BMW Automobile 01 41 0 155 307 User Manual

Contents  
From A to Z  
Owner's Manual for the Vehicle.  
With a quick reference guide  
for your convenience.  
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Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.  
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced control and  
security when you drive it. We therefore have this request:  
Please take the time to read this Owner's Manual and familiarize yourself with the  
information that we have compiled for you before starting off in your new vehicle.  
It contains important data and instructions intended to assist you in gaining  
maximum use and satisfaction from the unique range of technical features on your  
BMW. The manual also contains information on care and maintenance designed to  
enhance operating safety and contribute to maintaining the value of your BMW  
throughout an extended service life.  
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It  
should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important  
operating, safety and maintenance information.  
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet  
(US models) or a Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).  
We recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.  
Your BMW is covered by the following warranties:  
– New Vehicle Limited Warranty  
– Limited Warranty Rust Perforation  
– Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty  
– Federal Emissions Performance Warranty  
– California Emission Control System Limited Warranty  
Detailed information about these warranties is listed in the Service and Warranty  
Information Booklet (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide (Canadian  
models).  
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.  
BMW AG  
Preface  
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4n  
Symbols used  
The individual vehicle  
We have made every effort to ensure  
that you are able to find what you need  
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as  
Indicates instructions or precau-  
tions that must be followed pre-  
cisely in order to avoid the possibility of alized equipment and features. This  
On buying your BMW, you have de-  
cided in favor of a model with individu-  
possible. The fastest way to find certain personal injury and serious damage to  
Owner's Manual describes all models  
and equipment that BMW offers within  
the same group.  
topics is by using the detailed index at  
the end. If you wish to gain only an ini-  
tial overview of your vehicle, you will  
find this in the first chapter.  
the vehicle.<  
Contains information that will  
assist you in gaining the optimum  
We hope you will understand that  
equipment and features are included  
that you might not have chosen for your  
vehicle. Any differences can easily be  
identified, since all optional accessories  
and special equipment are marked with  
an asterisk *.  
The detailed list of contents that direct- benefit from your vehicle and enables  
ly follows the summary of contents is  
intended to stimulate your curiosity re-  
garding your BMW and to encourage  
you to read the manual.  
you to care more effectively for your  
vehicle.<  
Refers to measures that can  
be taken to help protect the  
environment.<  
Should you wish to sell your BMW at  
some time in the future, please remem-  
ber to hand over the Owner's Manual to  
the new owner; it is part of the vehicle.  
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.  
< Marks the end of a specific item of  
information.  
If you have any questions, an autho-  
rized BMW center will be glad to advise  
you.  
* Indicates special equipment, coun-  
try-specific equipment and optional  
extras.  
Identifies systems or components,  
which your BMW center can either  
activate or adapt to suit an individual  
driver's requirements ("Car Memory",  
"Key Memory"). Refer to page 52.<  
© 2000 BMW AG  
Munich, Germany  
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the  
written consent of BMW AG, Munich.  
Order no. 01 41 0 155 307  
US-English IX/00  
Printed in Germany  
Printed on environmentally friendly paper  
(bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling).  
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5n  
Status at time of printing  
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,  
ongoing development that is conceived  
to ensure that our vehicles continue to  
embody the highest quality and safety  
standards combined with advanced,  
state-of-the-art technology. For this  
reason, it is possible that the features  
described in this Owner's Manual could  
differ from those on your vehicle. Nor  
can errors and omissions be entirely  
ruled out. You are therefore asked to  
appreciate that no legal claims can be  
entertained on the basis of the data,  
illustrations or descriptions in this  
manual.  
Status at time of printing  
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6n  
Important safety information!  
Installation and operation of non-BMW  
approved accessories such as alarms,  
radios, amplifiers, radar detectors,  
wheels, suspension components, brake  
dust shields, telephones (including  
operation of any portable cellular phone  
from within the vehicle without using an  
externally mounted antenna) or trans-  
ceiver equipment (such as C.B., walkie-  
talkie, ham radio or similar) may cause  
extensive damage to the vehicle, com-  
promise its safety, interfere with the  
vehicle's electrical system or affect the  
validity of the BMW Limited Warranty.  
See your BMW center for additional  
information.  
For your own safety  
Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels  
containing up to and including  
For your own safety, use genuine parts  
and accessories approved by BMW.  
10% ethanol or other oxygenates with  
up to 2.8% oxygen by weight (that is,  
15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an  
equivalent amount of co-solvent) will  
not void the applicable warranties re-  
specting defects in materials or work-  
manship. Field experience has indi-  
cated significant differences in fuel  
quality (volatility, composition, addi-  
tives, etc.) among gasolines offered for  
sale in the United States and Canada.  
The use of poor quality fuels may result  
in driveability, starting and stalling  
problems especially under certain envi-  
ronmental conditions, such as high am-  
bient temperature and high altitude.  
Should you encounter driveability prob-  
lems which you suspect could be  
related to the fuel you are using, we  
recommend that you respond by  
switching to a recognized high-quality  
brand.  
When you purchase accessories tested  
and approved by BMW and Original  
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire  
the assurance that they have been thor-  
oughly tested by BMW to ensure opti-  
mum performance when installed on  
your vehicle.  
BMW warrants these parts to be free  
from defects in material and workman-  
ship.  
BMW will not accept any liability for  
damage resulting from installation of  
parts and accessories not approved by  
BMW.  
BMW cannot test every product made  
by other manufacturers to verify if it can  
be used on a BMW safely and without  
risk to either the vehicle, its operation,  
or its occupants.  
Do not use key or remote to lock doors  
or trunk with anyone inside the car. See  
Owner's Manual for more details.<  
Maintenance, replacement, or  
repair of the emission control  
devices and systems may be performed  
by any automotive repair establishment  
or individual using any certified auto-  
motive part.<  
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.  
Failure to comply with these recom-  
mendations may result in unscheduled  
maintenance.  
Follow the relevant safety rules when  
you are handling gasoline.<  
Symbol on vehicle parts  
Indicates that you should consult  
the relevant section of this Owner's  
Manual for information on a particular  
part or assembly.  
For your own safety  
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7n  
The following applies only to vehicles owned and operated in the US.  
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS  
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect that could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should  
immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying BMW of  
North America, Inc., P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone (201) 307-4000.  
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in  
a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in  
individual problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of North America, Inc.  
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in  
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You  
can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.  
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS  
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8n  
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9n  
Overview  
Controls and features  
Operation, care  
and maintenance  
Owner service procedures  
Advanced technology  
Technical data  
Index  
Contents  
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Contents  
Cockpit 16  
Instrument cluster 18  
Keys 32  
Electronic vehicle  
immobilizer 33  
Central locking system 34  
Opening and closing –  
from the outside 34  
Opening and closing –  
from the inside 38  
Driving:  
Steering/Ignition lock 61  
Starting the engine 61  
Switching off the engine 62  
Parking brake 63  
Manual transmission 64  
Automatic transmission with  
Steptronic 65  
Turn signal indicator/  
Headlamp flasher 68  
Washer/Wiper system 68  
Rear window defroster 70  
Indicator and warning lamps 20  
Multifunction steering wheel  
(MFL) 24  
Sports steering wheel 25  
Hazard warning flashers 26  
Warning triangle 26  
First-aid kit 26  
Refueling 27  
Fuel specifications 28  
Tire inflation pressure 28  
Cargo area 40  
Everything under control:  
Adjustments:  
Seats 46  
Mirrors 51  
Fuel gauge 74  
Coolant temperature gauge 74  
Service Interval Display 74  
Check Control 75  
Clock 75  
Car Memory, Key Memory 52  
Passenger safety systems:  
Safety belts 53  
Airbags 55  
Computer 76  
Transporting children safely 58  
Technology for safety and  
driving convenience:  
Park Distance Control (PDC) 78  
Automatic Stability Control plus  
Traction (ASC+T) 79  
Dynamic Stability Control  
(DSC) 80  
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 85  
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11n  
Lamps:  
Break-in procedures 114  
Driving notes 115  
Catalytic converter 115  
Antilock Brake System  
(ABS) 116  
Under the hood:  
Hood 130  
Engine compartment 132  
Washer fluids 134  
Washer nozzles 134  
Engine oil 135  
Side lamps/Low beams 87  
Instrument lighting 87  
High beams/Parking lamps 88  
Fog lamps 88  
Interior lamps 88  
Disc brakes 118  
Brake system 120  
Winter operation 121  
Power steering 123  
Cellular phone 123  
Coolant 137  
Controlling the climate  
for pleasant driving:  
Air conditioner 90  
Automatic climate control 96  
Seat heating 100  
Brake fluid 138  
Vehicle Identification  
Number 139  
Care and maintenance:  
The BMW Maintenance  
System 140  
Airbags 147  
Cabin convenience:  
HiFi system 101  
Glove compartment 101  
Storage compartments 102  
Cellular phone 103  
Ashtray, front 104  
Cigarette lighter 104  
Ashtray, rear 105  
Power outlet 105  
Wheels and tires:  
Tire replacement 125  
Tire rotation 126  
Wheel and tire  
combinations 127  
Winter tires 128  
Vehicle storage 147  
Laws and regulations:  
Technical modifications  
to the vehicle 148  
California Proposition  
65 Warning 148  
Snow chains 128  
Approved wheel and tire  
specifications 129  
Loading and transporting:  
Ski bag 106  
OBD interface socket 149  
Cargo area 107  
Cargo loading 110  
Roof-mounted luggage rack 111  
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Contents  
Replacement procedures:  
Airbags 172  
Adaptive Transmission Control  
(ATC) 173  
Automatic Stability Control plus  
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic  
Stability Control (DSC) 173  
Radio reception 174  
Dimensions 185  
Weights 186  
Capacities 187  
Electrical system 188  
Drive belts 188  
Onboard tool kit 152  
Windshield wiper blades 152  
Lamps and bulbs 153  
Changing a wheel 159  
Battery 162  
Fuses 164  
Microfilter/Activated-charcoal  
filter 165  
Four-wheel drive 175  
Safety belt tensioner 175  
Interior rearview mirror with  
automatic dimmer 176  
Rain sensor 177  
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 178  
Self-diagnostics 179  
Xenon lamps 180  
In case of electrical  
malfunction:  
Fuel filler door 166  
Sliding/Tilt sunroof 166  
Tailgate 166  
Assistance, giving and  
receiving:  
Jump-starting 167  
Towing the vehicle 168  
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13n  
Everything from A to Z 192  
Owner service procedures 198  
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14n  
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15n  
Cockpit 16  
Overview  
Instrument cluster 18  
Indicator and warning lamps 20  
Multifunction steering wheel  
(MFL) 24  
Controls and features  
Sports steering wheel 25  
Hazard warning flashers 26  
Warning triangle 26  
First-aid kit 26  
Refueling 27  
Fuel specifications 28  
Tire inflation pressure 28  
Operation, care  
and maintenance  
Owner service procedures  
Advanced technology  
Technical data  
Index  
Overview  
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16nCockpit  
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Cockpit  
17n  
1 Parking lamps/Low beams 87  
2 d Turn signal indicator 68  
> Parking lamps 88  
> High beams 88  
> Headlamp flasher 68  
> Computer* 76  
3 Washer/Wiper system 68  
4 Shift lever/Selector lever* 64  
For vehicles equipped with manual  
transmission:  
To engage reverse gear, press the  
lever to the left and overcome the  
slight resistance you will encounter  
5 Hazard warning flashers 26  
6 Central locking system 34  
7 Rear window defroster 70  
8 Horn sports steering wheel*: the  
entire surface  
9 Adjusting steering wheel 50  
10 Fog lamps* 88  
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18nInstrument cluster  
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Instrument cluster  
19n  
1 Fuel gauge with indicator lamp for  
fuel reserve 74  
9 Program display for automatic  
transmission 65, 67  
14 Indicator and warning lamps  
(clockwise) for:  
Indicator lamp for automatic  
transmission 21, 65, 67  
> Fog lamps 23  
> Add washer fluid 22  
> Coolant level 23  
> Electronic Throttle Control  
(EML)* 23  
> Service engine soon 23  
2 Turn signal indicator 23  
3 Speedometer  
10 Indicator lamp for Automatic  
Stability Control plus Traction  
(ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control  
(DSC) or DSC and  
4 Indicator lamp for:  
> Battery charge current 20  
> High beams 23  
> Engine oil pressure/Engine oil  
level 20, 22  
ADB/ADB-X 22  
You can display the outside  
temperature and distance driven  
11 Indicator for:  
> Odometer 73  
> Trip odometer 73  
> Clock 75  
5 Tachometer and Energy Control 73  
6 Engine coolant temperature gauge  
with "Coolant temperature too high"  
indicator 74  
> Service Interval 74  
7 Indicator and warning lamps  
(clockwise) for:  
Display for computer, operation  
via the turn signal lever, refer to  
page 76:  
> Parking brake/Brake hydraulic  
system/Cornering Brake Control  
(CBC)/(DBC) 20, 21  
> Antilock Brake System (ABS) 22  
> Brake pads 22  
> Tire Pressure Control  
(RDC) 20, 22  
> Airbags 21  
> Clock  
> Outside temperature  
> Average fuel consumption  
> Cruising range  
> Average speed  
12 Indicator for Check Control 75  
13 Trip odometer, reset to zero 73  
> Please fasten safety belts 21  
> Cruise control* 23  
8 Adjusting knob for the clock 75  
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20nIndicator and warning lamps  
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) ●  
In addition, an acoustic signal  
will go off: a tire failure has  
Technology that monitors itself  
Red: stop immediately  
Many of the systems of your BMW  
monitor themselves automatically, both  
during engine starts and while you are  
driving. Indicator and warning lamps  
Battery charge current ●  
The battery is no longer being  
charged. There is a malfunction  
of the alternator V-belt or in the  
occurred. Reduce vehicle speed imme-  
diately and stop the vehicle. Avoid hard  
brake applications. Do not oversteer.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 85.  
that are identified by "" are tested for charging circuit of the alternator. Please  
proper functioning whenever the igni-  
tion key is turned. They each light up  
once for different periods of time.  
contact the nearest BMW center.  
If the V-belt is defective, do not  
continue driving. The engine could  
be damaged due to overheating. If the  
V-belt is defective, increased steering  
effort is also required.<  
Brake warning lamp ●  
If the lamp comes on when the  
parking brake is not engaged,  
check the brake fluid level. Before  
driving further, be sure to read the  
notes on pages 122 and 138.  
If a fault should occur in one of these  
systems, the corresponding lamp does  
not go out after the engine is started or  
it will light up while the vehicle is  
moving. You will see how to react to  
this below.  
Engine oil pressure ●  
Stop the vehicle immediately  
Brake warning lamp for Cana-  
dian models.  
and switch off the engine. Check  
the engine oil level and refill as required.  
If the oil level is correct, please contact  
the nearest BMW center.  
Do not continue driving, otherwise,  
the engine could be damaged  
because of inadequate lubrication.<  
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Indicator and warning lamps  
21n  
Red and yellow: continue driving  
cautiously  
Red: an important reminder  
Orange: consult the nearest  
BMW center  
Brake warning lamp  
If the brake warning lamp comes  
on together with the yellow indi-  
cator lamps for ABS and ASC+T/ acoustic signal sounds when starting  
Comes on when the parking  
brake is applied – an additional  
Automatic transmission  
Because of a malfunction, the  
automatic transmission shifts  
DSC:  
off.  
only in the emergency program. Please  
consult the nearest BMW center.  
For additional information, refer to  
pages 65, 67.  
Then the entire ABS, CBC,  
ASC+T/DSC and ADB/ADB-X/  
DBC control system has failed.  
Continue driving cautiously and  
defensively. Avoid hard brake  
applications. Please have the system  
checked by your BMW center as soon  
as possible.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 63.  
Brake warning lamp for Cana-  
dian models.  
Please fasten safety belts ●  
A warning signal will sound at  
the same time. Lights up for a  
few seconds or until the safety belt is  
fastened.  
For additional information, refer to  
pages 79, 80.  
CBC, ABS, ASC+T/DSC and  
ADB/ADB-X/DBC indicator and  
warning lamps for Canadian  
models.  
For additional information on safety  
belts, refer to page 53.  
Airbags ●  
Please have the system  
inspected by your BMW center.  
For additional information, refer to  
pages 55, 172.  
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22nIndicator and warning lamps  
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) ●  
Check the tire pressure. Refer to  
pages 28 and 85.  
Automatic Stability Control plus  
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic  
Stability Control (DSC) and  
brake warning lamp ●  
Yellow: check as soon as possible  
Antilock Brake System (ABS) ●  
ABS has been deactivated in  
response to system malfunction.  
Conventional braking efficiency is avail-  
able without limitations. Please have  
the system inspected by your BMW  
center.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 117.  
Automatic Stability Control plus  
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic  
Stability Control (DSC) ●  
The indicator lamps remain on:  
The DSC and ADB/DBC are  
switched off by means of the button or  
are defective.  
Please consult the nearest BMW  
center.  
Indicator lamp flashes:  
The system is active and governs drive  
force and braking force.  
The indicator lamp remains on:  
ASC+T has been switched off via the  
button or it is defective, or the DSC has  
been switched off, the ADB is opera-  
tional.  
In the event of a fault, please consult  
the nearest BMW center.  
For additional information, refer  
page 79.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 79.  
ABS warning lamp for Canadian  
models.  
BMW 325xi:  
DSC and ADB-X are defective.  
ADB-X cannot be switched off.  
Please consult the nearest BMW  
center.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 83.  
Engine oil level  
Comes on while driving: the oil  
level is at the absolute  
minimum; refill as soon as possible. Do  
not drive more than approx. 30 miles  
(50 km) until you add oil.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 135.  
BMW 325xi:  
The DSC has been either turned off or  
is defective. ADB-X is in ready mode. If  
the warning lamp does not go out after  
pressing the DSC button repeatedly,  
then the both the DSC and ADB-X are  
defective.  
Please consult the nearest BMW  
center.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 80.  
DSC and ADB/ADB-X/DBC indi-  
cator and warning lamps for  
Canadian models.  
Engine oil level  
Comes on after the engine has  
been shut off: add oil at the  
earliest opportunity (when you stop to  
refuel).  
Add washer fluid  
The washer fluid level is too low.  
Top up at the earliest opportu-  
nity.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 135  
Brake pads ●  
For additional information, refer to  
page 134.  
Have the brake pads checked.  
For additional information, refer  
to page 120.  
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Indicator and warning lamps  
23n  
Service Engine Soon ●  
If the indicator lamp comes on  
either continuously or intermit-  
tently, this indicates a fault in the emis-  
sions-related electronic systems.  
Although the vehicle remains opera-  
tional, you should have the systems  
checked by your BMW center at the  
earliest possible opportunity.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 149.  
Green: for your information  
Blue: for your information  
Turn signal indicator  
Flashes when the turn signal is  
operated. Rapid flashing indi-  
cates a system malfunction.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 68.  
High beams  
Comes on when the high beams  
are on or the headlamp flasher  
is actuated.  
For additional information, refer to  
pages 68, 88.  
Cruise control  
Comes on when the cruise  
operation via the multifunction steering  
wheel.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 71.  
Service Engine Soon warning  
lamp for Canadian models.  
Engine electronics*  
Fog lamps  
There is a fault in the engine's  
electronic control system. The  
electronics allow for continued driving  
with reduced engine output or rpms.  
Please have the system inspected by  
your BMW center.  
Comes on whenever you switch  
on the fog lamps.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 88.  
Add coolant  
The coolant level is too low. Top  
off the coolant at the earliest  
opportunity.  
For additional information, refer to  
page 137.  
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24nMultifunction steering wheel (MFL)  
The controls integrated in the multifunc-  
tion steering wheel (MFL) are provided  
so that you can operate a number of  
accessories quickly and without being  
distracted from traffic conditions. You  
can operate:  
> Selected radio functions,  
> the cruise control,  
> selected cellular phone functions.  
In order to operate a system via  
the MFL, the corresponding  
system controls must be activated.<  
6 Horn: the entire surface  
1 Press briefly:  
Receive a call, start dialing, terminate  
a call  
Press longer:  
Voice recognition*: switch on and off  
7 Cruise control: resume stored setting  
Refer to the individual accessory  
manuals for more detailed descriptions.  
8 Cruise control: store and  
accelerate (+); decelerate  
and store (–)  
2 Radio/Cellular phone: select  
9 Cruise control: activate/interrupt/  
deactivate  
3 Radio/Cellular phone: scan backward  
or scan station keys or scroll through  
the phone listings  
4 Radio/Cellular phone: volume  
5 Radio/Cellular phone: scan forward  
or scan station keys or scroll through  
the phone listings  
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Sports steering wheel*  
25n  
The controls integrated in the sports  
steering wheel are provided so that you  
can operate a number of accessories  
quickly and without being distracted  
from traffic conditions.  
You can operate:  
> Selected radio functions,  
> the cruise control,  
> selected cellular phone functions.  
In order to operate a system via  
the sports steering wheel, the  
corresponding system controls must be  
activated.<  
6 Horn: the entire surface  
1 Radio/Cellular phone: select  
7 Cruise control: resume stored setting  
2 Press briefly:  
Receive a call, start dialing, terminate  
a call  
Press longer:  
8 Cruise control: store and  
accelerate (+); decelerate  
and store (–)  
Refer to the individual accessory  
manuals for more detailed descriptions.  
Voice recognition*: switch on and off  
9 Cruise control: activate/interrupt/  
deactivate  
3 Radio/Cellular phone: volume  
4 Radio/Cellular phone: scan backward  
or scan station keys or scroll through  
the phone listings  
5 Radio/Cellular phone: scan forward  
or scan station keys or scroll through  
the phone listings  
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26nHazard warning flashers  
Warning triangle*  
First-aid kit*  
The button flashes intermittently when  
the hazard flashers are on.  
The hazard warning triangle is stored  
on the left-hand side of the luggage  
compartment behind the cover panel.  
The first-aid kit is located under the front  
passenger's seat.  
To help you locate the switch in an  
emergency, the button is also illumi-  
nated whenever the vehicle's lamps  
are on.  
To open: pull the handle and fold the  
cover down.  
To open: press the button (arrow) and  
remove the cover.  
To close: fold the cover up.  
Comply with legal requirements  
for keeping a hazard warning  
triangle in the vehicle.<  
Some of the articles in the first-aid  
kit may be used within a limited  
The turn signal indicator function  
takes priority over the hazard  
time only. For this reason, check the  
expiration dates of each of the items  
regularly, and replace any with passed  
dates. You can acquire replacements  
in any drugstore or pharmacy.  
warning function. This means that with  
the ignition key in position 1, you can  
still use the turn signal indicator funtion,  
even if the hazard warning flashers are  
being used at the same time.<  
Comply with legal requirements for  
keeping a first-aid kit in the vehicle.<  
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Refueling  
27n  
Close the filler cap carefully after  
refueling until a "click" is heard.  
While closing, be sure not to squeeze  
the strap which is fastened to the cap.  
A loose or missing cap will activate the  
Service Engine Soon lamp.<  
Fuel filler door  
Simple and environmentally  
friendly  
Before filling the tank, shut off the  
engine. If you do not, fuel cannot  
flow into the tank and the Service  
Engine Soon lamp may come on.<  
Open the filler cap carefully to  
prevent fuel from spraying out.  
Fuel spray may cause injury.<  
Press on the rear edge of the fuel filler  
door to open and close it.  
Place the filler cap in the bracket  
attached to the fuel filler door.  
To unlock the fuel filler door if the  
central locking system malfunctions,  
refer to page 166.  
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle  
completely into the filler pipe. Pulling  
the nozzle out of the pipe during  
refueling  
When handling fuels, comply with > results in premature pump shutoff  
all of the applicable safety precau- > and will reduce the effect of the vapor  
tions and regulations pertaining to fuels.  
Never carry spare fuel containers in  
your vehicle. Whether empty or full,  
these containers can leak, cause an  
explosion, or lead to fire in the event  
of a collision.<  
recovery system on the pump.  
If the filler nozzle is operated correctly,  
the fuel tank will be full when it shuts off  
for the first time.  
Tank capacity: refer to page 187.  
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28nFuel specifications  
Tire inflation pressure  
The engine uses lead-free gasoline  
only.  
Check tire inflation pressures –  
including the space-saver spare  
wheel, or spare wheel – regularly, at  
least every two weeks and before  
beginning any extended driving. Incor-  
rect tire pressure can otherwise lead to  
tire damage and accidents.  
Required fuel:  
Premium Unleaded Gasoline,  
min. 91 AKI  
AKI = Anti Knock Index  
Inflate the spare tire to the highest tire  
inflation pressure specified for your  
vehicle.<  
Do not use leaded fuels. The use  
of leaded fuels will cause perma-  
nent damage to the system's oxygen  
sensor and the catalytic converter.<  
You will find the inflation pressures on  
the inside door pillar (visible with door  
open).  
Check tire pressures  
On the next page you will find all the tire  
pressure and ambient air temperature  
specifications stated in the units usually  
used in your country (psi; kilopascal).  
For vehicles with Tire Pressure Control  
(RDC):  
After correcting the tire inflation pres-  
sure, reactivate the system. Refer to  
page 85.  
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Tire inflation pressure  
29n  
Observe tire approval  
specifications  
BMW  
Tires  
All pressure specifications in  
the table are indicated in psi  
(kilopascal) for cold tires  
(cold = ambient temperature)  
The inflation pressures in the table  
apply to tires made by BMW-approved  
manufacturers. Your BMW center is  
familiar with these pressures. Higher  
pressures may be specified for tires  
made by other manufacturers. You will  
find a list of approved tires beginning  
on page 129.  
All summer tires and  
the all season tire  
205/55 R 16 91 H M+S  
32 (220) 38 (260) 38 (260) 45 (310)  
325  
325xi  
All winter tires and  
the all season tire  
35 (240) 41 (280) 41 (280) 48 (330)  
61 (420)  
Your vehicle is equipped with tires that  
meet US and European standards. We  
recommend the exclusive use of  
BMW-approved tires.  
205/50 R 17 93 V M+S  
Space-saver tire in the luggage  
compartment  
For all season tires use the same inflation pressure as for summer tires.  
For extra load tires 205/50 R 17 93 W use the same tire inflation pressure as for  
winter tires.  
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30n  
Opening and closing:  
Keys 32  
Electronic vehicle  
immobilizer 33  
Central locking system 34  
Opening and closing –  
from the outside 34  
Tailgate 39  
Alarm system 41  
Adjustments:  
Seats 46  
Seat and mirror memory 49  
Steering wheel 50  
Mirrors 51  
Car Memory, Key Memory 52  
Passenger safety systems:  
Safety belts 53  
Airbags 55  
Transporting children safely 58  
Controls  
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31n  
Driving:  
Lamps:  
Overview  
Steering/Ignition lock 61  
Starting the engine 61  
Switching off the engine 62  
Parking brake 63  
Side lamps/Low beams 87  
Instrument lighting 87  
High beams/Parking lamps 88  
Fog lamps 88  
Controls and features  
Manual transmission 64  
Automatic transmission  
with Steptronic 65  
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp  
flasher 68  
Washer/Wiper system 68  
Rear window defroster 70  
Cruise control 71  
Interior lamps 88  
Controlling the climate  
for pleasant driving:  
Air conditioner 90  
Automatic climate control 96  
Seat heating 100  
Operation, care  
and maintenance  
Cabin convenience:  
HiFi system 101  
Glove compartment 101  
Storage compartments 102  
Cellular phone 103  
Ashtray, front 104  
Cigarette lighter 104  
Ashtray, rear 105  
Power outlet 105  
Everything under control:  
Odometer 73  
Tachometer 73  
Energy Control 73  
Fuel gauge 74  
Coolant temperature gauge 74  
Service Interval Display 74  
Check Control 75  
Clock 75  
Owner service procedures  
Advanced technology  
Technical data  
Loading and transporting:  
Ski bag 106  
Cargo area 107  
Cargo loading 110  
Roof-mounted luggage rack 111  
Computer 76  
Technology for safety and  
driving convenience:  
Park Distance Control (PDC) 78  
Automatic Stability Control plus  
Traction (ASC+T) 79  
Index  
Dynamic Stability Control  
(DSC) 80  
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 85  
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32nKeys  
3 Door and ignition key  
Replacement keys  
The lock for the glove compartment  
cannot be operated with this key,  
which is an advantage when using for  
valet parking, for instance  
Replacement keys are available exclu-  
sively through your authorized BMW  
center. Since the keys belong to a  
security system, your BMW center is  
obligated to ensure that a person  
requesting a key is authorized to do so  
(refer to "Electronic vehicle immobilizer"  
on page 35).  
If possible, take all of the master  
keys that belong to the vehicle  
with you when you pick up your  
replacement key.  
Whenever you receive a new replace-  
ment key, turn that key to position 2 in  
the ignition lock once (ignition switched  
on) and then back. This allows the elec-  
tronic vehicle immobilizer to "learn" the  
new key.<  
1 The master keys with remote control  
determine the functions for the Key  
Memory; refer to page 52  
There is an extended-life battery in  
every master key that is charged  
automatically in the steering lock as you  
drive.  
For this reason, if you have a master key  
that is otherwise not used, use that key  
at least once every year while driving for  
an extended period to charge the  
battery. Refer also to page 35.<  
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,  
such as in your wallet. This key is not  
intended for constant use  
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Electronic vehicle immobilizer  
33n  
How the electronics work  
At the heart of this system is an elec-  
tronic chip that is integrated into the  
key. The lock mechanism itself is actu-  
ally a dual-function device. While the  
engine is running, the circuitry in the  
ignition key and the vehicle's electronic  
system constantly exchange variable,  
vehicle-specific signals. The system will  
not release the ignition, fuel injection  
and starter unless it recognizes an  
"authorized" key.  
The key to security  
Force applied to the key can  
damage the integrated electronic  
circuitry. A damaged key can no longer  
be used to start the engine.<  
Your BMW is equipped with a passive  
anti-theft system. This electronic immo-  
bilization system reduces the likelihood  
of your vehicle being stolen by making  
it impossible to start the engine using  
any keys other than the ones furnished  
with the vehicle. Your BMW center can  
cancel the electronic system authoriza-  
tion for individual keys (in the event of  
loss, for instance). A deactivated key  
can no longer be used to start the  
engine.  
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34nCentral locking system  
Opening and closing – from the outside  
The concept  
Convenience operation  
The central locking system is ready for  
operation whenever the driver's door is  
closed. The system engages and  
releases the locks on the  
You can also operate the power  
windows and sliding/tilt sunroof via the  
door lock.  
> To open: if the door is closed, hold  
the key firmly in the "Unlock" posi-  
tion.  
> To close: if the door is closed, hold  
the key firmly in the "Lock" position.  
> doors  
> tailgate and rear window  
> fuel filler door.  
The central locking system can be  
operated  
Watch during the closing process  
to be sure that nobody is inadvert-  
ently injured. Releasing the key stops  
the operation.<  
> from outside via the door lock and  
using the remote control  
> from inside by pressing a button.  
Using the key  
One turn of the key in the driver's door  
lock unlocks the driver's door only.  
Turning the key a second time unlocks  
all of the remaining doors, the tailgate  
and the fuel filler door.  
Activating the central locking system  
from inside does not lock the fuel filler  
door (see page 38). When it is actuated  
from the outside, the anti-theft system  
is activated simultaneously. Both the  
door locks and release handles remain  
locked. The alarm system is also armed  
or disarmed.  
Manual operation  
(in the event of an electrical malfunction)  
Turn the key to the extreme left or right  
to unlock/lock the door.  
You can have a signal set as an  
acknowledgment message that  
the vehicle is closed correctly.<  
If locked from the inside, the central  
locking system unlocks automatically in  
the event of an accident. But the system  
only unlocks those doors that were not  
locked separately using the safety  
buttons, refer to page 38. In addition,  
the hazard warning flashers and interior  
lamps come on.  
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Opening and closing – from the outside  
35n  
Master keys that are used repeat-  
Using the remote control  
edly are always ready for opera-  
tion since the battery in the key is  
charged automatically in the steering  
lock as you drive.  
If it is no longer possible to unlock the  
vehicle via the remote control, the  
battery is discharged. Use this key while  
driving for an extended period in order  
to recharge the battery. Refer also to  
page 32.  
To prevent unauthorized use of the  
remote control, surrender only the door  
and ignition key or the spare key (refer  
to page 32) when leaving the vehicle for  
valet parking, for example.  
In the event of a system malfunction,  
please contact your BMW center. You  
can also obtain replacement keys  
there.<  
The remote control gives you an excep-  
tionally convenient method for  
unlocking and locking your vehicle.  
Furthermore, it provides two additional  
functions that only the remote control  
can execute:  
> Switching on the interior lamps, refer  
to page 38.  
With this function, you can also  
"search for" your car – when parked  
in an underground garage, for  
instance.  
> Opening the rear window, refer to  
page 39.  
Master keys  
Keys with remote control are master  
keys. Refer to page 32.  
The rear window will open slightly,  
regardless of whether it was previ-  
ously locked or unlocked.  
Children might be able to lock the  
doors from the inside. For this  
reason, always take the vehicle's keys  
with you so that the vehicle can be  
opened again from the outside at any  
time.<  
When you unlock the vehicle, the anti-  
theft system is deactivated, the alarm  
system is disarmed, and the interior  
lamps are turned on. When you lock the  
vehicle, the systems are activated and  
armed, and the lamps go off.  
You can have a signal set as an  
acknowledgment message that  
the vehicle is closed correctly.<  
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36nOpening and closing – from the outside  
To unlock the vehicle  
Locking and securing  
Turning on the interior lamps  
Press button 1.  
Press button 2.  
After locking the vehicle, press button 2  
again.  
Press the button once to unlock the  
driver's door only; press a second time  
to unlock all remaining doors as well as  
the rear window and fuel filler door.  
Switching off the tilt alarm sensor*  
and interior motion sensor*  
Press button 2 again immediately after  
locking.  
Convenience opening mode  
For additional information, refer to  
page 42.  
Press and hold button 1. The power  
windows and sliding/tilt sunroof are  
opened.  
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Opening and closing – from the outside  
37n  
Panic mode (trigger alarm)  
For US owners only  
By pressing button 3 for 2 to 5 seconds, The transmitter and receiver units  
the alarm can be sounded in the event comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal  
of danger, if the alarm system is armed. Communication Commission) regula-  
Pressing on button 1 will turn the alarm tions. Operation is governed by the  
off.  
following:  
The LED (light-emitting diode) will light  
up briefly whenever you press on the  
individual buttons.  
FCC ID: LX8EWS  
LX8FZVS  
LX8FZVE  
Compliance statement:  
System interference  
This device complies with part 15 of the  
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the  
following two conditions:  
External systems or devices may cause  
local interference in the functions of the  
remote control.  
Opening the rear window  
Press button 3.  
> This device may not cause harmful  
interference, and  
> this device must accept any interfer-  
ence received, including interference  
that may cause undesired operation.  
The rear window opens slightly. It can  
now be tilted up.  
If this should occur, you can unlock and  
lock the vehicle via the door lock with  
a master key.  
Before and after a trip, be sure  
that the rear window was not  
opened unintentionally.<  
Any unauthorized modifications or  
changes to these devices could  
void the user's authority to operate this  
equipment.<  
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38nOpening and closing – from the inside  
To unlock and open the doors  
> Either unlock the doors together with  
the button for the central locking  
system and then pull each of the  
release handles above the armrests,  
or  
> pull the release handle for each door  
twice: the first pull unlocks the door,  
and the second one opens it.  
To engage locks  
> Use the central locking button to lock  
all of the doors simultaneously, or  
> press the individual safety lock  
buttons down. The fuel filler door  
then remains unlocked. As an added  
design feature to prevent the driver  
from being inadvertently locked out  
of the vehicle, the driver's door safety  
lock button will not engage as long as  
the door is open.  
Use this button to operate the central  
locking system when the front doors  
are closed. The doors and tailgate are  
unlocked or locked only. The anti-theft  
alarm system is not activated.  
If only the driver's door was  
unlocked from the outside and  
you press on the button, then all the  
other doors, tailgate and rear window  
as well as the fuel filler door will unlock  
if the driver's door is open.  
Children might be able to lock the  
doors from the inside. For this  
reason, take the vehicle's keys with you  
so that the vehicle can be opened again  
from the outside at any time.<  
If the driver's door is closed it will be  
locked.<  
The central locking system can be  
locked automatically as soon as  
you begin to drive if you desire. You  
may also have this adjusted so that it is  
specific to keys.<  
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Tailgate  
39n  
Operate the vehicle only when  
the tailgate or rear window is  
completely closed so that no exhaust  
fumes penetrate the interior of the  
vehicle. If it should happen that the  
tailgate or rear window are left open  
anyway while driving:  
> Close all windows, including the  
sliding/tilt sunroof.  
> Increase the air supply for the air  
conditioner or automatic climate  
control to a high level. Refer to  
page 90 or 96.<  
Opening from outside  
Closing  
Press the button in the handle recess  
(arrow): the tailgate opens slightly.  
The handle recesses in the interior trim  
panel of the tailgate (arrows) make it  
easier to pull down.  
The luggage compartment lamp goes  
on when the tailgate is opened.  
Before and after a trip, be sure  
that the rear window was not  
opened unintentionally.<  
For opening manually in the event  
of an electrical malfunction, refer to  
page 166.  
Opening from the inside, refer to  
page 38.  
To avoid injuries, be sure that the  
travel path of the tailgate lid is  
clear when it is closed, as with all  
closing procedures.<  
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40nTailgate  
Cargo area  
Opening the rear window  
Luggage straps  
Small items can be loaded or unloaded Use the retaining straps on the cargo  
quickly if the rear window is opened  
separately.  
area floor to secure smaller items of  
luggage.  
Press the button (arrow): the rear  
window opens slightly. It can now be  
tilted up.  
Movement is reduced when objects are  
placed on the straps.  
To attach the luggage nets* or elastic  
straps in order to keep luggage  
Push the window down to close it.  
securely in place, you will find lashing  
If pointed or sharp-edged objects eyes on the inside corners of the  
could hit the rear window while  
driving, be sure to provide protection  
around all edges, otherwise, the  
heating conductors for the rear window  
could be damaged.<  
luggage compartment.  
Refer also to "Cargo loading" on  
page 110.  
For the roll-up cover and other features  
in the cargo area, refer to "Cargo area"  
beginning on page 107.  
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Alarm system*  
41n  
The concept  
The vehicle alarm system responds:  
To activate and deactivate the  
alarm system  
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked  
by using a key or the remote control,  
the alarm system is also armed or  
disarmed at the same time.  
The interior motion sensor and tilt alarm  
sensor are activated 30 seconds after  
the last locking operation.  
> When a door, the hood or the tailgate  
is opened.  
> To movement inside the vehicle  
(interior motion sensor).  
> To a change of the vehicle's tilt – if  
someone attempts to steal the wheels  
or tow the vehicle without authoriza-  
tion, for example.  
If the alarm system has been armed  
correctly, the hazard warning flashers  
flash once.  
> To interruption of battery voltage.  
The system responds to unauthorized  
vehicle entry and attempted theft by  
simultaneously activating the following:  
Indicator lamp displays  
The indicator lamp is located under the  
inside rearview mirror.  
You can have one signal set as  
acknowledgment when arming  
and disarming.<  
> Sounding an acoustical alarm for  
30 seconds.  
> The indicator lamp flashes  
continuously: the system is armed.  
> The indicator lamp flashes when it  
is armed: doors, the hood, tailgate  
or rear window have not been prop-  
erly closed. Even if you do not close  
the alerted area, the remaining areas  
are deadlocked, and the indicator  
lamp flashes continuously after  
10 seconds. However, the interior  
motion sensor is not activated.  
> The indicator lamp goes out when the  
system is disarmed: no manipulation  
or attempted intrusions have been  
detected in the period since the  
system was armed.  
> Activating the hazard warning flashers  
for approx. five minutes.  
> Flashing the high beams flash on and  
off in rhythm with the hazard warning  
flashers.  
You can also open the rear window  
when the system is armed by pressing  
button 3 of the remote control (refer to  
page 37). When it is closed, the rear  
window is once again secured.  
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42nAlarm system*  
> The indicator lamp flashes for  
10 seconds when the system is  
disarmed: an attempted entry has  
been detected in the period since the  
system was armed.  
Avoiding unintentional alarms  
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion  
sensor may be switched off at the same  
time. Doing this prevents a false alarm  
from being triggered (in garages with  
elevator ramps, for instance), or when  
the vehicle is transported by trailer or  
train:  
Following triggering of an alarm, the  
indicator lamp will flash continuously.  
Lock the vehicle (= arm the system)  
twice. Press button 2 on the remote  
control twice in succession or lock the  
vehicle twice with the key (refer to  
page 36).  
Interior motion sensor  
The transmitter and receiver of the inte-  
rior motion sensor are located in a trim  
panel in the vehicle's roof.  
The indicator lamp lights up briefly and  
then flashes continuously. The tilt alarm  
sensor and the interior motion sensor  
are deactivated as long as the system is  
armed.  
In order for the interior motion sensor  
to function properly, the windows and  
sliding/tilt sunroof must be completely  
closed.  
Reset the alarm system in order to  
reactivate both the tilt sensor alarm  
system and interior motion sensor.  
However, be sure to deactivate the  
interior motion sensor (refer to the  
previous column "Avoiding uninten-  
tional alarms"), when you wish to leave  
the windows or the tilt/sunroof open.  
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Electric power windows  
43n  
In the rear, there are separate switches  
under the windows.  
Safety feature  
A contact strip is located on the inside  
After the ignition has been switched off: upper frame of each of the windows. If  
pressure is exerted against this contact  
strip while a window is being raised, the  
system will respond by stopping the  
window and then retracting it some-  
what.  
You can still operate the power  
windows for up to 15 minutes, as long  
as neither of the front doors was  
opened during that time.  
Remove the key from the ignition  
and close the doors when you  
leave the vehicle, so that children  
cannot operate the power windows and  
possibly injure themselves.<  
Despite this safety feature, be  
extremely careful that the closing  
path of the window is not obstructed  
whenever it is being closed. Otherwise,  
an object might not touch the contact  
strip in some situations (with very thin  
objects, for instance).  
You can override this safety feature by  
pulling the switch beyond the resis-  
tance point and holding it.<  
Open and close the windows  
From ignition key position 1:  
For the convenience opening mode  
with the door lock or remote control,  
refer to page 34 or 35.  
> Press the switch up to but not past  
the resistance point:  
The window will continue to open as  
long as you hold the switch.  
> Press the switch past the resistance  
point:  
The window will move automatically.  
Pressing the switch again stops the  
opening cycle.  
You can close the windows in the same  
manner by pulling the switch.  
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44nElectric power windows  
Sliding/tilt sunroof*  
Exercise care when closing the  
sliding/tilt sunroof and keep it in  
your field of vision until it is completely  
closed. Failure to do so can result in  
injuries.  
Always remove the key from the ignition  
and lock the doors when you leave the  
vehicle so that, for instance, children  
cannot operate the sunroof and  
possibly injure themselves.<  
You can avoid a vacuum or drafts in the  
passenger compartment whenever the  
sunroof is open or raised if you keep the  
air vents in the dashboard open and  
increase the air supply as needed. Refer  
to pages 92 or 99.  
Safety switch  
Lifting – opening – closing  
With the safety switch, you can prevent  
the rear windows from being opened or  
closed via the switch in the rear  
passenger area* (by children, for  
instance).  
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.  
If the sunroof is completely open, air  
disturbances may be caused in the  
vehicle when you are driving at higher  
speeds. Close the roof as far as is  
necessary until this natural phenom-  
enon ceases.  
Press the safety switch whenever  
children are riding in the rear of  
the vehicle. Careless use of the power  
windows can lead to injury.<  
Do not use force to closethe  
headliner when the sunroof is  
open, or you could damage the  
mechanism.<  
For the convenience opening mode  
with the door lock or the remote  
control, refer to page 34 or 35.  
After the ignition has been switched off,  
you can still operate the sunroof for up  
to 15 minutes, as long as neither of the  
front doors was opened during that  
time.  
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Sliding/tilt sunroof  
45n  
Automatic opening and closing  
Safety feature  
Power loss or malfunction  
> Press the switch past the resistance  
If the sliding/tilt sunroof encounters  
In the event of an electrical system  
point: the sunroof travels to either the resistance at a point roughly past the  
fully-closed or fully-opened position. middle of its travel when it is closing,  
malfunction, the sliding/tilt sunroof can  
be operated manually. Refer to  
> With the sunroof open, press the  
the closing cycle is interrupted and the page 166.  
switch briefly toward "Raise": the roof sunroof will open again slightly.  
will move into the end "Raise" posi-  
tion.  
Despite this safety feature, be  
extremely careful that the closing  
path of the sunroof is not obstructed  
whenever it is closed. Otherwise, trig-  
gering the closing-force limitation may  
not be ensured in some situations (with  
very thin objects, for instance).  
Pressing the switch again stops opera-  
tion immediately.  
You can disable this safety feature by  
pressing the switch beyond the pres-  
sure point and holding it.<  
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46nSeat adjustment  
Mechanical seat  
For maximum safety when adjusting  
the seat position, please observe the  
following:  
Correct sitting posture  
To reduce strain on the spinal column,  
sit all the way back in the seat and rest  
your back fully against the backrest.  
The ideal sitting posture is when your  
head forms a straight line with your  
spine.  
For long-distance driving, you may wish  
to increase the backrest angle slightly  
to reduce muscular tension. You should  
be able to grasp the steering wheel at  
its highest point with your arms slightly  
bent.  
Never try to adjust your seat while  
driving the vehicle. The seat could  
respond with an unexpected move-  
ment, and the ensuing loss of vehicle  
control could lead to an accident.  
Be sure that the safety belt remains  
firmly against your body at all times. In  
the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap  
belt could slide over the hips, leading to  
abdominal injury. In addition, the safety  
belt's restraint effectiveness is reduced  
if the belt is worn loosely.  
1 Backward/forward adjustment  
Pull the lever and slide the seat to the  
desired position.  
After a seat adjustment, adjust the  
height of the safety belt also. Refer to  
page 53.  
After releasing the lever, apply pres-  
sure to the cushion to ensure that the  
latch engages securely  
While driving, do not recline the back-  
rest too far (this applies to the  
passenger side especially), because  
otherwise there is the danger of sliding  
underneath the safety belt during an  
accident, thereby negating the safety  
belt's protection.<  
2 Cushion height  
Pull the lever and apply weight to  
or remove weight from the seat as  
required  
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Mechanical seat  
Head restraints  
47n  
Adjustments  
Removal  
3 Backrest angle  
Pull the lever and apply weight to or  
remove weight from the backrest to  
reach the desired position  
Height: adjust by pulling or applying  
pressure.  
> Pull the head restraint upward to the  
stop.  
> Press the button (arrow) and remove  
the head restraint.  
In order to move to the lowest  
positions, press button 1.<  
Installation  
To adjust the angle of the front head  
restraints:  
Adjust by tilting the head restraint.  
> Press the button (arrow) and insert  
the head restraint into the guides.  
> Adjust the head restraint.  
Head restraints reduce the risk of  
injury to the cervical vertebra  
during an accident.  
Adjust the head restraint so that its  
center is approximately at the height  
of the ear.<  
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48nBMW sports seat*  
Lumbar support*  
Power seat*  
With this seat, you can also adjust the  
tilt angle and the thigh support:  
You can adjust the backrest's contour  
for additional support in the curvature  
of your spine's lumbar region.  
1 Backward/forward adjustment  
2 Cushion height  
1 Tilt angle upward:  
Pull the lever as often as necessary to The upper hips and spinal column  
reach the desired angle  
3 Backrest angle  
The head restraint is adjusted manually.  
receive supplementary support to help  
you maintain a relaxed, upright posture.  
2 Tilt angle downward:  
Push the lever as often as necessary > Press front/rear of switch:  
to reach the desired angle  
Comply with the adjustment  
instructions on page 46. Failure to  
do so could result in diminished  
personal safety.<  
Increase/decrease curvature.  
> Press the upper/lower end of the  
switch:  
3 Thigh support area:  
Pull the lever and adjust the position  
of the cushion for thigh support as  
desired  
Increase the upper/lower curvature.  
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Power seat*  
Seat and mirror memory*  
49n  
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.  
The adjustment cycle is canceled  
immediately if you press a seat  
adjustment switch or one of the  
memory buttons.  
Security function:  
BMW sports seat  
1 Tilt angle  
You can store and recall three different  
driver's seat and outside mirror posi-  
tions.  
1 The driver's door is closed and the  
ignition key is either removed or in  
position 0 or 2.  
2 Maintain pressure on the desired  
memory button 1, 2 or 3 until the  
adjustment process is completed.  
2 Backward/forward adjustment  
3 Cushion height  
The adjustment setting for the lumbar  
support is not saved in memory.<  
4 Backrest angle  
Adjust the head restraints (refer to  
page 47) and thigh support (refer to  
page 48) manually.  
To store  
1 Turn the key to ignition key position  
1 or 2.  
2 Adjust your seat and outside mirrors  
to the desired position.  
3 Press the MEMORY button: the indi-  
cator lamp in the button lights up.  
4 Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as  
desired. Indicator lamp goes out.  
If you press the MEMORY button acci-  
dentally: press the button again; the  
indicator lamp goes out.  
Comply with the adjustment  
instructions on page 46. Failure to  
do so could result in diminished  
personal safety.<  
Do not select a memory position  
while the vehicle is moving. If you  
do so, there is a risk of accident from  
unexpected seat movement.<  
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50nSeat and mirror memory*  
Adjusting steering wheel  
Your BMW center can adjust your  
vehicle's systems in such a  
manner that your personalized settings  
are automatically set for the seat and  
outside mirror positions when you  
unlock the vehicle with your personal  
remote control.<  
When this setting is used, be sure  
that the footwell behind the  
driver's seat is clear before unlocking  
the vehicle. If you fail to do so, any  
persons or objects behind the seat  
could be injured or damaged by a rear-  
ward movement of the seat.<  
Passenger side exterior mirror  
tilt function  
(automatic curb monitor*)  
1 Push the locking lever downward.  
2 Adjust the steering wheel (fore/aft  
and up/down) to the desired position.  
3 Pull the lever back in to clamp the  
steering wheel in the new position.  
1 Move the mirror selector switch 1 to  
the "driver's mirror" position.  
2 When the selector lever is placed in  
"Reverse," the passenger-side mirror  
tilts downward. This allows the driver  
to see the area directly adjacent to  
the vehicle during parking (curbs,  
etc.).  
Do not adjust the steering wheel  
while the vehicle is moving. If you  
do so, there is a risk of accident from  
unexpected movement.<  
You can deactivate this automatic  
feature: set mirror-selector switch to  
the "passenger mirror" position.  
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Mirrors  
51n  
You can also adjust the mirrors manu-  
ally by pressing against the outer edges  
of their lenses.  
The mirror on the passenger's  
side features a lens with a more  
convex surface than the mirror installed  
on the driver's side. When estimating  
the distance between yourself and  
other traffic, bear in mind that the  
objects reflected in the mirror are closer  
than they appear. Estimating the  
distance between you and the traffic  
behind you is therefore imprecise.<  
Exterior mirrors  
1 Switch for 4-way adjustment  
Interior rearview mirror  
To reduce glare from vehicles behind  
you when you are driving at night, tilt  
the mirror by turning the button.  
2 Button for switching from one mirror  
to the other  
Electric defrosting  
Both mirrors are automatically  
defrosted with the ignition key in  
position 2.  
Lighted vanity mirrors*  
Fold down the sun visor and slide the  
cover panel to the side as required.  
The mirror lamps operate in ignition key  
positions 1 and 2.  
Sun visors  
These can be folded down toward the  
windshield or swiveled out against the  
side windows.  
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52nMirrors  
Car Memory, Key Memory  
adjustments accordingly.  
So that you can distinguish among the  
different keys, colored decals are  
supplied along with the keys.  
What the system can do  
Your authorized BMW center can  
provide you with details on the capabili-  
ties of the Car Memory and Key  
Memory systems. A few examples  
follow below:  
Examples for Car Memory:  
Interior rearview mirror with  
automatic dimming feature*  
By responding to the effects of ambient that you could configure individual  
light and the glare from following traffic, functions of your vehicles to reflect your  
this mirror automatically dims through  
an infinitely-variable range.  
How the system functions  
You have probably frequently wished  
> Various signals used as acknowl-  
edgement when locking or unlocking  
your vehicle.  
> Deactivating/activating the Follow-  
Me-Home lamps function.  
> Activating/deactivating daytime  
running lamps*.  
own personal requirements. In engi-  
neering your vehicle, BMW has  
included several user-defined func-  
tions in the vehicle's design. Your BMW  
center can make these settings for you  
in accordance with your wishes.  
The mirror switches to its clear,  
undimmed mode whenever the trans-  
mission is placed in reverse gear  
(selector lever in "Reverse").  
Examples for Key Memory:  
> Automatically setting the driver's  
power seat.  
There are settings related to the vehicle  
("Car Memory") and settings related to  
individuals ("Key Memory"). You can  
have up to four different basic settings  
adjusted for four different persons. The  
only requirement is that each person  
uses his or her own remote control key.  
When your vehicle is unlocked with the  
remote control, the vehicle recognizes  
the individual user by means of a data  
exchange with the key, and makes  
For proper functioning of the mirror, be  
sure that the two photocells are unob-  
structed and clean. One of the photo-  
cells (arrow) is positioned in the mirror's  
glass, while the other is slightly offset  
on the opposite side of the mirror.  
> Locking your vehicle after starting off.  
When unlocking your vehicle, first  
unlock the driver's door, then the rest of  
the vehicle.  
You will see this symbol through-  
out the Owner's Manual. It is to  
remind you at appropriate places of the  
settings that are available to you.<  
For an explanation of the electro-  
chromic technology used in this mirror,  
refer to page 176.  
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Safety belts  
53n  
For your safety, please comply  
with the following instructions for  
wearing safety belts. If you do not, the  
safety belts may not be able to provide  
their maximum protection. The  
following information also applies to  
your passengers:  
Never allow more than one person to  
wear a single safety belt. Never allow  
infants or small children to ride in a  
passenger's lap.  
Avoid twisting the belt while routing it  
firmly across your hips and shoulder.  
Do not allow the belt to rest against  
hard or fragile objects in your pockets.  
Do not route the belt across your neck,  
or run it across sharp edges. Be sure  
that the belt does not become caught  
or jammed.  
Drive with your safety belt on  
Fasten your safety belt at the beginning You can adjust the safety belts to fit  
of every trip.  
Safety belt height adjustment  
your own physical dimensions by using  
the safety belt height adjustment.  
To fasten:  
Make sure you hear the catch engage in Slide the button downward or upward.  
the belt buckle.  
Be sure that the safety belt fits snugly  
against your body at all times. You  
should avoid wearing bulky clothing  
that prevents it from doing so. Pull the  
belt periodically to re-tension it across  
your shoulder. In the event of a frontal  
impact, a loose lap belt could slide over  
your hips, leading to abdominal injury.  
In addition, the safety belt's restraint  
effectiveness is reduced if the belt is  
worn loosely.  
To release:  
Press the red button in the buckle. Hold  
the belt and guide it back into its reel.  
The two rear safety belt buckles which  
are integrated in the rear seat are for  
passengers sitting on the left and right.  
The belt buckle with the word "CENTER"  
is intended exclusively for passengers  
sitting in the middle.  
For care instructions, refer to page 144.  
Expectant mothers should always wear  
their safety belts, taking care to posi-  
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54nSafety belts  
tion the lap belt against the lower hips,  
where it will not exert pressure against  
the abdominal area.<  
Child restraint systems*  
Never install a rear-facing child  
restraint system on the front  
passenger seat. If you do so, the child  
could be injured when the airbag is trig-  
gered.  
For child restraint system installation,  
refer to page 59.  
Children should always ride in the rear  
and the restraint systems should be  
secured with the outer belts.  
The center seat belt should only be  
used when it is necessary to secure  
three child restraint systems.  
Do not modify the child restraint system  
in any way. If you do so, it will not  
provide your child with maximum  
protection.<  
If the safety belt system has been  
subjected to the stresses involved  
in an accident or otherwise damaged,  
have the entire safety belt mechanism  
replaced by your BMW center,  
including the safety belt tensioner. In  
addition, have your BMW center  
inspect the safety belt anchors. If a  
child restraint system was in the vehicle  
during an accident, consult the manu-  
facturer's instructions regarding  
replacement.<  
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Airbags  
55n  
Operational status  
The indicator lamp in the instru-  
ment cluster displays the opera-  
tional status of the airbag  
system from ignition key position 1 and  
up.  
System operational:  
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly  
then goes out.  
System malfunction:  
> The indicator lamp fails to come on.  
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly  
before going out and then lighting up  
again.  
1 Front airbags for driver and passenger  
2 Side impact Head Protection System  
for driver and passenger (front)  
3 Side airbags for driver and passenger  
(front and rear*)  
The side airbags in the rear  
passenger area* of your vehicle  
may already have been deactivated  
either at the time of manufacture or by a  
BMW center. You may have them acti-  
vated if you desire to do so. Please  
contact your BMW center for additional  
information.<  
If there is a system malfunction, there  
is a risk that the airbags will not be  
triggered within their normal response  
range, even if the level of impact would  
normally have triggered them.  
Protective effect  
The front airbags supplement the three-  
point safety belts by providing addi-  
tional protection for the front-seat occu-  
pants, in the event of a severe frontal  
collision in which the protection  
afforded by the belts alone may no  
longer be sufficient. The Head Protec-  
tion System and side airbags help  
provide protection in the event of a colli-  
sion from the side. Each of the side  
airbags is designed to help support the  
occupant's upper body.  
Have your BMW center inspect and  
repair the system immediately.  
The illustration depicts schematically  
the primary directions of vehicle impact  
that initiate airbag deployment.  
The airbag indicator lamp also  
comes on if the safety belt  
tensioners have been triggered.<  
The airbags will not be triggered in  
the event of a minor accident, a  
vehicle roll-over, or collisions from the  
rear.c  
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56nAirbags  
To avoid sustaining hand and arm inju-  
ries, 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 belts). Never let an occupant's head  
area between the airbag and an occu-  
pant.  
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 Accident research shows that the  
or modify them in any other way.  
Do not install a rear-facing child  
restraint system in the front passenger  
seat of this car.  
Children under 13 years of age and  
children less than 5 feet (150 cm) tall  
should only ride in the rear seat.  
Infants or small children should never  
be held on the lap of a passenger.  
If your car is equipped with side airbags that children in the rear seat will remain  
in the rear passenger area*, be sure  
that child restraints are mounted  
correctly and provided with the grea-  
test-possible distance between the  
airbags in the side trim panels. Do not  
allow children to lean out of the child's  
seat in the direction of the side trim  
panels. If they do so, serious injuries  
can occur if the airbag is triggered.<  
At all times, occupants should sit  
upright and be properly restrained  
(infants and small children in appro-  
priate child restraint systems; larger  
children and adults using the safety  
Sitting correctly with airbags  
For your safety, comply with the  
following instructions for the  
airbags. If you do not, the airbags may  
not be able to provide their maximum  
protection. All passengers in the vehicle  
should be aware of and comply with  
this information:  
The airbags are supplemental restraint  
devices designed to provide extra  
protection; they are not a substitute for  
safety belts. Wear your safety belt at all  
times. The airbags will not be triggered  
in the event of a minor accident, a  
vehicle roll-over, or collisions from the  
rear. In these instances, the safety belt  
provides optimal protection.  
Airbags are located under cover panels  
in the steering wheel, in the dashboard,  
in the side trim panels in the front and  
rear*, in the roof panels, and in the  
sides of the inside roof lining.  
Adjust your seat to a position that  
provides maximum distance between  
you and the steering wheel, the instru-  
ment panel and the door while still allo-  
wing comfortable and safe access to all  
vehicle controls.  
rest near or on a side airbag, because  
as the inflating airbag could cause a  
serious or fatal injury. Please note that  
the word "Airbag" imprinted on the door  
trim panel indicates the airbag's loca-  
tion.  
safest place for children in an  
automobile is in the rear seat. However,  
a child sitting in the rear seat and not  
properly restrained may place his or her  
head on or near the airbag, if so  
equipped. For example, a child — even  
though belted — may fall asleep with his  
or her head against the side airbag. It  
may be difficult for a driver to ensure  
properly positioned at all times and not  
place their heads on or near the side  
airbag. Therefore, we recommend that  
the rear seat side airbags, if so  
equipped, be deactivated if children will  
travel in the rear seat.  
The rear seat side airbags may already  
have been deactivated, either at the  
time of manufacture or by a BMW  
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Airbags  
57n  
center. Labels in the rear door opening  
should indicate the status of your rear  
seat side airbags. If you are uncertain of  
their status, or wish to have the airbags  
activated or deactivated, please  
contact your BMW center.<  
Even when all these guidelines are  
observed, there is still a small residual  
risk of injuries to the face, hands and  
arms occurring from airbag deployment  
in isolated instances. The ignition and  
inflation noise may induce a mild  
temporary hearing loss in sensitive  
individuals.  
This is the right way for a child to sit in a This is the right way for a larger child  
child restraint when rear side airbags  
(arrow) are provided.  
to sit wearing the safety belt when rear  
side airbags (arrow) are provided.  
For additional information concerning  
the airbag system, refer to pages 147  
and 172.  
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58nTransporting children safely  
LATCH attachment of the child  
seat  
The illustration shows the right rear  
seat.  
Child-safety locks  
On a rear door, push the safety lever  
downward:  
The door can now be opened from the  
outside only.  
The mounts for the LATCH attachment  
of the child seat are located behind the  
plastic covers (arrows), and are covered  
again once the LATCH attachment of  
the child seat has been removed.  
To mount the LATCH attachment  
of the child seat, please follow the  
manufacturer's operating and safety  
precautions.<  
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Transporting children safely  
59n  
If the respective seating position is  
fitted with a headrest, lift the headrest  
and pass the tether strap between the  
headrest and the seat back.  
maximize the distance between the  
airbag and the child. Older children  
should be tightly secured with the  
safety belt. Younger children should be  
secured in an appropriate forward-  
facing child restraint system that has  
first been properly secured with a safety  
belt.  
Adjust the tether strap according to the  
child restraint manufacturer's instruc-  
tions.  
Never install a rear-facing child restraint  
system in the front passenger seat.  
We strongly urge you to carefully read  
and comply with the instructions for  
installation and use provided by the  
child restraint's manufacturer when-  
ever you use such a device.  
Be sure that all occupants (of all ages)  
remain properly and securely restrained  
at all times.c  
Before installing any child restraint  
device or child seat, please read  
the following:  
Never install a rear-facing child restraint  
system in the front passenger seat of  
this vehicle.  
Commercially available child seats  
complying with the legal standard are  
designed to be secured with a lap belt  
or with the lap belt portion of a combi-  
nation 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.  
Your vehicle is equipped with an airbag  
supplemental restraint system for the  
front passenger. Because the backrest  
on any rear-facing child restraint system  
(of the kind designed for infants under  
1 year and 20 lbs./9 kg) would be within  
the airbag's deployment range, you  
should never mount such a device in  
the front passenger seat, since the  
impact of the airbag against the child  
restraint's backrest could lead to  
serious or fatal injuries.  
If it is necessary for a child (not an  
infant) to ride in the front seat, certain  
precautions should be taken. First,  
move the passenger seat as far away  
from the dashboard as possible. This  
important precaution is intended to  
All rear seating positions in your vehicle  
meet the recommendations of SAE  
J1819, an industry recommended prac-  
tice for securing child restraint systems  
in motor vehicles.  
If you use a child restraint system with a  
tether strap, three additional tether  
anchorage points (refer to the arrows in  
the illustration) have been provided.  
Depending on the location selected for  
seating in the rear passenger area,  
attach the tether strap to the corre-  
sponding anchorage point to secure the  
child restraint system. Remove the  
cover first on the middle location.  
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60nTransporting children safely  
Lock the safety belt  
Unlock the safety belt  
Extract the entire length of the belt from Release the safety belt, remove the  
the inertia reel mechanism. Allow the  
reel to retract the belt somewhat and  
engage the buckle, then tighten the belt  
against the child restraint system. The  
retraction mechanism is now locked.  
The belt cannot be extracted farther.  
Always comply with the installation  
instructions provided by the manufac-  
turer of the child restraint system.  
child's seat and retract the safety belt  
to its end position on the belt retractor.  
Child seat security  
All of the rear belt retractors and the  
front passenger's safety belt can be  
locked for mounting and securing child  
restraint systems.  
Information pertaining to this is located  
in the immediate vicinity of the buckle  
latch of each safety belt.  
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Steering/Ignition lock  
Starting the engine  
61n  
Vehicles with automatic transmis-  
sion:  
Before starting  
> Engage the parking brake.  
Do not move the selector lever from the  
"Park" position until the engine is  
running (ignition key at position 2).  
In order to turn the key to position 0 or  
to remove it, first move the selector  
lever to the position "Park" (Interlock).<  
> Put the manual-shift gear lever in idle  
or in P for an automatic transmission.  
> Depress the clutch pedal.  
Do not run the engine in enclosed  
areas. The exhaust gases contain  
carbon monoxide, an odorless and  
colorless, but highly toxic gas.  
1 Steering lock disengaged  
Turning the steering wheel slightly to  
Breathing the exhaust gases poses an  
the right or left often makes it easier to extreme health risk, and can lead to  
turn the key from 0 to 1.  
Individual electrical devices are ready  
for operation.  
unconsciousness and death.  
0 Steering lock engaged  
The key can be inserted or removed in  
this position only.  
Never leave the vehicle unattended  
with the engine running. An unattended  
vehicle with a running engine repre-  
sents a potential safety hazard.<  
After removing the key, turn the  
steering wheel slightly to the left or right  
until the lock engages.  
2 Ignition on  
All electrical equipment and accesso-  
ries are available for use.  
Do not press the accelerator pedal  
when starting the engine.  
If the key has been left in the ignition,  
an acoustic signal will sound after the  
door has been opened.  
3 Starting the engine  
Do not actuate the starter for too  
short a time, but do not keep  
Vehicles with manual transmis-  
sion:  
Depress the clutch when starting the  
vehicle. A lockout prevents the engine  
from starting if the clutch is not  
depressed.<  
turning it for more than approx.  
20 seconds. Release the ignition key  
immediately when the engine starts.  
Do not allow the engine to warm up by  
leaving it running while the vehicle  
remains stationary. Instead, drive off  
immediately at a moderate engine  
speed.<  
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62nStarting the engine  
Switching off the engine  
If the engine does not start on the first  
attempt (if it is very hot or cold, for  
instance):  
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.  
Never remove the ignition key  
while the vehicle is still moving.  
If you did so, the steering lock would  
engage when the steering wheel is  
turned.  
When you leave the vehicle, always  
remove the ignition key and engage the  
steering lock.  
Vehicles with manual transmission:  
Always engage the parking brake when  
parking on slopes and inclined  
surfaces, since placing the lever in  
1st gear or reverse may not provide  
adequate resistance to rolling.  
Vehicles with automatic transmission:  
Place the selector lever in "Park."<  
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway  
down while engaging the starter.  
Cold start at very low temperatures  
approx. +5 7 (–15 6) at high altitude  
over 3,300 ft (1000 m):  
> On the first start attempt, engage  
the starter for a longer period  
(approx. 10 seconds).  
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway  
down while engaging the starter.  
Engine idle speed is controlled by the  
engine computer system. Increased  
speeds at start-up are normal and  
should decrease as the engine warms  
up. If engine speed does not decrease,  
service is required.  
To prevent the battery from dischar-  
ging, always switch off electrical  
devices which are not in use and the  
ignition when the vehicle is not being  
driven.  
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Parking brake  
63n  
If, in exceptional circumstances,  
it should be necessary to apply the  
parking brake while the vehicle is in  
motion, do not pull the lever with exces-  
sive pressure. Keep your thumb  
pressed against the release button  
while carefully pulling the lever up to  
apply moderate pressure.  
Excessive pressure can lead to over-  
braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)  
at the rear axle.  
The brake lamps do not come on when  
the parking brake is applied.  
To engage  
Vehicles with manual transmission:  
Always apply the parking brake when  
parking on slopes and inclined surfaces,  
since placing the lever in 1st gear or  
reverse may not provide adequate  
resistance to rolling.  
The parking brake is designed primarily  
to prevent the vehicle from rolling when  
it is parked. It acts on the rear wheels.  
The lock engages automatically when  
you lift the lever, and the indicator lamp  
in the instrument panel comes on when  
the ignition key is in position 2. Refer to  
page 21.  
Vehicles with automatic transmission:  
Place the selector lever in "Park."<  
To avoid corrosion and one-sided  
braking, apply the parking brake lightly  
from time to time when coasting to a  
standstill (at a traffic signal, for  
instance), provided that it is safe to do  
so.  
To release  
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the  
button (arrow) and lower the lever.  
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64nManual transmission  
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.  
Do not hold the vehicle in place on  
slopes by slipping or "riding" the  
clutch. Use the parking brake instead.  
Otherwise, riding the clutch will cause  
heavy wear and tear to the clutch.<  
Completely depress the clutch pedal  
each time you shift, pressing the  
manual-shift gear lever into its respec-  
tive end position.  
Also depress the clutch when starting  
the vehicle, as otherwise lockout will  
prevent the engine from starting.  
The shift lever's neutral plane (dot in the  
illustration) is located between 3rd and  
4th gears.  
When shifting from each gear into  
"Neutral," the shift lever returns auto-  
matically to this gear plane because  
of its spring loading.  
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic*  
65n  
You have the option of driving with a  
normal automatic transmission or  
switching to manual.  
While the vehicle is stationary  
and before shifting out of "Park" or  
"Neutral," depress the footbrake, other-  
wise the selector lever will be blocked  
(shiftlock).  
Hold the footbrake down until starting  
off. Otherwise the vehicle will "creep"  
when a drive position is engaged.<  
When you move the selector lever from  
the "D" position to the left into the M/S  
range, the performance-oriented shift  
programs of the automatic transmission  
are engaged. As soon as you tap the  
selector lever in the "+" or "" direction,  
Steptronic changes the gear. The  
manual mode is engaged. Whenever  
you want to use the automatic mode  
again, move the selector lever to the  
Before leaving the vehicle with the  
engine running, move the selector  
lever to the "Park" or "Neutral" position  
and apply the parking brake. The  
vehicle will move if this is not done. Do  
not leave the vehicle unattended with  
the engine running. An unattended  
vehicle with a running engine repre-  
sents a potential safety hazard.<  
Selector lever positions  
right into position "D."  
P R N D M/S + –  
The automatic transmission with Step-  
tronic is equipped with Adaptive Trans-  
mission Control (ATC). ATC reacts with  
precision to your individual driving style  
and the current driving conditions. It is  
for this reason that various shift  
Starting the engine  
The engine can only be started in  
selector lever positions P ("Park") or N  
("Neutral").  
P Park  
Select "Park" only when the vehicle is  
stationary. The transmission locks to  
prevent the rear wheels from turning.  
programs are used.  
Range selection  
For additional information concerning  
the ATC, please refer to the chapter  
describing "Advanced technology" on  
page 173.  
A detent prevents inadvertent shifts into  
some selector lever positions. To  
release the shift-lock mechanism, press  
the button on the front side of the  
selector handle (arrow).  
R Reverse  
Select "Reverse" only when the vehicle  
is stationary.  
N Neutral  
Select "Neutral" only if your journey is  
interrupted for a longer period.  
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66nAutomatic transmission with Steptronic*  
Upshifts or downshifts will only be  
carried out by the ATC at appropriate  
engine speeds and road speeds. If the  
engine speed is too high, for instance,  
a downshift will not be executed. The  
gear selected will appear briefly in the  
instrument cluster followed by the  
current gear.  
D Drive (automatic shift program)  
This position is designed for driving  
under all normal operating conditions.  
All forward gears are available and the  
ATC is fully operational.  
"Kickdown"  
You will get maximum vehicle perfor-  
mance in the "kickdown" mode.  
To activate this mode, depress the  
accelerator pedal beyond the full-  
throttle position, at which a resistance  
To accelerate quickly in the  
manual mode (to pass another  
vehicle), shift down manually or employ  
the "kickdown" mode.<  
M/S Manual mode and Sport  
point must be overcome.  
Program  
Shifting from M/S to the selector lever  
positions P, R and N is possible only by  
going through D.  
Shifting from D into M/S activates the  
Sport Program. This is indicated by  
"SD" in the gear selection display. This  
position is recommended for a perfor-  
mance-oriented driving style.  
With the first brief touch, the automatic  
transmission shifts from the Sport  
Program to the manual mode.  
Whenever you tap the selector lever  
forward in the "+" direction, the trans-  
mission shifts up. Whenever the lever is  
moved back in the "" direction, the  
transmission shifts down. M1 to M5  
appear in the gear indicator.  
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Automatic transmission with Steptronic*  
67n  
In the following situations, the Step-  
tronic "thinks" for you in the manual  
mode:  
Electronic transmission control  
module  
If the indicator lamp comes on,  
there is a malfunction in the  
transmission system.  
> In order to prevent engine over-  
speeding, the transmission shifts  
automatically to the next higher gear  
shortly before the engine speed  
cutoff point.  
> At low speeds, the transmission  
shifts down automatically – you do  
not have to act.  
> In the "kickdown" mode, the trans-  
mission shifts down to the lowest  
gear possible, depending  
on the engine speed.  
Bring the vehicle to a stop, select trans-  
mission position "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 transmis-  
sion performance has been restored.  
Drive off normally.  
If the indicator lamp does not go out,  
all selector lever positions can still be  
selected, however in the forward posi-  
tions the vehicle has limited perfor-  
mance, as it drives only in 3rd and 4th  
gear.  
Available displays  
P R N D SD M1 M2 M3 M4 M5  
driving in adverse winter conditions,  
for example – you may also start out  
in 2nd or 3rd gear.  
If this happens, avoid extreme engine  
loads and consult the nearest BMW  
center.  
Do not perform service operations  
in the engine compartment with  
a drive position engaged. If you do so,  
the vehicle could move.<  
For towing, tow-starting or jump-  
starting the vehicle, refer to the infor-  
mation beginning on page 167.  
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68nTurn signal indicator/Headlamp flasher  
Washer/Wiper system  
To signal briefly  
Press the lever up to but not beyond  
the detent. It then returns to the center  
position when released.  
1 High beams  
(blue indicator lamp)  
0 Wipers retracted  
1 Intermittent mode or rain sensor  
2 Normal wipe  
2 Headlamp flasher  
(blue indicator lamp)  
3 Fast wipe  
3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator  
lamp accompanied by periodic  
clicking sound from the relay)  
4 Brief wipe  
5 Cleaning windshield  
6 Rotary dial for control of the wipe  
interval or the sensitivity of the rain  
sensor  
If the indicator lamp and the clicking  
from the relay are both faster than  
normal, one of the turn indicators has  
failed.  
Rear window wiper  
7 Intermittent mode  
8 Cleaning rear window  
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Washer/Wiper system  
69n  
can concentrate fully on the traffic  
conditions. This is especially important  
under adverse weather conditions.  
2 Normal wiper speed  
When the vehicle is stationary, the  
wipers switch automatically to intermit-  
tent wipe (not on vehicles with rain  
sensor).  
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.  
3 Fast wiper speed  
When the vehicle is stationary, the  
wipers operate at normal speed (not on  
vehicles with rain sensor).  
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,  
5 Cleaning windshield  
1 Intermittent mode or rain  
sensor*  
Intermittent mode:  
The system sprays washer fluid against  
the windshield and activates the wipers  
for a brief period.  
> turn rotary dial 6 briefly or  
> use cleaning windshield 5.  
To modify the sensitivity of the rain  
sensor:  
Turn rotary dial 6.  
You can use rotary dial 6 to select from  
four wipe intervals.  
In addition, the wipe interval automati-  
cally adapts to variations in road speed.  
If you only pull the lever briefly, the  
system sprays washer fluid onto the  
windshield without activating the  
wipers.  
Deactivating the rain sensor:  
Put lever in position 0.  
Rain sensor:  
The rain sensor is positioned on the  
windshield, directly ahead of the inte-  
rior rearview mirror. When the rain  
sensor is activated, the windshield  
wiper is controlled automatically,  
Turn the rain sensor off when  
passing through an automatic car  
wash. Failure to do so could result in  
damage caused by undesired wiper  
activation.<  
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  
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70nWasher/Wiper system  
Rear window defroster  
7 Rear window wiper  
Cleaning headlamps*  
Rear window wiper in intermittent  
mode. When reverse gear is engaged,  
continuous operation is switched on  
automatically  
If the headlamps are on, they will also  
be cleaned every fifth time you activate  
cleaning windshield.  
Do not use the washers if there is  
any danger that the fluid will freeze  
on the windshield. If you do so, your  
vision could be obscured. Use an anti-  
freeze agent. Refer to page 134.  
Do not use the washers when the reser-  
voir is empty. If you do so, the washer  
pump could be damaged.<  
You can also program the interval:  
> Switch briefly from position 0 to  
position 7.  
> The time until reactivation (from  
position 0 to 7) is the programmed  
interval (max. 30 seconds).  
The illustration shows the button set-up  
for vehicles equipped with automatic  
climate control. For other layouts, refer  
to page 90.  
8 Cleaning rear window  
Washer fluid sprayed on the rear  
window.  
Windshield washer jets  
The windshield washer jets are heated  
automatically* when the ignition key is  
in position 2.  
Refer to page 152 for changing the  
wiper blades.  
To activate  
> Press the button once: as long as the  
indicator lamp remains on, the rear  
window defroster continues at high  
output (rapid thaw).  
> Press button twice: the rear window  
defroster operates continuously.  
To deactivate  
If the indicator lamp is still on, press the  
button.  
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Cruise control*  
71n  
To store and maintain speed or  
to accelerate  
To decelerate  
Press button 3 briefly:  
Press button 2 briefly:  
If you are already driving with active  
The system registers and maintains the cruise control, the speed is decreased  
current vehicle speed. Every time you  
briefly touch the button, the speed  
increases by 0.6 mph (1 km/h).  
by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h) every time  
you briefly touch the lever.  
Press and hold button 3:  
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.  
The vehicle accelerates without pres-  
sure on the accelerator pedal. When  
you release the button, the system  
registers and maintains the current  
speed.  
The vehicle can store and automatically  
maintain any desired vehicle speed  
above approx. 20 mph (30 km/h) that  
you input.  
If, on a downhill gradient, the  
engine braking effect is not suffi-  
cient, the controlled speed can be  
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill  
grades if the engine output is  
insufficient.<  
Do not use the cruise control on  
winding roads, when high traffic  
density prevents driving at a constant  
speed, when the road surface is slick  
(snow, rain, ice), or when the road  
surface is loose (rocks, sand).<  
To activate the system  
From ignition key position 2:  
Press button 1. The indicator lamp in  
the instrument cluster comes on. You  
can now use the cruise control.  
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72nCruise control*  
To cancel the cruise control  
To resume the stored setting  
When the system is activated, press  
Press button 4:  
button 1. The indicator lamp stays on.  
The vehicle accelerates to and main-  
When you  
You can use the cruise control again as tains the last speed stored.  
turn the ignition key to position 0, the  
stored speed is deleted from the  
system's memory and the system is  
deactivated.  
required.  
In addition, cruise control is canceled  
automatically:  
> When braking.  
> If the clutch is depressed or the auto-  
matic transmission selector lever is  
moved from "Drive" to "Neutral".  
> If you exceed or fall below the  
programmed speed for an extended  
period (by depressing the acceler-  
ator, for example).  
To deactivate the system  
When the cruise control has been  
canceled, press button 1 again. The  
indicator lamp goes out and the stored  
speed is deleted.  
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Odometer  
Tachometer  
Energy Control  
73n  
1 Odometer  
Avoid engine speeds in the red warning Indicates current fuel consumption in  
zone of the gauge.  
mpg (in liters per 100 km on Canadian  
vehicles). You can check your current  
driving style to see whether it is condu-  
cive to economy and minimum exhaust  
emissions.  
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).  
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.  
2 Trip odometer  
When the vehicle is stationary, the  
display goes to "Maximum" (zero on  
Canadian models).  
To reset the trip odometer to zero,  
press the button (arrow) with the igni-  
tion key in position 1 and up.  
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74nFuel gauge  
Coolant temperature gauge Service Interval Display  
Blue  
Remaining distance for service  
When you switch on the ignition, the  
indicator lamp lights up briefly as a  
function check.  
The engine is still cold. Drive at  
moderate engine and vehicle speeds.  
The displays shown in the illustration  
appear for a few seconds when the  
ignition key is in position 1 or after the  
engine is started.  
Once the indicator lamp stays on  
continuously, there are still approx.  
2 gallons (8 liters) of fuel left in the fuel  
tank.  
Red  
When you switch on the ignition, the  
warning lamp comes on briefly as a  
function check.  
The next service due appears with the  
message OIL SERVICE or INSPECTION,  
together with the remaining distance  
before scheduled service.  
The computer bases its calculations  
of the remaining distance on the rate of  
fuel consumption in the period immedi-  
ately preceding your data request.  
For fuel tank capacity, refer to page 187.  
If the lamp comes on while operating  
the vehicle, the engine has over-  
heated. Switch the engine off immedi-  
ately and allow it to cool down.  
If the tilt of the vehicle varies (extended  
driving in mountainous areas, for  
example), there may be slight fluctua-  
tions of the needle.  
A flashing display and a "" in front of  
the number indicate that service is past  
due by the number of kilometers/miles  
displayed. Please contact your BMW  
center for an appointment.  
Between the blue and red zones  
Please refuel early, since driving  
to the last drop of fuel can result  
in damage to the engine and/or cata-  
lytic converter.<  
Normal operating range. It is not  
unusual for the needle to rise as far as  
the edge of the red zone in response  
to high outside temperatures or  
severe operating conditions. Checking  
coolant level: refer to page 137.  
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Check Control  
Clock  
75n  
If you wish to have a permanent time  
display, you can make this adjustment  
in the radio display (refer to the Radio  
Owner's Manual).  
You can adjust the clock and the time  
display in the car radio as follows.  
Graphic display  
Adjustments  
tions are indicated using symbols,  
starting with the ignition key position 2,  
until the condition has been corrected:  
From ignition key position 1  
To set ahead: turn the right button to  
the right.  
To set back: turn the right button to the  
left.  
1 Inspect the low-beam and high-beam  
headlamps, as well as the side lamps  
The adjustment speed will increase the  
longer you continue to hold the button  
turned to the left.  
2 Door open  
3 Tailgate open  
4 Check brake and brake lamps  
To change the display mode: press the  
knob briefly.  
Every time you press the knob, the  
clock display alternates between the  
12-hour or 24-hour mode.  
When you open the driver's door after  
stopping with the lights still on, a  
warning signal sounds for LIGHTS ON.  
In ignition key position 0:  
The time is displayed for a few seconds  
after you press the left button (refer to  
"Odometer" on page 73).  
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76nComputer*  
Ice warning  
If the outside temperature drops to  
approx. +37.5 7 (+3 6), the computer  
automatically switches to the outside  
temperature display. In addition, a  
signal sounds as a warning and the  
display flashes for a brief period.  
The warning is repeated whenever the  
temperature climbs to at least +43 7  
(+6 6) following the last warning, and  
then drops back to +37.5 7 (+3 6).  
Mode selection  
Outside temperature  
The ice warning does not alter the  
fact that surface ice can form at  
temperatures above +37.5 7 (+3 6),  
on bridges or shaded road surfaces, for  
instance.<  
In ignition key positions 1 and 2, you  
can call up information from the  
computer using the button in the turn  
signal lever. By pressing the button  
briefly in the direction of the steering  
column, you can call up a new function  
for display.  
You can change the units of measure-  
ment (6/7) for the outside tempera-  
ture display by pressing the right-hand  
reset button in the instrument cluster  
when the temperature display is active.  
The displays appear in the following  
order:  
Time, outside temperature, average fuel  
consumption, cruising range, average  
vehicle speed.  
Starting with ignition key position 1, the  
last active setting is displayed.  
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Computer*  
77n  
Average fuel consumption  
Range  
Average speed  
If you continue to hold the button on the The computer bases its calculations of  
If you continue to hold the button on the  
turn signal lever, the average speed last  
displayed is recalculated from that  
point.  
turn signal lever, the average fuel  
consumption last displayed is recalcu-  
lated from that point.  
the cruising range on the previous  
driving style and the amount of fuel  
remaining.  
Any time spent when the vehicle is  
stationary and the engine is shut off is  
ignored for the calculation.  
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78nPark Distance Control (PDC)*  
The PDC does not remove the  
driver's personal responsibility for  
evaluating the distance between the  
vehicle and any obstacles. Even when  
sensors are involved, there is a blind  
spot in which objects cannot be  
detected. This applies especially in  
those cases where the system  
The concept  
The PDC assists you when you are  
parking. A signal warns you of the real  
distance to an obstacle. To do this, four intervals. As the distance between  
ultrasonic sensors in the rear bumper  
measure the distance to the nearest  
Acoustical signals  
The distance to the nearest object is  
indicated by a tone sounding at various  
vehicle and object decreases, the inter-  
vals between the tones become shorter.  
object. The range for the sensors at the If the distance between the vehicle and  
two rear corners ends approx. 2 ft a detected object is less than 1ft  
approaches the physical limits of ultra-  
sonic measurement, as occurs with tow  
bars and trailer couplings, and in the  
vicinity of thin and painted objects.  
Certain sources of sound, such as a  
loud radio, could drown the PDC signal  
tone.<  
(60 cm) from the bumper. The range for (30 cm), then a continuous tone will go  
the two center sensors is approx. 4.9 ft off.  
(1.50 meters) wide.  
The warning signal is canceled after  
The system starts to operate automati-  
cally about one second after you select the obstacle remains constant during  
"Reverse" with the ignition key in posi- this time (if you are moving parallel to  
approx. three seconds if the distance to  
tion 2. PDC is deactivated when you shift a wall, for instance).  
back out of reverse.  
System malfunctions will be indicated  
Keep the sensors clean and free  
of ice or snow in order to ensure  
that they continue to operate effec-  
tively.  
Do not apply high-pressure spray to the  
sensors for a prolonged period of time.  
Maintain a distance of more than 4 in  
(10 cm).<  
by a continuous high-pitched tone  
when the system is activated the first  
time. Please refer the problem to your  
BMW center.  
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ASC+T  
79n  
The concept  
This systems enhances driving stability  
and traction, especially when you are  
just starting off, accelerating or in  
curves.  
The indicator lamp in the instru-  
ment cluster goes out shortly  
after you switch on the ignition.  
Refer to pages 21 and 22.  
ASC+T recognizes the danger present  
in traction loss and will increase driving  
stability and traction by reducing the  
engine's output, and if necessary, by  
applying the brakes to the rear wheels.  
Indicator lamp flashes:  
ASC+T controls the drive and braking  
forces.  
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after  
the engine is started, or if it comes on  
during normal driving and stays on:  
There is a system malfunction or the  
system was deactivated with the  
button. Consequently, interventions to  
increase driving stability (as described  
in the preceding column) are not avail-  
able. You can still drive the vehicle  
perfectly well without ASC+T.  
ASC+T is available as soon as the  
engine starts up.  
Deactivate the ASC+T  
Press the button; the indicator lamp  
comes on and stays on.  
The illustration shows the arrangement  
of the buttons if the vehicle is fully  
equipped. This may vary, depending on  
the equipment actually installed.  
Please consult your BMW center in the  
event of a fault, refer to pages 21  
and 22.  
In the following rare situations, it may  
be effective to deactivate the ASC+T  
for a brief period:  
> When rocking the vehicle or starting  
off in deep snow or on loose  
surfaces.  
> When driving with snow chains.  
Refer also to page 121.  
To maintain vehicle stability,  
always drive with the ASC+T  
activated whenever possible.<  
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80nASC+T  
Reactivate the ASC+T  
Press the button again; the indicator  
lamp goes out.  
The laws of physics cannot be  
repealed, even with ASC+T. It will  
always be the driver's responsibility to  
drive in a manner that matches road  
conditions. This is why you should not  
use the additional safety margin the  
system provides as an excuse to take  
risks.<  
For additional informations concerning  
ASC+T, please refer to "Advanced  
Technology" on page 173.  
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DSC* BMW 325i  
81n  
The concept  
Indicator lamp  
DSC helps maintain vehicle stability,  
even in critical driving situations.  
The indicator lamp in the instru-  
ment cluster goes out shortly  
after you switch on the ignition.  
The system optimizes vehicle stability  
during acceleration and when starting  
from a full stop, as well as optimizing  
Refer to pages 21 and 22.  
Indicator lamp flashes:  
traction. In addition, the system recog- DSC is active and governs the drive  
nizes unstable vehicle conditions  
(understeering or oversteering, for  
example) and helps hold the vehicle on  
a sure course by intervening via the  
engine and by braking intervention at  
the individual wheels.  
force and braking force.  
The indicator lamp lights up continu-  
ously:  
The DSC has been turned off via the  
switch; ADB is ready to use.  
ADB intervention is not indicated.  
Deactivate DSC/activate ADB  
Press the DSC button briefly, the indi-  
cator lamp lights up continuously.  
The DSC is operational every time you  
start the engine. DSC contains the  
functions of ADB and CBC, refer to  
page 117.  
The indicator lamp and the  
brake warning lamp lights up  
continuously:  
The DSC, ADB and DBC have  
been switched off via the button  
or are defective.  
The DSC has been switched off; ADB is  
operational.  
In the following exceptional circum-  
stances, it may be effective to deacti-  
vate the ADB for a short period:  
The ADB (Automatic Differential  
Braking) copies the function of conven-  
tional differential and transverse lock  
through brake intervention, and  
increases traction whenever conditions  
merit, e.g. when driving on snow-  
covered roads.  
Indicator and warning lamps for  
Canadian models.  
> When rocking the vehicle or starting  
off in deep snow or on loose  
surfaces.  
> When driving on snow-covered  
grades, in deep snow, or on a snow-  
covered surface that has been  
packed down from being driven on.  
> When driving with snow chains.  
Refer also to page 121.  
If the DSC is switched off the ADB will  
still be in ready mode.  
You can continue to drive the vehicle  
normally, but without DSC. Please  
consult your BMW center in the event  
of a malfunction, refer to pages 21  
and 22.  
The gain in traction is achieved by a  
reduction in stabilizing intervention.  
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82nDSC* BMW 325i  
Deactivate DSC and ADB  
Reactivate DSC and ADB  
Hold the DSC switch down for at least  
3 seconds. The indicator and the yellow lamp or the indicator lamps will go out.  
brake warning lamps will remain on the  
entire time.  
The laws of physics cannot be  
repealed, even with DSC. It will  
always be the driver's responsibility to  
drive in a manner that matches road  
conditions. We therefore urge you to  
avoid using the additional safety margin  
of the system as an excuse for taking  
risks.  
In this case, no interventions to  
increase stability and traction for engine  
and brakes are carried out.  
To maintain vehicle stability,  
always drive with the DSC on  
whenever possible.<  
Whenever the ADB is activated, the  
DSC is switched off and will not  
perform any stabilizing intervention.  
Do not make any modifications to the  
DSC system. Allow only authorized  
technicians to perform service proce-  
dures on the DSC.<  
For additional information concerning  
DSC, please refer to the chapter  
"Advanced technology" on page 173.  
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DSC – BMW 325xi  
83n  
If the indicator lamp flashes:  
forces.  
The concept  
DSC maintains vehicle stability, even in  
critical driving situations.  
The indicator lamp stays lit:  
DSC is switched off via the switch;  
ADB-X is operational.  
The system enhances vehicle stability  
during acceleration and when starting  
up from a full stop, and optimizes trac-  
tion as well. In addition, it recognizes  
unstable vehicle conditions, such as  
understeering or oversteering, and, as  
far as is possible within the laws of  
steady course by reducing the engine  
output and brake applications to the  
individual wheels.  
ADB-X intervention not indicated.  
If the indicator lamp does not go  
out after repeatedly pressing the  
DSC switch, then the DSC and the  
ADB-X are defective, and the interven-  
tion described to the right is then no  
longer available.<  
Deactivate the DSC  
Press the DSC button; the indicator  
lamp comes on and stays on.  
The DSC is operational every time you  
start the engine. DSC contains ADB-X  
und DBC, refer to page 118.  
The vehicle will remain completely  
operational, however, without DSC. In  
the event of a fault, please see your  
BMW center. Refer to pages 21, 22.  
The DSC has been switched off and the  
ADB-X is designed for maximum  
output.  
The ADB-X (Automatic Differential  
Braking) replaces the function of  
conventional differential and transverse  
lock through brake intervention, and  
increases traction whenever conditions  
merit, e.g. when driving on snow-  
covered streets.  
In the following exceptional circum-  
stances, it may be effective to deacti-  
vate the DSC for a short period:  
> When rocking the vehicle or starting  
off in deep snow or on loose  
surfaces.  
> When driving with snow chains. Refer  
also to page 121.  
Indicator lamp  
The indicator lamp on the instru-  
ment cluster will go out shortly  
after the ignition has been  
To maintain vehicle stability,  
always drive with the DSC on  
whenever possible.<  
started. Refer to pages 21, 22.  
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84nDSC – BMW 325xi  
Reactivate the DSC  
Press the button again; the indicator  
lamp goes out.  
The laws of physics cannot be  
repealed, even with DSC. It will  
always be the driver's responsibility to  
drive in a manner that matches road  
conditions. We therefore urge you to  
avoid using the additional safety margin  
of the system as an excuse for taking  
risks.  
Whenever the DSC has been switched  
off, it will not perform any stabilizing  
intervention.  
Do not make any changes to the DSC.  
Allow only authorized technicians to  
perform service procedures on the  
DSC.<  
For additional information concerning  
DSC, please refer to "Advanced tech-  
nology" on page 171.  
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Tire Pressure Control (RDC)*  
85n  
The concept  
Loss of tire pressure  
The RDC monitors the tire pressures at  
all four wheels, even when the vehicle  
is moving. The system provides an alert  
whenever the inflation pressure drops  
significantly below the specified pres-  
sure in one or more tires.  
If the inflation pressure has dropped  
significantly over a long period of time  
(which is normal for any tire), the indi-  
cator lamp will come on with a yellow  
lamp.  
This alerts you that you should have the  
tires inflated to the specified pressures  
as soon as possible.  
In order for the RDC system to "learn"  
the correct tire inflation pressure, first  
check the tire inflation pressure in all  
tires. Then compare these pressures  
with the tire inflation pressure chart  
If you are prompted to check the  
tire pressure shortly after a  
Activate the system  
(page 29) and adjust if necessary. Then  
activate the system.  
correction has been made, this indi-  
cates that the corrected values were  
not accurate. Please check the inflation  
pressure again and make corrections  
according to the inflation pressure  
table. Then activate the system once  
again.<  
Depending on the type of equipment,  
the switch either has the letters RDC on  
it or the RDC-symbol.  
This indicator lamp in the instru-  
ment cluster informs you when-  
ever the tire pressure is not  
normal.  
1 Turn the ignition key to position 2  
(do not start the engine).  
2 Press the switch long enough for the  
indicator lamp in the instrument  
cluster to light up yellow for a few  
seconds.  
3 After a few minutes driving time, the  
RDC sets the current inflation pres-  
sure in the tires as the target values  
to be monitored.  
You will only have to repeat this proce-  
dure following a correction of the tire  
inflation pressure. Otherwise, the RDC  
functions automatically when the igni-  
tion key is in position 2, and thus oper-  
ates whenever the vehicle is driven.  
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86nTire Pressure Control (RDC)*  
The RDC cannot alert you to  
severe and sudden tire damage  
caused by external factors.<  
Flat tire  
System interference  
If there is a tire failure with loss of pres-  
The RDC may encounter interference  
from outside equipment or devices  
which use the same radio frequency.  
sure, the indicator lamp comes on with  
a red lamp. In addition, an acoustic  
signal goes off.  
Have the tires changed by your  
BMW center.  
Your BMW center has been trained to  
work with the RDC system and is  
equipped with the necessary special  
tools.<  
The indicator lamp will come on with  
a yellow lamp during the malfunction.  
If this occurs, reduce vehicle speed  
immediately and stop the vehicle in a  
safe location. Avoid hard brake applica-  
tions. Do not oversteer. Replace the  
wheel and flat tire.  
The indicator lamp also comes on  
> in the event of a system fault  
> if a wheel is mounted without the  
RDC electronics  
> if, in addition to the spare tire, addi-  
tional wheels with RDC electronics  
are on board.  
The space-saver spare tire is  
provided for temporary use only  
in the event of a tire failure. It does not  
have RDC electronics and is not moni-  
tored. A full-size spare tire that has the  
same dimensions as the tires already  
mounted on the vehicle is equipped  
with the necessary RDC electronics,  
and will also be monitored once the  
tires have been mounted and the  
system activated.<  
Please contact your BMW center for  
additional information.  
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Side lamps/Low beams  
Instrument lighting  
87n  
"Follow-Me-Home" lamps:  
If you actuate the headlamp  
flasher after you have turned the vehicle  
off, the low beams will come on for a  
brief period. You may also have this  
function deactivated if you wish.<  
"LAMPS ON" warning  
When you open the driver's door after  
turning the ignition key to position 0, an  
acoustic signal will go off for a few  
seconds to remind you when the head-  
lamps have not been switched off.  
Side lamps  
Turn the rotary dial to adjust the illumi-  
nation intensity.  
With the switch in this position,  
the front, rear and side vehicle  
lighting comes on. As an addi-  
tional feature, you can illuminate your  
vehicle on either side for parking, refer  
to page 88.  
Daytime running lamps*  
If you desire, the lamp switch can be  
left in the second position:  
When the ignition is switched off, the  
external lighting is also switched off.  
Low beam headlamps  
When you switch the ignition off  
with the low beam headlamps  
on, only the parking lamps will  
remain on.  
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88nHigh beams/Parking lamps Fog lamp  
Interior lamps  
Fog lamps  
1 High beams  
(blue indicator lamp)  
The illustration provides an example of  
the interior lamps when equipped with  
reading lamps.  
A green indicator lamp comes  
on in the instrument cluster to  
indicate that the front fog lamps  
2 Headlamp flasher  
(blue indicator lamp)  
The interior lamps operate  
automatically.  
are on.  
3 Parking lamp  
To switch the interior lamps on  
and off manually  
Press the button briefly.  
Parking lamps, left or right  
As an additional feature, you can illumi-  
nate your vehicle on either side for  
parking, if you wish to do so:  
If you want the interior lamps to remain  
off all the time, press and hold the  
button for approx. 3 seconds.  
With the ignition key in position 0,  
engage the lever in the appropriate  
turn-signal position.  
To revert to normal operation, press the  
button briefly.  
Footwell lamps*  
The footwell lamps operate in the same  
way as the interior lamps.  
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Interior lamps  
89n  
In order to prevent draining the  
battery, all of the lamps in the  
vehicle are switched off automatically  
approx. 15 minutes after the ignition  
key is turned to position 0.<  
Reading lamps, front  
The reading lamps can be switched on  
and off with the switch adjacent to each  
lamp.  
Reading lamps, rear  
The reading lamps can be switched on  
and off with the switch adjacent ot each  
lamp.  
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90nAir conditioner  
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Air conditioner  
91n  
1 Air onto the windshield and onto the  
side windows  
2 Air flow for the upper body  
The side rotary dials allow you to  
open and close the air supply through  
an infinitely-variable range, while the  
levers change the airflow direction.  
The center rotary dial controls the  
temperature of the air as it flows out.  
Refer to page 92  
3 Ventilation for the front footwell  
There are corresponding air vents in  
the rear footwell as well  
4 Air supply  
Heating and ventilation are available  
starting with position 1. Refer to  
page 92  
5 Temperature 92  
6 Air distribution toward  
> the windows  
> the upper body  
> the footwell  
All intermediate settings are possible.  
Refer to page 92  
7 Rear window defroster 92  
8 Air conditioner 92  
9 Recirculated-air mode 92  
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92nAir conditioner  
Air supply  
Rear window defroster  
Recirculated-air mode  
You can select fan speeds  
from 1 to 4. The greater the air  
supply, the more effective the comes on. The rear window defroster  
heating and ventilation are. In switches off automatically. Refer to  
When the rear window defroster  
is activated, the indicator lamp  
You can respond to unpleasant  
external odors by temporarily  
blocking the outside air. The system  
then recirculates the air already within  
the vehicle.  
position 0, the fan and the heater are  
page 70.  
switched off. By using position 0, you  
can totally block the interior ventilation  
outlets by pressing the button for the  
recirculated-air mode.  
If the windows fog over in the  
recirculated air mode, switch the  
recirculated air off and increase the air  
supply as required.<  
Air conditioner  
The air is cooled and dehumidi-  
fied and – depending on the  
temperature setting – rewarmed when  
the air conditioner system is switched  
on.  
Temperature  
In order to increase the  
temperature of the passenger Depending on the weather, the wind-  
compartment, turn it to the shield may fog over briefly when the  
right (red). Temperature regu- engine is started.  
lation will keep the interior temperature Use the button to switch the air condi-  
you have selected constant.  
tioner off at outside temperatures  
below approx. 41 7(+5 6). This will  
help to prevent the windows from  
fogging up.  
If the windows fog over after switching  
the air conditioner off, switch it back  
on.  
Air distribution  
You can direct air to flow onto  
the windows  
upper body  
, toward the  
and into the  
footwell  
. You can also  
make all intermediate settings. In the  
setting, there is a low flow of air onto  
the windows to keep them free of  
condensation. The "6 o'clock" setting is  
recommended as a normal setting (refer  
also to the illustration and overview on  
page 90).  
Condensation forms in the air  
conditioner system during opera-  
tion, which then exits under the vehicle.  
Traces of condensed water of this kind  
are thus normal.<  
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Air conditioner  
93n  
Microfilter  
An activated-charcoal microfilter, which  
traps incoming dust and pollen, has  
been installed in your vehicle. Your  
BMW center will replace the it during  
regularly scheduled maintenance. A  
substantial reduction in air supply indi-  
cates that the filter must be replaced  
before normal maintenance.  
For additional details on the filter  
change, refer to page 165.  
Draft-free ventilation  
Rapid ventilation  
You can adjust the blower controls for  
the upper body area to select the  
optimum airflow rates and directions for  
your personal requirements:  
1 Set the fan speed control for the air  
flow rate to position 4.  
2 Switch on the air conditioner.  
3 Turn the rotary temperature control  
completely to the left (blue).  
Use rotary dials 1 to open and close the  
air outlets through an infinitely-variable  
range. You can adjust the direction of  
the airflow with rotary dial 2.  
4 Rotary control for air distribution in  
position  
.
5 Open the air outlets for the upper  
body.  
Set the outlets so that the air flows past  
you and is not directed straight at you.  
Rotary dial 3 allows you to control the  
temperature of the air flow from these  
outlets as desired.  
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94nAir conditioner  
Rapid heating  
1 Set the fan speed control for the air  
flow rate to position 3.  
2 Turn the rotary temperature control  
completely to the right (red).  
3 Rotary control for air distribution in  
Defrost windows and remove  
condensation  
1 Set the fan speed control for the air  
flow rate to position 4.  
2 Turn the rotary temperature control  
completely to the right (red).  
3 Rotary control for air distribution in  
Heating  
When the windows are free of ice and  
condensation, we recommend the  
following settings:  
1 Set the fan speed control for the air  
flow rate to position 2.  
2 Use the rotary temperature control to  
select an interior temperature which  
is comfortable for you.  
position  
.
position  
.
4 Switch on the rear window defroster  
to defrost the rear window.  
3 Rotary control for air distribution in  
position  
.
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95n  
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96nAutomatic climate control*  
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Automatic climate control*  
97n  
1 Air onto the windshield and the side  
windows  
2 Air flow toward the upper body  
The side rotary dials provide infi-  
nitely-variable regulation of the air  
supply, while the levers change the  
air-flow direction. The center rotary  
dial controls the temperature of the  
air as it flows out. Refer to page 100  
3 Front footwell ventilation  
There are corresponding air vents in  
the rear footwell as well  
4 Recirculated air mode/Automatic  
recirculated air control (AUC) 99  
5 Air supply 99  
6 Temperature 98  
7 Automatic air distribution 98  
8 Individual air distribution 98  
9 Air grill for interior temperature  
sensor – please keep clear and  
unobstructed  
10 Display for temperature and air  
supply 98  
11 Defrost windows and remove  
condensation 99  
12 Air conditioner 99  
13 Rear window defroster 70, 99  
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98nAutomatic climate control*  
Tips for pleasant driving  
Automatic air distribution  
Temperature  
Use the automatic system (switch on  
AUTO button 7). Select an interior  
temperature that is comfortable for  
you – we recommend +72 7 (+22 6). adapts the temperature to external  
When the outside temperature is above influences (summer, winter) to meet  
+41 7 (+5 6), you can also use the air preferences you can specify. This  
The AUTO program assumes  
the adjustment of the air distri-  
bution and the air supply for you and  
The figures in the display  
provide a general indication of  
interior temperature. We recommend  
+72 7 (+22 6) as a comfortable  
setting, whether the air conditioner is  
operating or not. When you start the  
conditioner 12. This will dry the air as program maintains a comfortable in-car vehicle, the system ensures that the  
well as preventing condensation on the climate regardless of the season. Select selected temperature is reached as  
window surfaces – if there are passen-  
gers with damp clothing, for example.  
Set the outlets 2 so that the air flows  
past you and is not directed straight at  
you. Set the rotary dial between the air the display 10 (refer to the overview on  
outlets 2 for the upper body to a page 96). Open the air outlets for the  
medium position, since air that is some- upper body area. Switch on the air  
an interior temperature that is comfort- quickly as possible. It then maintains  
able for you – we recommend +72 7  
(+22 6). The selected temperature  
this temperature, regardless of the  
season.  
and  
AUTO for the air flow appear in  
Set rotary dial 3 (refer to "Draft-free  
ventilation" on page 100) to a medium  
setting, since air that is somewhat  
cooler promotes driving without fatigue.  
You can use this setting for mixing air to  
make minor comfort modifications.  
what cooler promotes driving without  
fatigue.  
conditioner in warm weather. The  
maximum cooling capacity is achieved  
when you set rotary dial 3 (refer to  
page 100) to cold.  
Detailed setting options are described  
for you in the following section.  
You can set uncontrolled heater  
output up to +90 7 (+32 6). At  
+60 7 (+16 6), full cooling output is  
available from an activated air condi-  
tioner.<  
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  
.
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Automatic climate control*  
99n  
> Indicator lamps off: fresh air flows  
into the vehicle.  
Air supply  
Air conditioner  
By pressing the left or right half  
of the button, you can vary the  
air supply. By doing this, you switch off temperature setting – rewarmed when  
the automatic control for the air supply. the air conditioner system is switched  
Nevertheless, the automatic air distri-  
bution remains unchanged.  
The air is cooled and dehumidi-  
fied and – depending on the  
> Left-hand indicator lamp on – AUC  
mode: the system detects pollutants  
in the outside air and responds by  
deactivating the outside air flow as  
required. The system then recircu-  
lates the air already within the vehicle.  
Depending on air quality require-  
ments, the system automatically  
switches between outside air supply  
and recirculation of the air already  
within the vehicle.  
on.  
Depending on the weather, the wind-  
shield may fog over briefly when the  
engine is started.  
Use the button to switch the air condi-  
tioner off when outside air temperatures  
are below approx. +41 7 (+5 6). This  
will help to prevent the windows from  
fogging up.  
When you set the lowest blower speed  
by pressing the left half of the button,  
all of the displays are canceled: the  
blower, heating and air conditioner are  
switched off, and the air supply stops.  
You can reactivate the system by  
pressing any button of the automatic  
climate control.  
> Right-hand indicator lamp on: the  
flow of outside air is permanently  
blocked. The system recirculates the  
air already within the vehicle.  
If the windows fog over after switching  
the air conditioner off, switch it back on.  
Defrost windows and remove  
condensation  
This program quickly removes  
ice and condensation from the  
windshield and side windows.  
Condensation forms in the air  
conditioner system during opera-  
tion, that then exits under the vehicle.  
Traces of condensed water of this kind  
are thus normal.<  
If the windows fog over in the  
recirculated air mode, switch this  
mode off and increase the air supply as  
required.<  
Rear window defroster  
Automatic recirculated air control  
(AUC)  
When the rear window defroster  
is turned on, the indicator lamp  
comes on; refer to page 70.  
You can respond to unpleasant  
external odors by temporarily  
blocking the outside air. The system  
then recirculates the air already within  
the vehicle. By repeated actuation of  
the button, you can select one of three  
different operation modes.  
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100nAutomatic climate control*  
Seat heating*  
Microfilter/Activated-charcoal  
filter  
The microfilter has been installed to  
catch any incoming dust and pollen.  
The activated-charcoal filter provides  
additional protection by filtering  
gaseous pollutants from the outside air.  
Your BMW center can replace the  
combined filter as a standard part of  
your scheduled maintenance.  
A substantial reduction in air flow indi-  
cates that the filter needs to be  
replaced early.  
The seat cushion and backrest can  
be heated with the ignition key in posi-  
tion 2.  
Draft-free ventilation  
For additional information on filter  
removal, refer to page 165.  
You can adjust the blower controls for  
the upper body area to select the  
optimum airflow rates and directions for  
your personal comfort:  
You can call up different heating modes  
by repeatedly pressing the buttons.  
When the three indicator lamps are illu-  
minated, the highest heating mode is  
activated. One lamp indicates the  
lowest heating mode. The temperature  
is regulated with a thermostat in each  
mode.  
Use rotary dials 1 to open and close the  
air outlets through an infinitely-variable  
range. You can adjust the direction of  
the airflow with rotary dial 2.  
Set the air outlets so that the air flows  
past you and is not directed straight  
at you.  
You can also switch the higher heating  
modes off directly:  
Press and hold the button slightly  
longer.  
The rotary dial 3 allows you to mix the air  
from the outlets for the upper body with  
more or less cool air.  
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HiFi system*  
Glove compartment  
101n  
To prevent injury in the event of  
a crash, close the glove compart-  
ment immediately after use.<  
Rechargeable flashlight  
The flashlight is located on the left-  
hand side of the glove compartment.  
It features integral overload-protection  
so it can be left in its holder continu-  
ously.  
Be sure that the flashlight is  
switched off when it is inserted  
into its holder. Failure to comply with  
this precaution could lead to over-  
charging and damage.<  
HiFi system – harman kardon  
Special acoustical effects are activated Pull the handle. The lamp comes on.  
or deactivated every time you press the  
To open  
button.  
To closing  
When the system is activated, the  
impression of a significantly larger  
passenger compartment is created at  
all seating areas, together with an  
improvement of the stereo effect.  
Fold the door up.  
To lock  
Lock with one of the master keys. A  
master key can also be used for  
unlocking.  
When reception is weak, the system  
frequently switches between stereo  
and mono operation. Switch off if this  
occurs.  
If you turn over only your door and  
ignition keys for valet parking  
(refer to page 32), for instance, access  
to the glove compartment is not  
possible.<  
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102nStorage compartments  
Beverage holder, coin box  
A coin box and two beverage holders  
are provided in the center console.  
Rear center armrest  
Open the storage compartment in the  
front center armrest*: press the button  
(arrow) and lift upward.  
There is a storage compartment, a  
beverage holder (for two drinks) and a  
garbage bag holder located in the rear  
center armrest.  
You will find additional storage areas in  
the front doors and in the center  
console above the ashtray. Storage  
nets* are located on the backs of the  
front seats.  
1 Storage compartment: pull upward (1)  
2 Beverage holder: press (2)  
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Storage compartments  
Cellular phone*  
103n  
Additional storage areas are located  
under both the cargo area and under  
the spare wheel/space-saver tire panel.  
Storage package*  
Hands-free system  
For your convenience, there are:  
On vehicles that are wired for a tele-  
phone*, the cover for the hands-free  
microphone is located in the headliner  
near the interior lamp.  
> Two flip-out sockets on the rear  
center console (arrows).  
> An eyeglasses compartment* (not  
shown in the illustration) in the front  
center console above the ashtray.  
For further information on the cellular  
phone, refer to the separate Owner's  
Manual.  
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104nAshtray, front  
Cigarette lighter  
To open  
To empty  
Press the lighter in. It can be remove as  
soon as it pops up.  
Press briefly in the direction indicated  
by the arrow.  
Open the lid and press down (arrow):  
You can now pull the ashtray upward  
for removal.  
Hold or touch the hot cigarette  
lighter by the knob only. Holding  
or touching it in other areas could result  
in burns.  
To extinguish a cigarette, tap off the  
ash and gently press the tip into the  
funnel.  
The cigarette lighter remains opera-  
tional when the ignition key has been  
removed. For this reason, children  
should never be left in the vehicle  
unattended.<  
Cigarette lighter socket  
This socket can be used for connecting  
a flashlight, car vacuum cleaner, or other  
appliances up to approx. 200 watts at  
12 volts. Avoid damaging the socket due  
to inserting plugs of different shapes or  
sizes.  
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Ashtray, rear  
Power outlet  
105n  
To open  
Push the cover open.  
A flip-out socket (12 V) is located in the  
luggage compartment.  
To empty  
Press on the edge of the raised cover  
in the opening direction (arrow). You  
can now pull the ashtray upward for  
removal.  
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106nSki bag*  
The ski bag allows the safe and clean  
transport of up to four pairs of standard  
skis or up to two snowboards.  
The length of the ski bag and the addi-  
tional space provided in the luggage  
compartment make it possible to carry  
skis up to 6.8 feet long (2.10 meters).  
Because of the tapered shape of the  
bag, the ski bag can only accommodate  
two pairs of skis that are 6.8 feet  
(2.10 meters) long.  
Secure the skis or other objects in  
the bag by tightening the strap  
with the buckle.<  
Loading  
1 Fold the center armrest outward.  
Loosen the trim from the upper  
Velcro® fastener and place it on the  
armrest.  
2 Press the button (arrow 1) from inside  
the passenger compartment: the cover  
panel will fall to the luggage compart-  
ment floor.  
Please be sure that the skis are clean  
before loading them into the bag. Be  
careful to avoid damage from sharp  
edges.  
3 Press the detent lever (arrow 2)  
downward and fold the cover to the  
front.  
4 Extend the ski bag between the front  
seats. The zipper provides conve-  
nient access to the inside of the bag,  
and can also be left open to promote  
drying.  
To store the ski bag, perform the above  
steps in reverse sequence.  
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Cargo area  
107n  
Rear backrest that can be folded  
forward  
Reach into the recess and pull forward into the brackets.  
(arrow).  
Roll-up cover  
Pull the roll-up cover out and hook it  
Partition net*  
Pull the partition net out by the straps.  
Hold the bar on both sides and insert it  
into the holder. It is easiest to do this  
from the back seat.  
The cover will support light objects  
The backrest of the rear seat is divided such as items of clothing.  
into two portions, one-third and two-  
Do not allow the partition net to  
snap back. Doing so could cause  
injury and the partition net could be  
damaged.<  
thirds of the seat respectively. You can  
fold either section of the backrest down  
separately in order to increase the  
capacity of the luggage compartment.  
Never put any heavy or hard  
objects onto the roll-up cover,  
otherwise, vehicle occupants could be  
injured during braking or in an accident.  
Do not allow the cover to snap back,  
since this could damage it.<  
When the rear backrests are folded  
down, you can store the cassette on  
the back of the seats, pull the partition  
net out from there and insert it in the  
front holders (refer to the next page).  
When you close the backrest, be  
sure that the catch engages  
securely. The red warning indicator  
disappears into the recess.<  
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108nCargo area  
The cassette always has to be  
pushed all the way into both guide  
rails from the right side, or else it might  
be jammed in asymmetrically. In addi-  
tion, the door's interior paneling could  
be damaged when shutting the door.<  
Remove the roll-up cover and  
partition net  
Store with rear backrest folded  
down  
1 Press the side buttons simulta-  
neously (arrow 1).  
2 Pull the cassette out the back  
(arrow 2).  
The take-up guides for the cassette are  
attached to the back sides of the seat-  
backs (arrows 1).  
As shown in the illustration, push the  
cassette in from the right side until it  
clicks into place (arrow 2). When doing  
Installation  
Simply slide the cassette forward in the this, the roll-up cover must always point  
two side holders until it engages.  
in the direction of travel, and the strap  
for the partition net must point upward.  
You can pull the partition net out and  
insert it in the holders above it in the  
upper roof area.  
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Cargo area  
109n  
Floor panel  
Side covers  
To raise and secure the floor panel, lift  
Open the side covers by pressing the  
it by the ring and hook it into the rubber button.  
seal of the run-off gutter with the  
hanger (arrow).  
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110nCargo loading  
Always position and secure the  
load correctly. If you do not, it can  
endanger the passengers during  
braking or evasive maneuvers.  
Do not exceed the permissible gross  
vehicle weight and the permissible axle  
loads (refer to page 186). If you do, safe  
operation of the vehicle is no longer  
ensured, and you are in violation of  
the law.  
Do not carry hard or heavy objects  
unsecured in the passenger compart-  
ment. If you do so, they may be  
and evasive maneuvers, thus endan-  
gering vehicle occupants.<  
Stowing cargo  
If you are transporting a load in your  
BMW:  
Securing the load  
> Secure smaller, light pieces with the  
retaining straps or a luggage net*, or  
use luggage straps (refer to page 40).  
> For large, heavy pieces, see your  
BMW center for load-securing  
devices*. Use the lashing eyes  
(arrow) affixed to the four inside  
corners in the luggage compartment  
for securing the load.  
> Load heavy cargo as far forward as  
possible – directly behind the back-  
rests or the luggage compartment  
partition – and as low as possible.  
> Cover sharp edges and corners.  
> Do not pile objects higher than the  
top edge of the backrest.  
> Pull the partition net* out (refer to  
previous page). Be sure that items  
carried in the rear cannot slip through  
the partition net*.  
> Comply with the information enclosed  
with the load-securing devices.  
> If you are transporting very heavy  
loads when the rear seat is not occu-  
pied, secure the outer safety belts in  
the opposite buckles.  
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Roof-mounted luggage rack*  
111n  
Make sure that the load is not too heavy,  
and attempt to distribute it evenly.  
Always load the heaviest pieces first  
(on the bottom). Be sure that adequate  
clearance is maintained for raising the  
sliding/tilt sunroof, and that objects do  
not project into the opening path of the  
tailgate.  
Secure the roof luggage correctly and  
tightly to prevent it from shifting or  
being lost during driving (danger to  
following traffic).  
Mounting points  
Drive smoothly and avoid sudden  
acceleration or braking. Do not corner  
at high speeds.  
Access to the mounting points:  
To fold up the cover (arrow), please use  
the tool which is provided with the  
luggage system.  
The roof load increases aerodynamic  
resistance, resulting in increased fuel  
consumption and additional stresses  
on the vehicle's body.  
A special luggage system is available  
as an option for your BMW. Please  
observe the precautions included with  
the installation instructions.  
Because roof racks raise the center of  
gravity of the vehicle when loaded, they  
exercise a major effect on its handling  
and steering response.  
You should therefore always remember  
not to exceed the approved roof weight,  
the approved gross vehicle weight or  
the axle weights when loading the rack.  
You will find the specifications under  
"Technical Data" on page 186.  
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112n  
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113n  
Special operating instructions:  
Break-in procedures 114  
Driving notes 115  
Catalytic converter 115  
Antilock Brake System  
(ABS) 116  
Hood 130  
Engine compartment 132  
Washer fluids 134  
Washer nozzles 134  
Engine oil 135  
Overview  
Controls and features  
Disc brakes 118  
Coolant 137  
Brake system 120  
Brake fluid 138  
Vehicle Identification  
Number 139  
Winter operation 121  
Power steering 123  
Cellular phone 123  
Radio reception 123  
Operation, care  
and maintenance  
Care and maintenance:  
The BMW Maintenance  
System 140  
Caring for your vehicle 141  
Airbags 147  
Wheels and tires:  
Tire inflation pressure 124  
Tire condition 124  
Tire replacement 125  
Tire rotation 126  
Wheel and tire  
combinations 127  
Winter tires 128  
Owner service procedures  
Advanced technology  
Technical data  
Vehicle storage 147  
Laws and regulations:  
Technical modifications 148  
California Proposition  
65 Warning 148  
Snow chains 128  
Approved wheel and tire  
specifications 129  
OBD interface socket 149  
Index  
Car care  
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114nBreak-in procedures  
To ensure maximum economy and a  
long service life, we request that you  
observe the following suggestions.  
Tires  
Brake system  
After approximately 300 miles (500 km),  
the brake pads and discs achieve the  
Due to technical factors associated  
with their manufacture, tires do not  
achieve their full traction potential until optimal pad surface and wear patterns  
Engine and differential  
Up to 1,200 miles (2,000 km):  
an initial break-in period has elapsed.  
Thus drive with extra care during the  
required for trouble-free operation and  
long service life.  
Drive at varying engine speeds and road initial 200 miles (300 km).  
speeds, but do not exceed the following  
To break in the separate parking brake  
drums, apply the parking brake lightly  
when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic  
signal, for instance), provided that  
traffic conditions allow you to do so.  
To avoid corrosion, repeat this proce-  
dure from time to time.  
Obey your local and state maximum  
engine or road speeds during this time:  
4,500 rpm or 100 mph (160 km/h).  
speed limits.  
Obey your local and state maximum  
speed limits.  
When the vehicle is operated on  
wet or slushy roads, a wedge of  
water may form between the tire and  
the road surface. This phenomenon is  
referred to as aquaplaning, or hydropla-  
ning, and can lead to partial or  
complete loss of traction, vehicle  
control and braking effectiveness.  
Reduce your speed on wet roads.<  
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid  
pressing the accelerator beyond the  
"kickdown" point.  
The brake lamps do not come on  
when the parking brake is applied.  
Vacuum for the brake system servo unit  
on your BMW is available only when the  
engine is running. When you move the  
vehicle with the engine off – when  
towing, for example – substantially  
higher levels of pedal force will be  
required to brake the vehicle.<  
After you have driven 1,200 miles  
(2,000 km), you can gradually increase  
the engine and road speeds.  
You should also comply with these  
break-in procedures if the engine or  
differential is replaced at a later point.  
Clutch  
The clutch will also begin to function  
optimally after about 300 miles  
(500 km). Engage the gears carefully  
during the break-in period.  
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Driving notes  
Catalytic converter  
115n  
Brakes:  
Clothes hooks:  
The catalytic converter reduces harmful  
exhaust emissions, and is designed for  
Do not drive with your foot resting When suspending clothing from the  
on the brake pedal. Even light but  
consistent pedal pressure can lead to  
high temperatures, brake wear, and  
possibly to brake failure.  
hooks, ensure that they will not obstruct use with unleaded fuel only.  
the driver's vision. Do not hang heavy  
objects on the hooks. If you do, such  
Even minute quantities of lead would be  
enough to permanently damage both  
objects could pose the risk of personal the catalytic converter and the system  
injury during braking or evasive maneu- oxygen sensor.  
Aquaplaning:  
When driving on wet or slushy roads,  
reduce vehicle speed. If you do not, a  
wedge of water may form between the  
tires and the road surface. This  
phenomenon is referred to as aqua-  
planing or hydroplaning. It is character-  
ized by a partial or complete loss of  
contact between the tires and the road  
surface. The ultimate results are loss of  
steering and braking control.  
vers.<  
To ensure efficient, trouble-free engine  
operation and to avoid potential  
damage:  
> Be sure to comply with the scheduled  
maintenance requirements.  
> Fill the fuel tank well before it is  
empty.  
> Tow-start only when the engine is  
cold. If you attempt to tow-start with  
a warm engine, unburned residual  
fuel in the catalytic converter could  
ignite and cause damage. It is better  
to start the vehicle with an outside  
starting aid.  
> Avoid other situations in which the  
fuel is not burned, or burns incom-  
pletely, such as engaging the starter  
frequently or for extended periods, or  
repeated start attempts in which the  
engine does not start (stopping and  
restarting an engine which is running  
properly does not present a problem).  
Never allow the engine to run with  
any of the spark plug cables  
Driving through water:  
When there is water on the roads, do  
not drive in it if it is deeper than 1 ft  
(30 cm), and then only at walking speed  
at the most, otherwise the vehicle can  
sustain damage to the engine, the elec-  
trical systems and the transmission.  
Roll-up cover:  
Never use the rear window shelf to  
store heavy or bulky objects. If you do  
so, such objects could injure vehicle  
occupants during braking or evasive  
maneuvers or in a crash.  
disconnected.  
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116nCatalytic converter  
Antilock Brake System (ABS)  
Be sure to observe the instruc-  
tions above to prevent unburned  
fuel from reaching the catalytic  
converter, otherwise, the catalytic  
converter could overheat and be  
damaged.  
High temperatures occur in any vehicle  
equipped with a catalytic converter.  
Heat shields are installed adjacent to  
some sections of the exhaust system.  
Never remove these shields; do not  
apply undercoating to their surfaces.  
When driving, standing at idle, and  
parking the vehicle, take care to avoid  
contact between the exhaust system  
and flammable materials (grass, hay,  
leaves etc.). Such contact could lead to  
a fire, resulting in personal injury and  
property damage.<  
The concept  
Braking with ABS  
ABS enhances active driving safety by  
helping to prevent the wheels from  
locking under braking. The reason:  
The system is operative once the  
vehicle exceeds a speed of approx.  
6 mph (10 km/h). It is deactivated once  
locked wheels are dangerous. When the again below approx. 4 mph (6 km/h).  
front wheels slide, the driver loses  
steering control over the vehicle. Trac-  
tion loss at the rear wheels can cause  
the rear end to break into an uncon-  
trolled skid.  
This means that the wheels can lock in  
the final phase of a panic stop – a factor  
of no significance in actual use.  
If you are in a situation that requires full  
braking, you will exploit the full benefits  
of the ABS system if you apply  
The system can achieve the shortest  
braking distances possible under most maximum brake pressure ("panic  
conditions (on straight-aways and in  
curves, on asphalt, ice, wet road  
surfaces, etc.).  
stop"). Since the vehicle maintains  
steering responsiveness, you can  
nevertheless avoid possible obstacles  
with a minimum of steering effort.  
ABS is designed to meet two essential  
requirements during every brake appli- The ABS closed-loop control circuit  
cation:  
cycles in fractions of a second. A pulsa-  
tion at the brake pedal, together with  
the sounds associated with the  
hydraulic controls, tells you that the  
brake system is within its maximum  
limit range, and reminds you that you  
should adapt road speed to the road  
conditions.  
> To help provide vehicle stability.  
> Assured ability to steer and  
maneuver – on the various road  
surfaces (asphalt, concrete, dirt,  
wet conditions, snow, ice).  
The system can achieve the shortest  
braking distances possible under most  
conditions (on straight-away and in  
curves, on asphalt, ice, wet road  
surfaces, etc.).  
On road surfaces that have a loose  
surface layer on a firm base with good  
traction (on gravel or snow, for  
example), or when snow chains are  
mounted, braking distances may be  
longer than with locked wheels.  
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Antilock Brake System (ABS)  
117n  
Nevertheless, ABS possesses the  
advantage of vehicle stability and  
steering response.  
CBC, ABS und ASC+T/DSC  
indicators and warning lamps  
for Canadian models.  
In the event of a malfunction  
If the ABS warning lamp in the  
instrument cluster lights up,  
refer to page 22. The brake  
system then reverts to conventional  
operation as on vehicles without ABS.  
Information for your safety  
Not even ABS can suspend the laws  
of physics. The consequences of brake However, have the brake system  
applications with inadequate clea-  
rances for safety between vehicles,  
excessive speed or if aquaplaning  
occurs are always the responsibility of  
the driver. You should never allow the  
added safety of ABS to lull you into a  
false sense of security, or mislead you  
into taking risks that could affect your  
own safety and that of others.  
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.  
ABS warning lamp for Canadian  
model.  
If the brake warning lamps light  
up together with the indicator  
lamps for ABS and ASC+T/DSC  
– refer to page 19 – then the  
Do not make any modifications to  
the ABS system.  
Service procedures on ABS are to be  
performed by authorized technicians  
only.<  
entire regulating system, the  
ABS, CBC and ASC+T/DSC and  
ADB/ ADB-X/DBC have failed.  
Continue driving cautiously and  
defensively. Avoid full brake applica-  
tions. This could cause the vehicle to  
lose stability and you might no longer  
be able to control it.  
Antilock Brake System (ABS)/  
Cornering Brake Control (CBC)  
CBC is an advanced engineering devel-  
opment of ABS. When braking while  
cornering at high speed or braking  
during high lateral acceleration, or  
when braking during a lane change,  
vehicle stability is improved and  
steering response is enhanced.  
Have the system checked by your BMW  
center as soon as possible.  
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118nAntilock Brake System (ABS)  
Disc brakes  
Disc brakes furnish optimum decelera-  
tion and braking control and greater  
fade resistance under heavy use.  
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)*  
DBC is included in the DSC, refer to  
information beginning on page 81.  
When the vehicle is driven only occa-  
sionally, during extended periods when  
the vehicle is not used at all, and in  
operating conditions where brake appli-  
cations are less frequent, there is an  
increased tendency for corrosion of the  
discs and accumulation of contamina-  
tion on the brake pads. This occurs  
because the minimal pressure that must  
be exerted by the pads to clean the  
discs by brake applications is not  
reached.  
If you step on the brake rapidly, this  
system automatically produces  
maximum braking force boost and thus  
helps to achieve the shortest possible  
braking distance during "panic stops."  
All of the benefits of the ABS system  
are exploited under these circum-  
stances.  
Do not reduce the pressure on the  
brake pedal for the duration of the  
brake application. When the brake  
pedal is released, the DBC is deacti-  
vated.  
If the brake discs are corroded, they will  
tend to respond to braking with a  
pulsating effect that even extended  
brake applications will fail to cure.  
In the event of a malfunction,  
the yellow warning lamp comes  
on. Normal braking efficiency  
and the anti-lock braking system are  
still fully available.  
Have the system checked and repaired  
at your BMW center as soon as  
possible.  
For your own safety: use only  
brake pads which BMW has  
approved for your specific vehicle  
model. BMW cannot evaluate  
non-approved brake pads to determine  
if they are suited for use, and therefore  
cannot ensure the operating safety of  
the vehicle if they are installed.<  
Refer to the "Information for your  
safety" covering the ABS system.  
This information also generally applies  
for DBC.<  
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Disc brakes  
119n  
If engine braking should prove to be  
inadequate, you should still avoid  
Driving notes  
When driving in wet conditions and in  
heavy rain, it is effective to apply light  
pressure to the brakes every few miles  
or kilometers. Watch traffic conditions  
to ensure that this maneuver does not  
endanger other drivers. The heat which  
is generated by the brake applications  
helps to dry the brake pads and discs.  
extended, continuous braking. Instead  
of maintaining low to moderate pres-  
sure over an extended period of time,  
you should decelerate by applying  
more substantial pressure to the brake  
pedal (watch for following traffic),  
releasing the pedal, and then repeating  
the application (staggered braking). The  
cooling phases between active braking  
intervals prevent the brakes from over-  
heating, thus ensuring that full braking  
capacity remains available at all times.  
Maximum braking force is obtained  
while the wheels are not locked, but  
rather when they are still barely turning  
immediately prior to locking. ABS main-  
tains this state automatically. If the ABS  
fails, you should revert to the staggered  
braking technique (refer to page 122).  
Do not allow the vehicle to coast  
when the clutch is depressed or  
Extended or steep mountain descents  
should be driven in the gear in which  
only minimal periodic brake application  
is required. This avoids excessive strain  
on the brakes and possible  
by shifting into neutral while moving. Do  
not drive when the engine is switched  
off. The engine provides no braking  
control when the clutch is depressed or  
the transmission is in "Neutral" and  
there is no power-assist for the brakes  
when the engine is shut off.  
BMW 325xi: have brake inspections  
performed at a BMW center only. If you  
do not, parts of the four-wheel drive  
system could be damaged.  
Do not allow floor mats, carpets or any  
other objects to protrude into the area  
around the brake pedal, the clutch or  
the accelerator which could obstruct  
their freedom of movement.<  
impairment of the braking effect.  
The braking effect of the engine can be  
further increased by downshifting, into  
first gear, if necessary. In the manual  
mode of the automatic transmission,  
you can also downshift into first gear.  
Refer to page 66.  
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120nBrake system  
Brake fluid level  
Brake linings  
The warning lamp for the brake  
The warning lamp for the brake  
comes on with the parking  
brake released:  
pads comes on:  
The brake pads have reached  
The brake fluid level is too low in the  
reservoir (refer to page 138).  
their minimum pad thickness. Proceed  
to the nearest BMW center as soon as  
possible to have the pads replaced.  
If the brake fluid level is too low and  
brake pedal travel has become notice-  
ably longer, there may be a defect in  
one of the brake system's hydraulic  
circuits.  
For your own safety: use only  
BMW approved brake pads for  
your specific vehicle model. BMW  
cannot evaluate non-approved brake  
pads to determine if they are suited for  
use, and therefore cannot ensure the  
operating safety of the vehicle if they  
are installed.<  
Brake warning lamp for Cana-  
dian models.  
Proceed to the nearest BMW  
center. Higher brake application  
pressure may be necessary under these  
conditions, and brake pedal travel may  
be significantly longer. Please  
remember to adapt your driving style  
accordingly.<  
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Winter operation  
121n  
Winter is often accompanied by rapid  
changes in weather. Adaptions in  
driving style should be accompanied by  
preparations on the vehicle itself to  
ensure that your vehicle operates safely  
and trouble-free throughout the winter  
months.  
Rubber seals and components  
To prevent the weather stripping from  
freezing, apply a spray-on rubber treat- deep snow or when "rocking" the  
ment or silicone spray to the door, hood vehicle to free it, it may be effective to  
and tailgate seals.  
Starting off  
When starting off from a full stop in  
deactivate the ASC+T/DSC system for  
a short period. Refer to page 79.  
A full range of car care products is  
available from your BMW center.<  
Driving on low-traction road  
surfaces  
Coolant  
Be sure that the coolant mixture  
contains the year-round ratio of 50:50  
water and antifreeze/corrosion protec-  
tion. This mixture will resist freezing to  
approx. 34 7 (–37 6). Replace the  
coolant every four years.  
Snow chains*  
Use smooth, gentle pressure to control  
BMW snow chains can be mounted on the accelerator pedal. Avoid excessive  
both summer and winter tires. Mount  
them in pairs on the rear wheels only  
and comply with the manufacturer's  
safety precautions. Do not exceed a  
maximum speed of 30 mph (50 km/h).  
In this type of exceptional situation  
where the snow chains are mounted,  
deactivate the ASC+T/DSC. Refer to  
page 79.  
engine speeds and shift to the next  
higher gear at an early point. Downshift  
into the next lower gear on ascents or  
descents. Maintain an adequate  
distance between yourself and the  
vehicle ahead.  
Locks  
BMW door lock deicer can be used to  
free them if frozen. This deicer also  
contains lubricant.  
After using the deicer, treatment with  
BMW lock cylinder grease is recom-  
mended.  
BMW 325xi: in a worst-case scenario,  
i.e. if your vehicle is stuck on one side  
or you cannot access one tire, then only  
one chain may be attached to a rear  
wheel for a short period of time.  
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122nWinter operation  
Do not shift down on slick road  
surfaces – if you want to decel-  
erate. Doing so could cause the rear  
wheels to lose traction and skid, which  
could result in the loss of vehicle  
control.<  
Braking  
Parking  
Winter road conditions substantially  
reduce the amount of traction available  
between the tires and the road surface.  
Keep this in mind, because the braking  
distance increases substantially.  
Engage 1st or reverse gear. If your  
vehicle is equipped with an automatic  
transmission, place the selector lever in  
"Park." On vehicles with manual trans-  
mission, also apply the parking brake  
when parking on inclined surfaces. In  
order to prevent the parking brake pads  
from locking due to frost or corrosion,  
dry them by gently applying the parking  
brake as the vehicle is coming to a  
stop. Make sure that following traffic  
is not endangered.  
ABS is intended to prevent the wheels  
from locking during brake applications,  
thus helping to maintain vehicle stability  
and steering response.  
Depress the clutch during hard  
braking on road surfaces that  
provide only poor or uneven traction.<  
If the ABS does not respond in a critical  
braking situation and the wheels lock:  
reduce the pressure on the brake pedal  
until the wheels just start to roll again  
while still maintaining enough force to  
continue braking.  
Then increase the pressure, reduce the  
pressure when the wheels lock, reapply  
pressure etc.  
Skid control  
Depress the clutch and release the  
accelerator pedal, or place the selector  
lever of the automatic transmission into  
the "Neutral" position. Countersteer  
carefully and attempt to regain control  
of the vehicle.  
The brake lamps do not come  
on when the parking brake is  
applied.<  
This staggered braking procedure will  
reduce braking distances while helping  
you maintain steering control.  
You can then attempt to steer around  
hazards after you have reduced pres-  
sure on the brake pedal.  
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Power steering  
Cellular phone*  
Radio reception  
123n  
Changes in steering response, e. g. high Only mobile communications systems  
The reception and sound quality  
obtained from mobile radios vary  
according to a variety of factors,  
including the broadcast range of the  
transmitter and the directional orienta-  
tion of the antenna. Interference factors  
such as high-tension power lines,  
steering effort:  
Consult a BMW center to have the  
system checked.  
(cellular phone, radio, etc.) with an  
output up to 10 watts are permitted.  
Mobile communications devices not  
specifically designed for use in your  
vehicle may trigger malfunctions while  
If the power steering fails,  
increased effort will be required to operating your vehicle. BMW can  
steer the vehicle.<  
neither test nor assume responsibility  
for every individual product being  
structural or natural obstructions can all  
lead to unavoidable reception interfer-  
offered on the market. We recommend ence, regardless of how well the vehicle  
that you consult your BMW center  
before purchasing any device of this  
kind.  
sound system is operating.  
Climatic factors such as intense solar  
radiation, fog, rain and snow can also  
interfere with reception.  
To ensure that your BMW continues to  
provide reliable and trouble-free opera- Cellular or portable phones not recom-  
tion, do not use a cellular phone or  
other radio device with an antenna  
located inside the passenger compart-  
ment. The antenna should always be  
mounted on the outside of the vehicle.  
mended by BMW can also generate  
interference in the radio when making  
telephone calls. This phenomenon  
assumes the form of a low-pitched hum  
emanating from the speaker system.  
Please refer to the Owner's Manual  
provided with your sound system for  
detailed information on its use.  
Before loading the vehicle on a  
car-carrier train or driving it  
through a car-wash, remove the  
antenna.<  
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124nTire inflation pressure  
Tire condition  
Never continue driving on a  
deflated (flat) tire. A flat tire greatly  
impairs steering and braking response,  
and can lead to complete loss of  
control over the vehicle.  
Information for your safety  
The factory-approved radial tires are  
matched to the vehicle and have been  
selected to provide optimum safety and  
driving comfort on your vehicle.  
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that  
the permitted load on the tires is not  
exceeded. Overloading can lead to  
overheating and increases the rate at  
which damage develops inside the  
tires. You could have a blowout as a  
result.  
Unusual vibrations encountered during  
normal vehicle operation can indicate  
tire failure or some other vehicle defect.  
The same applies to irregularities  
related to your usual driving style, such  
as pulling hard to the left or right.  
Should this occur, respond by immedi-  
ately reducing your speed. Proceed  
carefully to the nearest BMW center or  
professional tire center, or have the  
vehicle towed in to have it and its tires  
inspected.  
It is not merely the tire's service life, but  
also driving comfort and – above all  
else – driving safety that depend on the  
condition of the tires and the mainte-  
nance of the specified tire pressure.  
Incorrect inflation pressure is a frequent  
cause of tire damage. It also signifi-  
cantly influences the roadholding ability  
of your BMW.  
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.  
Check the tire inflation pressure –  
for the space-saver spare tire or  
spare tire – on a regular basis (refer to  
page 28), at least twice a month, and  
before starting out on any extended  
trip. If this is not done, incorrect tire  
pressures can cause driving instability  
and tire damage, ultimately resulting in  
an accident.<  
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 tread-  
groove base indicate that the wear  
limit – applicable by law throughout  
Europe – has been reached. Below  
0.12 in (3 mm) tread depth, there is an  
increased risk of aquaplaning, even at  
relatively moderate speeds and with  
only small amounts of water on the  
road.  
Tire damage (up to and including  
sudden and complete air loss) can  
endanger the lives of both the vehicle  
occupants and other road users.<  
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Tire replacement  
125n  
the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Stan-  
dard No. 109. Grades B and A repre-  
sent higher levels of performance on  
the laboratory test wheel than the  
minimum required by law.  
To maintain good handling and vehicle  
response, use only tires of a single  
tread configuration from a single manu-  
facturer. BMW tests and approves  
wheel/tire combinations. Refer to  
page 129.  
Traction  
The traction grades, from highest to  
lowest, are AA, A, B, and C.  
Those grades represent the tire's ability  
to stop on wet pavement as measured  
under controlled conditions on speci-  
fied government test surfaces of asphalt  
and concrete. A tire marked C may have  
poor traction performance.  
The temperature grade for this tire  
is established for a tire that is  
DOT Quality Grades  
Treadwear  
Traction AA A B C  
Temperature A B C  
properly inflated and not overloaded.  
Excessive speed, under-inflation, or  
excessive loading, either separately or  
in combination, can cause heat buildup  
and possible tire failure.<  
The traction grade assigned to  
this tire is based on straight-  
ahead braking traction tests, and does  
not include acceleration, cornering,  
hydroplaning, or peak traction charac-  
teristics.<  
All passenger car tires must  
conform to Federal Safety  
Requirements in addition to these  
grades.<  
Uniform Tire Quality Grading  
Quality grades can be found where  
applicable on the tire sidewall between  
tread shoulder and maximum section  
width. For example:  
Tread wear  
The tread wear grade is a comparative  
Temperature  
The temperature grades are A (the  
rating based on the wear rate of the tire highest), B, and C, representing the  
Tread wear 200 Traction AA  
Temperature A  
when tested under controlled condi-  
tions on a specified government test  
course.  
tire's resistance to the generation of  
heat and its ability to dissipate heat  
when tested under controlled condi-  
tions on a specified indoor laboratory  
test wheel.  
Do not use retreaded tires. Driving  
safety may be impaired by their  
use. This is due to the possible varia-  
tions in casing structures and, in some  
cases, to their extreme age, which can  
lead to a decrease in their durability.<  
For example, a tire graded 150 would  
wear one and one-half (1g) times as  
well on the government course as a tire  
graded 100. The relative performance  
of tires depends upon the actual condi-  
tions of their use, however, and may  
depart significantly from the norm due  
to variations in driving habits, service  
practices and differences in road char-  
acteristics and climate.  
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  
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126nTire replacement  
Tire rotation  
If different tire sizes are mounted  
on the front and rear axles (refer to  
page 129), the wheels may not be  
rotated from one axle to the other.<  
Tire age  
Between the axles  
The tread wear patterns at the front end  
The date on which the tire was manu-  
factured is indicated by the code on the differ from those at the rear – the actual  
sidewall: patterns will vary according to indi-  
DOT ... 4100 indicates that the tire was vidual driving conditions. In the inter-  
manufactured during week 41 of the  
year 2000.  
ests of safety and maintaining optimal  
handling characteristics, tire rotation is  
not recommended.  
BMW recommends the replacement of  
all tires when the tires are no more than If a proposed interaxle rotation of tires  
6 years old, even if a tire life of 10 years is based on economic considerations,  
is possible.  
one should consider whether the costs  
for the rotation are likely to be recap-  
tured by any increase in the service life  
of the tires that might be realized. In  
principle, interaxle rotation must be  
performed in short intervals, with a  
maximum of 3,000 miles (5,000 km).  
Consult your BMW center for more  
information.  
Spare tires over 6 years old should be  
used only in case of emergency. A tire  
of this age should be replaced by a new  
tire immediately, and should not be  
mounted together with new tires.  
Should you decide to rotate the tires, it  
is essential to comply with the following:  
Rotate tires on the same side only, since  
braking characteristics and road grip  
could otherwise be adversely affected.  
Following rotation, the tire inflation  
pressure should always be corrected.  
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Wheel and tire combinations  
127n  
Winter tires:  
The right choice  
Codes on tires and wheels  
Use only tires approved by BMW.  
Refer to the information beginning on  
page 129.  
The tire codes will aid you in selecting  
the correct tire.  
Q M+S = up to 100 mph (160 km/h)  
T
M+S = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)  
H M+S = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)  
Codes on radial tires:  
Due to the high speeds this vehicle can  
reach, the use of specific brands, spec-  
ifications and sizes is mandatory.  
Consult any BMW center for details.  
Comply with local/national regulations.  
Codes stamped on light-alloy wheels:  
For example:  
205/60 R 15 91 W  
For example:  
7
J
x 15 H 2  
Nominal width  
in mm  
Aspect ratio in %  
Radial tire code  
Rim diameter in inches  
Load rating  
(not on ZR tires)  
Speed rating  
Rim width  
in inches  
Code letter for  
flange type  
Symbol for full-drop  
center rim  
The correct wheel-tire combina-  
tion affects different systems such  
as ABS, ATC and ASC+T/DSC. The  
function of these systems is impaired if  
improper wheel-tire combinations are  
used.  
For this reason, use only tires of the  
same brand and tread pattern. In the  
event of a flat tire, for example, remount  
the approved wheel-tire combination as  
soon as possible.<  
Rim diameter in inches  
Hump on the 2 rim shoulders  
(before R on ZR tires)  
Protect tire valves from dirt by using  
screw-on valve stem caps. Dirt in the  
valves frequently leads to slow leaks.  
The speed rating indicates the approved  
maximum speed for the tire.  
Summer tires:  
S
T
H
V
W
Y
= up to 112 mph (180 km/h)  
= up to 118 mph (190 km/h)  
= up to 130 mph (210 km/h)  
= up to 150 mph (240 km/h)  
= up to 167 mph (270 km/h)  
= up to 187 mph (300 km/h)  
ZR = over 150 mph (240 km/h)  
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128nWinter tires  
Choosing the right tire  
Do not exceed specified  
maximum speeds  
Storage  
BMW recommends winter tires (M+S  
radial tires) for driving in adverse winter  
road conditions. So-called all-season  
tires with the M+S-identification mark  
do indeed possess better winter trac-  
tion than summer tires with the load  
rating H, V, W, Y und ZR, but usually do Have this work performed by skilled  
not achieve the same level of perfor-  
mance as winter tires.  
Always store tires in a cool, dry place.  
Never exceed the maximum speed Store them away from light whenever  
for which the tires are rated.  
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to  
service tires can lead to damage and  
accidents.  
possible. Protect the tires against  
contact with oil, grease and fuel.  
Snow chains*  
The use of narrow-link BMW snow  
chains on summer or winter tires is  
approved only in pairs and only on the  
rear wheels. Comply with all manufac-  
turer's safety precautions when  
mounting the chains.  
professionals only. Any BMW center  
has the required technical knowledge  
and the proper equipment and will be  
happy to assist you.<  
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 Once the tire wears to below 0.16 in  
tires.  
Tire condition, tire pressure  
BMW 325xi: in a worst-case scenario,  
i.e. if your vehicle is stuck on one side  
or you cannot access one tire, then only  
one chain may be attached to a rear  
wheel for a short period of time.  
(4 mm), winter tires display a percep-  
tible decrease in their ability to cope  
with winter driving conditions, and  
should be replaced in the interest of  
safety.  
Mount only winter tires which have  
been approved by BMW. Any BMW  
center will be glad to provide you with  
information on the best winter tires for  
your particular driving conditions.  
Comply with all manufacturer's safety  
precautions when mounting the chains.  
Comply with the specified tire inflation  
pressures – and be sure to have the  
wheel and tire assemblies balanced  
every time you change the tires.  
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Approved wheel and tire specifications  
129n  
BMW 325xi  
Tire specifications  
Steel rim  
Light-alloy wheel  
For all tires, only light-alloy wheels must  
be used.  
(wheel rim)  
All season tires  
205/55 R 16 91 H M+S  
205/50 R 17 93 V M+S extra load  
Summer tires  
7Jx16  
7Jx17  
7Jx16  
7Jx17  
Snow chains*  
You cannot mount snow chains on the  
following tires:  
225/50 R 16 92 W  
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S  
225/50 ZR 16  
205/55 R 16 91 V  
225/50 R 16 92 W  
225/50 ZR 16  
7Jx16  
225/45 R 17 91 W  
225/45 R 17 91 Q M+S  
225/45 ZR 17  
205/50 R 17 93 W extra load  
225/45 R 17 91 W  
7Jx17  
8Jx17  
Front: 225/45 ZR 17  
Rear: 245/40 ZR 17  
7.5Jx17  
8.5Jx17  
Mixed tires  
For details concerning tire manufac-  
turers for mixed tires, refer to the  
vehicle documents.  
Winter tires  
205/55 R 16 91 Q M+S  
7Jx16  
7Jx16  
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S (not 325xi)  
205/50 R 17 93 Q M+S extra load  
225/45 R 17 91 Q M+S  
Spare wheel  
7Jx17  
7Jx17  
8Jx17  
T 115/90 R 16 92 M  
T 125/90 R 16 98 M  
T 125/80 R 17 99 M  
3.0Bx16  
3.5Bx16  
3.5Bx17  
Comply with the specifications for tires and wheels in the vehicle documents.  
If you install tire sizes not approved by the manufacturer, this information must  
be entered in the vehicle documents.  
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130nHood  
Do not work on your vehicle with-  
out appropriate skills. Always  
switch off the engine and allow it to  
cool down before working in the engine  
compartment. Always disconnect the  
battery before working on any electrical  
systems or equipment, especially when  
these are located within the engine  
compartment. Comply with all applica-  
ble instructions and warnings. Failure to  
work in an informed, professional man-  
ner when servicing components and  
materials constitutes a safety hazard for  
vehicle occupants and other road  
To unlock  
Pull the lever located under the left-  
hand side of the dashboard.  
To open  
Pull the release handle and open the  
hood.  
users. If you are not familiar with the  
guidelines, please have the operations  
performed by your BMW center.<  
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Hood  
131n  
To close  
Allow the hood to fall from a height of  
about 12 in (30 cm) so that it audibly  
engages.  
To avoid injuries, be sure that the  
travel path of the hood is clear  
when it is closed, as with all closing  
procedures.  
If it is determined that the hood is not  
completely closed while driving, stop  
immediately and close it securely.<  
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132nEngine compartment – BMW 325i, 325xi  
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Engine compartment – BMW 325i, 325xi  
133n  
1 Brake fluid reservoir 138  
2 Engine oil dipstick 135  
3 Coolant expansion tank 137  
4 Engine oil filler neck 135  
5 Reservoir for the headlamp* and  
windshield washer system 134  
6 Auxiliary terminal for jump  
starting 167  
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134nWasher fluids  
Washer nozzles  
Windshield washer  
The spray from the nozzles should be  
directed at the front windshield and the  
rear window in such a way they will be  
properly cleaned even at high speeds.  
Use a needle to adjust the nozzles as  
required, or have them adjusted by your  
BMW center.  
Headlamp washer system*  
Have this system adjusted by your  
BMW center as required.  
Windshield washer system  
(rear window)  
Headlamp* and windshield  
washer system  
Capacity: approx. 2.4 US quarts  
(2.3 liters).  
Capacity: approx. 5.6 US quarts  
(5.3 liters).  
Fill with water and – if required – with a  
washer antifreeze (according to manu-  
facturer's recommendations).  
Fill with water and – if required – with a  
washer antifreeze (according to manu-  
facturer's recommendations).  
We recommend that you mix the  
washer fluid before adding it to  
the reservoir.<  
We recommend that you mix the  
washer fluid before adding it to  
the reservoir.<  
Antifreeze for the washer systems  
is flammable. For this reason, keep  
it away from sources of flame and store  
it only in its original containers. Store it  
so that it is inaccessible to children.  
Comply with the instructions on the  
containers.<  
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Engine oil  
135n  
Checking the oil level  
To add oil  
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.  
1 Park the vehicle on a level surface.  
2 Shut the engine off after it has  
reached normal operating tempera-  
ture.  
Wait until the level has dropped to just  
above the lower mark before adding oil.  
However, never let the oil drop below  
the lower mark.  
3 After approx. 5 minutes, pull the  
dipstick out and wipe it off with a  
clean lint-free cloth, paper towel, or  
similar material.  
4 Carefully push the dipstick all the way  
into the guide tube and pull it out  
again.  
BMW engines are designed to  
operate without oil additives; the  
use of additives could lead to damage  
in some cases. This also applies to the  
manual transmission, automatic trans-  
mission, differential and power steering  
system.<  
5 The oil level should be between the  
two marks on the dipstick.  
As with fuel economy, oil consumption  
is directly influenced by your driving  
style and vehicle operating conditions.  
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136nEngine oil  
Specified engine oil  
Viscosity ratings  
The quality of the engine oil is  
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as estab-  
lished in SAE classes.  
extremely important for the function  
and life of an engine. Based on exten-  
sive testing, BMW has approved only  
certain types of engine oils.  
The selection of the correct SAE class  
depends on the climatic conditions in  
the area where you drive your BMW.  
Use only approved "BMW High Perfor-  
mance Synthetic Oil."  
Approved oils are in SAE classes  
5W-40 and 5W-30.<  
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High  
Performance Synthetic Oil", you may  
use small volumes of other approved  
synthetic oils for topping off between oil  
changes. Use only oils with the specifi-  
cation API SH or higher.  
These kinds of oil may be used for  
driving in all ambient temperatures.  
Ask your BMW center for details  
concerning the specific "BMW  
High Performance Synthetic Oil" or  
synthetic oils that have been  
approved.<  
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  
137n  
Comply with the applicable envi-  
Do not add coolant to the cooling  
ronmental laws regulating the  
disposal of used oil.<  
system when the engine is hot.  
If you do, escaping coolant can cause  
burns.  
Recommendation: have the oil changed To avoid the possibility of damage later  
by your BMW center only.  
on, never use anything other than  
factory-approved, nitrite- and amino-  
free extended-duty antifreeze with  
corrosion inhibitor. Your BMW center is  
familiar with the approved specifica-  
tions.  
Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents are  
hazardous to health. You should always  
store it in its original container and in a  
location that is inaccessible to children.  
Continuous exposure to used oil  
has caused cancer in laboratory  
testing.  
For this reason, thoroughly wash any  
areas of skin that come into contact  
with oil using soap and water.  
Always store oils, grease and similar  
materials so that they are inaccessible  
Checking coolant level  
Correct coolant level when the engine  
is cold (approx. +68 7/+20 6):  
to children. Comply with warning labels Extended-duty antifreeze with corro-  
Unscrew the cap from the expansion  
tank.  
and information on containers.<  
sion inhibitor contains the flammable  
substance ethylene glycol. Therefore,  
do not spill antifreeze with corrosion  
inhibitor on hot engine parts. It could  
ignite and cause burns.<  
The coolant level is correct when the  
upper end of the red float is at least  
even with the upper edge of the filler  
neck (refer to the arrow in the illustra-  
tion), but no more than 0.8 in (2 cm)  
above it – that is, up to the second mark  
on the float (refer also the schematic  
diagram next to the filler neck).  
Comply with the applicable envi-  
ronmental laws regulating the  
disposal of extended-duty antifreeze  
with corrosion inhibitor.<  
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138nCoolant  
Brake fluid  
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,  
it absorbs moisture from the air  
over time.  
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. If it is not,  
there is a danger of scalding.  
In order to ensure the safety and reli-  
ability of the brake system, have the  
brake fluid changed every two years by  
a BMW center. Refer also to the Service  
and Warranty Information Booklet  
(US models) or the Warranty and  
Service Guide Booklet (Canadian  
models).  
Brake fluid is toxic and damages the  
vehicle's paint. You should always store  
it in its original container and in a loca-  
tion inaccessible to children.  
Do not spill the fluid and do not fill the  
brake fluid reservoir beyond the "MAX"  
mark. The brake fluid could ignite upon  
contact with hot engine parts and cause  
serious burns.<  
1 Turn the cap slightly counterclock-  
wise in order to allow accumulated  
pressure to escape, then open.  
2 If the coolant is low, slowly add  
coolant until the correct level is  
reached – do not overfill.  
If the brake warning lamp comes on  
and the parking brake has been  
released:  
Check the brake fluid level. Fill it to the  
top mark ("MAX") if necessary.  
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.  
For adding brake fluid or for deter-  
mining and correcting the cause of  
brake fluid loss, consult your BMW  
center. Your BMW center is familiar  
with the specifications for factory-  
approved brake fluids (DOT 4).  
Comply with the applicable envi-  
ronmental laws regulating the  
disposal of brake fluid.<  
Replace the coolant every four years.  
Brake fluid loss can result in extended  
pedal travel. Comply with the informa-  
tion provided on page 120.  
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Vehicle Identification Number  
139n  
In the engine compartment, on the  
right-hand strut dome (arrow).  
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140nThe BMW Maintenance System  
actual conditions under which the  
Service and Warranty Information  
Booklet (US models)/Warranty and  
Service Guide (Canada models)  
For additional information on mainte-  
nance intervals and procedures, please  
refer to the Service and Warranty Infor-  
mation Booklet (US models) or to the  
Warranty and Service Guide (Canadian  
models).  
vehicle operates, because miles can be  
traveled in many different ways:  
From a maintenance perspective,  
62,000 miles (100,000 km) of short-  
distance urban driving are not equiva-  
lent to 62,000 miles (100,000 km)  
covered at moderate speeds in long-  
distance highway travel.  
The BMW Maintenance System  
includes the Engine Oil Service and  
Inspections I and II.  
As a precaution against rust, it is  
advisable to have the body checked for  
damage from rocks or gravel at the  
same time, depending upon operating  
The BMW Maintenance System has  
been designed as a reliable means for  
providing maximum driving and operat-  
ing safety – and as cost effectively as  
possible for you.  
Determining the maintenance intervals  
according to the actual use of the vehi- conditions.  
cle covers every kind of operating situa-  
tion. However, even those who drive  
only short distances – significantly less  
Have your BMW center perform  
maintenance and repair.  
than 6,000 miles (10,000 km) annually – Your BMW center is always "up to date"  
Please keep in mind that regular main-  
tenance is not only necessary for the  
safety of your vehicle, but also plays a  
significant role in maintaining the resale  
value of the vehicle.  
should have the engine oil changed at  
least every 2 years since oil deterio-  
rates over time, regardless of use.  
on the latest maintenance work and  
repair techniques and equipped with  
the required special tools. In addition,  
checking parts known from experience  
to be subject to wear is a permanent  
part of the maintenance specifications.  
Be sure that all maintenance work is  
confirmed in the Service and Warranty  
Information Booklet (US models) or the  
Warranty and Service Guide (Canadian  
models). These entries will constitute  
your proof that the vehicle has received  
regular maintenance. They are also  
required for warranty claims.<  
Service Interval Display  
Advanced technology is employed  
to calculate the optimal maintenance  
intervals. These are then indicated in  
the Service Interval Display. While  
conventional systems rely on distance  
traveled alone to determine when  
service is due, the BMW Maintenance  
System has for years considered the  
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Caring for your vehicle  
141n  
Turn the rain sensor off (refer to  
page 69) when passing through an  
automatic car wash. Failure to do so  
could result in damage caused by unin- (scratches). Never use abrasives or  
tended wiper activation.<  
When cleaning the headlamps,  
please observe the following:  
do not clean by wiping with a dry cloth  
Washing your vehicle  
You can wash your BMW at an auto-  
matic car wash, even when it is new.  
Brushless systems are preferable.  
strong solvents to clean the covers.  
Remove dirt and contamination (such  
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car  
Wipe away tough dirt and loosen and  
remove dead insects before washing  
the vehicle.  
Parts of the vehicle which are  
inaccessible to the automatic washer – Shampoo and then rinsing with plenty  
In order to avoid spots, do not wash  
the vehicle when the hood is warm, or  
during or immediately after exposure to  
strong sunlight.  
such as door sills, door and hood  
edges, etc. – should be cleaned by  
hand.  
of water. Always use a deicer spray to  
remove accumulated ice and snow –  
never use a scraper.<  
In the winter months, it is especially  
important to ensure that the vehicle is  
washed on a regular basis. Large quan-  
tities of dirt and road salt are difficult to  
remove, and they also damage the  
vehicle.  
After washing the vehicle, apply  
the brakes briefly to dry them.  
Braking efficiency might otherwise be  
reduced by the moisture and the brake  
rotors could be corrode.<  
When using an automatic car wash, be  
sure that:  
> The car wash system is suited for the  
dimensions of your vehicle.  
> No damage will occur to vehicles  
with attached body accessories (such  
as spoilers or antennas). Consult the  
car wash operator if necessary.  
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.<  
> The wheels and tires of your vehicle  
cannot be damaged by the convey-  
ance devices of the car wash system.  
> The vehicle is cleaned with minimum  
brush pressure, and that ample water  
is available for washing and rinsing.  
Vehicles with rain sensor:  
Clean the windshield regularly. Wax  
from automatic car washes or insects  
can cause malfunctions in the function  
of the rain sensor.  
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142nCaring for your vehicle  
Depending upon material and type of  
impact (perforation of paint layer),  
physical stresses from sand, road salt,  
gravel, etc., can cause corrosion to start  
extending beneath the finish, starting at  
the point of impact.  
In coastal regions, high levels of  
atmospheric salt and humidity promote  
corrosion.  
Exterior finish  
To provide effective corrosion protec-  
tion, multilayer paintwork is applied at  
the factory. Cataphoretic immersion  
priming techniques are supplemented  
with special body-cavity protectants,  
by applying specially-developed and  
extensively tested materials.  
A layer of flexible PVC is first applied  
to the undercarriage. Following this,  
a comprehensive undercoating treat-  
ment with a wax-based protectant is  
applied. Regular maintenance makes  
In tropical zones, temperatures of over  
+105 7 (+40 6) in the shade prevail,  
in addition to heavy ultraviolet radiation  
and high humidity. Under those condi-  
tions, light paints can reach tempera-  
tures up to +175 7 (+80 6) and dark  
paints up to +250 7 (+120 6).  
Road dirt, tar spots, dead insects,  
animal droppings (strong alkali effect)  
and tree excretions (resins and pollen)  
all contain substances capable of  
causing damage when allowed to  
remain on the finish of your vehicle for  
any extended period of time (spots,  
an important contribution to maintaining etching, flaking, separation in the top  
the safety and value of your vehicle.  
coat).  
Increasing awareness of the effects of  
harmful environmental factors on vehi-  
cle finishes have led paint and vehicle  
manufacturers to initiate programs  
In industrial areas, flue dust deposits,  
lime, oily soot, precipitation containing  
sulfur-dioxide (acid rain) and other envi-  
ronmental pollutants will damage the  
designed to further improve the durabil- vehicle's finish unless adequate care is  
ity of their finishes. Despite this, envi-  
ronmental factors that occur locally or  
provided – even though this is generally  
limited to the outside horizontal sur-  
regionally can have negative effects on faces.  
the finish of your vehicle. Use the  
factors to determine the frequency and  
extent of your efforts to maintain the  
vehicle finish.  
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Caring for your vehicle  
143n  
Caring for the vehicle finish  
Waxing your vehicle  
Paint damage  
Regular washing is a preventive  
measure against long-term effects from or synthetic-based waxes.  
substances that are harmful to the  
Protect the finish using only carnauba  
You can touch up small areas of paint  
damage with a BMW spray paint or a  
BMW touchup stick.  
The best way to determine when 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).  
finish needs to be waxed is by noting  
when water stops beading on the  
surface.  
The paint color code for your car is  
provided on a sticker located on the  
righthand side under the hood and on  
the first page of your Service and  
Warranty Information Booklet  
You can use a glass cleaner to remove  
any wax or silicone that may have been  
left on the windows during waxing.  
Nevertheless, you should immediately  
remove especially aggressive  
(US models) or Warranty and Service  
Guide (Canadian models).  
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.  
Use the cleaning and car-care  
products available at your BMW  
center.<  
Damage caused by flying stones,  
scratches, etc., must be touched up  
without delay to prevent rust from  
forming.  
If corrosion has started to form in an  
area with paint damage, remove all rust  
and clean the area. Then prime the  
area with a BMW Primer Stick. Finally,  
apply the finish coat. Wait a few days,  
then polish the repaired area. Finish by  
applying a wax preservative.  
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 clean-  
ing, the affected areas should be waxed  
to ensure continued protection.  
More extensive paint damage should  
be repaired professionally in accor-  
dance with the manufacturer's instruc-  
tions. Your BMW center uses original  
BMW finish materials in accordance  
with approved repair procedures.  
Use the cleaning and car-care  
products available at your BMW  
center.<  
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144nCaring for your vehicle  
Rubber components should be cleaned  
with water only; a rubber treatment or  
silicone spray may also be applied.  
Caring for the windows  
You can use window and glass cleaner  
to clean inside window surfaces and  
Caring for other vehicle  
components and materials  
Light-alloy wheels should be treated  
mirrors without smearing and streaking. with alloy wheel cleaner, especially  
Safety belts should be cleaned with a  
Never use polishing pastes or abrasive during the winter months. However, do mild soap and water solution without  
(quartz) cleansers on mirror lenses.  
not use aggressive products contain-  
ing acids, strong alkalis or abrasives.  
Do not use steam cleaners operating at damage to the belt fabric could result.  
temperatures above +140 7 (+60 6).  
Follow the manufacturer's instructions.  
being removed from the car. Never  
attempt chemical or dry cleaning, as  
Clean the wiper blades with soapy  
water. The wiper blades should be  
replaced twice a year – before and after  
winter. This is especially important for  
vehicles with a rain sensor.  
After cleaning, never allow the inertia  
reel to retract the belts until they are  
If your vehicle has chrome parts*, such completely dry. Dirty safety belts pre-  
as the window frames and door  
handles, be especially careful about  
vent the inertia reel mechanism from  
retracting the strap properly, and thus  
Use only wiper blades approved  
by BMW.<  
cleaning them with plenty of water and constitute a safety hazard.  
possibly a shampoo supplement as well  
Heavily soiled floor carpets and mats*  
after the roads have been salted.  
Use a chrome polish for an additional  
treatment.  
can be cleaned with an interior cleaner.  
The floor mats can be removed from  
the vehicle for cleaning.  
Plastic components, vinyl upholstery,  
headliners, lamp lenses, the clear cover  
of the instrument cluster and compo-  
nents with a sprayed dull black surface  
can be cleaned with water and a  
synthetic cleaner (if necessary). Do not  
allow moisture to soak through the  
seats or headliner. Never use solvents  
such as lacquer thinner, heavy-duty  
grease remover, fuels, or similar  
substances.  
Use only a damp cloth to clean trim  
panels made of real wood* and other  
parts constructed of real wood*. Follow  
up by drying with a soft cloth.  
Use the cleaning and car-care  
products available at your BMW  
center.<  
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Caring for your vehicle  
145n  
The buildup of an electrostatic charge  
on the seat covers, particularly if  
atmospheric humidity is low, can give  
the occupants an unpleasant electric  
shock if they touch metal body parts  
after leaving the vehicle. Although this is  
not dangerous in any way, it can be  
avoided by touching a bare or polished  
metal part of the vehicle while getting  
out.  
Care of upholstery materials  
Depressions in the upholstery that  
result from everyday use can be  
brushed smooth by brushing against  
the nap with a lightly dampened brush.  
Leather care  
The leather* upholstery used by BMW  
is a natural product of the highest  
quality, processed using state-of-the-  
art methods to ensure that it will main-  
tain its high quality for years to come,  
provided that it is properly cared for.  
The tendency of the pile to lie in a  
particular direction on velour upholstery  
is not a quality defect, and, just as on  
home textiles or clothing, cannot be  
avoided.  
Because this product is manufactured  
using natural materials, you must make  
allowance for its special characteristics  
and for the peculiarities of its use  
and care.  
Lint on upholstery materials, textile or  
leather remnants that have been worn  
into the upholstery may be removed  
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 there-  
fore suggest that you clean the leather  
with a vacuum cleaner or cloth at  
frequent intervals.  
â
with a lint brush or a Velcro brush. A  
cleaning glove is available for especially  
"stubborn" lint. Stains and fairly large  
areas of dirt should be cleaned off with-  
out delay, using lukewarm water and an  
interior cleaner, stain remover or appro-  
priate cleaning fluid. Brush the fabric  
afterwards to restore its appearance.  
If the vehicle is to be stored for an ex-  
tended period, or if it is exposed to in-  
tense sunlight, cover all the seats or the  
windows to prevent fading.  
For cleaning, use BMW leather  
cleaning foam.  
Since dirt and grease gradually attack  
the protective layer of the leather, the  
cleaned surfaces should be treated  
with BMW leather care agent. This also  
acts as an antistatic agent.  
Use the cleaning and car-care  
products available at your BMW  
center.<  
For protection against dampness  
or moisture, treat the leather with an  
impregnating agent made by BMW.  
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146nCaring for your vehicle  
We recommend that you perform this  
procedure twice a year on leather  
exposed to normal use.  
Cleaning agents can contain  
substances that are dangerous or  
pose health risks. Therefore, always  
comply with the warnings and danger  
labels on the package.  
Open the doors or windows on your  
vehicle when cleaning the interior.  
Never clean your vehicle with solvents  
or other materials not specifically  
intended for this purpose.<  
Spills should be wiped up immediately.  
Remove grease and oil stains by  
dabbing with with spot remover. Avoid  
rubbing.  
If the upholstery is to be exposed to  
intense sunlight or if the vehicle is to be  
stored for an extended period, cover  
all leather surfaces (or, better yet, the  
windows) to prevent fading.  
Use the cleaning and car-care  
products available at your BMW  
center.<  
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Airbags  
Vehicle storage  
147n  
Modifications may not be made on  
either the wiring or the individual  
components in the airbag system.  
These include the padded steering  
wheel hub, the instrument panel, the  
side trim panels of the front or rear  
doors and the roof pillars or the sides  
of the headliner. Do not apply adhesive  
materials to these components, cover  
or modify them in any way. Do not  
attempt to remove or dismantle the  
steering wheel.  
Consult your BMW center regarding  
special procedures if you intend  
to store the vehicle for more than  
three months.  
To ensure compliance with official  
safety regulations, entrust disposal of  
airbag generators to a BMW center.  
Unprofessional attempts to service  
the system could lead to failure in an  
emergency or undesired airbag activa-  
tion, either of which could result in  
personal injury.<  
1 Front airbags for driver and  
passenger  
2 Side Impact Head Protection  
System for driver and passenger  
(front)  
3 Side airbags for driver and passenger  
(front and rear*)  
Important safety notices  
Do not remove the airbag restraint  
system's gas generator. Have  
testing and service procedures per-  
formed by specially qualified techni-  
cians only. In the event of a malfunc-  
tion, deactivation or triggered actuation  
(as a response to an accident) of the  
airbag restraint system, consult your  
BMW center for repairs or service  
operations.  
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148nTechnical modifications  
California Proposition 65 Warning  
Any BMW center will be glad to advise California laws require us to state the  
you concerning the advisability, legal  
implications and factory recommenda-  
tions for technical modifications to the  
vehicle. For this purpose, the BMW cen-  
following warning:  
Engine exhaust, some of its con-  
stituents, and certain vehicle com-  
ter will require the Vehicle Identification ponents contain or emit chemicals  
Number and, in some cases, the engine known to the State of California to  
number as well.  
cause cancer and birth defects or other  
reproductive harm.<  
Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)  
Light-emitting diodes installed behind  
translucent lenses serve as the light  
source for many of the controls and dis-  
plays in your vehicle. The concept be-  
hind their operation is related to that  
employed for lasers.  
Do not remove the protective lens  
and avoid staring directly at the  
unfiltered beam for extended periods  
(several hours). To do so could result in  
inflammation of the iris.<  
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OBD interface socket  
149n  
An illuminated indicator informs  
you of the need for service, not  
that you need to stop the  
vehicle. Your system should be  
checked, however, at the earliest possi-  
ble opportunity.  
If the indicator blinks or flashes, this  
indicates a high level of engine misfire.  
Reduce speed and contact your near-  
est BMW center immediately. Severe  
engine misfire over even a short period  
of time can seriously damage emission  
control components, especially the  
catalytic converter.  
The interface socket for onboard diag-  
nostics is located on the driver's side at  
the left-hand bottom of the dashboard  
and under a cover. The cover has the  
letters "OBD" on it.  
Service Engine Soon warning  
lamp for Canadian models.  
The purpose of the OBD system is to  
ensure proper emission control system  
operation for the vehicle's lifetime by  
monitoring emission-related compo-  
nents and systems for deterioration  
and malfunction.  
If the fuel filler cap is not properly  
tightened, the OBD system can  
detect leaking vapor and the indicator  
will light up. If the fuel filler cap is then  
tightened, the indicator will usually go  
out after a short period of time.<  
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150n  
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151n  
Replacement procedures:  
Onboard tool kit 152  
Windshield wiper blades 152  
Lamps and bulbs 153  
Changing a wheel 159  
Battery 162  
Overview  
Controls and features  
Fuses 164  
Microfilter/Activated-charcoal  
filter 165  
In case of electrical  
malfunction:  
Fuel filler door 166  
Sliding/Tilt sunroof 166  
Tailgate 166  
Operation, care  
and maintenance  
Owner service procedures  
Advanced technology  
Technical data  
Assistance, giving and  
receiving:  
Jump-starting 167  
Towing the vehicle 168  
Index  
Repairs  
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152nOnboard tool kit  
Windshield wiper blades  
Windshield  
Rear window  
The onboard tool kit is stowed under  
the cargo area floor panel.  
1 Move the wiper to a fold-out position. 1 Move the wiper to a fold-out position.  
2 Position the wiper blade at an angle  
and pull the release spring (arrow).  
3 Fold the wiper blade down and  
unhook it toward the windshield.  
4 Pull the wiper blade past the wiper  
arm toward the top.  
2 Remove the wiper blade (arrow).  
3 Insert a new wiper blade and apply  
pressure until you hear it engage.  
To raise the cargo area floor panel,  
refer to page 109.  
5 Insert a new wiper blade and apply  
pressure until you hear it engage.  
Use only BMW approved wiper  
blades.<  
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Lamps and bulbs  
153n  
The lamps and bulbs are essential  
factors contributing to the safety of your  
vehicle. Therefore, comply fully with the  
following instructions during bulb  
replacement. If you are not familiar with  
any of the procedures, consult your  
BMW center.  
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.<  
Do not touch the glass portion of  
a new bulb with your bare hands  
since even small amounts of impurities  
burn into the surface and reduce the  
service life of the bulb. Use a clean  
cloth, paper napkin, or a similar mate-  
rial, or hold the bulb by its metallic  
base.<  
The illustration shows the left-hand side  
of the engine compartment.  
1 Low beams  
H7 bulb, 55 watts  
A replacement bulb set is available from  
your BMW center.  
2 High beams  
H7 bulb, 55 watts  
Whenever working on the  
electrical system, switch off the  
electrical accessory you are working on  
or disconnect the cable from the nega-  
tive terminal of the battery. Failure to do  
this could result in short circuits.  
To prevent injuries and damage,  
comply with any instructions provided  
by the bulb manufacturer.<  
The H7 bulb is pressurized. There-  
fore, wear safety glasses and  
protective gloves. Failure to comply  
with this precaution could lead to injury  
if the bulb is accidentally damaged  
during replacement.<  
1 Press the two locks at the front and  
turn left to release the bulb holder.  
2 Remove and replace the bulb.  
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154nLamps and bulbs  
Xenon lamps*  
The service life of these bulbs is very  
long and the probability of a failure is  
very low, provided that they are not  
switched on and off an unusual number  
of times. If one of these bulbs should  
nevertheless fail, it is possible to con-  
tinue driving with great caution using  
the fog lamps, provided traffic laws in  
your area do not prohibit this.  
Because of the extremely high  
voltages involved, any work on  
Front turn signal indicator  
21 watt bulb  
The illustration shows the left-hand side  
of the engine compartment.  
the xenon lighting system and bulb  
replacement should be performed only  
by technicians with the appropriate  
qualifications. Failure to comply with  
this creates a risk of fatal injury.<  
1 Using a screwdriver, release the inner  
hook through the upper opening.  
2 Remove the lamp by pulling it toward  
the front.  
3 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb  
to the left. Remove and exchange the  
bulb.  
Parking lamps  
5 watt bulb  
1 Turn the bulb holder to the left (arrow)  
and remove it.  
2 Remove and replace the bulb.  
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Lamps and bulbs  
155n  
Side turn signal indicator  
5 watt bulb  
Front fog lamps*  
HB4 bulb, 55 watts  
4 Insert the 2 pins on the lamp into the  
guides on the vehicle.  
5 Push the lamp in. Carefully apply  
pressure until you hear it engage.  
1 Use finger pressure against the rear  
end of the lens (arrow) to press it  
forward for removal.  
2 Apply gentle pressure to the bulb  
while turning it to the left to remove.  
The bulb is pressurized. There-  
fore, wear safety glasses and  
protective gloves. Failure to comply  
with this precaution could lead to injury  
if the bulb is accidentally damaged  
during replacement.<  
1 Using a screwdriver, carefully remove  
the lamp.  
2 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb  
to the left. Remove and exchange the  
bulb.  
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156nLamps and bulbs  
Tail lamps  
Tail lamp 4: bulbs 21/4 watts  
Remaining bulbs: 21 watts  
The illustration shows the right-hand  
luggage compartment section.  
Lamps in the tailgate:  
1 Place a screwdriver in the slot and  
press downward (arrow) to release.  
Bulbs in the fender:  
1 Turn signal indicators  
2 Backup lamps  
yellow  
white  
red  
All of the bulbs are integrated in a cen-  
tral bulb holder.  
1 Release and remove the flap from the  
respective luggage compartment  
side facing.  
3 Tail lamps  
4 Tail lamps/brake lamps  
red  
2 Release the bulb holder (arrow) and  
remove.  
3 Pull the power supply receptacle off  
and set the bulb holder aside (e.g. on  
the luggage compartment floor).  
4 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb  
to the left. Remove and exchange the  
bulb.  
5 Plug in the power supply receptacle.  
6 Press the bulb holder into position  
until you hear it engage.  
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Lamps and bulbs  
157n  
License plate lamps  
5 watt bulb  
Tailgate lamp  
5 watt bulb  
2 Rotate the trim downward. Release  
the bulb holder and remove it.  
3 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb  
to the left. Remove and exchange the  
bulb.  
1 Place a screwdriver in the slot and  
press toward the left (arrow) to  
release the lens.  
1 Remove lamp socket (arrow).  
2 Replace the bulb.  
4 Press the bulb holder into position  
until you hear it engage.  
2 Replace the bulb.  
5 Press the trim into position until you  
hear it engage.  
Center (high-mount) brake lamp  
LED strip on the rear window.  
Please contact a BMW center in the  
event of a malfunction.  
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158nLamps and bulbs  
Footwell lamps*  
5 watt bulb  
1 Press the lamp out using a screw-  
driver.  
2 Replace the bulb.  
Glove compartment lamp  
5 watt bulb  
1 Press the lamp out using a screw-  
driver.  
2 Replace the bulb.  
Interior lamps  
The illustration provides an example of 10 watt bulb  
the interior lamps when equipped with  
Lighted vanity mirrors*  
Luggage compartment lamps  
One lamp each in rear tailgate section:  
10 watt bulbs  
1 Remove the bulb housing – use a  
screwdriver if necessary.  
2 Replace the bulb.  
reading lamps.  
1 Apply a screwdriver to the recess and  
remove the lens.  
2 Replace the bulb.  
Interior lamps (2 x 5 watt bulbs)  
1 Using a screwdriver, press the lamp  
out toward the front.  
2 Remove the lens and pull the bulb  
out of the contact studs.  
Interior lamps (6 watt bulb) with reading  
lamps* (2 x 6 watt bulbs)  
1 Using a screwdriver, press the lamp  
out toward the front.  
2 Turn the bulb holder to the left and  
remove it.  
3 Remove and replace the bulb.  
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Changing a wheel  
159n  
Take these precautionary mea-  
Do not lie under the vehicle or start the  
sures if you have either a flat tire or engine when the vehicle is supported by  
are changing a wheel. the jack. Failure to comply with this  
Stop the vehicle as far as possible from creates a risk of fatal injury.<  
passing traffic. Park on a firm, flat  
surface. Switch on the hazard warning  
Your BMW has either a spare tire or  
flashers. Turn the steering wheel to the space-saver tire for temporary use to  
straight-ahead position, remove the key ensure your mobility.  
and engage the steering lock. Shift into  
1st gear or reverse (selector lever in  
"Park" with automatic transmission)  
and engage the parking brake.  
All passengers should be outside the  
vehicle and well away from your imme-  
diate working area (behind a guardrail,  
for instance).  
If a warning triangle or portable hazard  
warning lamp is available, set it up on  
the roadside at an appropriate distance  
from the rear of the vehicle. Comply with  
all safety guidelines and regulations.  
Change the wheel only on a level, firm  
surface that is not slippery. Avoid jack-  
ing the vehicle on a soft or slippery  
support surface (snow, ice, loose gravel,  
etc.), as it could slide sideways.  
Position the jack on a firm support  
surface.  
To remove the spare wheel, lift out  
the floor panel in the luggage  
compartment completely (refer to  
page 109.<  
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.  
> Jack (1)  
Raise both the floor panel and spare  
tire panel and loosen the red wing nut  
(arrow).  
When you have completed your work,  
screw the jack all the way back  
down. Fold the handle back and  
insert it into its holder  
> Wedge (2)  
Located behind the jack. Loosen the  
wing nut to remove it  
> Wheel stud wrench (3)  
Do not place wooden blocks or similar  
objects under the jack, otherwise, the  
jack might not be able to reach its full  
support capacity because of the limited  
height.  
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160nChanging a wheel  
Procedure  
1 Read and comply with the safety  
precautions provided on the  
> Spare tire or space-saver tire  
Located next to the jack.  
Loosen the wing nut (arrow) by hand,  
remove the storage tray and take out  
the wheel.  
4 Loosen the lug bolts g turn.  
5 Position the jack under the jacking  
point nearest the wheel you are  
changing (refer to the illustration at  
the left) so that the base of the jack is  
positioned vertically under the jack-  
ing point relative to the entire surface,  
and that the jack head fits securely  
into the square recess for the jacking  
point (refer to illustration detail) when  
the jack is cranked.  
6 Jack the vehicle up until the wheel  
you are changing is raised from the  
ground.  
7 Unscrew the lug bolts and remove  
the wheel.  
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 precau-  
tions to secure the vehicle against  
rolling.  
3 If your wheels are equipped with full  
wheel covers*: reach into the ventila-  
tion openings and pull the cover off.  
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Changing a wheel  
161n  
14 Check and correct the tire's inflation If light-alloy wheels other than original  
pressure at the earliest possibility.  
For vehicles with Tire Pressure  
Control (RDC):  
BMW light-alloy wheels have been  
mounted, it may be necessary to use  
different lug bolts for those wheels.  
After mounting the spare tire or  
correcting the inflation pressure,  
reactivate the system. Refer to  
page 85.  
Replace the defective tire as soon as  
possible and have the new wheel/tire  
balanced.  
Use only the full wheel cover in-  
stalled by the factory. Other wheel  
covers may not fit securely. The full  
wheel cover may not be installed on the  
space-saver tire since this could  
damage the cover.<  
8 Remove mud or dirt accumulation  
from the mounting surfaces of the  
wheel and hub. Clean the lug bolts.  
9 Position the new wheel or the  
space-saver tire on the hub and  
screw at least two lug bolts finger-  
tight into opposite bolt holes.  
10 Screw in the remaining lug bolts.  
Tighten all the bolts snugly.  
11 Lower the jack and remove it from  
beneath the vehicle.  
12 Tighten the lug bolts in a diagonal  
pattern.  
13 If your wheels are equipped with full  
wheel covers*, place the wheel  
cover with the valve opening over  
the valve (arrow). Use both hands  
to press the cover securely onto  
the rim.  
The vehicle jack is designed for  
changing wheels only. Do not  
attempt to raise another vehicle model  
with it or to raise any load of any kind.  
To do so could cause accidents and  
personal injury.  
To ensure continued safety, have the  
tightness of the lug bolts [torque  
specification: 76 lb. ft. (100 Nm)]  
checked with a calibrated torque  
wrench.<  
When storing the wheel, take care to  
ensure that you do not damage the  
retaining pin in the spare tire recess.  
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162nChanging a wheel  
Battery  
Driving with the space-saver tire  
Installation location  
Drive cautiously. Do not exceed a speed The battery is in the right rear of the  
of 50 mph (80 km/h).  
luggage compartment. Release side  
trim panel and remove. Fold back the  
cover panel.  
You can anticipate changes in vehicle  
handling such as delayed braking re-  
sponse, longer braking distances and  
changes in self-steering properties in  
marginal stability limits.  
Battery posts, terminals, and  
related accessories contain lead  
and lead compounds. Wash hands after  
handling.<  
The changes in handling characteristics  
will be even more pronounced in  
conjunction with winter tires.  
Charge condition  
Only one space-saver tire may be  
mounted at one time. Reinstall  
wheels and tires of the same size and  
specification as soon as possible.  
Maintain correct tire pressures. Refer to  
page 29.<  
You can read the charge condition  
of the battery with the "Magic Eye*"  
(= a hydrometer):  
> Green: adequate charge.  
> Black: not charged adequately.  
The battery must be recharged.  
Please contact your BMW center  
for additional information.  
> Yellow: replace the battery.  
The service life specified for the  
battery can be achieved only if it is  
always kept adequately charged. If the  
vehicle is primarily used for stop-and-  
go traffic, be sure to check the charge  
status often.<  
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Battery  
163n  
Do not allow children to have  
access to batteries and battery  
acid.  
Battery care  
Removal and installation  
The battery is completely maintenance-  
free. That means that the original acid  
will normally last for the service life of  
the battery under temperate climatic  
conditions.  
Do not disconnect the battery  
while the engine is running.  
Disconnecting the battery cable when  
the engine is running will cause a  
voltage surge which will damage the  
vehicle's onboard electronics.  
Never allow sparks or open  
flame near the battery. Do  
not smoke in the vicinity of the  
battery. Avoid sparks from electrical  
For all questions that regard the  
cables or electrical equipment. Turn the Do not make any modifications in the  
battery, please consult your BMW key to position 0 in the steering lock  
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 per-  
formed by specially trained personnel.<  
center. Since the battery is absolutely  
maintenance-free, the following is for  
your information only.<  
when disconnecting or connecting the  
battery. Never short-circuit the battery  
terminals. This creates a risk of injury  
from high-energy sparks.  
Symbols  
A highly explosive gas is gener-  
ated when the battery is  
charged.  
When removing the battery, disconnect  
the cable on the negative terminal first,  
then the cable on the positive terminal.  
Loosen the center adjusting screw on  
the battery retaining strap (use the  
screwdriver included with the onboard  
tool kit) and disconnect the strap.  
You will find the following symbols on  
your vehicle battery. For your safety,  
please be cautious whenever you work  
with or near the battery.  
If you happen to get acid in  
your eyes, rinse thoroughly for  
15 minutes with clear water.  
Before handling the battery,  
please read the following infor-  
mation.  
Consult a physician immediately. If you  
get acid spray on your skin or clothing,  
rinse with plenty of water. If acid is  
accidentally swallowed, consult a  
physician immediately.  
When installing a battery, connect the  
positive terminal first, then connect the  
negative terminal.  
Wear eye protection. Do not al-  
low particles containing battery  
acid or lead to come into con-  
tact with your eyes, your skin, or your  
clothing.  
In order to protect the battery  
case from ultraviolet radiation,  
do not place it in direct sunlight.  
A discharged battery can freeze. Store  
the battery in areas where temperature  
remains above freezing.  
When installing a battery, be sure  
that it is mounted properly and that  
the retaining strap is installed using the  
center adjustment screw, otherwise, the  
battery will not be secure enough in  
case of an accident.<  
Battery acid is extremely corro-  
sive. Wear eye protection and  
protective gloves. Do not tip the  
battery. Battery acid can leak from the  
ventilation openings.  
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164nBattery  
Fuses  
Return used batteries to a recy-  
cling point or your BMW center.  
Maintain the battery in an upright  
position for transport and storage.  
Secure the battery to prevent it from  
tilting during transport.<  
Charging the battery  
Charge the battery in the vehicle only  
when the engine is not running.  
Before performing any work on  
the electrical system, disconnect  
the cable from the negative terminal. If  
you do not, short circuits can cause fire  
or personal injury.<  
Storage periods during which  
the battery is disconnected are  
not taken into consideration by the  
Service Interval Display for changing  
the brake fluid.  
For this reason, be sure that the brake  
fluid is changed every two years,  
regardless of the information displayed.  
Read and comply with the information  
on page 138 covering this subject.<  
If you plan to park the vehicle for longer  
than 4 weeks, disconnect the battery  
from the vehicle electrical system by  
disconnecting the cable at the negative  
terminal. Then recharge the battery with  
an appropriate battery charger.  
If an electrical accessory should fail,  
switch it off and check the fuse.  
In glove compartment  
If you intend to store the vehicle for  
longer than 12 weeks, remove the  
battery, charge it and store it in a cool  
and dust-free room where there is no  
danger of freezing. During storage,  
have the battery recharged every  
3 months. Also recharge the battery  
before it is reinstalled. If this is not  
done, the battery will not be service-  
able. Every time the battery is drained,  
especially over extended periods, its  
service life is reduced.  
1 Open the glove compartment and  
turn the two white quick-release  
fasteners outward. Spare fuses and  
plastic tweezers are located on the  
fuse holder.  
2 Use the plastic tweezers to remove  
the fuse for the accessory or equip-  
ment that has stopped working.  
3 If the fuse is burned through ("blown"),  
the metal strip will have melted and  
separated; replace it with a new fuse  
of the same ampere rating (color  
code).  
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Fuses  
Microfilter/Activated-charcoal filter  
165n  
A list of the fuses, their respective am-  
pere ratings and the equipment in their  
circuits, is provided below the fuse  
holder.  
To close the fuse holder, snap it into  
position at the top and turn the two  
fasteners inward.  
Do not attempt to repair a burned-  
out fuse or replace it with a fuse  
with a different color or ampere rating.  
Doing this could cause a fire in the  
vehicle resulting from a circuit over-  
load.<  
1 Open the hood.  
2 Release the three hooks (arrow) with  
a f turn.  
4 Remove the filter by pulling toward  
the front and install a new one.  
5 Position the filter cover and secure it  
with the three fasteners.  
If the fuse continues to burn out, have  
the problem corrected by a BMW  
center.  
3 Remove the filter cover.  
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166nFuel filler door  
Tailgate  
Manual release  
Manual operation  
Manual operation  
Unlatch the right-side side panel in the 1 Remove the interior lamp (refer to  
1 Fold either the center armrest or the  
rear backrest in the back forward.  
2 Remove the cover panel under  
tailgate 1 (possible by using the igni-  
tion key).  
cargo area (arrow 1). Pull the knob with  
the fuel pump symbol (arrow 2).  
page 158), reach into the opening  
and push out the panel.  
2 Turn the sunroof's steel crank with  
the Allen wrench from the onboard  
tool kit (refer to page 152) in the  
desired direction.  
3 Press the lever (arrow) to the right.  
The luggage compartment is locked  
again as soon as you close the tailgate.  
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Jump-starting  
167n  
Do not use spray starter fluids to start  
the engine.  
6 Start the support vehicle's engine  
and let it run.  
7 Start the engine on the vehicle  
If the battery is drained, the engine can  
be started using two jumper cables and  
another vehicle's battery. Use only  
jumper cables with fully insulated grips  
on the terminal clamps.  
needing the jump-start, and allow it  
to run as usual. If the first start  
attempt is not successful, wait a few  
minutes before another attempt in  
order to allow the drained battery to  
recharge.  
8 Before disconnecting the jumper  
cables from your BMW, turn on the  
rear window defroster and set the  
blower to the highest speed; allow the  
engine to run approx. 10 seconds.  
This will prevent a voltage surge from  
the voltage regulator to the electrical  
accessories.  
Do not touch the parts conducting  
current while the engine is  
running. Failure to comply with this  
creates a risk of fatal injury.<  
cover of the auxiliary terminal for  
jump-starting is identified by a "+"  
sign. Refer to the illustration. Remove  
the cover by pulling the tab (arrow 1).  
5 Then connect the negative terminals.  
Attach the cable to either the support  
vehicle's negative battery terminal (–),  
or to a suitable ground on its engine  
or bodywork. Then connect the other  
end of the cable to a ground on the  
engine or on the bodywork of the  
vehicle that is to be started. There is  
a special nut provided for this on the  
BMW (arrow 2).  
Carefully comply with the following  
instructions to avoid personal injury or  
damage to one or both vehicles:  
1 Be sure that the battery on the  
support vehicle is also rated at  
12 volts, and that the capacities of  
the two batteries (Ah) are roughly  
comparable (printed on casing)  
2 Leave the drained battery connected  
to the vehicle's electrical system  
3 Make sure that there is no contact  
between the bodywork of the two  
vehicles – short circuit risk!  
9 Then disconnect the jumper cables in  
reverse sequence.  
Depending on the reason for the  
malfunction, recharge the battery.  
4 Start by connecting the jumper cable  
from the positive terminal of the  
support vehicle to the positive  
terminal connector located in your  
BMW's engine compartment. The  
Follow the same sequence for  
connecting the jumper cables if  
you assist in jump-starting another  
vehicle. If you do not, there is a risk of  
injury caused by spark generation at the  
battery.<  
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168nTowing the vehicle  
Tow fitting  
Rear:  
Towing with a commercial tow  
truck  
> Do not tow with sling-type equip-  
Using a screwdriver, press out the cover  
panel on the top part of the recess.  
The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the  
onboard tool kit; be sure that it remains  
in the vehicle at all times. This fitting  
is designed for installation in the tow  
sockets located at the front and rear of  
the vehicle. It is intended for towing on  
paved road surfaces only. This fitting  
should not be used to pull a vehicle out  
of deep snow, mud, sand, etc.  
ment.  
Screw the tow fitting in until it  
bottoms firmly. If this is not done,  
the threads could be damaged.  
Do not tow the vehicle by any compo-  
nents of the running gear, or lash them  
down in any way. If you do, the compo-  
nents could be damaged, leading to  
possible accidents.<  
> Use wheel lift or flat bed equipment.  
> Please comply with applicable state  
towing laws.  
Never allow passengers to ride in  
a towed vehicle for any reason.  
Always observe all applicable towing  
laws and regulations.  
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.c  
Access to tow socket  
Front:  
Using a screwdriver, press out the cover  
panel on the top part of the recess.  
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Towing the vehicle  
169n  
BMW 325xi: tow the vehicle with  
one raised axle  
1 Place the gearshift lever or selector  
lever in "Neutral."  
2 Switch off the engine.  
3 Towing speed:  
Maximum 30 mph (50 km/h).  
4 Towing distance:  
Maximum 95 miles (150 km).  
Remove the rear driveshaft for  
longer towing distances with the  
front axle lifted; remove the front drive-  
shaft for towing over longer distances  
with the rear axle lifted. Failure to  
comply with this will result in damage to  
the transfer box.<  
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170n  
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171n  
Advanced technology:  
Airbags 172  
Overview  
(ATC) 173  
Automatic Stability Control plus  
Traction ASC+T/Dynamic  
Stability Control DSC 173  
Radio reception 174  
Four-wheel drive 175  
Safety belt tensioner 175  
Interior rearview mirror with  
automatic dimmer 176  
Rain sensor 177  
Controls and features  
Operation, care  
and maintenance  
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 178  
Self-diagnostics 179  
Xenon lamps 180  
Owner service procedures  
Advanced technology  
Technical data  
Index  
Technol-  
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172nAirbags  
The airbags located under the marked  
covers inflate and unfold in a matter of  
a few milliseconds. In this process, they  
tear through the designed separation  
points of the upholstered covers or  
press them out.  
Because the inflation process must be  
virtually instantaneous, it is necessarily  
accompanied by a certain amount of  
ignition and inflation noise. The gas  
required to inflate the airbags is not  
dangerous, and the smoke associated  
with it dissipates.  
Deceleration sensors continuously  
monitor the acceleration forces acting  
upon the vehicle. If, as the result of  
a frontal collision, a deceleration is  
reached at which the protection of  
the safety belts alone is no longer  
adequate, the gas generators of the  
driver and passenger-front airbags are  
ignited. However, the passenger-side  
airbag is only triggered if an additional  
sensor has recognized that the  
The entire process is completed within  
fractions of a second.  
passenger seat is occupied.  
In the event of a side collision, the Head  
Protection and side airbags in the front  
or rear* are triggered if necessary.  
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ATC*  
ASC+T/DSC*  
173n  
In order to include driving conditions in Highly sensitive sensors monitor the  
its calculations, ATC registers curves  
and both uphill and downhill gradients. steering angle, lateral acceleration,  
For example, if you maintain speed brake pressure and the movement of  
number of revolutions of the wheels,  
through a curve, the transmission does the vehicle around its vertical axis.  
not shift up. On uphill gradients, it shifts  
up only when the engine speed  
If differences in the wheel speeds  
occur, ASC+T recognizes the danger of  
wheelspin and reduces torque. If  
necessary, the system also responds  
with additional brake applications at the  
rear wheels.  
increases in order to make more effi-  
cient use of power reserves. On down-  
hill gradients, ATC shifts down when  
the speed of the vehicle increases and  
the driver must apply the brakes.  
In addition, DSC permanently monitors  
the vehicle's current operating condition  
and compares it with an ideal condition  
that is calculated from the sensor's  
signals. If deviations from this occur  
(understeering or oversteering, for  
instance), DSC can stabilize the vehicle  
in fractions of a second by reducing  
engine output and with the assistance of  
braking intervention at individual  
wheels. As a result, dangerous skids can  
be prevented even as they are just  
beginning.  
On vehicles with an automatic trans-  
mission, the Adaptive Transmission  
Control (ATC) uses a number of factors  
to calculate the gear which provides  
maximum efficiency. In this process, it  
considers your individual driving style  
as well as current driving conditions.  
ATC recognizes your personal driving  
style from the positions and movements  
of the accelerator pedal, deceleration  
when braking, and lateral acceleration  
through curves. Based on different shift  
characteristics – from comfort-oriented  
to performance-oriented – ATC will  
select the appropriate gear.  
You may need some time to become  
accustomed to this system's interven-  
tion. However, it provides optimum drive  
force and vehicle stability.  
The braking intervention may be  
accompanied by sounds specific to the  
system.  
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174nRadio reception  
The limitations inherent to radio recep-  
tion in a moving vehicle have been  
minimized by a number of innovative  
system designs:  
The Radio Data System (RDS) makes  
sure that, for broadcast stations trans-  
mitting on several frequencies, the  
radio automatically tunes to the  
frequency with the best reception  
quality.  
The Diversity Antenna system employs  
several FM antennas integrated within  
the rear window to provide three sepa-  
rate sources for receiving broadcast  
waves. An integral processor automati-  
cally selects the antenna with the best  
FM reception quality at any given time.  
The selection of the antenna takes place  
within milliseconds, and is therefore not  
noticed by the radio listener.  
The AM frequency bands (medium-  
wave, long-wave and short-wave) make  
it possible to receive stations from a  
great distance, because the broadcast  
signals travel not only along the ground  
as surface waves, but also as atmo-  
spheric waves that are reflected from  
the ionosphere.  
Frequency-modulation (FM) provides  
substantially better sound quality than  
the other frequencies. However,  
because FM transmissions rely on line-  
of-sight broadcast waves, their effec-  
tive reception range is limited.  
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Four-wheel drive  
Safety belt tensioner  
175n  
system intervention. Engine output is  
also reduced if necessary.  
When the DSC is deactivated, the  
ADB-X traction intervention is set for  
the maximum drive force. However, the  
engine intervention and the stability  
controls are no longer available. For  
this reason, DSC should only be deacti-  
vated in the exceptional circumstances  
described on page 81.  
The BMW 325xi is not an off-road  
vehicle. Instead, permanent four-wheel  
drive provides a high degree of vehicle  
stability and tractive ability under all  
road conditions, and will aid you in crit-  
ical driving situations, e.g. driving in  
extreme winter conditions or on loose  
road surfaces.  
The transmission of power to the four  
drive wheels is provided permanently  
through a transfer box. The distribution  
of torque between the front and rear  
axles is 38 % to 62%.  
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.  
Traditional differential locks at the front  
and rear axles and in the transfer box  
are not required. Their function is  
assumed by automatic braking inter-  
vention at all four wheels. These trac-  
tion interventions are governed by  
Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X), a  
sub-function of DSC.  
If a wheel tends to slip, it is braked  
automatically by ADB-X until it once  
again gains traction, and drive force  
can be transmitted to that wheel. In  
addition, the drive force is distributed to  
the remaining wheels during this  
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176nInterior rearview mirror with automatic dimmer*  
The semisolid reacts chemically to  
this electrical current, thus providing  
dimming of the mirror through an infi-  
nitely-variable range (electrochromic  
technology).  
As a result, it is no longer necessary to  
dim the mirror manually, and the driver  
can concentrate completely on traffic  
conditions.  
The interior rearview mirror with auto-  
matic dimming feature reduces blinding  
from following traffic by adapting the  
intensity of the reflected images to  
correspond to levels of light registered  
by the unit's sensors. The mirror reverts  
to its undimmed setting as soon as the  
light source disappears. One light  
sensor is mounted on the front of the  
mirror housing. This sensor, the one  
that is directed forward, measures light  
intensity in the area ahead of the  
vehicle. The second sensor is inte-  
grated within the mirror's glass. The  
electronic control system compares the  
light intensity from front and rear. The  
difference provides the basic parameter  
used to modulate an electrical current  
and induce chemical changes in a  
semisolid layer incorporated in the lens.  
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Rain sensor*  
177n  
When the system is set to the "Intermit-  
tent" wiper speed, the wipers react  
immediately – if water is splashed onto  
the windshield by vehicles traveling  
ahead of you, for example. As a result,  
the rain sensor contributes to driving  
safety and comfort.  
Depending on how wet the windshield  
is, the rain sensor controls the opera-  
tion 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 wind-  
shield is dry. The quantity of reflected  
light is measured.  
If there is moisture on the glass, the  
amount of light reflected is reduced  
since the infrared light at the surface of  
the windshield can escape. The quan-  
tity of reflected light is thus a means of  
gauging the degree of wetness on the  
windshield.  
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178nTire Pressure Control (RDC)*  
There is an antenna located right near  
every wheel in the vehicle body. This  
antenna picks up signals from its  
respective wheel. A central electronics  
system evaluates the quadruple signals  
which it receives and forwards any  
changes.  
The RDC provides an important contri-  
bution to driving safety.  
This system regularly checks tire pres-  
sure and monitors all four tires even  
while driving, so you do not have to.  
Behind the valve stem in every wheel,  
there is an electronic chip which is  
designed for severe-duty applications  
and long service life. It contains a pres-  
sure 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.  
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Self-diagnostics  
179n  
In the same manner, the electrical  
You will hear the sounds of the air flaps  
resistance of the airbag ignition genera- as the air conditioning system/auto-  
tors and all of the remaining airbag  
components is measured at all times.  
Any fault in this system would be  
matic climate control carry out their  
self-diagnostic functions after the igni-  
tion has been turned off. All of the other  
detected immediately by a current fluc- self-diagnostics functions operate  
tuation that would necessarily accom-  
pany it. The fault would be indicated  
immediately by the airbag warning  
lamp.  
silently in the background.  
Any possible defects detected during  
these self-diagnostics can be read out  
by your BMW center and quickly  
corrected during the vehicle's next  
Even after you shut off the engine, the  
overall functional status of your vehicle regularly scheduled maintenance.  
is monitored. For example, all of the  
flaps of the heating and ventilation  
system travel to the nearest limit posi-  
tion. This action ensures that the  
All of the important electrical and elec-  
tronic systems in the vehicle are tested  
regularly and automatically; the driver  
does not have to perform any extra  
operations or adjustments.  
system will be able to provide  
defrosting, regardless of other circum-  
stances, e.g. if a malfunction in the air  
conditioner/climate control system  
should occur during the night while the  
vehicle is parked.  
The indicator lamps also come on  
briefly after the ignition has been turned  
on.  
While you are driving, the functional  
status of the actuator motors (for the  
windshield wipers, power windows,  
seats, sliding/tilt sunroof, etc.) is  
constantly analyzed by current  
measurements in their relays.  
A calibration cycle runs every tenth time  
the engine is shut off. During this cycle,  
the actuator motors move all air condi-  
tioner/automatic climate control flaps to  
their limit stops in both directions. The  
limit positions and the return travel  
paths are checked in this manner in  
order to ensure that appropriate adjust-  
ments for the operating elements can  
be made at any time.  
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180nXenon lamps*  
Xenon lamps provide significantly  
improved visibility, especially during  
adverse weather and poor driving  
conditions e.g. driving at night in heavy  
rain or through road repair areas where  
there are no lane markers.  
Vehicles with xenon lamps are equipped  
with an automatic headlamp range  
control. Thus the highway is always  
optimally lighted and drivers in  
oncoming traffic are not blinded.  
Xenon lamps make a significant contri-  
bution to highway safety since other  
highway users, bicyclists and motorcy-  
clists in the right lane, and pedestrians  
are more easily detected.  
The xenon lamp provides forward illu-  
mination with significantly more bright-  
ness and uniformity than the traditional  
halogen lamp.  
In a xenon lamp, an electric arc replaces  
the filament in order to generate intense  
illumination. A gas mixture in a quartz  
glass tube with metal vapor is ignited by  
a high electric voltage. The arc that is  
generated is then sustained by a lower  
voltage. When the lamp is turned on,  
there is a brief warm-up period.  
Maximum brightness is attained in  
approx. 15 seconds.  
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181n  
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182n  
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183n  
Engine data 184  
Dimensions 185  
Weights 186  
Overview  
Capacities 187  
Electrical system 188  
Drive belts 188  
Controls and features  
Operation, care  
and maintenance  
Owner service procedures  
Advanced technology  
Technical data  
Index  
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184nEngine data  
BMW 325i/325xi  
Displacement  
Number of cylinders  
cu.in (cmm)  
152.2 (2,494)  
6
Maximum output  
at engine speed  
hp (kW)  
rpm  
184 (135)  
6.000  
Maximum torque  
at engine speed  
lb.ft (Nm)  
rpm  
175 (237)  
3.500  
Compression ratio  
e
10.5  
Stroke  
Bore  
in (mm)  
in (mm)  
2.95 (75)  
3.31 (84)  
Fuel-injection system  
Digital-electronic engine-management system  
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Dimensions  
185n  
Dimensions in ( ) apply to 325xi.  
Height with roof-mounted luggage rack: 56.9 in/1,444 mm (57.6 in/1,464 mm).  
Minimum turning circle dia.: 34.4 feet/10.5 m (35.8 feet/10.9 m).  
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186nWeights  
BMW 325i  
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included)  
BMW 325xi  
with manual transmission  
with automatic transmission  
lb. (kg)  
lb. (kg)  
3,384 (1,535)  
3,428 (1,555)  
3,627 (1,645)  
3,693 (1,675)  
Approved gross vehicle weight  
with manual transmission  
with automatic transmission  
lb. (kg)  
lb. (kg)  
4,531 (2,055)  
4,576 (2,075)  
4,729 (2,145)  
4,795 (2,175)  
Approved front axle weight  
Approved rear axle weight  
Approved roof load capacity  
Luggage compartment capacity  
lb. (kg)  
2,006 (910)  
2,183 (990)  
lb. (kg)  
2,579 (1,170)  
165 (75)  
2,668 (1,210)  
165 (75)  
lb. (kg)  
cu. ft. (liters)  
15.4 - 47.5 (435 - 1,345)  
15.4 - 47.5 (435 - 1,345)  
Approved axle loads and approved gross vehicle weight may not be exceeded.  
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Capacities  
187n  
Notes  
Fuel tank  
reserve  
gal. (liters)  
gal. (liters)  
approx. 16.6 (approx. 63)  
approx. 2.1 (approx. 8)  
Fuel specification: page 28  
Windshield washer system/  
For details: page 134  
Headlamp washer system (front)  
Rear window washer system (rear)  
quarts (liters) approx. 5.6 (approx. 5.3)  
quarts (liters) approx. 2.4 (approx. 2.3)  
Cooling system including heater circuit  
Engine oil filter change  
quarts (liters) approx. 8.9 (approx. 8.4)  
For details: page 137  
quarts (liters) 325i approx. 6.9  
(approx. 6.5)  
BMW High Performance  
synthetic oil  
325xi: approx. 7.9  
(approx. 7.5)  
Specifications: page 136  
Manual and automatic transmission and  
differential  
Lifetime fluid, no fluid change  
required  
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188nElectrical system  
Drive belts  
Water pump – Generator –  
Power steering  
Drive belt 6 PK x 1538  
You can obtain Original BMW  
Parts and Accessories, as well  
as professional advice from your BMW  
center.<  
Battery  
12 V, 80 Ah  
A/C compressor  
Drive belt 5 PK x 863  
Spark plugs  
NGK BKR 6 EQUP  
Bosch FGR 7 DQP  
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189n  
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191n  
Everything from A to Z 192  
Overview  
Owner service procedures 198  
Controls and features  
Operation, care  
and maintenance  
Owner service procedures  
Advanced technology  
Technical data  
Index  
Index  
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Everything from A to Z  
Armrest 102  
ASC+T (Automatic Stability  
Traction) 22, 173  
Ashtray 104  
Control) 65, 173  
Attaching vacuum  
cleaner 104  
AUC (Automatic climate  
control) 96  
Automatic car washes 141  
Automatic climate  
A
B
C
ABS (Antilock Brake  
System) 22, 116  
Accessories 6  
Activated-charcoal  
filter 100, 165  
Adaptive Transmission  
Control (ATC) 65, 173  
Adding engine oil 135  
Adding washer  
Backup lamps 64  
bulb replacement 156  
Battery 162, 188  
capacity 188  
California Proposition  
Capacities 187  
Car radio 123  
discharged 167  
removal and  
reception 174  
refer also to the separate  
Owner's Manual  
Car telephone 103  
Car vacuum cleaner,  
connecting 104  
Car wash 141  
installation 163  
Battery charge current 20  
Battery safety terminal 163  
Belts 53  
Blower 92, 99  
Synthetic Oils 136  
BMW sports seat 48  
Bore 184  
fluid 134, 187  
Adjust  
backrest 47  
steering wheel 50  
temperature 92  
control 96  
Care  
upholstery 145  
thigh support area 48  
Air conditioner 90  
Air distribution 92, 98  
Air nozzles 90  
vehicle finish 143  
vehicle interior 144  
wool velour 145  
Cargo loading 110  
Catalytic converter 115  
CBC (Cornering Brake  
Control) 21, 117  
Cellular phone 123  
refer to the separate  
Owner's Manual  
Center armrest 102  
Center (high-mount) brake  
lamp 157  
Automatic cruise control 71  
rearview mirror 52  
Automatic Stability Control  
plus Traction  
(ASC+T) 22, 173  
Automatic transmission 21  
Automatic transmission with  
Steptronic 65  
Automatic washer  
rear window 69  
windshield 69  
Average consumption 77  
Average speed 77  
Axle loads 186  
Air outlets 96  
Brake  
ventilation 90, 96  
Air pressure 124  
Air supply 92, 99  
Airbags 21, 58, 147, 172  
Alarm system 41  
Antenna 123  
fluid 138  
hydraulic system 20  
pads 22  
Brake lamps  
bulb replacement 156  
Brake system 118  
faults 120  
Break-in procedure 114  
Bulb replacement 153  
Bulbs and lamps 153  
Antenna Diversity 174  
Antifreeze 137  
radiator 121  
Antilock Brake System  
(ABS) 22, 116  
Central locking system 34  
button 38  
Anti-theft alarm system 41  
Aquaplaning 115, 124  
Changing a tire 159  
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Everything from A to Z  
193n  
Changing a wheel 159  
Charge indicator lamp 20  
Check air pressure 28  
Check Control 75  
Check engine oil level 135  
Child restraint  
systems 54, 60  
Child-safety locks 58  
Child's seat 54  
Cigarette lighter 104  
Cleaning windshield 68  
Clock 75  
refer also to the Radio or  
Cockpit 16  
Cruise control 71  
Cup holder, refer to  
beverage holder 102  
Curb weight 186  
Diversity Antenna  
system 174  
Door key 32, 35  
child-safety locks 58  
DOT Quality Grades 125  
Draft-free ventilation 93  
Drive belts 188  
Driving hints 115  
Driving in winter 121  
Driving lamps 87  
Control) 81, 173  
(DBC) 118  
Dynamic Stability Control  
(DSC) 22, 81, 173  
Emergency operation,  
doors 34  
Energy Control 73  
coolant 137, 187  
data 184  
starting 61  
Engine oil  
D
capacity 187  
consumption 135  
pressure 20  
Dashboard 16  
Data  
dimensions 185  
engine 184  
technical 184  
weights 186  
switch 87  
Control) 118  
Defrost position 94, 98  
Defrostable rear window 99  
Defrosting  
rear window 92  
windows 94, 98  
Digital clock 75  
Dimensions 185  
Dipstick, engine oil 135  
Disc brakes 118  
Displacement 184  
Display lighting 87  
Displays 18  
quality 136  
specifications 136  
Engine speed 184  
Exterior mirrors 51  
Coin holder 102  
Combination switch 68  
Compression 184  
Computer 76  
Configure settings 52  
Consumption 77  
display 74  
F
Failure messages 75  
Fault displays 75  
Fault, ABS 117  
Filler cap cover 27  
Filling capacities 187  
Filling the washer  
reservoir 187  
First-aid kit 26  
Fittings, tow starting and  
towing 168  
E
Contents 10  
Electric power seat 48  
Electric power windows 43  
Electrical accessories,  
failure 164  
Electrical system 188  
Electronic vehicle  
immobilizer 33  
Control elements 20  
Coolant 121, 137, 187  
antifreeze 121  
Coolant temperature  
gauge 74  
Cooling system 187  
Flashlight 101  
Flat tire 124, 159  
Fog lamps 88  
Copyright  
4
Elements of operation 16  
Cornering Brake Control  
(CBC) 21, 117  
Distance warning 78  
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Everything from A to Z  
Folding rear backrest 108  
Footbrake 118  
bulb replacement 158  
I
Jack 159  
Footwell lamps 88  
bulb replacement 158  
Four-wheel drive 175  
Front fog lamps, bulb  
replacement 155  
Front seat adjustment 46  
Frost protection,  
Icy roads 76, 121  
Identification, tires 127  
H
K
Key 32, 35  
Key Memory 52  
Imprint 4  
Hazard warning flashers 26  
Hazard warning triangle 26  
Head restraint 47  
Headlamp covers,  
care 141, 153  
Heated seats 100  
Heating, rapid 94  
Height 185  
Indicator lamps 20  
Inflation pressure 28, 124  
monitoring 85, 178  
INSPECTION 74  
Instrument cluster 18  
Diagnostics 149  
L
radiator 137  
Fuel 28  
Lamps and bulbs 153  
Lashing eyes 110  
child seat 58  
Leather care 145  
Length 185  
License plate lamp  
bulb replacement 157  
Light switch 87  
Light-alloy wheels 129  
Lighter 104  
Load-securing devices 110  
Louvers 90, 96  
Low beam headlamps 87  
bulb replacement 153  
Lug bolts 160  
consumption 77  
consumption display 74  
gauge 74  
preparation 184  
quality 28  
Fuel filler door  
releasing following an  
electrical malfunction 166  
Fuel reserve indicator  
lamp 74  
Fuel tank capacity 187  
Fuel tank gauge 74  
Functional status 179  
Fuses 164  
Interference, cellular  
phone 123  
HiFi system 101  
Interior lamps 36, 88  
bulb replacement 158  
remote control 36  
Interior motion sensor 41  
Interior rearview mirror 51  
automatic dimming  
feature 52, 176  
High beams 23, 68, 88  
bulb replacement 153  
High Performance Synthetic  
Oils 136  
High-mount brake lamp 157  
Hood release 130  
Horn 17  
Hubcap 160  
Hydraulic Brake assistant,  
refer to DBC 118  
Lug wrench 159  
G
Interlock 61  
Intermittent wipe 68  
Gasoline 28  
Gasoline gauge 74  
Gasoline quality 28  
Glove compartment 101  
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Everything from A to Z  
195n  
Luggage  
compartment 38, 107  
capacity 186  
lamps 39  
lamps, bulb  
replacement 158  
remote control system 37  
trunk floor 40  
Luggage compartment lid  
emergency release 166  
Luggage rack 111  
Lumbar support 48  
Opening the rear  
window 40  
display 76  
procedure 141  
N
Q
Neckrest 47  
R
Radiator 187  
Radio  
OBD interface socket 149  
Obstruction protection 43  
Odometer 73  
refer to the separate  
Owner's Manual  
Radio Data System  
(RDS) 174  
Radio reception 123, 174  
Rain sensor 69, 177  
RDC (Tire Pressure  
Control) 85, 178  
RDS (Radio Data  
System) 174  
Rear backrest, folded  
down 108  
Rear hatch lamp  
bulb replacement 157  
Rear lamps 156  
Rear seat backrest,  
folding 107  
P
Paint blemishes 142  
Paintwork  
Oil  
additives 135  
capacity 187  
consumption 135  
dipstick 135  
quality 136  
minor repairs 143  
waxing 143  
Paint, care 142  
(PDC) 78  
M
viscosity 136  
Maintenance 74  
Malfunction displays 75  
Manual transmission 64  
Memory 49  
wheel) 24  
Microfilter 93, 165  
Mirror memory 49  
Mirrors 51  
Mobile phone 123  
Modifications,  
Parking brake 63  
Parking, winter 122  
PDC (Park Distance  
Control) 78  
Performance 184  
Phone, mobile 123  
Pocket lamp 101  
Pollen 93, 100  
Power outlet 105  
Power steering 123  
Power windows 43  
safety switch 44  
Pressure monitoring,  
tires 85, 178  
the Service and Warranty  
the Warranty and Service  
Guide Booklet  
Oil filter change 187  
Oil level, indicator lamp 20  
Oil pressure, indicator  
lamp 20  
Rear window  
OILSERVICE 74  
defroster 70, 92, 99  
Rearview mirror 51  
Recirculated air control 92  
automatic 99  
Recirculated-air mode 92  
Reclining seat 46  
Refueling 27  
technical 6, 148  
Motion sensor, interior 41  
Multifunction steering wheel  
(MFL) 24  
Onboard computer, please  
refer to Computer 76  
Onboard tool kit 152  
Opening and closing  
from the inside 38  
from the outside 34  
M+S tires 128  
Pressure, tires 28, 124  
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Everything from A to Z  
Remote control 35  
Removal from service of the  
vehicle 147  
Removing condensation  
from the windows 94  
Spare key 32, 35  
control 32, 35  
Spare tire 159  
Speaker 103  
Speed control 71  
Speedometer 18  
Sports seat 48  
Sports steering wheel 25  
Starting assistance 167  
Self-diagnostics 179  
Service and Warranty  
Service Interval Display 74  
Setting the temperature 98  
Shiftlock 65  
Side airbags 58  
Side impact Head Protection Starting  
System 58  
Ski bag 106  
Sliding/tilt sunroof 44  
electrical short 166  
Tachometer 73  
Tail lamps 156  
bulb replacement 156  
Tailgate  
Reporting safety defects  
Restraint system 54  
Retaining straps 40  
Reverse 17, 64  
7
emergency release 166  
Tailgate lamp, bulb  
replacement 157  
Tank capacity 187  
Technical data 184  
Technical  
modifications 6, 148  
Telephone  
refer to the separate  
Owner's Manual  
Telephone hookup 103  
Temperature adjustment 98  
Temperature display,  
outside temperature 76  
Temperature gauge, engine  
coolant 74  
Roll-up cover 107  
Roof load capacity 186  
Roof luggage rack 111  
Rubber parts 121  
problems 115, 167  
Starting the engine 61  
Steering wheel lock 61  
S
Safety belt height  
adjustment 53  
Safety belt tensioners 175  
Safety belts 53  
height adjustment 53  
adjusting 50  
Steptronic 65  
convenience operation 34 Stereo system – harman  
Safety defects, reporting  
Safety feature 43  
Safety lock buttons 38  
Seat  
7
Slippery roads 122  
Snow chains 121  
Socket 104  
for electrical  
appliances 104  
for flashlights 104  
for vacuum cleaner 104  
refer also to power  
outlet 105  
kardon 101  
Stopping the vehicle 62  
Storage compartments 102  
Storing the vehicle 147  
Stroke 184  
Summer tires 127  
Sun visors 51  
Sunroof 44  
Switching off the engine 62  
Symbols 4, 163  
Temperature  
electric power 48  
mechanical 46  
layering 93, 100  
Thigh support area,  
adjusting 48  
Third brake lamp 157  
Tilt alarm 42  
Tilt sensor alarm system 36  
remote control 36  
Tire changing 159  
Seat adjustment 46  
Seat heating 100  
Seat memory 49  
Securing cargo 110  
Securing loads 110  
Space-saver spare tire 159  
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Everything from A to Z  
197n  
Tire codes 127  
Tire damages 124  
Tire inflation  
pressure 28, 124  
Tire Pressure Control  
(RDC) 85, 178  
Washer nozzles 134  
Washing your car 141  
Weights 186  
Wheel changing 159  
Wheel lug wrench 159  
Wheel rims 127  
Wheel stud wrench 159  
Wheelbase 185  
Wheels and tires 127, 129  
Width 185  
Windows, convenience  
operation 34  
Windshield washer nozzle  
adjustment 134  
U
X
Grading 125  
Xenon lamp 154, 180  
V
Tire pressure  
monitoring 85, 178  
Tire Quality Grading 125  
Tire replacement 125, 126  
Tire specifications 129  
Tire tread 124  
Tools 152  
Torque 184  
Tow fittings 168  
Tow starting 168  
Towing 168  
connecting 104  
Vanity mirror 51  
bulb replacement 158  
Vehicle battery 162, 188  
Vehicle care  
exterior 142  
interior 144  
Vehicle Identification  
Number (VIN) 139  
Vehicle immobilizer 33  
Vehicle painting 142  
Vehicle removal from  
service 147  
Vehicle storage 147  
Vehicle weight 186  
Ventilation 90, 93, 96  
draft-free 93, 100  
Vinyl upholstery, care 144  
Voice recognition 24, 25  
Track 185  
Traction Control System,  
refer to DSC 79  
Transmission 64  
Transporting children  
safely 58  
Tread depth, tires 124  
Trip odometer 73  
Trunk 38  
Windshield washer reservoir,  
filling 134, 187  
Windshield wiper 68  
blade replacement 152  
Winter operation 121  
Winter tires 127, 128  
Wiper blade  
Turn signal  
replacement 152  
indicator 23, 68, 154  
bulb replacement 154  
Turning radius 185  
Two-way radios 123  
Wiper system 68  
Work in the engine  
compartment 130  
W
Warning lamps 20  
Warning messages 75  
Warranty and Service Guide  
(Canadian models) 140  
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Owner service procedures  
Check air pressure 28  
add 135  
quality 136  
specifications 136  
viscosity 136  
Engine oil level,  
checking 135  
A
Check Control 75  
Checking air pressure 28  
Checking engine oil  
level 135  
Activated-charcoal filter,  
Hatch lamps  
changing 165  
bulb replacement 156  
operation 166  
Hazard warning flashers 26  
Hazard warning triangle 26  
Headlamp cover, care 153  
High beams, bulb  
Adding brake fluid 138  
Adding engine coolant 138  
Adding engine oil 135  
Adjust washer nozzles 134  
Air pressure, checking 28  
Antifreeze 138  
D
Defrost setting 94  
Defrosting the windows 94  
Difficult steering 123  
Disposal  
F
replacement 153  
Failure messages 75  
Filling washer reservoir 134  
First-aid kit 26  
Fittings, tow starting and  
towing 168  
B
batteries 164  
I
Backup lamps  
bulb replacement 156  
Battery  
engine oil 136  
Doors, emergency  
actuation 34  
Indicator lamps 20  
Inflated pressure 28  
Interior lamps, bulb  
replacement 158  
Interior motion sensor,  
Flat tire 159  
care 163  
charging 164  
removal and  
Front fog lamps  
Fuses, replacing 164  
E
installation 163  
Brake fluid, adding 138  
Brake lamps  
bulb replacement 156  
Brakes, brake faults 120  
failure 164  
Electrical defect  
fuel filler door 166  
sliding/tilt sunroof 166  
Emergency operation  
doors 34  
fuel filler door 166  
luggage  
compartment 166  
sliding/tilt sunroof 166  
J
Jack 159  
G
Glove compartment lamp,  
bulb replacement 158  
L
C
License plate lamp  
bulb replacement 157  
Low beams, bulb  
replacement 153  
Lug wrench 159  
Changing a tire 159  
Changing a wheel 159  
Changing the  
microfilter 165  
Charging the battery 164  
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Owner service procedures  
199n  
Luggage compartment  
emergency actuation 166  
Luggage compartment  
lamps, bulb  
Releasing the fuel filler door  
after an electrical  
defect 166  
Removing condensation  
Replace windshield wiper  
blades 152  
Replacement key 32  
Replacing lamp bulbs 153  
Replenish washer  
T
W
bulb replacement 156  
Tailgate, emergency lock  
operation 166  
Tire changing 159  
Tire damage 124  
Tools 152  
Tow fittings 168  
Tow starting 168  
Towing 168  
Turn signals, bulb  
Warning lamps 20  
Warning messages 75  
Washer fluid, adding 134  
Washer nozzles,  
adjusting 134  
Washer reservoir, filling 134  
Wheel changing 159  
Windshield wiper blades,  
replacing 152  
replacement 158  
M
Maintenance 140  
Malfunction displays 75  
Microfilter, change 165  
Motion sensor, switching  
off 42  
reservoir 134  
Return used batteries 164  
Working in the engine  
compartment 130  
S
O
Oil  
Side lamps  
bulb replacement 154  
Sliding/tilt sunroof  
close in event of electrical  
defect 166  
Space-saver spare tire 159  
Spare key 32  
quality 136  
specifications 136  
viscosity 136  
Onboard tool kit 152  
U
Use antifreeze for  
radiator 138  
Used batteries 164  
Used engine oil 136  
P
Spare tire 159  
Pressure, tires 28  
Spare wheel 159  
Starting problems 115  
Switching off tilt alarm/  
interior motion sensor 42  
V
R
Vanity mirror lamp, bulb  
Rear hatch lamp  
bulb replacement 157  
Rear lamp 156  
Release the hood 130  
replacement 158  
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Refueling  
BMW recommends Castrol  
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  
Premium Unleaded  
Gasoline  
AKI: minimum  
91  
Engine oil  
Quality  
The oil volume between the  
two marks on the oil dipstick  
corresponds to approx.  
1.1 US quarts (1 liter).  
Summer  
Front Rear  
Winter  
Tire inflation pressures  
Front  
Rear  
4 persons  
5 persons or 4 plus luggage  
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We wish you an enjoyable  
driving experience.  
The Ultimate Driving Machine  
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