BMW 325i Owner's Manual

Contents
From A to Z
Owner's Manual for the Vehicle.
With a quick reference guide
for your convenience.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
BMW recommends Castrol
325i
325xi
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced control and
security when you drive it. We therefore have this request:
Please take the time to read this Owner's Manual and familiarize yourself with the
information that we have compiled for you before starting off in your new 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 care and maintenance designed to
enhance operating safety and contribute to maintaining the value of your BMW
throughout an extended service life.
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It
should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important
operating, safety and maintenance information.
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet
(US models) or a Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
We recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.
Your BMW is covered by the following warranties:
– New Vehicle Limited Warranty
– Limited Warranty Rust Perforation
– Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
– Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
– California Emission Control System Limited Warranty
Detailed information about these warranties is listed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide (Canadian
models).
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW AG
Preface
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4n
Notes on the Owner's Manual
Symbols used
The individual vehicle
We have made every effort to ensure
that you are able to find what you need
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as
possible. The fastest way to find certain
topics is by using the detailed index at
the end. If you wish to gain only an initial overview of your vehicle, you will
find this in the first chapter.
The detailed list of contents that directly follows the summary of contents is
intended to stimulate your curiosity regarding your BMW and to encourage
you to read the manual.
Indicates instructions or precautions that must be followed precisely in order to avoid the possibility of
personal injury and serious damage to
the vehicle.<
On buying your BMW, you have decided in favor of a model with individualized equipment and features. This
Owner's Manual describes all models
and equipment that BMW offers within
the same group.
Contains information that will
assist you in gaining the optimum
benefit from your vehicle and enables
you to care more effectively for your
vehicle.<
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 *.
Should you wish to sell your BMW at
some time in the future, please remember to hand over the Owner's Manual to
the new owner; it is part of the vehicle.
If you have any questions, an authorized BMW center will be glad to advise
you.
© 2000 BMW AG
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW AG, Munich.
Order no. 01 41 0 155 307
US-English IX/00
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper
(bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling).
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.
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.
Identifies systems or components,
which your BMW center can either
activate or adapt to suit an individual
driver's requirements ("Car Memory",
"Key Memory"). Refer to page 52.<
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5n
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.
Status at time of printing
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
6n
For your own safety
Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels
containing up to and including
10% ethanol or other oxygenates with
up to 2.8% oxygen by weight (that is,
15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an
equivalent amount of co-solvent) will
not void the applicable warranties respecting defects in materials or workmanship. Field experience has indicated significant differences in fuel
quality (volatility, composition, additives, etc.) among gasolines offered for
sale in the United States and Canada.
The use of poor quality fuels may result
in driveability, starting and stalling
problems especially under certain environmental conditions, such as high ambient temperature and high altitude.
Should you encounter driveability problems which you suspect could be
related to the fuel you are using, we
recommend that you respond by
switching to a recognized high-quality
brand.
Failure to comply with these recommendations may result in unscheduled
maintenance.
Follow the relevant safety rules when
you are handling gasoline.<
Important safety information!
Installation and operation of non-BMW
approved accessories such as alarms,
For your own safety, use genuine parts radios, amplifiers, radar detectors,
wheels, suspension components, brake
and accessories approved by BMW.
dust shields, telephones (including
When you purchase accessories tested
operation of any portable cellular phone
and approved by BMW and Original
from within the vehicle without using an
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire
externally mounted antenna) or transthe assurance that they have been thorceiver equipment (such as C.B., walkieoughly tested by BMW to ensure optitalkie, ham radio or similar) may cause
mum performance when installed on
extensive damage to the vehicle, comyour vehicle.
promise its safety, interfere with the
BMW warrants these parts to be free
vehicle's electrical system or affect the
from defects in material and workmanvalidity of the BMW Limited Warranty.
ship.
See your BMW center for additional
BMW will not accept any liability for
information.
damage resulting from installation of
Do not use key or remote to lock doors
parts and accessories not approved by
or trunk with anyone inside the car. See
BMW.
Owner's Manual for more details.<
BMW cannot test every product made
by other manufacturers to verify if it can
Maintenance, replacement, or
be used on a BMW safely and without
repair of the emission control
risk to either the vehicle, its operation,
devices and systems may be performed
or its occupants.
by any automotive repair establishment
Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories
or individual using any certified autoand other products approved by BMW,
motive part.<
together with professional advice on
using these items, are available from
Symbol on vehicle parts
all BMW centers.
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
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7n
The following applies only to vehicles owned and operated in the US.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect that could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should
immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying BMW of
North America, Inc., P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone (201) 307-4000.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in
a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in
individual problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of North America, Inc.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You
can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
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Operation, care
and maintenance
Controls
Controls and features
Car care
Overview
Overview
9n
Advanced technology
Technology Repairs
Owner service procedures
Data
Technical data
Contents
Index
Index
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Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 24
Sports steering wheel 25
Hazard warning flashers 26
Warning triangle 26
First-aid kit 26
Refueling 27
Fuel specifications 28
Tire inflation pressure 28
Controls and features
Overview
Contents
Opening and closing:
Keys 32
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 33
Central locking system 34
Opening and closing –
from the outside 34
Opening and closing –
from the inside 38
Tailgate 38
Cargo area 40
Alarm system 41
Electric power windows 43
Sliding/tilt sunroof 44
Adjustments:
Seats 46
Seat and mirror memory 49
Steering wheel 50
Mirrors 51
Car Memory, Key Memory 52
Passenger safety systems:
Safety belts 53
Airbags 55
Transporting children safely 58
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 61
Starting the engine 61
Switching off the engine 62
Parking brake 63
Manual transmission 64
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 65
Turn signal indicator/
Headlamp flasher 68
Washer/Wiper system 68
Rear window defroster 70
Cruise control 71
Everything under control:
Odometer 73
Tachometer 73
Energy Control 73
Fuel gauge 74
Coolant temperature gauge 74
Service Interval Display 74
Check Control 75
Clock 75
Computer 76
Technology for safety and
driving convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 78
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T) 79
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 80
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 85
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Lamps:
Side lamps/Low beams 87
Instrument lighting 87
High beams/Parking lamps 88
Fog lamps 88
Interior lamps 88
Controlling the climate
for pleasant driving:
Air conditioner 90
Automatic climate control 96
Seat heating 100
Cabin convenience:
HiFi system 101
Glove compartment 101
Storage compartments 102
Cellular phone 103
Ashtray, front 104
Cigarette lighter 104
Ashtray, rear 105
Power outlet 105
Loading and transporting:
Ski bag 106
Cargo area 107
Cargo loading 110
Roof-mounted luggage rack 111
Maintenance and care
Controls and features
11n
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 114
Driving notes 115
Catalytic converter 115
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 116
Disc brakes 118
Brake system 120
Winter operation 121
Power steering 123
Cellular phone 123
Radio reception 123
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 124
Tire condition 124
Tire replacement 125
Tire rotation 126
Wheel and tire
combinations 127
Winter tires 128
Snow chains 128
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 129
Under the hood:
Hood 130
Engine compartment 132
Washer fluids 134
Washer nozzles 134
Engine oil 135
Coolant 137
Brake fluid 138
Vehicle Identification
Number 139
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 140
Caring for your vehicle 141
Airbags 147
Vehicle storage 147
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications
to the vehicle 148
California Proposition
65 Warning 148
OBD interface socket 149
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In case of electrical
malfunction:
Fuel filler door 166
Sliding/Tilt sunroof 166
Tailgate 166
Airbags 172
Adaptive Transmission Control
(ATC) 173
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) 173
Radio reception 174
Four-wheel drive 175
Safety belt tensioner 175
Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimmer 176
Rain sensor 177
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 178
Self-diagnostics 179
Xenon lamps 180
Technical data
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 152
Windshield wiper blades 152
Lamps and bulbs 153
Changing a wheel 159
Battery 162
Fuses 164
Microfilter/Activated-charcoal
filter 165
Advanced technology
Owner service procedures
Contents
Engine data 184
Dimensions 185
Weights 186
Capacities 187
Electrical system 188
Drive belts 188
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 167
Towing the vehicle 168
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Index
13n
Everything from A to Z 192
Owner service procedures 198
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14n
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Operation, care
and maintenance
Controls
Controls and features
Car care
Overview
Advanced technology
Technology Repairs
Owner service procedures
Data
Technical data
Index
Index
Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 24
Sports steering wheel 25
Hazard warning flashers 26
Warning triangle 26
First-aid kit 26
Refueling 27
Fuel specifications 28
Tire inflation pressure 28
Overview
15n
Overview
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16nCockpit
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Cockpit
17n
4 Shift lever/Selector lever* 64
For vehicles equipped with manual
transmission:
To engage reverse gear, press the
lever to the left and overcome the
slight resistance you will encounter
Controls
3 Washer/Wiper system 68
Car care
2 d Turn signal indicator 68
> Parking lamps 88
> High beams 88
> Headlamp flasher 68
> Computer* 76
Overview
1 Parking lamps/Low beams 87
8 Horn sports steering wheel*: the
entire surface
9 Adjusting steering wheel 50
10 Fog lamps* 88
Data
7 Rear window defroster 70
Index
6 Central locking system 34
Technology Repairs
5 Hazard warning flashers 26
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cluster
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18nInstrument
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Instrument cluster
5 Tachometer and Energy Control 73
6 Engine coolant temperature gauge
with "Coolant temperature too high"
indicator 74
7 Indicator and warning lamps
(clockwise) for:
> Parking brake/Brake hydraulic
system/Cornering Brake Control
(CBC)/(DBC) 20, 21
> Antilock Brake System (ABS) 22
> Brake pads 22
> Tire Pressure Control
(RDC) 20, 22
> Airbags 21
> Please fasten safety belts 21
> Cruise control* 23
8 Adjusting knob for the clock 75
11 Indicator for:
> Odometer 73
> Trip odometer 73
> Clock 75
> Service Interval 74
Display for computer, operation
via the turn signal lever, refer to
page 76:
> Clock
> Outside temperature
> Average fuel consumption
> Cruising range
> Average speed
You can display the outside
temperature and distance driven
in different units of measurement. <
Overview
Controls
10 Indicator lamp for Automatic
Stability Control plus Traction
(ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) or DSC and
ADB/ADB-X 22
Car care
4 Indicator lamp for:
> Battery charge current 20
> High beams 23
> Engine oil pressure/Engine oil
level 20, 22
Technology Repairs
3 Speedometer
14 Indicator and warning lamps
(clockwise) for:
> Fog lamps 23
> Add washer fluid 22
> Coolant level 23
> Electronic Throttle Control
(EML)* 23
> Service engine soon 23
12 Indicator for Check Control 75
13 Trip odometer, reset to zero 73
Data
2 Turn signal indicator 23
9 Program display for automatic
transmission 65, 67
Indicator lamp for automatic
transmission 21, 65, 67
Index
1 Fuel gauge with indicator lamp for
fuel reserve 74
19n
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20nIndicator
and warning lamps
Technology that monitors itself
Red: stop immediately
Many of the systems of your BMW
monitor themselves automatically, both
during engine starts and while you are
driving. Indicator and warning lamps
that are identified by "●" are tested for
proper functioning whenever the ignition key is turned. They each light up
once for different periods of time.
Battery charge current ●
The battery is no longer being
charged. There is a malfunction
of the alternator V-belt or in the
charging circuit of the alternator. Please
contact the nearest BMW center.
If a fault should occur in one of these
systems, the corresponding lamp does
not go out after the engine is started or
it will light up while the vehicle is
moving. You will see how to react to
this below.
If the V-belt is defective, do not
continue driving. The engine could
be damaged due to overheating. If the
V-belt is defective, increased steering
effort is also required.<
Engine oil pressure ●
Stop the vehicle immediately
and switch off the engine. Check
the engine oil level and refill as required.
If the oil level is correct, please contact
the nearest BMW center.
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) ●
In addition, an acoustic signal
will go off: a tire failure has
occurred. Reduce vehicle speed immediately and stop the vehicle. Avoid hard
brake applications. Do not oversteer.
For additional information, refer to
page 85.
Brake warning lamp ●
If the lamp comes on when the
parking brake is not engaged,
check the brake fluid level. Before
driving further, be sure to read the
notes on pages 122 and 138.
Brake warning lamp for Canadian models.
Do not continue driving, otherwise,
the engine could be damaged
because of inadequate lubrication. <
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Indicator and warning lamps
Overview
Car care
Automatic transmission
Because of a malfunction, the
automatic transmission shifts
only in the emergency program. Please
consult the nearest BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
pages 65, 67.
Controls
Orange: consult the nearest
BMW center
Technology Repairs
Brake warning lamp
If the brake warning lamp comes
Comes on when the parking
on together with the yellow indibrake is applied – an additional
cator lamps for ABS and ASC+T/ acoustic signal sounds when starting
DSC:
off.
Then the entire ABS, CBC,
For additional information, refer to
ASC+T/DSC and ADB/ADB-X/
page 63.
DBC control system has failed.
Brake warning lamp for CanaContinue driving cautiously and
dian models.
defensively. Avoid hard brake
applications. Please have the system
Please fasten safety belts ●
checked by your BMW center as soon
A warning signal will sound at
as possible.
the same time. Lights up for a
For additional information, refer to
few seconds or until the safety belt is
pages 79, 80.
fastened.
CBC, ABS, ASC+T/DSC and
For additional information on safety
ADB/ADB-X/DBC indicator and belts, refer to page 53.
warning lamps for Canadian
Airbags ●
models.
Please have the system
inspected by your BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
pages 55, 172.
Data
Red: an important reminder
Index
Red and yellow: continue driving
cautiously
21n
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22nIndicator
and warning lamps
Yellow: check as soon as possible
Antilock Brake System (ABS) ●
ABS has been deactivated in
response to system malfunction.
Conventional braking efficiency is available without limitations. Please have
the system inspected by your BMW
center.
For additional information, refer to
page 117.
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 add oil.
For additional information, refer to
page 135.
Engine oil level
Comes on after the engine has
been shut off: add oil at the
earliest opportunity (when you stop to
refuel).
For additional information, refer to
page 135
Brake pads ●
Have the brake pads checked.
For additional information, refer
to page 120.
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) ●
Check the tire pressure. Refer to
pages 28 and 85.
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) ●
Indicator lamp flashes:
The system is active and governs drive
force and braking force.
The indicator lamp remains on:
ASC+T has been switched off via the
button or it is defective, or the DSC has
been switched off, the ADB is operational.
In the event of a fault, please consult
the nearest BMW center.
For additional information, refer
page 79.
BMW 325xi:
The DSC has been either turned off or
is defective. ADB-X is in ready mode. If
the warning lamp does not go out after
pressing the DSC button repeatedly,
then the both the DSC and ADB-X are
defective.
Please consult the nearest BMW
center.
For additional information, refer to
page 80.
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) and
brake warning lamp ●
The indicator lamps remain on:
The DSC and ADB/DBC are
switched off by means of the button or
are defective.
Please consult the nearest BMW
center.
For additional information, refer to
page 79.
BMW 325xi:
DSC and ADB-X are defective.
ADB-X cannot be switched off.
Please consult the nearest BMW
center.
For additional information, refer to
page 83.
DSC and ADB/ADB-X/DBC indicator and warning lamps for
Canadian models.
Add washer fluid
The washer fluid level is too low.
Top up at the earliest opportunity.
For additional information, refer to
page 134.
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Indicator and warning lamps
Add coolant
The coolant level is too low. Top
off the coolant at the earliest
opportunity.
For additional information, refer to
page 137.
Fog lamps
Comes on whenever you switch
on the fog lamps.
For additional information, refer to
page 88.
Overview
Controls
Cruise control
Comes on when the cruise
control is activated. Available for
operation via the multifunction steering
wheel.
For additional information, refer to
page 71.
Car care
High beams
Comes on when the high beams
are on or the headlamp flasher
is actuated.
For additional information, refer to
pages 68, 88.
Technology Repairs
Engine electronics*
There is a fault in the engine's
electronic control system. The
electronics allow for continued driving
with reduced engine output or rpms.
Please have the system inspected by
your BMW center.
Blue: for your information
Turn signal indicator
Flashes when the turn signal is
operated. Rapid flashing indicates a system malfunction.
For additional information, refer to
page 68.
Data
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
Green: for your information
Index
Service Engine Soon ●
If the indicator lamp comes on
either continuously or intermittently, this indicates a fault in the emissions-related electronic systems.
Although the vehicle remains operational, you should have the systems
checked by your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
For additional information, refer to
page 149.
23n
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24nMultifunction
steering wheel (MFL)
> Selected radio functions,
> the cruise control,
> selected cellular phone functions.
In order to operate a system via
the MFL, the corresponding
system controls must be activated.<
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The controls integrated in the multifunction steering wheel (MFL) are provided
so that you can operate a number of
accessories quickly and without being
distracted from traffic conditions. You
can operate:
1 Press briefly:
Receive a call, start dialing, terminate
Refer to the individual accessory
a call
manuals for more detailed descriptions.
Press longer:
Voice recognition*: switch on and off
2 Radio/Cellular phone: select
3 Radio/Cellular phone: scan backward
or scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings
6 Horn: the entire surface
7 Cruise control: resume stored setting
8 Cruise control: store and
accelerate (+); decelerate
and store (–)
9 Cruise control: activate/interrupt/
deactivate
4 Radio/Cellular phone: volume
5 Radio/Cellular phone: scan forward
or scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings
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Sports steering wheel*
25n
3 Radio/Cellular phone: volume
4 Radio/Cellular phone: scan backward
or scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings
5 Radio/Cellular phone: scan forward
or scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings
Controls
8 Cruise control: store and
accelerate (+); decelerate
and store (–)
9 Cruise control: activate/interrupt/
deactivate
Car care
7 Cruise control: resume stored setting
Technology Repairs
2 Press briefly:
Receive a call, start dialing, terminate
Refer to the individual accessory
a call
manuals for more detailed descriptions.
Press longer:
Voice recognition*: switch on and off
6 Horn: the entire surface
Data
1 Radio/Cellular phone: select
Index
In order to operate a system via
the sports steering wheel, the
corresponding system controls must be
activated.<
463de057
> Selected radio functions,
> the cruise control,
> selected cellular phone functions.
Overview
The controls integrated in the sports
steering wheel are provided so that you
can operate a number of accessories
quickly and without being distracted
from traffic conditions.
You can operate:
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The button flashes intermittently when
the hazard flashers are on.
To help you locate the switch in an
emergency, the button is also illuminated whenever the vehicle's lamps
are on.
The turn signal indicator function
takes priority over the hazard
warning function. This means that with
the ignition key in position 1, you can
still use the turn signal indicator funtion,
even if the hazard warning flashers are
being used at the same time.<
The hazard warning triangle is stored
on the left-hand side of the luggage
compartment behind the cover panel.
To open: press the button (arrow) and
remove the cover.
Comply with legal requirements
for keeping a hazard warning
triangle in the vehicle.<
First-aid kit*
460de003
Warning triangle*
463de035
warning flashers
460us002
26nHazard
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 with passed
dates. You can acquire replacements
in any drugstore or pharmacy.
Comply with legal requirements for
keeping a first-aid kit in the vehicle.<
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Refueling
Open the filler cap carefully to
prevent fuel from spraying out.
Fuel spray may cause injury.<
Place 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
refueling
When handling fuels, comply with > results in premature pump shutoff
all of the applicable safety precau- > and will reduce the effect of the vapor
recovery system on the pump.
tions and regulations pertaining to fuels.
Never carry spare fuel containers in
If the filler nozzle is operated correctly,
your vehicle. Whether empty or full,
the fuel tank will be full when it shuts off
these containers can leak, cause an
for the first time.
explosion, or lead to fire in the event
Tank capacity: refer to page 187.
of a collision.<
To unlock the fuel filler door if the
central locking system malfunctions,
refer to page 166.
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
Press on the rear edge of the fuel filler
door to open and close it.
Simple and environmentally
friendly
Data
Before filling the tank, shut off the
engine. If you do not, fuel cannot
flow into the tank and the Service
Engine Soon lamp may come on.<
Index
Fuel filler door
460de005
460de004
Close the filler cap carefully after
refueling until a "click" is heard.
While closing, be sure not to squeeze
the strap which is fastened to the cap.
A loose or missing cap will activate the
Service Engine Soon lamp.<
Overview
27n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
28nFuel
specifications
Tire inflation pressure
The engine uses lead-free gasoline
only.
Required fuel:
Do not use leaded fuels. The use
of leaded fuels will cause permanent damage to the system's oxygen
sensor and the catalytic converter.<
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Premium Unleaded Gasoline,
min. 91 AKI
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Check tire inflation pressures –
including the space-saver spare
wheel, or spare wheel – regularly, at
least every two weeks and before
beginning any extended driving. Incorrect tire pressure can otherwise lead to
tire damage and accidents.
Inflate the spare tire to the highest tire
inflation pressure specified for your
vehicle.<
You will find the inflation pressures on
the inside door pillar (visible with door
open).
Check tire pressures
On the next page you will find all the tire
pressure and ambient air temperature
specifications stated in the units usually
used in your country (psi; kilopascal).
For vehicles with Tire Pressure Control
(RDC):
After correcting the tire inflation pressure, reactivate the system. Refer to
page 85.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Tire inflation pressure
Overview
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
Your vehicle is equipped with tires that
meet US and European standards. We
recommend the exclusive use of
BMW-approved tires.
Tires
All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) for cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
All summer tires and
the all season tire
32 (220) 38 (260) 38 (260) 45 (310)
205/55 R 16 91 H M+S
325
All winter tires and
35 (240) 41 (280) 41 (280) 48 (330)
325xi
the all season tire
205/50 R 17 93 V M+S
Space-saver tire in the luggage
61 (420)
compartment
For all season tires use the same inflation pressure as for summer tires.
For extra load tires 205/50 R 17 93 W use the same tire inflation pressure as for
winter tires.
Data
The inflation pressures in the table
apply to tires made by BMW-approved
manufacturers. Your BMW center is
familiar with these pressures. Higher
pressures may be specified for tires
made by other manufacturers. You will
find a list of approved tires beginning
on page 129.
BMW
Index
Observe tire approval
specifications
29n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
30n
Opening and closing:
Keys 32
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 33
Central locking system 34
Opening and closing –
from the outside 34
Opening and closing –
from the inside 38
Tailgate 39
Cargo area 40
Alarm system 41
Electric power windows 43
Sliding/tilt sunroof 44
Adjustments:
Seats 46
Seat and mirror memory 49
Steering wheel 50
Mirrors 51
Car Memory, Key Memory 52
Passenger safety systems:
Safety belts 53
Airbags 55
Transporting children safely 58
Controls
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Technology for safety and
driving convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 78
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T) 79
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 80
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 85
Loading and transporting:
Ski bag 106
Cargo area 107
Cargo loading 110
Roof-mounted luggage rack 111
Operation, care
and maintenance
Controls
Car care
Cabin convenience:
HiFi system 101
Glove compartment 101
Storage compartments 102
Cellular phone 103
Ashtray, front 104
Cigarette lighter 104
Ashtray, rear 105
Power outlet 105
Controls and features
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technology Repairs
Controlling the climate
for pleasant driving:
Air conditioner 90
Automatic climate control 96
Seat heating 100
Overview
Technical data
Data
Everything under control:
Odometer 73
Tachometer 73
Energy Control 73
Fuel gauge 74
Coolant temperature gauge 74
Service Interval Display 74
Check Control 75
Clock 75
Computer 76
Lamps:
Side lamps/Low beams 87
Instrument lighting 87
High beams/Parking lamps 88
Fog lamps 88
Interior lamps 88
Index
Index
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 61
Starting the engine 61
Switching off the engine 62
Parking brake 63
Manual transmission 64
Automatic transmission
with Steptronic 65
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp
flasher 68
Washer/Wiper system 68
Rear window defroster 70
Cruise control 71
Overview
31n
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32nKeys
46cde059
3 Door and ignition key
The lock for the glove compartment
cannot be operated with this key,
which is an advantage when using for
valet parking, for instance
1 The master keys with remote control
determine the functions for the Key
Memory; refer to page 52
There is an extended-life battery in
every master key that is charged
automatically in the steering lock as you
drive.
For this reason, if you have a master key
that is otherwise not used, use that key
at least once every year while driving for
an extended period to charge the
battery. Refer also to page 35.<
Replacement keys
Replacement keys are available exclusively through your authorized BMW
center. Since the keys belong to a
security system, your BMW center is
obligated to ensure that a person
requesting a key is authorized to do so
(refer to "Electronic vehicle immobilizer"
on page 35).
If possible, take all of the master
keys that belong to the vehicle
with you when you pick up your
replacement key.
Whenever you receive a new replacement key, turn that key to position 2 in
the ignition lock once (ignition switched
on) and then back. This allows the electronic vehicle immobilizer to "learn" the
new key.<
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,
such as in your wallet. This key is not
intended for constant use
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Force applied to the key can
Your BMW is equipped with a passive
damage the integrated electronic
anti-theft system. This electronic immocircuitry.
A damaged key can no longer
bilization system reduces the likelihood
be used to start the engine.<
of your vehicle being stolen by making
it impossible to start the engine using
any keys other than the ones furnished
with the vehicle. Your BMW center can
cancel the electronic system authorization for individual keys (in the event of
loss, for instance). A deactivated key
can no longer be used to start the
engine.
Overview
Controls
Car care
The key to security
Technology Repairs
At the heart of this system is an electronic chip that is integrated into the
key. The lock mechanism itself is actually a dual-function device. While the
engine is running, the circuitry in the
ignition key and the vehicle's electronic
system constantly exchange variable,
vehicle-specific signals. The system will
not release the ignition, fuel injection
and starter unless it recognizes an
"authorized" key.
Data
46cde060
How the electronics work
33n
Index
Electronic vehicle immobilizer
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
34nCentral
locking system
Opening and closing – from the outside
Convenience operation
The central locking system is ready for
operation whenever the driver's door is
closed. The system engages and
releases the locks on the
You can also operate the power
windows and sliding/tilt sunroof via the
door lock.
> doors
> tailgate and rear window
> fuel filler door.
The central locking system can be
operated
> from outside via the door lock and
using the remote control
> from inside by pressing a button.
Activating the central locking system
from inside does not lock the fuel filler
door (see page 38). When it is actuated
from the outside, the anti-theft system
is activated simultaneously. Both the
door locks and release handles remain
locked. The alarm system is also armed
or disarmed.
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The concept
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 tailgate
and the fuel filler door.
You can have a signal set as an
acknowledgment message that
the vehicle is closed correctly.<
> To open: if the door is closed, hold
the key firmly in the "Unlock" position.
> To close: if the door is closed, hold
the key firmly in the "Lock" position.
Watch during the closing process
to be sure that nobody is inadvertently 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.
If locked from the inside, the central
locking system unlocks automatically in
the event of an accident. But the system
only unlocks those doors that were not
locked separately using the safety
buttons, refer to page 38. In addition,
the hazard warning flashers and interior
lamps come on.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
When you unlock the vehicle, the antitheft system is deactivated, the alarm
system is disarmed, and the interior
lamps are turned on. When you lock the
vehicle, the systems are activated and
armed, and the lamps go off.
You can have a signal set as an
acknowledgment message that
the vehicle is closed correctly.<
Keys with remote control are master
keys. Refer to page 32.
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.<
Overview
Controls
Car care
Master keys
Master keys that are used repeatedly are always ready for operation since the battery in the key is
charged automatically in the steering
lock as you drive.
If it is no longer possible to unlock the
vehicle via the remote control, the
battery is discharged. Use this key while
driving for an extended period in order
to recharge the battery. Refer also to
page 32.
To prevent unauthorized use of the
remote control, surrender only the door
and ignition key or the spare key (refer
to page 32) when leaving the vehicle for
valet parking, for example.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your BMW center. You
can also obtain replacement keys
there.<
Technology Repairs
> Switching on the interior lamps, refer
to page 38.
With this function, you can also
"search for" your car – when parked
in an underground garage, for
instance.
> Opening the rear window, refer to
page 39.
The rear window will open slightly,
regardless of whether it was previously locked or unlocked.
463de024
The remote control gives you an exceptionally convenient method for
unlocking and locking your vehicle.
Furthermore, it provides two additional
functions that only the remote control
can execute:
Data
Using the remote control
35n
Index
Opening and closing – from the outside
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46cde057
46cde057
and closing – from the outside
463de025
36nOpening
To unlock the vehicle
Locking and securing
Turning on the interior lamps
Press button 1.
Press button 2.
After locking the vehicle, press button 2
again.
Press the button once to unlock the
driver's door only; press a second time
to unlock all remaining doors as well as
the rear window and fuel filler door.
Convenience opening mode
Press and hold button 1. The power
windows and sliding/tilt sunroof are
opened.
Switching off the tilt alarm sensor*
and interior motion sensor*
Press button 2 again immediately after
locking.
For additional information, refer to
page 42.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
The rear window opens slightly. It can
now be tilted up.
Before and after a trip, be sure
that the rear window was not
opened unintentionally.<
System interference
External systems or devices may cause
local interference in the functions of the
remote control.
If this should occur, you can unlock and
lock the vehicle via the door lock with
a master key.
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 interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications or
changes to these devices could
void the user's authority to operate this
equipment.<
Overview
Controls
The transmitter and receiver units
comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communication Commission) regulations. Operation is governed by the
following:
Car care
For US owners only
By pressing button 3 for 2 to 5 seconds,
the alarm can be sounded in the event
of danger, if the alarm system is armed.
Pressing on button 1 will turn the alarm
off.
The LED (light-emitting diode) will light
up briefly whenever you press on the
individual buttons.
Technology Repairs
Press button 3.
Panic mode (trigger alarm)
Data
Opening the rear window
37n
Index
46cde058
Opening and closing – from the outside
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38nOpening
and closing – from the inside
460us007
To unlock and open the doors
Use this button to operate the central
locking system when the front doors
are closed. The doors and tailgate are
unlocked or locked only. The anti-theft
alarm system is not activated.
If only the driver's door was
unlocked from the outside and
you press on the button, then all the
other doors, tailgate and rear window
as well as the fuel filler door will unlock
if the driver's door is open.
If the driver's door is closed it will be
locked.<
> Either unlock the doors together with
the button for the central locking
system and then pull each of the
release handles above the armrests,
or
> pull the release handle for each door
twice: the first pull unlocks the door,
and the second one opens it.
To engage locks
> Use the central locking button to lock
all of the doors simultaneously, or
> press the individual safety lock
buttons down. The fuel filler door
then remains unlocked. As an added
design feature to prevent the driver
from being inadvertently locked out
of the vehicle, the driver's door safety
lock button will not engage as long as
the door is open.
Children might be able to lock the
doors from the inside. For this
reason, take the vehicle's keys with you
so that the vehicle can be opened again
from the outside at any time.<
The central locking system can be
locked automatically as soon as
you begin to drive if you desire. You
may also have this adjusted so that it is
specific to keys.<
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Tailgate
The luggage compartment lamp goes
on when the tailgate is opened.
For opening manually in the event
of an electrical malfunction, refer to
page 166.
Opening from the inside, refer to
page 38.
Before and after a trip, be sure
that the rear window was not
opened unintentionally.<
To avoid injuries, be sure that the
travel path of the tailgate lid is
clear when it is closed, as with all
closing procedures.<
Controls
Car care
The handle recesses in the interior trim
panel of the tailgate (arrows) make it
easier to pull down.
Technology Repairs
Closing
Press the button in the handle recess
(arrow): the tailgate opens slightly.
Data
Opening from outside
> Close all windows, including the
sliding/tilt sunroof.
> Increase the air supply for the air
conditioner or automatic climate
control to a high level. Refer to
page 90 or 96.<
Index
463de031
460de010
Operate the vehicle only when
the tailgate or rear window is
completely closed so that no exhaust
fumes penetrate the interior of the
vehicle. If it should happen that the
tailgate or rear window are left open
anyway while driving:
Overview
39n
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Cargo area
394de302
463de051
40nTailgate
Opening the rear window
Luggage straps
Small items can be loaded or unloaded
quickly if the rear window is opened
separately.
Use the retaining straps on the cargo
area floor to secure smaller items of
luggage.
Press the button (arrow): the rear
window opens slightly. It can now be
tilted up.
Movement is reduced when objects are
placed on the straps.
Push the window down to close it.
If pointed or sharp-edged objects
could hit the rear window while
driving, be sure to provide protection
around all edges, otherwise, the
heating conductors for the rear window
could be damaged.<
To attach the luggage nets* or elastic
straps in order to keep luggage
securely in place, you will find lashing
eyes on the inside corners of the
luggage compartment.
Refer also to "Cargo loading" on
page 110.
For the roll-up cover and other features
in the cargo area, refer to "Cargo area"
beginning on page 107.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Alarm system*
> Sounding an acoustical alarm for
30 seconds.
> Activating the hazard warning flashers
for approx. five minutes.
> Flashing the high beams flash on and
off in rhythm with the hazard warning
flashers.
You can have one signal set as
acknowledgment when arming
and disarming.<
You can also open the rear window
when the system is armed by pressing
button 3 of the remote control (refer to
page 37). When it is closed, the rear
window is once again secured.
Overview
Controls
Indicator lamp displays
The indicator lamp is located under the
inside rearview mirror.
> The indicator lamp flashes
continuously: the system is armed.
> The indicator lamp flashes when it
is armed: doors, the hood, tailgate
or rear window have not been properly closed. Even if you do not close
the alerted area, the remaining areas
are deadlocked, and the indicator
lamp flashes continuously after
10 seconds. However, the interior
motion sensor is not activated.
> The indicator lamp goes out when the
system is disarmed: no manipulation
or attempted intrusions have been
detected in the period since the
system was armed.
Car care
If the alarm system has been armed
correctly, the hazard warning flashers
flash once.
Technology Repairs
The system responds to unauthorized
vehicle entry and attempted theft by
simultaneously activating the following:
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked
by using a key or the remote control,
the alarm system is also armed or
disarmed at the same time.
The interior motion sensor and tilt alarm
sensor are activated 30 seconds after
the last locking operation.
Data
> When a door, the hood or the tailgate
is opened.
> To movement inside the vehicle
(interior motion sensor).
> To a change of the vehicle's tilt – if
someone attempts to steal the wheels
or tow the vehicle without authorization, for example.
> To interruption of battery voltage.
To activate and deactivate the
alarm system
Index
The vehicle alarm system responds:
463us010
The concept
41n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
system*
> The indicator lamp flashes for
10 seconds when the system is
disarmed: an attempted entry has
been detected in the period since the
system was armed.
Following triggering of an alarm, the
indicator lamp will flash continuously.
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion
sensor may be switched off at the same
time. Doing this prevents a false alarm
from being triggered (in garages with
elevator ramps, for instance), or when
the vehicle is transported by trailer or
train:
Lock the vehicle (= arm the system)
twice. Press button 2 on the remote
control twice in succession or lock the
vehicle twice with the key (refer to
page 36).
The indicator lamp lights up briefly and
then flashes continuously. The tilt alarm
sensor and the interior motion sensor
are deactivated as long as the system is
armed.
Reset the alarm system in order to
reactivate both the tilt sensor alarm
system and interior motion sensor.
460de159
42nAlarm
Interior motion sensor
The transmitter and receiver of the interior motion sensor are located in a trim
panel in the vehicle's roof.
In order for the interior motion sensor
to function properly, the windows and
sliding/tilt sunroof must be completely
closed.
However, be sure to deactivate the
interior motion sensor (refer to the
previous column "Avoiding unintentional alarms"), when you wish to leave
the windows or the tilt/sunroof open.
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Electric power windows
Remove the key from the ignition
and close the doors when you
leave the vehicle, so that children
cannot operate the power windows and
possibly injure themselves.<
From ignition key position 1:
> Press the switch up to but not past
the resistance point:
The window will continue to open as
long as you hold the switch.
> Press the switch past the resistance
point:
The window will move automatically.
Pressing the switch again stops the
opening cycle.
For the convenience opening mode
with the door lock or remote control,
refer to page 34 or 35.
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful that the closing
path of the window is not obstructed
whenever it is being 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 resistance point and holding it.<
Controls
A contact strip is located on the inside
After the ignition has been switched off: upper frame of each of the windows. If
pressure is exerted against this contact
You can still operate the power
strip while a window is being raised, the
windows for up to 15 minutes, as long
system will respond by stopping the
as neither of the front doors was
window and then retracting it someopened during that time.
what.
Car care
Open and close the windows
Safety feature
Technology Repairs
460de013
In the rear, there are separate switches
under the windows.
Overview
43n
Index
Data
You can close the windows in the same
manner by pulling the switch.
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Safety switch
With the safety switch, you can prevent
the rear windows from being opened or
closed via the switch in the rear
passenger area* (by children, for
instance).
Press the safety switch whenever
children are riding in the rear of
the vehicle. Careless use of the power
windows can lead to injury.<
Sliding/tilt sunroof*
Exercise care when closing the
sliding/tilt sunroof and keep it in
your field of vision until it is completely
closed. Failure to do so can result in
injuries.
Always remove the key from the ignition
and lock the doors when you leave the
vehicle so that, for instance, children
cannot operate the sunroof and
possibly injure themselves.<
You can avoid a vacuum or drafts in the
passenger compartment whenever the
sunroof is open or raised if you keep the
air vents in the dashboard open and
increase the air supply as needed. Refer
to pages 92 or 99.
If the sunroof is completely open, air
disturbances may be caused in the
vehicle when you are driving at higher
speeds. Close the roof as far as is
necessary until this natural phenomenon ceases.
For the convenience opening mode
with the door lock or the remote
control, refer to page 34 or 35.
460de015
power windows
460de014
44nElectric
Lifting – opening – closing
From ignition key position 1, press the
switch or slide it to the desired direction
until you feel resistance.
When lifting, the headliner retracts
several inches.
Do not use force to closethe
headliner when the sunroof is
open, or you could damage the
mechanism.<
After the ignition has been switched off,
you can still operate the sunroof for up
to 15 minutes, as long as neither of the
front doors was opened during that
time.
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Sliding/tilt sunroof
Safety feature
Power loss or malfunction
> Press the switch past the resistance
point: the sunroof travels to either the
fully-closed or fully-opened position.
> With the sunroof open, press the
switch briefly toward "Raise": the roof
will move into the end "Raise" position.
If the sliding/tilt sunroof encounters
resistance at a point roughly past the
middle of its travel when it is closing,
the closing cycle is interrupted and the
sunroof will open again slightly.
In the event of an electrical system
malfunction, the sliding/tilt sunroof can
be operated manually. Refer to
page 166.
Car care
Technology Repairs
Data
Despite this safety feature, be
extremely careful that the closing
path of the sunroof is not obstructed
whenever it is closed. Otherwise, triggering the closing-force limitation may
not be ensured in some situations (with
very thin objects, for instance).
You can disable this safety feature by
pressing the switch beyond the pressure point and holding it.<
Index
Pressing the switch again stops operation immediately.
Controls
Automatic opening and closing
Overview
45n
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adjustment
For maximum safety when adjusting
the seat position, please observe the
following:
Never try to adjust your seat while
driving the vehicle. The seat could
respond with an unexpected movement, and the ensuing loss of vehicle
control could lead to an accident.
Be sure that the safety belt remains
firmly against your body at all times. In
the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap
belt could slide over the hips, leading to
abdominal injury. In addition, the safety
belt's restraint effectiveness is reduced
if the belt is worn loosely.
While driving, do not recline the backrest too far (this applies to the
passenger side especially), because
otherwise there is the danger of sliding
underneath the safety belt during an
accident, thereby negating the safety
belt's protection.<
Mechanical seat
Correct sitting posture
To reduce strain on the spinal column,
sit all the way back in the seat and rest
your back fully against the backrest.
The ideal sitting posture is when your
head forms a straight line with your
spine.
For long-distance driving, you may wish
to increase the backrest angle slightly
to reduce muscular tension. You should
be able to grasp the steering wheel at
its highest point with your arms slightly
bent.
After a seat adjustment, adjust the
height of the safety belt also. Refer to
page 53.
460de109
46nSeat
1 Backward/forward adjustment
Pull the lever and slide the seat to the
desired position.
After releasing the lever, apply pressure to the cushion to ensure that the
latch engages securely
2 Cushion height
Pull the lever and apply weight to
or remove weight from the seat as
required
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Head restraints
47n
Controls
> Pull the head restraint upward to the
stop.
> Press the button (arrow) and remove
the head restraint.
In order to move to the lowest
positions, press button 1.<
Installation
Head restraints reduce the risk of
injury to the cervical vertebra
during an accident.
Adjust the head restraint so that its
center is approximately at the height
of the ear.<
> Press the button (arrow) and insert
the head restraint into the guides.
> Adjust the head restraint.
Data
To adjust the angle of the front head
restraints:
Adjust by tilting the head restraint.
Car care
Removal
Height: adjust by pulling or applying
pressure.
Technology Repairs
460de137
Adjustments
Index
3 Backrest angle
Pull the lever and apply weight to or
remove weight from the backrest to
reach the desired position
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460de068
Overview
Mechanical seat
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
With this seat, you can also adjust the
tilt angle and the thigh support:
1 Tilt angle upward:
Pull the lever as often as necessary to
reach the desired angle
2 Tilt angle downward:
Push the lever as often as necessary
to reach the desired angle
3 Thigh support area:
Pull the lever and adjust the position
of the cushion for thigh support as
desired
You can adjust the backrest's contour
for additional support in the curvature
of your spine's lumbar region.
Power seat*
460de016
Lumbar support*
460de103
sports seat*
460de122
48nBMW
1 Backward/forward adjustment
2 Cushion height
3 Backrest angle
The upper hips and spinal column
The head restraint is adjusted manually.
receive supplementary support to help
you maintain a relaxed, upright posture.
Comply with the adjustment
> Press front/rear of switch:
instructions on page 46. Failure to
Increase/decrease curvature.
do so could result in diminished
> Press the upper/lower end of the
personal safety.<
switch:
Increase the upper/lower curvature.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Seat and mirror memory*
2 Backward/forward adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle
Adjust the head restraints (refer to
page 47) and thigh support (refer to
page 48) manually.
Comply with the adjustment
instructions on page 46. Failure to
do so could result in diminished
personal safety.<
The adjustment setting for the lumbar
support is not saved in memory.<
To store
1 Turn the key to ignition key position
1 or 2.
2 Adjust your seat and outside mirrors
to the desired position.
3 Press the MEMORY button: the indicator lamp in the button lights up.
4 Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as
desired. Indicator lamp goes out.
Security function:
1 The driver's door is closed and the
ignition key is either removed or in
position 0 or 2.
2 Maintain pressure on the desired
memory button 1, 2 or 3 until the
adjustment process is completed.
If you press the MEMORY button accidentally: press the button again; the
indicator lamp goes out.
Do not select a memory position
while the vehicle is moving. If you
do so, there is a risk of accident from
unexpected seat movement.<
Controls
Car care
1 Tilt angle
You can store and recall three different
driver's seat and outside mirror positions.
1 The driver's door remains open after
unlocking or the ignition key is in
position 1.
2 Briefly press memory button 1, 2 or 3,
as desired.
The adjustment cycle is canceled
immediately if you press a seat
adjustment switch or one of the
memory buttons.
Index
BMW sports seat
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Convenience function:
Technology Repairs
To select a stored setting
Overview
49n
Data
Power seat*
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50nSeat
and mirror memory*
Adjusting steering wheel
Passenger side exterior mirror
tilt function
(automatic curb monitor*)
1 Move the mirror selector switch 1 to
the "driver's mirror" position.
2 When the selector lever is placed in
"Reverse," the passenger-side mirror
tilts downward. This allows the driver
to see the area directly adjacent to
the vehicle during parking (curbs,
etc.).
460de073
When this setting is used, be sure
that the footwell behind the
driver's seat is clear before unlocking
the vehicle. If you fail to do so, any
persons or objects behind the seat
could be injured or damaged by a rearward movement of the seat.<
460us301
Your BMW center can adjust your
vehicle's systems in such a
manner that your personalized settings
are automatically set for the seat and
outside mirror positions when you
unlock the vehicle with your personal
remote control.<
1 Push the locking lever downward.
2 Adjust the steering wheel (fore/aft
and up/down) to the desired position.
3 Pull the lever back in to clamp the
steering wheel in the new position.
Do not adjust the steering wheel
while the vehicle is moving. If you
do so, there is a risk of accident from
unexpected movement.<
You can deactivate this automatic
feature: set mirror-selector switch to
the "passenger mirror" position.
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Mirrors
51n
Electric defrosting
Both mirrors are automatically
defrosted with the ignition key in
position 2.
Overview
Controls
Lighted vanity mirrors*
Fold down the sun visor and slide the
cover panel to the side as required.
The mirror lamps operate in ignition key
positions 1 and 2.
Car care
To reduce glare from vehicles behind
you when you are driving at night, tilt
the mirror by turning the button.
Technology Repairs
2 Button for switching from one mirror
to the other
Interior rearview mirror
Sun visors
These can be folded down toward the
windshield or swiveled out against the
side windows.
Data
1 Switch for 4-way adjustment
Index
Exterior mirrors
The mirror on the passenger's
side features a lens with a more
convex surface than the mirror installed
on the driver's side. When estimating
the distance between yourself and
other traffic, bear in mind that the
objects reflected in the mirror are closer
than they appear. Estimating the
distance between you and the traffic
behind you is therefore imprecise.<
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You can also adjust the mirrors manually by pressing against the outer edges
of their lenses.
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52nMirrors
Car Memory, Key Memory
adjustments accordingly.
So that you can distinguish among the
different keys, colored decals are
supplied along with the keys.
Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimming feature*
By responding to the effects of ambient
light and the glare from following traffic,
this mirror automatically dims through
an infinitely-variable range.
The mirror switches to its clear,
undimmed mode whenever the transmission is placed in reverse gear
(selector lever in "Reverse").
For proper functioning of the mirror, be
sure that the two photocells are unobstructed and clean. One of the photocells (arrow) is positioned in the mirror's
glass, while the other is slightly offset
on the opposite side of the mirror.
For an explanation of the electrochromic technology used in this mirror,
refer to page 176.
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What the system can do
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 engineering your vehicle, BMW has
included several user-defined functions in the vehicle's design. Your BMW
center can make these settings for you
in accordance with your wishes.
There are settings related to the vehicle
("Car Memory") and settings related to
individuals ("Key Memory"). You can
have up to four different basic settings
adjusted for four different persons. The
only requirement is that each person
uses his or her own remote control key.
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
Your authorized BMW center can
provide you with details on the capabilities of the Car Memory and Key
Memory systems. A few examples
follow below:
Examples for Car Memory:
> Various signals used as acknowledgement when locking or unlocking
your vehicle.
> Deactivating/activating the FollowMe-Home lamps function.
> Activating/deactivating daytime
running lamps*.
Examples for Key Memory:
> Automatically setting the driver's
power seat.
> Locking your vehicle after starting off.
When unlocking your vehicle, first
unlock the driver's door, then the rest of
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.<
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To fasten:
Make sure you hear the catch engage in
the belt buckle.
To release:
Press the red button in the buckle. Hold
the belt and guide it back into its reel.
The two rear safety belt buckles which
are integrated in the rear seat are for
passengers sitting on the left and right.
The belt buckle with the word "CENTER"
is intended exclusively for passengers
sitting in the middle.
For care instructions, refer to page 144.
Slide the button downward or upward.
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
You can adjust the safety belts to fit
your own physical dimensions by using
the safety belt height adjustment.
Data
Safety belt height adjustment
Fasten your safety belt at the beginning
of every trip.
Index
Drive with your safety belt on
For your safety, please comply
with the following instructions for
wearing safety belts. If you do not, the
safety belts may not be able to provide
their maximum protection. The
following information also applies to
your passengers:
Never allow more than one person to
wear a single safety belt. Never allow
infants or small children to ride in a
passenger's lap.
Avoid twisting the belt while routing it
firmly across your hips and shoulder.
Do not allow the belt to rest against
hard or fragile objects in your pockets.
Do not route the belt across your neck,
or run it across sharp edges. Be sure
that the belt does not become caught
or jammed.
Be sure that the safety belt fits snugly
against your body at all times. You
should avoid wearing bulky clothing
that prevents it from doing so. Pull the
belt periodically to re-tension it across
your shoulder. In the event of a frontal
impact, a loose lap belt could slide over
your hips, leading to abdominal injury.
In addition, the safety belt's restraint
effectiveness is reduced if the belt is
worn loosely.
Expectant mothers should always wear
their safety belts, taking care to posi-
Overview
53n
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Safety belts
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54nSafety
belts
tion the lap belt against the lower hips,
where it will not exert pressure against
the abdominal area.<
For child restraint system installation,
refer to page 59.
If the safety belt system has been
subjected to the stresses involved
in an accident or otherwise damaged,
have the entire safety belt mechanism
replaced by your BMW center,
including the safety belt tensioner. In
addition, have your BMW center
inspect the safety belt anchors. If a
child restraint system was in the vehicle
during an accident, consult the manufacturer's instructions regarding
replacement.<
Child restraint systems*
Never install a rear-facing child
restraint system on the front
passenger seat. If you do so, the child
could be injured when the airbag is triggered.
Children should always ride in the rear
and the restraint systems should be
secured with the outer belts.
The center seat belt should only be
used when it is necessary to secure
three child restraint systems.
Do not modify the child restraint system
in any way. If you do so, it will not
provide your child with maximum
protection.<
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Airbags
point safety belts by providing additional protection for the front-seat occupants, in the event of a severe frontal
collision in which the protection
afforded by the belts alone may no
longer be sufficient. The Head Protection System and side airbags help
provide protection in the event of a collision from the side. Each of the side
airbags is designed to help support the
occupant's upper body.
The illustration depicts schematically
the primary directions of vehicle impact
that initiate airbag deployment.
The airbags will not be triggered in
the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle roll-over, or collisions from the
rear.c
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, 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 triggered them.
Have your BMW center inspect and
repair the system immediately.
The airbag indicator lamp also
comes on if the safety belt
tensioners have been triggered.<
Controls
Car care
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly
then goes out.
Technology Repairs
1 Front airbags for driver and passenger
The side airbags in the rear
2 Side impact Head Protection System
passenger area* of your vehicle
for driver and passenger (front)
may already have been deactivated
3 Side airbags for driver and passenger either at the time of manufacture or by a
(front and rear*)
BMW center. You may have them activated if you desire to do so. Please
contact your BMW center for additional
Protective effect
The front airbags supplement the three- information.<
System operational:
Index
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463de041
The indicator lamp in the instrument cluster displays the operational status of the airbag
system from ignition key position 1 and
up.
Data
Operational status
Overview
55n
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56nAirbags
Sitting correctly with airbags
For your safety, comply with the
following instructions for the
airbags. If you do not, the airbags may
not be able to provide their maximum
protection. All passengers in the vehicle
should be aware of and comply with
this information:
The airbags are supplemental restraint
devices designed to provide extra
protection; they are not a substitute for
safety belts. Wear your safety belt at all
times. The airbags will not be triggered
in the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle roll-over, or collisions from the
rear. In these instances, the safety belt
provides optimal protection.
Airbags are located under cover panels
in the steering wheel, in the dashboard,
in the side trim panels in the front and
rear*, in the roof panels, and in the
sides of the inside roof lining.
Adjust your seat to a position that
provides maximum distance between
you and the steering wheel, the instrument panel and the door while still allowing comfortable and safe access to all
vehicle controls.
To avoid sustaining hand and arm injuries, always grasp the steering wheel
on the rim with the hands at the 9 and
3 o'clock positions. Do not place your
hands on the center pad.
Never allow any objects to obstruct the
area between the airbag and an occupant.
Do not use the cover panel above the
passenger-side airbag as a storage
area.
Do not apply adhesive materials to the
cover panels of the airbags, cover them
or modify them in any other way.
Do not install a rear-facing child
restraint system in the front passenger
seat of this car.
Children under 13 years of age and
children less than 5 feet (150 cm) tall
should only ride in the rear seat.
Infants or small children should never
be held on the lap of a passenger.
If your car is equipped with side airbags
in the rear passenger area*, be sure
that child restraints are mounted
correctly and provided with the greatest-possible distance between the
airbags in the side trim panels. Do not
allow children to lean out of the child's
seat in the direction of the side trim
panels. If they do so, serious injuries
can occur if the airbag is triggered.<
At all times, occupants should sit
upright and be properly restrained
(infants and small children in appropriate 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
as the inflating airbag could cause a
serious or fatal injury. Please note that
the word "Airbag" imprinted on the door
trim panel indicates the airbag's location.
Accident research shows that the
safest place for children in an
automobile is in the rear seat. However,
a child sitting in the rear seat and not
properly restrained may place his or her
head on or near the 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 children in the rear seat will remain
properly positioned at all times and not
place their heads on or near the side
airbag. Therefore, we recommend that
the rear seat side airbags, if so
equipped, be deactivated if children will
travel in the rear seat.
The rear seat side airbags may already
have been deactivated, either at the
time of manufacture or by a BMW
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Airbags
57n
Controls
Technology Repairs
Car care
462us013
This is the right way for a larger child
to sit wearing the safety belt when rear
side airbags (arrow) are provided.
Data
This is the right way for a child to sit in a
child restraint when rear side airbags
(arrow) are provided.
Index
For additional information concerning
the airbag system, refer to pages 147
and 172.
462us012
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 induce a mild
temporary hearing loss in sensitive
individuals.
Overview
center. Labels in the rear door opening
should indicate the status of your rear
seat side airbags. If you are uncertain of
their status, or wish to have the airbags
activated or deactivated, please
contact your BMW center.<
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LATCH attachment of the child
seat
The illustration shows the right rear
seat.
The mounts for the LATCH attachment
of the child seat are located behind the
plastic covers (arrows), and are covered
again once the LATCH attachment of
the child seat has been removed.
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children safely
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58nTransporting
Child-safety locks
On a rear door, push the safety lever
downward:
The door can now be opened from the
outside only.
To mount the LATCH attachment
of the child seat, please follow the
manufacturer's operating and safety
precautions.<
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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 corresponding anchorage point to secure the
child restraint system. Remove the
cover first on the middle location.
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.
Overview
Controls
Car care
Commercially available child seats
complying with the legal standard 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.
Before installing any child restraint
device or child seat, please read
the following:
Never install a rear-facing child restraint
system in the front passenger seat of
this vehicle.
Your vehicle is equipped with an airbag
supplemental restraint system for the
front passenger. Because the backrest
on any rear-facing child restraint system
(of the kind designed for infants under
1 year and 20 lbs./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 dashboard as possible. This
important precaution is intended to
Technology Repairs
392au001
Adjust the tether strap according to the
child restraint manufacturer's instructions.
maximize the distance between the
airbag and the child. Older children
should be tightly secured with the
safety belt. Younger children should be
secured in an appropriate forwardfacing 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 whenever you use such a device.
Be sure that all occupants (of all ages)
remain properly and securely restrained
at all times.c
Data
If the respective seating position is
fitted with a headrest, lift the headrest
and pass the tether strap between the
headrest and the seat back.
59n
Index
Transporting children safely
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children safely
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60nTransporting
Lock the safety belt
Unlock the safety belt
Extract the entire length of the belt from
the inertia reel mechanism. Allow the
reel to retract the belt somewhat and
engage the buckle, then tighten the belt
against the child restraint system. The
retraction mechanism is now locked.
The belt cannot be extracted farther.
Always comply with the installation
instructions provided by the manufacturer of the child restraint system.
Release the safety belt, remove the
child's seat and retract the safety belt
to its end position on the belt retractor.
Child seat security
All of the rear belt retractors and the
front passenger's safety belt can be
locked for mounting and securing child
restraint systems.
Information pertaining to this is located
in the immediate vicinity of the buckle
latch of each safety belt.
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After removing the key, turn the
steering wheel slightly to the left or right
until the lock engages.
If the key has been left in the ignition,
an acoustic signal will sound after the
door has been opened.
Turning the steering wheel slightly to
the right or left often makes it easier to
turn the key from 0 to 1.
Individual electrical devices are ready
for operation.
2 Ignition on
All electrical equipment and accessories are available for use.
3 Starting the engine
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Depress the clutch when starting the
vehicle. A lockout prevents the engine
from starting if the clutch is not
depressed.<
Do not run the engine in enclosed
areas. The exhaust gases contain
carbon monoxide, an odorless and
colorless, but highly toxic gas.
Breathing the exhaust gases poses an
extreme health risk, and can lead to
unconsciousness and death.
Never leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine represents a potential safety hazard.<
Do not press the accelerator pedal
when starting the engine.
Do not actuate the starter for too
short a time, but do not keep
turning it for more than approx.
20 seconds. Release the ignition key
immediately when the engine starts.
Do not allow the engine to warm up by
leaving it running while the vehicle
remains stationary. Instead, drive off
immediately at a moderate engine
speed.<
Overview
Controls
> Engage the parking brake.
> Put the manual-shift gear lever in idle
or in P for an automatic transmission.
> Depress the clutch pedal.
Car care
1 Steering lock disengaged
Before starting
Technology Repairs
The key can be inserted or removed in
this position only.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Do not move the selector lever from the
"Park" position until the engine is
running (ignition key at position 2).
In order to turn the key to position 0 or
to remove it, first move the selector
lever to the position "Park" (Interlock).<
61n
Data
0 Steering lock engaged
Starting the engine
Index
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Steering/Ignition lock
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62nStarting
the engine
If the engine does not 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 start at very low temperatures
approx. +5 7 (–15 6) at high altitude
over 3,300 ft (1000 m):
> On the first start attempt, engage
the starter for a longer period
(approx. 10 seconds).
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Engine idle speed is controlled by the
engine computer system. Increased
speeds at start-up are normal and
should decrease as the engine warms
up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.
Switching off the engine
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Never remove the ignition key
while the vehicle is still moving.
If you did so, the steering lock would
engage when the steering wheel is
turned.
When you leave the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key and engage the
steering lock.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Always engage the parking brake when
parking on slopes and inclined
surfaces, since placing the lever in
1st gear or reverse may not provide
adequate resistance to rolling.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Place the selector lever in "Park."<
To prevent the battery from discharging, always switch off electrical
devices which are not in use and the
ignition when the vehicle is not being
driven.
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The lock engages automatically when
you lift the lever, and the indicator lamp
in the instrument panel comes on when
the ignition key is in position 2. Refer to
page 21.
To release
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the
button (arrow) and lower the lever.
To avoid corrosion and one-sided
braking, apply the parking brake lightly
from time to time when coasting to a
standstill (at a traffic signal, for
instance), provided that it is safe to do
so.
Overview
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
The parking brake is designed primarily
to prevent the vehicle from rolling when
it is parked. It acts on the rear wheels.
If, in exceptional circumstances,
it should be necessary to apply the
parking brake while the vehicle is in
motion, do not pull the lever with excessive pressure. Keep your thumb
pressed against the release button
while carefully pulling the lever up to
apply moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to overbraking and loss of traction (fishtailing)
at the rear axle.
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is applied.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Always apply the parking brake when
parking on slopes and inclined surfaces,
since placing the lever in 1st gear or
reverse may not provide adequate
resistance to rolling.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Place the selector lever in "Park."<
Data
To engage
63n
Index
460us024
Parking brake
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64nManual
transmission
Reverse
360de044
Select "Reverse" only when the vehicle
is stationary. Press the shift lever to the
left to overcome the resistance.
Completely depress the clutch pedal
each time you shift, pressing the
manual-shift gear lever into its respective end position.
As you do this, the backup lamps will
turn on automatically when the ignition
key is in position 2.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or "riding" the
clutch. Use the parking brake instead.
Otherwise, riding the clutch will cause
heavy wear and tear to the clutch.<
Also depress the clutch when starting
the vehicle, as otherwise lockout will
prevent the engine from starting.
The shift lever's neutral plane (dot in the
illustration) is located between 3rd and
4th gears.
When shifting from each gear into
"Neutral," the shift lever returns automatically to this gear plane because
of its spring loading.
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
Starting the engine
The engine can only be started in
selector lever positions P ("Park") or N
("Neutral").
Range selection
A detent prevents inadvertent shifts into
some selector lever positions. To
release the shift-lock mechanism, press
the button on the front side of the
selector handle (arrow).
P Park
Select "Park" only when the vehicle is
stationary. The transmission locks to
prevent the rear wheels from turning.
Overview
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
For additional information concerning
the ATC, please refer to the chapter
describing "Advanced technology" on
page 173.
P R N D M/S + –
R Reverse
Select "Reverse" only when the vehicle
is stationary.
Data
The automatic transmission with Steptronic is equipped with Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC). ATC reacts with
precision to your individual driving style
and the current driving conditions. It is
for this reason that various shift
programs are used.
Selector lever positions
Before leaving the vehicle with the
engine running, move the selector
lever to the "Park" or "Neutral" position
and apply the parking brake. The
vehicle will move if this is not done. Do
not leave the vehicle unattended with
the engine running. An unattended
vehicle with a running engine represents a potential safety hazard.<
N Neutral
Select "Neutral" only if your journey is
interrupted for a longer period.
Index
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. Whenever
you want to use the automatic mode
again, move the selector lever to the
right into position "D."
While the vehicle is stationary
and before shifting out of "Park" or
"Neutral," depress the footbrake, otherwise the selector lever will be blocked
(shiftlock).
Hold the footbrake down until starting
off. Otherwise the vehicle will "creep"
when a drive position is engaged.<
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You have the option of driving with a
normal automatic transmission or
switching to manual.
65n
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66nAutomatic
transmission with Steptronic*
D Drive (automatic shift program)
This position is designed for driving
under all normal operating conditions.
All forward gears are available and the
ATC is fully operational.
You will get maximum vehicle performance in the "kickdown" mode.
To activate this mode, depress the
accelerator pedal beyond the fullthrottle position, at which a resistance
point must be overcome.
463de062
"Kickdown"
M/S Manual mode and Sport
Program
Shifting from D into M/S activates the
Sport Program. This is indicated by
"SD" in the gear selection display. This
position is recommended for a performance-oriented driving style.
Upshifts or downshifts will only be
carried out by the ATC at appropriate
engine speeds and road speeds. If the
engine speed is too high, for instance,
a downshift will not be executed. The
gear selected will appear briefly in the
instrument cluster followed by the
current gear.
To accelerate quickly in the
manual mode (to pass another
vehicle), shift down manually or employ
the "kickdown" mode.<
Shifting from M/S to the selector lever
positions P, R and N is possible only by
going through D.
With the first brief touch, the automatic
transmission shifts from the Sport
Program to the manual mode.
Whenever you tap the selector lever
forward in the "+" direction, the transmission shifts up. Whenever the lever is
moved back in the "–" direction, the
transmission shifts down. M1 to M5
appear in the gear indicator.
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic*
P R N D SD M1 M2 M3 M4 M5
If this happens, avoid extreme engine
loads and consult the nearest BMW
center.
Overview
Controls
Do not perform service operations
in the engine compartment with
a drive position engaged. If you do so,
the vehicle could move.<
Data
Available displays
Wait a few seconds, then start the
engine. If the indicator lamp goes out
after a few seconds, normal transmission performance has been restored.
Drive off normally.
If the indicator lamp does not go out,
all selector lever positions can still be
selected, however in the forward positions the vehicle has limited performance, as it drives only in 3rd and 4th
gear.
For towing, tow-starting or jumpstarting the vehicle, refer to the information beginning on page 167.
Index
460us143
Bring the vehicle to a stop, select transmission position "P," set the parking
brake and turn the engine off (ignition
key to position 0).
Car care
If the indicator lamp comes on,
there is a malfunction in the
transmission system.
Technology Repairs
Electronic transmission control
module
In the following situations, the Steptronic "thinks" for you in the manual
mode:
> In order to prevent engine overspeeding, the transmission shifts
automatically to the next higher gear
shortly before the engine speed
cutoff point.
> At low speeds, the transmission
shifts down automatically – you do
not have to act.
> In the "kickdown" mode, the transmission shifts down to the lowest
gear possible, depending
on the engine speed.
> Depending on the situation – when
driving in adverse winter conditions,
for example – you may also start out
in 2nd or 3rd gear.
67n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
68nTurn
signal indicator/Headlamp flasher
Washer/Wiper system
To signal briefly
463de010
460de085
Press the lever up to but not beyond
the detent. It then returns to the center
position when released.
1 High beams
(blue indicator lamp)
0 Wipers retracted
2 Headlamp flasher
(blue indicator lamp)
2 Normal wipe
3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator
lamp accompanied by periodic
clicking sound from the relay)
4 Brief wipe
If the indicator lamp and the clicking
from the relay are both faster than
normal, one of the turn indicators has
failed.
1 Intermittent mode or rain sensor
3 Fast wipe
5 Cleaning windshield
6 Rotary dial for control of the wipe
interval or the sensitivity of the rain
sensor
Rear window wiper
7 Intermittent mode
8 Cleaning rear window
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Washer/Wiper system
Intermittent mode:
> turn rotary dial 6 briefly or
> use cleaning windshield 5.
To modify the sensitivity of the rain
You can use rotary dial 6 to select from
sensor:
four wipe intervals.
Turn rotary dial 6.
In addition, the wipe interval automatically adapts to variations in road speed. Deactivating the rain sensor:
Put lever in position 0.
Rain sensor:
The rain sensor is positioned on the
windshield, directly ahead of the interior rearview mirror. When the rain
sensor is activated, the windshield
wiper is controlled automatically,
depending on the degree of wetness of
the windshield (in both snow and rain).
You do not have to be concerned with
switching the windshield wiper on or off
or adjusting the wipe interval between
intermittent and full wipe. Instead, you
Turn the rain sensor off when
passing through an automatic car
wash. Failure to do so could result in
damage caused by undesired wiper
activation.<
5 Cleaning windshield
The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and activates the wipers
for a brief period.
If you only pull the lever briefly, the
system sprays washer fluid onto the
windshield without activating the
wipers.
Controls
When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers operate at normal speed (not on
vehicles with rain sensor).
Car care
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,
3 Fast wiper speed
Technology Repairs
1 Intermittent mode or rain
sensor*
From ignition key position 1 and up,
move the lever to position 1. The wipers
travel once across the windshield,
regardless of the weather.
When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers switch automatically to intermittent wipe (not on vehicles with rain
sensor).
Data
463de010
To activate the rain sensor:
2 Normal wiper speed
Index
can concentrate fully on the traffic
conditions. This is especially important
under adverse weather conditions.
Overview
69n
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70nWasher/Wiper
system
Rear window defroster
Cleaning headlamps*
Rear window wiper in intermittent
mode. When reverse gear is engaged,
continuous operation is switched on
automatically
If the headlamps are on, they will also
be cleaned every fifth time you activate
cleaning windshield.
You can also program the interval:
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. Use an antifreeze agent. Refer to page 134.
Do not use the washers when the reservoir is empty. If you do so, the washer
pump could be damaged.<
The illustration shows the button set-up
for vehicles equipped with automatic
Windshield washer jets
climate control. For other layouts, refer
to page 90.
The windshield washer jets are heated
automatically* when the ignition key is
To activate
in position 2.
> Press the button once: as long as the
indicator lamp remains on, the rear
window defroster continues at high
output (rapid thaw).
> Press button twice: the rear window
defroster operates continuously.
> Switch briefly from position 0 to
position 7.
> The time until reactivation (from
position 0 to 7) is the programmed
interval (max. 30 seconds).
8 Cleaning rear window
Washer fluid sprayed on the rear
window.
Refer to page 152 for changing the
wiper blades.
462us036
7 Rear window wiper
To deactivate
If the indicator lamp is still on, press the
button.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Cruise control*
The vehicle can store and automatically
maintain any desired vehicle speed
above approx. 20 mph (30 km/h) that
you input.
Do not use the cruise control on
winding roads, when high traffic
density prevents driving at a constant
speed, when the road surface is slick
(snow, rain, ice), or when the road
surface is loose (rocks, sand).<
If, on a downhill gradient, the
engine braking effect is not sufficient, the controlled speed can be
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill
grades if the engine output is
insufficient.<
Press and hold button 3:
With the cruise control active, the
system automatically reduces the
throttle opening to slow the vehicle.
When you release the button, the
system registers and maintains the
current speed.
Controls
Press and hold button 2:
The vehicle accelerates without pressure on the accelerator pedal. When
you release the button, the system
registers and maintains the current
speed.
Press button 3 briefly:
If you are already driving with active
cruise control, the speed is decreased
by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h) every time
you briefly touch the lever.
Car care
460de077
Press button 2 briefly:
The system registers and maintains the
current vehicle speed. Every time you
briefly touch the button, the speed
increases by 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
To decelerate
Technology Repairs
To store and maintain speed or
to accelerate
Overview
71n
Index
From ignition key position 2:
Press button 1. The indicator lamp in
the instrument cluster comes on. You
can now use the cruise control.
Data
To activate the system
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
72nCruise
control*
To cancel the cruise control
To resume the stored setting
When the system is activated, press
button 1. The indicator lamp stays on.
You can use the cruise control again as
required.
Press button 4:
The vehicle accelerates to and maintains the last speed stored. When you
turn the ignition key to position 0, the
stored speed is deleted from the
system's memory and the system is
deactivated.
In addition, cruise control is canceled
automatically:
> When braking.
> If the clutch is depressed or the automatic transmission selector lever is
moved from "Drive" to "Neutral".
> If you exceed or fall below the
programmed speed for an extended
period (by depressing the accelerator, for example).
To deactivate the system
When the cruise control has been
canceled, press button 1 again. The
indicator lamp goes out and the stored
speed is deleted.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Tachometer
Energy Control
73n
To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the button (arrow) with the ignition key in position 1 and up.
To protect the engine, the enginemanagement system automatically
interrupts the fuel supply in this range;
the resulting effect resembles that
associated with a sudden loss of
power.
Controls
When the vehicle is stationary, the
display goes to "Maximum" (zero on
Canadian models).
Car care
460us080
Indicates current fuel consumption in
mpg (in liters per 100 km on Canadian
vehicles). You can check your current
driving style to see whether it is conducive to economy and minimum exhaust
emissions.
Technology Repairs
2 Trip odometer
Avoid engine speeds in the red warning
zone of the gauge.
Data
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).
Index
1 Odometer
460us079
460us144
Overview
Odometer
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
When you switch on the ignition, the
indicator lamp lights up briefly as a
function check.
Once the indicator lamp stays on
continuously, there are still approx.
2 gallons (8 liters) of fuel left in the fuel
tank.
460us112
Coolant temperature gauge Service Interval Display
460de082
gauge
460us081
74nFuel
Blue
Remaining distance for service
The engine is still cold. Drive at
moderate engine and vehicle speeds.
The displays shown in the illustration
appear for a few seconds when the
ignition key is in position 1 or after the
engine is started.
Red
When you switch on the ignition, the
warning lamp comes on briefly as a
For fuel tank capacity, refer to page 187. function check.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies (extended If the lamp comes on while operating
the vehicle, the engine has overdriving in mountainous areas, for
heated. Switch the engine off immediexample), there may be slight fluctuaately and allow it to cool down.
tions of the needle.
The next service due appears with the
message OIL SERVICE or INSPECTION,
together with the remaining distance
before scheduled service.
The computer bases its calculations
of the remaining distance on the rate of
fuel consumption in the period immediately preceding your data request.
Between the blue and red zones
A flashing display and a "–" in front of
the number indicate that service is past
due by the number of kilometers/miles
displayed. Please contact your BMW
center for an appointment.
Please refuel early, since driving
to the last drop of fuel can result
in damage to the engine and/or catalytic converter.<
Normal operating range. It is not
unusual for the needle to rise as far as
the edge of the red zone in response
to high outside temperatures or
severe operating conditions. Checking
coolant level: refer to page 137.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Clock
75n
Overview
If you wish to have a permanent time
display, you can make this adjustment
in the radio display (refer to the Radio
Owner's Manual).
Controls
From ignition key position 1
1 Inspect the low-beam and high-beam
headlamps, as well as the side lamps
2 Door open
3 Tailgate open
4 Check brake and brake lamps
When you open the driver's door after
stopping with the lights still on, a
warning signal sounds for LIGHTS ON.
To set ahead: turn the right button to
the right.
To set back: turn the right button to the
left.
The adjustment speed will increase the
longer you continue to hold the button
turned to the left.
To change the display mode: press the
knob briefly.
Every time you press the knob, the
clock display alternates between the
12-hour or 24-hour mode.
In ignition key position 0:
The time is displayed for a few seconds
after you press the left button (refer to
"Odometer" on page 73).
Car care
Adjustments
The following information and/or conditions are indicated using symbols,
starting with the ignition key position 2,
until the condition has been corrected:
Technology Repairs
Graphic display
Data
460us078
460de083
You can adjust the clock and the time
display in the car radio as follows.
Index
Check Control
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
76nComputer*
Ice warning
460us146
460de084
If the outside temperature drops to
approx. +37.5 7 (+3 6), the computer
automatically switches to the outside
temperature display. In addition, a
signal sounds as a warning and the
display flashes for a brief period.
Mode selection
Outside temperature
In ignition key positions 1 and 2, 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.
You can change the units of measurement (6/7) for the outside temperature display by pressing the right-hand
reset button in the instrument cluster
when the temperature display is active.
The warning is repeated whenever the
temperature climbs to at least +43 7
(+6 6) following the last warning, and
then drops back to +37.5 7 (+3 6).
The ice warning does not alter the
fact that surface ice can form at
temperatures above +37.5 7 (+3 6),
on bridges or shaded road surfaces, for
instance.<
The displays appear in the following
order:
Time, outside temperature, average fuel
consumption, cruising range, average
vehicle speed.
Starting with ignition key position 1, the
last active setting is displayed.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Computer*
Controls
Range
Average speed
If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average fuel
consumption last displayed is recalculated from that point.
The computer bases its calculations of
the cruising range on the previous
driving style and the amount of fuel
remaining.
If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average speed last
displayed is recalculated from that
point.
Index
Data
Any time spent when the vehicle is
stationary and the engine is shut off is
ignored for the calculation.
Car care
Average fuel consumption
Technology Repairs
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460us148
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Overview
77n
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78nPark
Distance Control (PDC)*
The concept
Acoustical signals
The PDC assists you when you are
parking. A signal warns you of the real
distance to an obstacle. To do this, four
ultrasonic sensors in the rear bumper
measure the distance to the nearest
object. The range for the sensors at the
two rear corners ends approx. 2 ft
(60 cm) from the bumper. The range for
the two center sensors is approx. 4.9 ft
(1.50 meters) wide.
The distance to the nearest object is
indicated by a tone sounding at various
intervals. As the distance between
vehicle and object decreases, the intervals between the tones become shorter.
If the distance between the vehicle and
a detected object is less than 1ft
(30 cm), then a continuous tone will go
off.
The system starts to operate automatically about one second after you select
"Reverse" with the ignition key in position 2. PDC is deactivated when you shift
back out of reverse.
The warning signal is canceled after
approx. three seconds if the distance to
the obstacle remains constant during
this time (if you are moving parallel to
a wall, for instance).
System malfunctions will be indicated
by a continuous high-pitched tone
when the system is activated the first
time. Please refer the problem to your
BMW center.
The PDC does not remove the
driver's personal responsibility for
evaluating the distance between the
vehicle and any obstacles. Even when
sensors are involved, there is a blind
spot in which objects cannot be
detected. This applies especially in
those cases where the system
approaches the physical limits of ultrasonic measurement, as occurs with tow
bars and trailer couplings, and in the
vicinity of thin and painted objects.
Certain sources of sound, such as a
loud radio, could drown the PDC signal
tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free
of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they continue to operate effectively.
Do not apply high-pressure spray to the
sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Maintain a distance of more than 4 in
(10 cm).<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
ASC+T
Controls
Deactivate the ASC+T
Press the button; the indicator lamp
comes on and stays on.
The illustration shows the arrangement
of the buttons if the vehicle is fully
equipped. This may vary, depending on
the equipment actually installed.
In the following rare situations, it may
be effective to deactivate the ASC+T
for a brief period:
Car care
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or if it comes on
during normal driving and stays on:
There is a system malfunction or the
system was deactivated with the
button. Consequently, interventions to
increase driving stability (as described
in the preceding column) are not available. You can still drive the vehicle
perfectly well without ASC+T.
Please consult your BMW center in the
event of a fault, refer to pages 21
and 22.
Technology Repairs
ASC+T is available as soon as the
engine starts up.
Indicator lamp flashes:
ASC+T controls the drive and braking
forces.
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose
surfaces.
> When driving with snow chains.
Refer also to page 121.
Data
The indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out shortly
after you switch on the ignition.
Refer to pages 21 and 22.
To maintain vehicle stability,
always drive with the ASC+T
activated whenever possible.<
Index
Indicator lamp
This systems enhances driving stability
and traction, especially when you are
just starting off, accelerating or in
curves.
ASC+T recognizes the danger present
in traction loss and will increase driving
stability and traction by reducing the
engine's output, and if necessary, by
applying the brakes to the rear wheels.
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The concept
Overview
79n
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80nASC+T
Reactivate the ASC+T
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with ASC+T. It will
always be the driver's responsibility to
drive in a manner that matches road
conditions. This is why you should not
use the additional safety margin the
system provides as an excuse to take
risks.<
For additional informations concerning
ASC+T, please refer to "Advanced
Technology" on page 173.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
DSC* – BMW 325i
The DSC is operational every time you
start the engine. DSC contains the
functions of ADB and CBC, refer to
page 117.
The ADB (Automatic Differential
Braking) copies the function of conventional differential and transverse lock
through brake intervention, and
increases traction whenever conditions
merit, e.g. when driving on snowcovered roads.
If the DSC is switched off the ADB will
still be in ready mode.
The indicator lamp and the
brake warning lamp lights up
continuously:
The DSC, ADB and DBC have
been switched off via the button
or are defective.
Indicator and warning lamps for
Canadian models.
You can continue to drive the vehicle
normally, but without DSC. Please
consult your BMW center in the event
of a malfunction, refer to pages 21
and 22.
Controls
The indicator lamp lights up continuously:
The DSC has been turned off via the
switch; ADB is ready to use.
ADB intervention is not indicated.
Deactivate DSC/activate ADB
Press the DSC button briefly, the indicator lamp lights up continuously.
The DSC has been switched off; ADB is
operational.
In the following exceptional circumstances, it may be effective to deactivate the ADB for a short period:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose
surfaces.
> When driving on snow-covered
grades, in deep snow, or on a snowcovered surface that has been
packed down from being driven on.
> When driving with snow chains.
Refer also to page 121.
The gain in traction is achieved by a
reduction in stabilizing intervention.
Car care
Indicator lamp flashes:
DSC is active and governs the drive
force and braking force.
Technology Repairs
The system optimizes vehicle stability
during acceleration and when starting
from a full stop, as well as optimizing
traction. In addition, the system recognizes unstable vehicle conditions
(understeering or oversteering, for
example) and helps hold the vehicle on
a sure course by intervening via the
engine and by braking intervention at
the individual wheels.
Data
The indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out shortly
after you switch on the ignition.
Refer to pages 21 and 22.
Index
Indicator lamp
DSC helps maintain vehicle stability,
even in critical driving situations.
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The concept
Overview
81n
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82nDSC*
– BMW 325i
Deactivate DSC and ADB
Reactivate DSC and ADB
Hold the DSC switch down for at least
3 seconds. The indicator and the yellow
brake warning lamps will remain on the
entire time.
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp or the indicator lamps will go out.
In this case, no interventions to
increase stability and traction for engine
and brakes are carried out.
To maintain vehicle stability,
always drive with the DSC on
whenever possible.<
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. It will
always be the driver's responsibility to
drive in a manner that matches road
conditions. We therefore urge you to
avoid using the additional safety margin
of the system as an excuse for taking
risks.
Whenever the ADB is activated, the
DSC is switched off and will not
perform any stabilizing intervention.
Do not make any modifications to the
DSC system. Allow only authorized
technicians to perform service procedures on the DSC.<
For additional information concerning
DSC, please refer to the chapter
"Advanced technology" on page 173.
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DSC – BMW 325xi
The ADB-X (Automatic Differential
Braking) replaces the function of
conventional differential and transverse
lock through brake intervention, and
increases traction whenever conditions
merit, e.g. when driving on snowcovered streets.
The vehicle will remain completely
operational, however, without DSC. In
the event of a fault, please see your
BMW center. Refer to pages 21, 22.
Overview
Controls
Deactivate the DSC
Press the DSC button; the indicator
lamp comes on and stays on.
The DSC has been switched off and the
ADB-X is designed for maximum
output.
In the following exceptional circumstances, it may be effective to deactivate the DSC for a short period:
Indicator lamp
> When rocking the vehicle or starting
off in deep snow or on loose
surfaces.
> When driving with snow chains. Refer
also to page 121.
The indicator lamp on the instrument cluster will go out shortly
after the ignition has been
started. Refer to pages 21, 22.
To maintain vehicle stability,
always drive with the DSC on
whenever possible.<
Car care
If the indicator lamp does not go
out after repeatedly pressing the
DSC switch, then the DSC and the
ADB-X are defective, and the intervention described to the right is then no
longer available.<
Technology Repairs
The DSC is operational every time you
start the engine. DSC contains ADB-X
und DBC, refer to page 118.
The indicator lamp stays lit:
DSC is switched off via the switch;
ADB-X is operational.
ADB-X intervention not indicated.
Data
The system enhances vehicle stability
during acceleration and when starting
up from a full stop, and optimizes traction as well. In addition, it recognizes
unstable vehicle conditions, such as
understeering or oversteering, and, as
far as is possible within the laws of
physics, helps keep the vehicle on a
steady course by reducing the engine
output and brake applications to the
individual wheels.
If the indicator lamp flashes:
DSC controls the drive and braking
forces.
Index
DSC maintains vehicle stability, even in
critical driving situations.
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The concept
83n
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84nDSC
– BMW 325xi
Reactivate the DSC
Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.
The laws of physics cannot be
repealed, even with DSC. It will
always be the driver's responsibility to
drive in a manner that matches road
conditions. We therefore urge you to
avoid using the additional safety margin
of the system as an excuse for taking
risks.
Whenever the DSC has been switched
off, it will not perform any stabilizing
intervention.
Do not make any changes to the DSC.
Allow only authorized technicians to
perform service procedures on the
DSC.<
For additional information concerning
DSC, please refer to "Advanced technology" on page 171.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Tire Pressure Control (RDC)*
Depending on the type of equipment,
This indicator lamp in the instru- the switch either has the letters RDC on
ment cluster informs you when- it or the RDC-symbol.
ever the tire pressure is not
1 Turn the ignition key to position 2
normal.
(do not start the engine).
2 Press the switch long enough for the
indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster to light up yellow for a few
seconds.
3 After a few minutes driving time, the
RDC sets the current inflation pressure in the tires as the target values
to be monitored.
You will only have to repeat this procedure following a correction of the tire
inflation pressure. Otherwise, the RDC
functions automatically when the ignition key is in position 2, and thus operates whenever the vehicle is driven.
If you are prompted to check the
tire pressure shortly after a
correction has been made, this indicates that the corrected values were
not accurate. Please check the inflation
pressure again and make corrections
according to the inflation pressure
table. Then activate the system once
again.<
Controls
Data
Activate the system
This alerts you that you should have the
tires inflated to the specified pressures
as soon as possible.
Index
In order for the RDC system to "learn"
the correct tire inflation pressure, first
check the tire inflation pressure in all
tires. Then compare these pressures
with the tire inflation pressure chart
(page 29) and adjust if necessary. Then
activate the system.
Car care
If the inflation pressure has dropped
significantly over a long period of time
(which is normal for any tire), the indicator lamp will come on with a yellow
lamp.
Technology Repairs
Loss of tire pressure
The 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 pressure in one or more tires.
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The concept
Overview
85n
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86nTire
Pressure Control (RDC)*
Flat tire
The RDC cannot alert you to
severe and sudden tire damage
If there is a tire failure with loss of pressure, the indicator lamp comes on with caused by external factors.<
a red lamp. In addition, an acoustic
Have the tires changed by your
signal goes off.
BMW center.
If this occurs, reduce vehicle speed
Your BMW center has been trained to
immediately and stop the vehicle in a
work with the RDC system and is
safe location. Avoid hard brake applicaequipped with the necessary special
tions. Do not oversteer. Replace the
tools.<
wheel and flat tire.
The space-saver spare tire is
provided for temporary use only
in the event of a tire failure. It does not
have RDC electronics and is not monitored. A full-size spare tire that has the
same dimensions as the tires already
mounted on the vehicle is equipped
with the necessary RDC electronics,
and will also be monitored once the
tires have been mounted and the
system activated.<
System interference
The RDC may encounter interference
from outside equipment or devices
which use the same radio frequency.
The indicator lamp will come on with
a yellow lamp during the malfunction.
The indicator lamp also comes on
> in the event of a system fault
> if a wheel is mounted without the
RDC electronics
> if, in addition to the spare tire, additional wheels with RDC electronics
are on board.
Please contact your BMW center for
additional information.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Instrument lighting
87n
When you switch the ignition off
with the low beam headlamps
on, only the parking lamps will
remain on.
Overview
Controls
Daytime running lamps*
If you desire, the lamp switch can be
left in the second position:
When the ignition is switched off, the
external lighting is also switched off.
Technology Repairs
Low beam headlamps
Turn the rotary dial to adjust the illumination intensity.
Data
With the switch in this position,
the front, rear and side vehicle
lighting comes on. As an additional feature, you can illuminate your
vehicle on either side for parking, refer
to page 88.
When you open the driver's door after
turning the ignition key to position 0, an
acoustic signal will go off for a few
seconds to remind you when the headlamps have not been switched off .
Index
Side lamps
"LAMPS ON" warning
460us036
460us035
"Follow-Me-Home" lamps:
If you actuate the headlamp
flasher after you have turned the vehicle
off, the low beams will come on for a
brief period. You may also have this
function deactivated if you wish.<
Car care
Side lamps/Low beams
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
1 High beams
(blue indicator lamp)
Fog lamps
A green indicator lamp comes
on in the instrument cluster to
indicate that the front fog lamps
2 Headlamp flasher
(blue indicator lamp)
3 Parking lamp
Parking 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.
are on.
Interior lamps
460de039
Fog lamp
460us038
460de085
88nHigh beams/Parking lamps
The illustration provides an example of
the interior lamps when equipped with
reading lamps.
The interior lamps operate
automatically.
To switch the interior lamps on
and off manually
Press the button briefly.
If you want the interior lamps to remain
off all the time, press and hold the
button for approx. 3 seconds.
To revert to normal operation, press the
button briefly.
Footwell lamps*
The footwell lamps operate in the same
way as the interior lamps.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Interior lamps
Reading lamps, rear
The reading lamps can be switched on
and off with the switch adjacent ot each
lamp.
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
The reading lamps can be switched on
and off with the switch adjacent to each
lamp.
Data
Reading lamps, front
Index
463de009
In order to prevent draining the
battery, all of the lamps in the
vehicle are switched off automatically
approx. 15 minutes after the ignition
key is turned to position 0.<
Overview
89n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
conditioner
460us299
90nAir
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
3 Ventilation for the front footwell
There are corresponding air vents in
the rear footwell as well
4 Air supply
Heating and ventilation are available
starting with position 1. Refer to
page 92
5 Temperature 92
6 Air distribution toward
> the windows
> the upper body
> the footwell
All intermediate settings are possible.
Refer to page 92
7 Rear window defroster 92
8 Air conditioner 92
Overview
Controls
Car care
2 Air flow for the upper body
The side rotary dials allow you to
open and close the air supply through
an infinitely-variable range, while the
levers change the airflow direction.
The center rotary dial controls the
temperature of the air as it flows out.
Refer to page 92
Technology Repairs
1 Air onto the windshield and onto the
side windows
91n
Data
Air conditioner
Index
9 Recirculated-air mode 92
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
92nAir
conditioner
Air supply
Rear window defroster
Recirculated-air mode
You can select fan speeds
from 1 to 4. The greater the air
supply, the more effective the
heating and ventilation are. In
position 0, the fan and the heater are
switched off. By using position 0, you
can totally block the interior ventilation
outlets by pressing the button for the
recirculated-air mode.
When the rear window defroster
is activated, the indicator lamp
comes on. The rear window defroster
switches off automatically. Refer to
page 70.
You can respond to unpleasant
external odors by temporarily
blocking the outside air. The system
then recirculates the air already within
the vehicle.
Air conditioner
If the windows fog over in the
recirculated air mode, switch the
recirculated air off and increase the air
supply as required.<
Temperature
In order to increase the
temperature of the passenger
compartment, turn it to the
right (red). Temperature regulation will keep the interior temperature
you have selected constant.
Air distribution
You can direct air to flow onto
the windows
, toward the
upper body
and into the
footwell
. You can also
make all intermediate settings. In the
setting, there is a low flow of air onto
the windows to keep them free of
condensation. The "6 o'clock" setting is
recommended as a normal setting (refer
also to the illustration and overview on
page 90).
The air is cooled and dehumidified and – depending on the
temperature setting – rewarmed when
the air conditioner system is switched
on.
Depending on the weather, the windshield may fog over briefly when the
engine is started.
Use the button to switch the air conditioner off at outside temperatures
below approx. 41 7(+5 6). This will
help to prevent the windows from
fogging up.
If the windows fog over after switching
the air conditioner off, switch it back
on.
Condensation forms in the air
conditioner system during operation, which then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
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Air conditioner
93n
Overview
Controls
Rapid ventilation
You can adjust the blower controls for
the upper body area to select the
optimum airflow rates and directions for
your personal requirements:
1 Set the fan speed control for the air
flow rate to position 4.
2 Switch on the air conditioner.
3 Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the left (blue).
4 Rotary control for air distribution in
position
.
5 Open the air outlets for the upper
body.
Set the outlets so that the air flows past
you and is not directed straight at you.
Rotary dial 3 allows you to control the
temperature of the air flow from these
outlets as desired.
Index
Use rotary dials 1 to open and close the
air outlets through an infinitely-variable
range. You can adjust the direction of
the airflow with rotary dial 2.
Data
Draft-free ventilation
Car care
For additional details on the filter
change, refer to page 165.
Technology Repairs
An activated-charcoal microfilter, which
traps incoming dust and pollen, has
been installed in your vehicle. Your
BMW center will replace the it during
regularly scheduled maintenance. A
substantial reduction in air supply indicates that the filter must be replaced
before normal maintenance.
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Microfilter
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Rapid heating
1 Set the fan speed control for the air
flow rate to position 3.
2 Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the right (red).
3 Rotary control for air distribution in
position
.
Defrost windows and remove
condensation
1 Set the fan speed control for the air
flow rate to position 4.
2 Turn the rotary temperature control
completely to the right (red).
3 Rotary control for air distribution in
position
.
4 Switch on the rear window defroster
to defrost the rear window.
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conditioner
463de019
94nAir
Heating
When the windows are free of ice and
condensation, we recommend the
following settings:
1 Set the fan speed control for the air
flow rate to position 2.
2 Use the rotary temperature control to
select an interior temperature which
is comfortable for you.
3 Rotary control for air distribution in
position
.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Index
Data
Technology Repairs
Car care
Controls
Overview
95n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
climate control*
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96nAutomatic
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
3 Front footwell ventilation
There are corresponding air vents in
the rear footwell as well
4 Recirculated air mode/Automatic
recirculated air control (AUC) 99
5 Air supply 99
6 Temperature 98
7 Automatic air distribution 98
8 Individual air distribution 98
9 Air grill for interior temperature
sensor – please keep clear and
unobstructed
Overview
Controls
2 Air flow toward the upper body
The side rotary dials provide infinitely-variable regulation of the air
supply, while the levers change the
air-flow direction. The center rotary
dial controls the temperature of the
air as it flows out. Refer to page 100
Car care
1 Air onto the windshield and the side
windows
97n
Technology Repairs
Automatic climate control*
11 Defrost windows and remove
condensation 99
Data
10 Display for temperature and air
supply 98
12 Air conditioner 99
Index
13 Rear window defroster 70, 99
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
98nAutomatic
climate control*
Tips for pleasant driving
Automatic air distribution
Temperature
Use the automatic system (switch on
AUTO button 7). Select an interior
temperature that is comfortable for
you – we recommend +72 7 (+22 6).
When the outside temperature is above
+41 7 (+5 6), you can also use the air
conditioner 12. This will dry the air as
well as preventing condensation on the
window surfaces – if there are passengers with damp clothing, for example.
Set the outlets 2 so that the air flows
past you and is not directed straight at
you. Set the rotary dial between the air
outlets 2 for the upper body to a
medium position, since air that is somewhat cooler promotes driving without
fatigue.
The AUTO program assumes
the adjustment of the air distribution and the air supply for you and
adapts the temperature to external
influences (summer, winter) to meet
preferences you can specify. This
program maintains a comfortable in-car
climate regardless of the season. Select
an interior temperature that is comfortable for you – we recommend +72 7
(+22 6). The selected temperature
and
AUTO for the air flow appear in
the display 10 (refer to the overview on
page 96). Open the air outlets for the
upper body area. Switch on the air
conditioner in warm weather. The
maximum cooling capacity is achieved
when you set rotary dial 3 (refer to
page 100) to cold.
The figures in the display
provide a general indication of
interior temperature. We recommend
+72 7 (+22 6) as a comfortable
setting, whether the air conditioner is
operating or not. When you start the
vehicle, the system ensures that the
selected temperature is reached as
quickly as possible. It then maintains
this temperature, regardless of the
season.
Detailed setting options are described
for you in the following section.
Individual air distribution
You can cancel the AUTO
program by selecting specific
distribution patterns to suit your
own individual requirements.
You can direct air to flow onto the
windows , toward the upper body
and into the footwell
.
Set rotary dial 3 (refer to "Draft-free
ventilation" on page 100) to a medium
setting, since air that is somewhat
cooler promotes driving without fatigue.
You can use this setting for mixing air to
make minor comfort modifications.
You can set uncontrolled heater
output up to +90 7 (+32 6). At
+60 7 (+16 6), full cooling output is
available from an activated air conditioner.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Automatic climate control*
Defrost windows and remove
condensation
This program quickly removes
ice and condensation from the
windshield and side windows.
Condensation forms in the air
conditioner system during operation, that then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<
Automatic recirculated air control
(AUC)
You can respond to unpleasant
external odors by temporarily
blocking the outside air. The system
then recirculates the air already within
the vehicle. By repeated actuation of
the button, you can select one of three
different operation modes.
If the windows fog over in the
recirculated air mode, switch this
mode off and increase the air supply as
required.<
Rear window defroster
When the rear window defroster
is turned on, the indicator lamp
comes on; refer to page 70.
Overview
Controls
Car care
> Indicator lamps off: fresh air flows
into the vehicle.
The air is cooled and dehumidi> Left-hand indicator lamp on – AUC
fied and – depending on the
mode: the system detects pollutants
temperature setting – rewarmed when
in the outside air and responds by
the air conditioner system is switched
deactivating the outside air flow as
on.
required. The system then recircuDepending on the weather, the windlates the air already within the vehicle.
shield may fog over briefly when the
Depending on air quality requireengine is started.
ments, the system automatically
Use the button to switch the air condiswitches between outside air supply
tioner off when outside air temperatures
and recirculation of the air already
are below approx. +41 7 (+5 6). This
within the vehicle.
will help to prevent the windows from
>
Right-hand indicator lamp on: the
fogging up.
flow of outside air is permanently
If the windows fog over after switching
blocked. The system recirculates the
the air conditioner off, switch it back on.
air already within the vehicle.
Technology Repairs
When you set the lowest blower speed
by pressing the left half of the button,
all of the displays are canceled: the
blower, heating and air conditioner are
switched off, and the air supply stops.
You can reactivate the system by
pressing any button of the automatic
climate control.
Air conditioner
Data
By pressing the left or right half
of the button, you can vary the
air supply. By doing this, you switch off
the automatic control for the air supply.
Nevertheless, the automatic air distribution remains unchanged.
Index
Air supply
99n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
100nAutomatic
climate control*
Seat heating*
Draft-free ventilation
You can adjust the blower controls for
the upper body area to select the
optimum airflow rates and directions for
your personal comfort:
Use rotary dials 1 to open and close the
air outlets through an infinitely-variable
range. You can adjust the direction of
the airflow with rotary dial 2.
Set the air outlets so that the air flows
past you and is not directed straight
at you.
The rotary dial 3 allows you to mix the air
from the outlets for the upper body with
more or less cool air.
The microfilter has been installed to
catch any incoming dust and pollen.
The activated-charcoal filter provides
additional protection by filtering
gaseous pollutants from the outside air.
Your BMW center can replace the
combined filter as a standard part of
your scheduled maintenance.
A substantial reduction in air flow indicates that the filter needs to be
replaced early.
For additional information on filter
removal, refer to page 165.
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460de040
Microfilter/Activated-charcoal
filter
The seat cushion and backrest can
be heated with the ignition key in position 2.
You can call up different heating modes
by repeatedly pressing the buttons.
When the three indicator lamps are illuminated, the highest heating mode is
activated. One lamp indicates the
lowest heating mode. The temperature
is regulated with a thermostat in each
mode.
You can also switch the higher heating
modes off directly:
Press and hold the button slightly
longer.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Glove compartment
To open
Special acoustical effects are activated
or deactivated every time you press the
button.
Pull the handle. The lamp comes on.
When the system is activated, the
impression of a significantly larger
passenger compartment is created at
all seating areas, together with an
improvement of the stereo effect.
Fold the door up.
When reception is weak, the system
frequently switches between stereo
and mono operation. Switch off if this
occurs.
To closing
To lock
Lock with one of the master keys. A
master key can also be used for
unlocking.
If you turn over only your door and
ignition keys for valet parking
(refer to page 32), for instance, access
to the glove compartment is not
possible.<
Be sure that the flashlight is
switched off when it is inserted
into its holder. Failure to comply with
this precaution could lead to overcharging and damage.<
Controls
Data
HiFi system – harman kardon
The flashlight is located on the lefthand side of the glove compartment.
It features integral overload-protection
so it can be left in its holder continuously.
Index
460de041
460us287
Rechargeable flashlight
Car care
To prevent injury in the event of
a crash, close the glove compartment immediately after use.<
Overview
101n
Technology Repairs
HiFi system*
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Open the storage compartment in the
front center armrest*: press the button
(arrow) and lift upward.
You will find additional storage areas in
the front doors and in the center
console above the ashtray. Storage
nets* are located on the backs of the
front seats.
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compartments
460us043
102nStorage
Beverage holder, coin box
Rear center armrest
A coin box and two beverage holders
are provided in the center console.
There is a storage compartment, a
beverage holder (for two drinks) and a
garbage bag holder located in the rear
center armrest.
1 Storage compartment: pull upward (1)
2 Beverage holder: press (2)
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Cellular phone*
103n
Overview
Controls
Storage package*
Hands-free system
For your convenience, there are:
On vehicles that are wired for a telephone*, the cover for the hands-free
microphone is located in the headliner
near the interior lamp.
Data
For further information on the cellular
phone, refer to the separate Owner's
Manual.
Index
> Two flip-out sockets on the rear
center console (arrows).
> An eyeglasses compartment * (not
shown in the illustration) in the front
center console above the ashtray.
Car care
463us012
460de299
Additional storage areas are located
under both the cargo area and under
the spare wheel/space-saver tire panel.
Technology Repairs
Storage compartments
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
To open
To empty
Press briefly in the direction indicated
by the arrow.
Open the lid and press down (arrow):
You can now pull the ashtray upward
for removal.
To extinguish a cigarette, tap off the
ash and gently press the tip into the
funnel.
460us290
Cigarette lighter
460us289
front
460us288
104nAshtray,
Press the lighter in. It can be remove as
soon as it pops up.
Hold or touch the hot cigarette
lighter by the knob only. Holding
or touching it in other areas could result
in burns.
The cigarette lighter remains operational when the ignition key has been
removed. For this reason, children
should never be left in the vehicle
unattended.<
Cigarette lighter socket
This socket can be used for connecting
a flashlight, car vacuum cleaner, or other
appliances up to approx. 200 watts at
12 volts. Avoid damaging the socket due
to inserting plugs of different shapes or
sizes.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Power outlet
105n
Press on the edge of the raised cover
in the opening direction (arrow). You
can now pull the ashtray upward for
removal.
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
To empty
A flip-out socket (12 V) is located in the
luggage compartment.
Data
Push the cover open.
Index
To open
463us008
460de104
Overview
Ashtray, rear
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
106nSki
bag*
Loading
1 Fold the center armrest outward.
Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the
armrest.
2 Press the button (arrow 1) from inside
the passenger compartment: the cover
panel will fall to the luggage compartment floor.
3 Press the detent lever (arrow 2)
downward and fold the cover to the
front.
4 Extend the ski bag between the front
seats. The zipper provides convenient access to the inside of the bag,
and can also be left open to promote
drying.
380de070
The length of the ski bag and the additional space provided in the luggage
compartment make it possible to carry
skis up to 6.8 feet long (2.10 meters).
Because of the tapered shape of the
bag, the ski bag can only accommodate
two pairs of skis that are 6.8 feet
(2.10 meters) long.
463de048
The ski bag allows the safe and clean
transport of up to four pairs of standard
skis or up to two snowboards.
Secure the skis or other objects in
the bag by tightening the strap
with the buckle.<
Please be sure that the skis are clean
before loading them into the bag. Be
careful to avoid damage from sharp
edges.
To store the ski bag, perform the above
steps in reverse sequence.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Cargo area
When you close the backrest, be
sure that the catch engages
securely. The red warning indicator
disappears into the recess.<
The cover will support light objects
such as items of clothing.
Controls
Do not allow the partition net to
Never put any heavy or hard
snap back. Doing so could cause
objects onto the roll-up cover,
injury
and the partition net could be
otherwise, vehicle occupants could be
injured during braking or in an accident. damaged.<
Do not allow the cover to snap back,
When the rear backrests are folded
since this could damage it.<
down, you can store the cassette on
the back of the seats, pull the partition
net out from there and insert it in the
front holders (refer to the next page).
Car care
392de163
Pull the partition net out by the straps.
Hold the bar on both sides and insert it
into the holder. It is easiest to do this
from the back seat.
Technology Repairs
The backrest of the rear seat is divided
into two portions, one-third and twothirds of the seat respectively. You can
fold either section of the backrest down
separately in order to increase the
capacity of the luggage compartment.
Partition net*
Pull the roll-up cover out and hook it
into the brackets.
Data
Reach into the recess and pull forward
(arrow).
Roll-up cover
Index
Rear backrest that can be folded
forward
392de162
392de161
Overview
107n
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108nCargo
area
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463de046
The cassette always has to be
pushed all the way into both guide
rails from the right side, or else it might
be jammed in asymmetrically. In addition, the door's interior paneling could
be damaged when shutting the door.<
Remove the roll-up cover and
partition net
Store with rear backrest folded
down
1 Press the side buttons simultaneously (arrow 1).
2 Pull the cassette out the back
(arrow 2).
The take-up guides for the cassette are
attached to the back sides of the seatbacks (arrows 1).
Installation
Simply slide the cassette forward in the
two side holders until it engages.
As shown in the illustration, push the
cassette in from the right side until it
clicks into place (arrow 2). When doing
this, the roll-up cover must always point
in the direction of travel, and the strap
for the partition net must point upward.
You can pull the partition net out and
insert it in the holders above it in the
upper roof area.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Cargo area
Controls
Car care
Open the side covers by pressing the
button.
Technology Repairs
Side covers
To raise and secure the floor panel, lift
it by the ring and hook it into the rubber
seal of the run-off gutter with the
hanger (arrow).
Data
Floor panel
Index
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463de008
Overview
109n
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463de032
loading
463de002
110nCargo
Stowing cargo
Securing the load
If you are transporting a load in your
BMW:
> Secure smaller, light pieces with the
retaining straps or a luggage net *, or
use luggage straps (refer to page 40).
> For large, heavy pieces, see your
BMW center for load-securing
devices*. Use the lashing eyes
(arrow) affixed to the four inside
corners in the luggage compartment
for securing the load.
> Comply with the information enclosed
with the load-securing devices.
> Load heavy cargo as far forward as
possible – directly behind the backrests or the luggage compartment
partition – and as low as possible.
> Cover sharp edges and corners.
> Do not pile objects higher than the
top edge of the backrest.
> Pull the partition net* out (refer to
previous page). Be sure that items
carried in the rear cannot slip through
the partition net*.
> If you are transporting very heavy
loads when the rear seat is not occupied, secure the outer safety belts in
the opposite buckles.
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 186). If you do, safe
operation 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 compartment. If you do so, they may be
projected through the air during braking
and evasive maneuvers, thus endangering vehicle occupants.<
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A special luggage system is available
as an option for your BMW. Please
observe the precautions included with
the installation instructions.
Because roof racks raise the center of
gravity of the vehicle when loaded, they
exercise a major effect on its handling
and steering response.
You should therefore always remember
not to exceed the approved roof weight,
the approved gross vehicle weight or
the axle weights when loading the rack.
You will find the specifications under
"Technical Data" on page 186.
The roof load increases aerodynamic
resistance, resulting in increased fuel
consumption and additional stresses
on the vehicle's body.
Overview
Controls
Car care
Drive smoothly and avoid sudden
acceleration or braking. Do not corner
at high speeds.
Technology Repairs
Access to the mounting points:
To fold up the cover (arrow), please use
the tool which is provided with the
luggage system.
Secure the roof luggage correctly and
tightly to prevent it from shifting or
being lost during driving (danger to
following traffic).
Data
Mounting points
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
tailgate.
111n
Index
463de045
Roof-mounted luggage rack*
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112n
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Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications 148
California Proposition
65 Warning 148
OBD interface socket 149
Operation, care
and maintenance
Controls
Car care
Controls and features
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technology Repairs
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 140
Caring for your vehicle 141
Airbags 147
Vehicle storage 147
Overview
Technical data
Data
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 124
Tire condition 124
Tire replacement 125
Tire rotation 126
Wheel and tire
combinations 127
Winter tires 128
Snow chains 128
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 129
Under the hood:
Hood 130
Engine compartment 132
Washer fluids 134
Washer nozzles 134
Engine oil 135
Coolant 137
Brake fluid 138
Vehicle Identification
Number 139
Index
Index
Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedures 114
Driving notes 115
Catalytic converter 115
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 116
Disc brakes 118
Brake system 120
Winter operation 121
Power steering 123
Cellular phone 123
Radio reception 123
Overview
113n
Car care
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114nBreak-in
procedures
To ensure maximum economy and a
long service life, we request that you
observe the following suggestions.
Engine and differential
Up to 1,200 miles (2,000 km):
Drive at varying engine speeds and road
speeds, but do not exceed the following
engine or road speeds during this time:
4,500 rpm or 100 mph (160 km/h).
Obey your local and state maximum
speed limits.
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid
pressing the accelerator beyond the
"kickdown" point.
After you have driven 1,200 miles
(2,000 km), you can gradually increase
the engine and road speeds.
You should also comply with these
break-in procedures if the engine or
differential is replaced at a later point.
Tires
Brake system
Due to technical factors associated
with their manufacture, tires do not
achieve their full traction potential until
an initial break-in period has elapsed.
Thus drive with extra care during the
initial 200 miles (300 km).
After approximately 300 miles (500 km),
the brake pads and discs achieve the
optimal pad surface and wear patterns
required for trouble-free operation and
long service life.
Obey your local and state maximum
speed limits.
To break in the separate parking brake
drums, apply the parking brake lightly
when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic
signal, for instance), provided that
traffic conditions allow you to do so.
To avoid corrosion, repeat this procedure from time to time.
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 hydroplaThe brake lamps do not come on
ning, and can lead to partial or
when the parking brake is applied.
complete loss of traction, vehicle
Vacuum for the brake system servo unit
control and braking effectiveness.
on your BMW is available only when the
Reduce your speed on wet roads.<
engine is running. When you move the
vehicle with the engine off – when
towing, for example – substantially
higher levels of pedal force will be
required to brake the vehicle.<
Clutch
The clutch will also begin to function
optimally after about 300 miles
(500 km). Engage the gears carefully
during the break-in period.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
> Be sure to comply with the scheduled
maintenance requirements.
> Fill the fuel tank well before it is
empty.
> Tow-start only when the engine is
cold. If you attempt to tow-start with
a warm engine, unburned residual
fuel in the catalytic converter could
ignite and cause damage. It is better
to start the vehicle with an outside
starting aid.
> Avoid other situations in which the
fuel is not burned, or burns incompletely, such as engaging the starter
frequently or for extended periods, or
repeated start attempts in which the
engine does not start (stopping and
restarting an engine which is running
properly does not present a problem).
Never allow the engine to run with
any of the spark plug cables
disconnected.
Overview
Controls
To ensure efficient, trouble-free engine
operation and to avoid potential
damage:
Car care
The catalytic converter reduces harmful
exhaust emissions, and is designed for
use with unleaded fuel only.
Even minute quantities of lead would be
enough to permanently damage both
the catalytic converter and the system
oxygen sensor.
Technology Repairs
Clothes hooks:
When suspending clothing from the
hooks, ensure that they will not obstruct
the driver's vision. Do not hang heavy
objects on the hooks. If you do, such
objects could pose the risk of personal
injury during braking or evasive maneuvers.<
115n
Data
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 to 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 aquaplaning or hydroplaning. It is characterized by a partial or complete loss of
contact between the tires and the road
surface. The ultimate results are loss of
steering and braking control.
Driving through water:
When there is water on the roads, do
not drive in it if it is deeper than 1 ft
(30 cm), and then only at walking speed
at the most, otherwise the vehicle can
sustain damage to the engine, the electrical systems and the transmission.
Roll-up cover:
Never use the rear window shelf to
store heavy or bulky objects. If you do
so, such objects could injure vehicle
occupants during braking or evasive
maneuvers or in a crash.
Catalytic converter
Index
Driving notes
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
116nCatalytic
converter
Be sure to observe the instructions above to prevent unburned
fuel from reaching the catalytic
converter, otherwise, the catalytic
converter could overheat and be
damaged.
High temperatures occur in any vehicle
equipped with a catalytic converter.
Heat shields are installed adjacent to
some sections of the exhaust system.
Never remove these shields; do not
apply undercoating to their surfaces.
When driving, standing at idle, and
parking the vehicle, take care to avoid
contact between the exhaust system
and flammable materials (grass, hay,
leaves etc.). Such contact could lead to
a fire, resulting in personal injury and
property damage.<
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
The concept
Braking with ABS
ABS enhances active driving safety by
helping to prevent the wheels from
locking under braking. The reason:
locked wheels are dangerous. When the
front wheels slide, the driver loses
steering control over the vehicle. Traction loss at the rear wheels can cause
the rear end to break into an uncontrolled skid.
The system is operative once the
vehicle exceeds a speed of approx.
6 mph (10 km/h). It is deactivated once
again below approx. 4 mph (6 km/h).
This means that the wheels can lock in
the final phase of a panic stop – a factor
of no significance in actual use.
The system can achieve the shortest
braking distances possible under most
conditions (on straight-aways and in
curves, on asphalt, ice, wet road
surfaces, etc.).
ABS is designed to meet two essential
requirements during every brake application:
> To help provide vehicle stability.
> Assured ability to steer and
maneuver – on the various road
surfaces (asphalt, concrete, dirt,
wet conditions, snow, ice).
The system can achieve the shortest
braking distances possible under most
conditions (on straight-away and in
curves, on asphalt, ice, wet road
surfaces, etc.).
If you are in a situation that requires full
braking, you will exploit the full benefits
of the ABS system if you apply
maximum brake pressure ("panic
stop"). Since the vehicle maintains
steering responsiveness, you can
nevertheless avoid possible obstacles
with a minimum of steering effort.
The ABS closed-loop control circuit
cycles in fractions of a second. A pulsation at the brake pedal, together with
the sounds associated with the
hydraulic controls, tells you that the
brake system is within its maximum
limit range, and reminds you that you
should adapt road speed to the road
conditions.
On road surfaces that have a loose
surface layer on a firm base with good
traction (on gravel or snow, for
example), or when snow chains are
mounted, braking distances may be
longer than with locked wheels.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
If the brake warning lamps light
up together with the indicator
lamps for ABS and ASC+T/DSC
– refer to page 19 – then the
entire regulating system, the
ABS, CBC and ASC+T/DSC and
ADB/ ADB-X/DBC have failed.
Antilock Brake System (ABS)/
Continue driving cautiously and
Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
defensively. Avoid full brake applicaCBC is an advanced engineering develtions. This could cause the vehicle to
opment of ABS. When braking while
lose stability and you might no longer
cornering at high speed or braking
be able to control it.
during high lateral acceleration, or
Have the system checked by your BMW
when braking during a lane change,
center as soon as possible.
vehicle stability is improved and
steering response is enhanced.
Do not make any modifications to
the ABS system.
Service procedures on ABS are to be
performed by authorized technicians
only.<
Overview
Controls
Car care
ABS warning lamp for Canadian
model.
CBC, ABS und ASC+T/DSC
indicators and warning lamps
for Canadian models.
Technology Repairs
Not even ABS can suspend the laws
of physics. The consequences of brake
applications with inadequate clearances for safety between vehicles,
excessive speed or if aquaplaning
occurs are always the responsibility of
the driver. You should never allow the
added safety of ABS to lull you into a
false sense of security, or mislead you
into taking risks that could affect your
own safety and that of others.
If the ABS warning lamp in the
instrument cluster lights up,
refer to page 22. The brake
system then reverts to conventional
operation as on vehicles without ABS.
However, have the brake system
checked by your BMW center as soon
as possible. To prevent undetected
defects and cumulative faults from
adversely affecting the brake system,
refer any problems to your authorized
BMW center at the earliest opportunity.
Data
Information for your safety
In the event of a malfunction
Index
Nevertheless, ABS possesses the
advantage of vehicle stability and
steering response.
117n
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118nAntilock
Brake System (ABS)
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)*
DBC is included in the DSC, refer to
information beginning on page 81.
If you step on the brake rapidly, this
system automatically produces
maximum braking force boost and thus
helps to achieve the shortest possible
braking distance during "panic stops."
All of the benefits of the ABS system
are exploited under these circumstances.
Do not reduce the pressure on the
brake pedal for the duration of the
brake application. When the brake
pedal is released, the DBC is deactivated.
In the event of a malfunction,
the yellow warning lamp comes
on. Normal braking efficiency
and the anti-lock braking system are
still fully available.
Have the system checked and repaired
at your BMW center as soon as
possible.
Refer to the "Information for your
safety" covering the ABS system.
This information also generally applies
for DBC.<
Disc brakes
Disc brakes furnish optimum deceleration and braking control and greater
fade resistance under heavy use.
When the vehicle is driven only occasionally, during extended periods when
the vehicle is not used at all, and in
operating conditions where brake applications are less frequent, there is an
increased tendency for corrosion of the
discs and accumulation of contamination on the brake pads. This occurs
because the minimal pressure that must
be exerted by the pads to clean the
discs by brake applications is not
reached.
If the brake discs are corroded, they will
tend to respond to braking with a
pulsating effect that even extended
brake applications will fail to cure.
For your own safety: use only
brake pads which BMW has
approved for your specific vehicle
model. BMW cannot evaluate
non-approved brake pads to determine
if they are suited for use, and therefore
cannot ensure the operating safety of
the vehicle if they are installed.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Overview
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
If engine braking should prove to be
inadequate, you should still avoid
extended, continuous braking. Instead
of maintaining low to moderate pressure over an extended period of time,
you should decelerate by applying
more substantial pressure to the brake
pedal (watch for following traffic),
releasing the pedal, and then repeating
the application (staggered braking). The
Maximum braking force is obtained
cooling phases between active braking
while the wheels are not locked, but
intervals prevent the brakes from overrather when they are still barely turning
heating, thus ensuring that full braking
immediately prior to locking. ABS maincapacity remains available at all times.
tains this state automatically. If the ABS
fails, you should revert to the staggered
Do not allow the vehicle to coast
braking technique (refer to page 122).
when the clutch is depressed or
Extended or steep mountain descents
by shifting into neutral while moving. Do
should be driven in the gear in which
not drive when the engine is switched
only minimal periodic brake application off. The engine provides no braking
is required. This avoids excessive strain control when the clutch is depressed or
on the brakes and possible
the transmission is in "Neutral" and
impairment of the braking effect.
there is no power-assist for the brakes
The braking effect of the engine can be when the engine is shut off.
BMW 325xi: have brake inspections
further increased by downshifting, into
performed at a BMW center only. If you
first gear, if necessary. In the manual
do not, parts of the four-wheel drive
mode of the automatic transmission,
system could be damaged.
you can also downshift into first gear.
Do not allow floor mats, carpets or any
Refer to page 66.
other objects to protrude into the area
around the brake pedal, the clutch or
the accelerator which could obstruct
their freedom of movement.<
When driving in wet conditions and in
heavy rain, it is effective to apply light
pressure to the brakes every few miles
or kilometers. Watch traffic conditions
to ensure that this maneuver does not
endanger other drivers. The heat which
is generated by the brake applications
helps to dry the brake pads and discs.
Data
Driving notes
119n
Index
Disc brakes
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120nBrake
system
Brake fluid level
Brake linings
The warning lamp for the brake
comes on with the parking
brake released:
The brake fluid level is too low in the
reservoir (refer to page 138).
The warning lamp for the brake
pads comes on:
The brake pads have reached
their minimum pad thickness. Proceed
to the nearest BMW center as soon as
possible to have the pads replaced.
If the brake fluid level is too low and
brake pedal travel has become noticeably longer, there may be a defect in
one of the brake system's hydraulic
circuits.
Brake warning lamp for Canadian models.
For your own safety: use only
BMW approved brake pads for
your specific vehicle model. BMW
cannot evaluate non-approved brake
pads to determine if they are suited for
use, and therefore cannot ensure the
operating safety of the vehicle if they
are installed.<
Proceed to the nearest BMW
center. Higher brake application
pressure may be necessary under these
conditions, and brake pedal travel may
be significantly longer. Please
remember to adapt your driving style
accordingly.<
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Winter operation
Locks
BMW door lock deicer can be used to
free them if frozen. This deicer also
contains lubricant.
After using the deicer, treatment with
BMW lock cylinder grease is recommended.
surfaces
Snow chains*
BMW snow chains can be mounted on
both summer and winter tires. Mount
them in pairs on the rear wheels only
and comply with the manufacturer's
safety precautions. Do not exceed a
maximum speed of 30 mph (50 km/h).
In this type of exceptional situation
where the snow chains are mounted,
deactivate the ASC+T/DSC. Refer to
page 79.
BMW 325xi: in a worst-case scenario,
i.e. if your vehicle is stuck on one side
or you cannot access one tire, then only
one chain may be attached to a rear
wheel for a short period of time.
Use smooth, gentle pressure to control
the accelerator pedal. Avoid excessive
engine speeds and shift to the next
higher gear at an early point. Downshift
into the next lower gear on ascents or
descents. Maintain an adequate
distance between yourself and the
vehicle ahead.
Overview
Controls
A full range of car care products is
available from your BMW center.< Driving on low-traction road
Car care
When starting off from a full stop in
deep snow or when "rocking" the
vehicle to free it, it may be effective to
deactivate the ASC+T/DSC system for
a short period. Refer to page 79.
Technology Repairs
Be sure that the coolant mixture
contains the year-round ratio of 50:50
water and antifreeze/corrosion protection. This mixture will resist freezing to
approx. –34 7 (–37 6). Replace the
coolant every four years.
Starting off
To prevent the weather stripping from
freezing, apply a spray-on rubber treatment or silicone spray to the door, hood
and tailgate seals.
Data
Coolant
Rubber seals and components
Index
Winter is often accompanied by rapid
changes in weather. Adaptions in
driving style should be accompanied by
preparations on the vehicle itself to
ensure that your vehicle operates safely
and trouble-free throughout the winter
months.
121n
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122nWinter
operation
Braking
Winter road conditions substantially
reduce the amount of traction available
between the tires and the road surface.
Keep this in mind, because the braking
distance increases substantially.
ABS is intended to prevent the wheels
from locking during brake applications,
thus helping to maintain vehicle stability
and steering response.
If the ABS does not respond in a critical
braking situation and the wheels lock:
reduce the pressure on the brake pedal
until the wheels just start to roll again
while still maintaining enough force to
continue braking.
Then increase the pressure, reduce the
pressure when the wheels lock, reapply
pressure etc.
This staggered braking procedure will
reduce braking distances while helping
you maintain steering control.
You can then attempt to steer around
hazards after you have reduced pressure on the brake pedal.
Do not shift down on slick road
surfaces – if you want to decelerate. Doing so could cause the rear
wheels to lose traction and skid, which
could result in the loss of vehicle
control.<
Depress the clutch during hard
braking on road surfaces that
provide only poor or uneven traction.<
Skid control
Depress the clutch and release the
accelerator pedal, or place the selector
lever of the automatic transmission into
the "Neutral" position. Countersteer
carefully and attempt to regain control
of the vehicle.
Parking
Engage 1st or reverse gear. If your
vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transmission, place the selector lever in
"Park." On vehicles with manual transmission, also apply the parking brake
when parking on inclined surfaces. In
order to prevent the parking brake pads
from locking due to frost or corrosion,
dry them by gently applying the parking
brake as the vehicle is coming to a
stop. Make sure that following traffic
is not endangered.
The brake lamps do not come
on when the parking brake is
applied.<
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Power steering
Cellular phone*
Radio reception
Changes in steering response, e. g. high
steering effort:
Consult a BMW center to have the
system checked.
Only mobile communications systems
(cellular phone, radio, etc.) with an
output up to 10 watts are permitted.
Mobile communications devices not
specifically designed for use in your
vehicle may trigger malfunctions while
operating your vehicle. BMW can
neither test nor assume responsibility
for every individual product being
offered on the market. We recommend
that you consult your BMW center
before purchasing any device of this
kind.
The reception and sound quality
obtained from mobile radios vary
according to a variety of factors,
including the broadcast range of the
transmitter and the directional orientation of the antenna. Interference factors
such as high-tension power lines,
structural or natural obstructions can all
lead to unavoidable reception interference, regardless of how well the vehicle
sound system is operating.
Climatic factors such as intense solar
radiation, fog, rain and snow can also
interfere with reception.
Please refer to the Owner's Manual
provided with your sound system for
detailed information on its use.
Overview
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
Before loading the vehicle on a
car-carrier train or driving it
through a car-wash, remove the
antenna.<
Cellular or portable phones not recommended by BMW can also generate
interference in the radio when making
telephone calls. This phenomenon
assumes the form of a low-pitched hum
emanating from the speaker system.
Data
To ensure that your BMW continues to
provide reliable and trouble-free operation, do not use a cellular phone or
other radio device with an antenna
located inside the passenger compartment. The antenna should always be
mounted on the outside of the vehicle.
Index
If the power steering fails,
increased effort will be required to
steer the vehicle.<
123n
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124nTire
inflation pressure
Tire condition
Information for your safety
It is not merely the tire's service life, but
also driving comfort and – above all
else – driving safety that depend on the
condition of the tires and the maintenance of the specified tire pressure.
Incorrect inflation pressure is a frequent
cause of tire damage. It also significantly influences the roadholding ability
of your BMW.
Check the tire inflation pressure –
for the space-saver spare tire or
spare tire – on a regular basis (refer to
page 28), at least twice a month, and
before starting out on any extended
trip. If this is not done, incorrect tire
pressures can cause driving instability
and tire damage, ultimately resulting in
an accident.<
390de331
The factory-approved radial tires are
matched to the vehicle and have been
selected to provide optimum safety and
driving comfort on your vehicle.
Tire tread – tire damage
Inspect your tires frequently for tread
wear, signs of damage and for foreign
objects lodged in the tread. Check the
tread depth.
Tread depth should not be allowed to
go below 0.12 in (3 mm), even though
the legally specified minimum tread
depth is only 0.063 in (1.6 mm). At a
tread depth of 0.063 in (1.6 mm), tread
depth indicators (arrow) in the treadgroove base indicate that the wear
limit – applicable by law throughout
Europe – has been reached. Below
0.12 in (3 mm) tread depth, there is an
increased risk of aquaplaning, even at
relatively moderate speeds and with
only small amounts of water on the
road.
Never continue driving on a
deflated (flat) tire. A flat tire greatly
impairs steering and braking response,
and can lead to complete loss of
control over the vehicle.
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that
the permitted load on the tires is not
exceeded. Overloading can lead to
overheating and increases the rate at
which damage develops inside the
tires. You could have a blowout as a
result.
Unusual vibrations encountered during
normal vehicle operation can indicate
tire failure or some other vehicle defect.
The same applies to irregularities
related to your usual driving style, such
as pulling hard to the left or right.
Should this occur, respond by immediately reducing your speed. Proceed
carefully to the nearest BMW center or
professional tire center, or have the
vehicle towed in to have it and its tires
inspected.
Tire damage (up to and including
sudden and complete air loss) can
endanger the lives of both the vehicle
occupants and other road users.<
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Tire replacement
Tread wear
Temperature
The tread wear grade is a comparative
rating based on the wear rate of the tire
when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test
course.
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B, and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory
For example, a tire graded 150 would
test wheel.
wear one and one-half (1g) times as
well on the government course as a tire Sustained high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to degenerate
graded 100. The relative performance
of tires depends upon the actual condi- and reduce tire life, and excessive
temperature can lead to sudden tire
tions of their use, however, and may
failure. The grade C corresponds to a
depart significantly from the norm due
level of performance which all
to variations in driving habits, service
practices and differences in road char- passenger car tires must meet under
acteristics and climate.
Overview
Controls
The temperature grade for this tire
is established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not overloaded.
Excessive speed, under-inflation, or
excessive loading, either separately or
in combination, can cause heat buildup
and possible tire failure.<
Car care
All passenger car tires must
conform to Federal Safety
Requirements in addition to these
grades.<
The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on straightahead braking traction tests, and does
not include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.<
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.
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. 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.<
Technology Repairs
Treadwear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
The traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured
under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt
and concrete. A tire marked C may have
poor traction performance.
Data
DOT Quality Grades
Traction
Index
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single
tread configuration from a single manufacturer. BMW tests and approves
wheel/tire combinations. Refer to
page 129.
125n
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126nTire
replacement
Tire rotation
Tire age
Between the axles
The date on which the tire was manufactured is indicated by the code on the
sidewall:
DOT ... 4100 indicates that the tire was
manufactured during week 41 of the
year 2000.
The tread wear patterns at the front end
differ from those at the rear – the actual
patterns will vary according to individual driving conditions. In the interests of safety and maintaining optimal
handling characteristics, tire rotation is
not recommended.
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.
Spare tires over 6 years old should be
used only in case of emergency. A tire
of this age should be replaced by a new
tire immediately, and should not be
mounted together with new tires.
If different tire sizes are mounted
on the front and rear axles (refer to
page 129), the wheels may not be
rotated from one axle to the other.<
If a proposed interaxle rotation of tires
is based on economic considerations,
one should consider whether the costs
for the rotation are likely to be recaptured by any increase in the service life
of the tires that might be realized. In
principle, interaxle rotation must be
performed in short intervals, with a
maximum of 3,000 miles (5,000 km).
Consult your BMW center for more
information.
Should you decide to rotate the tires, it
is essential to comply with the following:
Rotate tires on the same side only, since
braking characteristics and road grip
could otherwise be adversely affected.
Following rotation, the tire inflation
pressure should always be corrected.
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Wheel and tire combinations
Codes on radial tires:
Q M+S = up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
T M+S = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H M+S = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
Due to the high speeds this vehicle can
reach, the use of specific brands, specifications and sizes is mandatory.
Consult any BMW center for details.
Comply with local/national regulations.
For example:
Codes stamped on light-alloy wheels:
Nominal width
in mm
Aspect ratio in %
Radial tire code
Rim diameter in inches
Load rating
(not on ZR tires)
Speed rating
(before R on ZR tires)
For example:
The speed rating indicates the approved
maximum speed for the tire.
Protect tire valves from dirt by using
screw-on valve stem caps. Dirt in the
valves frequently leads to slow leaks.
S
T
H
V
W
Y
ZR
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
up to 112 mph (180 km/h)
up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
up to 150 mph (240 km/h)
up to 167 mph (270 km/h)
up to 187 mph (300 km/h)
over 150 mph (240 km/h)
H2
Data
Summer tires:
7 J x 15
Rim width
in inches
Code letter for
flange type
Symbol for full-drop
center rim
Rim diameter in inches
Hump on the 2 rim shoulders
Index
The correct wheel-tire combination affects different systems such
as ABS, ATC and ASC+T/DSC. The
function of these systems is impaired if
improper wheel-tire combinations are
used.
For this reason, use only tires of the
same brand and tread pattern. In the
event of a flat tire, for example, remount
the approved wheel-tire combination as
soon as possible.<
205/60 R 15 91 W
Controls
Winter tires:
The tire codes will aid you in selecting
the correct tire.
Car care
Codes on tires and wheels
Use only tires approved by BMW.
Refer to the information beginning on
page 129.
Technology Repairs
The right choice
Overview
127n
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128nWinter
tires
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends winter tires (M+S
radial tires) for driving in adverse winter
road conditions. So-called all-season
tires with the M+S-identification mark
do indeed possess better winter traction than summer tires with the load
rating H, V, W, Y und ZR, but usually do
not achieve the same level of performance as 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.
Mount only winter tires which have
been approved by BMW. Any BMW
center will be glad to provide you with
information on the best winter tires for
your particular driving conditions.
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. Any BMW center
has the required technical knowledge
and the proper equipment and will be
happy to assist you.<
Tire condition, tire pressure
Once the tire wears to below 0.16 in
(4 mm), winter tires display a perceptible decrease in their ability to cope
with winter driving conditions, and
should be replaced in the interest of
safety.
Comply with the specified tire inflation
pressures – and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assemblies balanced
every time you change the tires.
Storage
Always store tires in a cool, dry place.
Store them away from light whenever
possible. Protect the tires against
contact with oil, grease and fuel.
Snow chains*
The use of narrow-link BMW snow
chains on summer or winter tires is
approved only in pairs and only on the
rear wheels. Comply with all manufacturer's safety precautions when
mounting the chains.
BMW 325xi: in a worst-case scenario,
i.e. if your vehicle is stuck on one side
or you cannot access one tire, then only
one chain may be attached to a rear
wheel for a short period of time.
Comply with all manufacturer's safety
precautions when mounting the chains.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Approved wheel and tire specifications
7Jx16
7Jx16
Snow chains*
205/50 R 17 93 V M+S extra load
7Jx17
7Jx17
205/55 R 16 91 V
225/50 R 16 92 W
225/50 ZR 16
–
7Jx16
205/50 R 17 93 W extra load
–
7Jx17
225/45 R 17 91 W
–
8Jx17
You cannot mount snow chains on the
following tires:
225/50 R 16 92 W
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
225/50 ZR 16
225/45 R 17 91 W
225/45 R 17 91 Q M+S
225/45 ZR 17
Front: 225/45 ZR 17
Rear: 245/40 ZR 17
–
–
7.5Jx17
8.5Jx17
205/55 R 16 91 Q M+S
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S (not 325xi)
7Jx16
7Jx16
205/50 R 17 93 Q M+S extra load
7Jx17
7Jx17
–
8Jx17
All season tires
Summer tires
Winter tires
225/45 R 17 91 Q M+S
Overview
205/55 R 16 91 H M+S
For all tires, only light-alloy wheels must
be used.
Controls
Light-alloy wheel
Car care
BMW 325xi
Steel rim
(wheel rim)
Mixed tires
For details concerning tire manufacturers for mixed tires, refer to the
vehicle documents.
Technology Repairs
Tire specifications
129n
3.0Bx16
T 125/90 R 16 98 M
3.5Bx16
–
T 125/80 R 17 99 M
3.5Bx17
–
Comply with the specifications for tires and wheels in the vehicle documents.
If you install tire sizes not approved by the manufacturer, this information must
be entered in the vehicle documents.
Index
T 115/90 R 16 92 M
Data
Spare wheel
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
460de044
Do not work on your vehicle without appropriate skills. Always
switch off the engine and allow it to
cool down before working in the engine
compartment. Always disconnect the
battery before working on any electrical
systems or equipment, especially when
these are located within the engine
compartment. Comply with all applicable instructions and warnings. Failure to
work in an informed, professional manner when servicing components and
materials constitutes a safety hazard for
vehicle occupants and other road
users. If you are not familiar with the
guidelines, please have the operations
performed by your BMW center. <
460us012
130nHood
To unlock
To open
Pull the lever located under the lefthand side of the dashboard.
Pull the release handle and open the
hood.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
131n
Controls
Car care
Repairs
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. <
Technology
Allow the hood to fall from a height of
about 12 in (30 cm) so that it audibly
engages.
Data
To close
Index
464de260
Overview
Hood
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
compartment – BMW 325i, 325xi
462us055
132nEngine
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Engine compartment – BMW 325i, 325xi
133n
Controls
6 Auxiliary terminal for jump
starting 167
Car care
5 Reservoir for the headlamp* and
windshield washer system 134
Technology Repairs
4 Engine oil filler neck 135
Data
3 Coolant expansion tank 137
Index
2 Engine oil dipstick 135
Overview
1 Brake fluid reservoir 138
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134nWasher
fluids
Washer nozzles
463de063
460de108
Windshield washer
Headlamp* and windshield
washer system
Windshield washer system
(rear window)
Capacity: approx. 5.6 US quarts
(5.3 liters).
Capacity: approx. 2.4 US quarts
(2.3 liters).
Fill with water and – if required – with a
washer antifreeze (according to manufacturer's recommendations).
Fill with water and – if required – with a
washer antifreeze (according to manufacturer's recommendations).
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to
the reservoir.<
The spray from the nozzles should be
directed at the front windshield and the
rear window in such a way they will be
properly cleaned even at high speeds.
Use a needle to adjust the nozzles as
required, or have them adjusted by your
BMW center.
Headlamp washer system*
Have this system adjusted by your
BMW center as required.
Antifreeze for the washer systems
is flammable. For this reason, keep
it away from sources of flame and store
it only in its original containers. Store it
so that it is inaccessible to children.
Comply with the instructions on the
containers.<
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Engine oil
As with fuel economy, oil consumption
is directly influenced by your driving
style and vehicle operating conditions.
Controls
Wait until the level has dropped to just
above the lower mark before adding oil.
However, never let the oil drop below
the lower mark.
BMW engines are designed to
operate without oil additives; the
use of additives could lead to damage
in some cases. This also applies to the
manual transmission, automatic transmission, differential and power steering
system.<
Car care
462de245
To add oil
Technology Repairs
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.
Data
1 Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2 Shut the engine off after it has
reached normal operating temperature.
3 After approx. 5 minutes, pull the
dipstick out and wipe it off with a
clean lint-free cloth, paper towel, or
similar material.
4 Carefully push the dipstick all the way
into the guide tube and pull it out
again.
5 The oil level should be between the
two marks on the dipstick.
Index
Checking the oil level
460de189
462de244
Overview
135n
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136nEngine
oil
Specified engine oil
Viscosity ratings
The quality of the engine oil is
extremely important for the function
and life of an engine. Based on extensive testing, BMW has approved only
certain types of engine oils.
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as established in SAE classes.
Use only approved "BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil."
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil", you may
use small volumes of other approved
synthetic oils for topping off between oil
changes. Use only oils with the specification API SH or higher.
The selection of the correct SAE class
depends on the climatic conditions in
the area where you drive your BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These kinds of oil may be used for
driving in all ambient temperatures.
Ask your BMW center for details
concerning the specific "BMW
High Performance Synthetic Oil" or
synthetic oils that have been
approved.<
530us200
You can also call BMW of North America
at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this website:
www.bmwusa.com to obtain this
information.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Comply with the applicable environmental laws regulating the
disposal of extended-duty antifreeze
with corrosion inhibitor.<
Overview
Controls
Continuous exposure to used oil
has caused cancer in laboratory
testing.
For this reason, thoroughly wash any
areas of skin that come into contact
with oil using soap and water.
Always store oils, grease and similar
materials so that they are inaccessible
to children. Comply with warning labels
and information on containers.<
Checking coolant level
Correct coolant level when the engine
is cold (approx. +68 7/+20 6):
Unscrew the cap from the expansion
tank.
The coolant level is correct when the
upper end of the red float is at least
even with the upper edge of the filler
neck (refer to the arrow in the illustration), but no more than 0.8 in (2 cm)
above it – that is, up to the second mark
on the float (refer also the schematic
diagram next to the filler neck).
Car care
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW center only.
Technology Repairs
Do not add coolant to the cooling
system when the engine is hot.
If you do, escaping coolant can cause
burns.
To avoid the possibility of damage later
on, never use anything other than
factory-approved, nitrite- and aminofree extended-duty antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor. Your BMW center is
familiar with the approved specifications.
Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents are
hazardous to health. You should always
store it in its original container and in a
location that is inaccessible to children.
Extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor contains the flammable
substance ethylene glycol. Therefore,
do not spill antifreeze with corrosion
inhibitor on hot engine parts. It could
ignite and cause burns.<
Data
Comply with the applicable environmental laws regulating the
disposal of used oil.<
137n
Index
Coolant
46cde036
Engine oil
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138nCoolant
Brake fluid
Adding coolant
1 Turn the cap slightly counterclockwise in order to allow accumulated
pressure to escape, then open.
2 If the coolant is low, slowly add
coolant until the correct level is
reached – do not overfill.
The coolant is a mixture of water and
extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion
inhibitor. Always maintain the
prescribed all-season 50:50 mixture
ratio for year-round protection against
internal corrosion. No other additives
are required.
Replace the coolant every four years.
460de128
Wait until the engine cools before
removing the cap from the expansion
tank. The needle of the coolant gauge
in the instrument cluster must be
located in the blue zone. If it is not,
there is a danger of scalding.
If the brake warning lamp comes on
and the parking brake has been
released:
Check the brake fluid level. Fill it to the
top mark ("MAX") if necessary.
For adding brake fluid or for determining and correcting the cause of
brake fluid loss, consult your BMW
center. Your BMW center is familiar
with the specifications for factoryapproved brake fluids (DOT 4).
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,
it absorbs moisture from the air
over time.
In order to ensure the safety and reliability of the brake system, have the
brake fluid changed every two years by
a BMW center. Refer also to the Service
and Warranty Information Booklet
(US models) or the Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet (Canadian
models).
Brake fluid is toxic and damages the
vehicle's paint. You should always store
it in its original container and in a location inaccessible to 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 environmental laws regulating the
disposal of brake fluid.<
Brake fluid loss can result in extended
pedal travel. Comply with the information provided on page 120.
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139n
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
Data
In the engine compartment, on the
right-hand strut dome (arrow).
Index
460de055
Overview
Vehicle Identification Number
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BMW Maintenance System
460us112
140nThe
The BMW Maintenance System has
been designed as a reliable means for
providing maximum driving and operating safety – and as cost effectively as
possible for you.
Please keep in mind that regular maintenance is not only necessary for the
safety of your vehicle, but also plays a
significant role in maintaining the resale
value of the vehicle.
Service Interval Display
Advanced technology is employed
to calculate the optimal maintenance
intervals. These are then indicated in
the Service Interval Display. While
conventional systems rely on distance
traveled alone to determine when
service is due, the BMW Maintenance
System has for years considered the
actual conditions under which the
vehicle operates, because miles can be
traveled in many different ways:
From a maintenance perspective,
62,000 miles (100,000 km) of shortdistance urban driving are not equivalent to 62,000 miles (100,000 km)
covered at moderate speeds in longdistance highway travel.
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models)/Warranty and
Service Guide (Canada models)
The BMW Maintenance System
includes the Engine Oil Service and
Inspections I and II.
As a precaution against rust, it is
advisable to have the body checked for
damage from rocks or gravel at the
same time, depending upon operating
conditions.
Determining the maintenance intervals
according to the actual use of 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) annually –
should have the engine oil changed at
least every 2 years since oil deteriorates over time, regardless of use.
For additional information on maintenance intervals and procedures, please
refer to the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or to the
Warranty and Service Guide (Canadian
models).
Have your BMW center perform
maintenance and repair.
Your BMW center is always "up to date"
on the latest maintenance work and
repair techniques and equipped with
the required special tools. In addition,
checking parts known from experience
to be subject to wear is a permanent
part of the maintenance specifications.
Be sure that all maintenance work is
confirmed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or the
Warranty and Service Guide (Canadian
models). These entries will constitute
your proof that the vehicle has received
regular maintenance. They are also
required for warranty claims.<
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Caring for your vehicle
When using an automatic car wash, be
sure that:
> The car wash system is suited for the
dimensions of your vehicle.
> No damage will occur to vehicles
with attached body accessories (such
as spoilers or antennas). Consult the
car wash operator if necessary.
> The wheels and tires of your vehicle
cannot be damaged by the conveyance devices of the car wash system.
> The vehicle is cleaned with minimum
brush pressure, and that ample water
is available for washing and rinsing.
Vehicles with rain sensor:
Clean the windshield regularly. Wax
from automatic car washes or insects
can cause malfunctions in the function
of the rain sensor.
In the winter months, it is especially
After washing the vehicle, apply
important to ensure that the vehicle is
the brakes briefly to dry them.
washed on a regular basis. Large quantities of dirt and road salt are difficult to Braking efficiency might otherwise be
reduced by the moisture and the brake
remove, and they also damage the
rotors could be corrode.<
vehicle.
If spray wands or high-pressure
washers are used, be sure to
maintain an adequate distance between
the spray source and the vehicle's
surface. Inadequate distance and
excessive pressure can damage or
weaken the finish, making it more
susceptible to subsequent attack. In
addition, moisture could penetrate to
vehicle components, leading to longterm damage.<
Overview
Controls
Car care
In order to avoid spots, do not wash
the vehicle when the hood is warm, or
during or immediately after exposure to
strong sunlight.
Technology Repairs
Wipe away tough dirt and loosen and
remove dead insects before washing
the vehicle.
When cleaning the headlamps,
Turn the rain sensor off (refer to
please observe the following:
page 69) when passing through an
do not clean by wiping with a dry cloth
automatic car wash. Failure to do so
could result in damage caused by unin- (scratches). Never use abrasives or
strong solvents to clean the covers.
tended wiper activation.<
Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Parts of the vehicle which are
inaccessible to the automatic washer – Shampoo and then rinsing with plenty
of water. Always use a deicer spray to
such as door sills, door and hood
remove accumulated ice and snow –
edges, etc. – should be cleaned by
never use a scraper.<
hand.
Data
You can wash your BMW at an automatic car wash, even when it is new.
Brushless systems are preferable.
Index
Washing your vehicle
141n
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142nCaring
for your vehicle
Exterior finish
To provide effective corrosion protection, multilayer paintwork is applied at
the factory. Cataphoretic immersion
priming techniques are supplemented
with special body-cavity protectants,
by applying specially-developed and
extensively tested materials.
A layer of flexible PVC is first applied
to the undercarriage. Following this,
a comprehensive undercoating treatment with a wax-based protectant is
applied. Regular maintenance makes
an important contribution to maintaining
the safety and value of your vehicle.
Increasing awareness of the effects of
harmful environmental factors on vehicle finishes have led paint and vehicle
manufacturers to initiate programs
designed to further improve the durability of their finishes. Despite this, environmental factors that occur locally or
regionally can have negative effects on
the finish of your vehicle. Use the
factors to determine the frequency and
extent of your efforts to maintain the
vehicle finish.
Depending upon material and type of
impact (perforation of paint layer),
physical stresses from sand, road salt,
gravel, etc., can cause corrosion to start
extending beneath the finish, starting at
the point of impact.
Road dirt, tar spots, dead insects,
animal droppings (strong alkali effect)
and tree excretions (resins and pollen)
all contain substances capable of
causing damage when allowed to
remain on the finish of your vehicle for
any extended period of time (spots,
etching, flaking, separation in the top
coat).
In coastal regions, high levels of
atmospheric salt and humidity promote
corrosion.
In tropical zones, temperatures of over
+105 7 (+40 6) in the shade prevail,
in addition to heavy ultraviolet radiation
and high humidity. Under those conditions, light paints can reach temperatures up to +175 7 (+80 6) and dark
paints up to +250 7 (+120 6).
In industrial areas, flue dust deposits,
lime, oily soot, precipitation containing
sulfur-dioxide (acid rain) and other environmental pollutants will damage the
vehicle's finish unless adequate care is
provided – even though this is generally
limited to the outside horizontal surfaces.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Caring for your vehicle
Any contamination remaining on the
surface of the vehicle will be especially
conspicuous after washing. Use
cleaning fluid or alcohol with a clean
cloth or cotton pad to remove. Remove
tar spots with tar remover. After cleaning, the affected areas should be waxed
to ensure continued protection.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products available at your BMW
center.<
You can use a glass cleaner to remove
any wax or silicone that may have been
left on the windows during waxing.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products available at your BMW
center.<
The paint color code for your car is
provided on a sticker located on the
righthand side under the hood and on
the first page of your Service and
Warranty Information Booklet
(US models) or Warranty and Service
Guide (Canadian models).
Damage caused by flying stones,
scratches, etc., must be touched up
without delay to prevent rust from
forming.
If corrosion has started to form in an
area with paint damage, remove all rust
and clean the area. Then prime the
area with a BMW Primer Stick. Finally,
apply the finish coat. Wait a few days,
then polish the repaired area. Finish by
applying a wax preservative.
More extensive paint damage should
be repaired professionally in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Your BMW center uses original
BMW finish materials in accordance
with approved repair procedures.
Index
Nevertheless, you should immediately
remove especially aggressive
substances. Failure to do so can lead to
changes in the paint's chemical
structure or to discoloration. Gasoline
spilled during refueling, oil, grease and
brake fluid should always be cleaned
away immediately, as should bird
droppings.
The best way to determine when the
finish needs to be waxed is by noting
when water stops beading on the
surface.
Controls
You can touch up small areas of paint
damage with a BMW spray paint or a
BMW touchup stick.
Car care
Paint damage
Protect the finish using only carnauba
or synthetic-based waxes.
Technology Repairs
Waxing your vehicle
Regular washing is a preventive
measure against long-term effects from
substances that are harmful to the
vehicle's finish, especially if you drive
your vehicle in areas with high levels of
air pollution or aggressive natural
substances (tree resins, pollen).
Data
Caring for the vehicle finish
Overview
143n
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144nCaring
for your vehicle
Caring for the windows
You can use window and glass cleaner
to clean inside window surfaces and
mirrors without smearing and streaking.
Never use polishing pastes or abrasive
(quartz) cleansers on mirror lenses.
Clean the wiper blades with soapy
water. The wiper blades should be
replaced twice a year – before and after
winter. This is especially important for
vehicles with a rain sensor.
Use only wiper blades approved
by BMW.<
Caring for other vehicle
components and materials
Light-alloy wheels should be treated
with alloy wheel cleaner, especially
during the winter months. However, do
not use aggressive products containing acids, strong alkalis or abrasives.
Do not use steam cleaners operating at
temperatures above +140 7 (+60 6).
Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
If your vehicle has chrome parts *, such
as the window frames and door
handles, be especially careful about
cleaning them with plenty of water and
possibly a shampoo supplement as well
after the roads have been salted.
Use a chrome polish for an additional
treatment.
Plastic components, vinyl upholstery,
headliners, lamp lenses, the clear cover
of the instrument cluster and components with a sprayed dull black surface
can be cleaned with water and a
synthetic cleaner (if necessary). Do not
allow moisture to soak through the
seats or headliner. Never use solvents
such as lacquer thinner, heavy-duty
grease remover, fuels, or similar
substances.
Rubber components should be cleaned
with water only; a rubber treatment or
silicone spray may also be applied.
Safety belts should be cleaned with a
mild soap and water solution without
being removed from the car. Never
attempt chemical or dry cleaning, as
damage to the belt fabric could result.
After cleaning, never allow the inertia
reel to retract the belts until they are
completely dry. Dirty safety belts prevent the inertia reel mechanism from
retracting the strap properly, and thus
constitute a safety hazard.
Heavily soiled floor carpets and mats *
can be cleaned with an interior cleaner.
The floor mats can be removed from
the vehicle for cleaning.
Use only a damp cloth to clean trim
panels made of real wood* and other
parts constructed of real wood *. Follow
up by drying with a soft cloth.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products available at your BMW
center.<
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Caring for your vehicle
If the vehicle is to be stored for an extended period, or if it is exposed to intense sunlight, cover all the seats or the
windows to prevent fading.
Use the cleaning and car-care
products available at your BMW
center.<
Because this product is manufactured
using natural materials, you must make
allowance for its special characteristics
and for the peculiarities of its use
and care.
Regular periodic cleaning and care
are essential, as dust and road dirt act
as abrasives in the pores and creases
of the material. This leads to wear
spots and premature brittleness on
the surface of the leather. We therefore suggest that you clean the leather
with a vacuum cleaner or cloth at
frequent intervals.
For cleaning, use BMW leather
cleaning foam.
Since dirt and grease gradually attack
the protective layer of the leather, the
cleaned surfaces should be treated
with BMW leather care agent. This also
acts as an antistatic agent.
For protection against dampness
or moisture, treat the leather with an
impregnating agent made by BMW.
Overview
Controls
The leather* upholstery used by BMW
is a natural product of the highest
quality, processed using state-of-theart methods to ensure that it will maintain its high quality for years to come,
provided that it is properly cared for.
Car care
Lint on upholstery materials, textile or
leather remnants that have been worn
into the upholstery may be removed
with a lint brush or a Velcroâ brush. A
cleaning glove is available for especially
"stubborn" lint. Stains and fairly large
areas of dirt should be cleaned off without delay, using lukewarm water and an
interior cleaner, stain remover or appropriate cleaning fluid. Brush the fabric
afterwards to restore its appearance.
Leather care
Technology Repairs
The tendency of the pile to lie in a
particular direction on velour upholstery
is not a quality defect, and, just as on
home textiles or clothing, cannot be
avoided.
The buildup of an electrostatic charge
on the seat covers, particularly if
atmospheric humidity is low, can give
the occupants an unpleasant electric
shock if they touch metal body parts
after leaving the vehicle. Although this is
not dangerous in any way, it can be
avoided by touching a bare or polished
metal part of the vehicle while getting
out.
Data
Depressions in the upholstery that
result from everyday use can be
brushed smooth by brushing against
the nap with a lightly dampened brush.
Index
Care of upholstery materials
145n
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146nCaring
for your vehicle
We recommend that you perform this
procedure twice a year on leather
exposed to normal use.
Spills should be wiped up immediately.
Remove grease and oil stains by
dabbing with with spot remover. Avoid
rubbing.
If the upholstery is to be exposed to
intense sunlight or if the vehicle is to be
stored for an extended period, cover
all leather surfaces (or, better yet, the
windows) to prevent fading.
Cleaning agents can contain
substances that are dangerous or
pose health risks. Therefore, always
comply with the warnings and danger
labels on the package.
Open the doors or windows on your
vehicle when cleaning the interior.
Never clean your vehicle with solvents
or other materials not specifically
intended for this purpose.<
Use the cleaning and car-care
products available at your BMW
center.<
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3 Side airbags for driver and passenger
(front and rear*)
Important safety notices
Do not remove the airbag restraint
system's gas generator. Have
testing and service procedures performed by specially qualified technicians only. In the event of a malfunction, deactivation or triggered actuation
(as a response to an accident) of the
airbag restraint system, consult your
BMW center for repairs or service
operations.
Overview
Car care
Controls
Consult your BMW center regarding
special procedures if you intend
to store the vehicle for more than
three months.
Technology Repairs
2 Side Impact Head Protection
System for driver and passenger
(front)
Modifications may not be made on
either the wiring or the individual
components in the airbag system.
These include the padded steering
wheel hub, the instrument panel, the
side trim panels of the front or rear
doors and the roof pillars or the sides
of the headliner. Do not apply adhesive
materials to these components, cover
or modify them in any way. Do not
attempt to remove or dismantle the
steering wheel.
To ensure compliance with official
safety regulations, entrust disposal of
airbag generators to a BMW center.
Unprofessional attempts to service
the system could lead to failure in an
emergency or undesired airbag activation, either of which could result in
personal injury.<
147n
Data
1 Front airbags for driver and
passenger
Vehicle storage
Index
463de041
Airbags
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148nTechnical
modifications
Any BMW center will be glad to advise
you concerning the advisability, legal
implications and factory recommendations for technical modifications to the
vehicle. For this purpose, the BMW center will require the Vehicle Identification
Number and, in some cases, the engine
number as well.
California Proposition 65 Warning
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.<
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.
Do not remove the protective lens
and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for extended periods
(several hours). To do so could result in
inflammation of the iris.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
OBD interface socket
If the fuel filler cap is not properly
tightened, the OBD system can
detect leaking vapor and the indicator
will light up. If the fuel filler cap is then
tightened, the indicator will usually go
out after a short period of time.<
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
The purpose of the OBD system is to
ensure proper emission control system
operation for the vehicle's lifetime by
monitoring emission-related components and systems for deterioration
and malfunction.
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
Data
The interface socket for onboard diagnostics is located on the driver's side at
the left-hand bottom of the dashboard
and under a cover. The cover has the
letters "OBD" on it.
If the indicator blinks or flashes, this
indicates a high level of engine misfire.
Reduce speed and contact your nearest BMW center immediately. Severe
engine misfire over even a short period
of time can seriously damage emission
control components, especially the
catalytic converter.
Index
460us250
An illuminated indicator informs
you of the need for service, not
that you need to stop the
vehicle. Your system should be
checked, however, at the earliest possible opportunity.
Overview
149n
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150n
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Controls
Car care
Operation, care
and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technology Repairs
Assistance, giving and
receiving:
Jump-starting 167
Towing the vehicle 168
Controls and features
Technical data
Data
In case of electrical
malfunction:
Fuel filler door 166
Sliding/Tilt sunroof 166
Tailgate 166
Overview
Index
Index
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 152
Windshield wiper blades 152
Lamps and bulbs 153
Changing a wheel 159
Battery 162
Fuses 164
Microfilter/Activated-charcoal
filter 165
Overview
151n
Repairs
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
The onboard tool kit is stowed under
the cargo area floor panel.
To raise the cargo area floor panel,
refer to page 109.
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Windshield wiper blades
460de056
tool kit
463de034
152nOnboard
Windshield
Rear window
1 Move the wiper to a fold-out position. 1 Move the wiper to a fold-out position.
2 Position the wiper blade at an angle
2 Remove the wiper blade (arrow).
and pull the release spring (arrow).
3 Insert a new wiper blade and apply
3 Fold the wiper blade down and
pressure until you hear it engage.
unhook it toward the windshield.
4 Pull the wiper blade past the wiper
arm toward the top.
5 Insert a new wiper blade and apply
pressure until you hear it engage.
Use only BMW approved wiper
blades.<
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Lamps and bulbs
A replacement bulb set is available from
your BMW center.
H7 bulb, 55 watts
Whenever working on the
electrical system, switch off the
electrical accessory you are working on
or disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. Failure to do
this could result in short circuits.
To prevent injuries and damage,
comply with any instructions provided
by the bulb manufacturer.<
H7 bulb, 55 watts
2 High beams
The H7 bulb is pressurized. Therefore, 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 Press the two locks at the front and
turn left to release the bulb holder.
2 Remove and replace the bulb.
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
1 Low beams
Data
The illustration shows the left-hand side
of the engine compartment.
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
do not clean by wiping with a dry cloth
(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.<
Index
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 material, or hold the bulb by its metallic
base.<
460de130
The lamps and bulbs are essential
factors contributing to the safety of your
vehicle. Therefore, comply fully with the
following instructions during bulb
replacement. If you are not familiar with
any of the procedures, consult your
BMW center.
Overview
153n
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154nLamps
and bulbs
Because of the extremely high
voltages involved, any work on
the xenon lighting system and bulb
replacement should be performed only
by technicians with the appropriate
qualifications. Failure to comply with
this creates a risk of fatal injury.<
The illustration shows the left-hand side
of the engine compartment.
Parking lamps
5 watt bulb
1 Turn the bulb holder to the left (arrow)
and remove it.
2 Remove and replace the bulb.
460de133
The service life of these bulbs is very
long and the probability of a failure is
very low, provided that they are not
switched on and off an unusual number
of times. If one of these bulbs should
nevertheless fail, it is possible to continue driving with great caution using
the fog lamps, provided traffic laws in
your area do not prohibit this.
460de171
Xenon lamps*
Front turn signal indicator
21 watt bulb
1 Using a screwdriver, release the inner
hook through the upper opening.
2 Remove the lamp by pulling it toward
the front.
3 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and exchange the
bulb.
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Lamps and bulbs
1 Use finger pressure against the rear
end of the lens (arrow) to press it
forward for removal.
2 Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
while turning it to the left to remove.
Controls
The bulb is pressurized. Therefore, 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 Using a screwdriver, carefully remove
the lamp.
2 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and exchange the
bulb.
Car care
HB4 bulb, 55 watts
Technology Repairs
Front fog lamps*
5 watt bulb
Data
460de132
Side turn signal indicator
Index
4 Insert the 2 pins on the lamp into the
guides on the vehicle.
5 Push the lamp in. Carefully apply
pressure until you hear it engage.
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Overview
155n
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Tail lamps
The illustration shows the right-hand
luggage compartment section.
Tail lamp 4: bulbs 21/4 watts
Remaining bulbs: 21 watts
1 Turn signal indicators
2 Backup lamps
Bulbs in the fender:
yellow
white
3 Tail lamps
red
4 Tail lamps/brake lamps
red
463de53
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and bulbs
463us004
156nLamps
Lamps in the tailgate:
1 Place a screwdriver in the slot and
press downward (arrow) to release.
All of the bulbs are integrated in a central bulb holder.
1 Release and remove the flap from the
respective luggage compartment
side facing.
2 Release the bulb holder (arrow) and
remove.
3 Pull the power supply receptacle off
and set the bulb holder aside (e.g. on
the luggage compartment floor).
4 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and exchange the
bulb.
5 Plug in the power supply receptacle.
6 Press the bulb holder into position
until you hear it engage.
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Lamps and bulbs
Center (high-mount) brake lamp
Controls
Tailgate lamp
5 watt bulb
5 watt bulb
1 Place a screwdriver in the slot and
press toward the left (arrow) to
release the lens.
2 Replace the bulb.
1 Remove lamp socket (arrow).
2 Replace the bulb.
Car care
463de052
License plate lamps
Technology Repairs
2 Rotate the trim downward. Release
the bulb holder and remove it.
3 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb
to the left. Remove and exchange the
bulb.
4 Press the bulb holder into position
until you hear it engage.
5 Press the trim into position until you
hear it engage.
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463de054
Overview
157n
Index
Please contact a BMW center in the
event of a malfunction.
Data
LED strip on the rear window.
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158nLamps
and bulbs
Footwell lamps*
5 watt bulb
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1 Press the lamp out using a screwdriver.
2 Replace the bulb.
Interior lamps
Lighted vanity mirrors*
The illustration provides an example of
the interior lamps when equipped with
reading lamps.
10 watt bulb
Interior lamps (2 x 5 watt bulbs)
1 Using a screwdriver, press the lamp
out toward the front.
2 Remove the lens and pull the bulb
out of the contact studs.
1 Remove the bulb housing – use a
screwdriver if necessary.
2 Replace the bulb.
Glove compartment lamp
5 watt bulb
1 Press the lamp out using a screwdriver.
2 Replace the bulb.
Luggage compartment lamps
One lamp each in rear tailgate section:
10 watt bulbs
1 Apply a screwdriver to the recess and
remove the lens.
2 Replace the bulb.
Interior lamps (6 watt bulb) with reading
lamps* (2 x 6 watt bulbs)
1 Using a screwdriver, press the lamp
out toward the front.
2 Turn the bulb holder to the left and
remove it.
3 Remove and replace the bulb.
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Changing a wheel
Controls
> Jack (1)
Raise both the floor panel and spare
tire panel and loosen the red wing nut
(arrow).
When you have completed your work,
screw the jack all the way back
down. Fold the handle back and
insert it into its holder
> Wedge (2)
Located behind the jack. Loosen the
wing nut to remove it
> Wheel stud wrench (3)
Car care
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.
Technology Repairs
What you will need
Data
To remove the spare wheel, lift out
the floor panel in the luggage
compartment completely (refer to
page 109.<
Index
Your BMW has either a spare tire or
space-saver tire for temporary use to
ensure your mobility.
Overview
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.<
463de036
Take these precautionary measures if you have either a flat tire or
are changing a wheel.
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 gear 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 immediate working area (behind a guardrail,
for instance).
If a warning triangle or portable hazard
warning lamp is available, set it up on
the roadside at an appropriate distance
from the rear of the vehicle. Comply with
all safety guidelines and regulations.
Change the wheel only on a level, firm
surface that is not slippery. Avoid jacking the vehicle on a soft or slippery
support surface (snow, ice, loose gravel,
etc.), as it could slide sideways.
Position the jack on a firm support
surface.
Do not place wooden blocks or similar
objects under the jack, otherwise, the
jack might not be able to reach its full
support capacity because of the limited
height.
159n
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> Spare tire or space-saver tire
Located next to the jack.
Loosen the wing nut (arrow) by hand,
remove the storage tray and take out
the wheel.
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a wheel
463de049
160nChanging
Procedure
4 Loosen the lug bolts g turn.
5 Position the jack under the jacking
1 Read and comply with the safety
point nearest the wheel you are
precautions provided on the
changing (refer to the illustration at
previous page.
the left) so that the base of the jack is
2 Secure the vehicle against rolling:
positioned vertically under the jackPlace the wedge against the rear
ing point relative to the entire surface,
surface of the front tire on the side
and that the jack head fits securely
opposite the side being raised. If the
into the square recess for the jacking
vehicle is parked on a downward
point (refer to illustration detail) when
slope, place the wedge securely in
the jack is cranked.
front of the tire. If the wheel must
be changed on a surface with a more 6 Jack the vehicle up until the wheel
you are changing is raised from the
severe slope, take additional precauground.
tions to secure the vehicle against
7
Unscrew
the lug bolts and remove
rolling.
the wheel.
3 If your wheels are equipped with full
wheel covers*: reach into the ventilation openings and pull the cover off.
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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 [torque
specification: 76 lb. ft. (100 Nm)]
checked with a calibrated torque
wrench.<
When storing the wheel, take care to
ensure that you do not damage the
retaining pin in the spare tire recess.
Overview
Controls
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the new wheel/tire
balanced.
Car care
Use only the full wheel cover installed by the factory. Other wheel
covers may not fit securely. The full
wheel cover may not be installed on the
space-saver tire since this could
damage the cover.<
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.
Technology Repairs
14 Check and correct the tire's inflation
pressure at the earliest possibility.
For vehicles with Tire Pressure
Control (RDC):
After mounting the spare tire or
correcting the inflation pressure,
reactivate the system. Refer to
page 85.
Data
8 Remove mud or dirt accumulation
from the mounting surfaces of the
wheel and hub. Clean the lug bolts.
9 Position the new wheel or the
space-saver tire on the hub and
screw at least two lug bolts fingertight into opposite bolt holes.
10 Screw in the remaining lug bolts.
Tighten all the bolts snugly.
11 Lower the jack and remove it from
beneath the vehicle.
12 Tighten the lug bolts in a diagonal
pattern.
13 If your wheels are equipped with full
wheel covers*, place the wheel
cover with the valve opening over
the valve (arrow). Use both hands
to press the cover securely onto
the rim.
161n
Index
460de125
Changing a wheel
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a wheel
Battery
Driving with the space-saver tire
Installation location
Drive cautiously. Do not exceed a speed
of 50 mph (80 km/h).
The battery is in the right rear of the
luggage compartment. Release side
trim panel and remove. Fold back the
cover panel.
You can anticipate changes in vehicle
handling such as delayed braking response, longer braking distances and
changes in self-steering properties in
marginal stability limits.
The changes in handling characteristics
will be even more pronounced in
conjunction with winter tires.
Only one space-saver tire may be
mounted at one time. Reinstall
wheels and tires of the same size and
specification as soon as possible.
Maintain correct tire pressures. Refer to
page 29.<
Battery posts, terminals, and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.<
463us006
162nChanging
Charge condition
You can read the charge condition
of the battery with the "Magic Eye*"
(= a hydrometer):
> Green: adequate charge.
> Black: not charged adequately.
The battery must be recharged.
Please contact your BMW center
for additional information.
> Yellow: replace the battery.
The service life specified for the
battery can be achieved only if it is
always kept adequately charged. If the
vehicle is primarily used for stop-andgo traffic, be sure to check the charge
status often.<
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Battery
You will find the following symbols on
your vehicle battery. For your safety,
please be cautious whenever you work
with or near the battery.
Before handling the battery,
please read the following information.
Wear eye protection. Do not allow particles containing battery
acid or lead to come into contact with your eyes, your skin, or your
clothing.
Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Wear eye protection and
protective gloves. Do not tip the
battery. Battery acid can leak from the
ventilation openings.
A highly explosive gas is generated when the battery is
charged.
If you happen to get acid in
your eyes, rinse thoroughly for
15 minutes with clear water.
Consult a physician immediately. If you
get acid spray on your skin or clothing,
rinse with plenty of water. If acid is
accidentally swallowed, consult a
physician immediately.
In order to protect the battery
case from ultraviolet radiation,
do not place it in direct sunlight.
A discharged battery can freeze. Store
the battery in areas where temperature
remains above freezing.
When removing the battery, disconnect
the cable on the negative terminal first,
then the cable on the positive terminal.
Loosen the center adjusting screw on
the battery retaining strap (use the
screwdriver included with the onboard
tool kit) and disconnect the strap.
When installing a battery, connect the
positive terminal first, then connect the
negative terminal.
When installing a battery, be sure
that it is mounted properly and that
the retaining strap is installed using the
center adjustment screw, otherwise, the
battery will not be secure enough in
case of an accident.<
Overview
Controls
Do not disconnect the battery
while the engine is running.
Disconnecting the battery cable when
the engine is running will cause a
voltage surge which will damage the
vehicle's onboard electronics.
Do not make any modifications in the
wires to the positive terminal. If you do
so, the protective function of the safety
battery terminal is no longer ensured.
Repairs and disposal may only be performed by specially trained personnel.<
Car care
Symbols
Never allow sparks or open
flame near the battery. Do
not smoke in the vicinity of the
battery. Avoid sparks from electrical
cables or electrical equipment. Turn the
key to position 0 in the steering lock
when disconnecting or connecting the
battery. Never short-circuit the battery
terminals. This creates a risk of injury
from high-energy sparks.
Removal and installation
Technology Repairs
For all questions that regard the
battery, please consult your BMW
center. Since the battery is absolutely
maintenance-free, the following is for
your information only.<
Do not allow children to have
access to batteries and battery
acid.
Data
The battery is completely maintenancefree. That means that the original acid
will normally last for the service life of
the battery under temperate climatic
conditions.
Index
Battery care
163n
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164nBattery
Charge the battery in the vehicle only
when the engine is not running.
Before performing any work on
the electrical system, disconnect
the cable from the negative terminal. If
you do not, short circuits can cause fire
or personal injury.<
If you plan to park the vehicle for longer
than 4 weeks, disconnect the battery
from the vehicle electrical system by
disconnecting the cable at the negative
terminal. Then recharge the battery with
an appropriate battery charger.
If you intend to store the vehicle for
longer than 12 weeks, remove the
battery, charge it and store it in a cool
and dust-free room where there is no
danger of freezing. During storage,
have the battery recharged every
3 months. Also recharge the battery
before it is reinstalled. If this is not
done, the battery will not be serviceable. Every time the battery is drained,
especially over extended periods, its
service life is reduced.
Return used batteries to a recycling point or your BMW center.
Maintain the battery in an upright
position for transport and storage.
Secure the battery to prevent it from
tilting during transport.<
Storage periods during which
the battery is disconnected are
not taken into consideration by the
Service Interval Display for changing
the brake fluid.
For this reason, be sure that the brake
fluid is changed every two years,
regardless of the information displayed.
Read and comply with the information
on page 138 covering this subject.<
460de062
Charging the battery
Fuses
If an electrical accessory should fail,
switch it off and check the fuse.
In glove compartment
1 Open the glove compartment and
turn the two white quick-release
fasteners outward. Spare fuses and
plastic tweezers are located on the
fuse holder.
2 Use the plastic tweezers to remove
the fuse for the accessory or equipment that has stopped working.
3 If the fuse is burned through ("blown"),
the metal strip will have melted and
separated; replace it with a new fuse
of the same ampere rating (color
code).
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Microfilter/Activated-charcoal filter
165n
Overview
A list of the fuses, their respective ampere ratings and the equipment in their
circuits, is provided below the fuse
holder.
Controls
Car care
Data
4 Remove the filter by pulling toward
the front and install a new one.
5 Position the filter cover and secure it
with the three fasteners.
Index
Do not attempt to repair a burnedout fuse or replace it with a fuse
with a different color or ampere rating.
Doing this could cause a fire in the
vehicle resulting from a circuit over1 Open the hood.
load.<
2 Release the three hooks (arrow) with
a f turn.
If the fuse continues to burn out, have
3 Remove the filter cover.
the problem corrected by a BMW
center.
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460de156
To close the fuse holder, snap it into
position at the top and turn the two
fasteners inward.
Technology Repairs
Fuses
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Tailgate
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Sliding/tilt sunroof*
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filler door
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166nFuel
Manual release
Manual operation
Manual operation
Unlatch the right-side side panel in the
cargo area (arrow 1). Pull the knob with
the fuel pump symbol (arrow 2).
1 Remove the interior lamp (refer to
page 158), reach into the opening
and push out the panel.
2 Turn the sunroof's steel crank with
the Allen wrench from the onboard
tool kit (refer to page 152) in the
desired direction.
1 Fold either the center armrest or the
rear backrest in the back forward.
2 Remove the cover panel under
tailgate 1 (possible by using the ignition key).
3 Press the lever (arrow) to the right.
The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as you close the tailgate.
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Jump-starting
1 Be sure that the battery on the
support vehicle is also rated at
12 volts, and that the capacities of
the two batteries (Ah) are roughly
comparable (printed on casing)
2 Leave the drained battery connected
to the vehicle's electrical system
3 Make sure that there is no contact
between the bodywork of the two
vehicles – short circuit risk!
4 Start by connecting the jumper cable
from the positive terminal of the
support vehicle to the positive
terminal connector located in your
BMW's engine compartment. The
Follow the same sequence for
connecting the jumper cables if
you assist in jump-starting another
vehicle. If you do not, there is a risk of
injury caused by spark generation at the
battery.<
Depending on the reason for the
malfunction, recharge the battery.
Controls
Car care
cover of the auxiliary terminal for
jump-starting is identified by a "+"
sign. Refer to the illustration. Remove
the cover by pulling the tab (arrow 1).
5 Then connect the negative terminals.
Attach the cable to either the support
vehicle's negative battery terminal (–),
or to a suitable ground on its engine
or bodywork. Then connect the other
end of the cable to a ground on the
engine or on the bodywork of the
vehicle that is to be started. There is
a special nut provided for this on the
BMW (arrow 2).
Technology Repairs
Carefully comply with the following
instructions to avoid personal injury or
damage to one or both vehicles:
Data
Do not touch the parts conducting
current while the engine is
running. Failure to comply with this
creates a risk of fatal injury.<
460de123
If the battery is drained, the engine can
be started using two jumper cables and
another vehicle's battery. Use only
jumper cables with fully insulated grips
on the terminal clamps.
6 Start the support vehicle's engine
and let it run.
7 Start the engine on the vehicle
needing the jump-start, and allow it
to run as usual. If the first start
attempt is not successful, wait a few
minutes before another attempt in
order to allow the drained battery to
recharge.
8 Before disconnecting the jumper
cables from your BMW, turn on the
rear window defroster and set the
blower to the highest speed; allow the
engine to run approx. 10 seconds.
This will prevent a voltage surge from
the voltage regulator to the electrical
accessories.
9 Then disconnect the jumper cables in
reverse sequence.
Index
Do not use spray starter fluids to start
the engine.
Overview
167n
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Tow fitting
The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the
onboard tool kit; be sure that it remains
in the vehicle at all times. This fitting
is designed for installation in the tow
sockets located at the front and rear of
the vehicle. It is intended for towing on
paved road surfaces only. This fitting
should not be used to pull a vehicle out
of deep snow, mud, sand, etc.
Always observe all applicable towing
laws and regulations.
Access to tow socket
Front:
Using a screwdriver, press out the cover
panel on the top part of the recess.
Rear:
Using a screwdriver, press out the cover
panel on the top part of the recess.
463us007
463de007
the vehicle
460de063
168nTowing
Towing with a commercial tow
truck
> Do not tow with sling-type equipment.
Screw the tow fitting in until it
bottoms firmly. If this is not done, > Use wheel lift or flat bed equipment.
> Please comply with applicable state
the threads could be damaged.
towing laws.
Do not tow the vehicle by any components of the running gear, or lash them
Never allow passengers to ride in
down in any way. If you do, the compoa towed vehicle for any reason.
nents could be damaged, leading to
Never attach tie-down hooks, chains,
possible accidents.<
straps, or tow hooks to tie rods, control
arms, or any other part of the vehicle
suspension, as severe damage to these
components will occur, leading to
possible accidents.c
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BMW 325xi: tow the vehicle with
one raised axle
1 Place the gearshift lever or selector
lever in "Neutral."
169n
Overview
Towing the vehicle
Car care
Technology Repairs
Remove the rear driveshaft for
longer towing distances with the
front axle lifted; remove the front driveshaft for towing over longer distances
with the rear axle lifted. Failure to
comply with this will result in damage to
the transfer box.<
Data
4 Towing distance:
Maximum 95 miles (150 km).
Index
3 Towing speed:
Maximum 30 mph (50 km/h).
Controls
2 Switch off the engine.
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170n
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Operation, care
and maintenance
Controls
Controls and features
Car care
Overview
Advanced technology
Technology Repairs
Owner service procedures
Data
Technical data
Index
Index
Advanced technology:
Airbags 172
Adaptive Transmission Control
(ATC) 173
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction ASC+T/Dynamic
Stability Control DSC 173
Radio reception 174
Four-wheel drive 175
Safety belt tensioner 175
Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimmer 176
Rain sensor 177
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 178
Self-diagnostics 179
Xenon lamps 180
Overview
171n
Technol-
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
172nAirbags
390de319
The airbags located under the marked
covers inflate and unfold in a matter of
a few milliseconds. In this process, they
tear through the designed separation
points of the upholstered covers or
press them out.
Deceleration sensors continuously
monitor the acceleration forces acting
upon the vehicle. If, as the result of
a frontal collision, a deceleration is
reached at which the protection of
the safety belts alone is no longer
adequate, the gas generators of the
driver and passenger-front airbags are
ignited. However, the passenger-side
airbag is only triggered if an additional
sensor has recognized that the
passenger seat is occupied.
Because the inflation process must be
virtually instantaneous, it is necessarily
accompanied by a certain amount of
ignition and inflation noise. The gas
required to inflate the airbags is not
dangerous, and the smoke associated
with it dissipates.
The entire process is completed within
fractions of a second.
In the event of a side collision, the Head
Protection and side airbags in the front
or rear* are triggered if necessary.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
In addition, DSC permanently monitors
the vehicle's current operating condition
and compares it with an ideal condition
that is calculated from the sensor's
signals. If deviations from this occur
(understeering or oversteering, for
instance), DSC can stabilize the vehicle
in fractions of a second by reducing
engine output and with the assistance of
braking intervention at individual
wheels. As a result, dangerous skids can
be prevented even as they are just
beginning.
You may need some time to become
accustomed to this system's intervention. However, it provides optimum drive
force and vehicle stability.
The braking intervention may be
accompanied by sounds specific to the
system.
Overview
Controls
If differences in the wheel speeds
occur, ASC+T recognizes the danger of
wheelspin and reduces torque. If
necessary, the system also responds
with additional brake applications at the
rear wheels.
Car care
Highly sensitive sensors monitor the
number of revolutions of the wheels,
steering angle, lateral acceleration,
brake pressure and the movement of
the vehicle around its vertical axis.
Technology Repairs
ATC recognizes your personal driving
style from the positions and movements
of the accelerator pedal, deceleration
when braking, and lateral acceleration
through curves. Based on different shift
characteristics – from comfort-oriented
to performance-oriented – ATC will
select the appropriate gear.
In order to include driving conditions in
its calculations, ATC registers curves
and both uphill and downhill gradients.
For example, if you maintain speed
through a curve, the transmission does
not shift up. On uphill gradients, it shifts
up only when the engine speed
increases in order to make more efficient use of power reserves. On downhill gradients, ATC shifts down when
the speed of the vehicle increases and
the driver must apply the brakes.
173n
Data
On vehicles with an automatic transmission, the Adaptive Transmission
Control (ATC) uses a number of factors
to calculate the gear which provides
maximum efficiency. In this process, it
considers your individual driving style
as well as current driving conditions.
ASC+T/DSC*
Index
463us005
ATC*
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174nRadio
reception
360de084
The limitations inherent to radio reception in a moving vehicle have been
minimized by a number of innovative
system designs:
The AM frequency bands (mediumwave, long-wave and short-wave) make
it possible to receive stations from a
great distance, because the broadcast
signals travel not only along the ground
as surface waves, but also as atmospheric waves that are reflected from
the ionosphere.
Frequency-modulation (FM) provides
substantially better sound quality than
the other frequencies. However,
because FM transmissions rely on lineof-sight broadcast waves, their effective reception range is limited.
The Radio Data System (RDS) makes
sure that, for broadcast stations transmitting on several frequencies, the
radio automatically tunes to the
frequency with the best reception
quality.
The Diversity Antenna system employs
several FM antennas integrated within
the rear window to provide three separate sources for receiving broadcast
waves. An integral processor automatically selects the antenna with the best
FM reception quality at any given time.
The selection of the antenna takes place
within milliseconds, and is therefore not
noticed by the radio listener.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Safety belt tensioner
175n
If a wheel tends to slip, it is braked
automatically by ADB-X until it once
again gains traction, and drive force
can be transmitted to that wheel. In
addition, the drive force is distributed to
the remaining wheels during this
Overview
Controls
Car care
The safety belt tensioner responds to
severe frontal collisions by tightening
the belts to ensure that occupants
remain firmly positioned in their seats.
A gas-pressure system retracts the
buckle assembly to tension the
shoulder and lap belts within fractions
of a second. This reduces the tendency
to slide under the lap belt.
Data
Traditional differential locks at the front
and rear axles and in the transfer box
are not required. Their function is
assumed by automatic braking intervention at all four wheels. These traction interventions are governed by
Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X), a
sub-function of DSC.
The BMW 325xi is not an off-road
vehicle. Instead, permanent four-wheel
drive provides a high degree of vehicle
stability and tractive ability under all
road conditions, and will aid you in critical driving situations, e. g. driving in
extreme winter conditions or on loose
road surfaces.
Index
The transmission of power to the four
drive wheels is provided permanently
through a transfer box. The distribution
of torque between the front and rear
axles is 38 % to 62%.
When the DSC is deactivated, the
ADB-X traction intervention is set for
the maximum drive force. However, the
engine intervention and the stability
controls are no longer available. For
this reason, DSC should only be deactivated in the exceptional circumstances
described on page 81.
390de330
530us133
system intervention. Engine output is
also reduced if necessary.
Technology Repairs
Four-wheel drive
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
176nInterior
rearview mirror with automatic dimmer*
463us013
The semisolid reacts chemically to
this electrical current, thus providing
dimming of the mirror through an infinitely-variable range (electrochromic
technology).
As a result, it is no longer necessary to
dim the mirror manually, and the driver
can concentrate completely on traffic
conditions.
The interior rearview mirror with automatic dimming feature reduces blinding
from following traffic by adapting the
intensity of the reflected images to
correspond to levels of light registered
by the unit's sensors. The mirror reverts
to its undimmed setting as soon as the
light source disappears. One light
sensor is mounted on the front of the
mirror housing. This sensor, the one
that is directed forward, measures light
intensity in the area ahead of the
vehicle. The second sensor is integrated within the mirror's glass. The
electronic control system compares the
light intensity from front and rear. The
difference provides the basic parameter
used to modulate an electrical current
and induce chemical changes in a
semisolid layer incorporated in the lens.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Rain sensor*
If there is moisture on the glass, the
amount of light reflected is reduced
since the infrared light at the surface of
the windshield can escape. The quantity of reflected light is thus a means of
gauging the degree of wetness on the
windshield.
Controls
Car care
Technology Repairs
Infrared light is carried along the
surface of the windshield in an optical
conductor in such a manner that it is
reflected completely when the windshield is dry. The quantity of reflected
light is measured.
Data
Depending on how wet the windshield
is, the rain sensor controls the operation of the windshield wipers.
Index
390de133
When the system is set to the "Intermittent" wiper speed, the wipers react
immediately – if water is splashed onto
the windshield by vehicles traveling
ahead of you, for example. As a result,
the rain sensor contributes to driving
safety and comfort.
Overview
177n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Pressure Control (RDC)*
463de006
178nTire
There is an antenna located right near
every wheel in the vehicle body. This
antenna picks up signals from its
respective wheel. A central electronics
system evaluates the quadruple signals
which it receives and forwards any
changes.
The RDC provides an important contribution to driving safety.
This system regularly checks tire pressure and monitors all four tires even
while driving, so you do not have to.
Behind the valve stem in every wheel,
there is an electronic chip which is
designed for severe-duty applications
and long service life. It contains a pressure sensor, a transmitter and a battery.
The pressure is measured in extremely
short time intervals and then transmitted
by a radio signal. If an irregularity is
detected, the transmission rate is
increased.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
While you are driving, the functional
status of the actuator motors (for the
windshield wipers, power windows,
seats, sliding/tilt sunroof, etc.) is
constantly analyzed by current
measurements in their relays.
A calibration cycle runs every tenth time
the engine is shut off. During this cycle,
the actuator motors move all air conditioner/automatic climate control flaps to
their limit stops in both directions. The
limit positions and the return travel
paths are checked in this manner in
order to ensure that appropriate adjustments for the operating elements can
be made at any time.
Overview
Controls
Any possible defects detected during
these self-diagnostics can be read out
by your BMW center and quickly
corrected during the vehicle's next
regularly scheduled maintenance.
Car care
Even after you shut off the engine, the
overall functional status of your vehicle
is monitored. For example, all of the
flaps of the heating and ventilation
system travel to the nearest limit position. This action ensures that the
system will be able to provide
defrosting, regardless of other circumstances, e.g. if a malfunction in the air
conditioner/climate control system
should occur during the night while the
vehicle is parked.
You will hear the sounds of the air flaps
as the air conditioning system/automatic climate control carry out their
self-diagnostic functions after the ignition has been turned off. All of the other
self-diagnostics functions operate
silently in the background.
Technology Repairs
The indicator lamps also come on
briefly after the ignition has been turned
on.
In the same manner, the electrical
resistance of the airbag ignition generators and all of the remaining airbag
components is measured at all times.
Any fault in this system would be
detected immediately by a current fluctuation that would necessarily accompany it. The fault would be indicated
immediately by the airbag warning
lamp.
Data
All of the important electrical and electronic systems in the vehicle are tested
regularly and automatically; the driver
does not have to perform any extra
operations or adjustments.
179n
Index
460de177
Self-diagnostics
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180nXenon
lamps*
390de134
Xenon lamps provide significantly
improved visibility, especially during
adverse weather and poor driving
conditions e.g. driving at night in heavy
rain or through road repair areas where
there are no lane markers.
The xenon lamp provides forward illumination with significantly more brightness and uniformity than the traditional
halogen lamp.
Vehicles with xenon lamps are equipped
with an automatic headlamp range
control. Thus the highway is always
optimally lighted and drivers in
oncoming traffic are not blinded.
Xenon lamps make a significant contribution to highway safety since other
highway users, bicyclists and motorcyclists in the right lane, and pedestrians
are more easily detected.
In a xenon lamp, an electric arc replaces
the filament in order to generate intense
illumination. A gas mixture in a quartz
glass tube with metal vapor is ignited by
a high electric voltage. The arc that is
generated is then sustained by a lower
voltage. When the lamp is turned on,
there is a brief warm-up period.
Maximum brightness is attained in
approx. 15 seconds.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Index
Data
Technology Repairs
Car care
Controls
Overview
181n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
182n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Operation, care
and maintenance
Controls
Controls and features
Car care
Overview
Advanced technology
Technology Repairs
Owner service procedures
Data
Technical data
Index
Index
Engine data 184
Dimensions 185
Weights 186
Capacities 187
Electrical system 188
Drive belts 188
Overview
183n
Data
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
184nEngine
data
BMW 325i/325xi
Displacement
Number of cylinders
cu.in (cmm)
152.2 (2,494)
6
Maximum output
at engine speed
hp (kW)
rpm
184 (135)
6.000
Maximum torque
at engine speed
lb.ft (Nm)
rpm
175 (237)
3.500
Compression ratio
e
10.5
Stroke
Bore
in (mm)
in (mm)
2.95 (75)
3.31 (84)
Fuel-injection system
Digital-electronic engine-management system
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Dimensions
Dimensions in ( ) apply to 325xi.
Height with roof-mounted luggage rack: 56.9 in/1,444 mm (57.6 in/1,464 mm).
Minimum turning circle dia.: 34.4 feet/10.5 m (35.8 feet/10.9 m).
Index
463us015
Data
Technology Repairs
Car care
Controls
Overview
185n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
186nWeights
BMW 325i
BMW 325xi
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included)
with manual transmission
with automatic transmission
lb. (kg)
lb. (kg)
3,384 (1,535)
3,428 (1,555)
3,627 (1,645)
3,693 (1,675)
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission
with automatic transmission
lb. (kg)
lb. (kg)
4,531 (2,055)
4,576 (2,075)
4,729 (2,145)
4,795 (2,175)
Approved front axle weight
lb. (kg)
2,006 (910)
2,183 (990)
Approved rear axle weight
lb. (kg)
2,579 (1,170)
2,668 (1,210)
Approved roof load capacity
lb. (kg)
165 (75)
165 (75)
Luggage compartment capacity
cu. ft. (liters)
15.4 - 47.5 (435 - 1,345)
15.4 - 47.5 (435 - 1,345)
Approved axle loads and approved gross vehicle weight may not be exceeded.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Capacities
gal. (liters)
gal. (liters)
approx. 16.6 (approx. 63)
approx. 2.1 (approx. 8)
Windshield washer system/
Headlamp washer system (front)
Rear window washer system (rear)
quarts (liters)
quarts (liters)
approx. 5.6 (approx. 5.3)
approx. 2.4 (approx. 2.3)
Cooling system including heater circuit
quarts (liters)
approx. 8.9 (approx. 8.4)
For details: page 137
Engine oil filter change
quarts (liters)
325i approx. 6.9
(approx. 6.5)
325xi: approx. 7.9
(approx. 7.5)
BMW High Performance
synthetic oil
Specifications: page 136
–
Lifetime fluid, no fluid change
required
Data
Technology Repairs
For details: page 134
Index
Manual and automatic transmission and
differential
Fuel specification: page 28
Controls
Fuel tank
reserve
Car care
Notes
Overview
187n
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188nElectrical
system
Battery
12 V, 80 Ah
Spark plugs
NGK BKR 6 EQUP
Bosch FGR 7 DQP
Drive belts
Water pump – Generator –
Power steering
Drive belt 6 PK x 1538
A/C compressor
Drive belt 5 PK x 863
You can obtain Original BMW
Parts and Accessories, as well
as professional advice from your BMW
center.<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Index
Data
Technology Repairs
Car care
Controls
Overview
189n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
190n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Operation, care
and maintenance
Controls
Controls and features
Car care
Overview
Owner service procedures 198
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technology Repairs
Everything from A to Z 192
Overview
191n
Data
Technical data
Index
Index
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
A
ABS (Antilock Brake
System) 22, 116
Accessories 6
Activated-charcoal
filter 100, 165
Adaptive Transmission
Control (ATC) 65, 173
Adding engine oil 135
Adding washer
fluid 134, 187
Adjust
backrest 47
steering wheel 50
temperature 92
thigh support area 48
Air conditioner 90
Air distribution 92, 98
Air nozzles 90
Air outlets 96
ventilation 90, 96
Air pressure 124
Air supply 92, 99
Airbags 21, 58, 147, 172
Alarm system 41
Antenna 123
Antenna Diversity 174
Antifreeze 137
radiator 121
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 22, 116
Anti-theft alarm system 41
Aquaplaning 115, 124
Armrest 102
ASC+T (Automatic Stability
Control plus
Traction) 22, 173
Ashtray 104
ATC (Adaptive Transmission
Control) 65, 173
Attaching vacuum
cleaner 104
AUC (Automatic climate
control) 96
Automatic car washes 141
Automatic climate
control 96
remove condensation from
the windows 98
Automatic cruise control 71
Automatic dimming, interior
rearview mirror 52
Automatic Stability Control
plus Traction
(ASC+T) 22, 173
Automatic transmission 21
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 65
Automatic washer
rear window 69
windshield 69
Average consumption 77
Average speed 77
Axle loads 186
B
C
Backrest, adjusting 47
Backup lamps 64
bulb replacement 156
Battery 162, 188
capacity 188
charging 164
discharged 167
removal and
installation 163
Battery charge current 20
Battery safety terminal 163
Belts 53
Beverage holder 102
Blower 92, 99
BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oils 136
BMW sports seat 48
Bore 184
Brake
fluid 138
hydraulic system 20
pads 22
Brake lamps
bulb replacement 156
Brake system 118
faults 120
Break-in procedure 114
Bulb replacement 153
Bulbs and lamps 153
California Proposition
65 Warning 148
Capacities 187
Car Memory 52
Car radio 123
reception 174
refer also to the separate
Owner's Manual
Car telephone 103
Car vacuum cleaner,
connecting 104
Car wash 141
Care
upholstery 145
vehicle exterior 142
vehicle finish 143
vehicle interior 144
wool velour 145
Cargo loading 110
Catalytic converter 115
CBC (Cornering Brake
Control) 21, 117
Cellular phone 123
refer to the separate
Owner's Manual
Center armrest 102
Center (high-mount) brake
lamp 157
Central locking system 34
button 38
Changing a tire 159
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
E
Electric power seat 48
Electric power windows 43
Electrical accessories,
failure 164
Electrical system 188
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 33
Elements of operation 16
F
Failure messages 75
Fault displays 75
Fault, ABS 117
Filler cap cover 27
Filling capacities 187
Filling the washer
reservoir 187
First-aid kit 26
Fittings, tow starting and
towing 168
Flashlight 101
Flat tire 124, 159
Fog lamps 88
Overview
Controls
Car care
Dashboard 16
Data
dimensions 185
engine 184
technical 184
weights 186
Daytime-driving lamp
switch 87
DBC (Dynamic Brake
Control) 118
Defrost position 94, 98
Defrostable rear window 99
Defrosting
rear window 92
windows 94, 98
Digital clock 75
Dimensions 185
Dipstick, engine oil 135
Disc brakes 118
Displacement 184
Display lighting 87
Displays 18
Distance warning 78
Emergency operation,
doors 34
Energy Control 73
Engine
coolant 137, 187
data 184
starting 61
Engine oil
capacity 187
consumption 135
pressure 20
quality 136
specifications 136
viscosity 136
Engine speed 184
Exterior mirrors 51
Technology Repairs
D
Diversity Antenna
system 174
Door key 32, 35
Door locks, care 121
Doors
child-safety locks 58
emergency operation 34
unlocking and locking 34
DOT Quality Grades 125
Draft-free ventilation 93
Drive belts 188
Driving hints 115
Driving in winter 121
Driving lamps 87
DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control) 81, 173
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC) 118
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC) 22, 81, 173
Data
Cruise control 71
Cruising range 77
Cup holder, refer to
beverage holder 102
Curb weight 186
Current check indicator 20
Index
Changing a wheel 159
Charge indicator lamp 20
Check air pressure 28
Check Control 75
Check engine oil level 135
Child restraint
systems 54, 60
Child-safety locks 58
Child's seat 54
Cigarette lighter 104
Cleaning windshield 68
Clock 75
refer also to the Radio or
Computer Owner's Manual
Cockpit 16
Coin holder 102
Combination switch 68
Compression 184
Computer 76
Configure settings 52
Consumption 77
display 74
Contents 10
Control elements 20
Coolant 121, 137, 187
antifreeze 121
Coolant temperature
gauge 74
Cooling system 187
Copyright 4
Cornering Brake Control
(CBC) 21, 117
193n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Folding rear backrest 108
Footbrake 118
Footwell lamps 88
bulb replacement 158
Four-wheel drive 175
Front fog lamps, bulb
replacement 155
Front seat adjustment 46
Frost protection,
radiator 137
Fuel 28
consumption 77
consumption display 74
gauge 74
preparation 184
quality 28
Fuel filler door
releasing following an
electrical malfunction 166
Fuel reserve indicator
lamp 74
Fuel tank capacity 187
Fuel tank gauge 74
Functional status 179
Fuses 164
G
Gasoline 28
Gasoline gauge 74
Gasoline quality 28
Glove compartment 101
Glove compartment lamp,
bulb replacement 158
Gross vehicle weight 186
H
Handbrake 63
Hands-free system 103
Hazard warning flashers 26
Hazard warning triangle 26
Head restraint 47
Headlamp covers,
care 141, 153
Headlamp flasher 88
Headlamp washer
system 70, 134, 187
Heated seats 100
Heating, rapid 94
Heavy loads 110
Height 185
HiFi system 101
High beams 23, 68, 88
bulb replacement 153
High Performance Synthetic
Oils 136
High-mount brake lamp 157
Hood release 130
Horn 17
Hubcap 160
Hydraulic Brake assistant,
refer to DBC 118
I
J
Ice warning 76
Icy roads 76, 121
Identification, tires 127
Ignition key 32, 35
Ignition lock 61
Imprint 4
Indicator lamps 20
Inflation pressure 28, 124
monitoring 85, 178
INSPECTION 74
Installation child restraint
systems 60
Instrument cluster 18
Instrument lighting 87
Interaxle tire rotation 126
Interface socket for Onboard
Diagnostics 149
Interference, cellular
phone 123
Interior lamps 36, 88
bulb replacement 158
remote control 36
Interior motion sensor 41
Interior rearview mirror 51
automatic dimming
feature 52, 176
Interlock 61
Intermittent wipe 68
Jack 159
Jump-starting 167
K
Key 32, 35
Key Memory 52
L
Lamps and bulbs 153
Lashing eyes 110
LATCH attachment of the
child seat 58
Leather care 145
Length 185
License plate lamp
bulb replacement 157
Light switch 87
Light-alloy wheels 129
Lighter 104
Load-securing devices 110
Louvers 90, 96
Low beam headlamps 87
bulb replacement 153
Lug bolts 160
Lug wrench 159
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Overview
P
Paint blemishes 142
Paintwork
minor repairs 143
waxing 143
Paint, care 142
Park Distance Control
(PDC) 78
Parking brake 63
Parking help 78
Parking lamps 88
Parking, winter 122
Partition net 107
PDC (Park Distance
Control) 78
Performance 184
Phone, mobile 123
Pocket lamp 101
Pollen 93, 100
Power outlet 105
Power steering 123
Power windows 43
safety switch 44
Pressure monitoring,
tires 85, 178
Pressure, tires 28, 124
R
Radiator 187
Radio
refer to the separate
Owner's Manual
Radio Data System
(RDS) 174
Radio reception 123, 174
Rain sensor 69, 177
RDC (Tire Pressure
Control) 85, 178
RDS (Radio Data
System) 174
Reading lamps 88
Rear backrest, folded
down 108
Rear hatch lamp
bulb replacement 157
Rear lamps 156
Rear seat backrest,
folding 107
Rear window
defroster 70, 92, 99
Rearview mirror 51
Recirculated air control 92
automatic 99
Recirculated-air mode 92
Reclining seat 46
Refueling 27
Quality Grades 125
Controls
OBD interface socket 149
Obstruction protection 43
Odometer 73
Oil
additives 135
capacity 187
consumption 135
dipstick 135
quality 136
specifications 136
viscosity 136
Oil change intervals, refer to
the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet or to
the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet
Oil filter change 187
Oil level, indicator lamp 20
Oil pressure, indicator
lamp 20
OILSERVICE 74
Onboard computer, please
refer to Computer 76
Onboard tool kit 152
Opening and closing
from the inside 38
from the outside 34
Q
Car care
O
Opening the rear
window 40
Outside temperature
display 76
Owner service
procedure 141
Technology Repairs
Neckrest 47
Nozzles 96
Data
M
Maintenance 74
Malfunction displays 75
Manual transmission 64
Memory 49
MFL (Multifunction steering
wheel) 24
Microfilter 93, 165
Mirror memory 49
Mirrors 51
Mobile phone 123
Modifications,
technical 6, 148
Motion sensor, interior 41
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL) 24
M+S tires 128
N
Index
Luggage
compartment 38, 107
capacity 186
emergency release 166
lamps 39
lamps, bulb
replacement 158
remote control system 37
trunk floor 40
Luggage compartment lid
emergency release 166
Luggage rack 111
Lumbar support 48
195n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Remote control 35
Removal from service of the
vehicle 147
Removing condensation
from the windows 94
Reporting safety defects 7
Restraint system 54
Retaining straps 40
Reverse 17, 64
Roll-up cover 107
Roof load capacity 186
Roof luggage rack 111
Rubber parts 121
S
Safety belt height
adjustment 53
Safety belt tensioners 175
Safety belts 53
height adjustment 53
Safety defects, reporting 7
Safety feature 43
Safety lock buttons 38
Seat
electric power 48
mechanical 46
Seat adjustment 46
Seat heating 100
Seat memory 49
Securing cargo 110
Securing loads 110
Selector lever, automatic
transmission 65
Self-defrosting mirrors 51
Self-diagnostics 179
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet
(US models) 140
Service Interval Display 74
Setting the temperature 98
Shiftlock 65
Side airbags 58
Side impact Head Protection
System 58
Side lamps 87
bulb replacement 154
Ski bag 106
Skid control 122
Sliding/tilt sunroof 44
close in the event of an
electrical short 166
convenience operation 34
Slippery roads 122
Snow chains 121
Socket 104
for electrical
appliances 104
for flashlights 104
for vacuum cleaner 104
refer also to power
outlet 105
Space-saver spare tire 159
Spare key 32, 35
with radio remote
control 32, 35
Spare tire 159
Spark plugs 188
Speaker 103
Speed control 71
Speedometer 18
Sports seat 48
Sports steering wheel 25
Starting assistance 167
Starting
problems 115, 167
Starting the engine 61
Steel wheels 129
Steering 123
Steering wheel lock 61
Steering wheel,
adjusting 50
Steptronic 65
Stereo system – harman
kardon 101
Stopping the vehicle 62
Storage compartments 102
Storing the vehicle 147
Stroke 184
Summer tires 127
Sun visors 51
Sunroof 44
Switching off the engine 62
Symbols 4, 163
Synthetic oils 136
T
Tachometer 73
Tail lamps 156
bulb replacement 156
Tailgate
emergency release 166
Tailgate lamp, bulb
replacement 157
Tank capacity 187
Technical data 184
Technical
modifications 6, 148
Telephone
refer to the separate
Owner's Manual
Telephone hookup 103
Temperature adjustment 98
Temperature display,
outside temperature 76
Temperature gauge, engine
coolant 74
Temperature
layering 93, 100
Thigh support area,
adjusting 48
Third brake lamp 157
Tilt alarm 42
Tilt sensor alarm system 36
remote control 36
Tire changing 159
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
W
Warning lamps 20
Warning messages 75
Warranty and Service Guide
(Canadian models) 140
Overview
Controls
Car care
Vacuum cleaner,
connecting 104
Vanity mirror 51
bulb replacement 158
Vehicle battery 162, 188
Vehicle care
exterior 142
interior 144
Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) 139
Vehicle immobilizer 33
Vehicle painting 142
Vehicle removal from
service 147
Vehicle storage 147
Vehicle weight 186
Ventilation 90, 93, 96
draft-free 93, 100
Vinyl upholstery, care 144
Voice recognition 24, 25
X
Xenon lamp 154, 180
Technology Repairs
V
Washer fluids 134
Washer nozzles 134
Washer reservoir, filling 134
Washing your car 141
Water on roadways
deep water 115
Waxing, paintwork 143
Weights 186
Wheel changing 159
Wheel lug wrench 159
Wheel rims 127
Wheel stud wrench 159
Wheelbase 185
Wheels and tires 127, 129
Width 185
Windows, convenience
operation 34
Windshield washer nozzle
adjustment 134
Windshield washer reservoir,
filling 134, 187
Windshield wiper 68
blade replacement 152
Winter operation 121
Winter tires 127, 128
Wiper blade
replacement 152
Wiper system 68
Work in the engine
compartment 130
Data
U
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading 125
Used batteries 164
Index
Tire codes 127
Tire damages 124
Tire inflation
pressure 28, 124
Tire Pressure Control
(RDC) 85, 178
Tire pressure
monitoring 85, 178
Tire Quality Grading 125
Tire replacement 125, 126
Tire specifications 129
Tire tread 124
Tools 152
Torque 184
Tow fittings 168
Tow starting 168
Towing 168
Track 185
Traction Control System,
refer to DSC 79
Transmission 64
Transporting children
safely 58
Tread depth, tires 124
Trip odometer 73
Trunk 38
Turn signal
indicator 23, 68, 154
bulb replacement 154
Turning radius 185
Two-way radios 123
197n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Owner service procedures
A
Activated-charcoal filter,
changing 165
Adding brake fluid 138
Adding engine coolant 138
Adding engine oil 135
Adjust washer nozzles 134
Air pressure, checking 28
Antifreeze 138
B
Backup lamps
bulb replacement 156
Battery
care 163
charging 164
removal and
installation 163
Brake fluid, adding 138
Brake lamps
bulb replacement 156
Brakes, brake faults 120
C
Changing a tire 159
Changing a wheel 159
Changing the
microfilter 165
Charging the battery 164
Check air pressure 28
Check Control 75
Checking air pressure 28
Checking engine oil
level 135
D
Defrost setting 94
Defrosting the windows 94
Difficult steering 123
Disposal
batteries 164
engine oil 136
Doors, emergency
actuation 34
E
Electrical accessories,
failure 164
Electrical defect
fuel filler door 166
sliding/tilt sunroof 166
Emergency operation
doors 34
fuel filler door 166
luggage
compartment 166
sliding/tilt sunroof 166
Engine oil
add 135
quality 136
specifications 136
viscosity 136
Engine oil level,
checking 135
F
Failure messages 75
Filling washer reservoir 134
First-aid kit 26
Fittings, tow starting and
towing 168
Flat tire 159
Footwell lamps, bulb
replacement 158
Front fog lamps
bulb replacement 155
Fuses, replacing 164
G
Glove compartment lamp,
bulb replacement 158
H
Hatch lamps
bulb replacement 156
Hatch, emergency lock
operation 166
Hazard warning flashers 26
Hazard warning triangle 26
Headlamp cover, care 153
High beams, bulb
replacement 153
I
Indicator lamps 20
Inflated pressure 28
Interior lamps, bulb
replacement 158
Interior motion sensor,
switching off 42
J
Jack 159
L
License plate lamp
bulb replacement 157
Low beams, bulb
replacement 153
Lug wrench 159
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Owner service procedures
P
Pressure, tires 28
R
Rear hatch lamp
bulb replacement 157
Rear lamp 156
Release the hood 130
Side lamps
bulb replacement 154
Sliding/tilt sunroof
close in event of electrical
defect 166
Space-saver spare tire 159
Spare key 32
Spare tire 159
Spare wheel 159
Starting problems 115
Switching off tilt alarm/
interior motion sensor 42
U
Use antifreeze for
radiator 138
Used batteries 164
Used engine oil 136
Overview
Controls
Warning lamps 20
Warning messages 75
Washer fluid, adding 134
Washer nozzles,
adjusting 134
Washer reservoir, filling 134
Wheel changing 159
Windshield wiper blades,
replacing 152
Working in the engine
compartment 130
Car care
S
Oil
quality 136
specifications 136
viscosity 136
Onboard tool kit 152
W
Tail lamps
bulb replacement 156
Tailgate lamps
bulb replacement 156
Tailgate, emergency lock
operation 166
Tilt alarm, switching off 42
Tire changing 159
Tire damage 124
Tools 152
Tow fittings 168
Tow starting 168
Towing 168
Turn signals, bulb
replacement 154
Technology Repairs
O
M
T
V
Vanity mirror lamp, bulb
replacement 158
Data
Maintenance 140
Malfunction displays 75
Microfilter, change 165
Motion sensor, switching
off 42
Releasing the fuel filler door
after an electrical
defect 166
Removing condensation
from the windows 94
Replace windshield wiper
blades 152
Replacement key 32
Replacing lamp bulbs 153
Replenish washer
reservoir 134
Return used batteries 164
Index
Luggage compartment
emergency actuation 166
Luggage compartment
lamps, bulb
replacement 158
199n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
Refueling
So that you will have important
specifications available when you
stop to refuel, we recommend
that you supplement this table
with data which apply to your
vehicle.
BMW recommends Castrol
Fuel
Designation
Premium Unleaded
Gasoline
AKI: minimum
91
Engine oil
Quality
The oil volume between the
two marks on the oil dipstick
corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter).
Tire inflation pressures
Summer
Front
Rear
Winter
Front
Rear
4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
3 sport wagon US-En
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG
01 41 0 155 307 ue
We wish you an enjoyable
driving experience.
The Ultimate Driving Machine
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 307 - © 09/00 BMW AG