Owner's Manual
for Vehicle
The Ultimate
Driving Machine
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Z4 3.0i Owner's Manual for Vehicle
Z4 3.0si Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with
enhanced control and security when you drive it. We therefore
have this request:
Please take the time to read this Owner's Manual and familiarize
yourself with the information that we have compiled for you
before starting off in your new vehicle. It contains important data
and instructions intended to assist you in gaining maximum use
and satisfaction from your BMW's unique range of technical fea-
tures. The manual also contains information on maintenance
designed to enhance operating safety and contribute to main-
taining the value of your BMW throughout an extended service
life.
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Informa-
tion Booklet for US models or a Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models.
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW AG
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
© 2006 Bayerische Motoren Werke
Aktiengesellschaft
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW AG, Munich.
Order No. 01 41 0 012 083
US English III/06
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper,
bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling.
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
The fastest way to find information on special
page 112.
4
Notes
7
At a glance
10 Cockpit
Controls
18 Opening and closing
35 Transporting children safely
38 Driving
safety
55 Lamps
58 Climate
Driving tips
Mobility
78 Refueling
80 Wheels and tires
86 Under the hood
91 Maintenance
93 Replacing components
98 Giving and receiving assistance
Reference
106 Technical data
112 Everything from A to Z
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Notes
About this Owner's Manual
Symbols used
We have tried to make all the information in this
Owner's Manual easy to find. The fastest way to
find specific topics is to refer to the detailed
index at the back of the manual. If you wish to
gain an initial overview of your vehicle, you will
find this in the first chapter.
Indicates precautions that must be fol-
lowed precisely in order to avoid the pos-
sibility of personal injury and serious damage to
the vehicle.
Indicates information that will assist you
in gaining the optimum benefit from your
vehicle and enable you to care more effectively
for your vehicle.
Should you sell your BMW at some time in the
future, please remember to pass the Owner's
Manual on to the new owner. The manual repre-
sents an important component of the vehicle.
Refers to measures that can be taken to
help protect the environment.
<Marks the end of a specific item of informa-
tion.
Additional sources of information
Should you have any other questions, your
BMW Center will be glad to advise you at any
time.
* Indicates special equipment, country-specific
equipment and optional extras, as well as
equipment and functions not yet available at the
time of printing.
Information on BMW, e.g. on technical aspects,
can also be found on the Internet at
www.bmwusa.com.
Vehicle Memory, Key Memory, refer to
page 18. Identifies functions that can be
specifically adapted for a particular key or vehi-
cle. These adjustments can be performed by
your BMW Center.
Symbols on vehicle components
Indicates that you should consult the rel-
evant section of this Owner's Manual for
information on a particular part or assembly.
4
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Your individual vehicle
For your own safety
When you ordered your BMW, you chose vari-
ous items of equipment. This Owner's Manual
describes all models and equipment that BMW
offers within the same group.
Maintenance and repair
Advanced technology, e.g. the use of
modern materials and powerful electron-
ics, requires specially adapted maintenance
and repair methods. You should therefore have
the corresponding work on your vehicle per-
formed only by your BMW Center or at a work-
shop that works according to BMW repair pro-
cedures with correspondingly trained
We hope you will understand that equipment
and features are included which you might not
have chosen for your vehicle. Any differences
can easily be identified since all optional acces-
sories and special equipment are marked with
an asterisk *.
personnel. If this work is not carried out prop-
erly, there is a danger of subsequent damage
and related safety hazards.<
If your BMW features equipment not described
in this Owner's Manual, please observe the
enclosed supplementary Owner's Manuals.
California Proposition 65 warning
California laws require us to state the following
warning:
Status at time of printing
BMW pursues a policy of continuous, ongoing
development that is conceived to ensure that
our vehicles continue to embody the highest
quality and safety standards combined with
advanced, state-of-the-art technology. In
exceptional cases, the features described in
this Owner's Manual could therefore differ from
those on your vehicle.
Engine exhaust and a wide variety of
automobile components and parts,
including components found in the interior fur-
nishings in a vehicle, contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects and reproductive harm. In
addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and
certain products of component wear contain or
emit chemicals known to the State of CA to
cause cancer and birth defects or other repro-
ductive harm.
Battery posts, terminals and related accesso-
ries contain lead and lead compounds. Wash
your hands after handling.
Used engine oil contains chemicals that have
caused cancer in laboratory animals. Always
protect your skin by washing thoroughly with
soap and water.<
5
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Parts and accessories
Service and warranty
We recommend that you read this publication
thoroughly.
For your own safety, use genuine parts
and accessories approved by BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested and
approved by BMW and Original BMW Parts, you
simultaneously acquire the assurance that they
have been thoroughly tested by BMW to ensure
optimum performance when installed on your
vehicle.
BMW warrants these parts to be free from
defects in material and workmanship.
BMW will not accept any liability for damage
resulting from installation of parts and accesso-
ries not approved by BMW.
Your BMW is covered by the following warran-
ties:
>
>
>
>
>
New Vehicle Limited Warranty
Rust Perforation Limited Warranty
Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
California Emission Control System Limited
Warranty
Detailed information about these warranties is
listed in the Service and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models or in the Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models.
BMW cannot test every product made by other
manufacturers to verify if it can be used on a
BMW safely and without risk to either the vehi-
cle, its operation, or its occupants.
Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories and
other products approved by BMW, together
with professional advice on using these items,
are available from all BMW Centers.
Installation and operation of non-BMW
approved accessories such as alarms, radios,
amplifiers, radar detectors, wheels, suspension
components, brake dust shields, telephones,
including operation of any mobile phone from
within the vehicle without using an externally
mounted antenna, or transceiver equipment, for
instance, CBs, walkie-talkie, ham radio or simi-
lar accessories, may cause extensive damage
to the vehicle, compromise its safety, interfere
with the vehicle’s electrical system or affect the
validity of the BMW Limited Warranty. See your
BMW Center for additional information.<
Maintenance, replacement or repair of
the emission control devices and sys-
tems may be performed by any automotive
repair establishment or individual using any cer-
tified automotive part.<
6
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Reporting safety defects
For U.S. customers
The following only applies to vehicles owned
and operated in the US.
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect
which could cause a crash or could cause injury
or death, you should immediately inform the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
NHTSA in addition to notifying BMW of North
America, LLC, P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New
Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone
1-800-831-1117.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may
open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety
defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order
a recall and remedy campaign. However,
NHTSA cannot become involved in individual
problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of
North America, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle
Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-327-4236
(TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to
http://www.safercar.gov; or write to: Adminis-
trator, NHTSA, 400 Seventh Street, SW.,
Washington, DC 20590. You can also obtain
other information about motor vehicle safety
from http://www.safercar.gov
For Canadian customers
Canadian customers who wish to report a
safety-related defect to Transport Canada,
Defect Investigations and Recalls, may tele-
phone the toll-free hotline 1-800-333-0510 if
calling long distance inside Canada, or 1-613-
993-9851 if calling from the Ottawa region or
from abroad, or contact Transport Canada by
mail at: Transport Canada, ASFAD, Place de
Ville Tower C, 330 Sparks Street, Ottawa ON
K1A 0N5.
7
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
At a glance
This overview of buttons, switches and displays
is intended to familiarize you with your vehicle's
operating environment. The section will also
assist you in becoming acquainted with the
control concepts and options available for
operating the various systems.
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Cockpit
Around the steering wheel: controls and displays
1
5
6
Opening and closing windows 25
Instrument lighting 56
2
3
Folding exterior mirrors in or out* 34
Fog lamps* 56
Adjusting exterior mirrors 34
4
Parking lamps 55
Low beams 55
Automatic headlamp control* 55
10
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
12 Horn: the entire surface
7
Turn signal indicators 42
High beams, headlamp flasher 56
Roadside parking lamps* 56
Computer* 48
13
Cruise control* 44
14 Releasing the hood 86
15 Opening the luggage compartment lid/
tailgate 21
8
9
Instrument cluster 12
Windshield wipers 43
Rain sensor* 43
10 Buttons* on the steering wheel
Volume
>
>
Press: to accept and end a
telephone call; to start dialing
for selected telephone num-
bers
Press longer: activate and
deactivate voice entry*
Fast forward/rewind
>
>
Radio
Press: next station stored
Press longer: station search
CD
Press: jump to next track
Press longer: fast forward/
rewind
>
Telephone
Scan register of names
Display/hide telephone book. Dis-
play the entries one after another
with theforward/backward buttons
11 Ignition lock 38
11
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Instrument cluster
1
2
3
4
Speedometer
Indicator and warning lamps
Indicator lamps for turn signals
Indicator and warning lamps 12
Tachometer 46
Technology that monitors itself
Indicator and warning lamps that are identified
by +are tested for proper functioning whenever
the key is turned. They each light up once for
different periods of time.
with indicator and warning lamps 12
Fuel gauge 46
5
6
7
If a malfunction occurs in one of the monitored
systems, the corresponding lamp does not go
out after the engine has started, or it lights up
again while the vehicle is in motion. You can find
more information about each system on the
specified pages.
Button for
>Service interval display 47
>Checking the oil level 88
Position of automatic transmission* 40
Button for
8
9
Turn signal indicators 42
>Resetting trip odometer 46
>Setting the clock 47
Battery charge current + 97
Headlamp flasher/High beams 42, 56
10 Display for
>Trip odometer/Odometer 46
>Clock 47
Engine oil pressure/
Engine oil level + 87
>Service interval 47
>Computer* 48
Antilock Brake System ABS/Driving
>Checking the oil level 88
stability control systems + 49
12
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
stability control systems for Canadian
models
Dynamic Traction Control
DTC + 49
Brake system +
Add coolant 89
Parking brake released 90
Parking brake applied 39
With other warning lamps 50
Check gas cap + 78
Brake warning lamp for Canadian mod-
els
Colors
The indicator and warning lamps can light up in
various colors and combinations.
Brake pads + 90
>
Red:
Stop the vehicle immediately
or
Fog lamps 56
an important reminder
Electric Power Steering + 52
Flat Tire Monitor + 51
Airbags + 52
>
>
Red and yellow:
Continue driving cautiously
Yellow:
Have the system checked soon
or
for your information
>
Green or blue:
For your information
'Fasten safety belts' reminder 33
Defective bulb 55
Doors or luggage compartment lid/tail-
gate open
Automatic transmission + 41
Engine electronics +
You can continue to drive with reduced
engine output. Please have the system
inspected by your BMW Center.
Service engine soon + 92
Service engine soon indicator lamp for
Canadian models
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC + 49
13
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
1
2
3
Reading lamps* 57
Interior lamps 56
Air conditioning 58
or automatic climate control* 61
Air distribution for air
conditioning 59
Air distribution for automatic cli-
mate control* 62
Automatic air distribution and flow
rate* 62
Cooling function* 59, 62
AUC Automatic recirculated-air
control* 63
Recirculated-air mode 59, 63
Maximum cooling* 62
Air flow rate 59, 62
Rear window defroster 59, 63
4
Seat heating* 33
top* 27
Roadster: closing the convertible
top* 27
Dynamic Traction Control DTC 49
Flat Tire Monitor FTM 51
5
Indicator/warning lamp
passenger airbags 36
6
7
8
Central locking system 21
Hazard warning flashers
Driving Dynamic Control 42
15
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Controls
This chapter is intended to provide you with
information for complete control of your vehicle.
All features and accessories that are useful for
driving and your safety, comfort and
convenience, are described here.
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Opening and closing
ented settings. You can have up to four different
basic settings adjusted for four different per-
sons. The only requirement is that each person
uses his or her own master key with remote
control.
The key set
When your vehicle is unlocked with the remote
control, the vehicle recognizes the individual
user by means of a data exchange with the key,
and makes adjustments accordingly.
Colored decals were provided with the keys to
help you distinguish between the different per-
sonal remote control keys.
1
2
Master keys with remote control
Spare key
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.
Master key with remote control
Each master key contains a rechargeable bat-
tery that is automatically recharged when it is in
the ignition lock while the car is being driven.
Use the master key at least twice a year in order
to keep the batteries charged.
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 which master key is recognized
when the vehicle is unlocked, different settings
are called up and carried out in the vehicle, refer
to Key Memory.
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.<
Spare key
For storage in a safe place, e.g. in your wallet.
This key is not intended for constant use.
Examples for Vehicle Memory
New keys
>
>
>
Signal as acknowledgment when locking or
unlocking your vehicle, refer to page 19, 20
You can obtain new keys, whether as additional
keys or replacement keys, at your BMW Center.
Automatic opening of windows, refer to
page 25
Vehicle Memory, Key Memory
Acoustic warning when the key is still in the
ignition switch after the driver's door has
been opened, refer to page 39
How the system functions
You can have your BMW Center program a vari-
ety of functions on your BMW according to your
individual requirements.
>
>
Activation/deactivation of triple turn signal,
refer to page 42
Activation/deactivation of daytime running
Vehicle Memory refers to vehicle-oriented set-
tings and Key Memory refers to person-ori-
light*, refer to page 55
18
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
>
>
>
Activation/deactivation and duration of
pathway lighting, refer to page 56
central locking system unlocks automatically. In
addition, the hazard warning flashers and inte-
rior lamps come on.
headlamp control*, refer to page 55
Setting unit of measure for displaying the
time and outside temperature in the instru-
ment cluster, refer to page 48
Opening and closing:
from outside
Examples for Key Memory
With the remote control
>
Automatic call-up* of the driver's seat posi-
tion after unlocking, refer to page 33
Persons or animals in the vehicle could
lock the doors from the inside. You should
therefore take the remote control with you so
that the car can be opened from the outside.<
>
Locking of the vehicle after starting off, refer
to page 21
Unlocking
Central locking system
1. Press the
button once.
The driver's door and fuel filler door are
unlocked.
The concept
The central locking system is ready for opera-
tion whenever the driver's door is closed.
2. Press the
button again.
The entire vehicle is unlocked.
The system simultaneously engages and
releases the locks on the following:
Convenience opening
>
>
>
>
Doors
Hold the
button down.
Luggage compartment lid/tailgate
Fuel filler door
Coupe: the windows are opened.
Roadster: the windows and the fully automatic
convertible top* are opened.
Storage compartment between the back-
rests
Locking
>
Roadster: opened manual convertible top
Press the
button.
Operating from outside
The hazard warning flashers light up once.
>
Via the remote control
If you wish, you can have this special fea-
>
Via the door lock
ture activated/deactivated.<
The anti-theft system is operated at the same
time. It prevents the doors from being unlocked
with the lock buttons or release handles. The
remote control is also used to switch the interior
lamps on and off. In addition, the alarm system*
is armed or disarmed.
Switching on interior lamps
With the vehicle locked:
Press the
button.
With this function, you can also search for your
vehicle when parked in an underground garage,
for instance.
For further details of the alarm system*, refer to
page 23.
Unlocking the luggage compartment
lid/tailgate
Operating from inside
By means of the button for central locking, refer
to page 21.
Press the
button for approx. 1 second.
19
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
The luggage compartment lid/tailgate opens a
short distance, regardless of whether it was
locked or unlocked.
Any unauthorized modifications or
changes to these devices could void the
user’s authority to operate this equipment.<
A previously locked luggage compart-
ment lid/tailgate is locked again after
closing.
At the door lock
Before and after each trip, check that the lug-
gage compartment lid/tailgate has not been
inadvertently unlocked.<
Panic mode*
You can also trigger the alarm system* if you
find yourself in a dangerous situation:
Press the
button for at least 3 seconds.
To switch off the alarm: press any button.
1. Turn the key.
The driver's door and fuel filler door are
unlocked.
Malfunctions
The remote control may malfunction due to
local radio waves. If this occurs, unlock and lock
the car at the door lock or luggage compart-
ment lid/tailgate lock with the key.
2. Turn the key again.
The entire vehicle is unlocked.
When the vehicle is locked, the hazard warning
flashers light up once.
If the car can no longer be locked with a remote
control, the battery in the remote control is dis-
charged. Use this remote control key while driv-
ing for an extended period in order to recharge
the battery, refer to page 18.
If you wish, you can have these special
features activated/deactivated.<
Convenience operation
You can also operate the windows and the
Roadster's fully automatic convertible top* via
the door lock.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units comply with
part 15 of the FCC/Federal Communications
Commission regulations. Operation is gov-
erned by the following:
Hold the key in the position for unlocking or
locking.
Watch the closing process to ensure that
no one is trapped. Releasing the key
stops the operation.<
FCC ID:
LX8EWS
LX8FZVS
LX8FZVE
Manual operation
If there is a malfunction, you can unlock or lock
the driver's door by turning the key in the lock all
the way to the left or right.
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
>
This device may not cause harmful interfer-
ence, and
>
this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
20
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
therefore take the key with you so that the car
can be opened from the outside.<
Opening and closing:
from inside
Coupe: tailgate
The tailgate swings upward and towards
the rear when it is opened. Make sure that
it has enough clearance.<
Opening from inside the vehicle
This button serves to unlock or lock doors and
the luggage compartment lid/tailgate when the
doors are closed, but does not activate the anti-
theft system. The fuel filler door remains
unlocked.
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-
ment lid/tailgate and the fuel filler door will
unlock, too. If the driver's door is closed, it will
be locked.
If the tailgate has not been locked separately,
you can open it with this button in the footwell
on the driver's side when the vehicle is station-
ary.
If you prefer, the central locking system is
activated automatically as soon as you
begin to drive. You can have the corresponding
adjustment made for each key specifically.<
Opening from the outside
Unlocking and opening
>
Either unlock the doors together using the
button for the central locking system and
then pull the door handle above the armrest
or
>
pull the release handle for each door twice:
the initial pull unlocks the door, and the sec-
ond one opens it.
Press the top half of the BMW emblem or press
the
button on the remote control for approx.
1 second:
The tailgate will open.
Locking
>
Either use the central locking button to lock
both doors simultaneously, or
>
press down the safety lock button of a door.
To prevent you from being locked out, the
open driver's door cannot be locked using
the lock button.
Persons or animals in the vehicle could
lock the doors from the inside. You should
21
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Opening manually
Roadster: luggage
compartment lid
Opening from inside the vehicle
tailgate manually. The tailgate lock is located
underneath the BMW emblem. All keys, refer to
page 18, fit the tailgate lock.
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
vehicle is stationary.
Turn the key all the way to the right: the tailgate
will open.
If you open the tailgate at the lock while
the alarm system is activated, the alarm
will be triggered. You should therefore unlock
the vehicle first.
Opening from the outside
If the alarm is accidentally triggered: deactivate
the alarm, refer to page 24.<
Closing
Turn the key all the way to the left or press the
button on the remote control for approx.
1 second. The luggage compartment lid will
open a short distance. It can now be swung
upwards.
The handle recesses in the interior trim of the
tailgate make it easier to pull down.
If you open the luggage compartment lid
at the lock while the alarm system is acti-
vated, the alarm will be triggered. You should
therefore unlock the vehicle first.
If the alarm was accidentally triggered: deacti-
vate the alarm, refer to page 24.<
Make sure that the closing path of the tail-
gate is clear, otherwise injuries may
result.<
22
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Closing
Turn the handles on both sides of the cargo bay
outward beyond the resistance point at the
same time, arrow 1.
The convertible top compartment panel swings
up, arrow 2.
The handle recess in the interior trim of the lug-
gage compartment lid makes it easier to pull
down.
Make sure that the closing path of the
luggage compartment lid is clear, other-
wise injuries may result.<
Before opening the convertible top:
Turn both handles inward.
The convertible top compartment panel is
folded down.
Cargo bay
To avoid any damage when opening the
convertible top, make sure that the con-
vertible top compartment panel in the cargo bay
has been folded down.<
Emergency release
Alarm system*
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
>
>
>
When a door, the hood or the luggage com-
Pull the lever in the cargo bay. The luggage
compartment lid/tailgate is unlocked.
When attempts are made to start the vehi-
cle
When there are movements in the vehicle
interior: interior motion sensor, refer to
page 24
Roadster: increasing cargo bay
capacity
The cargo bay can be enlarged when the con-
vertible top is closed.
>
>
When the car's inclination changes, for
instance if an attempt is made to jack it up
and steal the wheels or to raise it prior to
towing away: Tilt alarm sensor, refer to
page 24
When there is an interruption in the power
supply from the battery
The alarm system signals unauthorized entry
attempts for a short time by means of:
>
An acoustic alarm
23
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
>
>
Switching on the hazard warning flashers
Flashing the high beams
do not close the alerted area, the system
begins to monitor the remaining areas, and
the indicator lamp flashes continuously
after approx. 10 seconds. However, the
interior motion sensor is not activated.
Arming and disarming
When you lock or unlock the vehicle, either with
system is armed or disarmed at the same time.
>
>
If the indicator lamp goes out immediately
after the vehicle is unlocked:
Your vehicle has not been disturbed while
you were away.
The hazard warning flashers light up once when
the alarm system has been properly armed.
If the indicator lamp flashes for 10 seconds
immediately after the vehicle is unlocked:
Your vehicle has been disturbed while you
were away.
You can have different acknowledgment
signals set to confirm arming and disarm-
ing.<
Even when the alarm system is armed, you can
open the luggage compartment lid/tailgate
After an alarm has been triggered, the indicator
lamp will flash continuously.
using the
button on the remote control,
refer to page 19. When you subsequently close
the luggage compartment lid/tailgate, it is
locked again and monitored.
Tilt alarm sensor
The inclination of the vehicle is monitored. The
alarm system reacts e.g. to attempts to steal a
wheel or tow the vehicle.
Manual operation of the luggage com-
partment lid/tailgate triggers the alarm.
Refer to page 21.<
Interior motion sensor*
Coupe
Switching off an alarm
>
Unlock the car with the remote control, refer
to page 19, or
All windows must be closed in order for the inte-
rior motion sensor to function optimally.
>
turn the master key in the ignition lock to
position 1, refer to page 38
Roadster
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.
Indicator lamp displays
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor
can be deactivated at the same time. In this way
you can avoid unintentional alarms, e.g. in the
following situations:
>
>
The indicator lamp beneath the interior mir-
ror flashes continuously:
The system is armed.
>
>
>
In duplex garages
The indicator lamp flashes immediately
after the vehicle is locked:
Doors, hood or luggage compartment lid/
tailgate are not properly closed. Even if you
When transporting on car-carrying trains
When animals are to remain in the vehicle
24
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Switching off tilt alarm sensor and
interior motion sensor
After switching off the ignition
You can still open or close the windows for
approx. 1 minute, as long as no one opens any
of the doors.
>
Press the
button on the remote
control twice in a row.
The indicator lamp lights up briefly and then
flashes continuously. The tilt alarm sensor and
the interior motion sensor are deactivated until
the vehicle is again unlocked and locked.
For convenience operation via the remote con-
trol or the door lock, refer to page 19 or 20,
respectively.
Pinch protection system
If the closing force exceeds a certain value while
a window is being raised, the system responds
by stopping the window and then retracting it a
short distance.
Windows
To prevent injuries, exercise care when
closing the windows and keep them in
your field of vision until they are shut.
Take the key with you when you leave the car,
otherwise children could operate the windows
and possibly injure themselves.<
Despite the pinch protection system
check and clear the window's travel path
prior to closing it, otherwise the safety system
might fail to detect certain kinds of obstruc-
tions, such as thin objects, and the window
would continue closing.
Do not install any accessories within the win-
dows' range of movement; otherwise the pinch
protection system could be impaired.<
Opening, closing
The closing force can change as a result
of extreme temperature fluctuations. The
window then opens slightly after closing even if
there is no obstacle within the window's travel
path. If this occurs, override the pinch protec-
tion system.<
Pulling the switch beyond the resistance point
and holding it there overrides and deactivates
the pinch protection system.
Ignition key in position 1 or higher:
>
Press the switch downward to the resis-
tance point.
The window continues to open as long as
you press the switch.
After a power supply interruption
After a power supply interruption, for instance
after disconnecting the battery, the pinch pro-
tection system must be reinitialized.
>
Press the switch beyond the resistance
point.
The window opens automatically. Press the
switch again to stop the opening move-
ment.
Roadster: when the convertible top has
been stored in the convertible top com-
partment for an extended period of time, e.g. in
the winter months because the hardtop was
being used, it may also be necessary to reinitial-
ize the pinch protection system.<
You can close the window in the same manner
by pulling the switch upward.
If you wish, you can have this special fea-
ture activated/deactivated.<
Ensure that the doors and the Roadster's con-
vertible top are closed before initializing.
25
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
1. Open the window completely.
To avoid any damage when opening the con-
vertible top, make sure that the convertible top
compartment panel in the cargo bay has been
folded down, refer to page 23.<
2. Press the switch 4 times within approx.
10 seconds.
Afterward, perform the following procedure
twice for each window:
1. Flip the handle out and turn it to the end
stop.
1. Close the window completely by pulling the
switch.
2. After the window is closed, keep pulling the
switch for approx. 2 seconds.
3. Open the window completely by pressing
the switch.
Roadster: manual convertible
top
2. Fold the handle back in.
The fabric top offers perfect protection against
the weather and can be opened easily and
quickly by one person alone.
Do not guide the convertible top
towards the rear with the handle
folded out, otherwise the convertible top's
headliner could be damaged.<
Here are a few tips so that you get the most out
of your BMW:
3. Open the convertible top and guide it
toward the rear of the vehicle.
>
It is advisable to close the convertible top
when the vehicle is parked. When closed,
the top not only guards the passenger com-
partment from unforeseeable damage from
the weather, but also affords a degree of
protection against theft. Valuables, how-
ever, should only be kept in the locked
cargo bay, even when the convertible top is
closed.
>
>
When the convertible top is open, the cen-
tral locking system also locks button 1 for
the convertible top, refer to page 27. The
convertible top cannot be operated. This
provides better theft protection for valu-
ables stored in the cargo bay.
4. Gently swing the convertible top downward
and press until it engages audibly.
Never mount a roof-mounted luggage rack
system on the convertible top.
Never keep a wet convertible top in the
convertible top compartment for longer
than one day, otherwise the moisture could
cause damage.<
Opening
Operate the convertible top only when
the vehicle is stationary.
26
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
damage could result.
Closing
Never keep a wet convertible top in the convert-
ible top compartment for longer than one day,
otherwise the moisture could cause damage.
Do not lay objects on the convertible top, other-
wise they could fall off when the convertible top
is operated and cause damage or injuries.
Driving while the convertible top is not com-
pletely open or closed can cause vehicle dam-
age or personal injury.
1. Press button 1.
The convertible top is released and moves
up slightly.
Do not reach into the convertible top mecha-
nism during opening and closing. Keep children
away from the convertible top's range of move-
ment.
For safety reasons, whenever possible operate
the convertible top when the vehicle is station-
ary.<
2. Using the handle, pull the convertible top
forward onto the windshield frame.
3. Turn the handle until it engages audibly.
The convertible top is locked.
If a convertible top operation has not yet
been completed as you start to drive off,
at a traffic light for example, you can continue
the procedure at moderate speed:
To do so, press and hold the corresponding
button again.
At higher speeds, a vacuum effect in the pas-
senger compartment can cause the convertible
top to begin fluttering. Use the air conditioning
or automatic climate control to increase the air
flow rate and thus prevent a partial vacuum in
the vehicle.<
At higher speeds, a vacuum effect in the
passenger compartment can cause the
convertible top to begin fluttering. Increase the
air flow from the air conditioning or automatic
climate control to prevent a partial vacuum in
the vehicle.<
Roadster: fully automatic
convertible top*
The fully automatic convertible top combines
assured protection against the elements with
simple and easy handling.
Before opening and closing
>
Read and comply with the preceding safety
precautions.
Here are a few tips so that you get the most out
of your BMW:
>
Make sure that the convertible top com-
partment panel in the cargo bay has been
folded down; refer to page 23. Otherwise
the convertible top cannot be opened.
>
It is advisable to close the convertible top
when the vehicle is parked. When closed,
the top not only guards the passenger com-
partment from unforeseeable damage from
the weather, but also affords a degree of
protection against theft. Valuables, how-
ever, should only be kept in the locked
cargo bay, even when the convertible top is
closed.
>
Ensure that the luggage compartment lid/
tailgate is closed.
Opening and closing
With the key in ignition position 1 or higher,
refer to page 38, and while the vehicle is sta-
tionary:
>
Never mount a roof-mounted luggage rack
system on the convertible top.
If at all possible, operate the convertible
top only with the engine running. This
saves unnecessary battery wear.
Do not operate the convertible top at tem-
peratures below 147/–106, otherwise
27
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Before closing the convertible top, remove any > If the yellow LED in the button comes on
objects from the windshield frame that other-
wise could prevent the convertible top from
closing properly.<
when the button is pressed, the convertible
top compartment panel in the cargo bay has
been folded up. The convertible top cannot
be moved.
Interruption
The automatic sequence will be interrupted
immediately if you release the button that oper-
ates the top. The sequence can be continued in
the desired direction by pressing this button.
Do not close the side windows using the
power window buttons before the closing
procedure has been completed. Otherwise the
side windows may not close properly against
the rubber seal of the convertible top.<
1
2
Closing
Opening
The side windows will move down slightly
when you press the button for operating
Convenience operation
the convertible top.
After the opening or closing operation, the win-
dows will move back up if you press the button
for more than 2 seconds after the LED has gone
out.<
Remote control
Refer to page 19.
Driver's door
When the convertible top has been stored
in the convertible top compartment for an
extended period of time, e.g. in the winter
months because the hardtop was being used,
you may have to support the convertible top by
hand when closing it for the first time. If the con-
vertible top stops right before the closing phase
is completed, press against the front part of the
convertible top frame from the outside to help
the closing process along. Keep pressing the
button while doing so until the top starts mov-
ing on its own again.<
Refer to page 20.
To close manually in the event of a
malfunction
1. Pull out the handle in the cargo bay as far as
it will go.
Indicator lamps
>
The red LED in the button is lit while the
convertible top is in motion. It goes out as
soon as the opening or closing operation
has been completed.
2. Turn the handle 90° until it engages.
3. Pull on the cord in the cargo bay trim panel.
The storage compartment and thus the but-
ton for the convertible top release between
>
If the red LED in the button flashes after the
button has been released, then the opening
or closing operation has not yet been com-
pleted.
The movement can be continued in the
desired direction by pressing this button.
28
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
the seat backrests are unlocked, refer also
to page 64.
7. Insert the Allen wrench into the hex slot.
The Allen wrench is stored in a tool pouch,
refer to page 93.
4. Press button 1.
The convertible top is released and moves
up slightly.
8. Pull the convertible top frame down as far as
possible.
9. Keep turning the Allen wrench counter-
clockwise until the convertible top frame
has locked onto the windshield frame.
5. Grip the convertible top by its frame and
guide it all the way to the windshield frame.
6. Pull out the cover panel that is in the center
of the front convertible top frame.
29
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Adjustments
Head restraint
Safe seating position
A correctly adjusted head restraint reduces the
risk of neck injury in the event of an accident.
sible, you should select a seating position that
reflects your personal requirements. In combi-
nation with the safety belts, the head restraints
and the airbags, the seating position has a
major influence on your safety in the event of an
accident. To ensure that the vehicle's safety
systems provide you with optimal protection,
we request that you direct your careful attention
to the following section.
Adjust the head restraint in such a way
that its center is at approx. ear level. Oth-
erwise, there is an increased risk of injury in the
event of an accident.<
Head restraints, refer to page 32.
Safety belt
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.
For supplementary information on transporting
children refer to page 35.
Airbags
Always maintain an adequate distance
between yourself and the airbags. Always
grip the steering wheel on the rim, with your
hands in the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions,
to minimize the risk of injury to the hands or
arms in the event of the airbag being triggered
off.
Never allow any objects, individuals or animals
to obstruct the areas between passengers and
airbags.
Never use the front airbag's cover as a storage
tray or support for objects of any kind. Ensure
that the passenger is correctly seated, e.g. does
not prop feet or legs against the dashboard.
Otherwise, leg injury could result if the knee air-
bag and front airbag suddenly deployed.
or her head against the side airbag, otherwise
serious injuries could result if the airbags sud-
denly deployed.<
Your vehicle offers two sitting positions, each of
which is equipped with a safety belt.
Never allow more than one person to
wear a single safety belt. Never allow
infants or small children to ride in a passenger's
lap. Make sure that the belt in the lap area sits
low against the hips and does not press against
the abdomen. The safety belt must never rest
against the throat, rub against sharp edges,
pass over hard or fragile objects or be pinched.
Fasten the safety belt around your body snugly,
making sure that it is pulled taut across your lap
and shoulder and that it is not twisted; other-
wise, the belt can slide over the hips in the event
of a frontal collision and injure your abdomen.
Avoid wearing bulky clothing and regularly pull
the belt in the upper-body area taut, otherwise
its restraining effect could be impaired.<
Safety belts, refer to page 33.
Even when all these guidelines are observed,
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.
Seats
Before adjusting your seat, always
observe the following precautions
Never try to adjust your seat while driving.
Otherwise, the seat could respond with
unexpected movement, and the ensuing loss of
For airbag locations and additional information
on airbags, refer to page 52.
30
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
vehicle control could lead to an accident.
On the passenger seat as well, do not incline
the backrest too far to the rear while the vehicle
is being driven, otherwise there is a danger in
the event of an accident of sliding under the
safety belt, eliminating the protection normally
provided by the belt.<
Backrest
Comply with the instructions on head restraint
height on page 32 and on damaged safety belts
on page 34.
Pull lever 3 and apply your weight to the back-
rest or lift it off, as necessary.
Seat adjustment
Comply with the preceding instructions in
this chapter to ensure the best possible
personal protection.<
Power seat adjustment*
Read and comply with the adjustment
instructions on page 30. Failure to do so
can result in diminished personal safety.<
Backward/forward adjustment
Pull lever 1 and slide the seat to the desired
position.
1
2
3
4
Tilt angle
After releasing the lever, move the seat gently
forward or back to make sure it engages prop-
erly.
Backward/forward adjustment
Height
Backrest
The head restraint is adjusted manually, refer to
Head restraints on page 32.
Height
Pull lever 2 and apply your weight to the seat or
lift it off, as necessary.
M Sports seat*
On this seat, you can also adjust the thigh sup-
port and the tilt angle.
31
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
M Sports seat*
The head restraints are integrated in the back-
rests and cannot be adjusted in height.
Removal
1. Pull up all the way.
2. Press button 1 and pull out the head
restraint completely.
M Sports seat*
Tilting upward
The head restraints are integrated in the back-
rests and cannot be removed.
Pull lever 1 repeatedly until the desired tilt has
been reached.
Tilting downward
Seat memory*
Press lever 2 repeatedly until the desired tilt has
been reached.
You can store and recall three different driver's
seat positions.
Thigh support
Storing
Pull lever 3 and move the thigh support forward
or back.
Head restraints
A correctly adjusted head restraint reduces the
risk of neck injury in the event of an accident.
Adjust the head restraint in such a way
that its center is at approx. ear level. Oth-
erwise, there is an increased risk of injury in the
event of an accident.<
Ignition key in position 1 or higher
1. Adjust seat to desired position.
Adjusting the height
2. Press the MEMORY button.
The LED in the button lights up.
3. Press memory button 1, 2 or 3.
The LED goes out.
Manual call-up
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.<
>
>
To move up: pull up.
To move down: press button 1 and push
the head restraint downward.
32
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Convenience function
Safety belts
Comply with the instructions on page 30,
or the occupants' personal safety will be
diminished.<
1. Unlock and open the driver's door or turn
the key to position 1, refer to page 38.
2. Press memory button 1, 2 or 3 briefly.
Movement stops immediately when one of the
seat adjustment or memory buttons is operated
during the adjustment process.
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.
You can have this feature programmed so
that after you use the remote control from
your personalized key to unlock your door, your
seat will move into your own preferred posi-
tion.<
Safety function
1. Close the driver's door and turn the key to
position 0 or 2.
2. Press 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 LED goes out.
To fasten
Make sure you hear the lock engage in the belt
buckle.
Before activating the programmed
adjustment feature, ensure that the space
behind the driver's seat is empty and unob-
structed. If you fail to do so, objects behind the
seat could be damaged, should the seat move
backward.<
The upper belt anchor is suitable for adults of
any stature as long as the seat is adjusted prop-
erly, refer to page 31.
To unlock
1. Grasp the belt firmly.
Seat heating*
2. Press the red button in the buckle.
3. Guide the belt back into its reel.
'Fasten safety belts' reminder
The indicator lamp flashes or lights up.
A signal also sounds. Check whether
the safety belt has been fastened cor-
rectly.
The 'Fasten safety belts' reminder is issued as
long as the driver's safety belt has not been fas-
tened. The 'Fasten safety belts' reminder is also
activated at road speeds above approx. 5 mph/
8 km/h if the passenger's safety belt is not fas-
tened, if heavy objects are placed on the pas-
senger seat, or if driver or passenger unfasten
their safety belts.
The seat cushion and backrest can be heated
with the ignition key in position 2.
Press once for each temperature level.
Three LEDs indicate the highest temperature.
To switch off:
Press button longer.
33
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Damaged safety belts
Automatic heating*
If the safety belts are damaged or
stressed in an accident: have the belt sys-
tem, including any belt tensioners, replaced and
the belt anchors checked. Have this work done
only by your BMW Center or at a workshop that
works according to BMW repair procedures
with correspondingly trained personnel. Other-
wise, it is not guaranteed that the safety devices
will function properly.<
Both exterior mirrors are automatically heated
when the engine is running or the ignition is
switched on.
Interior rearview mirror
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors
The passenger's mirror is more convex
than the driver's mirror. The objects seen
in the mirror are closer than they appear. Do not
gauge your distance from traffic behind you on
the basis of what you see in the mirror; other-
wise there is an increased risk of an accident.<
Turn the knob to reduce glare from the head-
lamps of cars behind you when driving at night.
Automatically dimming mirrors, refer to
page 71.
Steering wheel
Adjustments
Never attempt to adjust the steering
wheel while driving the vehicle. It could
respond with unexpected movement, posing a
potential accident hazard.<
1
2
3
Adjustments
To switch from one mirror to the other
To fold the mirrors in or out*
Manual adjustment
The mirrors can also be adjusted manually:
press on the edges of the lens.
1. Fold the lever down.
Folding mirrors in or out*
2. Move the steering wheel to the preferred
height and angle to suit your seated posi-
tion.
The mirrors can be folded in or out up to a road
speed of approx. 6 mph/10 km/h by pressing
button 3. This can be useful on narrow roads,
for example, or to reset the mirrors to their cor-
rect positions after they were folded in.
3. Swing the lever back up.
34
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Transporting children safely
deploying airbag.
Therefore, you should deactivate the passen-
The right place for children
Do not leave children unattended in the
vehicle, otherwise they could endanger
themselves and/or other persons by opening
the doors, for example.<
ger airbags only if you find it difficult to ensure
that the child will remain properly seated and
seat-belted at all times.
Always position the passenger seat as far back
as possible and at the lowest level.
Children on the passenger seat
The above warning and recommendations are
compatible with regulations established by the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,
NHTSA, permitting the deactivation of passen-
ger airbags by means of an on-off switch for
members of certain at-risk groups.
Children under 13 years of age or under
5 ft/150 cm in height may only be trans-
ported in child-restraint systems suitable for
their age, weight and size and if the passenger
airbags are deactivated. Otherwise, there is an
increased risk of injury in the event of an acci-
dent or should the airbags deploy.<
Specifically, the at-risk groups are:
>
>
>
Infants in rear-facing infant seats
Children 13 years of age or older must be buck-
led in with a safety belt as soon as there no
longer is any child-restraint system that is
appropriate for their age, weight and size.
Persons with certain medical conditions
Children aged 12 and under in the passen-
ger seat.
NHTSA provides this information via their web-
site, www.nhtsa.dot.gov, or via their Auto
Safety Hotline toll-free at
1-800-424-9393 or 366-0123
in Washington, D.C. area.<
The passenger seat complies with the recom-
mendations of the SAE J1819 standard for safe
installation of child-restraint systems in motor
vehicles.
should be taken. Position the passenger seat as
far back as possible and at the lowest level. This
important precaution is intended to maximize
the distance between the airbags and the child.
Key switch for passenger
airbags
Deactivating/reactivating passenger
airbags
The passenger airbags must be deacti-
vated before using a rear-facing child-
restraint system on the passenger seat, refer
also to page 36 for explanation.
BMW also recommends that the passenger air-
bags be deactivated if a child is transported in a
front-facing child-restraint system, regardless
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
The front, side and knee airbags for the passen-
ger can be deactivated and reactivated using a
key switch. It is located on the passenger side
on the side of the dashboard.
35
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
The passenger airbags can only be deactivated
and reactivated while the vehicle is at a stand-
still and the passenger door is open.
Installing child-restraint
systems
Before installing a child-restraint system
on the passenger seat, make sure that the
front and side airbags for the passenger are
deactivated, otherwise there is an increased
risk of injury if the airbags deploy. Observe the
child-restraint system manufacturer's instruc-
tions for selecting, installing and using child-
restraint systems. Otherwise the protective
effect may be diminished.<
Deactivating
Use the key to turn the key switch to the OFF
position.
The passenger airbags are deactivated in this
position. The airbags for the driver remain
active.
Reactivate the passenger airbags as soon
as a child-restraint system is no longer
installed on the passenger seat; otherwise they
may not deploy as intended in the event of an
accident.<
Child seat security
Reactivating
Use the key to turn the key switch to the ON
position.
The passenger airbags in the vehicle are reacti-
vated and will be triggered in certain situations.
Operational status of the passenger
airbags
The passenger's safety belt can be prevented
from being pulled out in order to fasten child-
restraint systems.
To lock the safety belt
1. Secure the child-restraint system with the
belt.
2. Pull the belt strap all the way out.
3. Allow the belt strap to retract and pull it taut
against the child-restraint system.
The safety belt is locked.
The center console contains one of the indica-
tor lamps shown in the illustration.
To unlock the safety belt
1. Open the belt buckle.
>
The indicator lamp remains lit when the
passenger airbags are deactivated.
2. Remove the child-restraint system.
>
The indicator lamp is not lit when the pas-
senger airbags are activated.
3. Allow the safety belt strap to retract all the
way.
When the seat is empty, the passenger
airbags are always deactivated. The indi-
cator lamp is not lit.<
Coupe: child-restraint system with
tether strap
There is an anchor fitting in the cargo bay for
child-restraint systems with a tether strap.
36
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
M Sports seat*: positioning the tether
strap
To gain access to this anchor fitting, lift the
plastic plug with the help of a screwdriver, see
arrow.
1. Unhook the roller-blind cover, if necessary,
and let it retract.
Use the tether strap anchor fittings only
to fasten child-restraint systems in place;
otherwise the anchor fittings could be dam-
aged.<
2. Guide the tether strap through the holder at
the top of the head restraint.
3. Clip the tether strap onto the anchor fitting.
Positioning the tether strap
LATCH child-restraint fixing system*
LATCH: Lower Anchor and Tethers for CHil-
dren.
When installing a LATCH child seat, com-
ply with the child seat manufacturer's
operating and safety instructions.<
Anchor points
1. Unhook the roller-blind cover, if necessary,
and let it retract.
2. Push the head restraint upward.
3. Guide the tether strap through the head
restraint support posts.
4. Push the head restraint into its lowest posi-
tion.
The anchor points for the LATCH child seat can
be found at the locations marked by the arrows.
5. Clip the tether strap onto the anchor fitting.
Carefully push the child seat brackets through
the gap between the seat cushion and backrest
cushion at the designated locations, see
arrows.
37
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Driving
Ignition lock
Starting the engine
Engine idle speed is controlled by the engine
computer system. Increased speeds at start-up
are normal and should decrease as the engine
warms up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.
To prevent the battery from discharging, always
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-
tain carbon monoxide, an odorless and color-
less, but highly toxic gas. Do not leave the
vehicle unattended with the engine running. An
unattended vehicle with a running engine poses
a safety hazard.
Before leaving the car with the engine running,
place the transmission in idle or move the
selector lever to position P and apply the hand-
brake to prevent the car from moving.<
0
1
2
3
Steering locked
Steering unlocked
Ignition switched on
Starting the engine
Steering locked
This is the only position in which the ignition key
can be inserted or removed.
After removing the key, turn the steering wheel
slightly to the left or right until the lock engages.
Interlock with automatic transmission
When starting the engine, do not press the
accelerator pedal.
The key can only be turned back to position 0 or
removed if the selector lever is in position P:
interlock.
Do not end the starting procedure too early, but
do not continue it for more than 20 seconds.
Release the key immediately when the engine
starts.
Steering unlocked
You will find that it is often easier to turn the
ignition key from position 0 to 1 if you move the
steering wheel slightly to help disengage the
detent.
Do not let the engine warm up in idling position.
Instead, begin to drive immediately at moderate
engine speeds.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Step on the clutch when starting the vehi-
cle. A lockout prevents the engine from starting
if the clutch is not depressed.<
Individual electrical equipment and accessories
are available for use.
Ignition switched on
All systems are operational.
Manual transmission
1. Apply the handbrake.
2. Depress the clutch and shift to idle position.
3. Start the engine.
38
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Automatic transmission
1. Depress the brake.
2. Start the engine.
Parking brake
The parking brake is designed primarily to pre-
vent the vehicle from rolling when parked. It
operates against the rear wheels.
Special starting conditions
In the following situations, press the accelerator
pedal halfway down when starting the engine:
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp is lit, and when you
drive off a signal sounds in addition.
The handbrake is still applied.
>
>
If the engine does not start on the first
attempt, for instance when it is extremely
hot or cold.
Indicator lamp for Canadian models.
If the engine is started at very low tempera-
tures, below approx. +57/–156, at high
altitudes above approx. 3,300 ft/1,000 m.
Avoid frequent starting attempts in quick
succession or repeated starting attempts
during which the engine does not start. Other-
wise, the fuel is not burned or inadequately
burned; there is a danger of overheating and
damaging the catalytic converter.<
Applying
The lever locks in position automatically.
Releasing
Switching off the engine
Do not remove the key while the vehicle is
still moving. Otherwise, the steering lock
would engage when the steering wheel is
turned.
When you leave the vehicle, always remove the
key and engage the steering lock.
Apply the parking brake when parking on steep
gradients, otherwise the vehicle could start to
roll.<
Pull slightly upwards, press the button and
lower the lever.
If, in exceptional circumstances, it should
be necessary to engage the parking brake
while the vehicle is in motion, do not pull it with
excessive pressure. In doing so, continuously
press the button of the handbrake lever. Other-
wise, too violent an application of the hand-
brake can overbrake the rear axle and cause the
rear of the car to swerve.<
You can have an acoustic signal set as a
reminder that the key is still in the ignition
switch after the driver's door has been
opened.<
Manual transmission
To prevent corrosion and one-sided brak-
ing action, occasionally apply the hand-
brake lightly when the vehicle is slowly coming
to a stop if the traffic conditions are suitable.
The brake lamps do not light up when the hand-
brake is applied.<
1. Turn the key to position 1 or 0.
2. Engage first gear or reverse gear.
3. Apply the handbrake.
Automatic transmission
1. With the car at a standstill, move the selec-
tor lever to position P.
2. Turn the key to position 1 or 0.
39
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Displays in the instrument cluster
Manual transmission
P R N D SD M1 to M6
When shifting into 5th or 6th gear, press
the gearshift lever to the right. Otherwise,
the engine could be damaged by accidentally
engaging 3rd or 4th gear.<
The selector lever position is displayed; in the
manual mode, the gear currently engaged is
shown.
Range selection
Reverse
>
>
With the ignition switched on or the engine
running, the selector lever can be moved
out of position P: interlock.
Select only when the vehicle is stationary.
When the gearshift lever is pressed to the left, a
slight resistance has to be overcome.
Before moving the lever away from P or N
with the vehicle stationary, first depress the
brake; otherwise the selector lever will
refuse to move: shiftlock.
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic*
In addition to operating the Steptronic as a fully
automatic transmission, you can also shift
gears manually with it, refer to page 41.
To prevent the vehicle from creeping
after you select a driving position,
depress the brake until you are ready to
start.<
Vehicle parking
To prevent the vehicle from rolling,
always select position P before leaving
the vehicle with the engine running.<
Removing the key
To turn the key in the ignition lock back to posi-
tion 0 or to remove it, first engage selector lever
position P and switch off the engine: interlock.
A lock prevents you from inadvertently engag-
ing selector lever positions R and P. To cancel
the lock, press the button on the front of the
selector lever, see arrow.
Selector lever positions
P R N D M/S + –
P Park
Select only when the vehicle is stationary. The
transmission locks to prevent the drive wheels
from turning.
40
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
R Reverse
Shifting gears using the selector lever
Select only when the vehicle is stationary.
When you press the selector lever forwards or
backwards, the manual mode is activated and
Steptronic changes gear. The instrument clus-
ter shows M1 through M6.
N Neutral, idle
You can select this in a car wash, for example.
The vehicle can roll.
The transmission will only execute upshifts and
downshifts that will result in an appropriate
combination of vehicle speed and engine rpm.
For instance, downshifts that would result in
excessive engine speed will not be executed.
The desired gear will appear briefly in the
instrument cluster, followed by the actual gear.
D Drive, automatic position
This position is designed for driving under all
normal operating conditions. All forward gears
are selected automatically.
Under normal operating conditions, fuel con-
sumption is lowest when you are driving in posi-
tion D.
Shifting gears via the shift paddles* on
the steering wheel
The shift paddles allow you to shift gears
quickly since your hands can remain on the
steering wheel.
Kickdown
Kick-down enables you to achieve maximum
performance.
>
>
When you use the shift paddles on the
steering wheel to shift gears while in auto-
matic mode, the transmission automatically
switches to manual mode.
Press the accelerator pedal beyond the full-
throttle resistance point.
Manual operation and Sport program
M/S
If you do not use the shift paddles for a cer-
tain amount of time and do not accelerate,
the transmission automatically switches
back to automatic mode.
If the selector lever is in the M/S gear
plane, manual mode remains active.
>
>
To shift up, pull one of the shift paddles.
To shift down, press one of the shift pad-
dles.
The instrument cluster shows M1 through M6.
Move the selector lever from position D to the
left into the M/S range:
The Sport program is activated. This is indi-
cated by the display SD in the instrument clus-
ter. This position is recommended for a perfor-
mance-oriented driving style.
The Sport program is enabled automatically
when the Driving Dynamic Control system is
activated, refer to page 42.
The transmission will only execute upshifts and
downshifts that will result in an appropriate
combination of vehicle speed and engine rpm.
For instance, downshifts that would result in
excessive engine speed will not be executed.
The desired gear will appear briefly in the
instrument cluster, followed by the actual gear.
Malfunction
To use the automatic function again, move the
selector lever to the right into position D.
Red warning lamp
The transmission is overheating.
Reduce your speed immediately and
pull over at a suitable location so that
41
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
the transmission can cool down again. You can
continue your journey, but moderate your
speed and exercise due caution.
To deactivate the system
Press the SPORT button again.
The LED in the button goes out.
Have the system checked immediately.
Yellow warning lamp
Turn signal indicators/
Headlamp flasher
The transmission system is malfunc-
tioning. 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 as soon as possible.
Instructions on towing, tow-starting and jump-
starting begin on page 99.
Driving Dynamic Control
At the touch of a button, Driving Dynamic Con-
trol enables you to drive your BMW in an even
sportier style:
1
2
3
High beams
Headlamp flasher
Turn signal indicators
Unusually rapid flashing of the indica-
tor lamp indicates that a turn signal
indicator has failed.<
>
>
>
The engine responds more spontaneously
to any motion of the accelerator pedal.
The vehicle is steered more directly and
traction is enhanced.
To signal briefly
Cruise control*:
The stored speed is achieved more quickly
Press the lever as far as the resistance point for
as long as you wish to indicate a turn.
when called up.
Triple turn signal activation
In addition with automatic transmission:
The Sport program is activated.
Press the lever as far as the resistance point.
The turn signals flash three times.
>
If you wish, you can have this function
To activate the system
activated.<
Press the SPORT button while the key is in
position 2.
The LED in the button lights up.
42
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
position 1 or higher, you only need to activate
the rain sensor.
To do so:
Washer/wiper system/
Rain sensor*
>
>
Turn rotary dial 5 briefly or
Clean the windshield, refer to Cleaning
windshield and headlamps* below
Adjusting sensitivity
Turn the rotary wheel 5.
Deactivating
Flip the lever to position 0.
0
1
2
3
4
5
Wipers retracted
Intermittent or rain sensor mode
Normal wiper speed
Fast wiper speed
Normal wiper speed
When the vehicle is stopped the wipers auto-
matically switch to intermittent wipe, except in
vehicles with a rain sensor.
Brief wipe
Selecting speed for intermittent mode or
setting sensitivity of the rain sensor
Fast wiper speed
When the vehicle is stopped the wipers operate
at normal wiping speed, except in vehicles with
a rain sensor.
Intermittent mode
Not in vehicles with a rain sensor.
Rotary dial 5 is used to set the wipe interval to
one of four levels.
Cleaning windshield and headlamps*
In addition, the wipe interval is varied automati-
cally depending on road speed.
Rain sensor*
On vehicles with a rain sensor, the wipe interval
is automatically controlled according to rain
intensity. The sensor is mounted on the wind-
shield, directly in front of the interior rearview
mirror.
0
1
Wipers retracted
Deactivate the rain sensor before enter-
ing an automatic car wash. Failure to do
so could result in damage caused by undesired
wiper activation.<
Cleaning windshield and headlamps*
Do not use the washers if there is any
danger that the fluid will freeze on the
windshield, otherwise vision could be
obscured. Antifreeze should therefore be
added to the fluid, refer to Washer fluid on
page 44.
Do not operate washing mechanisms when the
washer fluid reservoir is empty, otherwise you
will damage the washer pump.<
Activating
With the ignition key in position 1 or higher,
move the lever to position 1.
In any case, the wipers will move once across
the windshield.
You can leave the lever continuously in
position 1. Then, as long as the ignition key is in
43
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Cleaning windshield
Cruise control*
The system sprays washer fluid against the
windshield and activates the wipers for a brief
period.
The windshield washer nozzles are automati-
cally heated* when the engine is running or the
ignition is on.
The concept
Cruise control is available at speeds of at least
approx. 20 mph/30 km/h. The car stores and
maintains the speed that you specify with the
lever on the steering column.
Do not use cruise control if conditions are
unfavorable for driving at a constant
speed, e.g. due to winding roads, dense traffic,
or poor road conditions such as snow, rain, ice,
loose surface, etc. Otherwise, you could lose
control of the vehicle and cause an accident.<
Cleaning headlamps*
When the vehicle lighting system is switched
on, the headlamps are cleaned at regular and
appropriate intervals.
Washer fluid
One lever for all functions
Washer fluid antifreeze is flammable. For
this reason, keep it away from sources of
flame and store it only in its original container.
Store it so that it is inaccessible to children.
Comply with the instructions on the con-
tainer.<
Washer fluid reservoir
1
2
Storing and maintaining speed or accelerat-
ing
Storing and maintaining speed or deceler-
ating
3
4
To recall the stored speed
Deactivating cruise control
To maintain current speed
Fill with water and, if required, with antifreeze
according to its manufacturer's recommenda-
tions.
Tap the lever, arrow 1, or pull it briefly, arrow 2.
The car's current speed is stored and main-
tained.
Mix the water and antifreeze before filling
the washer fluid reservoir to make sure
the correct concentration is maintained.<
If, on downhill grades, the engine braking effect
is not sufficient, the controlled speed can be
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill grades if
the engine output is insufficient.
Capacity
Approx. 5.3 US quarts/5 liters.
To increase speed
Tap the lever repeatedly, arrow 1, until the
desired speed is reached.
Every time you tap the lever, the speed
increases by approx. 1 mph/1 km/h.
44
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
To accelerate using the lever
Press the lever, arrow 1, until the desired speed
is reached.
The vehicle accelerates without pressure on
the accelerator pedal. The system stores and
maintains the speed.
To decrease speed
Pull the lever repeatedly, arrow 2, until the
desired speed is reached.
Functions are the same as with increasing
speed or accelerating, except the speed is
decreased.
Deactivating cruise control
Tap the lever upwards or downwards, arrow 4.
In addition, the system is automatically deacti-
vated:
>
>
When you brake the vehicle
When you engage the clutch or shift to idle
in cars with manual transmission
>
>
When you select the automatic transmis-
sion's neutral position N
When you drive faster or slower than the set
speed for a longer period of time, e.g. by
pressing the accelerator pedal
>
When the DSC comes on
You can recall the speed last stored.
To recall the stored speed
Briefly press the button, arrow 3. The speed last
stored is achieved again and maintained.
The stored speed is deleted as soon as the igni-
tion is switched off.
45
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Everything under control
When the vehicle is parked
Odometer
If you still want to view the time and odometer
reading briefly after the ignition has been
switched off or the key has been removed:
Press button 3 in the instrument cluster.
Tachometer
1
2
3
4
Odometer
Trip odometer
Resetting trip odometer
Outside temperature or computer dis-
plays*
Trip odometer
Never allow the engine to operate with the nee-
dle in the red overspeed sector of the gauge.
Resetting trip odometer:
While the ignition is switched on, press button 3
in the instrument cluster until the trip odometer
is set to zero.
To protect the engine, the fuel supply is inter-
rupted when speed reaches this sector.
Outside temperature display, clock*
Fuel gauge
Setting the clock, refer to page 48.
Outside temperature warning
If the outside temperature drops to approx.
377/+36, the computer automatically
switches to the outside temperature display.
A signal also sounds and the display flashes for
a short time. There is an increased risk of black
ice.
After an outside temperature warning has
been issued, the computer switches back
to its previous screen. You can have this acti-
vated/deactivated.<
Fuel tank capacity: approx. 14.5 US gallons/
55 liters. You can find information on refueling
on page 78.
Black ice can also form at temperatures
above 377/+36. You should therefore
drive carefully on bridges and shaded roads, for
example, otherwise there is an increased risk of
an accident.<
If the tilt of the vehicle varies for a longer period,
when you are driving in mountainous areas, for
example, the indicator may fluctuate slightly.
46
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Reserve
Service interval display
Once the fuel level has fallen to the reserve
zone of approx. 2.1 US gallons/8 liters, indicator
lamp 1 lights up continuously.
Do not drive until the fuel tank is empty
and refill it well in advance. Otherwise the
engine may not operate properly and damage
could result.<
When you switch on the ignition, the indicator
lamp comes on briefly to indicate an operational
check.
The remaining driving distance in miles/km until
the next scheduled service is displayed briefly
immediately after you start the engine or switch
on the ignition.
Engine coolant temperature
gauge
The words OILSERVICE or INSPECTION indi-
cate the type of service due next. The computer
bases its calculations of the remaining driving
distance on the preceding driving style.
A flashing message and a minus sign in front of
the number mean that the service interval has
already been exceeded by the number of miles/
kilometers shown on the display. Please sched-
ule an appointment with your BMW Center or a
workshop that works according to BMW repair
procedures with correspondingly trained per-
sonnel.
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at moderate
engine and vehicle speeds.
The extent of service work required can
be read out from the remote control by
your BMW Service Advisor.<
Between the blue and red zones
Normal operating range. The needle may rise as
far as the edge of the red sector during normal
operation.
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.
Red
When you switch on the ignition, warning
lamp 1 comes on briefly to indicate an opera-
tional check.
You can set the time and the time display in the
car radio as follows.
Comes on while driving:
The engine has overheated. Stop and switch
the engine off immediately and allow it to cool
down.
For checking the coolant level, refer to page 89.
47
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
>
Average speed
Setting the clock
With the ignition key in position 1 or higher, the
respective last active setting is displayed.
If you wish, you can have all the following
information displayed in another unit of
measure.<
Setting the time format
You can have the clock displayed in 12h or 24h
mode:
1. Press button 2 for several seconds until the
While the time display is active, press the
onboard computer button BC in the turn signal
lever until the display changes.
hours are displayed and the colon flashes.
2. Press button 1 repeatedly until the required
hour is set.
Changing unit of measure: °F/°C
3. Press button 2 to switch to the minutes dis-
While the outside temperature display is active,
press the onboard computer button BC in the
turn signal lever until the display changes.
play.
4. Press button 1 repeatedly until the required
minutes are set.
5. Press button 2 to confirm the time.
Average fuel consumption
The set time of day is transferred to the car
radio display or appears in the instrument clus-
ter display.
The average fuel consumption is calculated for
the time for which the engine has been running.
To reset the average fuel consumption display:
Press the onboard computer button BC in the
turn signal lever for approx. 2 seconds.
Computer*
Cruising range
The computer bases its calculations of the
cruising range on the preceding driving style
and on the amount of fuel remaining in the tank.
Be sure to refuel as soon as possible once
your cruising range falls below 30 miles/
50 km, otherwise engine functions are not
ensured and damage can occur.<
Average speed
To view the information on the instrument clus-
ter display, press the onboard computer button
BC in the turn signal lever.
The average speed is calculated for the time for
which the engine has been running.
Each time you tap the onboard computer but-
ton, the following information is shown in the
specified order:
To reset the average speed display:
Press the onboard computer button BC in the
turn signal lever for approx. 2 seconds.
>
>
>
>
Time
Outside temperature
Average fuel consumption
Cruising range
48
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Technology for driving comfort and safety
limit the additional safety margin by practicing
risky driving.<
Driving stability control
systems
Your BMW is equipped with a series of systems
that help maintain driving stability even in
adverse driving situations.
Deactivating DSC
Antilock Brake System ABS
ABS keeps the wheels from locking during
braking. Steering stability is maintained even
during full brake applications. In this way, active
safety is enhanced.
ABS is operational each time the engine is
started. Braking safely, refer to page 71.
Press the button for at least 3 seconds; the indi-
cator lamp for DSC lights up in the instrument
cluster. Dynamic Traction Control DTC and
DSC have been deactivated simultaneously. No
more interventions to increase stability and for-
ward momentum are carried out.
Electronic brake-force distribution
The system controls brake-force application at
the rear wheels in order to obtain increased sta-
bility in the vehicle's braking response.
To enhance vehicle stability, reactivate DSC as
soon as possible.
Dynamic Brake Control DBC
When you apply the brakes rapidly, this system
automatically produces the maximum braking
force boost and thus helps to achieve the short-
est possible braking distance during full brak-
ing. At the same time, the benefits of the ABS
are also exploited.
Activating DSC
Press the button again; the indicator lamp goes
out in the instrument cluster.
Checking
As long as you want full braking to continue, do
not reduce pressure on the brake.
The indicator lamp flashes:
DSC controls the drive forces and
brake forces.
Dynamic Stability Control DSC
The indicator lamp is lit:
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
cases, and subject to physical limits, DSC helps
to keep the vehicle on a steady course by
reducing engine speed and by applying brakes
at individual wheels.
DSC has been deactivated completely.
Dynamic Traction Control DTC
DTC is a variant of the DSC in which forward
momentum is optimized for special road condi-
tions, e.g. snow-covered roads that have not
yet been cleared. The system ensures maxi-
mum forward momentum, but driving stability is
limited. Therefore, drive carefully in accordance
with conditions.
The laws of physics cannot be repealed
even with DSC. It will always be the
driver's responsibility to drive in a manner that
matches road conditions. Therefore, do not
49
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
In the following exceptional circumstances, it
may be effective to activate the DTC for a short
period:
Drive cautiously, think well ahead and
avoid full brake applications, otherwise
unstable driving conditions could result.<
>
>
>
When driving on snow-covered grades, in
slush or on uncleared, snow-covered roads
Canadian models display these warn-
ing lamps.
When rocking the vehicle or starting off in
deep snow or on loose surfaces
When driving with snow chains
Activating DTC
The DSC warning lamp lights up
together with the yellow warning lamp
for the brake system:
DSC, including DTC and DBC, are
malfunctioning.
The vehicle remains operational. Have the sys-
tem checked as soon as possible.
Drive cautiously and think well ahead,
otherwise unstable driving conditions
could result.<
Press the button briefly; the DTC indicator lamp
lights up in the instrument cluster.
Checking
Canadian models display these warn-
ing lamps.
The indicator lamp flashes:
DTC controls the drive forces and
brake forces.
The indicator lamp is lit:
DTC has been activated.
Drive-off assistant
The drive-off assistant enables you to drive off
smoothly on uphill gradients. It is not necessary
to use the handbrake for this.
Deactivating DTC
Press the button again; the DTC indicator lamp
in the instrument cluster goes out.
1. Hold the car in place by depressing the
brake.
Malfunction in the driving stability
control systems
2. Release the brake and drive off without
delay.
The warning lamp for the brake system
lights up in red, together with the yel-
low indicator lamps for ABS and DSC:
The driving stability control systems
have failed.
The drive-off assistant holds the car in
place for approx. 2 seconds after the
brake is released. Depending on vehicle load,
the car may roll backwards a little during this
time span. Drive off without delay after releas-
ing the brake. Otherwise, the drive-off assistant
will no longer hold the car in place after approx.
2 seconds and the car will start to roll back-
wards.<
Have the system checked as soon as possible.
50
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Malfunction
Initializing the system
The warning lamp for the brake system
The initialization is completed while you
are driving, and can be interrupted at any
time. Initialization is continued automatically
when you continue driving.
When driving with snow chains, do not initialize
the system.<
lights up in yellow. The drive-off assis-
tant has failed. The car will not be held
in place after the brake is released. Have the
system checked as soon as possible.
1. Start the engine immediately before pulling
away, but do not drive off yet.
Flat Tire Monitor FTM
The concept
The Flat Tire Monitor monitors tire pressures
while the car is being driven. The system
reports any significant loss of pressure in one
tire in relation to another.
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.
2. Press the button until the yellow indicator
lamp in the instrument cluster lights up for a
few seconds.
System requirements
3. Drive off.
To ensure a reliable flat tire warning, the system
must be initialized with the correct tire inflation
pressures.
Initialization is completed during the drive,
without any feedback issued.
The system must be reinitialized each
time a tire inflation pressure has been cor-
rected or a wheel or tire has been changed.<
Flat tire warning
The warning lamp in the instrument
cluster lights up in red. A signal also
sounds. There is a flat tire or a signifi-
cant loss of tire pressure.
System limitations
The Flat Tire Monitor is unable to warn
the driver of sudden, severe tire damage
caused by external factors, nor can it identify
the gradual loss of pressure that will inevitably
occur in all four tires over a lengthy period of
time.<
1. Cautiously reduce speed to 50 mph/
80 km/h or lower. Avoid strong braking and
steering maneuvers. Do not exceed a maxi-
mum speed of 50 mph/80 km/h.
If the car is not equipped with Run-
Flat Tires, refer to page 84, the stan-
dard equipment by design, do not continue
driving. Otherwise a severe accident could
result after a tire puncture.<
The system could issue a false warning or func-
tion in a delayed manner in the following situa-
tions:
>
>
System was not initialized
2. At the next opportunity, check the air pres-
sure in all four tires.
Driving on a snow-covered or slippery road
surface
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.<
>
>
Performance-oriented driving: slip at the
drive wheels, high levels of lateral accelera-
tion
Driving with snow chains attached
51
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
3. In the event of complete tire pressure loss,
0 psi/0 kilopascal, you can estimate the
possible distance for continued driving on
the basis of the following guidelines:
Brake Force Display
The brake lamps light up in two stages,
depending on how sharply you apply the
brakes.
>
With a light load:
1 person without luggage:
approx. 155 miles/250 km
>
With a medium load:
1 person, cargo bay full,
or
2 persons without luggage:
approx. 90 miles/150 km
>
With a full load:
2 persons, cargo bay full:
approx. 30 miles/50 km.
>
>
Normal braking:
The brake lamps and the center brake lamp
light up.
Drive cautiously. Do not exceed a speed
of 50 mph/80 km/h. Driving characteris-
tics change if there is a loss of tire pressure.
This includes reduced tracking stability in brak-
ing, extended braking distance and altered nat-
ural steering characteristics.
Sharp braking:
A larger portion of the brake lamps lights up.
If unusual vibration or loud noises occur during
the journey, this may be an indication that the
damaged tire has finally failed. Reduce your
speed and pull over to the side of the road at the
earliest opportunity. Otherwise, parts of the tire
could come loose and cause an accident. Do
not continue driving. Contact a BMW Center.<
Airbags
Electric Power Steering EPS
The concept
The following airbags are located under the
marked covers:
The electric power steering is a direct, sporting
steering system. A special combination of elec-
tric motor and transmission helps you steer
more easily. As your speed increases, steering
power assistance is reduced.
1
2
3
Front airbags
Side airbags
Knee airbags
Protective action
Malfunction
Comply with the instructions on page 30,
or the occupants' personal safety will be
diminished.<
The indicator lamp stays lit:
The system is malfunctioning or defec-
tive.
Steering remains operational.
Have the system checked as soon as possible.
The front airbags help protect the driver and
passenger in the event of a frontal impact in
which safety belts alone cannot provide suffi-
cient protection. When needed, the side airbags
52
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
help provide protection in the event of side
impact. The relevant side airbag supports the
side upper body area. The respective knee air-
bag protects the legs from hitting the cockpit.
dling instructions under Transporting children
safely, refer to page 35.
Adolescents and adults sitting in certain posi-
tions could inadvertently deactivate the front
and side airbags on the passenger side; the
indicator lamp for the passenger airbags comes
on. In such cases, the passenger should change
his or her sitting position so that the passenger
airbags are activated and the indicator lamp
goes out. If the passenger airbags cannot be
restored to the desired status despite the pas-
senger changing his or her seat position, use
the key switch to activate or deactivate the pas-
senger airbags, refer to page 35. Do not attach
seat covers, seat cushion padding, ball mats or
other items to the passenger seat unless they
are specifically recommended by BMW. Do not
place any items under the seat which could
press against the seat from below. Otherwise a
correct analysis of the seat cushion is not
ensured.<
The airbags will purposely not be activated by
every collision, e.g. not by more minor acci-
dents, or rear-end collisions.
Do not apply adhesive materials to the
cover panels of the airbags, cover them or
modify them in any other way. Do not attempt to
dismantle the airbag retention system. Do not
modify the individual components of the sys-
tem or its wiring in any way. This includes the
padding in the steering wheel, the dashboard
and the doors.
Do not attempt to remove or dismantle the
steering wheel. Do not touch the individual
components immediately after the system has
been triggered, because there is a danger of
burns.
In the event of malfunctions, deactivation, or
triggering of the airbag restraint system, have
the testing, repair, removal, and disposal of air-
bag generators executed only by a BMW Cen-
ter or a workshop that works according to BMW
repair procedures with correspondingly trained
personnel and has the required explosives
licenses. Unprofessional attempts to service
the system could lead to failure in an emer-
gency or undesired airbag activation, either of
which could result in personal injury.<
Status of passenger airbags
Warning notices and information about the air-
bags can also be found on the sun visors.
The center console contains one of the indica-
tor lamps for the passenger airbags shown in
the illustration.
Automatic deactivation of the
passenger airbags
The indicator lamp for the passenger airbags
shows the functional status of the passenger's
front and side airbags in accordance with
whether and how the passenger seat is occu-
pied. The indicator lamp shows whether the
passenger airbags are activated or deactivated.
An analysis of the impression in the passenger
seat cushion determines whether and how the
seat is occupied. The front and side airbags for
the passenger are activated or deactivated by
the system accordingly.
The indicator lamp in the center console
shows the current status of the passen-
ger airbags, deactivated or activated, refer to
Status of passenger airbags below.<
>
The indicator lamp comes on as intended
when a child in an appropriate child-
restraint system is detected on the seat.
The front and side airbags for the passen-
ger are not activated.
Before transporting a child on the pas-
senger seat, observe the safety and han-
53
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
>
>
The indicator lamp does not come on as
long as a person of sufficient size and in a
correct sitting position is detected on the
seat. The front and side airbags for the pas-
senger are activated.
The indicator lamp does not come on if the
seat is empty. However, the front and side
airbags for the passenger are not activated.
Operational readiness of the airbag
system
With the ignition key in position 1 or higher, the
warning lamp comes on briefly to indicate that
the entire airbag system and the belt tensioners
are operational.
Airbag system malfunction
>
Warning lamp does not come on with the
ignition key in position 1 or higher
>
Warning lamp remains permanently on
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
within its normal response range.<
54
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Lamps
Automatic headlamp control*
Parking lamps/Low beams
When the switch is in position 3, the low beams
are switched on and off automatically depend-
in twilight, or if there is precipitation.
When driving into tunnels with bright overhead
lights, there may be a delay before the head-
lamps come on.
The headlamps may also come on when the
sun is sitting low on a blue sky.
The low beams remain switched on inde-
pendent of the ambient lighting condi-
tions when you switch on the fog lamps*.
When daytime running light is activated, refer to
page 55, the low-beam headlamps are always
switched on when the switch is in position 3 and
the ignition is on.<
0
1
2
3
Lamps off and daytime running light*
Parking lamps and daytime running light*
Low beams
Automatic headlamp control* and daytime
running light*
If desired, the light switch can remain in
position 3. The exterior lamps are automatically
switched off after the vehicle is parked.
Parking lamps
In switch position 1, the front, rear and side
vehicle lighting is switched on. You can use the
parking lamps to signal the position of the vehi-
cle when it is parked. For the additional option
of roadside parking lamps on one side of the
vehicle only, refer to page 56.
The automatic headlamp control cannot
serve as a substitute for your personal
judgment in determining when the lamps
should be switched on in response to ambient
lighting conditions. For example, the system
cannot detect fog or hazy weather. To avoid
safety risks, you should always switch on the
lamps manually under these conditions.<
The parking lamps will discharge the bat-
tery. Therefore, do not leave them on for
unduly long periods of time, otherwise the bat-
tery might not have enough power to start the
engine.<
You can have the sensitivity of your vehi-
cle's automatic headlamp control
adjusted.<
Low beams
The low beams light up when the light switch is
in position 2 and the ignition is on.
Daytime running light*
If desired, the light switch can remain in the
automatic headlamp control position. The exte-
rior lamps are automatically switched off after
the vehicle is parked.
When you switch off the ignition with the low
beam headlamps on, only the parking lamps will
remain on.
In the Parking lamps position, the parking lamps
come on after the ignition is switched off.
Defective bulb
The indicator lamp lights up:
At least one bulb of the vehicle's exte-
rior lighting has failed.
If necessary, switch on the parking lamps as
described in the section about parking lamps.
For replacing bulbs refer to page 93.
55
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
You can have daytime running light acti-
vated/deactivated on your vehicle.<
Fog lamps*
Pathway lighting
If you activate the headlamp flasher after park-
ing the car, with the lights switched off, the low
beams come on and remain on for a certain
time.
You can have this function activated/
deactivated as well as the duration of the
pathway lighting set.<
Press the button to switch them on/off.
LIGHTS ON warning
The parking lamps or low-beam headlamps
must be switched on. A green indicator lamp
comes on in the instrument cluster to indicate
that the front fog lamps are on.
Whenever you open the driver's door after hav-
ing turned the key to position 0, you will hear an
acoustic signal for a few seconds to remind you
that the lamps have not been switched off.
If the automatic headlamp control is acti-
vated, the low beams will come on auto-
matically when you switch on the fog lamps.<
High beams/Roadside
parking lamps
Instrument lighting
1
2
3
High beams
Turn the rotary dial to adjust brightness.
Headlamp flasher
Roadside parking lamps*
Interior lamps
Roadside parking lamps, left or right*
When parking the vehicle, you have the option
to switch on the lamps only on the side facing
the road.
After parking the vehicle, press the lever up or
down, arrow 3, until it engages.
The roadside parking lamps discharge
the battery. Therefore, do not leave them
on for unduly long periods of time, otherwise
the battery might not have enough power to
start the engine.<
The interior lamps operate automatically.
56
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Switching interior lamps on/off
manually
Press button 1 briefly.
If you want the interior lamps to remain off all
the time, press the button for approx.
3 seconds.
Press the button briefly to revert to normal
operation.
Reading lamps*
Switch each lamp on and off with the adjacent
button 2.
57
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Climate
Air conditioning
1
2
Air flow toward the windshield and side win-
dows
6
7
8
9
Recirculated-air mode
Temperature
Air to the upper body area
Ventilation 59
Air flow rate
Rear window defroster
3
4
5
Air to the footwell
Air distribution
Cooling function*
58
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Air distribution
Rear window defroster
Direct the flow of air to the windows
, to the upper body area and to
The defroster switches off automati-
cally after a certain time.
the footwell . Intermediate settings
are possible.
Defrosting windows and removing
condensation
Switching cooling function on/off
When the cooling function is on, the
air is cooled, dehumidified, then
reheated depending on the tempera-
ture setting.
Depending on the weather, the windshield may
fog over briefly when the engine is started.
Recirculated-air mode
If the air outside the car has an
unpleasant odor or contains pollut-
ants, temporarily shut off the supply
to the interior of the car. The system
recirculates the air within the vehicle.
1. Air distribution 1 in position
.
2. Set air flow rate 2 to position 4.
3. Temperature 3 to the right, red.
4. Switch on rear window defroster 4 to
If the windows fog over in the recircu-
lated-air mode, you should switch it off
and, if necessary, increase the air flow rate.
The manually controlled recirculated-air mode
should not be used continuously for lengthy
periods, otherwise the quality of the air inside
the car will gradually deteriorate.<
defrost the rear window.
Ventilation
Temperature
For a higher temperature, turn the
rotary switch clockwise towards red.
For a lower temperature, turn the
rotary switch counterclockwise
towards blue.
1
2
Knurled wheels to set any vent position
from fully open to closed
Air flow rate
Slide for adjusting air flow direction
Adjust the air flow rate. The higher
the rate, the more effective the heat-
ing or cooling will be.
Ventilation for cooling
Adjust the vent outlets to direct the flow of cool
air toward you, for instance if it has become too
hot in the car.
Switching the system on/off
Set the air flow rate to 0. Blower and air condi-
tioning are switched off and the air supply is cut
off.
Draft-free ventilation
Set the vent outlets so that the air flows past
you and not straight at you.
To switch on the heater or air conditioning, set
any desired air flow rate.
59
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Microfilter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen from
the incoming air. Your BMW Center replaces
this filter during regular maintenance. A sub-
stantial reduction in air flow indicates that the
filter needs to be replaced earlier.
60
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Automatic climate control*
1
2
Air flow toward the windshield and side win-
dows
7
8
9
Air flow rate, manual
Cooling function
Maximum cooling
Air to the upper body area
Ventilation 63
10 Temperature
3
4
5
Air to the footwell
11 AUC Automatic recirculated-air control/
Air distribution, manual
Recirculated-air mode
Defrosting windows and removing conden-
sation
12 Rear window defroster
6
AUTO program
61
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
The higher the air flow rate, the more effective
the air conditioning will be.
Comfortable interior climate
AUTO program 6 offers the ideal air distribution
and air flow rate for almost all conditions, refer
to AUTO program below. In addition, you can
select an interior temperature you find pleasant.
Switching the system on/off
Turn the rotary switch to 0. The automatic cli-
mate control is switched off and the air supply is
cut off.
The following sections inform you in detail
about how to adjust the settings.
To switch on the automatic climate control, set
any desired air flow rate.
Air distribution, manual
Direct the flow of air to the windows
Switching cooling function on/off
, to the upper body area
and to
the footwell . Intermediate settings
are possible. The arrow lights up.
When the cooling function is on, the
air is cooled, dehumidified, then
reheated depending on the tempera-
ture setting.
The automatic air supply remains unchanged.
You can switch the automatic air distribution
back on by pressing the AUTO button.
Depending on the weather, the windshield may
fog over briefly when the engine is started.
Defrosting windows and removing
condensation
The cooling function is automatically switched
on along with the AUTO program. The passen-
ger compartment can only be cooled while the
engine is running.
Quickly removes ice and condensa-
tion from the windshield and side
windows.
Maximum cooling
AUTO program
At outside temperatures above
327/06and when the engine is
running, you obtain a maximum cool-
ing effect as soon as possible.
The AUTO program adjusts the air
distribution to the windshield and
side windows, towards the upper
body area and into the footwell for
The automatic climate control switches to the
lowest temperature and operates in recircu-
lated-air mode. Air flows at maximum rate only
from the vents for the upper body area. You
should therefore open them for maximum cool-
ing.
you. The air flow rate and your temperature
specifications will be adapted to outside influ-
ences as a result of seasonal changes, e.g. sun-
light or window condensation.
The cooling is switched on automatically with
the AUTO program.
Temperature
The AUTO program functions only to a
limited extent when the convertible top is
open.<
Set the desired temperature.
The values on the dial are approxima-
tions of the respective temperature
resulting in the passenger compartment.
Air flow rate, manual
Adjust the air flow rate. The arrow
lights up.
The automatic climate control achieves this
temperature as quickly as possible regardless
of the season, using maximum cooling or heat-
ing power if necessary, and then maintains it.
The automatic air distribution
remains unchanged. You can reactivate the
automatic mode for the air flow rate with the
AUTO button.
If you switch between different tempera-
ture settings in quick succession, the
62
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
automatic climate control does not have
enough time to achieve the set temperature.<
Ventilation
AUC Automatic recirculated-air
control/Recirculated-air mode
Switch on the desired operating
mode by pressing this button repeat-
edly:
>
>
LEDs off: outside air flows in continuously.
Left-hand LED on, AUC mode: a sensor
detects pollutants in the outside air. If nec-
essary, the system blocks the supply of out-
side air and recirculates the inside air. As
soon as the concentration of pollutants in
the outside air has decreased sufficiently,
the system automatically switches back to
outside air supply.
1
2
Knurled wheels to set any vent position
from fully open to closed
Slide for adjusting air flow direction
Ventilation for cooling
Adjust the vent outlets to direct the flow of cool
air toward you, for instance if it has become too
hot in the car.
>
Right-hand LED on, recirculated-air mode:
the inflow of outside air is shut off perma-
nently. The system recirculates the air
within the vehicle.
Draft-free ventilation
Set the vent outlets so that the air flows past
you and not straight at you.
If the windows fog over in the recircu-
lated-air mode, you should switch it off
and, if necessary, increase the air flow rate.
The recirculated-air mode should not be used
over an extended period of time, otherwise the
air quality inside the car will deteriorate contin-
uously.<
Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen from
the incoming air. The activated-charcoal filter
provides additional protection by filtering gas-
eous pollutants from the outside air. Your BMW
Center replaces this combined filter during reg-
ular maintenance. A substantial reduction in air
flow indicates that the filter needs to be
replaced earlier.
Rear window defroster
The defroster switches off automati-
cally after a certain time.
63
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Practical interior accessories
Locking/unlocking
Glove compartment
The storage compartment between the back-
rests is automatically locked and unlocked with
the central locking system.
To open
Roadster: releasing manually
In the event of a malfunction or if the central
locking system fails, 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 while the vehicle is being driven,
close the glove compartment immediately after
use.<
1. Pull on the cord in the rear trim panel of the
cargo bay:
The storage compartment between the
seats unlocks.
Storage compartments
2. Press button 1.
Storage compartment between
backrests
Other compartments and nets*
Other compartments can be found on the
doors, in the center console and behind the
seats, depending on your vehicle's equipment.
Nets* are located on the passenger side of the
center console and on the rear of the backrests.
To open
1. Press button 1.
2. Swing the cover down.
To close
Swing the cover up.
64
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Coupe: eyeglasses compartment
To open
Ashtray*
To empty
Press the strip on the eyeglasses compartment.
1. Open cover.
2. Pull out ashtray 1.
Beverage holders
Cigarette lighter
Do not place glassware in a beverage
holder; otherwise there is an increased
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
the knob only. Holding or touching it in
other areas could result in burns.
A beverage holder is located on either side
beneath the air outlets.
The cigarette lighter remains operational even
when the key has been removed. For this rea-
son, children should never be left in the vehicle
unattended.<
Coupe: roller-blind cover
The roller-blind cover is raised when the tail-
gate is opened.
Do not place heavy or hard objects on the
roller-blind cover. If you do, they can
1. Press the trim piece beneath the air outlets;
see arrow 1.
endanger the passengers, for example during
braking or evasive maneuvers.
Do not let the roller-blind cover retract too
quickly; otherwise it could be damaged.<
2. Place the beverage into the holder.
3. Adjust the holder to fit the size of the bever-
age container; see arrow 2.
65
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Removal
Pull out the roller-blind cover, arrow 1, and clip it
into the holders on the tailgate, arrow 2.
Slide both locks inward and remove the wind
deflector.
Roadster: wind deflector*
Clothes hooks
With the convertible top open, the wind deflec-
tor keeps air movement in the passenger com-
partment to a minimum, thus providing you with
a pleasant drive, even at higher speeds.
Installation
Clothes hooks 1 are located on the wind deflec-
tor panels in the rollover bars.
Do not hang heavy objects on the hooks.
If you do, they could endanger the pas-
sengers, for example during braking or evasive
maneuvers.<
Insert the wind deflector in its proper orienta-
tion into the guides 1 provided on the rollover
bars.
Storage
For storage, e.g. to achieve a better view to the
rear when the convertible top is closed, there
are two brackets on the inside of the luggage
compartment lid/tailgate.
Refer to the labeling on the wind deflector to
determine its proper orientation.
The wind deflector must engage firmly,
otherwise it could become detached at
higher vehicle speeds.<
The wind deflector panels 2 in the rollover bars
cannot be removed.
Insert the wind deflector into the brackets.
66
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Make sure that the wind deflector cannot
be damaged by objects in the cargo
bay.<
Connecting electrical
appliances
In your BMW, you can use electrical devices
such as a flashlight, car vacuum cleaner or a
similar appliance up to approx. 200 watts at
12 volts.
Do not damage the socket by inserting plugs of
a different shape or size.
Cigarette lighter socket
Pull the cigarette lighter out of the socket.
Mobile phone preparation
package*
Hands-free microphone
In vehicles with a telephone preparation pack-
age, the cover for the hands-free microphone is
located on the trim of the steering column.
For further information on the mobile phone,
refer to the Owner's Manual for the telephone.
67
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Special operating instructions
After replacing components
Break-in procedures
The same break-in procedures should be
observed if any of the components mentioned
above have to be renewed in the course of the
vehicle's operating life.
Moving parts need to be given some time until
they can interact smoothly with one another. To
ensure that your vehicle provides maximum
economy throughout a long service life, we
request that you observe the following:
Always obey all official speed limits.
Driving notes
Engine and differential
Closing the luggage compartment lid/
tailgate
Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Operate the vehicle only when the lug-
gage compartment lid/tailgate is closed.
rior of the vehicle.<
Drive at varying engine and road speeds, but do
not exceed 4,500 rpm or 100 mph/160 km/h.
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid press-
ing the accelerator beyond the kickdown point.
Should it be absolutely necessary to operate
the vehicle with the luggage compartment lid/
tailgate open:
After driving 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Engine and vehicle speeds can be gradually
increased.
1. Coupe: close both windows.
Roadster: close all windows if the convert-
ible top is closed.
Tires
2. Greatly increase the air flow from the air
conditioning or automatic climate control,
refer to page 58 or 61.
Due to technical factors associated with their
manufacture, tires do not achieve their full trac-
tion potential until an initial break-in period has
elapsed. Therefore, drive cautiously during the
first 200 miles/300 km.
Hot exhaust system
In all vehicles, extremely high tempera-
tures are generated in the exhaust sys-
tem. Never remove the heat shields installed in
the area of the exhaust system, nor apply
undercoating to their surfaces. When driving,
standing at idle or parking the vehicle, take care
to avoid contact between the hot exhaust sys-
tem and flammable materials, e.g. hay, leaves,
grass, etc. Such contact could lead to a fire,
resulting in serious personal injury and property
damage.<
Brake system
Brakes require an initial break-in period of
approx. 300 miles/500 km to achieve optimized
contact and wear patterns between brake pads
and rotors. Drive cautiously during this break-in
period.
Clutch
The function of the clutch reaches its optimal
level only after a distance driven of approx.
300 miles/500 km. Shift gears carefully during
the break-in period.
Mobile communications in the vehicle
BMW advises against using mobile com-
munications devices, e.g. mobile phones,
inside the vehicle without connecting them
directly to an outside antenna. Otherwise, it
70
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
cannot be ruled out that vehicle electronics and
the mobile communications device interfere
with one another. In addition, it is not ensured
that the radio waves emitted during transmis-
sion are directed outside of the vehicle inte-
rior.<
Driving through water
Drive through water on the road only if it is
not deeper than 1 ft/30 cm, and then only
at walking speed at the most. Otherwise, the
vehicle's engine, the electrical systems and the
transmission may be damaged.<
Interior and exterior mirrors with
automatic dimming feature*
Moisture inside the vehicle
Make sure that the passenger compart-
ment does not become wet and that liq-
uids are transported in closed containers.
Otherwise, moisture could penetrate and dam-
age electronic components inside the vehicle.<
Use the parking brake on inclines
On inclines, keep the vehicle from rolling
by using the parking brake rather than by
slipping the clutch, which would lead to a high
degree of clutch wear.<
The automatic dimming feature of the interior
and exterior mirrors* is controlled by two photo
cells in the interior rearview mirror. In the Road-
ster, one is located in the mirror glass, see
arrow. In the Coupe, it is located at the bottom
of the mirror frame. The other photo cell is on
the back of the mirror.
Braking safely
Your BMW is equipped with ABS as a standard
feature. Applying the brakes fully is the most
effective way of braking in situations in which
this is necessary. Since the vehicle maintains
steering responsiveness, you can still avoid
possible obstacles with a minimum of steering
effort.
In order to ensure that the system functions
correctly, keep the photocells clean, do not
cover the area between the interior rearview
mirror and windshield, and do not affix adhesive
labels or stickers of any kind to the windshield
directly in front of the mirror.
Pulsation at the brake pedal combines with
sounds from the hydraulic circuits to indicate to
the driver that ABS is in its active mode.
Hydroplaning
Wet roads
When driving on wet or slushy roads,
reduce vehicle speed. If you do not, a
wedge of water may form between the tires and
the road surface. This situation, known as
hydroplaning, means that the tire can com-
pletely lose contact with the road surface, so
that neither the car can be steered nor the brake
be properly applied.<
When roads are wet or there is heavy rain,
briefly exert gentle pressure on the brake pedal
every few miles. Watch traffic conditions to
ensure that this maneuver does not endanger
other road users. The resulting heat dries the
brake rotors and brake pads. Immediate braking
force is then available if necessary.
The risk of hydroplaning increases with declin-
ing tread depth on the tires, refer also to Mini-
mum tread depth on page 83.
Inclines
To prevent overheating and, as a result,
diminished braking effectiveness, drive
down long or steep downhill grades in the gear
that requires the least braking. Otherwise, even
light but consistent pedal pressure can lead to
71
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
high temperatures, brake wear and possibly
even brake failure.<
Cargo loading
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that the
You can increase the engine's braking effect by
shifting down, all the way to first gear if neces-
sary. This strategy helps you avoid placing
excessive loads on the brake system. Down-
shifting in manual mode of the automatic trans-
mission, refer to page 41.
permissible carrying capacity of the tires
is not exceeded. Otherwise, overheating and
inner damage to the tires may result. The ulti-
mate result can assume the form of a sudden air
loss.<
Never drive with the clutch held down,
with the transmission in idle or with the
engine switched off; otherwise, engine braking
action will not be present or there will be no
power assistance to the brakes or steering.
Never allow floor mats, carpets or any other
objects to protrude into the area around the
pedals, otherwise pedal function could be
impaired.<
Determining the maximum load
Corrosion on the brake rotors
1. Locate the following statement on your
Limited vehicle use, extended periods with the
vehicle parked or in storage, and operating con-
ditions in which braking is restricted to gentle,
low-pressure applications will all increase the
tendency for corrosion to form on the rotors and
contamination to accumulate on the brake
pads. This occurs because the minimal pres-
sure which must be exerted by the pads to
clean the rotors by brake applications is not
reached.
vehicle's placard*:
The combined weight of occupants
and cargo should never exceed
XXX kg or YYY lbs. Otherwise, overloading
can result in damage to the vehicle and
unstable driving conditions.<
2. Determine the combined weight of the
driver and passenger that will be riding in
your vehicle.
If the brake rotors are corroded, they will tend to
respond to braking with a pulsating effect which
even extended application will fail to cure.
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver
and passenger from XXX kilograms or
YYY pounds.
4. The resulting figure equals the available
amount of cargo and luggage load capacity.
For example, if the YYY amount equals
551 lbs and there will be two 150 lbs occu-
pants in your vehicle, the amount of avail-
able cargo and luggage load capacity is
251 lbs.
When the vehicle is parked
Condensation forms while the air conditioning
or automatic climate control is in operation, and
then exits under the vehicle. Traces of con-
densed water on the ground underneath the
vehicle are thus normal.
551 lbs minus 300 lbs = 251 lbs
Before driving into a car wash
5. Determine the combined weight of luggage
and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That
weight may not safely exceed the available
cargo and luggage load capacity calculated
in step 4.
For general information about taking care of
your BMW, refer to the Caring for your vehicle
brochure.
72
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
tion of traffic safety laws.
Load
Heavy or hard objects should not be carried
loose inside the car, since they could be thrown
around, for example as a result of heavy braking,
sudden swerves, etc., and endanger the occu-
pants.<
Roadster: convertible top
compartment
The cargo bay can be enlarged when the
convertible top is closed, refer to page 23.
It is recommended that you always fold the con-
vertible top compartment panel down as soon
as you have taken your cargo out of the cargo
bay. This way, you can be sure that you can
always operate the convertible top at any time.
When the convertible top is closed, fold the
convertible top compartment panel up before
stowing your cargo in the cargo bay, to avoid
any damage to the convertible top compart-
ment or your load.
The permissible load is the sum of the occu-
pants' weights and the weight of the cargo. The
greater the weight of the occupants, the less
cargo can be transported.
Stowing cargo
Do not stow any items on the convertible top
compartment panel, otherwise the convertible
top could be damaged while it is opening.<
If you stow cargo behind the seats of your
BMW:
>
>
Load heavy cargo as far forward as possi-
ble, directly behind the cargo bay partition,
and as low as possible.
>
Only stow light objects such as clothing,
etc.
>
Do not pile objects higher than the top edge
of the backrests.
Cover sharp edges and corners.
To avoid damaging the rear of the back-
rests or the rear interior trim panel, do not
Roadster: hardtop
preparation*
stow heavy cargo or cargo with sharp edges
and corners behind the seats.
behind a seat may prevent the backrest from
engaging properly. Therefore, check the back-
rest to see if it is properly engaged, and move
the seat forward if necessary; refer to page 31.
Always position and secure the load as
described above. If you do not, it can endanger
the occupants during braking or evasive
maneuvers.
Never exceed either the approved gross vehicle
weight or either of the approved axle loads, refer
to page 109, as excessive loads can pose a
safety hazard, and may also place you in viola-
Pull covers off, see arrow 1.
The brackets for attaching the hardtop
are located underneath the covers; see arrow 2.
73
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
For instructions on how to install the
hardtop, please read the accompanying
assembly information.
The hardtop is available from your BMW Center
as an optional extra.<
74
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
75
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Mobility
This section helps you maintain your car's
mobility by supplying important information
on vital topics including fuels and lubricants,
wheels and tires, service, maintenance and
breakdown assistance.
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Refueling
Always switch off the engine before refu-
1. Remove the cover for the right-hand rear
lamps in the cargo bay by turning the lock,
see arrow.
eling. Otherwise the tank cannot be
refilled. The Service Engine Soon warning lamp
will come on.<
Take all precautionary measures and
observe all applicable regulations when
handling fuel. Do not carry any spare fuel con-
tainers in your vehicle. They can develop a leak
and cause an explosion or cause a fire in the
event of an accident.<
Gas cap
2. Pull the cargo bay trim panel slightly toward
the interior. The green button with the fuel
pump symbol becomes visible.
Opening
1. Open the fuel filler door, arrow 1.
3. Undo the adhesive strip and pull off.
2. Turn the gas cap counterclockwise.
4. Pull the button. The fuel filler door is
released.
3. Place the gas cap in the bracket attached to
the fuel filler door, arrow 2.
Pull on the button slowly and care-
fully; otherwise it could be torn off.<
Closing
Fit the gas cap and turn it clockwise until you
clearly hear a click.
Observe the following when refueling
When handling fuels, comply with all of
the applicable safety precautions posted
at the service station.<
Do not jam the strap between the gas cap
and the vehicle.<
Warning lamp* lights up.
The gas cap is not properly closed or is
missing. Check if the gas cap is prop-
erly closed.
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle com-
pletely into the filler pipe. Avoid lifting the filler
nozzle while filling the tank, as it could other-
wise lead to:
>
>
Premature pump shutoff
Manually releasing the fuel filler door
A reduced efficiency of the fuel-vapor
recovery system.
In the event of a malfunction, you can release
the fuel filler door manually:
78
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
The fuel tank is full when the filler nozzle shuts
off the first time.
you are using, we recommend that you respond
by switching to a recognized high-quality brand
such as gasoline that is advertised as Top Tier
Detergent Gasoline.
Fuel tank capacity
Failure to comply with these recommendations
may also result in unscheduled maintenance.<
Approx. 14.5 US gallons/55 liters, including the
reserve capacity of approx. 2.1 US gallons/
8 liters.
Do not drive until the fuel tank is empty.
Otherwise, the engine may not operate
properly and damage could result.<
Fuel specifications
Do not fill the tank with leaded fuel, as this
would cause permanent damage to the
catalytic converter.<
Required fuel
Super Premium Gasoline/AKI 91
This gasoline is highly recommended. How-
ever, you may also use gasoline with less AKI.
The minimum AKI Rating is 87.
If you use gasoline with this minimum AKI Rat-
ing, the engine may produce knocking sounds
when starting at high outside temperatures.
This has no effect on the engine life.
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
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 driveability problems
which you suspect could be related to the fuel
79
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Wheels and tires
Reinitialize the Flat Tire Monitor after cor-
recting the tire inflation pressure. Refer to
Tire inflation pressure
page 51.<
Information for your safety
The following tire inflation pressure tables show
the inflation pressures for the specified tire
sizes at ambient temperature.
It is not merely the tire's service life, but also
driving safety and driving comfort that largely
depend on the condition of the tires and the
maintenance of the specified tire pressure.
The inflation pressures in the table apply
to BMW-approved tire sizes and recom-
mended tire brands. Your BMW Center will be
glad to supply this information.<
Check tire inflation pressures regularly
and correct them if necessary: at least
every two weeks and before every extended
journey. If you fail to observe this precaution
you may be driving on tires with incorrect tire
pressures, a condition that can not only com-
promise your vehicle's driving stability, but also
lead to tire damage and the risk of an accident.
Do not drive with deflated, i.e. flat tires, except
when using Run-Flat Tires. A flat tire will seri-
ously impair your vehicle's handling and braking
response. Attempts to drive on a flat tire can
lead to loss of control over the vehicle.<
To determine the correct tire inflation pressure
for your tires, refer to the following tables.
Tire size
The inflation pressures in the table apply to
BMW-approved tire sizes and recommended
tire brands. Your BMW Center will be glad to
supply this information.
Checking pressure
Check the tire inflation pressures only when the
tires are cold. This means after a maximum of
1.25 miles/2 km driving or when the vehicle has
been parked for at least 2 hours. Warm tires
have higher inflation pressures.
Inflation pressure specifications
The specified inflation pressures for your stan-
dard tires are provided on the placard on the
B-pillar and are visible when the driver's door is
open.
80
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Z4 Roadster 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
225/50 R 16 92 V
225/45 R 17 91 W
205/55 R 16 91 H M+S
225/50 R 16 92 H M+S
225/45 R 17 91 H/V M+S
30/210
35/240
Front: 225/45 R 17 91W
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W
30/210
–
–
35/240
Front: 225/40 R 18 88 W
Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 W
30/210
–
–
35/240
You will find more information about permissible loads and weights on page 109.
Z4 Roadster 3.0si
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
225/45 R 17 91 H/V M+S
33/230
38/260
Front: 225/45 R 17 91W
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W
33/230
–
–
38/260
Front: 225/40 R 18 88 W
Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 W
33/230
–
–
38/260
You will find more information about permissible loads and weights on page 109.
81
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Z4 Coupe 3.0si
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
225/45 R 17 91 H/V M+S
33/230
39/270
Front: 225/45 R 17 91W
Rear: 255/40 R 17 94 W
33/230
–
–
39/270
Front: 225/40 R 18 88 W
Rear: 255/35 R 18 90 W
33/230
–
–
39/270
You will find more information about permissible loads and weights on page 109.
DOT code:
Tire coding
e.g.
DOT xxxx xxx 5005
Understanding the lettering on the tire sidewall
makes it easier to identify and choose the cor-
rect tires.
Manufacturer's code
for tire make
Tire size and
tire design
Tire size
Tire age
e.g.
225/50 R 16 92
V
Nominal width in mm
Aspect ratio in Ξ
Tire age
The date on which the tire was manufactured is
indicated by the code on the sidewall:
DOT … 5005 indicates that the tire was manu-
factured in week 50 of the year 2005.
Radial belt construction
Rim diameter in inches
Load rating,
not on ZR tires
BMW recommends the replacement of all tires
every 6 years at the latest, even if a tire usage of
10 years is possible.
Speed code letter, in
front of the R on ZR tires
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Speed code letter
Quality grades can be found where applicable
on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and
maximum section width. For example:
Q
T
H
V
= up to 100 mph or 160 km/h
= up to 118 mph or 190 km/h
= up to 131 mph or 210 km/h
= up to 150 mph or 240 km/h
= up to 167 mph or 270 km/h
= up to 186 mph or 300 km/h
Treadwear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
W
Y
DOT Quality Grades
Tread wear
Tire Identification Number
Traction AA A B C
Temperature A B C
Tires with DOT codes meet the guidelines of
the U.S. Department of Transportation.
82
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
All passenger car tires must conform to
Federal Safety Requirements in addition
The temperature grade for this tire is
established for a tire that is properly
to these grades.<
inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed,
underinflation, or excessive loading, either sep-
arately or in combination, can cause heat
buildup and possible tire failure.<
Tread wear
The tread wear grade is a comparative rating
based on the wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on a specified gov-
ernment test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one
and one-half, 1 γ, times as well on the govern-
ment course as a tire graded 100. The relative
performance of tires depends upon the actual
conditions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due to varia-
tions in driving habits, service practices and dif-
ferences in road characteristics and climate.
RSC: Run-Flat Tires
Run-Flat tires are labeled on the sidewall with a
circular symbol containing the letters RSC.
Refer to page 84.
M+S
Winter and all-season tires.
These have better winter performance proper-
ties than summer tires.
Traction
Tire condition
Inspect your tires frequently for tread wear,
signs of damage and for foreign objects lodged
in the tread. Check the tread depth.
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are
AA, A, B and C.
Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop
on wet pavement as measured under controlled
conditions on specified government test sur-
faces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
Minimum tread depth
The tread depth should not drop below 1/8 in/
3 mm, although, for example, European legisla-
tion only specifies a minimum tread depth of
1/16 in/1.6 mm. At tread depths below 1/8 in/
3 mm there is an increased risk of high-speed
hydroplaning, even when only small amounts of
water are present on the road surface.
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
based on straight-ahead braking traction
tests, and does not include acceleration, cor-
nering, hydroplaning, or peak traction charac-
teristics.<
When winter tires wear down past a tread depth
of 1/6 in/4 mm, they become perceptibly less
suitable for winter conditions. In the interest of
safety, new tires should be installed.
Temperature
The temperature grades are A, the highest, B
and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the
generation of heat and its ability to dissipate
heat when tested under controlled conditions
on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.
Sustained high temperature can cause the
material of the tire to degenerate and reduce
tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to
a level of performance which all passenger car
tires must meet under the Federal Motor 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.
Wear indicators in the base of the tread groove
are distributed around the tire's circumference;
83
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
the letters TWI, for Tread Wear Indicator, on the
tire's sidewalls identify tires that incorporate
these wear indicators. Once the tire tread has
worn down to the wear indicators, the tire has
worn to a depth of 1/16 in/1.6 mm.
Run-Flat Tires
Wheel/tire damage
Due to low-profile tires, please note that
wheels, tires and suspension parts are
more susceptible to road hazards and conse-
quential damages.<
Unusual vibrations encountered during normal
vehicle operation can indicate tire failure or
some other vehicle malfunction. This can, for
example, be caused by driving over curbs. The
same applies to any other abnormal road
behavior, such as pulling severely to the right or
left.
The symbol identifying Run-Flat Tires is a circle
with the letters RSC on the sidewall.
Run-Flat Tires comprise a conditionally self-
supporting tire and a special rim. The reinforce-
ment in the sidewalls ensures that the tire can
continue to be used subject to certain restric-
tions, even if depressurized.
In these cases, reduce speed immedi-
ately and have wheels and tires thor-
For information on continuing to drive with a flat
tire, refer to Flat tire warning on page 51.
oughly checked. To do so, drive carefully to the
nearest BMW Center or tire shop that works
according to BMW repair procedures with cor-
respondingly trained personnel. If necessary,
have the vehicle towed there.
Wheel and tire replacement
Have new wheels and tires installed only
by your BMW Center or tire shop that
works according to BMW repair procedures
with correspondingly trained personnel. Work
that is improperly carried out could result in
consequential damage and pose safety haz-
ards. Make sure that the new wheels are bal-
anced.<
Tire damage can be extremely dangerous for
vehicle occupants and other road users.<
Tire age
For various reasons, such as the development
of brittleness, BMW recommends tire replace-
ment after no more than 6 years, regardless of
the actual wear of the tires.
Retreaded tires
The date on which the tire was manufactured is
indicated by the code on the sidewall:
DOT … 5005 indicates that the tire was manu-
factured in week 50 of the year 2005.
BMW advises against using retreaded
tires, since driving safety may be
impaired. The causes for this include potentially
different tire casing structures and often wide
variations in tire age, which can result in a lim-
ited service life.<
Correct wheels and tires
BMW recommends using only wheels
and tires that have been approved by
BMW for your particular vehicle model, other-
wise body contact and serious accidents can
result despite the use of the same nominal size,
e.g. due to manufacturing tolerances. If non-
84
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
approved wheels and tires are used, BMW can-
not evaluate their suitability, and therefore can-
not be held liable for driving safety.<
all-season tires with M+S designation provide
better winter traction than summer tires, they
generally do not achieve the full performance of
winter tires.
You can inquire about the correct wheel/tire
combination at your BMW Center.
Pay attention to speed
The correct combination of wheels and tires is
also necessary to ensure reliable operation of
various vehicle systems such as ABS and DSC.
Always comply with the speed limit for the
winter tires mounted on your car; failure
to do so could result in tire damage and acci-
dents.<
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, only use tires of a single brand and
tread configuration. After a tire has been dam-
aged, for instance, mount the original wheel and
tire combination again as soon as possible.
If the car is capable of speeds higher than that
permitted for the winter tires, a label stating the
maximum permitted speed for the mounted
tires must be displayed in your field of view.
Specialist tire dealers and your BMW Center
can supply these labels.
Recommended tire brands
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 pressure
indicated on the sidewall of the tire.
Certain makes of tire are recommended by
BMW for each tire size. They are marked with a
clearly visible BMW designation on the sidewall
of the tire.
Snow chains*
Only certain fine-link snow chains have been
tested by BMW, classified as safe for use and
recommended. Consult your BMW Center for
more information. Attach snow chains in pairs
and only to the rear wheels.
Observe the manufacturer's instructions when
mounting snow chains. Do not exceed a speed
When properly used, these tires meet the high-
est standards in terms of safety and handling
characteristics.
Run-Flat Tires
When mounting new tires or changing over
from summer to winter tires and vice versa,
mount Run-Flat Tires for your own safety. In the
event of a flat, moreover, no spare wheel is
available. Your BMW Center will be glad to pro-
vide you with more information.
You are not permitted to mount snow chains to
tires of the following sizes:
>
>
255/40 R 17
255/35 R 18
Do not initialize the Flat Tire Monitor if
snow chains are mounted, otherwise the
instrument might issue an incorrect reading.
When driving with snow chains, you may find it
helpful to activate DTC temporarily, refer to
page 50.<
For safety reasons, BMW recommends
that damaged Run-Flat Tires be replaced
rather than repaired.<
Special characteristics of winter tires
BMW recommends the use of winter tires for
operation under winter road conditions. While
85
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Under the hood
Do not work on the car unless you pos-
sess the necessary technical knowledge.
If you are unfamiliar with the statutory guide-
lines, have any work on the vehicle performed
only by a BMW Center or by a workshop that
work according to BMW repair procedures with
correspondingly trained personnel. If this work
is not carried out properly, there is a danger of
subsequent damage and related safety haz-
ards.<
To close
Close the hood from a height of approx. 16 in/
40 cm with momentum. It must be clearly heard
to engage.
Hood
Make sure that the closing path of the
hood is clear, otherwise injuries may
result.
To release
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
Press the release handle and open the hood.
86
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Important parts in the engine compartment
1
2
Washer fluid reservoir for headlamp clean-
ing system and window washer system,
refer to page 44
3
4
5
Jump-starting connection, refer to page 99
Reservoir for brake fluid, refer to page 90
Body ground, negative terminal, refer to
page 100
Filler neck for engine oil, refer to Adding
engine oil
6
Expansion tank for coolant, refer to page 89
Engine oil
Oil consumption is directly influenced by your
driving style and vehicle operating conditions.
Do not continue driving, otherwise the
engine could sustain serious damage
from inadequate lubrication.<
Warning lamp
Engine oil level
Engine oil pressure
The warning lamp lights up in yellow
The warning lamp lights up in red:
The engine oil pressure is too low.
Stop the vehicle immediately and
while you are driving. In addition, a sig-
nal sounds and "+1.0" appears in the
instrument cluster, refer to page 88.
switch off the engine. Check the engine oil level
and top up if necessary. If the oil level is correct,
please contact your nearest BMW Center or a
workshop that works according to BMW repair
procedures with correspondingly trained per-
sonnel.
The oil level is at the absolute minimum; refill as
soon as possible. Do not drive more than
125 miles/200 km before refilling.
The warning lamp comes on in yellow
after the engine is switched off. A signal
also sounds.
Add engine oil at the earliest opportunity, e.g.
when you stop to refuel.
87
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
The warning lamp lights up in yellow
within 30 seconds after the engine is
started: The oil level sensor is defec-
Possible displays
tive:
It is not possible to issue a current or accurate
measurement. Have the system checked as
soon as possible.
Checking the oil level
Your car is equipped with an electronic oil-level
monitor.
For a precise measurement and display of the
oil level, it is necessary that the engine be at
operating temperature, i.e. after uninterrupted
driving for at least approx. 6.5 miles/10 km. You
can have the oil level displayed while you are
driving, or while the vehicle is at a standstill on a
level surface and the engine is running.
You can have the oil level reading displayed in
the instrument cluster.
1
2
Oil level OK
Oil level is being checked.
This can take about 3 minutes if the car is at
a standstill on a level surface, or about
5 minutes while the car is on the move.
3
4
Oil level down to minimum:
Add 1 US quart/1 liter of engine oil as soon
as possible, refer also to Adding engine oil.
Oil level is too high.
Press button 1. The oil level is checked and dis-
played for approx. 15 seconds.
Have the vehicle checked immedi-
ately, as excessive oil can damage the
engine.<
To exit the display sooner, press button 1 again.
5
The oil level sensor is defective:
it is not possible to issue a current or accu-
rate measurement.
Do not add engine oil. You can continue
your journey. Have the system checked as
soon as possible.
88
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
You can also call BMW of North America at
1-800-831-1117 or visit the website
Adding engine oil
Do not use any oil additives, as they could
cause engine damage under some cir-
cumstances.<
Viscosity classes
Viscosity is a measure of an oil's flow rating and
is categorized in SAE classes.
Selecting the appropriate SAE class depends
on the regional climatic conditions in which you
normally drive your BMW.
Do not add the maximum amount of 1 US quart/
1 liter of engine oil until the warning lamp lights
up in the instrument cluster, refer to page 87, or
until the oil level monitor shows "+1.0".
Approved oils belong to the 5W-40 and
5W-30 classes.<
Add oil within the next 125 miles/200 km,
otherwise the engine could be dam-
aged.<
These oils can be used for driving at all outside
temperatures.
Keep oils, greases, etc. out of the reach of
children and comply with the warnings on
the containers. Otherwise, health hazards may
result.<
Coolant
Warning lamp
Oil change
The warning lamp lights up:
Have your oil changed only by a BMW Center or
a workshop that works according to BMW
requirements with the appropriately trained
personnel.
The coolant level is too low. Top up the
coolant as soon as possible.
Do not open the cooling system when the
engine is hot. If you do, escaping coolant
can cause burns.<
Approved engine oils
Coolant consists of water and coolant additives.
Not all commercially available additives are suit-
able for your BMW. Your BMW Center knows
which additives are appropriate.
The quality of the engine oil is extremely impor-
tant for the function and life of an engine. BMW
continuously approves specific oils after con-
firming their suitability for use in its vehicles
with extensive testing.
Only use approved additives, otherwise
the engine could be damaged. The addi-
tives are hazardous to health.<
Only use approved BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil.
Comply with the appropriate environ-
mental protection regulations when dis-
posing of coolant additives.<
If BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil is not
available, you can add small quantities of other
synthetic oils in between oil changes. Only use
oils with the API SH specification or higher.
Checking the coolant level
Your BMW Center will be glad to answer
any questions regarding BMW High Per-
formance Synthetic Oil or other approved syn-
thetic oils.<
1. The engine must be at ambient tempera-
ture.
2. Turn the cap of the expansion tank a little
counterclockwise to allow any accumulated
89
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
pressure to escape, then continue turning
to open.
Brake pads
The warning lamp lights up. The brake
3. The coolant level is correct if the upper end
of the red float spindle is at least at the same
level as the upper edge of the filler neck but
no more than 3/4 in or 2 cm above it, i.e. up
to the mark on the float spindle. Refer also
to the diagram next to the filler neck.
pads have worn down to the minimum
safe limit. Have the brake pads
replaced as soon as possible.
For your own safety: only use brake pads
which BMW has approved for your spe-
cific vehicle model. BMW cannot evaluate non-
approved brake pads to determine if they are
suitable for use, and therefore cannot guaran-
tee the operating safety of the vehicle in the
event of their use.<
4. If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant up to
the specified level; do not overfill.
5. Twist the cap back on and tighten it firmly.
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 brake
pedal travel may be necessary and brak-
ing distances may be significantly longer. Be
sure to adapt your driving style accordingly.<
Canadian models display this warning
lamp.
90
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Maintenance
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models and Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet for
Canadian models
BMW Maintenance System
Please consult your Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet for US models and Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models
for additional information on service require-
ments.
BMW recommends that you have service
and repair operations performed at your
BMW Center.
Take the time to ensure that these service pro-
cedures are confirmed by entries in your vehi-
cle’s Service and Warranty Information Booklet
for US models and Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models. These entries
verify that your vehicle has received the speci-
fied regular maintenance.<
The BMW Maintenance System helps maintain
the road safety and operating reliability of your
BMW.
Regular maintenance is not only necessary for
the safety of your vehicle, but also plays a sig-
nificant role in maintaining the resale value of
your vehicle.
Service interval display
The BMW Maintenance System takes the vehi-
cle's operating conditions into account for the
service intervals:
Socket for On-Board
Diagnosis OBD
From a maintenance point of view,
62,100 miles/100,000 km accumulated in
short-distance urban driving are not the same
as 62,100 miles/100,000 km accumulated at
moderate cruising speeds in long-distance
highway travel.
The BMW Maintenance System includes the
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 6,210 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
use.
Vehicle components that are relevant to the
composition of exhaust emissions can be
checked with a device via the OBD socket.
This socket is located on the driver's side to the
left, on the bottom of the instrument panel
underneath a cover.
91
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Exhaust emission values
The warning lamp lights up: the
exhaust emission values have wors-
ened. Have the car checked as soon as
possible.
The lamps flash under certain conditions. This
indicates excessive misfiring of the engine. If
this happens, you should reduce your speed
and visit your nearest BMW Center as soon as
possible. Severe engine misfiring can quickly
lead to serious damage of emissions-related
components, especially the catalytic converter.
Canadian models display this warning
lamp.
If the gas cap is not properly tightened,
the OBD system will assume that fuel
vapor is escaping. An indicator will then light up.
If the cap is then tightened, the indicator will go
out within a few days.<
Event Data Recorders
Your vehicle may be equipped with one or sev-
eral measuring or diagnostic modules or a
device for recording or sending certain vehicle
data or information. In addition, if you have
signed a subscription contract for BMW Assist,
certain vehicle data may be transmitted or
recorded in order to facilitate the corresponding
services.
Care
Important information on the care and mainte-
nance of your BMW is contained in the Caring
for your vehicle brochure.
92
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Replacing components
be handled carefully. BMW recommends hav-
Onboard tool kit
ing your BMW Center perform any work that
you do not feel competent to perform yourself
or that is not described here.
Do not touch the glass portion of a new
bulb with your bare hands since even
small amounts of impurities burn into the sur-
face and reduce the service life of the bulb. Use
a clean cloth, paper napkin or a similar material,
or hold the bulb by its metallic base.<
A replacement bulb set is available from your
BMW Center.
The onboard tool kit is stored in a tool pouch. It
is located in the cargo bay beneath the floor
panel.
When working on electrical systems,
always begin by switching off the corre-
sponding consumers, otherwise short-circuits
could result. To avoid possible injury or equip-
ment damage when replacing bulbs, be sure to
observe any instructions provided by the bulb
manufacturer.<
Windshield wiper blades
1. Fold up the wiper arm.
2. Place the wiper blade in a position at right
angles to the wiper arm.
For care and maintenance of the headlamps,
please follow the instructions in the separate
Caring for your vehicle brochure.
3. Press the locking spring.
If the routine for changing a particular
bulb is not described here, please contact
your BMW Center or a workshop that works
according to BMW repair procedures with cor-
respondingly trained personnel.<
Light-emitting diodes LEDs
Control elements, display units and other inte-
rior equipment in your vehicle use a light-emit-
ting diode behind a cover as a light source.
These light-emitting diodes, which operate
using a concept similar to that applied in con-
ventional lasers, are officially designated as
Class 1 light-emitting diodes.
4. Fold in the wiper blade and unhook it in the
direction of the windshield.
5. Pull the wiper blade past the wiper arm
toward the top.
6. Insert the new wiper blade and press it on
until it audibly engages.
Do not remove the covers, and do not
look directly at the unfiltered light for sev-
eral hours. Otherwise, your eyes could suffer
irritation of the retina.<
Lamps and bulbs
Lamps and bulbs make an essential contribu-
tion to vehicle safety. They should, therefore,
93
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
2. Open the flap in the wheel well. To do so,
turn the fastener counterclockwise using a
coin, for example.
Xenon lamps*
These bulbs have a very long service life and are
unlikely to fail. If one of these bulbs should nev-
ertheless fail, it is possible to continue driving
with great caution using the fog lamps, provided
traffic laws in your area do not prohibit this.
Have work on the xenon lighting system
performed only by your BMW Center or a
workshop that works according to BMW repair
procedures with correspondingly trained per-
sonnel. Due to the high electrical voltages
present, there is a risk of potentially fatal acci-
dents if work is performed inappropriate.<
3. Open up the flap in the wheel well.
Parking lamps, roadside parking lamps
Headlamp cover
In the event of a malfunction, please contact
your BMW Center or a workshop that works
according to BMW repair procedures with cor-
respondingly trained personnel.
1. Pull the wire clamp past the catches, see
arrows, and fold it down.
Halogen lamps
For checking and adjusting headlamp
aim, please contact your BMW Center.<
Access through the wheel well
1. Turn the wheel outwards.
2. Flip the headlamp cover open and remove.
Reinstall the headlamp cover carefully. If
it is not on tight, the headlamp installation
could be damaged.<
Reinstall the headlamp cover in reverse order.
Low beams and high beams
1
2
Low beams
High beams
94
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
55-watt bulb, H7
The H7 bulb is pressurized. Therefore,
3. Use the Phillips-head screwdriver to take
the bulb socket out.
wear safety glasses and protective
gloves. Otherwise there is a risk of injury if the
bulb is damaged.<
1. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and
take it out.
2. Remove and replace the bulb.
3. Insert bulb socket.
Side marker lamps, front
5-watt bulb, W5W
4. Remove and replace the bulb.
5. Insert bulb socket.
1. Take out bulb socket.
Side turn signal indicators
5-watt bulb, WY5W
2. Remove and replace the bulb.
3. Insert bulb socket.
1. Turn the lamp to the left and remove.
Front turn signal indicators
2. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb socket
while turning it to the left and remove it.
21-watt bulb, H21
1. Insert a Phillips-head screwdriver from the
onboard tool kit into the appropriate open-
ing, arrows 1.
3. Remove and replace the bulb.
4. Insert bulb socket.
5. Insert the lamp.
2. Turn the Phillips-head screwdriver to the
left, arrows 2.
95
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Rear lamps
Center high-mount brake lamp
This lamp uses LED technology for operation.
In the event of a malfunction, please contact
your BMW Center or a workshop that works
according to BMW repair procedures with cor-
respondingly trained personnel.
License plate lamps
5-watt bulb, W5W
1
Turn signal indicators, 21 watts, PY21W
Silver Vision
2
3
4
5
Brake lamp, 21 watts, P21W
Backup lamp, 16 watts, W16W
Tail lamp, LED
Brake lamp, 21 watts, H21W
In the event of a malfunction in lamp 4 or 5,
please contact your BMW Center or a workshop
that works according to BMW repair proce-
dures with correspondingly trained personnel.
1. Push out the lamp with a screwdriver and
remove it.
2. Change the bulb and reinsert the lamp.
Changing bulbs
Changing a wheel
Run-Flat Tires
Your BMW is equipped with Run-Flat Tires as
standard. Therefore, no wheel has to be
inflation pressure.
Run-Flat Tires are labeled on the tire sidewall
with a circular symbol containing the letters
RSC. Also observe the information on page 84.
1. Remove the cover in the cargo bay by turn-
ing the lock, see arrow.
When mounting new tires or changing over
from summer to winter tires and vice versa,
mount Run-Flat Tires for your own safety. In the
event of a flat, moreover, no spare wheel is
available. Your BMW Center will be glad to
advise you. Refer also to Wheel and tire
replacement, page 84
2. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb socket
while turning it to the left and remove it.
3. Remove and replace the bulb.
4. Insert bulb socket.
5. Reattach the cover.
The tools for changing wheels are avail-
able as optional accessories from your
BMW Center.<
Side marker lamps, rear
To change the bulbs, please contact your BMW
Center or a workshop that works according to
BMW repair procedures with correspondingly
trained personnel.
96
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
or bring it to a recycling point. Maintain the bat-
tery in an upright position for transport and stor-
transporting.<
Jacking points
Power loss
After a temporary power loss, the functioning of
some equipment may be limited and require ini-
tialization. Individual settings are also lost and
must be reset:
>
Seat memory
The jacking points are located at the positions
indicated in the illustration.
The positions must be stored again, refer to
page 32.
>
Clock must be reset, refer to page 47.
Vehicle battery
Maintenance
Fuses
The battery is completely maintenance-free.
This means that the original electrolyte will nor-
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
questions concerning the battery.
Do not attempt to repair a burned fuse or
replace it with a fuse having a different
color or amperage rating. To do this could
cause a fire in the vehicle as a result of circuit
overload.<
You will find the fuses and information on their
respective allocation behind the glove compart-
ment.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp lights up:
The battery is no longer being charged.
The alternator drive belt is defective or
there is a malfunction in the charging circuit of
the alternator. Have the system checked as
soon as possible.
1. Open the glove compartment.
2. Press the lock on the left, arrow 1.
If the drive belt is defective, pull over and
switch off the engine immediately to pre-
vent overheating and serious engine damage.
If the onboard supply voltage drops to a very
low level, increased steering effort may also be
necessary.<
3. Press the lock on the right, arrow 2.
Charging the battery
4. Swing the glove compartment down.
Charge the battery in the vehicle only when the
engine has been switched off. Connections,
refer to Jump-starting on page 99.
Spare fuses and plastic tweezers for grasping
the fuses are found in the onboard tool kit; refer
to page 93.
Battery disposal
After changing a battery, have the used
battery disposed of by your BMW Center
97
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Giving and receiving assistance
If your vehicle is equipped with an activated
Receiving assistance
BMW Assist and the current location of the
vehicle can be determined, this location is
transmitted to the BMW Assist response cen-
ter.
If your vehicle has the necessary equipment,
you can use buttons in the center console to
contact Roadside Assistance or issue an emer-
gency call.
If the LED is flashing but you cannot hear the
emergency response center, you may still be
heard by the emergency response center.
Requirements for initiating an emergency call or
contacting Roadside Assistance:
>
>
The key must be in position 1 or higher.
If certain requirements are met, an emergency
call is automatically initiated after a serious
accident. The automatic emergency call will not
be hindered by pressing the button.
The car phone must be logged on to a
mobile telephone network.
>
The emergency call system must be opera-
ble.
For technical reasons, the emergency call
cannot be guaranteed under unfavorable
conditions.<
Access to the buttons
The buttons are in the center console, under a
cover flap in front of the parking brake.
Roadside Assistance
The BMW Group's Roadside Assistance ser-
vice is there to assist you around the clock in
the event of a breakdown, including on week-
ends and public holidays.
The phone numbers of the Roadside Assis-
tance in your home country can be found in the
Contact brochure.
Contacting Roadside Assistance*
1. Fold the cover flap upward to open it.
2. Press button 2 for at least 2 seconds.
1
2
Emergency call*
Roadside Assistance*
The LED in the button lights up. As soon as a
telephone connection to the Roadside Assis-
tance has been set up, the LED flashes.
Initiating an emergency call*
1. Fold the cover flap upward to open it.
Depending on the country you are in, your vehi-
cle's current location will also be transmitted if
your vehicle is equipped with an activated BMW
Assist function.
2. Press button 1 for at least 2 seconds.
The LED in the button lights up. As soon as a
telephone connection to the BMW Assist
response center has been set up, the LED
flashes.
If the circumstances allow this, remain in the
vehicle until the connection has been estab-
lished. You will then be able to provide a
detailed description of the situation.
98
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Warning triangle*
Jump-starting
If the car's own battery is flat, your BMW's
engine can be started by connecting two
jumper cables to another vehicle's battery. You
can also use the same method to help start
another vehicle. Always use jumper cables with
fully insulated handles on the terminal clamps.
Do not touch any electrically live parts
when the engine is running, or a fatal acci-
dent may occur. Contact with these compo-
nents can cause fatal injury. Carefully observe
the following instructions to avoid personal
injury and/or damage to one or both vehicles.<
The warning triangle is stored in the rear trim
panel of the cargo bay.
To take it out, pull the ends of the rubber bands
upward and out of the fasteners.
Preparations
1. Check whether the battery of the support
vehicle has 12 volts and approximately the
same capacitance in Ah. This information
can be found on the battery.
First-aid kit*
2. Switch off the engine of the assisting vehi-
cle.
3. Switch off all electrical accessories in both
vehicles.
There must not be any contact between
the bodies of the two vehicles, otherwise
there is a danger of shorting.<
Connecting jumper cables
The first-aid kit is located beneath the passen-
ger seat.
Connect the jumper cables in the correct
order; otherwise, sparks at the battery
terminals could pose an injury hazard.<
Some of the articles in the first-aid kit have a
limited period of use before expiration. For this
reason, check the expiration dates of each of
the items regularly, and replace any with passed
dates.
On your BMW, the so-called jump-starting con-
nection in the engine compartment serves as
the battery positive terminal, refer also to the
engine compartment overview on page 87. The
symbol + is embossed on the cover.
To open
1. Pull the handle.
2. Swing the cover downward.
To close
Swing the cover back up until it engages.
99
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
1. Open the cover of the BMW jump-starting
connection. Do so by pulling the tab.
Starting the engine
1. Start the engine of the donor vehicle and
allow it to run for a few minutes at slightly
increased idle speed.
2. Start the engine of the other vehicle as
usual.
If the first start attempt is not successful,
wait a few minutes before another attempt
in order to allow the discharged battery to
recharge.
3. Let the engines run for a few minutes.
2. Attach one terminal clamp of the plus/+
jumper cable to the positive terminal of the
battery or a jump-starting connection of the
vehicle providing assistance.
4. Disconnect the jumper cables by reversing
the above connecting sequence.
If necessary, have the battery checked and
recharged.
3. Attach the second terminal clamp of the
plus/+ jumper cable to the positive terminal
of the battery or a jump-starting connection
of the vehicle to be started.
Never use spray starter fluids to start the
engine.<
4. Attach one terminal clamp of the minus/–
jumper cable to the negative terminal of the
battery or to an engine or body ground of
the assisting vehicle.
Tow-starting, towing away
Using the towing eyelet
The screw-in tow fitting must always be carried
in the car. It can be attached at the front or rear
of your BMW.
Your BMW is equipped with a special nut,
refer also to the engine compartment over-
view on page 87.
It is located in the onboard tool kit, refer to
page 93.
Only use the towing eyelet supplied with
the vehicle, and screw it in firmly until it
stops. Use the towing eyelet for towing on
paved roads only. Avoid subjecting the towing
eyelet to lateral loads, e.g. do not lift the vehicle
using the towing eyelet. Otherwise the tow fit-
ting and the vehicle could be damaged.<
5. Attach the second terminal clamp of the
minus/– jumper cable to the negative termi-
nal of the battery or to the engine or body
ground of the vehicle to be started.
100
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Access to the threaded socket
With a tow bar
Press out the cover with a screwdriver inserted
in the recess at the top.
The towing vehicle must not be lighter
than the towed vehicle, otherwise it may
be impossible to maintain control.<
The towing eyelets of both vehicles should be
on the same side. Should it prove impossible to
avoid mounting the tow bar at an angle, please
observe the following:
>
Clearance and maneuvering capability will
be sharply limited during cornering.
>
The tow bar will generate lateral forces if it is
attached offset.
Attach the tow bar to the tow fittings only,
as attaching it to other parts of the vehicle
could result in damage.<
Being towed
Make sure that the key is in position 1,
because otherwise the steering lock
could engage and the vehicle could no longer
be steered. There is no power assist while the
engine is off. Therefore, you will need to exert
more force to brake and steer the vehicle.<
With a tow rope
Before the towing vehicle starts to drive off,
make sure that the tow rope is taut.
Use nylon ropes or straps for towing
because they prevent sudden jerking
movements. Attach the tow rope to the tow fit-
tings only, as attaching it to other parts of the
vehicle could result in damage.<
Turn on the hazard warning flashers, if required
by national regulations. If the electrical system
has failed, clearly identify the vehicle being
towed, e.g. by placing a sign or a warning trian-
gle in the rear window.
With a tow truck
Manual transmission
Gearshift lever in idling position.
Automatic transmission
Selector lever in position N.
Do not exceed a towing speed of 45 mph/
70 km/h or a towing distance of 90 miles/
150 km. Otherwise, the automatic transmission
could be damaged.<
Have the BMW transported by a tow truck with
a lift sling or a flat bed.
Towing methods
In some countries, it is not permitted to tow the
vehicle with a tow bar or tow rope on public
roads.
Do not lift the vehicle by the towing eye-
let, or by parts of the body or chassis.
Otherwise damage could result.<
Familiarize yourself with the applicable towing
regulations for the country in which you are
driving.
Tow-starting
Do not tow-start vehicles with an auto-
matic transmission. Vehicles with a cata-
lytic converter should only be tow-started if the
101
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
engine is cold. It is recommended to start the
engine using jumper cables, refer to page 99.<
1. Switch on hazard warning flashers, comply
with local regulations.
2. Turn the key to position 2.
3. Shift into 3rd gear.
4. Have the vehicle tow-started with the clutch
depressed and slowly release the clutch.
After the engine starts, immediately
depress the clutch again.
5. Stop at a suitable location, remove the tow
bar or rope and switch off the hazard warn-
ing flashers.
6. Have the vehicle checked.
102
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
103
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Technical data
Engine data
Z4 3.0i
182.8/2,996
6
Z4 3.0si
182.8/2,996
6
Displacement
cu in/cmµ
Number of cylinders
Maximum power output
at engine speed
hp
rpm
215
255
6,250
6,600
Maximum torque
at engine speed
ft lbs/Nm
rpm
185/251
2,750
220/300
2,750
106
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Weights
Roadster
Z4 3.0i
Z4 3.0si
Curb weight
>
>
Manual transmission
Automatic transmission
lbs/kg
lbs/kg
3,020/1,370
3,086/1,400
3,086/1,400
3,131/1,420
Approved gross vehicle weight
>
>
Manual transmission
lbs/kg
lbs/kg
3,571/1,620
3,638/1,650
551/250
3,638/1,650
3,682/1,670
551/250
Automatic transmission
Load
lbs/kg
Approved front axle load
Approved rear axle load
Cargo bay capacity
lbs/kg
1,720/780
1,940/880
8.5/240
1,742/790
1,962/890
8.5/240
lbs/kg
cu ft/liters
cu ft/liters
With convertible top compartment folded up
9.2/260
9.2/260
Never exceed either the approved axle loads or the approved gross vehicle weight.
Coupe
Z4 3.0si
Curb weight
>
>
Manual transmission
lbs/kg
lbs/kg
3,108/1,410
3,156/1,430
Automatic transmission
Approved gross vehicle weight
>
>
Manual transmission
lbs/kg
lbs/kg
3,726/1,690
3,770/1,710
617/280
Automatic transmission
Load
lbs/kg
Approved front axle load
Approved rear axle load
Cargo bay capacity
lbs/kg
1,764/800
lbs/kg
2,006/910
cu ft/liters
10.1-12.0/285-340
Never exceed either the approved axle loads or the approved gross vehicle weight.
109
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Capacities
Notes
Fuel tank
US gal/liters approx. 14.5/55
Fuel specifications: page 79
including reserve of
Window washer system
including headlamp washers
US gal/liters
approx. 2.1/8
For details: page 44
For details: page 89
US quarts/liters
approx. 5.3/5
Cooling system including
heating circuit
>
>
Manual transmission
US quarts/liters
US quarts/liters
US quarts/liters
8.0/7.6
8.9/8.4
6.9/6.5
Automatic transmission
Engine with oil filter renewal
Oil grades: page 89
110
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
111
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Index
Air pressure, refer to Tire
Automatic
– air flow rate 62
– headlamp control 55
– luggage compartment lid
A
Air recirculation, refer to
Recirculated-air
ABS Antilock Brake
System 49
– indicator lamp 12
Accident, refer to Emergency
call 98
Acknowledgment signal for
locking/unlocking vehicle 19
Activated-charcoal filter for
Additives
– coolant 89
– engine oil 89
Adjusting
– seats 30
Alarm system 23
alarms 24
All-season tires, refer to
Winter tires 83, 85
Ambient air, refer to
Recirculated-air
– recirculated-air control
Automatic car wash, refer to
Automatic convertible top 27
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 40
Adjusting the thigh support 32
Airbags 52
mode 59, 63
– deactivating 36
Ambient temperature
Antenna, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
– indicator lamp 13
– shiftlock 40
– indicator/warning lamp 13
– passenger airbags indicator
lamp 36
– reactivation 36
– safe seating position 30
Airbag switch, refer to Key
switch for passenger
airbags 35
Air conditioning 58
Air-conditioning operation,
refer to Cooling
wheel 41
– tow-starting 101
AUTO program for automatic
Average fuel consumption 48
Average speed 48
– setting unit of measure 48
Avoiding unintentional
alarms 24
– washer fluids 44
Antilock Brake System
ABS 49
– indicator/warning lamp 12
Anti-theft alarm system, refer
Anti-theft protection 19, 23
Approved engine oils 89
Artificial leather, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
function 59, 62
Air distribution
– air conditioning 59
– automatic climate control 62
– individual 59, 62
Air flow rate
– air conditioning 59
– automatic climate control 62
Airing out, refer to
Ventilation 59, 63
Air outlets, refer to
Ventilation 59, 63
Axle loads, refer to
Weights 109
Ashtray 65
Assistance systems, refer to
Driving stability control
systems 49
AUC Automatic recirculated-
air control 63
B
Backrests, refer to Seat
adjustment 31
112
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Backup lamps
Brake rotors 72
Car care, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
your vehicle brochure
Caring for your vehicle
– bulb replacement 96
Bandages, refer to First-aid
kit 99
Bar, refer to Towing
methods 101
– ABS 49
– brake fluid 90
Battery 97
– brake pads 90
– charging 97
– disposal 97
– break-in procedures 70
– indicator/warning
– parking brake 39
Brake system 90
– capacity 109
– indicator/warning
lamp 12, 97
– jump-starting 99
– power supply interruption 97
– remote control 18
Being towed 101
Belts, refer to Safety belts 33
Belt tensioner, refer to Safety
belts 33
Beverage holders 65
Blower, refer to Air flow
rate 59, 62
BMW Homepage 4
BMW Maintenance
System 91
Bottle holders, refer to
Beverage holders 65
Brake assist, refer to Dynamic
Brake Control DBC 49
Brake fluid 90
– indicator/warning lamp 13
– level 90
– warning lamp 90
Brake Force Display 52
Brake hydraulics, refer to
Brake system 90
– opening from inside the
– stowing cargo 73
Car jack
Car keys, refer to The key
Carpet care, refer to the
brochure
Car phone, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Car radio, refer to the separate
for your vehicle brochure
Catalytic converter, refer to
Hot exhaust system 70
CD changer, refer to Owner's
Manual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
CD operation, refer to Owner's
Manual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
Center console, refer to
Around the center
console 14
Center high-mount brake
lamp, bulb replacement 96
Central locking
– brake fluid 90
– break-in procedures 70
Breaking in the differential,
refer to Engine and
differential 70
Bridging, refer to Jump-
Bulb changing, refer to Lamps
and bulbs 93
Bulb replacement, refer to
Buttons on the steering
Brake hydraulic system
– indicator/warning lamp 13
Brake lamps
– brake force display 52
– bulb replacement 96
– indicator lamp, defective
lamp 13
C
California laws
– Event Data Recorders 92
– Proposition 65 warning 5
Can holders, refer to Beverage
holders 65
Capacity
– cargo bay, refer to
Weights 109
Brake pads 90
– break-in procedures 70
– warning lamp 90
Brake pad wear indicator
– brake pads 90
– from inside 21
– indicator/warning lamp 13
Car battery, refer to Vehicle
battery 97
Central locking system 19
113
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Changes, technical, refer to
For your own safety 5
– Run-Flat Tires 96
Charge indicator lamp 12, 97
Check gas cap, indicator
lamp 13
– button BC 48
– refer to Owner's Manual for
Onboard Computer
Computer, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Condensation, refer to When
the vehicle is parked 72
Condensation, removing from
windows
– air conditioning 59
– automatic climate control 62
Configuring settings, refer to
Vehicle Memory, Key
– refer to Switching cooling
function on/off 59, 62
Cooling fluid, refer to
Coolant 89
Cooling function
– automatic climate control 62
Cooling system, refer to
Capacities 110
Child-restraint mounting
system, LATCH 37
Child seat, refer to Installing
child-restraint systems 36
Chrome parts, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Copyright 2
Cruising range 48
Cup holders, refer to
Curb weight, refer to
Cigarette lighter 65
Cleaning the rear window,
refer to the Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Cleaning the vehicle, refer to
the Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Connecting vacuum cleaner,
refer to Connecting
Cylinders, refer to Engine
data 106
consumption 48
Cleaning the windows
– automatically, refer to Rain
sensor 43
– reservoir capacity 110
– spray nozzles 44
Consumption display, refer to
Fuel gauge 46
Convenience operation
Dashboard, refer to
Dashboard lighting, refer to
Data, technical
– washer/wiper system 43
– washer fluid 44
– windows 20
– washer fluid reservoir 44
Clock 47
– 12h/24h mode 48
– onboard computer 48
– setting 48
– care, refer to the Caring for
your vehicle brochure
– convenience operation 20
– setting, refer also to Owner's
Manual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
– emergency closing 28
– fully automatic 27
– malfunction 28
Daytime running light 55
DBC Dynamic Brake
Control 49
Clothes hooks 66
Cockpit 10
Cold start, refer to Starting the
engine 38
– manual 26
– mechanical 26
Convertible top compartment
panel 23
– indicator/warning lamp 13
Deadlocking, refer to
Locking 19
Defective bulb 55
Comfort area, refer to Around
the center console 14
Compact disc operation, refer
to Owner's Manual for
Radio/Onboard Computer
Coolant 89
Defrosting, windows 59, 62
Defrosting the windshield,
refer to Defrosting
– checking level 89
– indicator lamp 13
– thermometer 47
Coolant water, refer to
Coolant 89
windows 59, 62
Defrosting windows and
removing condensation
– air conditioning 59
– automatic climate control 62
114
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Defrost position, refer to
Dehumidifying air, refer to
Switching cooling function
on/off 59, 62
DSC Dynamic Stability
– indicator/warning lamp 49
DTC Dynamic Traction
Engine 38
– indicator lamp 13
– overheated, refer to Coolant
thermometer 47
Digital clock 47
Dimensions 107, 108
Dimming mirrors 71
Directional indicators, refer to
Turn signal indicators 42
Disc brakes 72
– indicator/warning
DBC 49
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC 49
– speed 46
– starting 38
– switching off 39
– temperature 47
Engine coolant, refer to
Displacement, refer to Engine
data 106
Display elements, refer to
Instrument cluster 12
Display lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting 56
Displays, refer to Instrument
cluster 12
Displays and controls 10
Disposal
– coolant 89
– vehicle battery 97
Distance remaining, refer to
Cruising range 48
Door keys, refer to The key
set 18
Dynamic Traction Control
Engine oil 87
– adding 89
– additives, refer to Approved
engine oils 89
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet for US
models, Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet for
Canadian models
– checking level 88
E
EBV Electronic brake-force
distribution 49
Electric
Steptronic 41
– fuel filler door 78
– tailgate 22
Electric Power Steering
EPS 52
– indicator/warning
Electric power windows 25
– power loss 25
Door lock 20
Doors, unlocking and locking
– acknowledgment
signals 19, 20
– from inside 21
– from outside 19
DOT quality grades 82
Draft-free ventilation 59, 63
Drive-off assistant 50
Driving light, refer to Parking
lamps/Low beams 55
Driving notes 70
Driving stability control
systems 49
Driving through water 71
Driving tips, refer to Driving
notes 70
Engine output, refer to Engine
data 106
Engine starting, refer to
EPS Electric Power
Equipment scope, refer to the
Service and Warranty
Information Booklet for US
models, Warranty and
Service Guide Booklet
ESP Electronic Stability
Program, refer to DSC
Dynamic Stability
Electronic
– brake-force distribution 49
– oil level check 88
Emergency call 98
– button 98
Emergency operation, refer to
Opening manually
– tailgate 22
Dry air, refer to Switching
cooling function on/
off 59, 62
Control 49
Exhaust system, refer to Hot
exhaust system 70
Emergency services, refer to
Roadside Assistance 98
115
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Exterior mirrors 34
– adjusting 34
– automatic dimming
feature 71
– automatic heating 34
– folding in and out 34
Eyeglasses compartment 65
Eyes, tow-starting and towing
away 100
Floor mats, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Fog lamps 56
Footbrake, refer to Braking
For your own safety 5
FTM, refer to Flat Tire
Weights 109
– replacing bulbs 94
Handbrake, refer to Parking
brake 39
Hardtop, refer to the separate
Owner's Manual
Hardtop preparation 73
Headlamp control,
– indicator lamp 12
Headlamps
Fuel
F
– capacity, refer to
Capacities 110
– display 46
Fuel display, refer to Fuel
False alarm
– refer to Avoiding
unintentional alarms 24
– refer to Switching off an
alarm 24
Fasten safety belts, refer to
Safety belts 33
Filter
Fuel filler flap, refer to Gas
Fuel level
Capacities 110
top 27
– bulb replacement 94
– care, refer to the Caring for
your vehicle brochure
– cleaning system, washer
– refer to Microfilter 60
– refer to Microfilter/activated-
charcoal filter 63
Fine wood, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
First aid, refer to First-aid
kit 99
– cover 94
– glass, care, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
First-aid kit 99
Flat
Fuses 97
– Run-Flat Tires 84
Flat tire 51
– washer reservoir, refer to
refer to Capacities 110
Head restraints 32
Heated
– seats 33
Heated mirrors 34
Heating
– Flat Tire Monitor 51
– indicator/warning lamp 13
– refer to Changing a wheel 96
– refer to Tire condition 83
– Run-Flat Tires 84
Flat Tire Monitor FTM 51
– indicator/warning lamp 51
– initializing the system 51
– snow chains 85
Gasoline, refer to Fuel
Gasoline gauge, refer to Fuel
Gear indicator, automatic
transmission with
Steptronic 40
Gear lever
– system limits 51
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 40
– manual transmission 40
Gearshifts
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 40
– manual transmission 40
Glove compartment 64
– mirrors 34
– rear window 59, 63
– seats 33
Heavy loads, refer to Cargo
loading 72
Height, refer to
Flat tire service, refer to
Roadside Assistance 98
Floods, refer to Driving
through water 71
Floor covers, carpets, refer to
the Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Dimensions 107, 108
116
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Height adjustment
– seats 31
Interval
– steering wheel 34
High beams 56
– alarm system 24
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
– DSC 49
J
– bulb replacement 94
– headlamp flasher 42
– indicator lamp 12
High temperatures 70
Holders for beverages 65
Homepage BMW 4
Hood 86
Jack 96
Jets, refer to
Ventilation 59, 63
– DTC 50
– engine oil level 87
– engine oil pressure 87
– fasten safety belts 33
Horn 10
K
Hot exhaust system 70
Hydraulic Brake Assistant,
refer to Dynamic Brake
Control DBC 49
Hydraulics, brake 90
Hydroplaning 71
Key Memory 18
Key switch for passenger
Indicator and warning lamps,
Individual vehicle
– equipment, refer to Your
individual vehicle 5
Inflation pressure, refer to Tire
– Flat Tire Monitor 51
– Tire inflation pressure 80
Initializing
Knee airbags 52
I
Ice warning, refer to Outside
temperature warning 46
Identification mark
– Run-Flat Tires 84
– tire coding 82
– tires 84, 85
Ignition, refer to Ignition
switched on 38
L
Lamps 55
LATCH, child-restraint
brochure
– Flat Tire Monitor FTM 51
– windows 25
Inspection 47
Ignition key positions, refer to
Ignition lock 38
Ignition keys, refer to The key
set 18
Ignition lock 38
Imprint 2
Inclines 71
Instrument cluster 12
Instrument lighting 56
Instrument panel, refer to
Cockpit 10
Instrument panel, refer to
Instrument cluster 12
Interior lamps 56
– remote control 19
Interior motion sensor 24
Interior rearview mirror 34
– automatic dimming
feature 71
LEDs Light-emitting
diodes 93
Dimensions 107, 108
License plate lamps, bulb
replacement 96
to the Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Light-emitting diodes
LEDs 93
Lighter socket, refer to
Cigarette lighter 65
Lighting
Interior temperature
adjusting 59, 62
Interlock, refer to Steering
locked 38, 40
Intermittent
– instruments 56
– lamps and bulbs 93
– vehicle, refer to Lamps 55
– operation of the wipers 43
117
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Lighting of the instruments,
refer to Instrument
lighting 56
Malfunction
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
Microphone, refer to Mobile
LIGHTS ON warning 56
Light switch 55
Loads, refer to Cargo
loading 72
Loads, securing 73
Locking the doors
– from inside 21
– from outside 19, 20
Locking the vehicle
– from inside 21
– from outside 19
Longlife oils
– approved engine oils 89
Low beams 55
– automatic 55
– convertible top 28
– tailgate 22
Malfunction of electrical
accessory 97
Manual mode, refer to
Steptronic 41
Owner's Manual for Radio/
Onboard Computer
– exterior mirrors 34
Mobile communications in the
separate Owner's Manual
Mobile phone preparation
car, refer to Mobile
communications in the
– bulb replacement 94
– indicator lamp, defective
lamp 13
Manual operation
Luggage compartment
– capacity 109
– floor panel 93
– increasing capacity 23
– opening and closing 21, 22
– opening from inside the
vehicle 21, 22
– opening from the
outside 21, 22
– emergency release 23
– indicator lamp 13
– opening from inside the
vehicle 22
– luggage compartment lid 22
– transmission lock, automatic
transmission 40
Manual transmission 40
Manufacturer 5
Master keys with remote
Maximum speed
MD operation, refer to
Owner's Manual for Radio/
Onboard Computer
Measurements, refer to
Dimensions 107, 108
Mechanical seat 31
Memory
to For your own safety 5
Multifunctional steering
the steering wheel 11
Multifunction switch
flasher 42
– refer to Washer/wiper
system 43
N
– opening from the outside 22
– remote control 19
separate Owner's Manual
Neck support, refer to Head
restraints 32
Nets 64
New
M
M+S tires, refer to Winter
tires 85
Maintenance 91
– Seat memory 32
– Vehicle Memory, Key
Memory 18
– keys 18
– tires 84
Nylon rope, refer to Tow
rope 101
– refer to Service Booklet
– refer to Service interval
display 47, 91
Microfilter
Making telephone calls, refer
to Owner's Manual for
Telephone
– air conditioning 60
– automatic climate control 63
118
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Passenger airbags
– deactivation 36
Passenger-side mirror tilt
function 34
O
– bulb replacement 96
– indicator lamp, defective
lamp 13
Rearview mirror, refer to
Mirrors 34
Rear window defroster
Recirculated-air mode
– air conditioning 59
– automatic climate control 63
Recirculating the air, refer to
Recirculated-air
OBD socket, refer to Socket
for On-Board Diagnosis
OBD 91
Octane numbers, refer to Fuel
specifications 79
Odometer 46
Oil, refer to Engine oil 87
Oil level 87
– checking 88
Oil service 47
Onboard computer, refer to
Computer 48
Onboard tool kit 93
Opening
– from inside 21
Opening and closing the
vehicle
– at the door lock 20
– from inside 21
– from outside 19
– with the remote control 19
Outlets, refer to
Ventilation 59, 63
Outside temperature display
– changing units of
measure 48
– in the onboard computer 48
Outside temperature
warning 46
Permissible axle load, refer to
Weights 109
Permissible gross weight,
Pinch protection system
Placing the vehicle in storage,
refer to the Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Plastic, refer to the Caring for
your vehicle brochure
Pollen
– refer to Microfilter 60
charcoal filter 63
– windows, refer to
Windows 25
Reclining seat, refer to
Releasing
Remaining distance, refer to
Cruising range 48
– luggage compartment lid 19
– tailgate 19
Repairs
– refer to Maintenance
Replacement key, refer to
Power convertible top 27
Power output, refer to Engine
Power windows
– initializing 25
Overheated engine, refer to
Coolant temperature 47
Replacement of tires 84
Replacing lamps, refer to
Lamps and bulbs 93
Replacing tires, refer to Wheel
Protective function, refer to
P
Paintwork, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Parking brake 39
– indicator lamp, refer to Fuel
gauge 46
R
– indicator lamp 13, 39
Parking lamps, refer to
Parking lamps/Low
beams 55
Parking lamps/Low beams 55
– bulb replacement 94
Parking lock, refer to P
Parking 40
Radio, refer to the separate
Owner's Manual
Restraint systems
– for children 36, 37
– refer to Safety belts 33
Reverse
– manual transmission 40
Reverse gear
Radio navigation, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Radio remote control key,
refer to Master keys with
remote control 18
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
Rain sensor 43
Reading lamps 57
Roadside Assistance 98
Roadside parking lamps 56
119
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Rod antenna, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Roller-blind cover 65
Rope, refer to Towing
methods 101
RSC Runflat System
Component, refer to Run-
Flat Tires 84
Rubber parts, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Screwdriver, refer to Onboard
tool kit 93
Screw thread, tow fitting 101
Seat Belt Reminder, refer to
'Fasten safety belts'
Seat heating 33
Seat memory 32
– heating 33
– memory, refer to Seat
memory 32
– power adjustment 31
– safe seating position 30
Securing, locking the vehicle
Side airbags 52
Side marker lamps, front
bulb replacement 95
Side windows, refer to
Windows 25
Slipstream deflector, refer to
Smokers' package, refer to
Snow chains 85
OBD 91
Socket, refer to Connecting
SOS, refer to Emergency
Runflat System Component
RSC, refer to Run-Flat
Tires 84
Run-Flat Tires 84
– changing a tire 83, 84, 85
– changing a wheel 96
– flat tire 51
– Flat Tire Monitor 51
– tire inflation pressure 80
– winter tires 85
Spare
– fuses 97
Runflat Tyres, refer to Run-
Flat Tires 84
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 40
– key 18
– wheel, refer to Run-Flat
Tires 85
Special oils, refer to Approved
Special wash program, refer to
brochure
Specified engine oils, refer to
Speed
– Run-Flat Tires 51
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 40
S
Safe seating position 30
– with airbags 30
– with head restraints 30
– with safety belts 30
Safety belts 33
– care, refer to the Caring for
your vehicle brochure
– damage 34
– indicator/warning lamp 33
– reminder 33
Service, refer to Roadside
Assistance 98
Service, refer to Service and
Warranty Information
Booklet for US models,
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian
models 91
Speedometer 12
– safe seating position 30
Safety knobs, doors, refer to
Locking the doors from
inside 21
Service interval display 47, 91
Sheet ice, refer to Outside
temperature warning 46
Shifting gears
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 41
– Driving Dynamic Control 42
Sports seat 31
Safety systems
– airbags 52
– Antilock Brake System
ABS 49
– driving stability control
systems 49
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 40
– manual transmission 40
Shiftlock, refer to Range
selection 40
Spray nozzles, refer to
Cleaning windshield 44
Stability control, refer to
Driving stability control
systems 49
Safety tires, refer to Run-Flat
Tires 84
Shift paddles on the steering
wheel 41
Starting, refer to Starting the
engine 38
120
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Starting assistance, refer to
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC 49
– age 82, 84
– changing 84
– emergency operation 22
– opening from inside the
Starting difficulties
– jump-starting 99
– temperature 39
– opening manually 22
lamps 96
– refer to Capacities 110
Tank indicator, refer to Fuel
gauge 46
Technical modifications, refer
Telephone, refer to the
separate Owner's Manual
Telephone preparation
– damage 84
– inflation pressure 80
– pressure monitoring, refer to
– replacement 84
– storage 85
– temperature 83
Starting with a flat battery,
refer to Jump-starting 99
Status of this Owner's Manual
at time of printing 5
Steering wheel 10
– adjusting 34
– buttons on steering
wheel 11
– lock 38
Steptronic, refer to Sport
program and Manual
operation 41
Storage compartments 64
– electrical fault 64
– eyeglasses compartment 65
– glove compartment 64
– opening manually 64
Storage nets 64
Storage space, refer to
– Cargo bay 23
Storage space, refer to
Storage compartments 64
Storing seat position, refer to
Seat memory 32
Stowage, refer to Storage
compartments 64
– tread wear 83
Grading 82
– wheel and tire
replacement 84
– winter tires 85
– with emergency features,
Tire storage 85
Tool kit, refer to Onboard tool
Torque, refer to Engine
Temperature
– coolant, refer to Coolant
– engine 47
Temperature display
– outside temperature
warning 46
– setting unit of measure 48
Tempomat, refer to Cruise
Third brake lamp, refer to
Center high-mount brake
lamp 96
Three-point safety belt, refer
to Safety belts 33
Tilt alarm sensor 25
Tilt function, passenger-side
mirror 34
Tire inflation pressure 80
– checking 80
Summer tires, refer to Wheels
and tires 80
Supply reservoir, refer to
Washer fluid reservoir 44
Switches, refer to Cockpit 10
Switch for passenger
airbags 35
Switching cooling function on/
off manually 59, 62
Symbols 4
Towing eyelet 100
transmission 101
Tow rope 101
Tow-starting 101
Tow truck 101
Track width, refer to
Dimensions 107, 108
Traction control, refer to
Dynamic Stability Control
DSC 49
T
Table of contents 3
Tachometer 46
– loss 51
– restoring 80
Tire renewal 84
121
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Transmission
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic 40
Unlocking 19
Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian
models 91
– manual transmission 40
Transmission detent, refer to
Range selection 40
Transmission malfunction,
refer to Malfunction 41
Transporting children
safely 35
Transport securing device,
refer to Cargo loading 73
Tread depth, refer to Minimum
tread depth 83
Trip distance recorder, refer to
Trip odometer 46
– from inside 21
lid 19, 22
Washer fluids 44
Washing systems 44
Waste tray, refer to Ashtray 65
Wear indicator in tires, refer to
Weights 109
Wheel/tire combination, refer
to Correct wheels and
Wheelbase, refer to
Width, refer to
Vehicle
– break-in period 70
your vehicle brochure
– car wash, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
– dimensions, refer to
Dimensions 107, 108
– engine 39
– leaving the vehicle 39
– parked 72
– placing in storage, refer to
the Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Triple turn signal 42
Trip meter, refer to Trip
odometer 46
Trip odometer 46
Trunk, refer to Cargo bay 23
Turning circle, refer to
Dimensions 107, 108
Turn signal indicators 42
– bulb replacement 95
– indicator lamp 12, 13
Turn signals
– triple turn signal 42
TV function, refer to Owner's
Manual for Onboard
Computer
Wind deflector 66
Window defrosting, refer to
Defrosting windows
– automatic climate control 62
Windows 25
– convenience operation 20
Windshield
– automatic climate control 63
Vents, refer to
– fuel tank, refer to
Capacities 110
Tying down loads, refer to
Cargo loading 73
U
– cleaning 43
Undercoating, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
– defrosting and removing
condensation 59, 62
Windshield wipers
Units
– blades, care, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
– changing blades 93
– refer to Washer/wiper
system 43
– average consumption 48
– average speed 48
– temperature 48
– time 48
Units of measure
– outside temperature
display 48
W
Warning and indicator
lamps 12
Warning triangle 99
Warranty, refer to Service and
Warranty Information
Booklet for US models,
– time format 48
122
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Winter tires 85
– changing 96
– condition 83
– Run-Flat Tires 84
– storage 85
Wiper blades
– care, refer to the Caring for
your vehicle brochure
– changing 93
Wood decoration, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Work in the engine
compartment 86
Wrench, refer to Onboard tool
kit 93
X
Xenon lamps
– replacing bulbs 94
123
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
Refueling
So that you have important specifications avail-
able to you when you stop to refuel, we recom-
mend that you fill out this table with the data
that apply to your vehicle. Consult the index for
individual specifications.
Fuel
Designation
Please enter your preferred fuel here.
Engine oil
Quality
Do not add engine oil until the corresponding
warning lamp comes on in the instrument clus-
ter or the oil lever monitor shows "+1.0", refer to
page 88.
Tire inflation pressures
Summer tires
Front
Winter tires
Front
Rear
Rear
Up to 2 persons
2 persons plus luggage
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
More about BMW
The Ultimate
Driving Machine
bmwusa.com
*BL0012083004*
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 012 083 - © 04/06 BMW AG
|