BMW M3 2001 User Manual

Owner's Manual for the Vehicle.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Contents

A - Z

With a quick reference guide
for your convenience.

BMW recommends Castrol

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

M3 convertible

Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW M3 convertible.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced security and
control when you drive it. Therefore, we have one request:

Please take the time to read this Owner's Manual and familiarize yourself with the
information that we have compiled for you before starting off in your new BMW M3
convertible. The manual contains important data and instructions intended to assist
you in obtaining maximum satisfaction from your BMW M3 convertible's unique
array of advanced technical features. It also contains information on care and main­tenance designed to enhance operating safety while simultaneously helping you to
maintain your BMW's value throughout an extended service life.

BMW M also offers BMW driver training courses specifically designed to serve as
an important element within our overall drive to promote greater highway safety.

This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It
should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important
operating, safety and maintenance information.

This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet
(US models) or a Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
We recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.

Your BMW M3 convertible is covered by the following warranties:
– New Vehicle Limited Warranty
– Limited Rust Perforation 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 (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).

We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW M

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Notes on the Owner's Manual

We have made every effort to ensure
that you are able to find what you need
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as
possible. The fastest way to find certain
topics is by using the detailed index at
the end. If you wish to gain only an
initial overview of your vehicle, you will
find this in the first chapter.
The table of contents is intended to
pique your interest regarding your
BMW and to encourage you to read the
manual.

Should you wish to sell your BMW at
some time in the future, please
remember to hand over the Owner's
Manual to the new owner; it is part of
the vehicle.

Should you have any further questions,
your BMW center will be glad to assist
at any time.

© 2001 BMW M GmbH
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the
written consent of BMW M GmbH, Munich.
Part number 01 41 0 155 719
US English XII/00
Printed in Germany
Printed on environmentally friendly paper
(bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling).

Symbols used

Indicates instructions or precau-

tions that must be followed
precisely in order to avoid the possi­bility of personal injury and serious

<

damage to the vehicle.

Contains information that will

assist you in gaining the optimum
benefit from your vehicle and enable
you to care more effectively for your

<

vehicle.

Refers to measures that can

be taken to help protect the

<

environment.

<

Marks the end of a specific item of

information.

*

Indicates special equipment,
country-specific equipment and
optional extras.

t

Identifies index entries that refer
to owner service procedures or topics
on car care.

Identifies systems or components,

which your BMW center can either
activate or adapt to suit an individual
driver's requirements ("Car Memory",

<

"Key Memory"). Refer to page 55.

Your individual vehicle

In buying your BMW, you have decided
in favor of a model with individualized
equipment and features. This Owner's
Manual describes all of the equipment
that the BMW M3 convertible has to
offer you.

We hope you will understand that
equipment and features are included
which you might not have chosen for
your vehicle. You can easily spot any
possible differences, since all optional
accessories are marked with an

*

asterisk
If your BMW features equipment which

is not described in this Owner's Manual
(car radio or telephone, for instance),
Supplementary Owner's Manuals are
enclosed. We ask you to read these
manuals as well.

.

Notes
Symbols
The individual vehicle

Status at time of printing

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development that is conceived
to ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality and safety
standards combined with advanced,
state-of-the-art technology. For this
reason, it is possible that the features
described in this Owner's Manual could
differ from those on your vehicle. Nor
can errors and omissions be entirely
ruled out. You are therefore asked to
appreciate that no legal claims can be
entertained on the basis of the data,
illustrations or descriptions in this
Owner's Manual.

5n

Status at time of printing
For your own safety

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

For your own safety

Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels

containing up to and including
10% ethanol or other oxygenates with
up to 2.8% oxygen by weight (i.e. 15%
MTBE or 3% methanol plus an equiva­lent amount of co-solvent) will not void
the applicable warranties covering
defects in materials or workmanship.
Field experience has indicated signifi­cant differences in fuel quality (volatility,
composition, additives, etc.) among
gasolines offered for sale in the United
States and Canada. The use of poor­quality fuels may result in drivability,
starting and stalling problems espe­cially under certain environmental
conditions, such as high ambient
temperature and high altitude.
Should you encounter driveability prob­lems which you suspect could be
related to the fuel you are using, we
recommend that you respond by
switching to a recognized high-quality
brand.
Failure to comply with these recom­mendations may result in unscheduled
maintenance.
Obey pertinent safety rules when you
are handling gasoline.

<

Important safety information!

For your own safety, use genuine parts
and accessories approved by BMW.

When you purchase accessories tested
and approved by BMW and Original
BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire
the assurance that they have been thor­oughly tested by BMW to ensure
optimum performance when installed
on your vehicle.

BMW warrants these parts to be free
from defects in material and workman­ship.

BMW will not accept any liability for
damage resulting from installation of
parts and accessories not approved by
BMW.

BMW cannot test every product on the
market to verify if it can be used on a
BMW safely and without risk to either
the vehicle, its operation, or its occu­pants.

Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories
and other products approved by BMW,
together with professional advice on
using these items, are available from all
BMW centers.

Installation and operation of non-BMW
approved accessories such as alarms,
radios, amplifiers, radar detectors,
wheels, suspension components, brake
dust shields, telephones (including
operation of any portable cellular phone
from within the vehicle without using an
externally mounted antenna) or trans­ceiver equipment (such as CB, walkie­talkie, ham radio or similar) 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. Contact your BMW center for
additional information.

<

Maintenance, replacement, or

repair of the emission control
devices and systems may be performed
by any automotive repair establishment
or individual using any certified auto­motive part.

<

Symbol on vehicle parts

Indicates that you should consult

the relevant section of this
Owner's Manual for information on a
specific part or assembly.

The following only applies to vehicles owned and operated in the US.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect that could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should
immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying BMW of
North America, Inc., PO. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone [phone].

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in indi­vidual problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of North America, Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can
also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

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Overview

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Controls and features

Operation, care

and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

9n

Index

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

Contents

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Multifunction steering wheel

Overview

(MFL) 24
Hazard warning flashers 25
Warning triangle 25
Refueling 26
Fuel specifications 27
Tire inflation pressures 27

Opening and closing:

Keys 32
Electronic vehicle

immobilizer 33
Central locking system 33
Opening and closing – via the

door lock 34
Opening and closing – via the

remote control 35
Opening and closing – from

Controls and features

inside 38
Luggage compartment lid 39
Luggage compartment 40
Alarm system 42
Electric power windows 44
Convertible top 45

Adjustments:

Seats 48
Mirrors 52
Seat and mirror memory 54
Steering wheel 55
Car Memory, Key Memory 55

Passenger safety systems:

Safety belts 57
Transporting children safely 58
Airbags 61
Rollover protection system 64

Driving:

Steering/Ignition lock 66
Starting the engine 66
Switching off the engine 67
Parking brake 67
Manual transmission 68
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp

flasher 69
Washer/Wiper system 69
Rear window defroster 71
Cruise control 71

Everything under control:

Odometer 73
Tachometer 73
Engine oil temperature gauge 73
Fuel gauge 74
Coolant temperature gauge 74
Service Interval Display 75
Check Control 76
Clock 76
Computer 77

Technology for safety and
convenience:

Park Distance Control (PDC) 79
Dynamic Stability Control

(DSC) 80
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) 81
M Engine dynamics control 83

Contents

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Lamps:

Side lamps/Low beam

headlamps 84
Instrument lighting 84
High beams/Parking lamps 85
Fog lamps 85
Interior lamps 86
Reading lamps 86

Controlling the climate
for pleasant driving:

Controls and features

Automatic climate control 88
Heated seats 93

Interior conveniences:

Glove compartment 94
Storage compartments 95
Cellular phone 96
Ashtray, front 96
Cigarette lighter 97
Ashtray, rear 97

Loading and transporting:

Ski bag 98
Cargo loading 100
Roof-mounted luggage rack for

the hardtop 101

Special operating instructions:

Break-in procedures 104
Driving notes 105
Catalytic converter 105
Antilock Brake System

(ABS) 106
Disc brakes 108
Brake system 109
Winter operation 110
Power steering 112
Cellular phone 112
Radio reception 112
Hardtop 113

Wheels and tires:

Tire inflation pressures 115

Operation, care and maintenance

Tire condition 115
Tire replacement 116
Tire rotation 117
Wheel and tire

combinations 118
Special features of winter

tires 119
Snow chains 119
Approved wheel and tire

specifications 120

Under the hood:

Hood 121
Engine compartment 124
Washer fluids 126
Washer nozzles 126
Engine oil 127
Coolant 129
Brake fluid 130
Vehicle Identification 130

Care and maintenance:

The BMW Maintenance

System 131
Caring for your vehicle 132
Cleaning and caring for the

convertible top 137
Airbags 139
Storing your vehicle 140

Laws and regulations:

Technical modifications 141
California Proposition 65

Warning 141
OBD connector 142

Contents

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Replacement procedures:

Onboard tool kit 146
Windshield wiper blades 146
Lamps and bulbs 146
Repairing a flat tire 153
Battery 157
Fuses 160
Replacing microfilter and

activated-charcoal filter 161

In case of electrical
malfunction:

Fuel filler door 161

Owner service procedures

Convertible top 162

Assistance, giving and
receiving:

Jump-starting 164
Towing the vehicle 165

Airbags 168
Radio reception 169
Dynamic Stability Control

(DSC) 170
Safety belt tensioner 170
M3 Engine concept 171
Rain sensor 172
Interior rearview mirror with

automatic dimming

feature 173

Advanced technology

Xenon lamps 174
Rollover protection system 175

Engine data 178
Dimensions 179
Weights 180
Capacities 181
Electrical system 182
Drive belts 182

Technical data

Everything from A to Z 186

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Index

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Cockpit 16
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Multifunction steering wheel

(MFL) 24
Hazard warning flashers 25
Warning triangle 25
Refueling 26
Fuel specifications 27
Tire inflation pressures 27

Overview

Controls and features

Operation, care

and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Index

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

Overview

16n

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Cockpit

Cockpit

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1 Side lamps/Low beam

headlamps 84

d

Turn signal indicator 69

2

>

Parking lamps 85

>

High beams 85

>

Headlamp flasher 69

>

Computer 77
3 Washer/Wiper system 69
4 Hazard warning flashers 25
5 Shift lever 68
6 Rear window defroster 71
7 Central locking system 33
8 Adjusting steering wheel 55
9 Horn: the entire surface

10 Fog lamps 85

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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

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Instrument cluster

Instrument cluster

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19n

1 Fuel gauge with indicator lamp for

fuel reserve 74
2 Turn signal indicator 23
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator lamp for

>

Battery charge current 20

>

High beams 23

>

Engine oil pressure/Engine oil
level 20, 21

5 Tachometer and engine oil temper-

ature gauge 73
6 Engine coolant temperature gauge

with "Coolant temperature too high"

indicator 74
7 Indicator and warning lamps (clock-

wise) for

>

Parking brake/Brake system
hydraulic circuits/Cornering
Brake Control (CBC) 20, 21

>

Antilock Brake System (ABS) 21

>

Brake pads 22

>

Tire Pressure Warning
(RDW) 20, 22

>

Rollover protection system 22

>

Airbags 21

>

Please fasten safety belts, lock
backrest 21

>

Cruise control 23

8 Reset button for

>

Clock 76

>

Unit of measure for outside
temperature display 77

9 Indicator lamp for Dynamic Stability

Control (DSC) 22

10 Display panel for

>

Odometer 73

>

Trip odometer 73

>

Clock 76

>

Service Interval 75

Computer display, using the turn
signal lever to operate, refer to
page 77:

>

Clock

>

Outside temperature

>

Average fuel consumption

>

Cruising range

>

Average speed
11 Check Control display 76
12 Trip odometer, reset to zero 73

13 Indicator and warning lamps (clock-

wise) for

>

Fog lamps 23

>

Add washer fluid 22

>

Coolant level 22

>

Electronic Engine Power Control
(EML) 22

>

Service Engine Soon 22

You can have the outside temper­ature and distance traveled shown

in other units of measurement.

<

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Indicator and warning lamps

Technology
that monitors itself

Many of the systems in your BMW
monitor themselves automatically, both
during engine starts and while you are
driving. Indicator and warning lamps

●

identified by "
operation whenever the ignition key is
turned. They each light up once for
different periods of time.

If a fault should occur in one of these
systems, the corresponding lamp does
not go out after the engine is started, or
it lights up while the vehicle is moving.
You will see how to react to this below.

" are tested for proper

Red: stop immediately

Battery charge current
The battery is no longer being

charged. Indicates a problem
with the alternator's drive belt or a
defect in the charging circuit. Please
contact the nearest BMW center.

Never attempt to continue driving

with a defective alternator drive
belt, as this could result in overheating
and serious engine damage. A defec­tive belt also leads to a substantial
increase in the amount of effort
required to steer the vehicle.

Engine oil pressure
Stop vehicle immediately and

switch off engine. Check the
engine oil and top up as required. If the
oil level is correct: please contact the
nearest BMW center.

Do not attempt to continue

driving, as lack of adequate lubri­cation can lead to serious engine
damage.

<

●

●

<

Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
This display is accompanied by

an audible warning signal: the
vehicle has a flat tire. Reduce your
speed immediately and avoid all abrupt
braking or steering maneuvers as you
bring the vehicle to a halt.
For additional information, refer to
page 81.

Brake warning lamp ●

If the lamp comes on when the

parking brake is not engaged:
Check the brake fluid level. Before
driving further, be sure to comply with
the information on pages 109 and 130.

Brake warning lamp for Cana-

dian models.

Indicator and warning lamps

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21n

Red: an important reminder

Parking brake ●
Comes on when the parking

brake is applied – an additional
acoustic signal sounds when starting
off.
For additional information, refer to
page 67.

Brake warning lamp for Cana-

dian models.

Lock backrest/Please fasten

safety belt ●

The warning lamp flashes if a
backrest detent is not locked in place,
or comes on continuously if a safety
belt has not (yet) been fastened. The
visual warning is supplemented by an
acoustic signal.
For detailed information on locking the
backrest, refer to page 51.
For additional information on safety
belts, refer to page 57.

Airbags ●

Please respond to any defects

by having the system checked
at your BMW center as soon as
possible.
For additional information, refer to
pages 61, 168.

Red and yellow:
continue driving cautiously

The red brake warning lamp
comes on together with the
yellow indicator lamps for ABS
and DSC:
The entire ABS, CBC and DSC
control system has failed.
Continue driving cautiously and

defensively. Avoid hard brake
applications. Please have the system
checked by your BMW center as soon
as possible.
For additional information, refer to
page 80, 107.

ABS, CBC and DSC indicator

and warning lamps for Canadian

models.

Yellow: check as soon as possible

Antilock Brake System (ABS) ●
ABS has been deactivated in

response to a system malfunc­tion. Conventional braking efficiency is
available without limitations. Please
have the system checked by your BMW
center.
For additional information, refer to
page 106.

ABS warning lamp for Canadian

models.

Engine oil level

Lights up while driving:

The oil level is at the absolute
minimum; therefore, add engine oil as
soon as possible. Do not drive more
than approx. 30 miles (50 km) until you
do.
For additional information, refer to
page 127.

Engine oil level

Comes on after the engine has

been shut off: add more engine
oil the next time you stop for gas.
For additional information, refer to
page 127.

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

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Indicator and warning lamps

Brake pads
Have the brake pads checked.
For additional information, refer

to page 109.

Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)
RDW has been switched off or

has been deactivated in
response to a malfunction. In the event
of a malfunction, have the system
checked by your nearest BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
pages 27, 81.

Dynamic Stability Control

(DSC)

If the indicator lamp flashes:
The system is active and governs drive
force and braking force.
If the indicator lamp fails to go out after
the engine is started, or if it comes on
during normal driving and stays on:
DSC has been switched off or has been
deactivated in response to a malfunc­tion. In the event of a malfunction, have
the system checked by your nearest
BMW center.
For additional information, refer to
page 80.

●

●

●

Add washer fluid
The washer fluid is too low. Top

up the fluid at the earliest
opportunity.
For additional information, refer to
page 126.

Service Engine Soon

If the indicator lamp comes on

either continuously or intermit­tently, this indicates a fault in the emis­sions-related electronic systems.
Although the vehicle remains opera­tional, you should have the systems
checked by your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
For additional information, refer to
page 142.

Warning lamp: Service Engine

Soon for Canadian models.

Engine electronics

There is a fault in the engine's

electronic control system. The
electronics allow for continued driving
with reduced engine output or speed.
Please have the system checked by
your BMW center.

●

●

Add coolant
The coolant level is too low. Add

coolant at the earliest opportu­nity.
For additional information, refer to
page 129.

Rollover protection system

The rollover protection system

has been deactivated in
response to a malfunction. Please have
the system checked by your BMW
center as soon as possible.
For additional information, refer to
page 64.

●

Indicator and warning lamps

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23n

Green: for your information

Turn signal indicator
Flashes when the turn signal is

on. Rapid flashing indicates a
system malfunction.
For additional information, refer to
page 69.

Cruise control

Lights up when the cruise

control is activated: available for
operation via the multifunction steering
wheel.
For additional information, refer to
page 71.

Fog lamps

Comes on whenever you switch

on the fog lamps.
For additional information, refer to
page 85.

Blue: for your information

High beams
Comes on when the high beams

are on or the headlamp flasher
is actuated.
For additional information, refer to
pages 69, 85.

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

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Multifunction steering wheel (MFL)

The buttons integrated in the multi­function steering wheel (MFL) are
provided so that you can operate a
number of accessories quickly and
without being distracted from traffic
conditions. You can operate:

> selected radio functions
> the cruise control
> selected cellular phone functions

In order to operate a system via
the MFL, the corresponding

systems must be activated.<

*.

1 Horn: the entire surface
2 Radio/Telephone: select
3 Cellular phone: receive a call, start

dialing, terminate a call

4 Radio/Telephone: volume
5 Radio/Telephone: scan backward or

scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings

6 Radio/Telephone: scan forward or

scan station keys or scroll through
the phone listings

7 Cruise control: activate stored

setting (resume)

8 Cruise control: accelerate and

store (+) as well as decelerate and
store (–)

9 Cruise control: activate/interrupt/

deactivate

Hazard warning flashers Warning triangle*

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25n

Activating and deactivating: press
button.

The button flashes rhythmically when
the hazard warning flashers are on.

To help you locate the button in an
emergency, the button is also illumi­nated whenever the vehicle's lamps are
on.

The turn signal function takes

precedence over the hazard
warning flasher function. Starting from
ignition key position 1, you are there­fore able to use the turn signal, even if
the hazard warning flashers have been
activated.<

The hazard warning triangle is readily
accessible. It is stored in the container
for the onboard tool kit mounted in the
luggage compartment lid.

To open the container, loosen the wing
nut.

Always observe all legal regula­tions requiring a warning triangle

to be carried in the vehicle.<

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

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Refueling

Close the fuel cap carefully after

refueling until a "click" is heard.
While closing, be sure not to squeeze
the strap which is fastened to the cap.
A loose or missing cap will activate the
"Service Engine Soon" warning lamp.<

Fuel filler door

Before filling the tank, shut off the

engine. If you do not, fuel cannot
be filled into the tank and the "Service
Engine Soon" lamp may come on.<

Press on the rear edge of the fuel filler
door to open and close it.

To unlock the filler door if the central
locking system fails, refer to page 161.

When handling fuels, comply with

all of the applicable safety precau­tions and regulations pertaining to
fuels.
Never carry spare fuel containers in
your vehicle. Whether empty or full,
these containers can leak, cause an
explosion, or lead to fire in the event of
a collision.<

Simple and friendly to the
environment

Open the filler cap carefully to
prevent fuel from spraying out.

Fuel spray may cause injury.<

Keep the filler cap in the bracket
attached to the fuel filler door.

When refueling, insert the filler nozzle
completely into the filler pipe. Pulling
the nozzle out of the pipe during refu­eling

> results in premature pump shutoff
> and will reduce the effect of the vapor

recovery system on the pump.

The fuel tank is full, whenever the fuel
nozzle shuts off the first time, as is
specified for proper service.

Tank capacity, refer to page 181.

Fuel specifications Tire inflation pressures

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27n

The engine uses lead-free gasoline
only.

Required fuel:
> Premium Unleaded Gasoline,

min. 91 AKI.
AKI = Anti Knock Index

Do not use leaded fuels. The use

of leaded fuels will cause perma­nent damage to the system's oxygen
sensor and the catalytic converter.<

The correct tire inflation pressures are
on a sticker attached to the B-pillar and
visible with the driver's door open.

Checking tire pressures

All tire pressure and ambient air
temperature specifications are stated in
the units usually used in your country
(psi; kilopascal) (also see the following
tire inflation pressure table).

After correcting the tire inflation pres­sure, re-initialize the Tire Pressure
Warning system (RDW) so that it can
monitor the tire inflation pressure. Refer
to page 81.

trip. Otherwise, incorrect tire pressure
can lead to poor handling, tire damage
and accidents.<

Comply with tire approval
specifications

The inflation pressures in the table
apply to tires made by BMW approved
manufacturers. Your BMW center is
familiar with these pressures. Higher
pressures may be specified for tires
made by other manufacturers. You will
find a list of approved tire sizes on
page 120.

Your vehicle is equipped with tires that
not only meet US standards, but also
European standards. We recommend
the exclusive use of BMW approved
tires.

Check tire inflation pressures
regularly – at least every two

weeks and before beginning a longer

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

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Tire inflation pressures

BMW Tires

All pressure specifications in
the table are indicated in psi
(kilopascal) with cold tires
(cold = ambient temperature)

225/45 ZR 18 33 (230) - 41 (280) ­255/40 ZR 18 - 35 (240) - 48 (330)

M3 convertible 225/40 ZR 19 33 (230) - 41 (280) -

255/35 ZR 19 - 35 (240) - 48 (330)
225/45 R 17 91H M+S 33 (230) 38 (260) 36 (250) 46 (320)

29n

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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

30n

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Locks and security systems:

Keys 32
Electronic vehicle

immobilizer 33
Central locking system 33
Opening and closing – via the

door lock 34
Opening and closing – via the

remote control 35
Opening and closing – from

inside 38
Luggage compartment lid 39
Luggage compartment 40
Alarm system 42
Electric power windows 44
Convertible top 45

Adjustments:

Seats 48
Mirrors 52
Seat and mirror memory 54
Steering wheel 55
Car Memory, Key Memory 55

Passenger safety systems:

Safety belts 57
Transporting children safely 58
Airbags 61
Rollover protection system 64

Controls

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Driving:

Steering/Ignition lock 66
Starting the engine 66
Switching off the engine 67
Parking brake 67
Manual transmission 68
Turn signal indicator/Headlamp

flasher 69
Washer/Wiper system 69
Rear window defroster 71
Cruise control 71

Everything under control:

Odometer 73
Tachometer 73
Engine oil temperature gauge 73
Fuel gauge 74
Coolant temperature gauge 74
Service Interval Display 75
Check Control 76
Clock 76
Computer 77

Technology for driving comfort
and safety:

Park Distance Control (PDC) 79
Dynamic Stability Control

(DSC) 80
Tire Pressure Warning (RDW) 81
M Engine dynamics control 83

Lamps:

Side lamps/Low beam

headlamps 84
Instrument lighting 84
High beams/Parking lamps 85
Fog lamps 85
Interior lamps 86
Reading lamps 86

Controlling the climate
for pleasant driving:

Automatic climate control 88
Heated seats 93

Cabin convenience:

Glove compartment 94
Storage compartments 95
Cellular phone 96
Ashtray, front 96
Cigarette lighter 97
Ashtray, rear 97

Loading and transporting
cargo:

Ski bag 98
Cargo loading 100
Roof-mounted luggage rack for

the hardtop 101

Overview

Controls and features

Operation, care

and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Index

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Keys

The key set

1 Master key with remote control

This key sets the functions for Key
Memory. Refer to page 55.
You can also identify individual keys
by applying the colored decals that
you received when accepting delivery
of your vehicle.

There is an extended-life battery

in every master key with remote
control that is charged automatically in
the ignition lock as you drive. For this
reason, if you have a master key with
remote control that is otherwise not
used, use that key at least once every
year while driving for an extended
period to charge the battery. Refer to
page 35 as well.<

2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,

such as in your wallet.
This key is not intended for constant
use

3 Door key

The locks for the luggage compart­ment lid and the glove compartment
cannot be operated with this key –
this is recommended for valet
parking, for instance.

Replacement keys

are available exclusively through your
BMW center. Since the keys are part of
a security system, vehicle ownership
must be checked before a replacement
key can be issued (refer to "Electronic
vehicle immobilizer" on page 33).

When picking up the replacement

key, take along all master keys
with remote control and spare keys
belonging to the vehicle. Whenever you
receive a new replacement key, turn
that key to position 2 in the ignition lock
once (ignition switched on) and then
back. This allows the electronic vehicle
immobilizer to "recognize" the new
key.<

Electronic vehicle immobilizer Central locking system

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The key to security

Your BMW is equipped with a passive
anti-theft system. This electronic immo­bilization system is designed to reduce
the susceptibility of the vehicle to theft
by making it impossible to start the
engine using any means other than the
special keys furnished with the vehicle.
Your BMW center can cancel the elec­tronic system authorization for indi­vidual keys (in the event of loss, for
instance). A deactivated key can no
longer be used to start the engine.

How the electronics work

At the heart of this system is an elec­tronic chip that is integrated into the
key. The lock mechanism itself is actu­ally a dual-function device, simulta­neously serving as a communications
interface designed to allow the security
system to maintain a continuous stream
of variable, vehicle-specific signals with
the electronic circuitry in the key. The
system will not release the ignition, fuel
injection and starter unless it recog­nizes an "authorized" key.

Force applied to the key can

damage the integrated electronic
circuitry. A damaged key can no longer
be used to start the engine.<

The concept

The following can be unlocked or
locked simultaneously with the central
locking system:

> Doors
> Luggage compartment lid
> Fuel filler door
> Glove compartment.

The central locking system is ready for
operation whenever the driver's door is
closed.

The central locking system can be
operated

> from outside via the door lock and

using the remote control

> from inside by pressing a button.
If it is operated from inside, the fuel

filler door will not be locked (refer to
page 38).

If it is operated from outside, the anti­theft protection is activated at the same
time. This prevents the doors from
being unlocked via the locking buttons
or the door handles. The alarm system
is also activated or deactivated.

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Central locking system Opening and closing – via the door lock

Information for your safety:
If locked from the inside, the central
locking system unlocks automatically in
the event of an accident. In addition,
the hazard warning flashers and interior
lamps come on.

Using the key

Turn the key once to unlock the driver's
door, the fuel filler door and the glove
compartment.
Turn it a second time to release the
locks for the passenger-side door and
the luggage compartment lid.

You can have a signal set to
confirm that the vehicle's locks

have engaged securely.<

For further details on the alarm
system

*, refer to page 42.

Convenience operation

With the door closed, you can also
operate the electric windows and the
convertible top via the door lock.

To open: after turning the key a second
time, hold it in place in the "unlock"
position.

To close: hold the key in the "lock"
position.

Watch during the closing process

to make sure that nobody is
injured accidentally. Releasing the key
stops the operation.<

Manual operation

(in the event of electrical malfunction)
Turn the key all the way to the extreme

left or right to unlock/lock the door.

Opening and closing – via the remote control

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The concept

The remote control gives you an excep­tionally convenient method for
unlocking and locking your vehicle.
Furthermore, it provides two additional
functions which you can only execute
via the remote control:

> Switch on the interior light. Refer to

page 36
With this function, you can also
"search for" your vehicle – when
parked in an underground garage, for
instance.

> Open the luggage compartment lid.

Refer to page 37
The luggage compartment lid will
open slightly, regardless of whether it
was locked or unlocked.

Whenever you unlock (lock) the vehicle,
you simultaneously deactivate (activate)
the anti-theft system, disarm (arm) the
alarm system
lamps on (off).

You can have a signal set to
confirm that the vehicle's locks

have engaged securely.<

* and switch the interior

To end the alarm: press button 1
(unlock, refer to page 36) or turn the
ignition key to position 1.
For further details on the alarm

*, refer to page 42.<

system

Master key with remote control

Children might be able to lock the

doors from the inside. For this
reason, always take the vehicle keys
with you so that the vehicle can be
opened again from the outside at any
time.<

Master keys with remote control

that are used repeatedly are
always ready for operation since the
battery in the key is charged automati­cally in the ignition lock as you drive.
If it is no longer possible to unlock the
vehicle via the remote control, the
battery is discharged. Use this key to
drive for an extended period in order to
recharge the battery. Refer also to
page 32.
Guard the remote control against unau­thorized use by only surrendering the
spare key or the door key (refer to
page 32), for valet parking, for instance.
In the event of a system malfunction,
please contact your BMW center. You
can also obtain replacement keys
there.<

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Opening and closing – via the remote control

To lock and secure

Press button 2.

To unlock

Press button 1 to unlock the driver's
door only.

Press the button twice to unlock the
entire vehicle.

If you desire you can have this

function programmed into the
selected individual keys of your
choice.<

Switching on the interior lamps

After locking the vehicle, press
button 2.

To deactivate the tilt alarm
sensor
sensor

Press button 2 a second time immedi­ately after locking.
For additional information, refer to
page 43.

* and interior motion
*

Opening and closing – via the remote control

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To open the luggage
compartment lid

Press button 3.
The lid will open slightly, no matter

whether it was locked or unlocked.

Before and after a trip, be sure
that the luggage compartment lid

has not been opened unintentionally.<

Panic mode (trigger alarm)

By pressing button 3 for more than
2 seconds, the alarm can be sounded
in the event of danger, if it is armed.
The alarm is switched off after button 1
is pressed.

Non-BMW systems

External systems or devices may cause
local interference in the functions of the
remote control.

If this should occur, you can still open
and close the vehicle using the master
key in both the door and luggage
compartment lid locks.

For US owners only

The transmitter and receiver units
comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communication Commission) regula­tions. Operation is governed by the
following:

FCC ID: LX8EWS

LX8FZVS
LX8FZVE

Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:

> This device may not cause harmful

interference, and

> this device must accept any interfer-

ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.

Any unauthorized modifications or

changes to these devices could
void the user's authority to operate this
equipment.<

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Opening and closing – from inside

Use this button to operate the central
locking system whenever the doors are
closed. The doors and luggage
compartment lid are unlocked or locked
only. The anti-theft alarm system is not
activated.

When you open the driver's door

after unlocking it from the outside,
you can press the button to unlock the
passenger door, luggage compartment
lid, fuel filler door and glove compart­ment.
When the driver's door is closed, this
same action relocks it.<

If you desire, the central locking

system will secure the locks as
soon as you start to drive. You can have
this function programmed into each
individual key.<

To unlock and open the doors

> Either unlock the doors together with

the button for the central locking
system and then pull each of the
release handles above the armrests
or

> pull the release handle for each door

twice: the first pull unlocks the door,
and the second one opens it.

To engage the locks

> Either use the central locking button

to lock all doors at once, or

> press the individual safety lock

buttons down. As an added design
feature to prevent the driver from
being inadvertently locked out of the
vehicle, the driver's door safety lock
button will not engage as long as the
door is open.

Children might be able to lock the

doors from the inside. For this
reason, always take the vehicle's keys
with you so that the vehicle can be
opened again from the outside at any
time.<

Luggage compartment lid

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The lock

Only the master keys (refer to page 32)
fit in the lock for the luggage compart­ment lid.

To secure separately

Lock the glove compartment using the
master key.

This also locks the luggage compart­ment lid and disconnects it from the
central locking system. If you surrender
only the door key (refer to page 32), this
will prevent unauthorized access via the
luggage compartment lid, for valet
parking, for instance.

Opening from outside

Press the button in the handle recess
(arrow):
The luggage compartment lid opens
slightly.

The luggage compartment is lit when
the luggage compartment lid is opened.

Manual operation

(in the event of electrical malfunction)
Turn the master key to the right as far

as it will go, the luggage compartment
lid will open slightly.

The luggage compartment is locked
again as soon as you close the lid.

Opening from the inside

If the luggage compartment lid has not
been locked separately, you can open it
with this button in the footwell on the
driver's side when the vehicle is
stationary.

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Luggage compartment lid Luggage compartment

Closing

The handle recesses in the interior trim
panel of the luggage compartment lid
(arrows) make it easier to pull the lid
down.

To avoid injuries, be sure that the

travel path of the luggage
compartment lid is clear when it is
closed, as with all closing procedures.<

Do not drive with the luggage

compartment lid open, since
exhaust fumes could penetrate the inte­rior of the vehicle. Nevertheless, should
it be absolutely necessary to operate
the vehicle with the luggage compart­ment lid open (with closed convertible
top):

> Close all windows
> Increase the airflow of the automatic

climate control to a high level. Refer
to page 88.<

The fittings at the inner corners of the
luggage compartment provide you with
a convenient means of attaching
luggage nets
securing suitcases and luggage.

Refer also to "Cargo loading" on
page 100.

* and flexible straps for

Luggage compartment

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41n

Fold up the floor panel and attach

1 Grab handle and pull up
2 Press the button (arrow) to release

the attachment fitting from the handle

3 Hook the attachment fitting to the

rubber weatherstrip (arrow).

Carefully replace the hanger in its
holder when lowering the floor

panel back into place.<

Enlarging the luggage
compartment

With the convertible top closed, you
can enlarge the luggage compartment.
To do this, flip the handle outward and
press it down and toward the front of
the vehicle (arrow). The convertible top
compartment base is now raised and
secured.

Folding down the convertible top
compartment base

To open the convertible top the base of
the convertible top compartment must
be folded down. To do this, fold out the
handle and pull it toward the rear of the
vehicle.

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Luggage compartment Alarm system*

When opening the convertible top,

refer to page 45, make sure that
the luggage compartment is set up
properly, as otherwise damage may
occur.<

The concept

The vehicle alarm system responds:
> When a door, the hood or the

luggage compartment lid is opened

> To movement inside the vehicle (inte-

rior motion sensor)

> Altering the vehicle tilt angle, e.g. as

would occur while attempting to steal
the wheels or tow the vehicle (tilt
alarm sensor)

> To interruption of battery voltage.
The system responds to unauthorized

vehicle entry and attempted theft by
simultaneously activating the following:

> Sounding an acoustical alarm for

30 seconds

> The hazard warning flashers are acti-

vated for approx. five minutes

> The high beams flash on and off in

the same rhythm.

To activate and deactivate the
alarm system

When the vehicle is locked or unlocked
by using a key or with the remote
control, the alarm system is also simul­taneously armed or disarmed.
The interior motion sensor is activated
approx. 30 seconds after you have
locked the vehicle.

If the alarm system has been armed
correctly, the hazard warning flashers
flash once.

You can have a signal set as
acknowledgment for both setting

and deactivating the alarm.<

You can also open the luggage
compartment lid when the system is
armed by pressing button 3 of the
remote control (refer to page 37). When
it is closed, the lid is once again
secured.

Alarm system*

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Indicator lamp displays

The indicator lamp is located under the
interior rearview mirror.

> When the indicator lamp flashes

continuously: the system is armed

> If the indicator lamp flashes while the

system is being set: the door(s), the
hood or luggage compartment lid are
not completely closed. Even if you do
not close the alerted area, the
remaining areas are deadlocked, and
the indicator lamp flashes continu­ously after 10 seconds. However, the
interior motion sensor is not activated

> If the indicator lamp goes out when

the system is disarmed: no manipula­tion or attempted intrusions have
been detected in the period since the
system was armed

> If the indicator lamp flashes for

10 seconds when the system is
disarmed: an attempted entry has
been detected in the period since the
system was armed.

Following triggering of an alarm, the
indicator lamp will flash continuously.

Avoiding unintentional alarms

The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion
sensor may be switched off at the same
time. You can do this to prevent any
unwanted alarm, e.g. in garages with
elevator ramps or when the vehicle is
being transported on car trains:

Lock the vehicle twice (= setting the
alarm): press button 2 on the remote
control twice in succession or lock the
vehicle twice with the key. Refer to
page 36.
The indicator lamp lights up briefly and
then flashes continuously. The tilt alarm
sensor and the interior motion sensor
are deactivated as long as the system is
armed. Reset the alarm to reactivate
the tilt alarm sensor and the interior
motion sensor.

Interior motion sensor

Transmitter and receiver for the interior
motion sensor are located in the front
part of the center console, invisible to
the driver, and in the back part of the
center console under a rack.

However, be sure to deactivate the
interior motion sensor (see previous
column) if children or animals are to
remain in the vehicle.

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Alarm system* Electric power windows

For US owners only

The transmitter and receiver units
comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal
Communication Commission) regula­tions. Operation is governed by the
following:

FCC ID: LTQSDR2G5
Compliance statement:

This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:

> This device may not cause harmful

interference, and

> this device must accept any interfer-

ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.

Any unauthorized modifications to

these devices could void the
user's authority to operate the equip­ment.<

Remove the key from the ignition

lock and close the doors when
you leave the vehicle, so that children
cannot operate the power windows and
possibly injure themselves.<

To use the convenience mode via the
door lock, refer to page 34.

To open and close windows

From ignition key position 1:
After the ignition has been switched off:

You can still use the electric power
windows for up to 15 minutes, as long
as no one opens any of the doors.

To open:
> Press the switch up to but not past

the resistance point: the window will
continue to lower as long as you
continue to hold the switch

> Press the switch briefly past the

resistance point: the window moves
automatically. Tapping the switch
again stops the opening cycle.

To close: you can close the windows in
the same manner by pulling the switch.

Electric power windows Convertible top

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Operating all the side windows

From ignition key position 1:
To open:
> Press the switch up to but not past

the resistance point:
All windows will continue to lower as
long as you continue to press the
switch

> Press the switch briefly past the

resistance point:
All windows will move automatically.
Pressing the switch again stops the
opening cycle.

To close: you can close all windows in
the same manner by pulling the switch.

The fully automatic convertible top
combines assured protection from the
weather together with simple and easy
handling.

So that you will get the most out of your
convertible, here are a few tips:

> It is advisable to close the convertible

top when the vehicle is being parked.
The closed convertible top not only
protects the passenger compartment
from unforeseeable damage from the
weather, it also provides a certain
degree of theft protection. In addi­tion, keep valuables only in the
locked luggage compartment, even
with the convertible top closed.

> Never mount a roof-mounted luggage

rack on the convertible top.

> At temperatures below 15 7

(–10 6) do not open or close the
convertible top to prevent damage.

Never store the convertible top
while it is wet to avoid permanent

damage from moisture.<

Driving the vehicle before the top

has opened or closed completely
can lead to vehicle damage and/or
personal injury.
Whenever possible, always ensure that
the vehicle remains stationary for the
entire duration of the opening/closing
process. Setting the vehicle in motion
before the process is completed may
cause the top to stop moving prema­turely.
If you initiated convertible top operation
while the vehicle was standing still, and
then started to drive off, at a traffic light,
for example, you can complete the
process while traveling at a moderate
rate of speed. To do this, keep pressing
the proper button.
Traffic laws applicable in your area take
precedence when you operate the
convertible top, however, otherwise
you may be breaking the law.
Before closing the convertible top,
remove any objects from the windshield
frame that could keep the convertible
top from closing properly.
Do not lay objects on the convertible
top, since they would fall off when the
convertible top is operated and cause
damage or injuries.
Do not reach into the convertible top
mechanism during opening and closing.

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Convertible top

Keep children awa y from the tr av el path
of the convertible top while it is in
motion.<

To close the electric power

windows while driving, always be
sure to first close either the rear
windows, or all 4 windows at the same
time, otherwise, at high speed, the
windows may not close tightly.<

At higher speeds, the ensuing

vacuum in the passenger
compartment can cause the convertible
top to begin fluttering. Increase the air
supply via the ventilation controls so
that a vacuum does not occur in the
vehicle.<

1 Closing
2 Opening

Opening and closing

With ignition key in position 1 or 2 and
the vehicle stationary.

To avoid discharging the battery, when
possible you should start the engine
before opening or closing the top.

1 Observe the preceding safety

precautions.

2 Before opening the convertible top,

make sure that the base of the
convertible top compartment in the
luggage compartment is folded
down. Refer to page 41.

3 Make sure the luggage compartment

lid is closed.

4 Press and hold the corresponding

button for convertible top operation.
The red indicator lamp will light up
while the convertible top is in motion.
It goes out as soon as the opening or
closing operation is completed.
If the red indicator lamp flashes when
you release the button, this indicates
that the top has not completely
finished opening or closing. You can
press the corresponding button to
resume the process in the desired
direction.
If the yellow indicator lamp remains
on while you are pressing the button,
this indicates that the convertible top
compartment's lower panel has been
folded up and the top cannot be
moved, refer to step 2.

The automatic sequence will be

interrupted immediately if you
release the button that operates the
top. The sequence can be continued in
the desired direction by pressing this
button.<

Convertible top

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During convertible top operation

the rear window moves toward the
passenger compartment and presses
the heads of the rear passengers
slightly forward. As a rule, this is not
dangerous. To avoid possibly being
pinched, passengers in the back seat
should lean their heads slightly forward
while the convertible top is in motion.<

The side windows move downward
somewhat when the button for convert­ible top operation is pressed, and then
up again after the opening or closing
operation is completed if you continue
to hold the button for longer than
2 seconds after the indicator lamp goes
out.

During convertible top operation the
luggage compartment lid cannot be
opened.

Do not close the side power

windows using the buttons if the
convertible top has been interrupted
while in motion. <

If the convertible top has been

stored in the convertible top
compartment for longer periods, e.g.
during the winter months while the
hardtop is being used, it may be neces­sary to manually support the first auto­matic closing operation: if the
convertible top should halt just 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 up again on its own.<

If the opening or closing operation

is interrupted, the convertible top
remains in the respective position for
15 minutes, and the process can be
continued in the desired direction with
the button. Then the convertible top
can be moved and operated manually,
refer to page 162. This is also possible
in ignition key position 0.
In certain cases, the luggage compart­ment lid cannot be opened if the
opening or closing operation has been
interrupted.<

One-touch operation from the
driver side door lock

Refer to page 34.

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Seat adjustment

For your personal safety when adjusting
the seat position, please follow the
instructions below carefully:

Never try to adjust your seat while

driving the vehicle. The seat could
respond with an unexpected move­ment, and the ensuing loss of vehicle
control could lead to an accident.
Be sure that the safety belt remains
firmly against your body at all times. In
the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap
belt could slide over the hips, leading to
abdominal injury. In addition, the safety
belt's restraint effectiveness is reduced
if the belt is worn loosely.
Never ride with the backrest reclined to
an extreme angle (especially important
for the front passenger to remember). If
you do so, there is a risk that you will
slide under the safety belt in an acci­dent, thus reducing the protection
provided by the safety belt.<

Correct sitting posture

To reduce strain on the spinal column,
sit all the way back in the seat and rest
your back fully against the backrest.
The ideal sitting posture is achieved
with your head extending from your
spine in a straight line.
For long-distance driving, you may wish
to increase the backrest tilt angle
slightly to reduce muscular tension. You
should be able to grasp the steering
wheel at its highest point with your
arms slightly bent.

1 Tilt angle
2 Backward/Forward adjustment
3 Cushion height
4 Backrest angle

Comply with the preceding adjust­ment instructions, as otherwise

personal safety will be diminished.<

Seat adjustment

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Thigh support

Pull the lever and adjust the position of
the cushion for thigh support as
desired.

Lumbar support*

You can adjust the backrest's contour
for additional support in the curvature
of your spine's lumbar region.

The upper hips and spinal column
receive supplementary support to help
you maintain a relaxed, upright posture.

> Increase/decrease curvature:

Press the front/rear of the switch

> Increase the upper/lower curvature:

Press the upper/lower end of the
switch.

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Head restraints

Head restraints – front

1 Height

Head restraints can reduce the

risk of injury to the neck and spinal
column in the event of an accident.
Adjust the head restraint so that its
center is approximately at the height of
your ears.
To guard against injuries, avoid placing
your hands and fingers between the
head restraint and the backrest while
adjusting.<

2 Tilt angle
Position the head restraint in the

preferred position.

Head restraints – rear

The rear head restraints may only

be lowered when there are no
passengers in the rear, as otherwise
laws may be violated. Raise the rear
head restraints before taking on any
passengers in the back.<

To completely lower the rear head
restraints:

1 Press the button (arrow) and hold it

down

2 Push the head restraint down from

above.

To extend the rear head restraints: raise
the head restraints until you hear them
click into place.

Head restraints Entering the rear

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51n

Do not remove the rear head
restraints as this would damage

them.<

For further information, please consult
your BMW center.

Do not use the rear head

restraints as storage shelves.
Always keep the travel path clear for
the rollover protection system. Never
attach any type of protective coverings
to the head restraints (refer also to the
labeling on the head restraints).<

The seat-integrated safety belt system
(SGS) ensures easier entry in the rear.

1 Lift lever 1 up and tilt the backrest

forward

2 Press and hold down button 2 in the

direction of travel until the seat has
moved into the desired position

3 Fold back and lock the backrest after

entering the rear

4 Press and hold button 2 against the

direction of travel. The seat moves
back into its previous position. If you
release button 2 beforehand, the seat
will stop in its current position.

You can lock a backrest that has

been tilted forward. This makes
sense when, for instance, someone is
climbing into the rear on an incline. To
do this, press against the backrest until
you hear it click into place. To move it
back into place, you do not need to
unlock it first by moving lever 1.<

Lock both backrests while driving,

otherwise there is a danger of an
unexpected movement causing an
accident.<

The indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster flashes when the backrest is not
locked, refer to page 21.

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Mirrors

Exterior mirrors

1 Switch for 4-way adjustment
2 Selection switch for changing

between mirrors

You can also adjust the mirrors manu­ally by pressing against the outer edges
of their lenses.

The mirror on the passenger's

side features a lens with a more
convex surface than the mirror installed
on the driver's side. When estimating
the distance between yourself and
other traffic, bear in mind that the
objects reflected in the mirror are closer
than they appear. Estimates of the
distance to following traffic should
therefore not be regarded as precise.<

Electric defrosting*

Both mirrors are automatically
defrosted with the ignition key in posi­tion 2.

Passenger side exterior mirror tilt
function

(automatic curb monitor)
Move the mirror selector switch 1 to the

"driver's mirror" position. When reverse
gear is engaged, the passenger side
mirror tilts downward. This allows the
driver to see the area directly adjacent
to the vehicle during parking (curbs,
etc.).

You can deactivate this automatic
feature: set the mirror selection switch
to the "passenger mirror" position.

Mirrors

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53n

For the mirror to function perfectly,
keep the photocells clean and the area
between the inside rearview mirror and
the windshield free of any obstructions,
such as stickers, etc.

Interior rearview mirror with
automatic dimming feature

By responding to the effects of ambient
light and the glare from following traffic,
this mirror automatically dims through
an infinitely variable range.

The mirror switches to its clear,
undimmed mode whenever you shift
into reverse.

There are two photocells for automatic
dimming. One photocell (arrow) is posi­tioned in the mirror's glass, while the
other is slightly offset on the opposite
side of the mirror. For an explanation of
the electrochromic technology used in
this mirror, refer to page 173.

Sun visors

These can be folded down toward the
windshield or swiveled out against the
side windows.

Vanity mirrors

Fold down the sun visor and slide the
cover panel to the side as required.

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Seat and mirror memory

You can store and recall three different
driver's seat and outside mirror posi­tions.

Memory will not retain the adjust­ments made to the lumbar

supports.<

If you press the
dentally: press the button again; the
indicator lamp goes out.

MEMORY button acci-

To store

1 Turn the key to ignition key position

1 or 2.

2 Adjust your seat and outside mirrors

to the desired position.

3 Press the

cator lamp in the button lights up.

MEMORY button: the indi-

4 Press memory button 1, 2 or 3, as

desired: indicator lamp goes out.

To select a stored setting

Do not select a memory position

while the vehicle is moving. If you
do so, there is a risk of accident from
unexpected seat movement.<

Convenience function:
1 The driver's door is open after

unlocking or the ignition key is in
position 1.

2 Briefly press memory button 1, 2 or 3,

as desired.
Movement stops immediately when
one of the seat-adjustment or
memory buttons is activated during

the adjustment process.
Security function:
1 The driver's door is closed and the

ignition key is either removed or in

position 0 or 2.
2 Press and hold the desired memory

button 1, 2 or 3 until the adjustment

process is completed.

Your BMW center can adjust your

vehicle's systems in such a
manner that your personalized settings
are automatically set for the seat and
outside mirror positions when you
unlock the vehicle with your personal
remote control.<

If you make use of this method of

adjustment, be sure that the foot­well behind the driver's seat is unob­structed before unlocking the vehicle. If
you fail to do so, any persons or objects
behind the seat could be injured or
damaged by rearward movement of the
seat.<

Adjusting steering wheel Car Memory, Key Memory

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1 Push the locking lever downward.
2 Adjust the steering wheel (forward/

back and up/down) to the desired
position.

3 Pull the lever back in to clamp the

steering wheel in the new position.

Do not adjust the steering wheel

while the vehicle is moving, other­wise you run the risk of an accident
occurring due to unexpected move­ment.<

How the system functions

You have probably frequently wished
that you could configure individual
functions of your vehicle to reflect your
own personal requirements. In engi­neering your vehicle, BMW has
included several user-defined func­tions in the vehicle's design. Your BMW
center can program these settings for
you in accordance with your wishes.

There are settings related to the vehicle
("Car Memory") and settings related to
individuals ("Key Memory"). You can
have up to four different basic settings
adjusted for four different persons. The
only requirement is that each person
uses his or her own master key with
remote control.

When your vehicle is unlocked with the
remote control, the vehicle recognizes
the individual user by means of a data
exchange with the key, and makes
adjustments accordingly.

In order for you to distinguish between
different keys, colored decals are
supplied together with the keys.

What the system can do

Your BMW center can provide you with
details on the possibilities that the Car
Memory and Key Memory systems
offer.

Examples for Car Memory:
> Various signals that can serve as

acknowledgment for locking and
unlocking the vehicle, refer to
pages 34, 35

> Activating/deactivating operation of

"Follow-me-home lamps", refer to
page 84

> Activating/deactivating daylight

driving lamps

> Setting the units of measure to indi-

cate outside temperature and
distance traveled on the instrument
cluster, refer to page 18.

*, refer to page 84

55n

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Car Memory, Key Memory

Examples for Key Memory:
> Locking the vehicle after driving off,

refer to page 38

> Unlocking and simultaneously

lowering the driver's window, refer to
page 36

> Automatically moving the seat and

outside mirror into position for that
particular person when unlocking the
vehicle, refer to page 54

> Calling up customized settings for the

automatic climate control when
unlocking using the remote control,
refer to page 90.

You will see this symbol

throughout the Owner's Manual. It
is to remind you at appropriate places
of the settings that are available to
you.<

Safety belts

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If the safety belt system has been

subjected to the stresses involved
in an accident or otherwise damaged:
have the entire safety belt mechanism
replaced by your BMW center, includ­ing the safety belt tensioner. In addi­tion, have your BMW center inspect the
safety belt anchors. If a child restraint
system was in the vehicle during an
accident, consult the manufacturer's
instructions regarding replacement.<

For care instructions, refer to page 135.

Drive with your safety belt on

Fasten your safety belt before starting
off.

Before putting your safety belts on
in the rear, take them out of the

holder.<

To fasten: make sure you hear the
catch engage in the belt buckle.

To release: press the red button in the
buckle. Hold the belt and guide it back
into its reel.

For your safety, comply with the

following instructions for wearing
safety belts. If you do not, the safety
belts may not be able to provide their
maximum protection. The following
information also applies to your
passengers:
Never allow more than one person to
wear a single safety belt. Never allow
infants or small children to ride in a
passenger's lap.
Untwist the safety belt before putting it
on, and wear it so that it lies as snugly
as possible over your abdomen and
shoulder, and do not let it rub against
any hard or fragile objects. Never route
the belt across your neck, do not run it
across sharp edges and ensure that the
belt does not become caught
or jammed.
Avoid wearing bulky clothing and pull
on the belt periodically to re-tension it
over your shoulders. In the event of a
frontal impact, a loose lap belt could
slide over your hips, leading to abdom­inal injury. In addition, the safety belt's
restraint effectiveness is reduced if the
belt is worn loosely.
Expectant mothers should always wear
their safety belts, taking care to position
the lap belt against the lower hips,

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Safety belts Transporting children safely

where it will not exert pressure against
the abdominal area.
Leave the rear safety belts in the
holders, if they are not needed, to avoid
unwanted movement from the safety
belts at high speeds.<

Safety belt height adjustment

The front safety belts automatically
adjust to your height based on the
height adjustment of the head
restraints, refer to page 51.

If the safety belt system has been

subjected to the stresses involved
in an accident or otherwise damaged:
have the entire safety belt mechanism
replaced by your BMW center, includ­ing the safety belt tensioner. In addi­tion, have your BMW center inspect the
safety belt anchors. If a child restraint
system was in the vehicle during an
accident, consult the manufacturer's
instructions regarding replacement.<

Child restraint systems*

Never install a rearward-facing

child restraint device in the front
passenger's seat. If the airbag is trig­gered, any child in a rear-facing
restraint located within the airbag's
deployment range could sustain serious
injuries.
Children should always travel in the rear
seats, where they should be secured in
a suitable child restraint device
attached to the safety belts in the
outboard positions.
Do not use the center belts to secure a
child restraint unless the two outboard
positions are already occupied, and a
third safety seat is needed.
Never attempt to modify or change a
child restraint device in any way, as
tampering could reduce the protection
it provides in an accident.<

Commercially available child seats
complying with the legal standard are
designed to be secured with a lap belt
or with the lap belt portion of a combi­nation lap/shoulder belt. Improperly or
inadequately installed restraint systems
can increase the risk of injury to chil­dren. Always read and follow the
instructions that come with the system.

If you use a child restraint system with a
tether strap, two additional tether
anchorage points (refer to the arrows in
the illustration) have been provided.
They are located under the convertible
top compartment lid.
Depending on the location selected for
seating in the rear passenger area,
attach the tether strap to the corre­sponding anchorage point to secure the
child restraint system.

Transporting children safely

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59n

Lift the head restraint and pass the
tether strap between the headrest and
the seat back.

Adjust the tether strap according to the
child restraint manufacturer's instruc­tions.

Before installing any child restraint

device or child seat, please read
the following:
Never install a rear-facing child restraint
system in the front passenger seat of
this vehicle.
Your vehicle is equipped with an airbag
supplemental restraint system for the
front passenger. Because the backrest
on any rear-facing child restraint
system (of the kind designed for infants
under 1 year and 20 - 30 lbs/9 - 14 kg)
would be within the airbag's deploy­ment range, you should never mount
such a device in the front passenger
seat, as the impact of the airbag against
the child restraint's backrest could lead
to serious or fatal injuries.
If it is necessary for a child (not an
infant) to ride in the front seat, certain
precautions should be taken. First,
move the passenger seat as far away
from the dashboard as possible. This
important precaution is intended to
maximize the distance between the

airbag and the child. Older children
should be tightly secured with the
safety belt.
Younger children should be secured in
an appropriate forward-facing child
restraint system that has first been
properly secured with a safety belt.
Never install a rear-facing child restraint
system in the front passenger seat.
We strongly urge you to carefully read
and comply with the instructions for
installation and use provided by the
child restraint's manufacturer when­ever you use such a device.
Always ensure that all occupants (of all
ages) remain properly and securely
restrained at all times.c

All rear seating positions in your vehicle
meet the recommendations of SAE
J1819, an industry recommended stan­dard for securing child restraint
systems in motor vehicles.

LATCH attachment for child seat

The brackets for the LATCH child
restraint system are not visible from the
outside and are located at the points
marked with the arrows.

Carefully press the brackets through
the seam between backrest and seat
upholstery at the locations indicated.

To mount the LATCH child

restraint system, please follow the
manufacturer's operating and safety
precautions.c

Leave the rear safety belts in the

holders, if they are not needed, to
avoid unwanted movement from the
safety belts at high speeds.c

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Transporting children safely

Child seat security

All of the rear belt retractors and the
front passenger's safety belt can be
locked for mounting and securing child
restraint systems.

A label with the appropriate instructions
for this is located in the immediate
vicinity of the buckle latch of each
safety belt.

To lock the safety belt

Extract the entire length of the belt from
the inertia reel mechanism. Allow the
reel to retract the belt somewhat and
engage the buckle, then tighten the belt
against the child restraint system. The
retraction mechanism is now locked.
The belt cannot be extracted further.
Always comply with the installation
instructions provided by the manufac­turer of the child restraint system.

To unlock the safety belt

Release the safety belt, remove the
child's seat and retract the safety belt
to its end position on the belt retractor.

Airbags

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1 Front airbags on the driver and front

passenger side

2 Side airbags on the driver and

passenger sides (front and rear

Protective effect

The front airbags help protect the driver
and passenger in the event of a head­on collision where the protection
provided by the safety belt alone would
not be adequate. The side airbags help
provide protection in the event of a
collision from the side. Each of the side
airbags is designed to help support the
occupant's upper body.

*)

The side airbags in the rear

passenger area
may already have been deactivated
either at the time of manufacture or by a
BMW center. You may have them acti­vated if you desire to do so. Please
contact your BMW center for additional
information.<

The illustration depicts schematically
the primary directions of vehicle impact
that initiate airbag deployment.

The airbags will not be triggered in

the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle rollover, or collisions from the
rear.<

* of your vehicle

61n

Functional status

The indicator lamp in the instru­ment cluster shows the airbag
system's functional status

starting from ignition key position 1.
System operational:
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly

then goes out.

System malfunction:

> The indicator lamp fails to come on
> The indicator lamp comes on briefly

before going out and then lighting up
again.

A system malfunction could prevent the
system from responding to an impact
occurring within its normal response
range.

Please have your BMW center inspect
the system as soon as possible.

The airbag indicator lamp also
comes on if the safety belt

tensioners have been triggered.<

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Airbags

Sitting correctly with airbags

For your safety, comply with the

following instructions for the
airbags. If you do not, the airbags may
not be able to provide their maximum
protection. All passengers in the vehicle
should be aware of and comply with
this information:
The airbags are supplemental restraint
devices designed to provide extra
protection; they are not a substitute for
safety belts. Wear your safety belt at all
times. The airbags will not be triggered
in the event of a minor accident, a
vehicle rollover, or collisions from the
rear. In these instances, the safety belt
provides optimal protection.
Airbags are located under cover panels
in the steering wheel, in the instrument
panel and in the side trim panels in the
front and rear
Adjust your seat to a position that
provides maximum distance between
you and the steering wheel, the instru­ment panel and the door while still
allowing comfortable and safe access
to all vehicle controls.
To avoid sustaining hand and arm inju­ries, always grasp the steering wheel
on the rim with the hands at the 9 and
3 o'clock positions. Do not place your
hands on the center pad.

*.

Never allow any objects to obstruct the
area between the airbag and an occu­pant.
Do not use the cover panel above the
passenger side airbag as a storage
area.
Do not apply adhesive materials to the
cover panels of the airbags, cover them
or modify them in any other way.
Do not install a rear-facing child
restraint system in the front passenger
seat of this vehicle.
Children under 13 years of age and
children less than 5 feet (150 cm) tall
should ride only in the rear seat.
Infants or small children should never
be held on the lap of a passenger.
If your vehicle is equipped with side
airbags in the rear passenger area
sure that child restraints are mounted
correctly and provided with the
greatest-possible distance between the
airbags in the side trim panels. Do not
allow children to lean out of the child's
seat in the direction of the side trim
panels. If they do so, serious injuries
can occur if the airbag is triggered.<

*, be

At all times, occupants should sit

upright and be properly restrained
(infants and small children in appro­priate child restraint systems; larger
children and adults using the safety
belts). Never let an occupant's head
rest near or on a side airbag because
the inflating airbag could cause a
serious or fatal injury. Please note that
the word "Airbag" imprinted on the door
trim panel indicates the airbag's loca­tion.
Accident research shows that the
safest place for children in an automo­bile is in the rear seat. However, a child
sitting in the rear seat and not properly
restrained may place his or her head on
or near the airbag, if so equipped. For
example, a child — even though belted
— may fall asleep with his or her head
against the side airbag. It may be diffi­cult for a driver to ensure that children
in the rear seat will remain properly
positioned at all times and not place
their heads on or near the side airbag.
Therefore, we recommend that the rear
seat side airbags, if so equipped, be
deactivated if children will travel in the
rear seat.
The rear seat side airbags may already
have been deactivated, either at the
time of manufacture or by a BMW

Airbags

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center. Labels in the door opening
should indicate the status of your rear
seat side airbags. If you are uncertain of
their status, or wish to have the airbags
activated or deactivated, please
contact your BMW center.<

Even when all these guidelines are
observed, there is still a small residual
risk of injuries to the face, hands and
arms occurring in isolated instances.
The ignition and inflation noise may
induce a mild temporary hearing loss in
sensitive individuals.

For additional information concerning
the airbag system, refer to pages 139
and 168.

This is the right way for a child to sit in a
child restraint when rear side airbags
(arrow) are provided.

63n

This is the right way for a larger child to
sit wearing the safety belt when rear
side airbags (arrow) are provided.

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Rollover protection system

In the event of an accident or some
other critical driving situation (extreme
tilting in the longitudinal or transverse
axis, loss of contact with the ground),
the rollover protection system will be
automatically activated. The protective
bars located in the rear head restraints
extend upward within fractions of a
second.

In addition to the integrated rollover bar
in the windshield frame, the rollover
protection system can help provide all
the vehicle occupants with necessary
headroom in certain rollover accidents.

Always keep the travel path clear

for the rollover protection system.
Never attach any type of protective
coverings to the head restraints.
In the event of less serious accidents,
the safety belt will protect you and,
depending on the nature and severity of
the accident, the safety belt tensioner
and the multi-stage airbag restraint
system will as well.<

If, after being automatically triggered,
the protective function is not needed,
then the rollover protection system can
be lowered back into place. No special
tool is needed for this.

1 Using a screwdriver from the on-

board tool kit, remove the cover
panel; to do this, position the screw­driver under the notch (arrow)

2 Pull up on the lever (arrow) toward

the front of the vehicle and keep it in
this position

Rollover protection system

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3 Keep pressing down on the protec-

tive bar 1 from above until you hear it
click into place

4 Put the cover panel back in place,

and press down firmly

5 Press the rear part of the head

restraint 2 closed.

Do the same for the second protective
bar. If you are not familiar with any of
the procedures, consult your BMW
center.

Have the rollover protection system
checked by your BMW center after it
has been inadvertently triggered.

Do not move the convertible top

under any circumstances if the
rollover protection system has
deployed.
Do not use the rear head restraints as
storage shelves.
Absolutely no modifications are to be
made to any of the rollover protection
system's individual components or any
of its wiring.
Only your BMW center is authorized to
carry out any work on the rollover
protection system.
Work done on the system that is carried
out improperly could lead to failure in
an emergency or inadvertent triggering.
Regarding having the system checked
to ensure long-term operation: be scru­pulous in adhering to the Service
Interval Display for maintenance inter­vals. The rollover protection system
must be checked by a BMW center at
least every 2 years.<

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Steering/Ignition lock Starting the engine

0 Steering locked
1 Steering unlocked
2 Ignition switched on
3 Starting the engine

Steering locked

The key can be inserted and removed in
this position only.

To lock the steering column after you
have taken the key out, turn the
steering wheel until you hear it lock.

Steering unlocked

Individual electrical accessories are
ready for operation.

You will find that it is often easier to turn
the ignition key from position 0 to posi­tion 1 when you move the steering
wheel slightly to help disengage the
lock.

Ignition switched on

All electrical equipment and accesso­ries are available for use.

1 Engage the parking brake
2 Move the shift lever to the neutral

position
3 Depress the clutch pedal
4 Turn the key to position 3 to start the

engine.
Do not actuate the starter for too short

a time, but not turn it for more than
approx. 20 seconds. Release the igni­tion key immediately when the engine
starts.

Do not allow the engine to warm up by
leaving it running while the vehicle
remains stationary. Instead, drive off
immediately at a moderate engine
speed.

Do not run the engine in enclosed

areas. The exhaust gases contain
carbon monoxide, an odorless and
colorless, but highly toxic gas.
Breathing the exhaust gases poses an
extreme health risk, and can lead to
unconsciousness and death.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended
with the engine running. An unat­tended vehicle with a running engine
represents a potential safety hazard.<

Starting the engine Switching off the engine Parking brake

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67n

If the engine does not start on the first
attempt (if it is very hot or cold, for
instance):
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway

down while engaging the starter.

Cold starts at very low temperatures,
starting at approx. 5 7 (–15 6) and at
high altitudes (over 1,000 meters):

> On the first start attempt, engage the

starter for a longer period (approx.
10 seconds)

> Press the accelerator pedal halfway

down while engaging the starter.

Engine idle speed is controlled by the
engine computer system. Increased
speeds at startup are normal and
should decrease as the engine warms
up. If engine speed does not decrease,
service is required.

To prevent the battery from
discharging, always deactivate elec­trical devices that are not in use. Switch
the ignition off when the vehicle is not
being driven.

Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.

Do not remove the ignition key

while the vehicle is still moving.
If you did so, the steering lock would
engage when the steering wheel is
turned.
When you leave the vehicle, always
remove the ignition key and engage the
steering lock.
Set the parking brake when parking on
steep hills, because under certain
conditions, putting the vehicle into first
or reverse gear may not be enough to
prevent it from rolling away.
The power assist is not available when
the engine is not on. This means that
more effort is required for braking.<

The parking brake is designed primarily
to prevent the vehicle from rolling when
it is parked. It operates against the rear
wheels.

To engage

The lever engages automatically, the
indicator lamp in the instrument cluster
comes on when the ignition key is in
position 2. Refer to page 21.

To release

Pull up slightly on the lever, press the
button (arrow) and lower the lever.

If, in exceptional circumstances,

it should be necessary to engage
the parking brake while the vehicle is
in motion, do not pull the lever with

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Parking brake Manual transmission

excessive pressure. Keep your thumb
pressed against the release button
while carefully pulling up the lever to
apply moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to over­braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)
at the rear axle.
The brake lamps do not come on when
the parking brake is engaged.
Set the parking brake when parking on
steep hills, because under certain
conditions, putting the vehicle into first
or reverse gear may not be enough to
prevent it from rolling away.<

To avoid corrosion and one-sided
braking, apply the parking brake lightly
from time to time when coasting to a
standstill (at a traffic signal, for
instance), provided that it is safe to do
so.

Reverse

Select only when the vehicle is
stationary. Press the shift lever to the
left to overcome the slight resistance.

As you do this, the backup lamps will
turn on automatically when the ignition
key is in position 2.

The shift lever's neutral plane is located
between 3rd and 4th gears.

When shifting from each gear into
"Neutral," the shift lever automatically
springs back to the gear lever's home
position.

When shifting gears in the 5th/6th-

gear plane, be sure to press the
gear lever to the right in order to
prevent inadvertent selection of a gear
in the 3rd/4th-gear plane.
Do not hold the vehicle in place on
slopes by slipping or "riding" the clutch.
Use the parking brake instead. Other­wise, riding the clutch will cause
tremendous wear and tear to the
clutch.<

Turn signal indicator/Headlamp flasher Washer/Wiper system

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69n

1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator

lamp)

3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator

accompanied by periodic clicking
sound from the relay).

To signal briefly

Press the lever up to but not beyond
the detent. It then returns to the center
position when released.

When the turn signal indicator

lamp in the instrument cluster
flashes and the blinker relay clicks, a
turn indicator lamp has failed.<

0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent operation or rain sensor
2 Normal wipe
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
5 Rotary dial for controlling the wipe

interval or the sensitivity of the rain

*

sensor

Intermittent operation

(not on vehicles with rain sensor)
You can set the wipe interval at four

stages with rotary dial 5. In addition, the
wipe interval is varied automatically
depending on road speed.

*

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

70n

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Washer/Wiper system

Rain sensor*

When the rain sensor is activated, the
windshield wiper is controlled automati­cally, depending on the degree of
wetness of the windshield (in both snow
and rain). You do not have to be
concerned with switching the wind­shield wiper on or off or adjusting the
wipe interval between intermittent and
full wipe. Instead, you can concentrate
fully on the traffic conditions. This is
especially important under adverse
weather conditions.

The rain sensor is positioned on the
windshield, directly ahead of the inte­rior rearview mirror.

To activate the rain sensor:
> From ignition key position 1 and up,

move the lever to position 1. The
wipers travel once across the wind­shield, regardless of the weather

> You can leave the lever permanently

in position 1. It is then only necessary
to activate the rain sensor from igni­tion key position 1 and up. To do this
give rotary dial 5 a quick turn.

To adjust the sensitivity of the rain
sensor: turn rotary dial 5.

Deactivating the rain sensor: put lever
in position 0.

Deactivate the rain sensor when

passing through an automatic car
wash. Failure to do so could result in
damage caused by undesired wiper
activation.<

Normal wiper speed

When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers switch automatically to intermit­tent wipe (not on vehicles with rain
sensor).

Fast wiper speed

When the vehicle is stationary, the
wipers operate at normal speed (not on
vehicles with rain sensor).

0 Wipers retracted
1 Clean the windshield

Clean the windshield

The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and activates the wipers
for a brief period.

If you pull the lever only briefly, the
system sprays washer fluid onto the
windshield without activating the
wipers.

Do not use the washers if there

is any danger that the fluid will
freeze on the windshield. If you do so,
your vision could be obscured. For this
reason, use an antifreeze agent. Refer
to page 126.

Washer/Wiper system Rear window defroster Cruise control

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Do not use the washers when the reser­voir is empty, since this could cause
damage to the washer pump.<

Clean the headlamps*

When the vehicle's lighting system is
switched on, the headlamps will also be
cleaned every fifth time the automatic
windshield washer is activated.

Windshield washer jets

The windshield washer jets are warmed
automatically when the ignition key is in
position 2.

To activate

With the convertible top closed or the
hardtop
long as the indicator lamp remains on,
the rear window defroster continues at
high output (rapid thaw).

After the indicator lamp goes out, the
defroster continues operating at
reduced power for a limited period
before deactivating automatically.

* mounted, press the button: as

To deactivate

Press the button if the indicator lamp is
on.

Starting at about 20 mph (30 km/h), you
can maintain and store any vehicle
speed that you specify.

You can use cruise control, whenever
the system is active while the engine is
running.

1 Accelerate and store
2 Decelerate and store
3 Activate/interrupt/deactivate the

system

4 Recall the stored speed

71n

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

72n

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Cruise control

To activate the system

From ignition key position 2.
Press button 3 and the indicator lamp

on the instrument cluster (refer to
page 23) will come on. You can now
use the cruise control.

Do not use cruise control on

twisting roads, when high traffic
density prevents driving at a constant
speed, when the road surface is slick
(snow, rain, ice), or when the road
surface is loose (rocks, sand).<

To deactivate the system

Press button 3 as often as you need to
until the indicator lamp on the instru­ment cluster goes out.

Cruise control is also deactivated when
the ignition key is in position 0.

The speed stored in memory is deleted.

To store and maintain speed or to
accelerate

Press button 1 briefly: the system regis­ters and maintains the current vehicle
speed. Every time you tap the button,
the speed increases by approx.

0.6 mph (1 km/h).
Press and hold button 1: the vehicle

accelerates without pressure on the
accelerator pedal. When you release
the button, the system registers and
maintains the current speed.

If, on a downhill gradient, the

engine braking effect is not suffi­cient, the controlled speed may be
exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill
grades if the engine output is insuffi­cient.<

To decelerate

Press button 2 briefly: if you are already
driving with active cruise control, the
speed is decreased by approx. 0.6 mph
(1 km/h) every time you tap the button.

Press and hold button 2: with the cruise
control active, the system automatically
reduces the throttle opening to slow the
vehicle. When you release the button,
the system registers and maintains the
current speed.

To interrupt the cruise control

When the cruise control is on, press
button 3. The indicator lamp will stay
on.

You can use the cruise control again
whenever you want by calling up the
speed that was stored last.

In addition, cruise control is interrupted
automatically

> if the brakes are applied
> when you depress the clutch pedal,
> if you exceed or fall below the

programmed speed for an extended
period (by depressing the acceler­ator, for example).

Recall the stored speed.

Press button 4: the vehicle accelerates
to and maintains the last speed stored.

Odometer Tachometer Engine oil temperature

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73n

1 Odometer
2 Trip odometer

Odometer

You can activate the displays shown in
the illustration with the ignition key in
position 0 by pressing the button
(arrow) in the instrument cluster.

Trip odometer

To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press the button (arrow) with the igni­tion key in position 1 and up.

Variable pre-warning zone

The orange pre-warning zone displays
current permissible engine speeds,
depending on the engine temperature.
As the engine temperature climbs, the
sectors for this pre-warning zone will
go out one after the other.

Avoid engine speeds in the pre-warning
zone if possible.

Warning zone

Always avoid engine speeds in the
red warning zone, as otherwise

the engine may be damaged.<

To protect the engine, the fuel supply is
automatically interrupted in this zone;
you will notice a loss of power.

The general operating temperature is
between 175 7 (80 6) and 250 7
(120 6). During performance-oriented
driving, do not exceed the maximum
temperature of 300 7 (150 6).

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Fuel gauge Coolant temperature gauge

Between the blue and red zones

Normal operating range. It is not
unusual for the needle to rise as far as
the edge of the red zone in response to
high outside temperatures or severe
operating conditions.

Once the indicator lamp stays on
continuously, there are still approx.
2 gallons (8 liters) of fuel in the fuel
tank.

For fuel tank capacity, refer to
page 181.

If the tilt of the vehicle varies (extended
driving in mountainous areas, for
example), there may be slight fluctua­tions of the needle.

Fill the fuel tank well before it is

empty. Driving to the last drop of
fuel can result in damage to the engine
and/or the catalytic converter.<

When the ignition is switched on, the
indicator lamp in the fuel display will
light up briefly to confirm that the
system is operational.

Blue

The engine is still cold. Drive at
moderate engine and vehicle speeds.

Red

To confirm that the system is opera­tional, the warning lamp in the coolant
temperature gauge will light up briefly
when the ignition is switched on.

If the lamp comes on while operating
the vehicle: the engine is overheated.
Stop and switch the engine off immedi­ately and allow it to cool down.

Checking coolant level, refer to
page 129.

Service Interval Display

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Remaining distance for service

The displays shown in the illustration
appear for a few seconds when the
ignition key is in position 1 or after the
engine is started.

The next service due appears with the
message OILSERVICE or INSPECTION,
together with the distance remaining
before the next scheduled service.
The computer bases its calculations of
the remaining distance on the previous
driving style.

A flashing message and a "–" in front of
the number mean that the service
interval has already been exceeded by
the distance shown on the display.
Please contact your BMW center for an
appointment.

75n

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76n

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Check Control Clock

If you wish to have a permanent time
display, you can make this adjustment
in the radio display
Owner's Manual).

You can set the time of day, and the
display for the car radio

* (refer to the Radio

*, as follows.

Display

The following information or conditions
are displayed from ignition key posi­tion 2 on, until the cause has been
corrected:

1 Inspect the low beam and high beam

headlamps, as well as the side lamps
2 Door open
3 Luggage compartment lid open
4 Check brake and tail lamps.
After completion of a trip and upon

opening the driver's door, an acoustic
signal will sound yet not be displayed,
as a reminder that the low beam head­lamps have not been turned off.

Adjustments

From ignition key position 1:
To set ahead: turn the button to the

right.
To set back: turn the button to the left.

The adjustment speed will increase the
longer you continue to hold the button.

To change the display mode: press the
knob briefly.
Every time you press the knob, the
clock display alternates between the
12-hour or 24-hour mode.

In ignition key position 0: the time is
displayed for a few seconds after you
press the left button (refer to "Odom­eter" on page 73).

Computer

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Mode selection

From ignition key position 1 on, you can
use the button in the turn signal lever to
retrieve information from the computer
for display in the instrument cluster. By
pressing the button briefly in the direc­tion of the steering column, you can call
up a new function for display.

The displays appear in the following
order:
Time of day, outside temperature,
average fuel consumption, cruising
range, average vehicle speed.

From ignition key position 1 on, the last
active setting is displayed.

Outside temperature

You can change the units of measure
(6/7) for the outside temperature
display by pressing the right-hand reset
button in the instrument cluster while
the temperature display is active.

77n

Ice warning

If the outside temperature drops to
about 37.5 7 (+3 6), then the
computer will automatically switch to
show the outside temperature. In addi­tion, a signal sounds as a warning and
the display flashes for a brief period.

This warning will repeat itself whenever
the temperature has climbed to at least
43 7 (+6 6) since the last warning,
and has then dropped back to 37.5 7
(+3 6).

Ice warnings do not exclude the

possibility that surface ice can still
occur at temperatures above 37.5 7
(+3 6), e.g. on bridges and shady
roads.<

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Computer

Average fuel consumption

If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average fuel
consumption last displayed is recalcu­lated from that point in time.

Cruising range

The computer bases its calculations
of the cruising range on the previous
driving style.

Average speed

If you continue to hold the button on the
turn signal lever, the average speed last
displayed is recalculated from that
point in time.

Any time spent when the vehicle is
stationary and the engine is shut off is
ignored for the calculation.

Park Distance Control (PDC)*

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79n

The concept

The PDC assists you when you back
into a parking space. A signal warns
you of the distance to an obstacle.
To do this, four ultrasonic sensors in
the rear bumper measure the distance
to the nearest object. The range for the
sensors located at both rear corners
ends approx. 2 ft. (60 cm) behind
the bumpers. The range for the two
middle sensors is approx. 4.9 feet
(1.50 meters).

The system is activated automatically
about one second after you engage
reverse with the ignition key in
position 2. PDC is deactivated when
you shift back out of reverse.

Acoustic signals

The distance to the nearest object is
indicated by a tone sounding at various
intervals. As the distance between
vehicle and object decreases, the inter­vals between the tones become
shorter. A continuous tone indicates the
presence of an object less than 1 ft.
(30 cm) away.

The warning signal is interrupted after
approx. three seconds if the distance to
the obstacle remains constant during
this time (if you are moving parallel to
a wall, for instance).

System malfunctions will be indicated
by a continuous high-pitched tone
when the system is activated the first
time. Please refer the problem to your
BMW center.

The PDC does not remove the

driver's personal responsibility for
evaluating the distance between the
vehicle and any obstacles. Even when
sensors are involved, there is a blind
spot in which objects cannot be
detected. This applies especially in
those cases where the system
approaches the physical limits of ultra­sonic measurement, as occurs with tow
bars and trailer couplings, and in the
vicinity of thin and painted objects.

Certain sources of sound, such as a
loud radio, could drown out the PDC
signal tone.<

Keep the sensors clean and free

of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they continue to operate effec­tively.
Do not apply high pressure spray to the
sensors for a prolonged period of time.
Always maintain a distance of more
than 4 in (10 cm).<

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

80n

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

The concept

DSC helps maintain vehicle stability,
even in critical driving situations.

The system optimizes vehicle stability
during acceleration and when starting
from a full stop, as well as optimizing
traction. In addition, the system recog­nizes unstable vehicle conditions
(understeering or oversteering in
curves, for example) and holds the
vehicle on course by intervening via the
engine and by braking intervention at
the individual wheels within the limits
defined by the laws of physics.

The system starts up automatically
each time you start the engine.

The laws of physics cannot be

repealed, even with DSC. The
results of driving irresponsibly rest with
the driver. We therefore urge you to
avoid using the additional safety margin
of the system as an excuse for taking
risks. Do not make any modifications to
the DSC system. Service procedures
on the system are to be performed by
authorized technicians only.<

You will find additional details
concerning DSC in the chapter
"Advanced technology" on page 170.

Indicator lamp

The indicator lamp on the instru­ment cluster will go out shortly
after the ignition has been

switched on. Refer to page 21.
> Indicator lamp flashes: the system is

active and is controlling the drive
torque based on driving conditions

> If the indicator lamp fails to go out

after the engine has been started, or
if it comes on during normal driving
and stays on: there is a system
malfunction or the system was deac­tivated with the button. You can
continue to drive the vehicle
normally, but without DSC. Please
consult your BMW center for repairs.

To deactivate the system

Press the button – the indicator lamp
comes on and stays on.

When DSC is deactivated, you are
driving with conventional power
transfer.

We recommend that you turn the
system off for increased traction:

> When rocking the vehicle or starting

off in deep snow or on loose surfaces

> When driving with snow chains.

Refer also to page 110.

To help maintain driving stability,
drive with the DSC activated

whenever possible.<

To reactivate the system

Press the button again; the indicator
lamp goes out.

Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)

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81n

The concept

The Tire Pressure Warning system
(RDW) monitors the tire inflation pres­sure in all four tires while driving. The
system is designed to detect whenever
the inflation pressure in a tire drops off
significantly.

By monitoring the speeds of the tires
relative to each other, a flat tire can be
detected and reported because its
speed suddenly deviates drastically
from that of the other tires.

3 Press button until the yellow indicator

lamp on the instrument cluster lights
up. After a little while, the indicator
lamp will go out automatically

4 After a few minutes, the RDW will

accept the current inflation pressure
as its reference value, and from that
point on, can detect and report a flat
tire.

Initializing the system

Initializing is necessary to familiarize the
system with the correct inflation pres­sure.

Repeat this process after any changes
in tire inflation pressure, tire rotation or
replacement. Do not carry out further
system initialization after correcting the
inflation pressure and letting the system
"learn" what condition is required.

1 Check the tire inflation pressure in all

the tires, comparing them with the
inflation pressure table (page 28),
and adjusting their pressure if neces­sary

2 Turn the ignition key to position 2

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Tire Pressure Warning (RDW)

Activating/deactivating the
system

The system is automatically active in
ignition key position 2 and is therefore
always on during driving.

To deactivate the system: tap the
button, the indicator lamp will light up
yellow.

To activate the system: tap the button
again; the indicator lamp goes out.

Deactivate the system while driving
with snow chains, since false warnings
and undetected losses in pressure are
possible under these kinds of condi­tions.

In the event of a flat tire

The indicator lamp on the instru­ment cluster will light up red in

the event of a significant loss in
tire pressure. In addition, an acoustic
signal is sounded. To come to an imme­diate stop, reduce speed, while
avoiding any sudden, jerky braking or
steering maneuvers.

Fix the flat tire using the M Mobility
system (refer to page 153).

Resetting the indicator lamp: the red
indicator lamp has to be turned off
manually after putting on a new wheel.
At this point, hold the RDW button
down until the indicator lamp goes out.
Re-initialize the system afterward.

The RDW cannot alert you to

severe and sudden tire damage
caused by external factors.
The RDW will not identify the natural,
even loss of pressure in all four tires,
either.<

Check the tire inflation pressure

on a regular basis and correct if
necessary. Refer to page 27.
Under certain circumstances, there
may be false warnings or a delayed
detection of losses in pressure when
driving on snow-covered or slippery
road surfaces.
A sporty driving style (slip at the wheels
receiving the torque, high lateral accel­erations) can lead to delayed RDW
warnings.<

System malfunction

As long as there is still a malfunction,
the indicator lamp on the instrument
cluster will remain yellow.

Please contact your BMW center for
additional information.

M Engine dynamics control

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The system (sport mode identification)
will cause the engine to respond more
spontaneously to the motion of the
accelerator pedal.

Activating/deactivating sport
mode identification

Activating: with the key in ignition key
position 2, press the sport button. The
indicator lamp will light up.

Deactivating: press the sport button
again; the indicator lamp will go out.

The sporty mode is deactivated every
time the engine is started.

83n

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Side lamps/Low beam headlamps Instrument lighting

"LAMPS ON" warning

Whenever you open the driver's door,
after having turned the ignition key to
position 0, you will hear a buzzing
sound for a few seconds to remind you
that the lamps have not been switched
off.

Daylight driving lamps*

If you desire, the lamp switch can be
left in the second position. When the

Parking lamps/Side marker lamps

With the switch in this position,
vehicle lighting is illuminated on

both sides. You can use the side
lamps for parking. Refer to page 85 for
one-sided lighting as an additional
possibility for parking.

ignition is switched off, the external
lighting is also switched off.

In order to spare the battery, all of

the lamps in the vehicle are
switched off automatically approx.
15 minutes after the ignition key has
been turned to position 0.<

Turn the rotary dial to control the
lighting when the side lamps or low
beam headlamps are on.

Low beam headlamps

When you switch the ignition off
with the low beam headlamps
on, only the side lamps will

remain on.

"Follow-me-home lamps":

If you turn the headlamp flasher
on after you have parked the vehicle,
the low beam headlamps will remain on
for a short period of time. You can also
have this function deactivated.<

High beams/Side marker lamps Fog lamps

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85n

1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator

lamp)

3 Parking lamps

Side marker lamps, left or right

As an additional feature, you can illumi­nate your vehicle on either side for
parking, if you wish to do so:

With the ignition key in position 0,
engage the lever in the appropriate turn
signal position.

Front fog lamps

A green indicator lamp appears
in the instrument cluster to indi­cate that the front fog lamps are

on.

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Interior lamps Reading lamps

The interior lamps operate automati­cally.

To switch the interior lamps on
and off manually

Press the button briefly.
If you want the interior lamps to remain

off all the time, press and hold the
button for approx. 3 seconds.

To revert to normal operation, press the
button briefly.

Footwell lamps

The footwell lamps operate in the same
way as the interior lamps.

Front reading lamps*

Switch on and off with the switch adja­cent to each lamp.

Rear reading lamps

On the hardtop* there are also reading
lamps in the back. Switch on and off
with the switch adjacent to each lamp.

In order to spare the battery, all of

the lamps in the vehicle are
switched off automatically approx.
15 minutes after the ignition key has
been turned to position 0.<

87n

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Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

88n

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Automatic climate control

Automatic climate control

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

1 Air onto the windshield and onto the

side windows

2 Airflow toward the upper body

The side rotary dials allow you to
open and close the air supply
through an infinitely-variable range,
while the levers change the airflow
direction. The center rotary dial
adjusts the temperature of the
emerging air, see page 92

3 Ventilation for the front footwell

There are corresponding air vents in
the rear footwell as well

4 Recirculated air mode/Automatic

recirculated air control (AUC) 91
5 Air supply (fan) 91
6 Temperature 90
7 Automatic air distribution 90
8 Individual air distribution 90
9 Air grille for interior temperature

sensor – please keep clear and

unobstructed

10 Display for temperature and air

supply 90

11 To defrost the windows and remove

condensation 91

12 Air conditioner 91
13 Rear window defroster 71, 92

89n

Index Data Technology Repairs Car care Controls Overview

90n

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Automatic climate control

Tips for pleasant driving

Use the automatic system (switch on
AUTO – button 7).

> Select an interior temperature that is

comfortable for you — e.g. 72 7
(+22 6).

> Whenever the outside temperature is

above 41 7 (+5 6), you can also
use the air conditioner 12. This will
dry the air as well as preventing
condensation on the window
surfaces – if there are passengers
with damp clothing, for example.

> Set the outlets 2 so that the air flows

past you and is not directed straight
at you.

> Set the rotary dial between the air

outlets 2 for the upper body to a
medium position, since air that is
somewhat cooler promotes driving
without fatigue.

Detailed setting options are described
for you in the following sections.

Your vehicle is set in such a

manner that, when you unlock the
vehicle with your individualized remote
control, your own personalized setting
for the automatic climate control is initi­ated.<

Automatic air distribution

The automatic program will take
over

> automatically distributing the air

supply to the vents, as well as

> automatically adjusting the amount of

incoming air.

It will adapt to the settings you have
made for the temperature that you want
in the passenger compartment – taking
outside influences into account
(summer, winter) – and will privide you
with a comfortable climate in the
vehicle at any time of the year.

> Select an interior temperature that is

comfortable for you — e.g. 72 7
(+22 6). The temperature selected
and AUTO for air supply will
appear in display 10. Refer to the
overview on page 88

> Open up the vents for the upper body
> Switch on the air conditioner in warm

weather. The maximum cooling
capacity is achieved when you set
rotary dial 3 (refer to page 92) to cold.

Individual air distribution

You can cancel the AUTO
program by selecting specific
distribution patterns to suit your

own individual requirements.
You can direct air to flow onto the
windows , toward the upper body

, and into the footwell .

Temperature

The figures in the display

provide a general indication of
interior temperature. We recommend
72 7 (+22 6) as a comfortable setting,
even if the air conditioner is on. When
you start the vehicle, the system
ensures that the selected temperature
is reached as quickly as possible. It
then maintains this temperature,
regardless of the season.

Set rotary dial 3 (refer to "Draft-free
ventilation" on page 92) to a medium
setting, since air that is somewhat
cooler promotes driving without fatigue.
You can use this setting for mixing air to
make minor comfort modifications.

You can set uncontrolled heater

output up to 90 7 (+32 6). The
air conditioner is at full cooling output
at 60 7 (+16 6).<

Automatic climate control

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91n

Air supply (fan)

By pressing the left or right half

of the button, you can vary the
air supply. By doing this, you switch off
the automatic control of the air supply.
Nevertheless, the automatic air distri­bution remains unchanged.

When you set the lowest blower speed
by pressing the left half of the button,
all of the displays are canceled: the
blower, heating and air conditioner are
switched off, and the air supply is
stopped. You can reactivate the system
by pressing any button for the auto­matic climate control.

Defrosting the windows and
removing condensation

This program quickly removes
ice and condensation from the

windshield and side windows.

Air conditioner

The air is cooled and dehumidi-

fied and – depending on the
temperature setting – rewarmed when
the air conditioner system is switched
on.
Depending on the weather, the wind­shield may fog over briefly when the
engine is started.
Use the button to switch the air condi­tioner off at outside temperatures
below approx. 41 7(+5 6). This will
help to prevent the windows from
fogging over.
If the windows fog over after switching
the air conditioner off, switch it back
on.

Condensation forms in the air

conditioner system during opera­tion, that then exits under the vehicle.
Traces of condensed water of this kind
are thus normal.<

Automatic recirculated air control
(AUC)

If there are unpleasant odors or

pollutants in the outside air, you
can temporarily block the airflow from
the outside. The system then recircu­lates the air already within the vehicle.

By repeated actuation of the button,
you can select one of three different
operation modes.

> Indicator lamps off: outside air always

flowing into the vehicle

> Left-hand indicator lamp on – Auto-

matic mode: the system detects
pollutants in the outside air and
responds by deactivating the outside
airflow as required. The system then
recirculates the air already within the
vehicle.
Depending on air quality require­ments, the system automatically
switches between outside air supply
and recirculation of the air already
within the vehicle

> Right-hand indicator lamp on: the

flow of outside air is permanently
blocked. The system recirculates the
air already within the vehicle.

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Automatic climate control

If the windows fog over in the

recirculated air mode, switch the
recirculated air off and increase the air
supply as required.<

Rear window defroster

When the rear window defroster

is activated, the indicator lamp
comes on. The rear window defroster
switches off automatically. Refer to
page 71.

Draft-free ventilation

You can adjust the vents for the upper
body area to select the optimum airflow
rates and directions for your personal
requirements:

1 Rotary dials for opening and closing

the vents at any setting desired

2 Lever for changing the direction of

the airflow.
Set the outlets so that the air flows
past you and is not directed straight
at you

3 Using the rotary dial, you can mix

more or less cool air with the air
coming out of the vents aimed at the
upper body

Microfilter/Activated-charcoal
filter

The built-in microfilter removes dust
and pollen from the incoming air. The
activated-charcoal filter provides addi­tional protection by filtering gaseous
pollutants from the outside air. Your
BMW center will replace the combined
filter as a standard part of your sched­uled maintenance. A substantial reduc­tion in airflow indicates that the filter
needs to be replaced early.

For additional details on changing the
filter, refer to page 161.

Heated seats*

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

The seat cushion and backrest can be
heated with the ignition key in
position 2.

Heating levels

You can select different heating levels
by repeatedly pressing the buttons.

When the three indicator lamps are illu­minated, the highest heating mode is
activated. One lamp indicates the
lowest heating mode. The temperature
is thermostatically controlled in each
mode.

93n

To deactivate

Press repeatedly or hold down until all
of the indicator lamps go out.

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Glove compartment

Opening and closing

To open: pull the handle. The glove
compartment lamp will light up.

To close: fold the cover up.

To prevent injury in the event of
a crash, close the glove compart-

ment immediately after use.<

To lock

Lock with one of the master keys. A
master key must also be used for
unlocking.

If, for example you turn over only

your door key for valet parking
(refer to page 32), access to the glove
compartment and luggage compart­ment is not possible.<

Storage compartments

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95n

Front center armrest*

To open: press the button (arrow) and
lift upward.

Other compartments and nets

You will find additional storage
compartments in the doors and in the
center console above the ashtray.
Storage nets are on the front seat back­rests.

Beverage holder, coin box

A coin box and two beverage holders
are provided in the center console.

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Cellular phone* Ashtray, front

Hands-free system

On vehicles with telephone prepara-

* the trim piece for the hands-free

tion
microphone is located above the inside
mirror on the driver's side.

For further information on the cellular
phone, refer to the separate Owner's
Manual.

To open

Press briefly in the direction indicated
by the arrow.

To empty

Press on the edge of the open cover
(arrow): you can now pull the ashtray
upward for removal.

Extinguishing cigarettes

Tap off the ash and gently press the tip
into the funnel.

Cigarette lighter Ashtray, rear

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Cigarette lighter socket

It can be used for attaching power
supplies for flashlights, car vacuum
cleaners and other similar appliances
up to a rating of approx. 200 watts at
12 volts. Avoid damaging the socket by
attempting to insert plugs of different
shapes or sizes.

97n

Press the lighter in. Remove as soon as
the lighter jumps back out.

Hold or touch the hot cigarette

lighter by the knob only. Holding
or touching it in other areas could result
in burns.
The cigarette lighter remains opera­tional when the ignition key has been
removed. For this reason, children
should never be left in the vehicle unat­tended.<

To open

Push the cover open.

To empty

Press on the edge of the raised cover
in the opening direction (arrow). The
ashtray will pop up and can be
removed.

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Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 155 719 - © 12/00 BMW AG

Ski bag*

The ski bag allows the safe and clean
transport of up to 3 pairs of standard
skis or up to two snowboards.

The length of the ski bag and the addi­tional space provided in the luggage
compartment make it possible to carry
skis with a length of up to 6.8 feet
(2.10 meters). Because of the tapered
shape of the bag, the ski bag can only
accommodate two pairs of skis with a
length of 6.8 feet (2.10 meters).

Loading

1 Remove the safety belts in the rear

from their holders

2 Press down the lever (arrow) and

remove the center piece toward the
front

3 Extend the ski bag between the front

seats. The zipper provides conve­nient access to stored items. It may
be opened to allow the ski bag to dry.

4 Press the release button in the

luggage compartment (arrow)

Ski bag*

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5 Secure the cover panel on the rear

panel with the magnetic retainers and
pull out the ski bag.

Securing the load

Secure the skis or other objects in
the bag by tightening the strap

with the buckle.<

Please be sure that your skis are clean
before loading them into the bag. Avoid
damage from sharp edges during
loading.

Stowing the ski bag

When stowing the ski bag, proceed in
the reverse order of loading.

When remounting the center

piece, guide the two bars into the
strip and press back the center piece.
Secure the safety belts in their holders
again.<

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Cargo loading

Always position and secure the

load correctly. If you do not, it can
endanger the passengers during
braking or evasive maneuvers.
Do not exceed the permissible gross
weight and axle load (refer to
page 180), otherwise the vehicle's
operating safety is no longer assured
and you are in violation of the law.
Do not stow heavy or hard objects in
the passenger compartment without
first securing them. Otherwise they
would be thrown around during braking
and evasive maneuvers and endanger
the occupants.<

always operate the convertible top at
any time.
Conversely, when the convertible top is
closed, raise the convertible top
compartment base before stowing your
cargo in the luggage compartment to
avoid any damage to the convertible
top compartment or your load.<

Stowing cargo

If you are transporting a load in your
BMW:

> Load heavy cargo as far forward as

possible – directly behind the back­rests or the luggage compartment
partition – and as low as possible.

> Cover sharp edges and corners.

With the convertible top closed

you can increase the size of the
luggage compartment, refer to page 41,
by folding up the convertible top
compartment base.
It is advisable to always fold down the
convertible top compartment base as
soon as you have removed your load
from the luggage compartment. This
way, you can be sure that you can