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Owner's Manual
for Vehicle
X5 3.0i
X5 4.4i
X5 4.6is
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 the unique range of technical features on your BMW. The
manual also contains information on vehicle maintenance designed to enhance
operating safety and contribute to maintaining the value of your BMW throughout an
extended service life.
For additional information refer to the supplemental manuals.
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It
should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important
operating, safety and maintenance information.
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet
(US models) or a Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
We recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.
Your BMW is covered by the following warranties:
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
Limited Rust Perforation Warranty
Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
California Emission Control System Limited Warranty
Detailed information about these warranties is listed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW AG
Vorwort
Contents
© 2001 Bayerische Motoren Werke
Aktiengesellschaft
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW AG, Munich.
Order no. 01 41 0 156 416
US English IX/2001
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper
(bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling).
Overview
Controls and features
Cockpit 14
Instrument cluster 15
Indicator and warning lamps 18
Steering wheel with multifunction
buttons 22
Warning triangle 23
First-aid kit 23
Refueling 24
Fuel specifications 25
Tire inflation pressures 26
Locks and security systems:
Keys 30
Central locking system 30
Opening and closing
– via the door lock 31
Opening and closing
– via the remote control 32
Opening and closing
– from the inside 35
Liftgate 36
Tailgate 37
Alarm system 39
Electric power windows 40
Sliding/tilt sunroof with glass
moonroof 42
Adjustments:
Correct sitting posture 44
Seats 44
Mechanical seat 45
Power seat 46
Head restraints 47
Power rear-seat backrest
adjustment 48
Safety belt 49
Seat, mirror and steering wheel
memory 50
Seat heating 51
Adjusting steering wheel 52
Steering wheel heating 53
Mirrors 53
Passenger safety systems:
Airbags 55
Transporting children safely 58
Vehicle Memory, Key
Memory 61
Driving:
Ignition lock 62
Starting the engine 62
Switching off the engine 64
Parking brake 64
Manual transmission 65
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 66
Indicator/Headlamp flasher 68
Washer/Wiper system/Rain
sensor 69
Cruise control 71
Everything under control:
Odometer, outside temperature
display 74
Tachometer 75
Energy control 75
Fuel gauge 75
Coolant temperature gauge 76
Service Interval Display 76
Check Control 77
Computer 80
Multi-Information Display
(MID) 82
Digital clock in the MID 83
Computer in the MID 86
Inhalt
5n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Technology for safety and
driving convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 91
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 92
Hill Descent Control (HDC) 94
Variable Ride Height 95
Variable Ride Height on both
axles 95
Tire Pressure Monitor (RDC) 98
Adaptive brake light 99
Lamps:
Parking lamps/Low beams 100
Instrument lighting 101
High beams/Standing
lamps 101
Fog lamps 101
Interior lamps 102
Reading lamps 102
Controlling the climate for
pleasant driving:
Air conditioner 103
Automatic climate control 106
Sunshades
Independent ventilation
system 112
Cabin convenience:
BMW Universal Transmitter 113
Glove compartment 116
Storage compartments 116
Cellular phone 117
Beverage holder 117
Glasses compartment 118
Ashtray, front 118
Cigarette lighter, front 118
Ashtray, rear 119
Cigarette lighter, rear 119
Loading and transporting:
Ski bag 120
Cargo area
Fold the rear backrests
down 122
Cargo area cover 122
Partition net 123
Cover panels in the cargo
area 124
Power outlets 125
Pull-out cargo floor 126
Stowing cargo 127
Roof-mounted luggage rack 128
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 132
Driving your BMW X5 133
General driving notes 134
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 134
Brake system 135
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressures 136
Tire condition 136
Tire replacement 137
Wheel and tire
combinations 139
Winter tires 140
Snow chains 140
Contents
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Technical data
Under the hood:
Hood 141
Engine compartment
essentials 142
Washer fluid 143
Engine oil 143
Coolant 145
Brake fluid 146
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 147
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 148
California Proposition
65 Warning 148
OBD interface socket 149
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 152
Windshield wiper blades 152
Lamps and bulbs 153
Changing a wheel 156
Battery 162
Fuses 163
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 164
Towing the vehicle 166
Engine specifications 170
Dimensions 171
Weights 172
Capacities 173
7n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Index
Everything from A to Z 176
8n
Notes on the Owner's Manual
We have made every effort to ensure
that you are able to find what you need
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as
possible. The fastest way to find certain
topics is by using the detailed index at
the end. If you desire an initial overview
of your vehicle, this can be found in the
first chapter. The detailed table of
contents on the preceeding pages is
intended to stimulate your curiosity
regarding your BMW and to encourage
you to read the Owner's Manual.
Should you wish to sell your BMW at
some time in the future, please
remember to hand over the Owner's
Manual to the new owner; it is legal part
of the vehicle.
If you have any questions, your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center
will be glad to advise you.
Symbols used
Indicates precautions that must
be followed precisely in order to
avoid the possibility of personal injury
and serious damage to the vehicle.
<
Contains information that will
assist you in gaining the optimum
benefit from your vehicle and enable
you to care more effectively for your
vehicle.
<
Refers to measures that can
be taken to help protect the
environment.
<
<
Marks the end of a specific item of
information.
*
Indicates special equipment, country-
specific equipment and optional extras.
t
Identifies index entries that refer to
owner service procedures or topics on
vehicle maintenance.
Identifies systems or components,
which can either be activated or
adapted to suit an individual driver's
requirements ("Vehicle Memory", "Key
Memory"), refer to page 61.
Remember that activation and adjust-
ments on some of these systems can
only be performed at your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center.
<
Notes
Symbols
The individual vehicle
9n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
The individual vehicle
On buying your BMW, you have
decided in favor of a model with individ-
ualized equipment and features. This
Owner's Manual describes all models
and equipment that BMW offers within
the same group.
We hope you will understand that
equipment and features are included
that you might not have chosen for your
vehicle. Any differences can easily be
identified, since all optional accessories
and special equipment are marked with
an asterisk
*
.
If your BMW features equipment which
is not described in this Owner's Manual
(car radio or telephone, for instance),
Supplementary Owner's Manuals are
enclosed. We ask you to read these
manuals as well.
Status at time of printing
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development that is conceived
to ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality and safety
standards combined with advanced,
state-of-the-art technology. For this
reason, it is possible that the features
described in this Owner's Manual could
differ from those on your vehicle. Nor
can errors and omissions be entirely
ruled out. You are therefore asked to
appreciate that no legal claims can be
entertained on the basis of the data,
illustrations or descriptions in this
manual.
Aktualität bei Drucklegung
10n
For your own safety
Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels
containing up to and including
10% ethanol or other oxygenates with
up to 2.8% oxygen by weight (that is,
15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an
equivalent amount of co-solvent) will
not void the applicable warranties
respecting defects in materials or work-
manship. Field experience has indi-
cated significant differences in fuel
quality (volatility, composition, addi-
tives, etc.) among gasolines offered for
sale in the United States and Canada.
The use of poor-quality fuels may result
in driveability, starting and stalling
problems especially under certain envi-
ronmental conditions such as high
ambient temperature and high altitude.
Should you encounter driveability prob-
lems which you suspect could be
related to the fuel you are using, we
recommend that you respond by
switching to a recognized high-quality
brand.
Failure to comply with these recom-
mendations may result in unscheduled
maintenance.
Follow the relevant safety rules when
you are handling gasoline.
<
Important safety information.
For your own safety, use genuine parts
and accessories approved by BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested
and approved by BMW and Original
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire
the assurance that they have been thor-
oughly tested by BMW to ensure
optimum performance when installed
on your vehicle.
BMW warrants these parts to be free
from defects in material and workman-
ship.
BMW will not accept any liability for
damage resulting from installation of
parts and accessories not approved by
BMW.
BMW cannot test every product from
other manufacturers to verify if it can be
used on a BMW safely and without risk
to either the vehicle, its operation, or its
occupants.
Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories
and other products approved by BMW,
together with professional advice on
using these items, are available from all
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers.
Installation and operation of non-BMW
approved accessories such as alarms,
radios, amplifiers, radar detectors,
wheels, suspension components, brake
dust shields, telephones (including
operation of any portable cellular phone
from within the vehicle without using an
externally mounted antenna) or trans-
ceiver equipment (for instance, CBs,
walkie-talkie, ham radio or similar
accessories) may cause extensive
damage to the vehicle, compromise its
safety, interfere with the vehicle's elec-
trical system or affect the validity of the
BMW Limited Warranty. Contact your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center for
additional information.
<
Maintenance, replacement, or
repair of the emission control
devices and systems may be performed
by any automotive repair establishment
or individual using any certified auto-
motive part.
<
Symbol on vehicle parts
Indicates that you should consult
the relevant section of this
Owner's Manual for information on a
particular part or assembly.
For your own safety
11n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
The following only applies to vehicles owned and operated in the US.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should
immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying BMW of
North America, LLC, P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone (201) 307-4000.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in indi-
vidual problems between you, your dealer or BMW of North America, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can
also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
12n
13n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Overview
14n
1 Parking lamps/Low beams 100
2 Fog lamps 101
3
>
Turn signal indicator 69
>
Standing lamps 101
>
High beams 101
>
Headlamp flasher 68
>
Computer 80
4 Wiper/Washer system 69
5 Rear window defroster 104, 109
6 Central locking system 30
7 Hazard warning flashers
8 Horn, the entire surface
9 Adjusting steering wheel 52
Cockpit
530de328
15n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
1 Fuel gauge 75
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 21
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for high beams 21
5 Tachometer and Energy Control 75
6 Coolant temperature gauge 76
7 Indicator and warning
lamps 18 to 21
8 Selector lever and program display
for automatic transmission
*
66
9 Service Interval Display 76
10 Computer display –
operation via the turn signal lever,
refer to page 80:
>
Outside temperature
>
Average fuel consumption
>
Cruising range
>
Average speed
Instrument cluster
530us220
16n
Instrument cluster
11 Indicator lamp for Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) 20
12 Variable Ride Height
*
95
13 Odometer and trip odometer 74
14 Indicator for Check Control 77 15 Reset button for trip odometer 74
16 Indicator and warning
lamps 18 to 21
530us220
17n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Instrument cluster
*
1 Fuel gauge 75
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 21
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for high beams 21
5 Tachometer and Energy Control 75
6 Coolant temperature gauge 76
7 Indicator and warning
lamps 18 to 21
8 CHECK button 77
9 Selector lever and program display
for automatic transmission
*
66
10 Outside temperature display 74
11 Indicator lamp for Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) 20
12 Trip odometer 74
13 Indicator for Check Control 77
14 Odometer 74
15 Service Interval Display 76
16 Reset button for trip odometer 74
17 Indicator and warning
lamps 18 to 21
530us221
18n
Indicator and warning lamps
Technology that monitors itself
Indicator and warning lamps that are
identified by "
" are tested for proper
functioning whenever the ignition key is
turned. They each light up once for
different periods of time.
If a fault should occur in one of these
systems, the corresponding lamp does
not go out after the engine is started or
it lights up while the vehicle is moving.
You will see how to react to this in the
following section.
Red: stop immediately
Battery charge current
The battery is no longer being
charged. There is a malfunction
of the alternator drive belt or in the
charging circuit of the alternator. Please
contact the nearest BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center.
If the drive belt is defective, do not
continue driving. The engine could
be damaged due to overheating. If the
drive belt is defective, increased
steering effort is also required.
<
Engine oil pressure
Stop the vehicle immediately
and switch off the engine.
Check the engine oil level; top off as
required. If the oil level is correct:
please contact the nearest BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center.
Do not continue driving. The
engine could be damaged
because of inadequate lubrication.
<
Parking brake
*
/
Brake hydraulic system
Comes on when you engage the
parking brake. For additional informa-
tion: refer to page 64.
Comes on although the parking brake
is released: have the brake fluid level
checked. Before continuing your
journey, be sure to read the notes on
pages 135 and 146.
Also comes on in the Check Control
with the message "CHECK BRAKE
LININGS".
Parking brake warning lamp
*
/
Brake hydraulic system warning
lamp for Canadian models.
Tire Pressure Monitor (RDC)
*
In addition, an acoustic signal is
sounded: a flat tire has
occurred. Reduce vehicle speed imme-
diately and stop the vehicle. Avoid hard
brake applications. As you steer the
vehicle, use caution and avoid overcor-
recting.
For additional information: refer to
page 98
19n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Indicator and warning lamps
Red or yellow: continue to drive;
drive cautiously
If the brake warning lamp
comes on red together with the
yellow warning lamps for ABS
and DSC:
Continue to drive; drive
cautiously and defensively and
avoid full brake applications.
Have the system checked by the
nearest BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center.
For additional information: refer to
pages 92 and 134.
If all three warning lamps come on
yellow:
Continue to drive; drive cautiously and
defensively and avoid full brake appli-
cations.
Have the system checked by your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center as
soon as possible.
Warning lamps for Canadian
models.
Red: an important reminder
Parking brake
*
Comes on when the parking
brake is engaged.
For additional information: refer to
page 64.
Parking brake warning lamp
*
for
Canadian models.
Please fasten safety belts
Together with an acoustic signal
or a message
*
in the Check
Control. Comes on until the safety belts
are fastened. For additional information
on safety belts: refer to page 49.
Airbags
Please have the system
inspected by your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center.
For additional information: refer to
page 55.
Yellow: check as soon as possible
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
ABS has been deactivated in
response to system malfunction.
Conventional braking performance
remains available with no loss of effi-
ciency. Please have the system
inspected by your BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle center.
For additional information: refer to
page 134
ABS warning lamp for Canadian
models.
Engine oil level
Comes on while driving:
The oil level is at the absolute
minimum; refill as soon as possible. Do
not drive more than approx. 30 miles
(50 km) until you do.
For additional information: refer to
page 143.
Engine oil level
Comes on after the engine has
been switched off: add engine
oil at your earliest opportunity (when
you stop to refuel).
For additional information: refer to
page 143.
20n
Indicator and warning lamps
Automatic transmission
*
Because of a malfunction, the
automatic transmission shifts
only in the emergency program. Please
consult the nearest BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center.
For additional information: refer to
page 68.
Brake pads
*
Have the brake pads checked.
For additional information: refer
to page 135.
Variable Ride Height
*
Variable Ride Height is inactive.
Please consult the nearest
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center.
For additional information: refer to
page 95
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
Fault in the DBC system.
Conventional braking perfor-
mance remains available with no loss of
efficiency. Please have the system
checked and repaired by your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center.
For additional information: refer to
page 93
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
warning lamp for Canadian
models
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC)
Indicator lamp flashes:
The system is active and governs drive
and braking force.
The warning lamp comes on and stays
on while driving:
DSC has been switched off with the
button. If, after repeatedly pressing the
DSC button, the warning lamp still does
not go off, then that means that the
DSC, HDC and the vehicle's road-
holding ability are defective.
Please have the system checked by the
nearest BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center.
For additional information: refer to
pages 92 and 94.
Engine electronics
*
There is a fault in the engine's
electronic control system. You
can continue to drive with reduced
engine output or engine speed. Please
have the system inspected by your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center.
Tire Pressure Monitor (RDC)
*
Check tire inflation pressures,
refer to pages 26, 98
Service Engine Soon
If the indicator lamp comes on
either continuously or intermit-
tently, this indicates a fault in the
emissions-related electronic systems.
Although the vehicle remains opera-
tional, you should have the systems
checked by your BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle center at the earliest possible
opportunity.
For additional information: refer to
page 149.
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
Check Filler Cap
*
If the indicator lamp comes on
although the fuel cap is secured
correctly: this indicates a malfunction in
the fuel system. Have the system
inspected by your BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle center at the earliest opportu-
nity.
Additional information: refer to page 25
21n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Indicator and warning lamps
Green: for your information
Turn signal indicators
Flashes when the turn signal
indicators are operated. Rapid
flashing indicates a system malfunction.
For additional information: refer to
page 68.
Cruise control
Comes on when the cruise
control is activated: available for
operation via the steering wheel with
multifunction buttons.
For additional information: refer to
page 71.
Fog lamps
Lights up whenever you switch
on the fog lamps.
For additional information: refer to
page 101.
Blue: for your information
High beams
Lights up when the high beams
are on or the headlamp flasher
is actuated.
For additional information: refer to
pages 68 and 101.
22n
Steering wheel with multifunction buttons
The buttons integrated in the steering
wheel are provided so that you can
operate a number of accessories
quickly and without being distracted
from traffic conditions. You may
operate:
>
Selected control functions for the
radio along with CD and cassette
player
>
The recirculated-air mode of the air
conditioner or the steering-wheel
heating
*
>The cruise control,
>Selected phone functions* and
>The voice entry*
In order to operate a system, the
corresponding system must be
switched on.<
Press briefly:
Accept incoming call, start dialing,
terminate call.
Extended pressure:
Activate/deactivate voice entry.
Switch between phone and radio,
cassette and CD.
Forward:
>Radio
Press briefly: scans for stations in FM
band
Extended pressure: search function
>CD
Press briefly: jump to next track
Extended pressure: fast forward in
track
>Cassette
Press briefly: stop track scan or fast
forward
Extended pressure: fast forward
>Phone
Scan personal phone book.
Rewind: functions as for fast forward.
Volume
Cruise control: calling up.
Cruise control: store and accelerate (+);
decelerate and store (–).
Cruise control: activate/interrupt/deac-
tivate.
Recirculated-air mode and automatic
recirculated-air control (AUC) or heated
steering wheel: switch on/off.
23n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Warning triangle* First-aid kit*
1. Open the cover on the left in the
cargo area: lift the handle on the
cover
2. Pull the tab of the retaining strap
(arrow) and remove the hazard
warning triangle from the support
bracket
3. To install: slide the hazard warning
triangle into the support bracket and
press on the retaining strap.
Always observe all legal regula-
tions requiring a warning triangle
to be carried in the vehicle.<
530us005
The first-aid kit is located under the
front passenger's seat.
To open: pull the handle and fold the
cover down.
To close: fold the cover up.
Some of the articles in the first-aid
kit may be used within a limited
time only. For this reason, check the
expiration dates of each of the items
regularly, and replace any whose
expiration dates have passed. You can
acquire replacements in any drugstore
or pharmacy.
Always observe all legal regulations
requiring a first-aid kit to be carried in
the vehicle.<
530de242
24nRefueling
Fuel filler door
Before filling the tank, switch off
the engine. If you do not, fuel
cannot be filled into the tank and the
"Service Engine Soon" lamp may come
on.<
To open the fuel filler door, press on the
front edge.
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can also open the fuel filler door
manually:
1. Open the cover on the right in the
cargo area: lift the handle on the
cover
2. Pull the knob with the fuel pump
symbol.
530de243
When handling fuels, comply with
all of the applicable safety precau-
tions and regulations pertaining to
fuels. Never carry spare fuel containers
in your vehicle. Whether empty or full,
these containers can leak, cause an
explosion, or lead to fire in the event of
a collision.<
Simple and environmentally
friendly
Open the filler cap carefully to
prevent fuel from spraying out.
Fuel spray may cause injury.
Do not top off. Topping off may cause
fuel spillage.<
Keep the filler cap in the bracket
attached to the fuel filler door.
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle
completely into the filler pipe. Pulling
the nozzle out of the pipe during refu-
eling
>results in premature pump shutoff
>and will reduce the effect of the vapor
recovery system on the pump.
530us008
25n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Refueling Fuel specifications
As long as the filler nozzle is used prop-
erly, the fuel tank is full whenever the
nozzle shuts off the first time.
To prevent damage to the cata-
lytic converter, do not drive until
the fuel tank is empty.<
Tank capacity: approx. 24.6 gal.
(approx. 93 liters), with a reserve
capacity of
>6-cylinder engine: approx. 2.0 gal.
(approx. 8 liters)
>8-cylinder engine: approx. 2.5 gal.
(approx. 10 liters).
Close the filler cap carefully after
refueling until a "click" is heard.
While closing, be sure not to squeeze
the strap which is fastened to the cap.
A loose or missing cap will activate the
message "CHECK FILLER CAP" in the
Check Control* or the "Check Filler
Cap" lamp*.<
The engine uses lead-free gasoline
only.
Required fuel:
>Premium Unleaded Gasoline,
min. 91 AKI.
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Do not use leaded fuels. The use
of leaded fuels will cause perma-
nent damage to the system's oxygen
sensor and the catalytic converter.<
26nTire inflation pressures
You will find tire inflation pressures on
the inside door pillar.
Check tire pressures
All pressure specifications are indicated
in psi (kilopascal) for tires at ambient
temperature (refer also to the next
page).
Vehicles with Tire Pressure Monitor
(RDC)*:
After correcting the inflation pressures,
reactivate the system, refer to page 98.
530de225
Check tire inflation pressures
regularly — at least every two
weeks and before beginning a longer
trip. Incorrect tire pressure can other-
wise lead to tire damage and accidents.
Check the tire inflation pressure of the
spare tire. Inflate the spare tire to
the highest inflation of any tire on your
vehicle.<
Comply with tire approval
specifications
The inflation pressures in the table
apply to tire sizes and tires from BMW-
approved manufacturers. Your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center is
familiar with these pressures. Higher
pressures may be specified for tires
from other manufacturers.
Your vehicle is equipped with tires that
not only meet US standards, but also
European standards. We recommend
the exclusive use of BMW-approved
tires.
27n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Tire inflation pressures
BMW Tires
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) with cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
X5 All sizes 32 (220) 32 (220) 32 (220) 39 (270)
28n
Controls
29n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Index
Technical data
Owner service procedures
30nKeys Central locking system
The key set
1 The master keys with remote control
determine the functions of the Key
Memory, refer to page 61.
You can mark individual keys for
subsequent identification by applying
the colored decals that you received
when accepting delivery of your
vehicle.
There is an extended-life battery
in every master key which is
charged automatically in the ignition
lock as you drive.
For this reason, if you have a master
key that is otherwise not used, use that
key approx. once every year while
driving for an extended period. This will
charge the battery, refer also to
page 32.<
463de023
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,
such as in your wallet. This key is not
intended for continuous use
3 Door and ignition key
The lock for the glove compartment
cannot be operated with this key.
This is recommended for valet
parking, for instance.
The concept
The central locking system is ready for
operation as soon as you close the front
doors. The system engages and
releases the locks on the
>doors
>liftgate/tailgate
>fuel filler door.
The central locking system can be
operated
>from outside via the driver's door lock
as well as via the remote control
>from inside via the button for the
central locking system.
If the system is locked from inside, the
fuel filler door remains unlocked, refer
to page 35.
When the system is actuated from
outside of the vehicle, the anti-theft
system is actuated simultaneously. The
alarm system is also armed or
disarmed.
In the event of an accident, the central
locking system unlocks automatically
(only those doors which were not
locked separately with the safety lock
buttons), refer to page 35. In addition,
the hazard warning flashers and interior
lamps come on.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Opening and closing – via the door lock
Using the key
One turn of the key in the driver's door
lock unlocks the driver's door only.
Turning the key a second time unlocks
all of the remaining doors, the liftgate/
tailgate and the fuel filler door.
You can have an acknowledgment
signal set to confirm that the
vehicle is correctly closed.<
530de244
Convenience operation
You can also operate the windows and
sliding/tilt sunroof via the door lock.
>To open: with the door closed, turn
the key to the "Unlock" position and
hold it
>To close: with the door closed, turn
the key to the "Lock" position and
hold it.
Watch during the closing process
to be sure that no one is inadvert-
ently injured. Releasing the key stops
the operation.<
Manual operation
(in the event of an electrical malfunction)
Turn the key to the extreme left or right
to unlock/lock the door.
32nOpening and closing – via the remote control
The concept
The remote control offers you optimal
convenience in using your vehicle's
locking system while also providing
three exclusive supplementary features:
>Switch on the interior lamps, refer to
page 33.
With this function, you can also
"search for" your vehicle — when
parked in an underground garage, for
instance
>Open the liftgate, refer to page 33.
The liftgate will open slightly, regard-
less of whether it was previously
locked or unlocked
>Panic mode, refer to page 33.
In case of danger, you can trigger an
alarm.
Whenever you unlock (lock) the vehicle,
you simultaneously deactivate (activate)
the anti-theft system, disarm (arm) the
alarm system and switch the interior
lamps on (off).
You can have an acknowledgment
signal set to confirm that the
vehicle is correctly closed.<
1 Unlock, convenience opening and
alarm system
2 Lock and secure, interior lamp activa-
tion, switching off tilt alarm sensor
and interior motion sensor
3 Open the liftgate, panic mode
390de793
Master keys with remote control
unit Children might be able to lock the
doors from the inside. For this
reason, always take the vehicle's keys
with you so that the vehicle can be
opened again from the outside at any
time.<
Master keys that are used repeat-
edly are always ready for opera-
tion since the battery in the key is
charged automatically in the ignition
lock as you drive.
If it is no longer possible to lock the
vehicle via the remote control, the
battery is discharged. Use this key
while driving for an extended period in
order to charge the battery, refer also to
page 30.
To prevent unauthorized use of the
remote control, surrender only the door
and ignition key 3 or the spare key 2
(refer to page 30) when leaving the
vehicle for valet parking, for example.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center. You can also
obtain replacement keys there.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Opening and closing – via the remote control
To unlock
Press button.
Press the button once to unlock the
driver's door only; press a second time
to unlock all remaining doors as well as
the tailgate/liftgate and fuel filler door.
Convenience opening mode
Press and hold button. The power
windows and sliding/tilt sunroof are
opened.
To lock and secure
Press button.
To switch on the interior lamps
After locking the vehicle, press button
again.
To switch off the tilt sensor alarm
and interior motion sensor
Press button a second time immedi-
ately after locking.
For additional information: refer to
page 40.
To open the liftgate
Press button.
Before and after a trip, be sure
that the tailgate/liftgate was not
opened unintentionally.<
Panic mode
By pressing and holding the button for
more than two seconds, you can trigger
an alarm via the alarm system if there is
an impending danger (the alarm system
must be armed).
To switch off the alarm
Press button.
34nOpening and closing – via the remote control
System interference
The remote control system may be
affected by other units or equipment
operating in the immediate vicinity of
your vehicle.
If this should occur, you can unlock and
lock the vehicle via the door lock with a
master key.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units
comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communication Commission) regula-
tions. Operation is governed by the
following:
FCC ID: LX8EWS
LX8FZVS
LX8FZVE
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
>This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
>this device must accept any interfer-
ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications or
changes to these devices could
void the user's authority to operate this
equipment.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Opening and closing – from the inside
You can operate the central locking
system with this button when the
driver's door is closed. The doors and
liftgate are unlocked or locked only.
However, the anti-theft system is not
activated. Also, the fuel filler door
remains unlocked to allow refueling.
If only the driver's door was
unlocked from the outside and
you press the button
>all other doors, the tailgate/liftgate
and the fuel filler door will be
unlocked when the driver's door is
opened
>the driver's door will be locked again
when it is closed.<
530de220
To unlock and open the doors
>Either unlock the doors together with
the button for the central locking
system and then pull the door handle
above the armrest
or
>pull the release handle for each door
twice: the first pull unlocks the door,
and the second one opens it.
To engage the locks
>Use the central locking button to lock
all of the doors simultaneously,
or
>press down the individual safety lock
buttons. The fuel filler door remains
unlocked. As an added design
feature to prevent the driver from
being inadvertently locked out of the
vehicle, the driver's safety lock
button will not engage as long as the
door is open.
When the vehicle is moving, do
not lock the doors with the safety
lock buttons. Doors locked in this
manner would not unlock automatically
in the event of an accident.
Since passengers or animals remaining
in the vehicle might be able to lock the
doors from the inside, take the vehicle's
keys with you so that the vehicle can be
opened again from the outside at any
time.<
36nLiftgate
To open from the outside
Press the button (arrow):
The liftgate opens slightly.
The cargo area is illuminated whenever
the liftgate is opened, refer also to
page 102.
When the liftgate is opened, the
clearance from the ground to the
upper edge is more than 6.6 ft (2 m).
Please keep this in mind when opening
the tailgate (in a garage, for example).<
530de245
Opening from inside the vehicle
Press this button to open the liftgate
when the vehicle is stationary.
If pointed or sharp-edged objects
could strike the rear window while
driving, be sure to provide protection
around all edges. If you do not do this,
the heating conductors of the rear
window could be damaged.<
For information on the cargo area cover
and on other details in the cargo area,
refer to "Cargo area", beginning on
page 122.
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Manual release
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can release the liftgate manually:
1. Remove the plastic plug from inside
the cargo area and pull toward the
interior (arrow). The liftgate will be
released
2. Reinstall the plug.
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37n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Liftgate Tailgate
To close
You can pull the liftgate down by
placing both hands in the handle
recesses (arrows).
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the liftgate is clear
when it is closed, as with all closing
procedures.<
530us017
Operate the vehicle only when
both gates are completely closed.
Otherwise, exhaust fumes could pene-
trate the interior of the vehicle. Should it
be absolutely necessary to operate the
vehicle with an open gate:
>Close all windows. Shut the sliding/
tilt sunroof
>Increase the air supply for the air
conditioner or automatic climate
control to a high level, refer to
page 104 or 108.< To open
Press the button:
You can fold the tailgate down.
When opened, the tailgate can
accept loads of up to 440 lbs
(200 kg). When the vehicle is parked,
you may utilize the tailgate as a seat or
as a loading platform for luggage or
recreation gear, for example.<
530de246
38nTailgate
Manual release
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can release the tailgate manually:
1. Unfasten the trim panel clip with the
vehicle key or with a screwdriver
(arrow 1) and remove it toward the
top (arrow 2)
530de317
2. Using the same tool, press the latch
in the direction of the arrow; the
tailgate is released
3. Reinstall the trim panel.
530de241
Luggage straps
Use the retaining straps on the cargo
area floor to secure smaller items of
luggage.
Movement is reduced when objects are
placed on the straps.
The lashing eyes located at the corners
of the cargo area provide you with a
convenient means of attaching luggage
nets* or flexible straps for securing
luggage.
Refer also to "Stowing cargo" on
page 127.
394de302
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Alarm system
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
>When a door, the hood, or the liftgate
is opened
>To movement inside the vehicle (inte-
rior motion sensor)
>To variations in the vehicle tilt angle
such as occur during attempts to
steal the wheels or tow the vehicle
>To interruption of battery voltage.
The system responds to unauthorized
vehicle entry and attempted theft by
simultaneously activating the following:
>Sounding an acoustical alarm for
30 seconds
>The hazard warning flashers are acti-
vated for approx. five minutes
>The high beams flash on and off in
the same rhythm.
To arm and disarm the alarm
system
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked
with the key or the remote control, the
alarm system is also simultaneously
armed or disarmed.
You can have different acknowl-
edgment signals set to confirm
system arming and disarming.<
You can still open the liftgate after the
system has been armed by pressing the
button of the remote control, refer to
page 33. When you close the liftgate, it
is secured again.
Indicator lamp displays
>The indicator lamp below the interior
rearview mirror flashes continuously:
the system is armed
>The indicator lamp flashes during
arming: the door(s), the hood or lift-
gate are not completely closed. Even
if you do not close the alerted area,
the system begins to monitor the
remaining areas, and the indicator
lamp flashes continuously after
10 seconds. However, the interior
motion sensor is not activated
>If the indicator lamp goes out when
the system is disarmed: no manipula-
tion or attempted intrusions have
been detected in the period since the
system was armed
530us018
40nAlarm system Electric power windows
>If the indicator lamp flashes for
10 seconds when the system is
disarmed: an attempted entry has
been detected in the period since the
system was armed.
Following triggering of an alarm, the
indicator lamp will flash continuously.
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion
sensor may be switched off at the same
time. To prevent a false alarm from
being triggered (in garages with
elevator ramps, for instance), or when
the vehicle is transported by trailer or
train:
Actuate (= arm the system) the lock
twice; in other words, press button 2 of
the remote control twice in succession,
refer to page 33. You may also actuate
the locks twice with the key, refer to
page 31.
The indicator lamp lights up briefly and
then flashes continuously. The tilt alarm
sensor and the interior motion sensor
are deactivated as long as the system is
armed.
Interior motion sensor
In order for the interior motion sensor to
function properly, the windows and
sliding/tilt sunroof must be completely
closed.
However, be sure to switch off the inte-
rior motion sensor (see the previous
column) when you
>leave children or animals in the
vehicle
>intend to leave the windows or
sliding/tilt sunroof open. Open and close windows
From ignition key position 1:
>Press the switch up to the pressure
point:
The window continues to move as
long as you continue to hold the
switch
>Press the switch beyond the pressure
point:
The window moves downward auto-
matically. Touch the switch again to
stop the opening movement.
You can close the windows in the same
manner by pulling the switch.
530us020
41n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Electric power windows
After the ignition has been switched off:
>You can still operate the windows as
long as neither of the front doors has
been opened. To open the windows,
press the switch beyond the pressure
point.
Remove the key from the ignition
lock and close the doors when
you leave the vehicle so that children
cannot operate the power windows and
possibly injure themselves.<
For the convenience mode via the door
lock or the remote control, refer to
page 31 or page 33.
Safety feature
A contact strip is integrated into the
inner side of each of the upper window
frame sections. If pressure is exerted
against this contact strip while a
window is being raised, the system will
respond by stopping the window and
then retracting it a small distance.
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful that the closing
path of the window is not obstructed
whenever it is closed. Otherwise, an
object might not touch the contact strip
in some situations (with very thin
objects, for instance).
You can override this safety feature by
pulling the switch beyond the pressure
point and holding it.
Because the power windows are sealed
at high pressure to prevent wind noise
when closed, a powerful motor is
required for efficient closing. When
closing the windows, always ensure
that they are not obstructed in any way.
Unsupervised use of these systems can
result in serious personal injury.
Remove the ignition key to deactivate
the electric power windows whenever
you leave the vehicle. Never leave the
keys in the vehicle with unsupervised
children. Never place anything that
could obstruct the driver's vision on or
next to the windows.<
Safety switch
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). You can also prevent adjust-
ments of the power rear-seat backrests
from the rear passenger area, refer to
page 48.
Press the safety switch whenever
children are riding in the rear of
the vehicle. Careless use of the power
windows can lead to injury.<
530us209
42nSliding/tilt sunroof with glass moonroof*
To prevent injuries, exercise care
when closing the sliding/tilt
sunroof and keep it in your field of
vision until it is shut.
Before leaving the vehicle, switch off
the electric sunroof mechanism by
removing the ignition key. Do not leave
children unattended in the vehicle with
access to vehicle keys. Use of the key
can result in starting of the engine and
operation of vehicle systems such as
the power sunroof, etc. Unsupervised
use of these systems can result in
serious personal injury.<
For the convenience mode via the door
lock or the remote control, refer to
page 31 or 33.
Lifting – Opening – Closing
With the ignition key in position 1 or
higher, press the switch or slide it in the
desired direction until you feel resis-
tance.
The headliner slides back somewhat
when you raise the sunroof. When the
sunroof is opened the headliner retracts
with it. It remains open, and it is possible
to slide it back and forth as long as the
sunroof is not completely open.
The headliner insert cannot be
closed with the sliding/tilt sunroof
in its raised position.<
After the ignition has been switched off,
you can still operate the sliding/tilt
sunroof as long as neither of the front
doors has been opened.
530de247
Automatic* opening and closing
Press the switch briefly past the pres-
sure point and then release it.
Other automatic operations are:
>With the sunroof open, press the
switch briefly toward "Lift": the
sunroof automatically extends to its
fully raised position.
Pressing the switch again briefly stops
the motion.
>With the sunroof raised, hold the
switch toward "Open" until the roof
has reached the desired position.
Safety feature
If the sliding/tilt sunroof encounters
resistance at a point roughly past the
middle of its travel when it is closing,
the closing cycle is interrupted and the
sliding/tilt sunroof will open again
slightly.
43n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Sliding/tilt sunroof with glass moonroof*
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful that the closing
path of the sunroof is not obstructed
whenever it is closed. Otherwise, trig-
gering the closing-force limitation may
not be ensured in some situations (with
very thin objects, for instance). You can
disable this safety feature by pressing
the switch beyond the pressure point
and holding it.<
Power loss
After interruptions in the electrical
supply (when the battery is discon-
nected, for instance), the sunroof may
only lift. To reinitialize the mechanism:
1. Raise the sliding/tilt sunroof fully
2. Press and hold the switch for approx.
twenty seconds.
530de248
Manual operation
In the event of an electrical malfunction,
you can operate the sliding/tilt sunroof
manually:
1. Open the glasses compartment, refer
to page 118
2. Insert the Allen wrench from the
vehicle tool kit (refer to page 152) in
the opening provided and turn the
sliding/tilt sunroof in the desired
direction.
530us124
44n
The condition for relaxed, fatigue-free
driving is a seating position adjusted to
your needs. Together with the safety
belts and the airbags, the correct
seating position increases the passive
safety of the occupants in the case of
an accident. Therefore, observe the
following instructions, as otherwise the
protective function of the safety
systems may be impaired.
For additional information on trans-
porting children, refer to page 58.
Sitting correctly with airbags
Maintain a distance to the airbags.
Always hold the steering wheel by
the rim to keep any chance of injury to
hands or arms to an absolute minimum,
should the airbag be deployed. 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
for objects, or as a rest for feet or
legs.<
For the location of the airbags and
additional information, refer to page 55.
Safe with safety belts
Never allow more than one person
to wear a single safety belt. Never
allow infants or small children to ride in
a passenger's lap. Avoid twisting the
belt while routing it firmly across the
pelvis and shoulder, wear it as snugly
against your body as possible. Do not
allow the belt to rest against hard or
fragile objects in your pockets. Never
route the belt across your neck, do not
run it across sharp edges and ensure
that the belt does not become caught
or jammed. Avoid wearing bulky
clothing and pull on the lap belt periodi-
cally to retension it over your shoulders.
In the event of a frontal impact, a loose
lap belt could slide over your hips,
leading to abdominal injury. In addition,
the safety belt's restraint effectiveness
is reduced if the belt is worn loosely.
Expectant mothers should always wear
their safety belts, taking care to position
the lap belt against the lower hips,
where it will not exert pressure against
the abdominal area.<
For instructions on operating the safety
belts, refer to page 49.
Observe the following before
adjusting
Never try to adjust your seat while
operating the vehicle. The seat
could respond with unexpected move-
ment, and the ensuing loss of vehicle
control could lead to an accident. Never
ride with the backrest reclined to an
extreme horizontal angle (especially
important for front passengers to
remember). Keep the backrest relatively
upright to minimize the risk of "sliding
under" the safety belt and sustaining
injury in an accident
.
<
Seat adjustment
>Mechanical seat adjustment, refer to
page 45
>Power seat adjustment, refer to
page 46
>Head restraints, refer to page 47
>Power rear backrest adjustment,
refer to page 48
Correct sitting posture Seats
45n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Mechanical seat
Seat adjustment
1 Backward/forward adjustment
Pull the lever and slide the seat to the
desired position.
After you release the lever, move the
seat forward or backward slightly so
that it engages fully
2 Cushion height
Pull the lever and apply weight to or
remove weight from the seat as
required
530us211
3 Backrest angle
Pull the lever and apply weight to or
remove weight from the backrest as
required.
Comply with the adjustment
instructions on page 44. Failure
to do so could result in diminished
personal safety.<
530us212
Adjusting the BMW sports seat*
You can adjust the thigh support addi-
tionally:
Pull the lever and adjust the position of
the thigh support for your personal
comfort.
530de253
46nPower seat*
1 Tilt angle (driver's seat only)
2 Backward/forward adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle
Adjust the head restraint manually.
Comply with the adjustment
instructions on page 44. Failure to
do so could result in diminished
personal safety.<
530us024
Adjusting the BMW comfort seat*
This seat allows you to make additional
adjustments for:
1 Lumbar support
2 Shoulder support
3 Head restraint height
Lumbar support:
You can adjust the backrest's contour
for additional support in the curvature
of your spine's lumbar region.
The upper hips and spinal column
receive supplementary support to help
you maintain a relaxed, upright posture.
530de251
>Press the front/rear of the switch:
Increase/decrease curvature
>Press the upper/lower end of the
switch:
Increase the upper/lower curvature.
47n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Power seat*Head restraints
Shoulder support:
Move the switch in the direction of the
arrow to adjust the tilt angle of the
shoulder support.
You can use the adjustable upper back-
rest for supplementary support in the
shoulder region. This provides a
relaxed driving position and helps
relieve stress on the shoulder muscles.
To obtain the optimal shoulder support
position, we recommend:
Driver and front passenger:
1. Adjust the upper backrest section to
its extreme rear position
2. Adjust for the optimal sitting position
as described on page 44
3. Bring the upper backrest section
further forward until your shoulders
are well supported.
530de252
Front passenger's seat adjusted for
relaxed traveling:
1. Adjust the upper backrest section to
its extreme rear position
2. Tilt the backrest down to a slightly
more horizontal angle
3. Bring the upper backrest section
forward until your shoulders are well
supported.
Make corrections in the forward/
backward adjustment of the seat
to ensure that the safety belt still fits
firmly against your body. If you do not
do this, the protection provided by the
safety belt may be reduced.<
Head restraint height:
Move the switch in the desired direc-
tion.
Adjustments
To adjust the angle of the front head
restraints, tilt the head restraint to the
desired angle.
To adjust the height of the front or rear
head restraints, pull the head restraint
up or push it down.
Power electric height adjustment, refer
to page 46.
Head restraints reduce the risk of
spinal injury in the event of an
accident. Adjust the head restraint so
that its center is approximately level
with your ears.<
530de250
48nHead restraints Power rear-seat backrest adjustment*
Removal – front
1. Pull the head restraint upward to the
stop
2. Press the button (arrow) and remove
the head restraint.
Installation – front
1. Press the button (arrow) and insert
the head restraint into the guides
2. Adjust the head restraint for your
personal comfort.
Removal and installation – rear
To remove the head restraint, pull it
outward with a firm movement. To
install it, press it down firmly.
530de323
You can make separate adjustments of
the backrest tilt angle on the right and
left sides.
You can select a comfortable sitting
position and also increase the capacity
of the cargo area by moving the back-
rests into their most upright position.
From the rear seats: press the corre-
sponding switch.
You can prevent adjustments of
the power rear-seat backrest from
the rear passenger area with the safety
switch for the power windows, refer to
page 41.<
530us143
From the cargo area: the switches are
located on both sides of the cargo area.
530de224
49n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Safety belt
Drive with your safety belt on
Even though there is an airbag, wear a
safety belt every time you get in the
vehicle, because airbags enhance
safety by providing added protection.
To close
Make sure you hear the lock engage in
the belt buckle.
To open
1. Press the red button in the buckle
2. Hold the belt
3. Guide the belt back into its reel.
530us034
In the rear, the belt buckle with
the word "CENTER" is intended
exclusively for passengers sitting in the
middle. If it is not possible to extract the
center belt, this indicates that the larger
backrest is not securely locked, refer to
page 122.<
Safety belt height adjustment
You can adjust the safety belts to fit
your own physical dimensions by using
the safety belt height adjustment.
Slide the button up or down as
required.
Also observe the instructions on
adjusting the seats on page 44.
If the safety belt system has been
subjected to the stresses involved
in an accident or otherwise damaged:
Have the entire safety belt system
replaced by your BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle center. In addition, have your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center
inspect the safety belt anchors. Other-
wise, the safety function can no longer
be ensured.c
530de259
50nSeat, mirror and steering wheel memory*
You can store and call up three different
seat, exterior mirror and steering wheel
positions. The illustration shows the
buttons on the seat for making these
position adjustments.
The adjustment of the lumbar support is
not stored in the memory.
530us032
To store
1. Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 2
2. Adjust the desired positions for the
seat, exterior mirror and steering
wheel
3. Press the MEMORY button: the indi-
cator lamp in the button comes on
4. Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as
desired: the indicator lamp goes out.
To call up a stored setting
Convenience function:
1. Open the driver's door after
unlocking the vehicle or place the
ignition key in position 1
2. Briefly press memory button 1, 2
or 3, as desired.
Movement stops immediately when
one of the seat-adjustment or
memory buttons is activated during
the adjustment process.
Security function:
1. With the driver's door closed and the
ignition key either removed or in
position 0 or 2
2. Maintain pressure on the desired
memory button (1, 2 or 3) until the
adjustment process is completed.
If you press the MEMORY button acci-
dentally: press the button a second
time — the indicator lamp goes out.
Do not call up a position from the
memory while the vehicle is
moving. There is a risk of accident from
unexpected movement of the seat or
steering wheel.<
51n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory*Seat heating*
Your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center can adjust your vehicle's
systems in such a manner that your
personalized settings are automatically
called up for the seat, mirror and
steering wheel positions when you
unlock the vehicle with your personal
remote control key.<
If
you make use of the Key Memory
,
be sure that the footwell behind
the driver's seat is unobstructed before
unlocking the vehicle. If you fail to do
so, persons or objects could be injured
or damaged if the seat should move
backward.<
Passenger side exterior mirror tilt
function
(automatic curb monitor)
1. Move the mirror selector switch
(arrow) to the "driver's mirror" posi-
tion
2. When the gearshift lever or the
selector lever is placed in "Reverse",
the passenger-side mirror tilts down-
ward to help the driver monitor the
area directly adjacent to the vehicle
during parking (curbs, etc.).
You can deactivate this automatic
feature by setting the mirror selector
switch to the "passenger side" position.
530us214
Front
The seat cushion and backrest can be
heated when the ignition key is in posi-
tion 2.
You can call up different heating modes
by repeatedly pressing the button.
You can also switch the higher heating
modes off directly:
Press the button and hold it slightly
longer.
530de233
52nSeat heating*Adjusting steering wheel
Rear
The function is the same as for front
seat heating. You can select between
two heating modes.
530de234
The steering wheel can be moved in
any of four directions. Adjust the wheel
by moving the control lever in the
desired direction.
Do not adjust the steering wheel
while the vehicle is moving. If you
do so, there is a risk of accident from
unexpected movement.<
To store the steering wheel setting,
refer to "Seat, mirror and steering
wheel memory" on page 50.
530de255
Automatic steering wheel
adjustment
(only in conjunction with seat, mirror
and steering wheel memory)
In order to make it easier to get into and
out of the vehicle, the steering wheel
automatically moves into the top posi-
tion and returns to the driving (memory)
position.
This automatic feature is controlled by
the position of the ignition key and by
the driver's door.
53n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Steering wheel heating* Mirrors
Steering wheel heating functions in
ignition key position 2.
Press the button to activate or deacti-
vate this system.
The lamp within the button lights up
when the steering wheel heating is in
operation.
If you have a steering wheel with multi-
function buttons without steering wheel
heating, the button for the recirculated-
air mode is in this location, refer to
page 22.
530de235
Exterior mirrors
1 Mirror switch for 4-way adjustment
2 Left/right selector switch
Before going through a car wash,
manually fold the exterior mirrors
inward, otherwise they could be
damaged, depending on the width of
the car wash system.<
Adjusting manually
You can also adjust the mirrors manu-
ally:
Press on the outer edges of their
lenses.
530us213
To store the mirror settings, refer to
"Seat, mirror and steering wheel
memory" on page 50.
Convex mirror
The passenger-side mirror
features a convex lens. When esti-
mating the distance between yourself
and other traffic, bear in mind that the
objects reflected in the mirror are closer
than they appear. This means that esti-
mations of the distance to following
traffic should not be regarded as
precise.<
Self-defrosting mirrors
Both mirrors are defrosted automati-
cally when the ignition key is in
position 2.
54nMirrors
Interior rearview mirror
To reduce glare from vehicles behind
you when you are driving at night, tilt
the mirror by turning the button.
530us218
Interior and exterior rearview
mirror with automatic dimmer*
These mirrors automatically dim
through an infinitely-variable range.
They automatically revert to their
undimmed mode whenever the trans-
mission is placed in reverse gear or
selector lever in "Reverse".
There are two photocells located in the
interior rearview mirror for this purpose.
One photocell (arrow) is in the mirror
glass, while the other is offset some-
what on the back of the mirror.
530us031
For trouble-free operation, keep the
photocells clean and do not cover the
area between the interior rearview
mirror and the windshield. Do not
attach any kind of stickers on the wind-
shield in front of the mirror, either.
55n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Airbags
1 Front airbag for driver and front
passenger
2 Side Impact Head Protection System
for driver and passenger sides (front
and rear*)
3 Side airbags for driver and passenger
sides (front and rear*)
Protective effect
The front airbags supplement the safety
belts by providing additional protection
for the front-seat occupants in the
event of a severe frontal impact in
which the protection afforded by the
safety belts alone may no longer be
sufficient. The Side Impact Head
Protection System and the side airbags
help provide protection in the event of a
530us035
side impact. Each of the side airbags is
designed to help support the upper
body.
The side airbags in the rear
passenger area* of your vehicle
may already have been deactivated
either at the time of manufacture or by a
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center.
You may have them activated if you
desire to do so. Please contact your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center for
additional information.<
For information on the correct sitting
posture, refer to page 44.
The airbags will not be triggered in
the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle roll-over, or collisions from the
rear.<
Do not apply adhesive materials to
the cover panels of the airbags,
cover them or modify them in any other
way. Do not attempt to remove the
airbag restraint system from the
vehicle. In the event of a malfunction,
deactivation, or triggered actuation (as
a response to an accident) of the airbag
restraint system, consult your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center for
testing, repairs or service operations.
Do not modify or tamper with either the
wiring or the individual components in
the airbag system. These include the
padded steering wheel hub, the instru-
ment cluster, the side trim panels of the
front or rear doors and the roof pillars or
the sides of the headliner. Do not
remove or dismantle the steering wheel
yourself. To ensure compliance with
official safety regulations, entrust
disposal of airbag generators to a
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center.
Unprofessional attempts to service the
system could lead to failure in an emer-
gency or undesired airbag activation,
either of which could result in personal
injury. Do not touch the individual
components directly after the system
has been triggered, as otherwise there
is a danger of burns.<
56nAirbags
At all times, occupants should sit
upright and be properly restrained
(infants and small children in appro-
priate child-restraint systems; larger
children and adults using the safety
belts).
Never let an occupant's head rest near
or on a side airbag because the inflating
airbag could cause a serious or fatal
injury. Please note that the word
"Airbag" imprinted on the door trim
panel indicates the airbag's location.
Accident research shows that the
safest place for children in an auto-
mobile is in the rear seat. However, a
child sitting in the rear seat and not
properly restrained may place his or her
head on or near the airbag, if so
equipped.
For example, a child — even though
belted — may fall asleep with his or her
head against the side airbag. It may be
difficult for a driver to ensure that chil-
dren in the rear seat will remain prop-
erly positioned at all times and do not
place their heads on or near the side
airbag. Therefore, we recommend that
the rear side airbags, if provided, be
deactivated if you plan to transport
children in the rear seat.
The rear seat side airbags may already
have been deactivated, either at the
time of manufacture or by a BMW
Sports Activity Vehicle center. Labels in
the rear door opening should indicate
the status of your rear seat side
airbags. If you are uncertain of their
status, or wish to have the airbags acti-
vated or deactivated, please contact
your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center.<
Even when all these guidelines are
observed, there is still a small residual
risk of injuries to the face, hands and
arms occurring from airbag deployment
in isolated instances. The ignition and
inflation noise may provoke a mild
temporary hearing loss in extremely
sensitive individuals.
Airbag warning information is also
provided on both sun visors.
This is the right way a child should sit in
a child-restraint device when rear side
airbags (arrow) are provided.
530us026
57n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Airbags
This is the right way a larger child
should sit wearing the safety belt when
rear side airbags (arrow) are provided.
530us099
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster shows the opera-
tional status of the airbag
system from ignition key position 1
and up.
System operational:
>The indicator lamp comes on briefly
then goes out.
System malfunction:
>The indicator lamp fails to come on
>The indicator lamp comes on briefly
before going out and then lighting up
again.
If there is a system malfunction, have
your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center inspect the system immediately.
If you do not, there is a risk that the
airbags will not be triggered within their
normal response range, even if the level
of impact would normally have trig-
gered them.
58nTransporting children safely
Commercially-available child-restraint
systems are designed to be secured
with a lap belt or with the lap belt
portion of a combination lap/shoulder
belt. Improperly or inadequately
installed restraint systems can increase
the risk of injury to children. Always
read and follow the instructions that
come with the system.
If you use a child-restraint system with
a tether strap, three additional tether
anchorage points (refer to the arrows in
the illustration) have been provided.
Depending on the location selected for
seating in the rear passenger area,
attach the tether strap to the corre-
sponding anchorage point to secure the
child-restraint system. Remove the
cover first on the middle location.
If the respective seating position is
fitted with a head restraint lift the head
restraint and pass the tether strap
between the head restraint and the seat
back.
Adjust the tether strap according to the
child restraint manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
530us037
Before installing any child-
restraint device or child seat,
please read the following:
Never install a rear-facing child-
restraint system in the front passenger
seat of this vehicle.
Your vehicle is equipped with an airbag
supplemental restraint system for the
front passenger. Because the backrest
on any rear-facing child-restraint
system (of the kind designed for infants
under 1 year and 20 Ibs/9 kg) would be
within the airbag's deployment range,
you should never mount such a device
in the front passenger seat, since the
impact of the airbag against the child
restraint's backrest could lead to
serious or fatal injuries.
If it is necessary for a child (not an
infant) to ride in the front seat, certain
precautions should be taken. First,
move the passenger seat as far away
from the instrument panel as possible.
This important precaution is intended to
maximize the distance between the
airbag and the child. Older children
should be tightly secured with a safety
belt.
59n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Transporting children safely
Younger children should be secured in
an appropriate forward-facing child-
restraint system that has first been
properly secured with a safety belt.
Never install a rear-facing child-
restraint system in the front passenger
seat.
We strongly urge you to carefully read
and comply with the instructions for
installation and use provided by the
child restraint's manufacturer when-
ever you use such a device.
Be sure that all occupants (of all ages)
remain properly and securely restrained
at all times.<
All rear seating positions in your
vehicle meet the recommendations of
SAE J1819, an industry-recommended
practice for securing child-restraint
systems in motor vehicles.
Child-restraint system security
All of the rear belt retractors and the
front passenger's safety belt can be
locked for mounting and securing child-
restraint systems.
Information regarding this is located
near the buckle latch of each safety
belt.
530us104
To lock the belt
Pull the entire length of the belt from
the belt retractor. Allow the reel to
retract the belt somewhat and engage
the buckle, then tighten the belt against
the child-restraint system. The retrac-
tion mechanism is now locked.
To release the belt
Release the buckle, remove the child-
restraint device and allow the belt
retractor to reel the belt completely in.
60nTransporting children safely
LATCH child-restraint system
Remove cover panel by pulling it off
toward the front.
Simply put it back on to reattach it.
530de261
The illustration shows the mounts for a
LATCH child-restraint system in the left
rear seat.
To install a LATCH child-restraint
system, please follow the manufac-
turer's operating instructions and safety
precautions.
530de034
Child-safety locks
Slide the safety lever on the rear doors
downward:
The door can now be opened from the
outside only.
530de226
61n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Vehicle Memory, Key Memory
How the system functions
You have probably frequently wished
that you could configure individual
functions of your vehicles to reflect your
own personal requirements. In engi-
neering your vehicle, BMW has
included several user-defined func-
tions in the vehicle's design. Your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center can
make these settings for you.
There are settings related to the vehicle
("Vehicle Memory") and settings related
to individuals ("Key Memory"). You can
configure up to four different basic
positions for four different persons. The
only requirement is that each person
uses his or her own remote control key.
463de029
When your vehicle is unlocked with the
remote control, the vehicle recognizes
the individual user by means of a data
exchange with the key, and makes
adjustments accordingly.
In order for you to distinguish between
different keys, colored decals are
supplied together with the keys.
What the system can do
Your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center can provide you with details on
the capabilities of the "Vehicle Memory"
and "Key Memory" systems. A few
examples follow below:
Examples for Vehicle Memory:
>Various signals that can serve as
acknowledgment for locking and
unlocking the vehicle
>Deactivating/activating the "Follow
me home" lamps function.
Examples for Key Memory:
>Automatically moving the driver's
seat, outside mirror and steering
wheel into position for the respective
person when unlocking the vehicle
>Calling up customized settings for the
automatic climate control when
unlocking the vehicle.
You will see this symbol
throughout the Owner's Manual. It
is to remind you at appropriate places
of the settings that are available to
you.<
62n
0 Steering lock engaged
1 Steering lock disengaged
2 Ignition on
3 Starting the engine
Steering lock engaged
The key can only be inserted and
removed in this position.
After removing the key, turn the
steering wheel slightly to the left or right
until you hear the lock engage.
Once the ignition has been switched off
(ignition key in position 0 or removed),
the radio functions are still available for
approx. 20 minutes. Turn the radio back
on to use it.
390de010
An acoustic warning is sounded when
you fail to remove the ignition key after
opening the driver's door.
Vehicles with automatic trans-
mission:
Do not move the selector lever from the
"Park" position until the engine is
running (ignition key in position 2).
In order to turn the key to position 0 or
to remove it, first move the selector
lever to the "Park" position (Interlock).<
Steering lock disengaged
You will find that it is often easier to turn
the ignition key from position 0 to posi-
tion 1 when you move the steering
wheel slightly to help disengage the
lock.
Individual electrical devices are ready
for operation.
Starting the engine
Vehicles with manual transmis-
sion: depress the clutch when
starting the engine. If you do not, a lock
prevents the engine from starting.<
Before starting
>Engage the parking brake
>Be sure that the gearshift lever is in
"Neutral" (or the selector lever in
"Park" if the vehicle is equipped with
an automatic transmission)
>Depress the clutch pedal.
Do not allow the engine to run in
enclosed spaces. The exhaust
gases contain carbon monoxide, an
odorless and colorless, but highly toxic
gas. Breathing the exhaust gases poses
an extreme health risk, and can lead to
unconsciousness and death.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.<
Ignition lock Starting the engine
63n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Starting the engine
Do not press the accelerator pedal
while starting the engine.
BMW X5 3.0i:
Do not actuate the starter for too
short a time. Do not turn it for more
than approx. 20 seconds. Release the
ignition key immediately as soon as the
engine starts.
BMW X5 4.4i, 4.6is:
Your BMW is equipped with the conve-
nience starting feature. Simply turn the
key to position 3 (starter) and then
release it immediately.
The starter actuation continues to
operate automatically for a certain
period of time and is stopped automati-
cally as soon as the engine has started.
The automatic starting mode will not
operate if the battery voltage is low.
The engine can be started by means of
jump-starting, refer to page 164.<
Do not allow the engine to warm up
by leaving it running while the vehicle
remains stationary. Instead, begin to
drive immediately at a moderate engine
speed.
Should the engine fail to start on the
first attempt (if it is very hot or cold, for
instance):
>Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Cold starts at very low temperatures,
from approx. +5 7 (–15 6) and at alti-
tudes above 3,300 ft (1,000 meters):
>For the initial start attempt, allow the
starter to remain engaged somewhat
longer (approx. 10 seconds).
Engine idle speed is controlled by the
engine computer system. Increased
speeds at start-up are normal and
should decrease as the engine warms
up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.
To prevent the battery from discharging,
always switch off electrical devices that
are not in use. Switch the ignition off
when the vehicle is not being driven.
Extended starting attempts, char-
acterized by excessively frequent
or long periods with the starter
engaged, can lead to damage of the
catalytic converter.<
When driving, standing at idle,
and parking the vehicle, take care
to avoid contact between the hot
exhaust system and flammable mate-
rials (grass, hay, leaves, etc.). Such
contact could lead to a fire, resulting in
serious personal injury and property
damage.<
64nSwitching off the engine Parking brake
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Do not remove the ignition key
while the vehicle is still moving. If
you do so, the steering will lock.
Always remove the ignition key and
engage the steering lock before leaving
the vehicle.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Always engage the parking brake when
parking on slopes and inclined
surfaces. Even placing the gearshift
lever in 1st gear or reverse may not
provide adequate resistance to rolling.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Place the selector lever in "Park".<
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
The vehicle must be stationary and the
selector lever in "Park" before you can
remove the ignition key.
The parking brake is primarily designed
to prevent the vehicle from rolling while
parked. It operates against the rear
wheels.
To engage
The lever engages automatically when
you pull it up and the "PARK BRAKE" or
"BRAKE" (in Canada "P") indicator lamp
comes on in the instrument panel in
ignition key position 2, refer to
pages 18 and 19.
To release
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the
button and lower the lever.
530de262
If, in exceptional circumstances, it
should be necessary to engage
the parking brake while the vehicle is in
motion, do not pull it with excessive
pressure. Keep your thumb pressed
against the release button while care-
fully pulling up the lever to apply
moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)
at the rear axle.
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is engaged.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Always engage the parking brake when
parking on slopes and inclined
surfaces. Even placing the gearshift
lever in 1st gear or reverse may not
provide adequate resistance to rolling.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Place the selector lever in "Park".<
To avoid corrosion, apply the parking
brake lightly from time to time when
coasting to a standstill (at a traffic
signal, for instance), provided that it is
safe to do so.
65n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Manual transmission
Press the clutch pedal all the way down
each time you shift, pressing the gear-
shift lever into its proper end position.
Depress the clutch when starting the
vehicle, too, otherwise, lockout will
prevent the engine from starting if the
clutch is not depressed.
360de044
Reverse
Select "Reverse" only when the vehicle
is completely stopped. Press the gear-
shift lever to the left to overcome the
resistance.
As you do this, the backup lamps will
turn on automatically when the ignition
key is in position 2.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or "riding" the
clutch. Use the parking brake instead.
A slipping clutch increases clutch
wear.<
66nAutomatic transmission with Steptronic*
You can drive as with a normal auto-
matic transmission. In addition, you can
also shift manually.
When you move the selector lever from
the "D" position to the left into the M/S
range, the performance-oriented shift
programs of the automatic transmission
are engaged. As soon as you tap the
selector lever in the "+" or "–" direction,
Steptronic changes the gear. The
manual mode is engaged. When you
wish to use the automatic transmission
mode again, move the selector lever to
the right into the "D" position.
530us040
Selector lever positions
P R N D M/S
The transmission range display varies
according to the equipment of your
vehicle (refer to the illustrations).
Starting the engine
The engine can only be started in
selector lever positions P ("Park") or
N ("Neutral").
390us607
Range selection
A detent prevents inadvertent shifts to
the "Reverse" or "Park" selector lever
positions. To disengage the detent,
press the button on the front side of
the selector lever knob (arrow).
While the vehicle is stationary and
before shifting out of "Park" or
"Neutral", depress the footbrake in
order to disengage the selector lever's
lock mechanism (Shiftlock).
Hold the footbrake down until starting
off. The vehicle will otherwise "creep"
when a drive position is engaged.<
530de263
67n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
If you leave the vehicle with the
engine running, move the selector
lever to the "Park" or "Neutral" position
and apply the parking brake. If you fail
to do this, the vehicle could move.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.<
P — Park
Select only when the vehicle is
stationary. The transmission locks to
prevent the rear wheels from turning.
R — Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is
stationary.
N — Neutral
Select only if your journey is interrupted
for a longer period.
D — Drive
(automatic shift program)
This position is designed for driving
under all normal operating conditions.
All forward gears are available.
Kickdown
In the kickdown mode, you achieve
maximum acceleration and in
position D top speed.
Depress the accelerator pedal past the
increased resistance point at the full-
throttle position. M/S Manual mode and
Sport Program
When you change from D to M/S, the
Sport Program is activated. This is indi-
cated by "D S" in the transmission
range display. The Sport Program is
designed for performance-oriented
driving.
With the first brief touch, the automatic
transmission shifts from the Sport
Program to the manual mode.
Whenever you tap the selector lever in
the "+" direction, the transmission shifts
up, and when you tap it in the "–" direc-
tion, the transmission will shift down.
Depending on the equipment version,
1 to 5 or M1 to M5 is indicated in the
transmission range display.
530de264
68nAutomatic transmission with Steptronic*Indicator/Headlamp flasher
Upshifts or downshifts will only be
carried out at appropriate engine
speeds and road speeds. If the engine
speed is too high, for instance, the
downshift will not be executed. The
gear selected will appear briefly in the
instrument cluster followed by the
current gear.
If you are driving in the manual
mode and wish to accelerate
rapidly – to pass another vehicle, for
example – shift down manually or with
the kickdown function.<
You can only change from M/S to
selector lever positions "P", "R" and "N"
via the "D" position.
Electronic transmission control
module
If the indicator lamp comes on
or the message "TRANS.FAIL-
SAFE PROG" appears in the
Check Control*, there is a fault in the
transmission system.
Bring the vehicle to a stop. Move the
transmission selector lever to "P". Set
the parking brake and switch the engine
off (ignition key to position 0).
Wait a few seconds, then start the
engine.
If the indicator lamp goes out after a
few seconds, normal transmission
performance has been restored. You
may continue to drive as usual. If the
indicator lamp does not go out, you can
place the selector lever in all positions.
However, the vehicle will now only drive
forward with limited gear selection.
If this happens, avoid extreme engine
loads and consult the nearest
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center.
Do not work in the engine
compartment when a drive gear
(forward or reverse) is engaged. If you
do this, the vehicle could move.<
Information on jump-starting, tow-
starting and towing begins on
page 164.
69n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Washer/Wiper system
1 High beams (blue indicator)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator)
3 Turn signal indicators (green indicator
accompanied by periodic clicking
sound from the relay)
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond
the pressure point. It then returns to the
center position when released.
If the indicator lamp and the
clicking from the relay are both
faster than normal, one of the turn
signal indicators has failed.<
530de265
0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent mode or rain sensor*
2 Normal wipe
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
5 Clean the windshield
6 Special wash program*
7 Rotary dial for control of the wipe
interval or the sensitivity of the rain
sensor*
530de324
Wipers retracted (home position)
The left wiper is partially concealed by
the hood. In order to bring the wipers to
roughly a vertical position (this is impor-
tant for changing the wiper blades or to
fold the wipers out during frosty
weather, for example):
>With the lever in position 1, switch off
the ignition as soon as the wipers
come to a stop.
If equipped with a rain sensor*:
1. Switch on the wipers with the lever in
position 1, 2 or 4
2. When the wipers are approx. vertical,
switch the ignition off.
For changing the wiper blades, refer to
page 152.
Fold the wipers back down onto
the windshield before you turn the
ignition key to position 1 or 2 again. If
you do not, they could be damaged.<
70nWasher/Wiper system
Intermittent mode or rain sensor*
Intermittent mode:
You can set the wipe interval to four
stages with rotary dial 7.
In addition, the wipe interval is varied
automatically depending on road
speed.
Rain sensor:
The rain sensor is positioned on the
windshield, directly in front of the inte-
rior rearview mirror.
To activate the rain sensor:
Move the lever to position 1 with the
ignition key in position 1 or higher. The
wipers travel once across the wind-
shield, regardless of the weather
conditions.
You can leave the lever permanently in
position 1. It is then only necessary to
activate the rain sensor from ignition
key position 1 and up. To do this, turn
rotary dial 7 briefly.
To adjust the sensitivity of the rain
sensor:
Turn rotary dial 7.
Deactivating the rain sensor:
Move lever to position 0.
Switch the rain sensor off in auto-
matic car washes. If you do not,
damage may occur if the wipers switch
on unintentionally.<
Normal wipe
The system switches automatically to
intermittent mode when the vehicle is
not moving (not on vehicles with rain
sensor*).
Fast wipe
The wipers operate at normal speed
when the vehicle is not moving (not on
vehicles with rain sensor*).
Clean the windshield
The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and activates the wipers
for a brief period.
Special wash program*
As at 5; there are also several additional
wash cycles, and the headlamps are
cleaned*.
This program is recommended after you
have driven on extremely dirty roads.
Clean the headlamps*
>With the special wash program 6
>With every fifth actuation of clean the
windshield 5 when the vehicle's
lighting is switched on.
Do not use the washers if there is
any danger that the fluid will
freeze on the windshield. If you do so,
your vision could be obscured. For this
reason, use an antifreeze agent, refer to
page 143.
Do not use the washers when the reser-
voir is empty. This could cause damage
to the washer pump.<
Windshield washer jets
The windshield washer jets are warmed
automatically when the ignition key is in
position 2.
71n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Washer/Wiper system Cruise control*
Rear window wiper
0 Retracted (home) position of the rear
window wiper
1 Rear window wiper in intermittent
mode. When reverse gear is
engaged, continuous operation is
switched on automatically
2 Clean the rear window
You can also program the interval:
>Switch briefly from position 0 to posi-
tion 1
>The time until reactivation (from posi-
tion 0 to 1) is the programmed
interval (max. 30 seconds).
530de266
Programming is deleted:
>Approx. 10 seconds after the lever is
placed in position 0 or
>after the engine is switched off.
For changing the wiper blade, refer to
page 152.
You can automatically maintain and
store any desired vehicle speed above
approx. 20 mph (30 km/h).
You can use cruise control whenever
the system is active while the engine is
running.
72nCruise control*
To activate the system
From ignition key position 2:
Press button; the indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster (refer to page 21)
comes on. You can now use the cruise
control.
Do not use cruise control on
twisting roads, when high traffic
density prevents driving at a constant
speed, when the road surface is slick
(snow, rain, ice), or when the road
surface is loose (rocks or gravel,
sand).<
To deactivate the system
Press the button repeatedly until the
indicator lamp in the instrument cluster
goes out.
The cruise control is also deactivated
when the ignition key is turned into
position 0.
The speed stored in the memory is
deleted.
To maintain and store speed or
to accelerate
Press button (+) briefly:
The system maintains and stores the
current vehicle speed. Every time you
briefly touch the button, the speed
increases by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Press and hold button (+):
The vehicle accelerates without pres-
sure on the accelerator pedal. When
you release the button, the system
maintains and stores the current speed.
If, on a downhill gradient, the
engine's braking effect is not suffi-
cient, the controlled speed can be
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill
grades if the engine output is insuffi-
cient.<
To decelerate
Press button (–) briefly:
When cruise control is active, every
brief touch of the button reduces the
speed by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Press and hold button (–):
With the cruise control active, the
system automatically reduces the
throttle opening to slow the vehicle.
When you release the button, the
system maintains and stores the
current speed.
73n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
To interrupt the cruise control
When the system is activated, press
button 1. The indicator lamp stays on.
You can use the cruise control again
whenever required by calling up the
speed that was stored last.
In addition, the system is automatically
deactivated in response to the following
conditions:
>When you apply pressure to the
brake pedal
>When you apply pressure to the
clutch pedal or when you move the
automatic transmission selector lever
from "Drive" to "Neutral"
>If you exceed or fall below the
controlled speed for an extended
period (by depressing the acceler-
ator, for example).
To recall the stored setting
Press button:
The vehicle accelerates to and main-
tains the last speed stored.
74n
1 Odometer
2 Trip odometer
3 Outside temperature display
Odometer
You can activate the displays shown in
the illustration with the ignition key in
position 0 by pressing the button in the
instrument cluster (arrow).
The range of available displays varies
according to your individual vehicle's
equipment.
Trip odometer
To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the button (arrow) with the igni-
tion key in position 1 or 2.
390us608
Outside temperature display
The outside temperature appears in the
display from ignition key position 1 and
higher.
You can change the units of measure-
ment (6/7) by
1. pressing and holding down the
button (arrow) with the ignition key
in position 1
2. and then turning the ignition key to 0.
Refer also to page 80.
Ice warning
If the outside temperature drops to
approx. +37.5 7 (+3 6), a signal
sounds as a warning and the display
flashes for a brief period.
The ice warning does not alter the
fact that surface ice can form at
temperatures above +37.5 7 (+3 6),
on bridges or shaded road surfaces, for
instance.<
Odometer, outside temperature display
75n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Tachometer Energy control Fuel gauge
Do not operate the engine with the
needle in the red overspeed zone of the
gauge.
To protect the engine, the engine
management system automatically
interrupts the fuel supply in this range.
390us004
Indicates the current fuel consumption
in mpg (in liters/100 km on Canadian
vehicles). This allows you to see
whether your current driving style is
conducive to fuel economy with
minimum exhaust emissions.
When the vehicle is stationary, the
display goes to "Maximum" (zero on
Canadian models).
390us005
If the indicator lamp comes on and
stays on, there are approx.
>2.0 gal. (8 liter) – 6-cylinder engine
>2.5 gal. (10 liter) – 8-cylinder engine
of fuel still in the tank.
Tank capacity: refer to page 173.
Certain operating conditions (such as
those encountered in mountainous
areas) may cause the needle to fluc-
tuate slightly.
Please refuel early, as driving to
the last drop of fuel can result in
damage to the engine and/or catalytic
converter.<
When you switch on the ignition, the
indicator lamp comes on briefly to
confirm that the system is operational.
390us006
76nCoolant temperature gauge Service Interval Display
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at
moderate engine and vehicle speeds.
Red
When you switch on the ignition, the
warning lamp comes on briefly to
confirm that the system is operational.
If the warning lamp comes on while
driving or the message "COOLANT
TEMPERATURE" appears in the Check
Control*: the engine is overheated.
Switch off the engine immediately and
allow it to cool down.
Checking coolant level: refer to
page 145.
390de007
Between the blue and red zones
Normal operating range. It is not
unusual for the needle to rise as far as
the edge of the red zone.
The range of available displays varies
according to your individual vehicle's
equipment.
Green lamps
The number of illuminated lamps
decreases as the time for your next
maintenance visit approaches.
Yellow lamp
This field appears together with
OILSERVICE or INSPECTION.
Maintenance is due. Please contact
your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center for an appointment.
Red lamp
The maintenance deadline has been
passed.
390us008
77n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Check Control
Graphic display*
The following alerts or status messages
are displayed with icons from ignition
key position 2 and up until the defects
are corrected:
1 Check low beams
2 Add washer fluid (goes out after
approx. 1 minute)
3 Door open
4 Tailgate open
5 Check brake and tail lamps.
A defective center brake lamp is indi-
cated by the upper symbol.
When you open the door after stopping,
a warning signal sounds without a
visual indicator for:
>LIGHTS ON and
>KEY IN IGNITION LOCK.
390de121
Alphanumeric display*
Text messages are used to alert the
driver to system malfunctions when the
ignition key is turned to position 2. The
alert is accompanied by a gong.
1 Status messages symbol
2 Display
3 CHECK button
Messages concerning system faults are
differentiated based on two priorities:
390us111
Priority 1
These defects are immediately indi-
cated by a gong and a flashing warning
symbol 1. Simultaneous defects will be
displayed consecutively. These status
messages remain in the display until the
defects are corrected. They cannot be
deleted by pressing the CHECK
button 3:
>RELEASE PARKINGBRAKE
>COOLANT TEMPERATURE
The coolant is overheated. Stop the
vehicle immediately and switch off
the engine, refer to pages 76 and 145
>STOP!ENGINE OILPRESS
The oil pressure is too low. Stop the
vehicle immediately and switch off
the engine, refer to pages 18 and 143
78nCheck Control
>CHECK BRAKE FLUID
Indicates that brake fluid is down to
approximately the minimum level.
Top off the brake fluid at the next
opportunity, refer to page 146. Have
the cause of the brake fluid loss diag-
nosed and corrected by your BMW
Sports Activity Vehicle center
>TIRE DEFECTIVE*
Reduce vehicle speed immediately
and stop the vehicle. Avoid hard
brake applications. Do not oversteer,
refer to page 99
>SELFLEVEL SUSP.INACT*
Please consult the nearest
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center
>SELFLEVEL SUSP.INACT*
"max. 35 mph/max. 60 km/h*"
These displays appear consecutively.
Do not exceed a maximum speed of
35 mph (60 km/h).
Please consult the nearest BMW
Sports Activity Vehicle center
>SPEED LIMIT*
You will see this message if the
programmed speed limit has been
exceeded, refer to page 86.
Priority 2
These displays appear for 20 seconds
when the ignition key is turned to posi-
tion 2. The warning symbols remain
after the message disappears. You can
call up the messages again for display
by pressing the CHECK button.
>TRUNKLID OPEN
This message appears only at the
start of a trip
>DOOR OPEN
This message appears after a
minimal defined road speed has been
exceeded
>FASTEN SEAT BELTS*
In addition to this message, an indi-
cator lamp with the safety belt icon
appears and an acoustical signal is
sounded
>WASHER FLUID LOW
The fluid level is too low; top off at
the next opportunity, refer to
page 143
>CHECK ENGINE OIL LEV
The oil level is at the absolute
minimum; refill as soon as possible,
refer to page 143. Do not drive more
than approx. 30 miles (50 km) until
you add oil
>CHECK FILLER CAP
Check to see whether the fuel filler
cap has been closed properly, refer
to page 24. A fuel filler cap that has
not been closed all the way will set
off the Service Engine Soon lamp
>OUTSIDE TEMP. +23 7 (–5 6)
This display is only an example. The
current temperature is displayed at
outside temperatures of +37.5 7
(+3 6) and below, refer also to
page 74
>SET TIRE PRESSURE*
The RDC has imported the current
inflation pressure in the tires as the
target values which the system will
monitor, refer to page 98
>CHECK TIRE PRESSURE*
Check and correct the tire inflation
pressure to specifications at the
earliest opportunity (next stop to
refuel), refer to page 99
>TIRECONTROL INACTIVE*
A temporary interference of the RDC
or a system fault, refer to page 99
>CHECK BRAKE LIGHTS
A lamp has failed or the electrical
circuit has a fault, refer to pages 155
and 156 or consult a BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center.
79n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Check Control
>CHECK LOWBEAM LIGHTS
CHECK SIDE LIGHTS
CHECK REAR LIGHTS
CHECK FRONT FOGLAMPS
CHECK LICPLATE LIGHT
CHECK HIGHBEAM LIGHT
CHECK BACK UP LIGHTS
Defective bulb or circuit, refer to
page 153 or consult a BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center
>TRANS. FAILSAFE PROG
Please consult the nearest
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center,
refer to page 68
>CHECK BRAKE LININGS
Have the brake pads inspected by
your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center, refer to page 135
>CHECK COOLANT LEVEL
Coolant too low, top off at the next
opportunity, refer to page 145
>ENGINE FAILSAFE PROG
There is a fault in the engine's elec-
tronic control system.
You can continue to drive with
reduced engine output or engine
speed. Have the system checked by
your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center.
Displays after completion of trip
All of the malfunctions registered during
the trip appear consecutively when the
ignition key is turned to position 0.
The following displays will appear when
appropriate:
>LIGHTS ON
>KEY IN IGNITION LOCK
>CHECK ENGINE OIL LEV
Add engine oil at the next opportunity
(next stop to refuel), refer to
page 143.
This display appears when you open
the driver's door after parking the
vehicle. A supplementary gong is also
heard.
Status messages remain available for a
period of approx. three minutes after
the display goes out and the key is
removed from the ignition lock. Press
the CHECK button 3. If there were
multiple messages, press the CHECK
button repeatedly to view them all in
sequence.
To check the Check Control
Press the CHECK button 3 with the
ignition key in position 2:
CHECK CONTROL OK appears in the
display.
No malfunctions are present in the
monitored systems.
Computer
You can find a description of the
computer on pages 80 and 86 as well
as in the Owner's Manual for the
Onboard Computer.
You can have the Check Control
and computer messages
displayed in a different language.<
80nComputer
Mode selection
From ignition key position 1 and up,
you can call up information from the
computer using the button in the turn
signal lever. By pressing the button
briefly in the direction of the steering
column, you can call up a new function
for display.
The displays appear in the following
order: outside temperature, average
fuel consumption, cruising range,
average speed.
Starting with ignition key position 1,
the last active setting is displayed.
The range of available displays varies
according to your individual vehicle's
equipment.
530de228
Outside temperature and average
fuel consumption
You can change the units of measure-
ment (6/7) for the outside tempera-
ture display by
1. pressing and holding the trip
odometer reset button (in ignition
key position 1)
2. and then turning the ignition key to 0.
Refer also to page 74.
390us126
Cruising range and average speed
The computer bases its calculations
of the cruising range on the previous
driving style and conditions.
The computer ignores any time spent
with the vehicle stationary and the
engine switched off in its average
speed calculations.
To cancel the display
If the button in the turn signal lever is
pressed briefly while the average speed
is displayed, the computer display can
be masked out.
To restart calculations
If you continue to press the button in
the turn signal lever, the average values
which were just displayed for fuel
consumption and speed will be recal-
culated from that point. The engine
must be running for this calculation.
Computer with alphanumeric
display*
If your vehicle has Check Control with
alphanumeric display, the system's
computer is described beginning on
page 86 and in the Owner's Manual for
the Onboard Computer.
81n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
82nMulti-Information Display (MID)
Central display
The MID serves as the central display
and operation for the following onboard
systems:
>Digital clock (e.g. time display, date)
>Audio systems (radio, cassette, CD)
>Computer* (e.g. fuel consumption,
cruising range)
>Cellular phone (e.g. dialing).
You will find explanations and notes
for operating the digital clock and the
computer on the following pages.
Please refer to the separate Owner's
Manuals for operating the audio
systems, the cellular phone and the
onboard computer.
Any unrealistic numerical entries
will not be accepted.
All stored data will be lost if the power
supply is interrupted. Time display,
switch-on times for independent
heating and ventilation, distance and
cruise control speed limit may have to
be reset once the power supply has
been re-established.<
1 Function button for audio systems
2 Function button for the cellular
phone*
3 Indicator lamp for independent venti-
lation*
>remains on if switch-on time is
active
>flashes while operating
4 Function button for the digital clock
and computer*
5 Indicator display for the various
onboard systems
390us705
6 Display for the entry and query
buttons. Depending on the operating
mode, the functions and alternatives
that can be selected at the buttons
are displayed here
7 Entry and query buttons for operating
the various onboard systems
83n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Digital clock in the MID
Only make entries when the
vehicle is stationary – to avoid
endangering yourself or other road
users.<
To call up time or date
Press the left side of the button.
Display shows:
You can have the time displayed in
12 or 24 hours.
To change the display:
Press the left side of the button.
If the 12-hour time display is in use, AM
or PM appears after the time.
To change the time
Press the left side of the button.
Press the right side of the button:
The dots flash in the display.
To alter the setting:
Press on the left or right, or hold the
button down.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
To change the date
Press the left side of the button.
Press.
Press the right side of the button:
The dots and the DATE display flash.
To alter the setting:
Press on left or right, or hold the button
down.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
The clock takes leap years into account
and therefore does not have to be reset
manually.
84nDigital clock in the MID
Reminder signal
You can program a reminder signal
(Memo) to be heard every hour, so that
you are sure not to miss a news
broadcast.
Press the left side of the button.
Press.
MEMO OFF appears in the display for
entry and query buttons, and the tone
symbol will appear in the upper right of
the display.
A signal is then heard 15 seconds
before each hour.
Stopwatch
Press the left side of the button.
Press.
Display shows:
To start the stopwatch function:
Press the right side of the button.
To take an intermediate time reading:
Press.
Press.
The stopwatch display can be seen
counting up; the stopwatch continues
to run.
To halt the stopwatch:
Press the right side of the button.
The stopwatch is halted when the
ignition switch is turned back to 0,
but starts to run again when the ignition
key is turned to 1.<
85n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Digital clock in the MID
Enter the switch-on times for the
independent ventilation*
You can enter two different switch-on
times.
The ventilation will shut off
automatically after 30 minutes.
Please follow the instructions for
operating the independent ventila-
tion that start on page 112.<
Press the left side of the button.
Press on the left/right.
Display shows:
Press the right side of the button:
Display flashes, e.g. TIMER 1.
To enter the time:
Press on the left/right, or hold the
button down.
To confirm the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
The activated time is marked with an
asterisk.
The switch-on times remain stored until
new entries are made.
You can change switch-on times that
have already been stored by making a
new time entry as described above.
When the switch-on time is active, the
LED comes on in the MID. During actual
operation of the ventilation, the LED
flashes. The LED goes out when the
system is switched off.
To activate/deactivate the time:
Press twice.
Directly switching
the independent ventilation*
on and off
The independent ventilation func-
tion can only be called up in igni-
tion key position 1.<
Press the left side of the button.
Press.
86nComputer**
** in the MID
Only make entries when the
vehicle is stationary – to avoid
endangering yourself or other road
users.<
Computer calculations begin at the
start of the journey.
Information can also be called up in the
display by remote control, refer to
page 90.
Speed limit
Speed limit entry:
You can enter the road speed here
at which you wish to hear and see a
reminder signal: a signal will sound,
the word LIMIT will flash, and with the
Check Control with alphanumeric
display*, the speed limit warning stored
in the memory will appear on the instru-
ment cluster briefly.
The speed limit reminder is only
repeated if road speed has fallen at
least 3 mph (approx. 5 km/h) below the
preset speed limit.
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
Press the right side of the button.
Display shows:
Enter the limit by pressing the function
buttons.
To correct an entry:
Press the left side of the button and
repeat the entry.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
87n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Computer**
** in the MID
Adopting the current speed as the
speed limit:
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
Press twice at right.
Deactivating the speed limit:
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
The LIMIT display goes out, but the
stored value is not lost and can be
reactivated by pressing the LIMIT
button.
Distance to destination
The remaining distance to the destina-
tion will be displayed on the screen.
Enter the entire distance before starting
the journey.
Enter:
Press the right side of the button.
Press the left side of the button.
Press the right side of the button.
Display shows:
You can enter the distance by pressing
the function buttons.
To correct an entry:
Press the left side of the button and
repeat the entry.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
Checking stored value:
Press the right side of the button.
Press the left side of the button.
88nComputer**
** in the MID
Estimated time of arrival
When you have entered the distance to
your destination, you can obtain an
estimated time of arrival display which
is continuously updated by the
computer as your average driving
period varies.
Press the right side of the button.
Press the right side of the button:
The estimated time of arrival is
displayed.
Cruising range
The distance which the vehicle should
cover on the remaining fuel in the tank
is displayed.
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
The display shows the probable range.
When you have only enough fuel
left to drive fewer than 30 miles
(50 km), then refuel, as otherwise the
engine or the catalytic converter could
be damaged.<
The computer will only register fuel
amounts over 1.8 gal (6 liters).
Fuel consumption
You can have the average fuel
consumption displayed for two different
distances, for example a complete
journey and part of the journey.
To start the calculation, select the
CONS function with the engine running.
Press the right side of the button.
Press on the left or right:
The display will show the average fuel
consumption.
To restart the fuel consumption
calculation:
Press on the left or right.
Press the right side of the button.
89n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Computer**
** in the MID
Speed
You can call up a display of the
vehicle's average speed.
To start the calculation, select the
SPEED function with the engine
running.
Press the right side of the button.
Press.
The display shows the average speed.
To recalculate the speed:
Press the right side of the button.
Extended immobilizer function
You can establish a code that will
prevent the engine from being started
unless the code is entered.
If you do not have access to the code,
the emergency deactivation procedure
will have to be carried out, refer to next
page.
Establishing and activating the code:
Press the right side of the button.
Press the left side of the button.
Display shows:
Enter the code with the function
buttons.
To correct an entry:
Press on the left side of the button and
repeat the entry.
To store the entry:
Press the right side of the button.
Turn the ignition key to position 0.
Deactivate the code:
When you are asked to enter the code
(ignition key in position 1 or 2):
>Enter the code at the function
buttons.
Press the right side of the button.
After the code has been entered
correctly and confirmed with the SET
button, the time display appears.
90nComputer**
** in the MID
After three incorrect code entries, or
three attempts to start the engine
without a code entry, the alarm will
sound for 30 seconds on vehicles fitted
with an alarm system.
Deactivating the alarm in an
emergency:
If you have forgotten the code, proceed
as follows:
1. Disconnect the battery, wait approx.
2 minutes, then reconnect it. Note
that on vehicles with an alarm
system, the alarm will sound
2. Set the ignition key to position 1:
The time display will count down for
the next ten minutes
3. After ten minutes, start the engine.
If the code becomes available
again in the meantime, it can be
entered during the waiting period after
pressing the CODE button.<
Remote control
The button on the turn signal indicator
lever can be used to select the items of
computer information which are to
be displayed.
To do this, press:
>the button on the lever until PROG 1
shows on the display
>the MID buttons in the order in which
you wish the information to be
displayed.
Each time an entry is stored, the
program number appears on the
display.
To terminate the selection procedure:
Press the right side of the button.
530de228
To have all the available information
displayed, press:
>the button on the lever until the
display shows PROG
>the SET button.
To obtain individual items of informa-
tion, press the button in briefly as often
as necessary.
91n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
The concept
The PDC assists you when you are
parking. Acoustical signals inform you
of the distance to an obstacle. To do
this, four ultrasonic sensors in the front
and rear bumpers each measure the
distance to the nearest object. The
detection range of the front sensors
and the two sensors located at the
ends of the rear bumper is approxi-
mately 2 ft (60 cm), while the rear
center sensors can detect objects to a
distance of roughly 5 ft (1.50 m).
Automatic function
The system starts to operate auto-
matically about one second after you
select reverse with the ignition key in
position 2.
Manual activation
Press the button; the indicator lamp
comes on.
After driving a distance of more than
approx. 160 ft (50 m) or exceeding a
speed of approx. 20 mph (30 km/h), the
system switches off and the indicator
lamp goes out. Switch the system on
again as required.
Manual deactivation
Press the button again.
530de229
Acoustical signals
The distance from an obstacle is indi-
cated in front with a higher intermittent
tone, and at the rear with a lower inter-
mittent tone. As the distance between
vehicle and object decreases, the inter-
vals between the tones become
shorter.
A continuous tone indicates the pres-
ence of an object less than approx. 1 ft
(30 cm) away.
The warning signal is canceled after
approx. 3 seconds if you are moving
parallel to a wall.
If there is a malfunction of the system:
The indicator lamp flashes and a short
steady signal tone is sounded
>if you activate PDC with the button
>when you select reverse for the first
time after switching on the ignition
>if a malfunction occurs while the PDC
system is active.
Switch the system off and have the
cause of the malfunction corrected by
your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center.
Park Distance Control (PDC)*
92nPDC* Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
The PDC system does not remove
the driver's personal responsibility
for evaluating the distance between the
vehicle and any obstacles. Even when
sensors are involved, there is a blind
spot in which objects cannot be
detected. This applies especially in
those cases where the system
approaches the physical constraints of
ultrasonic measurement, as occurs with
tow bars and trailer couplings, and in
the vicinity of thin or wedge-shaped
objects.
Certain sources of sound, such as a
loud radio, could drown out the PDC
signal tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free
of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they continue to operate effectively.
Do not apply high pressure spray to the
sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Maintain an adequate distance of more
than 4 in (10 cm).<
The concept
DSC maintains vehicle stability, even in
critical driving situations.
The system optimizes vehicle stability
during acceleration and when starting
from a full stop, as well as optimizing
traction. In addition, it recognizes
unstable vehicle conditions, such as
understeering or oversteering, and, as
far as is possible within the laws of
physics, keeps the vehicle on a steady
course by adapting the rpms and brake
applications to the individual wheels.
The system starts up automatically
each time you start the engine.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster goes out shortly
after you switch on the ignition,
refer to page 20.
Indicator lamp flashes:
The system is active and governs drive
and braking force.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or comes on
during normal driving and stays on:
The system is either defective or was
switched off with the button: the stabi-
lizing applications described to the left
are no longer available. The vehicle will
remain completely operational,
however, without DSC.
Consult your BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle center to have the system
repaired.
93n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
To switch the system off
Press the button; the indicator lamp
comes on and stays on.
Traction intervention remains active;
that is, braking intervention will
continue.
In the following exceptional circum-
stances, it may be effective to switch
off the DSC for a short period:
>When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
>On sandy road surfaces
>On poor surfaces with deep ruts
>If the wheels "churn" on muddy
surfaces
>When driving with snow chains.
530de230
As a result of the traction interven-
tion, the brakes may be subjected
to additional loads when the system is
switched off. For this reason, it is
possible that the braking intervention
will be disabled automatically for a brief
period in order to limit brake tempera-
ture.
To maintain vehicle stability, always
drive with the system switched on when
possible.<
To switch the system on again
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. An
appropriate driving style always
remains the responsibility of the driver.
We therefore urge you to avoid using
the additional safety margin of the
system as an excuse for taking risks.
Do not make any modifications to the
DSC system. Service procedures on
the system are to be performed by
authorized technicians only.<
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
DBC is an integral component of the
DSC system.
The system responds to sudden, high-
intensity applications of force to the
brake pedal by automatically braking
the vehicle with maximum boost to
achieve the shortest-possible braking
distances during "panic stops." This
system exploits all the benefits of ABS.
Do not reduce the pressure exerted
against the brake pedal until the
braking maneuver has been completed.
DBC is deactivated when you release
the brake pedal.
94nHill Descent Control (HDC)
The concept
HDC is a system for driving downhill in
steep terrain. This system reduces
vehicle speed on steep downhill gradi-
ents, thus allowing you to maintain
control of your BMW under these
conditions.
The vehicle moves at slightly more than
walking speed without active interven-
tion from the driver.
HDC is available for activation at
vehicle speeds below approx. 20 mph
(35 km/h). When driving down steep
hills with a speed below approx.
20 mph (35 km/h), the vehicle reduces
speed automatically down to slightly
more than walking speed (approx.
5 mph/8 km/h) and then maintains this
speed at a constant.
You can use the accelerator or brakes
to vary this automatically controlled
speed within a range extending from
approx. 3 mph (5 km/h) to 15 mph
(25 km/h).
You can use the +/– button to set the
cruise control to a target speed in the
range from approx. 3 mph (5 km/h) to
15 mph (25 km/h).
HDC is automatically deactivated once
vehicle speed again exceeds approx.
35 mph (60 km/h).
To switch the system on
Press the button. The indicator lamp
comes on.
The indicator lamp flashes when the
brakes are applied automatically.
To switch the system off
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
HDC is deactivated automatically above
a road speed of approx. 35 mph
(60 km/h) and when the ignition is
switched off.
530de231
To use HDC
With manual transmission:
Use HDC in first gear and in Reverse
since the engine's braking effect is
diminished in the higher gears.
With automatic transmission:
You can use HDC in every drive
position.
In the event of a fault
The indicator lamp goes out in the HDC
mode or does not come on when HDC
is switched on:
HDC is temporarily not available if
brake temperature is too high.
If the DSC indicator lamp also
lights up:
There is a fault in the HDC and
DSC systems. Have your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center inspect this
system as soon as possible.
95n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Variable Ride Height*Variable Ride Height on both axles*
The warning lamp for the Vari-
able Ride Height comes on, or
the message "SELFLEVEL
SUSP.INACT" appears in the Check
Control: there is a malfunction in the
Variable Ride Height.
Stop and inspect the vehicle. If it is
riding significantly lower in the rear than
in the front, or if it is sitting at an incline
(left rear compared to right rear),
consult the nearest BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center. Drive with
appropriate caution in the meantime.
The vehicle has reduced ground clear-
ance or driving comfort is noticeably
reduced.
Even if the attitude of the vehicle is
normal, you should consult the nearest
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center if
the warning lamp indicates a system
malfunction.
The concept
Your vehicle is equipped with Variable
Ride Height acting on both the front
and rear suspension. This system
combines automatic self-leveling,
which compensates for variations in
front-to-rear load-distribution patterns,
with a selection feature allowing drivers
to choose from among several ride-
height options.
You may choose from among the
following ride heights:
>Standard
The "standard" setting is intended for
most operating conditions, including
trailer towing
>Off-Road
Higher ride height for increased
ground clearance
>Access
Lowers vehicle for more convenient
cargo handling and easier passenger
ingress and exits
Changes in ride height are initiated
either manually, using the control
button (refer to page 96), or automati-
cally in response to specific speeds.
When the ride height is selected manu-
ally, the driver has the additional option
of revising the ride-height selection by
entering a new command during the
adjustment process.
When the vehicle is stationary, the
system executes ride-height changes in
both directions (up and down) when-
ever the doors are closed. The tailgate/
liftgate may be open. The system raises
the vehicle only when the engine is
running.
The system's automatic self-leveling
feature automatically compensates for
variations in the vehicle's load.
Frequent changes in ride height
initiated at short intervals can
overheat the compressor, causing the
system to briefly suspend active opera-
tion.<
96nVariable Ride Height on both axles*
Ride-height display
1 Off-Road
2 Standard
3 Access
The LEDs not only show the current
ride height, but also indicate changes:
>LED on: indicates the vehicle's
current ride height
>Ride-height LED flashes while the
LED for the earlier level remains on:
the ride height is being adjusted to a
new level, either automatically or in
response to driver input at the button.
530de218
When the suspension reaches the
new ride height the flashing LED
reverts to continuous operation, and
the LED for the earlier level goes out
>LED for current ride height flashes for
roughly 3 seconds when you press
the button: change in ride height is
not possible.
Raising
Available only when the engine is
running.
From "Standard" to "Off-Road":
Press button 1 while traveling at a
speed of less than approx. 30 mph
(50 km/h).
From "Access" to "Standard":
>Press button 1 or
>The setting automatically reverts to
the "standard" setting once the
vehicle exceeds a speed of roughly
20 mph (35 km/h).
530de219
97n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Variable Ride Height on both axles*
Lowering
Available with key in position 2.
From "Standard" to "Access":
1. Press button 2 while traveling at less
than approx. 50 mph (80 km/h). The
system enters its preselection mode.
The preselection mode is canceled
>by pressing button 1
>automatically once the vehicle
exceeds a speed of approx.
50 mph (80 km/h) or roughly
60 seconds after button 2 is
pressed
2. Reduce speed to below
approx. 15 mph (25 km/h) within
roughly 60 seconds after pressing
button 2.
When you press button 2 at
speeds below approx. 15 mph
(25 km/h) the system automatically
lowers the vehicle to the "Access"
level.<
From "Off-Road" to "Standard":
>Press button 2 or
>automatically once you exceed a
speed of approx. 30 mph (50 km/h).
98nTire Pressure Monitor (RDC)*
The concept
RDC monitors the tire pressures at all
four wheels, even when the vehicle is
moving. The system provides an alert
whenever the inflation pressure drops
significantly below the specified pres-
sure in one or more tires.
In order for the system to "learn" the
correct tire inflation pressure, check the
inflation pressures in all tires, refer to
the table on page 27 and make any
necessary corrections. Then activate
the system.
This indicator lamp in the instru-
ment cluster or the Check
Control will inform you if the tire
pressure is not correct.
To switch the system on
1. Turn the ignition key to position 2 (do
not start the engine)
2. Maintain pressure on the button until
the yellow indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster comes on for
several seconds or the message
"SET TIRE PRESSURE" appears in
the Check Control
3. After you have driven for a few
minutes, the RDC will import the
current inflation pressure in the tires
as the reference values which the
system will monitor.
You will only have to repeat this proce-
dure if the tire inflation pressure must
be corrected. Otherwise, the RDC func-
tions automatically when the ignition
key is in position 2, and thus operates
whenever the vehicle is driven.
530de232
Loss of tire pressure
If, after a certain period of time, the
inflation pressure has gone down
significantly (which is normal for any
tire), the yellow indicator lamp comes
on or the message "CHECK TIRE
PRESSURE" appears in the Check
Control.
This alerts you that you should have the
tires inflated to the specified pressures
as soon as possible.
If you are prompted to check the
tire pressure shortly after a
correction has been made, this indi-
cates that the corrected values were
not accurate. Please check the inflation
pressure again and make corrections
according to the inflation pressure
table.<
99n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Tire Pressure Monitor (RDC)*Adaptive brake light
Flat tire
If there is a tire failure with a loss of
inflation pressure, the red indicator
lamp comes on or the message "TIRE
DEFECTIVE" appears in the Check
Control. In addition, a gong sounds.
If this occurs, reduce vehicle speed
immediately and stop the vehicle in a
safe location. Avoid hard brake applica-
tions. Do not oversteer. Replace the flat
tire.
The spare tire which is available in
your vehicle as standard equip-
ment is equipped with the electronics
required for RDC and, following activa-
tion of the system, is also monitored
after it is mounted.<
RDC cannot alert you to severe
and sudden tire damage caused
by external factors.<
Have the tires changed at your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center.
Your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center has the information needed for
working with RDC and is equipped with
the necessary special tools.<
System malfunction
During the period of the malfunction,
the yellow indicator lamp comes on or
the message "TIRECONTROL INAC-
TIVE" appears in the Check Control.
You will also see the same message
>in the event of a system malfunction
>if a wheel is mounted without the
RDC electronics
>if, in addition to the spare tire, addi-
tional wheels with RDC electronics
are on board.
Please contact your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center for additional
information.
The adaptive brake light (in preparation)
provides drivers of following vehicles
with an indication of the intensity with
which the brakes are being applied in
your own vehicle.
The display occurs in two stages:
>Normal braking:
The brake light units within the tail-
light clusters and the high-mount
brake light integrated within the rear
spoiler both light up with normal
intensity
>Hard braking or braking with ABS
active:
The taillights also come on, lighting
up with the same intensity as the
brake lights to provide a larger a
more conspicuous warning.
100n
Parking lamps (side marker
lamps)
With the switch in this position,
the front, rear and side vehicle
lighting is switched on.
For lighting on one side for parking as
an additional feature, refer to page 101.
Low beams
When the ignition is switched off
and the low beams are on, only
the parking lamps (side marker
lamps) remain on.
530us215
"Follow me home" lamps:
When you activate the headlamp
flasher after parking the vehicle and
switching off the lamps, the low beams
will come on for a brief period. You may
also have this function deactivated if
you wish.<
LIGHTS ON warning
Whenever you open the driver's door,
after having turned the ignition key to
position 0, you will hear a buzzing
sound for a few seconds to remind you
that the lamps have not been switched
off.
On vehicles with alphanumeric Check
Control*:
The reminder is given through the
Check Control.
Daytime driving lamps*
The headlamps are automatically
switched on for daylight driving at
ignition key position 2.
Automatic headlamp control*
When the switch is set to this
position the system automati-
cally activates or deactivates the
low beams in response to changes in
ambient light (in tunnels, at dusk, etc.)
as well as rain and snow.
The vehicle's external lamps
remain on constantly when you
switch on the fog lamps after the head-
lamps have come on automatically.<
Automatic headlamp control
cannot serve as a substitute for
the driver's judgement in determining
when the vehicle lamps should be
switched on. For example, the sensors
are not able to detect fog. To avoid
safety risks, you should respond to
these kinds of low-visibility situations
by switching the headlamps on manu-
ally.<
You can have the sensitivity of
your vehicle's automatic head-
lamp control adjusted.<
Parking lamps/Low beams
101n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Instrument lighting
High beams/Standing lamps
Fog lamps
Turn the rotary dial to adjust the illumi-
nation intensity.
530us216
1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator
lamp)
3 Standing lamps
Standing lamps, left or right*
As an additional feature, you can
illuminate your vehicle on either side
for parking, if you wish to do so:
With the ignition key in position 0,
engage the lever in the appropriate
turn signal position.
530de265
Fog lamps
A green indicator lamp appears
in the instrument cluster to indi-
cate that the front fog lamps are
on.
If the high beams are switched on, the
fog lamps go out.
If the automatic headlamp control
is activated, the low beams will
automatically be switched on when the
front fog lamps are switched on.<
530us210
102nInterior lamps Reading lamps*
The interior lamps operate automati-
cally.
Switching the interior lamps on
and off manually
Press the button (arrow) briefly.
If you want the interior lamps to remain
off all the time, press and hold the
button for approx. 3 seconds.
Press the button briefly to revert to
normal operation.
The button for the interior lamps in the
rear passenger area only switches
these lamps on and off.
530us056
Footwell and cargo area lamps
The lamps are controlled in the same
manner as the front interior lamps.
Front area lighting*
This lighting system in the two exterior
mirrors illuminates the ground in the
area near the two front doors. It is also
controlled in the same manner as the
front interior lamps, but it does not
function while the vehicle is moving.
Reading lamps are provided in the front
and rear* near the interior lamp. They
can be switched on and off with the
button (arrows) next to each lamp.
In order to prevent battery
discharge, all of the lamps in the
vehicle are switched off automatically
approx. 15 minutes after the ignition
key is turned to position 0.<
530us057
103n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
1 Airflow directed toward the wind-
shield and side windows
2 Airflow for the upper body 105
3 Front footwell ventilation
4 Rear footwell ventilation
5 Airflow for the upper body in the rear
seat 105
6 Temperature 104
7 Air distribution 104
8 Air supply 104
9 Rear window defroster 104
10 Cooling 104
11 Recirculated-air mode 104
Air conditioner
530us222
104nAir conditioner
Temperature
The graduations on the dial
provide general reference
values for the interior temper-
ature. We recommend +72 7
(+22 6) as a comfortable setting. When
you start the vehicle, the system
adjusts the air to the selected tempera-
ture as quickly as possible, and then
maintains that temperature constantly.
Air distribution
You can direct air to flow onto
the windows , toward the
upper body and into the
footwell . All intermediate
settings are possible. In the setting,
there is a low flow of air onto the
windows to keep them free of conden-
sation.
Air supply
You can adjust the air supply
through an infinitely-variable
range. The heating and venti-
lation become more and more
effective as the air supply settings are
increased. In the "0" setting, the blower
and climate control are switched off
and the outside air supply is blocked.
Rear window defroster
When the rear window
defroster is activated, the
indicator lamp comes on. The rear
window defroster switches off automat-
ically.
Cooling The air is cooled and dehu-
midified and — depending on
the temperature setting — warmed
again when the air conditioner system
is switched on. Depending on the
weather, the windshield may fog over
briefly when the engine is started. You
can reduce condensation forming on
the windows by switching on the air
conditioner.
Condensation forms in the air
conditioner system during opera-
tion, which then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
Recirculated-air mode
You can respond to
unpleasant odors outside the
vehicle by temporarily switching off the
outside air supply. The system then
recirculates the air currently within the
vehicle.
If you have a steering wheel with multi-
function buttons with the button for the
recirculated-air mode, you can also use
this button to switch to the recirculated-
air mode, refer to page 22.
If the windows fog over in the
recirculated-air mode, switch the
recirculated-air mode off and increase
the air supply as required.<
105n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Air conditioner
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the vent outlets for the
upper body area completely for your
personal comfort:
1 Rotary dials for opening and closing
the vent outlets through an infinitely-
variable range
2 Levers for adjusting airflow direction
3 With the rotary dial you can adjust the
temperature of the incoming air:
>Turn toward blue – colder
>Turn toward red – warmer.
530de270
Rear passenger area ventilation
1 Rotary dial for opening and closing
the vent outlets through an infinitely-
variable range
2 Levers for adjusting airflow direction.
The air that flows out here is somewhat
cooler than the air delivered to the foot-
well.
Microfilter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen
from the incoming air. It is replaced by
your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center during regular maintenance. A
substantial reduction in air supply indi-
cates that the filter must be replaced
before normal maintenance.
530de271
To defrost windows and remove
condensation
1. You can specify an interior tempera-
ture that is comfortable for you with
the rotary temperature dial. A good
starting point is +72 7 (+22 6)
2. Set the air distribution rotary dial
to
3. Set the blower/air supply rotary dial
completely to the right
4. Close the vent outlets in the rear
seating area
5. Switch on the rear window defroster
to defrost the rear window.
530us149
106n
1 Airflow directed toward the wind-
shield and side windows
2 Airflow for the upper body 110
3 Front footwell ventilation
4 Rear footwell ventilation
5 Airflow for the upper body in the rear
seat 110
6 Automatic air distribution 108
7 Individual air distribution 108
8 Temperature control –
left-hand side 108
9 Display for temperature and air
supply 108
Automatic climate control*
530us223
107n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Automatic climate control*
10 Temperature control –
right-hand side 108
11 To defrost windows and remove
condensation 109
12 Air conditioner 109
13 Automatic recirculated-air control
(AUC) 109
14 Rear window defroster 109
15 Air supply 108
16 Maximum cooling 109
or using up residual heat 110
17 Air grille for interior temperature
sensor – please keep clear and
unobstructed
530us223
108nAutomatic climate control*
Tips for pleasant driving
Use the automatic system; that is press
AUTO button 6. Select an interior
temperature that is comfortable for you.
Detailed setting options are described
for you in the following section.
Your vehicle is set in such a
manner that, when you unlock the
vehicle via remote control with your
personalized key, your own setting for
the automatic climate control is initi-
ated.<
Automatic air distribution
The AUTO program
assumes the adjustment of
the air distribution and the air supply for
you and also adapts the temperature to
external influences (summer, winter) to
meet preferences you can specify.
Individual air distribution
You can cancel the AUTO
program by selecting
specific air distribution
patterns for your personal
comfort, the automatic air
supply remains in operation. You can
direct air to flow onto the windows ,
toward the upper body , and into the
footwell . You can reactivate the
automatic air distribution mode by
selecting the AUTO button.
Temperature
You can make individual
temperature settings on the
driver's side or the front
passenger side. Your settings will be
shown in the display 9. The displayed
temperatures are reference values for
the interior temperature. We recom-
mend +72 7 (+22 6) as a comfortable
setting, whether the air conditioner is
operating or not. When you start the
vehicle, this system ensures that the
selected temperature is achieved as
quickly as possible. It then maintains
this temperature, regardless of the
season.
Air supply In the AUTO program, the
air supply is controlled
automatically. AUTO will appear in the
display 9, refer to the overview on
page 106. Use "+" and "–" to vary the
air supply. When your setting is
displayed by bars, the automatic air
supply is switched off. Automatic air
distribution maintains its setting. You
can reactivate the automatic air supply
by pressing the AUTO button.
When you press "–" during operation at
minimum blower speed all displays are
canceled: the blower, heating and air
conditioner are switched off. The out-
side air supply is closed. You can
switch the system back on by pressing
any button of the automatic climate
control.
To defrost windows and remove
condensation
This program quickly
removes ice and conden-
sation from the windshield and the side
windows.
109n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Automatic climate control*
Air conditioner
The air is cooled and
dehumidified and —
depending on the temperature setting —
warmed again when the air conditioner
system is switched on. Depending on
the weather, the windshield may fog
over briefly when the engine is started.
You can reduce condensation forming
on the windows by switching on the air
conditioner.
Condensation forms in the air
conditioner system during opera-
tion, which then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
Maximum cooling
You will get maximum
cooling capacity using this
program if the engine is running and
the outside temperature is above
approx. +41 7(+5 6).
The temperature display 9 jumps to
+60 7 (+16 6), the system switches
over to the recirculated-air mode, and
the air streams out of the ventilation grill
with the maximum amount of flow. That
is why you need to keep these open if
you select this program.
Automatic recirculated-air
control (AUC)
If there are unpleasant
odors or pollutants in the
outside air, you can temporarily block
the airflow from the outside. The
system then recirculates the air
currently within the vehicle.
Press the button repeatedly to run
through the following control sequence:
>Indicator lamps off: outside air supply
operational
>Left-hand indicator lamp on – AUC
mode: the system recognizes pollut-
ants in the outside air and blocks the
flow of air when necessary. The
system then recirculates the air
currently within the vehicle.
Depending on the air quality, the
automatic system then switches back
and forth between outside air supply
and recirculation of the air within the
vehicle
>Right-hand indicator lamp on: the
outside air supply into the vehicle is
completely blocked. The system then
recirculates the air currently within
the vehicle.
If you have a steering wheel with multi-
function buttons with the button for
recirculated-air mode (refer to page 22),
you can also use this button to switch
between "Off" and the recirculated-air
mode or AUC and the recirculated-air
mode.
If the windows fog over in the
recirculated-air mode, switch the
recirculated-air mode off and increase
the air supply as required.<
Rear window defroster
When the rear window
defroster is activated,
the indicator lamp comes on. The
rear window defroster switches off
automatically.
110nAutomatic climate control*
Residual heat mode
The heat which is stored in
the engine is utilized for
heating the interior when the engine
has been switched off (while waiting at
a railroad crossing, for instance). In
ignition key position 1, you can alter the
settings of the automatic climate
control. With the ignition key in posi-
tion 0, the system automatically directs
heated air to the windshield, side
windows and footwells.
This function may be activated
when the outside temperature is
below approx. +59 7 (+15 6), the
engine is at operating temperature, and
the battery is adequately charged. The
LED on the button will light up when all
conditions have been met.<
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the vent outlets for the
upper body area to select the optimum
airflow rates and directions for your
personal comfort:
1 Rotary dials for opening and closing
the vent outlets through an infinitely-
variable range
2 Selector levers for airflow direction
3 With the rotary dial you can adjust the
temperature of the incoming air.
>Turn toward blue – colder
>Turn toward red – warmer.
530de270
Rear passenger area climate
control
1 Air supply
2 Temperature
3 Adjusting the direction of the airflow
530de272
111n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Automatic climate control*
Air supply
0 Blower off
I Maximum blower speed
You can adjust the air supply for the
vent outlets through an infinitely-vari-
able range between the "0" and "I"
settings.
In the "0" setting, the blower is
switched off and the supply of air
through the vent outlets is blocked.
Individual adjustments on the front-seat
control elements influence the air
supply for rear passenger area climate
control.
530de273
Temperature
Passengers in the rear seating area can
adjust their own temperature for the
vent outlets:
>Turn toward blue – colder
>Turn toward red – warmer
When you start the vehicle, this system
ensures that the selected temperature
is achieved as quickly as possible. It
then maintains this temperature,
regardless of the season.
A temperature setting is only
possible when the blower is
switched on (not in the "0" setting).<
530de274
Microfilter, activated-charcoal
filter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen
from the incoming air. The activated-
charcoal filter provides additional
protection by filtering gaseous pollut-
ants from the outside air. Your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center
replaces this combined filter as a stan-
dard part of your scheduled mainte-
nance. A substantial reduction in air
supply indicates that the filter must be
replaced before normal maintenance.
112nSunshades* Independent ventilation system*
Sunshades for rear side windows*
Use the strap to pull out the shades,
then hook them in the provided attach-
ment.
You can use this system to ventilate the
interior and lower its temperature, using
the blower of the automatic climate
control.
The independent ventilation system is
operated via the Multi-Information
display (MID), refer to page 85 or via the
onboard computer, refer to the sepa-
rate Owner's Manual.
You can set two different times for the
system to start; it will remain active for
30 minutes. You can also switch it on
and off directly. Since the system uses
a substantial amount of electrical
current, you should refrain from
switching it on twice in succession
without allowing the battery to be
recharged in normal operation between
use.
When a preselected activation time is
set, the independent ventilation system
is operational at outside temperatures
above +60 7 (+16 6), or by direct
switch activation. It cannot be switched
on when the vehicle is moving.
The air emerges via the vent outlets for
the upper body. Therefore, the vent
outlets must be open for the system to
operate.
113n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
The concept
The BMW Universal Transmitter
replaces up to three hand-held trans-
mitters of different devices such as
garage door openers, alarm systems, or
door locking systems. The BMW
Universal Transmitter recognizes and
"learns" the transmitted signal of each
of the original hand-held transmitters.
The signal of an original hand-held
transmitter can be programmed on one
of the three channel keys. Following
that, each of the devices can be actu-
ated with the appropriately-programmed
channel key. The indicator lamp flashes
to confirm transmission of the signal.
If the vehicle is sold, the memory of the
channel keys should be cleared as
described on page 115.
During programming and before
every remote actuation of a
programmed device by the BMW
Universal Transmitter, check to be sure
that there are no persons, animals or
objects within the actuation range of
the device in order to prevent possible
injuries or damage. Also, comply with
the safety precautions of the original
hand-held transmitter.<
To Canadian residents:
During programming, your hand-
held transmitter may automatically stop
transmitting after two seconds. This
may not be long enough to program the
BMW Universal Transmitter. If you are
programming from one of these hand-
held transmitters, the Universal Trans-
mitter's light may begin to flash in a
series of double-blinks. If this occurs,
continue to hold the button of the
Universal Transmitter while you reacti-
vate your hand-held transmitter. You
may have to repeat this function several
times while programming.<
Before programming, read the
"User information" section on
page 115.<
Original hand-held transmitter
If this symbol is present on the
packaging or in the instructions
of the original hand-held trans-
mitter, it may be assumed that this
hand-held transmitter is compatible
with the BMW Universal Transmitter.
Checking for the conversion code
To determine whether the original
hand-held transmitter is provided with
a conversion-code system, you may
either read the instructions for the orig-
inal hand-held transmitter or program a
channel key as described on the next
page (left-hand column under
"Programming").
Then press and hold the programmed
channel key of the BMW Universal
Transmitter. If the indicator lamp of the
BMW Universal Transmitter flashes for
two seconds and then comes on
steadily, the original hand-held trans-
mitter is provided with a conversion-
code system. With a conversion-code
system, program the channel keys as
described on the next page (right-hand
column under "Programming a hand-
held transmitter with conversion code").
If you have additional questions,
please consult your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center or call
1-800-355-3515.
You can also visit this website:
www.bmwusa.com.<
BMW Universal Transmitter
114nBMW Universal Transmitter
Programming
1 Channel keys
2 Indicator lamp
3 Receiver for programming
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on the previous
page.<
1. Turn the ignition key to position 2
2. For initial use:
Press and hold both outside keys 1
until the indicator lamp 2 flashes, and
then release them. The three channel
keys are cleared
530us136
3. Hold the original hand-held trans-
mitter toward the receiver 3 a
maximum of 2 in (5 cm) away
4. Press the transmission key of the
original hand-held transmitter
(arrow 2) and the desired channel
key of the Integrated Universal
Remote Control (arrow 1) simulta-
neously. Release both keys as soon
as the indicator lamp flashes rapidly
5. To program other original hand-held
transmitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.
The corresponding channel key is now
programmed with the signal of the orig-
inal hand-held transmitter.
530us137
Programming a hand-held
transmitter with conversion code
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on the previous
page.<
When programming the BMW Universal
Transmitter, consult the instructions for
the specific device. For using the BMW
Universal Transmitter with a conversion-
code system, note the following supple-
mental programming instructions:
A second person facilitates
programming of the BMW
Universal Transmitter.<
1. Program the BMW Universal
Transmitter as described previously
under "Programming"
2. Press and hold the programming key
on the receiver of the device for
approx. two seconds until the
programming lamp on the device
comes on
3. Press the desired channel key of the
BMW Universal Transmitter three
times.
If you have additional questions,
please consult your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center.<
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BMW Universal Transmitter
Clearing the channel keys
Read and comply with the safety
precautions on page 113.<
The memory of individual channel keys
cannot be cleared. However, the three
channel keys can be cleared together
as follows:
>Press and hold both outside keys of
the BMW Universal Transmitter until
the indicator lamp flashes, and then
release them.
All of the channel keys are cleared.
User information
Do not use this BMW Universal Trans-
mitter with any garage door opener that
lacks safety "stop" and "reverse"
features as required by federal safety
standards (this includes any garage
door opener model manufactured
before April 1, 1982).
This device complies with Section 15 of
the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: as defined
in the regulations, this device must not
emit harmful interference, and must be
shielded against interference from
external sources to prevent unautho-
rized or inadvertent activation.
116nGlove compartment Storage compartments
To open
Pull the handle. The lamp inside the
glove compartment comes on.
To close
Fold the cover up.
To prevent injury in the event of an
accident, close the glove
compartment immediately after use.<
530de275
To lock
Use one of the master keys. A master
key is also required for unlocking.
If you turn over only your door and
ignition key for valet parking (refer
to page 30), for example, access to the
glove compartment is not possible.<
Rechargeable flashlight*
Located on the left-hand side of the
glove compartment.
Features integral overload-protection,
so it can be left in its holder continu-
ously.
To avoid completely discharging
and possibly damaging the lamp,
always ensure that it is switched off
before inserting it in the socket.<
You will find two storage compartments
in the armrest between the front seats.
To open the top compartment:
Press the button (arrow 1).
You will find a cellular phone* in this
compartment.
To move the armrest or open the lower
compartment:
Pull the handle (arrow 2).
In this compartment, you will find a coin
tray and a storage compartment* for
cassettes or CDs.
You will find additional storage
compartments in all of the doors as well
as on the backrests of the front seats.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Cellular phone* Beverage holder
Hands-free system
On vehicles with telephone prepara-
tion*, the hands-free microphone is
positioned in the headliner.
For further information on the cellular
phone, refer to the separate Owner's
Manual.
530us070
Front
Below the sliding cover (illustration).
Remove the insert which is a compart-
ment for storing pens.
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Rear
At the end of the center console under
the lighter.
Press briefly to open; push back inward
to close.
530de278
118nGlasses compartment Ashtray, front Cigarette lighter, front
Press the button to open; fold upward
to close.
530de279
To empty
Press the edge of the lid (arrow):
The ashtray moves up and can be
removed.
530de281
Press the lighter in.
The lighter can be removed as soon as
it retracts.
Hold or touch the hot cigarette
lighter by the knob only. Holding
or touching it in other areas could result
in burns.
The cigarette lighter remains opera-
tional when the ignition key has been
removed.
For this reason, do not leave unsuper-
vised children in the vehicle.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Cigarette lighter, front Ashtray, rear Cigarette lighter, rear
Cigarette lighter socket
This socket is suitable for attaching
power supplies for flashlights, car
vacuum cleaners and other appliances
up to a rating of approx. 200 watts at
12 volts. Avoid damage to the socket
caused by inserting plugs of a different
shape or size.
You will find additional power outlets in
the cargo area, refer to page 125.
To empty
Remove the insert tray.
530de282
Press the lighter in.
The lighter can be removed as soon as
it retracts.
Hold or touch the hot cigarette
lighter by the knob only. Holding
or touching it in other areas could result
in burns.
The cigarette lighter remains opera-
tional when the ignition key has been
removed.
For this reason, do not leave unsuper-
vised children in the vehicle.<
530de239
120nSki bag*
The ski bag allows the safe and clean
transport of up to 4 pairs of standard
skis or up to two snowboards.
With the length of the ski bag and the
additional space in the cargo area, you
can store skis with a length of up to
6.8 ft (2.1 m). Because of the tapered
shape of the bag, the ski bag can only
accommodate two pairs of skis with a
length of 6.8 ft (2.1 m).
Loading
1. Fold the center armrest outward.
Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest
530us077
2. Press button 1 downward and swing
the cover forward
3. Press button 2: the cover in the
cargo area is unlocked.
Together with the pull-out cargo
floor* (refer to page 126): pull the
floor out, release the cover and slide
the floor back in – the floor then
conceals the cover
4. Extend the ski bag between the front
seats. The zipper provides conven-
ient access to the inside of the bag,
and can also be left open to promote
drying.
To store the ski bag, perform the above
steps in reverse sequence.
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Ski bag*
Securing the load
Secure the bag's contents by
tightening down the retaining
strap at the buckle.<
Please be sure that the skis are clean
before loading them into the bag. Be
careful to avoid damage from sharp
edges.
530de284
If the cover is concealed in the
cargo area by the pull-out cargo
floor, do not fold the larger rear back-
rest down. If you do so, it will damage
the cover.<
122nCargo area
Fold the rear backrests down
Reach into the recess and pull forward
(arrow).
When you fold back the backrest,
be sure that the catch engages
securely. The red warning indicator
disappears in the recess when the
catch is engaged.
The center safety belt can be retracted
only when the larger backrest is
engaged.<
530de285
Cargo area cover
Pull the cover out by the handle and
hook it in the rear holders.
You can carry light objects such as
articles of clothing on the cover.
Do not place heavy or hard
objects on the cover. If you do so,
they could pose a danger to vehicle
occupants during braking or evasive
maneuvers.<
Before you slide it back into position,
place the grip in the rear fold of the
cover.
530de286
When the cover is pulled out, it can be
opened behind the rear-seat backrest
to gain access to the cargo area from
the rear seats during a trip, for example.
For removing the cover, refer to the
next page.
530de287
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Cargo area
Removing the cover
1. Use both hands to press the cover
together on both sides and slide it
forward (arrow 1)
2. Lift the cover upward from the rear
on both sides (arrow 2) and remove
it.
Installation
Slide the cover into the retainers on
both sides and then press it down at
the rear until it engages.
530de288
Partition net*
1. Remove the bag with the partition
net from the retainer by releasing the
hooks from the lashing eyes on both
sides
2. Remove the partition net from the
bag and unroll it half way
Note how the bag with the parti-
tion net is secured in the vehicle
and how the partition net is rolled up
and stored in the bag so that you can
return everything to its place after use.
If your vehicle is equiped with a pull-out
cargo floor* be sure to read the note on
page 126.<
530de028
3. Slide back the covers on the
retainers for the partition net on both
sides of the roof (arrow)
4. Insert the curved ends of the parti-
tion net rod in the retainers on both
sides
5. Now you can slide the covers toward
the front again (arrow)
530de289
124nCargo area
6. Attach the hooks on the bottom of
the partition net into the eyes on both
sides
530de030
7. When the rear backrests are folded
down, you can open the Velcro®
strips, completely unroll the partition
net, insert it in the front retainers on
the roof and attach the three hooks
into the eyes.
The illustration shows securing at the
bottom right as an example.
530de031
Side covers
Pull the handle to open the side covers.
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Cargo area
Floor cover
To access the spare wheel.
To release: press the recess in the
handle (arrow) and raise the cover with
the handle.
530de291
Fold the floor cover up
Lift up the black retainer on the lower
side of the floor cover and hook it into
the upper frame of the liftgate cutout.
Before you fold the floor cover down,
return the retainer to its original posi-
tion.
530us086
Power outlets
When you fold the cover cap up, you
have access to additional power
outlets.
You can use the power outlets for flash-
lights, car vacuum cleaners or other
automotive appliances with up to
approx. 200 watts at 12 volts. Avoid
damage to the socket caused by
inserting plugs of a different shape or
size.
Refer also to page 119.
530us084
126nCargo area
Pull-out cargo floor*
To release, pull the handle recess
upward. Then pull the floor out.
Do not drive when the cargo floor
is pulled out.
Do not release the cargo floor on steep
grades. If you do, it could extend auto-
matically and cause personal injuries.
A load which is not properly secured
could begin to slide if the floor extends
automatically and then drop to the
ground as a result of the rapid braking
of the cargo floor at the limit stop.<
530de292
When it is extended, you can load the
cargo floor:
>With up to 990 Ibs (450 kg),
distributed evenly across the
entire surface
>With up to 330 Ibs (150 kg) on the
rear edge.
Do not overload the cargo floor
when it is extended. If you do so,
it could cause damage.
When you slide the cargo floor back in,
do not grasp it on the bottom. If you do
so, there is a risk of personal injury.< Raise the cargo floor
For access to the spare wheel or other
stored items:
Swing the cargo floor up and secure it
with the rod (see detail).
If your vehicle has a partition net*:
Take the bag with the partition net
out of the retainer (refer to page 123),
before you raise the cargo floor panel.
Otherwise, the bag could slide down-
ward.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Cargo area
Stowing cargo
When transporting cargo in your BMW:
>Load heavy cargo as far forward as
possible – directly behind the back-
rests – and as low as possible
>Cover sharp edges and corners
>Do not pile objects higher than the
top edge of the backrest
>Fasten the partition net* (refer to
page 123) and ensure that carried
items cannot pass through the parti-
tion net
>If you are transporting very heavy
loads when the rear seat is not occu-
pied, secure the outer safety belts in
the opposite buckles.
530de032
Securing the load
>Secure smaller, light pieces with the
retaining straps or a luggage net*, or
use elastic straps, refer to page 38
>For large, heavy pieces, see your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center
for load-securing devices*. The
lashing eyes provided at the corners
of the cargo area serve for mounting
these load-securing devices
>Read and comply with the informa-
tion enclosed with the load-securing
devices.
530us090
Always position and secure the
load correctly. If you do not, it can
endanger the passengers during
braking or evasive maneuvers.
Do not exceed the permissible gross
vehicle weight and the permissible axle
loads, refer to page 172. If you do, the
operating safety of the vehicle is no
longer ensured and you are in violation
of the law.
Do not carry hard or heavy objects
unsecured in the passenger compart-
ment. If you do so, they may be
projected through the air during braking
and evasive maneuvers, thus endan-
gering vehicle occupants.<
128nRoof-mounted luggage rack*
A special rack system is available as an
option for your BMW. Please comply
with the precautions included with the
installation instructions.
Mounting points
Access to the mounting points:
To fold up the cover (arrow), please use
the tool which is provided with the rack
system.
530de293
Cargo loading and driving hints
Roof-mounted luggage racks raise the
center of gravity of the vehicle when
they are loaded. For this reason, they
exercise a major effect on the vehicle's
handling and steering response.
You should therefore always remember
not to exceed the approved roof
weight, the approved gross vehicle
weight or the axle loads when loading
the rack.
You will find the specifications under
"Technical Data" on page 172.
Make sure that the load is not too
heavy, and attempt to distribute it
evenly. Always load the heaviest pieces
first (on the bottom). Be sure that
adequate clearance is maintained for
raising the sliding/tilt sunroof, and that
objects do not project into the opening
path of the liftgate.
Always ensure that roof-mounted
loads are tightly secured, as loose
loads can shift or even fly off the roof,
posing a serious hazard for following
traffic.<
Drive smoothly. Avoid sudden accelera-
tion and braking maneuvers. Take
corners gently.
129n
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130n
131n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Mainte-
132nBreak-in procedures
To ensure that your vehicle provides
maximum economy throughout a long
service life, we request that you
observe the following instructions:
Engine and axle drive
Up to 1,200 miles (2,000 km):
Drive at varying engine speeds and
road speeds, but do not exceed
4,500 rpm and the following road
speeds during this initial period:
6-cylinder engines: 100 mph (160 km/h)
8-cylinder engines: 106 mph (170 km/h)
Obey your local and state maximum
speed limits.
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid
pressing the accelerator beyond the
kickdown point.
Once you have driven 1,200 miles
(2,000 km), engine and vehicle speeds
can gradually be increased.
You should also comply with these
break-in procedures if the engine or
one of the axle drives is replaced later
in the course of the vehicle service life.
Tires
Due to technical factors associated
with their manufacture, tires do not
achieve their full traction potential until
an initial break-in period has elapsed.
For this reason, drive with extra care
during the initial 200 miles (300 km).
Obey your local and state maximum
speed limits.
When the vehicle is operated on
wet or slushy roads, a wedge of
water may form between the tire and
the road surface. This phenomenon is
referred to as aquaplaning, or hydro-
planing, and can lead to partial or
complete loss of traction, vehicle
control and braking effectiveness.
Reduce your speed on wet roads.<
Brake system
Approx. 300 miles (500 km) must
elapse before the brake pads and
rotors achieve the optimal pad-surface
and wear patterns required for trouble-
free operation and long service life later
on.
To break in the separate parking brake
drums, apply the parking brake lightly
when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic
signal, for instance), provided that
traffic conditions allow you to do so.
To avoid corrosion, repeat this proce-
dure from time to time.
The brake lamps do not light up
when the parking brake is applied.
Vacuum for the brake system servo unit
on your BMW is available only when the
engine is running. When you move the
vehicle with the engine switched off –
when towing, for instance – substan-
tially higher levels of pedal force will be
required to brake the vehicle.<
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Driving your BMW X5
Your BMW is right at home on all roads
and byways – even where the pavement
ends. It combines permanent four-
wheel drive with the agility of a typical
passenger vehicle.
On bad roads
When you are driving on bad roads,
there are a few points which you should
strictly heed — for your own safety, for
that of your passengers, and for the
safekeeping of the vehicle:
>Familiarize yourself with the vehicle
before you begin driving. Do not take
risks with the vehicle under any
circumstances
>Always adapt vehicle speed to road
conditions – the steeper and more
uneven the road surface is, the
slower the vehicle's speed should be
>You can operate your vehicle on
uphill and downhill gradients with a
maximum slope of 50%. If you intend
to drive on either an uphill or downhill
gradient of this steepness, check to
be sure in advance that the engine oil
and coolant levels are both near the
"MAX" mark, refer to pages 143
and 145.
When driving down steep slopes, use
the Hill Descent Control (HDC), refer
to page 94.
Starting from a full stop is possible on
uphill gradients of up to 32%.
The permitted side tilt is also 50%
>While driving, watch carefully for
obstacles such as rocks or holes. Try
to avoid these obstacles whenever
possible
>On hill crests and bumpy roads, for
example, be careful to prevent the
body from "bottoming" (contact
between the body and the ground).
The ground clearance of the vehicle
is:
8 in (200 mm) with up to four
passengers
7 in (180 mm) fully loaded (without
Variable Ride Height)
>Do not drive in water that is deeper
than 20 inches (50 cm). If you must
drive through water up to that depth,
drive at a walking speed and do not
stop.
After leaving the water, press on the
footbrake gently several times while
driving at a low speed. The brake
applications will help to dry the
brakes, thus preventing a reduction in
braking performance caused by the
moisture.
Back onto the paved road
In recommending that you observe the
following points after driving on adverse
road surfaces, it is not as a "beauty
treatment" for your BMW. Instead, it is
intended for the maintenance of driving
safety:
>Clean accumulations of dirt from the
body and check the undercarriage for
damage
>Clean mud, snow, ice and other
materials from the wheels and tires.
Check the tires for damage
>Check to determine whether rocks,
gravel or accumulations of dirt on the
brake rotors and calipers could influ-
ence braking performance. Remove
all such foreign objects
>In order to clean the brake rotors,
apply the footbrake gently several
times while driving at a low speed. Be
sure that following traffic is not
endangered by this
>For cleaning the parking brake, apply
the lever slightly at approx. 25 mph
(40 km/h) and continue to drive for
approx. 200 yards (200 meters),
provided that traffic conditions allow
you to do so.
134nGeneral driving notes
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
Brakes:
Do not drive with your foot resting
on the brake pedal. Even light but
consistent pedal pressure can lead to
high temperatures, brake wear and
possibly even brake failure.
Aquaplaning:
When driving on wet or slushy roads,
reduce vehicle speed. If you do not, a
wedge of water may form between the
tires and the road surface. This
phenomenon is referred to as aqua-
planing or hydroplaning. It is character-
ized by a partial or complete loss of
contact between the tires and the road
surface. The ultimate results are loss of
steering and braking control.
Cargo area cover:
Do not place heavy or hard objects on
the cargo area cover. These objects
could endanger vehicle occupants
during heavy brake applications or
evasive maneuvers.
Clothes hooks:
When suspending articles of clothing
from the hooks, be sure that they will
not obstruct the driver's vision. Do not
hang heavy objects on the hooks. If you
do so, they could cause personal injury
during braking or evasive maneuvers.<
The concept
The Antilock Brake System (ABS) keeps
the wheels from locking during braking,
thereby enhancing active driving safety.
Braking with ABS
If you are in a situation that requires full
braking, you will exploit the full benefits
of the ABS system if you apply
maximum pedal pressure ("panic stop").
Since the vehicle maintains steering
responsiveness, you can avoid possible
obstacles with a minimum of steering
effort, despite the full brake application.
Pulsation at the brake pedal combined
with sounds from the hydraulic circuits
indicates to the driver that ABS is in its
active mode.
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Brake system
Brake fluid level
If the brake fluid level is too low and
brake pedal travel has become longer,
there may be a defect in one of the two
brake system's hydraulic circuits.
Proceed to the nearest
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center. Here increased pressure on the
brake pedal may be required, and slight
pulling to the side and longer braking
distances may result. Please remember
to adapt your driving style accord-
ingly.<
Disc brakes
When the vehicle is driven only occa-
sionally, during extended periods when
the vehicle is not used at all, and in
operating conditions where brake appli-
cations are less frequent, there is an
increased tendency for corrosion of the
rotors and accumulation of contamina-
tion on the brake pads. This occurs
because the minimal pressure which
must be exerted by the pads to clean
the discs by brake applications is not
reached.
If the brake rotors are corroded, they
will tend to respond to braking with a
pulsating effect which even extended
application will fail to cure.
When driving in wet conditions and in
heavy rain, it is advisable to apply light
pressure to the brake pedal from time
to time. Watch traffic conditions to
ensure that this maneuver does not
endanger other road users. The heat
which is generated by the brake appli-
cations helps to dry the brake pads and
rotors. The braking force is then imme-
diately available when required.
Extended or steep mountain descents
should be driven in the gear in which
only minimal periodic brake application
is required. This avoids excessive strain
on the brakes and possible impairment
of the braking effect.
Do not coast with the clutch
depressed or with the transmis-
sion or selector lever in neutral. Do not
drive with the engine switched off. The
engine provides no braking effect when
the clutch is depressed or the transmis-
sion is in neutral, and there is no
power-assist for braking or steering
when the engine is not running.
Have brake inspections performed at a
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center
only. If you do not, parts of the four-
wheel drive system could be damaged.
Never allow floor mats, carpets or any
other objects to protrude into the area
around the accelerator, clutch and
brake pedals and obstruct their move-
ment.<
Brake pads
For your own safety: use only
brake pads that BMW has
released for your particular vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if
they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
136n
Information for your safety
The factory-approved radial tires are
matched to the vehicle and have been
selected to provide optimum safety and
driving comfort on your vehicle.
It is not merely the tire's service life, but
also driving comfort and – above all else
– driving safety which depend on the
condition of the tires and the mainte-
nance of the specified tire pressure.
Incorrect inflation pressure is a frequent
cause of tire damage. It also signifi-
cantly influences the roadholding ability
of your BMW.
Check tire inflation pressures –
including the spare wheel – regu-
larly (refer to page 26), at least every
two weeks and before beginning a
longer trip. If this is not done, incorrect
tire pressures can cause driving insta-
bility and tire damage, ultimately
resulting in an accident.<
Tire tread – Tire damage
Inspect your tires frequently for tread
wear, signs of damage and for foreign
objects lodged in the tread. Check the
tread pattern depth.
Tread depth should not be allowed to
go below 0.12 in (3 mm), even though
the legally specified minimum tread
depth is 0.063 in (1.6 mm). Tread wear
indicators (arrow) are embedded in the
base of the tire's tread. Their locations
are indicated by the legend TWI – Tread
Wear Indicator – at various points on
the tire's shoulder. When the tread
reaches a depth of 0.063 in (1.6 mm),
these indicators appear to signal that
the tires have worn to the minimum
legal level. Below 0.12 in (3 mm) tread
depth, there is an increased risk of
aquaplaning, even at relatively
390de331
moderate speeds and with only small
amounts of water on the road.
Do not drive on a deflated (flat)
tire. A flat tire greatly impairs
steering and braking response, and can
lead to complete loss of control over
the vehicle.
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that
the permitted load on the tires is not
exceeded. Overloading leads to over-
heating and causes damage inside the
tires. The ultimate result can assume
the form of a sudden air loss.
Unusual vibrations encountered during
normal vehicle operation can indicate a
flat tire or some other vehicle malfunc-
tion. The type of problem can be
caused by contact with curbs, etc. This
is also true for irregularities in the
vehicle's handling characteristics, such
as a pronounced tendency to pull to the
left or right. Should this occur, respond
by immediately reducing your speed.
Tire inflation pressures Tire condition
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OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Tire condition Tire replacement
Proceed carefully to the nearest
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center or
professional tire center, or have the
vehicle towed in to have it, its wheels
and tires inspected.
Tire damage (up to and including blow-
outs) can endanger the lives of both the
vehicle occupants and other road
users.<
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single
tread configuration from a single manu-
facturer. BMW tests and approves
wheel/tire combinations.
DOT Quality Grades
Tread wear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
All passenger vehicle tires must
conform to Federal Safety
Requirements in addition to these
grades.<
Tread wear
The tread wear grade is a comparative
rating based on the wear rate of the tire
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified government test
course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would
wear one and one-half (1g) times as
well on the government course as a tire
graded 100. The relative performance
of tires depends upon the actual condi-
tions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due
to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road char-
acteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on speci-
fied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straight-
ahead braking traction tests, and does
not include acceleration, cornering,
aquaplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<
138nTire replacement
Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B, and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled condi-
tions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to degenerate
and reduce tire life, and excessive
temperature can lead to a sudden flat
tire. The grade C corresponds to a level
of performance which all passenger
vehicle tires must meet under the
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard
No. 109. Grades B and A represent
higher levels of performance on the
laboratory test wheel than the minimum
required by law.
The temperature grade for this tire
is established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not overloaded.
Excessive speed, underinflation, or
excessive loading, either separately or
in combination, can cause heat buildup
and possible a tire failure.<
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where
applicable on the tire sidewall between
tread shoulder and maximum section
width. For example:
Tread wear 200
Traction AA
Temperature A
Do not use retreaded tires, since
driving safety may be impaired by
their use. This is due to the possible
variations in casing structures and, in
some cases, to their extreme age,
which can lead to a decrease in their
durability.<
Tire age
The date on which the tire was manu-
factured is indicated by the code on the
sidewall:
DOT ... 4101 indicates that the tire was
manufactured in week 41 of 2001.
BMW recommends the replacement of
all tires when the tires are no more than
6 years old, even if a tire life of 10 years
is possible.
139n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Wheel and tire combinations
The right choice
Use only wheels and tires
approved by BMW for the corre-
sponding vehicle model, as otherwise
the tires may make contact with the
body as the result of tolerances despite
the same nominal size being used,
resulting in serious accidents. If non-
approved wheels and tires are used,
BMW cannot evaluate their suitability,
and therefore cannot be held liable for
driving safety.<
BMW tests certain tire brands for each
tire size, classifies them as road-safe
and approves them. Consult your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center for
more information. Observe any regula-
tions applicable in the country of use,
e.g. requiring entry in the vehicle docu-
ments.
The correct wheel and tire combi-
nation affects different systems
such as ABS, ATC and DSC. The func-
tion of these systems is impaired if
improper wheel and tire combinations
are used.
For this reason, use only tires of the
same brand and tread pattern on the
vehicle and, for example, restore the
approved wheel and tire combination
following a flat tire as soon as
possible.<
The use of rims and lug bolts that
do not meet the specifications of
the original factory-installed equipment
will affect the safe operation of your
vehicle and may cause an accident and
personal injury.
Never mix tires of different design, such
as steel-belted radials with radial bias
belted or bias-ply tires, etc. Mixing tire
types will adversely affect roadholding
and can lead to loss of vehicle
control.<
Storage
Store tires in a cool, dry place,
protecting them against light when-
ever possible. Protect the tires against
contact with oil, grease and fuel.
140nWinter tires Snow chains*
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends winter tires (M+S
radial tires) for operation under
inclement winter driving conditions.
While so-called all-season tires (M+S
designation) provide better winter trac-
tion than summer tires with the load
ratings H, V, W, Y and ZR, they gener-
ally do not achieve the performance of
winter tires.
In the interests of safe tracking and
steering response, install radial tires
made by the same manufacturer and
with the same tread configuration on all
four wheels if you elect to mount winter
tires.
Do not exceed specified
maximum speeds
Never exceed the maximum speed
for which the tires are rated.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
service tires can lead to damage and
accidents.
Have this work performed by skilled
professionals only. Your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center will be glad to
assist you with both their expertise and
the proper equipment for your vehicle.<
Tire condition, tire pressure
Winter tires display a perceptible loss in
their ability to cope with winter driving
conditions once the tread wears to
below 0.16 in (4 mm), and should thus
be replaced.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressures — and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assemblies balanced
every time you change the tires.
The use of narrow-link BMW snow
chains is approved only in pairs on the
rear wheels and only with tire size
235/65 R 17. Comply with all manufac-
turer's safety precautions when
mounting the chains. Do not exceed a
maximum speed of 30 mph (50 km/h).
141n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Hood
To unlock
Pull the lever located under the left-
hand side of the instrument panel.
Do not work on your vehicle
without appropriate skills. Failure
to work in an informed, professional
manner when servicing components
and materials constitutes a safety
hazard for vehicle occupants and other
road users. If you are not familiar with
the guidelines, please have the opera-
tions performed by your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center.<
530de295
To open
Pull the release handle and open the
hood.
530de296
To close
Allow the hood to fall from a height of
about 12 in (30 cm) so that it audibly
engages.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the hood is clear
when it is closed, as with all closing
procedures
.
If it is determined that the hood is not
completely closed while driving, stop
immediately and close it securely.<
530de297
142n
1 Engine oil dipstick 143
2 Reservoir for brake fluid
(under the microfilter trim panel) 146
3 Auxiliary terminal for jump
starting 164
4 Coolant expansion tank 145
5 Engine oil filler neck 143
6 Reservoir for windshield and
headlamp washer system*143
Engine compartment essentials
530de332
143n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Washer fluid Engine oil
Headlamp* and windshield
washer system
Approximate capacity is 8.2 US quarts
(7.8 liters).
Fill with water and — if required — with a
washer antifreeze (according to manu-
facturer's recommendations).
It is more convenient to mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
Antifreeze agent for the washer
systems is inflammable. For this
reason, keep it away from sources of
flame and store it only in its original
containers. Store it so that it is inacces-
sible to children. Comply with the
instructions on the containers.<
530de298
Checking oil level
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface
2. Switch the engine off after it has
reached normal operating tempera-
ture
3. After approx. 5 minutes, pull the
dipstick out and wipe it off with a
clean lint-free cloth, paper towel, or
similar material
4. Push the dipstick carefully all the way
into the guide tube and pull it out
again
5. The oil level should be in between
the two marks on the dipstick.
As with fuel economy, oil consumption
is directly influenced by your driving
style and vehicle operating conditions.
530us100
The oil volume between the two marks
on the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter). Do not fill beyond
the upper mark on the dipstick. Excess
oil will damage the engine
BMW X5 4.6is:
If the vehicle's performance reserves
are used extensively (high-perfor-
mance driving) the oil level should be
maintained at the upper graduation on
the dipstick.
530us205
144nEngine oil
To add oil
While you should wait until the level has
dropped to just above the lower mark
before adding oil, you should never
allow the oil level to fall below this
marking.
BMW engines are designed to
operate without oil additives; the
use of additives could lead to damage
in some cases. This is also true for the
manual transmission, the automatic
transmission, the differential, and the
power steering system.<
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center.
530de326
Continuous exposure to used oil
has caused cancer in laboratory
testing. For this reason, any skin areas
that come into contact with oil should
be thoroughly washed with soap and
water.
Always store oils, grease and similar
materials so that they are inaccessible
to children. Comply with warning labels
and information on containers.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of used oil.<
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil selected
has critical significance for the opera-
tion and service life of an engine. Based
on extensive testing, BMW has
approved only certain engine oils.
Use only approved "BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil."
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil," you can
add small amounts of synthetic oil in
between oil changes. Use only oils with
the API SH specification or higher.
Ask your BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle center for details
concerning the specific "BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil" or
"synthetic oils" which have been
approved.<
You can also call BMW of North
America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this
website: www.bmwusa.com to obtain
this information.
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as estab-
lished in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class
depends on the climatic conditions in
the area where you typically drive your
BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These oils may be used for driving in all
ambient temperatures.
145n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Coolant
Do not add coolant to the cooling
system when the engine is hot. If
you attempt to do so, escaping coolant
can cause burns.
To avoid the possibility of damage later
on, never use anything other than
factory-approved, nitrite and amino-
free extended-duty antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor. Your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center is familiar with
the factory specifications.
Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents are
hazardous to health. You should always
store them in their original container
and in a location which is inaccessible
to children.
Extended-duty antifreeze with corro-
sion inhibitor contains the flammable
substance ethylene–glycol. For this
reason, do not spill antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor on hot engine parts.
It could ignite and cause serious
burns.<
Checking coolant level and
adding coolant
Correct coolant level when the engine
is cold approx. +68 7(+20 6):
1. Start by turning the cap of the expan-
sion tank counterclockwise. Pause to
allow any accumulated pressure to
escape, then open
2. The coolant level is correct when the
end of the red float is aligned with
the upper edge of the filler opening
(refer to the arrow in the illustration),
or max. 0.8 in (2 cm) higher, i. e. up
to the mark on the float (refer also to
the schematic diagram, next to the
cap)
530us102
3. If necessary, add coolant. Slowly add
coolant until the correct level is
reached – do not overfill.
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of extended-duty antifreeze
with corrosion inhibitor.<
146nBrake fluid
If the indicator lamp for the
brake hydraulic system appears
or if the CHECK BRAKE FLUID
warning appears in the Check
Control: the brake fluid level is
too low.
Add brake fluid
The brake fluid reservoir is located
under the microfilter housing trim panel
on the driver's side of the vehicle. For
adding brake fluid or for determining
and correcting the cause of brake fluid
loss, consult your BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle center. Your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center is familiar with
the specifications for factory-approved
brake fluids (DOT 4).
Brake fluid loss may result in extended
brake pedal travel. For this situation,
refer to the notes on page 135.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,
it absorbs moisture from the air
over time.
In order to ensure the safety and reli-
ability of the brake system, have the
brake fluid changed every two years by
a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center.
Refer also to the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
Brake fluid is toxic and damages the
vehicle's paint. You should always store
it in its original container and in a loca-
tion which is out of reach of children.
Do not spill the fluid and do not fill the
brake fluid reservoir beyond the "MAX"
mark. The brake fluid could ignite upon
contact with hot engine parts and
cause serious burns.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of brake fluid.<
147n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
The BMW Maintenance System has
been designed as a reliable means of
providing maximum driving and oper-
ating safety – and as cost-effectively as
possible for you.
Please keep in mind that regular main-
tenance is not only necessary for the
safety of your vehicle, but also plays a
significant role in maintaining the resale
value of the vehicle.
390us008
Service Interval Display
Conventional systems rely solely on
distance traveled to determine when
service is due. The BMW Maintenance
System, on the other hand, began many
years ago to take the actual conditions
under which the vehicle is driven into
consideration. After all, different drivers
can accumulate mileage in very
different ways.
From the point of view of maintenance,
62,000 miles (100,000 km) accumulated
in short-distance urban driving are not
the equivalent of the same distance
covered at moderate speeds in long-
distance highway travel.
The BMW Maintenance System
includes the Engine Oil Service and
Inspections I and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals
according to the actual loads on the
vehicle covers every kind of operating
situation. However, even those who
drive only short distances – significantly
less than 6,000 miles (10,000 km) annu-
ally – should have the engine oil
changed at least every 2 years since oil
deteriorates over time, regardless of
use.
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models)/Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
For additional information on mainte-
nance intervals and procedures, please
refer to the Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet (US models) or the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
As a precaution against corrosion, it is
advisable to have the body checked for
damage from rocks or gravel at the
same time, depending upon operating
conditions.
Have your BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle center do the mainte-
nance and repair.
Be sure that all maintenance work is
confirmed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
These entries will constitute your proof
that the vehicle has received regular
maintenance. They are also required for
warranty claims.<
The BMW Maintenance System
148n
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
Light-emitting diodes installed behind
translucent lenses serve as the light
source for many of the controls and
displays in your vehicle. The concept
behind their operation is related to that
employed for lasers, and they are
formally designated as Class 1 light-
emitting diodes.
Do not remove the protective lens
and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for extended periods
(several hours), as inflammation of the
iris could result.<
California laws require us to state the
following warning:
Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm.<
Technical modifications California Proposition 65 Warning
149n
OverviewControlsMainte-RepairsDataIndex
OBD interface socket
The Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) inter-
face socket is located on the left of the
driver's side at the bottom of the instru-
ment panel and under a cover. The
cover has the letters "OBD" on it.
The purpose of the OBD system is to
ensure proper operation of the emis-
sion control system for the vehicle's
lifetime. The system monitors emission-
related components and systems for
deterioration and malfunction.
530us105
An illuminated lamp informs you
of the need for service, not of
the need to stop the vehicle.
However, the systems should be
checked by your BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle center at the earliest possible
opportunity.
Under certain conditions, the indicator
will blink or flash. This indicates a rather
severe level of engine misfire. When
this occurs, you should reduce speed
and consult the nearest BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center as soon as
possible. Severe engine misfire over
only a short period of time can seriously
damage emission control components,
especially the catalytic converter.
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
When the filler cap is not properly
tightened, the OBD system can
detect the vapor leak and the indicator
will light up. If the filler cap is subse-
quently tightened, the indicator should
go out within a few days.<
150n
151n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Repairs
152n
Under the cargo area floor in a pocket.
530us106
Front
1. Move the wiper to a fold-out position
(refer to page 69)
2. Lift the wiper arm and press the
securing spring (arrow)
3. Pull the wiper blade off toward the
wiper arm
4. Insert the new blade and snap it into
place.
Fold the wipers back down onto
the windshield before you turn the
ignition key to position 1 or 2 again. If
you do not, they could be damaged.<
530de300
Rear
1. Hold the wiper blade on the window
and remove/unclip the wiper arm at
the articulated joint (arrow)
2. Insert a new wiper blade and press it
on/clip it into the wiper arm.
Use only wiper blades approved
by BMW.<
530de301
Onboard tool kit Windshield wiper blades
153n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Lamps and bulbs
The lamps and bulbs make essential
contributions to the safety of your
vehicle. For this reason, follow the
instructions below carefully when
replacing a bulb. If you are not familiar
with any of the procedures, consult
your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center.
Do not touch the glass portion of a
new bulb with your bare hands
since even small amounts of impurities
burn into the surface and reduce the
service life of the bulb. Use a clean
cloth, paper napkin, or a similar mate-
rial, or hold the bulb by its metallic
base.<
A replacement bulb set is available from
your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center.
Whenever working on the elec-
trical system, switch off the elec-
trical accessory you are working on or
disconnect the cable from the negative
terminal of the battery. Failure to do this
could result in short circuits.
To prevent injuries and damage,
comply with any instructions provided
by the bulb manufacturer.<
The right side of the engine compart-
ment.
1 Low beams
2 High beams
For checking and adjusting head-
lamp aim, please contact your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center.<
Low beams
H7 bulb, 55 watts
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to comply
with this precaution could lead to injury
if the bulb is accidentally damaged
during replacement.<
530de302
1. Turn the bulb holder to the left
(arrow) and remove
2. Remove and replace the bulb.
High beams
HB3 bulb, 60 watts
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to comply
with this precaution could lead to injury
if the bulb is accidentally damaged
during replacement.<
1. Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove
2. Disconnect the plug
3. Plug the new bulb into the plug
connector. Be sure that it is securely
engaged
4. Install in the opposite order.
154nLamps and bulbs
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
>Do not wipe dry (scratches). Never
use abrasives or strong solvents to
clean the covers
>Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with plenty
of water
>Always use a deicer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – never
use a scraper.<
Xenon lamps*
The operating life of these lamp units is
extremely long and the likelihood of
failure very low, provided that they are
not switched on and off a very great
number of times. If one of these bulbs
should nevertheless fail, it is possible to
continue driving with great caution
using the fog lamps, provided traffic
laws in your area do not prohibit this.
Because of the extremely high
voltages involved, any work on the
xenon lighting system should be carried
out by technically-qualified personnel
only. Failure to comply with this creates
a risk of fatal injury.<
Turn signal indicators/Standing
lamps (side marker lamps), front
Dual-filament bulb, 28/8 watts
Please contact a BMW Sports Activity
Vehicle center in case of a malfunction.
Side turn signal indicators
5 watt bulb
1. Use finger pressure against the rear
end of the lamp (arrow) to press it
forward for removal
2. Press gently on the bulb and turn it to
the left to remove it
3. Replace the bulb.
530de304
155n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Lamps and bulbs
Front fog lamps
H3 bulb, 55 watts
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to comply
with this precaution could lead to injury
if the bulb is damaged during replace-
ment.<
1. Pull the cover in front of the fog lamp
forward
2. Loosen the two screws (arrows) and
remove the fog lamp
3. Turn the cover cap on the rear of the
fog lamp to the left and remove
4. Unhook the wire clamp, remove the
contact base and replace the bulb.
530us110
Tail lamp assembly
Tail lamp 2: 21/5 watt bulb
Remaining bulbs: 21 watts
1 Turn signal
indicator yellow or white
2 Rear lamps/
Side marker lamps red
3 Backup lamps white
4 Brake lamps red
5 Reflector red
530de212
Lamps in the side panel:
1. Open the cover in the side panel
2. Lift the side panel if necessary
3. Press gently on the bulb holder and
turn it to the left to remove it
4. Remove the bulb.
530de305
156nLamps and bulbs Changing a wheel
Lamps in the tailgate:
1. Unclip the trim panel in the tailgate
with a screwdriver
2. Press gently on the bulb holder and
turn it to the left to remove it
3. Remove the bulb.
Center (high-mount) brake lamp
LED strip in the rear spoiler: please
contact a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle
center in case of a malfunction.
530de306
License plate lamps
5 watt bulb
1. Press the lamp out to the side with a
screwdriver
2. Remove the lamp and replace the
bulb.
530de307
Safety measures in the event of a
flat tire or wheel change: stop the
vehicle as far as possible from passing
traffic. Park on a firm, flat, surface.
Switch on the hazard warning flashers.
Turn the steering wheel to the straight-
ahead position, remove the key and
engage the steering lock. Shift into 1st
or reverse (selector lever in "Park" with
automatic transmission) and engage
the parking brake.
All passengers should be outside the
vehicle and well away from your imme-
diate working area (behind a guardrail,
for instance).
If a warning triangle or portable hazard
warning lamp is required, set it up on
the roadside at an appropriate distance
from the rear of the vehicle.
Comply with all safety guidelines and
regulations.
Change the wheel only on a level, firm
surface which is not slippery. Avoid
jacking the vehicle up on a soft or slip-
pery surface (snow, ice, very smooth
surfaces, etc.), since it could slide side-
ways.
157n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Changing a wheel
Position the jack on a firm support
surface.
Do not place wooden blocks or similar
objects under the jack. If this is done,
the jack might not be able to reach its
full support capacity because of the
limited height.
Do not lie under the vehicle or start the
engine when the vehicle is supported
by the jack. Failure to comply with this
creates a risk of fatal injury.<
What you will need
In order to avoid rattling noises later,
note the position of the tools when you
remove them and return them to their
original position when you are through
using them.
>Two wedges (wheel chocks)
Open the liftgate and tailgate.
In the cargo area, fold up the floor
cover or pull-out cargo floor, refer to
page 125 or 126.
Take out the wedges (arrow) next to
the spare wheel
530us117
>Lug wrench
Is located next to the spare wheel
530us120
158nChanging a wheel
>Handle for the jack
Remove from its holder
530de213
>Jack
Remove the rubber band from the
holder (arrow) and take out the jack.
When you have completed work,
screw the jack all the way back
down, remove the handle and insert it
into its holder.
530de333
Spare wheel
1. Loosen the wing nut 1
2. Remove the plate 2 to the side
3. Unscrew the threaded rod 3
completely.
530us118
159n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Changing a wheel
Removal aid for the spare wheel
By using this device, you do not have to
lift the spare wheel out of the recess by
hand.
Its task is to help you to move the wheel
onto the tailgate, from where you can
easily lift it off.
1. Close the tailgate again
2. Grasp the handle of the removal aid
behind the spare wheel with both
hands and pull upward over the
tailgate (arrow)
530de310
3. Hook both buckles into the latch of
the tailgate (arrow); the tailgate is
released
530de311
4. Remove the support rod from the
bracket
530de312
160nChanging a wheel
5. Press the tailgate down and hold it
there. The spare wheel is now pulled
by means of the removal aid onto the
tailgate
Hold the tailgate in the opened
position and do not allow it to
retract sharply upward. If you do so,
there is a risk of personal injury and
vehicle damage.<
530de313
6. Insert the support rod in the tailgate
lock and press down until it engages
(arrow 1); then lock hook of rod in
striker (arrow 2)
Be sure that the support rod is
locked firmly in place. If you fail to
do so, it could retract sharply upward
and cause personal injury and vehicle
damage.<
7. You can now release the locked tail-
gate and take the spare wheel down
from the tailgate. It is recommended
that you leave the tailgate locked into
place until you have completed the
wheel change and placed the wheel
with the defective tire into the
removal aid.
530de314
Procedure
1. Read carefully and comply with the
safety precautions on page 156
2. Secure the vehicle to prevent it from
rolling:
Place the wedges (chocks) behind
the wheels on the side opposite the
side you are lifting. If the vehicle is
parked on a downward slope, place
the wedges securely in front of the
wheels. If the wheel must be
changed on a surface with a more
severe slope, take additional precau-
tions to secure the vehicle from
rolling
3. Loosen the lug bolts 1/2-turn
4. Insert the jack handle into the jack
(refer to the illustration in the next
column)
161n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Changing a wheel
5. Position the jack at the jacking point
closest to the flat tire so that the jack
base is vertically below the jacking
point and the entire surface of the
head of the jack will move into the
square recess of the jacking point
(refer to the illustration detail) when
the jack is cranked
6. Jack the vehicle up until the wheel
you are changing is raised from the
ground
7. Unscrew the lug bolts and remove
the wheel
8. Remove accumulations of mud or
dirt from the mounting surfaces of
the wheel and hub. Clean the lug
bolts
530de236
9. Position the spare wheel. Secure
the wheel by turning at least two
lug bolts into opposite bolt holes
10. Screw in the remaining lug bolts.
Tighten all the bolts securely
11. Lower the jack and remove it from
beneath the vehicle
12. Tighten the lug bolts in a diagonal
pattern
13. Check and correct the tire inflation
pressure at the earliest opportunity.
Vehicles with Tire Pressure Monitor
(RDC):
After mounting the spare tire or
correcting the tire inflation pres-
sure, reactivate the system, refer to
page 98.
The vehicle jack is designed for
changing wheels only. Do not
attempt to raise another vehicle model
with it or to raise any load of any kind.
To do so could cause accidents and
personal injury.
To ensure continued safety, have the
tightness of the lug bolts checked with
a calibrated lug wrench [torque specifi-
cation: 101 lb-ft (140 Nm)] at the
earliest opportunity.<
Store the wheel and the tools in the
order opposite that for removal.
Before removing the support rod,
be sure that the tailgate is held
down firmly. If you fail to do so, it could
retract sharply upward and cause
personal injury and vehicle damage.
After you remove the rod, close the tail-
gate carefully. Continue to hold it firmly
until it is completely closed.<
If light-alloy wheels other than original
BMW light-alloy wheels have been
mounted, it may be necessary to use
different lug bolts for those wheels.
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the new wheel/tire
balanced.
162nChanging a wheel Battery
The spare wheel has a size
235/65 R 17 tire. If you have
mounted tires on your vehicle with a
different size, have wheels and tires of
the same size and specification rein-
stalled as soon as possible.
When the spare wheel is mounted, the
maximum speed rating is 130 mph
(210 km/h).<
Protect valve stems and valves from dirt
using screw-on valve stem caps. Dirt in
the valve stems frequently leads to slow
leaks.
Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.<
Maintenance
The battery is maintenance-free, that is,
the original electrolyte will normally last
for the service life of the battery under
moderate climatic conditions.
For all questions that regard the
battery, please consult your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center.
Since the battery is maintenance-free,
the following is for your information
only.<
Do not disconnect the battery
when the engine is running. If
you do so, the ensuing voltage surge
will damage the vehicle's onboard elec-
tronics.<
Charging the battery
Charge the battery in the vehicle only
when the engine is not running. Use the
connections provided in the engine
compartment (for correct connections,
refer to "Jump-starting" on page 164).
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle center. Maintain the
battery in an upright position for trans-
port and storage. Secure the battery
against tilting during transport.<
163n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Fuses
In the glove compartment
Open the glove compartment and turn
the two quick-release fasteners to the
left.
530us121
In the cargo area
Open the right cover by pulling the
handle.
Do not attempt to repair a burned
fuse or replace it with a fuse
having a different color or ampere
rating. To do this could cause a fire in
the vehicle resulting from a circuit over-
load.<
530us122
164n
Do not use spray starter fluids to start
the engine.
When your battery is discharged you
can used two jumper cables to start
your vehicle with power from the
battery in a second vehicle. You can
also use the same method to help start
another vehicle. Always use jumper
cables with fully insulated handles on
the terminal clamps.
Do not touch the parts conducting
current while the engine is
running. Failure to comply with this
creates a risk of fatal injury. Carefully
observe the following instructions to
avoid personal injury and/or damage to
one or both vehicles.<
1. Be sure that the battery on the
support vehicle is also rated at
12 volts. This information is provided
on the top of the battery casing
2. Do not disconnect your battery from
your vehicle's electrical system.
Switch off all electrical accessories in
both vehicles
3. Make absolutely certain that there is
no contact between the bodywork of
the two vehicles – short circuit
hazard
4. Start the engine on the support
vehicle and allow it to run 5. Use one jumper cable (+) to connect
the positive terminal of the battery in
the support vehicle with the auxiliary
positive terminal provided in the
engine compartment of your BMW
specifically for jump starting. The
cover on this auxiliary terminal is
identified by a "+" symbol, refer to
the illustration. To remove the cover,
tip up the cap (arrow)
530de325
Jump-starting
165n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Jump-starting
6. Next, connect one end of the other
jumper cable (–) to either the support
vehicle's negative battery terminal or
a suitable ground on its engine or
bodywork. Connect the other end to
the negative battery terminal or a
suitable ground on the vehicle being
started. There is a special nut for this
on the left side panel of your BMW.
Refer to the arrow in the illustration
Always adhere to this sequence
when connecting jumper cables;
failure to observe this procedure can
lead to sparks at the battery terminals
and pose an injury hazard.<
530us127
7. Start the support vehicle's engine
and let it run at an increased idling
speed for a few minutes. Start the
engine on the vehicle needing the
jump-start, and allow it to run as
usual. If the first start attempt is not
successful, wait a few minutes
before another attempt in order to
allow the discharged battery to
recharge
8. Before disconnecting the jumper
cables let the engines run for a few
minutes
9. Then disconnect the jumper cables
in reverse sequence.
Depending on the cause of the fault,
have the battery recharged by your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle center.
166nTowing the vehicle
Tow fitting
The screw-in tow fitting is stored
beneath the cargo area floor. Carry it
with you at all times. This fitting is
designed for installation in the tow
sockets located at the front and rear of
the vehicle, and is intended for towing
on paved road surfaces only.
It should not be used to pull a vehicle
out of deep snow, mud, sand, etc.
Always observe all applicable towing
laws and regulations.
Access to tow sockets
Front:
Use a screwdriver on the left or right
side (arrows) to press the cover out.
530us128
Rear: Pull the cover off.
Screw the tow fittings in until they
are tight. If you do not, the threads
could be damaged.
Do not tow the vehicle by any compo-
nents of the running gear, or lash them
down in any way. If you do so, the
components could be damaged,
leading to possible accidents.<
Use only a nylon towing strap to tow
the vehicle, since the inherent resil-
ience of this material helps protect both
vehicles from sudden jerking move-
ments.
530de318
Avoid "off-center" towing. Be sure
that the tow rope is pulled tightly
when the towing vehicle begins to
move.<
The towed vehicle should always
be the lighter of the two vehicles.
If this is not the case, it is no longer
possible to control vehicle response.<
Tow-starting
It is not possible to start the engine of a
vehicle equipped with an automatic
transmission by towing or pushing.
For instructions on jump starting refer
to page 164.
Never attempt to use your vehicle to
push another vehicle. If you do so,
damage to the energy-absorbing
bumpers could result.
167n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Towing the vehicle
Towing a vehicle with automatic
transmission
1. Place the selector lever in position N
2. Towing speed:
Max. 45 mph (70 km/h)
3. Towing distance:
Max. 95 miles (150 km)
4. Leave the ignition key at position 1 to
ensure that the brake lamps, turn
signals, horn and windshield wipers
remain operative, and to prevent the
steering lock from engaging
5. Switch on the hazard warning
flashers (comply with country-
specific regulations).
Find some means of identifying the
vehicle in tow, for instance, place a sign
or warning triangle in the rear window.
Make sure that the ignition key
remains in position 1 even when
the electrical system has failed. This will
prevent the steering lock from
engaging. The steering and brakes are
without power assist when the engine is
not running. This means that increased
effort is required for steering and
braking.<
Towing with a commercial tow
truck
>Do not tow with sling-type equipment
>Use a wheel-lift or flatbed carrier
>Please comply with applicable towing
laws.
Never allow passengers to ride in
a towed vehicle for any reason.<
530us138
Towing with a raised axle
1. Place the gearshift lever or selector
lever in "Neutral"
2. Turn the ignition key to position 0 or
take it out
3. Towing speed:
Maximum 30 mph (50 km/h)
4. Towing distance:
Maximum 95 miles (150 km).
Remove the rear driveshaft for
longer towing distances with the
front axle lifted; remove the front drive-
shaft for towing over longer distances
with the rear axle lifted. Failure to
comply with this will result in damage to
the transfer box.<
168n
169n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Index
Technical data
Index
Owner service procedures
170n
An engine performance test is authorized only on an appropriate chassis dynamometer.
BMW X5 3.0i BMW X5 4.4i BMW X5 4.6is
Displacement
Number of cylinders cu in (cm3) 181.8 (2979)
6268.4 (4398)
8281.9 (4619)
8
Maximum output
at engine speed hp
rpm 225
5900 290
5400 340
5700
Maximum torque
at engine speed Ib-ft (Nm)
rpm 214 (290)
3500 324 (440)
3600 350 (475)
3700
Compression ratio 10.2 10.0 10.5
Stroke
Bore in (mm)
in (mm) 3.53 (89.6)
3.31 (84) 3.26 (82.7)
3.62 (92.0) 3.35 (85.0)
3.66 (93.0)
Fuel-injection system Digital electronic engine-management system
Engine specifications
171n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Dimensions
530de210
530de210
All dimensions are given in inch (mm). Height: with Variable Ride Height: 67.2 (1,707); without Variable Ride Height:
67.5 (1,715). Height with roof-mounted luggage rack: with Variable Ride Height: 68.5 (1,740); without Variable Ride
Height system: 68.8 (1,748). Track width X5 3.0i: 62.0 (1,576); X5 4.6is: front 61.7 (1,566), rear 62.8 (1,596).
Min. turning circle dia.: 39.7 ft (12.1 meters)
73.7 (1872)85.8 (2180)
61.4 (1560)61.4 (1560)
111 (2820)
184 (4667)
67.2 (1707)
81.7 (2076)
172nWeights
BMW X5 3.0i BMW X5 4.4i BMW X5 4.6is
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included)
with manual transmission
with automatic transmission Ibs (kg)
Ibs (kg) 4533 (2056)
4586 (2080)
4824 (2188)
4824 (2188)
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission
with automatic transmission Ibs (kg)
Ibs (kg) 6005 (2724)
6005 (2724)
6005 (2724)
6005 (2724)
Approved front axle load Ibs (kg) 2787 (1264) 2787 (1264) 2787 (1264)
Approved rear axle load Ibs (kg) 3307 (1500) 3307 (1500) 3307 (1500)
Approved roof load capacity Ibs (kg) 220 (100)
Never exceed either the approved axle loads or the gross vehicle weight.
Cargo area capacity cu ft (l) 16.4 – 54.4 (465 – 1540) – according to DIN
69.04 (1955) – according to SAE
173n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Capacities
Notes
Fuel tank
Reserve gal. (liters)
gal. (liters) approx. 24.6 (approx. 93)
approx. 2.0 (approx. 8) –
BMW X5 3.0i
approx. 2.5 (approx. 10) –
BMW X5 4.4i, 4.6is
Fuel specification: page 25
Windshield washer system
with headlamp washer system quarts (liters) approx. 8.2 (approx. 7.8) For details: page 143
Cooling system including
heater circuit quarts (liters) 11.1 (10.5) – BMW X5 3.0i
13.7 (13.0) – BMW X5 4.4i, 4.6is For details: page 145
Engine oil and filter change quarts (liters) 8.0 (7.5) – BMW X5 3.0i
8.5 (8.0) – BMW X5 4.4i, 4.6is "BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil"
For details: page 144
Manual and automatic transmission,
transfer box and differential Lifetime fluid, no fluid
change required
174n
175n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, maintenance
Owner service procedures
Index
Technical data
Index
Everything from A to Z
A
ABS (Antilock Brake
System) 19, 134
Accessories 10
Activated-charcoal
filter 111
Adaptive brake light 99
Adding
brake fluid 146t
coolant 145t
engine oil 143t
washer fluid 143t
Adjusting
head restraints 47
mirrors 53
seats 44
steering wheel 52
thigh support 45
Air conditioner 103
Air distribution 104, 108
Air outlets 103, 106
Air supply 104, 108
Airbags 19, 55
Alarm system 39
Antifreeze 145
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 19, 134
Anti-theft system 32
Approved gross vehicle
weight 172
Aquaplaning 134, 136
Arrival time 88
Ashtray
front 118
rear 119
AUC (Automatic
recirculated-air
control) 109
Automatic climate
control 106
removing condensation
from the windows 108
Automatic cruise control 71
Automatic curb monitor 51
Automatic dimming
exterior rearview
mirrors 54
interior rearview mirror 54
Automatic headlight
control 100
Automatic recirculated-air
control (AUC) 109
Automatic steering wheel
adjustment 52
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 66
Average fuel
consumption 80
Average speed 80, 89
Avoiding unintentional
alarms 40t
Axle loads 172
B
Backup lamps 65
bulb replacement 155t
Battery 162
charge 162
discharged 164t
Battery charge indicator
lamp 18
Belts 49
Beverage holder 117
Blower 104, 108
BMW comfort seat 46
BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil 144
BMW Maintenance
System 147
BMW sports seat 45
BMW Universal
Transmitter 113
Brake fluid 146
Brake lamps
bulb replacement 155t
Brake light, adaptive 99
Brake system 135
brake fluid 146
brake fluid level 135
brake pads indicator 20
disc brakes 135
hydraulic system
indicator 18
malfunctions 135t
Break-in procedures 132
Bulbs and lamps 153
C
California Proposition
65 Warning 148
Can holder, refer to
beverage holder 117
Capacities 173
Car care, refer to the "Caring
for your vehicle" manual
Car wash systems, refer to
the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Care of upholstery materials,
refer to the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Cargo area 38, 122
capacity 172
cover 122
lamps 102
Cargo floor, pull-out 126
Cargo loading 127
Cellular phone 117
Center (high-mount) brake
lamp 156
Central locking system 30
button 35
Changing a wheel 157t
CHECK button 77
Everything from A to Z 177n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Check Control 77
Check tire pressures 26t
Checking
engine oil level 144
Child's seat 58
Child-restraint systems 58
Child-safety locks 60
Cigarette lighter
front 118
rear 119
socket 119t
Clean the windshield 70
Climate control in the rear
passenger area 110
Clock 83
refer also to the Owner's
Manual for the Onboard
Computer
Cockpit 14
Code 89
activating 89
deactivating 89
selecting 89
Comfort seat 46
Compartments 116
Computer 80, 82, 86
refer also to the Owner's
Manual for the Onboard
Computer
remote control 90
Configuring individual
settings via Vehicle and
Key Memory 61
Consumption, fuel 88
Convenience operation of
windows and sliding/tilt
sunroof 31
Convenience starting
feature 63
Coolant 145
temperature gauge 76
Copyright notice 4
Correct sitting posture 44
seat adjustment 44
Cruise control 71
Cruising range 80, 88
Cup holder 117
Curb weight 172
D
Data link connector for On-
board Diagnostics 149
Date
calling up 83
changing 83
refer also to the Owner's
Manual for the Onboard
Computer
Daytime driving lamp 100
DBC (Dynamic Brake
Control) 20, 93
Deactivating the interior
motion
sensor 33t, 40t
Deep water 133
Defrosting the
windows 105t, 108t
Digital clock 83
refer also to the Owner's
Manual for the Onboard
Computer
Dimensions 171
Dipstick, engine oil 144t
Disc brakes 135
Displacement 170
Display lighting 101
Displays 15, 17
Disposal
used batteries 162
used oil 144t
Distance from
destination 87
Distance warning 91
Divided rear backrest 122
Door keys 30
Doors
manual operation 31
remote control 33
unlocking and locking 31
DOT Quality Grades 137
Drink holder, refer to
beverage holder 117
Driving notes 134
Driving through water 133
Driving your BMW X5 133
DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control) 20, 92
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC) 20, 93
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 20, 92
E
Electric power seat 46
Electric power windows 40
Electrical malfunction
liftgate 36t
sliding/tilt sunroof 43t
tailgate 38t
Elements of operation 14
Emergency operation
doors 31t
liftgate 36t
sliding/tilt sunroof 43t
tailgate 38t
Energy Control 75
Engine
output 170
power rating 170
specifications 170
Engine compartment
essentials 142
Engine coolant 145
Everything from A to Z
Engine oil 143t, 144
consumption 143
grades 144
level 19
pressure 18
Estimated time of arrival 88
Exterior mirrors 53
Exterior rearview mirrors,
automatic dimming
feature 54
F
Failure of an electrical
accessory 163t
Filling the windshield washer
reservoir 143t
First-aid kit 23t
Fittings, tow-starting and
towing 166t
Flashlight 116
Flat tire 99, 136, 157t
Fog lamps 101
bulb replacement 155t
Folding rear backrest 122
Footbrake 135
Front area lighting 102
Front fog lamps 101
Front seat adjustment 44
Frost protection,
radiator 145
Fuel 25
capacity 173
display 75
gauge 75
quality 25
specifications 25
Fuel consumption 88
average 88
Fuel filler door 24
electrical malfunction 24
Fuses 163t
G
Garage-door opener 113
Gasoline 25
General driving notes 134
Glasses compartment 118
Glove compartment 116
Gross vehicle weight 172
Ground clearance 133
H
Handbrake 64
Hands-free system 117
Hazard warning flashers 14
Hazard warning triangle 23
HDC (Hill Descent
Control) 94
Head restraints 47
Headlamp covers,
care 154t
Headlamp flasher 69
Headlamp washer
system 70, 143
Heated seats 51
Heated steering wheel 53
Heating and
ventilation 103, 106
Heating while stopped 110
Heavy cargo 127
Height 171
Height adjustment
seats 46
steering wheel 52
High beams 21, 101
bulb replacement 153t
High-mount brake lamp 156
Hill Descent Control
(HDC) 94
Holder for cans, refer to
beverage holder 117
Hood 141t
Hood release 141t
Hydraulic Brake Assistant
refer to DBC 20
I
Ice warning 74
Identification, tires 139
Ignition key 30
Ignition lock 62
Imprint 4
Independent ventilation
system 85, 112
switching on and off 85
Indicator lamps 18
Inflation pressures,
tires 136
monitoring 98
INSPECTION 76
Instrument cluster 15, 17
Instrument lighting 101
Instrument panel 15, 17
Intensive cleaning
system 70
Interior lamps 102
remote control 33
Interior mirror 54
Interior motion sensor 40
Interior rearview mirror,
automatic dimming
feature 54
Interlock 62
Intermittent wipe 69
Everything from A to Z 179n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
J
Jack 157, 158, 160
Jump-starting 164t
K
Key Memory 61
Keys 30
Keys with radio remote
control 30
Kickdown mode 67
L
Lamps and bulbs 153
Lashing eyes 38, 127
LATCH child-restraint
system 60
Lead-free gasoline 25
Length 171
License plate lamps
bulb replacement 156t
Liftgate 36
opening from the
inside 36
radio control operation 33
release following an
electrical
malfunction 36t, 38t
Lighter 118
LIGHTS ON warning 100
Load-securing devices 127
Louvers 103, 106
Low beams 100
automatic 100
bulb replacement 153t
Low-fuel warning lamp 75
Lug bolts 160
Lug wrench 157t
Luggage net 38
Luggage straps 38
Lumbar support 46
M
M+S radial tires 140
Maintenance 76t, 147t
Maintenance System 147
Malfunction displays 77t
Manual operation
doors 31t
fuel filler door 24
liftgate 36t
sliding/tilt sunroof 43t
tailgate 38t
Manual transmission 65
Master key 30
Maximum cooling 109
Mechanical seat 45
Memory 50
driver's seat 50
mirrors 50
steering wheel 50
Messages concerning
system malfunctions 77
Microfilter 105, 111
MID (Multi-Information
Display) 82
digital clock 83
Mirror defrosting 53
Mirror memory 50
Mirrors 53
Modifications,
technical 10, 148
Monitoring inflation
pressure, tires 98
Moonroof 42
Multifunction buttons,
steering wheel 22
Multi-Information Display
(MID) 82
digital clock 83
N
Navigation system, refer to
the separate Owner's
Manual
O
OBD interface socket 149
Odometer 74
Oil
additives 144
consumption 144t
dipstick 144t
grades 144
Oil change interval, refer to
the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US
models) or to the Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models)
Oil level 19
indicator lamp 19
Oil pressure, indicator
lamp 18
OILSERVICE 76
Onboard computer, refer to
the separate Owner's
Manual
Onboard Diagnostic (OBD)
system 149
Onboard tool kit 152t
Opening and closing
from the inside 35
from the outside 31
using the key 31
using the remote
control 32
Outlets, ventilation 103, 106
Outside temperature
display 74
in the computer 80
Everything from A to Z
P
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 91
Parking aid 91
Parking brake 19, 64
Parking lamps 100
Passenger side mirror tilt
function 51
PDC (Park Distance
Control) 91
"Please fasten safety belt"
warning lamp 19
Poor driving conditions 133
Power loss
sliding/tilt sunroof 43t
Power outlets
flashlight 125t
other appliances 125t
vacuum cleaner 125t
Power rating 170
Power rear-seat
backrests 48
Power windows 40
safety switch 41
Pull-out cargo floor 126
R
Rain sensor 69
RDC (Tire Pressure
Monitor) 98
warning lamp 18, 20
Reading lamps 102
Rear backrests, folding
down 122
Rear lamps 155t
Rear passenger area climate
control 110
Rear seats, power 48
Rear window
defroster 104, 109
Rear window wiper 71
blade replacement 152t
Rear-seat backrest, folding
down 122
Rear-seat backrests,
power 48
Rearview mirror 53
Rechargeable flashlight 116
Recirculated-air
mode 104, 109
Reclining seat 44
Refueling 24, 183
Releasing
hood 141t
tailgate following an
electrical
malfunction 38t
Reminder signal (Memo) 84
Remote control 32
computer 90
Removal aid for the spare
wheel 159t
Removing condensation
from the
windows 105t, 108t
Replacing
antifreeze, radiator 145t
bulbs 153t
fuses 163t
tires 137t
windshield wiper
blades 152t
Reporting Safety Defects 11
Reservoir, washer
system 143t
Residual heat 107, 110
Restraint systems 58
Reverse 65
Rims 139
Roof load capacity 172
Roof-mounted luggage
rack 128
S
Safety belts 49
height adjustment 49
Safety Defects, reporting 11
Safety lock buttons 35
Seat adjustment 44
Seat belts 49
Seat, electric power 46
Seat heating 51
Seat, mechanical 45
Seat memory 50
Seat, mirror and steering
wheel memory 50
Securing cargo 38, 127
Selector lever, automatic
transmission 66
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US
models) 147
Service Engine Soon
indicator lamp 20
Service Interval
Display 76, 147
Set temperature 108t
Shiftlock 66
Shoulder support 47
Side airbags 55
Side Impact Head Protection
System 55
Side lamps 100
bulb replacement 154t
Sitting correctly 44
Ski bag 120
Sliding/tilt sunroof 42
closing following an
electrical
malfunction 43t
convenience operation 31
power loss 43t
remote control 33
Snow chains 140
Everything from A to Z 181n
OverviewControlsMaintenanceRepairsDataIndex
Socket
power supplies 119t
vacuum cleaner 119t
Spare key 30
Spare tire 158t
Spare wheel 158
removal aid 159t
Speaker 117
Special features of winter
tires 140
Special wash program 70
Speed 89
Speed control 71
Speed limit 86, 87
Speedometer 15, 17
Sports seat 45
Standing lamps 101
Starting assistance 164t
Starting
problems 63t, 164t
Starting the engine 62, 63
Steering wheel
adjustment 52
adjustment, automatic 52
heating 53
lock 62
memory 50
Steering wheel with
multifunction buttons 22
Steptronic 66
Stopwatch 84
Storage compartments 116
in the cargo area 124
Summer tires 139
Sunroof 42
Sunshades 112
Switching off the engine 64
Switching off the vehicle 64
Switch-on times
input 85
Symbols 8
Synthetic oils 144
System malfunction
indicators 77
T
Tachometer 75
Tail lamps 155t
bulb replacement 155t
Tailgate 37
opening from the
outside 36
radio control operation 33
release following an
electrical
malfunction 38t
Tank capacity 173
Technical
modifications 10, 148
Telephone preparation 117
Temperature display,
outside
temperature 74, 80
Temperature gauge 76
Temperature
layering 105, 110
Temperature setting 108t
Thigh support
adjustment 45
Third brake lamp 156
Tilt alarm 33
Tilt alarm sensor 40
Tilt function, passenger side
mirror 51
Time
calling up 83
changing 83
of arrival, estimated 88
Timer
refer to Stopwatch
refer also to the Owner's
Manual for the Onboard
Computer
Tire 136
damage 136t
pressure monitoring 98
renewal 137
tread 136
Tire inflation
pressures 26, 136
monitoring 98
table 27
Tire Pressure Monitor
(RDC) 98
warning lamp 18, 20
Tire Quality Grading 138
Tools 152t
Torque 170
Tow fittings 166t
Towing the vehicle 166t
Tow-starting 166t
Track width 171
Traction Control System,
refer to DSC 92
Transmission 65, 66
Transporting children
safely 58
Tread depth, tires 136
Trip odometer 74
Turn signal indicator 69
bulb replacement 154t
Turning circle 171
U
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
(UTQR) 138
Universal Transmitter 113
Used batteries,
disposal 162
Used oil, disposal 144t
Everything from A to Z
V
Vacuum cleaner
power outlet 125t
socket 119t
Valve caps 162
Variable Ride
Height 95, 133
inactive 95
Variable Ride Height on both
axles 95
display 96
lowering 97
raising 96
Vehicle battery 162
Vehicle jack 157
Vehicle keys 30
Vehicle Memory 61
Vehicle vacuum cleaner
power outlet 125t
socket 119t
Ventilation 103, 105, 110
draft-free 105, 110
in the rear 105, 110
while parked 112
Viscosity 144
Voice entry 22
W
Warm feet – cool head 105
Warning lamps 18
Warning messages 77t
Warning triangle 23
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian
models) 147
Washer fluid 143
Washer reservoir,
filling 143t
Washer/wiper system 69
Washing your vehicle, refer
to the "Caring for your
vehicle" manual
Weights 172
Wheel and tire
combinations 139
Wheelbase 171
Wheels and tires 139
Width 171
Windows 40
convenience operation 31
remote control 33
Windshield
intensive cleaning
program 69
special wash program 69
Windshield washer
filling reservoir 143t
Windshield wiper 69
blade replacement 152t
Winter tires 140
Wiper blade
replacement 152t
Wipers 69
Work in the engine
compartment 141t
X
Xenon lamps 154
So that you will have important specifi-
cations available when you stop to
refuel, we recommend that you supple-
ment this table with data which apply to
your vehicle.
Consult the index for individual
specifications.
Fuel
Please enter your preferred fuel here.
Engine oil
The oil volume between the two marks
on the oil dipstick corresponds to
approx. 1.1 US quarts (1 liter).
Designation
Quality
Tire inflation pressures Summer Winter
Front Rear Front Rear
4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage
Refueling
The Ultimate
Driving Machine
01 41 0 156 416 ue
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