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Owner’s Manual for the Vehicle.
With a quick reference guide for your convenience.
Contents
A – Z
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
528i
540i sedan sport wagon
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 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 car. 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 Booklet
(Canadian models).
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW AG
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
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Notes on the Owner's Manual
We have made every effort to ensure that you are able to find what you need in this Owner's Manual as quickly as possible. The fastest way to find certain topics is by using the detailed index at the end. If you desire an initial overview of your vehicle, this can be found in the first chapter. The detailed list of contents that directly follows the summary of contents is intended to stimulate your curiosity regarding your BMW and to encourage you to read the manual.
Should you wish to sell your BMW at some time in the future, please remember to hand over the Owner's Manual to the new owner; it is part of the vehicle.
If you have any additional questions, an authorized BMW center will be glad to advise you.
Symbols used
These sections contain vital information – please read the accompanying text passages carefully, both for your own safety and to prevent damage to your BMW.
<
These passages contain information on special and unique features of your vehicle.
<
< Indicates the end of a note.
*
Indicates special information on recycling.
<
Indicates special equipment, countryspecific equipment and optional extras.
Indicates that you should consult the relevant section of this
Owner's Manual for information on a particular part or assembly.
The individual 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.
We hope you will understand that equipment and features are included which you might not have chosen for your vehicle. Any differences can easily be identified, since all optional accessories and special equipment are marked with an asterisk * .
If your BMW features equipment which is not described in this Owner's Manual
(car radio or telephone, for instance),
Supplementary Owner's Manuals are enclosed. We ask you to read these manuals as well.
© 1999 BMW AG
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the written consent of BMW AG, Munich.
Order no. 01 41 0 155 012
US English VIII/99
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper
(bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling).
Alerts you to functions which can be adjusted by your authorized
BMW center ("Car Memory" or "Key
<
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
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.
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For your own safety
Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels containing up to 10% ethanol or other oxygenates with up to 2.8% oxygen by weight (i.e., 15% MTBE or
3% methanol plus an equivalent amount of co-solvent) will not void the applicable warranties with respect to defects in materials or workmanship.
Field experience has indicated significant differences in fuel quality (i.e., 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 that 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!
For your own safety, use genuine parts and accessories approved by
BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested and approved by BMW and Original
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire the assurance that they have been thoroughly tested by BMW to ensure optimum performance when installed on your vehicle.
BMW warrants these parts to be free from defects in material and workmanship.
BMW will not accept any liability for damage resulting from installation of parts and accessories not approved by
BMW.
BMW cannot test every product from other manufacturers to verify if it can be used on a BMW safely and without risk to either the vehicle, its operation, or its occupants.
Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories and other products approved by BMW, together with professional advice on using these items, are available from all
BMW centers.
Installation and operation of non-BMW approved accessories such as alarms, radios, amplifiers, radar detectors, wheels, suspension components, brake dust shields, telephones (including operation of any portable cellular phone from within the vehicle without using an externally-mounted antenna) or transceiver equipment (C.B., walkie-talkie, ham radio, for instance) may cause extensive damage to the vehicle, compromise its safety, interfere with the vehicle's electrical system, or affect the validity of the BMW Limited Warranty.
Visit your authorized BMW center for additional information.
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Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and systems may be performed by any automotive repair establishment or individual using any certified automotive part.
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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
The following only applies to vehicles owned and operated in the US.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying BMW of
North America, Inc., P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone (201) 307-4000.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in 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.
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Overview
9 n
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technical data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Contents
Indicator and warning lamps 22
Locks and security systems:
Electronic vehicle immobilizer 35
Opening and closing – from the outside 36
Opening and closing – from the inside 40
Adjustments:
Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory 56
Passenger safety systems:
Driving:
Automatic transmission with
Everything under control:
Odometer, outside temperature display 82
Technology for safety and convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 90
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 92
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Lamps:
Controlling the climate for pleasant driving:
Independent ventilation
Cabin convenience:
Loading and transporting cargo:
sport wagon:
Storage areas in the luggage
Special operating instructions:
Wheels and tires:
Wheel and tire combinations 137
Approved wheel and tire
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Contents
Under the hood:
Care and maintenance:
Laws and regulations:
Replacement procedures:
In case of electrical malfunction:
Assistance, giving and receiving:
Adaptive Transmission Control
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Interior rearview mirror with
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 194
Integrated rear suspension 194
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Indicator and warning lamps 22
Multifunction steering wheel
Hazard warning flashersHazard warning flashers 27
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Owner service procedures
15 n
Advanced technology
Technical data
Index
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Cockpit
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Cockpit
2 >
>
>
>
>
8 HornMultifunction steering wheel
26
9 Electronic steering wheel
17 n
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18 n
Instrument cluster
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Instrument cluster
There are two versions, depending on the equipment on your vehicle
1 Fuel gauge with indicator lamp for
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 24
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for high beams 24
5 Tachometer and
6 Engine coolant thermometer with
"Coolant temperature too high"
7 Indicator and warning lamps for:
> Parking brake/Brake hydraulic system, Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC)
>
Antilock Brake System (ABS) 23
>
> Tire Pressure Control (RDC)
>
>
Automatic transmission *
>
>
8 Selector lever and program display for automatic transmission *
10 Display for onboard computer
(operation via the turn signal lever,
> Outside temperature
> Average fuel consumption
> Cruising range
> Average speed
11 Indicator lamp for Automatic
Stability Control plus Traction
(ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC)
12 Indicator lamp for level control system *
13 Odometer and trip odometer 82
14 Indicator for Check Control 85
15 Reset button for trip odometer 82
16 Indicator and warning lamps for:
>
>
> Engine oil level/Engine oil
> Electronic Engine Power
>
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Instrument cluster
*
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Instrument cluster
*
There are two versions, depending on the equipment on your vehicle
1 Fuel gauge with indicator lamp for
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 24
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for high beams 24
5 Tachometer and
6 Engine coolant temperature
7 Indicator and warning lamps for:
>
> Brake hydraulic system, Dynamic
Brake Control (DBC) *
>
Antilock Brake System (ABS) 23
>
>
>
9 Selector lever and program display for automatic transmission *
10 Outside temperature display 82
11 Indicator lamp for Automatic
Stability Control plus Traction
(ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC)
13 Indicator for Check Control 85
15 Service Interval Display 84
16 Reset button for trip odometer 82
17 Indicator and warning lamps for:
>
>
>
>
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Indicator and warning lamps
Technology that monitors itself
Many of the systems of your BMW monitor themselves automatically, both during engine starts and while you are driving. Indicator and warning lamps that are identified by " ● " are tested for proper functioning whenever the ignition key is turned. They each light up once for different periods of time.
If a fault should occur in one of these systems, the corresponding lamp does not go out after the engine is started or it lights up while the vehicle is moving.
You will see how to react to this below.
Red: Stop immediately
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 the ribbed V-belt is defective, do not continue driving. The engine could be damaged due to overheating.
If the ribbed V-belt is defective, increased steering effort is also required.
<
Engine oil pressure ●
Comes on while the engine is running and the "STOP! ENGINE
OILPRESS" message appears in the
Check Control: Stop vehicle and switch off engine immediately. Check level of oil in engine, top up as required. If oil level is correct: Please contact the nearest BMW center.
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) * ●
In addition, there is an acoustical warning signal: A tire failure has occurred. Reduce vehicle speed immediately and stop the vehicle. Avoid hard brake applications. Do not oversteer. For additional information: Refer
Parking brake * , brake hydraulic system ●
Comes on when you engage the parking brake. For additional informa-
Comes on although the parking brake is released: Have the brake fluid level checked. Before driving further, be
sure to read the notes on pages 130
.
Also comes on with the message
"CHECK BRAKE PADS" in the Check
Control.
Parking brake warning lamp * /
Brake hydraulic system for
Canadian models.
Do not continue driving. The engine could be damaged because of inadequate lubrication.
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Indicator and warning lamps
23 n
Yellow: Stop immediately
Engine oil level ●
Stop vehicle and switch off engine immediately. The oil level is at the absolute minimum.
Do not continue driving until oil is added. Otherwise, the engine could be damaged because of inadequate lubrication.
<
Red: An important reminder
Parking brake *
Comes on when you engage the parking brake.
For additional information: Refer to
Parking brake warning lamp * for
Canadian models.
Please fasten safety belts ●
Together with an acoustic signal or a message * in the Check
Control. Comes on until the safety belts are fastened. For additional information
on safety belts: Refer to page 59 .
Airbags ●
Please have the system inspected by your authorized
BMW center.
For additional information: Refer to
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 authorized BMW center.
For additional information: Refer to
.
Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lamp for Canadian models.
Engine oil level ●
Comes on after the engine has been shut off: Check the engine oil level. For additional information:
Automatic transmission *
Because of a malfunction, the automatic transmission shifts only in the emergency program. Please consult the nearest authorized BMW center.
For additional information: Refer to
.
Brake pads * ●
Have the brake pads checked.
For additional information:
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Indicator and warning lamps
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC) * ●
Fault in the DBC system. Conventional braking efficiency is available without limitations.
For additional information: Refer to
.
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) warning lamp for Canadian models
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) * ●
Check the tire inflation pressure.
Level control system * ●
The level control system is inactive. Please consult the nearest authorized BMW center.
For additional information: Refer to
.
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) * ●
The ASC+T/DSC has been switched off or has been deactivated because of a malfunction. In the event of a malfunction, have the system checked by your authorized BMW center.
For additional information: Refer to
Electronic Engine Power Control
(EML) *
Malfunction in the EML. When braking, higher brake application pressure may be necessary and brake pedal travel may be significantly longer.
Please have the system inspected by your authorized BMW center.
CHECK ENGINE lamp ●
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
.
CHECK ENGINE warning lamp for Canadian models.
Green: For your information
Turn signal
Flashes when the turn signals are in operation. Rapid flashing indicates a system malfunction.
For additional information: Refer to
.
Cruise control
Lights up when the cruise control is activated. Available for operation via the multifunction steering wheel.
For additional information: Refer to
.
Fog lamps
Lights up whenever you switch on the fog lamps.
For additional information: Refer to
.
Blue: For your information
High beam
Lights up when the high beams are on or the headlamp flasher is actuated.
For additional information: Refer to
.
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Multifunction steering wheel (MFL)
There are two design versions, depending on the equipment installed in your vehicle.
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 may operate:
> Selected functions of the radio, the
CD and cassette modes
> The recirculated air mode of the air conditioner or
> the steering wheel heater
> The cruise control and
> selected cellular phone functions.
In order to operate a system via the MFL, the corresponding system controls must be switched on.
The illustration shows the maximum possible number of controls, corresponding to a full range of optional equipment. Refer to the individual accessory manuals for more detailed descriptions.
<
1 Cellular phone: Receive a call, initiate dialing and terminate a call
2 Radio/Telephone: Select
3 Radio/Telephone: Scan backward or scan station keys or scroll in the phone listings.
Fast forward and reverse for CD and cassette modes
4 Radio/Telephone: Volume
5 Radio/Telephone: Forward scan or scan station keys or scroll in the phone listings.
Fast forward and reverse for CD and cassette modes
6 Horn: The entire surface
7 Cruise control: Activate stored setting (resume)
8 Cruise control: Store and accelerate (+); decelerate and store (–)
9 Cruise control: Activate/Interrupt/
Deactivate
10 Recirculated-air mode and AUC or steering wheel heating: Switch on and off
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26 n
M Multifunction steering wheel (MFL)
*
There are two design versions, depending on the equipment installed in your vehicle.
The controls integrated in the M multifunction steering wheel (MFL) are provided so that you can operate a number of accessories quickly and without being distracted from traffic conditions. You may operate:
> Selected functions of the radio, the
CD and cassette modes
> The cruise control and
> selected cellular phone functions.
In order to operate a system via the MFL, the corresponding system controls must be activated.
The illustration shows the maximum possible number of controls, corresponding to a full range of optional equipment. Refer to the individual accessory manuals for more detailed descriptions.
<
1 Cellular phone: Receive a call, initiate dialing and terminate a call
2 Radio/Telephone: Volume
3 Radio/Telephone: Forward/Backward scan or scan station keys or scroll in the phone listings.
Fast forward and reverse for CD and cassette modes
4 Horn: The entire surface
5 Cruise control: Activate stored setting (resume)
6 Cruise control: Activate/Interrupt/
Deactivate
7 Cruise control: Store and accelerate (+); decelerate and store (–)
8 Radio/Telephone: Select
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Hazard warning flashers Warning triangle
*
First-aid kit
* 27 n
The button flashes rhythmically when the hazard warning flashers are on.
To help you locate the switch in an emergency, the button is also illuminated whenever the car's headlamps are on.
The hazard warning triangle is quickly available, stored in the onboard tool kit mounted on the inside of the luggage compartment lid (tailgate).
To open the container, loosen the wing screw.
Comply with legal requirements which cover the availability of a hazard warning triangle in the car.
<
The first-aid kit is located under the front passenger's seat.
To remove: Lift the release lever on the front (arrow) and pull the first-aid kit forward out of its support.
To store: Position the back of the kit into the support, then push back until the lever engages.
Some of the articles in the first-aid kit may be used within a limited time only. For this reason, check the expiration dates of each of the items regularly, and replace any whose expiration dates have passed. You can acquire replacements in any drugstore or pharmacy.
Comply with legal requirements which cover availability of a first-aid kit in your vehicle.
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28 n
Refueling
Fuel filler door Simple and friendly to the environment
Before refueling, shut the engine off. If the engine is running, fuel cannot be filled into the tank and the
Service Engine lamp may come on.
<
Open the filler cap carefully to prevent fuel from spraying out.
Fuel spray may cause injury.
Do not top off. Topping off may cause fuel spillage.
<
To open the filler door, press on the front edge.
To unlock the filler door if the central
locking system fails, refer to page 180
.
Keep the filler cap in the bracket attached to the fuel filler door.
When handling fuels, comply with all of the applicable safety precautions and regulations pertaining to fuels.
Never carry spare fuel containers in your vehicle. Whether empty or full, these containers can leak, cause an explosion, or lead to fire in the event of a collision.
<
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle completely into the filler pipe. Pulling the nozzle out of the pipe during refueling
> results in premature pump shutoff and
> will reduce the effect of the vapor recovery system on the pump.
Close the fuel cap carefully after refueling. A loose or missing cap will activate the Service Engine lamp.
<
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Fuel specifications Tire inflation pressure
29 n
Use unleaded gasoline only.
Recommended octane rating: 91 AKI.
BMW engines are equipped with knock sensors and will adapt automatically to different octane ratings, provided that the minimum octane requirement
(87 AKI) is met.
Fuels with higher octane ratings will provide enhanced performance and lower fuel consumption, while the use of fuels with low octane ratings will have an opposite effect.
Do not use leaded fuels. The use of leaded fuels will cause permanent damage to the system's oxygen sensor and the catalytic converter.
<
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Check tire inflation pressures regularly – at least every two weeks and before beginning a longer trip.
Incorrect tire pressure can lead to tire damage and accidents.
Check the inflation pressure of the spare tire also. Inflate the spare tire to the highest inflation of any tire on your vehicle.
<
The inflation pressures are indicated on a sticker attached to the B-pillar behind the driver's door (visible with door open).
Check tire pressures
All pressure specifications are indicated in psi (kilopascal) for tires at ambient temperature (refer also to the next pages).
For vehicles with Tire Pressure Control
(RDC) * :
After a correction of the tire inflation pressure, reactivate the system. Refer
.
Comply with tire approval specifications
The inflation pressures in the table apply to tires from BMW approved manufacturers. Your BMW center is familiar with these pressures. Higher pressures may be specified for tires from other manufacturers. You will find a list of approved tires beginning on
.
Your vehicle is equipped with tires that not only meet US standards, but also
European standards. We recommend the exclusive use of BMW approved tires.
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30 n
Tire inflation pressure
sedan
528i
540i
540iA
Tires
All pressure specifications in the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) with cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
225/60 R 15 96 H M+S
225/60 R 15 96 W
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W/Y
205/65 R 15 94 Q M+S
225/60 R 15 96 Q M+S
225/55 R 16 95 Q M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q M+S
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
225/55 R 16 95 W
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W/Y
225/55 R 16 95 Q,T,H M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q,T,H M+S
225/55 R 16 95 H M+S
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
225/55 R 16 95 Q M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q M+S
Rear: 225/40 R 17 94 W/Y
US/CDN:
33 (230) 41 (280) 33 (230) 41 (280) outside US/CDN:
29 (200) 33 (230) 33 (230) 41 (280)
35 (240)
–
30 (210)
39 (270)
39 (270)
35 (240)
41 (280)
–
36 (250)
48 (330)
48 (330)
44 (300)
30 (210) 35 (240) 36 (250) 44 (300)
35 (240) 44 (340)
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Tire inflation pressure
sport wagon
Tires
All pressure specifications in the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) with cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)
528i
540i
225/60 R 15 96 H M+S
225/60 R 15 96 W
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
225/60 R 15 96 Q M+S
225/55 R 16 95 Q M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q M+S
225/55 R 16 95 H M+S
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
225/55 R 16 95 Q M+S
235/45 R 17 94 Q M+S
30 (210) 35 (240) 36 (250) 44 (300)
33 (230) 38 (260) 39 (270) 46 (320)
30 (210) 35 (240) 36 (250) 44 (300)
33 (230) 38 (260) 39 (270) 46 (320)
31 n
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32 n
Locks and security systems:
Electronic vehicle immobilizer 35
Opening and closing
– from the outside
With the key
Opening and closing
– from the inside
Luggage compartment lid/
Sliding/Tilt sunroof
Adjustments:
Steering wheel
Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory 56
Car Memory, Key Memory
Passenger safety systems:
Child restraints
Driving:
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic
Everything under control:
Odometer, outside temperature display 82
Technology for safety and convenience:
Park Distance Control (PDC) 90
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC)
Tire Pressure Control (RDC)
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Lamps:
Instrument lighting
Controlling the climate for pleasant driving:
Seat heating
Steering wheel heating
Independent ventilation system
Cabin convenience:
Cellular phone
Loading and transporting cargo:
Through-loading system
Ski bag
sport wagon:
Roll-up cover
Storage areas in the luggage compartment
Cargo loading
Roof-mounted luggage rack
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Owner service procedures
33 n
Advanced technology
Technical data
Index
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34 n
Keys
1 The master keys with remote control determine the functions of the Key
.
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 approximately once every year while driving for an extended period to charge the battery. Refer also to
<
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place such as in your wallet. This key is not intended for continuous use.
3 Door and ignition key
The locks for the luggage compartment lid/tailgate, rear backrest and glove compartment cannot be operated with this key. This is useful for valet parking, for instance.
Replacement keys
Replacement keys are available exclusively through your authorized BMW center. Your BMW center is obligated to ensure that a person requesting a key is authorized to do so since the keys belong to a security system (refer to
"Electronic vehicle immobilizer" on
).
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.
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Electronic vehicle immobilizer
The key to security
Your BMW is equipped with a passive anti-theft system. This electronic immobilization system is designed to reduce the susceptibility of your vehicle to theft by making it impossible to start the engine using any means other than the special keys furnished with the vehicle.
Your BMW center can cancel the 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.
How the electronics work
At the heart of this system is an electronic chip which is integrated into the key. The lock mechanism itself is actually a dual-function device, simultaneously serving as a communications interface designed to allow the security system to maintain a continuous stream of variable, vehicle-specific signals with the electronic circuitry in the key. The system will not release the ignition, fuel injection and starter unless it recognizes an "authorized" key.
Force applied to the key can damage the integrated electronic circuitry. A damaged key can no longer be used to start the engine.
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36 n
Central locking system Opening and closing – from the outside
The concept
The central locking system is ready for operation as soon as you close the front doors. The system engages and releases the locks on the
> doors
> luggage compartment lid/tailgate and rear window *
> fuel filler door.
The central locking system can be operated
> from outside via the driver's door lock as well as via the remote control
> from inside via the central locking system buttons.
The fuel filler door remains unlocked when you activate the system from in-
side the vehicle (refer to page 40
). The anti-theft system is automatically armed whenever you activate the central locking system from outside the vehicle.
The alarm system is also activated or deactivated.
If looked from inside, the central locking system unlocks automatically (only those doors which were not locked separately with the safety lock buttons) in the event of an accident. Refer to
page 40 . In addition, the hazard warn-
ing flashers and interior lamps come on.
Convenience operation
You can also operate the windows and sliding/tilt sunroof via the door lock.
> To open: With the door closed, turn the key to the "Unlock" position and hold it.
> To close: With the door closed, turn the key to the "Lock" position and hold it.
With the key
One turn of the key in the driver's door lock unlocks the driver's door only.
Turning the key a second time unlocks all of the remaining doors, the luggage compartment lid/tailgate and the fuel filler door.
You can have an acknowledgment message set to confirm that the vehicle has been secured correctly (not released at this time).
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Watch the closing process carefully and be sure that no one is trapped by the closing motion. The windows/sunroof stop moving immediately when you release the key.
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Manual operation
(in the event of an electrical failure)
Turn the key all the way to the left or right to unlock/lock the door.
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Opening and closing – from the outside
With the remote control
The remote control makes opening and locking the doors of your vehicle very convenient. Furthermore, it provides three additional functions which you can only execute via the remote control:
> To switch on interior lamps:
With this function, you can also
"search for" your vehicle, when parked in an underground garage, for instance.
> To open the luggage compartment:
The luggage compartment lid/tailgate will open slightly, regardless of whether it was previously locked or unlocked.
> Panic Mode:
In case of danger, you can trigger an alarm.
When the vehicle is unlocked, the antitheft system is simultaneously deactivated, the alarm system is disarmed and the interior lamps are switched on.
Locking the vehicle activates the antitheft and alarm systems and switches the interior lamps off.
Master keys
Keys with a transmitter for remote con-
trol are master keys. Refer to page 34 .
Since children might be able to lock the doors from the inside, take the vehicle's keys with you so that the vehicle can be opened again from the outside at any time.
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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 charge the battery. Refer also to
To prevent unauthorized use of the remote control, surrender only the door and ignition key 3 or the spare key 2
(refer to page 34 ) when leaving the ve-
hicle for valet parking, for example.
In the event of a system malfunction, please contact your BMW center. You can also obtain replacement keys there.
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You can have an acknowledgment message set to confirm that the vehicle has been secured correctly (not released at this time).
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38 n
Opening and closing – from the outside
Unlocking and convenience opening mode
To release: Press button 1.
Press the button once to unlock the driver's door only; press a second time to unlock all remaining doors as well as the luggage compartment and fuel filler door.
Convenience opening mode: Press and hold button 1. The windows and the sliding/tilt sunroof are opened.
To lock and secure
Press button 2.
380us646 463de027
Deactivate the tilt sensor alarm system and interior motion sensor
After locking the vehicle press button 2 again.
For additional information: Refer to
.
To switch on the interior lamps
After locking the car, press button 2.
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Opening and closing – from the outside
39 n
To open the luggage compartment lid/tailgate
Press button 3.
The luggage compartment lid/tailgate opens slightly, regardless of whether it was previously locked or unlocked.
External systems
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.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communication Commission) regulations. Operation is governed by the following:
FCC ID: LX8EWS
LX8FZVS
LX8FZVE
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
> This device may not cause harmful interference, and
> this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Before and after a trip, be sure that the luggage compartment lid/ tailgate has not been opened unintentionally.
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Any unauthorized modifications to these devices could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
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Panic Mode
By pressing and holding button 3 for two to five seconds, you can trigger the alarm system if there is an impending danger (the system must be armed).
The alarm is deactivated by pressing button 1.
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40 n
Opening and closing – from the inside
If only the driver's door was unlocked from the outside and you press the button
> all other doors, the luggage compartment lid/tailgate and rear window and the fuel filler door will be unlocked if the driver's door is open
> the driver's door will be locked again when it is closed.
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To engage locks
> Use the central locking button to lock all doors at once, or
> press the individual door lock buttons down. As an added design feature to prevent the driver from being inadvertently locked out of the vehicle, the driver's door lock button will not engage as long as the door is open.
You can operate the central locking system with this button when the driver's door is closed. With this button, only the doors, the luggage compartment lid/tailgate and rear window are unlocked or locked. The anti-theft system is not activated. Also, the fuel filler door remains unlocked to allow refueling.
To unlock and open the doors
> Either unlock the doors together with the button for the central locking system and then pull the door handle above the armrest or
> pull the release handle for each door twice: The first pull unlocks the door, and the second one opens it.
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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Doors locked from outside can be opened from inside by first pressing the button and then pulling a release handle twice.
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When the vehicle is moving, do not lock the doors with their lock buttons since doors locked in this manner would not open automatically in the event of an accident.
Children might be able to lock the doors from the inside. For this reason, you should always remove the key and take it with you to be sure that you will be able to unlock the car from the outside at all times.
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Luggage compartment lid/Tailgate
41 n
Locks – sedan only
Only the master keys (refer to page 34 )
fit in the lock of the luggage compartment lid.
Opening separately
Turn the master key to the left in the luggage compartment lock clear to the stop – the luggage compartment lid will open slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked again as soon as you close the lid.
Secure separately
Turn the master key to the right past the resistance point and then pull it out in the horizontal position.
This locks the luggage compartment lid/tailgate and disconnects it from the central locking system. This feature can be used to prevent unauthorized access to the luggage compartment when you surrender the door and igni-
tion key (refer to page 34 ) for valet park-
ing, for instance.
To open from outside
Press the button (arrow): The luggage compartment lid/tailgate opens slightly.
Manual operation
(in the event of an electrical failure) sedan:
Turn the master key to the left in the luggage compartment lock clear to the stop – the luggage compartment lid will open slightly.
The luggage compartment is locked again as soon as you close the lid.
sport wagon:
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Luggage compartment lid/Tailgate
Opening from inside the car
Provided the luggage compartment lid/ tailgate has not been locked separately, you can use this button to open it when the vehicle is stationary.
Rear window – sport wagon
Small items can be loaded or unloaded quickly if the rear window is opened separately.
Press the button (arrow): The rear window opens slightly. It can now be tilted up.
Push the window down to close it.
Closing – sedan
The handle recess (arrow) next to the lock mechanism is designed to assist you in closing the luggage compartment lid.
If pointed or sharp-edged objects could strike the rear window while driving, be sure to provide protection around all edges. If you do not do this, the heating conductors of the rear window could be damaged.
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Luggage compartment lid/Tailgate
When the tailgate of the sport wagon is opened, the clearance from the ground to the upper edge is more than 6.5 feet (two meters). Please keep this in mind when opening the tailgate (in a garage, for example).
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Closing – sport wagon
You can pull the tailgate down by placing both hands in the handle recesses
(arrows).
To close the tailgate, merely press it down gently. The closing process will then be carried out automatically.
Operate the vehicle only when the luggage compartment lid/tailgate is completely closed. Otherwise, exhaust fumes could penetrate the interior of the vehicle. Should it be absolutely necessary to operate the vehicle with the luggage compartment lid/tailgate open:
> Close all windows. Shut the sliding/ tilt sunroof
> Increase the airflow of the automatic climate control to a high level. Refer
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To avoid injuries, be sure that the travel path of the tailgate is clear when it is closed, as with all closing procedures.
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Luggage compartment
Luggage straps
Use the straps on the floor of the luggage compartment to secure smaller suitcases.
Movement is reduced, when objects are placed on the straps.
The fittings at the corners of the luggage compartment provide you with a convenient means of attaching luggage nets * and flexible straps for securing suitcases and luggage.
Refer also to "Cargo loading" on
.
Hanger
On the left-hand side of the luggage compartment is a hanger for fastening shopping bags, packages or similar items.
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Alarm system
45 n
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
> When a door, the hood or the luggage compartment lid/tailgate is opened
> To movement inside the vehicle
(interior motion sensor)
> To variations in the vehicle tilt sensor such as occur during attempts to steal the wheels or tow the vehicle
> To interruption of battery voltage.
The system responds to unauthorized vehicle entry and attempted theft by simultaneously activating the following:
> Sounding an acoustical alarm for
30 seconds
> The hazard warning flashers are activated for approx. five minutes
> The high beams flash on and off in the same rhythm.
To activate and deactivate the alarm system
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked with the key or the remote control, the alarm system is also simultaneously armed or disarmed.
The interior motion sensor is activated approx. 30 seconds after you have finished locking the car.
The system indicates that it has been correctly armed by switching on the hazard flashers for a single cycle and by emitting an acoustical signal.
You can have different acknowledgment messages set to confirm arming and disarming (not released at this time).
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When the system is active, you can still gain access to the luggage compartment by pressing button 3 on the remote control transmitter (refer to
page 39 ). When you close the luggage
compartment lid/tailgate, it locks again.
Indicator lamp displays
> The indicator lamp below the interior rearview mirror flashes continuously:
The system is armed
> The indicator lamp flashes during arming: Door(s), the hood or luggage compartment lid/tailgate are not completely closed. Even if you do not close the alerted area, the system begins to monitor the remaining areas, and the indicator lamp flashes continuously after 10 seconds. However, the interior motion sensor is not activated
> If the indicator lamp goes out when the system is disarmed: No manipulation or attempted intrusions have been detected in the period since the system was armed
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Alarm system
> If the indicator lamp flashes for
10 seconds when the system is disarmed: An attempted entry has been detected in the period since the system was armed.
Following triggering of an alarm, the indicator lamp will flash continuously.
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor may be switched off at the same time to prevent a false alarm from being triggered (in garages with elevator ramps, for instance), or when the vehicle is transported by trailer or train:
Lock the vehicle (arm the alarm system) twice in succession: Press button 2 on the remote-control transmitter twice
(refer to page 38 ), or turn the key in the
door lock to the right (lock) twice in
succession (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 for as long as the system remains armed.
Interior motion sensor
The illustration depicts the transmitter and receiver of the interior motion sensor.
In order for the interior motion sensor to function properly, the windows and sliding/tilt sunroof must be completely closed.
Nevertheless, you should deactivate the interior motion sensor (refer to the previous column) if you intend to leave the windows or sliding/tilt sunroof open.
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Electric power windows
47 n
Open and close windows
In ignition key position 1 or 2:
> Depress the rocker switch until you feel resistance:
The window continues moving for as long as you maintain pressure on the switch
> Press the rocker switch beyond the resistance point:
The window moves automatically.
Press the switch a second time to stop the window.
After the ignition has been switched off:
> You can still operate the windows as long as neither of the front doors has been opened. To open the window, press the switch beyond the resistance point.
Remove the key from the ignition when you leave the vehicle, so that children cannot operate the power windows and possibly injure themselves.
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For the convenience mode via the door lock or the remote control, refer to
.
Safety feature
A contact strip is integrated into the inner side of each of the upper window frame sections. If pressure is exerted against this contact strip while a window is being raised, the system will respond by stopping the window and then retracting it a small distance.
Despite this safety feature, be extremely careful that the closing path of the window is not obstructed whenever it is closed. Otherwise, an object might not touch the contact strip in some situations (very thin objects, for instance).
You can override this safety feature by pressing the switch beyond the resistance point and holding it.
Because the power windows are sealed at high pressure to prevent wind noise when closed, a powerful motor is required for efficient closing. When closing the windows, always be sure that they are not obstructed in any way. Unsupervised use of these systems can result in serious personal injury. Remove the ignition key to deactivate the electric power windows whenever you leave the car. Never leave the keys in the car with unsupervised children.
Never place anything that could obstruct the driver's vision on or next to the windows.
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48 n
Electric power windows Sliding/Tilt sunroof
*
Safety switch
You can use the safety switch to deactivate the rear power window switches
(when children are riding in the rear seats, for instance).
To prevent injuries, exercise care when closing the sliding/tilt sunroof and keep it in your field of vision until it is shut.
Before leaving the car, switch off the electric sunroof mechanism by taking out the ignition key. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle with access to vehicle keys. Use of the key can result in starting of the engine and operation of vehicle systems such as power sunroof, etc. Unsupervised use of these systems can result in serious personal injury.
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Press the safety switch whenever children are riding in the rear of the vehicle. Careless use of the power windows can lead to injury.
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You can avoid pressure or drafts in the passenger compartment when the sunroof is open or lifted by opening the air vents in the dashboard and increasing the air supply as required. Refer to
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 mode via the door lock or the remote control, refer to
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.
After the ignition has been switched off, you can still operate the sliding/tilt sunroof as long as neither of the front doors has been opened.
Automatic
*
opening and closing
Press the appropriate end of the control switch past the resistance point and then release it.
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Sliding/Tilt sunroof
* 49 n
Other automatic operations are:
> With the sunroof open, press the switch briefly toward "Lift:" The sunroof automatically extends to its fully raised position
> With the sunroof lifted, press the switch briefly toward "Open:" The sunroof automatically opens all the way.
Pressing the switch again briefly stops the motion.
Safety feature
If the sliding/tilt sunroof encounters resistance at a point roughly past the middle of its travel when it is closing, the closing cycle is interrupted and the sliding/tilt sunroof will open again slightly.
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 override this safety feature by pressing the switch beyond the resistance point and holding it.
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Sliding/Tilt sunroof with glass moonroof
*
The options and control procedures are essentially the same as those previously described for the sliding/tilt sunroof. In order to open the raised roof, press the control switch towards
"Open" until the roof has reached the desired position.
The headliner insert slides back somewhat when you raise the sunroof. When the sunroof is opened the headliner retracts with it. The headliner will then automatically remain in its retracted position, but can be repositioned as desired.
Power loss or malfunction
After interruptions in the electrical supply (when the battery is disconnected, for instance), the sunroof may only lift. To reinitialize the mechanism:
1 Raise the sliding/tilt sunroof all the way
2 Press and hold the switch for approximately twenty seconds.
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can also operate the sliding/tilt sun-
roof manually. Refer to page 180 .
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Seat adjustment Electric power seats
For maximum safety, please comply with the following instructions when adjusting a seat:
Never try to adjust your seat while operating the vehicle. The seat could respond with unexpected movement, and the ensuing loss of vehicle control could lead to an accident. Wear the safety belt firmly against your body at all times. In the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap belt could slide over your hips, leading to abdominal injury.
In addition, the safety belt's restraint effectiveness is reduced if the belt is worn loosely.
Never ride with the backrest reclined to an extreme horizontal angle (especially important for front passengers to remember). Keep the backrest relatively upright to minimize the risk of "sliding under" the safety belt and sustaining injury in an accident.
Do not slide the seats to the rear when the vehicle is at an extreme angle (on garage ramps or steep slopes, for instance), to prevent the shoulder strap's automatic height adjustment mechanism from disengaging.
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1 Tilt angle (only driver's side)
2 Forward/Back adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle
5 Head restraint height
Adjust the tilt angle of the head restraint by rotating it.
Comply with the adjustment instructions in the preceding column. Failure to do so could result in diminished personal safety.
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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 achieved with your head extending from your spine in a straight line.
For long-distance driving, you may wish to increase the backrest tilt-angle slightly to reduce muscular tension.
Please remember that you should always remain able to grasp the entire periphery of the steering wheel without straightening your arms.
Lumbar support
*
Refer to the BMW comfort seat on the next page.
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BMW comfort seat
*
Comply with the adjustment in-
. Failure to do so could result in diminished personal safety.
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This seat allows you to make additional adjustments for:
1 Lumbar support
2 Shoulder support
Lumbar support
You can adjust the backrest's contour for additional support in the curvature of your spine's lumbar region.
The upper hips and spinal column receive supplementary support to help you maintain a relaxed, upright posture.
> Press the front/rear of the switch:
Increase/decrease curvature.
> Press the upper/lower end of the switch:
Increase the upper/lower curvature.
51 n
Shoulder support
You can use the adjustable upper backrest for supplementary support in the shoulder region. This provides a relaxed driving position and helps relieve stress on the shoulder muscles.
Press the rocker switch: The support angle of the upper backrest section is adjusted.
To obtain an optimal seating posture, we recommend:
Driver and front passenger:
1 Adjust the upper backrest section to its extreme rear position
2 Adjust to the optimal seating posture as shown in the left column
3 Bring the upper backrest section forward until your shoulders enjoy firm support.
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BMW comfort seat
*
BMW sports seat
*
Front passenger's seat adjusted for relaxed traveling:
1 Adjust the upper backrest section to its extreme rear position
2 Increase the seat cushion tilt
3 Tilt the backrest more
4 Bring the upper backrest section forward.
Make corrections in the forwardbackward adjustment of the seat to ensure that the safety belt still fits firmly against your body. If you do not do this, the protection provided by the safety belt may be reduced.
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1 Tilt angle (only driver's side)
2 Forward/Back adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle
5 Head restraint height
Adjust the tilt angle of the head restraint manually by rotating it.
Thigh support
Press the rocker switch: You can adjust the thigh support to meet your personal requirements.
Comply with the adjustment in-
structions on page 50 . Failure to
do so could result in diminished personal safety.
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BMW sports seat
*
BMW active 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 achieved with your head extending from your spine in a straight line.
For long-distance driving, you may wish to increase the backrest tilt-angle slightly to reduce muscular tension.
Please remember that you should always remain able to grasp the entire periphery of the steering wheel without straightening your arms.
Head restraints
To adjust the angle of the front head restraints: Adjust by tilting the head restraint.
To adjust the height of the rear head restraints: Adjust by pulling or applying pressure.
Active changes in the seat's surface help to avoid muscle cramps, pain in the spine's lumbar region and fatigue.
To activate the seat, press the button
(arrow).
For additional details concerning the
BMW active seat, please refer to the chapter describing "Advanced technol-
.
Head restraints reduce the risk of spinal injury in the event of an accident. Adjust the head restraint so that its center is approximately level with your ears.
Leave the center-rear head restraint in the fully-lowered position at all times, since pulling it out limits its function.
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Adjusting the steering wheel Mirrors
The steering wheel can be moved in any of four directions. Adjust by moving the control lever in the desired direction.
Automatic steering wheel adjustment
(only in conjunction with seat, mirror and steering wheel memory)
In order to make it easier to get into and out of the car, the steering wheel automatically moves into the top position and returns to the driving (memory) position.
This automatic feature is controlled by the position of the ignition key and by the driver's door.
Do not adjust the steering wheel while the vehicle is moving. There is a risk of accident from unexpected movement.
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Exterior mirrors
1 Mirror switch for 4-way adjustment
2 Left/Right selection switch
You can also adjust the mirrors manually by pressing against the outer edges of their lenses.
To store the mirror settings: Refer to "Seat, mirror and steering wheel
.
To store the steering wheel setting, refer to "Seat, mirror and steering wheel
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Mirrors
55 n
The mirror on the passenger's side features a lens with a more convex surface than the mirror installed on the driver's side. When estimating the distance between yourself and other traffic, bear in mind that the objects reflected in the mirror are closer than they appear. This means that estimations of the distance to following traffic should not be regarded as precise.
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Electric heaters
Both mirrors are heated automatically with the ignition key in position 2.
Interior rearview mirror
To reduce glare from vehicles behind you after dark, tilt the mirror by moving the small lever.
Lighted vanity mirror
Fold down the sun visor and slide the cover panel to the side as required.
The mirror lamps operate in ignition key positions 1 and 2.
Sun visors
These can be folded down toward the windshield or swiveled out against the side windows.
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 automatically reverts to its clear, undimmed setting whenever you select "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 electro-chromic technology used in this mirror, refer
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Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory
You can store and call up three different seat, exterior mirror and steering wheel positions. The illustration shows the buttons on the driver's door for making these position adjustments.
The adjustment for the lumbar support is not stored in the memory.
To store
1 Ignition key at position 1 or 2.
2 Adjust the desired positions for the seat, door mirror and steering wheel.
3 Press the
M
EMORY button: The indicator lamp in the button comes on.
4 Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as desired: The indicator lamp goes out.
To select a stored setting
Convenience function:
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.
Movement stops immediately when one of the seat-adjustment or memory buttons is activated during the adjustment process.
Security function:
1 The driver's door is closed and the ignition key is either removed or in position 0 or 2.
2 Press and hold the desired memory button (1, 2 or 3) until the adjustment process is completed.
If you press the M EMORY button accidentally: Press the button a second time; the indicator lamp goes out.
Do not call up a position from the memory while the vehicle is moving. There is a risk of accident from unexpected movement of the seat or steering wheel.
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Seat, mirror and steering wheel memory
Your BMW center can adjust your vehicle's systems in such a manner that your personalized settings are automatically called up for the seat, mirror and steering wheel positions when you unlock the car with your personal remote control.
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Passenger side exterior mirror tilt function
(automatic curb monitor)
1 Move the mirror selector switch
(arrow) to the "driver's mirror" position.
2 When the selector lever is placed in
"Reverse," the passenger-side mirror tilts downward to help the driver monitor the area directly adjacent to the car during parking (curbs, etc.).
You can deactivate this automatic feature by setting the mirror selection switch to the "passenger side" position.
If you make use of this setting mode, be sure that the footwell behind the driver's seat is unobstructed 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.
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Car Memory, Key Memory
When your vehicle is unlocked with the remote control, the vehicle recognizes the individual user by means of a data exchange with the key, and makes adjustments accordingly.
In order for you to distinguish between different keys, colored decals are supplied together with the keys.
How the system functions
You have probably frequently wished that you could configure individual functions of your vehicle to reflect your own personal requirements. In engineering your vehicle, BMW has included several user-defined functions in the vehicle's design. Your authorized BMW center can make these settings for you.
There are settings related to the vehicle
("Car Memory") and settings related to individuals ("Key Memory"). You can have two different basic positions configured for two different persons. The only requirement is that each person uses his or her own remote control key.
What the system can do
Your authorized BMW center can provide you with details on the capabilities of the Car Memory and Key
Memory systems.
You will see this symbol throughout the Owner's Manual. It is to remind you at appropriate places of the settings that are available to you.
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An example of Key Memory is the automatic adjustment of the driver's power seat with stored settings for the individual person when the vehicle is unlocked.
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Safety belts
59 n
Fasten your safety belt before beginning to drive.
To fasten: Make sure you hear the lock engage in the belt buckle.
To release: Press the red button in the buckle. Hold the belt and guide it back into its reel.
The shoulder belt anchor automatically adjusts to continue providing an optimum fit when you move the seat forward or back.
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 your safety, comply with the following instructions for wearing safety belts. If you do not, the safety belts may not be able to provide their maximum protection. All passengers in the vehicle should be aware of and comply with this information:
Never allow more than one person to wear a single safety belt. Never allow infants or small children to ride in a passenger's lap.
Avoid twisting the belt while routing it firmly across the hips and shoulder. Do not allow the belt to rest against hard or fragile objects in your pockets. Never route the belt across your neck, do not run it across sharp edges. Be sure that the belt does not become caught or jammed.
Wear the safety belt as firmly as possible against your body. 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 position the lap belt against the lower hips, where it will not exert pressure against the abdominal area.
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For care instructions, refer to page 159 .
sedan with through-loading system * : Please comply with the instructions for the center safety belt on
.
sport wagon: If the center safety belt cannot be pulled out, the larger rear backrest section is not engaged. Refer
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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.
c
Child restraint systems
*
Never install a rear-facing child restraint device on the front passenger seat. Otherwise, injuries could occur when the airbag is triggered in the event of an accident. Children should always ride in the rear.
Do not attempt to modify child restraint systems. If you do this, the protection provided by these systems could be impaired.
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60 n
Airbags
1 Front airbags for driver and front passenger
2 Side impact Head Protection System
3 Side airbags (front and rear * )
Protective effect
The front airbags supplement the threepoint 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 and side airbags help provide protection in the event of a collision from the side. Each of the side airbags is designed to support the upper body.
The side airbags in the rear passenger area * of your vehicle may already have been deactivated either at the time of manufacture or by a BMW center. You may have them activated if you desire to do so. Please contact your authorized BMW center for additional information.
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The illustration depicts schematically the primary directions of vehicle impact which initiate an airbag deployment.
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Airbags
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Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp displays the operational status of the airbag system in ignition key positions 1 and 2.
System operational:
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly then goes out.
System malfunction:
> The indicator lamp fails to come on
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly before going out and then lighting up again.
A system malfunction could prevent the system from responding to an impact occurring within its normal response range.
Please have your authorized BMW center inspect and repair the system as soon as possible.
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 * , and in the windshield pillars and the sides of the headliner.
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 ride only 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.
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Airbags
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 the inflating airbag could cause a serious or fatal injury.
Please note that the word "Airbag" imprinted on the door trim panel indicates the airbag's location.
Accident research shows that the safest place for children in an automobile is in the rear seat. However, a child sitting in the rear seat and not properly restrained may place his or her head on or near the side airbag, if so equipped.
For example, a child – even though belted – may fall asleep with his or her head against the side airbag. It may be 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 provided, be deactivated if you plan to transport children in the rear seat.
The rear seat side airbags may already have been deactivated, either at the time of manufacture or by a BMW center. Labels in the rear door opening should indicate the status of your rear seat side airbags. If your are uncertain of their status, or wish to have the airbags activated or deactivated, please contact your BMW center.
Even when all these guidelines are followed, there is still a small residual risk of injuries to the face, hands and arms occurring from airbag deployment in isolated instances. The ignition and inflation noise may provoke a mild temporary hearing loss in extremely sensitive individuals.
Airbag warning information is also provided on the sun visors.
For additional information concerning
the airbag system, refer to pages 160
.
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Airbags
This is the right way for a child to sit in a child restraint when rear side airbags
(arrow) are provided.
This is the right way for a larger child to sit wearing the safety belt when rear side airbags (arrow) are provided.
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Child restraints
*
Commercially-available child restraint systems are designed to be secured with a lap belt or with the lap belt portion of a combination lap/shoulder belt.
Improperly or inadequately installed restraint systems can increase the risk of injury to children. Always read and follow the instructions that come with the system.
If you use a child restraint system with a tether strap, three additional tether anchorage points (refer to the arrows – the illustration shows the sport wagon) 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.
If the respective seating position is fitted with a headrest lift the headrest and pass the tether strap between the head rest and the seat back.
Adjust the tether strap according to the child restraint manufacturer's instructions.
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Child restraints
*
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 car.
Your car is equipped with an airbag supplemental restraint system for the front passenger. Because the backrest on any rear-facing child restraint system (of the kind designed for infants under 1 year and 20 Ibs./9 kg) would be within the airbag's deployment range, you should never mount such a device in the front passenger seat, since the impact of the airbag against the child restraint's backrest could lead to serious or fatal injuries.
If it is necessary for a child (not an infant) to ride in the front seat, certain precautions should be taken. First, move the passenger seat as far away from the dashboard as possible. This important precaution is intended to maximize the distance between the airbag and the child. Older children should be tightly secured with a safety belt.
Younger children should be secured in an appropriate forward-facing child restraint system that has first been properly secured with a safety belt. Never install a rear-facing child restraint system in the front passenger seat.
We strongly urge you to carefully read and comply with the instructions for 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.
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All rear seating positions in your vehicle meet the recommendations of SAE J1819, an industry-recommended practice for securing child restraint systems in motor vehicles.
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Child seat security
Unlock the safety belt
Release the safety belt, remove the child's seat and retract the safety belt to its end position on the belt retractor.
Child-safety locks
All of the rear belt retractors and the front passenger's safety belt can be locked for mounting and securing child restraint systems.
A label with the appropriate instructions for this is located in the immediate vicinity of the buckle latch of each safety belt.
Lock the safety belt
Pull 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.
Insert the key into a rear door lock and turn it outward:
The door can now be opened from the outside only.
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Steering/Ignition lock
1 Steering lock disengaged
You will find that it is often easier to turn the ignition key from position 0 to position 1 when you move the steering wheel slightly to help disengage the lock.
2 Ignition on
All electrical equipment and accessories are available for use.
0 Steering lock engaged
This is the only position in which the ignition key can be inserted and removed.
After removing the key, turn the steering wheel slightly to the left or right until you hear the lock engage.
An acoustic warning sounds when you fail to remove the ignition key after opening the driver's door.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Do not move the selector lever from position "P" until the engine is running
(ignition key position 2).
Your vehicle is equipped with an interlock. Therefore, the ignition key cannot be turned to position 0 and removed until the selector lever is in position "P"
(Interlock).
3 Starting the engine
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Step on the clutch when starting the vehicle. If you do not, a lock prevents the engine from starting.
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Starting the engine
Before starting
> Engage the parking brake
> Be sure that the transmission selector is in "Neutral" (or "Park" if the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission)
> Step on the clutch pedal.
Do not allow the engine to run in enclosed spaces. The exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless, but highly toxic gas. Breathing the exhaust gases poses an extreme health risk, and can lead to unconsciousness and death.
Never leave the car unattended with the engine running. An unattended vehicle with a running engine represents a potential safety hazard.
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Starting the engine
> Start the engine. Do not press the accelerator pedal.
BMW 528i, BMW 540i with manual transmission:
Do not actuate the starter for too short a time. Do not turn it for more than approx. 20 seconds. Release the ignition key immediately as soon as the engine starts.
Do not allow the engine to warm up by leaving it running while the vehicle remains stationary. Instead, begin driving immediately at a moderate engine speed.
BMW 540i with automatic transmission:
Your BMW is equipped with the convenience starting feature. Simply turn the key to position 3 (starter) and then release it immediately.
The starter continues to operate automatically.
The automatic starting mode will not operate if the battery voltage is low.
Should this condition arise, it remains possible to jump-start the engine (refer
<
Should the engine fail to start on the first attempt (if it is very hot or cold, for instance):
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway down while engaging the starter.
Cold starts at extremely low temperatures, from approx. +57 (–156) and at elevations above 3,300 feet
(1,000 meters):
> It may be necessary to allow the starter to remain engaged somewhat longer than under normal operating conditions (approx. 10 seconds)
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway down while engaging the starter.
Engine idle speed is controlled by the engine computer system. Increased speeds at startup are normal and should decrease as the engine warms up. If engine speed does not decrease, service is required.
To prevent the battery from discharging, always deactivate electrical devices which are not in use. Switch the ignition off when the vehicle is not being driven.
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Switching off the engine Parking brake
69 n
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Never remove the ignition key while the vehicle is rolling. The steering locks, making it impossible to steer the vehicle.
Always remove the ignition key and engage the steering lock before leaving the vehicle.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Always engage the parking brake when parking on slopes and inclined surfaces, since 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." <
Vehicles with automatic transmission * :
The vehicle must be stationary and the selector lever in "Park" before you can remove the ignition key.
To engage
The lever engages automatically and the "PARK BRAKE" or "BRAKE" (in
Canada "P") indicator lamp comes on in the instrument cluster in ignition key
position 2. Refer to pages 22 and
If, in exceptional circumstances, it should be necessary to engage the parking brake while the vehicle is in motion, do not pull it with excessive pressure. Keep your thumb pressed against the release button while carefully pulling up the lever to apply moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to overbraking and loss of traction (fishtailing) at the rear.
The brake lamps do not come on when the parking brake is applied.
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 release
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the button and lower the lever.
The parking brake is primarily designed to prevent the vehicle from rolling while parked. It operates against the rear wheels.
To avoid corrosion, apply the parking brake lightly from time to time when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic signal, for instance), provided that it is safe to do so.
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Manual transmission
BMW 528i
The shift lever's neutral gate (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 neutral position because of its spring loading.
BMW 540i
The shift lever's neutral gate (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 neutral position because of its spring loading.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on slopes by slipping or "riding" the clutch. Use the parking brake instead.
A slipping clutch increases clutch wear.
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When shifting gears in the 5th/
6th-gear plane, be sure to press the gear lever to the right in order to prevent inadvertent selection of a gear in the 3rd/4th-gear plane.
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Reverse
Select "Reverse" only when the vehicle is stationary. Press the shift lever to the left to overcome the resistance.
As you do this, the backup lamps will turn on automatically when the ignition key is in position 2.
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Automatic transmission
* 71 n
The automatic transmission of your
BMW is equipped with Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC), a system which reacts with precision to your individual driving style and the driving conditions.
To achieve this, different driving programs are automatically engaged.
For details concerning ATC, please refer to the chapter describing
"Advanced technology" on page 188
.
Selector lever positions
P R N D 4 3 2
The transmission range display varies according to model (refer to illustrations).
Starting engine
The selector lever must be in "Park" or
"Neutral" before it is possible to start the engine.
Range selection
A detent prevents inadvertent shifts into some selector lever positions. To release the shift-lock mechanism, press the button on the front of the selector handle (arrow).
While the vehicle is stationary and before shifting out of "Park" or
"Neutral," depress the footbrake in order to disengage the selector lever's lock mechanism (Shiftlock).
Hold the footbrake down until starting off. Otherwise the vehicle will "creep" when a drive position is engaged.
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Automatic transmission
*
Before leaving the vehicle when the engine is running, shift the selector lever to the "Park" or "Neutral" position and apply the parking brake.
The vehicle could move if this is not done.
Never leave the car unattended with the engine running. An unattended vehicle with a running engine represents a potential safety hazard.
If you should accidentally select "Neutral" while traveling at high speed, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal immediately. Allow the engine speed to drop to idle before selecting the desired drive position. Damage could otherwise occur due to excessive engine speed.
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N Neutral
Select "Neutral" only if your journey is interrupted for a long period.
D Drive
(automatic shift program)
This position is designed for driving under all normal operating conditions.
All forward gears are available.
4 – Sport Program
This position is recommended if you wish to select a performance-oriented driving style.
3 and 2 – Shift limiter
Select this range when you wish to limit gear changes (on steep uphill or downhill slopes, for instance). The transmission shifts up only as far as the selected gear.
"Kickdown"
In the "Kickdown" mode, you achieve maximum performance.
To activate this mode, depress the accelerator pedal beyond the full-throttle position, at which a resistance point must be overcome.
P Park
Select "Park" only when the vehicle is stationary. The transmission locks to prevent the rear wheels from turning.
R Reverse
Select "Reverse" only when the vehicle is stationary.
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Automatic transmission
*
Electronic transmission control module
If the indicator lamp comes on or if the message "TRANS.
FAILSAFE PROG" appears in the Check Control * , there is a malfunction in the transmission system.
Bring the vehicle to a stop, select the
"Park" position, apply the parking brake and shut the engine off (ignition key position 0). Restart the engine after a few seconds. If the indicator lamp goes out again after a few seconds, the normal transmission functions have been restored. You may continue to drive as usual.
If the indicator lamp does not go out, you can place the selector lever in all positions. However, the vehicle will now only drive forward with limited gear selection.
Under these circumstances, avoid extreme engine loads and consult the nearest authorized BMW center.
Do not work in the engine compartment when a drive gear (forward or reverse) is engaged. If you do this, the vehicle could move.
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For jump-starting, towing and tow-
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic
*
You can drive as with a normal automatic transmission, including Adaptive
Transmission Control (ATC). In addition, you can also shift manually.
For individual gear selection, move the selector lever from the "D" position to the left and into the M/S range. This selects the Sport Program of the automatic transmission. As soon as you move the selector lever in the "+" or "–" direction, Steptronic changes the gear.
If you wish to utilize the automatic driving position once again, move the selector lever to the right and into position "D."
For details concerning ATC, please refer to the chapter describing "Advanced
Selector lever positions
P R N D M/S
Starting engine
The engine can only be started in selector lever positions P ("Park") or N ("Neutral").
Range selection
A detent prevents inadvertent shifts to the "Reverse" or "Park" selector lever positions. To disengage the detent, press the button on the front of the shift knob (arrow).
While the vehicle is stationary and before shifting out of "Park" or
"Neutral," depress the footbrake in order to disengage the selector lever's lock mechanism (Shiftlock).
Hold the footbrake down until starting off. Otherwise the vehicle will "creep" when a drive position is engaged.
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic
* 75 n
Before leaving the vehicle when the engine is running, shift the selector lever to the "Park" or "Neutral" position and apply the parking brake.
The vehicle could move if this is not done. Do not leave the car unattended with the engine running. An unattended vehicle with a running engine represents a potential safety hazard.
If you should inadvertently select "Neutral" while traveling at high speed, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal immediately. Allow the engine speed to drop to idle before selecting the desired drive position. Damage could otherwise occur due to excessive engine speed.
<
D Drive
(automatic shift program)
This position is designed for driving under all normal operating conditions. All forward gears are available.
"Kickdown"
In the "Kickdown" mode, you achieve maximum performance.
To activate this mode, depress the accelerator pedal beyond the full-throttle position, at which a resistance point must be overcome.
P Park
Select "Park" only when the vehicle is stationary. The transmission locks to prevent the rear wheels from turning.
R Reverse
Select "Reverse" only when the vehicle is stationary.
N Neutral
Select "Neutral" only if your journey is interrupted for a long period.
M/S Manual mode and
Sport Program
When you change from "D" to "M/S," the Sport Program is activated. This is indicated by "D S" in the gear selection display. The Sport Program is designed for performance-oriented driving.
With the first brief touch, the automatic transmission shifts from the Sport
Program to manual mode. When you move the selector lever forward in the
"+" direction, the transmission shifts up.
When the lever is moved back in the "–" direction, the transmission shifts down.
M1... M5 will be displayed in the gear indicator.
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic
*
Upshifts or downshifts will be carried out by the ATC only at appropriate engine speeds and road speeds. For instance, if engine speed is too high, a downshift will not be executed. The gear selected will appear briefly in the instrument cluster followed by the current gear.
If you are driving in the manual mode and wish to accelerate rapidly from low road speeds (when passing, for instance), you must shift down manually or with the kickdown function.
<
You can only change from "M/S" to selector lever positions "P,""R," and "N" via the "D" position.
In the following situations, the Steptronic "thinks" for you in the manual mode:
> In order to prevent engine overspeeding, the transmission shifts automatically to the next higher gear shortly before the RPM 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 which is possible, depending on the engine speed
> According to the situation, for instance in wintry conditions, the vehicle can be started in 2nd or
3rd gear.
Electronic transmission control module
If the indicator lamp comes on or the message "TRANS.FAIL-
SAFE PROG" appears in the
Check Control * , there is a fault in the transmission system.
Bring the vehicle to a stop. Move the transmission selector lever to "P." Set the parking brake and turn the engine off (ignition key to position 0).
Wait a few seconds, then start the engine.
If the indicator lamp goes out after a few seconds, normal transmission performance has been restored. You may continue to drive as usual. If the indicator lamp does not go out, you can place the selector lever in all positions. However, the vehicle will now only drive forward with limited gear selection.
If this happens, avoid extreme engine loads and consult the nearest authorized BMW center.
Do not work in the engine compartment when a drive gear (forward or reverse) is engaged. If you do this, the vehicle could move.
<
For jump-starting, towing and tow-
starting, refer to pages 182 and
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Indicator/Headlamp flasher Wiper/Washer system
77 n
1 High beam (blue indicator)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator)
3 Turn signal (green indicator accompanied by periodic clicking sound from the relay)
If the indicator lamp and the clicking from the relay are both faster than normal, one of the turn indicators has failed.
To signal briefly
Press the lever up to but not beyond the detent. It then returns to the center position when released.
0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent wipe or rain sensor *
2 Normal wiper speed
3 Fast wiper speed
4 Brief wipe
5 Automatic windshield washer
6 Automatic intensive-action washer *
7 Rotary dial for control of the wipe interval or the sensitivity of the rain sensor *
1 Intermittent wipe or rain sensor*
Intermittent wipe:
You can set the wipe interval to four stages with rotary dial 7.
In addition, the wipe interval is varied automatically depending on road speed.
Rain sensor:
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 can concentrate fully on the traffic conditions. This is especially important under adverse weather conditions.
The rain sensor is positioned on the windshield, directly ahead of the interior rearview mirror.
To activate the 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.
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Wiper/Washer system
You can leave the lever permanently in position 1. It is then only necessary to activate the rain sensor from ignition key position 1 and up. To do this
> turn rotary dial 7 briefly or
> use either the automatic windshield washer 5 or the automatic intensive washer 6.
To modify the sensitivity of the rain sensor:
Turn rotary dial 7.
Turn the rain sensor off in automatic car washes.
If you do not, damage may occur if the wipers switch on unintentionally.
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2 Normal wiper speed
The wipers automatically revert to intermittent operation when the vehicle is stationary (not on vehicles with rain sensor * ).
3 Fast wiper speed
The wipers automatically revert to normal speed when the vehicle is stationary (not on vehicles with rain sensor * ).
Headlamp washers
*
If they are on, the headlamps will also be cleaned every fifth time you activate the automatic windshield washer (intensive-action or standard wash/wipe).
5 Automatic windshield washer
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.
Do not use the washers if there is any danger that the fluid will freeze on the windshield, otherwise vision could be obscured. For this reason, use an antifreeze agent. Refer to
Do not use the washers when the reservoir is empty, since this could cause damage to the washer pump.
6 Intensive automatic cleaning unit
*
As in setting 5. In addition, an intensiveaction washer fluid is first sprayed on the windshield.
For changing the wiper blades, refer to
Windshield washer jets
The windshield washer jets are warmed automatically when the ignition key is in position 2.
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Wiper/Washer system
Rear window wiper – sport wagon
0 Rest position of the rear window wiper
1 Rear window wiper in intermittent operation. When reverse gear is engaged, continuous operation is switched on automatically
2 Automatic rear window washer
You can also program the interval:
> Switch briefly from position 0 to position 1
> The time until reactivation (from position 0 to 1) is the programmed interval (max. 30 seconds).
Programming is cleared:
> Approx. 10 seconds after the lever is placed in position 0 or
> after the engine is switched off.
When the rear window is opened, the rear window wiper is switched off. It must be switched on again after the window has been closed.
For changing the wiper blade, refer to
.
Rear window defroster
79 n
To activate
Press the button: As long as the indicator lamp remains on, the rear window defroster continues at high-output
(rapid thaw).
After the indicator lamp goes out, the defroster continues operating at reduced power for a limited period before deactivating automatically.
To deactivate
If the indicator lamp is on, press the button.
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Cruise control
To store and maintain speed or to accelerate
Press button 1 briefly:
The system records and maintains the current vehicle speed. Every time you tap the button, the speed increases by
0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Press and hold button 1:
The vehicle accelerates without pressure on the accelerator pedal.
When you release the button, the system registers and maintains the current speed.
You can store and automatically maintain any desired vehicle speed above approx. 20 mph (30 km/h).
To activate the system
In ignition key position 1 or 2:
Press button 4; the indicator lamp in the instrument cluster comes on.
You can now use the cruise control.
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.
<
To decelerate
Press button 2 briefly:
When cruise control is active, every tap of the button reduces the speed by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Press and hold button 2:
With the cruise control active, the system automatically reduces the throttle opening to slow the vehicle.
When you release the button, the system registers and maintains the current speed.
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Cruise control
81 n
To deactivate the cruise control
When the system is activated, press button 4. The indicator lamp stays on.
You can use the cruise control again as desired.
In addition, the system is also automatically deactivated in response to the following conditions:
> When you apply pressure to the brake pedal
> When you apply pressure to the clutch pedal, and when you move the automatic transmission selector lever from "Drive" to "Neutral"
> If you exceed or fall below the programmed speed for an extended period (by depressing the accelerator, for example).
To resume the stored setting
Press button 3:
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.
To deactivate the system
When the cruise control has been canceled, press button 4 again. The indicator lamp goes off and the memorized speed is canceled.
Do not use cruise control on twisting roads, when high traffic density prevents driving at a constant speed, when the road surface is slick
(snow, rain, ice), or when the road surface is loose (rocks or gravel, sand).
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82 n
Odometer, outside temperature display
Ice warning
If the outside temperature drops to approx. +37.57 (+36), a warning signal sounds and the display flashes briefly.
The warning is repeated whenever the temperature climbs to at least +437
(+6 6) and then drops again to
+37.57 (+36).
1 Odometer
You can activate the displays shown in the illustration with the ignition key in position 0 by pressing the button in the instrument cluster (arrow).
The range of available displays varies according to your individual car's equipment.
2 Trip odometer
To reset the trip odometer to zero, press the button (arrow) with the ignition key in position 1 or 2.
3 Outside temperature display
The outside temperature appears in the display panel as soon as you turn the ignition key to position 1.
You can change the units of measure
(6/7) by
1 pressing and holding down the button (arrow) with the ignition key in position 1
2 turning the ignition key to 0.
The ice warning does not alter the fact that surface ice can form at temperatures above +37.57 (+36), on bridges or shaded road surfaces, for instance.
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Tachometer Energy control Fuel gauge
83 n
Never allow the engine to operate with the needle in the red overspeed zone of the gauge.
To protect the engine, the engine-management system automatically interrupts the fuel supply in this range; the resulting effect resembles that associated with a sudden loss of power.
Indicates current fuel consumption in mpg (in liters per 100 km on Canadian vehicles). This instrument shows whether your current driving style is conducive to fuel economy with minimum exhaust emissions.
When the vehicle is stationary, the display goes to "Maximum" (zero on Canadian models).
When you switch on the ignition, the indicator lamp comes on briefly to confirm that the system is operational.
If the indicator lamp stays on, there are approx.
> 2.1 gal (8 liters) – BMW 528i
> 2.6 gal (10 liters) – BMW 540i remaining in the tank.
Tank capacity: Refer to page 203 .
Certain operating conditions (such as those encountered in mountainous areas) may cause the needle to fluctuate slightly.
Please refuel early, since driving to the last drop of fuel can result in damage to the engine and/or catalytic converter.
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84 n
Temperature gauge
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at moderate engine and vehicle speeds.
Red
When you switch on the ignition, the warning lamp comes on briefly to confirm that the system is operational.
Comes on while driving: The engine is overheated. Switch the engine off immediately and allow it to cool down.
Between the blue and red zones
Normal operating range. It is not unusual for the needle to rise as far as the edge of the red zone in response to high outside temperatures or severe operating conditions.
Checking coolant level: Refer to
Service Interval Display
The precise layout varies according to the individual model version.
Green lamps
The number of illuminated lamps decreases as the time for your next maintenance visit approaches.
Yellow lamp
This field appears together with
OILSERVICE or INSPECTION.
Maintenance is due. Please contact your BMW center for an appointment.
Red lamp
The maintenance deadline has been passed.
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Check Control
85 n
Graphic display
*
The following alerts or status messages are displayed symbolically from ignition key position 2 and up until the defects are corrected:
1 Check lowbeam, highbeam and parking lamps
2 Add washer fluid
(goes out after approx. 1 minute)
3 Door open
4 Luggage compartment lid/tailgate open
5 Check brake and tail lamps.
A defective center tail lamp is indicated by the upper symbol
When you open the door after stopping, a warning signal sounds without a visual indicator for:
> LIGHTS ON and
> KEY IN IGNITION LOCK.
Alphanumeric display
*
Text messages are used to alert the driver to system malfunctions when the ignition key is turned to position 2. The alert is accompanied by a gong.
1 Status report symbol
2 Display
3 CHECK button
Messages concerning system faults are differentiated based on two priorities:
Priority 1
These defects are immediately indicated by a gong and a flashing warning symbol (1). Simultaneous defects will be displayed consecutively. These status reports remain in the display until the defects are corrected. It is not possible to delete them by pressing the
CHECK button (3):
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86 n
Check Control
> RELEASE PARKINGBRAKE
> COOLANT TEMPERATURE
The coolant is overheated. Stop the vehicle and switch off the engine im-
> STOP! ENGINE OILPRESS
The oil pressure is too low. Stop the vehicle and switch off the engine im-
> CHECK BRAKE FLUID
Indicates that brake fluid is down to roughly minimum level. Top up the brake fluid at the next opportunity.
Refer to page 152 . Have the source
of the brake fluid loss diagnosed and corrected by your BMW center.
> FLAT TIRE *
Reduce vehicle speed immediately and stop the vehicle. Avoid hard brake applications. Do not oversteer.
> LOAD LEVEL INACTIVE
Please consult the nearest authorized
.
> SPEED LIMIT *
Display if the programmed speed limit has been exceeded.
Priority 2
These displays appear for 20 seconds when the ignition key is turned to position 2. The warning symbols remain after the message disappears. You can display the messages again by pressing the CHECK button (3):
> TRUNKLID OPEN
Message appears only when the vehicle is initially set in motion.
> DOOR OPEN
This message appears after a minimal defined road speed has been exceeded.
> FASTEN SEAT BELTS *
In addition to this message, a warning lamp with the safety belt icon appears and an acoustical signal sounds.
> WASHER FLUID LOW
Too low; top up fluid at the next
opportunity. Refer to page 148
.
> CHECK ENGINE OIL LEV
Add engine oil as soon as possible.
> OUTSIDE TEMP. +207 (–56)
This display is only an example. The current temperature is displayed at outside temperatures of +37.57
(+36) and below. Refer also to
> TIRE PRESSURE SET *
The RDC has imported the current inflation pressure in the tires as the target values which the system will monitor.
.
> CHECK TIRE PRESSURE *
Check and correct the tire inflation pressure to specifications at the earliest opportunity (next stop for fuel).
.
> TIRE CHECK INACTIVE *
A temporary interference of the RDC
or a system fault. Refer to page 93
.
> CHECK BRAKE LAMPS
A lamp has failed or the electrical cir-
cuit has a fault. Refer to pages 169
and 170 or consult an authorized
BMW center.
> CHECK LOWBEAM LAMPS
CHECK SIDE LAMPS
CHECK REAR LAMPS
CHECK FRONT FOGLAMPS
CHECK LICPLATE LAMP
CHECK HIGHBEAM LAMP
CHECK BACK UP LAMPS
Defective bulb or circuit. Refer to
page 167 or consult an authorized
BMW center.
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Check Control
87 n
> TRANS. FAILSAFE PROG
Please consult the nearest authorized
.
> CHECK BRAKE LININGS
Have the brake pads inspected by
your BMW center. Refer to page 130 .
> CHECK COOLANT LEVEL
Coolant too low, top up at the next
opportunity. Refer to page 151
.
> ENGINE FAILSAFE PROG
Fault in the Electronic Engine Power
Control (EML). When braking, higher brake application pressure may be necessary and brake pedal travel may be significantly longer.
Have the fault checked by your authorized BMW center.
Displays after completion of trip
All of the malfunctions registered during the trip appear consecutively when the key is turned to Position 0.
One of the following displays may appear:
> LIGHTS ON
> KEY IN IGNITION LOCK
> CHECK ENGINE OIL LEV
Add engine oil at the next opportunity
(next stop for fuel). Refer to page 149 .
Display appears when you open the driver's door after parking the vehicle.
A supplementary gong is also heard.
Status reports remain available for a period of approx. three minutes after the display goes out and the key is removed from the ignition. Press the
CHECK button. If there were multiple reports, press the CHECK button repeatedly to view them all in sequence.
To check the Check Control
Press the CHECK button (3) with the ignition key in position 2:
CHECK CONTROL OK appears in the display.
No malfunctions are present in the monitored systems.
Onboard computer
You will find a description of the onboard computer in the "Radio and Information Systems" Owner's Manual.
You can have the Check Control and onboard computer messages displayed in a different language.
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Onboard computer
Mode selection
From ignition key position 1 and up, you can call up information from the onboard computer using the button in the turn signal lever. By pressing the button briefly in the direction of the steering column, you can call up a new function for display.
The displays appear in the following order: Outside temperature, average fuel consumption, cruising range, average speed.
Starting with ignition key position 1, the last active setting is displayed.
The range of available displays varies according to your individual car's equipment.
Outside temperature and average fuel consumption
You can change the units of measure
(6/7) for the outside temperature display by
1 pressing and holding the trip odometer reset button (in ignition key position 1)
2 and then turning the ignition key to 0.
Operating range and average speed
The computer bases its calculations of the cruising range on the rate of fuel consumption in the period immediately preceding your data request.
The computer ignores any time spent with the vehicle stationary and the engine off in its average speed calculations.
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Onboard computer
Cancel display
If the button in the turn-signal lever is pressed briefly while the average speed is displayed, the onboard computer display can be masked out.
To restart calculations
If you continue to press the button in the turn signal lever, the average values which were just displayed for fuel consumption and speed will be recalculated from that point (the engine must be running for this).
Onboard computer with alphanumeric display
*
If your vehicle has Check Control with alphanumeric display, the system's onboard computer is described in the
"Radio and information systems"
Owner's Manual.
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90 n
Park Distance Control (PDC)
*
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 from the nearest object. The monitoring range for the two corner sensors ends approx. 2 feet
(60 cm) beyond the respective bumper.
The range of the two middle sensors is approx. 4.9 feet (1.50 meters) outward.
The system starts to operate automatically about one second after you select reverse with the ignition key in position 2. It is similarly deactivated when you engage reverse gear or move the selector lever position from the "R" position.
Acoustical signals
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. A continuous tone indicates the presence of an object less than 1 ft. (30 cm) away.
The warning signal will be canceled after approx. 3 seconds if the distance to the obstruction remains constant during this time (if you are moving parallel to a wall, for instance).
System malfunctions will be indicated by a continuous high-pitched tone when the system is activated the first time. Please have the cause checked and corrected by your authorized 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.
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Keep the sensors clean and free of ice or snow in order to ensure that they continue to operate effectively.
Do not apply high pressure spray to the sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Maintain an adequate distance of more than approx. 4 inches (10 cm).
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ASC+T/DSC
* 91 n
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC)
*
These systems contribute to additional vehicle stability, especially during acceleration and when cornering.
The DSC system enhances the benefits of the ASC+T. In addition to optimizing vehicle stability and traction during acceleration or when starting from a standstill, a further benefit is realized in cornering. This, of course, is true only within physically feasible limits.
The system activates automatically each time you start the engine.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out shortly after you switch on the ignition.
Indicator lamp flashes:
The system is actively regulating drive torque in response to monitored vehicle operating conditions.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after the engine is started, or if it comes on during normal driving:
If the system has not been deactivated, there is a system malfunction. The vehicle remains operational, but without
ASC+T/DSC. Consult your authorized
BMW center for repair.
We recommend that you deactivate the system for increased traction:
> When rocking the vehicle or starting off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
> When driving with snow chains.
.
To reactivate the system
Press the button again; the indicator lamp goes out.
The laws of physics cannot be repealed, even with ASC+T/DSC.
Any consequences arising from traction loss due to excessive vehicle speed remain the responsibility of the driver. We therefore urge you to avoid using the additional safety margin of the system as an excuse for taking risks.
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To deactivate the system
Press the button. The indicator lamp will come on.
Depending on equipment options, the button is marked with ASC or DSC.
With deactivated ASC+T/DSC you are driving with conventional, unregulated torque transfer.
For additional details concerning
ASC+T/DSC, please refer to the chapter describing "Advanced technology"
.
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Tire Pressure Control (RDC)
*
The concept
RDC monitors the tire pressures at all four wheels, even when the vehicle is moving. The system provides an alert whenever the inflation pressure drops significantly below the specified pressure in one or more tires.
In order for the system to "learn" the correct tire inflation pressure, check the inflation pressure in all tires. Refer to the table of "Tire inflation pressures"
beginning on page 29 and make any
necessary corrections. Then activate the system.
This indicator lamp in the instrument cluster or the Check
Control will inform you if the tire pressure is not correct.
Activate the system
1 Turn the ignition key to position 2 (do not start the engine).
2 Press and hold the button (arrow) until the yellow indicator lamp in the instrument cluster comes on for a few seconds or the message "SET TIRE
PRESSURE" appears in the Check
Control.
3 After you have driven for a few minutes, the RDC will import the current inflation pressure in the tires as the target values which the system will monitor.
You will only have to repeat this procedure if the tire inflation pressure must be corrected. Otherwise, the RDC functions automatically when the ignition key is in position 2, and thus operates whenever the vehicle is driven.
Loss of tire pressure
If, after a certain period of time, the air pressure has gone down significantly
(which is normal for any tire), the yellow indicator lamp comes on or the message "CHECK TIRE PRESSURE" appears in the Check Control.
This alerts you that you should have the tires inflated to the specified pressures as soon as possible.
If you are prompted to check the tire pressure shortly after a correction has been made, this indicates that the corrected values were not accurate. Please check the inflation pressure again and make corrections according to the inflation pressure table.
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Tire Pressure Control (RDC)
*
Flat tire
If there is a tire failure with a loss of air pressure, the red indicator lamp comes on or the message "TIRE DEFECT" appears in the Check Control. In addition, a gong sounds.
If this occurs, reduce vehicle speed immediately and stop the vehicle in a safe location. Avoid hard brake applications.
Do not oversteer. Replace the wheel and flat tire.
The RDC cannot alert you to severe and sudden tire damage caused by external factors.
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Have the tires changed by your authorized BMW center.
Your BMW center has the information needed for working with RDC and is equipped with the necessary special tools.
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The spare tire which is available in your vehicle as standard equipment is equipped with the electronics required for RDC and, following activation of the system, is also monitored after it is mounted.
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System interference
During the period of the malfunction, the yellow indicator lamp comes on or the message "TIRE CONTROL
INACTIVE" appears in the Check
Control.
You will also see the same message
> 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 authorized BMW center for additional information.
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Parking lamps/Low beams Instrument lighting
"Follow-me-home lighting:"
If you actuate the headlamp flasher after you have parked the vehicle and shut off the engine, the low beams will remain on for a brief period.
You may also have this function deactivated if you wish.
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Xenon lamps
*
For additional details, refer to page 168 .
Parking lamps
(side marker lamps)
With the switch in this position, vehicle lighting is illuminated on both sides. For lighting on one
side for parking, see page 95 .
"LIGHTS ON" warning
In ignition key position 0, a buzzer sounds for a few seconds after the driver's door is opened if the headlamps have not been switched off.
On vehicles with alphanumeric Check
Control * :
The reminder is given through the
Check Control.
Low beams/Xenon lamps
*
When the ignition is switched off and the low beams are on, only the parking lamps (side marker lamps) remain on.
Daytime-driving lamp
*
The headlamps are automatically switched on for daylight driving at ignition key position 2.
Turn the rotary dial to adjust the illumination intensity.
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High beams/Parking lamps
1 High beam
2 Headlamp flasher
(blue indicator lamp)
3 Parking lamps
Parking lamp, left or right
*
With the ignition key in position 0, engage the lever in the appropriate turnsignal position. The lever engages in the turn signal position.
Fog lamps
95 n
Front fog lamps
A green indicator lamp appears in the instrument cluster to indicate that the front fog lamps are on.
If the high beam is switched on, the fog lamps go out.
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96 n
Interior lamps
Footwell lamps
The footwell lamps operate in the same way as the interior lamps.
Reading lamps
The interior lamps operate automatically.
Switching interior lamps on and off
Press the button (arrow).
If you want the interior lamps to remain off at all times, press and hold the button for approximately 3 seconds.
Press the button briefly to revert to normal operation.
The luggage compartment lamp in the sport wagon functions in the same manner.
The reading lamps are located in the front near the interior lamp. There are also reading lamps in the rear. They can be switched on and off with the switch
(arrow) adjacent to each lamp.
In order to conserve 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.
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Automatic climate control
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Automatic climate control
1 Air flow directed toward the windshield and side windows
2 Air flow for the upper body
The side rotary dials provide infinitely-variable regulation of the air supply, while the levers change the airflow direction.
The center rotary dial controls the temperature of the air as it flows out
3 Front footwell ventilation
4 Rear footwell ventilation
5 Air flow for the upper body in the rear seat
6 Automatic air distribution
7 Individual air distribution 100
8 Temperature control – left-hand side
9 Display for temperature and
10 Temperature control –
11 To defrost windshield and door windows
13 Automatic recirculated air control
AUC
16 Residual heat mode
17 Air grill for interior temperature sensor – please keep clear and unobstructed
99 n
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100 n
Automatic climate control
Tips for pleasant driving
Use the automatic system, that is, press
AUTO button 4. Select an interior temperature that is comfortable for you – we recommend 727 (226). When the outside temperature is above 417
(56), you can also use the air conditioning system (12). This will dry the air and prevent the window from fogging
(for example if people are wearing damp clothes in the vehicle). Set the outlets 2 so that the air flows past you and is not directed straight at you. Set the rotary dial between the outlets 2 for the upper body to a central position.
This will provide cooler air, and help to prevent fatigue during the journey.
Detailed setting options are described for you in the following section.
You can make the settings of your vehicle in such a manner that, when you unlock the car with your individualized remote control, your own personalized setting for the automatic climate control is initiated.
<
Automatic air distribution
The AUTO program assumes the adjustment of the air distribution and the air supply for you and also 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 pleasant for you – we recommend 727 (226).
The selected temperature and AUTO for the air flow appear in the display 7. Re-
fer to the overview on page 98 . Open
the ventilation outlets for the upper body. Switch on the air conditioner in warm weather. The maximum cooling capacity is achieved when you set the
rotary dial 3 (refer to page 102
) to cold.
Individual air distribution
You can cancel the AUTO program by selecting specific distribution patterns to suit your own individual requirements.
You can direct air to flow onto the windows , toward the upper body , and into the footwell .
Temperature
You can make individual temperature settings on the driver's side or the front passenger side. Your settings will be shown in the display 9. The displayed temperatures are reference values for the interior temperature. We recommend 727 (226) 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 achieved as quickly as possible. It then maintains this temperature, regardless of the season.
Set the rotary dial 3 (refer to "Draft-free
ventilation" on page 102 ) to a medium
position to provide somewhat cooler air. This helps to promote driving without fatigue. Make use of this means of mixing air especially for making minor adjustments for personal comfort.
You can set uncontrolled heater output at up to 907 (326). Full cooling output is available from the air conditioner down to 607 (166).
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Automatic climate control
101 n
Air supply
In the "AUTO" program, the air flow is controlled automatically. AUTO will appear in the display
(refer to the overview on page 98 ). Use
"+" and "-" to vary the air flow. When your setting is displayed by bars, the automatic air flow is switched off. Automatic air distribution maintains its setting. You can reactivate the automatic air flow by pressing the "AUTO" button.
When you press "–" during operation at minimum blower speed all displays are canceled: The fan, heating and air conditioner are switched off. The outside air supply is closed. By pressing any button of the automatic climate control
(except the "REST" button 16), you can switch the system back on.
To defrost windshield and door windows
This program quickly removes ice and condensation from the windshield and the side windows.
Air conditioner
The air is cooled and dehumidified and – depending on the temperature setting – warmed again when the air conditioner system is switched on. Depending on the weather, the windshield may fog over briefly when the engine is started.
Use the button to switch off the air conditioner at outside temperatures below approx. +417 (+56). 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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Automatic recirculated-air control (AUC)
You can respond to unpleasant external odors by temporarily stopping the flow of outside air.
The system then recirculates the air currently within the vehicle. Press the button repeatedly to run through the following control sequence:
> Indicator lamps off: Outside air flow operational.
> Left-hand indicator lamp on – AUC mode: The system recognizes pollutants in the outside air and blocks the flow of air when necessary. The system then recirculates the air currently within the vehicle.
Depending on the air quality, the automatic system then switches back and forth between outside air supply and recirculation of the air within the vehicle.
> Right-hand indicator lamp on: The flow of external air into the vehicle is permanently blocked. The system then recirculates the air currently within the vehicle.
If you have a multifunction steering wheel with the recirculated-air button
), you can also use it to switch between "Off" and the recirculated-air mode or AUC and the recirculated-air mode.
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Automatic climate control
If the windows should fog over in the recirculated air mode, switch the recirculated air mode off and increase the air supply as required.
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Rear window defroster
When the rear window defroster is activated, the indicator lamp comes on. The rear window defroster switches off automatically.
Residual heat mode
The heat which is stored in the engine is utilized for heating the interior when the engine has been switched off (while waiting at a railroad crossing, for instance). In ignition key position 1, you can alter the settings of the automatic climate control. In ignition key position 0, the system automatically directs heated air to the windshield, side windows and footwells.
This function may be activated when the outside temperature is below approx. 597 (156), the engine is at operating temperature, and the battery is adequately charged.
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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 requirements:
Use rotary dial 1 to open and close the airflow through an infinitely-variable range. You can also use the levers 2 to change the direction of the airflow.
Set the outlets so that the air flows past you and does not flow directly on you.
Rotary dial 3 allows you to temper the air flow from these outlets by adding heat or cooling as desired:
Turn toward blue – colder
Turn toward red – warmer
Rear passenger area ventilation
Rotary dial 1 opens the outlets in an infinitely-variable range. You can vary the temperature of the air as it flows out using rotary dial 3 in the same manner as for the front rotary dial.
You can change the direction of the air flow with levers 2.
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Automatic climate control Seat heating
*
Steering wheel heating
* 103 n
Microfilter, activated-charcoal filter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen from the incoming air. The activatedcharcoal filter provides additional protection by filtering gaseous pollutants from the outside air. Your BMW center replaces this combined filter as a standard part of your scheduled maintenance. A substantial reduction in air flow indicates that the filter must be replaced before scheduled maintenance.
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 keys.
The highest heating mode is on when the three indicator lamps are lit; one lamp is lit for lowest heating. Temperature regulation in each mode is with a thermostat.
You can also switch the higher heating modes off directly:
Press the key and hold it slightly longer.
To activate and cancel the steering wheel heater, press the button (arrow) with the ignition key in position 2.
The lamp within the button lights up when the steering wheel heater is in operation.
If you have a multifunction steering wheel without steering wheel heating, the button for the recirculated-air mode
is in this location (refer to page 25
).
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Roller sun blind
*
Independent ventilation system
*
To operate, press the key briefly with the ignition key in position 1 or 2.
Roller sun blinds for rear side windows
*
Use the strap to extract the blinds, then hook them in the attachment provided.
This system allows you to ventilate the interior and lower its temperature, using the blower of the automatic climate control.
The independent ventilation system is operated via the multi-information display MID or the onboard computer. Refer to the separate Owner's Manual.
You can set two different times for the system to start; it will remain active for
30 minutes. You can also turn it on and off directly. Since the system uses a substantial amount of electrical current, you should not activate it twice in succession without allowing the battery to be recharged in normal operation between use.
When a preselected activation time is set, the independent ventilation system is operational at outside temperatures above 607 (166), or by direct switch activation. It cannot be switched on when the vehicle is moving.
The air emerges via the vent outlets for the upper body. Therefore, the vents must be open for the system to operate.
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BMW Universal Transmitter
* 105 n
The concept
The BMW Universal Transmitter replaces up to three hand-held transmitters that control different devices such as a garage door opener, alarm systems or a door locking system. The
BMW Universal Transmitter recognizes and "learns" the transmitted signal from each of the original hand-held transmitters.
The signal of an original hand-held transmitter can be programmed to one of three channel keys. Following that, each of the devices can be operated with the channel key that you have programmed for it. A transmission of the signal is indicated by the indicator lamp.
Before you sell your vehicle, the programmed channel keys should be de-
leted. Refer to page 107 for the de-
scription of this process.
To prevent potential injuries or damage: During the programming operation and before every remote triggering of a programmed device using the BMW Universal Transmitter, be sure that there are no persons, animals or objects within the range of movement of the respective device. Read and comply with the safety instructions for the original hand-held transmitter also.
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To Canadian residents:
During programming, your handheld transmitter may automatically stop transmitting after two seconds. This may not be long enough to program the
BMW Universal Transmitter. If you are programming from one of these handheld transmitters, the Universal Transmitter's lamp may begin to flash in a series of double flashes. If this occurs, continue to hold the button on the Universal Transmitter while you reactivate your hand-held transmitter. You may have to repeat this function several times while programming.
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Before programming, read the
"User's information" section on
.
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Checking for the change code
In order to determine whether the original hand-held transmitter is equipped with a change code system, you may either refer to the instructions for the original hand-held transmitter or program a channel key as described in the
left column on page 106 under "Pro-
gramming."
Following that, press and hold the programmed channel key of the BMW Universal Transmitter. If the indicator lamp of the BMW Universal Transmitter flashes rapidly for two seconds and then stays on continuously, the original hand-held transmitter is equipped with a change code system. If the change code system is available, program the channel keys as described in the right-
hand column on page 106 under "Pro-
gramming a hand-held transmitter with change code."
The original hand-held transmitter
If this symbol is depicted on the packaging or in the user's instructions for the original handheld transmitter, it may be assumed that this original hand-held transmitter is compatible with the BMW Universal
Transmitter.
If you have additional questions, please consult your BMW center or call 1-800-355-3515.
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106 n
BMW Universal Transmitter
*
Programming a hand-held transmitter with change code
Read and comply with the safety
.
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Programming
1 Channel keys
2 Indicator lamp
3 Receiver for programming
Read and comply with the safety
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1 Ignition key position 2.
2 For initial operation: Press and hold the two outer keys (1) until the indicator lamp (2) flashes. Release the keys.
The three channel keys are cleared.
3 Hold the original hand-held transmitter toward the receiver (3) a maximum of 2 inches (5 cm) away.
4 Simultaneously press the transmitting key of the original hand-held transmitter (arrow 2) and the desired channel key of the BMW Universal Transmitter (arrow 1). Release both keys as soon as the indicator lamp flashes rapidly.
5 To program other original hand-held transmitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.
The corresponding channel key is now programmed with the signal of the original hand-held transmitter.
Consult the operating instructions for the individual device when programming the BMW Universal Transmitter.
Read and comply with the following programming instructions for the use of the BMW Universal Transmitter with a change code system:
A second person simplifies programming of the BMW Universal
Transmitter.
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BMW Universal Transmitter
* 107 n
1 Program the BMW Universal Transmitter as described above under
"Programming."
2 Press and hold the programming key on the receiver of the device for about two seconds or until the programming lamp on the device comes on.
3 Press the desired channel key of the
BMW Universal Transmitter three times.
ter.
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If you have additional questions, please consult your BMW cen-
Clearing the channel keys
Read and comply with the safety
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Individual channel keys cannot be cleared. However, the three channel keys can be cleared together in the following manner:
> Press and hold the two outer channel keys of the BMW Universal Transmitter until the indicator lamp flashes, and then release the keys.
All channel keys are cleared.
User's information
Do not use this BMW Universal Transmitter with any garage door opener that lacks safety "stop" and "reverse" features as required by federal safety standards (this includes any garage door opener model manufactured before
April 1, 1982).
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
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Glove compartment Storage facilities
To prevent injury in the event of an accident, close the glove compartment immediately after use.
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Rechargeable flashlight
*
Located on the left-hand side of the glove compartment.
Features integral overload-protection, so it can be left in its holder continuously.
To open
Pull the handle and the lamp comes on.
To close
Fold the cover up.
To lock
Use one of the master keys to lock the vehicle. A master key is also required for unlocking.
For example, if you turn over only your door and ignition keys for va-
let parking (refer to page 34 ), access to
the glove compartment is not possible.
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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.
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The cover of the storage compartment on the vertical surface of the center console can be pushed open or closed
(illustration). If your vehicle is equipped with a cassette holder * , open each cassette compartment by pressing on the small button.
Storage compartment on the center console between the front seats: To open, reach into the recess at the front and pull upward.
You will find a coin holder in the door pocket on the driver's side.
You will find additional storage compartments in all of the doors as well as on the backrests of the front seats.
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Cellular phone
*
Beverage holder
*
Handsfree system
On vehicles with a telephone hookup * , the handsfree speaker is positioned in the headliner.
For further information on the cellular phone, refer to the separate Owner's
Manual.
Two holders for canned drinks have been provided in the center console below the controls for the automatic climate control, with two additional holders for rear passengers on the rear of the console, just below the vent outlets.
Press to open; fold back inward to close.
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Ashtray, front Cigarette lighter
*
To open
Press briefly in the direction indicated by the arrow.
To extinguish a cigarette, tap off the ash and gently press the tip into the funnel.
To empty
Open the lid and press down (arrow):
You can now pull the ashtray upward for removal.
On vehicles equipped for nonsmokers, the insert is removed in the same way.
Press the cover panel for access
(arrow), then push the lighter down.
Remove as soon as the lighter jumps back out.
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. Therefore, do not leave unsupervised children in the vehicle.
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Cigarette lighter
*
Ashtray, rear
Cigarette lighter socket
Suitable for attaching power supplies for flashlights, car vacuum cleaners, etc., up to a rating of approx. 200 watts at 12 volts. Avoid damage to the socket caused by inserting plugs of different shapes or sizes.
Non-smoker's equipment package
On vehicles with the non-smoker's equipment package, the socket is concealed by a cover.
For access to the socket: Lift the cover off.
To open
Press the recess in the lid.
To empty
Press the edge of the cover (arrow).
You can now pull the ashtray upward for removal.
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Through-loading system
*
The backrest of the rear seat is divided into two portions, one-third and twothirds of the seat respectively. For storing longer objects, you can fold down either side individually.
To open:
Reach into the recess and pull forward
(arrow 1).
When you close the backrest, be sure that the catch engages securely. The red slide (arrow 2) must go underneath.
The central belt has an additional small buckle.
> If you connect the two belt sections, you can use the central belt as any normal 3-point belt
> It is easier to fold the rear seat backrest up and down if you unbuckle the belt (arrow).
With a master key, you can lock each backrest in the rear seat.
This also prevents access to the luggage compartment from the interior of the vehicle when you turn over the door and ignition key 3 to someone else
), for valet parking for instance.
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Ski bag
*
Designed for safe, convenient transport of 3 to 4 pairs of skis.
The length of the ski bag and the additional space provided in the luggage compartment make it possible to carry skis with a length of up to 6.8 feet
(2.10 meters). Because of the tapered shape of the bag, the ski bag can only accommodate two pairs of skis with a length of 6.8 feet (2.10 meters).
Removing the center armrest
(Not for vehicles with the through-loading system and for the sport wagon.
1 Fold the center armrest completely outward.
2 Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the armrest.
3 Grasp the front of the armrest with one hand, then use your other hand to reach down behind the armrest and pull up sharply (arrow).
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Installing the center armrest
Guide the armrest into position from above, then apply pressure until you hear it snap into position.
When removing and installing the center armrest, be sure that the seat covers are not damaged by the side pins.
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Ski bag
*
Loading
1 Press the release button (arrow 1) to unlock the cover panel in the luggage compartment.
2 Press the detent levers (arrows 2) inward and fold the cover to the front.
3 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.
4 Use the magnetic retainers to attach the cover panel to the upper surface
(metal surface below rear tray) of the luggage compartment.
Please ensure that the skis are clean before loading them into the bag. Take care to avoid damage from sharp edges.
Secure the bag's contents by tightening down the strap at the buckle.
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To store the ski bag, perform the above steps in reverse sequence.
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Ski bag
*
With through-loading system
1 Fold the center armrest outward.
Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the armrest.
2 Press button 1 downward and swing the cover forward.
3 Press knob 2: The cover in the luggage compartment is unlocked.
In the sport wagon
1 Fold the center armrest outward.
Loosen the trim from the upper
Velcro® fastener and place it on the armrest.
2 Press button 1 downward and swing the cover forward.
3 Press button 2: The cover in the luggage compartment is unlocked.
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Luggage compartment – sport wagon
Fold the rear backrests down
Reach into the recess and pull upward
(arrow).
The rear backrest is divided into two sections, one-third and two-thirds of the seat respectively. You can fold either section of the backrest down separately in order to increase luggage compartment capacity.
Roll-up cover
Pull the roll-up cover out and hook it into the rear bracket.
The cover will support light objects such as items of clothing.
When you close the backrest, be sure that the catch engages securely. The red warning indicator disappears in the recess when the retainer is locked.
The center safety belt can be retracted only when the larger backrest is engaged.
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Do not place heavy or bulky objects on the roll-up cover. They could pose a danger to vehicle occupants during braking or evasive maneuvers.
Do not allow the cover to snap back, since this could damage it.
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For storing the case, refer to the next page.
Separation net
*
Pull the separation net out with the straps. Hold the bar on both sides and insert it into the holders. It is easiest to do this from the back seat.
Do not allow the separation net to snap back. Doing so could pose a risk of injury and the separation net could be damaged.
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When the rear backrests are folded down, you can store the case in front of the rear seats, pull the separation net out from there and insert it in the front holders (refer to the next page).
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Luggage compartment – sport wagon
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Removing the roll-up cover and separation net
1 Press on the buttons (arrow 1) to release the case on both sides.
2 Holding the case straight, pull out to the rear (arrow 2).
Installation
Simply slide the case forward in the two side holders until it engages.
Storage
There are holders for the case in front of the rear seats.
Guide the case in from the side as shown in the illustration. The strap of the separation net must be directed upward, while the end of the roll-up cover must be laid around and under the case to the rear.
You can pull the separation net out and insert it in the holders above it in the upper roof area.
Side covers
Open the side covers by pressing the button.
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Luggage compartment – sport wagon
Floor compartment
To release: Press the handle in the recess and fold the cover upward on the handle (large arrow).
You can lock the cover with a master key.
The dividers in the compartment can be rearranged. If you remove the divider and turn the divider retainer to the left and remove it, you have a level storage compartment.
Fold the floor cover up
Lift up the black retainer on the lower side of the panel and hook it into the upper frame of the tailgate cutout.
Before you fold the floor cover down, return the retainer to its original position.
Raise the spare tire cover
Lift up the cover and hook it into the red retainer on the floor panel (arrow).
Before you fold the cover down, return the retainer to its original position.
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Luggage compartment – sport wagon
Raise the cargo floor
For access to the compartment under the floor or to the spare tire, etc.:
> Raise the cargo floor and secure it with the support rod (arrow)
> Open the quick-release fasteners on the spare tire cover.
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Cargo loading
Stowing cargo
When transporting loads in your BMW:
> Position heavy loads as far forward as possible – directly behind the backrests or the luggage compartment partition panel – and at the bottom (the illustration shows the sport wagon)
> Cover sharp edges and corners
> Do not pile objects higher than the top edge of the backrest
> Pull out the separation net * (refer to
) and ensure that carried items cannot pass through the separation net
> For very heavy loads when the rear seat is not occupied, secure each safety belt in the opposite buckle.
Securing the load
> Secure smaller, light pieces with the retaining straps or a luggage net * , or
use elastic straps (refer to page 44
)
> For large, heavy pieces, visit your
BMW center for load-securing devices * . Lashing eyes are provided at the corners of the luggage compartment for attaching these load-securing devices (the illustration shows the sport wagon)
> Comply with the information enclosed with the load-securing devices.
Always position and secure the load correctly, otherwise 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 201 ). If you do, the
operating safety of the vehicle is no longer ensured and you are in violation of the law.
Do not carry hard or heavy objects unsecured in the passenger 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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Roof-mounted luggage rack
Mounting points
Access to the mounting points:
To fold up the cover (arrow), please use the tool which is provided with the luggage system.
A special luggage system is available as an option for your BMW. Please comply with the precautions included with the installation instructions.
Because roof racks raise the center of gravity of the car 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 201 .
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 luggage compartment lid/ tailgate.
Secure the roof luggage correctly and tightly to prevent it from shifting or being lost during driving (danger to following traffic).
Drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking maneuvers. Take corners gently.
The roof load increases aerodynamic resistance: Increased fuel consumption and stress on the roof are the immediate results.
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Special operating instructions:
Cellular phone
Wheels and tires:
Wheel and tire combinations 137
Approved wheel and tire specifications
Under the hood:
Care and maintenance:
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications
OBD connector
123 n
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technical data
Index
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124 n
Break-in procedure
To ensure that your vehicle provides maximum economy throughout a long service life, we request that you observe the following:
Engine and differential
Up to 1,200 miles (2,000 km):
Drive at varying engine speeds and road speeds, but do not exceed 4,500 rpm and the following road speeds during this initial period:
BMW 528i: 100 mph (160 km/h)
BMW 540i: 106 mph (170 km/h)
Obey your local and state maximum speed limits.
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid pressing the accelerator beyond the kickdown point.
Once you have driven 1,200 miles
(2,000 km), engine and vehicle speeds can gradually be increased.
You should also comply with these break-in procedures if the engine or differential is replaced later in the course of the vehicle service life.
Tires
Due to technical factors associated with their manufacture, tires do not achieve their full traction potential until an initial break-in period has elapsed for this reason, drive with extra care during the initial 200 miles (300 km).
Obey your local and state maximum speed limits.
Brake system
Approximately 300 miles (500 km) must elapse before the brake pads and rotors achieve the optimal pad-surface and wear patterns required for trouble-free operation and long service life later on.
To break in the separate parking brake drums, apply the parking brake lightly when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic signal, for instance), provided that traffic conditions allow you to do so. To avoid corrosion, repeat this 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 hydroplaning, and can lead to partial or complete loss of traction, vehicle control and braking effectiveness. Reduce your speed on wet roads.
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The brake lamps do not come on when the parking brake is applied.
Vacuum for the brake system servo unit on your BMW is available only when the engine is running. When you move the car with the engine shut off – when towing, for instance – substantially higher levels of pedal force will be required to brake the vehicle.
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Driving notes
Brakes:
Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake pedal. Even light but consistent pedal pressure can lead to high temperatures, brake wear and possibly even brake failure.
Aquaplaning:
When driving on wet or slushy roads, reduce road speed. If you do not, a wedge of water can form between tires and road surface. This phenomenon is referred to as aquaplaning or hydroplaning. It is characterized by a partial or complete loss of contact between the tires and the road surface. The ultimate results are loss of steering and braking control.
Driving through water:
Do not drive through water more than
1 foot (30 cm) deep. Drive only at walking speed. Driving at a faster speed could cause damage to the engine, the electrical system and the transmission.
Rear parcel tray:
Do not use the rear parcel tray to store heavy or bulky objects. They could pose a danger to the occupants during braking, evasive maneuvers, or in a crash.
Clothes hooks:
Hang items of clothing from the hooks so that they will not obstruct the driver's vision. In order to avoid personal injuries during braking or evasive maneuvers, do not hang heavy objects on the hooks.
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Catalytic converter
The catalytic converter reduces harmful exhaust emissions, and is designed for use with unleaded fuel only.
Even minute quantities of lead would be enough to permanently damage both the catalytic converter and the system oxygen sensor.
To ensure efficient, trouble-free engine operation and avoid potential damage:
> Be sure to comply with the scheduled maintenance requirements
> Fill the fuel tank well before it is empty
> Tow-start the vehicle only when the engine is cold, since unburned fuel may otherwise reach the catalytic converter. 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 let the engine run with any of the spark plug cables disconnected.
Be sure to comply with the instructions above to prevent unburned fuel from reaching the catalytic converter. Otherwise there is danger of overheating and damage to the catalytic converter.
Extreme temperatures occur at the catalytic converter on this and every catalyst-equipped vehicle. Heat shields are installed adjacent to some sections of the exhaust system. Never remove these shields; do not apply 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.
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Antilock Brake System (ABS)
127 n
The concept
ABS enhances active 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.
ABS is designed to meet two essential requirements during every brake application:
> To help provide vehicle stability
> To help retain steering and maneuvering capability on all types of road surface (asphalt, cement, dirt, moisture, snow and 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.).
Braking with ABS
The system becomes operative once the vehicle exceeds a speed of approx.
6 mph (10 km/h). The ABS is deactivated whenever the vehicle's speed drops back below approx. 4 mph
(6 km/h). This means that the wheels can lock in the final phase of a brake application – a factor of no significance in actual use.
If you are in a situation which requires full braking, you will exploit the full benefits of the ABS system if you apply maximum brake pressure ("panic stop").
Since the vehicle maintains steering responsiveness, you can avoid possible obstacles with a minimum of steering effort, despite the full brake application.
The ABS system closed-loop control circuit cycles in fractions of a second.
A pulsation at the brake pedal indicates to the driver that ABS is active, that is, that the vehicle is within its maximum braking range. In addition, the audible pulsation that accompanies the control operation calls the attention of the driver to the reduced traction between the tires and the road surface (slippery road surface), and serves as a reminder that the speed of the car should be reduced to adapt to road conditions.
On road surfaces which have a loose layer on a firm base (on gravel or snow, for instance), the braking distances with
ABS may be longer than with the wheels locked. The same applies when snow chains have been mounted. However, ABS continues to provide enhanced vehicle stability and steering response under these conditions.
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Antilock Brake System (ABS) Disc brakes
Information for your safety
Not even ABS can suspend the laws of physics. ABS alone cannot prevent accidents when the brakes are applied without an adequate safety interval between vehicles, if the car is driven at an excessive rate of speed in curves, or if aquaplaning occurs. Responsibility for these types of situations remains in the hands (and at the feet) of the driver.
You should never allow the added safety of ABS to lull you into a false sense of security, or mislead you into taking increased risks that could affect your own safety and that of others.
In the event of a fault
If the ABS warning lamp in the instrument cluster comes on,
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.
Do not make any modifications to the ABS system.
Service procedures on ABS are to be performed by authorized technicians only.
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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 rotors and accumulation of contamination on the brake pads. This occurs because the minimal pressure which must be exerted by the pads during brake applications to clean the rotors is not reached.
If the brake rotors are corroded, they will tend to respond to braking with a pulsating effect which even extended application will fail to cure.
For your own safety: Use only brake pads that BMW has approved for your specific vehicle model. BMW cannot evaluate nonapproved brake pads to determine if they are suited for use, and therefore cannot ensure the operating safety of the vehicle if they are installed.
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Disc brakes
129 n
Driving notes
When driving in wet conditions and in heavy rain, it is a good idea to apply light pressure to the brake pedal every few miles (kilometers). Watch traffic conditions to ensure that this maneuver does not endanger other road users.
The heat which is generated by the brake applications helps to dry the brake pads and rotors.
Maximum braking force is obtained while the wheels continue to rotate, peaking when the wheels remain on the verge of locking without actually doing so. ABS maintains this state automatically. If the ABS fails, you should revert to the staggered braking technique de-
scribed below (refer to page 131 ).
Extended or steep mountain descents do not necessarily have to lead to reduced braking efficiency. Shift down to a gear in which only minimal periodic brake applications are required or move the selector lever to the appropriate lower range with automatic transmission.
You can increase the engine's braking effect by selecting progressively lower gears, downshifting as far as 1st gear, or the 1st or 2nd shift position, on steep descents.
Should engine braking prove 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!), then releasing the pedal, then repeating the application.
This staggered braking technique allows the brakes to cool in the intervals between active braking phases, preventing overheating and ensuring that full braking capacity remains available at all times.
Do not coast with the clutch depressed or with the transmission or selector lever in neutral. Do not coast with the engine shut off. The engine provides no braking effect when the clutch is depressed or the transmission is in neutral, and there is no power-assist for braking or steering when the engine is not running.
Never allow floor mats, carpets or any other objects to protrude into the area around the accelerator, clutch and brake pedals and obstruct their movement.
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Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
*
If you apply the brakes rapidly, this system automatically produces the maximum braking force boost and thus helps to achieve the shortest possible braking distance during "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. Conventional braking efficiency is available without limitations.
Have the system checked and repaired at your BMW center as soon as possible.
For "Information for your safety" covering the ABS system, refer to
. This information also generally applies for DBC.
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Brake system Winter operation
Brake fluid level
The warning lamp for the brake hydraulic system comes on, or the "CHECK BRAKE FLUID" message appears in the Check
Control.
The brake fluid level is too low in the
reservoir (refer to page 152 ).
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 pads
The warning lamp for the brake pads comes on, or the "CHECK
BRAKE PADS" message appears in the Check Control:
The brake pads have reached their minimum pad thickness. Proceed to the nearest authorized BMW center as soon as possible to have the pads replaced.
Proceed to the nearest authorized
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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For your own safety: Use only brake pads that BMW has approved for your specific vehicle model. BMW cannot evaluate nonapproved brake pads to determine if they are suited for use, and therefore cannot ensure the operating safety of the vehicle if they are installed.
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The onset of winter is often accompanied by rapid changes in weather.
Adaptations in driving style should be accompanied by preparations on the vehicle itself to ensure that your vehicle operation through the winter remains safe and trouble-free.
Coolant
Ensure that the coolant mixture contains the year-round ratio of 50:50 of water and antifreeze/corrosion protection. This mixture provides protection against freezing down to approx. -347
(-376). Replace the coolant every four years.
Locks
BMW door lock deicer can be used to free the locks if they are frozen. This deicer also contains lubricant.
After using deicer, treatment with BMW lock barrel grease is recommended.
The warning lamp comes on together with the "CHECK BRAKE PADS" message in the Check Control.
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Winter operation
Rubber seals and components
In order to prevent the weather-stripping from freezing, apply BMW rubber treatment or silicone spray to the seals on the doors, hood and luggage compartment lid/tailgate.
A full range of car-care products is available from your BMW center.
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Driving on low-traction road surfaces
Use smooth, gentle pressure to control the accelerator pedal. Avoid excessive engine speeds and shift to the next higher gear at an early point. Adapt your speed and driving style when approaching grades or slopes. Maintain an adequate distance between yourself and the car ahead.
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).
For maximum traction, we recommend that you manually deactivate the
ASC+T/DSC * when driving with snow
chains mounted. Refer to page 91
.
Brakes
Winter road conditions substantially reduce the amount of traction available between the tires and the road surface.
The resulting increases in braking distance are considerable and should be kept in mind at all times.
ABS is intended to prevent the wheels from locking during brake applications, thus helping to maintain vehicle stability and steering response.
Starting off
We recommend that you use the manual control switch to deactivate ASC+T/
DSC * when starting off in deep snow or when rocking the car to free it (refer to
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.
Following that, increase pedal pressure again. Reduce the pressure as the wheels lock, then reapply pressure.
Repeat this procedure. This type of staggered braking will reduce the braking distance, and the vehicle still remains responsive to steering.
You can then attempt to steer around hazards after you have reduced pressure on the brake pedal.
Do not shift down on slick road surfaces. Doing so could cause the rear wheels to lose traction and skid, which could result in the loss of vehicle control.
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Depress the clutch during hard braking on road surfaces which provide only poor or uneven traction.
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131 n
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132 n
Winter operation Power steering Level control system
*
Skid control
Release the accelerator pedal and depress the clutch pedal. Countersteer carefully and attempt to regain control of the vehicle.
If there is a change in steering behavior, for instance greater steering effort or if steering becomes lighter as speed increases in vehicles equipped with
Servotronic * :
Contact your BMW center immediately for an inspection.
Parking
Engage 1st or reverse gear. If your car 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 linings from locking due to frost or corrosion, dry them by gently applying the parking brake as the vehicle is coming to a stop. Make sure that following traffic is not endangered.
If the power steering fails, increased effort will be required to steer the vehicle.
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The warning lamp for the level control system comes on, or the message "LEVEL CONTROL
INACTIVE" appears in the Check Control: There is a malfunction in the level control system.
Stop and inspect the vehicle. If it is riding significantly lower in the rear than in the front, or if it is sitting at an incline
(left rear compared to right rear), consult the nearest authorized BMW center. Drive with appropriate caution in the meantime. The vehicle has reduced ground clearance or driving comfort is noticeably reduced.
Even if the attitude of the vehicle is normal, you should consult the nearest authorized BMW center if the warning lamp indicates a system fault.
The brake lamps do not come on when the parking brake is applied.
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Cellular phone
*
Radio reception
Mobile communications systems (cellular phone, radio, etc.) are permitted with an output up to 10 watts only. Even these systems may trigger malfunctions in the operation of your vehicle if they are not specifically designed for use with the vehicle. BMW can neither test nor assume responsibility for every individual product being offered on the market. We recommend that you consult your BMW center before purchasing any device of this kind.
To ensure that your BMW continues to provide reliable and trouble-free 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.
Before loading the vehicle on a car-carrier train or driving it through a car wash, remove the antenna.
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The reception and sound quality obtained from mobile radios varies according to a variety of factors, including the broadcast range of the transmitter and the directional orientation of the antenna. Interference factors such as high-tension power lines, buildings and natural obstructions can all lead to unavoidable reception interference, regardless of how well the vehicle sound system is operating.
Climatic factors such as intense solar radiation, fog, rain and snow can also interfere with reception.
Cellular phones without official BMW approval can also generate interference. This phenomenon assumes the form of a low-pitched hum emanating from the speaker system.
Please refer to the (Supplementary)
Owner's Manual provided with your sound system for detailed information on its use.
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134 n
Tire inflation pressure Tire condition
Information for your safety
The factory-approved radial tires are matched to the car and have been selected to provide optimum safety and driving comfort on your car.
It is not merely the tire's service life, but also driving comfort and – above all else
– driving safety which depend on the condition of the tires and the 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 tire inflation pressures – including the spare tire – regularly, at least every two weeks and before beginning a longer trip. If this is not done, incorrect tire pressures can cause driving instability and tire damage, ultimately resulting in accidents.
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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 legallypermissible wear limit has been reached. Below 0.12 in (3 mm) tread depth, there is an increased risk of aquaplaning, even at relatively moderate speeds and with only small amounts of water on the road.
Do not drive on a deflated (flat) tire. A flat tire greatly impairs steering and braking response, and can lead to complete loss of control over the vehicle.
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that the permitted load on the tires is not exceeded. Overloading can lead to overheating and increases the rate at which damage develops inside the tires. The ultimate result can assume the form of a sudden air loss.
Unusual vibrations encountered during normal vehicle operation can indicate tire failure or some other vehicle defect, as can variations in normal vehicle response, such as a pronounced tendency to pull to the left or right. Should this occur, respond by immediately reducing your speed and carefully proceeding to the nearest BMW center or professional tire center, or having the vehicle towed in to have it and its tires inspected.
Tire damage (up to and including blowouts) can endanger the lives of both the vehicle occupants and other road users.
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Tire replacement
135 n
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
DOT Quality Grades
Treadwear
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
All passenger car tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to these grades.
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Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.
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Temperature
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109.
Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.
The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.
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136 n
Tire replacement Tire rotation
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
Do not use retreaded tires, since driving safety may be impaired by their use. This is due to the possible variations in casing structures and, in some cases, to their extreme age, which can lead to a decrease in their durability.
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Tire age
The date on which the tire was manufactured is indicated by the code on the sidewall:
DOT ... 129 indicates that the tire was manufactured in Week 12 of 1999.
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. Such a tire should be replaced by a new tire immediately, and should not be mounted together with new tires.
Between the axles
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, interaxle tire rotation is not recommended.
If a proposed interaxle rotation of tires is based on economic considerations, one should consider whether the costs for the rotation are likely to be recaptured by any increase in the service life of the tires which might be realized. In principle, interaxle tire rotation should be performed at short intervals, with a maximum of 3,000 miles (5,000 km).
Consult your authorized BMW center for more information.
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Tire rotation Wheel and tire combinations
137 n
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 tire rotation, correct the tire inflation pressure.
If different tire sizes are mounted on the front and rear axles (refer to
page 140 ), the wheels may not be
rotated from one axle to the other.
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The right choice
Use only tires approved by BMW.
Refer to the information beginning on
.
Because of the high speeds this vehicle can reach, the use of specific tire brands, specifications and dimensions is mandatory. Consult any BMW center for details.
Comply with national, state, or province regulations.
Codes on tires and wheels
The tire codes will aid you in selecting the correct tire.
Codes on radial tires:
Example: 235/60 R 16 100W
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)
The correct wheel-tire combination affects different systems such as ABS, ATC, 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 if you have mounted winter tires, for example, remount the approved wheel-tire combination as soon as possible.
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The speed rating indicates the approved maximum speed for the tire.
Summer tires:
S = up to 112 mph (180 km/h)
T = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
V = up to 150 mph (240 km/h)
W = up to 167 mph (270 km/h)
Y = up to 186 mph (300 km/h)
ZR= over 150 mph (240 km/h)
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138 n
Wheel and tire combinations
Winter tires:
Q M+S = up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
T M+S = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H M+S = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
Codes stamped on light-alloy wheels:
Example: 8 J x 16 H 2
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
Protect valve inserts against dirt using screw-on valve stem caps. Dirt in the valves frequently leads to slow leaks.
Winter tires
Choosing the right tire
BMW recommends winter tires (M+S radial tires) for driving in adverse winter road conditions. While tires known as all-season tires (M+S designation) provide better winter traction than summer tires with load ratings H, V, W, Y and
ZR, they generally do not achieve the performance of winter tires.
In the interests of safe tracking and steering response, install radial tires made by the same manufacturer and with the same tread configuration on all four wheels if you elect to mount winter tires.
Mount only winter tires which have been approved by BMW. Any BMW center will be glad to provide you with information for selecting the best winter tires for your particular driving conditions.
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Winter tires Snow chains
* 139 n
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.
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Tire condition, tire pressure
Winter tires display a perceptible loss in their ability to cope with winter driving conditions once the tread wears to below 0.16 inches (4 mm), and should thus be replaced.
Comply with the specified tire inflation pressures – and be sure to have the wheel and tire assemblies balanced every time you change the tires.
Storage
Store tires in a cool, dry place, away from light whenever possible. Protect the tires against contact with oil, grease and fuel.
Use narrow-link BMW snow chains on summer or winter tires only in pairs and only on the rear wheels. Comply with all manufacturer's safety precautions when mounting the chains.
It is not possible to mount snow chains on tires with 17-inch wheels.
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140 n
Approved wheel and tire specifications – sedan
Tire specifications
BMW 528i
All season tires
225/60 R 15 96 H M+S
Summer tires
225/60 R 15 96 W
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Front: 235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W/Y
Winter tires (M+S)
205/65 R 15 94 Q
225/60 R 15 96 Q
225/55 R 16 95 Q
235/45 R 17 94 Q
Pay attention to the specifications for tires and wheels in the vehicle's manuals. If sizes not approved by the manufacturer are mounted, an entry in the vehicle's documents may be necessary.
Comply with local legislation.
Steel rim
(wheel rim)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Light-alloy wheel
7Jx15
7Jx15
7Jx16
8Jx17
8Jx17
9Jx17
The use of rims and wheel bolts that do not meet the specifications of the original factory-installed equipment will affect the safe operation of your vehicle and may cause an accident and personal injury.
Never mix tires of different design, such as steel-belted radials with radial biasbelted or bias-ply tires, etc. Mixing tire types will adversely affect roadholding and can lead to loss of vehicle control.
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6.5Jx15
7Jx15
7Jx16
8Jx17
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Approved wheel and tire specifications – sedan
Tire specifications
BMW 540i
All season tires (BMW 540iA only)
225/55 R 16 95 H M+S
Summer tires
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Front: 235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W/Y
Winter tires (M+S)
225/55 R 16 95 Q/T/H
235/45 R 17 94 Q/T/H
Pay attention to the specifications for tires and wheels in the vehicle's manuals. If sizes not approved by the manufacturer are mounted, an entry in the vehicle's documents may be necessary.
Comply with local legislation.
Snow chains
*
For tires on 17-inch wheels, it is not possible to mount snow chains.
Steel rim
(wheel rim)
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
141 n
Light-alloy wheel
7Jx16
7Jx16
8Jx17
8Jx17
9Jx17
The use of rims and wheel bolts that do not meet the specifications of the original factory-installed equipment will affect the safe operation of your vehicle and may cause an accident and personal injury.
Never mix tires of different design, such as steel-belted radials with radial biasbelted or bias-ply tires, etc. Mixing tire types will adversely affect roadholding and can lead to loss of vehicle control.
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7Jx16
8Jx17
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142 n
Approved wheel and tire specifications – sport wagon
Tire specifications
BMW 528i
All season tires
225/60 R 15 96 H M+S
Summer tires
225/60 R 15 96 W
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Winter tires (M+S)
225/60 R 15 96 Q
225/55 R 16 95 Q
235/45 R 17 94 Q
BMW 540i
All season tires
225/55 R 16 95 H M+S
Summer tires
225/55 R 16 95 W
235/45 R 17 94 W/Y
Winter tires (M+S)
225/55 R 16 95 Q
235/45 R 17 94 Q
Steel rim
(wheel rim)
–
7Jx15
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
Light-alloy wheel
7Jx15
7Jx15
7Jx16
8Jx17
7Jx15
7Jx16
8Jx17
7Jx16
7Jx16
8Jx17
Pay attention to the specifications for tires and wheels in the vehicle's manuals. If sizes not approved by the manufacturer are mounted, an entry in the vehicle's documents may be necessary.
Comply with local legislation.
Snow chains
*
For tires on 17-inch wheels, it is not possible to mount snow chains.
The use of rims and wheel bolts that do not meet the specifications of the original factory-installed equipment will affect the safe operation of your vehicle and may cause an accident and personal injury.
Never mix tires of different design, such as steel-belted radials with radial biasbelted or bias-ply tires, etc. Mixing tire types will adversely affect roadholding and can lead to loss of vehicle control.
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7Jx16
8Jx17
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Hood
143 n
To unlock
Pull the lever located under the lefthand side of the instrument panel.
Do not work on your vehicle without appropriate skills. 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 authorized
BMW center.
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To open
Pull the release handle and open the hood.
To close
Allow the hood to fall from a height of about 12 inches (30 cm) so that it audibly engages.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the travel path of the hood is clear when it is closed, as with all closing procedures.
If it is determined that the hood is not completely closed while driving, stop immediately and close it securely.
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144 n
Engine compartment – BMW 528i
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Engine compartment – BMW 528i
2 Reservoir for brake fluid (under the housing of the microfilter)
3 Auxiliary terminal for jump starting
5 Engine oil filler neck
6 Reservoir for intensive-cleaning system *
7 Reservoir for headlamp washer * and
145 n
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146 n
Engine compartment – BMW 540i
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Engine compartment – BMW 540i
1 Reservoir for brake fluid (under the housing of the microfilter)
2 Auxiliary terminal for jump starting
4 Engine oil filler neck
6 Reservoir for intensive-cleaning system *
7 Reservoir for headlamp washer * and
147 n
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148 n
Washer fluids Washer nozzles
Windshield washer
Windshield:
The spray from the nozzles should be directed so as to ensure effective cleaning, even at high speeds. Use a needle to adjust the nozzles as required, or have them adjusted at your authorized BMW center.
Rear window:
Have this system adjusted by your
BMW center as required.
Headlamp
*
and windshield washer system
Capacity in US quarts (liters).
Windshield washer: approx. 3.7 (3.5) – sedan approx. 6.3 (6.0) – sport wagon
Incl. headlamp-washing system: approx. 6.3 (6.0)
Fill with water and – if required – with a washer antifreeze (according to manufacturer's recommendations).
Intensive-action washer reservoir
*
Capacity approx. 1.1 US quarts
(1.0 liter).
Fill with intensive-action washer fluid.
It resists freezing to approx. -177
(-276) and is available from your authorized BMW center.
We recommend that you mix the washer fluid before adding it to the reservoir.
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Antifreeze agents or intensiveaction washer fluids for the washer systems are highly flammable.
For this reason, keep them away from sources of flame and store them only in their original containers. Store them so that they are inaccessible to children.
Comply with the instructions on the containers.
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Headlamp washer system
Have the nozzles adjusted by your
BMW center as required.
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Engine oil
149 n
Checking oil level
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 Push the dipstick all the way into the guide tube and pull it out again.
5 The oil level should be in between the two graduations on the dipstick.
As with fuel economy, oil consumption is directly influenced by your driving style and vehicle operating conditions.
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.
To add oil
Wait until the level has dropped to just above the lower mark before adding oil.
However, do not wait until the oil level drops below the lower mark.
BMW engines are designed to operate without oil additives; the use of additives could lead to damage in some cases. This is also true for the manual transmission, the automatic transmission, the differential, and the power steering system.
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150 n
Engine oil
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil selected has critical significance for the operation and service life of an engine. Based on extensive testing, BMW has approved only certain engine oils.
Use only approved "BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil."
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High
Performance Synthetic Oil," you may use small amounts of synthetic oil in between oil changes. Only use oils with the specification API SH or higher.
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as established in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class depends on the climatic conditions in the area where you typically drive your
BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes
5W-30 and SAE 5W-40.
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These oils may be used for driving in all ambient temperatures.
Ask your authorized BMW center for details concerning the specific
"BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil" or "synthetic oils" which have been approved.
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You can also call BMW of North
America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this website: www.bmwusa.com to obtain this information.
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Engine oil Coolant
151 n
Comply with the applicable environmental laws regulating the disposal of used oil.
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Recommendation: Have the oil changed by your BMW center.
Continuous exposure to used oil has caused cancer in laboratory testing. For this reason, any skin areas that come into contact with oil should be thoroughly washed with soap and water.
Always store oil, grease, etc., out of reach of children. Comply with all warning labels and information on lubricant containers.
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Do not add coolant to the cooling system when the engine is hot. If you attempt to do so, escaping coolant can cause burns.
To avoid the possibility of damage later on, never use anything other than factory-approved, nitrite and amino-free extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor. Your authorized BMW center is familiar with the official specifications.
Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents are hazardous to health. You should always store them in their original container and in a location which is inaccessible to children.
Extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor contains the flammable substance ethylene glycol. For this reason, do not spill antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor on hot engine parts. It could catch fire and cause serious burns.
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Comply with the applicable environmental laws regulating the disposal of extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor.
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Checking coolant level
Correct coolant level when the engine is cold (approx. 687/206):
Unscrew the cap from the expansion tank.
The coolant level is correct when the end of the red float is aligned with the upper edge of the filler opening (refer to the arrow in the illustration), or max.
0.8 in (2 cm) higher, for instance up to the mark on the float (see also the schematic diagram next to the cap).
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152 n
Coolant Brake fluid
Adding coolant
Wait until the engine cools before removing the cap from the expansion tank. The needle of the coolant gauge in the instrument cluster must be located in the blue zone; otherwise, there is a danger of scalding.
1 Start by turning the cap counterclockwise. Pause to allow any 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.
If the indicator lamp for the brake hydraulic system appears or if the "CHECK BRAKE FLUID" warning appears in the Check
Control: The brake fluid level is too low in the reservoir.
The brake fluid reservoir is located under the microfilter housing on the driver's side of the car. Should you determine that the brake fluid is low, refer the problem to your BMW center, who can trace and rectify any sources of leakage when refilling the reservoir.
Your BMW center is familiar with the specifications for approved brake fluids
(DOT 4).
Brake fluid loss results in extended pedal travel. For this situation, refer to
.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is, it absorbs moisture from the air over time.
In order to ensure the safety and reliability of the brake system, have the brake fluid changed every two years by an authorized BMW center. Refer also to the Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models) or to the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
Brake fluid is toxic and damages the vehicle's paint. You should always store it in its original container and in a location which is out of reach of children.
Do not spill the fluid and do not fill the brake fluid reservoir beyond the "MAX" mark. The brake fluid could ignite upon contact with hot engine parts and cause serious burns.
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Comply with the applicable environmental laws regulating the disposal of brake fluid.
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Vehicle Identification Number
In the engine compartment, stamped on the right-hand strut dome (arrow) and on the upper edge of the instrument panel on the left-hand side.
153 n
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154 n
The BMW Maintenance System
The BMW Maintenance System has been designed as a reliable means of 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, which 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 mileage can be accumulated in very different ways.
From the point of view of maintenance,
62,000 miles (100,000 km) accumulated in short-distance urban driving are not the equivalent of the same distance covered at moderate speeds in longdistance highway travel.
In response to this fact, the BMW Maintenance System monitors operating conditions as the basis for determining the optimum service intervals for your individual vehicle.
The BMW Maintenance System includes the Engine Oil Service and Inspections I and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals according to the actual loads on the car 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.
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet (US models) or Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models)
Please refer to the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or to the Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian models) for additional information on maintenance intervals and procedures.
As a precaution against rust, it might be a good idea to have the body checked for damage from rocks or gravel at the same time, depending upon operating conditions.
Have your BMW center do the maintenance and repair.
Your BMW center is always informed on the latest maintenance work and repair techniques and equipped with the required special tools. In addition, checking parts known from experience to be subject to wear is a permanent part of the maintenance specifications.
Be sure that all maintenance work is confirmed in the Service and Warranty
Information Booklet (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
These entries will constitute your proof that the vehicle has received regular maintenance. They are also required in the event of a warranty claim.
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Caring for your car
155 n
Washing your car
You can have your new BMW washed in an automatic car wash. Car wash systems that do not employ brushes are preferable.
Wipe away tough dirt and loosen and remove dead insects before washing the car.
To prevent spots, avoid washing when the hood is still warm, or immediately after and during exposure to strong sunlight.
When using an automatic car wash, be sure that:
> The car wash system is suited for the dimensions of your vehicle
> No damage will occur on vehicles with attached body accessories (such as spoilers or antennas). If you are uncertain, consult the manager of the car wash
> 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, for example, can cause malfunctions in the function of the rain sensor.
Turn the rain sensor off in automatic car washes. If you do not, damage may occur if the wipers switch on unintentionally.
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Parts of the car which are inaccessible to the automatic washer – such as door sills, door and hood edges, etc. – should be cleaned by hand.
In the winter months, it is especially important to ensure that the car is washed on a regular basis. Large quantities of dirt and road salt are difficult to remove, and they also cause damage to the vehicle.
If spray wands or high-pressure washers are used, be sure to maintain an adequate distance between the spray source and the vehicle's surface. Inadequate distance and excessive pressure can damage or weaken the finish, making it more susceptible to subsequent attack. In addition, moisture could penetrate to vehicle components, leading to long-term damage.
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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 an ice scraper.
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After washing the car, apply the brakes briefly to dry them. Braking efficiency might otherwise be reduced by the moisture, and the brake rotors could also be corroded.
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Caring for your car
Exterior finish
To provide effective corrosion protection, multilayer paintwork is applied at the factory. Cataphoretic immersion priming techniques are supplemented using special body-cavity protectants, with the application of 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 ongoing programs designed to further improve the durability of their finishes. Despite this, environmental factors that occur locally or regionally can have negative effects on the finish of your vehicle. These should guide you in determining the frequency and extent of your efforts to maintain the vehicle finish.
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 car for any period of time
(spots, etching, flaking, separation in the top coat).
In industrial areas, deposits from fly ash, lime, oil deposits, sulfur-dioxide in precipitation (acid rain) and other environmental pollutants will all damage the surface of the car unless adequate protection is provided.
In coastal regions, high levels of atmospheric salt and humidity promote corrosion.
In tropical zones, temperatures of over
1057 (406) in the shade prevail, in addition to heavy ultraviolet radiation and high humidity. Under those circumstances, light exterior finishes reach temperatures of up to 1757 (806) and dark finishes up to 2507 (120 6).
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Caring for your car
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Caring for the vehicle finish
Regular washing is a preventive measure against long-term effects from substances that are harmful to the vehicle's finish, especially if you drive your vehicle in areas with high levels of air pollution or aggressive natural substances (tree resins, pollen).
Nevertheless, you should immediately remove especially aggressive substances. Failure to do so can lead to changes in the paint's chemical structure or to discoloration. Gasoline spilled during refueling, oil, grease and brake fluid should always be cleaned away immediately, as should bird droppings
(finish damage).
Any contamination remaining on the surface of the vehicle will be especially conspicuous after washing. Use cleaning fluid or alcohol with a clean cloth or cotton pad to remove. Remove tar spots with tar remover. After cleaning, the affected areas should be waxed to ensure continued protection.
Waxing your car
Protect the finish using carnauba or synthetic-based waxes only.
The best way to determine when the finish needs to be waxed is by noting when water stops beading on the surface.
You can use a glass cleaner to remove any wax or silicone that may have been left on the windows during waxing.
Use cleaning and car-care products that you can obtain at your BMW center.
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Paint damage
You can touch up small areas of damage with BMW spray paint or a BMW touch-up stick.
The paint color code for your car is provided on a sticker located on the right hand side under the hood and on the first page of your Service and Warranty
Information Booklet.
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. After a few days, polish and protect the touched-in areas.
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.
Use cleaning and car-care products that you can obtain at your BMW center.
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Caring for your car
Window care
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.
When caring for break-resistant security glass * , observe the following instructions:
The inner surface of the side windows is coated with a plastic film. For this reason, do not affix any decals or adhesive stickers on the inside of these windows unless they are to be placed there permanently.
Wash the glass with clean water. If necessary, you may add a commerciallyavailable mild household cleaner. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
If the windows are fogged or iced over, treat them with an anti-misting cloth or a deicer spray – do not use an ice scraper.
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Clean the wiper blades with soapy water. The wiper blades should be replaced twice a year, before and after the cold season.
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 1407 (606). Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
If your vehicle has chrome parts * such as window moldings, door handles or other items, clean these parts carefully with ample clean water, especially if they have an accumulation of road salt.
Use a chrome polish for an additional treatment.
Plastic components, vinyl upholstery, headliners, lamp lenses, the clear cover of the instrument panel and components with a sprayed dull black surface can be cleaned with water (add plastic cleaner as required). Do not allow moisture to soak through the seats or headliner. Never use solvents such as lacquer thinner, heavy-duty grease remover, fuels, etc.
Rubber components should be cleaned with water only; a rubber treatment or silicone spray may also be applied.
The safety belts should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution without being removed from the 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.
Please use only a damp cloth to clean wooden fascia panels and components.
Follow up by drying with a soft cloth.
Use cleaning and car-care products that you can obtain at your BMW center.
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Use only wiper blades which have been approved by BMW.
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Caring for your car
Leather care
The leather upholstery * used by BMW is a natural product of the highest quality, processed using state-of-the-art methods to ensure that it will maintain its high quality for years to come, provided that it is properly cared for.
Because this product is manufactured using natural materials, you must make allowance for its special characteristics as well as for the peculiarities of its use and care.
Regular periodic cleaning and care are essential, as dust and road dirt act as abrasives in the pores and creases of the material. This leads to wear spots and premature brittleness on the surface of the leather. We therefore suggest that you clean the leather with a vacuum cleaner or dust cloth at frequent intervals.
For cleaning, use BMW leather cleaning foam.
Since dirt and grease gradually affect the protective surface layer of the leather, the cleaned surfaces should be treated with a BMW leather care agent.
This also acts as an antistatic agent.
For protection against dampness or moisture, treat the leather with a BMW impregnating agent.
We recommend that you perform this procedure twice a year on leather exposed to normal use.
Spills should be wiped up immediately.
Remove grease and oil stains without rubbing, but rather by dabbing with spot remover.
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.
Use cleaning and car-care products that you can obtain at your BMW center.
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Cleaning agents can contain substances that are dangerous or pose health risks. Therefore, always comply with the warnings and danger notices on the package.
Open the doors or windows on your vehicle before cleaning the interior. Never clean your vehicle with cleaning agents
(or solvents) not specifically intended for this purpose.
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Airbags Vehicle storage
1 Front airbags for driver and passenger
2 Side impact Head Protection System
(front)
3 Side airbags (front and rear * )
Important safety notices
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.
Never apply adhesive materials to these components or 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 an authorized
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.
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Consult your BMW center regarding the required special procedures if you intend to store the vehicle for longer than three months.
Do not attempt to remove the gas generators of the airbag restraint system from the vehicle. 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 authorized BMW center for repairs or service operations.
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Technical modifications
Any authorized BMW center will be glad to inform you of the advisability, legal requirements and factory recommendations with regard to technical modifications on the car. For this purpose, the center requires the Vehicle Identification Number and, in some cases, also the engine number.
Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
Light-emitting diodes installed behind translucent lenses serve as the light source for many of the controls and displays in your vehicle. The concept behind their operation is related to that employed for lasers, and they are officially designated as Class 1 light-emitting diodes.
Do not remove the protective lens and avoid staring directly at the unfiltered beam for extended periods
(several hours), as inflammation of the iris could result.
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OBD connector
The Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) connector is located on the left of the driver's side at the bottom of the instrument panel and under a cover (arrow).
The cover has the letters "OBD" on it.
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.
An illuminated Service Engine lamp informs you of the need for service, not of the need to stop the vehicle. However, the systems should be checked by your
BMW center at the earliest possible opportunity.
Under certain conditions, the indicator will blink or flash. This indicates a rather severe level of engine misfire. When this occurs, you should reduce speed and consult the nearest BMW center as soon as possible. Severe engine misfire over only a short period of time can seriously damage emission control components, especially the catalytic converter.
When the filler cap is not properly tightened, the OBD system can detect the vapor leak and the indicator will light up. If the filler cap is subsequently tightened, the indicator should extinguish within a few days.
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Replacement procedures:
Wiper blades
Fuses
In case of electrical malfunction:
Assistance, giving and receiving:
Towing the vehicle
165 n
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technical data
Index
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166 n
Onboard tool kit Wiper blades
Attached to the underside of the luggage compartment lid/tailgate.
Unscrew the wingnut for access.
Front
1 Pull the wiper arm up slightly and hold it firmly.
2 Press back the release (arrow) and pull the wiper blade back toward the base of the wiper arm.
3 Install the new blade and slide the release back into position.
Rear
*
1 Hold the wiper blade on the window and remove/unclip the wiper arm at the articulated joint (arrow).
2 Insert a new wiper blade and press it on/clip it into the wiper arm.
Use only wiper blades approved by BMW.
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Lamps and bulbs
167 n
The lamps and bulbs make essential contributions to the safety of your vehicle. For this reason, follow the instructions below carefully when replacing a bulb. If you are not familiar with any of the procedures, consult your authorized
BMW center.
Do not touch the glass portion of a new bulb with your bare hands since even small amounts of impurities burn into the surface and reduce the service life of the bulb. Use a clean cloth, paper napkin, or a similar material, or hold the bulb by its metallic base.
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A replacement bulb set is available from your BMW center.
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.
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1 Low beams
H7 bulb, 55 watts
2 High beams
HB3 bulb, 60 watts
Low beams:
1 Turn the bulb holder to the left (arrow) and remove.
2 Remove and replace the bulb.
High beams:
1 Turn the bulb holder to the left and remove.
2 Disconnect the plug.
3 Connect the new bulb holder with bulb to the plug. Be sure that it is securely engaged.
4 Install in the opposite order of work.
The illustration shows the right-hand engine compartment.
For checking and adjusting headlamp aim, please contact your
BMW center.
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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.
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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.
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Lamps and bulbs
Xenon lamps
*
The operating life of these lamp units is extremely long and the likelihood of failure very low, provided that they are not switched on and off a very great number of times. If one of these bulbs should nevertheless fail, it is possible to continue driving with great caution using the fog lamps, provided traffic laws in your area do not prohibit this.
Because of the extremely high voltages involved, any work on the lighting system should be carried out by technically-qualified personnel only.
Otherwise, there is a risk of fatal injury.
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Parking lamp
5 watt bulb
1 Turn the bulb holder to the left (arrow) and remove.
2 Remove and replace the bulb.
Turn signals/Parking lamps (side marker lamps), front
Dual-filament bulb, 28/8 watts
1 Press the tabs (arrow) together and extract the bulb holder.
2 Press gently on the bulb, turn it to the left and remove.
3 After replacing the bulb insert the holder (note lug positions) and snap it back into place.
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Lamps and bulbs
169 n
Side turn signals
5 watt bulb
1 Use finger pressure against the rear end of the lens (arrow) to press it forward for removal.
2 Press gently on the bulb and turn it to the left to remove it.
Front fog lamps
H7 bulb, 55 watts
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.
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Tail lamps – sedan
Tail lamp: 5 watt bulbs
Remaining bulbs: 21 watts
1 Turn signal
2 Tail lamp/Side marker lamp, reflector
3 Backup lamp
4 Brake lamp yellow red white red
1 Pull the cover panel next to the headlamp forward to remove.
2 Loosen both screws (arrows) and swivel out the lamp assembly.
3 Release the spring on the back of the lamp and turn the cover to the left.
4 Release the clamp, remove the contact base and replace the bulb.
In the event of a failure of both lamps of a rear lamp assembly, the brake lamp assumes the function of the tail lamps.
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170 n
Lamps and bulbs
1 Use the upper handle to fold down the side panel in the luggage compartment.
2 Turn the bulb holder's release knob to the left (arrow) and remove the holder.
3 Apply gentle pressure to the bulb while turning it to the left to remove.
Tail lamps – sport wagon
Tail lamp: 5 watt bulbs
Remaining bulbs: 21 watts
1 Turn signal
2 Rear lamps/Side marker lamps
3 Backup lamp
4 Brake lamps, reflector yellow red white red
In the event of a failure of both lamps of a rear lamp assembly, the brake lamp assumes the function of the tail lamps.
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Lamps in the rear apron panel:
1 Open the cover in the side panel.
2 Turn the quick-release fastener and remove the trim panel in front of the bulb holder.
3 Open the quick-release fastener
(arrow) and remove the bulb holder.
4 Apply gentle pressure to the bulb while turning it to the left to remove.
If a subwoofer * is installed behind the right-hand panel, unscrew the T-screw and swing the subwoofer to the side.
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Lamps and bulbs
171 n
Lamps in the luggage compartment lid/ tailgate:
1 Open the trim panel in the luggage compartment lid/tailgate.
2 Open the quick-release fastener
(arrow) and remove the lamp holder.
3 Apply gentle pressure to the bulb while turning it to the left to remove.
Center (high-mount) brake lamp
21 watt bulb
1 Open the luggage compartment lid/ tailgate.
2 Unclip the cover panel (on the underside of the package tray) with a screwdriver (arrow).
3 Turn the bulb holder to the left and remove.
4 Apply gentle pressure to the bulb while turning it to the left to remove.
sport wagon: LED strip in the tailgate.
Please contact a BMW center in case of a malfunction.
License plate lamps
5 watt bulb
1 Insert a screwdriver into the slot and press to the right (arrow); this disengages the lamp.
2 Remove the lamp and replace the bulb.
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Lamps and bulbs
Interior lamps
Front
Interior lamp (10 watt bulb) with reading lamps (10 watt bulbs)
1 Interior lamp: Press the lamp out to the side with a screwdriver and remove the lens. Pull the bulb from the contacts.
2 Reading lamp: Gently press against the lamp while turning it to the left to remove.
Indirect lighting
1 watt bulb
1 Unclip the lamp holder.
2 Remove the bulb.
Rear – sedan
Interior lamp (10 watt bulb) with reading lamp (5 watt bulb)
1 Use a screwdriver on the upper recesses to pry out the lamp.
2 Interior lamp: Push back the tab on the reflector and replace the bulb.
3 Reading lamp: Gently press against the lamp while turning it to the left to remove.
Rear – sport wagon
Interior lamp: 5 watt bulbs
1 Use a screwdriver to pry out the lamp from above.
2 Remove the lens.
3 Replace the bulb.
Interior lamp (10 watt bulb) with reading lamp (6 watt bulb)
1 Using a screwdriver, press the lamp next to the button out to the side.
2 Remove the lens.
3 Replace the bulb.
Luggage compartment lamps
Lamp on the underside of the rear parcel tray: 10 watt halogen lamp
Lamp in luggage compartment:
10 watt bulb
1 Apply a screwdriver to the recess to pry the lamp out.
2 Remove the reflector.
3 Replace the bulb.
Footwell lamps
5 watt bulb
1 Use a screwdriver to press the lens out to the side.
2 Replace the bulb.
Glove compartment lamp
5 watt bulb
1 Apply a screwdriver to the recess to pry the lamp out.
2 Remove the reflector.
3 Replace the bulb.
Luggage compartment lamps
Headliner lamps: 10 watt bulbs
1 Use a screwdriver to push the lens to the side.
2 Replace the bulbs.
Lamps on the apron of the luggage compartment lid/tailgate:
10 watt bulb
1 Use a screwdriver to pry out the lamp at the upper edge.
2 Remove the reflector.
3 Replace the bulb.
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Changing tires
173 n
Safety measures in the event of a flat tire or wheel change:
Stop the vehicle as far as possible from passing traffic. Park on a firm, flat, surface. Switch on the hazard flashers.
Turn the steering wheel to the straightahead position, remove the key and engage the steering lock. Shift into 1st or reverse (selector lever in Park with automatic transmission) and engage the parking brake. All passengers should be outside the car 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 which is not slippery. Avoid jacking the car on a soft or slippery support surface (snow, ice, loose gravel, etc.), since it could slide sideways.
Position the jack on a firm support surface.
Do not place wooden blocks or similar objects under the jack. If this is done, the jack might not be able to reach its full support capacity because of the limited height.
Do not lie under the vehicle or start the engine when the vehicle is supported by the jack – risk of fatal injury.
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What you will need
In order to avoid rattling noises later, note the position of the tools when you remove them and return them to their original position when you are through using them.
> Car jack sedan: Fold back the luggage compartment floor mat for access, then unscrew the wingnut to release the jack (arrow).
sport wagon: Raise the floor panel and spare tire cover (refer to
).
When you have completed work, screw the jack all the way back down.
Fold the handle back and insert it in its holder
> Wedge (wheel chock)
Located next to the jack. Loosen the wing nut to remove it
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Changing tires
> Spare tire and adapter * for removing the lug bolt cover * (refer to the next column)
Both are next to the jack. Remove the adapter or the plastic cover. Unscrew the wing nut (arrow) by hand and remove the wheel
> Lug wrench and screwdriver
In the vehicle tool kit under the luggage compartment lid (refer to
).
sport wagon: The lug wrench is next to the spare tire.
Procedure
1 Read carefully and comply with the safety precautions on the previous page.
2 Secure the vehicle against rolling:
Place the wedge against the rear surface of the front tire on the side opposite the side being raised. If the vehicle is parked on a downward slope, place the wedge securely in front of the tire. If the wheel must be changed on a surface with a more severe slope, take additional precautions to secure the vehicle from rolling.
3 Wheels with full wheel covers * :
Reach into the ventilation openings and pull the cover off.
4 Wheels with adapter * : Position the lug bolt adapter on the lug bolt cover. Then apply the lug wrench and turn it to the left (refer to the illustration).
5 Wheels with hub cover * : Pry the hub cover off with the screwdriver in the slot.
6 Loosen the lug bolts 1/2-turn.
7 Position the jack at the jacking point closest to the flat tire so that the jack base is vertically below the jacking point and the entire surface of the head of the jack will move into the square recess of the jacking point (refer to the illustration detail) when the jack is cranked.
8 Jack the car up until the wheel you are changing is raised from the ground.
9 Unscrew the lug bolts and remove the wheel.
10 Remove accumulations of mud or dirt from the mounting surfaces of
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Changing tires
175 n the wheel and hub. Clean the lug bolts.
11 Position the spare wheel. Secure the wheel by turning at least two lug bolts into opposite bolt holes.
12 Screw in the remaining lug bolts.
Tighten all the bolts securely.
13 Lower the jack and remove it from beneath the car.
14 Tighten the lug bolts in a diagonal pattern.
15 Wheels 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.
by the factory. Other wheel covers may not fit securely.
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16 Wheels with hub covers:
Position the hub cover and press it on tightly.
17 If equipped with lug bolt covers:
Align the arrow on the cover with the line in the wheel and press the cover into place.
18 Check and correct the air pressure at the earliest opportunity.
For vehicles with Tire Pressure Control (RDC) * :
After mounting the spare tire or correcting the inflation pressure, reacti-
vate the system. Refer to page 92 .
The vehicle jack is designed for changing tires 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 lug bolts checked with a calibrated torque wrench [torque specification
72 lb-ft (100 Nm)] at the earliest opportunity.
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When storing the wheel, take care to ensure that you do not damage the retaining pin in the spare tire recess.
If light-alloy wheels other than original
BMW light-alloy wheels have been mounted, it may be necessary to use different lug bolts for those wheels.
Replace the defective tire as soon as possible and have the new wheel/tire balanced.
For this light-weight wheel, use only the full wheel cover installed
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Changing tires Battery
Size 255/40 R17 94 W * tires on the rear axle:
In the event of a puncture or other tire failure, it may be necessary to mount the spare tire of different size at the rear. This tire is of full capacity in all load and speed ranges. Nevertheless, mount a tire of the correct size as soon as possible.
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Installation location
The battery is located behind the righthand side trim panel in the luggage compartment.
Fold the trim panel down with the handle at the top. On the sport wagon, press the button.
If a subwoofer * is installed on the sport wagon, loosen the T-screw and swing the subwoofer to the side.
Keep the upper surface of the battery dry and clean.
Symbols
You will find the following symbols on your car battery. To avoid injury, please comply with the corresponding precautions whenever you work with or near the battery.
Please read the following information before working with the battery.
Wear eye protection. Do not allow particles containing battery acid or lead to come into contact with your eyes, your skin, or your clothing.
Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Wear eye protection and protective gloves. Do not tip the battery. Battery acid can leak from the ventilation openings.
Be sure that children keep well away from batteries and battery acid.
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 during the disconnection or connection of the battery. Never short-circuit the battery terminals. There is a danger of injury from powerful sparks.
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Battery
177 n
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.
Following that, consult a physician immediately. If you get acid spray on your skin or clothing, rinse with plenty of water. If electrolyte is accidentally swallowed, consult a physician immediately.
In order to protect the battery case from ultraviolet radiation, do not place it in direct sunlight.
A discharged battery can freeze. Store the battery in areas where temperature remains above freezing.
Maintenance
The battery is absolutely maintenancefree, that is, the original electrolyte will normally last for the service life of the battery under moderate climatic conditions.
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
> Yellow: Replace the battery.
The projected service life of the battery can only be reached if the battery is fully-charged at all times.
Check the charge condition of the battery frequently if the vehicle is used primarily for driving short distances.
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Charging the battery
If the battery is charged in the vehicle:
Do not charge the battery with the engine running.
Before performing any work on the electrical system, disconnect the cable from the negative terminal. If you do not, short circuits can create the risk of fire or personal injury.
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If you plan to store the vehicle for more than four weeks, disconnect the battery from the vehicle electrical system by disconnecting the cable at the negative terminal and then recharge using a suitable charging device.
If you intend to store your car for longer than 12 weeks: Remove the battery, charge it and store it in a cool (but frost- and dust-free) room. Everv three months and before reinstalling the battery, have it recharged. If it is not recharged, it will not be serviceable.
Every time the battery is discharged, especially over extended periods, its service life is reduced.
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178 n
Battery Fuses
When removing the battery, first disconnect the negative terminal, then the positive terminal. Remove the protective bar (1) and unscrew the threaded connection of the battery bracket (2).
When installing the battery, connect the positive terminal first, then connect the negative terminal.
Removal and installation
Do not disconnect the battery when 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.
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When installing a battery, be sure that it is mounted properly. Install and secure the protective bar. If the battery is not mounted and fastened properly, it will not be adequately secured in case of an accident.
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Return used batteries to a recycling point or your authorized
BMW center. Maintain the battery in an upright position for transport and storage. Secure the battery against tilting in transit.
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When an electrical accessory fails to operate, switch it off and inspect the fuse.
In glove compartment
1 Open the glove compartment and turn the two white quick-release knobs to the left. Spare fuses and plastic tweezers are located on the fuse holder.
2 Use the plastic tweezers to remove the fuse for the accessory or equipment that has stopped working.
3 If the fuse is burned through (the metal strip will have melted and separated), replace it with a new fuse of the same ampere rating (color code).
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Fuses
179 n
The fuses, their respective ampere ratings and the equipment in their circuits are all indicated below the fuse holder.
Close the fuse holder by holding the top of the cover in place and screwing the two quick-release knobs to the right.
Additional fuses are provided in the luggage compartment (refer to next columns).
The fuse for continuous positive current is located in a separate fuse box above the battery. If this fuse is defective, refer the problem to your BMW center for repair.
Do not attempt to repair a burned fuse or replace it with a fuse having a different color or ampere rating. To do this could cause a fire in the vehicle resulting from a circuit overload.
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If the fuse fails repeatedly, refer the problem to your BMW center for repair.
In the luggage compartment
Use the handle to pull down the trim on the right wall.
A list of the fuses, their respective ampere ratings and the equipment in their circuits is provided on the rear of the side trim.
In the luggage compartment – sport wagon
Open the right access door by pressing the button and pull the trim panel to the side.
A list of the fuses, their respective ampere ratings and the equipment in their circuits is provided on the rear of the side trim panel.
If a subwoofer * is installed, loosen the
T-screw and swing the subwoofer to the side.
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180 n
Fuel filler door Sliding/Tilt sunroof
Manual release – sedan
1 Use the handle to lower the trim panel on the right side of the luggage compartment.
2 Pull the knob with the fuel pump symbol (arrow).
Manual release – sport wagon
1 Release the right-hand panel in the luggage compartment with the button and fold the panel down.
2 Pull the knob with the fuel pump symbol (arrow).
If a subwoofer * is installed, loosen the
T-screw and swing the subwoofer to the side.
Manual operation
1 Remove the interior lamp (refer to
page 171 ), reach into the opening
and push out the panel.
2 Use the Allen key from the vehicle tool kit to turn the sliding/tilt sunroof in the desired direction (refer to
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Tailgate
Manual release – sport wagon
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can release the tailgate manually:
1 From inside the luggage compartment, open the two side covers
(arrow). Remove the covers.
2 Release the two quick-release fasteners of the cover for the onboard tool kit in the tailgate. Raise the cover.
3 Remove the plastic plugs (arrow) and pull toward the interior. The tailgate will be released.
4 Open the tailgate. Press the plugs back into place and close the cover with the quick-release fasteners.
5 Position the two side covers and close them.
181 n
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182 n
Jump-starting
Never use spray starter fluids.
If the battery is discharged, the engine can be started with the use of two jumper cables and the battery of another vehicle. Always use jumper cables with fully insulated handles on the terminal clamps.
Do not touch high-voltage wiring and cables on a running engine.
There is a risk of fatal injury if you do this.
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Carefully comply with the following instructions to avoid personal injury and damage to one or both vehicles:
1 Ensure that the battery on the support vehicle is also rated at 12 volts, and that the capacities of the two batteries (Ah) are roughly comparable
(printed on casing).
2 Leave your battery connected to the car 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 cover of the auxiliary terminal for jump starting is marked with a "+" sign (refer to the illustration). Remove the cover by pulling tab. The illustration shows the external start support point of the
BMW 528i. For the BMW 540i, refer to "Engine compartment" on
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 body of the vehicle which is to be started. There is a special nut on the strut dome of your BMW; refer to the arrow in the illustration.
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.
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Jump-starting Towing the vehicle
183 n
6 Start the engine of the support vehicle and let it run.
7 Start the engine on the vehicle needing the jump-start, and allow it to run as usual. If the first start attempt is not successful, wait a few minutes before another attempt in order to allow the discharged battery to recharge.
8 Before disconnecting the jumper cables from your BMW, turn on the headlamps, the rear window defroster and the highest blower speed and allow the engine to run at least
10 seconds to prevent a voltage surge at the voltage regulator.
9 Then disconnect the jumper cables in the opposite order.
Have the battery recharged if necessary.
Tow fitting
The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the onboard tool kit; be sure that it remains in the vehicle at all times. This fitting is designed for installation in the tow sockets located at the front and rear of the vehicle, and is intended for towing on proper road surfaces only.
It should not be used to pull a vehicle out of deep snow, mud, sand, etc. Always observe all applicable towing laws and regulations.
Rear:
Apply pressure to the arrow symbol on the cover panel to remove.
Screw the tow fitting in until it bottoms firmly. If this is not done, the threads could be damaged.
Never attach tie-down hooks, chains, straps, or tow hooks to tie rods, control arms, or any other part of the vehicle suspension, as severe damage to these components will occur, leading to possible accidents.
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Access to tow sockets
Front:
Apply pressure to the arrow symbol on the cover panel to remove.
Use only a nylon towing strap to tow the vehicle, since the inherent resilience of this material helps protect both vehicles from sudden jerking movements.
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184 n
Towing the vehicle
The towed vehicle should always be the lighter of the two vehicles.
If this is not the case, it is no longer possible to control vehicle response.
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Tow-starting
It is not possible to start the engine of vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission by towing or pushing.
For instructions on jump starting, refer
Never attempt to use your vehicle to push another car, since damage to the energy-absorbing bumpers could result.
Towing a vehicle with automatic transmission
1 Place the selector lever in position N
2 Towing speed:
Max. 45 mph (70 km/h)
3 Towing distance:
Max. 95 miles (150 km)
4 Leave the ignition key at position 1 to ensure that the brake lamps, turn signals, horn and windshield wipers remain operative, and to prevent the steering lock detent from engaging.
5 Switch on the hazard-warning system
(observe country-specific regulations).
Find some means of identifying the vehicle in tow, for instance, place a sign or warning triangle in the rear window.
Towing with a commercial tow truck
> Do not tow with sling-type equipment
> Use a wheel lift or flat bed carrier
> Please comply with applicable towing laws.
Never allow passengers to ride in a towed vehicle for any reason.
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Make sure that the ignition key remains in position 1 even when the electrical system has failed to prevent the steering lock from engaging.
The steering and brakes are without power assist when the engine is off.
This means that increased effort is required for steering and braking.
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186 n
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187 n
Adaptive Transmission Control
(ATC)
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC)
Interior rearview mirror with automatic dimmer
Rain sensor
Tire Pressure Control (RDC)
Integrated rear suspension 194
Level control system
Xenon lamps
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technical data
Index
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188 n
Airbags ATC
*
Deceleration sensors continuously monitor the physical forces acting upon the vehicle. If, as the result of a frontal collision, vehicle deceleration is reached at which the protection of the safety belts alone is no longer adequate, the gas generators of the driverside and passenger-side airbags are ignited simultaneously. However, the passenger-side airbag is only triggered if an additional sensor has recognized that the passenger seat is occupied.
In the event of a side collision, the head protection and side airbags in the front and rear * are triggered if necessary.
The airbags located under the marked covers inflate and unfold in a matter of a few milliseconds. In this process they tear through the rated breaking points of the upholstered covers or press them out.
Because the inflation process must be virtually instantaneous, it is necessarily accompanied by a certain amount of ignition and inflation noise. The gas which the system employs to inflate the airbag is not dangerous. Smoke appears as the gas dissipates.
The entire process is completed within fractions of a second.
ATC
On vehicles with automatic transmission, Adaptive Transmission Control
(ATC) uses a number of factors to calculate the gear which provides the maximum efficiency. In this process it monitors your personal driving style, the situation in which you are driving, the condition of the road and the traffic conditions.
ATC recognizes your personal driving style from the positions and movements of the accelerator pedal, deceleration when braking and lateral acceleration through curves. Four different shift characteristics – from comfort-oriented to performance-oriented – are available for selection by ATC.
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ATC
*
ASC+T/DSC
*
In order to take driving conditions into account, ATC registers corners and both uphill and downhill gradients. For example, if you maintain speed through a curve, the transmission does not upshift.
On uphill gradients, it shifts only when the engine speed increases in order to make more efficient use of power reserves. On downhill gradients ATC downshifts when the speed of the vehicles increases, causing the driver to step on the brakes.
Precision sensors monitor the number of revolutions of the wheels. When equipped with DSC, they also monitor steering angle, lateral acceleration, brake pressure and the movement of the vehicle around its vertical axis.
If differences in the wheel speeds occur, the system counteracts the danger of wheelspin by reducing torque. If necessary, the system also responds with additional applications of the brakes at the rear wheels.
If the system detects an instability in the vehicle's condition, the braking action can also be directed to help the front wheels by the DSC in order to help stabilize the vehicle.
You may need some time to become accustomed to this system intervention.
However, it guarantees optimum drive force and driving stability.
The braking intervention may be accompanied by a certain degree of noise.
189 n
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190 n
Radio reception BMW active seat
*
AM provides substantially longer reception ranges than FM. AM broadcast signals, propagated at ground level in the form of surface waves, are also reflected from the ionosphere as atmospheric waves.
Frequency-modulation (FM) provides substantially better sound quality than
AM. However, because FM transmissions rely on line-of-sight broadcast waves, their effective reception range is limited.
Although numerous factors combine to impose inherent limitations on the reception quality available from mobile radios, specially designed systems can be employed to minimize their effects:
The 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.
Because the ongoing antenna selection process is completed within milli-seconds, it remains inaudible to the radio listener.
BMW seats are configured for your orthopedic well-being. The active seat is an engineering enhancement of
BMW's seats, designed to ensure less fatigue during extended trips while sitting with little movement. The seat is no longer a passive element between the road, the running gear and the passenger. Instead, it creates minor and imperceptible shifts in your weight by an active change in the contour of the seat surface. The basic seat position is not changed as this occurs.
Fluid cushions are located below the surface of the seat in the seat's upholstery on the left and right. The fluid is circulated slowly back and forth between the two cushions by means of a pump. This causes a movement of the spinal column which is nearly unnotice-
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BMW active seat
* able, resulting in an improved flow of blood to the vertebral discs and the muscles in the area of the spinal column. Vehicle occupants can experience less muscle cramping, back pain in the spine's lumbar region and fatigue.
The active seat thus provides a significant contribution to your driving comfort and safety.
Safety belt tensioner
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.
191 n
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192 n
DSP sound system
*
Interior rearview mirror with automatic dimmer
*
The semisolid reacts chemically to this electrical current, thus providing infinitely-variable dimming of the mirror
(electrochromic technology).
As a result, it is no longer necessary to dim the mirror manually, and the driver can maintain full concentration on traffic.
The DSP professional premium sound system features a special amplifier combined with Digital Sound Processing (DSP) and integrated speakers to surround you with crisp, true-to-life sound reproduction.
The speaker system's subwoofers, woofers, midrange speakers and tweeters furnish you with an impressively fullbodied listening experience. The individual components are oriented so as to produce the aural sensation that you would experience facing the stage in a concert hall. The system also automatically adjusts the bass and treble settings to compensate for changes in volume and vehicle speed.
The interior rearview mirror with automatic dimming feature reduces glare from following traffic by adapting the intensity of the reflected images to correspond to levels of light registered by the unit's sensors. The mirror reverts to its undimmed setting as soon as the light source disappears. One of these sensors is mounted on the front of the mirror housing and is designed to monitor light levels in the area immediately forward of the vehicle. The second sensor is integrated within the mirror's glass.
The electronic control system operates by comparing the respective levels of luminous intensity in front of and behind the car. The difference provides the basic parameter used to modulate an electrical current and induce chemical changes in a semisolid layer incorporated in the lens.
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Rain sensor
*
Depending on the degree of wetness on the windshield, the rain sensor controls the operation of the windshield wipers.
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.
If the window is covered with beads of water, the amount of light that is reflected is decreased since the infrared light at the surface of the windshield can then escape. The quantity of reflected light is thus a means of gauging the degree of wetness on the windshield.
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 provides a contribution to driving safety and comfort.
193 n
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194 n
Tire Pressure Control (RDC)
*
Near every wheel, there are antennas in the body which receive the signals from all four wheels. A central electronics system evaluates the quadruple signals and forwards any changes.
The RDC provides an important contribution to driving safety.
Integrated rear suspension
The Tire Pressure Control system (RDC) assumes the task of regular tire pressure checks for you. The tire pressure is monitored at all four wheels, even when the vehicle is moving.
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.
The control arms on the patented integrated aluminum rear axle assembly are not mounted directly on the body. They are mounted elastically on a chassis sub-frame which is joined in turn with elasticity to the vehicle body. The resulting double elastic suspension system effectively absorbs the forces resulting from bumps and road surface irregularities.
The compliance rates of the integrated rear axle assembly's control arm mounts have been precisely calibrated to help provide supplementary adjustment in the tracking angle of the rear wheels
(programmed self-steer effect). The ultimate result is enhanced safety and control under all conditions.
The illustration shows the rear axle of the sedan. With the lightweight, compact rear axle of the sport wagon, the shock absorbers are positioned at an angle.
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Level control system
*
Xenon lamps
* 195 n
The level control system for the rear axle maintains constant ground clearance of your vehicle, even when carrying a load.
To achieve this, the vehicle is equipped with air struts at the rear axle instead of conventional shock absorbers and steel suspension springs. With the help of two sensors, an electronic control unit calculates the height of the body at all times and, if it is required, it allows air which is generated in a compressor to flow into the air springs.
As a result of the pressure increase in the air springs, the level control system ensures not only constant ride height, but also ride comfort which is independent of the load the vehicle is carrying.
The xenon lamps light up the side and front areas of the vehicle with significantly more brightness and uniformity then the traditional halogen lamps.
In a xenon lamp, an electric arc replaces the filament in order to generate intense illumination. A gas mixture in a quartz glass tube with metal vapor is ignited by a high electric voltage. The arc that is generated is then sustained by a lower voltage. When the lamp is turned on, a brief period is needed for the full beam strength to build up. Maximum brightness is attained in approx.
15 seconds.
Xenon lamps provide significantlyimproved visibility, especially during adverse weather conditions and driving situations (driving at night in heavy rain or through road repair areas where there are no lane markers, for instance).
Vehicles with xenon lamps are equipped with automatic headlamp range control. As a result, the highway is always optimally lighted, regardless of load conditions, and drivers in oncoming traffic are not blinded.
Xenon lamps make a significant contribution to highway safety since other highway users, or bicyclists and motorcyclists in the right lane, and pedestrians are more easily detected.
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196 n
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197 n
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technical data
Index
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198 n
Engine specifications
Displacement
Number of cylinders
Max. output at engine speed
Maximum torque at engine speed
Compression ratio
Stroke
Bore
Fuel-injection system cu in (cmm) hp rpm
Ib ft (Nm) rpm in (mm) in (mm)
BMW 528i/sport wagon
170.4 (2,793)
6
193
5,500
BMW 540i/sport wagon
268.4 (4,398)
8
282
5,400
206 (280)
3,500
10.2
3.31 (84.0)
3.31 (84.0)
324 (440)
3,600
10.0
3.26 (82.7)
3.62 (92.0)
Digital electronic Engine-Management System
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Dimensions – sedan
199 n
All dimensions are given in inches (mm).
Min. turning circle dia.: BMW 528i 37.1 ft (11.3 m), BMW 540i 37.4 ft (11.4 m)
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200 n
Dimensions – sport wagon
.
.
.
.
.
All dimensions are given in inches (mm).
Min. turning circle dia.: BMW 528i 37.1 ft (11.3 m), BMW 540i 37.4 ft (11.4 m)
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Weights – sedan
Approved front axle weight
Approved rear axle weight lbs. (kg) lbs. (kg)
BMW 528i
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included) with manual transmission lbs. (kg) 3,495 (1,585) with automatic transmission lbs. (kg) 3,549 (1,610)
Approved gross vehicle weight with manual transmission with automatic transmission lbs. (kg) lbs. (kg)
4,508 (2,045)
4,563 (2,070)
2,138 (970)
2,579 (1,170)
Approved roof load capacity lbs. (kg) 220 (100)
Permitted axle loads and permitted total vehicle weight may not be exceeded.
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft (l) 16.2 (460)
BMW 540i
3,748 (1,700)
3,803 (1,725)
4,762 (2,160)
4,817 (2,185)
2,381 (1,080)
2,635 (1,195)
220 (100)
16.2 (460)
201 n
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202 n
Weights – sport wagon
BMW 528i
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included) with manual transmission lbs. (kg) 3,726 (1,690) with automatic transmission lbs. (kg) 3,781 (1,715)
Approved gross vehicle weight with manual transmission with automatic transmission lbs. (kg) lbs. (kg)
4,817 (2,185)
4,872 (2,210)
Approved front axle weight
Approved rear axle weight lbs. (kg) lbs. (kg)
2,160 (980)
2,844 (1,290)
BMW 540i
–
4,056 (1,840)
–
5,093 (2,310)
2,381 (1,080)
2,910 (1,320)
Approved roof load capacity lbs. (kg) 220 (100)
Permitted axle loads and permitted total vehicle weight may not be exceeded.
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft (l)
220 (100)
14.5 – 53.9 (410 –1,525) 14.5 – 53.9 (410 –1,525)
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Capacities
203 n
Fuel tank
Reserve
Windshield washer system with headlamp washer system
Intensive cleaning system
Cooling system including heater circuit
Engine oil filter change
Manual transmission, automatic transmission and differential
– quarts (liters) 6.9 (6.5)
7.9 (7.5)
–
– BMW 528i
– BMW 540i
Notes gal. (liters) gal. (liters) approx. 18.5 approx. 2.1 approx. 2.6
(approx. 70)
(approx. 8)
(approx. 10)
– BMW 528i
– BMW 540i
Fuel specification: Refer to
For details: Refer to page 148
quarts (liters) quarts (liters) quarts (liters) approx. 3.7 approx. 6.3 approx. 1.1
quarts (liters) 11.1 (10.5)
12.7 (12.0)
(approx. 3.5)
(approx. 6.0)
(approx. 1.0)
– BMW 528i
– BMW 540i
For details: Refer to page 151
"High Performance Synthetic Oil" for gasoline engines.
Specifications: Refer to page 150
Lifetime fluid, no fluid change required
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204 n
Electrical system Drive belts
Battery
12 V, 90 Ah
Spark plugs
NGK BKR 6 EQUP
Bosch FGR 7 DQP
(not released at this time)
This spark ignition system meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations
(ICES-2).
BMW 528i:
Water pump – Alternator –
Power steering
V-belt 6 K x 1555
A/C compressor
V-belt 5 K x 906
BMW 540i:
Water pump – Alternator –
Power steering
V-belt 7 K x 1635
A/C compressor
V-belt 5 K x 1004
You can obtain Original BMW
Parts and Accessories, as well as professional advice from your authorized BMW center.
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205 n
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206 n
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207 n
Overview
Controls and features
Operation, care and maintenance
Owner service procedures
Advanced technology
Technical data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
A
ABS (Antilock Brake
System)
Accessories
Activated-charcoal filter
Active seat
,
Adaptive Transmission
Control (ATC)
,
Add engine oil
Add washer fluid
Adjust backrest
Adjust seats
Adjust steering wheel
Adjust temperature
Air conditioning control
Remove condensation from windshields
Air distribution
Air pressure
Air supply
Air vent
Airbags
,
Alarm system
Antenna, Diversity
Antennas
Antifreeze
Antifreeze, radiator
Antilock Brake System
(ABS)
Anti-theft protection
Approved gross vehicle weight
Aquaplaning
ASC+T/DSC
Ashtray
ATC (Adaptive Transmission
Control)
Attach vacuum cleaner
AUC (Automatic recirculatedair control)
Automatic car washes
Automatic climate control
Automatic cruise control
Automatic curb monitor
Automatic dimming, interior rearview mirror
Automatic rear window wiper
Automatic recirculated-air control (AUC)
Automatic Stability Control plus Traction/Dynamic
Stability Control (ASC+T)/
(DSC)
Automatic steering wheel adjustment
Automatic transmission
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic
Automatic transmission, oil capacities
Average fuel consumption
Average speed
Axle loads
B
Backup lamps
Bulb replacement
Battery
,
Capacity
Charging
Discharged
Removal and installation
Belts
Beverage holder
Blower
BMW active seat
BMW comfort seat
BMW sports seat
BMW Universal
Transmitter
Bore
Brake faults
Brake fluid
Brake lamps, bulb replacement
Brake pads
Breaking-in the brakes
Disc brakes
Parking brake
Brake-in procedure
Breaking in the vehicle
Break-resistant security glass, care
Bulb replacement
C
Car jack
Car keys
Car Memory
Car phones and telephones, refer to the seperate
Car radio reception
Car telephone
Car wash
Care, vehicle exterior
Care, vehicle interior
Cargo loading
Caring for the vehicle finish
Catalytic converter
Cellular phone
Center (high-mount) brake lamp, bulb replacement
Central locking system, button
Changing a tire
Charging the battery
Check air pressure
Check Control
Check engine oil level
Child restraint systems
Child's seat
Child-safety locks
Cigarette lighter
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Everything from A to Z
209 n
Cockpit
Cold start
Comfort seat
Compartments
Compression ratio
Computer, refer to Onboard computer
Consumption display
Convenience operating mode of windows and sliding/tilt sunroof
Coolant
Antifreeze
Capacity
Temperature gauge
Cover, sun blinds
Cruise control
Cruising range
Cup holder
Curb weight
D
Dashboard
Data link connector for
Onboard Diagnostics
Daytime-driving lamp
DBC (Dynamic Brake
Control)
Deep water
Defrost windshields
Digital sound processor
Dimensions
Dipstick, engine oil
Disc brakes
Disconnect the battery
Displacement
Display lighting
Displays
Distance warning
Diversity Antenna system
Divided rear-seat backrest
Door keys
Door locks, care
Doors
Emergency release
Manual operation
Unlocking and locking
Drive belts
Driving notes
Driving through water
DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control)
Dynamic Brake Control
(DBC)
Dynamic Stability Control
(DSC)
,
,
E
Electric power seat
Electric power windows
Electrical defect
Fuel filler door
Sliding/Tilt sunroof
Tailgate
Electrical heating exterior mirror
Electrical steering wheel adjustment
Elements of operation
Emergency operation
Doors
Fuel filler door
Luggage compartment lid/
Tailgate
Sliding/Tilt sunroof
Energy Control
Engine
Compartment
Coolant
Specifications
Engine oil
Capacity
Consumption
Grades
Level
Pressure
Error indicators
Exterior finish
Exterior mirror
Electrical heating
F
Failure of an electrical accessorry
Failure warnings
Filler cap cover
Filling capacities
First-aid kit
Fittings, tow-starting and towing
Flashlight
Flat tire
Footwell lamps
Forward/Back adjustment, seat
,
Front fog lamps
bulb replacement
Front seat adjustment
Frost protection, radiator
Fuel
Capacity
Consumption indicator
Gauge
Quality
Reserve
Fuel filler door release after electrical fault
Fuel tank, capacity
Fuses
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
G
Gasoline
Gasoline gauge
Glove compartment
Gross weight
H
Handbrake
Handsfree system
Hazard warning system
Hazard warning triangle
Head restraint
Headlamp cleaning
Headlamp covers, care
Headlamp flasher
Headlamp washer system
Heated seats
Heated steering wheel
Heating and ventilation
Heating while stopped
Heavy loads
Height
Height adjustment
Seats
Steering wheel
HiFi system
High beams
Bulb replacement
High Performance Synthetic
Oils
Hood release
Horn
,
Hydraulic Brake Assistant, refer to DBC
I
Ice warning
Identification number of the vehicle
Identification, tires
Ignition key
Ignition lock
Independent ventilation
Indicator
Indicator lamps
Inflation pressure
Monitoring
,
INSPECTION
Instrument cluster
Instrument lighting
Instrument panel
Instrument panel switch
Instruments
Integrated rear axle
Intensive automatic cleaning unit
Intensive cleaning system
Interaxle tire rotation
Interference indicators
Interference with car phones
Interior lamps
Remote control
Interior mirror
automatic dimming feature
Interior motion sensor
Deactivation
Interior rearview mirror with automatic dimming feature
Interlock
Intermittent wiper switch
J
Jack
Jump-starting
K
Key Memory
Keys
Kickdown
,
L
Lashing eye
Leather care
Length
Level control system
,
Light switch
Light-alloy wheels
,
Lighter
Lights-on warning
Load-securing devices
Locking and unlocking the doors
,
Low beams
Bulb replacement
Low beams, bulb replacement
Low-fuel warning lamp
Lug bolts
Lug wrench
Luggage compartment
Capacity
Lamps
Net
Luggage compartment lid/
Tailgate
Emergency actuation
Opening separately
Remote control
Luggage space
Luggage straps
Lumbar support
M
M Multifunction steering wheel (MFL)
M+S tires
Magic Eye
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
211 n
Manual operation
Doors
Fuel filler door
Luggage compartment lid/
Tailgate
Sliding/Tilt sunroof
Manual transmission
Manually controlled recirculated-air
Master key
Mechanical seat
Memory
MFL (M Multifunction steering wheel)
MFL (Multifunction steering wheel)
Microfilter
Mirror
Mirror heating
Mirror memory
Mobile communications systems, refer to the separate Owner's Manual
Mobile phones
Modifications, technical
,
Multifunction steering wheel
(MFL)
N
Navigation System, refer to the separate Owner's
Nonsmoker equipment
Nozzles
O
OBD connector
Odometer
Oil
Additives
Consumption
Grades
Information Booklet (US models) or Warranty and
Oil dipstick
Oil level, indicator lamp
Oil quantity, engine
OILSERVICE
Old batteries
Onboard computer
Average fuel consumption
Average speed
Cruising range
Outside temperature
Onboard tool kit
Open luggage compartment lid/tailgate from interior
Opening and closing
From the inside
From the outside
Operating range
Outside temperature
Outside temperature display
Pollen filter
Power output
Power steering
Power windows
Safety switch
Power-slip control
Refer to ASC+T/DSC
Pressure, tire
,
Monitoring
P
Paint blemishes
Paint, care
Paintwork, minor repairs
Paintwork, waxing
Park Distance Control
(PDC)
Parking brake
Parking help
Parking lamps
Bulb replacement
Parking, Winter
PDC (Park Distance
Control)
Playing cassettes
Playing CDs
Pocket light
R
Radio reception
Radios
Rain sensor
RDC (Tire Pressure
Control)
,
Reading lamps
Rear view mirror
Rear window blind
Rear window defrosting
Rear window wiper
Rear-seat backrest, removable
Recirculated-air control
Reclining seat
Refueling
Remote control
Removable rear-seat backrest
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Remove condensation from windshields
Replacement keys
Replacement of tires
Reporting safety defects
Reserve capacity
Cooling system
Engine oil
Fuel tank
Washer system
Residual heat
Restraint system
Reverse
Rims
Roof load
Roof-mounted luggage rack
Rubber parts
S
Safety belt tensioner
Safety belts
Safety lock buttons
Seat heating
Seat memory
Seat, electric power
Seat, forward/back adjustment
Seat, mechanical
Secure the load
Selector lever, automatic transmission
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet
(US models)
Service Interval
Display
Servotronic
Shift lever
Shoulder support
Shutting off the engine
Side airbags
Side impact Head Protection
System
Ski bag
Ski bag in the sport wagon
Skid control
Sliding
Sliding/Tilt sunroof
Closure after electrical fault
Convenience operation
Manual operation
Power supply interruption
Slippery roads
Snow chains
Socket
Sound system
Spare key
Spare tire
Spark plugs
Speaker
Special oils
Specifications for engine oil
Speed control
Speedometer
sport wagon
Compartments in the luggage compartment
Folding down the rear backrest
Lashing eyes
Load-securing devices
Luggage compartment
Luggage compartment lamps, bulb replacement
Opening the rear window
Rear window wiper
Rear window wiper, wiper blade replacement
Roll-up cover
Securing a load
Separation net
Ski bag
Tail lamp assembly, bulb replacement
Tailgate, manual release after electrical fault
Sports seat
Start the engine
Starting help
Steering
Steering wheel heating
Steering wheel lock
Steering wheel memory
Storage
Stroke
Summer tires
Sun visors
Symbols
T
Tachometer
Tail lamps
Tail lamps, bulb replacement
Tailgate
Convenience opening mode
Manual release after electrical fault
Taillamps
Technical Data
Technical modifications
Telephone hookup
Temperature display, engine coolant
Temperature gauge, outside
Tensioning straps
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Everything from A to Z
Third brake lamp, bulb replacement
Through-loading system
Tilt alarm
Tire
Change
Code
Damage
Inflation pressure
,
Monitoring inflation pressure
Renewal
Rotation between axles
Tread
Valve caps
Tire Pressure Control
(RDC)
Tools
Torque
Tow fittings
Towing
Tow-starting
Track width
Transmission
Tread depth, tires
Trip odometer
Trunk, capacity
Turn signal
Bulb replacement
Turning circle
U
Universal Transmitter
Used oil
V
Valve caps
Vanity mirror
Vehicle battery
Vehicle care, exterior
Vehicle care, interior
Vehicle Identification
Number
Vehicle painting
Vehicle removal from service
Vehicle storage
Ventilation
Ventilation in the rear
Ventilation while parked
Ventilation, draft-free
Vinyl upholstery, care
Viscosity
W
Warning lamps
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet (Canadian models)
Washer fluid reservoir
Capacity
Filling
Washing your car
Water on the roads
Waxing, paintwork
Weights
Wheelbase
Wheels and tires
Width
Windows
Convenience operation
Windows, convenience operating mode
Windshield washer fluid reservoir, capacity
Windshield washer nozzle adjustment
Windshield washer reservoir, filling
Windshield wipers
Winter driving
Winter operation
Winter tires
Wiper blade replacement
Wiper/Washer system
Work in the engine compartment
X
Xenon lamps
,
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Owner service procedures
A
Add
Antifreeze
Brake fluid
Coolant
Engine coolant
Engine oil
Fluid, power steering
Washer fluids
Adjust washer nozzles
Avoid false alarms
D
Deactivating the interior motion sensor
Deactivating the tilt sensor alarm system
,
Defrost windshields
Difficult steering
Doors
Manual operation
B
Backup lamps, bulb replacement
Battery
Charge condition
Discharged
Removing and installing
Brake lamps, bulb replacement
Brakes, brake faults
Bulb replacement
E
Electrical defect
Fuel filler door
Sliding/Tilt sunroof
Emergency operation
Doors
Fuel filler door
Sliding/Tilt sunroof
Tailgate
Engine oil specifications
C
Car jack
Changing tires
Charging the battery
Check Control
Check engine oil level
Check tire pressures
Courtesy lamp, bulb replacement
F
Failure messages
Filling the washer reservoir
First-aid kit
Fittings, tow-starting and towing
Flat tire
Fog lamp, replace the bulb
Footwell lamps, bulb replacement
Fuel filler door release after electrical fault
Fuses
G
Glove compartment lamp, bulb replacement
L
Level control system, inactive
License plate lamp, bulb replacement
Low beams, bulb replacement
Lug wrench
Luggage compartment lamps, bulb replacement
Luggage compartment lid/
Tailgate, unlock in case of electrical fault
H
Hazard warning flashers
Hazard warning triangle
Headlamp covers, care
Help with jump starting
High beams, bulb replacement
Hood release
M
Maintenance
Malfunction displays
Manual operation
Doors
Fuel filler door
Sliding/Tilt sunroof
Tailgate
I
Indicator lamps
Bulb replacement
O
Oil specifications
Onboard tool kit
J
Jack
Jump starting
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
Owner service procedures
P
Parking lamp, bulb replacement
Power steering, adding fluid
Pressure, tires
,
R
Rear lamps
Releasing fuel filler door after electrical defect
Releasing the hood
Remove condensation from windshields
Replace wiper blades
Replacement key
Replacing fuses
S
Service Interval Display
Side lamps, bulb replacement
Sliding/Tilt sunroof
Closing after an after an electrical defect
Power supply interruption
Snow chains
Spare key
Spare tire
Special oil
sport wagon
Rear window wiper, wiper blade replacement
Releasing the fuel filler door after an electrical defect
Releasing the tailgate after an electrical defect
Tail lamp assembly, bulb replacement
Starting problems
,
Starting the engine
T
Tail lamps, bulb replacement
Tailgate
Release after an electrical defect
Third brake lamp, bulb replacement
Tire damage
Tire inflation pressure
Tools
Tow fittings
Towing
Tow-starting
Turn signals, bulb replacement
W
Warning lamps
Warning messages
Work in the engine compartment
215 n
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 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.
Fuel
Designation
AKI: Minimum
AKI: For rated performance
AKI: For enhanced performance
Engine oil
Quality
The space between the two marks on the dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter).
Tire inflation pressures
Summer
Front Rear
4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage
Front
Winter
Rear
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
The Ultimate Driving Machine
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 012 - © 07/99 BMW AG
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