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BMW
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X3 2005
User Manual
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BMW X3 2005 User Manual

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Page 1
Owner's Manual
A - Z
Contents
for Vehicle
The Ultimate
Driving Machine
Page 2
X3 2.5i
X3 3.0i
Owner's Manual for Vehicle
We are very glad that you have decided to purchase a BMW.
The more familiar you are with it, the more secure you will be on the roads. This is why we ask you:
Please read the information we have gathered for you in this Owner's Manual before you set off with your new BMW. You will receive important information on vehicle operation that enables you to make full use of the technical benefits of your BMW. You will also find information on maintenance that serves to retain the operating and road safety as well as the best possible value retention of your vehicle. You will find supplementary information in other brochures.
This Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important operating, safety and maintenance information.
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW AG
Page 3
© 2004 Bayerische Motoren Werke
Aktiengesellschaft Munich, Germany Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the written consent of BMW AG, Munich. Order No. 01 41 0 158 448 US English VIII/04 Printed in Germany Printed on environmentally friendly paper, bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling.
Page 4
Contents
The fastest way to find specific topics is to use the index, refer to page 113.
Using this Owner's Manual
4 Notes
At a glance
10 Cockpit
Controls
16 Opening and closing 24 Adjustments 31 Transporting children safely 34 Driving 42 Everything under control 46 Technology for comfort, convenience
and safety
53 Lamps 56 A congenial climate 62 Practical interior accessories
Driving tips
72 Things to remember when driving
Mobility
80 Refueling 82 Wheels and tires 88 Under the hood 93 Maintenance 95 Replacing components 103 Giving and receiving assistance
Reference
110 Technical data 113 Everything from A to Z
Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility
Page 5

Notes

Using this Owner's Manual

Notes
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. For a brief initial overview, please refer to the first chapter. Should you sell your BMW some day, please remember to hand over the Owner's Manual as well; it is an important component of your vehi­cle.
Additional sources of information
If you have additional questions, your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center is always happy to advise you.
You can find information on BMW, e.g. technol­ogy, on the Internet at www.bmwusa.com.

Symbols used

Indicates precautions that must be fol-
lowed precisely in order to avoid the pos­sibility of personal injury and serious damage to the vehicle.
Indicates information that will assist you
in gaining the optimum benefit from your vehicle and enable you to care more effectively for your vehicle.
Refers to measures that can be taken to
help protect the environment.
< Marks the end of a specific item of informa-
tion.
*
Indicates special equipment, country-specific equipment and optional extras, as well as equipment and functions not yet available at the time of printing.
Vehicle Memory, Key Memory, refer to
page 30. Identifies functions that can be specifically adapted for a particular key or vehi­cle. These adjustments can be performed by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
Symbols on vehicle components
Indicates that you should consult the rel-
evant section of this Owner's Manual for information on a particular part or assembly.
4
Page 6

The individual vehicle

On purchasing your BMW, you have decided in favor of a model with individualized equipment and features. This Owner's Manual describes all models and equipment that BMW offers within the same group.
We hope you will understand that equipment and features are included that you might not have chosen for your vehicle. Sections describ­ing options and special equipment are marked
*
by asterisks ble differences between the descriptions in this manual and your own vehicle's equipment.
If equipment in your BMW is not described in this Owner's Manual, please refer to the accom­panying Supplementary Owner's Manuals.
to assist you in identifying possi-

Editorial notice

BMW pursues a policy of continuous, ongoing development that is conceived to ensure that our vehicles continue to embody the highest quality and safety standards combined with advanced, state-of-the-art technology. In iso­lated cases it is possible that the features described in this Owner's Manual could differ from those on your vehicle.
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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility
Page 7

For your own safety

Maintenance and repair
Notes
Advanced technology, e.g. the use of
modern materials and high-performance electronics, requires specially adapted mainte­nance and repair methods. Therefore, only have corresponding work on your BMW carried out by a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center or a workshop that works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained per­sonnel. If work is carried out improperly, there is a danger of consequential damage and the related safety risks.<
California Proposition 65 Warning
California law requires us to state the following warning:
Engine exhaust and a wide variety of
automobile components and parts, including components found in the interior fur­nishings in a vehicle, contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects and reproductive harm. In addition, certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain products of component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Battery posts, terminals and related accesso­ries contain lead and lead compounds. Batter­ies also contain other chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer. Wash your hands after handling. Used engine oil contains chemicals that have caused cancer in labora­tory animals. Always protect your skin by wash­ing thoroughly with soap and water.<
Parts and accessories
For your own safety, use genuine parts
and accessories approved by BMW. When you purchase accessories tested and approved by BMW and Genuine 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 damages resulting from installation of parts and accesso­ries not approved by BMW. BMW cannot test every product made by other manufacturers to verify if it can be used on a BMW safely and without risk to either the vehi­cle, its operation or its occupants. Genuine BMW Parts, BMW Accessories and other products approved by BMW, together with professional advice on using these items, are available from all BMW Sports Activity Vehi­cle Centers. Installation and operation of non-BMW approved accessories such as alarms, radios, amplifiers, radar detectors, wheels, suspension components, brake dust shields, telephones, including operation of any mobile phone from within the vehicle without using an externally mounted antenna, or transceiver equipment, for instance CBs, walkie-talkies, ham radios or sim­ilar accessories may cause extensive damage to the vehicle, compromise its safety, interfere with the vehicle's electrical system or affect the validity of the BMW Limited Warranty. Refer to your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle 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.<
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Service and warranty

We recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.
Your BMW is covered by the following warran­ties:
> New Vehicle Limited Warranty > Rust Perforation Limited Warranty > Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty > Federal Emissions Performance Warranty > California Emission Control System Limited
Warranty.
Detailed information about these warranties is listed in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet for US models or in the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models.

Reporting safety defects

The following only applies to vehicles owned and operated in the US.
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA in addition to notifying BMW of North America, LLC, P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, telephone toll-free 1-800-831-1117.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of North America, LLC.
To contact NHTSA, you may 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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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility
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Page 10
At a glance
At a glance
This overview of buttons, switches and displays
is intended to familiarize you with your
vehicle's operating environment.
The section will also assist you in becoming
acquainted with the control concepts
and options available for operating
the various systems.
Page 11

Cockpit

Controls

Cockpit
1 Parking lamps/low beams 53 2 > Turn signals 38
> Roadside parking lamps 54 > High beams 54 > Headlamp flasher 38 > Computer
3 Fog lamps
4 Horn
5 Washer/wiper system/rain sensor
6 Hazard warning flashers
*
44
*
54
10
7 Central locking system 16
8 Unlocking the hood 88
*
38
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Instrument cluster

At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobilityReference
1 Speedometer
2 Indicator and warning lamps 11
3 Tachometer 42
Indicator and warning lamps 11
4 Coolant temperature gage 42
5 Fuel gage 42
6 Button for
> Displaying the time 43 > Service Interval Display 43
7 Selector lever and program display for
automatic transmission 36
8 Button for
> Resetting trip odometer 42 > Setting the time 43
9 Display for
> Trip odometer/odometer 42 > Time 43 > Service Interval 43 > Computer 44

Indicator and warning lamps

Technology that monitors itself
The indicator and warning lamps identified by the Χ are subjected to an operation check each time you switch on the engine. They each light up once for different periods of time.
When a malfunction occurs in a monitored sys­tem, the corresponding lamp will either fail to go ou t w he n th e e ng ine is sta rt ed, o r i t wil l c ome o n again during normal driving. Detailed informa­tion is provided on the specified pages.
Please fasten safety belt +27
Airbags
Brake system With handbrake released 49, 92 With handbrake engaged 35 With other warning lamps 49
+
51
+
11
Page 13
Brake warning lamp for Canadian
models
Front fog lamps 54
Driving stability control systems/ ABS Antilock Brake System
Cockpit
ABS Antilock Brake System/chassis control system for Canadian models
Brake pads
DSC Dynamic Stability Control/ xDrive
Flat Tire Monitor
Automatic transmission
Engine oil
Service Engine Soon
Service Engine Soon warning lamp for Canadian models
Check Gas Cap
Engine electronics
Battery charge current
+
+
47, 49
+
90
92
+
*
+80
Headlamp flasher 38
+
49
High beams 54
Cruise control 40
Indicates from ignition key in posi­tion 2 when a door or the tailgate is opened.
Colors
49
+
36
+
94
+
34
+
101
The indicator and warning lamps can light up in different colors and combinations.
The following section explains the significance of the individual colors as well as how you should respond when they appear.
> red:
Stop the vehicle immediately
or
an important reminder
> yellow:
Have the system inspected as soon as possible
or
For your information
> green:
For your information
> blue:
For your information
Topping off coolant 91
Topping off washer fluid 90
Lamp defective 53
Turn signals 38
12

Buttons on steering wheel*

The buttons integrated into the steering wheel are provided so that you can operate a number of accessories quickly and without being dis­tracted from traffic conditions. You may oper­ate:
> Selected audio source functions > Recirculated-air mode/steering wheel
heater
Page 14
> Cruise control
> Selected telephone functions > Voice command system
In order to operate a system, the corre­sponding system m ust be switched on.<
Telephone*/voice command system*
Cruise control: storing and accelerating well as braking and storing
On the sports steering-wheel* the buttons +/– for the cruise control are located on the right­hand side of the steering wheel.
–
+
as
At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobilityReference
Press briefly: Accept incoming call, start dialing, terminate call. Extended pressure: Activate/deactivate voice command system
Telephone*/audio sources*
Display/hide phonebook. Display the entries consecutively with the buttons for fast forward/ reverse
Fast forward/reverse
> Radio
Press briefly: next station
> CD
Press briefly: skip track
Extended pressure: fast forward/reverse
> Phone
Browse through list of names
Cruise control: activating/interrupting/deacti­vating
Recirculated-air mode/steering wheel heater*
Depending on the equipment, there is a button for the recirculated-air mode or
steering wheel heater.<
Switching recirculated-air mode on and off
Steering wheel heater: switching on/off, refer to page 28.
Volume
On the sports steering-wheel* the buttons +/– for volume are located on the left-hand side of the steering wheel.
Cruise control*
Cruise control: resume
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Page 16
Controls
Controls
This chapter is intended to provide you with
information for complete control of your vehicle.
Its extensive array of features and accessories,
both for driving and for your own safety,
comfort and convenience, are described here.
Page 17

Opening and closing

Key set

1 Master keys with remote control
Opening and closing
Every master key with remote control con­tains an extended-life battery as a power supply, which is charged automatically in the ignition lock as you drive. You should use each master key at least twice a year in order to maintain the charge condition. Depending on which master key is detected by the vehicle during unlocking, different settings in the vehicle are requested and executed, refer to Vehicle and Key Memory on page 30.
2 Spare key
For storage in a safe place, such as in your wallet. This key does not fit in the lock of the glove compartment. This is an advantage, e.g. when valet parking at a hotel. The key is not intended for constant use.

Central locking system

The concept
The central locking system is ready for opera­tion whenever the driver's door is closed. The system engages or releases the locks on the
> doors > tailgate > fuel filler door
The central locking system can be operated from the outside
> via the remote control > via the driver's door lock
and from inside via the button for the central locking system.
When the system is locked from inside, the fuel filler door remains unlocked, refer to page 18.
The anti-theft system is automatically activated whenever you activate the central locking sys­tem from outside the vehicle. This prevents the doors from being unlocked via the lock buttons or door handles. The alarm system is also armed or disarmed.
In the event of a serious accident, the central locking system unlocks automatically. In addi­tion, the hazard warning flashers and interior lamps switch on.
Replacement keys
Replacement and additional keys are available from your BMW Sport Activity Vehicle Center.
16

Opening and closing: from outside

Using the remote control
When you engage/release the vehicle locks, you also activate/deactivate the anti-theft sys­tem, arm/disarm the interior lamps on/off.
You can set an acoustic signal to remind
you if the ignition key is still in the ignition lock after you open the driver's door.<
the alarm system, and switch
Page 18
Protect the remote control against unau-
thorized use by handing over only the
spare key, for example when using hotel valet parking.<
For additional details on the alarm system, refer to page 22.
Because any persons or animals left unat-
tended in a parked vehicle could lock the doors from the inside, you should always keep the remote control with you; this precaution ensures that you will remain able to unlock the vehicle from the outside at all times.<
Switching on interior lamps
Press the button if the vehicle is locked. You can also use this function to locate your vehicle in parking garages etc.
Panic mode*
By pressing and holding the button for more than approx. two seconds, you can trigger the
*
alarm system danger.
To switch off the alarm: press any of the but­tons.
in response to any impending
Unlocking
Press the button.
Press the button once to unlock the driver's door only; press a second time to unlock all remaining doors as well as the tailgate and the fuel filler door.
Convenience opening mode
Press and hold the button. The windows and the panorama glass sunroof open.
If you desire, you can have this special
feature activated/deactivated on a vehi­cle-specific basis.<
Locking and securing
Press the button.
If you desire, the vehicle locks automati-
cally if no door or lid is opened after unlocking. You may have this function set on a vehicle-specific basis if you wish.<
As confirmation for the fact that the vehicle is properly locked, the hazard warning flashers light up.
If you wish, you can have this special fea-
ture deactivated on vehicles without an alarm system.<
Switching off tilt alarm sensor* and
*
interior motion sensor
Press the button again directly after locking. For details, refer to page 23.
Unlocking tailgate
Press the button.
The tailgate will open slightly, regardless of whether it was previously locked or unlocked.
Before and after a trip, ensure that the
tailgate has not been opened uninten­tionally. A previously locked tailgate is also locked again after closing.<
If you desire, the tailgate can only be
opened using the remote control if the vehicle is unlocked. This can be adjusted.<
Malfunctions
The remote control may malfunction due to local radio waves. Should the remote control fail to operate owing to interference of this kind, unlock and lock the vehicle via the door lock using the master key.
If it is no longer possible to lock the vehicle via the remote control, the battery is discharged. Use this remote control during an extended drive; this will recharge the battery, refer to page 16.
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units comply with part 15 of the FCC/Federal Communications Commission regulations. Operation is gov­erned by the following:
FCC ID: LX8EWS
LX8FZVS
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Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility
Page 19
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 interfer-
ence.
and
> This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications or changes to these devices could void the
user's authority to operate the equipment.<
Opening and closing
Using door lock
> To close:
With the door closed, turn the key to the Lock position and hold it.
Watch during the closing process to be sure that no one is injured. Releasing the
key stops the operation.<
Manual operation
If an electrical malfunction occurs, you can unlock or lock the driver's door with the key in the end positions of the door lock.

Opening and closing: from inside

One turn of the key in the driver's door lock unlocks the driver's door only. Turning the key a second time unlocks all of the remaining doors, the tailgate and the fuel filler door.
As confirmation for the fact that the vehicle is properly locked, the hazard warning flashers light up.
If you wish, you can have this special fea­ture deactivated on vehicles without an
alarm system.<
Convenience operation
You also have the option of operating the win­dows and the panorama glass sunroof from the driver's door lock.
> To open:
With the door closed, turn the key to the Unlock position and hold it there.
18
You can use this button to operate the central locking system when the front doors are closed. With this button, only the doors and the tailgate are unlocked or locked. The anti-theft system is not activated.
If only the driver's door was unlocked
from the outside and you press the but­ton, then, with the driver's door still open, the passenger-side door, the tailgate and the fuel filler door will also unlock. If the driver's door is closed, it will be locked.<
The central locking system locks auto-
matically after driving off. This can be adjusted to be vehicle-specific or key-spe­cific.<
Page 20
Unlocking and opening doors
1. Press button for central locking system.
2. Pull the respective door handle above the
armrest.
or
individually pull on the door handle of each door twice to unlock and open.
Engaging locks
> Press button for central locking system.
or
> Press down the lock buttons of the doors.
To prevent you from being locked out, the opened driver's door cannot be locked using the lock button.
Because any persons or animals left unat-
tended in a parked vehicle could lock the doors from the inside, you should always keep the key with you; this precaution ensures that you will remain able to unlock the vehicle from the outside at all times.<

Tailgate

Manual unlocking
In the event of an electrical malfunction:
1. Fold up the floor cover in the cargo area.
2. Release the jack from the bracket.
3. Press the lever behind the cover to the side,
refer to arrow.
The tailgate is locked again as soon as you close it.
Closing
Opening from outside
Press the button in the handle strip. The tailgate is unlocked and opens somewhat.
During opening, the tailgate pivots back and up. Ensure that adequate clearance is
available before opening.<
When the tailgate is open, the cargo area and interior are lit up.
The handle recesses on the interior trim of the tailgate make it easier to pull down.
To avoid injuries, be sure that the travel path of the tailgate is clear when it is
closed, as with all closing procedures.<
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Page 21

Windows

Opening and closing windows
would continue closing. You can disable the anti-trapping mechanism by pressing the switch beyond the resistance point and holding it.<
Following interruptions in electrical power supply
After disconnecting the battery, the anti-trap­ping mechanism must be reinitialized. To do this, open and close the windows once and con­tinue pull the switch for longer than 2 seconds after closing.
As of ignition key position 1:
> Press the switch up to the resistance point:
Opening and closing
The window continues to move as long as you continue to press the switch.
> Briefly press the switch beyond the resis-
tance point:
The window moves downward automati­cally. Briefly press the switch again to stop the opening motion.
You can close the windows in the same manner by pulling the switch.
After switching off ignition
You can operate the power windows for up to 15 minutes as long as neither of the front doors has been opened.
When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key and close the doors, as otherwise
children could operate the windows and injure themselves.<
For convenience operation using the door lock, refer to page 18.
Anti-trapping mechanism
If the closing force rises beyond a predefined threshold during closing, the system will imme­diately stop moving the window prior to lower­ing it slightly.
Despite the anti-trapping mechanism you
should always inspect the window's travel path prior to closing it, as the safety system might fail to detect certain kinds of obstruc­tions, such as very thin objects, and the window
Safety switch
With the safety switch, you can prevent the rear windows from being opened or closed via the switches in the rear passenger area, by chil­dren, for example. The indicator lamp lights up when this safety feature is activated.
Always press the safety switch when chil­dren ride in the rear, as otherwise
unchecked closing of the windows could lead to injuries.<
You can deactivate the function again as of ignition key position 1.<
Accessories in window area
After installing any accessory – such as a clamp-on antenna for a portable phone – within the window's travel range, you will need to have the system reinitialized for use under the new conditions. Please contact your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
20
Page 22

Panorama glass sunroof*

When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key and close the doors, as otherwise
children could operate the sunroof and injure themselves.<
The panorama glass sunroof is operational from ignition key position 1.
After the ignition has been switched off: You can operate the panorama glass sunroof for up to 1 minute as long as neither of the doors has been opened.
Raising, opening, closing
Press the switch or slide it in the desired direc­tion up to the resistance point. Release the switch to stop the motion.
The sliding visor is opened slightly when the panorama glass sunroof is raised.
The panorama glass sunroof can be opened or closed independently with the sliding visor open.
Ventilation setting
The panorama glass sunroof is raised and the sliding visor is opened slightly: Briefly press the switch twice consecutively.
Automatic opening and closing
Briefly press the switch past the resistance point and then release it. Briefly pressing the switch again stops the motion.
Opening and closing panorama glass sunroof and sliding visor together
Briefly press the switch beyond the resistance point twice consecutively. Briefly pressing the switch again stops the motion.
Comfort position
Each time the panorama glass sunroof is com­pletely opened or closed, it stops in the comfort position. If desired, continue the motion follow­ing this with the switch.
In the comfort position the wind noise in the interior is reduced.
Anti-trapping mechanism
If the panorama glass sunroof or sliding visor encounter resistance when closing from roughly one third of the sunroof opening or when closing from the raised position, the clos­ing action is interrupted and the panorama glass sunroof and sliding visor reopen a little.
Despite the anti-trapping mechanism
inspect the sunroof's travel path prior to closing it, as the safety system might fail to detect certain kinds of obstructions, such as very thin objects, and the sunroof would con­tinue closing. The anti-trapping mechanism for closing the panorama glass sunroof is deactivated if the switch is pressed beyond the resistance point and held there. The closing action is interrupted when you release the switch.<
Following interruptions in electrical power supply
Following interruptions in electrical power, for instance, when the battery is disconnected, it is possible that the panorama glass sunroof will extend to its tilt-up position, but fail to respond to other commands. The system must be initial­ized. BMW recommends having this work car­ried out by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
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Page 23
Manual operation
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can operate the panorama glass sunroof manually.
1. Pull off the cover firmly downward.
2. Insert the Allen wrench from the compart-
Opening and closing
ment beneath the cargo area floor, refer to page 99, into the proper opening and turn the panorama glass sunroof in the desired direction. Direction of rotation for closing, refer to arrow.
The system responds to unauthorized vehicle entry and attempted theft by simultaneously activating:
> The acoustic alarm for approx. 30 seconds. > The hazard warning flashers for approx.
5minutes.
> The high beams, which flash on and off in
the same rhythm.
Arming and disarming alarm system
When you lock or unlock the vehicle, either with the remote control or at the door lock, the alarm system is armed or disarmed at the same time.
If the alarm system has been properly armed, the hazard warning flashers light up once.
You can have different acknowledgment signals set to confirm arming and disarm-
ing.<
You can also open the tailgate with the system armed using the button on the remote con­trol, refer to page 17. When you close the tail­gate, the system is rearmed.
Switching off alarm
> Unlock the vehicle using the remote control,
refer to page 17.
or
> Turn the ignition key to position 1.

Alarm system*

The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
> When a door, the hood, or the tailgate is
opened.
> To movements inside the vehicle: interior
motion sensor, refer to Tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor.
> To changes in the vehicle tilt angle such as
occur during attempts to steal the wheels or tow the vehicle.
> To interruptions in battery voltage.
22
Indicator lamp displays
> The indicator lamp below the interior rear-
view mirror flashes continuously: the sys­tem is armed.
Page 24
> The indicator lamp flashes when the vehicle
is locked: door(s) or tailgate are not com­pletely closed. Even if you do not close the alerted area, the system begins to monitor the remaining areas, and the indicator lamp flashes continuously after 10 seconds. However, the interior motion sensor is not activated.
> The indicator lamp goes out when the vehi-
cle is unlocked: no manipulation or attempted intrusions have been detected in the period since the system was armed.
> The indicator lamp flashes for 10 seconds
after the vehicle is unlocked: 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.
Tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor
Tilt alarm sensor
The tilt of the vehicle is monitored. The alarm system reacts, e.g. in case of an attempted wheel theft or towing.
Switching off tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor
Press the button on the remote control again directly after locking.
The indicator lamp lights up briefly and then flashes continuously. The tilt alarm sensor and the interior motion sensor are switched off until the next time the vehicle is unlocked and subse­quently locked again.
If you wish, the tilt alarm sensor and inte-
rior motion sensor are permanently switched off. You can have this set at your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.<
If you interrupt the convenience closing of
the windows and panorama glass sunroof within the first 10 seconds and then reinitiate the action, this will unintentionally switch off the tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor. If this has occurred, the system must be dis­armed and then rearmed.<
Interior motion sensor
In order for the interior motion sensor to func­tion properly, the windows and panorama glass sunroof must be completely closed.
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor may be switched off at the same time. This pre­vents unintentional alarms, e.g. in the following situations:
> In stacking garages > When transporting on car-carrying trains > When animals are to remain in the vehicle
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Page 25

Adjustments

Sitting safely

The ideal sitting position can make a vital con­tribution to relaxed driving that is as fatigue-free as possible. The sitting position plays an impor­tant role together with the safety belts, head restraints and airbags in providing occupants
Adjustments
with maximum levels of passive safety in an accident. Therefore, observe the following instructions, as otherwise the protective func­tion of the safety systems may be impaired.
For additional information on transporting chil­dren safely, refer to page 31.
Airbags
Always maintain an adequate distance
between yourself and the airbags. Always hold the steering wheel by its rim with hands at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions, to mini­mize the risk of injuries to your hands and arms in the event of airbag deployment. No one and nothing is to come between the air­bags and the seat occupant. Do not use the cover of the front airbag on the front passenger side as a storage area. Make sure that the front passenger is correctly seated and does not place feet or legs against the instrument panel, as otherwise leg injuries can result if the front airbag is triggered. Never let an occupant's head rest near or on a side airbag because the inflating airbag could cause a seri­ous or fatal injury.<
Even if you adhere to all the instructions, inju­ries resulting from contact with airbags cannot be fully excluded, depending on the circum­stances. The ignition and inflation noise may provoke a mild – usually temporary – hearing loss in extremely sensitive individuals.
For airbag locations and additional information on airbags, refer to page 31.
Safety belts
Make sure the safety belts are worn in all occu­pied seats every time you drive. Although air­bags enhance safety by providing added pro­tection, they are not a substitute for safety belts.
Your vehicle has five seats that are all equipped with a safety belt.
Occupants should sit upright and be
properly restrained at all times: infants and small children in appropriate child-restraint systems; larger children and adults using the safety belts. Never allow more than one person to wear a sin­gle safety belt. Infants and children must not ride on a lap. Expectant mothers should always wear their safety belts, taking care to position the lap belt against the lower hips, where it will not exert pressure against the abdominal area. The safety belt must not rest against the neck, nor be wedged in any way or permitted to rub against sharp edges. Avoid twisting the belt while routing it snugly across the hips and shoulder, as close to the body as possible, with­out resting against hard or fragile objects. Oth­erwise, in the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap belt could slide over your hips, leading to abdominal injury. Avoid wearing clothing that prevents the belt from fitting properly and pull the shoulder belt upward periodically to read­just the tension across your lap in order to avoid a reduction in the restraining action of the safety belt.<
If the middle safety belt in the rear is used, then the wider backrest must be secured, refer to page 67, otherwise, the safety belt cannot exert any restraining action.
For fastening safety belts, refer to page 27.
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Page 26

Seats

Note before adjusting
Never try to adjust your seat while operat-
ing the vehicle. The seat could respond with unexpected movement, and the ensuing loss of vehicle control could lead to an accident. On the passenger side as well, do not recline the backrest too far while the vehicle is being driven, as otherwise there is a danger of sliding under the safety belt during an accident, elimi­nating the protection normally provided by the belt.<
Please observe the information on using safety belts provided on page 27 and the information on the head restraints on page 25.
Seat adjustment
To ensure that the safety systems con-
tinue to provide optimized protection, please observe the adjustment instructions above.<
1 Longitudinal direction
Pull the lever and slide the seat into the desired position. After you release the lever, move the seat forward or backward slightly so that it engages fully.
2 Height
Pull the lever and apply weight to or remove weight from the seat as required.
3 Backrest
Pull the lever and apply weight to or remove weight from the backrest as required.
Adjusting sports seat*
You can also adjust the tilt and the thigh support:
1 Upward tilt
Pull the lever as many times as required to set the desired tilt.
2 Downward tilt
Press the lever as many times as required to set the desired tilt.
3 Thigh support
Pull the lever and move the thigh support in a longitudinal direction.
Head restraints
Head restraints reduce the risk of injury to cervical vertebrae when accidents occur.
Adjust the head restraints so that their middles are approximately at ear height.<
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Adjustments
Adjustments
Height adjustment:
> To raise: pull upward. > To lower: press button, arrow 1, and slide
head restraint downward.
Front head restraint tilt angle: adjust by tilting.
Removing front head restraint
1. Pull the head restraint upward to the stop.
2. Press button, arrow 1, and pull head
restraint all the way out.
Installing front head restraint
1. Press button, arrow 1, and slide the head
restraint into its sockets.
2. Adjust the head restraint.
Setting the head restraint manually, refer to above paragraph.
Lumbar support*
You can also adjust the contours of the backrest to obtain additional support in the lumbar region.
The upper hips and spinal column receive sup­plementary support to help you maintain a relaxed, upright sitting position.
> To increase or decrease curvature: press
switch forward or back.
> To move curvature up or down: press
switch up or down.

Seat and mirror memory*

Power seat*
To ensure that the safety systems con­tinue to provide optimal protection,
please observe the adjustment instructions on page 24.<
1 Tilt
2 Longitudinal direction
3 Height
4 Backrest
26
You can store and select three different adjust­ment settings for the driver's seat and exterior mirrors.
The adjustment of the lumbar support is not stored in the memory.
Storing
1. Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 2.
2. Set the desired seat and exterior mirror
position.
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3. Press the MEMORY button:
The indicator lamp in the button lights up.
4. Press the desired memory button 1, 2 or 3:
The indicator lamp goes out.
Requesting a stored setting
Do not request a position from the mem­ory while the vehicle is moving, as other-
wise there is a risk of accident from unexpected seat movement.<
Convenience mode
1. Open the driver's door after unlocking or
turn the ignition key to position 1.
2. Briefly press the desired memory button 1,
2 or 3. The system immediately cancels the adjustment procedure when you press one of the seat adjustment buttons or use one o f the memory buttons.
Safety feature
1. Close the driver's door and turn the ignition
key to position 0 or 2.
2. Press the desired memory button 1, 2 or 3
and maintain pressure until the adjustment process has been completed.
If you press the dentally:
Press the button a second time – the indicator lamp goes out.<
You can have your vehicle programmed
to automatically recall your own individual adjustment settings for the seat and exterior mirror position whenever you use your personal remote control to unlock the vehicle.<
If you make use of this 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, animals or objects behind the seat could be injured or damaged by a rearward movement of the seat.<
M
EMORY button acci-

Heated seats*

The seat cushion and backrest can be heated when the ignition key is in position 2.
To request different temperature levels: press the button repeatedly.
To switch off from a higher heat setting: press the button and hold it slightly longer.

Safety belts

To ensure that the safety systems con­tinue to provide optimal protection,
please follow the instructions on page 24.<
Make sure the safety belts are worn in all occu­pied seats every time you drive. Although air­bags enhance safety by providing added pro­tection, they are not a substitute for safety belts.
Fastening
Make sure you hear the latch plate engage in the belt buckle.
Releasing
1. Press the red button in the belt buckle.
2. Hold the belt firmly.
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3. Guide the belt back into its reel.
The upper shoulder strap's anchorage point will be in the correct position for seat occupants of every build if the seat is correctly adjusted, refer to page 24.
The two rear safety belt buckles integrated into the rear seat are for passengers sitting on the left and right. The belt buckle embossed with the word CENTER is intended exclusively for use by passengers riding in the center posi-
Adjustments
tion.<
Safety belt reminder for front seats
The indicator lamp flashes or lights up. In addition, a signal sounds. Please make sure that the safety belts are
being worn correctly.
The safety belt reminder is activated if the safety belt on the driver's side has not yet been fastened. At speeds greater than 5 mph/8 km/h, the safety belt reminder is also activated if the pas­senger side safety belt has not yet been fas­tened, if heavy objects are placed on the pas­senger's seat, or if the front passenger's safety belt is released.

Steering wheel

Adjustments
Do not adjust the steering wheel while the vehicle is moving. There is a risk of acci-
dent from unexpected movement.<
1. Fold the clamping lever downward.
2. Adapt the steering wheel in the longitudinal
direction and height of the seat position.
3. Fold the clamping lever back up.
Steering wheel heater*
The button for steering wheel heater is located on the steering wheel, refer to page 12.
Damage to safety belts
If the safety belts are damaged or
stretched in an accident: have the entire belt system, including the tensioning mecha­nisms, replaced at your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center or at a workshop that works according to BMW repair procedures with cor­respondingly trained personnel. Have the belt anchorage points inspected for damage at the same time. Failure to observe this precaution may prevent the safety belts from effectively providing optimal protection when needed. If a child-restraint system was in the vehicle during an accident, consult the manufacturer's instructions regarding replacement.<
28
Steering wheel heater: switching on/off
The steering wheel heater operates as of igni­tion key position 2.
Press the button to activate or deactivate this system.
The indicator lamp within the button lights up when the steering wheel heater is in operation.

Mirrors

Exterior mirrors
The mirror on the passenger side fea-
tures a lens with a more convex surface than the mirror installed on the driver's side. When estimating the distance between yourself and other traffic, bear in mind that the objects reflected in the mirror are closer than they appear. This means that estimations of the
Page 30
distance to following traffic should not be
regarded as precise.<
Tilting down passenger's mirror, automatic parking function*
1 Adjustments
2 Switching over to the other mirror or to the
automatic parking function
Storing the mirror positions, refer to Seat and mirror memory on page 26.
To prevent the exterior mirrors on this vehicle from being damaged, always fold
them in by hand before entering an automatic car wash.<
*
Manual adjustments
You can also adjust the mirrors manually if need be: by pressing the edges of the mirror glass.
Automatic heating
When the outside temperature falls below a specified temperature, both outside mirrors are automatically heated whenever the engine is running or the ignition is switched on.
Activating
1. Select the driver's exterior mirror with
switch 1.
2. When you shift into reverse or move the
selector-lever into position R, the exterior mirror glass on the front passenger side tilts downward slightly. This allows the driver to see the area immediately adjacent to the vehicle – such as a curb – when parking, etc.
You can have the angle of downward tilt set to depend on the key used.<
Deactivating
Select the front passenger's exterior mirror with switch 1.
Interior rearview mirror
To reduce the dazzle effect of following vehi­cles at night, turn the knob.
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Vehicle Memory, Key Memory

How the system functions
You have probably frequently wished that you could configure individual functions of your vehicle to reflect your own personal require­ments. In developing your vehicle, BMW has incorporated a number of options for personal adjustment. You can have these programmed at your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
Adjustments
There are vehicle-related and person-related adjustments: Vehicle Memory and Key Mem­ory. You can configure up to four different basic adjustments 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 the mas­ter keys with remote control, color-coded decals are supplied together with the keys.
What the system can do
Your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center can provide you with details on the capabilities of the Vehicle Memory and Key Memory systems.
You will see this symbol throughout the Owner's Manual. It is to remind you at
appropriate places of the settings that are avail­able to you.<
Following configuration of memory func-
tions, vehicle operation may differ from the description in the Owner's Manual. Should you want to sell your BMW some day, please remember to have the memory functions reset to the factory default settings.<
Examples of Vehicle Memory functions
> Different acknowledgment signals to con-
firm locking/unlocking of the vehicle, refer to page 16.
> Activating/deactivating function for path-
way lighting, refer to page 53.
> Activating/deactivating daytime driving
lamps, refer to page 53.
> Setting measurement units for displays in
the instrument cluster for time, outside temperature, distance driven and fuel con­sumption, refer to page 44.
> Active PDC Park Distance Control is indi-
cated by an acoustic sound signal when reverse gear or selector lever position R is engaged, refer to page 46.
> The rear window defroster switches on
automatically, refer to page 57.
> Different acknowledgment signals to con-
firm arming/disarming the alarm system, refer to page 22.
> After an ice warning has been issued, the
computer display returns to the previous adjustment, refer to page 44.
> Acoustic warning if the ignition key remains
in the ignition lock after the driver's door has been opened, refer to page 19.
Examples of Key Memory functions
> When unlocking, first unlock the driver's
door, then the entire vehicle, refer to page 17.
> Locking the vehicle after moving off, refer to
page 18.
> Automatic adjustment of the driver's seat
and exterior mirror position for each person when unlocking the vehicle, refer to page 27.
> Angle of downward tilt of mirror on passen-
ger side, refer to page 29.
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Transporting children safely

The right place for children

Children always in the rear
Accident research shows that the safest place for children in a vehicle is in the rear seat.
Older children should be tightly secured with a safety belt, after they have outgrown a booster seat that is appropriate for their age, height and weight.
If your vehicle is equipped with rear side
airbags, do not allow children to lean toward the door trim, as serious injuries could occur if the side airbags are deployed and chil­dren are too close to the airbags.<
Deactivating side airbags in the rear
Labels in the rear door opening should indicate the status of your rear seat side airbags. If you are uncertain of their status, or wish to have the airbags activated or deactivated, please co ntact your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
Child-restraint system in rear
Children under 13 years of age and chil-
dren less than 5 ft/150 cm tall should always ride in the rear and the restraint systems should be properly secured.<
Younger children should be secured in an appropriate child restraint system that has been first properly secured to the vehicle.
All rear seating positions in your vehicle meet the recommendations of SAE J1819, an indus­try-recommended practice for securing child­restraint systems in motor vehicles.
Exception for the front passenger seat
Should it become necessary to use a
child-restraint system on the front pas­senger seat, the airbags on the passenger side must be deactivated. The passenger airbag indicator lamp above the interior rearview mirror must light up continuously. Otherwise, the front passenger airbags remain active and there is
considerable risk of injury to children if the air­bags are triggered, even with a child-restraint system. In this case, children should be seated in the rear and the system should be checked at your BMW Sport Activity Vehicle Center.<
Never install a rearward-facing child-
restraint system in the front passenger seat of this vehicle if the passenger airbag is not deactivated. If you do so, the child could be severely injured when the airbag is triggered. Your vehicle is equipped with an airbag supple­mental restraint system for the front passenger. Because the backrest on any rearward-facing child-restraint system – of the kind designed for infants under 1 year and 20 Ibs./9 kg – would be within the airbag's deployment range, you should never mount such a system in the front passenger seat, since the impact of the airbag against the child restraint's backrest could lead to serious or fatal injuries.<
More information on automatic deactivation of the front passenger airbags, refer to page 52.

Installing child-restraint systems

Before installing any child-restraint system or child seat, read the following:
Observe the child-restraint system man-
ufacturer's instructions for selection, installation and use of the child-restraint sys­tem. Otherwise the degree of protection can be reduced. After an accident, have all parts of the relevant vehicle safety belt system checked by a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center and replaced if necessary.<
Commercially-available child-restraint systems are designed to be secured with a lap belt or with the lap belt portion of a combination lap/ shoulder belt. Improperly or inadequately installed restraint systems can increase the risk
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of injury to children. Always read and follow the
instructions that come with the system.
Child seat security
All of the rear belt retractors and the front pas­senger's safety belt can be locked for mounting and securing child-restraint systems.
Information regarding this is located near the buckle latch of each safety belt.
To lock the safety belt
Pull the entire length of the belt from the belt
Transporting children safely
retractor. 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.
lift the plastic plug with the help of a screw­driver. 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, as shown in the illustration below.
Routing of tether strap
Outer seating positions: Route the tether strap through the center between the head restraint and the backrest.
Center seating position: Fold the center armrest forward and pull the tether strap through the opening. Then fold up the center armrest and engage it.
To unlock the safety belt
Release the buckle, remove the child-restraint system and allow the belt retractor to reel the belt completely in.
Child-restraint system with tether strap
If you use a child-restraint system with a tether strap, three additional tether anchorage points have been provided, refer to the arrows in the illustration. To gain access to this anchor fitting
32
When using the cargo area cover: tether strap must run between the rear backrest and the cargo area cover.
Page 34
Adjust the tether strap according to the
child-restraint manufacturer's instruc-
tions.<
LATCH child-restraint fixing system*
LATCH: Lower Anchor and Tethers for CHil­dren.
The rear outer seating positions are provided with anchors for a LATCH child-restraint fixing system.
To fit the LATCH child-restraint fixing system, follow the operating and safety
instructions of the system manufacturer.<
Child-safety lock of rear doors
Slide down the safety levers on the rear doors:
The door can now be opened from the outside only.
Access to anchorage points
The picture shows the right rear seat as an example. The anchorage points for the LATCH child-restraint fixing system are located behind the cover caps. Remove the cover caps toward the front. Press on to remount.
Before attachment of the LATCH child-restraint fixing system, remove the cover caps and pull the belt out of the region of the child-restraint fixing system.

For driving

With side airbags in the rear, make sure
that children do not lean out of the child's seat toward the door panel, as otherwise major injuries can result if the side airbags are trig­gered.<
You can have the rear side airbags permanently deactivated. Your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center will be happy to advise you.
Safety switch for power windows
Always press the safety switch for the power windows, refer to page 20, when children are in the rear of the vehicle.
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Driving

Ignition lock

Driving
0 Steering locked
Th e ke y can b e in serte d or rem oved i n th is pos i­tion only.
After removing the key, turn the steering wheel slightly to the left or right until you hear the lock engage.
Interlock
Vehicles with automatic transmission: To turn the key back to position 0 or to remove it, first place the selector lever in position P.
1 Steering unlocked
A slight steering wheel movement often makes it easier to turn the key from 0 to 1.
Some power accessories are ready for opera­tion.
2 Ignition switched on
All vehicle systems are ready for operation.
3 Starting engine

Engine

Do not allow the engine to warm up while idling. Begin driving immediately at moderate engine speed.
The engine idle speed is controlled by the engine computer system. Increased idle 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, alwa ys switch off electrical devices which are not in use and the ignition when the vehicle is not being driven.
Do not run the engine in closed rooms, as
otherwise inhaling toxic exhaust gases can cause unconsciousness and death. The exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless, but highly toxic gas. Do not leave the vehicle unattended with the engine running, since an unattended vehicle with a running engine represents a safety haz­ard. When driving, standing at idle and while parking take care to avoid possible contact between a hot exhaust system and any highly flammable materials such as hay, leaves, grass etc. Such contact could lead to a fire, resulting in serious personal injury and property damage.<
Indicator lamps
If the Service Engine Soon indicator lamp comes on either continuously or
intermittently, this indicates a malfunc­tion in the emissions-related electronic sys­tems. Although the vehicle remains operational, you should have the systems checked by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center at the ear­liest possible opportunity.
The illuminated indicator informs you of the need for service, not that you need to stop the vehicle. However, the systems should be checked by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center at the next opportunity.
If the indicator blinks or flashes, this indicates a high level of engine misfire. Reduce speed and contact the nearest BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center immediately. Severe engine misfiring over even a short period of time can seriously damage emission control system components, especially the catalytic converter.
34
Page 36
Display of the previously described
malfunction on Canadian models.
The warning lamp lights up. Malfunc­tion in the engine electronics. You can
continue to drive with reduced engine output or speed. Have the system checked immediately.
Starting engine
When starting the engine, do not press the accelerator pedal.
Vehicles with manual transmission: Step on the clutch when starting the vehicle. A locking mechanism prevents the engine from starting if the clutch is not depressed.
Do not end the starting procedure too early, but do not prolong it for more than 20 seconds. Release the ignition key immediately as soon as the engine starts.
If the engine fails to start on the first attempt, for instance, if it is very hot or cold:
Press the accelerator pedal halfway down while engaging the starter.
During a cold start at very low temperatures, below approx. +57/–15 6, at high altitudes over 3,300 ft/1,000 m:
> Engage the starter for approx. 10 seconds
the first time.
> Press the accelerator pedal halfway down
while engaging the starter.
Avoid frequent starting in quick succes-
sion or repeated start attempts in which the engine does not start. Otherwise, the fuel is not burned or inadequately burned and there is a danger of overheating and damaging the cat­alytic converter.<
Manual transmission
1. Apply the handbrake.
2. Shift into neutral.
3. Press the clutch pedal.
If the clutch pedal is not pressed, the engine cannot be started.
4. Start the engine.
Before leaving the vehicle with the engine
running, place the gearshift lever in neu­tral position and engage the handbrake. Never leave an unattended vehicle with the engine running, as such a vehicle represents a potential safety hazard.<
Automatic transmission
1. Press the brake pedal.
2. Engage selector-lever position P or N.
3. Start the engine.
To prevent the vehicle from rolling,
always select position P and engage the handbrake before leaving the vehicle with the engine running. Never leave an unattended vehicle with the engine running, as such a vehi­cle represents a potential safety hazard.<
Switching off engine
Do not remove the ignition key when the
vehicle is moving, as otherwise the steer­ing could lock. When leaving the vehicle, always remove the ignition key and lock the steering. When parking on downward inclines, engage the handbrake.<
Manual transmission
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Automatic transmission
Engage selector-lever position P, turn ignition key to position 1 or 0.

Handbrake

The handbrake is primarily intended to prevent the vehicle from rolling while parked; it brakes the rear wheels.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp lights up red. An acoustic signal also sounds when you begin to drive. The handbrake is
engaged.
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Indicator lamp for Canadian models.
Engaging
Driving
The lever engages automatically and the indica­tor lamp in the instrument cluster lights up from ignition key position 1.
Releasing
Pull up slightly on the lever, press the button and lower the lever.
If exceptional circumstances should
make it necessary to engage the hand­brake while the vehicle is in motion, do not pull it too strongly. In doing so, continuously press the button of the handbrake lever. Strong applica­tion of the handbrake can lead to overbraking of the rear axle and to associated 'fishtailing' of the vehicle rear end. The brake lamps do not light up when the hand­brake is applied.<
To prevent corrosion and one-sided brak-
ing action, occasionally engage the hand­brake lightly when the vehicle is slowly coming to a stop at a traffic light if the traffic conditions are suitable.<

Manual transmission

When shifting into 5th or 6th gear, make
sure that you press the gearshift lever to the right to prevent inadvertently shifting into 3rd or 4th. Do not hold the vehicle in place on slopes by slipping or riding the clutch. Otherwise greater clutch wear will result.<
Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is stationary. Press the gearshift lever to the left to overcome the resistance.
As you do this, the backup lamps will turn on automatically when the ignition key is in posi­tion 2.

Automatic transmission with Steptronic

In addition to fully automatic operation, you can also manually shift with the Steptronic, refer to page 37.
Selector-lever positions
P R N D M/S + –
Starting engine
The engine can only be started in selector lever positions P: Park or N: Neutral.
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Page 38
Possible displays
P R N D SD M1 M2 M3 M4 M5
The selector lever position is indicated, and in the manual mode the gear currently engaged.
Range selection
An interlock prevents inadvertent gearshifts into selector-lever positions R and P. To cancel the interlock, press the button on the front of the selector-lever knob, refer to arrow.
Shiftlock
With the vehicle stationary, press the brake pedal before shifting out of P or N; the shift command will not be executed unless the brake is applied.
To prevent the vehicle from 'creeping' after you select a gear, maintain pressure on the brake pedal until you are ready to start.
To prevent the vehicle from rolling, always select position P and engage the
handbrake before leaving the vehicle with the engine running.<
P Park
Select only when the vehicle is stationary. The transmission locks to prevent the rear wheels from turning.
R Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is stationary.
N Neutral
For example, engage in automatic car washes. The vehicle can roll.
D Drive, automatic shift program
This position is designed for driving under all normal operating conditions. All forward gears are available.
Kick-down
The kick-down mode provides maximum accel­eration. Press the accelerator pedal past the increased resistance point at the full-throttle position.
M/S Manual mode and Sport Program
Move the selector lever from position D to the left into shifting slot M/S: The sport program is activated and SD appears in the instrument cluster. This position is recommended for a performance-oriented driving style.
When the selector lever is moved briefly towards + or –, manual operation is activated and the Steptronic shifts gears. The instrument cluster shows M1 through M5.
Upshifts and downshifts are executed only when they will result in a plausible combination of engine and vehicle speed; as a result, for example, a downshift that would cause the engine to overrev will not be executed by the system. The gear selected will appear briefly in the instrument cluster followed by the current gear.
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To use the automatic function again, move the
selector lever to the right into position D.
Malfunction
Driving
While it will still remain possible to move the selector lever to any desired position, the trans­mission will revert to its default mode with only a limited number of forward gears. Have the system checked as soon as possible.
Information on towing and jump starting, refer to page 105.
The warning lamp lights up. A malfunc­tion has occurred in the transmission system. Avoid heavy loads.

Turn signals/headlamp flasher

1 High beams
2 Headlamp flasher
3 Turn signals
Atypically rapid flashing of the indicator
lamp indicates that a turn signal bulb has gone out. After the ignition is switched off, make sure that the roadside parking lamps have not been left on.<
Signaling briefly
Press lever to resistance point and hold for as long as you wish to signal.

Washer/wiper system/ rain sensor*

0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent or rain sensor operation
2 Normal wiper speed
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
5 Select interval time or set sensitivity of rain
sensor
Fold-out position
The right wiper is partially concealed by the hood. To move the wipers into a vertical position:
1. Switch on wipers in lever position 1.
2. When the wipers are approximately vertical,
move the ignition key to position 0.
For changing the wiper blades, refer to page 95.
Fold the wipers back down onto the wind­shield before you turn the ignition key to
po si tion 1 o r 2 ag ai n. I f y ou do no t, th ey coul d b e damaged.<
Intermittent mode
Not on vehicles with rain sensor.
You can set the wipe interval to four stages with the serrated dial 5. In addition, the wipe interval is varied automati­cally depending on road speed.
38
Page 40
Rain sensor*
The rain sensor automatically controls wiper operation as a function of the rain intensity. It is positioned on the windshield, directly in front of the inside rearview mirror.
Deactivate the rain sensor when passing through an automatic car wash. Failure to
do so could result in damage caused by undes­ired wiper activation.<
Activating
As of ignition key position 1 move the lever to position 1. The wipers travel once across the windshield, regardless of the weather condi­tions.
You can leave the lever permanently in posi­tion 1 and then only need to activate the rain sensor as of ignition key position 1. To do so:
> Briefly turn the serrated dial 5 or > clean the windshield 1, refer to next section
Adjusting sensitivity
Turn the serrated dial 5.
Deactivating
Switch lever to position 0.
Normal wiper speed
The system switches automatically to intermit­tent mode when the vehicle is not moving, not on vehicles with rain sensor.
Fast wipe
The wipers operate at normal speed when the vehicle is not moving, not on vehicles with rain sensor.
Cleaning windshield, rear window and headlamps*
0 Wipers retracted
1 Cleaning windshield and headlamps
2 Rear window wiper intermittent mode
3 Cleaning rear window
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. To avoid freezing, use a washer fluid antifreeze, refer to page 90. Do not use the washers when the reservoir is empty. This could cause damage to the washer pump.<
Cleaning windshield
The system sprays washer fluid against the windshield and activates the wipers for a brief period. The windshield washer nozzles are automati­cally heated as of ignition key position 2.
Cleaning headlamps*
When the vehicle lighting system is switched on, the headlamps are cleaned at regular and appropriate intervals.
Rear window wiper
Rear window wiper in intermittent mode. When reverse gear is engaged, the wiper operates continuously.
You can also program the interval:
1. Briefly move the wiper lever from position 0
to position 2.
2. Wait for desired interval; maximum of
30 seconds.
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3. Move the wiper lever from position 0 to
position 2 again
To change the wiper blades, refer to page 95.
Maintaining speed, storing, and accelerating
Driving

Cruise control*

The vehicle maintains and stores the speed that you set as of a speed of approx. 20 mph/ 30 km/h.
You can use cruise control whenever the sys­tem is active while the engine is running.
On the sports steering-wheel for the cruise control are located on the right­hand side of the steering wheel.
*
the buttons +/–
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp lights up green: System ready for operation using the buttons on the steering wheel.
Activating system
As of ignition key position 2: Press button on steering wheel; the indicator lamp in the instrument cluster comes on. You are able to use the cruise control.
Do not use the cruise control under unfa-
vorable conditions that do not permit a constant speed, e.g. when driving on winding roads or in heavy traffic or when negotiating poor road conditions such as snow, rain, ice, or a loose road surface.<
Deactivating system
Briefly press + button: The system maintains and stores the current vehicle speed. Every time you briefly press the button, the vehicle's speed increases by roughly 1 mph/1 km/h.
+
Press and hold The vehicle accelerates without pressure on the accelerator pedal. When you release the button, the system maintains and stores the current speed.
If, on a downhill gradient, the engine's
braking effect is not sufficient, the con­trolled speed can be exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill grades if the engine output is insuffi­cient.<
button:
Decelerating
Briefly press – button: Every time you briefly press the button, the vehicle's speed decreases by roughly 1 mph/ 1 km/h provided that you have already activated the cruise control.
–
Press and hold With the cruise control active, the system auto­matically reduces the fuel supply to slow the vehicle. When you release the button, the sys­tem maintains and stores the current speed.
button:
Interrupting cruise control
Press the button repeatedly until the indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out. The cruise control is also deactivated when the ignition key is turned to position 0. The speed stored in the memory is deleted in the process.
40
When the system is activated, press button 1. The indicator lamp stays on. You can use the cruise control again whenever required by requesting the speed that was stored last.
Page 42
In addition, the system is automatically inter-
rupted in response to the following conditions:
> When you apply pressure to the brake pedal > When you apply pressure to the clutch
pedal or when you move the automatic transmission selector lever from D to N
> If you exceed or fall below the controlled
speed for an extended period, by pressing the accelerator, for example
> When DSC is activated
Resuming stored speed
Press button: The vehicle accelerates to and maintains the last speed stored.
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Everything under control

Odometer

1 Odometer
2 Trip odometer
Odometer
Everything under control
You can activate the displays shown in the illus­tration in ignition key position 0 or with the igni­tion key removed by pressing the button in the instrument cluster.
Trip odometer
To reset to zero:
1. Ignition key in position 1.
2. Press and hold the button until the trip
odometer is reset to zero.

Fuel gage

If the indicator lamp 1 starts to light up continu­ously, there are approx. 2 gallons/8 liters of fuel in the tank.
Fuel tank capacity: Approx. 17.7 gallons/67 liters.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies, when you are driv­ing in mountainous areas, for example, the indi­cator may fluctuate slightly.
Refuel well before the tank is empty, as otherwise engine functions will not be
ensured and damage can occur if you drive down to the last drop.<
When you switch on the ignition, the indicator lamp comes on briefly to confirm that the sys­tem is operational.

Tachometer

Engine speeds in the red warning field must absolutely be avoided.
In this range, the fuel supply is interrupted to protect the engine.
42

Coolant temperature gage

Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at moderate engine and vehicle speeds.
Page 44
Between blue and red fields
Normal operating range. It is permissible for the dial to drift up to the red field.
Red
Comes on while driving: The engine is overheated. Switch off the engine immediately and allow it to cool down.
Checking coolant level, refer to page 91.
When you switch on the ignition, the warning lamp 1 comes on briefly to confirm that the sys­tem is operational.

Service Interval Display

Remaining distance until next service due
The displays shown in the illustration appear for a few seconds as of ignition key position 1 or after starting the engine.
Together with the message OIL SERVICE or INSPECTION, the next scheduled service and remaining distance to this service are displayed in miles/kilometers. The remaining distance is determined on the basis of the past driving style.
A flashing display and a '– sign' before the numerical value mean that the service interval has been passed by the displayed number of miles/kilometers. Please make an appointment with your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

Clock

If you want to have a continuous clock display, you can also have the time displayed in the dis­play of the car radio, refer to Owner's Manual for Radio.
You can adjust the clock, also for display in the radio, as follows.
Setting time
As of ignition key position 1:
Hours
1. Hold button 2 pressed for a few seconds
until the hours are displayed and the colon flashes.
2. Press button 1 repeatedly until the desired
hour is set.
Minutes
3. Press button 2 to change to the minutes.
4. Press button 1 repeatedly until the desired
minutes are set.
5. Press button 2.
Time is confirmed.
The set time is transferred to the display of the radio or displayed in the instrument cluster.
Display mode
Ignition key in position 0 or removed:
Press button 1.
The time and display of the miles/kilometers appear for a few seconds.
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Computer*

Mode selection
As of ignition key position 1, you can call up information from the computer using the com­puter button in the turn signal lever.
A new function appears each time you briefly press the computer button.
The displays appear in the following order:
Everything under control
Time, outside temperature, average fuel con­sumption, cruising range, average speed.
As of ignition key position 1, the last active set­ting is displayed.
If you desire, you can display the following functions in a different unit of measure.<
Outside temperature
After an ice warning has been issued, the display returns to the previous setting.
You can have this activated/deactivated.<
Please bear in mind that the ice warning does nothing to alter the fact that black
ice may be present on roads at temperatures higher than +37.57/+36, for instance, on bridges and shaded roads.<
Clock
12 or 24 hour mode
If your vehicle is equipped with a computer, you can have the time displayed in the 12 or 24 hour mode.
During the display, hold down the computer button in the turn signal lever until the display changes.
Changing unit of measure 7/6
During the display, hold down the button in the turn signal lever until the display changes.
Ice warning
If the outside temperature falls below approx. +37.57/+3 6, the computer switches auto­matically to the outside temperature display. In addition, an acoustic signal sounds and the dis­play flashes for a short time.
44
Average fuel consumption
The average fuel consumption is calculated for the time during which the engine is running.
Reset average consumption: press the com­puter button in the turn indicator lever for approx. 2 seconds.
Page 46
Cruising range
Displays the estimated cruising range available with the remaining fuel. The fuel level is mea­sured and the range is calculated taking into account the driving style over the last 20 miles/ 30 km.
Always refuel as soon as possible once
your cruising range falls to below 30 miles/50 kilometers, as otherwise engine functions are not ensured and damage can occur.<
Average speed
If you press the computer button for approx. 2 seconds, the currently displayed average value for speed is recalculated from that moment onwards.
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Technology for comfort, convenience and
safety

PDC Park Distance Control*

The concept
PDC provides extra safety and convenience during parking maneuvers. Signal tones indi­cate the current distance to an object behind or in front of your vehicle. Four ultrasonic sensors in both the bumpers monitor the distance to the nearest object. The front and rear sensors on the corners have a range of approx. 2 ft/60 cm. The two rear mid­dle sensors have a range of approx. 5 ft/1.50 m and the two front middle sensors of approx.
2.6 ft/80 cm.
PDC is a parking aid that can indicate
objects when they are approached slowly, as is usually the case when parking. Avoid approaching objects too fast, otherwise the system may give warning of physical obsta­cles too late.<
If you tow a trailer, the rear sensors cannot take any practical measurements. Therefore, they do not switch on.
Automatic mode
In ignition key position 2, the system is auto­matically activated after approx. one second each time you shift into reverse or move the selector-lever into position R. Wait for this short time span before moving. The system switches off when you shift out of reverse.

Technology for comfort, convenience and safety

You can have a signal tone programmed
into the system to verify that the PDC is active.<
Manual mode
In ignition key position 2, press the button; the indicator lamp lights up.
Deactivating manual mode
Press the button again; the indicator lamp goes out.
After driving a distance of more than approx. 160 ft/50 m or exceeding a speed of approx. 20 mph/30 km/h, the system switches off and the indicator lamp goes out. You can reactivate the system manually as needed.
Signal tones
The distance to an object behind the vehicle is signaled, in accordance with the position, by an intermittent tone from a speaker in the rear. The distance to an object in front of the vehicle is signaled by an intermittent tone from a loud­speaker beneath the instrument cluster. As the distance between vehicle and object decreases, the intervals between the tones become shorter. The signal tone becomes con­tinuous once the distance to the nearest object falls to below roughly 1 ft/30 cm.
The signal tone is canceled after approx. 3 sec­onds when the distance to an object remains constant during this time, if you are moving par­allel to a wall, for instance.
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Malfunction
The indicator lamp in the button flashes and a short continuous tone sounds. PDC is malfunc­tioning. Switch off PDC. Have the system checked.
To prevent this problem, keep the sensors clean and free of ice or snow in order to ensure that they will continue to operate effectively.
System limits
Even with PDC, final responsibility for
estimating the distance between the vehicle and any obstructions always remains with the driver. Even when sensors are involved, there is a blind spot in which objects cannot be detected. The system is also subject to the physical limits that apply to all forms of ultra­sonic measurement, such as those encoun­tered with tow bars and trailer couplings, or thin and wedge-shaped objects etc. Low objects already displayed, e.g. a curb, can also disap­pear from the detection area of the sensors again before a continuous tone sounds. Loud sources of sound, inside and outside the vehicle, could drown out the PDC signal tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free of ice or
snow in order to ensure that they will con­tinue to operate effectively. Do not apply high pressure spray to the sensors for a prolonged period of time. Keep the spray at least 4 in/10 cm away from the sensors.<

Driving stability control systems

Your BMW is equipped with an extended array of systems designed to enhance and maintain vehicle stability under extreme conditions.
ABS Antilock Brake System
ABS prevents the wheels from locking during braking. Safe steering response is maintained even during full braking. This results in an increase in the active safety.
ABS is operational every time you start the engine. Safe braking, refer to page 73.
EBV Electronic brake-force distribution
EBV controls the brake system's application pressure in the rear wheels to ensure stable deceleration.
DBC Dynamic Brake Control
When the brake pedal is depressed quickly, this system automatically generates a maximal braking force distribution and thus helps keep the braking distance to a minimum during full braking. This system exploits all of the benefits provided by ABS.
Do not reduce the pressure on the brake pedal for the duration of the brake application. DBC is deactivated when you release the brake pedal.
DSC Dynamic Stability Control
DSC prevents slip at the drive wheels when starting off and accelerating. DSC also detects unstable driving conditions, such as a fishtailing of the vehicle's rear end or the sliding of the vehicle on its front wheels. In these circum­stances, DSC helps keep the vehicle on a safe path, within physical limits, by reducing engine output and by applying the brakes in individual wheels.
The DSC is operational every time you start the engine.
The laws of physics cannot be repealed,
even with DSC. An appropriate driving style always remains the responsibility of the driver. Therefore, do not reduce the additional safety margin again by taking risks.<
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp goes out shortly after the engine starts.
When the indicator lamp flashes:
DSC is controlling the drive and braking forces.
When the indicator lamp stays lit: DSC has been switched off with the button.
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Switching off DSC
Reactivating DSC
Press the button; the indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up continuously. DSC is now deactivated.
Stabilizing interventions of the chassis control system DSC are no longer available. However, the braking interventions that simulate the function of the differential lock continue to be active.
In the following exceptional circumstances, it may be useful to switch off DSC for a short period:
> When rocking the vehicle and starting off in
deep snow or on loose road surfaces
> On sandy road surfaces > On poor surfaces with deep ruts > If the wheels spin on muddy surfaces > When driving with snow chains
As a result of the braking interventions,
the brakes may be subjected to additional loads when the system is switched off. In order to limit the brake temperature, brief automatic suppression of the brake activation is possible. To maintain vehicle stability, always drive with the system switched on when possible.<
Technology for comfort, convenience and safety
Press the button again; the indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out. DSC is now acti­vated.
xDrive
xDrive is the all-wheel drive system of your X3. The combined effects of xDrive and DSC fur­ther optimize the traction and dynamic driving characteristics. The all-wheel drive system xDrive variably distributes the drive torque to the front and rear axle depending on the driving situation and prevailing road conditions.
HDC Hill Descent Control
The concept
HDC is a system for hill descent assistance that reduces the speed on steep downward inclines and makes it even easier to control the driving characteristics of your BMW under these condi­tions. The vehicle moves at slightly more than walking speed without active intervention from the driver.
HDC is available for activation at vehicle speeds below approx. 20 mph/35 km/h. When driving down steep hills with a speed below approx. 20 mph/35 km/h, the vehicle reduces speed automatically down to slightly more than walk­ing speed, approx. 5 mph/8 km/h, and then maintains this speed at a constant.
You can use the accelerator or brakes to vary this automatically controlled speed within a range extending from approx. 3 mph/5 km/h to 15 mph/25 km/h. You can specify a target speed within the same range by using the +/– buttons of the cruise control on the steering wheel.
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Activating system
Press the button; the indicator lamp comes on.
The indicator lamp flashes when the brakes are applied automatically.
Deactivating system
Press the button again; the indicator lamp goes out.
HDC is deactivated immediately above approx. 35 mph/60 km/h and after approx. 10 seconds when the ignition is switched off.
Using HDC
In vehicles with manual transmission: Use HDC in first gear and in reverse gear, as in the higher gears the engine's braking action diminishes.
On vehicles with automatic transmission: You can use HDC in every drive position.
Malfunction
If the indicator lamp in the button goes out in the HDC mode or fails to light up when the button is pressed: HDC is temporarily not available, as the brake temperature is too high.
Malfunction in vehicle stability control systems
The warning lamp lights up yellow. DBC Dynamic Brake Control is defec­tive. Have the system checked as soon
as possible.
Display of the previously described malfunction on Canadian models.
If one of the malfunctions described
below occurs, proceed cautiously and defensively. When driving on poor roads, avoid using the full throttle or kick-down positions of the accelerator as well as heavy and panic brak­ing. Otherwise the drive train may be damaged or accidents can occur.<
The red brake warning lamp lights up together with the warning lamps for ABS and DSC/xDrive. In addition, a warning signal sounds. ABS, DSC, HDC and xDrive have failed. Drive may then only be carried out via the rear axle. If the brake warning lamp lights up
yellow in the described combination, the EBV Electronic brake-force distribution is still available. Have the system checked as soon as possible.
Display of the previously described
malfunction on Canadian models.
The warning lamp lights up continu-
ously and a warning signal sounds:
DSC or the xDrive all-wheel system has failed. The stabilizing interventions of DSC or the all­wheel drive system xDrive are no longer avail­able. It is then possible to exert driving force only via the rear axle. Have the system checked as soon as possible.

Flat Tire Monitor

The concept
The Flat Tire Monitor keeps track of the infla­tion pressures in the four mounted tires as you drive. The system provides an alert whenever the inflation pressure drops significantly in rela­tion to the pressure in another tire.
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The check of the tire inflation pressure is based
on monitoring the relative speeds of the wheels. A flat tire is detected and reported on the basis of a deviation in certain speed ratios.
Functional requirement
So that the Flat Tire Monitor can learn the cor­rect inflation pressure, please perform the fol­lowing steps:
1. Check the inflation pressures in all tires
2. Compare with the inflation pressure table
on page 83 and correct if necessary
3. Initialize the system.
System limits
The Flat Tire Monitor cannot indicate sudden severe tire damage caused by
outside factors and does not detect a natural, even pressure drop in all four tires.<
In the following situations, on the other hand, there can be delays in detecting tire pressure losses, and even system failure:
> When driving on snow-covered or slippery
road surfaces.
> In the case of performance-oriented driving:
slip in the drive wheels, high lateral acceler­ation.
> False alarms and undetected loss of pres-
sure may occur when you are driving with snow chains fitted.
> When driving with a compact wheel, the Flat
Tire Monitor cannot operate.
Initializing system
Perform the initialization immediately
Technology for comfort, convenience and safety
every time you correct the inflation pres-
sure, change a tire or change a wheel or all wheels. This requires a trip.<
1. Start the engine, but do not begin to drive.
2. Press the button until the yellow indicator
lamp in the instrument cluster lights up for a few seconds.
3. Begin driving.
It takes a few minutes until the Flat Tire Monitor can detect and indicate a flat tire.
Do not initialize the system when driving with snow chains or with a compact
wheel.<
Indication of a flat tire
The warning lamp lights up yellow. There is a flat tire or extensive inflation pressure loss.
1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle care-
fully. Avoid sudden braking and steering maneuvers.
2. Identify damaged tire.
If identification is not possible, con­tact your BMW Sports Activity Vehi-
cle Center.<
3. Replace the damaged wheel, refer to
Changing a wheel on page 99.

Brake Force Display

The Brake Force Display lights up in two stages, depending on how heavily you brake.
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The display consists of two stages:
> Normal braking:
The brake lamps 1 and the center brake lamp light up.
> Heavy braking and braking with ABS:
The brake lamps 1 and 2 light up together with the center brake lamp.

Airbags

The following airbags are located beneath the marked covers:
1 Front airbags for driver and front passenger
2 Head airbags in front and rear
3 Side airbags in front and rear
Protective action
To ensure that the safety systems con­tinue to provide optimal protection,
please follow the instructions on page 24.<
The front airbags help protect the driver and front passenger by responding to frontal impacts in which safety belts alone cannot pro­vide adequate restraint. When needed, the head and side airbags help provide protection in the event of side impact. The relevant side air-
*
bag supports the side upper body area. The respective head air bag supports the head.
The airbags are deliberately not triggered in every impact situation, e.g. less severe acci­dents, certain roll-over situations or rear-end collisions.
Labels in the rear door opening should
indicate the status of your rear seat side airbags. If you are uncertain of their status, or wish to have the airbags activated or deacti­vated, please contact your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.<
For information on the correct sitting position, refer to page 24.
Do not apply adhesive materials to the
cover panels of the airbags, cover them or modify them in any other way. Do not attempt to remove the airbag retention system from the vehicle. Never modify or tamper with either the wiring or the individual components in the airbag system. This cate­gory includes the upholstery in the center of the steering wheel, on the instrument cluster, the side trim panels on the doors, and the roof pil­lars along with the sides of the headliner. Do not attempt to remove or dismantle the steering wheel. Do not touch the individual components directly after the system has been triggered, because there is a danger of burns. When there are malfunctions, when deactivating, or after the triggering of the airbag restraint system, have the testing, repair, removal, and disposal of the airbag generators executed only by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center or at a workshop that works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained per­sonnel and has the required explosives licenses. Unprofessional attempts to service the system could lead to failure in an emer­gency or undesired airbag activation, either of which could result in personal injury.<
Airbag warning information is also provided on the sun visors.
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Automatic deactivation of front
passenger airbags
Your BMW has a seat occupation detection system. By evaluating the weight on the front passenger's seat, the system detects whether or not the seat is occupied by a child in the child-restraint system or an adult.
> When a child is seated in the child-restraint
system or with an empty seat, the front and side airbags are deactivated on the passen­ger side.
> When an adult is traveling in the front seat,
the front and side airbags remain active on the passenger side.
Although not desired, it can occur in the
case of heavier children that the front passenger airbags remain active or in the case of very light adults or young persons that the front passenger airbags are deactivated. In these cases, have the person ride in the rear seat, refer to Passenger airbag status lamp below. Do not load the passenger seat with any items in addition to the person to be trans­ported. Do not fit seat covers, seat cushion pad­ding, ball mats or other items onto the front pas­senger seat unless they are specifically re co mm end ed by BMW . D o not pl ace a ny item s under the seat. Otherwise, the function of the seat occupation detection could be impaired.<
Operational readiness of airbag system
Technology for comfort, convenience and safety
As of ignition key position 1, the warning lamp lights up briefly, thus indicating the operational readiness of the entire airbag system and the safety belt tensioners.
Airbag system malfunction
> The warning lamp does not light up as of
ignition key position 1.
> The warning lamp lights up continuously.
Have the airbag system checked immedi-
ately if a malfunction occurs, as otherwise there is a danger of the system failing to respond in the expected manner to an impact occurring within its normal response range.<
Passenger airbag status lamp
One of the illustrated indicator lamps is located above the interior rearview mirror.
The indicator lamp indicates whether the front passenger airbag system is active or not active/ OFF.
The indicator lamp is used only for the
front passenger airbag system. The indi­cator lamp illuminates to show that the front passenger airbag system is OFF/not active.<
> The indicator lamp goes out after a few sec-
onds. The front passenger airbags are active, e.g. when transporting an adult.
> The indicator lamp lights up continuously.
The front passenger airbags are deacti­vated, e.g. when a child is traveling in the vehicle in the child-restraint system or when the seat is empty.
Find more information about passenger airbag system and seat occupancy detection in sec­tion Automatic deactivation of front passenger airbags above.
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Lamps

Parking lamps/low beams

Parking lamps
The front, rear and side vehicle lighting is switched on. You can use the parking
lamps for parking. For lighting on one side for parking as an additional feature, refer to page 54.
Low beams
When you switch off the ignition with
the headlamps on, the headlamps go
out and only the parking lamps remain on.
Lamp defective
The indicator lamp lights up.
At least one bulb of the exterior lighting
on the vehicle is defective.
Replacing bulbs, refer to page 95.
Pathway lighting
When you activate the headlamp flasher after parking the vehicle and switching off the lamps, the low beams will come on for a brief period.
You may also have this function deacti­vated if you wish.<
Lights on warning
If you turn the ignition key to position 0, an acoustic signal sounds when you open the driver's door for a few seconds to remind you that the lights have not yet been switched off
.
Daytime driving lamps*
You can leave the light switch in the second position: all external lamps go out when you switch off the ignition.
Always observe all applicable laws governing the use of daytime driving lamps.
You can switch on the parking lamps when needed using the standard procedure described under Parking lamps.
You can have the daytime driving lamps activated on your vehicle.<
Automatic headlamp control*
When you set the switch to this posi­tion, the system activates and switches
on and off the low beams in response to changes in ambient light conditions, for instance, in tunnels, at dawn and dusk, and in rain and snow.
The low beams remain switched on regardless of the ambient light when you
switch on the front fog lamps.<
Automatic headlamp control cannot
serve as a substitute for the driver's judg­ment in determining when the vehicle lamps should be switched on. For example, the sys­tem cannot detect fog. To avoid safety risks, you should always switch on the lamps manu­ally under these conditions.<
You can have the sensitivity of the head-
lamp control adjusted.<

Adaptive Head Light*

The concept
Adaptive Head Light is a variable headlamp control system that enables better illumination of the road surface. Depending on the steering angle and other assumptions, the light from the headlamp follows the course of the road.
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Activating Adaptive Head Light
In ignition key position 2, turn the light switch to the position Automatic head­lamp control, refer to page 53.
To avoid blinding oncoming traffic, the Adaptive
Lamps
Head Light
> is not active when driving in reverse > i s on ly act iv e t owa rd pass en ger' s s ide wh en
stationary

Fog lamps*

Malfunction
The LED next to the symbol for automatic head­lamp control flashes. Adaptive Head Light is faulty or has failed. Have the system checked as soon as possible.

High beams/roadside parking lamps

1 High beams
2 Headlamp flasher
3 Roadside parking lamps
Roadside parking lamps, left or right*
You also enjoy the option of lighting up just one side of your vehicle when parking. When using this function, comply with national regulations:
In ignition key position 0 or with ignition key removed: Move the lever into the corresponding turn sig­nal position.
The roadside parking lamps drain the bat­tery. Avoid using for longer periods, as
otherwise it may not be possible to start the engine.<
Briefly press the button once again to switch on/off.
The parking lamps or low beams must be switched on for the fog lamps to operate. The green indicator lamp
lights up when the fog lamps are.
If the automatic headlamp control is acti­vated, the low beams will come on auto-
matically when you switch on the fog lamps.<

Instrument lighting

Turn the serrated dial to adjust the illumination intensity.
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Interior lamps

The interior lamps operate automatically.
If you desire, the interior lamps are switched on after mechanical unlocking
of the vehicle. You may have this function acti­vated/deactivated if you wish.<
If the interior lamps remain switched on after locking the vehicle, one of the doors
or the tailgate may not be completely closed.<
Switching interior lamps on and off
Briefly press button 1.
If you want the interior lamps to remain off all the time, press and hold the button for approx. 3seconds.
Press the button briefly to revert to normal operation.
You can have soft dimming of the interior lamps set.<
To avoid discharging the battery, all of the
vehicle's interior lamps are automatically extinguished approx. 15 minutes after the igni­tion is switched off.<
Front reading lamps*
Switch on and off with buttons 2.
Rear reading lamps*
Switch on and off with the button.
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A congenial climate

Air conditioner

A congenial climate
1 Airflow directed toward the windshield and
side windows
2 Airflow for the upper body 57
3 Front footwell ventilation 57
4 Air supply/blower 57
5 Outside air/recirculated-air mode 57
6 Temperature 57
7 Air distribution 57
8 Rear window defroster 57
9 Air conditioner 57
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Air supply/blower
You can select blower speeds 1 to 4. The heating and ventilation become more and more effective as the air supply settings are
increased. In position 0, the blower and heater are switched off. The air supply is blocked in position 0.
Temperature
To increase the temperature of the
interior, turn to the right.
Air distribution
You can direct air to flow onto the
windows , toward the upper
body and into the footwell .
All intermediate settings are possi-
ble. In the setting, there is a slight flow of air onto the windows to keep them free of condensation.
Rear window defroster
When the rear window defroster is
activated, the indicator lamp
comes on. The rear window defroster switches off automatically.
You can have your vehicle programmed in
such a way that the rear window defroster switches on automatically. It is then switched on at outside temperatures of less than approx. +397/+4 6 within 5 minutes of the engine start.<
Air conditioner
The air is cooled and dehumidified and warmed again as needed,
depending on the temperature set­ting. Depending on the weather, the windshield may fog over briefly when the engine is started. You can reduce condensation forming on the windows by switching on the air conditioner.
Condensation forms in the air conditioner system during operation, and then exits
under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water under the vehicle are therefore normal.<
Outside air/recirculated-air mode
You can respond to unpleasant odors outside the vehicle by tem-
porarily switching off the outside air supply. The system then recirculates the air currently within the vehicle.
If condensation starts to form on the
inside window surfaces during operation in the recirculated-air mode, you should switch it off while also increasing air supply as required. The recirculated-air mode should not be used over a sustained period of time, other­wise the air quality inside the vehicle will deteri­orate.<
Ventilation
The air vents for the upper body area can be adjusted:
1 Serrated dials
Serrated dials for opening and closing the vent outlets through an infinitely-variable range.
2 Levers
Selector levers for airflow direction.
3 Serrated dial
Use this serrated dial to adjust the amount of cool air that is added to the airflow emerging from the vent outlets for the upper body.
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Ventilation for cooling
Adjust the vents to direct the flow of cool air in your direction, for instance, if the interior has become too warm.
Draft-free ventilation
Set the vent outlets so that the air flows past you and is not directed straight at you.
Microfilter
The built-in microfilter removes dust and pollen from the incoming outside air. It is replaced when maintenance is performed by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center. A substantial reduction in air supply indicates that the filter
A congenial climate
should be replaced before normal maintenance.
Defrosting windows and removing condensation
1 Rotary blower switch
Set the rotary switch for air supply at level 4.
2 Rotary temperature switch
Turn completely to the right.
3 Rotary switch for air distribution
Turn to position .
4 Rear window defroster
Switch on to defrost the rear window.
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Automatic climate control*

1 Airflow directed toward the windshield and
side windows
2 Airflow for the upper body 61
3 Air to footwell 61
4 Individual air distribution 60
5 Temperature 60
6 Temperature display 60
Air supply 60
7 Air supply/blower 60
8 Defrosting windows and removing
condensation 60
9 Rear window defroster 61
10 Air conditioner 60
11 Outside air/AUC Automatic recirculated-air
control/recirculated-air mode 60
12 Automatic air distribution and supply 60
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A congenial climate
For almost all conditions, the AUTO pro­gram 12 offers the optimal air distribution and air volume. Select an interior temperature you find pleasant.
The following section contains more detailed information on the available setting options.
Your vehicle has been designed to auto-
matically select your personal climate­control settings whenever you unlock the doors using your individually programmed remote control.<
Automatic air distribution and supply
A congenial climate
lected temperature setting as the basis for adjusting the interior climate to adapt to exter­nal influences: summer, winter.
The cooling is switched on automatically with the AUTO program.
The AUTO program adjusts the airflow and distribution patterns for you while also using your prese-
Individual air distribution
You can cancel the AUTO program by selecting specific air distribu­tion patterns for your personal comfort, the automatic air supply remains in operation. You can
direct air to flow onto the win­dows , toward the upper body , and into the footwell . You can reactivate the auto­matic air distribution mode by selecting the AUTO button.
Adjusting temperature
The figures in the display provide a
general indication of interior tem-
perature. When you start the vehi-
cle, the AUTO program ensures
that the selected temperature is
achieved as quickly as possible. It then maintains this temperature, regardless of the season.
Air supply/blower
You can vary the air supply by pressing the upper or lower button. This switches off the automatic program for the air supply, and the word AUTO goes out in the dis-
play. The automatic mode for air distribution remains in operation as before. You can reactivate the automatic air supply mode by selecting the AUTO button.
If you press the lower button when at the lowest blower speed, all displays go out: the blower, heating and air conditioner are switched off. The outside air supply is shut off. You can restart the automatic climate control by press­ing any of its buttons.
Defrosting windows and removing condensation
This program quickly removes ice
and condensation from the wind-
shield and door windows.
Air conditioner
When the air conditioning is on,
the air is cooled, dehumidified,
and then reheated depending on the temperature setting. Depending on the weather, the windshield may fog over briefly when the engine is started. The air conditioner reduces the formation of condensation on the windows.
The air conditioner can only operate when the engine is running and is automatically switched on with the AUTO program.
Condensation forms in the air conditioner system during operation, and then exits
under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water under the vehicle are therefore normal.<
Outside air/AUC Automatic recirculated-air control/recirculated­air mode
You can respond to unpleasant
odors or pollutants in the immedi-
ate environment by suspending the supply of outside air. The system then recir-
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culates the air currently within the vehicle.
During AUC operation, a sensor detects pollut­ants in the outside air and controls the shut-off automatically.
Press the button repeatedly to run through the following control sequence:
> Indicator lamps off: o utside air flows into th e
vehicle.
> Left indicator lamp on, AUC mode: the sys-
tem recognizes pollutants in the outside air and blocks the flow of air when necessary. The system then recirculates the air cur­rently within the vehicle. Depending on the air quality, the automatic system then switches back and forth between outside air supply and recirculation of the air within the vehicle.
> Right-hand indicator lamp on: the outside
air supply into the vehicle is shut off contin­uously. The system then recirculates the air currently within the vehicle.
If condensation starts to form on the
inside window surfaces during operation in the recirculated-air mode, you should switch it off while also increasing air supply as required. The recirculated-air mode should not be used over a sustained period of time, other­wise the air quality inside the vehicle will deteri­orate.<
Ventilation
The air vents for the upper body area can be adjusted:
1 Serrated dials
Serrated dials for opening and closing the vent outlets through an infinitely-variable range.
2 Levers
Selector levers for airflow direction.
3 Serrated dial
Use this serrated dial to adjust the amount of cool air that is added to the airflow emerging from the vent outlets for the upper body.
Ventilation for cooling
Adjust the vents to direct the flow of cool air in your direction, for instance, if the interior has become too warm.
Rear window defroster
When the rear window defroster is activated, the indicator lamp comes on. The rear window
defroster switches off automatically.
You can have your vehicle set so that the
rear window defroster switches on auto­matically. It is then switched on at outside tem­peratures of less than approx. +39 7/+4 6 within 5 minutes of the engine start.<
Draft-free ventilation
Set the vent outlets so that the air flows past you and is not directed straight at you.
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. This combined filter is replaced when maintenance is performed by your BMW Sports Activity Vehi­cle Center. A substantial reduction in air supply indicates that the filter should be replaced before normal maintenance.
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Practical interior accessories

Integrated universal remote control*

The concept
The integrated universal remote control replaces up to three different hand-held trans­mitters for various items of radio-controlled equipment such as door openers and house alarm systems. The integrated universal remote control recognizes and learns the transmitted signal of each of the original hand-held trans­mitters.
The signal of an original hand-held transmitter can be programmed on one of the three mem­ory buttons 1. Once this is done, each of the devices can be actuated with the appropriately programmed memory button 1. The indicator lamp 2 confirms transmission of the signal.
Practical interior accessories
Should you sell your vehicle one day, be sure to delete the stored programs beforehand for your safety, refer to page 63.
To prevent possible damage or injury,
before programming or using the inte­grated universal remote control, always inspect the immediate area to make certain that no peo­ple, animals or objects are within the travel range of the device. Also, comply with the safety precautions of the original hand-held transmitter.<
Checking compatibility
If you see this symbol on the packaging or in the manual supplied with the orig-
inal hand-held transmitter, it is safe to assume that it is compatible with the integrated universal remote control.
If you have additional questions, please
consult your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center or call 1-800-355-3515. You can also visit these websites: www.bmwusa.com or www.homelink.com.
HomeLink is a registered trademark owned by Johnson Controls, Inc.<
Programming
1 Memory buttons
2 Indicator lamp
Fixed-code hand-held transmitters
1. Turn the ignition key to position 2.
2. For initial use:
Press both outer buttons 1 for approx. 20 seconds, maintaining pressure until the indicator lamp 2 starts to flash. The three memory buttons 1 are cleared.
3. Hold the original hand-held transmitter at a
distance of approx. 2 in/5 cm to 8 in/20 cm from the memory buttons 1.
The required distance between the hand-held transmitter and memory
buttons 1 depends on the relevant system of the original hand-held transmitter used.<
4. Simultaneously press the transmit button
on the original hand-held transmitter and the desired memory button 1 of the inte­grated universal remote control. Initially, the indicator lamp 2 flashes slowly. Release both buttons as soon as the indicator lamp 2 flashes rapidly. If the indicator lamp 2 does not flash rapidly after approx. 15 seconds, change the distance.
5. To program other original hand-held trans-
mitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.
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The corresponding memory button 1 is now
programmed with the signal of the original hand-held transmitter.
You can use the system when the engine is run­ning or when the ignition is switched on.
If the system cannot be operated after
repeated programming, check whether the original hand-held transmitter uses an alter­nating-code system. To do so, either read the instructions of the original hand-held transmit­ter or press and hold down the programmed memory button 1 of the integrated universal remote control. If the indicator lamp 2 on the integrated universal remote control flashes rap­idly for a short time then lights up for approx. 2 seconds, this indicates that the original hand­held transmitter uses an alternating-code sys­tem. In the case of an alternating-code system, program the memory buttons 1 as described at the section on alternating-code transmitters.<
Alternating-code transmitters
Consult the operating instructions of the unit you wish to set when programming the univer­sal remote control. You will find information there on the possibilities for synchronization. When programming hand-held transmitters that employ an alternating code, please follow these additional instructions:
Pr ogram min g wi ll be e asi er wit h the a id o f
a second person.<
1. Park your vehicle within the range of the
remote-controlled equipment.
2. Program the integrated universal remote
control as described above at Fixed-code hand-held transmitters.
3. Locate the button at the receiver of the
equipment to be set, e.g. on the drive.
4. Press the button on the receiver of the
device you want to set up. After step 4, you have approx. 30 seconds for step 5.
5. Press the programmed memory button 1
of the integrated universal remote control three times.
The corresponding memory button 1 is now programmed with the signal of the original hand-held transmitter.
If you have questions, please contact your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.<
Clearing memory buttons
Press both outer buttons 1 for approx. 20 sec­onds until the indicator lamp 2 starts to flash: all of the memory buttons are cleared.
The memory of individual memory buttons 1 cannot be cleared.

Cup holders

Front
Depending on your optional equipment, the center console contains either one or two cup holders.
Passenger side*
The cup holder for the front passenger is located beneath the air/heating vent.
1. Press the trim piece below the air/heating
vent, arrow.
2. Insert cup.
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Rear
Rechargeable flashlight
The flashlight is located on the left side of the glove compartment. Because it is protected against overcharging, the flashlight can remain continually inserted in its holder.
Be sure that the flashlight is switched off when it is inserted into its holder. Failure
to comply with this precaution could lead to extreme discharging and damage.<
A cup holder is located in the center armrest at the rear: Press the button to open.
Do not place glass containers in the cup holders, as otherwise there is a danger of
injury in an accident.<

Glove compartment

Opening
Practical interior accessories
Pull the handle. The lamp inside the glove com­partment comes on.
Closing
Fold the cover up.
To prevent injury in the event of an acci­dent, close the glove compartment
immediately after use.<

Storage compartments

Armrest, front*
The armrest contains two storage compart­ments.
> Compartment for CDs:
Press button 1.
> Compartment for coins and miscellaneous
items:
Press button 2.
Armrest, rear
Locking
Use one of the master keys. A master key is also required for unlocking.
If you only hand over the spare key, e.g. in a hotel for valet parking, refer to page 16,
the glove compartment cannot be accessed.<
64
The rear armrest contains a storage compart­ment:
To open, pull the cover upward.
Page 66
Storage compartment in the
instrument panel*

Ashtray*

Opening
Press the button in the direction of the arrow.
Closing
Fold the cover down.
Storage package*
Your convenience is enhanced by:
> Armrest, front > Sliding lashing eyes in cargo area, refer to
page 69
> Floor cover in cargo area that can be used in
two positions, refer to page 69
> Nets in cargo area, on rear side of front seat,
and in passenger footwell
Clothes hooks
When suspending clothing from the
hooks ensure that it will not obstruct the driver's vision. Do not hang heavy objects on the hooks. If you do so, they could cause endan­ger passengers during braking or evasive maneuvers.<
Press the edge of the opened cover: the ashtray moves up and can be removed.
On vehicles with the non-smoking package, the insert is removed in the same way.

Lighter*

Press in the cigarette lighter 1. The lighter can be removed as soon as it pops 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, do not leave unsupervised children in the vehicle.<
Power socket
The cigarette lighter socket can be used as a power socket to plug in hand flashlights, car vacuum cleaners, etc., with power ratings of up to approx. 200 W at 12 V. Avoid damage to the socket caused by inserting plugs of a different shape or size. With the non-smoker's equip­ment package the socket is covered with a removable cap.
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Car phone preparation*

Hands-free system
In vehicles with car phone preparation*, the hands-free microphone is located on the head­liner near the interior lamp.
For more information on the car phone, refer to the Owner's Manual for Telephone.

Ski bag*

The ski bag allows the safe and clean transport
Practical interior accessories
of up to 4 pairs of standard skis or up to two snowboards.
The ski bag itself plus the additional capacity provided by the cargo area make it possible to transport skis with a length of up to 6.9 ft/
2.10 m. When skis of 6.9 ft/2.10 m in length are loaded the ski bag will tend to narrow, reducing its overall capacity.
firmly the first time, this also opens the cover in the cargo area.
3. Place the ski bag between the front seats
and load. The zipper facilitates access to the stowed items.
4. Insert the belt tongue of the ski bag retain-
ing belt into the center safety belt buckle.
Make sure to load only clean skis into the ski bag. Wrap sharp edges so that no damage occurs.
Securing load
Loading
1. Fold down the center armrest, pull off the
cover, press the button and remove the cover.
2. Press the button again; the cover in the
cargo area opens. If you press the button
66
After loading, secure the ski bag and its con­tents. Tension the retaining strap on the ten­sioning buckle for this purpose.
Secure the ski bag in this way. If you fail to do so, it could endanger occupants dur-
ing braking or evasive maneuvers.<
To store the ski bag, perform the above steps in reverse order.
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Inserting ski bag
The ski bag is located in the cargo area under the floor cover.
1. Fold down the center armrest and pull off
the cover.
2. Remove the tray behind the cover with a
screwdriver by applying it at the application point in the center of the tray.
3. Position the ski bag on the lower edge of the
opening, refer to arrow 1, then insert it, refer to arrow 2.

Cargo area

When loading, follow the instructions on page 74.
Folding rear seat back
Reach into the opening and pull forward, refer to arrow.
When you fold back the backrest, be sure that the catch engages securely. Proper
engagement causes the red warning field in the recess to disappear.<
Removing ski bag
Pull the handle forward and remove the ski bag upward.
Do not position cargo at the opening. If you do, it can endanger the passengers
during braking or evasive maneuvers.<
Ski bag*
To create a flat load area floor, you can remove the ski bag and replace it with a tray before fold­ing the rear backrest forward. The tray is inserted in the same way as inserting the ski bag, refer to Inserting ski bag.
Cargo area cover
Pull the cargo area cover out by the handle and hook it into the rear holders.
You can carry light objects such as articles of clothing on the cargo area cover.
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Do not place heavy and hard objects on
the cover. If you do so, they could endan­ger occupants during braking maneuvers. Do not allow the cover to snap back into place, as otherwise it could be damaged.<
Removal
1. Press the side buttons, refer to arrow 1.
2. Pull the cassette towards the rear, refer to
arrow 2.
Installation
Push the cassette forward into the two side
Practical interior accessories
holders until it locks in place.
Stowing* when rear seat back is folded down
Partition net*
Hooking partition net into place
Pull the partition net out of the cassette by the strap. Push together the bar on both sides, refer to arrows 1, and insert in the brackets. Then press the bar all the way upward in the middle, refer to arrow 2, so that it engages in the brack­ets.
Letting down partition net
Grasp bar on one side on the partition net, press upward and push together, then release from the brackets.
Do not allow the partition net to snap back into place, as otherwise there is a danger
of injury and the partition net could be dam­aged.<
Holders for the cassette are fitted to the backs of the rear seat backs, refer to arrows 1.
Guide in the cassette from the right side until it locks in place, refer to arrow 2. Here, the cargo area cover must always point in the direction of travel and the loop of the partition net must point upward.
You can pull out the partition net and insert it in the holders in the roof area above.
68
Behind side trim panel
Press the button to open.
Page 70
Floor cover
Opening
For access to the jack etc. To open, raise the cover by the handle, refer to arrow. If required, you can remove or raise the floor cover.
The lashing eyes are located in the cargo area under the floor cover. They can be inserted at the openings in the rails. To slide the lashing eyes, press the button.
Read and comply with the information enclosed with the load-securing
devices.<
Power socket
Raising
Swing up the floor cover and hook it onto the handle of the cargo area cover by its catch.
Lashing eyes, rail*
You can secure load-securing devices to the lashing eyes on the cargo area floor.
Access to power socket: Fold the cover upward.
The socket can be used to plug in hand flash­lights, car vacuum cleaners etc., with power rat­ings of up to approx. 200 W at 12 V. Do not damage the socket with unsuitable plugs, also refer to page 65.
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Page 72
Driving tips
Driving tips
This section is designed to provide you with
extra support by supplying information
useful in dealing with specific driving
and operating conditions.
Page 73

Things to remember when driving

Breaking-in

Moving parts should be allowed to adjust to one another. To ensure that your vehicle provides maximum economy throughout a long service life, we request that you observe the following instructions.
Engine and differential
Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km: Drive at varying engine and driving speeds, however do not exceed 4,500 rpm or 100 mph/ 160 km/h in the process:
Always obey all official speed limits.
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid press­ing the accelerator beyond the kick-down point.
Once you have driven 1,200 miles/2,000 km, the engine and vehicle speeds can be gradually increased.
Tires
Due to technical factors associated with their
Things to remember when driving
manufacture, tires do not achieve their full trac­tion potential until after an initial break-in period. For this reason, drive with extra care during the initial 200 miles/300 km.
Obey your local and state maximum speed lim­its.
When the vehicle is operated on wet or
slushy roads, a wedge of water may form between the tire and the road surface. This phe­nomenon is referred to as hydroplaning and can lead to partial or complete loss of traction, vehi­cle control and braking effectiveness. Reduce your speed on wet roads.<
Brake system
Approx. 300 miles/500 km must elapse before the brake pads and rotors achieve the optimal pad-surface and wear patterns required for trouble-free operation and long service life later on.
To break in the separate handbrake drums, apply the handbrake lightly when coasting to a stop – at a traffic signal, for instance; use cau­tion to avoid posing a danger to other road users.
To avoid corrosion, repeat this procedure from time to time.
The brake lamps do not come on when the handbrake is applied.
Vacuum for the brake system servo unit
on your BMW is available only when the engine is running. When you move the vehicle with the engine off – e.g. by towing – substan­tially higher levels of pedal force will be required to brake the vehicle.<
Clutch
The function of the clutch is also only at its opti­mized level after a distance driven of approx. 300 miles/500 km. During this break-in period, engage the clutch gently.
Following component replacements
Observe the break-in instructions again if previ­ously addressed components must be replaced again during driving later.

General driving notes

Closing tailgate
Operate the vehicle only when the tail-
gate is completely closed, as otherwise exhaust fumes could enter the interior of the vehicle.<
If special circumstances should make it abso­lutely necessary to operate the vehicle with the tailgate open:
1. Close all windows and the panorama glass
sunroof.
2. Greatly increase the air supply of the air
conditioner or automatic climate control, refer to page 56 or 59.
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Hot exhaust system
As in all vehicles equipped with a catalytic
converter, extremely high temperatures are generated in this vehicle. Do not remove the heat shields installed adjacent to various sec­tions of the exhaust system, and never apply undercoating to them. When driving, standing at idle and while parking take care to avoid pos­sible contact between the hot exhaust system and any highly flammable materials such as hay, leaves, grass, etc. Such contact could lead to a fire, resulting in serious personal injury and property damage.<
When the vehicle is parked
Condensation forms in the air conditioner sys­tem during operation, and then exits under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water under the vehicle are thus normal.
Before driving into a car wash
Fold in the exterior mirrors, refer to page 28, as otherwise they could be damaged due to the width of the vehicle. Deactivate the rain sensor as otherwise dam­age could result from undesired wiper activa­tion, refer to page 39.
Mobile communications devices in vehicle
BMW does not recommend using mobile
communications devices, e.g. portable phones, in the interior of the vehicle without a direct connection to an outside antenna. Other­wise the vehicle electronics and mobile com­munications device can affect each other. In addition, there is no assurance that the radia­tion which results during transmission will be dissipated from the vehicle interior.<
Inside rearview mirror, automatically dimming*
The inside rearview mirror contains two photo­cells that control the automatic dimming func­tion. One is integrated into the mirror glass, the other is located on the back of the mirror.
For trouble-free operation, keep the photocells clean and do not cover the area between the interior rearview mirror and the windshield. Do not attach any kind of stickers on the windshield in front of the mirror, either.
Hydroplaning
When driving on wet or slushy roads,
reduce road speed. If you do not, a wedge of water can form between tires and road sur­face. This phenomenon is referred to as hydro­planing, and is characterized by a partial or complete loss of contact between tires and road surface, ultimately undermining your abil­ity to steer and brake the vehicle.<
Driving through water
Do not drive through water on the road if it
is deeper than 20 in/50 cm, and then only at walking speed. Otherwise, the vehicle's engine, the electrical systems and the trans­mission may be damaged.<
Use handbrake on inclines
Do not hold the vehicle in place on slopes
by slipping or riding the clutch, use the handbrake instead. Otherwise greater clutch wear will result.<
Safe braking
Your BMW is equipped with ABS as standard equipment. The best way to brake is to apply maximum pressure to the brake pedal during emergency: panic braking. Since the vehicle maintains steering responsiveness, you can nevertheless avoid possible obstacles with a minimum of steering effort.
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Pulsation at the brake pedal combined with
sounds from the hydraulic circuits indicates to the driver that ABS is in its active mode.
Wet roads
While driving in wet conditions and in heavy rain, it is a good idea to apply light pressure to the brake pedal every few miles. Watch traffic conditions to ensure that this maneuver does not endanger other road users. The heat which is generated by the brake applications helps to dry the brake pads and rotors. The full braking force will then be available when you need it.
Hills
To prevent overheating and reduced effi-
ciency of the brake system, drive long or steep downhill gradients in the gear in which the least braking is required. Otherwise, even light but consistent pedal pressure can lead to high temperatures, brake wear and possibly even brake failure.<
You can further enhance the engine's braking effect by selecting a lower gear in the automatic transmission's manual mode, downshifting as far as first gear on extremely steep stretches,
Things to remember when driving
refer to page 37. This strategy helps you avoid placing excessive loads on the brake system. During slower downhill driving, use the HDC Hill Descent Control, refer to page 48.
Never drive with the clutch engaged, the
transmission in Neutral or with the engine switched off, as otherwise there is no engine braking when the transmission is in neutral, and no power-assist for brakes and steering with the engine switched off. Never allow floor mats, carpets or other objects to protrude into the area around the brake or accelerator pedals and obstruct their move­ment.<
Corrosion on brake rotors
When the vehicle is driven only occasionally, during extended periods when the vehicle is not used at all, and in operating conditions where brake applications are less frequent, there is an increased tendency for corrosion to form on rotors, while contaminants accumulate on the brake pads. This occurs because the minimal pressure which must be exerted by the pads during brake applications to clean the rotors is not reached.
Should corrosion form on the brake rotors, the brakes will tend to respond with a pulsating effect that even extended application will fail to cure.

Cargo loading

To avoid loading the tires beyond their
approved carrying capacity, never over­load the vehicle. Overloading can lead to over­heating and increases the rate at which damage develops inside the tires. The ultimate result can assume the form of a sudden air loss.<
Determining load limit
1. Locate the following statement on your
*
vehicle's placard
The combined weight of occupants
and cargo should never exceed XXX Ibs. or YYY kg, as otherwise the vehicle may be damaged and unstable driving con­ditions may result.<
2. Determine the combined weight of the
driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.
:
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3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver
and passengers from XXX lbs. or YYY kg.
4. The resulting figure equals the available
amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the XXX amount equals 990 lbs. and there will be five 150-lbs. pas­sengers in your vehicle, the amount of avail­able cargo and luggage load capacity is 240 lbs.: 990 lbs. minus 750 lbs. = 240 lbs.
5. Determine the combined weight of luggage
and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in step 4.
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, part of
the load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult the manual for transporting a trailer to determine how this may reduce the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle.
Load
The permitted load is the total of the weight of occupants and cargo/luggage. The greater the weight of occupants, the less cargo/luggage can be transported.
Stowing cargo
> Load heavy cargo as far forward and as low
as possible, placing it directly behind the bulkhead behind the rear seats.
> Cover sharp edges and corners. > Pull out the partition net, refer to page 68,
making sure that objects cannot penetrate the partition net.
> Do not stack cargo higher than the upper
edge of the backrests.
> Items that could bump against the rear win-
dow while driving must be adequately cov­ered.
> For very heavy cargo when the rear seat is
not occupied, secure each safety belt in the opposite buckle.
Securing cargo
> Use the luggage net* to hold down small
and lightweight luggage and cargo, refer to page 68.
> For larger and heavier pieces, heavy-duty
cargo straps* are available from your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center. Lashing eyes for attaching these heavy-duty cargo straps have been provided in your vehicle's cargo area, refer to page 69.
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> Read and comply with the information
enclosed with the heavy-duty cargo straps.
Always position and secure the load as
described above. If you do not, it can even endanger the passengers during braking or evasive maneuvers. Never exceed either the approved gross vehicle weight or either of the approved axle loads, refer to page 112, as excessive loads can pose a safety hazard, and may also place you in viola­tion of freeway safety laws. You should never transport heavy or hard objects unsecured in the passenger compart­ment, as they could fly around and pose a safety hazard to the vehicle's occupants during abrupt braking or evasive maneuvers.<

Roof-mounted luggage rack*

A special rack system is available as a optional accessory for your BMW. Please observe the information contained in the installation instruc­tions.
Loading luggage rack
Things to remember when driving
Because roof racks raise the vehicle's center of gravity when loaded, th ey have a major e ffect on its handling and steering response. You should therefore always remember not to exceed the approved roof weight, the approved gross vehi­cle weight or the axle loads when loading the rack.
You can find the specified weights in the Tech­nical data section on page 112.
Make sure that the load is evenly distributed, and that it does not extend outward to beyond the limits of the loading surface. Always load the heaviest pieces first – on the bottom. Be sure that adequate clearance is maintained for rais­ing the glass sunroof, and that objects do not project into the opening path of the tailgate.
Secure roof-mounted cargo correctly and securely to prevent it from shifting or being lost during the trip.
Drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking maneuvers. Take corners gently.

Driving on poor roads

Your X3 is at home on all paved and unpaved roads. It combines all-wheel drive with the advantages of a normal passenger car.
Driving on unpaved terrain can cause damage to the vehicle.<
When you are driving on poor roads, there are a few points which you should strictly observe – for your own safety, for that of your passengers, and for the safety of the vehicle:
> Familiarize yourself with the vehicle before
you begin driving. Do not take risks with the vehicle under any circumstances.
> Always adapt the driving speed to the road
conditions. The more steep and uneven the roadway is, the lower the speed should be.
> You can operate your vehicle on uphill and
downhill gradients with a maximum slope of 50%. If you wish to drive on uphill and downhill grades of this nature, make sure beforehand that the engine oil and coolant levels are near the MAX mark, refer to pages 90 and 91.
> For very steep downhill driving, use HDC
Hill Descent Control, refer to page 48. It is possible to start off on upward inclines of up to 32%. The permitted side tilt is 32%.
> While driving, watch carefully for obstacles
such as rocks or holes. Try to avoid these obstacles whenever possible.
> Avoid that the body makes contact with the
ground, e.g. on the crests of hills and bumpy roads. The ground clearance of the vehicle is a maximum of approx. 8.0 in/20 cm. Please be aware that the ground clearance can vary depending on the load and operat­ing conditions of the vehicle.
> Do not drive in water that is deeper than
20 in/50 cm. If you must drive through water up to that depth, drive at a walking speed and do not stop. After leaving the water, press on the foot­brake gently several times while driving at a low speed. The brake applications will help
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to dry the brakes, thus preventing a reduc-
tion in braking performance caused by the moisture. For cleaning the handbrake, apply the lever slightly at approx. 25 mph/40 km/h and con­tinue to drive for approx. 200 yards/ 200 meters, provided that traffic conditions allow you to do so.
Please bear the following points in mind after driving on poor roads, in order to preserve the road safety of your BMW:
> Clean the heavy dirt from the body. > Clean mud, snow, ice and other materials
from the wheels and tires. Check the tires for damage.
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Page 80
Mobility
Mobility
This section helps you maintain your mobility
by supplying important information on
vital topics including fuels and lubricants,
wheels and tires, service, maintenance
and breakdown assistance.
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Refueling

Fuel filler door

Refueling
Always switch off the engine before refu-
eling, as it is not possible to add fuel with the engine running, and attempts to do so may also trigger the Service Engine Soon lamp.<
To open and close: press the rear edge of the fuel filler door.
Manual release
Observe the following when refueling
When handling fuels, comply with all of the applicable safety precautions posted
at the service station.<
Put the filler cap in the bracket attached to the fuel filler door.
When refueling, insert the filler nozzle com­pletely into the filler pipe. Lifting the filler nozzle during refueling
> results in premature pump shutoff > can lead to reduced efficiency in the fuel-
vapor recovery system
The fuel tank is full when the filler nozzle clicks off the first time.
In the event of an electrical malfunction in the system, you can release the fuel filler door man­ually:
1. Open the cover flap in the cargo area on the
right-hand side panel, refer to page 68.
2. Pull the green button.
Always observe all applicable precautions
and regulations when handling fuels. Never carry spare fuel containers in your vehi­cle. Whether empty or full, these containers can leak, cause an explosion, and lead to fire in the event of a collision.<
80
Closing fuel filler cap
Fit the cap and turn it clockwise until you clearly hear a click.
Close the filler cap carefully after refueling
until a click is heard. While closing, be sure not to squeeze the strap which is fastened to the cap. A loose or missing cap will activate
*
the Check gas cap lamp
The warning lamp The fuel filler cap is not properly closed or is missing. Check whether the fuel
filler cap is properly closed.
.<
*
lights up.
Fuel tank capacity
Approx. 17.7 gallons/67 liters, including the reserve capacity of approx. 2 gallons/8 liters.
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Never attempt to continue driving until
the tank is completely empty, as engine
functions could be affected, and the vehicle could sustain damage as a result.<

Fuel specifications

The engine uses unleaded gasoline only.
Required fuel
Premium unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating: 91.
Minimum octane rating corresponds to the Anti Knock Index AKI and is determined to the so-called (R+M)/2 method.
Do not use leaded gasoline, as otherwise the lambda probe and catalytic converter
will be permanently damaged.<
Use high-quality brands
Field experience has indicated significant dif­ferences in fuel quality: volatility, composition, additives, etc., among gasolines offered for sale in the United States and Canada. Fuels contain­ing up to and including 10% ethanol or other oxygenates with up to 2.8% oxygen by weight, that is, 15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an equivalent amount of co-solvent, will not void the applicable warranties with respect to defects in materials or workmanship.
The use of poor-quality fuels may result in
drivability, starting and stalling problems especially under certain environmental condi­tions such as high ambient temperature and high altitude. Should you encounter drivability 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 also result in unscheduled mainte­nance.<
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Wheels and tires

Tire inflation pressure

Information for your safety
It is not merely the tire's service life, but also driving comfort and – to a great extent – driving safety that depend on the condition of the tires and the maintenance of the specified tire pres­sure.
Wheels and tires
Checking pressure
Only check tire inflation pressure when the tires are cold, i.e. after a maximum of 1.25 miles/2 km driving or when the vehicle has been parked for at least 2 hours. When tires are warm, the tire inflation pressure increases.
Check the tire inflation pressure regularly
and correct it if necessary, including com­pact wheel: at least every two weeks and before beginning a longer trip. If you fail to observe this precaution you may be driving on tires with incorrect tire pressures, a condition that can not only comprom ise your vehicle's driving stabi lity, but also lead to tire damage and the risk of an accident. Do not drive with a depressurized, i.e. flat tire. A flat tire will seriously impair your vehi­cle's handling and braking response. Attempts to drive on a flat tire can lead to loss of control over the vehicle.<
After correcting the inflation pressure(s),
always reinitialize the Flat Tire Monitor, refer to page 50.<
Inflation pressures for factory-installed tires
The inflation pressures for your factory­installed tires can be found on the door jamb when you open the driver's door.
Inflation pressures for other tire sizes
The table below provides all the correct inflation pressures for the specified tire sizes at ambient temperature.
For correct identification of the right tire inflation pressure for your tires, observe
the specifications for the corresponding tire sizes.<
Tire size
The inflation pressures apply to the tire sizes approved and tire brands recommended by BMW; a list of these is available from your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
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X3 2.5i/3.0i
Tire size Pressure specifications in psi/kPa
All pressure specifications in the table are indicated in psi/ kilopascal with cold tires, cold = ambient temperature
235/55 R 17 99 H M+S
29/200 32/220 32/220 38/260
235/55 R 17 99 Q, T, H M+S
215/60 R 17 96 H M+S
32/220 35/240 35/240 41/280 215/60 R 17 96 Q, T, H M+S 235/50 R 18 97 H M+S 235/50 R 18 97 V
Front: 235/50 R 18 97 V
Rear: 255/45 R 18 99 V
Front: 235/45 R 19 95W
Rear: 255/40 R 19 96W
32/220
–
32/220
–
–
32/220
–
35/240
35/240
35/240
Compact wheel: T 135/90 R 17 104 M 61/420
More details on the permitted load and weights can be found on page 112
–
–
38/260
–
–
41/280
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Tire identification marks

Knowledge of the labeling on the side of the tire makes it easier to identify and choose the right tires.
Tire size
e.g. 235/50 R 18 97 V
Nominal width in mm
Cross-sectional relationship in Ξ
Radial tire code
Wheels and tires
Rim diameter in inches
Load rating, not for ZR tires
Speed rating, before R on ZR tires
Speed code letter
Q = up to 105 mph/160 km/h
T = up to 118 mph/190 km/h
H = up to 131 mph/210 km/h
V = up to 150 mph/240 km/h
W = up to 167 mph/270 km/h
Y = up to 186 mph/300 km/h
Tire Identification Number
Tires with DOT codes meet the guidelines of the U.S. Department of Transport.
DOT code:
e.g. DOT xxxx xxx 3603
Manufacturer code for tire make
Tire size and tire design
Tire age
Tire age
The tire's date of manufacture is indicated on the sidewall: DOT ... 3004 indicates that a tire was manufac­tured in week 30 of the year 2004.
BMW recommends that you replace all tires after 6 years at most, even if some tires may last for 10 years.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:
Tread wear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
DOT Quality Grades
Tread wear Traction AA A B C Temperature A B C
All passenger car tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition
to these grades.<
Tread wear
The tread wear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified gov­ernment test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half, 1γ, times as well on the govern­ment course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to varia­tions in driving habits, service practices and dif­ferences in road characteristics and climate.
Traction
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test sur­faces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
based on straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cor­nering, hydroplaning, or peak traction charac­teristics.<
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Temperature
The temperature grades are A, the highest, B and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehi­cle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.
The temperature grade for this tire is
established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either sep­arately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.<
M+S
Winter and all-season tires. These have better winter properties than sum­mer tires.

Tire condition

Inspect your tires frequently for tread wear, signs of damage and for foreign objects lodged in the tread. Check the tread pattern depth.
Tire tread
The tread depth should not drop below 0.12 in/ 3 mm, although, for example, European legisla­tion only specifies a minimum tread depth of
0.063 in/1.6 mm. At tread depths below 0.12 in/3 mm, there is an increased risk of high-speed hydroplaning, even when only small amounts of water are present on the road surface. As winter tires dis­play a noti ceable loss in their a bility to cope with cold-weather driving conditions once the tread wears to below 0.16 in/4 mm, to ensure contin-
ued safety you should always have such tires replaced.
Wear indicators at the tread-groove base, refer to arrow, are distributed over the tire's circum­ference and are marked on the side of the tire with TWI – Tread Wear Indicator. At a tread depth of 0.063 in/1.6 mm these indicators, sig­nal that the tires have reached the legally per­missible wear limit.
Wheel/tire damage
Due to low-profile tires, please note that wheels, tires and suspension parts are
more susceptible to road hazard and conse­quential damages.<
Unusual vibrations encountered during normal vehicle operation can indicate tire failure or some other vehicle defect. This can, for exam­ple, be caused by driving over curbs. These kinds of problems may also be signaled by other changes in vehicle response, such as a strong tendency to pull to the left or right.
In these cases reduce speed immedi-
ately. Drive carefully to the next BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center or tire dealer, or have the vehicle towed to one of these locations if necessary. Tire damage, extending to sudden and com­plete loss of pressure in extreme cases, can pose a potentially lethal safety hazard for the vehicle's occupants and other road users alike.<
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New wheels and tires

Have new wheels and tires installed only
by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center or tire shop that works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel. If this work is not carried out properly, there is a danger of subsequent dam­age and related safety hazards.<
Retreaded tires
BMW does not recommend the use of
Wheels and tires
retreaded tires, as otherwise driving safety may be reduced. The causes for this include the possibly different tire casing struc­tures and the often wide variations in their age, which can result in a limited service life.<
The right wheels and tires
BMW recommends that you use only
wheel and tire combinations that BMW has tested and approved for your particular vehicle. Variations in factors such as manufac­turing tolerances mean that even wheels and tires with identical official size ratings could actually have different dimensions than the approved units – these differences could lead to body contact, and with it the risk of severe acci­dents. If non-approved wheels and tires are used, BMW cannot evaluate their suitability, and therefore cannot be held liable for driving safety.<
You can ask your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center for the correct wheel-and-tire combina­tion.
The correct wheel-and-tire combination affects various systems whose function would other­wise be impaired, e.g. ABS, DSC or xDrive.
To maintain good handling and vehicle response, use only tires of a single tread config­uration from a single manufacturer. After a flat tire, always remember to have the specified wheel-and-tire combination remounted on the vehicle as soon as possible.
Recommended tire sizes and brands
BMW tests certain tire brands for each tire size, classifies them as road-safe and approves them. These are available at a specialized dealer, preferably your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center. Observe any country-specific regulations, e.g. on making a corresponding entry in the vehicle documents.
The factory-mounted tires have been specially selected to provide optimized performance when installed on your vehicle; if properly cared for, they will provide a combination o f safety and excellent ride comfort.
Special characteristics of winter tires
BMW recommends winter tires for use in cold winter driving conditions. Although all-season M+S tires provide better winter traction than summer tires, they generally fail to provide the same levels of cold-weather performance as winter tires.
Observing speed ratings
Never exceed the maximum speed for
which the winter tires are rated. Unpro­fessional attempts by laymen to service tires can lead to damage and accidents. Have this work performed by skilled professionals only. The technicians at your BMW Sports Activity Veh ic le C en te r wi ll be gl ad to a ss ist yo u wit h t he required professional knowledge and special­ized equipment.<
Storage
Store wheels or tires in a cool, dry place, pro­tecting them against light whenever possible. Protect the tires against contact with oil, grease and fuel. Do not exceed the maximum tire infla­tion pressure indicated on the side wall of the tire.
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Snow chains*

Only certain snow chains have been tested by BMW and classified and approved as safe. You can obtain a list of these from your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center. BMW recommends the use of approved narrow-link snow chains only. These snow chains are approved exclusively for use on summer or winter tires in pairs on the rear wheels. Observe the manufacturer's instructions when installing snow chains. Do not exceed a vehicle speed of 30 mph/ 50 km/h with snow chains mounted.
Snow chains may not be mounted on the fol­lowing tires:
> 255/45 R 18 > 255/40 R 19
After mounting snow chains, do not ini-
tialize the Flat Tire Monitor. When you are driving with snow chains, it can be beneficial to switch off DSC briefly, refer to page 48.<
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Under the hood

Never attempt to perform any service or
repair operations on your vehicle without the required professional technical training. If you are not familiar with the regulations to be observed, have work on your vehicle carried out only by a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center or a workshop that uses personnel trained in accordance with BMW requirements. If this work is not carried out properly, there is a dan-
Under the hood
ger of subsequent damage and related safety hazards.<

Hood

Unlocking
Pull the lever located under the left side of the instrument cluster.
Closing
Let the hood fall from approx. 1 ft/30 cm so that you hear it engage.
Observe the same precautions that apply
to all closing operations by ensuring that the hood's travel range is clear and unob­structed before allowing the hood to fall into position. If you see any signs that the hood is not com­pletely closed while driving your vehicle, you should stop at once and close it securely.<
Opening
Press the release handle and open the hood.
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Engine compartment

1 Reservoir for windshield and headlamp
washer system 90
2 Body ground: negative terminal 104
3 Auxiliary terminal for jump starting 104
4 Engine oil filler neck 91
5 Brake fluid reservoir 92
6 Dipstick for engine oil 90
7 Coolant expansion tank 91
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Washer fluid

Headlamp* and windshield washer system
The antifreeze for the washer systems is
flammable. For this reason, keep it away from sources of flame and store it only in its original containers. Store it so that it is inacces­sible to children. Always observe the instruc­tions for use provided on the containers.<
We recommend that you mix the washer
Under the hood
fluid before adding it to the reservoir.<
Capacity of the windshield washer system: approx. 3.2 US quarts/3 liters.
Capacity for equipment with headlamp washer system: approx. 6.9 US quarts/6.5 liters.
Fill with water and, if required, with an antifreeze additive according to manufacturer's recom­mendations.

Engine oil

Engine oil consumption depends on driving style and operating conditions.
Engine oil level
The warning lamp lights up yellow while driving:
The oil level is at the absolute mini­mum. Add engine oil as soon as possible. Until then, do not drive more than approx. 30 miles/ 50 km.
The warning lamp lights up yellow after
the engine is switched off:
Top off engine oil at the earliest oppor­tunity, e.g. when refueling.
Engine oil sensor
The warning lamp lights up yellow
within 20 seconds after starting the
engine: The oil level sensor is defective. Have checked as soon as possible.
Checking oil level
1. With the engine at operating temperature,
i.e. after at least 6 miles/10 km of uninter­rupted driving, park the vehicle in a horizon­tal position.
2. Switch off engine.
3. After approx. 5 minutes, pull the dipstick out
and wipe it off with a clean lint-free. cloth, paper towel, or similar material.
4. Carefully push the dipstick all the way into
the guide tube and pull it out again. The oil should extend to between the two marks on the dipstick.
Warning lamp
Engine oil pressure
The warning lamp lights up red: Stop the vehicle immediately and
switch off the engine. Check the engine oil level; top off as required. If the oil level is cor­rect: have the system checked immediately.
Do not continue driving. The engine could be damaged because of inadequate lubri-
cation.<
90
5. Push the oil dipstick into the dipstick tube
as far as possible again.
The oil quantity between the two marks of the dipstick is approx. 1.1 US quarts/1 liter.
Page 92
Do not fill beyond the upper mark on the
dipstick. Excess oil can damage the
engine.<
Adding engine oil
Do not add oil until the oil level has dropped to just above the lower marking on the dipstick, refer to page 90.
Add oil within the next 30 miles/50 km, otherwise engine damage could result.<
Store oil, grease etc., well out of the reach of children; always observe all warning
labels on the containers.<
Oil change
Have oil changed only at your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center or at a workshop that works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel.
Approved engine oils
The quality of the engine oil selected has critical significance for the operation and service life of an engine. Based on extensive testing, BMW has approved only certain engine oils.
Use only approved BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil.
If you are unable to obtain BMW High Perfor­mance Synthetic Oil, you can add small amounts of another synthetic oil between oil changes. Use only oils with the API SH specifi­cation or higher.
Ask your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center for details concerning the specific
BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil or syn­thetic oils which have been approved.<
You can also call BMW of North America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this website: www.bmwusa.com to obtain this information.
BMW engines are designed to operate without additives, and their use could
even lead to damage in some cases.<
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as defined in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class depends on the climate conditions in the area where you typically drive your BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes 5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These oils may be used for driving in all ambient temperatures.

Coolant

Warning lamp
The warning lamp lights up: coolant level is too low; top off at the next opportunity.
Do not open the cooling system when the engine is hot. Escaping coolant can cause
burns.<
Coolant consists of water and coolant additive. Not all commercially available additives are suit­able for your BMW. Ask your BMW Sport Activ­ity Vehicle Center for suitable additives.
Only use suitable additives, as otherwise engine damage may result. The additives
present a health hazard.<
Always observe all applicable environ­mental laws and regulations when dis-
posing of used coolant additives.<
Checking coolant level
1. The engine must be at ambient tempera-
ture.
2. Turn the cap of the expansion tank counter-
clockwise to allow any accumulated pres-
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sure to escape, then continue turning to
open.
3. The coolant level is correct if the upper end
of the red float bar is at least at the same height as the top edge of the filler neck, refer to arrow. The bar end may only pro­trude by a maximum of ι in/2 cm, i.e. up to the second mark on the float bar, refer also to sketch beside the filler neck.
Under the hood
4. If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant up to
the specified level – do not overfill.
5. Screw on the cap and tighten firmly.
6. Have the reason for the coolant loss elimi-
nated as soon as possible.
Brake pads
The warning lamp lights up. The brake pads have reached their min­imum pad thickness. Have brake pads
replaced immediately.
For your own safety: use only brake pads
that BMW has approved for your particu­lar vehicle model. As BMW cannot assess the suitability of other brake pads for use in your vehicle, we are unable to assume continued responsibility for the vehicle's operating safety if non-approved pads are installed.<

Brake system

Malfunction
Brake fluid
The warning lamp lights up red despite the handbrake being released:
Stop immediately. The brake fluid in the reservoir has fallen to below the minimum level. At the same time, a considerably longer brake pedal travel may be noticeable. Have the system checked immedi­ately.
During continued driving increased brake
pedal pressure may be necessary, and considerably longer braking distances may result. Please adapt your driving style accord­ingly.<
Display of the previously described malfunction on Canadian models.
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Maintenance

The BMW maintenance system

The BMW maintenance system supports the preservation of the traffic and operating safety of your BMW.
Regular maintenance is not only required for the safety of the vehicle, it also improves the resale value.
Service Interval Display
The BMW maintenance system takes the driv­ing conditions of the vehicle into account when determining service intervals: From the point of view of maintenance, 62,000 miles/100,000 km accumulated in short-distance urban driving are not the equiva­lent of the same distance covered at moderate speeds in long-distance highway travel.
The BMW maintenance system is divided into engine oil service as well as Inspections I and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals accord­ing to the actual loads on the vehicle covers every kind of operating situation. However, even those who drive only short distances, significantly less than 6,200 miles/10,000 km annually, should have the engine oil changed at least every 2 years since oil deteriorates over time, regardless of use.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic: it absorbs
moisture from the atmosphere over the course of time. To ensure that the brake system continues to provide safe and reliable perfor­mance, remember to have the brake fluid
changed at least every two years by a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center, also refer to the Service and Warranty Information Booklet for US models or the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models.<
Service and Warranty Information Booklet for US models/Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models
For detailed information on required mainte­nance items and the work involved, please refer to the Service and Warranty Information Book­let for US models or to the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models.
Depending on operating conditions, it may be advisable to have the body checked for damage from rocks or gravel as a precaution against cor­rosion.
BMW recommends that you have your
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center per­form the maintenance and repair. Check that the maintenance work is recorded in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet for US models or the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models. These entries will serve as proof that the vehicle has received regular maintenance.<

OBD connector

The interface socket for the Onboard Diagnos­tics is located on the left of the driver's side at
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the bottom of the instrument cluster and under
a cover. The cover has the letters OBD on it.
The most important components for the com­position of the emissions can be checked by a device via this interface.
If the Service Engine Soon indicator lamp lights up either continuously or
intermittently, this indicates a malfunc­tion in the emissions-related electronic sys­tems. Although the vehicle remains operational,
Maintenance
you should have the systems checked by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center at the ear­liest possible opportunity.
The illuminated indicator informs you of the need for service, not that you need to stop the vehicle. However, the systems should be checked by your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center at the next opportunity.
If the indicator blinks or flashes, this indicates a high level of engine misfire. Reduce speed and contact the nearest BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center immediately. Severe engine misfiring over even a short period of time can seriously damage emission control system components, especially the catalytic converter.
Display of the previously described
malfunction on Canadian models.

Care

For all information on this subject, refer to the Caring for your vehicle brochure.
If the fuel filler cap is not on tight enough,
the OBD system can detect leaking vapor and the indicator lamp will light up. If the fuel filler cap is then tightened, the indicator lamp will usually go out after a short period of time.<
Event Data Recorders
Your vehicle may be equipped with one or more sensing and diagnostic modules or a recording device capable of recording or transmitting cer­tain vehicle data or information. In addition, if you have a Subscription Service Agreement for the BMW Assist system, certain vehicle infor­mation may be transmitted or recorded in order to provide such services.
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Replacing components

Onboard tool kit

The onboard tool kit is located in a compart­ment on the left in the cargo area.

Replacing wiper blades

Front
1. Move the wiper into the fold-out position,
refer to page 38.
2. Lift the wiper arm and press the securing
spring, refer to arrow.
3. Pull the wiper blade off toward the wiper
arm.
4. Insert the new blade and snap it into place.
Fold the wipers back down onto the wind­shield before you turn the ignition key to
po si tion 1 o r 2 a ga in. I f y ou do no t, th ey coul d b e damaged.<
Rear
1. Lift the wiper arm.
2. Pull off the wiper blade, refer to arrow.
3. Insert a new wiper blade.

Lamps and bulbs

The lamps and bulbs make essential contribu­tions to the safety of your vehicle. Therefore, comply fully with the following instructions dur­ing bulb replacement. If you are not familiar with the specified procedures, BMW recommends having the replacements carried out at your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
Never touch the glass of new bulbs with
your bare fingers, as even minute amounts of contamination will burn into the bulb's surface and reduce its service life. To install, use a clean cloth, napkin etc. or hold the bulb by its metal socket.<
A replacement bulb set is available from your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
To prevent short circuits, before working
on any electrical system, equipment or accessory you should always switch it off and disconnect the cable from the battery's nega­tive terminal before starting. To avoid possible injury or equipment damage when replacing bulbs, observe any instructions provided by the bulb manufacturer.<
When maintaining the headlamps, please
comply with the instructions in the sepa­rate Caring for your vehicle brochure.<
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Halogen low beams
H7 bulb, 55 watts
Always wear gloves and eye protection –
the atmosphere within the bulb is pres­surized. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to personal injury should the bulb be dam­aged.<
Driver's side
1. Position the screwdriver from the onboard
tool kit and pull off the lamp cover.
Exercise caution when handling the screwdriver, as otherwise personal
injury can occur or the vehicle can be dam­aged.<
Replacing components
2. Press the bulb holder downward and
remove.
Front passenger side
Before replacing the bulb, remove the reservoir for the windshield washing system from the bracket. To do so, loosen the bolt, refer to arrow, and place the reservoir to one side.
Bear in mind that the windshield washing system reservoir is heavy. If you do not,
injuries or damage to the vehicle can occur.<
For bulb replacement procedure, refer to Driver's side.
Halogen high beams
H7 bulb, 55 watts
Always wear gloves and eye protection –
the atmosphere within the bulb is pres­surized. Failure to observe this precaution can lead to personal injury should the bulb be dam­aged.<
3. Remove the bulb, install a new bulb.
4. Place the bulb holder with the lower edge
against the bracket and press it in until the lamp base locks in place.
96
Driver's side
1. Open the clip and remove the lamp cover.
2. Press the bulb holder downward and
remove, refer to Low beams.
3. Pull off the lamp base; plug in a new lamp
base.
Page 98
4. Place the lamp base with the lower edge
against the bracket and press it in until the lamp base locks in place.
Make sure that the cover does not fall into the engine compartment, as otherwise
the vehicle can be damaged or other road users can be endangered.<
Front passenger side
Before replacing the bulb, remove the reservoir of the windshield washer system from the bracket, refer to Halogen low beams on page 96.
For bulb replacement procedure, refer to Driver's side.
Access to the turn signal is at the edge of the lamp unit, refer to arrow.
Make sure that the lamp base does not fall into the engine compartment, as other-
wise the vehicle can be damaged or other road users can be endangered.<
1. Turn the lamp base and remove it.
2. Replace the bulb.
3. Insert the lamp base. If it does not snap in
place immediately, turn the lamp base until it does.
Side-mounted turn signals
Xenon lamps*
The service life of these bulbs is very long and the probability of a failure is very low, provided that they are not switched on and off an unusual number of times. If one of these bulbs should nevertheless fail, it is possible to continue driv­ing with great caution using the fog lamps, pro­vided traffic laws in your area do not prohibit this.
To avoid risk of potentially fatal injuries: owing to the extremely high voltages at
which these units operate, service work should always be entrusted to qualified personnel.<
Parking and roadside parking lamps
5 Watt bulb
In case of a malfunction, please contact your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
Turn signal, front
5 Watt bulb
1. Use finger pressure against the rear end of
the lamp, refer to arrow, to press it forward for removal.
2. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb while
turning it to the left and pull it out.
3. Install in the reverse order.
Front fog lamps
21 watt bulb
H11 bulb, 55 watts
Always wear gloves and eye protection – the atmosphere within the bulb is pres-
surized. Failure to observe this precaution can
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lead to personal injury should the bulb be dam-
aged.<
1. Pull the cover in front of the fog lamp for-
ward.
2. Loosen the screws, refer to arrow, and pull
out the headlamp.
3. Turn the lamp base at the back of the head-
lamp to the left and remove it.
4. Replace the bulb.
Tail lamps
Replacing components
21 watt bulb
1 Turn signal
2 Backup lamp
3 Tail lamp/brake lamp
4 Tail lamp/brake lamp
*
5. Apply gentle pressure to the bulb fitting
while turning it to the left for removal and replacement.
6. Install in the reverse order.
Lamps in the tailgate
Please contact your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
License plate lamps
10 watt bulb
1. Press the lamp out to the side with a screw-
driver.
2. Remove the lamp and replace the bulb.
Tailgate lamp
Replacing tail lamps
1. Open the flap in the side panel, refer to
page 68.
2. To release the plug connection of the cable,
press the spring, refer to arrow 1.
3. Lift the side panel somewhat.
4. To remove the back panel of the lamp,
release the retainer, refer to arrow 2.
98
5 Watt bulb
1. Pull off the bulb holder.
2. Replace the bulb.
LEDs light-emitting diodes
Light-emitting diodes installed behind translu­cent lenses serve as the light source for many of the controls and displays in your vehicle. These light-emitting diodes are related to ordinary lasers.
Page 100
Do not remove the covers, and never
stare into the unfiltered light for several
hours, as irritation of the retina could result.<

Changing a wheel

Safety precautions to observe in the
event of a flat tire and during all tire changes: Park the vehicle as far as possible from passing traffic. Park on a firm, flat, surface. Switch on the hazard warning flashers. Lock the steering wheel in straight-ahead set­ting of the wheels. Engage the handbrake and engage first gear, reverse gear or selector-lever setting P. All passengers should be outside the vehicle and well away from your immediate working area, behind a guardrail, for instance. If a warning triangle or portable hazard warning lamp is required, set it up on the roadside at an appropriate distance from the rear of the vehi­cle. Comply with all safety guidelines and regu­lations. Change the wheel only on a level, firm surface which is not slippery. The vehicle or the jack could slip to the side if you attempt to raise the vehicle on a soft or slippery surface such as snow, ice, tiles, etc. Position the jack on a firm support surface. Do not use a wooden block or similar object as a support base for the jack, as this would prevent it from extending to its full support height and reduce its load-carrying capacity. To avoid serious or fatal injury: never lie under the vehicle, and never start the engine while it is supported by the jack.<
What you will need
Open tailgate and raise or remove floor cover, refer to page 69.
1 Vehicle jack
2 Chock
3 Lug wrench
In order to avoid rattling noises later, note the position of the tools when you remove them and return them to their original position when you are through using them.
Compact wheel
The compact wheel is located under the cargo area on the floor of the vehicle.
1. Unscrew bolt, refer to arrow 1.
2. Fold up lifting handle, refer to arrow 2.
3. Turn the handle to the left as far as possible,
refer to arrow 3 on next page.
Turning the handle releases the com­pact wheel. Weight approx. 18 Ibs./
8 kg. It must be held by the handle.<
99
Reference At a glanceControlsDriving tipsMobility
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