headlamps
– care, refer to Caring for your
vehicle brochure
– replacing bulbs 126
Head restraints 33
– sitting safely 31
Heated
– mirrors 37
– rear window 81, 85
– seats 34
Heating 80
– mirrors 37
– rear window 81, 85
– seats 34
Heating while at a standstill,
refer to Using residual
heat 84
Heavy loads, refer to Stowing
cargo 101
Height, refer to
Dimensions 149
Height adjustment
– seats 32
– steering wheel 38
High beams 78
– headlamp flasher 78
– indicator lamp 136
– replacing bulbs 126
High water, refer to Driving
through water 99
Hills 99
Holders for cups 90

Garage door opener, refer to
Integrated universal remote
control 86
Gasoline, refer to Required
fuel 106
Gasoline display, refer to Fuel
gauge 60
Gasoline engine, checking oil
level 119
Gear indicator
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 47
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45
Gearshift lever
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 47
– manual transmission 44
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45
Gearshifts
– with automatic
transmission 47
– with manual transmission 44
– with the sequential manual
gearbox SMG 45
General driving notes 98
Glass sunroof, electric 28
– anti-trapping mechanism 29
– closing after electrical
malfunction 29
– convenient operation 20, 22
– opening, closing 29
– operation with convenient
access 26
– raising 29
– remote control 20
Glove compartment 89
– rechargeable flashlight 89
Grills, refer to Air vents 80
Gross vehicle weight, refer to
Weights 150

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K
Key, refer to Integrated key/
remote control 18
Keyless Go, refer to
Convenient access 25
Keyless opening and closing,
refer to Convenient
access 25
Key Memory, refer to Personal
Profile 19
Kick-down 48
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 48
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 46
Knock control 106

L
Lamps, refer to Parking lamps/
low beams 76
Lamps and bulbs, replacing
bulbs 125
Lap-and-shoulder safety
belt 36
Lashing eyes, refer to
Securing cargo 101
LATCH child-restraint fixing
system 40
LEDs light-emitting
diodes 125
Length, refer to
Dimensions 149
License plate lamp, replacing
bulbs 128
Light-emitting diodes
LEDs 125
Lighter 91

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At a glance
Controls

Jacking points 129
Jumpering, refer to Jump
starting 132
Jump starting 132

Driving tips

Ice warning 59
Ignition 42
– switched off 42
– switched on 42
Ignition key, refer to
Integrated key/remote
control 18
Ignition key position 1, refer to
Radio readiness 42
Ignition key position 2, refer to
Ignition on 42
Ignition lock 42
Indicator and warning
lamps 13, 136
Individual air distribution 81
Individual settings, refer to
Personal Profile 19
Initializing
– compass, refer to
Calibrating 88
– Flat Tire Monitor FTM 72
– glass sunroof 29
Instrument cluster 12
Instrument lighting 78
Instrument panel, refer to
Cockpit 10
Integrated key 18
Integrated universal remote
control 86
Interior lamps 79
– remote control 20
Interior motion sensor 25
Interior rearview mirror 37
– automatic dimming
feature 99
Interior rearview mirror with
digital compass 87
Interlock 47

J

Lighting
– instruments 78
– lamps and bulbs 125
– of the vehicle, refer to
Lamps 76
Light switch 76
Limit 145
Loading
– securing cargo 101
Load securing equipment,
refer to Securing cargo 101
Lock buttons in the doors,
refer to Locking 23
Locking
– adjusting confirmation
signal 21
– from inside 23
– from outside 20
– without remote control, refer
to Convenient access 25
Locking and unlocking doors
– from inside 22
– from outside 20
Low beams 76
– automatic 76
– replacing bulbs 126
Lower back support, refer to
Lumbar support 32
Luggage compartment
– capacity 150
– convenient access 26
– folding up the floor panel 93
– lamp 79
– opening from inside 23
– opening from outside 23
Luggage compartment lid 23
– convenient access 26
– unlocking with remote
control 21
Luggage compartment lid,
refer to Tailgate 23
Luggage compartment net,
refer to Securing cargo 101
Luggage rack, refer to Roofmounted luggage rack 101
Lumbar support 32

Mobility

I

Intermittent mode of the
wipers 50

Reference

Homepage 4
Hood 118
Horn 10
Hot exhaust system 98
Hydraulic brake assist, refer to
Dynamic Brake Control 68
Hydroplaning 99

Everything from A to Z

M
M+S tires, refer to Winter
tires 117
Maintenance, refer to Service
Booklet
Maintenance system 123
Malfunction warnings, refer to
Check Control 65
Manual air distribution 81
Manual mode
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 48
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45
Manual operation
– door lock 22
– glass sunroof 29
– panorama glass roof 29
– transmission lock, automatic
transmission 48
Manual release
– fuel filler door 106
Manual transmission 44
Master key, refer to Integrated
key/remote control 18
Maximum cooling 83
Maximum speed
– with winter tires 117
Memory, refer to Seat and
mirror memory 35
Microfilter
– BMW Maintenance
System 123
– for air conditioner 82
– for automatic climate
control 85
Microfilter/activated-charcoal
filter
– BMW Maintenance
System 123
Microphone for telephone 14
Mirror dimming feature 99
Mirrors 37
– automatic curb monitor 37
– exterior mirrors 37
– heating 37
– interior rearview mirror 37

Mobile phone
– installation location, refer to
Center armrest 89
– refer to separate Owner's
Manual
Mobile phone, installation
location, refer to Center
armrest 89
Mobile phone, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Mobile phone in the vehicle 98
Mobile phones, use inside the
car, refer to Mobile phone in
the vehicle 98
Modifications, technical, refer
to For your own safety 5
Monitoring system for tire
pressures, refer to Flat Tire
Monitor 71
Multifunctional steering
wheel, refer to Buttons on
the steering wheel 11
Multifunction switch
– refer to Turn signals/
headlamp flasher 48
– refer to Wiper system 49

N
Neck support, refer to Head
restraints 33
Nets, refer to Storage
compartments 90
New tires 116
Nose weight 150
Nozzles, refer to Windshield
washer nozzles 50
Number of cylinders, refer to
Engine data 148

O
OBD socket 124
OBD socket, refer to Socket
for On-Board Diagnosis 124
Octane ratings, refer to Fuel
specifications 106
Odometer 59

Oil
– capacity 151
Oil, refer to Engine oil 119
Oil consumption 119
Oil level 119
Old batteries, refer to
Disposal 129
Onboard tool kit 125
Opening and closing
– convenient access 25
– from inside 22
– from outside 20
– using the door lock 22
– via the remote control 20
Opening and unlocking
– from the inside 23
Outlets
– refer to Ventilation 82, 85
Outlets, refer to Air vents 80
Output, refer to Engine
data 148
Outside-air mode
– automatic climate control 84
Outside-temperature
display 59
– changing units of
measure 62
– in computer 62
Overheated engine, refer to
Coolant temperature 59
Overriding selector lever
lock 48

P
Panorama glass roof
– closing after electrical
malfunction 29
– convenient operation 20
– remote control 20
Parking
– vehicle 43
Parking aid, refer to PDC Park
Distance Control 67
Parking brake, refer to
Handbrake 44
Parking lamps/low beams 76
– replacing bulbs 127

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Radio key, refer to Integrated
key/Remote control 18
Radio position, refer to Radio
readiness 42
Radio readiness 42
– switched off 42
– switched on 42
Rain sensor 50
Reading lamps 79
Rear lamps, refer to Tail
lamps 127
– replacing bulbs 128

S
Safety-belt height
adjustment 36
Safety belts 36
– damage 36
– indicator lamp 36
– reminder 36
– sitting safely 31

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At a glance
Controls
Driving tips

Restraint systems
– for children 39
– refer to Safety belts 36
Reverse gear
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 48
– manual transmission 45
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45
Roadside Assistance 131
Roadside parking lamps 78
– replacing bulbs 127
Roadworthiness test, refer to
Service requirements 63
Roller blind
– sun blinds 89
Roof load capacity 150
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 101
Rope, refer to Tow-starting,
towing away 134
RSC Runflat System
Component, refer to RunFlat Tires 116
Runflat System Component
RSC, refer to Run-Flat
Tires 116
Run-Flat Tires 116
– continuing driving with a
damaged tire 72
– flat tire 72
– new tires 116
– replacing tires 116
– tire pressures 108
– winter tires 117
Runflat Tyres, refer to RunFlat Tires 116

Mobility

R

Rear seats
– adjusting head restraints 34
– folding head restraint down
and up 34
Rear turn signals
– replacing bulbs 128
Rear ventilation 85
Rearview mirror, refer to
Mirrors 37
Rear window defroster 81, 85
Rear window roller blind, refer
to Roller sun blinds 89
Rear window safety switch 28
Rechargeable flashlight 89
Recirculated-air mode 81, 84
Recirculation of air, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode 81, 84
Reclining seat, refer to
Backrest 32
Refueling 106
Releasing
– hood 118
Remaining distance, refer to
Cruising range 60
Remote control 18
– battery renewal 27
– convenient access 25
– garage door opener 86
– luggage compartment lid 21
– malfunctions 21, 27
– service data 123
Replacement remote
control 18
Replacing bulbs, refer to
Lamps and bulbs 125
Replacing tires, refer to New
wheels and tires 116
Reporting an accident, refer to
Initiating an emergency
call 131
Reporting safety defects 6
Reserve warning, refer to Fuel
gauge 60
Reservoir for washer
systems 50
Residual heat mode 84

Reference

Parts and accessories, refer to
The individual vehicle 5
Passenger-side mirror tilt
function 37
Pathway lighting 76
PDC Park Distance Control 67
Personal Profile 19
Placing a call, refer to
telephone owner's manual
Pollen
– refer to Microfilter/activatedcharcoal filter for automatic
climate control 85
– refer to Microfilter for air
conditioner 82
Power failure 129
Power windows 28
– safety switch 28
Power windows, refer to
Windows 27
Pressure, tires 108
Pressure monitoring, tires 71
– Flat Tire Monitor 71
Protection function, refer to
Anti-trapping mechanism
– glass sunroof, electric 29
– windows 28
Providing medical assistance,
refer to First add pouch 131
Puncture
– Flat Tire Monitor 71

Everything from A to Z

Safety systems
– airbags 74
– Antilock Brake System
ABS 68
– Dynamic Stability Control
DSC 68
– safety belts 36
Safety tires, refer to Run-Flat
Tires 116
Screw thread for tow
fitting 133
Seat adjustment
– electric 32
– mechanical 32
Seat and mirror memory 35
Seat belt reminder, refer to
'Fasten safety belts'
reminder 36
Seats 31
– adjusting the seats 32
– heating 34
– sitting safely 31
Securing cargo 94
Securing the vehicle
– from inside 22
– from outside 20
Selecting distance for active
cruise control 55
Selector lever
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 47
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45
Selector lever lock, refer to
Shiftlock
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 47
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45
Selector lever positions
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 47
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45

Sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45
– acceleration assistant 47
– breaking in 98
– Dynamic Driving Control 46
– gear indicator 45
– kick-down 46
– shiftlock 45
– tow-starting 134
Service, refer to Roadside
Assistance 131
Service car, refer to Roadside
Assistance 131
Service data in the remote
control 123
Service Interval Display, refer
to Condition Based Service
CBS 123
Service requirement display,
refer to Condition Based
Service CBS 123
Service requirements 63
Settings
– clock, 12h/24h mode 62
Shifting gears
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 48
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45
Shiftlock
– automatic transmission,
refer to Changing selector
lever positions 47
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45
Shift paddles 46
Side airbags 74
Side-mounted turn signals
– replacing bulbs 127
Side window blind, refer to
Roller sun blinds 89
Side windows, refer to
Windows 27
Signal horn, refer to Horn 10
Sitting safely 31
– airbags 31
– safety belt 31
– with head restraint 31
Ski bag 94

Ski sack, refer to Ski bag 94
Sliding/tilt sunroof, refer to
Glass sunroof, electric 28
Slot for remote control 42
SMG, refer to Sequential
manual gearbox 45
Smokers' package, refer to
Ashtray 91
Snap-in adapter, refer to
Center armrest storage
compartment 89
Socket, refer to Connecting
electrical appliances 91
Socket for On-Board
Diagnosis OBD 124
Spare fuses 129
Spare fuses, refer to
Fuses 129
Spare key 18
– adapter 18
Spark plugs, refer to Service
requirements 63
Speed
– with winter tires 117
Speedometer 12
Sport program
– refer to Dynamic Driving
Control 46
Sports seat 33
Stability control, refer to
Driving stability control
systems 68
Start/stop button 42
– starting the engine 43
– switching off the engine 43
Starting
– difficulties, temperature 43
Starting, refer to Starting the
engine 43
Starting assistance, refer to
Jump starting 132
Starting the engine
– start/stop button 42
Status of this Owner's Manual
at time of printing 5

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161
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

At a glance
Controls
Driving tips

Tachometer 59
Tailgate
– locking or unlocking
separately 24
– opening and closing 23
– opening from inside 23
– opening from outside 23
Tail lamps 127
– replacing bulbs 128
Tank contents, refer to
Capacities 151
Technical data 148
Technical modifications 5
Telephone
– installation location, refer to
Center armrest 89
– refer to separate Owner's
Manual

Tow fitting
– screw thread 133
Tow fittings 133
Tow fittings for tow-starting
and towing away 133
Towing 133
– methods 134
Towing away
– car with automatic
transmission 133
Tow rope 134
Tow-starting 133
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 134
Track width, refer to
Dimensions 149
Traction-assist feature, refer
to DSC 68
Traction control, refer to DSC
Dynamic Stability
Control 68
Trailer towing
– towing loads and gross
weight 150
Transmission
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 47
– manual transmission 44
– overriding selector lever lock
for automatic transmission
with Steptronic 48
– sequential manual gearbox
SMG 45
Transporting children
safely 39
Transport securing device,
refer to Securing cargo 101
Tread depth, refer to Minimum
tire tread 115
Trip-distance counter, refer to
Trip odometer 59
Triple turn signal activation 49
Trip odometer 59
Trunk
– lid, refer to Luggage
compartment lid 23
Trunk lamp, refer to Luggage
compartment lamp 79

Mobility

T

Temperature adjustments
– air conditioner 81
– automatic climate control 83
Temperature display
– ice warning 59
– outside temperature 59
– setting the units 62
Temperature of the coolant,
refer to Coolant
temperature 59
Tensioning straps, refer to
Securing cargo 101
The individual vehicle 5
Thigh support 33
Third brake lamp, refer to
Center brake lamp 128
Tilt alarm sensor 25
Tilt function, passenger-side
mirror 37
Tire inflation pressures 108
Tire pressure
– loss 72
Tire pressure monitoring,
refer to Flat Tire Monitor 71
Tire puncture, refer to Flat Tire
Monitor 72
Tire Quality Grading 114
Tires
– age 114, 116
– breaking in 98
– changing, refer to Changing
wheels 129
– condition 115
– damage 115
– inflation pressure 108
– minimum tread depth 115
– new tires 116
– pressure monitoring, refer to
Flat Tire Monitor 71
– puncture 72
– Run-Flat Tires 116
– size 114
– wear indicators, refer to
Minimum tread depth 115
– winter tires 117
Tools, refer to Onboard tool
kit 125
Torque 148
Tow bar 134

Reference

Steering wheel 38
– adjustment 38
– buttons on steering
wheel 11
– lock 42
Steering with variable ratio,
refer to Active steering 73
Steptronic, refer to Automatic
transmission with
Steptronic 47
Storage compartments 90
Storing seat positions, refer to
Seat and mirror memory 35
Storing tires 117
Stowage, refer to Storage
compartments 90
Summer tires, refer to Wheels
and tires 108
Sun blinds 89
Switches, refer to Cockpit 10
Switching off
– engine 43
Switching off the engine
– start/stop button 42
Switching the cooling function
on and off 85
Symbols 4

Everything from A to Z

Trunk lid, refer to Luggage
compartment lid 23
Turning circle, refer to
Dimensions 149
Turn signals 48
– indicator lamp 12
– replacing bulbs 127
Tying down loads, refer to
Cargo loading 101

U
Underbody protection, refer to
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Uniform Tire Quality Grading/
UTQR 114
Units
– average consumption 62
– temperature 62
Universal garage door opener,
refer to Integrated universal
remote control 86
Universal remote control 86
Unlatching, refer to
Unlocking 25
Unlocking
– from inside 23
– from outside 20
– luggage compartment lid 26
– without remote control, refer
to Convenient access 25

V
Vehicle
– battery 129
– breaking in 98
– care, refer to Caring for your
vehicle brochure
– cargo loading 100
– dimensions 149
– Identification Number, refer
to Engine compartment 119
– parking 43
– washing, refer to Caring for
your vehicle brochure
– weight 150
Vehicle jack 129

Ventilation 85
– air conditioner 82
– draft-free 82, 85
– in the rear 85
Vents, refer to Air vents 80
Vents, refer to
Ventilation 82, 85

W
Warning and indicator
lamps 13, 136
Warning messages, refer to
Check Control 65
Warning triangle 132
Washer fluid 50
– content of the reservoir 51
Washer fluid reservoir 50
Washing the car, refer to
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Waste tray, refer to Ashtray 91
Water on roads, refer to
Driving through water 99
Wear indicators in tires, refer
to Minimum tread depth 115
Webpage 4
Weights 150
Wheelbase, refer to
Dimensions 149
Wheels, new 116
Wheels and tires 108
Width, refer to
Dimensions 149
Windows 27
– anti-trapping mechanism 28
– convenience operation 20
– opening, closing 28
– operation with convenient
access 26
– safety switch 28
Window washer fluid
reservoir, refer to Washer
fluid 50
Window washer system 49
– washer fluid 50
– washer nozzles 50

Windshield
– cleaning 50
– defrosting and removing
condensation 82, 85
Windshield wiper blades,
changing 125
Windshield wipers, refer to
Wiper system 49
Winter tires 117
– storage 117
Wiper blade replacement 125
Wiper system 49
Work in the engine
compartment 118
Wrench/screwdriver, refer to
Onboard tool kit 125

X
Xenon lamps
– replacing bulbs 126

162
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Refueling
So that you always have access to the data you
need when refueling, you are recommended to
enter the relevant figures for your car in the
table provided below. Consult the index for individual specifications.

Fuel
Designation

Please enter your preferred fuel here.

Engine oil
Quality

Do not add engine oil until the corresponding
warning lamp in the instrument cluster lights up,
refer to page 120.

Tire inflation pressures
Summer tires
Front

Rear

Winter tires
Front

Up to 4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG

Rear

More about BMW

The Ultimate
Driving Machine

01 41 0 012 351 ue Basis

bmwusa.com

*BL0012351004*
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 351 - © 03/06 BMW AG



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