Owner's Manual

for Vehicle

The Ultimate
Driving Machine

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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine
 Z4 2.5i Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.
Z4 3.0i Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with
enhanced control and security when you drive it. Therefore, we
have one 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 BMW. The manual contains
important data and instructions intended to assist you in obtain-
ing maximum satisfaction from your BMW's unique array of
advanced technical features. It also contains information on vehi-
cle maintenance designed to enhance operating safety while
simultaneously helping you to maintain your BMW's value
throughout an extended service life. For additional information
refer to the supplemental manuals.
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of
this vehicle. It should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide
the next owner with important operating, safety and maintenance
information.
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW AG

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 © 2004 Bayerische Motoren Werke
Aktiengesellschaft
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW AG, Munich.
Order No. 01 41 0 158 704
US English IX/04
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper,
bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling.

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 Contents
The fastest way to find information on special

At a glance
topics is by using the index starting on
page 106.

Using this Owner's Manual

4 Notes

At a glance
10 Cockpit

Controls
16 Opening and closing
27 Adjustments

Controls
33 Transporting children safely
36 Driving
46 Everything under control
50 Technology for safety and driving
convenience
56 Lamps
58 Controlling the climate for pleasant
driving
64 Interior conveniences

Driving tips
Driving tips
68 Special operating instructions

Mobility
76 Refueling
78 Wheels and tires
84 In the engine compartment
89 Maintenance
91 Replacement procedures
96 Giving and receiving assistance

Reference Mobility
102 Technical data
106 Everything from A to Z
Reference

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 Notes
Notes

About this Owner's Manual Symbols used

We have made every effort to ensure that you Indicates precautions that must be fol-
are able to find what you need in this Owner's lowed precisely in order to avoid the pos-
Manual as quickly as possible. The fastest way sibility of personal injury and serious damage to
to find certain topics is by using the detailed the vehicle.
index at the end. If you wish to gain an initial Indicates information that will assist you
overview of your vehicle, you will find what you in gaining the optimum benefit from your
are looking for in the first chapter. vehicle and enable you to care more effectively
Should you sell your BMW at some time in the for your vehicle.
future, please remember to pass the Owner's Refers to measures that can be taken to
Manual on to the new owner. The manual repre- help protect the environment.
sents an important component of the vehicle.
< Marks the end of a specific item of informa-
tion.
Additional sources of information
* Indicates special equipment, country-specific
If you have additional questions, your BMW
equipment and optional extras, as well as
center will be glad to advise you.
equipment and functions not yet available at the
You can find more information about BMW, for time of printing.
example on its technology, on the Internet
Vehicle Memory, Key Memory, refer to
under www.bmw.com.
page 31. Identifies functions that can be
specifically adapted for a particular key or vehi-
cle. These adjustments can be performed by
your BMW center.

Symbol on vehicle parts

Indicates that you should consult the rel-
evant section of this Owner's Manual for
information on a particular part or assembly.

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 Your individual vehicle Status at time of printing
On buying your BMW, you have decided in favor BMW pursues a policy of continuous, ongoing
of a model with individualized equipment and development that is conceived to ensure that
features. This Owner's Manual describes all our vehicles continue to embody the highest

At a glance
models and equipment that BMW offers within quality and safety standards combined with
the same group. advanced, state-of-the-art technology. In
We hope you will understand that equipment exceptional cases, the features described in
and features are included which you might not this Owner's Manual could therefore differ from
have chosen for your vehicle. Any differences those on your vehicle.
can easily be identified since all optional acces-
sories and special equipment are marked with
an asterisk *.
If your BMW features equipment not described
in this Owner's Manual, please observe the
enclosed supplementary Owner's Manuals.

Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
Reference

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 For your own safety BMW warrants these parts to be free from
Notes
defects in material and workmanship.
Maintenance and repair BMW will not accept any liability for damage
resulting from installation of parts and accesso-
Advanced technology, e.g. the use of
ries not approved by BMW.
modern materials and high-performance
BMW cannot test every product made by other
electronics, requires specially adapted mainte-
manufacturers to verify if it can be used on a
nance and repair methods. Therefore, only have
BMW safely and without risk to either the vehi-
corresponding work on your BMW carried out
cle, its operation, or its occupants.
by a BMW center or a workshop that works
Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories and
according to BMW repair procedures with cor-
other products approved by BMW, together
respondingly trained personnel. If work is car-
with professional advice on using these items,
ried out improperly there is a danger of conse-
are available from all BMW retailers.
quential damage and the related safety risks.<
Installation and operation of non-BMW
approved accessories such as alarms, radios,
California Proposition 65 warning
amplifiers, radar detectors, wheels, suspension
California laws require us to state the following components, brake dust shields, telephones,
warning: including operation of any portable cellular
Engine exhaust and a wide variety of phone from within the vehicle without using an
automobile components and parts, externally mounted antenna, or transceiver
including components found in the interior fur- equipment, e.g. C.B., walkie-talkie, ham radio or
nishings in a vehicle, contain or emit chemicals similar, may cause extensive damage to the
known to the State of California to cause cancer vehicle, compromise its safety, interfere with
and birth defects and reproductive harm. In the vehicle's electrical system or affect the
addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and validity of the BMW Limited Warranty. See your
certain products of component wear contain or BMW center for additional information.
emit chemicals known to the State of CA to Do not use key or remote control to lock doors
cause cancer and birth defects or other repro- or trunk with anyone inside the vehicle. Refer to
ductive harm. the Owner's Manual for more details.<
Battery posts, terminals and related accesso- Maintenance, replacement or repair of
ries contain lead and lead compounds. Batter- the emission control devices and sys-
ies also contain other chemicals known to the tems may be performed by any automotive
State of California to cause cancer. Wash your repair establishment or individual using any cer-
hands after handling. tified automotive part.<
Used engine oil contains chemicals that have
caused cancer in laboratory animals. Always
protect your skin by washing thoroughly with
soap and water.<

Parts and accessories

For your own safety, use parts and acces-
sories approved by BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested and
approved by BMW and Original BMW Parts, you
simultaneously acquire the assurance that they
have been thoroughly tested by BMW to ensure
optimum performance when installed on your
vehicle.

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 Service and warranty Reporting safety defects
This manual is supplemented by a Service and The following only applies to vehicles owned
Warranty Information Booklet for US models, and operated in the US.
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for Cana-

At a glance
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect
dian models. which could cause a crash or could cause injury
We recommend that you read this publication or death, you should immediately inform the
thoroughly. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Your BMW is covered by the following warran- NHTSA in addition to notifying BMW of North
ties: America, LLC, P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New
Jersey 07675-1227, telephone toll-free
> New Vehicle Limited Warranty
1-800-831-1117.
> Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may
> Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety
> Federal Emissions Performance Warranty defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order
> California Emission Control System Limited a recall and remedy campaign. However,

Controls
Warranty. NHTSA cannot become involved in individual
problems between you, your retailer, or BMW of
Detailed information about these warranties is North America, LLC.
listed in the Service and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models, Warranty and Service To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto
Guide Booklet for Canadian models. 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

Driving tips
from the Hotline.

Mobility
Reference

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 At a glance
The overviews of buttons, switches and
displays presented in this chapter will help you
find your way around your vehicle.
You will also be familiarized with the concepts
behind the operation of the features
available to you.

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 Cockpit
Cockpit

Control elements

1 Parking lamps/Low beams 56 8 Buttons in steering wheel*

2 > Turn signal indicators 42
> Standing lamps 57
> High beams 57 Volume
> Headlamp flasher 42
> Computer* 48
Press briefly:
3 Fog lamps* 57
Accept incoming call, start dialing, terminate
4 Horn call
5 Washer/wiper system/Rain sensor* 43 Extended pressure:
6 Hazard warning flashers Activate and deactivate voice entry
7 Central locking system 16

10

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 Display/hide telephone book. Display the
entries one after another with the forward/back-

At a glance
ward buttons

Fast forward/rewind
> Radio
Press briefly: next station stored
Extended pressure: station search
> CD
Press briefly: jump to next track
Extended pressure: fast forward/rewind

Controls
> Telephone
Scan register of names
9 Cruise control* 44
10 Hood release 84
11 Luggage compartment lid release 18

Driving tips
Mobility
Reference

11

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 Instrument cluster
Cockpit

1 Speedometer Indicator and warning lamps

2 Indicator and warning lamps 12
3 Tachometer 46 Technology that monitors itself
with indicator and warning lamps 12 Indicator and warning lamps that are identified
by + are tested for proper functioning whenever
4 Engine coolant temperature gauge 46
the ignition key is turned. They each light up
5 Fuel gauge 46 once for different periods of time.
6 Button for If a malfunction occurs in one of the monitored
> Time 47 systems, the corresponding light does not go
out after the engine has started, or it lights up
> Service interval display 47
again while the vehicle is in motion. You can find
7 Display field for selector lever and program more information about each system on the
indicator specified pages.
> Automatic transmission* 38
Safety belt reminder + 30
> Sequential manual gearbox SMG* 40
8 Button for
> Trip odometer, reset to zero 46 Airbags + 53
> Setting time 47
9 Display for Battery charge current + 94
> Trip odometer/Odometer 46
> Clock 47
> Service interval 47
> Computer* 48

12

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 Engine oil pressure/Engine oil level/ Fog lamps 57
Engine oil sensor + 86

Brake system + Headlamp flasher/High beams 42, 57

At a glance
Parking brake released 88
Parking brake applied 37
With other warning lamps 51 Electric Power Steering + 42

Brake warning lamp for Canadian

models Doors or luggage compartment lid
open
Antilock Brake System ABS/Driving
stability control systems + 50 Engine electronics +
Malfunction in the engine electronics.
Antilock Brake System ABS/Driving You can continue to drive with
stability control systems for Canadian reduced engine output or engine
speed. Please have the system

Controls
models
inspected by your BMW center.
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC + 50 Colors
The indicator and warning lamps can light up in
Dynamic Traction Control
various colors and combinations.
DTC + 50
> Red:
Flat Tire Monitor + 52 Stop the vehicle immediately
or
an important reminder

Driving tips
Automatic transmission/Sequential > Red and yellow:
manual gearbox SMG + 39, 41 Continue driving cautiously
Brake pads + 88 > Yellow:
Have the system checked soon
or
Add coolant 87 for your information
> Green or blue:
For your information.
Check gas cap + 76

Service engine soon + 90 Mobility

Service engine soon indicator lamp for

Canadian models

Defective bulb 56

Turn signal indicators 42

Reference

13

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 Controls
This chapter provides you with the information
you need for complete control over your
vehicle. It describes all features used for driving
and for ensuring your safety and comfort.

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 Opening and closing
Opening and closing

The key set > storage compartment between the back-

rests
> opened manual convertible top.
The central locking system can be operated
> from outside using the remote control or via
the driver's door lock
> from inside via the central locking system
button.
If it is operated from inside, the fuel filler door
will not be locked. Refer to page 18.
1 Master keys with remote control The anti-theft system is automatically activated
Each key is powered by an extended-life whenever you activate the central locking sys-
battery that is charged automatically in the tem from outside the vehicle. It prevents the
ignition lock as you drive. For this reason, doors from being unlocked with the lock but-
use every master key at least twice a year to tons or release handles. The alarm system is
keep its battery charged. Depending on also armed.
which master key is recognized when the In the event of a sufficiently severe accident, the
vehicle is unlocked, different settings are central locking system unlocks automatically. In
called up and carried out in the vehicle, refer addition, the hazard warning flashers and inte-
to Key Memory on page 31. rior lamps come on.
2 Spare key
For storage in a safe place, e.g. in your wal-
let. Opening and closing:
This key is not intended for constant use. from outside
New keys With the remote control
You can obtain new keys, whether as additional Whenever you unlock or lock the vehicle, you
keys or replacement keys, at your BMW center. simultaneously deactivate/activate the anti-
theft system, disarm/arm the alarm system and
switch the interior lamps on/off.
Central locking system You will find more information about the alarm
system on page 25.
The concept Since persons or animals in the vehicle
The central locking system is ready for opera- could lock the doors from the inside,
tion whenever the driver's door is closed. The always take the vehicle keys with you so that
system simultaneously engages and releases the vehicle can be opened again from the out-
the locks on the side at any time.<
> doors
To unlock
> luggage compartment lid
Press the button.
> fuel filler door

16

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 Press the button once to unlock the driver’s If it is no longer possible to lock the vehicle with
door and the fuel filler door; press a second time the remote control, the battery is discharged.
to disengage all vehicle locks. Use this remote control key while driving for an
extended period in order to recharge the bat-

At a glance
Convenience opening mode tery, refer to page 16.
Keep the button pressed:
The windows and the fully automatic convert- For US owners only
ible top are opened. The transmitter and receiver units comply with
part 15 of the FCC, Federal Communications
To lock and secure Commission, regulations. Operation is gov-
Press the button. erned by the following:

The hazard warning flashers light up once. FCC ID: LX8EWS

If you wish, you can have this special fea- LX8FZVS

ture activated/deactivated.< LX8FZVE
Compliance statement:

Controls
To switch on the interior lamps
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
With the vehicle locked: Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
Press the button. conditions:
With this function, you can also search for your > This device may not cause harmful interfer-
vehicle when parked in an underground garage, ence, and
for instance.
> this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
To open the luggage compartment
cause undesired operation.
Press button briefly.
Any unauthorized modifications to these

Driving tips
The luggage compartment lid will open slightly, devices could void the user's authority to
regardless of whether it was locked or operate the equipment.<
unlocked.
Before and after a trip, be sure that the At the door lock
luggage compartment lid has not been
opened unintentionally.<

Panic mode*
By pressing and holding button for more
than approx. two seconds, you can trigger the
alarm systems* in response to any impending
Mobility
danger.
To switch off the alarm: press any of the but-
tons. One turn of the key in the driver's door lock
unlocks the driver's door and the fuel filler door.
Malfunction
Turn the key a second time to disengage all
Local radio waves can impede the functioning other vehicle locks.
of the remote control.
Should this occur, open and close the vehicle When the vehicle is locked, the hazard warning
using the master key in either a door or the lug- flashers light up once.
If you wish, you can have this special fea-
Reference

gage compartment lock.

ture activated/deactivated.<

17

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 Convenience operation To unlock and open
Opening and closing
You can also operate the windows and the fully > Either unlock the doors together with the
automatic convertible top via the door lock. button for the central locking system and
> To open: then pull each of the release handles above
With the door closed, hold the key in the the armrests
Unlock position or
> To close: > pull the release handle for each door twice:
With the door closed, hold the key in the the initial pull unlocks the door, and the sec-
Lock position. ond one opens it.
Watch the closing process to ensure that
no one is trapped. Releasing the key To lock
stops the operation.< > Either use the central locking button to lock
both doors at once or
Manual operation > press the individual door lock buttons
If there is an electrical malfunction, you can down.
unlock or lock the driver's door by turning the To prevent the driver from being inad-
key in the lock all the way to the left or right. vertently locked out of the vehicle, the
driver's door lock button will not engage as
long as the door is open.<
Opening and closing: Since persons or animals in the vehicle
from inside could lock the doors from the inside,
always take the vehicle keys with you so that
the vehicle can be opened again from the out-
side at any time.<

Luggage compartment lid

To open from the outside

You can use this button to control the central

locking system whenever the doors are closed.
The doors and luggage compartment lid are
unlocked or locked only. The anti-theft system
is not activated.
If only the driver's door was unlocked from the
outside and you press the button, then, with the
driver's door still open, the luggage compart-
Turn the master key to the left as far as it will go.
ment lid and the fuel filler door will unlock, too. If
The luggage compartment lid will open slightly.
the driver's door is closed, it will be locked.
If the alarm system is armed, opening the lug-
If you desire, the central locking system
gage compartment with the key will trigger an
can be activated automatically as soon as
alarm; refer also to page 25.
you begin to drive. This can be adjusted to be
key-specific.<

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 To open from inside the vehicle Luggage compartment
Emergency release

At a glance
If the luggage compartment lid has not been
locked separately, you can open it with this but-
ton in the footwell on the driver's side when the This lever releases the luggage compartment
vehicle is stationary. lid from inside the luggage compartment.

Controls
To close To enlarge the luggage compartment
The luggage compartment can be enlarged
when the convertible top is closed.

Driving tips
The handle recess in the interior trim panel of
the luggage compartment lid makes it easier to
pull the lid down.
Simultaneously turn the handles on both sides
To avoid injuries, be sure that the travel
of the luggage compartment outward past the
path of the luggage compartment lid is
resistance point.
clear when it is closed, following the same pre-
The convertible top compartment panel is
cautions as with all closing procedures.<
raised.
Before opening the convertible top:
Turn both handles inward.
The convertible top compartment panel is low-
Mobility
ered.
Before opening the convertible top, make
sure that the convertible top compart-
ment panel has been folded down in the lug-
gage compartment to avoid any possible dam-
age.<
Reference

19

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 Windows Despite the finger guard system, make
Opening and closing
sure that the windows can close without
To open and close a window obstruction, since in some cases, e.g. with thin
objects, it is not guaranteed that the closing
operation will be interrupted.
The finger guard system function is restricted
when the switch is pulled and held beyond the
pressure point.<

After a power supply interruption

After a power supply interruption, for instance
after disconnecting the battery, the pressure-
sensitive finger guard system must be reinitial-
Ignition key in position 1 or higher: ized:
> Press the switch downward until you feel Ensure that the doors and convertible top are
resistance: the window continues to move closed before initializing. Perform the following
downward as long as you continue to press procedure twice for each window:
the switch
> Open and close the window completely
> Tap the switch past the pressure point:
> With the window closed, keep pulling the
the window moves downward automati-
switch upward for approx. 1 second.
cally. Tapping the switch again stops the
opening cycle.
You can close the window in the same manner Manual convertible top
by pulling the switch upward.
The fabric top offers perfect protection against
If you wish, you can have this special fea-
the weather and it can be opened easily and
ture activated/deactivated.<
quickly by one person alone.
After the ignition has been switched off Here are a few tips so that you get the most out
of your BMW:
You can still open or close the windows for up to
15 minutes, as long as no one opens any of the > It is advisable to close the convertible top
doors. when the vehicle is parked. The closed con-
vertible top not only protects the passenger
When leaving the vehicle, always remove
compartment from unforeseeable damage
the ignition key from the lock and remem-
from the weather, but also provides a cer-
ber to close the doors, since children could oth-
tain degree of theft protection
erwise operate the windows and injure them-
selves, etc.< > In addition, only keep valuables in the
locked luggage compartment, even with the
For convenience operation via the remote con-
convertible top closed
trol or the door lock, refer to page 17 or 18,
respectively. > When the convertible top is open, the cen-
tral locking system also locks the release
Pressure-sensitive finger guard button for the convertible top. The convert-
system ible top cannot be operated. This provides
better theft protection for valuables stored
If the closing force exceeds a certain value while
in the luggage compartment
a window is being raised, the system will
respond by stopping the window and then > Never mount a roof-mounted luggage rack
retracting it a small distance. system on the convertible top.

20

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 Never store the convertible top for longer 4. Gently swing the convertible top downward
than one day while it is wet to avoid per- and press until it engages audibly.
manent damage from moisture.<

At a glance
To open
Operate the convertible top only when
the vehicle is stationary.
Before opening the convertible top, make sure
that the convertible top compartment panel has
been folded down in the luggage compartment
to avoid any possible damage, refer to
page 19.<
1. Flip the handle out and turn it to the end To close
stop 1. Press button 1.
The convertible top is released and moves
up slightly

Controls
2. Fold the handle back in

Driving tips
Do not guide the convertible top
towards the rear with the handle 2. Holding on to the handle, pull the convert-
folded out, as the convertible top's head- ible top forward onto the windshield frame
liner could otherwise be damaged.< 3. Turn the handle until it audibly engages.
3. Open the convertible top and push it toward The convertible top is locked.
the rear of the vehicle At higher speeds, a vacuum effect in the
passenger compartment can cause the
convertible top to begin fluttering. Increase the
air supply so that a low pressure draft does not
occur in the vehicle.<

Fully automatic convertible Mobility

top*
The fully automatic convertible top combines
assured protection against the elements with
simple and easy handling.
Here are a few tips so that you get the most out
of your BMW:
> It is advisable to close the convertible top
Reference

when the vehicle is parked. When closed,

21

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 the top not only guards the passenger com- Opening and closing
Opening and closing
partment from unforeseeable damage from
the weather, but also affords a degree of
protection against theft. In addition, only
keep valuables in the locked luggage com-
partment, even with the convertible top
closed
> Never mount a roof-mounted luggage rack
system on the convertible top
> To avoid damage, do not operate the con-
vertible top at temperatures below 147/ 1 To close
–106.
2 To open
To avoid permanent damage from mois-
If at all possible, only operate the convert-
ture, never store the convertible top while
it is wet. ible top if the engine is running. This
Driving when the opening or closing process saves unnecessary battery wear.
Before closing the convertible top, remove any
has not been completed can cause vehicle
damage or personal injury. objects from the windshield frame that could
Do not lay objects on the convertible top, since keep the convertible top from closing prop-
erly.<
they could fall off when the convertible top is
operated and cause damage or injuries. Ignition key in position 1 or higher.
Do not reach into the convertible top mecha- With the vehicle standing.
nism during opening and closing. Keep children 1. Read and comply with the preceding safety
away from the moving parts of the convertible precautions
top during operation.<
2. Make sure that the convertible top com-
If possible, only operate the convertible partment panel in the luggage compart-
top with the vehicle stopped, as other- ment is lowered; refer to page 19. Other-
wise the process may be interrupted. wise the convertible top cannot be opened
If you set the convertible top in motion while the
3. Ensure that the luggage compartment lid is
vehicle is stationary and then have to start sud-
closed
denly, for instance at a traffic light, you can still
complete the procedure by driving as slowly as 4. Press and hold the corresponding button
possible and again holding the corresponding for convertible top operation.
button pressed. If the convertible top should halt right before the
At higher speeds, a vacuum effect in the pas- closing phase is completed, press against the
senger compartment can cause the convertible front part of the convertible top frame from the
top to begin fluttering. Increase the air supply outside to help the closing process along. Keep
so that a low pressure draft does not occur in pressing the button while doing so until the top
the vehicle.< starts up again on its own.

Indicator lamps
> The red indicator lamp in the button will
light up while the convertible top is in
motion. It goes out as soon as the opening
or closing operation has been completed
> If the red indicator lamp in the button
flashes after the button has been released,

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 then the opening or closing operation has To close manually in the event of
not yet been completed. an electrical malfunction
The sequence can be continued in the 1. Pull out the handle in the luggage compart-
desired direction by pressing this button ment as far as it will go

At a glance
> If the yellow indicator lamp in the button
lights up continuously with the button
pressed, then the convertible top compart-
ment panel is raised and the convertible top
cannot be moved.
The side windows will lower slightly when you
press the button for operating the convertible
top.
After the opening or closing operation, the side
windows will go back up if you keep the button
2. Turn the handle 903 until it engages
pressed for more than 2 seconds after the indi-
3. Pull on the cord in the luggage compart-

Controls
cator lamp has gone out.
ment panel.
Interruption The storage compartment between the
seat backrests is unlocked, refer also to
The automatic sequence will be interrupted
page 64
immediately if you release the button that oper-
ates the top. The sequence can be continued in
the desired direction by pressing this button.
If the convertible top operation has been
interrupted, do not close the side win-
dows using the power window buttons. Other-

Driving tips
wise the side windows may not close properly
against the rubber seal of the convertible top.<
After the convertible top has been stored
for an extended period of time in the con-
vertible top compartment, e.g. in the winter 4. Press button 1.
months because the hardtop was being used, The convertible top is released and moves
you may have to support the convertible top by up slightly
hand when closing it for the first time.<

Convenience operation

Remote control
Mobility
Refer to page 17.

Driver's door
Refer to page 18.
Reference

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 5. Grab the convertible top at its frame and pull partment to a minimum, thus providing you with
Opening and closing
it up to the windshield frame a pleasant drive, even at higher speeds.

Installation

6. Pull out the cover panel that is in the center

of the front convertible top frame
Insert the wind deflector in its proper orienta-
tion into the guides 1 provided on the rollover
bars.
Refer to the labeling on the wind deflector to
determine its proper orientation.
The wind deflector must engage firmly, as
it could otherwise become detached at
higher vehicle speeds.<
The wind deflector panels 2 in the rollover bars
cannot be removed.
7. Insert the Allen wrench into the hex slot.
The Allen wrench is located in the vehicle
tool pouch, refer to page 91 Removal

Slide both locks inward and remove the wind

8. Pull the convertible top frame down as far as
deflector.
possible
9. Continue turning the Allen wrench to the
left until the convertible top frame has
locked onto the windshield frame.

Wind deflector*
With the convertible top open, the wind deflec-
tor keeps air movement in the passenger com-

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 Clothes hooks Alarm system*
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:

At a glance
> When a door, the hood or the luggage com-
partment lid is opened
> When attempts are made to start the vehi-
cle
> When there are movements in the vehicle
interior: interior motion sensor, refer to
Clothes hooks 1 are located on the wind deflec-
page 26
tor panels in the rollover bars.
> To alterations in the vehicle tilt, e.g. as
Do not hang heavy objects on the hooks.
would occur during attempts to steal the
If you do, they could endanger the pas-
wheels or tow the vehicle
sengers, for example during braking or evasive

Controls
maneuvers.< > To interruption of battery voltage.
The alarm produced by the system in the event
Storage of unauthorized vehicle entry and attempted
For storage, e.g. to achieve a better view to the theft depends on the country version:
rear when the convertible top is closed, there > Sounding of an acoustical alarm for
are two brackets on the inside of the luggage 30 seconds
compartment lid. > Activation of the hazard warning flashers for
approx. five minutes.

Driving tips
Arming and disarming the alarm
system
When the vehicle is locked or unlocked either
with the remote control or at the driver's door
lock, the alarm system is simultaneously armed
or disarmed.
The hazard warning flashers blink once when
Insert the wind deflector into the brackets. the alarm system has been properly armed.

Make sure that the wind deflector cannot You can have different acknowledgment
be damaged by objects in the luggage signals set to confirm arming and disarm-
compartment.< ing.<

Mobility
You can still open the luggage compartment
even when the system is armed by pressing the
button on the remote control, refer to
page 17. When it is closed, the lid is once again
secured.
Manual operation of the luggage com-
partment lid triggers the alarm. Refer to
page 18.<
Reference

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 Stopping the alarm Tilt alarm sensor and interior motion
Opening and closing
> Unlock the vehicle with the remote control, sensor
refer to page 16
Tilt alarm sensor
> or turn the ignition key to position 1, refer to
page 36. The inclination of the vehicle is monitored. The
alarm system reacts, e.g. to attempts to steal
Indicator lamp displays the wheels or tow the vehicle.

Interior motion sensor*

The system monitors the footwells and the
seating areas of the driver and passenger. Even
when the convertible top is open, the alarm sys-
tem including the interior motion sensor is
armed. Objects falling into the vehicle, e.g.
leaves, can trigger unintentional alarms, refer to
Avoiding unintentional alarms.

> The indicator lamp beneath the interior mir- Avoiding unintentional alarms
ror flashes continuously: The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor
The system is armed
can be deactivated at the same time. In this way
> The indicator lamp flashes immediately you can avoid unintentional alarms, e.g. in the
after the vehicle is locked: following situations:
Doors or luggage compartment lid are not > In duplex garages
completely closed. Even if you do not close
the area causing the alert, the remaining > When the vehicle is being transported on a
areas are secured and the indicator lamp car-carrying train
flashes continuously after 10 seconds. > If animals are to be left in the vehicle.
However, the interior motion sensor is not
activated To deactivate the tilt alarm and interior
> If the indicator lamp goes out immediately motion sensors
after the vehicle is unlocked: Press the button on the remote control
No manipulation or attempted intrusions a second time immediately after locking.
have been detected in the period since the The indicator lamp lights up briefly and then
system was armed flashes continuously. The tilt alarm sensor and
> If the indicator lamp flashes for 10 seconds the interior motion sensor are deactivated until
immediately after the vehicle is unlocked: the vehicle is again unlocked and locked.
An attempted entry has been detected in
the period since the system was armed.
After an alarm has been triggered, the indicator
lamp will flash continuously.

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 Adjustments

Safe seating position Safety belts

At a glance
Always fasten your safety belt before starting
For relaxed driving with as little fatigue as pos-
off. As supplemental restraint devices, the air-
sible, you should select a seating position that
bags are designed to enhance the effective-
reflects your personal requirements. In combi-
ness of the safety belts, and not to replace
nation with the safety belts and airbags, the cor-
them.
rect seating position also plays an important
role in enhancing occupant safety in the event Your vehicle offers two sitting positions, each of
of an accident. To ensure that the vehicle's which is equipped with a safety belt.
safety systems provide you with optimal pro- At all times, occupants should sit upright
tection, we request that you direct your careful and be properly restrained: infants and
attention to the following section. small children in appropriate child-restraint sys-
For supplementary information on transporting tems; larger children and adults using the safety

Controls
children refer to page 33. belts.
Expectant mothers should always wear their
Airbags safety belts, taking care to position the belt in
the pelvic area against the lower hips, where it
Always maintain an adequate distance
will not exert pressure against the abdomen.
between yourself and the airbags. Always
Never allow more than one person to wear a sin-
hold the steering wheel by its rim with hands at
gle safety belt. Never allow infants or small chil-
the 9 and 3 o'clock positions to minimize the
dren to ride in a passenger's lap.
risk of injuries to your hands or arms in the event
Do not route the belt across your neck, or run it
of airbag deployment.
across sharp edges. Be sure that the belt does

Driving tips
Never allow any objects, individuals or animals
not become caught or jammed. Avoid twisting
to obstruct the areas between passengers and
the belt while routing it firmly across the hips
airbags.
and shoulder; wear it as snugly against your
Never use the front airbag's cover as a storage
body as possible. Do not allow the belt to rest
tray or support for objects of any kind. Ensure
against hard or fragile objects. Otherwise, the
that the passenger is correctly seated, i.e. does
belt in the pelvic area could slide over the hips in
not prop feet or legs against the dashboard.
the event of a frontal impact, leading to abdom-
Otherwise, leg injury could result if the knee air-
inal injury. Avoid wearing bulky clothing and pull
bag and front airbag suddenly deployed.
the belt in the upper-body area upward periodi-
Never let an occupant's head rest near or on a
cally to retension it. Otherwise, the restraining
side airbag because the inflating airbag could
effect of the safety belt could be diminished.<
cause a serious or fatal injury.<
Mobility
For information on using the safety belts, refer
Even when all these guidelines are observed,
to page 30.
the risk of injury as a result of contact with the
airbags cannot entirely be ruled out in some sit-
uations. In sensitive individuals, the ignition and
inflation noise may induce a mild hearing loss
that is temporary in most cases.
For airbag locations and additional information
on airbags, refer to page 53.
Reference

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 Seats
Adjustments
Before adjusting your seat, always
observe the following precautions
Never try to adjust your seat while operat-
ing the vehicle. The seat could respond
with an unexpected movement, and the ensu-
ing loss of vehicle control could result in an
accident.
Never ride with the backrest inclined to an
extreme angle – this also applies to the passen- 3 Backrest
ger seat. If you do, there is a risk that you will Pull lever 3 and apply weight to or remove
slide under the safety belt in the event of an weight from the backrest as required.
accident, thus reducing the protection provided
by the safety belt.< Head restraints
In addition, observe the instructions regarding Head restraints reduce the risk of neck
damaged safety belts on page 30. injuries in the event of an accident. Adjust
the head restraint in such a way that its center is
Seat adjustment at approximately ear level.<

Adjusting the height

1 Backward/forward
Pull lever 1 and slide the seat into the desired > To move up: pull.
position.
> To move down: press button 1 and push
After releasing the lever, move the seat back- the head restraint downward.
wards or forwards slightly to ensure that the
latch engages securely Removal
1. Pull up the head restraint as far as it will go.
2 Height
2. Press button 1 and pull out the head
Pull lever 2 and apply weight to or remove
restraint completely.
weight from the seat as required

Installation
Insert the head restraint into the guides.

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 Seat adjustment: M Sports seat* Read and comply with the adjustment
You can also adjust the tilt and the thigh sup- instructions on page 28. Failure to do so
port. can result in diminished personal safety.<

At a glance
Seat memory*

1 Tilt upward
Pull the lever repeatedly until the desired tilt has

Controls
been reached.
You can store and recall three different driver's
seat positions.
2 Tilt downward
Push the lever repeatedly until the desired tilt To store
has been reached.
Ignition key in position 1 or higher
3 Thigh support 1. Adjust seat to desired position
Pull the lever and adjust the position of the 2. Press the MEMORY button: the indicator
cushion for thigh support as desired. lamp in the button lights up

Driving tips
3. Press memory button 1, 2 or 3: the indicator
Power seat adjustment* lamp goes out.

To select a stored setting

Do not select a memory position while the
vehicle is moving. If you do, there is a risk
of accident from an unexpected movement of
the seat.<

Convenience function
1. Unlock and open the driver's door or turn
1 Tilt angle the ignition key to position 1
2. Press memory button 1, 2 or 3 briefly. Mobility
2 Backward/forward adjustment
Movement stops immediately when one of
3 Height
the seat adjustment or memory buttons is
4 Backrest angle operated during the adjustment process.
The head restraints are adjusted manually. You can have this feature programmed so
Refer to page 28. that when you use the remote control
With the M Sports seat, you can also adjust the from your personalized key to unlock your door,
thigh support manually, refer to the preceding your seat will move into your own preferred
section. position.<
Reference

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 Safety function
Adjustments
1. Close the driver's door and turn the ignition
key to position 0 or 2
2. Press and hold the desired memory button
1, 2 or 3 until the adjustment process is
completed.
If you press the MEMORY button accidentally:
Press the button again; the indicator lamp goes
out.
Before activating the programmed To fasten
adjustment feature, ensure that the space Make sure you hear the lock engage in the belt
behind the driver's seat is empty and unob- buckle.
structed. If you fail to do so, objects behind the
seat could be damaged, should the seat move To unlock
backward.<
1. Press the red button in the belt buckle
2. Hold the belt
Seat heating* 3. Guide the belt back into its reel.
The upper belt attachment point is suitable for
all body sizes, provided that the person is sitting
correctly, refer to page 28.

Safety belt reminder

The indicator lamp flashes or lights up.
A signal also sounds. Check if the
safety belts have been properly fas-
tened.
The safety belt reminder is operational above a
The seat cushion and backrest can be heated
speed of approx. 5 mph / 8 km/h. The reminder
with the ignition key in position 2.
can also occur if objects are on the passenger
You can call up different heating modes by seat.
repeatedly pressing the buttons.
The seat heating can also be switched off from Damaged safety belts
the higher heating modes: If the safety belts are damaged or
Press the button and hold it slightly longer. stretched in an accident: have the entire
belt system, including the tensioning mecha-
nisms, replaced at your BMW center. Have the
Safety belts belt anchorage points inspected for damage at
the same time. Failure to observe this precau-
Comply with the instructions on page 27,
tion may prevent the safety belts from effec-
or the occupants' personal safety will be
tively providing optimal protection when
diminished.<
needed.<
Make sure every occupant fastens his or her
safety belt. As supplemental restraint devices,
the airbags are designed to enhance the effec-
tiveness of the safety belts, and not to replace
them.

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 Steering wheel To fold the mirrors in and out
The mirrors can be folded in or out up to a road
Adjustments speed of approx. 6 mph / 10 km/h by pressing
Never attempt to adjust the steering button 3. This can be useful on narrow roads,

At a glance
wheel while driving the vehicle. It could for example, or to reset the mirrors to their cor-
respond with unexpected movement, posing a rect positions after they have been folded in.
potential accident hazard.<
Automatic heating*
Both exterior mirrors are automatically heated
when the engine is running or the ignition is
switched on.

Interior rearview mirror

Controls
1. Swing the lever downward
2. Adjust the steering column's reach and
height to suit your seating position
3. Swing the lever back up.

To reduce the glare from vehicles behind you

Mirrors when driving at night, turn the rotary knob.
For vehicles without an alarm system:

Driving tips
Exterior mirrors Tilt the small lever forward.

Vehicle Memory, Key Memory

How the system functions
You have probably frequently wished that you
could configure individual functions of your
vehicle to reflect your own personal require-
ments. In engineering your vehicle, BMW has
1 Adjustments incorporated a number of options for personal

2 To switch from one mirror to the other

adjustment that can be programmed into your Mobility
vehicle at your BMW center.
3 To fold the mirrors in or out*
Vehicle Memory refers to vehicle-oriented set-
tings and Key Memory refers to person-ori-
To adjust manually ented settings. You can have up to four different
The mirrors can also be adjusted manually, if basic settings adjusted for four different per-
necessary: press on the edges of the lens. sons. The only requirement is that each person
uses his or her own remote control key.
When your vehicle is unlocked with the remote
Reference

control, the vehicle recognizes the individual

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 user by means of a data exchange with the key,
Adjustments
and makes adjustments accordingly.
Colored decals were provided with the keys to
help you distinguish between the different per-
sonal remote control keys.

What the system can do

You can learn about the entire array of features
that Vehicle Memory and Key Memory offer you
at your BMW center. A few examples follow
below:
Examples for Vehicle Memory:
> Various signals as acknowledgement when
locking or unlocking your vehicle: refer to
page 17
> Windows are opened automatically, refer to
page 20
> Reminder that the key is still in the ignition
switch after the driver's door has been
opened, refer to page 37
> Activation/deactivation of the Follow-me-
home function: refer to page 56
> Activation/deactivation of daytime driving
lamps: refer to page 56
> Sets the units of measure for displaying
time, outside temperature, distance trav-
eled and fuel consumption in the instru-
ment cluster, refer to page 48.
Examples for Key Memory:
> Locking of the vehicle when you start off:
refer to page 18
> Automatically adjusts the driver's seat to
the personal programmed settings when
the vehicle is unlocked, refer to page 29.
You will see this symbol throughout the
Owner's Manual. It is to remind you at
appropriate places of the settings that are avail-
able to you.<
Depending on how the memory functions
are configured, the vehicle may be oper-
ated differently from what is described in the
Owner's Manual. Should you decide to sell your
BMW one day, please remember to have the
memory functions returned to their original fac-
tory settings.<

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 Transporting children safely

Children on the passenger's The concept

At a glance
seat Passenger airbags can be deactivated/reacti-
vated with the vehicle ignition key. The key
Deactivating/reactivating passenger switch is located on the outer passenger's side
airbags of the instrument panel.
The passenger airbags must be deacti- The passenger airbags can only be deactivated
vated before using a rear-facing child- or reactivated with the vehicle standing still,
restraint system on the passenger seat, refer ignition off and the passenger door open.
also to page 34 for explanation.
BMW also recommends that the passenger air- Deactivation
bags be deactivated if a child is transported in a
front-facing child-restraint system, regardless

Controls
of the age of the child. If you transport a child in
the passenger seat, not an infant in a rear-fac-
ing seat, who is properly seated and seat-belted
at all times, the potential benefits of airbags
deploying in an accident generally outweigh the
risks of the child being injured by the force of a
deploying airbag.
Therefore, you should deactivate the passen-
ger airbags only if you find it difficult to ensure Deactivation of the passenger airbags system
that the child will remain properly seated and deactivates the passenger front, knee and side

Driving tips
seat-belted at all times. airbag. The airbags on the driver side remain
Always position the passenger seat as far back active.
as possible and at the lowest level. Using the vehicle ignition key, turn the key
The above warning and recommendations are switch to the OFF position. Note, the passenger
compatible with regulations established by the airbags will remain deactivated with the switch
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in this position.
NHTSA, permitting the deactivation of passen- As soon as the reason for the deactivation
ger airbags by means of an on-off switch for of the passenger airbags no longer exists,
members of certain at-risk groups. you must reactivate these airbags so that they
Specifically, the at-risk groups are: can deploy in an accident within their normal
> Infants in rear-facing infant seats deployment range.<

> Persons with certain medical conditions Mobility

Reactivating
> Children aged 12 and under in the passen-
Using the vehicle ignition key, turn the key
ger seat.
switch to the ON position.
NHTSA provides this information via their web-
All airbags in the vehicle are activated and will
site, www.nhtsa.dot.gov, or via their Auto
be triggered under appropriate conditions.
Safety Hotline toll-free at
1-800-424-9393 or 366-0123
in Washington, D.C. area.<
Reference

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 Passenger airbags lamp ing the safety belt, when the airbag system is
Transporting children safely
activated.

Installing child-restraint
systems
Before installing any child-restraint system or
child seat, read the following:
Never install a rear-facing child-restraint
system in the passenger seat of this vehi-
The center console contains one of the indica- cle, unless the passenger airbags have been
tor lamps shown in the illustration. turned off and the indicator lamp in the center
The system checks that the airbag system is console indicates that the passenger airbags
functioning properly when the ignition key is are deactivated. For a child, not an infant, cer-
turned, and the indicator lamp in the central tain precautions should be taken. Position the
console lights up for several seconds. passenger seat as far back as possible and at
> The indicator lamp lights up continuously the lowest level. This important precaution is
when the passenger airbags are deacti- intended to maximize the distance between the
vated airbags and the child. Younger children should
be secured in an appropriate forward-facing
> If the passenger airbags are activated, it
child-restraint system that has first been prop-
goes out after several seconds
erly secured. Older children should be tightly
The passenger airbags are deactivated secured with a safety belt, sitting with their back
when the key switch is in the ON position against the vehicle seat back. Always ensure
and the passenger seat is unoccupied. The that all occupants, of all ages, remain properly
indicator lamp is not lit.< and securely restrained at all times.<
At all times, occupants should sit com- Always follow the manufacturer's instruc-
fortably upright and be properly tions concerning installation and use;
restrained: infants and small children in appro- otherwise the system's protective function
priate child-restraint systems; larger children could be impaired. After an accident, have all
and adults using the safety belts. Please note parts of the affected safety belt system
that the word Airbag imprinted on the door trim inspected and/or replaced by your BMW cen-
panel indicates the airbag's location.< ter.<
Commercially-available child-restraint systems
Seating position for children are designed to be secured with a lap belt or
with the lap belt portion of a combination lap/
shoulder belt. Improperly or inadequately
installed restraint systems can increase the risk
of injury to children. Always read and follow the
instructions that come with the system.

This is the correct way a larger child no longer

using a child-restraint system should sit wear-

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 Child seat security

At a glance
The passenger's safety belt can be locked for
mounting and securing a child-restraint sys-
tem.
A label with the appropriate instructions for this
is located in the immediate vicinity of the buckle

Controls
latch of the safety belt.

LATCH child-restraint mounting

system*
To mount the LATCH child-restraint sys-
tem, please follow the manufacturer's
operating and safety precautions.<

Driving tips
LATCH: Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHil-
dren
The anchorage points for the LATCH child-
restraint system are located at the positions
Mobility
indicated by the arrows.
Carefully slide the brackets through the gaps in
the upholstery at the indicated locations, see
arrows.
Reference

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 Driving
Driving

Ignition lock are normal and should decrease as the engine

warms up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.
To prevent the battery from discharging, always
deactivate electrical devices that are not in use.
Switch the ignition off when the vehicle is not
being driven.
Do not leave the engine running in
enclosed spaces. Otherwise, inhaling the
hazardous exhaust gases could lead to uncon-
sciousness and death. The exhaust gases con-
0 Steering locked tain carbon monoxide, an odorless and color-
less, but highly toxic gas.
This is the only position in which the ignition key
Do not leave the vehicle unattended with the
can be inserted or removed.
engine running. An unattended vehicle with a
After removing the key, turn the steering wheel running engine poses a safety hazard.
slightly to the left or right until the lock engages. Before you leave the vehicle with the engine
If the key is not removed, an acoustic signal running, place the engine in idle first or engage
sounds when the driver's door is opened. the P position and apply the parking brake. If
you fail to do this, the vehicle could move.<
Interlock
Vehicles with automatic transmission: Starting the engine
In order to turn the key back to position 0 or to Do not press the accelerator pedal while start-
remove it, move the selector level into position ing the engine.
P first. Do not let the engine warm up in idling position.
Instead, begin to drive at moderate engine
1 Steering unlocked speeds.
You will find that it is often easier to turn the Vehicles with manual transmission:
ignition key from position 0 to 1 if you move the Step on the clutch when starting the vehi-
steering wheel slightly to help disengage the cle. A lockout prevents the engine from starting
detent. if the clutch is not depressed.<
Individual electrical equipment and accessories Do not end the starting procedure too early, but
are available for use. do not continue it for more than 20 seconds.
Release the ignition key immediately when the
2 Ignition switched on engine starts.
All systems are operational. If the engine fails to start on the first attempt,
e.g. if it is very hot or cold:
3 Starting engine Press the accelerator pedal halfway down.
Cold starts at very low temperatures, below
approx. +57/–156, and at high altitudes,
Engine above 3,300 ft/1,000 m:
Engine idle speed is controlled by the engine
computer system. Increased speeds at start-up

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 > On the first attempt, engage the starter for ignition switch after the driver's door has been
approx. 10 seconds opened.<
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway down.
Manual transmission
Avoid frequent starting attempts in short

At a glance
succession or repeated starting attempts 1. Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0
during which the engine does not start. Other- 2. Engage first gear or reverse gear.
wise, uncombusted or incompletely combusted
fuel will pose a risk of the catalytic converter Automatic transmission
overheating and being damaged.< 1. Place the selector lever in position P
2. Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Manual transmission
1. Engage the parking brake Sequential manual gearbox SMG
2. Gearshift lever in idling position 1. Engage a drive position
3. Depress the clutch pedal. 2. Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0. An
If the clutch pedal is not depressed, the acoustic signal sounds if the engine is

Controls
engine cannot be started switched off while position N is engaged.
4. Start the engine.

Automatic transmission Parking brake

1. Depress footbrake
The parking brake is designed primarily to pre-
2. Place selector lever in position P or N vent the vehicle from rolling when parked. It
3. Start the engine. operates against the rear wheels.
The indicator lamp lights up. As the
Sequential manual gearbox SMG

Driving tips
vehicle drives off, an acoustic signal
1. Depress footbrake also sounds. The parking brake has
been applied.
2. Move selector lever to neutral position N
3. Start the engine. Indicator lamp for Canadian models.
If the engine does not start, re-engage the
position last selected, refer to the display
in the instrument cluster, and then engage posi-
tion N again.<
To engage
Switching off the engine The detent engages automatically and the indi-
Do not remove the ignition key while the cator lamp in the instrument cluster comes on
vehicle is still moving. If you did so, the when the ignition key is in position 2. Mobility
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.
Apply the parking brake when parking on steep
gradients, as the vehicle could otherwise start
to roll.<
You can have an acoustic signal set as a
reminder that the ignition key is still in the
Reference

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 Reverse
Driving
Select only when the vehicle is stationary. Press
the gearshift lever to the left to overcome the
resistance.
As you do this, the backup lamps will come on
automatically when the ignition key is in
position 2.

To release
Automatic transmission with
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the button
Steptronic*
and lower the lever. In addition to operating the Steptronic as a fully
If, in exceptional circumstances, it should automatic transmission, you can also shift
be necessary to engage the parking brake gears manually with it, refer to page 39.
while the vehicle is in motion, do not pull it with
excessive pressure. Keep the release button on Selector lever positions
the parking brake lever pressed down while P R N D M/S + —
pulling up the lever.
Excessive pressure can lead to overbraking and Available indicators
loss of traction, fishtailing, at the rear axle.
The brake lamps do not come on when the
parking brake is engaged.<
To avoid corrosion and one-sided brak-
ing, apply the parking brake lightly from
time to time when coasting to a standstill at a
traffic signal, for example, provided that it is safe
to do so.<

P R N D SD M1 to M5
Manual transmission
The selector lever position is displayed; in the
manual mode, the gear currently engaged is
shown.

Range selection
> The selector lever can be moved out of
position P when the ignition is switched on
or the engine is running: interlock
> While the vehicle is stationary and before
shifting out of P or N, depress the footbrake
6-gear transmission* in order to disengage the selector lever's
lock mechanism: shiftlock.
When shifting into 5th or 6th gear, press
the gearshift lever to the right. Otherwise, Hold the footbrake down until starting off.
the engine could be damaged by accidentally The vehicle will otherwise start to move
engaging 3rd or 4th gear.< when a drive position is engaged.

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 M/S Manual mode and Sport program

At a glance
A detent prevents inadvertent shifting into
selector lever positions R and P. To disengage Move the selector lever from position D to the
the detent, press the button on the front of the left into the M/S range:
selector lever knob, see arrow. The Sport program is activated. This is indi-
cated by the display SD in the instrument clus-
P Park ter. This position is recommended for perfor-

Controls
Select only when the vehicle is stationary. The mance-oriented driving. The Sport program is
transmission locks to prevent the rear wheels enabled automatically when the Driving
from turning. Dynamic Control system is activated, refer to
page 41.
R Reverse Steptronic enters the manual selection mode
Select only when the vehicle is stationary. and executes the desired shift whenever you
tap the selector lever in the direction indicated
N Neutral by + or –. M1 to M5 appear in the instrument
cluster.
Select this, for example, in car washes. The
The transmission will only execute upshifts and

Driving tips
vehicle can roll.
downshifts that will result in an appropriate
D Drive, automatic shift program combination of vehicle speed and engine rpm.
For instance, downshifts that would result in
This position is designed for driving under all
excessive engine speed will not be executed.
normal operating conditions. All forward gears
The desired gear will appear briefly in the
are available.
instrument cluster, followed by the actual gear.
Kickdown To use the automatic transmission mode again,
move the selector lever to the right to position
With kickdown, you achieve maximum acceler-
D.
ating performance.
Depress the accelerator pedal past the
increased resistance point at the full-throttle
Malfunction
position. The warning lamp lights up. The trans- Mobility
mission system is malfunctioning.
Avoid heavy loads.
All of the selector lever positions can continue
to be engaged; in the forward drive positions,
however, the vehicle will be operating in a
restricted gear range only. Have the system
checked immediately.
Towing and jump starting beginning with
Reference

page 97.

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 Sequential manual gearbox > D: Drive mode.
Driving
SMG* N is automatically selected if the driver's
door is opened while the engine is run-
The concept ning and the driver does not actuate the pedals,
the shift paddles or the selector lever.
The sequential manual gearbox SMG is an
This is accompanied by an acoustic signal and a
automated manual gearbox with which clutch-
flashing N in the instrument cluster.<
ing and shifting is assumed by an electro-
hydraulic system.
Gear indicator
The SMG is operated via two shift paddles on
the steering wheel and the selector lever in the
center console.
It offers the following functions:
> Optionally manual or automatic operation:
sequential mode or drive mode
> Ability to choose between two different
driving programs: standard or Sport, refer to
page 41
> Protection against misshifting, and auto- R N 1 to 6
matic downshifting at minimum engine rpm The gear currently engaged is displayed; in the
even in sequential mode Drive mode, a D appears in front of the gear
> Kickdown function in the drive mode
> Acceleration assistant, refer to page 42. Shiftlock
The SMG is ready for operation when the igni- While the vehicle is stationary and before shift-
tion key is in position 2. ing out of N, depress the footbrake, as other-
wise the desired gear shift is not executed.
Selector lever positions
R Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is stationary.

Sequential mode
Each time the engine is started, the sequential
mode is activated as soon as you move the
selector lever towards the right while depress-
ing the brake pedal.
The gear is changed via the shift paddles or the
You can see the current selector lever position selector lever.
in the center console. It is also possible to drive off in second gear, e.g.
> R: Reverse on slippery roads.

> N: Neutral
D Drive mode
> One-touch functions for the sequential
In the drive mode all forward gears are shifted
mode
automatically.
+: manual upshifting
To switch from sequential to drive mode: tap
–: manual downshifting the selector lever to the right toward D.

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 Kickdown: Malfunction
For rapid acceleration, e.g. during passing, The warning lamp lights up. The trans-
depress the accelerator pedal completely. You mission system is malfunctioning.
achieve maximum acceleration. Avoid heavy loads.

At a glance
To switch back to sequential mode: tap the All of the selector lever positions can continue
selector lever again to the right toward D, or to be engaged; in the forward drive positions,
change the current gear via the shift paddles or however, the vehicle will be operating in a
the selector lever. restricted gear range only. Have the system
When driving off on inclines, drive checked as soon as possible.
smoothly without pausing. Do not keep Towing and tow-starting, refer to page 98;
the vehicle in place by depressing the accelera- Jump starting, refer to page 97.
tor pedal; instead, apply the parking brake. Oth-
erwise, the gearbox could overheat.< Overheating
An acoustic warning signal sounds. The gear-
Shifting gears box is overheating. If possible, stop the vehicle

Controls
or drive off swiftly so that the system can cool
With selector lever off again.
> To upshift, tap the selector lever toward +
> To downshift, tap the lever toward –.
Driving Dynamic Control
With shift paddles on steering wheel Driving Dynamic Control allows your BMW to
react in a sportier driving style at the touch of a
button:
> The engine responds more spontaneously

Driving tips
to any motion of the accelerator pedal
> The vehicle is steered more directly and
traction is enhanced
> Cruise control:
When the speed last stored is called up, this
speed is attained more quickly.
> To upshift, pull one of the shift paddles
Additional features with SMG:
> To downshift, push the paddle.
> Gears are shifted more quickly
In the following situations, the SMG in the
> The engine speed range is optimally utilized
sequential mode assists you:
in the drive mode.
> The transmission will only execute upshifts
With automatic transmission:
Mobility
and downshifts that will result in an appro-
priate combination of vehicle speed and > The Sport program is activated.
engine rpm. For instance, downshifts that
would result in excessive engine speed
cannot be executed
> During a stop the gearbox is automatically
downshifted into first gear
> Shortly before a gear-dependent minimum
speed is reached, the gearbox automatically
Reference

shifts down without you taking any action.

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 To activate the system Malfunction
Driving
The indicator lamp stays lit:
The system has malfunctioned or is
faulty.
Steering remains operational.
Have the system checked as soon as possible.

Turn signal indicators/

Headlamp flasher
Ignition key in position 2
Press the SPORT button.
The LED in the button lights up.

To deactivate the system

Press the SPORT button again.
The LED in the button goes out.

Acceleration assistant with SMG

The acceleration assistant permits optimum 1 High beams
racing-style acceleration on skid-resistant
2 Headlamp flasher
roads.
3 Turn signal indicators
Do not use the acceleration assistant too
often, as this could cause the vehicle's If the flashing of the indicator lamp
parts to wear prematurely.< and the clicking from the relay are
both faster than normal, one of the turn sig-
1. Activate Driving Dynamic Control
nal indicators has failed.<
2. Press the DTC button, refer to page 51, for
more than three seconds To signal briefly
3. Depress the accelerator all the way down Press the lever up to the detent but not beyond.
rapidly: kickdown. The optimum rpm for It then returns to the center position when
driving off will be adjusted. released.
To maintain vehicle stability, drive with
the DSC switched on whenever possi-
ble.<

Electric Power Steering EPS

The concept
The electric power steering is a direct, sporting
steering system that is speed-sensitive.
Power support is reduced with an increase in
driving speed.

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 Washer/wiper system To set interval time or sensitivity of the
rain sensor
Turn rotary dial 5.

At a glance
To deactivate intermittent operation or
rain sensor
Return lever to position 0.
Turn the rain sensor off in automatic car
washes. Failure to do so could result in
damage caused by undesired wiper activa-
tion.<
0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent operation or rain sensor* Normal wiper speed
2 Normal wiper speed When the vehicle is stopped the wipers switch
3 Fast wiper speed to intermittent wipe, except in vehicles without

Controls
rain sensor.
4 Brief wipe
5 To set interval time or sensitivity of the rain Fast wiper speed
sensor
When the vehicle is stopped the wipers switch
to normal wiping speed, except in vehicles with-
Intermittent operation or rain sensor* out rain sensor.
In vehicles equipped without a rain sensor, the
wipe interval is predefined. Cleaning windshield and headlamps*
The interval time can be set over four stages. In
addition, the wipe interval is varied automati-

Driving tips
cally depending on road speed.
On vehicles with a rain sensor, the wipe interval
is automatically controlled according to rain
intensity. You can adjust the sensitivity of the
rain sensor. It is positioned on the windshield,
directly in front of the interior rearview mirror.

To activate intermittent operation or

0 Wipers retracted
rain sensor
1 Cleaning windshield and headlamps*
Ignition key in position 1 or higher:
Lever to position 1. The system sprays washer fluid against the
Mobility
In any case, the wipers will move once across windshield and activates the wipers for a brief
the windshield. period.
In vehicles equipped with a rain sensor, you can If the vehicle's lights are on, the headlamps are
leave the lever continuously in position 1. Then, cleaned at reasonable intervals.
as long as the ignition key is in position 1 or Do not use the washers if there is any
higher, you only need to activate the rain sen- danger that the fluid will freeze on the
sor. windshield, otherwise vision could be
Turn rotary dial 5 briefly. obscured. Therefore, use antifreeze, refer to
page 86.
Reference

Do not use the washers if the fluid reservoir is

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 empty, as the washer pump will otherwise be Cruise control*
Driving
damaged.<
Do not use cruise control when unfavor-
Windshield washer nozzles able conditions make it inadvisable to
drive at a constant speed. Otherwise, the vehi-
The windshield washer nozzles are automati-
cle could go out of control and an accident
cally heated* when the engine is running or the
could be caused. Unfavorable conditions
ignition is switched on.
include, for example, twisting roads, high traffic
density, or adverse road conditions such as
snow, rain, ice, or loose surfaces.<

1 To maintain, store and increase speed

2 To maintain, store and decrease speed
3 To recall the stored speed
4 To deactivate the system

To maintain, store and increase speed

Above approx. 20 mph / 30 km/h you can main-
tain and store any desired speed.
Press the lever briefly in direction 1:
The system maintains and stores the current
vehicle speed. Every time you tap the lever, the
speed increases by approx. 0.6 mph / 1 km/h.
Hold the lever in position 1:
The vehicle accelerates without pressure on
the accelerator pedal. As soon as you release
the lever, the system stores and maintains the
current speed.
If, on a downhill grade, the engine braking
effect is not sufficient, the controlled
speed can be exceeded. Speed can drop on
uphill grades if the engine output is insuffi-
cient.<

To maintain, store and decrease speed

Press the lever briefly in direction 2:
When the cruise control is active, vehicle speed

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 is reduced by approx. 0.6 mph / 1 km/h every
time you tap the button.
Hold the lever in position 2:
With the cruise control active, the system auto-

At a glance
matically reduces the throttle opening to slow
the vehicle. As soon as you release the lever,
the system stores and maintains the current
speed.

To recall the stored speed

Press the lever briefly in direction 3:
The vehicle accelerates to and maintains the
last speed stored.

To deactivate the system

Controls
Press the lever briefly in direction 4:
The cruise control is deactivated immediately.
In addition, the system is automatically deacti-
vated in response to the following conditions:
> When you apply the brakes
> When you depress the clutch or move the
automatic selector lever from D to N
> If you exceed or fall below the preset speed
for an extended period, for example by

Driving tips
depressing the accelerator
> If DSC is in action.
You can recall the speed last stored.
Cruise control is also deactivated when the igni-
tion key is turned to position 0.
The stored speed is cleared in this case.

Mobility
Reference

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 Everything under control
Everything under control

Odometer Fuel gauge

1 Odometer When indicator lamp 1 begins to stay on contin-

2 Trip odometer uously, there are still approx. 2.1 gallons/8 liters
of fuel in the fuel tank.
Odometer Tank capacity: approx. 14.5 gallons/55 liters.
With the ignition key in position 0, you can acti- If the tilt of the vehicle varies, for example when
vate the displays shown in the illustration by you are driving in mountainous areas, the nee-
pressing the button – see arrow – in the instru- dle may fluctuate slightly.
ment cluster. Fill the fuel tank well before it is empty.
Driving to the last drop of fuel can prevent
Trip odometer the engine from operating properly and result in
To set to zero damage.<
Ignition key position 1 When you switch on the ignition, the indicator
Keep the button pressed until the trip odometer lamp comes on briefly to indicate an operational
counter is set to zero. check.

Tachometer Engine coolant temperature

gauge

Never allow the engine to operate with the nee-

dle in the red overspeed sector of the gauge. Blue
To protect the engine, the fuel supply is inter- The engine is still cold. Drive at moderate
rupted when you approach this sector. engine and vehicle speeds.

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 Between the blue and red zones Outside temperature
Normal operating range. The needle may rise as
far as the edge of the red sector during normal
operation.

At a glance
Red
When you switch on the ignition, warning
lamp 1 comes on briefly to indicate an opera-
tional check.
Comes on while driving:
The engine has overheated. Stop and switch
the engine off immediately and allow it to cool If the vehicle is not equipped with a computer,
down. the display in the instrument cluster always
shows the outside temperature.
For checking the coolant level, refer to page 87.

Controls
Service interval display Clock
If you wish to have a permanent time display,
you can have it appear in the car radio display,
refer to the Owner's Manual for Radio.
You can set the clock and the time display in the
car radio as follows.

To set

Driving tips
Remaining distance to next service
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.
The next service due appears with the message
OIL SERVICE or INSPECTION, together with
the distance remaining in miles – in kilometers Ignition key in position 1 or higher:
in Canada – before the next scheduled service.
The computer bases its calculations of the Hours
remaining distance on the preceding driving Mobility
1. Keep button 2 pressed for several seconds
style. until the hours are displayed and the colon
A flashing message and a minus sign in front of flashes
the number mean that the service interval has 2. Press button 1 repeatedly until the required
already been exceeded by the distance shown hour is set
on the display. Please contact your BMW center
for an appointment. Minutes
3. Press button 2 to switch to the minutes dis-
Reference

play

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 4. Press button 1 repeatedly until the required Outside temperature
Everything under control
minutes are set
5. Press button 2 to confirm the settings.
The set time of day is transferred to the car
radio display or appears in the instrument clus-
ter display.

Display mode
In ignition key position 0:
Press button 1.
The time of day is displayed for several sec- To change the unit of measure,°F/°C
onds. While the temperature display is active, keep
the onboard computer button BC in the turn
signal lever pressed until the display changes.
Computer*
Ice warning
Mode selection If the outside temperature drops to approx.
37.57/36, the computer automatically
switches to the outside temperature display.
A signal also sounds and the display flashes for
a short time.

Clock

With the ignition key in position 1 or higher, you

can use the onboard computer button BC in the
turn signal lever to retrieve information from the
computer for display in the instrument cluster.
Every time you tap the onboard computer but-
ton BC, another function is displayed.
The order of the displays: Setting the 12-hour or 24-hour mode*
> Time If the vehicle is equipped with a computer, you
> Outside temperature can have the time displayed in either a 12-hour
> Average fuel consumption or 24-hour mode.

> Cruising range While the time display is active, press the
onboard computer button BC in the turn signal
> Average speed.
lever until the display changes.
With the ignition key in position 1 or higher, the
last active setting is displayed.
If you wish, you can have all the displays
of the following functions shown in
another unit of measure.<

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 Average fuel consumption

At a glance
If you press the onboard computer button BC in
the turn signal lever for longer while the average
fuel consumption is being displayed, a new
consumption value is calculated from that point
in time.

Controls
Any time spent when the vehicle is stationary
and the engine shut off is ignored in the calcula-
tion.

Cruising range
The computer bases its calculations of the
cruising range on the preceding driving style
and on the remaining fuel in the tank.
It is important that you refuel when the

Driving tips
cruising range falls below approx.
30 miles/50 km. Otherwise, the engine cannot
be guaranteed to operate properly and damage
may result.<

Average speed
If you press the onboard computer button BC in
the turn signal lever for longer while the average
speed is being displayed, a new average speed
value is calculated from that point in time.

Mobility
Reference

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 Technology for safety and driving
Technology for safety and driving convenience
convenience

Driving stability control The laws of physics cannot be repealed

even with DSC. It will always be the
systems driver's responsibility to drive in a manner that
Your BMW is equipped with a series of systems matches road conditions. Therefore, do not
that help maintain driving stability even in limit the additional safety margin by practicing
adverse driving situations. risky driving.<

Antilock Brake System ABS Dynamic Traction Control DTC

ABS keeps the wheels from locking during DTC is a variant of the DSC in which forward
braking. Steering stability is maintained even momentum is optimized for special road condi-
during full brake applications. In this way, active tions, e.g. snow-covered roads that have not
safety is enhanced. yet been cleared. The system ensures maxi-
ABS is operational each time the engine is mum forward momentum, but driving stability is
started. Braking safely, refer to page 69. limited. Therefore, drive carefully in accordance
with conditions.
Electronic brake-force distribution In the following exceptional circumstances, it
The system controls brake-force application at may be effective to activate the DTC for a short
the rear wheels in order to obtain increased sta- period:
bility in the vehicle's braking response. > When driving on snow-covered grades, in
slush or on uncleared, snow-covered roads
Dynamic Brake Control DBC > When rocking the vehicle or starting off in
When the brake pedal is depressed quickly, this deep snow or on loose surfaces
system automatically supplies maximum brake- > When driving with snow chains.
servo boost, thereby helping to keep the vehi-
cle's braking distance as short as possible dur- Activating DTC
ing full brake applications. At the same time, the
benefits of the ABS are also exploited.
As long as you are braking, do not reduce pres-
sure on the brake pedal. When the brake pedal
is released, the DBC is switched off.

Dynamic Stability Control DSC

DSC prevents slip at the drive wheels while
starting off and accelerating the vehicle. DSC
also recognizes unstable vehicle conditions,
such as fishtailing or nose-diving. In these Press the button briefly; the DTC indicator lamp
cases, and subject to physical limits, DSC helps lights up in the instrument cluster.
to keep the vehicle on a steady course by
reducing engine speed and by applying brakes Reactivating DTC
at individual wheels. Press the button again; the DTC indicator lamp
goes out in the instrument cluster.

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 Deactivating DTC and DSC at the same Malfunction in the driving stability
time control systems
The warning lamp for the brake system
lights up in red, together with the yellow

At a glance
indicator lamps for ABS and DSC:
The driving stability control systems
have failed.

Continue driving cautiously and defensively.

Avoid hard brake applications. Have the system
Press and hold the button for at least checked immediately.
3 seconds; the DSC indicator lamp lights up in
Indication of the above-described mal-
the instrument cluster. No more interventions
function in Canadian models.
to increase stability and forward momentum are

Controls
carried out.
To enhance vehicle stability, reactivate DSC as
soon as possible.

Reactivating DSC
Press the button briefly; the indicator lamp goes The DSC warning lamp lights up
out in the instrument cluster. together with the yellow warning lamp
for the brake system:
Checking DSC, including DTC and DBC, are mal-

Driving tips
The indicator lamp flashes: functioning.
DSC or DTC is regulating drive torque The stabilizing interventions are no longer avail-
and braking forces. able. The vehicle remains operational. Have the
The indicator lamp lights up: system checked as soon as possible.
DTC and DSC have been deactivated together
Indication of the above-described mal-
by pressing the DTC button.
function in Canadian models.
The indicator lamp lights up:
DTC has been activated by pressing
the DTC button.
The DSC indicator lamp flashes and the
DTC indicator lamp is lit:
DTC is actively regulating drive torque
and braking forces. Mobility
Reference

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 Brake force display System limitations
Technology for safety and driving convenience
The Flat Tire Monitor cannot provide you
The Brake force display lights up in two stages
with advance warning of sudden and
depending on how strongly you are braking.
severe tire damage caused by external factors
and does not detect the balanced and very
gradual pressure loss that takes place in all four
tires over an extended period of time.<
The system could issue a false warning or func-
tion in a delayed manner in the following situa-
tions:
> System was not initialized
> You are driving on a snow-covered or slip-
pery road surface
> Normal braking:
> Performance-oriented driving: slip at the
The brake lamps and the center brake lamp
drive wheels, high levels of lateral accelera-
light up
tion
> Hard braking or braking with ABS:
> You are driving with snow chains.
In addition, the illuminated surface of the
brake lamps is extended, refer to the pic-
ture.
Initializing the system
The initialization is completed while you
are driving, and can be interrupted at any
Flat Tire Monitor time. Initialization is automatically continued
when you continue driving.
When driving with snow chains, do not initialize
The concept
the system.<
As you drive, the Flat Tire Monitor keeps track
of pressure levels in all four tires. The system 1. Start the engine, but do not drive off
alerts you whenever the inflation pressure of a
tire falls significantly below the pressure of
another tire.
In the event of tire pressure loss, the rolling
radius of the tire changes, thereby affecting the
rotational speed of the wheels. This change is
detected, and a flat tire warning is issued to the
driver.

System requirements 2. Press the button as long as you need to until

To ensure a reliable flat tire warning, the system the yellow indicator lamp in the instrument
must be initialized with the correct tire inflation cluster lights up for a few seconds
pressures.
3. Drive off.
Each time you correct the pressure in a
Initialization is completed during the drive,
tire, or change a wheel or tire, the system
without any feedback issued.
must be re-initialized.<

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 Flat tire warning as soon as possible. Do not continue driving
The warning lamp in the instrument and contact a BMW center.<
cluster lights up in red. This visual alert
is accompanied by an acoustic warning Malfunction

At a glance
signal. There is a flat tire or a signficant loss of The indicator lamp in the instrument
tire pressure. cluster lights up yellow. The Flat Tire
1. Carefully reduce your speed to under Monitor is malfunctioning or out of
50 mph / 80 km/h. Avoid strong braking and order. Have the system checked as soon as
steering maneuvers. Do not exceed a maxi- possible.
mum speed of 50 mph / 80 km/h.
Do not continue driving if the vehicle
is not equipped with Run Flat tires,
Airbags
refer to page 82. If you continue to drive
with a flat tire, a serious accident could
result.<

Controls
2. Check the inflation pressure in all four tires
as soon as possible.
If the inflation pressure is correct in all
four tires, it is possible that the Flat
Tire Monitor was not initialized. In this case,
initialize the system.<
3. If there is a total loss of tire inflation pres- The following airbags are located under the
sure, 0 psi/0 kilopascal, or obvious tire dam- marked covers:
age, you can gauge the mileage for contin-
1 Front airbags for driver and passenger

Driving tips
ued driving on the basis of the following
indications: 2 Side airbags for driver and passenger

> With a light load: 3 Knee airbags for driver and passenger
1 person without luggage:
approx. 155 miles/250 km Protective effect
> With a medium load: Comply with the instructions on page 27,
1 person, luggage compartment full, or the occupants' personal safety will be
or diminished.<
2 persons with luggage: The front airbags help protect the driver and
approx. 90 miles/150 km passenger in the event of a head-on collision
> With a full load: where the protection provided by the safety belt
2 persons, luggage compartment full: alone would not be adequate. The side airbags
approx. 30 miles/50 km. help provide protection in the event of a colli- Mobility
sion from the side. Each of the side airbags is
Drive cautiously. Do not exceed a speed
designed to help support the seat occupant's
of 50 mph / 80 km/h. Driving characteris-
upper body. The knee airbags help provide
tics change if there is a loss of tire pressure.
additional protection in the event of a head-on
This includes diminished track stability during
collision.
braking, longer braking distances and modified
steering. If unusual vibrations occur while driv- The airbags are deliberately not triggered in
ing, this can indicate a complete failure of the every impact situation, e.g. not in less severe
damaged tire. Reduce your speed and pull over accidents, certain roll-over conditions, or rear-
Reference

end collisions.

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 For information on the correct seating position, > When an adult is traveling in the passen-
Technology for safety and driving convenience
refer to page 27. ger's seat, the front, side and knee airbags
Do not apply adhesive materials to the remain active on the passenger's side.
cover panels of the airbags, cover them or Although not desired, it can occur in the
modify them in any other way. Do not attempt to case of heavier children that the passen-
remove the airbag retention system from the ger airbags remain active or, in the case of very
vehicle. Never modify or tamper with either the light adults or young persons, that the passen-
wiring or the individual components in the air- ger airbags are deactivated. The condition of
bag system. This category includes the uphol- the passenger airbag system will be shown by
stery in the center of the steering wheel, on the the indicator lamp in the central console, refer
instrument panel, and the side trim panels on to Passenger airbag status lamp below. If the
the doors. Do not attempt to remove or disman- indicator lamp indicates that the passenger air-
tle the steering wheel. bags are active and you want them to be deac-
Do not touch the individual components tivated, the airbags have to be deactivated with
directly after the system has been triggered, the vehicle ignition key and the key switch on
because there is a danger of burns. the outer passenger's side of the instrument
If you note any indication of system malfunc- panel. Apart from passengers, do not place any
tion, if you desire to have an airbag deactivated, additional objects on the passenger seat. Do
or if the airbag retention system is triggered in not fit seat covers, seat cushion padding, ball
response to an accident, you should always mats or other items to the passenger seat
entrust all inspection, repair and dismantling unless they are specifically recommended by
operations to your BMW center. BMW. Do not place any items under the seat.
Unprofessional attempts to service the system Otherwise, the function of the seat occupation
could lead to failure in an emergency or to detection could be impaired.<
undesired airbag activation, either of which
could result in personal injury. Operational readiness of the airbag
To ensure compliance with official safety regu- system
lations, please also entrust disposal of airbag
generators to a BMW center.<
Airbag warning information is also provided on
the sun visors.

Automatic deactivation of the

passenger airbags
Before transporting a child on the pas-
senger seat be sure to observe the infor-
mation/instructions under Transporting chil- The airbag indicator lamp in the instrument
dren safely, refer to page 33.< cluster indicates the operational readiness of
Your BMW has a seat occupation detection the entire airbag system and the safety belt ten-
system. By evaluating the weight on the pas- sioners as of ignition key position 1.
senger's seat, the system detects whether or The indicator lamp goes out after a few sec-
not the seat is occupied by a child in the child- onds.
restraint system or an adult.
> When a child is seated in the child-restraint Airbag system malfunction
system or in an empty seat, the front, side > The indicator lamp does not light up as of
and knee airbags are automatically deacti- ignition key position 1
vated on the passenger's side
> The warning lamp lights up continuously.

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 In the event of a malfunction, have the air-
bag system checked immediately. Other-
wise, there is a risk that the system may not
respond in the expected manner to an impact

At a glance
occurring within its normal response range.<

Passenger airbag status lamp

Controls
The center console contains one of the indica-
tor lamps shown in the illustration.
The indicator lamp indicates whether or not the
passenger airbag system is activated or deacti-
vated as of ignition key position 1.
The indicator lamp is used only for the
passenger airbag system. The indicator
lamp illuminates to show that the passenger air-
bag system is OFF/not active.<

Driving tips
> The lamp illuminates briefly during startup,
but then goes out if the seat is empty, or if
an adult or child of sufficient size is recog-
nized
> The lamp remains illuminated when a child
in a rear facing child-restraint system is
detected, indicating that the passenger air-
bag system is off.
Find more information about the passenger air-
bag system and seat occupation detection in
the section entitled Automatic deactivation of
the passenger airbags. Mobility
Reference

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 Lamps
Lamps

Parking lamps/Low beams remind you that the lamps have not been
switched off.

Daytime driving lamps*

If you desire, the light switch can be left in the
second position:
When the ignition is switched off, the external
lighting is also switched off.
You can have the activation settings for
the daytime driving lamps programmed
on your vehicle.<
Parking lamps
Automatic headlamp control*
The front, rear and side vehicle lighting
is switched on. You can use the parking When the switch is set to this position,
lamps to signal the position of the vehi- the system automatically activates and
cle when it is parked. For information on lighting cancels the low beams in response to
on one side of the vehicle for parking, which is changes in ambient light, for example in tun-
available as an additional feature, refer to nels, at dusk, and when it is raining or snowing.
page 57. The low-beam headlamps remain on
regardless of the ambient light when you
Low beams switch on the fog lamps.<
When you switch off the ignition with Automatic headlamp control cannot
the low beam headlamps on, only the serve as a substitute for the driver's jud-
parking lamps will remain on. gement in determining when the vehicle lights
should be switched on. For example, the sen-
Defective bulb sors are not able to detect fog. To avoid safety
The indicator lamp lights up: risks, you should respond to these kinds of low-
At least one bulb of the vehicle's exte- visibility situations by switching the headlamps
rior lighting has failed. on manually.<

For replacing bulbs refer to page 91. You can have the sensitivity of your vehi-
cle's automatic headlamp control
Follow me home lamps adjusted.<

When you activate the headlamp flasher after

parking the vehicle and switching off the lights,
the low beams will come on for a brief period.
You can also have this function activated/
deactivated if you wish.<

LIGHTS ON warning
Whenever you open the driver's door after hav-
ing turned the ignition key to position 0, you will
hear an acoustic signal for a few seconds to

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 High beams/Standing lamps If the automatic headlamp control is on,
the low beams will automatically come on
whenever you activate the front fog lamps.<

At a glance
Instrument lighting

1 High beams
2 Headlamp flasher
3 Standing lamps

Controls
Left or right standing lamps* Turn the rotary dial to adjust the illumination
As an additional feature, you can illuminate your intensity.
vehicle on either side for parking:
1. Turn the ignition key to position 0 or
remove it Interior lamps
2. Turn off the low beams
3. Push the lever in the appropriate turn-signal
direction, until it engages.
The standing lamps discharge the bat-

Driving tips
tery. Avoid using the standing lamps for
longer periods of time; otherwise, you may no
longer be able to start the engine.<

Fog lamps* The interior lamps operate automatically.

To switch the interior lamps on and off

manually
Press button 1 briefly.
If you would like the interior lamps to remain off
all the time, press and hold the button for Mobility
approx. 3 seconds.
Press the button briefly to revert to normal
operation.
Tap the button to switch them on or off.
The parking lamps or low-beam head-
Reading lamps*
lamps must be switched on. A green indi- Switch on and off with button 2 adjacent to
cator lamp comes on in the instrument each lamp.
Reference

cluster to indicate that the front fog lamps are on.

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 Controlling the climate for pleasant driving
Controlling the climate for pleasant driving

Air conditioning

1 Air onto the windshield and the side win- 5 Air conditioning 59
dows 6 Outside air/recirculated air mode 59
2 Air for the upper body area 59 7 Temperature adjustment 59
3 Air for the footwell 8 Air supply/blower 59
4 Air distribution 59 9 Rear window defroster 59

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 Air distribution Rear window defroster
You can direct airflow onto the win- The indicator lamp lights up when
dows , toward the upper body the rear window defroster is active.
and into the footwell . All interme- The rear window defroster switches

At a glance
diate settings are possible. off automatically.

Air supply/blower Ventilation

Turn the rotary control to adjust the
air supply. Both heating and ventila-
tion become more effective as the air
supply rate is increased.
Turn the rotary control toward zero:
The blower and the heating are turned off, and
the air supply is stopped.

Temperature

Controls
In order to increase the temperature You can adjust the blower controls for the upper
of the passenger compartment, turn body area to obtain the optimum airflow rates
to the right toward the red zone. and directions for your personal requirements:
1 Rotary dials for opening and closing the
Air conditioning vents at any setting desired
The air is cooled and dehumidified 2 Slide for adjusting airflow direction
and, depending on the temperature
setting, rewarmed.
Microfilter
Depending on the weather, the wind-

Driving tips
shield may fog over briefly when the engine is The built-in microfilter removes dust and pollen
started. from the incoming air and in the recirculated air
mode. Your BMW center will replace this filter
Condensation forms during operation of during the regularly scheduled maintenance. A
the air conditioning system, which then substantial reduction in airflow indicates that
exits under the vehicle. Traces of condensed the filter needs to be replaced earlier.
water on the ground underneath the vehicle are
thus normal.<

Outside air/recirculated air mode

If there are unpleasant odors in the
outside air, you can temporarily block
the supply of incoming air. The sys- Mobility
tem then recirculates the air currently
within the vehicle.
If the windows fog over in the recirculated
air mode, switch this mode off and
increase the air supply as required. Do not use
the recirculated-air mode continuously over a
long period of time as this would otherwise
reduce the air quality in the interior of the vehi-
cle.<
Reference

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 To defrost windows and remove
Controlling the climate for pleasant driving
condensation

1 Turn the rotary control to

2 Turn the rotary blower control for the air
supply completely to the right
3 Turn the rotary temperature control com-
pletely to the right
4 To defrost the rear window, switch on the
rear window defroster

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 Automatic climate control*

At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
1 Air onto the windshield and the side win- 7 Air supply/blower 62
dows 8 Air conditioning 62
2 Air for the upper body area 63 9 Maximum cooling 62
3 Air for the footwell 10 Temperature 62
4 Individual air distribution 62 11 Outside air/Automatic recirculated air con-
5 To defrost windows and remove trol AUC/recirculated air mode 62
Mobility
condensation 62 12 Rear window defroster 63
6 Automatic air distribution and air
supply 62
Reference

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 Tips for pleasant driving When you turn the rotary control toward zero:
Controlling the climate for pleasant driving
Use the automatic system – switch on with the blower, heating and air conditioner are
AUTO button 6. Select the desired interior tem- switched off, and the air supply is stopped. You
perature. can reactivate the system by turning the control
toward the right again.
Detailed setting options are described for you
below.
To defrost windows and remove
condensation
Automatic air distribution and supply
This program quickly removes ice
The AUTO program assumes the
and condensation from the wind-
adjustment of the air distribution and
shield and the side windows.
air supply for you and in addition
adapts the temperature to external
Maximum cooling
influences, summer or winter, to meet prefer-
ences you can specify. Above an outside temperature of
In the AUTO program, the air conditioning 327/06 and with the engine run-
mode is also turned on at the same time. ning, you achieve a maximum cooling
effect as quickly as possible. At the
The AUTO program functions only to a
same time, the air conditioning is turned on.
limited extent when the convertible top is
open.< The temperature is set to the lowest possible
value. The system switches to the recirculated
Individual air distribution air mode, and air flows at maximum blower
speed from the ventilation grills in the upper
You yourself can direct airflow onto
body area only. Therefore, the air outlets must
the windows , toward the upper
always be open when you select this program.
body and into the footwell . The
arrow lights up. The automatic air
Air conditioning
supply remains unchanged. All intermediate
settings are possible. By pressing the AUTO The air is cooled and dehumidified
button, you can reactivate the air distribution. and, depending on the temperature
setting, rewarmed.
Temperature Depending on the weather, the wind-
shield may fog over briefly when the engine is
The interior temperature that
started.
appears on the display panel is a gen-
eral figure intended for reference The air conditioning system is automatically
purposes. When you start the vehi- switched on when you use the AUTO program.
cle, the system ensures that the selected tem- Condensation forms during operation of
perature is reached as quickly as possible, the air conditioning system, which then
regardless of the season. It then maintains this exits under the vehicle. Traces of condensed
temperature. water on the ground underneath the vehicle are
thus normal.<
Air supply/blower
Turn the rotary control to adjust the Outside air/Automatic recirculated air
air supply. This shuts off the auto- control AUC/recirculated air mode
matic air supply. The arrow lights up. You can respond to unpleasant
The automatic air distribution external odors or pollutants by tem-
remains unchanged. You can reactivate the porarily stopping the flow of outside
automatic air supply by pressing the AUTO but- air. The system then recirculates the
ton. air currently within the vehicle.

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 By repeatedly pressing the button, you can 1 Rotary dials for opening and closing the
select one of three different operating modes. vents at any setting desired
> Indicator lamps off: outside air flows into the 2 Slide for adjusting airflow direction
vehicle

At a glance
> Left-hand indicator lamp on, AUC mode: Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter
the system detects pollutants in the outside The built-in microfilter removes dust and pollen
air and responds by deactivating the out- from the incoming air. The activated-charcoal
side airflow as required. The system then filter provides additional protection by filtering
recirculates the air currently within the vehi- gaseous pollutants from the outside air. Your
cle. Depending on air quality requirements, BMW center replaces this combined filter as a
the system automatically switches between standard part of your scheduled maintenance.
outside air supply and recirculation of the air A substantial reduction in airflow indicates that
already within the vehicle the filter needs to be replaced earlier.
> Right-hand indicator lamp on: the flow of
outside air is permanently blocked. The

Controls
system recirculates the air already within
the vehicle.
If the windows fog over in the recirculated
air mode, switch this mode off and
increase the air supply as required. Do not use
the recirculated-air mode continuously over a
long period of time as this would otherwise
reduce the air quality in the interior of the vehi-
cle.<

Driving tips
Rear window defroster
The indicator lamp lights up when
the rear window defroster is active.
The rear window defroster switches
off automatically.

Ventilation

Mobility

You can adjust the blower controls for the upper

body area to obtain the optimum airflow rates
and directions for your personal requirements:
Reference

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 Interior conveniences
Interior conveniences

Glove compartment Locking/unlocking

The storage compartment between the back-
To open rests is automatically locked and unlocked with
the central locking system.

Releasing manually
In the event of an electrical malfunction of the
central locking system, you can manually
unlock the storage compartment between the
seats.

Press the two push buttons together.

To close
Swing the door up.
To prevent injury in the event of an acci-
dent, close the glove compartment
immediately after use.<
1. Pull on the cord in the rear luggage com-
partment panel.
Storage compartments The storage compartment between the
seats unlocks
Storage compartment between 2. Press button; see arrow 1.
backrests
Other compartments and nets*
You will find additional storage compartments
in the front doors and in the center console.
Depending on the particular version, the vehicle
may also be equipped with two storage com-
partments behind the seats.
A net* is located on the passenger side along
the center console.

To open
1. Press button; see arrow 1 Beverage holder
2. Swing the cover downward. A beverage holder is located on either side
beneath the air outlets.
To close
Swing the door up.

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 Ashtray*
To empty

At a glance
1. Press the trim piece beneath the air outlets;
see arrow 1
2. Place the beverage into the holder
3. Adjust the holder to fit the size of the bever- 1. Open cover
age container; see arrow 2. 2. Pull out ashtray 1.
Do not place glass containers into the

Controls
beverage holders, as this increases the Cigarette lighter
risk of injury in the event of an accident.< Press in lighter 2. As soon as the lighter springs
back out, it can be removed.
Hold or touch the hot cigarette lighter by
Preparations for the cellular the knob only. Holding or touching it in
phone* other areas could result in burns.
The cigarette lighter remains operational even
Hands-free system when the ignition key has been removed. For
this reason, children should never be left in the

Driving tips
vehicle unattended.<

Power socket
The cigarette lighter socket can be used as a
power socket for a flashlight, car vacuum
cleaner, etc. up to a rating of approx. 200 watts
at 12 volts.
Do not damage the socket by inserting plugs of
a different shape or size.
In vehicles with a telephone preparation, the
cover for the hands-free microphone is located
on the trim of the steering column.
For further information on the cellular phone, Mobility
refer to the Owner's Manual for the telephone.
Reference

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Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine
 Driving tips
Driving tips provides you with information you
will need in certain driving situations and when
using special operating modes.

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 Special operating instructions
Special operating instructions

Break-in procedures Brake system

Approx. 300 miles/500 km must elapse before
Moving parts need to be given some time until
the brake pads and rotors achieve their optimal
they can interact smoothly with one another. To
surface and wear pattern.
ensure that your vehicle provides maximum
economy throughout a long service life, we To break in the separate parking brake drums,
request that you observe the following: apply the parking brake lightly when coasting to
a standstill – at a traffic signal, for instance; use
Engine and differential caution to avoid posing a danger to other road
users.
Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km:
Drive at varying engine and road speeds, but do To avoid corrosion, repeat this procedure from
not exceed the following engine or road speed: time to time.
4,500 rpm / 4,500/min or 100 mph / 160 km/h. The brake lamps do not come on when the
parking brake is set.
Obey your local and state maximum speed lim-
its. Vacuum for the brake system servo unit
on your BMW is available only when the
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid press-
engine is running. When you move the car with
ing the accelerator beyond the kickdown point.
the engine off, e.g. by towing, substantially
After you have driven 1,200 miles/2,000 km, higher levels of pedal force will be required to
you can gradually increase the engine or road brake the vehicle.<
speeds.
Clutch
Sequential manual gearbox SMG
The clutch will achieve its optimal functionality
Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km: after approx. 300 miles/500 km. Shift gears
Do not use the acceleration assistant during the carefully during the break-in period.
break-in period.
After replacing components
Tires
Follow the same break-in procedure again if any
Due to technical factors associated with their of the components mentioned above have to be
manufacture, tires do not achieve their full trac- replaced in the future.
tion potential until an initial break-in period has
elapsed. You should therefore drive with extra
caution during the first 200 miles/300 km. Driving notes
Obey your local and state maximum speed lim-
its. Close the luggage compartment lid
When the vehicle is operated on wet or Operate the vehicle only when the lug-
slushy roads, a wedge of water may form gage compartment lid is completely
between the tire and the road surface. This phe- closed, otherwise exhaust fumes could pene-
nomenon is referred to as hydroplaning and can trate into the interior of the vehicle.<
lead to partial or complete loss of traction, vehi- Should it be absolutely necessary to operate
cle control and braking effectiveness. Reduce the vehicle with the luggage compartment lid
your speed on wet roads.< open and with the convertible top closed:

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 1. Close all windows Pulsation at the brake pedal combines with
2. Increase the air supply from the air condi- sounds from the hydraulic circuits to indicate to
tioner or automatic climate control to a high the driver that ABS is in its active mode.
level. Refer to page 58 or 61.

At a glance
Wet roads
Hot exhaust system If the roads are wet or if there is heavy rain, it is
High temperatures occur with every vehi- advisable to gently press the brakes for a brief
cle equipped with a catalytic converter. moment every few miles/kilometers. Watch
Heat shields are installed adjacent to some sec- traffic conditions to ensure that this maneuver
tions of the exhaust system. Never remove does not endanger other road users. The
these shields; do not apply undercoating to resulting heat dries the brake rotors and brake
their surfaces. When driving, standing at idle pads. Immediate braking force is then available
and parking the vehicle, take care to avoid con- if necessary.
tact between the hot exhaust system and flam-
mable materials, e.g. hay, leaves, grass, etc. Inclines
Such contact could lead to a fire, resulting in To prevent overheating and, as a result,

Controls
serious personal injury and property damage.< diminished braking effectiveness, drive
down long or steep downhill grades in a gear
Hydroplaning which requires the least braking. Otherwise,
When driving on wet or slushy roads, even light but consistent pedal pressure can
reduce vehicle speed. If you do not, a lead to high temperatures, brake wear and pos-
wedge of water may form between the tires and sibly even brake failure.<
the road surface. This phenomenon can lead to The braking power of the engine can be further
partial or complete loss of traction, vehicle con- enhanced by downshifting the automatic trans-
trol and braking effectiveness.< mission in manual mode, if necessary, into first

Driving tips
gear; refer to pages 39 and 41. This prevents an
Driving through water excessive load on the brakes.
Do not drive through water on the road if it Do not coast with the clutch depressed or
is deeper than 1 ft/30 cm, and then only at with the transmission or selector lever in
walking speed. Otherwise, the vehicle's engine, Neutral. Do not coast with the engine switched
the electrical systems and the transmission off. Otherwise, the engine provides no braking
may be damaged.< effect while the transmission is in idling posi-
tion, and there is no power-assist for braking or
Use the parking brake on inclines steering when the engine is off.
On inclines, keep the vehicle from rolling Floor mats, floor carpets or other objects must
by using the parking brake rather than by not be in the area near the brake or accelerator
slipping the clutch, which would lead to a high pedal, as this could impair the movement of the
degree of clutch wear.< pedals.< Mobility

Braking safely Corrosion on the brake rotors

Your BMW is equipped with ABS as a standard Limited vehicle use, extended periods with the
feature. If you are in a situation which requires vehicle parked or in storage, and operating con-
full braking, it is best to brake using maximum ditions in which braking is restricted to gentle,
brake pressure: panic stop. Since the vehicle low-pressure applications will all increase the
maintains steering responsiveness, you can still tendency for corrosion to form on the rotors and
avoid possible obstacles with a minimum of contamination to accumulate on the brake
Reference

steering effort. pads. This occurs because the minimal pres-

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 sure which must be exerted by the pads to Cargo loading
Special operating instructions
clean the rotors by brake applications is not
reached. Avoid overloading the vehicle so that the
permissible carrying capacity of the tires
If the brake rotors are corroded, they will tend to
is not exceeded. Otherwise, overheating and
respond to braking with a pulsating effect which
inner damage to the tires may result. The ulti-
even extended application will fail to cure.
mate result can assume the form of a sudden air
loss.<
Interior and exterior mirrors with
automatic dimming feature*
Determining the maximum load

Two photocells in the interior rearview mirror

1. Locate the following statement on your
serve to control the interior and exterior mirrors
vehicle's placard*:
with automatic dimming feature. One photocell
is positioned in the mirror's lens, see arrow, The combined weight of occupants
while the other is on the opposite side of the and cargo should never exceed
mirror. XXX kg or YYY lbs; otherwise damage to the
vehicle and unstable driving conditions
To ensure perfect functioning, keep the photo-
could result.<
cells clean and the area between the interior
rearview mirror and the windshield free of any 2. Determine the combined weight of the
obstruction like stickers, etc. driver and passenger that will be riding in
your vehicle
When the vehicle is parked 3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver
Condensation formed in the air conditioning and passenger from XXX kilograms or YYY
system during operation exits under the vehi- pounds
cle. Traces of condensed water on the ground 4. The resulting figure equals the available
underneath the vehicle are thus normal. amount of cargo and luggage load capacity.
For example, if the YYY amount equals
Mobile equipment in the vehicle 551 lbs. and there will be two 150 lbs. pas-
BMW advises against using mobile sengers in your vehicle, the amount of avail-
equipment, e.g. cellular phones, inside able cargo and luggage load capacity is
the vehicle without connecting them directly to 251 lbs.
an outside antenna. Otherwise, it cannot be 551 lbs. minus 300 lbs. = 251 lbs.
ruled out that vehicle electronics and the mobile 5. Determine the combined weight of luggage
equipment interfere with one another. In addi- and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That
tion, it is not ensured that the radio waves emit- weight may not safely exceed the available
ted during transmission are directed outside of cargo and luggage load capacity calculated
the vehicle interior.< in Step 4.

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 Load are in violation of the law.
Do not stow heavy or hard objects in the pas-
senger compartment without first securing
them. Otherwise they would be thrown around

At a glance
during braking and evasive maneuvers and
would endanger the occupants.<

Convertible top compartment

With the convertible top closed, you can
enlarge the luggage compartment, refer
to page 19.
The permissible load is the sum of the occu- It is advisable to always fold down the covertible
pants' weights and the weight of the cargo. The top compartment panel as soon as you have
greater the weight of the occupants, the less
removed your cargo from the luggage compart-
cargo can be transported. ment. This way, you can be sure that you can
always operate the convertible top at any time.

Controls
Stowing cargo Conversely, when the convertible top is closed,
raise the convertible top compartment panel
before stowing your cargo in the luggage com-
partment to avoid any damage to the convert-
ible top compartment or your load.
Do not stow any items on the convertible top
compartment panel since the convertible top
could be damaged while it is opening.<
If you stow cargo behind the seats of your

Driving tips
BMW:
> Load heavy cargo as far forward as possi- > Only stow light objects such as clothing,
ble, directly behind the luggage compart- etc.
ment partition, and as low as possible > Do not pile objects higher than the top edge
> Cover sharp edges and corners. of the backrests.
To avoid damaging the rear of the back-
rest or the rear interior trim panel, do not
stow heavy cargo or cargo with sharp edges
and corners behind the seats.
In addition, large and bulky cargo stowed
behind the seats may prevent the backrest from
engaging properly. Therefore, ensure that the
backrest is securely locked and if necessary, Mobility
move the seat forward, refer to page 28.
Always position and secure the load as
described above; otherwise, it can endanger
the passengers, for example during braking or
evasive maneuvers.
Do not exceed the approved gross vehicle
weight or the specified maximum axle loads.
Refer to page 103. Otherwise the vehicle's
Reference

operating safety is no longer assured and you

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 Hardtop preparation*
Special operating instructions

Pull covers off, see arrow 1.

The brackets for attaching the hardtop
are located underneath the covers; see arrow 2.
For instructions on how to install the
hardtop, please read the accompanying
assembly information.
The hardtop is available from your BMW center
as a special option.<

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 At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
Reference

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 Mobility
To ensure that you stay mobile, the following
chapter provides you with important
information on fuels and fluids, tires and
wheels, maintenance procedures and steps to
take in the event of a breakdown.

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 Refueling
Refueling

Fuel filler door Note when refueling

When handling fuels, comply with all of
the applicable safety precautions posted
at the service station.<
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle com-
pletely into the filler pipe. Lifting the nozzle dur-
ing refueling
> results in premature shutoff
> and will reduce the effect of the vapor
recovery system on the pump.
1. Open fuel filler door The fuel tank is full when the filler nozzle shuts
off the first time.
2. Turn the gas cap in a counter-clockwise
direction
Closing the fuel filler cap
3. Place the cap in the bracket on the filler
Place the cap in position and turn it clockweise
door.
until a clearly audible click is heard.

Releasing manually Close the filler cap carefully after refueling

until a click is heard. While closing, be
If an electrical malfunction occurs, you can
sure not to squeeze the strap which is fastened
unlock the fuel filler door manually:
to the cap. A loose or missing cap will activate
the Check gas cap lamp*.<
Warning lamp* lights up.
The gas cap is not properly closed or is
missing. Check if the gas cap is prop-
erly closed.

Contents of the fuel tank

Approx. 14.5 gallons/55 liters, of which approx.
2.1 gallons/8 liters are reserve capacity.
1. Remove the covers of the tail lamps by turn- Fill the fuel tank before it is completely
ing the lock to the right; refer also to empty. Driving to the last drop of fuel can
page 93 prevent the engine from operating properly and
2. Pull the luggage compartment trim panel result in damage.<
slightly toward the interior.
The green button with the fuel pump sym-
bol becomes visible Fuel specifications
3. Undo the adhesive strip and pull off The engine uses lead-free gasoline only.
4. Pull the button
The fuel filler door is released. Required fuel
Premium Unleaded Gasoline, Minimum Octane
Pull on the button slowly and carefully
Rating: 91.
as it could otherwise be torn off.<

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 Minimum Octane Rating corresponds to the
Anti Knock Index AKI and is determined by the
so-called (R+M)/2 method.
Do not use leaded gasoline, as otherwise

At a glance
the lambda probe and catalytic converter
will be permanently damaged.<

Use high-quality brands

Field experience has indicated significant dif-
ferences in fuel quality: volatility, composition,
additives, etc., among gasolines offered for sale
in the United States and Canada. Fuels contain-
ing up to and including 10% ethanol or other
oxygenates with up to 2.8% oxygen by weight,
that is, 15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an
equivalent amount of co-solvent, will not void

Controls
the applicable warranties with respect to
defects in materials or workmanship.
The use of poor-quality fuels may result in
drivability, starting and stalling problems
especially under certain environmental condi-
tions such as high ambient temperature and
high altitude.
Should you encounter drivability problems
which you suspect could be related to the fuel

Driving tips
you are using, we recommend that you respond
by switching to a recognized high-quality
brand.
Failure to comply with these recommendations
may also result in unscheduled maintenance.<

Mobility
Reference

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 Wheels and tires
Wheels and tires

Tire inflation pressure To determine the correct tire inflation

pressure for your tires, observe the pres-
Information for your safety sures listed for the relevant tire sizes.<
It is not merely the tire's service life, but also
Tire size
driving safety and driving comfort that largely
depend on the condition of the tires and the The inflation pressures in the table apply to
maintenance of the specified tire pressure. BMW-approved tire sizes and recommended
tire brands. Your BMW center will be glad to
Checking tire pressures supply this information.
Check the tire inflation pressures only when the
tires are cold. This means after a maximum driv-
ing distance of 1.25 miles/2 km or if the vehicle
has been parked for at least 2 hours. Warm tires
have higher inflation pressures.
Check tire inflation pressures regularly
and correct them if necessary: at least
every two weeks and before every extended
journey. Otherwise, incorrect tire pressures can
cause driving instability or tire damage, ulti-
mately resulting in accidents.<
Reinitialize the Flat Tire Monitor after cor-
recting the tire inflation pressure. Refer to
page 52.<

Inflation pressures for original tires

The specified inflation pressures for tires at

ambient temperature are provided on the plac-
ard on the B-pillar and are visible when the
driver's door is open.

Inflation pressures for other tire sizes

The following tire inflation pressure tables show
the inflation pressures for the specified tire
sizes at ambient temperature.

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 Z4 2.5i
Tire size Pressure specifications in psi/kPa

All pressure specifications in the table are

indicated in psi/kilopascal with cold tires,

At a glance
cold = ambient temperature

225/50 R 16 92 V
30/210 33/230
225/45 R 17 91 W
225/40 R 18 88 W 30/210 –
255/35 R 18 90 W – 33/230
205/55 R 16 91 Q/T/H M+S
225/50 R 16 92 Q/T/H M+S 30/210 33/230
225/45 R 17 91 Q/T/H M+S
You will find more information about permissible loads and weights on page 103.

Controls
Z4 3.0i
Tire size Pressure specifications in psi/kPa

All pressure specifications in the table are

indicated in psi/kilopascal with cold tires,
cold = ambient temperature

225/45 R 17 91 W 33/230 36/250

Driving tips
225/40 R 18 88 W 33/230 –
255/35 R 18 90 W – 36/250
225/50 R 16 92 Q/T/H M+S
33/230 36/250
225/45 R 17 91 Q/T/H M+S
You will find more information about permissible loads and weights on page 103.

Mobility
Reference

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 Tire coding BMW recommends the replacement of all tires
Wheels and tires
every 6 years at the latest, even if a tire usage of
Understanding the lettering on the tire sidewall 10 years is possible.
makes it easier to identify and choose the cor-
rect tires. Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable
Tire size
on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and
e.g. 225/50 R 16 92 V maximum section width. For example:
Nominal width in mm Treadwear 200 Traction AA
Cross-sectional Temperature A
ratio in %
Radial belt construction DOT quality grades
Rim diameter in inches Tread wear
Load index, Traction AA A B C
not on ZR tires Temperature A B C
Speed code letter, All passenger car tires must conform to
in front of the R on ZR tires Federal Safety Requirements in addition
to these grades.<
Speed code letter
Q= up to 105 mph / 160 km/h Tread wear
T= up to 118 mph / 190 km/h The tread wear grade is a comparative rating
H= up to 131 mph / 210 km/h based on the wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified gov-
V= up to 150 mph / 240 km/h
ernment test course.
W= up to 167 mph / 270 km/h For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one
Y= up to 186 mph / 300 km/h and one-half, 1 γ, times as well on the govern-
ment course as a tire graded 100. The relative
Tire Identification Number performance of tires depends upon the actual
conditions of their use, however, and may
Tires with DOT codes meet the guidelines of
depart significantly from the norm due to varia-
the U.S. Department of Transportation.
tions in driving habits, service practices and dif-
DOT code: ferences in road characteristics and climate.
e.g. DOT xxxx xxx 5004
Manufacturer's code Traction
for tire brand The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are
Tire size and AA, A, B and C.
tire version Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop
on wet pavement as measured under controlled
Tire age
conditions on specified government test sur-
faces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
Tire age
may have poor traction performance.
The date on which the tire was manufactured is
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
indicated by the code on the sidewall:
based on straight-ahead braking traction
DOT … 5004 indicates that the tire was manu-
tests, and does not include acceleration, cor-
factured in week 50 of the year 2004.
nering, hydroplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<

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 Temperature At tread depths below approx. 1/6 in / 4 mm,
The temperature grades are A, the highest, B winter tires display a perceptible decrease in
and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the their ability to cope with winter driving condi-
generation of heat and its ability to dissipate tions, and should be replaced in the interest of

At a glance
heat when tested under controlled conditions safety.
on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause the
material of the tire to degenerate and reduce
tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to
a level of performance which all passenger car
tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehi-
cle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A
represent higher levels of performance on the
laboratory test wheel than the minimum
required by law. Tread wear indicators in the tread-groove base,

Controls
see arrow, are distributed around the wheel cir-
The temperature grade for this tire is
cumference and are labeled on the tire sidewall
established for a tire that is properly
as TWI, Tread Wear Indicator. At a tread depth
inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed,
of 1/16 in / 1.6 mm, the indicators signal that the
under-inflation, or excessive loading, either
legally permissible wear limit has been reached.
separately or in combination, can cause heat
buildup and possible tire failure.<
Wheel/tire damage
RSC: Run Flat tires Due to low-profile tires, please note that
wheels, tires and suspension parts are
Run Flat tires are labeled on the sidewall with a
more susceptible to road hazards and conse-

Driving tips
circular symbol containing the letters RSC.
quential damages.<
Refer to page 82.
Unusual vibrations encountered during normal
M+S vehicle operation can indicate tire failure or
some other vehicle malfunction. This type of
Winter and all-season tires.
problem can be caused by contact with curbs,
These have better winter performance proper-
etc. This is also true for irregularities in the vehi-
ties than summer tires.
cle's handling characteristics, such as a pro-
nounced tendency to pull to the left or right.

Tire condition Should this occur, respond by immedi-

ately reducing your speed. Proceed care-
Inspect your tires frequently for tread wear, fully to the nearest BMW center or professional
Mobility
signs of damage and for foreign objects lodged tire center, or have the vehicle towed there.
in the tread. Check the tread depth. Tire damage up to and including sudden and
complete air loss can pose an extreme hazard
Tire tread for both vehicle occupants and other road
Tread depth should not be allowed to go below users.<
1/8 in / 3 mm even though in Europe, for exam-
ple, the legally specified minimum tread depth
is only 1/16 in / 1.6 mm. Below 1/8 in / 3 mm
tread depth, there is a very high risk of hydro-
planing, even with only small amounts of water
Reference

on the road and at relatively moderate speeds.

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 Run Flat tires fitted Your BMW center can provide you with infor-
Wheels and tires
mation about the correct wheel and tire combi-
nations for your vehicle.
The correct wheel and tire combination also
affects other systems which would otherwise
be impaired, for example ABS or DSC.
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single brand and
tread configuration. In the event of a flat tire,
remount the previous wheel and tire combina-
tion as soon as possible.
Run Flat tires are labeled on the sidewall with a
circular symbol containing the letters RSC. Recommended tire brands
Run Flat tires consist of self-supporting tires BMW tests certain tire brands for each tire size,
and special rims. The tire reinforcement classifies them as road-safe and approves
ensures that driving remains possible to a them. You can best find out about these at a
restricted degree in the event of pressure drop specialized shop, particularly your BMW center.
or even if the tire is deflated. Observe any country-specific regulations, e.g.
on making a corresponding entry in the vehicle
documents.
Wheel and tire replacement The factory-approved radial-ply tires are
Have new wheels and tires mounted only matched to your vehicle and have been
by a BMW center or specialized tire shop selected to provide optimum safety and driving
that works according to BMW requirements comfort when used properly.
with the appropriately trained personnel. Work
that is improperly carried out could result in Run Flat tires
consequential damage and pose safety haz- When mounting new tires or replacing summer
ards. Make sure that the new wheels are bal- tires with winter tires, or vice versa, use Run Flat
anced.< tires since no spare wheel is available in the
BMW advises against using retreaded event of a flat. Your BMW center will be glad to
tires, since driving safety may be provide you with more information.
impaired. This is due to possible variations in For safety reasons, BMW recommends to
casing structures and, in some cases, to their have Run Flat tires replaced, not repaired,
extreme age, factors which can lead to a if they are damaged.<
decrease in their durability.<
Special characteristics of winter tires
The correct wheels and tires BMW recommends the use of winter tires for
BMW recommends using only wheels operation under winter road conditions. While
and tires that have been approved by all-season tires with M+S designation provide
BMW for your particular vehicle model, as oth- better winter traction than summer tires, they
erwise body contact and serious accidents can generally do not achieve the full performance of
result despite the use of the same nominal size, winter tires.
e.g. due to manufacturing tolerances. If non-
approved wheels and tires are used, BMW can- Observing speed ratings
not evaluate their suitability, and therefore can- Never exceed the maximum speed for
not be held liable for driving safety.< which the winter tires are rated. Unpro-
fessional attempts by laymen to service tires

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 can lead to damage and accidents. Have this
work performed by skilled professionals only.
The technicans at your BMW center will be glad
to assist you with the required professional

At a glance
knowledge and specialized equipment.<

Storage
Store tires in a cool, dry place, protecting them
against light whenever possible. Protect the
tires from contact with oil, grease and fuel. Do
not exceed the maximum tire inflation pres-
sures specified on the tire sidewall.

Snow chains*

Controls
Only certain types of snow chains have been
tested by BMW, classified as road-safe and
approved. Consult your BMW center for more
information. BMW recommends using only
approved fine-link snow chains. Use them in
pairs on either summer or winter tires, but only
on both rear wheels.
Comply with all manufacturer's safety precau-
tions when mounting the chains.
Do not exceed a speed of 30 mph / 50 km/h

Driving tips
when using snow chains.
Do not initialize the Flat Tire Monitor after
snow chains have been mounted.
When driving with snow chains, it may be useful
to deactivate the DSC briefly. Refer to
page 51.<

Mobility
Reference

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 In the engine compartment
In the engine compartment

Do not attempt to service your vehicle if To close

you do not have the required technical
background. If you are not familiar with the reg-
ulations to be observed, have your vehicle ser-
viced only by a BMW center or a workshop that
works according to BMW requirements with the
appropriately trained personnel. Work that is
improperly carried out could result in conse-
quential damage and pose safety hazards.<

Hood Allow the hood to fall from a low height and

push on both sides so that it audibly engages.
To release As in all closing procedures, avoid injuries
by making sure that the travel path of the
hood is clear when it is closed.
If you notice while driving that the hood is not
completely closed, stop immediately and close
it securely.<

Pull the lever located under the left-hand side of

the instrument panel.

To open

1. Reach under the engine hood

2. Push the release handle up
3. Open the hood.

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 Engine compartment

At a glance
Controls
1 Reservoir for the headlamp and windshield 4 Reservoir for brake fluid 88
washer system 86 5 Chassis ground, negative terminal
2 Engine oil filler neck 87 6 Engine oil dipstick 86
3 Auxiliary terminal for jump-starting 97 7 Coolant expansion tank 87

Driving tips
Mobility
Reference

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 Washer fluids for washer Do not continue driving, as the engine
In the engine compartment
could sustain serious damage from inad-
systems equate lubrication.<
Headlamp* and windshield washer
Engine oil level
system
The warning lamp lights up in yellow
while driving:
The oil level is at the absolute mini-
mum; refill as soon as possible. Do not drive
more than 30 miles/50 km before refilling.

The warning lamp lights up in yellow

after the engine has been switched off:
Add engine oil at the earliest opportu-
nity, e.g. when you stop to refuel.
Capacity of windshield washer system: approx.
3.2 quarts/3 liters. Engine oil sensor
Capacity when equipped with headlamp The warning lamp lights up in yellow
washer system: approx. 5.3 quarts/5 liters. within 20 seconds after the engine is
Fill with water and, if required, with an antifreeze started:
agent according to the manufacturer's recom- The oil level sensor is defective. Please have it
mendations. checked by a BMW center.

We recommend that you mix the washer

Checking the oil level
fluid before adding it to the reservoir.<
Antifreeze agents for the washing sys-
tems are highly flammable. For this rea-
son, keep them away from sources of flame and
store them only in their original containers.
Store them so that they are inaccessible to chil-
dren. Comply with the instructions on the con-
tainers.<

Engine oil 1. With the vehicle's engine at normal operat-

ing temperature, i.e. after uninterrupted
Oil consumption is directly influenced by your driving for at least 6 miles/10 km, park the
driving style and vehicle operating conditions. vehicle on a level surface
2. Switch off the engine
Warning lamp
3. After approx. 5 minutes, pull the dipstick
Engine oil pressure out and wipe it off with a clean lint-free
cloth, paper towel, or similar material
The warning lamp lights up in red:
The engine oil pressure is too low. 4. Carefully push the dipstick all the way into
Stop the vehicle immediately and the guide tube and pull it out again
switch off the engine. Check the engine oil level 5. The oil level should be between the two
and top up if necessary. If the oil level is correct, marks on the dipstick
please contact the nearest BMW center.

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 6. Return the dipstick to the guide tube, Approved engine oils
inserting it as far as it will go. The quality of the engine oil is extremely impor-
As with fuel economy, oil consumption is tant for the function and life of an engine. Based
directly influenced by your driving style and on extensive testing, BMW has approved cer-

At a glance
vehicle operating conditions. tain grades of engine oil.
The oil volume between the two marks on the Use approved High Performance Synthetic Oil.
dipstick corresponds to approx. 1.1 quarts/ If you are unable to obtain an approved High
1 liter. Performance Synthetic Oil, you may use small
Do not fill beyond the upper mark on the volumes of other synthetic oils for topping up
dipstick. Excess oil will damage the between oil changes. Use only oils with the
engine.< specification API SH or higher.
Ask your BMW center for details concern-
Adding engine oil ing the specific High Performance Syn-
thetic Oil or synthetic oils that have been
approved.<

Controls
You can also call BMW of North America toll-
free at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this website:
www.bmwusa.com to obtain this information.
BMW engines are designed to operate
without oil additives; the use of additives
could even lead to damage in some cases.<

Do not add oil until the oil level has dropped

almost to the lower mark on the dipstick, refer to Coolant

Driving tips
page 86.
Add oil within the next 30 miles/50 km, Warning lamp
otherwise the engine could be dam- The warning lamp lights up:
aged.< The coolant level is too low. Top up the
Continuous exposure to used oil has coolant as soon as possible.
caused cancer in laboratory tests. For this Do not open the cooling system when the
reason, thoroughly wash any areas of skin that engine is hot. If you do, escaping coolant
come into contact with oil using soap and water. can cause burns.<
Always store oils, grease and similar materials Coolant consists of water and coolant additives.
so that they are inaccessible to children. Com- Not all commercially available additives are suit-
ply with warning labels and the information on able for your BMW. Your BMW center knows
the containers.< which additives are appropriate.
Comply with the applicable environmen- Mobility
Use only approved additives, as the
tal laws regulating the disposal of used engine could otherwise be damaged. The
oil.< additives are hazardous to health.<
Comply with the applicable environmen-
Oil change
tal laws regulating the disposal of coolant
Have your oil changed only by a BMW center or additives.<
a workshop that works according to BMW
requirements with the appropriately trained
personnel.
Reference

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 Checking the coolant level Indication of the above-described mal-
In the engine compartment
1. The engine must be at ambient tempera- function in Canadian models.
ture
Brake pads
2. Open the cap of the expansion tank by turn-
ing it slightly counterclockwise to allow The warning lamp lights up. The brake
accumulated pressure to escape, then pads have worn down to the minimum
open completely safe limit. Have the brake pads
replaced as soon as possible.
3. The coolant level is correct when the upper
end of the red float is at least even with the For your own safety: use only brake pads
upper edge of the filler neck but no more which BMW has approved for your spe-
than 3/4 in/2 cm above it, that is up to the cific vehicle model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
second mark on the float. Refer also to the approved brake pads to determine if they are
schematic diagram next to the filler neck suitable for use, and therefore cannot guaran-
tee the operating safety of the vehicle in the
event of their use.<

4. Slowly add coolant, if necessary, until the

correct level is reached; do not overfill
5. Turn the cap clockwise until it is tightly
closed
6. Have the cause for the coolant loss
removed as soon as possible.

Brake system
Malfunction

Brake fluid
The warning lamp lights up although
the parking brake is not engaged:
Stop the vehicle immediately.
The brake fluid level in the reservoir is too low.
At the same time, you may notice that brake
pedal travel is longer. Have the system checked
as soon as possible.
If you continue driving, extended pedal
travel may be necessary and braking dis-
tances may be significantly longer. Be sure to
adapt your driving style accordingly.<

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 Maintenance

The BMW Maintenance Service and Warranty Information

At a glance
System Booklet for US models, Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet for Canadian
The BMW Maintenance System helps maintain models
the road safety and operating reliability of your For additional information on required mainte-
BMW. nance intervals and procedures, please refer to
Please keep in mind that regular maintenance is the Service and Warranty Information Booklet
not only necessary for the safety of your vehi- for US models, or the Warranty and Service
cle, but also plays a significant role in maintain- Guide Booklet for Canadian models.
ing the resale value of your vehicle. Depending on operating conditions, it may be
advisable to have the body checked for damage
Service interval display from rocks or gravel as a precaution against cor-

Controls
rosion.
BMW recommends that you have your
BMW center perform the maintenance
and repair.
Be sure that all maintenance work is recorded in
the Service and Warranty Information Booklet
for US models, Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models. These entries will
serve as proof that the vehicle has received reg-
ular maintenance.<

Driving tips
While conventional systems rely on distance
traveled alone to determine when a service is
due, the BMW Maintenance System has taken
the actual conditions under which the vehicle is
operated into consideration for years, because
miles can be traveled in many different ways:
From a maintenance point of view,
60,000 miles/100,000 km accumulated in
short-distance urban driving are not the same
as 60,000 miles/100,000 km accumulated at
moderate cruising speeds in long-distance
highway travel.
The BMW Maintenance System includes the Mobility
Engine Oil Service and Inspections I and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals based
on the actual loads on the vehicle covers every
kind of operating situation. Minimal use drivers,
who drive fewer than about 6,200 miles/
10,000 km per year, should nevertheless have
the oil changed at least every 2 years since
engine oil deteriorates over time, regardless of
Reference

use.

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 OBD interface socket Indication of the above-described mal-
Maintenance
function in Canadian models.

If the gas cap is not on tight enough, the

OBD system can detect leaking vapor
and the indicator will light up. If the gas cap is
then tightened, the indicator will usually go out
after a short period of time.<

Event Data Recorders

Your vehicle may be equipped with one or more
The Onboard Diagnostic OBD interface socket sensing and diagnostic modules or a recording
is located on the left of the driver's side under device capable of recording or transmitting cer-
the instrument panel and under a cover. tain vehicle data or information. In addition, if
The cover has the letters OBD on it. you have a Subscription Service Agreement for
the BMW Assist system, certain vehicle infor-
The purpose of the OBD system is to ensure
mation may be transmitted or recorded in order
proper operation of the emission control sys-
to provide such services.
tem for the vehicle's lifetime.
The system monitors emission-related compo-
nents and systems for deterioration and mal- Care
function.
Interesting facts about the care of your vehicle
If the Service engine soon indicator are found in the Caring for your vehicle bro-
lamp comes on either continuously or chure.
intermittently, this indicates a fault in
the emission-related electronic systems.
Although the vehicle remains operational, you
should have the systems checked by your
BMW center at the earliest possible opportu-
nity.

The illuminated indicator informs you of the

need for service, not that you need to stop the
vehicle. However, the systems should be
checked by your BMW center at the next oppor-
tunity.
If the indicator blinks or flashes, this indicates a
high level of engine misfire. Reduce speed and
contact the nearest BMW center immediately.
Severe engine misfiring over even a short
period of time can seriously damage emission
control system components, especially the cat-
alytic converter.

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 Replacement procedures

Onboard tool kit Lamps and bulbs

At a glance
The lamps and bulbs make essential contribu-
tions to the safety of your vehicle. Therefore,
comply fully with the following instructions dur-
ing bulb replacement. If you are not familiar with
the procedures, BMW recommends that you
have your BMW center carry out the work.
Do not touch the glass portion of a new
bulb with your bare hands since even
small amounts of impurities burn in to the sur-
face and reduce the service life of the bulb. Use
The onboard tool kit is stored in a tool pouch. It
a clean cloth, paper napkin or a similar material,

Controls
is located in the luggage compartment beneath
or hold the bulb by its metallic base.<
the floor panel.
A replacement bulb set is available from your
BMW center.
Windshield wiper blades Before working on the electrical system,
switch off the electrical accessory you are
1. Swich off the ignition working on or disconnect the cable from the
2. Fold the wiper arm completely out from the negative terminal of the battery. Failure to
windshield observe this precaution could result in short cir-
3. Place the wiper blade in a position at right cuits.

Driving tips
angles to the wiper arm To prevent injuries and damage, always comply
with any instructions provided by the bulb man-
4. Press the locking spring
ufacturer.<

Accessing the headlamps

Protective cover in the wheel well

Mobility
5. Fold the wiper blade down and unhook it
toward the windshield
6. Pull the wiper blade past the wiper arm
toward the top
7. Insert a new wiper blade and apply pressure To gain access to the headlamp covers, turn the
until you hear it engage. front wheels in the required direction.
Reference

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 Low beams and high beams
Replacement procedures

1. Open the caps with a suitable object, e.g. a

coin or screwdriver Left side of engine compartment:
2. Fold up the protective cover in the wheel 1 Low beams
well. 2 High beams
H7 bulb, 55 watts
Headlamp cover
1. Pull the wire clamp out straight The H7 bulb is pressurized. Therefore,
wear safety glasses and protective
gloves. Failure to comply with these precau-
tions could result in physical injury if the bulb is
damaged.<
1. Turn the bulb holder to the left and pull out
2. Remove and replace the bulb
3. Install in the reverse order.
When cleaning the headlamps, please
observe the instructions in the Caring for
2. Pull the wire clamp past the catches, see your vehicle brochure.<
arrows, and fold it down
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 continue driv-
ing with great caution using the fog lamps, pro-
vided traffic laws in your area do not prohibit
this.
Because of the extremely high voltages
3. Flip the headlamp cover open and remove. involved, any work on the xenon lighting
Reinstall the headlamp cover carefully. If system, including bulb-changing, should be
it is not on tight, the headlamp installation carried out by technically qualified personnel
could be damaged.< only. Otherwise, there is a risk of fatal injury.<
Reinstall the headlamp cover in reverse order.

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 Front turn signal indicators Rear lamps

At a glance
21 watt bulb Tail lamps 1: 21/4 watt bulbs
1. Insert a Phillips-head screwdriver from the Remaining bulbs: 21 watt
onboard toolkit into the appropriate open- 1 Tail lamp/brake lamp, red
ing, arrows 1
2 Turn signal indicator, yellow
2. Turn the screwdriver to the left, arrows 2

Controls
3 Backup lamp, white
3. Use the Phillips-head screwdriver to pull
out the entire bulb holder

Driving tips
On the right-hand side of the luggage compart-
ment:
4. Replace the bulb
1. Remove the cover by turning the lock to the
5. Install in the reverse order. right; refer to the detail in the illustration
2. Applying light pressure, turn the bulb to the
Side turn signal indicators
left. Remove and exchange the bulb
3. Reinstall the cover.

Center high-mount brake lamp

Mobility

5 watt bulb
1. Turn the lamp to the left and remove
2. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb while
turning it to the left to remove The LED strip is in the luggage compartment
Reference

3. Install in the reverse order. lid.

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 Please contact a BMW center in case of a mal- Flat tires and is equipped with the necessary
Replacement procedures
function. special tools.
When mounting or replacing summer
License plate lamps tires with winter tires, or vice versa, use
only Run Flat tires since no spare wheel is avail-
able in the event of a flat.<

Jacking points

5 watt bulb
1. Push out the lamp with a suitable object and
remove it
2. Replace the bulb.
Snap the lamp back into place. The jacking points are located at the positions
indicated in the illustration.
Light-emitting diodes LEDs Your BMW center can provide you with a
Control elements, display units and other inte- suitable jack as an accessory.<
rior equipment in your vehicle use a light-emit-
ting diode behind a cover as a light source.
These light-emitting diodes are similar to con- Vehicle battery
ventional lasers.
Do not remove the covers, and do not Maintenance
look directly at the unfiltered light for sev- The battery is completely maintenance-free.
eral hours. Otherwise, it can lead to retinal irrita- This means that the original electrolyte will nor-
tion of the eye.< mally last for the service life of the battery under
moderate climatic conditions. Your BMW cen-
ter will be happy to advise you if you have any
Changing a wheel questions concerning the battery.

Run Flat tires Indicator lamp

Your BMW is equipped with Run Flat tires. The indicator lamp lights up:
Therefore, the wheel no longer has to be The battery is no longer being charged.
changed immediately in the event of a loss in The alternator drive belt is defective or
inflation pressure. there is a malfunction in the charging circuit of
Run Flat tires are labeled on the sidewall with a the alternator. Please contact the nearest BMW
circular symbol containing the letters RSC. center.
Refer to page 82. If the drive belt is defective, pull over and
BMW recommends that you consult your BMW switch off the engine immediately to pre-
center if you wish to replace the tires of your vent overheating and serious engine damage.
BMW, or change from summer to winter tires or If the onboard supply voltage drops to a very
vice versa. low level, increased steering effort may also be
Your BMW center knows how to work with Run necessary.<

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 Charging the battery Spare fuses and plastic tweezers for grasping
Charge the battery in the vehicle only when the the fuses are found in the onboard tool kit; refer
engine has been switched off. Terminals, refer to page 91.
to Jump starting, page 97. Do not attempt to repair a burned fuse or

At a glance
replace it with a fuse having a different
Battery disposal color or amperage rating. To do this could
After changing a battery, have the used cause a fire in the vehicle as a result of circuit
battery disposed of by your BMW center overload.<
or bring it to a recycling point. Maintain the bat-
tery in an upright position for transport and stor-
age. Secure the battery against tilting when
transporting.<

Power loss
After a temporary power loss, e.g. due to a dis-

Controls
charged battery, some equipment will be lim-
ited in its use and must be reinitialized. Individ-
ual settings are also lost and must be reset:
> Seat memory
The positions must be stored again, refer to
page 29
> Time
must be reset, refer to page 47.

Driving tips
Fuses
You will find the fuses and information on their
respective allocation behind the glove compart-
ment.
1. Open the glove compartment

Mobility

2. Press the lock on the left; see arrow 1

3. Press the lock on the right; see arrow 2
4. Swing the glove compartment down.
Reference

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 Giving and receiving assistance
Giving and receiving assistance

Receiving assistance Initiating an emergency call*

Press button 1 for at least 2 seconds.
The BMW Group's Mobile Service offers you
24-hour assistance in the event of a breakdown, The indicator lamp in the button lights up. As
even on weekends and holidays. soon as a telephone connection to the BMW
Assist response center has been set up, the
The telephone number of the Mobile Service
indicator lamp flashes.
control center in your country is listed in the
Contact brochure. If the indicator lamp is flashing but you cannot
hear the emergency call center, you may still be
If your vehicle has the necessary equipment,
heard by the emergency call center.
you can contact the Mobile Service or issue an
emergency call using buttons in the center con- For technical reasons, the emergency call
sole, behind the parking brake under a cover. function cannot be guaranteed in certain
unfavorable conditions.<
When the emergency call is initiated, a tele-
phone connection is established with the BMW If certain requirements are met, an emergency
Assist response center. call is automatically initiated after a serious
accident. The automatic emergency call will not
If your vehicle is equipped with an activated
be hindered by pressing the button.
BMW Assist and the current location of the
vehicle can be determined, this location is
Roadside Assistance*
transmitted to the BMW Assist response cen-
ter. Press button 2 for at least 2 seconds.
Requirements for initiating an emergency call or The indicator lamp in the button lights up. As
contacting Mobile Service: soon as a telephone connection to the Road-
side Assistance has been set up, the indicator
> Ignition key in position 1 or higher
lamp flashes.
> The car phone must be registered with a
Depending on the country you are in, your vehi-
mobile network
cle's current location will also be transmitted if
> The emergency call system must be opera- your vehicle is equipped with an activated BMW
tional. Assist function.

Access to the buttons

Warning triangle*

Fold up the cover.

1 Emergency call
The warning triangle is stored in the rear lug-
2 Roadside Assistance gage compartment panel.

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 Pull the ends of the rubber bands upward and fully observe the following instructions to avoid
out of the fasteners. personal injury and/or damage to one or both
Always observe all legal regulations vehicles.<
requiring a warning triangle to be carried

At a glance
in the vehicle.< Preparations
1. Check whether the battery of the support
vehicle has 12 volts and approximately the
First-aid kit* same capacity – measured in Ah. This infor-
mation is provided on the battery
2. Stop the engine of the support vehicle
3. Switch off all electrical accessories in both
vehicles.
Make absolutely certain that there is no
contact between the bodywork of the two
vehicles: short circuit hazard.<

Controls
Connecting jumper cables
Always adhere to this sequence when
The first-aid kit is located beneath the passen-
connecting jumper cables; failure to
ger seat.
observe this procedure can lead to sparks at the
battery terminals and pose an injury hazard.<
To open
Pull the handle and fold the cover downward.

To close

Driving tips
Fold the cover up and engage the catch.
Some of the articles in the first-aid kit
have a limited period of use before expira-
tion. For this reason, check the expiration dates
of each of the items regularly, and replace any
with passed dates. These items can be pur-
chased in any drugstore or pharmacy. The auxiliary jump-starting terminal located in
Always observe all legal regulations requiring a your BMW's engine compartment acts as the
first-aid kit to be carried in the vehicle.< positive battery terminal. Refer to the engine
compartment overview on page 85. The cover
is marked with a +.
Jump-starting 1. Open the cover of the BMW auxiliary jump-
Mobility
starting terminal. Do so by pulling the tab
When your battery is discharged you can use
two jumper cables to start your vehicle with 2. With the + jumper cable, connect the posi-
power from the battery in a second vehicle. You tive terminal of the drained battery and the
can also use the same method to help start positive terminal of the support battery.
another vehicle. Always use jumper cables with To do this:
fully insulated handles on the terminal clamps. Connect one terminal clamp to the positive
terminal of the battery or to an auxiliary
Do not touch components carrying cur-
jump-starting terminal of the support vehi-
rent on a running engine. Contact with
cle.
Reference

these components can cause fatal injury. Care-

Connect the second terminal clamp to the

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 positive terminal of the battery or to an aux- Towing and tow-starting the
Giving and receiving assistance
iliary jump-starting terminal of the vehicle to
be jump-started.
vehicle
Using the towing eyelet
The screw-in towing eyelet is stored in the
onboard tool kit; be sure that it remains in the
vehicle at all times. It can be attached at the
front or rear of your BMW.
Observe the following instructions in
order to avoid damaging the towing eye-
let or the vehicle: use only the towing eyelet
supplied with the vehicle, and screw it in firmly
Your BMW is equipped with a special nut, until it stops. Use the towing eyelet for towing
refer also to the engine compartment over- on paved roads only. Avoid subjecting the tow-
view on page 85 ing eyelet to lateral loads, e.g. do not lift the
3. With the – jumper cable, connect the nega- vehicle using the towing eyelet.<
tive terminals of both vehicles.
To do this: Access to the threaded socket
Attach one cable clamp to the negative bat- Press out the cover with a screwdriver inserted
tery terminal or to a suitable ground on the in the recess at the top.
engine or body work of the support vehicle.
Attach the second cable clamp to the nega-
tive battery terminal or to a suitable ground
on the engine or body work of the vehicle to
be jump-started.

Starting the engine

1. Start the engine of the support vehicle and
let it run for several minutes at a slightly ele-
vated engine idle speed
2. Start the engine of the other vehicle as Being towed
usual. Make sure that the ignition key is in posi-
If the first start attempt is not successful, tion 1, because the steering lock could
wait a few minutes before another attempt otherwise engage and the vehicle could no
in order to allow the discharged battery to longer be steered. There is no power assist
recharge while the engine is off. Therefore, you will need
3. Allow the engines to run for several minutes to exert more force to brake and steer the vehi-
cle.<
4. Then disconnect the jumper cables in
reverse sequence Turn on the hazard warning flashers, if required
by national regulations. If the electrical system
5. Depending on the cause of the fault, have
has failed, clearly identify the vehicle being
the battery checked and recharged.
towed, e.g. by placing a sign or a warning trian-
Never use spray starter fluids to start the gle in the rear window.
engine.<
Vehicles with manual transmission
Gearshift lever in idling position.

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 Vehicles with automatic transmission With a tow truck
Selector lever in position N.
Do not exceed a towing speed of 45 mph /
70 km/h or a towing distance of 90 miles/

At a glance
150 km. Otherwise, the automatic transmission
could be damaged.<

Vehicles with sequential manual

gearbox SMG
To push or tow the vehicle, turn on the ignition
and move the selector lever to position N, then Have the BMW transported by a tow truck with
turn the ignition off again. a lift sling, or on a flatbed.
Do not lift the vehicle by the towing eye-
Towing methods let, or by parts of the body or chassis.
In some countries, it is not permitted to tow the Otherwise damage could result.<

Controls
vehicle with a tow bar or tow rope on public
roads. Tow-starting
Familiarize yourself with the applicable towing Do not tow-start vehicles with automatic
regulations for the country in which you are transmission.
driving. Jump-starting, refer to page 97.<
Only tow-start vehicles with catalytic conver-
With a tow bar
ters if the engine is cold. It is better to have the
The towing vehicle must not be lighter vehicle jump-started, refer to page 97.
than the vehicle being towed; otherwise,
vehicle handling can no longer be controlled.< 1. Turn on the hazard warning flashers; com-

Driving tips
ply with national regulations
The towing eyelets of both vehicles should be
on the same side. If the tow bar can only be 2. Turn the ignition key to position 2
used in a diagonal position, please note the fol- 3. Engage the 3rd gear. For vehicles with
lowing: SMG, refer to following column
> Clearance is restricted while you are driving 4. Have the vehicle towed with the clutch
around corners pedal completely depressed and then
> The inclination of the tow bar produces late- slowly release the clutch pedal. After the
ral force. engine has started, immediately depress
the clutch pedal again completely
Only attach the tow bar to the towing eye-
lets. Other parts of the vehicle could oth- 5. Pull over at a suitable location, remove the
erwise be damaged.< tow bar or tow rope, and turn on the hazard
warning flashers Mobility
With a tow rope 6. Have the vehicle checked.
When the towing vehicle is driving off, make
sure that the tow rope is taut. Vehicles with sequential manual
gearbox SMG
Use nylon ropes or straps for towing
because they prevent sudden jerking > Have the vehicle towed with the selector
movements. Attach tow ropes only to the tow- lever in position N
ing eyelet. Other parts of the vehicle could oth- > Select sequential mode. The correct gear
erwise be damaged.< will automatically be selected and engaged.
Reference

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 Reference
This chapter will help you find the desired
information as quickly as possible.
It contains the Technical data section as well as
the manual's index.

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 Technical data
Technical data

Engine data
Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i

Displacement cu in/cmµ 152.1/2,494 181.7/2,979

Number of cylinders 6 6
Maximum power output hp/kW 184/141 225/170
at engine speed rpm 6,000 5,900
Maximum torque lb ft/Nm 181/245 221/300
at engine speed rpm 3,500 3,500

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 Weights
Z4 2.5i Z4 3.0i

Curb weight

At a glance
with manual transmission lbs/kg 2,932/1,330 2,998/1,360
with SMG lbs/kg 2,976/1,350 3,020/1,370
with automatic transmission lbs/kg 2,998/1,360 3,042/1,380
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission lbs/kg 3,483/1,580 3,549/1,610
with SMG lbs/kg 3,527/1,600 3,571/1,620
with automatic transmission lbs/kg 3,549/1,610 3,593/1,630
Load lbs/kg 551/250 551/250
Approved front axle load lbs/kg 1,720/780 1,742/790
Approved rear axle load lbs/kg 1,841/835 1,863/845

Controls
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft/l 8.5/240 8.5/240
with convertible top compartment panel raised cu ft/l 9.2/260 9.2/260
Never exceed either the approved axle loads or the approved gross vehicle weight.

Driving tips
Mobility
Reference

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 Dimensions
Technical data

All measurements in inches/millimeters. Smallest turning circle dia. 32 ft 2 in/9.8 m.

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 Capacities
Notes

Fuel tank gal./liters approx. 14.5/55 Fuel specifications: page 76

At a glance
reserve gal./liters approx. 2.1/8
Windshield washer system/ quarts/liters approx. 3.2/3 For details: page 86
Headlamp washer system quarts/liters approx. 5.3/5
Cooling system including heating For details: page 87
circuit
with manual transm. or SMG quarts/liters 8.8/8.3
with automatic transmission quarts/liters 9.3/8.8
Engine with oil filter renewal quarts/liters 6.9/6.5 For details: page 87

Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
Reference

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 Everything from A to Z
Everything from A to Z

Index
A Air recirculation, refer to Automatic
Recirculated air – air distribution 62
ABS Antilock Brake mode 59, 62 – air supply/blower 62
System 50 Air supply/blower – cruise control 44
– indicator lamp 13 – air conditioning 59 – headlamp control 56
Acceleration assistant 42 – automatic climate control 62 – luggage compartment lid
Accessories, refer to AKI, refer to Fuel operation 19
– For your own safety 6 specifications 76 Automatically dimming
– Your individual vehicle 5 Alarm system 25 interior rearview mirror 31
Accident, refer to Emergency – avoiding unintentional Automatic car wash, refer to
call 96 alarms 26 the Caring for your vehicle
Acknowledgment signal for All-season tires, refer to brochure
vehicle locking/unlocking 16 Winter tires 81 Automatic climate control 61
Activated-charcoal filter 63 Antenna, refer to the Automatic recirculated air
Adjusting the thigh support 29 Caring for your vehicle control AUC 62
Air, drying, brochure Automatic transmission with
refer to Air conditioning Antifreeze 86, 87 Steptronic 38
mode 59, 62 – coolant 87 – ignition 36
Airbags 53 – washing fluids 86 – indicator lamp 13
– deactivation 33 Antilock Brake System – interlock 36
– indicator lamp 12 ABS 50 – selector lever lock 38
– passenger airbags indicator – indicator lamp 13 – shiftlock 38
lamp 34 Anti-theft alarm system, refer – towing the vehicle 99
– reactivation 33 to Alarm system 25 – tow-starting 99
– safe seating position 27 Anti-theft protection 16, 25 AUTO program,
Airbag switch 33 Approved axle load, refer to refer to Automatic air
Air conditioning 58 Weights 103 distribution 62
Air conditioning mode Approved engine oils 87 Average fuel consumption 49
– air conditioning 59 Approved gross vehicle – setting unit of measure 48
– automatic climate control 62 weight, refer to Weights 103 Average speed 49
Air conditioning mode Artificial leather, refer to the – setting unit of measure 48
switching on/off Caring for your vehicle Avoiding unintentional
manually 59, 62 brochure alarms 26
Air distribution Ashtray 65 Axle loads, refer to
– air conditioning 59 Assistant systems, Weights 103
– automatic climate control 62 refer to Dynamic Stability
Airing out, refer to Control DSC 50 B
Ventilation 59, 63 AUC Automatic recirculated
Air outlets, air control 62 Backrest, refer to Seat
refer to Ventilation 59, 63 adjustment 28
Air pressure, refer to Tire Backup lamps 38
inflation pressure 78 – bulb replacement 93

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 Bandages, refer to First-aid Brakes Carpet care, refer to the
kit 97 – ABS 50 Caring for your vehicle
Bar, towing 99 – brake fluid 88 brochure
Battery 94 – brake pads 88 Car radio, refer to the separate

At a glance
– charging 95 – break-in procedures 68 Owner's Manual
– disposal 95 – indicator/warning Car telephone, refer to the
– indicator lamp 12, 94 lamps 13, 51 separate Owner's Manual
– jump-starting 97 – parking brake 37 Car wash, refer to the Caring
– power supply interruption 95 Brake system for your vehicle brochure
– remote control 16 – brake fluid 88 Catalytic converter, refer to
Belts, refer to Safety belts 30 – brake pads 88 Hot exhaust system 69
Belt tensioner, refer to Safety – break-in procedures 68 CD changer, refer to Owner's
belts 30 – disc brakes 69 Manual for Radio/Onboard
Beverage holders 64 – indicator lamp 13 Computer
Blower Breakdown CD operation, refer to Owner's
– air conditioning 59 – Flat Tire Monitor 52 Manual for Radio/Onboard

Controls
– automatic climate control 62 Breakdown service, refer to Computer
Blower, refer to Air Mobile Service 96 Center high-mount brake
supply 59, 62 Breaking in the differential, lamp, bulb replacement 93
BMW 5 refer to Engine and Central locking system 16
BMW Maintenance differential 68 – interior 18
System 89 Break-in procedures 68 Changes, technical, refer to
Bottle holders, refer to Bridging, refer to Jump- For your own safety 6
Beverage holders 64 starting 97 Changing a wheel 94
Brake fluid 88 Bulb replacement, refer to – Run Flat tires 94
– filling 88 Lamps and bulbs 91 Charge indicator lamp 12, 94

Driving tips
– indicator/warning Buttons in the multifunction Check gas cap, indicator
lamp 13, 88 steering wheel 10 lamp 13
– level 88 Child-restraint mounting
Brake force display 52 C system, LATCH 35
Brake hydraulic system 88 Child-restraint systems 33
– indicator/warning California laws Child seat, refer to
lamp 13, 88 – Event Data Recorders 90 Installing child-restraint
Brake lamps – Proposition 65 warning 6 systems 34
– brake force display 52 Can holders, refer to Beverage Chrome parts, refer to the
– bulb replacement 93 holders 64 Caring for your vehicle
– indicator lamp, defective Capacities 105 brochure
lamp 13 Capacity Cigarette lighter 65
Brake pads 88 – luggage compartment, refer Cigarette lighter socket 65 Mobility
– break-in procedures 68 to Weights 103 Cleaning the rear window,
– warning lamp 88 Car battery 94 refer to the Caring for your
Brake pad wear indicator Car care, refer to the Caring vehicle brochure
– brake pads 88 for your vehicle brochure Cleaning the vehicle, refer to
– warning lamp 13 Car-care products, refer to the the Caring for your vehicle
Brake rotors Caring for your vehicle brochure
– brake system 69 brochure
– break-in procedures 68 Care, refer to the Caring for
your vehicle brochure
Reference

Car keys, refer to Keys 16

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 Clock 47, 48 Convertible top 20, 21 Defrosting rear window
Everything from A to Z
– 12- or 24-hour mode 48 – care, refer to the Caring for – air conditioning 59
– refer to Owner's Manual for your vehicle brochure – automatic climate control 63
Radio/Onboard Computer – convenience operation 18 Defrosting windows 60, 62
– setting 47 – electrical fault 23 Defrosting windows and
Clothes hooks 25 – emergency closing 23 removing condensation
Clutch, break-in – fully automatic 21 – air conditioning 60
procedures 68 – malfunction 23 – automatic climate control 62
Cockpit 10 – manual 20 Defrosting windshield, refer to
Cold start, refer to – mechanical 20 Defrosting windows 60, 62
Starting the engine 36 Convertible top compartment Defrost position, refer to
Compact disc operation, refer panel 19 Defrosting windows 60, 62
to Owner's Manual for Coolant 87 Digital clock 47
Radio/Onboard Computer – indicator lamp 13 Dimensions 104
Compartments 64 – level 88 Dimming mirrors 70
Computer 48 – thermometer 46 Dipstick, engine oil 86
– clock, 12- or 24-hour Coolant water, refer to Directional indicators, refer to
mode 48 Coolant 87 Turn signal indicators 42
– refer to Owner's Manual for Cooling Disc brakes 69
Onboard Computer – maximum 62 Displacement, refer to Engine
Computer, refer to Onboard – refer to Air conditioning data 102
Computer 48 mode 59, 62 Display elements 12
Condensation, refer to Air Cooling system, refer to Display lighting,
conditioning mode 59, 62 Capacities 105 refer to Instrument
Condensation, removing from Copyright 2 lighting 57
windows Correct tires 82 Displays, refer to Instrument
– air conditioning 60 Cruise control 44 cluster 12
– automatic climate control 62 Cruising range 49 Disposal
Configuring settings, refer to Cup holders, refer to – of engine oil 87
Vehicle Memory, Beverage holders 64 – vehicle battery 95
Key Memory 31 Curb weight, refer to Distance remaining, refer to
Connecting a vacuum cleaner, Weights 103 Range 49
refer to Power socket 65 Cylinders, refer to Engine Door key 16
Consumption, refer to data 102 Door lock 17
Average consumption 49 Doors, unlocking and locking
Consumption display, refer to D – from inside 18
Fuel gauge 46 – from outside 16, 17
Contents 3 Dashboard, refer to DOT quality grades 80
Control elements, refer to Cockpit 10 Draft-free ventilation 59, 63
Cockpit 10 Data, technical 102 Driving Dynamic Control 41
Controls, lighting, refer to – capacities 105 Driving light, refer to Parking
Instrument lighting 57 – dimensions 104 lamps/Low beams 56
Convenience operation – engine data 102 Driving notes 68
– convertible top 18 – weights 103 – break-in procedures 68
– from outside 18 Daytime driving lamps 56 – driving tips 68
– windows 18 DBC Dynamic Brake Driving stability control 50
Control 50 Driving stability control
– warning lamp 13, 51 systems 50
Defective bulb 56

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 Dry air, refer to Air Emergency operation, refer to Eyelets, towing and tow-
conditioning mode 59, 62 Manual operation starting 98
DSC Dynamic Stability – convertible top 23
Control 50 – doors 18 F

At a glance
– indicator lamp 13, 51 – driver's door 18
DTC Dynamic Traction – fuel filler door 76 False alarm, refer to
Control 50 – luggage compartment lid 18 – Avoiding unintentional
– indicator lamp 13, 51 – storage compartments 64 alarms 26
Dynamic Brake Control Emergency service, refer to – Stopping the alarm 26
DBC 50 Mobile Service 96 Fasten safety belts
– indicator lamp 13 Engine 36 – refer to Safety belts 30
– warning lamp 51 – break-in procedures 68 – warning lamp 12, 30
Dynamic Stability Control – data 102 Fault
DSC 50 – electronics 13 – automatic transmission 39
– indicator lamp 13, 51 – indicator lamp 13 – luggage compartment lid 18
Dynamic Traction Control – speed 46 – SMG 41

Controls
DTC 50 – starting 36 Filter, refer to
– indicator lamp 13, 51 – switching off 37 – Microfilter 59
Engine compartment 85 – Microfilter/activated-
E Engine coolant 87 charcoal filter 63
Engine coolant temperature Fine wood, refer to the
Electrical fault gauge 46 Caring for your vehicle
– automatic transmission with Engine data 102 brochure
Steptronic 39 Engine oil 86 Finger guard system, power
– convertible top 23 – alternative oils 87 windows 20
– door lock 18 – approved engine oils 87 First aid, refer to First-aid

Driving tips
– driver's door 18 – capacity 105 kit 97
– fuel filler door 76 – indicator/warning lamp 13 First-aid kit 97
– luggage compartment lid 18 Engine oil level 86 Flat
– SMG 41 – indicator/warning lamp 13 – Run Flat tires 82
– storage compartments 64 Engine oil pressure 86 Flat tire
Electric Power Steering – indicator/warning lamp 13 – Flat Tire Monitor 52
EPS 42 Engine oil sensor 86 – indicator/warning lamp 13
– indicator lamp 13, 42 – indicator/warning lamp 13 – Run Flat tires 82
Electric power windows 20 Engine output, refer to Engine Flat tire, refer to
– power loss 20 data 102 – Changing a wheel 94
Electronic Stability Program Engine speed, refer to Engine – Tire condition 81
ESP, refer to data 102 Flat Tire Monitor 52
Dynamic Stability Control EPS Electric Power – indicator/warning Mobility
DSC 50 Steering 42 lamp 13, 53
Electronic transmission ESP Electronic Stability – initializing 52
control module 39 Program, refer to Dynamic – warning lamp 53
Emergency call 96 Stability Control DSC 50 Flat tire service, refer to
Exhaust system, refer to Hot Mobile Service 96
exhaust system 69 Floods, refer to Driving
Exterior mirrors 31 through water 69
– automatic dimming Floor covers, carpets, refer to
feature 70 the Caring for your vehicle
Reference

– folding in and out 31 brochure

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 Floor mats, refer to the Caring Gear shifts Heavy loads, refer to Stowing
Everything from A to Z
for your vehicle brochure – via automatic transmission cargo 71
Fluid reservoir, washer with Steptronic 38 Height, refer to
systems 86 – via sequential manual Dimensions 104
Fog lamps 57 gearbox SMG 41 Height adjustment
– indicator lamp 13 Glove compartment 64 – seats 28
Follow me home lamps 56 Gross weight, refer to – steering wheel 31
Footbrake, refer to Driving Weights 103 High beams 57
notes 69 – bulb replacement 92
Front airbags 53 H – headlamp flasher 42
Fuel – indicator lamp 13
– average Handbrake, refer to Parking High Performance
consumption 49 brake 37 Synthetic Oil 87
– display 46 Hands-free microphone, – alternative oils 87
– quality 76 refer to Preparations for the – approved oils 87
– volume, refer to cellular phone 65 Holders for beverages 64
Capacities 105 Hands-free system 65 Hood 84
Fuel display, refer to Fuel Hardtop, refer to the separate Horn 10
gauge 46 Owner's Manual Hot exhaust system 69
Fuel filler door 76 Hardtop preparation 72 Hydraulic Brake Assistant,
– unlocking in case of Hazard warning flashers 10 refer to Dynamic Brake
electrical fault 76 Headlamp cover, care, refer to Control DBC 50
Fuel reserve indicator, refer to the Caring for your vehicle Hydraulics, brake 88
Fuel gauge 46 brochure Hydroplaning 69
Fuel tank capacity, refer to Headlamp flasher 42
Capacities 105 – indicator lamp 13 I
Fuses 95 Headlamps
– bulb replacement 91 Ice warning 48
G – care, refer to the Caring for Identification mark
your vehicle brochure – Run Flat tires 82
Gasoline, refer to Fuel – cleaning 43 – tire coding 80
quality 76 Headlamps, automatic Ignition 36
Gasoline gauge, refer to Fuel control 56 Ignition key 16
gauge 46 Headlamp washer Ignition lock 36
Gear indicator reservoir 86 Imprint 2
– for automatic transmission – volume, refer to Inclines 69
with Steptronic 38 Capacities 105 Index 106
– for sequential manual Headlamp washer
gearbox SMG 40 system
Gear lever – cleaning the headlamps 43
– automatic transmission with – washing fluids 86
Steptronic 38 Head restraints 28
– manual transmission 38 Heated mirrors 31
– sequential manual gearbox Heated seats 30
SMG 40 Heating 58
– exterior mirrors 31
– rear window 59, 63
– seats 30

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 Indicator/warning lamp J Locking the doors
– airbags 54 – from inside 18
– alarm system 26 Jack 94 – from outside 17
– automatic transmission with Jacking points 94 Locking the vehicle

At a glance
Steptronic 39 Jets, refer to – from inside 18
– brakes 13 Ventilation 59, 63 – from outside 16
– coolant temperature 47 Jump-starting 97 Low beams 56
– DSC 51 – automatic 56
– engine temperature 46 K – bulb replacement 92
– Flat Tire Monitor 53 – indicator lamp, defective
– fog lamps 57 Key Memory 31 lamp 13
– passenger airbags 34 Keys 16 Lug bolts, wrench 91
– please fasten safety belts 30 Key switch for passenger Luggage compartment 19
– reserve 46 airbags 33 – capacity 103
– sequential manual gearbox Kickdown 39 – floor panel 91
SMG 41 Knock control 76 – increasing capacity 19

Controls
Indicator and warning lamps, – opening/closing,
overview 12 L refer to Luggage
Individual air compartment lid 18
distribution 59, 62 Lamps and bulbs 91 – opening from inside the
Individual settings, refer to LATCH, child-restraint vehicle 19
Vehicle Memory, mounting system 35 – opening from the outside 18
Key Memory 31 Leather care, refer to the – opening with remote
Inflation pressure, tires 78 Caring for your vehicle control 17
Inflation pressure monitoring, brochure Luggage compartment lid 18
refer to LEDs Light-emitting – emergency operation 19

Driving tips
– Flat Tire Monitor 52 diodes 94 – opening from inside the
Inspection 47 Length, refer to vehicle 19
Instrument cluster 12 Dimensions 104 – opening from the outside 18
Instrument lighting 57 License plate lamps, bulb – remote control 17
Instrument panel, refer to replacement 94
Cockpit 10 Light-alloy wheels, care, refer M
Interior lamps 57 to the Caring for your vehicle
– remote control 17 brochure M+S tires, refer to Winter
Interior motion sensor 26 Light-emitting diodes tires 82
– deactivating 26 LEDs 94 Maintenance, refer to Service
Interior rearview mirror 31 Lighter 65 interval display 47, 89
– automatic dimming Lighting Maintenance System 89
feature 70 of the instruments 57 Making telephone calls, refer Mobility
Interior temperature Lights, refer to Parking lamps/ to Owner's Manual for
adjusting 59, 62 Low beams 56 Telephone
Interlock, refer to LIGHTS ON warning 56 Malfunction
Steering lock 36 Light switch 56 – convertible top 23
Intermittent Load, vehicle 70 – door lock 18
– operation, wipers 43 Loads, refer to Cargo – fuel filler door 76
Interval loading 70 – storage compartments 64
– display, service 47 Loads, securing 71 Malfunction of electrical
Lock buttons on doors, accessory 95
Reference

refer to Locking 18 Manual convertible top 20

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 Manual mode, refer to Multifunction steering wheel, Onboard computer
Everything from A to Z
Automatic transmission with refer to Buttons in the – button BC 48
Steptronic 39 steering wheel 10 Onboard computer, refer to
Manual operation Multifunction switch Computer or to the Owner's
– automatic transmission – turn signal indicators/ Manual for Onboard
interlock 38 headlamp flasher 42 Computer
– door lock 18 – washer/wiper system 43 Onboard monitor, refer to
– driver's door 18 Computer or to the Owner's
– fuel filler door 76 N Manual for Onboard
– luggage compartment lid 18 Computer
– power convertible top 23 Neck supports, refer to Head Onboard tool kit 91
– storage compartments 64 restraints 28 Opening and closing the
Manual transmission 38 Nets 64 vehicle
Manufacturer 5 Nylon rope, refer to Towing – at the door lock 17
Master key 16 and tow-starting 99 – from inside 18
– with remote control 16 – from outside 16, 17
Maximum cooling 62 O – with the remote
Maximum speed, winter control 16, 17
tires 82 OBD interface socket 90 Operating elements 10
MD operation, refer to Octane numbers, refer to Fuel Outlets, refer to
Owner's Manual for Radio/ specifications 76 Ventilation 59, 63
Onboard Computer Odometer 46 Outside air mode 59
Measurements, refer to Oil, refer to Engine oil – air conditioning 59
Dimensions 104 – additives, refer to Approved Outside air mode, automatic
Mechanical seat 28 oils 87 climate control 62
Memory, refer to – alternative oils 87 Outside temperature
– Seat Memory 29 – approved oils 87 display 47
– Vehicle Memory, Key – capacity 105 – changing units of
Memory 31 – dipstick 86 measure 48
Microfilter – indicator/warning lamp 13 – in the onboard computer 48
– air conditioning 59 Oil change intervals,
– automatic climate control 63 refer to the Service and P
Microphone, refer to Warranty Information
Preparations for the cellular Booklet for US models, Paintwork, refer to the Caring
phone 65 Warranty and Service Guide for your vehicle brochure
Minidisc operation, refer to Booklet for Canadian Parking brake 37
Owner's Manual for Radio/ models – indicator lamp 13
Onboard Computer Oil consumption 86 Parking lamps/Low beams 56
Mirrors 31 Oil filter change 105 Parking lock, refer to
– heated 31 Oil level 86 Parking 39
Mobile phone, refer to the – checking 86 Parts and accessories,
separate Owner's Manual 5 – indicator lamp 13 refer to Your individual
Mobile Service 96 Oil pressure 86 vehicle 5
Modifications, technical, refer – indicator/warning lamp 13 Passenger airbags
to For your own safety 6 Oil sensor 86 – deactivation 33
Monitoring system for tire – indicator lamp 13 – reactivation 33
pressures, refer to Oil service 47 Placing the vehicle in storage,
– Tire inflation pressure 78 Oil types 87 refer to the Caring for your
M Sports seat 29 vehicle brochure

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 Plastic, refer to the Caring for Recirculating the air, refer to Run Flat tires 82
your vehicle brochure Recirculated air – changing a tire 81, 82
Pollen, refer to mode 59, 62 – changing a wheel 94
– Microfilter 59 Reclining seat, refer to – flat tire 53

At a glance
– Microfilter/activated- Seats 28 – tire inflation pressure 78
charcoal filter 63 Refueling 76 – winter tires 82
Power convertible top 21 – fuel filler door 76
Power loss Releasing S
– electric power windows 20 – hood 84
Power output, refer to Engine Remaining distance, refer to Safe seating position 27
data 102 Range 49 – with airbags 27
Power seat 29 Remaining distance to next – with safety belts 27
Power socket 65 service 47 Safety belts 30
Power steering, electric 42 Remote control 16 – care, refer to the Caring for
Power supply interruption – luggage compartment lid 17 your vehicle brochure
– battery 95 – malfunction 17 – safe seating position 27

Controls
Power windows Replacement key 16 – warning lamp 12, 30
– initializing 20 Replacement key, refer to Safety systems, refer to
Power windows protective New keys 16 – Airbags 53
function, refer to Trap Replacement of tires 82 – Antilock Brake System
protection 20 – changing a wheel 94 ABS 50
Preparations for the cellular – new wheels and tires 82 – Dynamic Stability Control
phone 65 Replacing lamps, refer to DSC 50
Pressure, tires 78 Lamps and bulbs 91 Safety tires, refer to Run Flat
Pressure monitoring, tires, Restraint systems tires 82
refer to Flat Tire Monitor 52 – for children 35 Screwdriver, refer to Onboard

Driving tips
– refer to Safety belts 30 tool kit 91
R Reverse Seat adjustment 28
– automatic transmission with – mechanical 28
Radio, refer to the Owner's Steptronic 39 – M Sports seat 29
Manual for Radio – manual transmission 38 – power 29
Radio navigation, refer to the Reverse gear Seat heating 30
separate Owner's Manual – sequential manual gearbox Seat memory 29
Radio remote control key, SMG 40 Seat position, storing 29
refer to Master keys with Rod antenna, refer to the Seats 28
remote control 16 Caring for your vehicle – adjusting the sports seat 29
Rain sensor 43 brochure – heating 30
Reading lamps 57 Rope, refer to Towing and – memory, refer to Seat
Rear lamps tow-starting 98 memory 29 Mobility
– bulb replacement 93 RSC Runflat System – power adjustment 29
– indicator lamp, defective Component, refer to Run – safe seating position 27
lamp 13 Flat tires 82 – storing positions 29
Rearview mirror 31 Rubber parts, refer to the Securing, locking the vehicle
Rear window defroster Caring for your vehicle – from inside 18
– air conditioning 59 brochure – from outside 17
– automatic climate control 63 Runflat System Component Securing loads,
Recirculated air mode RSC, refer to Run Flat refer to Cargo loading 71
– air conditioning 59 tires 82
Reference

– automatic climate control 62

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 Selector lever Spare key 16 Storing seat position, refer to
Everything from A to Z
– automatic transmission with Spare wheel, refer to Run Flat Seat memory 29
Steptronic 38 tires 82 Summer tires, refer to
– sequential manual gearbox Special oils, refer to Wheels and tires 78
SMG 40 Specified engine oils 87 Surface ice, refer to Ice
Selector lever lock, refer to Special wash program, refer to warning 48
Range selection 38 the Caring for your vehicle Switches, refer to Cockpit 10
Selector lever positions brochure Switch for passenger
– automatic transmission with Specified engine oils 87 airbags 33
Steptronic 38 Speed Symbols 4
– sequential manual gearbox – winter tires 82
SMG 40 Speedometer 12 T
Sequential manual gearbox Sport program
SMG 40 – automatic transmission with Tachometer 46
Service, refer to Mobile Steptronic 39 Tail lamps, refer to Rear
Service 96 – Driving Dynamic lamps 93
Service, refer to Service and Control 41, 42 – bulb replacement 93
Warranty Information Sports seat 29 Tank capacity, refer to Fuel
Booklet for US models, Stability control, refer to tank capacity 105
Warranty and Service Guide Dynamic Stability Control Tank indicator, refer to Fuel
Booklet for Canadian DSC 50 gauge 46
models 89 Standing lamps 57 Technical data 102
Service and warranty 7 Starting, engine 36 Technical modifications, refer
Service interval display 47, 89 Starting, refer to Starting the to For your own safety 6
Shifting gears engine 36 Telephone, refer to the
– automatic transmission with Starting assistance, refer to separate Owner's Manual
Steptronic 38 Dynamic Stability Control Telephone preparation 65
– manual transmission 38 DSC 50 Temperature
– sequential manual gearbox Starting difficulties – air conditioning 59
SMG 41 – jump-starting 97 – automatic climate control 62
Shiftlock, refer to Range – temperature 36 – engine 46
selection 38 Starting with a flat battery, Temperature display
Shift paddles 41 refer to Jump-starting 97 – ice warning 48
Side airbags 53 Status at time of printing 5 – outside temperature 47, 48
Side turn signal indicators, Steering lock 36 – setting unit of measure 48
bulb replacement 93 Steering wheel 10 Tempomat, refer to Cruise
Signal horn, refer to Horn 10 – adjusting 31 control 44
Slipstream deflector, refer to Steptronic, refer to Manual Third brake lamp, refer to
Wind deflector 24 mode 39 Center high-mount brake
SMG Sequential manual Storage compartments 64 lamp 93
gearbox 40 – electrical fault 64 – bulb replacement 93
Smokers' package, refer to – opening manually 64 Three-point seat belt, refer to
Ashtray 65 Storage nets 64 Safety belts 30
Snow chains 83 Storage space, refer to Tilt alarm sensor
Socket for Onboard – Luggage compartment 19 – deactivating 26
Diagnostics 90 – Storage compartments 64 – remote control 26
SOS, refer to Emergency Storing desired speeds, refer Tire coding 80
call 96 to Cruise control 44
Spare fuses 95

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 Tire inflation pressure Traction control, refer to Turn signal indicators, bulb
– checking 78 Dynamic Stability Control replacement
– restoring 78 DSC 50 – front 93
Tire pressure monitoring, Transmission – rear 93

At a glance
refer to Flat Tire Monitor 52 – automatic transmission with – side 93
Tires Steptronic 38 TV function, refer to Owner's
– age 80 – manual transmission 38 Manual for Onboard
– break-in procedures 68 – sequential manual gearbox Computer
– changing 82 SMG 40
– condition 81 Transmission detent, refer to U
– damage 81 Range selection 38
– DOT quality grades 80 Transmission malfunction, Undercoating, refer to the
– flat 53 refer to Malfunction 39 Caring for your vehicle
– inflation pressure 78 Transporting children brochure
– replacement 82 safely 33 Units
– Run Flat tires 82 Transport securing device, – average

Controls
– size 78 refer to Cargo loading 71 consumption 48
– storage 83 Tread depth, refer to Tire – average
– temperature 81 tread 81 speed 48
– traction 80 Tread wear indicators – temperature 48
– tread 81 in the tires, refer to Unlocking
– tread wear 80 Tire tread, Wheel/tire – from inside 18
– tread wear indicators, refer damage 81 – from outside 16
to Tire tread, Wheel/tire Trip distance recorder, refer to Used batteries, refer to
damage 81 Trip odometer 46 Battery disposal 95
– Uniform Tire Quality Trip meter, refer to Trip

Driving tips
Grading 80 odometer 46 V
– winter tires 82 Trip odometer 46
Tire storage 83 Trunk Vehicle
Tool kit, refer to Onboard tool – refer to Luggage – battery 94
kit 91 compartment 19 – breaking in 68
Torque, refer to Engine Trunk lid – care, refer to the Caring for
data 102 – opening via remote your vehicle brochure
Tow bar 99 control 17 – cargo loading 70
Towing 98 – refer to Luggage – cleaning the rear window,
– with sequential manual compartment lid 18 refer to the Caring for your
gearbox SMG 99 Trunk lid, refer to Luggage vehicle brochure
Towing eyelets 98 compartment lid 18 – engine 37
Towing the vehicle 98 Trunk volume, refer to – leaving the vehicle 37 Mobility
– with automatic Luggage compartment – measurements, refer to
transmission 99 capacity 103 Dimensions 104
– with the front axle raised 99 Turning circle, refer to – parked 70
Tow rope 99 Dimensions 104 – storage, refer to the Caring
Tow sockets for towing Turn signal indicators 42 for your vehicle brochure
eyelet 98 – indicator lamp 13 – washing, refer to the Caring
Tow-starting 98, 99 for your vehicle brochure
Track width, refer to – weight 103
Dimensions 104 Vehicle battery 94
Reference

Vehicle Memory 31

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 Ventilation 59, 63 Windshield washer
Everything from A to Z
– air conditioning 59 reservoir 86
– automatic climate control 63 – volume, refer to
Vents, refer to Capacities 105
Ventilation 59, 63 Windshield washer system
Volume – washer/wiper system 43
– fuel tank, refer to – washing fluids 86
Capacities 105 Windshield wiper blades
– care, refer to the Caring for
W your vehicle brochure
– changing 91
Warning and indicator Windshield wipers
lamps 12 – changing 91
Warning triangle 96 – refer to Washer/wiper
Warranty, refer to Service and system 43
Warranty Information Winter tires 82
Booklet for US models, – changing 94
Warranty and Service Guide – condition 81
Booklet for Canadian – storage 83
models 89 Wood decoration, refer to the
Warranty and service 7 Caring for your vehicle
Washer/wiper system 43 brochure
Washer fluid reservoir, refer to Work in the engine
– Capacities 105 compartment 84
– Headlamp washer system Wrench, refer to Onboard tool
and Windshield washer kit 91
system 86
Washer jets, refer to X
Windshield washer
nozzles 44 Xenon lamps, bulb
Washing fluids 86 replacement 92
Washing systems 86
Waste tray, refer to Ashtray 65
Water on roads, flooding 69
Weights 103
Wheel/tire combinations 82
Wheelbase, refer to
Dimensions 104
Wheels and tires 78
Width, refer to
Dimensions 104
Wind deflector 24
Window defrosting, refer to
Defrosting windows
– air conditioning 60
– automatic climate control 62
Windows
– convenience operation 18
Windshield washer nozzles 44

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 Refueling
So that you have important specifications avail- Fuel
able to you when you stop to refuel, we recom- Designation
mend that you fill out this table with the data
that apply to your vehicle. Consult the index for
individual specifications.
Please enter your preferred fuel here.

Engine oil
Quality

The oil volume between the two marks on the

oil dipstick corresponds to approx. 1.1 US
quarts/1 liter.

Tire inflation pressures

Summer tires Winter tires
Front Rear Front Rear

Up to 2 persons
2 persons plus luggage

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 More about BMW

The Ultimate
bmwusa.com Driving Machine

01 41 0 158 704 ue

*BL0158704003*
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