Owner's Manual For The Vehicle.: With A Quick Reference Guide For Your Convenience

A-Z
Contents
Owner’s Manual for the vehicle.

With a quick reference guide
for your convenience.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

318i
318is
323i
Sedan 323is
Coupe 328i
Convertible 328is
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced control and
security when you drive it. Therefore, we have this request:
Please take the time to read this Owner’s Manual and familiarize yourself with the
information that we have compiled for you before starting off in your new car. It con-
tains important data and instructions intended to assist you in extracting maximum use
and satisfaction from your BMW’s unique range of technical features. The manual also
contains information on care and maintenance designed to enhance operating safety
and contribute to maintaining your BMW’s value throughout an extended service life.
This Owner’s Manual should be regarded as a permanent part of the vehicle. When the
vehicle is sold, the manual should remain in the car to furnish the next owner with a
source of important information on operation, safety and maintenance procedures.
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information booklet
(US models only). We recommend that you read this publication carefully.
Your BMW is covered by the following warranties:
Ð New Vehicle Limited Warranty
Ð Limited Rust Perforation Warranty
Ð Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
Ð Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
Ð California Emission Control System Limited Warranty
Detailed information on these warranties is contained in the Service and Warranty
Information booklet.
We wish you many miles of driving pleasure and satisfaction.
BMW AG

4
Notes on the Owner's Manual Symbols used The individual vehicle

We have made every effort to ensure
that you are able to find what you need
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as
a indicates notes you should defi-
nitely read – for the sake of your own
In buying your BMW, you have de-
cided in favor of a model with individu-
alized equipment and fittings. This
possible. The fastest way to find certain safety and the safety of others, and to Owner's Manual describes all models
topics is by using the detailed index at avoid damages to your BMW.c and equipment that BMW offers within
the end. If you require an initial over- the same vehicle range.
view of your vehicle, this can be found
in the first chapter. The detailed table of
b indicates notes that alert you to
specific features of your vehicle.c
We hope you will understand that this
manual describes equipment and fea-
contents immediately following the tures which you might not have chosen
index is intended to arouse your curios-
ity about your BMW and stimulate you
A special information on recycling.c for your vehicle. You can easily recog-
nize any differences, as all optional
to read about it. c indicates the end of a block of infor-
accessories are marked with an
mation.
If at some time you wish to sell your asterisk *.
BMW, remember to leave the Owner's * indicates special equipment, country- If your BMW features equipment which
Manual with the vehicle; consider it part specific equipment and optional extras.
is not described in this Owner's Manual
of the vehicle. indicates that you should study (e.g., car radio or telephone), (Supple-
Should you have any further questions, the relevant section of this Owner's mentary) Owner's Manuals are
your BMW Retailer will be glad to assist Manual in connection with a particular enclosed. We ask you to read these
at any time. part or assembly. manuals, too.
© 1997 BMW AG
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with
the written consent of BMW AG,
Munich.
Order-No. 01 41 9 790 377
US VIII/97
Printed in Germany
Printed on environment-friendly paper
(recyclable and chlorine-free).

5
Status when going to press

BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development that is conceived
to ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality standards
combined with advanced, state-of-the-
art technology. For this reason, it is
possible that the features described in
this Owner’s Manual could differ from
those on your vehicle. We are unable to
completely eliminate the possibility that
errors might have occurred. We there-
fore ask you to accept that no claims of
a legal nature involving the specifica-
tions, illustrations and descriptions can
be considered.

For your own safety Installation and operation of non-BMW
a Use unleaded gasoline only.

a Important safety information! approved accessories such as alarms,
radios, amplifiers, radar detectors,
For your own safety, use genuine
Fuels containing up to 10% ethanol or wheels, suspension components,
parts and accessories approved by
other oxygenates with up to 2.8% ox- brake dust shields, telephones
BMW.
ygen by weight (i.e. 15% MTBE or (including operation of any portable
When you purchase accessories cellular phone from within the vehicle
3% methanol plus an equivalent
tested and approved by BMW and without using an externally mounted
amount of co-solvent) will not void the
Original BMW Parts, you simulta- antenna) or transceiver equipment
applicable warranties with respect to
neously acquire the assurance that (e.g., C.B., walkie-talkie, ham radio or
defects in materials or workmanship.
they have been thoroughly tested by similar) may cause extensive damage
Field experience has indicated signifi-
BMW to ensure optimum performance to the vehicle, compromise its safety,
cant differences in fuel quality (i.e.,
when installed on your vehicle. interfere with the vehicle’s electrical
volatility, composition, additives, etc.)
among gasolines offered for sale in the BMW warrants these parts to be free system or affect the validity of the
United States and Canada. The use of from defects in material and work- BMW Limited Warranty.
poor-quality fuels may result in driving, manship. See your authorized BMW Retailer for
starting and stalling problems espe- additional information.
BMW will not accept any liability for
cially under certain environmental damage resulting from installation of Do not use key or remote control to
conditions, such as high ambient tem- parts and accessories not approved lock doors or luggage compartment
perature and high altitude. by BMW. with anyone inside the car.
Should you encounter problems while "Maintenance, replacement or repair
BMW cannot test every product from
driving that you suspect could be of the emission control devices and
other manufacturers to verify if it can
related to the fuel you are using, systems may be performed by any
be used on a BMW safely and without
we recommend that you respond automotive repair establishment or
risk to either the vehicle, its operation,
by switching to a recognized high- individual using any certified automo-
or its occupants.
quality brand. tive part."c
Failure to comply with these recom- Original BMW Parts, BMW Accesso-
mendations may result in unscheduled ries and other products approved by
maintenance. Follow the relevant BMW, together with professional
safety rules when you are handling advice on using these items, are avail-
gasoline.c able from all BMW Retailers.

7
The following only applies to vehicles owned and operated in the US.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
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, Inc., P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone (201) 307-4000.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in indi-
vidual problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of North America, Inc.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 202-366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, DC 20590. You can
also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

9
At a glance
At a glance
Controls and features
Controls
Care and maintenance
Car care
Owner service procedure
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
Contents
Cockpit 16 Locks and security systems: Driving:

At a glance
Instrument cluster 18 Keys 30 Steering/ignition lock 54
Indicator and warning Electronic immobilizing device 35 Starting the engine 54
lamps 20 Doors 31 Switching off the engine 55
Hazard warning system 22 Trunk lid 33 Parking brake 56
Hazard warning triangle 22 Luggage compartment 34 Manual transmission 57
First-aid kit 22 Power windows 35 Automatic transmission 58
Refueling 23 Sliding/tilt sunroof 36 Turn signals/high beam 60
Fuel specification 23 Convertible top operation 37 Wiper/washer system 61
CARB OBD II interface 24 Cruise control 62
Adjustments:
Tire inflation pressures 25
Seats 43 Everything under control:
Steering wheel 45 Odometer 63
Mirrors 46 Tachometer 63
Energy control 63
Passenger safety systems:
Fuel gauge 64
Safety belts 47
Coolant temperature gauge 64
Child restraint system 48
Service Interval Display 64
Installing child seats 49
Multi-Information Display (MID) 66
Airbags 50
Outside temperature display
Child-safety locks 52
and digital clock 68
Rollover protection system –
Check Control 71
convertible 52
Check Control with outside
temperature display and
digital clock 74
Onboard computer 77
Technology for driving comfort
and safety:
Automatic stability control
plus traction (ASC+T) 84

Contents 11
Lamps: Special operating instructions: Under the hood:

Parking lamps/low beams 85 Break-in procedures 100 Hood 118
Instrument panel lighting 85 Driving notes 100 Engine compartment 120
Foglamps 86 Catalytic converter 102 Washer fluids 124
Interior lamps 86 Antilock Brake System Engine oil 124
Reading lamps 86 (ABS) 103 Coolant 127
Disc brakes 104 Brake fluid 128
An inviting climate:
Brake system 105 Power steering fluid 128
Heated seats 87
Winter driving 105 Vehicle Identification Number 129
Independent ventilation
Roof-mounted luggage rack 107
system 87 Care and maintenance:
Radio reception 108
Automatic climate control 88 The BMW Maintenance
Mobile phones 108
System 130
Cabin convenience: Hardtop – Convertible 109
Caring for your car 131
BMW Hi-Fi System 93 Technical modifications
Cleaning and care
Glove compartment 93 to the vehicle 110
of the convertible top 136
Ashtray 94
Wheels and tires: Vehicle storage 137
Coin box, cup holder 94
Cigarette lighter 94
Tire tread 111
Center arm rest, rear 95
Tire replacement 112
Through-loading system 95
Interaxle tire changes 112
Ski bag 95
The right choice 113
Cargo loading 98
Winter tires 114
Approved wheels and tires 115

Contents
Replacement procedures: Airbags 156 Engine specifications 160
Advanced technology
Technical data
Onboard tool kit 140 Automatic Stability Control Dimensions 161
Windshield wiper blades 140 plus Traction (ASC+T) 156 Weights 163
Lamps and bulbs 141 Radio reception 157 Capacities 166
Master key with Safety belt tensioner 157 Electrical system 167
battery lamp 145 Drive belts 167
Changing tires 146
Battery 149
Fuses 151
In case of electrical
malfunction:
Fuel filler door 152
Sliding/tilt sunroof 152
Assistance, giving and receiving:
Jump-starting 153
Towing the vehicle 154
Towing 154

13
Everything from A to Z 172
Index
Owner service procedures
from A to Z 174

15
Cockpit 16 At a glance
At a glance
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Hazard warning system 22
Hazard warning triangle 22
First-aid kit 22 Controls and features
Controls
Refueling 23
Fuel specification 23
CARB OBD II interface 24
Car care
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
16 Cockpit
TO
360us306

Cockpit 17
1 Lamp switch 85
a glance
Controls andAtfeatures
2 Foglamps 86
3 Horn, entire surface
4 Wiper/washer lever 61
5 Rear window defroster 91
6 Hazard warning system 22
7 Automatic cruise control* 62
8 Adjust steering wheel* 45
Maintenance
9 Turn signals, high beam headlamps
and headlamp flasher 60
care
10 Engine hood unlocking device 118
Car Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
18 Instrument cluster
360us319

Instrument cluster 19
1 Fuel gauge with low-fuel 13 Indicator lamps for
a glance
Controls andAtfeatures
warning lamp 64 d Foglamps* 20
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 20 d Emissions-related systems
3 Speedometer indicator 21
4 Indicator and warning lamps for d Rollover protection system* 21
d Battery charge current 20 14 Trip odometer reset button 63
d High beams 20
d Engine oil pressure 20
5 Tachometer 63
Maintenance
Energy control 63
care
6 Coolant temperature gauge 64
7 Indicator and warning lamps for
Car
d Brake pad wear 20
d Brake system hydraulics 21
d Parking brake 21
Repairs
d Airbag 50
8 Indicator lamp for ASC+T 20
9 Indicator and warning lamps for
Technical
d Automatic transmission* 20
d Warning lamp for Check Control*
71
d Please fasten seat belts* 21
d ABS 20
10 Trip odometer 63
Data
11 Service Interval Display 64
12 Odometer 63
Index
20 Indicator and warning lamps
Turn signal left/right, green Engine oil pressure, red ASC+T (Automatic Stability
Control plus Traction), yellow
k w
Flashes when the turn signals Goes out after the engine has
s
are in operation. started. May come on briefly at Goes out shortly after the igni-
idle when the engine is hot, tion is switched on:
but must go out again at higher engine System OK.
Battery charge current, red speed. Additional notes: Page 84
v
Goes out after the engine has If the lamp comes on during normal vehi- ABS (Antilock Brake System),
started. cle operation: stop vehicle and switch off yellow
If the lamp comes on during engine immediately. Check engine oil
o
normal vehicle operation: level; if necessary, add oil. If oil level is Goes out after the engine has
The battery is no longer being charged. correct: contact your BMW Retailer. started. If the lamp comes on
Indicates a defect in the generator drive during normal vehicle opera-
belt or the charging circuit. Foglamps*, green tion: ABS has been deactivated in
response to a system malfunction. Con-
t
Lights up whenever you switch
a If the V-belt is defective, do not run
the coolant pump; overheating and
on the foglamps.
ventional braking force remains unim-
paired.
Additional notes: Page 103
potential engine damage would result.
Airbags, red
Contact your BMW Retailer.c Brake pad wear, yellow
p
This lamp turns on for an oper-
#
High beam, blue ational check when you turn the
Lights up when starter is actu-
ated and goes out when the
ignition key to position 1. If, at
l
Lights up when the high beams engine is started.
are switched on or the head- the operation check, it does not go on,
If the lamp comes on during normal
lamp flashers are activated. or goes on while driving, have it checked
vehicle operation: replace brake pads
at your BMW Retailer.
immediately.
Automatic transmission*, yellow a Use only original BMW-approved

brake pads otherwise the vehicle
O
Goes out after the engine has
started. authorization is no longer valid.c

Indicator and warning lamps 21
At a glance
Brake hydraulics, red Please fasten safety belts*, red
n q
Goes out after the engine has (With acoustic signal if the
started. driver’s belt is not buckled).
If the lamp comes on during Lights up briefly when the
normal vehicle operation: low brake ignition key is turned, and then goes out
Controls
fluid. Additional notes: Page 128 (in some models it goes out after you
fasten safety belts).
Parking brake, red
BMW Convertible
m
Goes out after the engine has
started. Comes on when you Rollover Protection System*,
Car care
engage the parking brake. yellow
;
Goes out shortly after the igni-
Emissions-related systems tion is switched on:
System OK.
Y
Lamp goes out once engine
Repairs
starts.
If this indicator lamp lights up
during normal vehicle operation, either
continuously or intermittently, this indi-
Technical
cates a fault in one of the emissions-
related electronic circuits. Although the
vehicle remains operational, you should
have the systems checked by a BMW
Retailer at the earliest possible opportu-
nity.
Data
Index
22 Hazard warning system Hazard warning triangle* First aid kit*
The warning triangle can be stored in On the right in the luggage compart-
the luggage compartment in a storage ment, on a shelf.
shelf at the right for convenient access.
a Comply with legal requirements

a Some of the items in the first-aid
kit are suitable for use for a limited
concerning the need to carry a warning period only. Therefore you should regu-
triangle in the car.c larly check the contents and replace
defective articles. These are available in
360de040
any pharmacy.
Comply with legal requirements con-
cerning the need to carry a first-aid kit in
the car.c
The button flashes intermittently when
the hazard warning lamps are on.
The button is also illuminated whenever
the vehicle lighting is switched on.

Refueling Fuel specification 23
Unleaded gasoline only.
At a glance
Minimum octane requirement: 89 AKI
BMW engines are equipped with knock
sensors and automatically adapt to op-
erate with fuels of different octane rat-
ings, as long as the minimum octane
Controls
requirement is met.
360de010
Higher octane fuels will provide in-

creased performance and fuel econ-
omy, while the use of gasoline with a
Car care
lower octane rating will have an adverse
effect.
To unlock the filler door in the event of a
central locking system failure, refer to
page 152. a Never use leaded fuel, as it would
cause permanent damage to both the
a
Repairs
catalytic converter and the engine-man-
When handling fuel, comply with
agement system’s oxygen sensors.c
the safety regulations displayed by gas
stations.c
Technical
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Data
Index
24 CARB OBD II interface
360us301
The OBD II interface (data link connec-

tor) is located beneath a cover panel
(with the letters "OBD") near the foot
support in the driver’s side footwell
(arrow).

If the driver's door is open, the infla-
At a glance
Sedan models
tion pressures are also visible on the
door pillar. Inflation pressures are BMW
Tire sizes BCBC BCBC+C/$
indicated in psi (bar) with tires cold Inflation pressures are
model
(ambient temperature). indicated in psi (bar)
The inflation pressures apply to tires 185/65 R 15 88 Q, T M+S 29 35 36 44
Controls
from BMW-approved manufacturers; 185/65 R 15 88 T (2.0) (2.4) (2.5) (3.0)
your BMW Retailer will provide you
with this information. Higher pres- 205/60 R 15 91 H
318i 225/55 R 15 92 V
sures may be required for tires from 29 32 32 39
other manufacturers. 225/50 ZR 16
Car care
(2.2) (2.2) (2.2) (2.7)
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
a Periodically check the inflation
pressure – also of the spare tire – at
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
205/60 R 15 91 H
least twice each month and before 225/50 ZR 16 29 33 33 41
328i
Repairs
setting out on an extended trip. Failing 205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S (2.0) (2.3) (2.3) (2.8)
this, incorrect tire pressure may ren- 225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
der the car unstable or cause tire
damage resulting in an accident.c See next page for additional models
Technical
Data
Index
26
Tire inflation pressures (cont.)

Coupe models
BMW
Tire sizes BCBC BCBC+C/$
Inflation pressures are
model
indicated in psi (bar)
205/60 R 15 91 H
225/55 R 15 92 V
29 32 32 39
225/50 ZR 16
318is (2.0) (2.2) (2.2) (2.7)
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
323is 225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
29 35 36 44
185/65 R 15 88 Q M+S
(2.0) (2.4) (2.5) (3.0)
205/60 R 15 91 H
225/50 ZR 16 29 33 33 41
328is
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S (2.0) (2.3) (2.3) (2.8)
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
See next page for additional models

27
Tire inflation pressures (cont.)
At a glance
Convertible models
BMW
Tire sizes
max.
BC- BCBC+$
Inflation pressures are
model
indicated in psi (bar)
205/60 R 15 91 H
Controls
225/55 R 15 92 V
318i 29 32 32 39
225/50 ZR 16
323i (2.0) (2.2) (2.2) (2.7)
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
Car care
205/60 R 15 91 H
225/50 ZR 16 29 33 33 41
328i
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S (2.0) (2.3) (2.3) (2.8)
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
28
Locks and security systems: Driving:

Keys 30 Steering/ignition lock 54
Electronic vehicle immobilizer 30 Starting the engine 54
Doors 31 Switching off the engine 55
Luggage compartment lid 33 Parking brake 56
Luggage compartment 34 Manual transmission 57
Power windows 35 Automatic transmission 58
Sliding/tilt sunroof 36 Turn signals/high beam 60
Convertible top operation 37 Wiper/washer system 61
Cruise control 62
Adjustments:
Seats 43 Everything under control:
Steering wheel 45 Odometer 63
Mirrors 46 Tachometer 63
Energy control 63
Passenger safety systems:
Fuel gauge 64
Safety belts 47
Coolant temperature gauge 64
Child restraint system 48
Installing child seats 49
Multi-Information Display (MID) 66
Airbags 50
Outside temperature display
Child-safety locks 52
and digital clock 68
Rollover protection system –
Check Control 71
convertible 52
Check Control with outside
temperature display and
digital clock 74
Onboard computer 77

29
Technology for driving comfort Cabin convenience: At a glance
At a glance
and safety: BMW Hi-Fi System 93
Automatic Stability Control Glove compartment 93
plus Traction (ASC+T) 84 Ashtray 94
Coin box, cup holder 94
Lamps:
Headlamp switch 85
Cigarette lighter 94 Controls and features
Controls
Center arm rest, rear 95
Instrument panel lighting 85
Through-loading system 95
Foglamps 86
Ski bag 95
Interior lamps 86
Cargo loading 98
Reading lamps 86 Care and maintenance
Car care
An inviting climate:
Heated seats 87
Independent ventilation
system 87
Automatic climate control 88 Owner service procedure
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
30 Keys Electronic vehicle immobilizer
The electronic vehicle immobilization Replacement of a key
1 2 3 4 unit increases the anti-theft protection Replacement keys are available exclu-
of your BMW – without additional sively through your authorized BMW
adjustment or activation of systems. Retailer, who is also under obligation to
B
M
W M M
This electronic immobilization system is request verification of vehicle owner-
W
B
B
M
designed to reduce the susceptibility of ship before issuing a substitute key.
W
B
the vehicle to theft by making it impos-
Your BMW Retailer can also cancel or
sible to start the engine using any
365de122
restore the electronic system authoriza-

means other than the special keys fur-
tion for individual keys (e.g., if a key is
nished with the vehicle.
lost). A deactivated key can no longer
The system features an electronic chip be used to start the engine.
integrated within the key as a supple-
1 Master key with battery-powered ment to the conventional mechanical For US owners only
lamp (switch on by pressing the BMW locking system. The transmitter and receiver units com-
symbol). The lock mechanism itself is actually a ply with Part 15 of the FCC (Federal
2 Master key without lamp. dual-function device, simultaneously Communication Commission) Regula-
serving as a communications interface tions. Operation is governed by the fol-
3 Spare key to be kept in a safe place
designed to allow the car security sys- lowing:
e.g. in your wallet. This key is not
intended for continuous use. tem to maintain a continuous stream of FCC ID: LXBEWS
variable, vehicle-specific signals with As defined in the regulations, such a
4 Door and ignition key the electronic circuitry in the key. The
This key does not operate the locks device is not to emit significant interfer-
ignition, the flow of fuel and the starter ence and must also be shielded against
for the glove compartment and the are enabled only after the key has been
luggage compartment. This is useful interference from external sources to
recognized as "authorized". prevent unauthorized or inadvertent
e.g. at a hotel.
activation.
b External force can damage the
electronic circuitry integrated in the key.
Such a key can no longer be used to
a Any unauthorized modifications
or changes to these devices could void
start the engine.c the user’s authority to operate this
equipment.c

Doors 31
a*
Activating the central locking
At a glance
Never use the keys or the remote system from inside the vehicle
control to lock an occupied vehicle, as Pressing the lock button of a front door
it would then be impossible to unlock it unlocks/locks the doors and luggage
from inside.c compartment, but does not arm the
Convenience closing* for power win- alarm system.
Controls
dows and sliding/tilt sunroof: after clos-
ing the doors, hold the key in the lock b
360de011
If the vehicle is locked from the

position to close the windows and slid- inside with this lock button, the fuel
ing/tilt sunroof. The windows/sunroof filler door remains unlocked to allow
stop moving immediately when you
Car care
refueling. On the BMW Convertible, the
release the key. To be able to keep the glove compartment also remains un-
Operating central locking system closing system in view, convenience locked to allow for its use.
from outside the vehicle closing can only be activated via the It is also possible to unlock the car from
When the front doors are closed, the driver's door lock for safety reasons, the inside by pulling on one of the front
activation of a door lock or of the lug- even on vehicles with remote control. door handles.c
Repairs
gage compartment lock with a key
Emergency lock operation To preclude accidental locking of the
unlocks or locks the following:
(in the event of electrical failure) vehicle
d Doors
Turn the key to the end positions of the d it can not be locked with the lock
Technical
d Luggage compartment door lock to unlock/lock the respective button when the driver's door is open
d Fuel filler door door. d the safety button of the passenger
door activates the central locking
d BMW Convertible: the glove com-
system only when both front doors
partment.
are locked.
The double-lock system is engaged at
the same time. Both the door locks and
Data
release handles remain locked.
Index
32 Doors
a
Opening doors from the outside
Children can lock the doors from Lift the handle.
inside. Therefore, you should always
remove the key and take it with you to Automatic window lowering
ensure that you can unlock the car from (BMW Coupe, Convertible)
the outside at all times.c
In an accident, the central locking sys-
S
a The door windows are lowered

somewhat when the doors are opened
tem automatically unlocks the doors
360us124
and the interior lamps switch on. and then are raised again immediately
Depending on the version, the hazard after the doors are locked. This makes it
warning flashers are also activated. easier to open the doors, prevents the
rubber door seals from being damaged
a Avoid using the inside lock buttons

to lock the rear doors while driving, as
Central locking system button
This button operates the central locking
and ensures proper seating of the
windows in the rubber door seals after
closing.c
these doors would then fail to unlock au- system when the driver’s door is
tomatically in the event of an accident.c closed. It unlocks the doors and lug- Driver's door lock heating*
gage compartment, but does not arm
Lift the handle of the driver's door for
Opening doors from the inside the alarm system.
approx. 3 seconds: the heating
Pull interior door handle of a front door The fuel filler door remains unlocked to switches on. The switch-on time is
twice in succession (the initial pull allow refueling. automatically controlled to save power.
unlocks the door, the second opens it).
The picture shows, as an example, the
shift arrangement for the BMW sedan.

Luggage compartment lid 33
To lock the luggage compartment The luggage compartment lamp
At a glance
separately is on when the luggage compartment
lid is open.
>
Turn the master key to the right
until the slot is horizontal, then
extract the key from the lock.
Controls
The luggage compartment lid is locked
360de013
and disconnected from the central lock-

ing system. The luggage compartment
lid then remains locked when the cen-
Car care
tral locking system is unlocked with a
door lock or the lock knobs.
The lock actuation is only possible with
Access to the luggage compartment lid
a master key.
is thus prevented when leaving the door
Central locking system and ignition key with others (refer to
Repairs
page 30); this is useful e.g., at a hotel.
To engage locks
To unlock car
=
Turn to the right: The luggage
<
Turn to the left: the luggage
Technical
compartment lid and - if the
compartment lid and the doors
front doors are closed - the
are unlocked.
doors are locked and the alarm system
is armed. Emergency lock operation
(in the event of electrical failure)
Turn the master key to the left as far as
Data
possible: the luggage compartment lid
is unlocked.
After closing, the luggage compartment
lid must be locked again separately.
Index
34 Luggage compartment lid Luggage compartment
a Do not drive with the luggage lid

open, as exhaust fumes could be drawn
into the interior of the vehicle. Should it
be absolutely necessary to operate the
vehicle with the luggage lid open:
d Raise all windows and shut the slid-
ing/tilt sunroof
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d Maximize the air volume of the air
conditioning, refer to page 88.c
To close Luggage straps

The handle recess (arrow) makes it eas- Attach the straps to the floor of the lug-
ier to pull down the luggage compart- gage compartment to secure smaller
ment lid. suitcases.
The luggage straps prevent objects
placed on them from slipping.
The fittings at the corners of the lug-
gage compartment provide you with a
convenient means of attaching luggage
nets* and flexible straps for securing
suitcases and luggage.

Power windows* 35
On vehicles equipped with front and Convenience mode
At a glance
rear* power windows: After closing the doors, hold the key in
There are separate switches located the lock position:
below the rear windows (except on the Any windows still open will close.
BMW Convertible).
Safety switch* (arrow) a Careless and inattentive closing of
Controls
In this way the actuation of the windows the windows can lead to injuries.c
360us302
by means of rear switches, e.g., by chil-

Safety feature
dren, can be prevented.
If one of the windows encounters resis-
a tance while closing, it will respond by
Car care
Always keep the safety switch halting and then opening somewhat
Operational from ignition key posi- (arrow) in the depressed position when again.
tion 1. children ride in the rear seat.
You can deactivate this protective func-
d Depress the rocker switch until you Always remove the key from the ignition
tion, (e.g., in case of unauthorized intru-
feel resistance: when leaving the vehicle.c
Repairs
sion into the vehicle) by pressing the
The window continues to move as After the ignition is switched off, the switch beyond its pressure point and
long as the rocker switch is pressed. windows remain operational holding it there.
d Briefly press the rocker switch to just d with the ignition key at position 1 and
beyond the pressure point (one-
Technical
0, or removed, or
touch mode): d when the front doors are open (max.
The window moves automatically. 15 minutes) or until the front doors
Press and let go again to stop move- are opened for the first time.
ment.
The one-touch mode can be used to
open and close the front windows and
Data
to open the rear windows*.
Index
36 Power windows* Sliding/tilt sunroof*
b During raising, the headliner also

retracts a few inches.c
In the event of an electrical malfunc-
tion, you can also operate the sliding/tilt
sunroof manually, refer to page 152.
After the ignition is switched off, the
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windows remain operational

d with the ignition key at position 1 and
BMW Convertible 0, or removed, or
d when the front doors are open (max.
Pressing and holding down the center Operate in ignition key position 2. 15 minutes) or until the front doors
button opens or closes all four side win- are opened for the first time.
dows simultaneously.
Open and lower
Convenient closure*
Press recessed button (1) until pressure
During opening, briefly press the rocker After closing the doors, hold the key in
point is reached.
switch to just beyond the pressure the lock position: the still-open sunroof
point (one-touch mode): the side win- Close and raise is closed.
dows move automatically. Press briefly Press raised button (2) until pressure
and let go again to stop movement. point is reached.
At transition from closing to raising and
vice-versa: system off.
One-touch mode
(only open/raise)
Briefly press the respective button
beyond the pressure point.
The sliding/tilt sunroof moves automati-
cally. Briefly press the button a second
time to stop the sunroof.

Sliding/tilt sunroof* Convertible top operation 37
a
Manual convertible top
At a glance
Careless closing can lead to inju- operation
ries. The fabric top offers perfect weather
Always remove the key from the ignition protection and can be opened and
when leaving the vehicle.c closed simply and quickly by one
To avoid unpleasant drafts and pres- person.
Controls
sure variations within the passenger Here are a few tips to ensure that you
compartment, you should keep the inte-
36cde006
have a lot of pleasure with your con-
rior ventilation outlets open when the vertible: It is advisable to close the top
sunroof is open and particularly when it when the vehicle is parked. The closed
is raised, and select a higher blower convertible top not only protects the
Car care
speed as required. passenger compartment from unfore-
seeable damage from the weather, it Opening convertible top
also provides a certain degree of theft Fold out the unlocking handle and turn
protection. it to the end stop. Raise (relax) the top
approx. 8 in (20 cm).
Repairs
Even with the top closed, it is always
advisable to keep valuables locked in
the luggage compartment.
Do not mount roof racks on the convert-
Technical
ible top.
Please contact your BMW Retailer for
suitable mounting equipment and other
accessories.
a When closing the power windows
Data
while driving: always close the rear win-
dows first or all four windows simulta-
neously, otherwise the windows may
not seal tightly at higher speeds.c
Index
38 Convertible top operation
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36cde008
36cde009
Unlock the convertible top storage Position the rear convertible top bow Close the convertible top compartment
compartment with the handle in the rear vertically and hold in place. Raise the lid by pressing down on both sides until
left side panel. convertible top compartment lid some- they are heard to engage securely.
what and unlock the catch lock by When the convertible top compartment
bFrom ignition key position 1 or with pushing it to the right. Open the con-
vertible top compartment lid com-
lid is closed, the central locking system
is automatically unlocked, i.e., the lug-
the door open: If the side windows are
pletely. gage compartment is no longer locked
closed, they move downward slightly
when the convertible top compartment Lay the rear convertible top bow in the and can be opened again.
unlocking handle is operated.c convertible top compartment. Lift the
top at the front and also lay down
a
a
If the convertible top compartment
towards the rear.
To prevent damage, it is not possi- lid is not properly closed, the luggage
ble to unlock the convertible top com- In the process, make sure the rear win- compartment can not be opened to pre-
partment with the luggage compartment dow is laid down evenly and free of vent damage.
open.c folds. To prevent the rear window from
To prevent damage to the convertible
being scratched, a soft cloth should be
top due to the permanent presence of
laid in the window fold.
moisture, never fold down the top while
wet (also refer to "Car care" starting on
page 136).c

Convertible top operation 39
Position the rear top bow vertically. Fully automatic convertible top
At a glance
Close the convertible top compartment operation*
lid by pressing down on both sides until The fully automatic convertible top per-
they are heard to engage securely. Fold fectly combines extremely simple, com-
down the top bow. fortable operation with reliable protec-
When the convertible top compartment tion from the elements. Here are a few
Controls
lid is closed, the central locking system tips to ensure that you have years of
is automatically unlocked, i.e., the lug- pleasure with your convertible:
36cde010
gage compartment is no longer locked It is advisable to close the top when the
and can be opened again. vehicle is parked. The closed top not
Pull the convertible top frame onto the only protects the passenger compart-
Car care
windshield frame with the locking han- ment from unforeseen weather-related
Closing convertible top dle and lock the top by turning the han- damage, it also provides a certain
Move ignition key into position 1. dle until it is heard to engage. degree of theft protection. Even with
Unlock and open the convertible top The rear convertible top bow is auto- the top closed, it is always advisable to
keep valuables locked in the luggage
Repairs
storage compartment. Lift out the top matically pressed onto the convertible
by the side guide piece and the front top compartment lid and closes water- compartment.
top frame. tight under tension. Do not mount roof racks on the convert-
ible top. Please contact your BMW
b b
Technical
From ignition key position 1 or with If the convertible top or the rear Retailer for suitable mounting equip-
the door open: If the side windows are window begins to flutter at high speeds, ment and other accessories.
To prevent damage, do not operate the
closed, they move downward slightly
when the convertible top compartment
increase the air intake via the ventilation
control to prevent a vacuum from top at temperatures below 325F (0 ). 6
unlocking handle is operated. Move the resulting in the passenger compart- To protect the battery, it is advisable to
side windows into the desired position ment.c operate the top with the engine running
or close them after closing the convert-
Data
when possible.
ible top.c
Index
a The convertible top operates fully

automatically. Assistance with your
a Do not reach into the convertible
top mechanism during opening and
hand is necessary only as an exception closing. Keep children away from the
(refer to the note, next column). swiveling area of the convertible top
Only operate the convertible top with during operation.
the vehicle stopped and do not drive off Releasing the operating button for the
during operation, as otherwise the pro- top immediately interrupts the automat-
36cde020
cess will be interrupted. A half-opened ic movement. Movement can be contin-
top can cause damage or injuries. ued in the desired direction by pressing
Remove foreign objects from the wind- the appropriate button.c
shield frame before closing the convert-
ible top, since these may prevent the top
from closing.
b If the convertible top has been
stored in the convertible top compart-
Opening and closing
1 To open
Do not lay objects on the convertible
ment for a longer period, e.g., in the 2 To close
top. They would fall off during top oper-
winter when the hardtop is used, it may
ation and cause damage or injuries. Press the convertible top operating but-
be necessary to support the first auto-
When closing the power side windows ton until the opening or closing process
matic closing operation by hand:
during driving, always close the rear is completed.
Should the top come to a stop shortly
windows first or all four windows simul- The indicator lamp (arrow) lights up
before the end of the closing phase (still
taneously, as otherwise the windows continuously during convertible top
open approx. 8 in/20 cm), reach into the
may not seal tightly at higher speeds.c operation. The indicator lamp flashes
handle depression in the center of the
front convertible top frame and briefly after releasing the button if the opening
support the closing process while or closing process is not yet completed.
pressing the button until it is automati-
cally continued.c

Convertible top operation 41
b
Convenience closing with the
At a glance
The luggage compartment can not driver's door lock
be opened during convertible top oper- Hold the key in the "lock" position with
ation. the door closed.
The side windows move down slightly
The windows/sunroof stop moving
when the convertible top operating but-
immediately when you release the key.
Controls
ton is pressed; if you continue to press
the button after the indicator lamp goes
b
36cde014
out, they move up again as soon as the At higher speeds, low air pressure
opening process is completed.c in the passenger compartment can
cause the convertible top or the rear
a
Car care
window to begin to flutter. Increase the
The side windows must be low-
air intake via the ventilation control to Closing convertible top manually
ered slightly during convertible top op-
prevent low pressure from resulting in when electrical operation fails
eration. If the convertible top operation
the passenger compartment.c
b
is interrupted, do not close the side win-
dows with the power window switches. Manual closing is best carried out
Repairs
If the opening or closing process is in- from outside the vehicle with the driver's
terrupted, it may not be possible to open door open and the driver's seat folded
the luggage compartment. forward. The rear seat bench must not
To prevent damage from continuous
Technical
be occupied while doing so.c
dampness, never fold down the convert-
1 Raise the left rear seat. Pull out the
ible top when wet.c
strap until resistance is felt. Now con-
tinue to pull firmly (two audible clicks)
to disengage the drives for the con-
vertible top and convertible top com-
partment lid.
Data
Index
To eliminate the malfunction and re-
engage the drives, please see your
BMW Retailer.
a Never open the convertible top

manually in case of an electrical mal-
function. The convertible top compart-
ment lid can not be locked and would
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open during driving.c
b Please follow the instructions for

cleaning and care of the convertible top
2 Open the convertible top compart- 4 Place a screwdriver at the middle of
in your Owner’s manual from page 136.c
ment lid up to the stop with the lug- the cover on the front convertible top
gage compartment closed. frame, and pry it out of its recess.
3 Grasp the convertible top on the lat- 5 Using the doubly bent allen key from
eral guide section and on the front the onboard tool kit, place it in the
soft-top frame and lift it out (arrow). internal hexagon (arrrow).
Position the rear convertible top bow 6 The closing process is continued by
vertically and close the convertible turning to the left; turn until the front
top compartment lid. Now fold down convertible top frame is locked to the
the rear convertible top bow. windshield frame.The rear convertible
top frame is automatically pressed
onto the convertible top compartment
lid and closes watertight under ten-
sion.

Seats 43
At a glance
Controls
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Car care
Longitudinal adjustment Backrest angle Front headrests
Pull lever 1 and slide seat into desired Pull lever and load or relieve as required. Adjust height by pulling out or pushing
position. in.
b
Repairs
After releasing the lever, make sure that You can reduce the load on your Adjust angle by swiveling.
the locking device engages properly. spinal column by sitting all the way
Remove and install the front
back in the seat with your back pressed
Height adjustment headrests
firmly against the backrest.
Pull lever 2 and load or relieve seat as Pull the headrests upward until they
Technical
Ideal sitting posture is achieved with
required. your head extending from your spine in stop.
a straight line. With a forceful jerk, pull the headrests
For long-distance driving, you may wish out of their supports in the backrests.
to increase the backrest angle slightly
Rear head restraints
to reduce muscular tension. Please
remember that you should always Adjust height by pulling out or pushing
Data
remain able grasp the entire periphery in.
of the steering wheel without straight-
ening your arms.c
Index
44 Seats
a Head restraints reduce the risk of

neck injuries. Always position the head
restraint so that it is centered roughly at
ear level.
Never try to adjust your seat while oper-
ating the vehicle. The seat could re-
spond by moving in a way that you had
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not anticipated, causing you to lose
control of the vehicle which could lead
to an accident. The front passenger
should not move the backrest into the
"reclined" position during driving. BMW Sports Seat* Electrical seat adjustment*
While driving, both the driver and the
Additional adjustments for seat tilt and 1 Angle adjustment
front passenger should keep the back-
thigh support. 2 Longitudinal adjustment
rest relatively upright. Otherwise there is
a danger of the occupants "sliding Angle adjustment 3 Height adjustment
through" the belt in the event of an acci- Pull lever 1 and move seat as required. 4 Backrest angle
dent, thus considerably reducing the
protective effect of the belt (see also Thigh support adjustment The tilt angle of the head restraints -
safety precautions in the "Safety belts" and on the BMW Sports Seat also the
Pull lever 2 and slide front section of
section, page 47).c thigh support - is adjusted manually.
seat into the desired position.

Seats Adjusting steering wheel* 45
At a glance
Controls
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360de021
360de028
Car care
Lumbar support* Releasing backrest* d Pull out clamping lever.
Adjust the curvature as desired with the Pull up lever: the backrest can now be d Adjust steering wheel tilt for your
rocker switch. folded forward. seating position.
d Push the lever back in to clamp the
Repairs
You can adjust the backrest's contour The outer levers also serve as a storage
steering wheel in the new position.
for additional support in the curvature point for the seat belt (not on BMW
of your spine's lumbar region. Convertible).
a Never adjust the steering wheel
a
The upper hips and spinal column
Technical
receive supplementary support to help while driving – accident danger.c
The front seat backrests must al-
you maintain a relaxed, upright posture. ways be locked during driving.c
Data
Index
46 Mirrors
a The mirror on the passenger's side

features a lens with a more convex cur-
1 vature than the mirror installed on the
driver's door. When estimating the dis-
tance between yourself and other traffic,
bear in mind that the objects reflected in
2 the mirror are closer than they appear.
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This means that estimations of the dis-
tance to following traffic should not be
regarded as precise.c
Electric heaters
Exterior mirrors Inside rearview mirror
Both mirrors are heated automatically
1 Mirror switch for 4-way adjustment. To reduce glare from behind during
corresponding to the outside tempera-
2 Switch for changing to the other night driving: tilt small lever to dimmed
ture with the ignition key in position 2.
mirror: position.
d Push switch to left – driver's mirror. Lighted make-up mirror
d Push switch to right – passenger's Fold down the sun visor, slide the cover
mirror. panel to the side.
You can also adjust the mirrors manu- The mirror lamps operate from ignition
ally by pressing against the outer edges key position 1 onward.
of the lens.
Sun visors
These can be folded down toward the
windshield or swiveled out against the
side windows.

Safety belts 47
At a glance
For your own safety, please ob-
serve the following when putting on the
safety belt, otherwise its protective
function may be impaired. Also ensure
that the other occupants follow these in-
Controls
structions.
Never allow more than one person to
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360de033
wear a single safety belt. Never allow in-
fants or small children to ride in a pas-
senger's lap.
Car care
Avoid twisting the belt while routing it
Always fasten your seat belt before The safety belt can be adjusted individ- firmly across the hips and shoulder. Do
starting off. ually to different body sizes with the not allow the belt to rest against hard or
belt height adjustment: fragile objects in your pockets. The
To fasten: make sure you hear the catch
safety belt must not run across the
engage in the belt buckle.
Repairs
Downward adjustment (1): wearer's neck, nor should it be trapped
To release: press the red button in the Push button downward. or abraded by coming into contact with
buckle, hold the belt and guide it back sharp edges or objects.
Upward adjustment (2):
into its reel. The belt should rest as firmly as possible
Grasp deflection fitting on ribbed side
Technical
The safety belt inertial mechanism against your body You should avoid
sections and slide upward.
locks: wearing clothing that prevents it from
d in a sudden stop or crash doing so. Pull the belt periodically to re-
d when you pull it sharply tention it across your shoulder. In the
event of a frontal collision, a loose lap
d during abrupt braking and
belt could slide over your hips, leading
acceleration
to abdominal injury. Due to the in-
Data
d in curves
creased distance between belt and
d when the vehicle is at an body, there would also be a delay before
extreme angle. restraint becomes effective.
Index
48 Safety belts Child restraint system
Expectant mothers should always wear Never install a rear-facing child restraint
their safety belts, taking care to position system in the front passenger's seat!
the lap belt against the lower hips, Never attempt to modify either the
where it will not exert pressure against safety belts or any child restraint sys-
the abdominal area. tem.
Never attempt to modify the safety
Should the safety belts be damaged or
belts.c
stretched in an accident, the entire belt
For care instructions refer to page 134.
360us125
system - including safety belt tension-
ers - must be replaced and the anchor-
ing mounts inspected at a BMW
Retailer.
If the safety belt tensioner has been
Installing child restraints
activated, a distance of roughly 0.8 in
(20 mm) will remain between the safety To install and secure child restraint sys-
belt lock and the tensioner module. tems, all rear safety belts (and the front
passenger's safety belt) are equipped
with a special locking mode.
A label with operating instructions is
attached to the belt next to the latch
plate.
To lock the belt
Extract the entire length of the belt from
the inertia reel mechanism. Allow the
reel to retract the belt somewhat and
engage the buckle, then tighten the belt
against the child restraint system. The
retraction mechanism is now locked.
Always observe the installation instruc-
tions provided by the manufacturer of
the child restraint system.

Child restraint system Installing child seats 49
To release the belt All passengers, and especially children,
At a glance
Release the buckle, remove the child should use a restraint device when
restraint device and allow the inertia riding in the car.
reel to retract the belt completely. Infants or small children should never
be permitted to ride on a passenger's
b Please also make this information
lap.
Controls
available to your passengers and urge Children should always sit in the rear
360us126
them to observe the instructions for seat and use, depending on age, either
safety belt use.c a child restraint system or the safety
belts installed in the vehicle. Accident
For care instructions refer to page 134. BMW Sedan/Coupe
statistics have shown that children are
Car care
safer when properly restrained in the
rear seats than when riding in the front. Commercially available child seats
complying with legal standards are
Infants and toddlers should be secured
designed to be secured using either a
with a child restraint system appropri-
lap belt or a combined lap-shoulder
Repairs
ate for their size.
belt. Because improperly installed
Children of six years and older should restraint systems can increase the risk
wear safety belts. of injury to children, we strongly urge
you to carefully read and follow the
Technical
instructions supplied with the system.
Should the child restraint system of your
choice require the use of a securing or
tether strap, note that three anchoring
points (arrows) have been provided for
mounting it in your vehicle.
Data
Ask your BMW Retailer to perform the
necessary installation work.
Index
50 Installing child seats Airbags
precautions should be taken. First,
aBefore install- move the passenger seat as far away

from the dashboard as possible. This
important precaution is intended to
ing any child re- maximize the distance between the air-
bag and the child. Older children should
straint device or be tightly secured with the safety belt.
Younger children should be secured in
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child seat, please an appropriate forward-facing child
restraint system that has first been
read the follow- properly secured with a safety belt.
We strongly urge you to carefully read
and observe the instructions for instal-
ing: lation and use provided by the child re-
1 Front airbag system, consisting of
driver and passenger airbag
straint's manufacturer whenever you
Never install a rearward-facing child use such a device. 2 Side airbags*
restraint system in the front passenger Always ensure that all occupants (of Protective effect
seat of this car. all ages) remain properly and securely
The front airbags provide additional
Your car is equipped with an airbag restrained at all times.c
protection for the front-seat occupants
supplemental restraint system for the All rear seating positions in your vehicle in the event of a severe frontal collision
front passenger. Because the backrest meet the recommendations of SAE in which the protection afforded by the
on any rear-facing child restraint sys- J1819, an industry recommended prac- safety belts alone would no longer be
tem (of the kind designed for infants tice for securing child restraint systems sufficient. The side airbags help protect
under 1 year and 20 lbs.) would be in motor vehicles. the front seat occupants in a severe
within the airbag's deployment range,
side impact.
you should never mount such a device
in the front passenger seat, as the
impact of the airbag against the child
restraint's backrest could lead to seri-
ous or fatal injuries.
If it is necessary for a child (not an
infant) to ride in the front seat, certain

Airbags 51
d Indicator lamp lights up for approx. instrument panel and the door while still
At a glance
4 seconds, goes out briefly and then allowing comfortable and safe access to
lights up again. all vehicle controls.
A system malfunction could prevent the Always grip the steering wheel on its
system from responding to an impact rim with your hands at the 9 and 3 o’clock
occurring within its normal response positions, otherwise hand and arm inju-
Controls
range. ries could occur when the airbag
inflates.
390de142
Please have your authorized BMW

Retailer inspect and repair the system Never allow any objects to obstruct the
as soon as possible. area between the airbag and the driver/
passenger.
Car care
The airbags are triggered by impacts a For your own safety, please ob-
Do not use the cover panel above the
passenger-side airbag as a storage
coming from the directions shown in serve the following precautions con- area.
the illustration. Note that the supple- cerning airbags, as otherwise their Do not glue, cover or in any way alter
mentary protection against lateral protective function may be impaired. We the padded covers on the steering
Repairs
impact is available only on vehicles also request that you make this informa- wheel, the instrument panel or the side
equipped with optional door-mounted tion available to your passengers, and trim panels of the front doors.
airbags. that you urge them to observe the in- Do not install a rear-facing child re-
structions for safety belt use: the air- straint device on the front passenger
Technical
Indicator lamp in instrument bags are a supplemental restraint seat. Children under 12 years of age
cluster device designed to provide extra pro- should only sit in the back.c
p
The indicator lamp comes on from tection; they are not a substitute for
Even when all these guidelines are
ignition key position 1 to indicate safety belts. Wear your safety belt at all
observed, there is still a residual risk of
that the system is operational. times. The system does not respond to
mild facial injuries occurring in isolated
System operational: minor collisions, if the vehicle rolls over,
instances of airbag actuation. The igni-
or if the impact is at the rear of the vehi-
Data
d The indicator lamp comes on briefly. tion and inflation noise may induce a
cle. In this situation, only the safety belt
System malfunction: mild temporary hearing loss in sensitive
protects you.
individuals.
d The indicator lamp fails to come on. When adjusting your seat, select a posi-
tion that provides maximum distance Airbag information is also located on
Index
between you and the steering wheel, the the sun visors.

52 Airbags Child-safety locks Rollover protection system*
Notes on safety The rollover protection system is acti-
Never attempt to remove the gas gener- vated automatically in the event of an
ator for the airbag passenger-restraint accident or in a critical driving situation
system from the vehicle. Testing and (extreme tilting in the longitudinal or lat-
service procedures are to be performed eral axis, loss of ground contact). The
exclusively by qualified technicians. In protective bars located behind the rear
the event of malfunction, deactivation head restraints extend within a fraction
or triggering (in response to an acci- of a second.
360de012
dent), always entrust repair and service In addition to the roll bar integrated in
operations to your authorized BMW the windshield frame, the rollover pro-
Retailer. BMW Sedan tection system helps provide all vehicle
occupants, and in particular the rear
Do not modify or tamper with either the
Insert the key in the slot in one of the passengers, with needed headroom.
wiring or the individual components in
the airbag system; these include also rear door latch mechanisms and turn
the padded covers on the steering toward the outside: the door can now
be opened from the outside only.
b When the hardtop* is on, it is
wheel, on the instrument panel or on advisable to use "soft" protective cov-
the side trim panels of the front doors. ers, in order to prevent damage to the
Never apply adhesive materials to these luggage compartment lid when the sys-
components and never cover or modify tem is activated. Please contact your
them in any way. Do not remove or dis- authorized BMW Retailer for additional
mantle the steering wheel. information.c
The airbag generator can be disposed
of only by a BMW Retailer. aAlways keep the space required by
Unprofessional attempts to service the the rollover protection system free of
system could lead to failure in an emer- obstacles.
gency or undesired airbag activation, In the case of minor, non-rollover acci-
either of which could result in personal dents, passengers are protected only by
injury. the buckled safety belt and the belt ten-
sioner and, depending on the severity of
the accident, the airbag restraint sys-
tem.c

Rollover protection system* – Convertible 53
Follow the same procedure for the sec-
At a glance
ond protective bar.
Have the rollover protection system
checked by a BMW Retailer.
aThe opened convertible top can not
Controls
be closed with the rollover protection
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36cde017
system extended.c
Notes on safety
No changes should be made to the indi-
Car care
vidual components of the rollover pro-
Following an unforeseen, automatic d Push the special tool into the guide tection system or to its wiring.
extension, the rollover protection sys- of the click-and-pawl mechanism as
All work on the rollover protection sys-
tem can be lowered again. far as possible (handle rests on the
tem must be carried out by a BMW
To do this, remove the screwdriver han- backrest) and hold in place.
Repairs
Retailer.
dle and the special tool (stored on the d Gently press down the protective bar
until the special tool is loose. Work carried out incorrectly may lead to
socket wrench) from the onboard tool
d Pull out the special tool and press the failure or an accidental triggering of
kit and push them together.
down the protective bar completely the system.
Technical
d Pull out the head restraint upward.
until it audibly engages. To check the system and to ensure its
d Remove the protective cap upward
d Remount the protective cap on the long-term operation, it is imperative that
from the protective bar.
protective bar and push on firmly. you observe the maintenance intervals
d Push in the head restraint again. of the Service Interval Display. The roll-
over protection system must be in-
spected every 2 years at the latest by a
Data
BMW Retailer.
Index
54 Steering/ignition lock Starting the engine
1 Steering lock disengaged Before starting
You will often find that it is easier to turn d Apply the parking brake.
3 the ignition key from position 0 to 1 if you d The manual-shift gear lever should
move the steering wheel slightly to help be in neutral; the automatic transmis-
disengage the lock. sion selector lever should be in P
2 or N.
2 Ignition on d At low temperatures keep the clutch
1 All electrical equipment and accesso- pedal depressed.
360de009
0 ries are available for use. d Start the engine without depressing
3 Starter activation the accelerator.
0 Steering lock engaged b Vehicles with manual transmis- b Do not operate the starter too briefly,
sion: depress the clutch pedal while but not longer than approx. 20 seconds.
The key can only be inserted and Release the ignition key as soon as the
you turn on the ignition, otherwise a
removed in this position. engine starts. Do not allow the engine to
blocking system will prevent the engine
After extracting the key, turn the steer- from starting.c warm up by leaving it running while the
ing wheel a small amount to the left or vehicle remains stationary. Instead, drive
right until you hear the lock engage. off immediately at a moderate engine
speed.c
Your vehicle is equipped with an inter-
lock; this means that the ignition key Should the engine fail to start on the first
can not be turned into position 0 and attempt, e.g., if it is very hot or cold:
removed until the selector lever is in d Stop and pause briefly before repeat-
position P. ing the starting procedure. This pre-
Furthermore, the selector lever is locked vents the spark plugs from becoming
in position P when the ignition key is in damp.
position 0 or removed from the ignition d Press the accelerator pedal halfway
switch. down while engaging the starter.
To turn the key back into position 0 or
remove it, move the selector lever into
position P first.

Starting the engine Switching off the engine 55
When starting a cold engine at extreme- Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
At a glance
ly low temperatures (+55F/-156 or be-
low) or at high altitudes (above 3,300 ft./
1,000 meters), proceed as follows:
a Always remove the ignition key
and engage the steering lock before
d At the first attempt, keep the starter leaving the vehicle.
engaged for a bit longer (approx. Vehicles with manual transmission:
Controls
10 seconds). Always engage the parking brake when
d Press the accelerator pedal halfway parking on slopes and inclined surfaces,
down while engaging the starter. since selecting 1st gear or reverse may
If you operate the vehicle for longer not provide adequate resistance to roll-
periods of time at high altitudes and ing.
Car care
very low temperatures, put into the Vehicles with automatic transmission:
engine an oil with a viscosity of 5W–30 Place the selector lever in Park.c
(refer to page 126). Please contact your
authorized BMW Retailer for additional
information.
Repairs
a Never allow the engine to run with
the vehicle standing in an enclosed ar-
Technical
ea. The exhaust gases contain carbon
monoxide, an odorless and colorless,
but highly toxic gas. Breathing the ex-
haust gases poses an extreme health
risk, and can lead to unconsciousness
and death.
Never leave the vehicle unattended with
Data
the engine running, as such a vehicle
represents a serious potential safety
hazard.c
Index
56 Parking brake
The parking brake is primarily designed To avoid corrosion, apply the parking
to prevent the vehicle from rolling while brake lightly from time to time when
parked, and acts on the rear wheels. coasting to a standstill, e.g., at a traffic
signal, provided that it is safe to do so.
aShould exceptional circumstances
make it necessary to engage the brake
with the vehicle in motion, do not apply
excessive pressure. Keep your thumb
360us303
pressed against the release button while

carefully pulling up the lever to apply
moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
To engage braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)
The lock engages automatically when at the rear.
you lift the lever. The "P" indicator lamp The brake lamps do not come on when
appears in the instrument cluster when the parking brake is engaged.
you turn the ignition key to position 2 Vehicles with manual transmission:
(refer to page 21). Always engage the parking brake when
parking on slopes and inclined surfaces,
To release since selecting 1st gear or reverse may
Pull up on the lever, then press the not provide adequate resistance to
release button and lower the lever. rolling.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Place the selector lever in "Park".c

Manual transmission 57
Reverse
At a glance
Select only with the vehicle stationary.
Press the shift lever to the left to over-
come the slight resistance.
Backup lamps
Controls
As you do this the backup lamps will
turn on automatically when the ignition
360de044
key is in position 2.
aDo not "ride" the clutch to hold the
Car care
vehicle in place on slopes; use the park-
The shift lever's neutral plane (dot in the ing brake instead. A slipping clutch in-
illustration) is located between 3rd and creases clutch wear.c
4th gears
Whenever you shift from any gear into
Repairs
"Neutral", the shift lever will automati-
cally return to the specified gear plane.
Technical
Data
Index
58 Automatic transmission*
a
Range selection
A lock prevents inadvertent shifts into Place the selector lever in position
certain selector lever positions. To re- P or N and firmly engage the parking
lease the shift-lock mechanism, press brake before leaving the vehicle with the
the button on the front side of the se- engine running, otherwise the vehicle
lector handle (arrow). could roll. Never leave the vehicle unat-
tended with the engine running, since
The engine can only be started in selec-
such a vehicle represents a serious po-
360us304
tor lever position P or N.

tential safety hazard.
b You must step on the footbrake

If you should accidentally select Neutral
while traveling at high speed, remove
with the vehicle stationary before the your foot from the accelerator pedal im-
Selector lever positions selector lever will move out of P or N. mediately. Wait until the engine is at idle
The footbrake must also be depressed speed; only then should you select a
PRND321
before selecting a drive position, since gear, otherwise the transmission could
Shift programs the vehicle "creeps" in idle when a drive be damaged.c
Switch: position is engaged.
At engine speeds of over 2500 rpm P - Park
d A (Automatic) a lock also prevents shifting out of P Select only with the vehicle stationary.
d M (Manual) or N.c Transmission locks to prevent rear
Shift lever in position 3: However, it is possible to "rock" the car wheels from turning.
d Sport program free by shifting rapidly between D and R - Reverse
R, e.g., should you get stuck in deep
See next page for an explanation of the Select only with the vehicle stationary.
snow or sand.
programs.
N - Neutral
Select only if your journey is interrupted
for a longer period. Select while the car
is being driven only if the vehicle begins
to skid.

Automatic transmission* 59
D - Drive (automatic shift program) 2 and 1 - Mountain ascents and Shift programs
At a glance
This position is designed for driving engine braking A - Automatic program
under all normal operating conditions. Select these positions to prevent un- For economical driving. This is the initial
All forward gears are selected by the desired shifts on mountain roads or position each time the engine is started.
transmission as necessary. extended uphill and downhill stretches.
M - Manual program
These ranges let you use the engine's
3 - Sport Program, direct control
Controls
braking effect to maximum advantage. This program is for driving conditions
This position is designed for perfor- The transmission upshifts only as far as under which the selected gear is to be
mance-oriented driving, and features the selected gear (1st or 2nd). retained. The transmission then remains
delayed upshifts for optimal utilization in this gear both when starting off and
Do not move the selector lever to either
of the vehicle's power reserves. during acceleration. With this program
of these positions when traveling at
Car care
When D is engaged, the transmission you drive only in 3rd gear in position D.
speeds of 108 mph (170 km/h) or
may respond to certain conditions by above. The transmission downshifts It is advantageous, e.g., on slopes or
repeatedly shifting between 3rd and 4th only at correspondingly low speeds. when towing a trailer, to drive in selec-
gears. You can select this position to tor lever position 1 or 2, or in winter on
suppress upshifts into 4th gear and pre- "Kickdown" (automatic downshift) slippery roads in selector lever position
Repairs
vent the transmission from "hunting" in To obtain maximum acceleration, the 3, which enables gentle starts and pre-
this way. accelerator pedal can be depressed vents undesirable shifting.
beyond the normal to the full-throttle
position, at which a pressure point must
Technical
be overcome.
Data
Index
60 Automatic transmission* Turn signals/high beam
Indicator lamp for shift
electronics aNever carry out any work in the
O
Goes out after the engine has engine compartment without first 3
started. ensuring that the transmission is in Park
or Neutral. Never leave children in the
vehicle unattended.c 1
2
d If the lamp fails to go out or For information on tow-starting, towing
d if it lights up during driving, there is a and jump starting refer to pages 153
360de039
malfunction in the shifting electronics and 154. 3
or in the transmission.
Bring the vehicle to a stop, select trans-
mission position "P", set the parking
brake and turn the engine off (ignition 1 High beam (blue indicator lamp)
key to position 0). 2 Headlamp flasher
Wait a few seconds, then start the 3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator
engine. lamp and rhythmic ticking of the
If the indicator lamp goes out after a blinker relay).
few seconds, normal transmission per-
Flashing of the indicator lamp and tick-
formance has been restored. Drive off
ing faster than normal: a turn-indicator
normally.
lamp is defective.
If the indicator lamp does not go out, all
selector lever positions can still be To signal briefly
selected, however in the forward posi- Press the lever up to but not beyond the
tions the vehicle has limited perfor- lock.
mances as it drives only in the 3rd or
4th gear.
If this happens, avoid extreme engine
loads and consult the nearest autho-
rized BMW Retailer.

Wiper/washer system 61
1 Intermittent wipe
a
At a glance
3 The length of the interval is varied auto- Do not use the washers when there
matically according to the car's actual is a danger of the fluid freezing on the
2 road speed. windshield, as otherwise your vision
could be obscured. Use antifreeze (refer
The headlamp cleaning equipment* can
5 1 to page 124).
also influence this interval.
Controls
Do not use the washers when the reser-
d Shift briefly out of 0 into 1, and back voir is empty, otherwise damage to the
0
360us305
to 0. washer pump could result.c

4 d The time lapse until the switching on
(out of 0 into 1) is the desired interval Windshield washer jets*
Car care
(maximum 25 seconds). The windshield washer jets are auto-
0 Wipers retracted Delete the programming: matically heated with the ignition key in
position 2.
1 Intermittent wipe d approx. 10 seconds after the lever is
in position 0 or
2 Normal wipe
d after switching off the engine.
Repairs
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe 2 Normal wipe
5 Automatic windshield washer The wipers automatically revert to inter-
mittent operation when the vehicle is
Technical
stationary.
5 Automatic windshield washers
The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and actuates the wipers
for a brief period.
Data
(Exception: If you pull the lever briefly,
the system sprays fluid onto the wind-
shield without activating the wipers).
Index
62 Cruise control*
2 Decelerate The system is switched off and the
Hold the lever in this position: stored speed deleted from its memory
With the cruise control active, the system when you turn the ignition key to posi-
automatically reduces the throttle open- tion 0.
ing to slow the vehicle. As soon as you
release the lever, the system records and
maintains the current speed.
aRefrain from using the cruise con-
trol on twisting roads, when high traffic
density prevents driving at a constant
360de063
Tap the lever briefly:

Each time you tap it you decelerate speed and when driving on slippery
approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h) if you are (snow, rain, ice) or loose (stones, sand)
cruising at a controlled speed. road surfaces.c
You can store and automatically main-

tain any desired vehicle speed above
3 Resume
Tap the lever briefly:
b If, on a downhill gradient, the
engine braking effect is not sufficient,
approx. 25 mph (40 km/h). The vehicle accelerates to and main-
the controlled speed can be exceed-ed.
The stored speed is deleted when the tains the last speed stored.
Speed can drop on uphill grades if the
motor is switched off. 4 Off engine output is insufficient.c
1 Accelerate Tap the lever briefly:
Tap the lever briefly: Immediately deactivates the cruise con-
The system records and maintains the trol.
current vehicle speed. Every time you In addition, the system is also automati-
tap the button the speed increases by cally disabled in response to the follow-
approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h). ing conditions:
Hold the lever in this position: d When you apply pressure to the
The vehicle accelerates without pres- brake or clutch pedal, and when you
sure on the accelerator pedal. As soon move the automatic transmission
as you release the lever, the system selector lever from Drive to Neutral,
records and maintains the current d if you exceed the programmed speed
speed. by more than 10 mph (16 km/h) for a
period of more than 30 seconds.

Odometer Tachometer Energy control* 63
120 140160 120
At a glance
100 180
40 80 km/h
200
60 220 140
40 240
F 20 20
MPH
Controls
360us320
360us030
360us031
Car care
Records the total vehicle mileage Never allow the engine to operate with Indicates the current fuel consumption
(registers distance in kilometers on the needle in the red overspeed sector in mpg (in liters per 100 km on Cana-
Canadian vehicles). of the gauge. dian vehicles).
In this range the fuel supply is inter- When the vehicle is stationary, the nee-
Repairs
Trip odometer
rupted to protect the engine, producing dle returns to zero (maximum reading
Records trip distances up to 999.9 miles
the sensation of a loss of power. on Canadian models).
(kilometers).
To reset to zero
Technical
Press button.
The displays appear from ignition key
position 1.
To display with ignition switched off:
Press the reset button (arrow).
Data
Index
64 Fuel gauge Coolant temperature Service Interval Display
12
R F
UNLEADED GASOLINE
360de007
360us032
360us009
ONLY
When you switch on the ignition, the Blue Green lamps

indicator lamp comes on briefly to indi- The engine is still cold. Drive at moder- The number of illuminated lamps
cate that the system is operational. ate engine and vehicle speeds. decreases as the time for your next
If the indicator lamp comes on and maintenance visit approaches.
stays on, there are approx. 2.1 gallons
Red
(8 liters) of fuel in the tank. Indicator lamp comes on, the warning Yellow lamp
"COOLANT TEMPERATURE" appears This field appears together with
Tank volume: Page 166.
in Check Control*: engine overheated. OILSERVICE or INSPECTION.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies, e.g., Switch off the engine immediately and Maintenance is due. Please contact
when you are driving in mountainous allow it to cool down. your BMW Retailer for an appointment.
areas, this may cause the needle to
fluctuate slightly. Between the blue and red sectors Red lamp
Normal operating range. It is not un-
a
Maintenance overdue.
Please refuel early, as driving usual for the needle to rise as far as the
to the last drop of fuel can result in edge of the red sector in response to
damage to the engine and/or catalytic high outside temperatures or severe
converter.c operating conditions.
Checking coolant level: Page 127.

At a glance
Have your BMW Retailer carry out
the maintenance and repair. Your BMW
Retailer is always informed on the latest
maintenance work and repair tech-
niques and equipped with the required
Controls
special tools. In addition, the testing of
parts known from experience to be sub-
ject to wear is a permanent part of the
maintenance specifications.c
Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
66 Multi-information display (MID)*
With the different versions you can dis-
play not only the time and the date, but
also information e.g., on economical
driving and warnings on defective sys-
tems.
The following applies to all versions:
The unit will reject implausible entries.
360us307
360us308
When entering numerical values with
the number entry keys, the numerical
value is increased by one each time the
key is pressed and after each additional
half second with the key held down.
Outside temperature display and Check Control
Numbers can be entered in any order. digital clock For explanations and operating instruc-
The entries are saved in the memory by For explanations and operating instructions, refer to page 71 ff.
pressing the SET/RES or SET key. tions, refer to page 68 ff.
Any interruption in the power supply,
e.g., when changing the battery, will
result in the loss of all data saved in the
memory. After the power supply is
restored, you will need to re-enter the
time, date and any switch-on times, the
distance or speed warning threshold.

Multi-information display (MID)* 67
At a glance
Controls
360us309
360us310
Car care
Check Control with outside Onboard computer
temperature display and digital For explanations and operating instruc-
clock tions, refer to page 77 ff.
For explanations and operating instruc-
Repairs
tions, refer to page 74 ff.
Technical
Data
Index
68 Outside temperature display and digital clock*
1 2 3 To display time and date
d Press the function key (8).
When the ignition key is in position 0 or
removed, the displays appear for a few
seconds; in ignition key position 1 the
A-TEMP °C/°F MEMO SET h/DAT min/DAT
desired value is displayed indefinitely.
HR/DAT
You can display the time in 12 or 24 hour
360us109
increments; the date can be shown in

European or US sequence. To change
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 setting:
d Press the HR/DAT key for approx.
You can 1 Display for outside temperature 3 seconds until the dots in the
gauge display flash.
d display the time and date
d pre-program an hourly reminder sig- 2 Display for time and date d Press the scale selection key.
nal (memo) e.g., a reminder of the 3 Tone symbol for active memo In the 12-hour mode, AM or PM will
news function appear on the right side of the clock
d display the outside temperature. display.
4 Entry key for minutes/date
5 Entry key for hours/date
6 SET key for starting
7 Function key - memo
8 Function key - time/date
9 Scale selection key
10 Function key - outside temperature

Outside temperature display and digital clock* 69
Memo mode After a power failure
At a glance
Press the MEMO key to activate or The dots in the display flash.
deactivate the signal. When MEMO is d Press the scale selection key as
active, a tone symbol appears in the required.
right display. The signal sounds every d Enter the time with the h/DAT and
hour at the pre-programmed time or min/DAT entry keys.
Controls
without programming 15 seconds d Press SET. The clock starts.
before each full hour. d Press the HR/DAT key.
360us321
Outside temperature d Enter the date with the entry keys.
d Press SET.
Data request: Press TEMP key.
d Confirm the year by pressing the SET
Car care
If the outside temperature drops below key or correct with the entry key and
37.5 5F (+36), a warning signal sounds, Entries complete the number entry by press-
the temperature display automatically All numbers for the time and date are ing the SET key.
appears and the unit of measure flashes entered with the entry keys according
for 8 seconds. to the following principle: The numbers
Repairs
The warning is repeated whenever the can be entered in any order. Each time
temperature has increased to 43 5F the key is pressed, or for each half sec-
(+66) at least once before falling to ond the key is held down, the numerical
37.5 5F (+36) again. value increases by one.
Technical
Pressing the key longer starts the rapid-
aThe temperature warning device advance function.
does nothing to alter the fact that sur-
face ice can still form at temperatures
above 37.5 5F (+36), e.g., on bridges
and on shade-covered road surfaces.c
Data
Index
70 Outside temperature display and digital clock*
HR/DAT h/DAT min/DAT SET HR/DAT h/DAT min/DAT SET MEMO h/DAT min/DAT SET
360de144
360de144
360de144
To reset the time To reset the date Programming a reminder signal
Press the HR/DAT key in the clock Press the HR/DAT key in the date mode Press the MEMO key for approx. 3 sec-
mode for approx. 3 seconds until the for approx. 3 seconds until the dots in onds until two zeros appear in the min-
dots in the display flash. Confirm your the display flash. After entering the date utes display. Complete the number
entry by pressing the SET key. and year, confirm your entry by press- entry (min/Dat increase, h/Dat decrease)
ing the SET key. by pressing the SET key.

Check Control* 71
Brake lamps defective
At a glance
Brake lamps have failed - bulbs
defective.
Replace bulbs. Refer to page 143.
Priority 2
Controls
These defects appear when the ignition
key is in position 2. The warning sym-
360us110
bols remain after the message disap-

pears. If the plus symbol (3) appears:
Additional messages are present and
Car care
can be displayed by pressing the
Texts with messages and warnings are Priority 1 CHECK key.
used to alert the driver to defective sys- These defects are indicated immedi- 1 Brake lamp defective
tems. In addition, there is a warning ately with the flashing warning lamp and
lamp in the instrument panel. A bulb has failed. Refer to page 143.
the flashing warning symbol (1). Several
Repairs
The time and date can be displayed simultaneous defects are displayed Low beams defective,
with the digital clock. consecutively. After 20 seconds or Backup lamps defective,
1 Status report symbol when the CHECK key is pressed, the License plate lamp
warning lamp in the instrument cluster
Technical
2 Display Bulb has failed or fuse or electrical
stops flashing.
3 Plus symbol for additional messages circuit defective. Refer to pages 141,
The messages continue to be displayed 143, 145 or visit a BMW Retailer.
4 CHECK key until the defects are eliminated and can
Washer fluid low
The defective-system messages are not be deleted by pressing the CHECK
divided into 3 different priorities: key (4). Too low, top up at next opportunity.
Refer to page 124.
Brake lamp electrical system
Data
Check Control inactive
The brake lamps have failed. Fuse or
electrical circuit is defective. Refer to Messages and warnings can not be
page 151 or consult your BMW Retailer. displayed. See BMW Retailer.
Index
72 Check Control*
Priority 3 To check the Check Control display
These status reports usually appear (only when no messages are displayed):
after the car is parked and the ignition Press the CHECK key with the ignition
key returned to position 0 (if several key in position 2: CHECK CONTROL AM
messages have been recorded, they will OK appears in the display.
appear consecutively, with Priority 3
messages following Priority 1 and 2
messages).
360us322
1000 100 10 1
Messages remain available for a period

of approx. two minutes after the display
goes out and the ignition key has been
removed, and can be displayed by
pressing the CHECK key. Entries
The messages can also be displayed All numbers for the time and date are
before you start driving with the ignition entered with the entry keys according
key in position 2. The texts then go out to the following principle:
after a short time or when you start driv- The numbers can be entered in any
ing, and no warning symbols remain. order. Each time the key is pressed, or
Messages are not displayed again until for each half second the key is held
the ignition key is turned to position 0. down, the numerical value increases by
one.
If a plus symbol appears: display addi-
tional messages by pressing the CHECK To display time and date
key. d Press the respective function key
Check coolant level (CLOCK/DATE).
Indicates that coolant is almost down to When the ignition key is in position 0 or
minimum level. Top up at the next removed, the displays appear for a few
opportunity. Refer to page 127. seconds; in ignition key position 1 the
desired value is displayed indefinitely.

Check Control* 73
After a power failure
At a glance
The time display flashes and the follow-
ing appears in the left display: enter
time.
d Enter the time with the entry keys. 1000 100 1000 100
CLOCK SET/RES DATE SET/RES
d Press the SET/RES key. The clock
Controls
10 1 10 1
starts.
360de146
360de146
The left display shows: enter date.
d Enter the date with the entry keys.
d Press the SET/RES key.
Car care
d Confirm the year by pressing the
SET/RES key or correct it with the To reset the time To reset the date
entry key and complete the number
Press the CLOCK key until the left dis- Press the DATE key until the left display
entry by pressing the SET/RES key.
play indicates: Enter time. The dots indicates: Enter date. The dots flash.
flash. Complete the number entry for the date
Repairs
Complete the number entry by pressing and year by pressing the SET/RES key.
the SET/RES key. If necessary, enter the year before
pressing the SET/RES key, as
Technical
requested in the display. Leap years are
programmed into the system and there-
fore need not be taken into account.
Data
Index
74 Check Control with outside temperature display and digital clock*
To display time and date
d Press the respective function
key (4/3).
When the ignition key is in position 0
or removed, the displays appear for a
few seconds; in ignition key position 1,
the desired value is displayed indefi-
nitely.
360us111
You can display the time in 12 or 24 hour

increments; the date can be shown in
European or US sequence. To change
setting:
The Check Control uses texts with mes- 1 Digital clock display
sages and warnings to alert the driver d Press time or date function key (4/3)
2 Tone symbol for active memo
to defective systems. In addition, an until the dots flash.
function
indicator lamp is provided in the instru- d Press scale selection key (7).
3 Function key - date
ment cluster. For details and operating In the 12-hour mode, AM or PM will
instructions, refer to pages 71, 72. 4 Function key - clock appear on the right side of the clock
The outside temperature can also be 5 SET/RES key display.
displayed. 6 Function key - memo Memo mode
With the digital clock you can 7 Scale selection key Switch on and off with the MEMO key.
d display the time and date, 8 Function key - outside temperature When MEMO is active, a tone symbol
d pre-program an hourly reminder sig- appears in the right display. The signal
9 Entry keys for numerical values
nal (memo) e.g., a reminder of the sounds every hour at the pre-pro-
news. grammed time or without program-
ming 15 seconds before each full
hour.

Check Control with outside temperature display and digital clock* 75
Display outside temperature After a power failure
At a glance
Press TEMP key. The time display flashes and the follow-
If the outside temperature drops below ing appears in the left display: "Enter
37.5 5F (+36), a warning signal sounds, AM time".
the temperature display automatically d Enter the time with the entry keys.
appears and flashes for 8 seconds. d Press the SET/RES key.
Controls
The warning is repeated whenever the The clock starts.
360us322
1000 100 10 1
temperature has increased to 43 5F The left display shows: Enter date.
(+66) at least once before falling to d Enter the date with the entry keys.
37.5 5F (+36) again. d Press the SET/RES key.
Car care
d Confirm the year by pressing the
aThe temperature warning device Entries SET/RES key or correct it with the
entry key; complete the number entry
does nothing to alter the fact that sur- All numbers for the time and date are
face ice can still form at temperatures by pressing the SET/RES key.
entered with the entry keys according
above 37.5 5F (+36), e.g., on bridges to the following principle:
Repairs
and on shade-covered road surfaces.c The numbers can be entered in any
order. Each time the key is pressed, or
for each half second the key is held
down, the numerical value increases by
Technical
one.
Data
Index
76 Check Control with outside temperature display and digital clock*
1000 100 1000 100 1000 100

CLOCK SET/RES DATE SET/RES MEMO SET/RES
10 1 10 1 10 1
360de146
360de146
360de146
To reset the time To reset the date Programming a reminder signal
Press the CLOCK key until the left dis- Press the DATE key until the left display Press the MEMO key for approx. 3 sec-
play indicates: Enter time. The dots indicates: Enter date. The dots flash. onds until the left display indicates:
flash. Complete the number entry for the date Enter memo. Complete the number
Complete the number entry by pressing and year by pressing the SET/RES key. entry by pressing the SET/RES key.
the SET/RES key. If necessary, enter the year before
pressing the SET/RES key, as request-
ed in the display. Leap years are pro-
grammed into the system and therefore
need not be taken into account.

Onboard computer* 77
Standard displays (no previous
At a glance
data entries required) Page
TEMP outside
temperature 78
RANGE estimated cruising
range 79
Controls
SPEED average speed 78
360us112
CONSUM 2 levels of average

consumption 79
With previous data entries
Car care
Allows you to select display data for 1 Display DIST distance remaining
safe and economical driving. to destination with
2 Arrival time estimated
If your car is equipped with the Check 3 Entry keys for numerical values arrival time 79
Control option, texts with information
Repairs
4 Information keys LIMIT speed limit warning 80
and warnings are used to alert the
For the onboard computer version The following systems are controlled by
driver to system malfunctions. In addi-
without Check Control, pressing the the onboard computer: Page
tion, an indicator lamp is provided in the
CHECK key simply activates all dis-
instrument cluster. For details and
Technical
play elements. TIMER – 2 switch-on times
operating instructions, refer to for independent
pages 71 and 72. 5 Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) ventilation 81
With the digital clock you can 6 Scale selection key – independent
d display the time and date, 7 SET/RES key (start/stop) ventilation in direct
d pre-program a reminder signal operating mode or 82
(memo), e.g., to remind you of news
Data
– timer 80
broadcasts.
CODE immobilization/
Refer to page 74 for information and protection from
details on using the digital clock. misuse 82
The onboard computer operates at igni-
Index
tion key positions 1 and 2.

78 Onboard computer*
In the interest of driving safety, you
should always enter data with the vehi-
cle parked/stationary. The on-board
computer starts its calculations as soon
as the vehicle starts to move.
You can also use the remote control to
select information for display, refer to
page 83.
360us114
360us115
The scale selection key (6) allows you to
display all information in either metric or
US units.
bMessages of the Check Control Outside temperature

Data request: Press TEMP key.
Average speed
To start calculations:
system override the display of the
onboard computer. If the outside temperature drops below Key sequence as in illustration.
With the exception of Priority 1 mes- 37.5 5F (+36), a warning signal sounds; Data request: press SPEED key.
sages, the display can be cleared by the temperature display automatically
pressing the CHECK key.c appears and flashes for 8 seconds.
If the malfunction display "PPPP" The warning is repeated whenever the
appears, consult your BMW Retailer. temperature has increased to 43 5F
(+66) at least once before falling to
37.5 5F (+36) again.
aThe temperature warning device

does nothing to alter the fact that sur-
face ice can still form at temperatures
above 37.5 5F (+36), e.g., on bridges
and on shade-covered road surfaces.c

At a glance
Controls
360us116
360us117
360us118
Car care
Estimated cruising range Average fuel consumption Distance remaining to destination
Displays the estimated travel range The computer can calculate average Displays the distance to the destination.
based on the remaining fuel. The value fuel consumption rates simultaneously Available only if the total distance was
takes into account the way in which for two distances, e.g., for an entire entered before the start of the journey.
Repairs
way the car has been driven. journey and for a single section of it. Enter the distance:
Data request: press RANGE key. To start calculations for distance 1: Key sequence as in illustration.
A plus symbol (+) in front of the value Key sequence as in illustration. Data request: press DIST key.
Technical
indicates that the cruising range is still To start calculations for distance 2: At the same time, the estimated time of
being corrected (measuring tolerance). arrival is displayed, which is continuously
Repeat key sequence as in illustration.
If three segments flash in the display, calculated in accordance with the driving
Data request: press CONSUM key. style.
the cruising range is less than 9 miles
(15 km) and the car should be refueled Press the key repeatedly to switch Any additional mileage extending
as soon as possible. between the average consumption of beyond the total defined in the initial
the 1st and 2nd section of the journey. entry is indicated by a minus sign.
Data
When you refuel, the onboard computer
At the same time, the display also indi- To change scale:
registers the action only
cates which consumption (1 or 2) is cur- Press the km/mls key once
d if the fuel amount is over 1.2 gallons rently indicated.
(approx. 4 liters). d to change the distance
or twice to also
Index
d the engine is switched off.
d change the arrival time.

To cancel speed warning:
d Press the LIMIT key again.
The LED goes out, but the value re-
mains stored and can be reactivated
with the LIMIT key.
To adopt current speed as limit:
d Press the LIMIT and SET/RES keys.
360us119
360us120
Speed limit warning (Limit) Timer*
You are alerted when you exceed the The timer can be used only on vehicles
maximum speed that you entered ear- without independent ventilation. The
lier (e.g., posted speed limit). An acous- running time ranges up to 99 hours and
tic signal sounds, the corresponding 59 minutes. The time is shown in the
LED flashes and the stored limit briefly display: first in seconds and tenths of a
appears in the display. second, after a minute in minutes and
Vehicle speed must drop back to at seconds and after an hour in hours and
least 3 mph (5 km/h) below the pro- minutes.
grammed speed to reset the system for To start:
repeat warnings. Key sequence as in illustration.
To enter the speed warning threshold: The LED lights up and the time runs in
Key sequence as in illustration. The the display.
LED lights up.

To stop: Enter a switch-on time:
At a glance
When the time is displayed: Before you can enter data, the ignition
d Press the SET/RES key. key must be at position 1 and the digital
clock must be visible in the display.
If other information is displayed:
Repeat key sequence as in the illustra-
d Key sequence as in illustration.
tion. (Press the TIMER key twice).
Controls
Take intermediate time:
Enter the second switch-on time:
360us311
d Press the TIMER key.
Repeat key sequence as in illustration.
The LED flashes, the intermediate time
Correct the entered time:
is displayed and the timer continues to
Car care
run. Repeat the key sequence as shown in
the illustration, but enter a different
Display time again: Independent ventilation* time.
d Press the TIMER key again. To enter activation times After you enter the time, an asterisk ∗
You can select two starting times for appears in the display and the LED
b
Repairs
The timer stops with the ignition independent ventilation. After 30 min- lights up, so that you can ascertain that
key in position 0 and runs again in posi- utes the ventilation shuts off again auto- a switch-on time has been selected.
tion 1.c matically. During ventilation the LED blinks. It
Refer to page 87 for important informa- goes off when you turn the switch off.
Technical
tion on using the independent ventila- Request a previously selected time
tion system. (LED lights up):
When you press the TIMER key, the d For the first switch-on time, press the
current status of the ventilation appears TIMER key twice.
in the display. d For the second switch-on time, press
the TIMER key three times.
Data
Index
To set (ignition key in position 1):
Press the keys in the sequence illus-
trated and then turn the ignition key into
position 0 or remove the key.
1000 100 CONSUM TEMP SPEED DIST CHECK CLOCK DATE Code numbers from "0000" to "9999"
10 1 RANGE CODE LIMIT TIMER km/mls MEMO SET/RES
can be entered. (You will have to re-
2 enter the code each time you activate
1
360us313
360us122
the system).
The LED lights up for up to 36 hours
with the ignition key in position 0 or with
the key removed. If the LED flashes for
10 seconds the engine hood has not
Switch on directly Enter code
been closed or the radio has been
Available only with ignition key at posi- In addition to electronic vehicle immo- removed.
tion 1. bilization (refer to page 30), you can
To cancel with ignition key in position 1
Key sequence as in illustration. attain further engine immobilization or
or 2:
protection against tampering by enter-
Switch off directly ing a code into the onboard computer. A gong and the display "---- Code"
In ignition key position 1: key sequence request you to enter a code.
A code number is used to arm the sys-
as in the illustration. tem. The code is then required for sub- d Use entry keys to enter the code
In ignition key position 0: press only the sequent starting attempts. Always number
key SET/RES. remember the code number. d Press the SET/RES key
d Start the engine.
The system responds to attempts to
start the vehicle using an incorrect code
or no code at all by preventing the
engine from starting.

b
If you wish to display all data:
At a glance
d Keep the direction indicator For average fuel consumption 1
depressed until "Prog 1" appears in and 2 please note the following: If, for
the display. example, both consumptions are to be
d Press the SET/RES key. displayed, the CONSUM key must be
R pressed twice. If, for example, con-
Controls
L
sumption 2 is to be displayed (not con-
sumption 1), press the km/mls key after
360de083
pressing the CONSUM key (pressing

the km/mls key repeatedly switches
between consumption 1 and 2 as often
Car care
as desired).
Remote control Proceed in a similar manner for switch-
on times 1 and 2 for the independent
You can use the turn signal lever to
ventilation*.c
select various display sequences for
computer data following entry. Data request:
Repairs
To enter: Briefly tap the turn signal lever each
time.
d Keep the turn signal lever depressed
until "Prog 1" appears in the display.
Technical
d Press the keys in the sequence in
which you want the information to be
displayed.
Each time you store data, the pro-
gram number in the display changes.
d Press the SET/RES key.
Data
Index
84 ASC+T
To deactivate the system When ASC+T is switched off, you drive
Press the button; the indicator lamp with a conventional drive system. We
comes on. recommend that you deactivate the
system for increased traction
To reactivate the system d when rocking the vehicle or starting
ASC
Press the button again; the indicator off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
lamp goes out. (refer to "Starting off", page 105)
360de064
Indicator lamp flashes d or when driving with snow chains.
b
The system is actively regulating drive
torque in response to monitored vehicle But even with ASC+T the laws of
operating conditions. physics can not be suspended. Any
Automatic Stability Control plus consequences arising from traction loss
Indicator lamp fails to go out after
Traction (ASC+T) due to excessive vehicle speed remain
the engine is started, or comes on
the responsibility of the driver. We
This system is designed to enhance in the course of normal vehicle
therefore urge you to avoid using the
operating stability, especially while operation
additional safety margin of the system
accelerating and during cornering. The system has a defect. The vehicle as an excuse for taking risks.c
ASC+T automatically assumes opera- normally remains operational even with-
For more details, please refer to section
tion each time you start the engine. out ASC+T. Consult your authorized
"Advanced Technology" on page 156.
BMW Retailer for repair.
The indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster goes out shortly after you switch
on the ignition.

Parking lamps/low beams Instrument lighting 85
LIGHTS ON warning
At a glance
When you turn the ignition key to 0, a
0 buzzer sounds for a few seconds after
the driver's door has been opened, if
the lamps have not been turned off.
On vehicles with alpha-numeric Check
Controls
Control*:
360us312
360us323
This warning comes through the Check
Control, refer to page 71.
Daytime-running lamps switch*
Car care
If desired, the lighting switch can be left
Parking lamps in the second position: when the igni- Adjust the illumination intensity by turn-
tion is switched off, the external lighting ing the rotary dial.
D
is also switched off.
On vehicles with daytime running fea-
Repairs
ture, the lamps come on whenever the
Low beams ignition key is turned to position 2 with
E
When you switch off the ignition the headlamp switch remaining at 0.
Technical
without turning off the head-
lamps, only the parking lamps
stay on.
When you return the ignition key to
position 0, a buzzer sounds for a few
seconds to remind you that the lamps
have been left on.
Data
Index
86 Foglamps Interior lamps
2
1 0
0 2
0
1
360de041
360us034
36cde001
BMW Convertible
Foglamps* 0 Continuously off. BMW Convertible: With the switch set

to position 1, a safety circuit ensures
t
A green indicator lamp lights 1 Lamps on:
up in the instrument cluster to that any lamps in the vehicle which may
d With door open (switching via door still be on are switched off automatically
indicate that the front foglamps
contact). approx. 15 minutes after leaving the
are on.
d For a few seconds after closing the vehicle.
door; lamps go out immediately
when the ignition is switched on. 2 Continuously on.
d After the ignition has been switched Footwell lamps*
off for a few seconds, if the vehicle
The footwell lamps operate in the same
lighting was switched on.
way as the interior lamp.
d If your car is equipped with the
driver's door lock heating option, Reading lamps*
when the driver's door handle is The reading lamps are located in the
lifted for a few seconds with the vehi- front near the interior lamp and in the
cle closed (possible a maximum of rear*. They can be switched on and off
three times). with the switch adjacent to each lamp.
d Following an accident.

Interior lamps Seat heating* Independent ventilation* 87
BMW Convertible This ventilates the vehicle's interior and
At a glance
The switches for the map reading lamps lowers its temperature using the heater
next to the interior lamp are operated in or the air conditioner fan.
the same manner as the interior lamp The system is operated by the onboard
switch. computer, refer to page 77.
You can set the time for the system to
Controls
start; it will remain active for 30 min-
360de026
utes. You can also turn it on and off
directly.
As the system uses a substantial
Car care
amount of electric current, you should
refrain from activating it twice in suc-
The seat cushion and backrest can be
cession without allowing the battery to
heated at ignition key position 2.
be recharged in normal operation
Press the switches with the heating between use.
symbols:
Repairs
The independent ventilation is available
Rapid heat-up as long as the for use when the outside temperature is
switch lights up brightly. Auto- above 60 5F (166), but not when driv-
matic changeover to regular ing.
Technical
heating.
The air comes out through the vents for
Heating as long as the switch the upper body area. The vents must
lights up brightly. The heater therefore be open for the system to
switches off automatically. operate.
To switch over while heating: press the
Data
dimly lit switch.
To switch off prematurely: press the
brightly lit switch.
Index
88 Automatic climate control
M
M
WW
BB
AUTO
A
AUTO
3
360de306

Automatic climate control 89
1 Air flow directed against windshield
At a glance
and door windows
2 Air flow toward upper body
The rotary dial on the right affords
continuous opening or closing of the
air supply, the lever changes the
Controls
direction of the air flow. The rotary dial
on the left tempers the air coming out
(page 92).
3 Front footwell ventilation
Corresponding vent outlets are also
Car care
located in the rear footwell.
4 Controls
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Air conditioning for comfort Automatic air distribution
Use the automatic system; switch on When you activate the AUTO
AUTO
AUTO key1. Select the interior temper- mode, the program takes
ature that is comfortable for you, e.g., over the setting of the air distribution
70 5F (226). With exterior temperatures and the air supply and, in addition,
above 41 5F (56) you can also use air- adjusts your temperature pre-selections
conditioning 6. This dries the air and to exterior conditions (summer, winter).
prevents window mist when e.g., per-
360us314
This program maintains a comfortable

sons with damp clothing are in the vehi- in-car climate regardless of the season.
cle. Adjust vent 2 in such a way that the Select the interior temperature that is
air blows past you and does not strike comfortable for you, e.g., 70 5F (226).
you directly. Turn the rotary control on The temperature pre-selections as well
Controls the left under the vents 2 for the upper as the lettering AUTO for the air supply
1 Automatic air distribution body area to a middle setting, so that appear in indicator 3.
you will be driving in cooler air that Open the vent outlets for the upper
2 Individual air distribution does not tire you out. body area. Switch on the air conditioner
3 Temperature and air flow display The following description gives you in warm weather.
4 Air grill for interior temperature additional individual settings. The maximum cooling capacity is
sensor - please keep clear and achieved when you set the rotary dial 3
unobstructed (refer to page 92) to cold.
5 To defrost windshield and door Individual air distribution
windows
You can cancel the automatic
6 Air conditioner program by selecting distri-
7 Recirculated-air mode bution patterns to suit your
8 Rear window defroster individual requirements. You
can direct air toward the windshield and
9 Temperature control – right-hand
windows 7, toward the upper body 5
side
and/or into the footwell 6.
10 Air supply
11 Temperature control – left-hand side

Automatic climate control 91
To defrost windshield and door Circulated air mode/Automatic Rear window defroster
At a glance
windows recirculated air control (AUC)* The indicator lamp comes
This program is designed for You can respond to unpleas- on to confirm that the rear
A
rapid removal of ice and con- ant odors in the outside air defroster is operating.
densation from the windshield and side by temporarily excluding the outside air. The defroster switches off automatically
windows. The system then recirculates the air after approx. 15 minutes.
Controls
currently within the vehicle. BMW Convertible: Heated rear-window
Air conditioner
Press the button repeatedly to run blower.
The air conditioner cools and
through the following control sequence: The rear-window blower is always
dehumidifies incoming air switched off with the convertible top
d Indicator lamps off: outside air flow
before reheating it to the selected tem-
Car care
operational. down.
perature. When the hardtop* is in place, press
Depending on the weather, the wind- d Left-hand indicator lamp on – AUC the rear-window heating button.
shield may fog over briefly when the mode: the system detects pollutants
engine is started. in the outside air and responds by Temperature
Switching off the air conditioner at out- deactivating the outside air flow as On both the driver's and the
Repairs
side temperatures below approx. 41 5F required. The system then recircu- passenger's side you can
(56) will prevent the windows from lates the air currently within the vehi- adjust the specific temperature. The fig-
fogging up. cle. ures in the display provide a general
Frequently switching the air condi- d Right-hand indicator lamp on: the
Technical
indication of interior temperature. We
tioner on and off may also promote the flow of outside air into the vehicle is recommend 70 5F (226) as a standard
formation of condensation on the win- permanently blocked. The system setting for comfortable travel, both with
dow surfaces. then recirculates the air currently and without the air conditioner. When
within the vehicle. you start the vehicle, the system
b Condensation forms in the air ensures that the selected temperature
conditioner system during operation, a If the windshields fog over in circu- is achieved as quickly as possible and
Data
which then exits under the vehicle. It is lated air mode, switch off the circulated maintained at a constant level by the
not unusual for a small puddle to form air mode/Automatic recirculated air control.
there.c control and increase the air supply. if
necessary.c
Index
Air supply Microfilter
3 2 1 The microfilter removes dust and pollen
In the AUTO mode, the air
from the incoming air. The filter is
supply is controlled automat-
changed by your BMW Retailer when
ically and AUTO appears in display 3,
you bring your vehicle for maintenance.
refer to the summary on page 90. Using
A substantial reduction in air flow indi-
"+" and "–" you can vary the air flow.
cates that the filter needs to be
Your setting is indicated by bars, the
replaced prematurely.
360de056
automatic control is switched off. You
can reactivate it by pressing the AUTO
key.
When you press "-" during operation at
minimum blower speed all displays are Draft-free ventilation
canceled: the fan, heating and air con-
You can adjust the vent outlets for the
ditioner are switched off, the air supply
upper body area to select the optimum
is blocked. By pressing on any key of
airflow rates and directions for your
the air conditioning you can again
own personal requirements:
engage the system.
Use rotary controls 1 to open and close
Effective heating and cooling is ensured
the vents throughout and infinitely-vari-
at a medium blower speed.
able range. Use the levers 2 to adjust
the direction of the air flow.
The rotary control 3 allows you to mix
the air from the outlets for your upper
body by warming or cooling it as
desired:
Turn toward blue – colder
Turn toward red – warmer

BMW Hi-Fi System* Glove compartment 93
Rechargeable flashlight
At a glance
The connection for the rechargeable
flashlight is located on the left side of
the glove compartment.
1 The flashlight features overcharging
HIFI
protection, so it can be left in its holder
Controls
continuously.
360de057
360de058
2 However, it must be removed when the
battery is disconnected or removed.
aEnsure that the flashlight is off be-
Car care
BMW Hi-Fi System (Harman/ To open fore inserting it in its holder.c
Kardon) Press the button and fold down the
1 On door.
Repairs
2 Off The glove compartment lamp switches
In the "On" position, the listener is given on from ignition key position 1.
the impression of a considerably larger To close
passenger compartment with an
Fold up door.
Technical
improved stereo effect in all seats.
This function should be switched off in To engage locks
the case of poor radio reception due to Only possible with a master key.
the frequent changes between stereo
and mono which result.
BMW Convertible:
aTo reduce the risk of injury, always
close the glove compartment immedi-
Data
You do not have to operate the con- ately after use.c
trols. The system detects whether the
top is open or closed and regulates the
sound automatically.
Index
94 Ashtray Coin box, cup holder Cigarette lighter
1 2 3
1 2 3 4 5 6
AUTO
AUTO
360de060
360us315
360us318
11 10 9 8 7
To open The components ashtray (1), coin box Press in. Remove as soon as the lighter
Press against the recess (arrow). (2) and the two cup holders (3) can be jumps back out.
arranged as you wish.
To extinguish a cigarette, tap off the ash
and gently press the tip into the funnel. Simultaneously press lightly on the aAlways hold the hot lighter by its
ribbed surfaces (arrows) of the desired plastic knob, as otherwise serious
To empty components and pull them upward. burns could result.
Press on the edge of the lid with the The cigarette lighter remains opera-
Replace the components in the bracket
ashtray open: the ashtray insert pops tional when the ignition key has been
in the desired arrangement and clip into
up and can be removed. removed. For this reason, children
place.
should never be left in the car unat-
The rear ashtray is operated in the
tended.c
same manner.
Cigarette lighter socket
Suitable for attaching power supplies
for flashlights, car vacuum cleaners,
etc., up to a rating of approximately
200 watts at 12 volts.
Inserting plugs of a different shape or
size may damage the socket.

Center armrest (rear)* Through-loading system* Ski bag* 95
Pull the strap to fold down the armrest. It makes possible a safe, convenient
At a glance
To open drawer*: transport of 3 to a maximum of 4 pairs
of skis (BMW Convertible, maximum of
Unlock and pull out the drawer by pull-
2 pairs of skis).
ing on the drawer handle. The drawer
locks in any position. The cup holder The length of the ski bag in combination
can be shifted as necessary. with the additional space in the luggage
Controls
compartment makes it possible to trans-
BMW Convertible port skis of up to 6.8 ft. (2.10 m) in
360de027
Vehicles without ski bag*: Storage length. Because the ski bag contracts
compartment, accessible by removing as additional skis are inserted, the bag
the filler piece and releasing the trim BMW Sedan/ Coupe is suitable for transporting only two
Car care
(refer to page 97). pairs of skis when both are a maximum
The rear backrest is divided in the cen- of 6.8 ft. (2.10 m) long.
ter. Each side can be folded down sep- If the ski bag is not used for longer peri-
arately to carry long objects. ods, it should be stored in a dry place.
To release:
Repairs
It is advisable to wipe off any water
Reach into the handle recess, press which has collected on the waterproof
down and pull forward. ski bag from time to time.
When folding back the rear backrest,
aThe ski bag must not hinder the
Technical
make sure that the locking device is
properly engaged to ensure proper
driver during driving.c
operation of the safety belt. The red
slide must move downward.
If the rear backrest is not locked, the
safety belt can not be pulled out.
Data
Index
96 Ski bag*
3
360de065
360de066
360de067
2
BMW Sedan - loading the ski bag Press the round button to unlock the Use the magnetic retainers to attach the
Fold down the center armrest. Detach cover panel in the luggage compart- cover panel to the lower side of the rear
from the mounts (1) with one hand, ment. shelf within the luggage compartment.
press slightly toward the rear with the Then unhook the retaining strap at the Please ensure that the skis are clean
other hand (2) and remove upward. top and fold it down. before loading them into the bag. Take
Detach the Velcro strip at the top of Extend the ski sack between the front care to avoid damage from sharp
the cut-out trim and lay it on the seat. seats. The zipper provides convenient edges.
access to the inside of the sack, and For general information on the ski bag,
b When reinstalling the center arm-
can also be left open to promote drying. refer to page 95.
rest, guide it into position from above,
then apply downward pressure until you
hear it snap into position (3).c

Ski bag* 97
At a glance
Controls
36cde003
36cde004
36cde005
Car care
BMW Convertible - loading the ski Detach cut-out trim at bottom. Open the cover panel from the luggage
bag Extend the ski sack between the front compartment and use the magnetic
Removing filler piece. seats. The zipper provides convenient retainers to attach it to the lower side of
access to the inside of the sack, and the rear shelf within the luggage com-
Repairs
can also be left open to promote drying. partment.
b When remounting the trim, press it b Secure the stored skis or other
Technical
firmly onto the guide rod at the bot- objects by tightening down the strap on
tom.c the ski bag at the buckle.c
For general information on the ski bag,
refer to page 95.
Data
Index
98 Cargo loading
a
Stowing a load
If you are transporting a load in your Always position and secure the
BMW load correctly, otherwise it can endan-
ger the passengers in the event of brak-
d Stow a heavy load as far forward as
ing or swerving.
possible - directly behind the back-
Do not exceed the permissible gross
rests or the front wall of the luggage
weight and axle load (refer to page 163),
compartment - and on the floor.
otherwise the vehicle's operating safety
d Cover sharp edges and corners.
360us316
is no longer assured and does not com-
d Do not pile objects higher than the
ply with traffic laws.
top edge of the backrest.
Do not stow heavy or hard objects in the
d If the load is heavy and the rear seat
passenger compartment, otherwise
is unoccupied, put the outer safety
Securing load they would be thrown around during
belt in its lock.
braking and evasive maneuvers and en-
d Secure smaller, lighter items with
danger the occupants.c
retaining straps or draw straps (refer
to page 34).
d For large, heavy items, see your
BMW Retailer for load-securing
devices*. The lashing eyes on the
corners of the luggage compartment
are used to attach these straps.
d Observe the information enclosed
with the load-securing devices.

99
Special operating instructions: Under the hood: At a glance
At a glance
Break-in procedures 100 Hood 118
Driving notes 100 Engine compartment 120
Catalytic converter 102 Washer fluids 124
Antilock Brake System (ABS) 103 Engine oil 124
Disc brakes 104 Coolant 127 Controls and features
Controls
Brake system 105 Brake fluid 128
Winter driving 105 Power steering fluid 128
Roof-mounted luggage rack 107 Vehicle Identification Number 118
Radio reception 108
Care and maintenance: Care and maintenance
Cellular phones 108
The BMW Maintenance
Car care
Hardtop – Convertible 109
System 130
Technical modifications to
the vehicle 110
Cleaning and care of the
Wheels and tires: convertible top 136 Owner service procedure
Tire inflation pressures 111 Vehicle storage 137
Repairs
Tire tread 111
Tire replacement 112
Interaxle tire changes 112
The right choice 113 Advanced technology
Technical
Winter tires 114
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
100 Break-in procedures Driving notes
To ensure that your vehicle provides Tires Engine
maximum economy throughout a long Due to technical factors associated with Do not allow the engine to warm to its
service life, we request that you their manufacture, tires do not achieve normal operating temperature by leav-
observe the following. their full traction potential until an initial ing it idling with the vehicle parked.
Engine and differential break-in period has elapsed. This However, when starting in extremely
means that you should drive with addi- cold weather it is a good idea to allow
Up to 1,250 miles (2,000 km):
tional caution for the first 200 miles the engine to run at fast idle for about
Drive at different engine speeds and (300 km). 30 seconds before getting underway;
vehicle speeds, but be careful not to
Brake system this precaution ensures adequate lubri-
exceed the following engine speed:
cation.
4,500 rpm Brake pads and disks attain their opti-
mal wear patterns only after approx. Avoid high engine speeds while the
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid engine is still cold; this helps avoid pre-
300 miles (500 km).
pressing the accelerator beyond the mature wear and reduced service life.
kickdown point.
When driving under high engine loads
After 1,250 miles (2,000 km) you can (acceleration, steep hills), try to keep
gradually increase the number of revo- the engine running above 1,500 rpm.
lutions or the speed.
We recommend downshifting into a
You should also observe these break-in more suitable range, especially when
procedures if the engine or differential driving up extended inclines.
is replaced later in the course of the
It is a good idea to follow extended
vehicle service life.
periods of low-speed operation (dense
urban traffic, stop-and-go driving) by
maintaining an engine speed consis-
tently above 3,000 rpm for several
miles. This procedure helps prevent
deposits from accumulating in the
engine.

Driving notes 101
Clutch Water on the roads:
At a glance
Depress the clutch throughout its com- When driving through water (maximum
plete travel range to shift gears. Do not depth one foot = 30 cm) always drive at
"ride" the clutch by driving with your walking speed, otherwise damage to
foot resting against the pedal. the engine, the electrical system and
the transmission can occur.
Controls
Rear window shelf:
Brakes:
Never use the rear window shelf to
Do not drive with your foot resting on the
store heavy or bulky objects. They
brake pedal. Even light but consistent
could pose a danger to the occupants
pedal pressure can lead to high temper-
when the car is braked heavily.
Car care
atures, brake wear and possibly even
brake failure. Clothes hooks:
When suspending clothing from the
Aquaplaning:
hooks, ensure that they will not obstruct
A wedge of water can form between
the driver's vision. Refrain from hanging
tires and road surface when you oper-
heavy objects from the hooks, as these
Repairs
ate the vehicle on wet or slushy roads.
could cause personal injury when the
This phenomenon is referred to as
car is braked heavily.c
aquaplaning, or hydroplaning, and it is
characterized by a partial or complete
Technical
loss of contact between the tires and
the road surface. The ultimate results
are loss of steering and braking control.
Data
Index
102 Catalytic converter
The catalytic converter reduces harmful Traveling abroad
exhaust emissions. aAlways observe the above points Always make sure that unleaded fuel
It is designed for use with unleaded fuel to prevent unburned mixture from meeting your engine’s octane require-
only. entering the catalytic converter. This ments will be available when planning
Even minute quantities of lead would be could result in overheating, leading to trips outside the country. The use of
enough to permanently damage both serious damage. fuel failing to meet the official octane
the catalytic converter and the system's High temperatures occur on all vehicles requirements could result in engine
oxygen sensor. equipped with a catalytic converter. damage.
Heat shields are installed adjacent to
To ensure efficient, trouble-free engine If you are considering traveling to a
some sections of the exhaust system.
operation and avoid potential damage: country in which unleaded fuel is not
Never remove these shields; do not
d Always have your car serviced in readily available, please remember that
apply undercoating to their surfaces.
accordance with maintenance leaded fuel will destroy the lambda oxy-
When driving, standing at idle or park-
instructions. gen sensor and the catalytic converter
ing the vehicle, take care to avoid con-
d Never continue driving until the fuel on your BMW. After operation on
tact between the exhaust system and
tank is empty. leaded fuel, your vehicle will no longer
flammable materials (e.g., grass, hay,
d Respond to engine miss by switching meet American and Canadian exhaust
leaves, etc.). Such contact could lead to
off the engine at once. emission standards, and there will also
a fire, resulting in personal injury and
d Never tow-start the car unless the be a loss of fuel economy. Upon your
property damage.c
engine is cold, or else unburned fuel return to the US or Canada, you will be
may reach the catalytic converter. expected to comply with legal ordi-
Better yet: use jumper cables! nances requiring that you replace both
d Avoid other situations in which the the oxygen sensor and the catalytic
fuel would not be (completely) converter, and to have the fuel system
burned, for instance: flushed to remove any traces of leaded
Frequent, extended, or repeated fuel.
starting attempts during which the
engine fails to start. (Switching off
and restarting a healthy engine
causes no damage).
Never let the engine run with any of
the spark-plug cables disconnected.

Antilock Brake System (ABS) 103
ABS enhances active safety by helping Driving with ABS On road surfaces featuring a loose top
At a glance
to prevent the wheels from locking under The yellow ABS warning in the instru- layer on a firmer substratum, e.g., on
braking. When the front wheels slide, the ment panel goes out as soon as the gravel or snow, the braking distances
driver loses steering control over the engine is started. with ABS may be longer than with the
vehicle. Traction loss at the rear wheels wheels locked. However, ABS continues
The system becomes operative once the
can cause the rear end to break into to provide enhanced vehicle and steer-
vehicle exceeds a speed of 5 mph
Controls
uncontrolled oversteer. ing control under these conditions.
(8 km/h). The ABS is deactivated when-
a
ABS is designed to meet two essential ever the vehicle's speed drops below
requirements during every application: approx. 2 mph (3 km/h). This means that To ensure that the system remains
d to help provide vehicle stability on all the wheels can lock in the final phase of completely operational, never modify the
types of road surface (asphalt, a braking action - a factor of no signifi- ABS. Service procedures on ABS are to
Car care
cement, dirt, moisture, snow and ice). cance in actual practice. be performed by authorized technicians
d to help to retain steering and maneu- only.c
The ABS system closed-loop control cir-
vering capability under the same con- cuit cycles in fractions of a second. A ABS may fail to function with maximum
ditions. pulsation at the brake pedal indicates to efficiency when tires of different sizes
are mounted (e.g., winter tires/spare tire;
Repairs
However, certain important consider- the driver that ABS is active, that is, that
ations must be borne in mind in connec- the car is within its maximum braking remount the correct tires at all wheels as
tion with these requirements: range. In addition, the audible pulsation soon as possible).
Not even ABS can suspend the normal that accompanies the control operation In the event of a fault, the ABS warning
Technical
laws of physics. ABS alone can not pre- calls your attention to the reduced trac- lamp in the instrument cluster lights up,
vent accidents when the brakes are tion between tires and road surface refer to page 18. The braking system
applied without an adequate safety (marginal adhesion), and reminds you then reverts to conventional operation as
interval between vehicles, when the car that the vehicle's speed should be on a vehicle without ABS. However,
reaches excessive rates of lateral accel- reduced to adapt to road conditions. have the brake system checked by your
eration in curves, or if aquaplaning BMW Retailer as soon as possible. To
occurs. Responsibility for these types of prevent undetected defects and cumu-
Data
situations remains in the hands (and feet) lative faults from adversely affecting the
of the driver.You should never allow the brake system, refer any problems to
added safety of ABS to lull you into a your authorized BMW Retailer at the
false sense of security, or mislead you earliest opportunity.
Index
into taking increased risks that could
affect your own safety and that of others.

104 Disc brakes
Disc brakes furnish optimum decelera- Driving notes Should engine braking prove inade-
tion and braking control as well as While driving in wet conditions and in quate, you should still avoid extended,
greater fade resistance under heavy heavy rain, it is a good idea to apply continuous braking. Instead of main-
use. light pressure to the brake pedal every taining low to moderate pressure over
Limited vehicle use, extended periods few miles - Watch traffic conditions to an extended period of time, you should
with the car parked or in storage and ensure that this maneuver does not decelerate the vehicle by applying more
light loading will increase the tendency endanger other road users. The heat substantial force at the pedal (watch for
for corrosion to form on the rotors, and generated in this braking process helps following traffic!) and then pausing
dirt to accumulate on the pads. This dry the brake pads and rotors. before repeating the application. This
happens because the minimum pres- Maximum braking force is obtained staggered braking technique allows the
sure between the pad and the disc while the wheels continue to rotate, brakes to cool in the intervals between
required for the self-cleaning function peaking when the wheels remain on the active braking phases, preventing over-
of the disc brakes is not achieved. verge of locking without actually doing heating and ensuring that full braking
so. ABS maintains this state automati- capacity remains available at all times.
If the brake rotors are corroded, they
cally. If the ABS fails, you should revert
will tend to respond to braking with a
pulsating effect which even extended to the staggered braking technique aDo not allow the vehicle to coast by
application will fail to cure. described above (refer to page 106). pressing down the clutch pedal or shift-
Extended or steep mountain descents ing into neutral while underway. Never
a Use only original BMW-approved
do not necessarily have to lead to
reduced braking efficiency; downshift
drive with the engine switched
off (!). The engine provides no braking
brake pads, as otherwise vehicle autho-
to a gear in which only minimal periodic effect when the clutch is disengaged or
rization is no longer valid.c
brake applications are required (you the transmission is in neutral, and there
can move the selector lever to the is no power-assist for brakes and steer-
appropriate lower range if your car is ing when the engine is not running.
equipped with an automatic transmis- Never allow floor mats, carpets or other
sion). objects to protrude into the area around
You can further increase the engine's the accelerator, clutch and brake pedals
braking effect by selecting a lower gear, and obstruct their movement.c
downshifting as far as first gear or plac-
ing the selector lever in position 1 (2).

Brake system Winter driving 105
Failure of one brake circuit The onset of winter is often accompa- Snow chains
At a glance
Pedal travel increases, more pressure is nied by rapid changes in weather. BMW snow chains* can be mounted on
required at the pedal. Adaptations in driving style should be both summer and winter tires. Mount
accompanied by preparations on the them in pairs on the rear wheels only
The remaining circuit continues to pro-
vehicle itself to ensure that your and observe the manufacturer's safety
vide good braking response.
progress through the winter remains precautions. Do not exceed a maximum
Controls
safe and trouble-free. speed of 30 mph (50 km/h). For maxi-
In the event of any malfunction in Coolant mum traction, deactivate ASC+T when
the brake system, consult the nearest driving with snow chains mounted, refer
Ensure that the coolant contains the
BMW Retailer as soon as possible.c to page 84.
year-round 50:50 ratio of water and
antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor. This
Car care
Starting off
mixture provides protection against
When driving off in deep snow or "rock-
freezing down to approximately -345F
ing" the vehicle to free it, you should
(-376). Replace the coolant every
switch off ASC+T, refer to page 84.
three years.
Driving on low-traction road
Repairs
Locks
surfaces
can be made operative again using
BMW lock de-icer. This de-icer also Operate the accelerator pedal sensi-
contains lubricants. tively, avoid high engine speeds and
Technical
In addition, a treatment with BMW lock shift up to the next-higher gear early.
cylinder grease is recommended. Shift down into the next lowest gear
when approaching uphill or downhill
Rubber seals and components grades. Maintain an adequate distance
To prevent the weather-stripping from between yourself and the car ahead.
freezing, apply a spray-on rubber treat-
ment or silicone spray to the door, hood
Data
and luggage compartment lid seals.
b A complete range of car-care

products is available from any autho-
Index
rized BMW Retailer.c

106 Winter driving
a
Brakes Parking
Winter road conditions substantially Never downshift to exploit engine Select 1st or reverse gear. If your car is
reduce the amount of traction available braking when driving on slippery road equipped with an automatic transmis-
between the tires and the road surface; surfaces; it could lead to loss of rear- sion, select Park. Engage the parking
the resulting - considerable - increases wheel traction and endanger vehicle brake when parking on hills and
in braking distance should be continu- control. ABS and ASC+T can not protect inclined surfaces. To prevent frost and
ally borne in mind. against such loss of traction, since they corrosion from locking the parking
have no effect on this kind of decelera- brake liners at the drum, you can dry
ABS is intended to prevent the wheels
tion.c them by gently pulling up the lever
from locking under braking; to help the
while stopping (ensure that you do not
vehicle to remain stable and sensitive to
steering. Should the ABS fail, with lock- b Disengage the clutch during hard endanger following traffic).
a
ing wheels as a result: Reduce the braking on road surfaces affording only
pressure on the brake pedal until the poor or uneven traction.c The brake lamps do not light up
wheels just start to roll again while still when the parking brake is applied.c
maintaining enough force to continue Loss of lateral traction (sliding)
braking. Then increase the pressure, Release the accelerator pedal and
release the pressure when the wheels depress the clutch pedal or push the
lock, reapply pressure, etc. selector lever to position N with auto-
matic transmission. Countersteer care-
This staggered braking procedure will
fully and attempt to regain control of the
reduce stopping distances while help-
vehicle.
ing you maintain steering control.
It can allow you to steer around hazards
once you have reduced the pressure on
the brake pedal.

Roof-mounted luggage rack* 107
A special luggage system is available as Secure the roof luggage correctly and
At a glance
an option for your BMW. Please securely to prevent it from shifting or
observe the precautions included with being lost during driving (danger to fol-
the installation instructions. lowing traffic).
Because roof racks raise the center of Drive smoothly: avoid sudden accelera-
gravity of the car when loaded, they tion and braking maneuvers; corner
Controls
exercise a major effect on its handling gently.
and steering response. The roof load increases the surface
You should therefore always remember area exposed to the wind: increased
not to exceed the approved roof weight, fuel consumption and stress on the roof
the approved gross vehicle weight or are the immediate results.
Car care
the axle weights when loading the rack.
For specifications refer to "Technical
data", page 163ff.
Make sure that the load is not too heavy,
Repairs
and attempt to distribute it evenly.
Always load the heaviest items first (on
the bottom).
Make sure there is sufficient space to
Technical
raise the sliding/tilt sunroof.
Data
Index
108 Radio reception Cellular phones*
The reception and sound quality Mobile communications devices (mo-
obtained from mobile radios varies bile phones, two-way radios, etc.) not
according to a variety of factors, includ- specifically designed for use in your car
ing the broadcast range of the transmit- may trigger malfunctions in other vehic-
ter and the directional orientation of the ular systems. BMW can neither test nor
antenna. assume responsibility for every individ-
Interference factors such as high-ten- ual product being offered on the mar-
sion power lines, buildings and natural ket. We recommend that you consult
obstructions can all lead to unavoidable your BMW Retailer before purchasing
reception interference, regardless of any device of this kind.
how well the vehicle's sound system is To ensure that your BMW continues to
operating. provide reliable and trouble-free opera-
Climatic factors such as intense solar tion, refrain from using a cellular tele-
radiation, fog, rain and snow can also phone or other radio device with an
interfere with reception. antenna located inside the passenger
compartment. The antenna should
Cellular telephones without official BMW
always be mounted on the outside of
approval can generate radio interfer-
the vehicle.
ence. This is noticeable e.g., as a low-
pitched hum in the loudspeakers.
Please refer to the supplementary oper-
bBefore loading the vehicle on a
train or driving it through a car-wash,
ating instructions provided with your
remove the antenna.c
sound system for detailed information
on its use.

Hardtop* – Convertible 109
Even in winter, when the hardtop may
At a glance
be in constant use, the fabric top does
not need to be removed. Before storing
the fabric top in the convertible top
compartment, it must be absolutely dry
to prevent the formation of water and
Controls
mildew spots.
Two persons are required for mounting
36cde018
36cde019
and removal. Use extreme care when
working to prevent paint damage and
damage to the body and hardtop.
Car care
To make it easier to mount and remove
the hardtops, you can purchase a spe- Mounting Before positioning the hardtop on the
cially developed hardtop lift* from your Lower the side windows and remove car, fold down the covers below the
BMW Retailer. the rod antenna if necessary to prevent interior lamps at the left and right and
damage. open the locking levers outward.
Repairs
Unlock the convertible top compart- Now, with somebody else’s help, posi-
ment lid on vehicles with manual con- tion the hardtop on the mounts.
vertible top operation, or open the con- Close the locking lever at the back by
Technical
vertible top compartment lid slightly turning it inward (arrow) up to the stop
with the convertible top operating but- behind the trim.
ton on vehicles with electric convertible
As with the fabric top, fold out the lock-
top operation, as illustrated. ing handle inside and lock the hardtop
Remove the trim pieces on both sides at the front by turning the handle until it
and then close the convertible top com- audibly engages.
partment lid again.
Data
Index
110 Hardtop* – Convertible Technical modifications to the vehicle
Any BMW Service station will gladly
aDo not lift the hardtop by the seals. provide information on the purpose of
technical modifications to the car, the
Accidentally shifted or pulled-out seals
cause leaks.c legal position and the manufacturer's
recommendations. For this purpose,
Remove the Retailer requires the Vehicle Identi-
Proceed as for mounting, however in fication Number and, in some cases,
the reverse order. also the engine number.
Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
Control units, displays and other interior
equipment of your vehicle have LED's
behind protective lenses as a light
source. These LEDs resemble conven-
tional lasers and are classified by law as
"Class 1 light-emitting diodes".
a Do not remove the protective

lens and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for extended periods
(several hours), as inflammation of the
iris could result.c

Tire inflation pressures Tire tread 111
Information for your safety Tire tread - tire damage Unusual vibrations encountered during
At a glance
The factory-approved radial tires have Inspect your tires frequently for tread normal vehicle operation can indicate
been selected to provide optimum wear, signs of damage and for foreign tire failure or some other vehicle defect,
safety and driving comfort on your vehi- objects lodged in the tread. Check the as can variations in normal vehicle
cle. tread depth. response, such as a pronounced ten-
dency to pull to the left or right. Should
In a very real sense, both tire life and The tread depth should not be less than
Controls
this occur, you should respond by
your own safety are riding on correct 0.12 in (3 mm). Otherwise there is an
immediately reducing your speed and
tire specifications and inflation pres- increased risk of aquaplaning, even at
carefully proceeding to the nearest
sures. relatively moderate speeds and with
BMW Retailer or professional tire cen-
Incorrect inflation pressures are a fre- only small amounts of water on the
ter, or having the vehicle towed in to
road.
Car care
quent cause of tire damage. To a great have it and its tires inspected.
extent it also influences the ability of We recommend that you always replace Tire damage (up to and including blow-
your BMW to hold the road. the tires once the tread wears to 0.12 in outs) can endanger the lives of both the
(3 mm). Once the tread has worn to vehicle occupants and other road
aCheck the tire pressures – also in 0.063 in (1.6 mm), tread depth indica- users.c
Repairs
tors appear.
the spare tire – at least every two weeks,
and before every extended trip.
Incorrect inflation pressures can also aNever continue driving on a deflat-
lead to tire damage and accidents.c ed (flat) tire. A flat tire greatly impairs
Technical
steering and braking response, and can
lead to complete loss of control over the
vehicle.
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that the
permitted load on the tires is not ex-
ceeded. This can cause overheating and
gradual internal damage. The ultimate
Data
result can assume the form of a sudden
air loss.
Index
112 Tire replacement Interaxle tire changes
To maintain good handling and vehicle Tread wear patterns differ at the front Always replace tires after 10 years,
response, use only tires of a single and rear wheels according to the indi- regardless of use or tread wear.
tread configuration from a single manu- vidual operating conditions. In the inter- Spare tires over 6 years old should be
facturer. est of safety and optimal vehicle used only in case of emergency. Such a
response, we advise against rotating tire should be replaced by a new tire
aDo not use retreaded tires, as oth- tires from front to rear and vice versa.
When considering the potential eco-
immediately, and should not be fitted
together with new tires.
erwise driving safety may be impaired.
This is due to the possible variations in nomic benefits of interaxle tire rotation, The date on which the tire was manu-
casing structures and, in some cases, to you must decide whether the expense factured is indicated by the code on
their extreme age, which can lead to a of having the tires rotated is likely to be the sidewall: DOT ... 327 indicates that
decrease in their durability.c amortized during the anticipated exten- the tire was manufactured in Week 32
sion in tire life. We recommend that you of 1997.
discuss the matter with your BMW
Retailer.
Should you decide in favor of rotating
the tires, it is essential to observe the
following:
Leave the tires on the same side of the
vehicle (include spare in rotation pat-
tern as desired).
Braking response and traction may be
adversely affected.
Rotation should always be carried out
at short intervals, max. 3000 miles
(approx. 5000 km).
Following rotation always correct the
tire inflation pressure.

The right choice 113
Tires and wheels The speed rating indicates the
At a glance
Use only BMW-approved tires. approved maximum speed for the tire.
Due to the high speeds which this vehi- Summer tires:
cle can reach, the use of specific S = up to 112 mph (180 km/h)
brands, specifications and dimensions T = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
is mandatory. Consult any BMW H = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
Controls
Retailer for details. V = up to 149 mph (240 km/h)
Observe national, provincial and state W = up to 167 mph (270 km/h)
regulations. ZR = over 149 mph (240 km/h)
The tire codes will aid you in selecting Winter tires:
the correct tire. The essential data for
Car care
Q M+S = up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
radial tires are as follows:
T M+S = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H M+S = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
Example: 205/60 R 15 91 H
Codes on steel/light-alloy wheels:
Nominal width 7 J x 15 H 2
Repairs
in mm Hump width (inches)
Aspect ratio in % Code letter for
Type of radial-code flange type
Technical
letter for radial Denotes
Rim diameter in inches drop-center rim
Load rating Rim diameter (inches)
(not on ZR tires) Hump of 2 rim shoulders
Speed rating
Use screw-on valve stem caps to
(before R on ZR tires)
Data
protect the tire valves against dirt. Dirt
in the valves frequently leads to slow
leaks.
Index
114 Winter tires
We recommend winter tires (M+S radial Winter tires display a perceptible loss in
tires) for operation under inclement win- their ability to cope with winter driving
ter driving conditions. Although all-sea- conditions once the tread wears to
son M+S tires provide better winter below 0.16 in (4 mm), and should thus
traction than standard summer tires be replaced.
with H, V, W and ZR speed ratings, they Observe the specified tire inflation
generally fail to provide the same levels pressures - and be sure to have the
of performance as standard snow tires wheel and tire assemblies balanced
in winter driving. every time you change the tires!
If you fit winter tires, install radial tires
of the same tread configuration and
from a single manufacturer on all four
aNever exceed the maximum speed
for which the tires are rated.
wheels (better still: on all five wheels).
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
This ensures safe tracking and steering
service tires can lead to damage and ac-
response.
cidents.
Fit BMW-approved winter tires only. Have this work performed by skilled pro-
Any BMW Retailer will be glad to pro- fessionals only. Your BMW Retailer will
vide you with information on the best be glad to assist you.c
winter tires for your particular driving
Store tires in a cool, dry place, away
conditions.
from light whenever possible. Protect
the tires from contact with oil, grease
and fuel.

At a glance
Tire specifications Steel rim Light-alloy wheel Rim offset
(wheel rim) (mm)
BMW 318is Coupe, 318i Convertible, 318i Sedan
185/65 R 15 88 T 6 J x 15 H2 – 42
185/65 R 15 88 Q, T M+S 6 J x 15 H2 – 42
Controls
205/60 R 15 91 H 6g Jx15 H2 7 J x 15 H2 47
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S 6g Jx15 H2 7 J x 15 H2 47
225/55 R 15 92 V 6g Jx15 H2 7 J x 15 H2 47
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S – 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
Car care
225/50 ZR 16 – 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
The use of fine-link BMW snow chains*
b Size 185/65 R 15 88 T tires are
only for the BMW 318i Sedan.c
on summer or winter tires is only per-
mitted in pairs on the rear wheels.
Always observe the tire manufacturer’s
Repairs
b Sizes 225/55 R 15 92 V,
225/55 R 92 Q, T, H M+S, 225/50 ZR 16.
safety recommendations when fitting.
These tires are not suitable for use with
Technical
snow chains.c
Modifications to the vehicle are required
before retrofitting tires in the above
dimensions.
Please consult your BMW Retailer.
Data
Index
116 Approved wheels and tires

(wheel rim) (mm)
BMW 323is Coupe, 323i Convertible
185/65 R 15 88 Q M+S 6 J x 15 H2 – 42
205/60 R 15 91 H 6g Jx15 H2 7 J x 15 H2 47
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S 6g Jx15 H2 7 J x 15 H2 47
225/55 R 15 92 V 6g Jx15 H2 7 J x 15 H2 47
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S – 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
225/50 ZR 16 – 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
b Sizes 225/55 R 15 92 V,
225/55 R 92 Q, T, H M+S, 225/50 ZR 16.
on summer or winter tires is only per-
mitted in pairs on the rear wheels.
These tires are not suitable for use with Always observe the tire manufacturer’s
snow chains.c safety recommendations when fitting.
Modifications to the vehicle are required
before retrofitting tires in the above
dimensions.

At a glance
(wheel rim) (mm)
BMW 328is Coupe, 328i Convertible, 328i Sedan
205/60 R 15 91 H – 7 J x 15 H2 47
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S 6g Jx15 H2 7 J x 15 H2 47
Controls
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S – 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
225/50 ZR 16 – 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
b Size 225/50 ZR 16 tires are not on summer or winter tires is only per-
Car care
suitable for use with snow chains.c mitted in pairs on the rear wheels.
Modifications to the vehicle are required Always observe the tire manufacturer’s
if retrofitting these tires. safety recommendations when fitting.
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
118 Hood
W
B
M
B
W
360de085
360de307
360de308
Unlocking To open To close
Pull the lever located under the left- Push the release handle – at the front Simultaneously press down both sides
hand side of the instrument panel. left under the hood – upward and open of the hood; continue pressing until you
the hood. hear the latches engage.
a Do not work on your vehicle with-
out appropriate skills. Always switch off aShould you determine that the
the engine and allow it to cool down be- hood is not completely closed while
fore working in the engine compart- driving, stop immediately and close it
ment. securely.c
Always disconnect the battery before
working on the electrical system. When
working on the vehicle, follow the rele-
vant instructions and information. When
you are not familiar with the relevant
specifications, have service operations
performed by your authorized BMW Re-
tailer. Failure to proceed in an informed,
professional manner when servicing
components and materials constitutes a
safety hazard for yourself and other us-
ers of the public roads.c

119
At a glance
Controls
Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
120 Engine compartment BMW 318i, 318is
1
3 2
6
5
5 4
4
360de090

Engine compartment BMW 318i, 318is 121
1 Fuse box
At a glance
2 Brake fluid reservoir
3 Engine oil dipstick
4 Coolant expansion tank
5 Engine oil filler neck
Controls
6 Supply tank for headlamp washer*
and windshield washer system
7 Battery
Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
122 Engine compartment BMW 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is
2
8
3
6
7 4
5
360de091

Engine compartment BMW 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is 123
1 Fuse box
At a glance
2 Engine oil dipstick
3 Brake fluid reservoir
4 Power steering oil reservoir
5 Coolant expansion tank
Controls
6 Engine oil filler neck
7 Supply tank for headlamp washer*
and windshield washer system
8 Auxiliary terminal for jump starting
Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
124 Washer fluids Engine oil
Windshield washer spray
nozzles
The spray from the nozzles should be
directed so as to ensure effective
cleaning, even at high speeds.
Use a needle to adjust the nozzles as
required, or have them adjusted by your
360de100
360de095
BMW Retailer.
Headlamp washer* and Checking oil level

windshield washer As with fuel economy, oil consumption
Capacity approx. 2.65 US quarts is directly influenced by your driving
(2.5 liters) for the windshield washer or style and vehicle operating conditions.
5.3 US quarts (5 liters) in conjunction Consequently you should check the oil
with the headlamp cleaning system. level regularly with the vehicle posi-
Fill with water and - if required - with tioned on a level surface - approx. every
antifreeze (according to the manufac- 600 miles (1,000 km), or more fre-
turer's recommendations). quently if your vehicle is driven under
increased demands.
bWe recommend that you mix the To obtain precise readings:

d Check with engine cold, before start-
washer fluid before adding it to the res-
ervoir.c ing.
d When checking with the engine
warm, wait briefly for the oil to drain
back down into the oil pan (e.g.,
while refueling).

Engine oil 125
Measure the oil level: Engine oil specifications
At a glance
1 Pull out dipstick and wipe off with a Always refer to the API specifications
lint-free cloth, paper tissue, etc. when selecting oil.
2 Push the dipstick all the way into the Required quality:
guide tube and pull it out again. API SH
3 The oil level should be between the API-SH/CD
Controls
two marks on the dipstick. API-SH/CE
360de096
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity = Oil flow rating according to
SAE class.
Car care
Select the SAE viscosity rating accord-
Add oil ing to the average seasonal air temper-
Wait until the level has dropped to just ature.
above the lower graduation before add- Consult the table on the following page
ing oil. Never wait until the oil drops
Repairs
to determine the correct SAE viscosity.
below the lower mark.
You can continue to operate the vehicle
The space between the two marks on
for short periods of time at tempera-
the dipstick corresponds to approxi-
tures beyond the range for the SAE rat-
mately 1.1 US quarts (1 liter). Do not fill
Technical
ing of the oil being used.
to beyond the upper mark on the dip-
stick. Excess oil harms the engine.
Because it would be consumed within a AAlways observe all environmental
short period, it would also result in an protection guidelines and regulations
abnormally high rate of oil consump- when disposing of used oil.c
tion. Recommendation: have the oil changed
Data
a
by your BMW Retailer.
BMW engines are designed to op-
erate without oil additives; the use of ad-
ditives could lead to damage in some
Index
cases. This also applies to the manual
and automatic transmissions, the differ-
ential and the power steering system.c

126 Engine oil
aContinuous exposure to used oil °C °F

has caused cancer in laboratory testing.
Any skin areas that come in contact with
oil should be thoroughly washed with 30
soap and water. 80
Always store oil, grease, etc., out of
reach of children. Observe all warning 20
labels and information on lubricant
Special - Oils* most preferable

60
containers. .
15W - 40
If you use SAE 15W-40 engine oil in low 10
temperatures below 145F (-10 6) the
engine may become difficult to start.c 40
0
20
5W - 30
-10
0
-20
-20
-30
RVICE
* Special engine oils individually SE
I
SG
AP
approved by BMW are the most suited

365us312
SAE
to your engine. Please contact your 5W-30
II
E NE
BMW Retailer for details.

IN
G
R
YC V
O NS ER

Coolant 127
To add coolant Long-term antifreeze and corrosion
At a glance
Wait until the engine cools before re- protectant contains the flammable
moving the cap from the expansion substance ethylene glycol. You should
tank. Before unscrewing the cap, en- therefore avoid spilling it on hot engine
sure that the needle on the temperature components, as it could catch fire and
gauge is in the blue sector to avoid cause serious burns.c
Controls
scalding.
AObserve the applicable environ-
360de099
d Start by turning the cap counter-

clockwise. Pause to allow any accu- mental protection laws when disposing
mulated pressure to escape, then of used antifreeze.c
open.
Car care
d Add coolant up to the KALT/COLD
Coolant level with engine cold: up to mark. Excess coolant drains off
the KALT/COLD mark on the transpar- through the overflow line.
ent coolant expansion tank.
The coolant is a mixture of water and
aDo not add coolant while the
Repairs
extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion
engine is hot.
inhibitor. Always maintain the prescribed
To avoid the possibility of damage later
all-season 50:50 mixture ratio for year-
on, never use anything other than
round protection against internal corro-
Technical
factory-approved nitrite and amino-free
sion. No other additives are required.
long-term antifreeze and corrosion
Replace the coolant every three years. protectant. Your authorized BMW
Retailer is familiar with the official
specifications.
Antifreeze with corrosion protectant is
toxic. Always store in original contain-
Data
ers only, keeping them tightly closed.
Store well out of reach of children.
When disposing of it, observe the
applicable environmental protection
Index
laws.

128 Brake fluid Power steering fluid
booklet). Brake fluid is toxic, and also at-
X tacks vehicle paintwork. Always store in
A the original containers, and keep them
M tightly closed, out of reach of children.
IN When disposing of it, observe the appli-
M cable environmental protection laws. Do
not spill brake fluid and do not fill be-
yond the MAX graduation on the reser-
360de098
360de097
voir. Should it come into contact with
hot engine components, the brake fluid
could catch fire and cause serious
burns.c
Warning lamp for brake hydraulic sys- With the engine off, unscrew the reser-
tem lights up: APlease observe the applicable envi- voir cap, then reinsert it.
Brake fluid loss resulting in extended ronmental protection laws when dis- The fluid level should be in between the
pedal travel. posing of used brake fluid.c graduations on the dipstick.
Fill up to the upper mark (MAX, level Use ATF to top up as required. Your
visible from the outside). BMW Service representative can pro-
Any BMW Retailer can provide you with vide you with the fluid specifications.
information on factory-approved brake Start the engine. Pour in more fluid as
fluids (DOT 4). required, continuing until it reaches to
between the two marks.
aBrake fluid is hygroscopic, i.e., it Switch off the engine. The fluid may rise
to about 0.2 inches (5 mm) above the
absorbs moisture from the atmosphere
over the course of time. To ensure that upper mark.
your brake system continues to operate Screw the reservoir cap back on.
at maximum efficiency, we strongly rec-
ommend that you have the brake fluid
changed at a BMW Retailer every two
b BMW 318i, 318is: Please contact
your BMW Retailer for the required
years (refer to pages 71, 105 and 138
work.c
and to Service and Warranty Information

Power steering fluid Vehicle Identification Number 129
High steering effort:
At a glance
Check oil level, refer to previous page.
High steering effort during sudden tran-
sitions:
Please contact your BMW Retailer for
an immediate inspection.
Controls
a
360de310
If the power steering fails, in-
creased effort will be required to steer
the vehicle.c
Car care
In the engine compartment on the right-
hand side of the heater partition panel
(arrow).
The information on the type plate and
Repairs
the Vehicle Identification Number must
match those contained in the vehicle
papers.
Technical
These data are essential for processing
inquiries, expediting service procedures
and when ordering replacement parts.
Data
Index
130 The BMW Maintenance System
Service Interval Display Service and Warranty Information
Advanced technology is employed to booklet
calculate the optimal maintenance Please refer to the Service and War-
intervals, which are then indicated in ranty Information booklet for additional
the Service Interval Display. While con- information on maintenance intervals
ventional maintenance systems rely on and procedures.
mileage alone to determine when ser- Depending on operating conditions, as
vice is due, the BMW Maintenance Sys-
360us009
a precaution against rust it may be a

tem reflects the actual conditions under good idea to have the body checked for
which the vehicle is operated, because stone damage and chips at the same
mileage is not simply mileage: time.
From the point of view of maintenance,
Please ensure that all maintenance
The BMW Maintenance System has 62,000 miles (100,000 km) accumulated
operations are entered in the Service
been designed as a reliable means of in short-distance driving are not the
and Warranty Information booklet upon
providing the customer with maximum equivalent of the same distance cov-
completion. These entries will consti-
vehicle safety and reliability with mini- ered in long-distance highway travel.
tute your proof that the vehicle has
mum complication and expense. The BMW Maintenance System received regular maintenance. They
Please remember that regular periodic includes the Engine Oil Service as well are also required for warranty claims.
maintenance plays an essential part in as Inspections I and II.
ensuring continued vehicle security. It
also helps maintain the resale value of
Determining the maintenance intervals
according to the actual loads on the car b Have your BMW Retailer carry out
the maintenance and repair. Your BMW
the vehicle. covers every kind of operating situation.
However, drivers who cover only Retailer is always informed on the latest
extremely short distances - substantially maintenance work and repair tech-
less than 6,200 miles (10,000 km) annu- niques and equipped with the required
ally - should have the engine oil changed special tools. In addition, the testing of
at least once a year, as it continues to parts known from experience to be sub-
age whether or not the car is used on a ject to wear is a permanent part of the
regular basis. maintenance specifications.c

Washing your car In the winter months, it is especially

aAlways maintain an adequate dis-
At a glance
Right from the start, you can wash your important to ensure that the car is
new BMW either by hand or in an auto- tance between the spray source and the washed on a regular basis. Large quan-
matic car wash. BMW Convertible: For vehicle's surface when using spray tities of dirt and road salt are difficult to
instructions on cleaning and care of the wands and high-pressure washers. In- remove, and they also cause damage to
convertible top, refer to page 136 ff. adequate distance and excessive pres- the vehicle.
Controls
sure can damage or weaken the finish,
To prevent spots, avoid washing when
the hood is still warm, or immediately
making it more susceptible to subse-
quent attack. In addition, moisture could
aAfter washing, the brakes may be
after and during exposure to strong wet and thus less effective! Apply the
penetrate to vehicle components, lead- brakes briefly to dry them.c
sunlight.
ing to long-term damage.c
Car care
When using an automatic car wash,
Parts of the car which are inaccessible
ensure that
to the automatic washer - such as door
d no damage occurs to vehicles with sills, door and hood edges, etc. -
add-on body elements (e.g., spoilers, should be cleaned by hand.
telephone aerials). Consult the car
Repairs
wash operator if necessary
d the vehicle is cleaned with minimum Please observe the following
brush pressure, and that ample water when cleaning the headlamp covers:
is available for washing and rinsing. d Do not clean by wiping with a dry
Technical
Loosen and remove stubborn dirt and cloth (scratches). Never use abra-
dead insects before washing the car. sives or strong solvents to clean the
covers.
d Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with
plenty of water.
Data
d Always use a de-icer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – Never
use a scraper!c
Index
132 Caring for your car
Exterior finish extending beneath the finish, starting at Caring for the vehicle finish
To provide effective corrosion protec- the point of impact. As a precaution against damage result-
tion, multilayer paintwork is applied at Road dirt, tar spots, dead insects, ani- ing from exposure to aggressive sub-
the factory. Cataphoretic immersion mal droppings (strong alkali effect) and stances, we recommend that you wash
priming techniques are supplemented tree excretions (resins and pollen) all the car weekly when it is used in an
using special body-cavity protectants, contain substances capable of causing area with high levels of air pollution or
with the application of specially-devel- damage when allowed to remain on aggressive natural substances (tree
oped and extensively tested materials. your car's finish for any period of time resin, pollen).
The entire underbody is sprayed with a (spots, etching, flaking, separation in Remove particularly aggressive sub-
flexible PVC layer before final compre- the top coat). stances immediately in order to prevent
hensive application of a wax-based In industrial areas, deposits from fly ash, changes to, and discoloration of, the
protectant. lime, oily soot, sulphur dioxide in pre- paint. Such substances are e.g., gaso-
Regular maintenance makes an impor- cipitation (acid rain) and other environ- line spilled during refueling, oil, grease,
tant contribution to maintaining the mental pollutants will damage the car's brake fluid and bird droppings.
safety and value of your vehicle. surface (usually limited to the external Any contamination remaining on the
horizontal surfaces) unless adequate surface of the vehicle will be especially
Increasing awareness of the effects of
protection is provided. conspicuous after washing. Use clean-
harmful environmental factors on vehi-
cle finishes have led paint and vehicle In coastal regions, high levels of atmo- ing fluid or alcohol with a clean cloth or
manufacturers to initiate ongoing pro- spheric salt and humidity promote cor- cotton pad to remove. You can use tar
grams designed to further improve the rosion. remover to remove any spots on the fin-
durability of their finishes. Despite the In tropical zones, temperatures of over ish of the vehicle, but should never
high quality of the resulting products, 100 5F (approx. 406) in the shade pre- apply it or any other aggressive
local and regional factors can still have vail, in addition to heavy ultraviolet radi- cleanser to lenses or headlamp covers.
a negative effect on your car's paint- ation and high humidity. Under those These areas should then be waxed to
work. These should guide you in deter- circumstances, light-colored paints maintain protection.
b
mining the frequency and extent of your reach temperatures of up to 175 5F
efforts to maintain the vehicle finish. (approx. 806) and dark paints up to A full range of car-care products is
Depending upon material and type of 250 5F (approx. 1206). available from your BMW Retailer.c
impact (perforation of paint layer), phys-
ical stresses from sand, road salt,
gravel, etc. can cause corrosion to start

Waxing your car Paint damage Caring for other vehicle compo-
At a glance
Protect the finish using carnauba or You can touch up small areas of dam- nents and materials
synthetic-based waxes only. age with BMW spray paint, a BWM Light-alloy wheels* should be treated
The best way to determine when the touch-up stick or BMW paint tape. with alloy wheel cleaner, particularly dur-
finish needs to be waxed is by noting The paint color code for your car is pro- ing the winter months. Refrain from using
when water stops beading on the sur- vided on a sticker located next to the aggressive products containing acids,
Controls
face. type plate and on the first page of your strong alkalis or abrasives. Alloy wheels
You can use a glass cleaner to remove Service and Warranty Information book- should not be cleaned with a steam jet
let. operating at temperatures in excess of
any wax or silicone that may have been
140 5F (606) (note manufacturer's
left on the windows during waxing. Damage caused by flying stones,
instructions).
Car care
scratches, etc. must be touched up
b A full range of car-care products is
available from your BMW Retailer.c
without delay to prevent rust from form-
ing.
You can use window and glass cleaner to
clean inside window surfaces and mir-
rors without smearing and streaking.
If corrosion has started to form in an Never use polishing pastes or abrasive
area with paint damage, remove all rust (quartz) cleansers on mirror lenses.
Repairs
and clean the area, then prime the area Clean plastic parts, imitation leather sur-
with a BMW Primer Stick. Finally, apply faces, the roof lining, the lenses of lamps,
the finish coat. Wait a few days, then the glass cover of the instrument panel
polish the repaired area. Finish by and all dull black sprayed parts with
Technical
applying a wax preservative. water or products for the care of plastics.
More extensive paint damage should be Avoid soaking the headliner. Never use
professionally repaired in accordance solvents such as lacquer thinner, heavy-
with the manufacturer's instructions. duty grease remover, fuels, etc.
Your BMW Retailer uses original BMW Rubber components should be cleaned
finish materials in accordance with offi- with water only; a rubber treatment or sil-
Data
cial repair procedures. icone spray may also be applied.
Clean the wiper blades with soapy water.
The wiper blades should be replaced
twice a year, before and after the cold
season.
Index
134 Caring for your car
The safety belts should be cleaned with Care of upholstery materials The build-up of an electrostatic charge
a mild soap and water solution without Depressions resulting in the upholstered on the seat covers, particularly if atmo-
being removed from the car. Never materials in the course of everyday use spheric humidity is low, can give the
attempt chemical or dry cleaning, as can be brushed up by brushing with a occupants an unpleasant electric shock
damage to the belt fabric could result. lightly dampened brush "against the if they touch metal body parts after
After cleaning, never allow the inertia nap". leaving the vehicle. Although this is not
reel to retract the belts until they are dangerous in any way, it can be
The tendency of the pile to lie in a par-
completely dry. Dirty safety belts pre- avoided by touching a bare or polished
ticular direction on velour upholstery is
vent the inertia reel mechanism from metal part of the car while getting out.
not a quality defect, and, just as on
retracting the strap properly, and thus If necessary, anti-static products can
home textiles or clothing, can not be
constitute a safety hazard. be used to eliminate this effect to a
avoided.
Heavily soiled floor carpets and mats* large extent.
Fuzz on upholstery materials, rubbed-in
can be cleaned with an interior cleaner.
fabric or suede residues can be removed
The floor mats can be removed from the
with a fuzz or Velcro brush. A cleaning
vehicle for cleaning.
glove is available for particularly "stub-
Please use only a damp cloth to clean born" fuzz. Stains and fairly large areas
wooden fascia panels and components. of dirt should be cleaned off without
Follow up by drying with a soft cloth. delay, using lukewarm water and an
b
interior cleaner, stain remover or clean-
Products for cleaning and care are ing-grade benzene. Brush the fabric
available from your BMW Retailer.c afterwards to restore its appearance.
If the upholstery is to be exposed to
intense sunlight or if the vehicle is to be
stored for an extended period, cover all
seats to prevent fading.


a
Leather care We recommend that you perform this
At a glance
The leather upholstery* used by BMW procedure twice a year on leather ex- Cleaning agents can contain dan-
is a natural product of the highest qual- posed to normal use. gerous or unhealthy ingredients. There-
ity, processed using state-of-the-art Spills should be wiped up immediately. fore always observe the warnings and
methods to ensure that it will maintain Remove grease and oil stains without danger notices on the package.
its high quality for years to come, pro- rubbing, but rather by dabbing with Open the doors or windows on your ve-
Controls
vided that it is properly cared for. spot remover. hicle when cleaning the interior.
Never clean your vehicle with solvents
Because this product is manufactured If the upholstery is to be exposed to
or other materials not specifically in-
using natural materials, you must make intense sunlight or if the vehicle is to be
tended for this application.c
allowance for its special characteristics stored for an extended period, cover all
as well as for the peculiarities of its use leather surfaces (or, better yet, the win-
Car care
and care. dows) to prevent fading.
Regular periodic cleaning and care are
essential, as dust and road dirt act as
abrasives in the pores and creases of
Repairs
the material. This leads to wear spots
and premature brittleness on the sur-
face of the leather. We therefore sug-
gest that you clean the leather with a
Technical
vacuum cleaner or dust cloth at frequent
intervals.
For cleaning, use BMW leather cleaning
foam.
As dirt and grease can slowly attack the
protective layer of the leather, the
Data
cleaned leather surfaces must be
treated with BMW Leather Care. This
serves also as an anti-static agent.
To protect against moisture and water
you can treat the leather with BMW
Index
Impregnating Agent.

136 Cleaning and care of the convertible top
Care Besides water, only treat rubber seals Washing your car
The appearance and life of the convert- with talcum powder, rubber care prod- You can wash your BMW Convertible in
ible top are highly dependent on its ucts or silicone spray, particularly when automatic car washes. Here preference
proper care and operation. You should they feel dry or tend to stick. should be given to brushless systems.
pay particular attention to the following Noises, e.g., squeaks, can be elimi- If a brushless car wash is unavailable
instructions if your care has a light-col- nated with a lubricant spray. and brush car wash must be used,
ored top. Never use sharp-edged objects to modern systems with soft brushes are
Protect the vehicle from exposure to clean the rear window of snow and ice. preferable. Do not select special wax-
intense sunlight whenever possible by The use of de-icing spray is not permit- ing programs. The small amount of
parking it in the shade to prevent the ted. Due to the danger of damage and beading wax always used in automatic
paint, rubber and fabric-covered parts discoloration, do not apply adhesive car washes will not harm your vehicle's
from being attacked. tape, stickers etc. to the window or finish.
Never fold up the convertible top and cover it with plastic film. In the case of more extensive dirt,
store it in the convertible top compart- The convertible top and its seams may which is especially visible on light-col-
ment when wet, dirty or frozen, as mil- become leaky as the result of improper ored top materials, clean the top with
dew stains and rub spots may result. care and cleaning and from the strain of the BMW Convertible Cleaning Set.
To prevent the formation of a fold in the long use, and depressions and dirt can Please proceed as follows:
rear window and mildew stains, do not result. All warranty claims are void in Spray the top with the cleaning agent
leave the top folded up in the convert- these cases. Please take your vehicle to and then rub with a well-dampened
ible top compartment for longer peri- your BMW Retailer for servicing. sponge using circular motions until a
ods. foam develops. Then you can finish
If the vehicle is temporarily stored in a washing the vehicle in an automatic car
close room, ensure that the top is dry wash. After three to five washings the
and provide sufficient ventilation. top should be treated with a special
impregnating spray. Please follow the
Clean off bird droppings immediately,
instructions on the spray can.
as they attack the convertible top and
cause the rubber seals to swell due to
their caustic characteristics.

Cleaning and care of the convertible top Vehicle storage 137
Never use spot remover, paint thinner, If the vehicle is to be temporarily stored
aCleaning agents can contain sub-
At a glance
solvents, gasoline etc. to remove spots for more than three months, have the
from the convertible top and from the stances that are dangerous or bad for following maintenance performed by
rear window, as these substances your health. Therefore always observe your BMW Retailer:
destroy the rubber seals and lead to the warnings and danger notices on the 1 Cleaning, preservation and retreat-
leaks. Use only BMW-approved clean- package. ment of the engine, engine compart-
Controls
ers. Open the doors or windows on your ve- ment, underbody, axles and
In addition to the advantage of being hicle when cleaning the interior. subassemblies in accordance with
extremely flexible, the rear window also Never clean your vehicle with solvents the factory specifications. Vehicle
has the disadvantage of having a rela- or other materials not specifically in- washing with interior cleaning fol-
tively soft surface. For this reason, only tended for this application.c lowed by paint and chrome care.
Car care
clean the rear window with a soft, anti- Clean rubber seals of the hood, lug-
Hardtop:
static cloth or with BMW Convertible gage compartment lid and doors and
Rear Window Cleaner. Please follow the instructions for car rub with either talcum powder or
care from page 131. glycerine oil.
If you wash the vehicle frequently in
brush car washes, and in particular in 2 Change engine oil and oil filter at
Repairs
those with hard brushes, faint scratches operating temperature. As an addi-
in the rear window may result. With the tional corrosion protection measure,
window replacement system you can an anti-corrosive agent can be added
replace a heavily scratched window at a to the engine in accordance with the
Technical
relatively low price. Please contact your manufacturer's instructions.
authorized BMW Retailer for additional 3 Check the coolant level and concen-
information. tration and top up if necessary.

4 Check the acid level in the battery
cells and add distilled water if neces-
sary.
Data
5 Increase the tire inflation pressure to
50.9 psi (3.5 bar).
Index
138 Vehicle storage
Conduct the following work immedi- Removing vehicle from storage
ately prior to storing the vehicle: Recharge the battery and replace if
1 Activate the parking brake and foot- necessary.
brake to dry them; this will prevent Then have Inspection I carried out by
the brake disks and drums from cor- your BMW Retailer.
roding.
2 Store the vehicle in a dry, well-venti-
lated room, shift into reverse gear or
a Storage periods during which the
battery is disconnected are not taken
set the selector lever to position P
into consideration by the Service Inter-
and chock the wheels to prevent roll-
val Display for changing the brake fluid.
ing. Do not set the parking brake.
Therefore, make sure that the brake fluid
3 Remove the battery, recharge and is changed every two years at the latest,
store in a cool, frost-free room. regardless of the display. Additional
During storage, recharge the battery notes: refer to page 128.c
every three months, as otherwise it will
become unusable. Every time the bat-
tery is discharged, especially over
extended periods, its service life is
reduced.

139
Replacement procedures: At a glance
At a glance
Onboard tool kit 140
Windshield wiper blades 140
Lamp and bulbs 141
Master key with battery lamp 145
Changing tires 146 Controls and features
Controls
Battery 149
Fuses 151
In case of electrical
malfunction: Care and maintenance
Fuel filler door 152
Car care
Sliding/tilt sunroof 152
Assistance, giving and receiving:
Jump-starting 153
Towing the vehicle 154 Owner service procedure
Repairs
Towing 154
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
140 Onboard tool kit Windshield wiper blade replacement
Under the luggage compartment lid.
Unscrew the wingnut for access.
360de114
Lift the wiper arm, press the locking
spring and pull off the wiper blade, pull-
ing along the wiper arm.

Bulb replacement 141
The lamps and bulbs on your car play a Parking lamp
At a glance
vital role in ensuring road safety, a fact 5 watt bulb
which you should always bear in mind
d Press in the upper tab of the bulb
in caring for them. Carefully observe the
holder to release and remove.
following instructions during bulb
d Pull out the bulb holder.
replacement, referring any procedures
d Pull off the bulb and replace.
Controls
with which you are not familiar to your
BMW Retailer.
b
360us089
Please observe the following
b Never touch the bulb glass of a
new lamp with your bare hands. Use a
when cleaning the headlamp covers:
d Do not rub them dry and do not apply
Car care
clean cloth, paper napkin, etc. or hold scouring or caustic cleaning agents.
the bulb by its metallic base.c Low and high beams d Remove dirt and contamination (such
Low beam: HB4, 55 watts as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
A replacement bulb set is available from
High beam: HB3, 65 watts Shampoo and then rinsing with
your BMW Retailer.
plenty of water.
Repairs
aTo prevent short circuits, always a Each bulb is pressurized; always
wear gloves and eye protection! Failure
d Always use a de-icer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – Never
switch off all electrical systems and use a scraper!c
components, or disconnect the negative to observe this precaution could lead to
Technical
terminal of the battery, before working injury if the bulb is accidentally dam-
on them. aged during replacement.c
To prevent injuries and damage, always d Turn the bulb holder to the left and
observe any instructions provided by remove.
the bulb manufacturer.c d Replace the bulb.
Data
Index
142 Bulb replacement
360de116
360de148
360de117
Front turn signals Side turn signals* Foglamps*
21 watt bulb 5 watt bulb H1 55 watt bulb
d Release the hooks with a screw- d Use finger pressure against the rear d Release the lamp bracket with a
driver. edge of the lens (arrow) to press it screwdriver.
d Remove the lamp from the front. forward for removal. d Pull the foglamp out toward the front
d Release the bulb holder and remove. d Press gently on the bulb and turn it to d Turn the plastic cap on the back of
d Apply gentle pressure to the bulb the left to remove. the lamp to the left and remove.
while turning it to the left to remove. d Pull off the plug.
d After replacing the bulb, re-insert the d Release the wire spring.
lamp and push it back until it d Replace bulb.
engages audibly twice. d After replacing the bulb, guide in the
lamp again and press on firmly until it
audibly engages.
b The retainer must be in the "Open"

position, otherwise the foglamp can not
be guided in.c

Bulb replacement 143
At a glance
1 2
Controls
360de119
360de120
360us093
Car care
Taillamps d Remove the lamp cover after releas- Center brake lamp*
1 Turn signal yellow ing the locking device. 21 watt bulb
21 watt bulb d Once you have found the lamp
holder for the defective bulb, push it d Open the luggage compartment lid.
Repairs
2 Backup lamp white d Push the bulb holder's release knob
gently to the rear while turning to the
21 watt bulb gently to the rear while turning to the
left to remove.
3 Brake lamp red d Use the same procedure to remove left to remove.
21 watt bulb the bulb. d Use the same procedure to remove
Technical
the bulb.
4 Taillamp red
5 watt bulb BMW Convertible:
LED strip in luggage compartment lid.
Please contact a BMW Retailer in the
case of a malfunction.
Data
Index
144 Bulb replacement
Front interior lamp d Pull the lamp out of the trim.
Interior lamp with reading lamps: d Fold up the PCB and remove the
(Bulbs 10 watt) bulb.
d Interior lamp: use a screwdriver to Illuminated make-up mirror*
press out the lens at the left recess. 10 watt bulb
Extract the bulb from the contacts.
d Remove lamp housing (use a screw-
d Reading lamp: remove the entire
driver if necessary).
360de121
lamp from the trim, remove the con-

d Replace bulb.
tact strip and gently press against
the lamp while turning it to the left to
remove.
License plate lamps

5 watt bulb
b When reinstalling first, engage the
housing then the lens.c
d Screw out the screws and remove
the handle. Rear interior lamps
d Press the bulb holder to the left and BMW Sedan, Coupe
remove. Without reading lamp
d Extract the bulb from the contacts.
5 watt bulb
d Pull the lamp out of the trim.
d Fold up the reflector and remove the
bulb.
With reading lamp*
6 watt bulb

Bulb replacement Master keys 145
Luggage compartment lamps
At a glance
BMW Sedan, Coupe
10 watt bulb
Lamp on underside of rear shelf:
d Use a screwdriver to pry out the lamp
Controls
at the recess.
d Replace bulb.
365de132
BMW Convertible:
5 watt bulbs
Car care
There is one lamp each in the bulb cov-
ers of the rear lamps. Replace battery
d Use a screwdriver to pry out the lamp If lamp intensity drops, renew the bat-
at the recess. tery to safeguard against acid escaping.
d Replace bulb.
Repairs
To change the battery, use a screw-
Glove compartment lamp driver to remove the cover on the back
5 watt bulb of the key.
d Use a screwdriver to pry out the lamp Insert a new battery of the same type
Technical
forward. (CR 2025) - as shown in the picture - so
d Replace bulb. that it touches the contacts.
Snap the cover back on and press it in
Footwell lamps* evenly.
5 watt bulb
d Use a screwdriver to pry the lamp out ABring old batteries to a collection
Data
of the lower instrument panel trim. point or your BMW Retailer.c
d Replace bulb.
Index
146 Changing tires
To change the tire you will need
aChange tires only on a flat, hard Car jack
surface affording good traction. Avoid
jacking the car on a soft or slippery sup- In the luggage compartment below the
port surface (snow, ice, loose gravel, floor mat at the right next to the spare
etc.), as it could slide sideways. tire.
Take extra care to ensure that the base After using, screw the jack all the way
of the jack is positioned on a solid sup- back down and insert it in its holder.
360de106
port surface.
Spare wheel and hexagon
Never use wooden blocks or similar
objects to support the base of the jack,
adapter*
as the weight of the car could exceed Both are stored in the luggage com-
their support capacity. Turn the steering wheel to the straight- partment below the floor mat. Take out
Never lie beneath the vehicle or start ahead position, remove the key and the floor mat. Remove the hexagon
the engine while the car is supported by engage the steering lock. Shift into 1st adapter (only on models with light-alloy
the jack - risk of fatal injury. or reverse (selector lever in Park with wheels with wheel lug cover in the
Additional precautions to observe when automatic) and engage the parking shape of a large hexagon nut), unscrew
changing flat tires: brake. the wing nut by hand and remove the
When pulling over on the roadside to wheel.
If a warning triangle or portable hazard
change a tire, always try to park the car Wheel stud wrench
warning lamp is available, set it up on
as far as possible from passing traffic.
the roadside at an appropriate distance In the luggage compartment at the right
Switch on the hazard flashers.
from the rear of the vehicle. Observe all on the box.
All passengers should be outside the
safety guidelines and regulations.c
car and well away from your immediate Screwdriver
working area (e.g., behind the guard-
rail). b To avoid rattling noises, note the
positions of the tools and return them to
In onboard tool kit beneath luggage
compartment floor panel.
their original positions.c
b The storage shelf in the spare tire
can be used to store small parts. To
avoid rattling noises, you can place
cloths between them.c

Changing tires 147
At a glance
Controls
360de108
365de061
360de109
Car care
Procedure 2 Loosen lug bolts 1/2 turn. 4 Insert the jack all the way into the
1 Wheel bolt cover* removal. 3 Remove the respective cover cap support while ensuring that the base
Steel disk wheel: remove wheel cover from the jacking point. Depending on of the jack is securely positioned on
by hand. Light-alloy wheel with lug the vehicle version, remove the pro- the road surface. Always chock the
Repairs
cap in the shape of a large hexagon tective cap either by inserting the wheels to prevent the vehicle from
nut: position the hexagon adapter on screwdriver into the slot and turning rolling.
the lug bolt cover, apply the lug to the left (arrow in left illustration) or 5 Turn the handle to raise the jack until
wrench and turn it to the left. by pressing in the cap on the bottom the wheel is free of the ground.
Technical
(arrow in illustration above).
a The vehicle jack is designed for
changing tires only. Never use it to raise
another vehicle model or a load of an-
other kind, since that could result in ac-
cidents and personal injury.
Data
Never lie beneath the vehicle when it is
supported by the jack – risk of fatal inju-
ry!c
6 Unscrew the lug bolts and remove the
Index
wheel.

148 Changing tires
When storing the wheel, ensure that
you do not damage the retaining pin in
the spare tire recess.
When light-alloy wheels other than
Original BMW light-alloy wheels are fit-
BM ted to the car, it may be necessary to
W
use different lug bolts.
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360de111
Have the defective tire repaired and
balanced at the earliest opportunity.
a
7 Lift the new or spare tire into posi-
tion, secure by screwing at least two To ensure safety, have the lug
lug bolts into opposite sockets and bolts tested with a calibrated torque
remove the alignment tool. wrench (torque specification is 72 lbs-ft/
8 Screw in the remaining lug bolts, 100 Nm) at the earliest opportunity. If
then tighten down all the lug bolts, you have mounted a new wheel
working in a cross pattern. (e.g., the spare tire) for the first time,
check the lug nut torque after approx.
9 Lower the vehicle, remove the jack
600 miles (1,000 km).c
and screw the cover back into the
jack opening with the screwdriver. 11 Mount wheel cover. Position the
wheel cover with the valve opening
10 Tighten the lug bolts, working in a
over the valve stem in the rim and
cross pattern.
press with both hands starting from
the valve stem and moving around
the entire circumference of the
wheel cover.

Battery 149
V
Symbols A highly-explosive gas is gener-
At a glance
You will find the following symbols on ated when the battery is
your car battery. To avoid injury, please charged.
observe the corresponding precautions
W
If you happen to get acid in your
whenever you work with or near the
eyes, rinse thoroughly for sev-
battery.
eral minutes with clear water.
Controls
Before working with the battery,
Then consult a physician immediately. If
read the following:
360de125
you get acid spray on your skin or cloth-

ing, apply soap immediately to neutral-
R
Wear eye protection. Avoid let-
ize the acid, then rinse with plenty of
ting acid or lead particles come
Car care
water. If electrolyte is accidentally
into contact with your eyes, your
skin or your clothing. ingested, consult a physician immedi-
The battery is located behind the right-
ately.
side trim panel in the luggage compart-
S
ment. A separate positive terminal in Battery acid is extremely corro-
X
sive. Wear eye protection and To protect the casing against
the engine compartment is available for ultraviolet radiation, avoid
Repairs
jump-starting (also refer to page 153). protective gloves. Do not tilt the
battery; acid could emerge from the exposing it to direct sunlight.
Only certain battery types may be used
ventilation openings. A discharged battery can freeze; always
on the BMW convertible. Consult your
store the battery in areas where the
BMW Retailer for details.
T
Ensure that children keep well
Technical
temperature remains above freezing.
The battery is maintenance-free, mean- away from batteries and battery
ing that the electrolyte will normally last acid.
for the life of the battery.
U
Should the electrolyte drop to below Never allow sparks or open
the minimum level - e.g., during extend- flame, and do not smoke in the
ed operation in hot climates - add dis- vicinity of the battery. Avoid
sparks from electrical cables and
Data
tilled water (no acid!).
Electrolyte level: Up to the "MAX" mark equipment. Never short-circuit the bat-
on the outside of the battery in each tery terminals. There is a danger of
cell, approx. 0.2 inches (5 mm) above injury from powerful sparks.
the top of the plates.
Index
Keep the top of the battery clean and
dry.

150 Battery
Removal and installation On vehicles with a connecting point in
the engine compartment, it is easiest to ABring used batteries to an autho-
aDo not disconnect the battery charge the battery by using this con-
necting point (positive pole), and a
rized collection point or a BMW Re-
tailer. Always maintain the battery in an
cable from its terminal while the engine
ground in the engine compartment upright position for transport and stor-
is running, as the resulting voltage surge
(refer to "Jump-starting" on page 153). age. Secure the battery against tilting
would destroy the vehicle's electronic
systems.c If you are planning to remove the vehi- when transporting.c
cle from service for more than four
When disconnecting, start with the neg-
ative terminal, then proceed to the pos-
weeks, you should disconnect the bat-
tery at the negative terminal.
aStorage periods during which the
itive side. Unscrew the battery retaining battery is disconnected are not taken
clamp. If you intend to store your car for longer into consideration by the Service Inter-
When installing the battery, connect the than six weeks: remove the battery, val Display for changing the brake fluid.
positive terminal first, then proceed to charge it and store it in a cool (but frost- Therefore, make sure that the brake fluid
the negative pole. free) room. Recharge the battery after is changed every two years at the latest,
three months at the latest, as it will oth- regardless of the display. Additional
a When installing, always ensure that
erwise be damaged beyond use. Every
time the battery is discharged, espe-
notes: refer to page 128.c
the battery is properly mounted.
cially over extended periods, its service
Otherwise it will not be sufficiently
life is reduced.
secured in an accident.c
Charging the battery
Always ensure that the engine is off
before recharging an installed battery.
aTo avoid short circuits, always

disconnect the cable from the battery's
negative terminal before working on the
electrical system.c

Fuses 151
A list of the fuses with their respective
At a glance
ampere ratings and the equipment in
their circuits is provided in the fuse box
lid.
aDo not patch burned out fuses or
Controls
replace them with fuses of a different
color or ampere rating, since this could
360de102
cause an overload on an electrical wire

and lead to fire in the vehicle.c
Car care
If the fuse continues to burn through,
refer the problem to a BMW Retailer for
If an electrical device fails, switch it off
repair.
and check the fuse.
The fuse box (electrical distribution
center) with spare fuses, relays and
Repairs
plastic tweezers, is located on the left-
hand side of the engine compartment.
d Press the retaining flap in and lift off
Technical
the cover.
d Remove the fuse of the defective
consumer from the socket with the
plastic tweezers.
d If the fuse is burned through (the
metal wire will have melted and sep-
arated), replace it with a new fuse of
Data
the same ampere rating.
Index
152 Manual activation in the event of electrical failure
1
360de112
360de113
Unlock tank filler door Sliding/tilt sunroof
Pull the handle with the fuel pump sym- d Press out the interior lamp with a
bol on the right trim panel in the lug- screwdriver at the left recess.
gage compartment. d Remove the cover panel.
d Remove the Allen wrench from the
onboard tool kit, insert it in the hexa-
gon head (arrow 1) and turn the slid-
ing/tilt sunroof in the desired
direction.
b Turning is easier if the plug

(arrow 2) is pulled out beforehand.c
Have the malfunction rectified by your
BMW Retailer at the earliest opportu-
nity.

Jump-starting 153
Never use spray starter fluids to start

aObserve the same sequence for
At a glance
the engine.
When the battery is discharged, you connecting the jumper cables when
can use two jumper cables to start your helping other vehicles; this will help pre-
1 2
car with power from the battery in a vent sparks from being generated at the
second vehicle. Always use jumper battery.c
Controls
cables with fully insulated handles on 5 If the battery on the support vehicle is
the terminal clamps. weak, start the engine and let it run.
360de105
Start the engine on the vehicle need-
a When the engine is running, con- ing the jump-start, and allow it to run
as usual. If necessary repeat the
Car care
tact with electrical conductors and com-
ponents is dangerous and can be fatal.c attempt to start after a few minutes;
4 Start by connecting the positive ter- this allows for current intake by the
Carefully observe the following instruc- minal of both batteries with a jumper discharged battery.
tions to avoid personal injury as well as cable. If the battery of the BMW is not Before disconnecting the jumper
damage to one or both vehicles: installed in the engine compartment, cables from your BMW, turn on the
Repairs
1 Ensure that the battery on the sup- a supplementary positive terminal is lamps, rear window defroster and
port vehicle is also rated at 12 volts, provided in the engine compartment highest blower speed to prevent a
and that the capacity (Ah) is roughly (the cover is marked "+", remove by voltage surge at the voltage regulator.
comparable (printed on casing). pulling tab, see arrow 1 in illustration). Then disconnect the jumper cables in
Technical
2 Leave your battery connected to the Then connect up the batteries' nega- reverse sequence.
car's electrical system. tive poles. Attach the cable to either Depending on the cause of the fault,
the support vehicle's negative battery recharge the battery.
3 The bodies of the two vehicles must
terminal, or to a suitable ground on its
not touch, or a short circuit could
engine or bodywork. On the BMW
result.
there is a special nut, refer to arrow 2;
Data
the nut might also be located further
forward, on the suspension strut
dome.
Index
154 Towing the vehicle Towing
360de103
360de104
360us128
Tow fittings Rear: Towing with a commercial tow
The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the Pry out the cover with a screwdriver. truck
onboard tool kit; ensure that it remains Never use sling-type equipment to
with the vehicle at all times. It can be
screwed in to either the front or the rear
aEnsure that the tow fitting is transport the vehicle.
Use wheel lifts or transport the vehicle
screwed in tightly.c
of the vehicle and is intended for towing on a flatbed truck.
only on a roadway. Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Please observe all applicable national,
d Selector lever on N.
Access to tow sockets state, provincial and local towing laws.
Towing speed:
Front:
Pry out the cover with a screwdriver.
maximum 30 mph (50 km/h).
Towing distance:
a Never allow passengers to ride in
a towed vehicle.c
maximum 30 miles (50 km).
aThe steering and brakes are with-

out power assist when the engine is off.
This means that increased effort is re-
quired for steering and braking.c

155
Airbags 156 At a glance
At a glance
Automatic Stability Control
plus Traction (ASC+T) 156
Radio reception 157
Safety belt tensioner 157
Controls
Car care
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
156 Airbags ASC+T*
grammed separation points in their Automatic Stability Control plus Trac-
upholstered covers. tion helps maintain stable and con-
Because the inflation process must be trolled vehicle response by inhibiting
virtually instantaneous, it is necessarily slip at the drive wheels.
accompanied by a certain amount of The system employs special sensors to
ignition and inflation noise. The gas monitor wheelspeed and relay the data
which the system employs to inflate the to the system's electronic control unit,
airbag is not dangerous, and the asso- which uses this information to calculate
390de012
ciated smoke is quickly dissipated. slip rates at the individual wheels.

The entire process is completed within Depending on the driving situation, two
one twentieth of a second. forms of remedial action can then be
taken by the system: it reacts to slip-
Deceleration sensors continuously page caused by large amounts of
monitor the physical forces acting upon excess torque by instructing the engine
the vehicle. If a frontal impact results in management system to reduce power
deceleration, for which the protection output. As a supplementary measure,
afforded by safety belts no longer suf- the system will also respond to an
fices, the gas generators of the driver's especially pronounced tendency to-
and the passenger's airbags ignite ward traction loss at either of the drive
simultaneously. The passenger's air- wheels with automatic individual appli-
bag is activated only when a special cation of the affected wheel's brakes.
sensor indicates that the front passen- This achieves a locking action compa-
ger's seat is occupied. rable with a controlled limited-slip dif-
In the event of a severe side impact the ferential. This brake action is active up
side airbag* is activated on the side on to 25 mph (40 km/h). From 25 mph
which the impact occurred. (40 km/h) upward, a diminished brake
action improves the traction up to
The airbags, which are under the cover
60 mph (100 km/h).
of the steering wheel, in the instrument
panel or the side trim panels of the front
doors, are deployed and inflated by the
gas within a few milliseconds. In the
process they tear or push apart the pro-

Radio reception Safety belt tensioner 157
Although numerous factors combine to
At a glance
impose inherent limitations on the
reception quality available from mobile
radios, specially designed systems can
be employed to minimize their effects:
The Antenna Diversity system employs
Controls
several FM antennas integrated within
the rear window to provide three sepa-
360de084
390de108
rate sources for receiving broadcast
waves. An integral processor automati-
cally selects the antenna with the best
Car care
FM reception quality at any given time.
AM provides substantially longer recep- Because the ongoing antenna selection The safety belt tensioner responds to
tion ranges than FM. AM broadcast sig- process is completed within millisec- collisions by tightening the belts to
nals, propagated at ground level in the onds, it remains inaudible to the radio ensure that occupants remain firmly
form of surface waves, are also reflected listener. positioned in their seats. A gas-pres-
Repairs
from the ionosphere as atmospheric sure system retracts the buckle assem-
waves. bly to tension the shoulder and lap belts
Frequency-modulation (FM) provides within fractions of a second, preventing
substantially better sound quality than the driver and passenger from slipping
Technical
AM. However, because FM transmis- forward.
sions rely on line-of-sight broadcast
waves, their effective reception range is
limited.
Data
Index
158

159
Engine specifications 160 At a glance
At a glance
Dimensions 161
Weights 163
Capacities 166
Electrical system 167
Drive belts 167 Controls and features
Controls
Car care
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
160 Engine specifications
BMW 318i Sedan BMW 323is Coupe BMW 328i Sedan

BMW 318is Coupe BMW 323i Convertible BMW 328is Coupe
BMW 318i Convertible BMW 328i Convertible
Displacement cu.in (cmm) 115.6 (1,895) 152.2 (2,494) 170.4 (2,793)
Number of cylinders 4 6 6
Maximum output hp 138 168 190
kW 103 125 142
at engine speed rpm 6,000 5,500 5,300
Maximum torque lb-ft (Nm) 133 (180) 181 (245) 206 (280)
at engine speed rpm 4,300 3,950 3,950
Compression ratio ε 10 10.5 10.2
Stroke in. (mm) 3.29 (83.5) 2.95 (75) 3.31 (84)
Bore in. (mm) 3.35 (85) 3.31 (84) 3.31 (84)
Fuel-injection system Digital-electronic engine-management system

Dimensions 161
At a glance
BMW 318i BMW 318is BMW 318i
Sedan Coupe Convertible
Length in. (mm) 174.5 (4,433) 174.5 (4,433) 174.5 (4,433)
Width in. (mm) 66.9 (1,698) 67.3 (1,710) 67.3 (1,710)
Height (unloaded) in. (mm) 54.8 (1,393) 53.8 (1,366) 53.1 (1,348)
Controls
Wheelbase in. (mm) 106.3 (2,700) 106.3 (2,700) 106.3 (2,700)
Track, front in. (mm) 55.8 (1,418) 55.4 (1,408) 55.4 (1,408)
Track, rear in. (mm) 56.3 (1,431) 55.9 (1,421) 55.9 (1,421)
Car care
Minimum turning circle D ft. (m) 35.4 (10.8) 35.4 (10.8) 35.4 (10.8)
BMW 323is BMW 323i
Repairs
Coupe Convertible
Length in. (mm) 174.5 (4,433) 174.5 (4,433)
Width in. (mm) 67.3 (1,710) 67.3 (1,710)
Technical
Height (unloaded) in. (mm) 53.8 (1,366) 53.1 (1,348)
Wheelbase in. (mm) 106.3 (2,700) 106.3 (2,700)
Track, front in. (mm) 55.4 (1,408) 55.4 (1,408)
Track, rear in. (mm) 55.9 (1,421) 55.9 (1,421)
Minimum turning circle D ft. (m) 35.4 (10.8) 35.4 (10.8)
Data
Index
162 Dimensions

Length in. (mm) 174.5 (4,433) 174.5 (4,433) 174.5 (4,433)
Width in. (mm) 66.9 (1,698) 67.3 (1,710) 67.3 (1,710)
Height (unloaded) in. (mm) 54.8 (1,393) 53.8 (1,366) 53.1 (1,348)
Wheelbase in. (mm) 106.3 (2,700) 106.3 (2,700) 106.3 (2,700)
Track, front in. (mm) 55.4 (1,408) 55.4 (1,408) 55.4 (1,408)
Track, rear in. (mm) 55.9 (1,421) 55.9 (1,421) 55.9 (1,421)
Minimum turning circle D ft. (m) 35.4 (10.8) 35.4 (10.8) 35.4 (10.8)

Weights 163
At a glance
Vehicle weight empty
(including driver, ready for operation, with full tank of fuel,
options not included)
Controls
with manual transmission lbs (kg) 2,954 (1,340) 2,987 (1,355) 3,153 (1,430)
with automatic transmission lbs (kg) 3,042 (1,380) 3,075 (1,395) 3,230 (1,465)
Approved gross vehicle weight
Car care
Approved front axle load lbs (kg) 1,830 (830) 1,830 (830) 1,830 (830)
Approved rear axle load lbs (kg) 2,304 (1,045) 2,337 (1,060) 2,348 (1,065)
Maximum payload lbs (kg) 970 (440) 970 (440) 838 (380)
Repairs
Approved roof load capacity lbs (kg) 165 (75) 165 (75) 88 (40)
Never exceed either the approved axle weights or the gross vehicle weight.
Luggage compartment capacity cu. ft. (liter) 15.4 (435) 14.3 (405) 8.1 (230)
Technical
Data
Index
164 Weights
BMW 323is BMW 323i

Coupe Convertible
Vehicle weight, empty
(incl. driver, ready for operation, with full tank of fuel,
with manual transmission lbs (kg) 3,075 (1,395) 3,296 (1,495)
with automatic transmission lbs (kg) 3,175 (1,440) 3,373 (1,530)
with manual transmission lbs (kg) 4,045 (1,835) 4,134 (1,875)
with automatic transmission lbs (kg) 4,145 (1,880) 4,211 (1,910)
Approved front axle load lbs (kg) 1,929 (875) 1,984 (900)
Approved rear axle load lbs (kg) 2,337 (1,060) 2,359 (1,070)
Maximum payload lbs (kg) 970 (440) 838 (380)
Approved roof load capacity lbs (kg) 165 (75) 88 (40)
Luggage compartment capacity cu. ft. (liter) 14.3 (405) 8.1 (230)

Weights 165
At a glance
Vehicle weight, empty
(incl. driver, ready for operation, with full tank of fuel,
Controls
Car care
Approved front axle load lbs (kg) 1,940 (880) 1,940 (880) 1,995 (905)
Approved rear axle load lbs (kg) 2,348 (1,065) 2,370 (1,075) 2,425 (1,100)
Maximum payload lbs (kg) 970 (440) 970 (440) 838 (380)
Repairs
Approved roof load capacity lbs (kg) 165 (75) 165 (75) 88 (40)
Technical
Luggage compartment capacity cu. ft. (liter) 15.4 (435) 14.3 (405) 8.1 (230)
Data
Index
166 Capacities
Quarts (Liter) Notes

Fuel tank approx. 17 gal. (62) Fuel specification: Page 24
of which reserve approx. 2 gal. (8)
Windshield washer system approx. 2.6 (2.5) For details: Page 124
with headlamp washer system approx. 5.3 (5.0)
Cooling system including 6.9 (6.5) - 318i, 318is For details: Page 88
heater circuit 11.1 (10.5) - 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is
Engine oil and filter change 5.2 (5.0) - 318i, 318is Approved HD oil
6.9 (6.5) - 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is Specifications: Page 126
Shift, Automatic- and final drive – Lifetime fluid, no fluid change required.

Electrical system Drive belts 167
Battery AC generator - Water pump -
At a glance
BMW 318i, 318is 12 V, 65 Ah Power steering
BMW 323i, 323is, BMW 318i, 318is
328i, 328is 12 V, 75 Ah Ribbed V-belt 6 PK x 1733
BMW Convertible 12 V, 70 Ah BMW 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is
Controls
Spark plugs Ribbed V-belt 6 PK x 1555
Dual electrode: Air conditioning compressor
Bosch F7 L DC R or BMW 318i, 318is
NGK BKR 6 EK
Ribbed V-belt 4 PK x 889
Car care
BMW 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is
Ribbed V-belt 5 PK x 906
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
168

169
Everything from A to Z 170 At a glance
At a glance
Owner service procedures
from A to Z 175
Controls
Car care
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
170 Everything from A to Z
A Automatic transmission 58 Hardtop 109 C
ABS (Antilock Brake Capacity 166 Manual convertible top Car battery 149
System) 103 Filling capacity 166 Actuation 41 Car wash 131
Acceleration values 163 Autoradio 108 Manual convertible top CARB OBD II interface 24
Activated charcoal filter 92 Average fuel actuation 37 Care of upholstery 134
Adjusting steering wheel 45 consumption 79 Rear window Care of wool velour 134
Air conditioner 91 Average speed 78 Ventilation 91, 105 Care, exterior 132
Air distribution 90 Axle load, permissible 163 Rollover protection Care, interior 133
Air pressure 111 B system 52 Care, vehicle exterior 132
Air supply 92 Backrest unlock 45 Ski bag 97 Catalytic converter 102
Airbag 50 Backup lights 57, 143 Storage compartment 95 Cellular phone 108
Aluminum wheel 115 Battery 149, 167 Vehicle Center armrest 95
Antifreeze 105, 127 Removal and decommissioning 137 Central brake light 143
Antifreeze, installation 150 BMW Convrtible Central locking system 31
Radiator 105, 127 Symbols 149 Electrical windows Central locking system
Antifreeze, Battery capacity 167 Lifters 36 button 32
radiator 127, 105 Battery change BMW Hi-Fi System 93 Central locking unit 31
Anti-lock braking system Key 145 BMW Sport seat 44 Changes,
ABS 103 Battery charge current 20 Brake fluid 128 technical 6
Aquaplaning 100, 111 Battery electrolyte 149 Brake lights, Charge-current indicator
ASC+T Automatic stability Battery, discharged 153 Replace bulbs 143 light 20
control plus Belts 47 Brake pads 20 Charging the battery 150
Traction blower 92 Brake system hydraulic Check air pressure 25
Traktion 10, 84 BMW Convertible circuits 21 Check control 71
Ashtray 94 Car wash 136 Brake-in procedure 100 Check Control with outside
AUC Automatic Care 136 Brakes 104 temperature gauge and
recirculated-air control 91 Electrical Defects 128 digital clock 74
Automatic car washes 131 Convertible top Interference 105 Check engine oil level 124
Automatic recirculated-air actuation 39 Braking system 105 CHECK key 71
control AUC 91 Emergency closure 41 Breaking in vehicle 100 Check oil level 124
Automatic stability control Fully automatic Bulb replacement 141 Childproof door locks 52
plus traction Convertible top Child-restraint system 48
ASC+T 10, 84 actuation 39 Cigarette lighter 94
Note: This index does not correspond to the original manual in all details Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG
Clock 66, 67, 68, 69 Injection system 19 Capacity 166 Preparation 160
At a glance
Cockpit 16 Interference 19 Filling capacity 166 Processing 160
Coinbox 94 Digital clock 66, 67, 68, 69 Engine oil additives 125 Fuel consumption indicator
Computer 77, 78, 79, 80, Dimensions 161 Engine oil consumption 124 63
81, 82, 83 Dipstik, engine oil 124 Engine oil level 20 Fuel gauge 64
Consumption display 64 Disc brakes 104 Engine oil pressure 20 Fuses,
Controls
Convenient closure 31 Disconnect the battery 150 Eyelets, tow starting and Replacing 151
Convertible, refer to BMW Display lighting 85 Towing 154 G
convertible Distance, remaining 79 F Glove compartment 93
Coolant 105, 127, 166 Door keys 30 Failure message 71 Glove compartment light,
Coolant, Antifreeze 105 Door locks 31 Failure of an electrical bulb replacement 145
Car care
Cooling system 166 Doors, emergency actuation device 151 Gross weight,
Cruise control 62 31 Fault display 71 permissible 163
Cruising range 79 Drive belts 167 Filler cap cover 23 H
Cup holder 94 Driver's airbag 50 Filling capacity 166 Hand light 93
D Driving hints 100 Final drive Handbrake 56
Repairs
Dashboard 16 Driving in winter 105 Capacity 166 Hazard warning system 22
Dashboard lighting 85 E Filling capacity 166 Hazard warning triangle 22
Data Electric window actuator 35 First aid 22 Head restraint 43
Dimensions 161 Electrical seat First aid kit 22 Headlight cleaning System
Technical
Engine 160 Adjustment 44 Flashers 60 124
Road performance 163 Electrical system 167 Flat tire 111, 146 Headlight cleaning system
Weights 163 Electrolyte 149 Flower pollen 92 166
Data, technical 160 Electronic unit Foglight 86 Headlight covers, care 131
Date 68, 72, 74 Vehicle immobilization 30 Foglights, replace bulb 142 Headlight flasher 60
Daytime light switch 85 Elements of operation 16 Folding Heated seats 87
Decommissioning of the Emergency actuation, Rear backrest 95 Height 161
Data
Vehicle 137 Central locking system 31 Footbrake 104 Hi-Fi System 93
Deep water 101 Tank cover 152 Footwell light, High beams 60
Defrost windshields 91 Energy Control 63 Replace bulb 145 Highbeam headlights,
Defrost, windshields 91 Engine coolant 166 Footwell lights 86 Replace lights 141
Index
Defrosting position 91 Engine data 160 Front seat, position 43 Hood release 118
Diesel Engine oil 124 Fuel Horn 17
I Light switch 85 Capacity 166 Parking lights 60
Ice warning 66 Light-emitting diode LED Oil additives 125 Parking, Winter 106
Identification mark, tires 113 110 Oil change interval, Passenger airbag 50
Ignition 54 Limit 80 Refer to the service Payload, maximum 163
Ignition key 30 Loading 98 booklet 124 Pocket light 93
Ignition switch 54 Lock buttons 31 Oil consumption 124 Power door locks 31
Independent ventilation 81 Locks, care 105 Oil dipstick 124 Power steering, oil 128
Indicator lights 20 Lowbeam headlight 85 Oil filter change 166 Pressure, tire 25
Inflation pressure 25, 111 Lowbeam headlights, Oil filter renewal 166 Pressure, tires 111
Inside mirror 46 Replace lights 141 Oil level, indicator light 20 Procedure 147
Inside rearview mirror 46 Low-fuel warning light 64 Oil pressure, indicator light R
INSPECTION 64 Luggage straps 34 20 Radiator 166
Installing child seats 49 Lumbar support 45 OIL SERVICE 64 Reading lights 86
Instrument 18 M Oil, power steering 128 Rear backrest,
Instrument lighting 85 M+S-Tires 114 On-board computer 77, 78, folding 95
Interior lights 86, 144 Maintenance 64, 130 79, 80, 81, 82, 83 Rear foglight 86, 143
Interior lights, Make-up mirror 46 Operating 31 Reclining seat 43
Replace bulbs 144 Manual transmission 57 Outside rearview mirror 46 Refueling 23
Intermittent wiper switch 61 Capacity 166 Outside temperature 66, 78 Remote control
J Manually controlled Display 66 On-board computer 83
Jack 146 recirculated-air 91 Outside temperature Remove mist
Jump start 153 Maximum speed 163 indicator 68 Windshields 91
K Micro-filter 92 P Replacement keys 30
Keys 30 MID Multi-information Paintwork, care 132 Reverse 57
Kickdown 59 display 66, 67, 68, 69 Paintwork, dirt and Rims 113, 115
L Mirror heating 46 contaminants 132 Road performance 163
Mirrors 46 Paintwork, minor repairs Roof load, approved 163
Leather care 135
Multifunction switch 60 133 Roof load, permissible 163
LED Light-emitting diodes
Multi-information display Paintwork, waxing 133 Roof rack 107
110
MID 66, 67, 68, 69 Parking brake 56 Roof-mounted luggage rack
Length 161
License plate light, O Parking light 85 107
Odometer 63 Parking light, Rubber parts 105
Replace bulb 144
Oil Replace bulb 141 Rubber seals and
components 105 Starting problems 102 Through loading system 95 Replace bulb 142
At a glance
S Steel wheel 115 Timer 81 Turn signals 143
SAFETY DEFECTS 7 Steering 128 Tire change 146 Turning circle 161
Seat heaters 87 Steering lock 54 Tire damages 111 Turning radius 161
Seat, electric 44 Steering wheel lock 54 Tire inflation pressure 25, U
Seat, mechanical 43 Stopwatch 80 111 Unloaded vehicle weight
Controls
Seatback release 45 Storage shelves 93 Tire inscription 113 163
Seatbelts 47 Summer tires 113 Tire replacement 112 Unlocking and locking doors
Seats, adjustment 43 Sun visor 46 Tire sizes 115 31
Selector lever, automatic Switching off the engine 55 Tire tread 111 Used batteries 150
transmission 58 Switching off the vehicle 55 Tool kit 140 V
Car care
Service Interval Display 64 Symbols 4 Tools 140 Vehicle care, interior 133
Shift programs 59 Battery 149 Tow starting 154 Vehicle decommissioning
Side airbag 50 T Towing 154 137
Sliding 106 Tachometer 63 Towing eyelets 154 Vehicle identification 129
Sliding/tilt sunroof 36 Tailgate 33 Track 161 Vehicle identification
Repairs
Close in case of electrical Taillights 143 Trailer load, permissible 163 number 129
fault 152 Taillights, Trailer nose weight, Vehicle immobilization unit
Slippery roads 105 Replace bulbs 143 permissible 163 30
Snow chains 105 Tank cover Transmission 57 Vehicle paintwork 132
Technical
Spare key 30 Unlock in case of Traveling abroad 102 Vehicle weight 163
Spare keys 30 electrical fault 152 Tread depth, tires 111 Ventilate at a standstill 81
Spare tire 112, 146 Technical Data 160 Trip 63 Ventilation, draft free 92
Spark plugs 167 Technical data 160 Trip distance recorder 63 W
Special oils 125 Telephone 108 Trip odometer 63
Warm feet - cool head 92
Speed warning activation Temperature 91 Trunk
Warning 71
threshold 80 Temperature display 66 Capacity 163
Data
Warning Light-On 85
Sport seat 44 Temperature layering 92 Trunk lights,
Warning lights 20
Start 54 Tempomat 62 Replace bulb 145
Washer fluid
Start the engine Thigh support Turn on 54
Add 124
Preheating 54 Ajustment 44 Turn signal indicator 60
Fill up 166
Index
Starting assistance 153 Third brake light 143 Turn signal,
Washer fluid reservoir
Fill up 166 Windshield washer nozzle
Washer reservoir adjustment 124
Fill up 124 Windshield wiper blade
Washing your car 131 replacement 140
Water on the roads 101 Windshield wipers 61
Waxing, paintwork 133 Winter operation 105
Weights 163 Winter tires 113
Wheel bolts 147 Wiper blade replacement
Cover 147 140
Wheel lug wrench 146 Wiper/washer system 61
Wheel rotation on the Wipers 61
Axles 112 Work in the engine
Wheel trim 147 compartment 118
Wheelbase 161
Wheels and tires 113, 115
Wheelslip control, refer to
ASC+T 10, 84
Width 161
Window 31
Window actuator,
Safety switch 35
Window actuator, electric
35
Window mist
Remove 91
Windshield cleaning
Automatic program 61
Windshield washer fluid
reservoir
Fill up 124, 166
Windshield washer jet,
Heating 61
Owner service procedures from A to Z 175
A Door, emergency H P
At a glance
Add coolant 127 actuation 32 Hazard warning system 21 Parking lamp,
Adding oil 125 Hazard warning triangle 21 replace bulb 141
Adjusting washer E Headlamp cover, care 141 Power steering,
nozzles 124 Electrical fault Help in case of a add oil 128
Antifreeze, use 127 Sliding/tilt sunroof 152 breakdown 153 Pressure, tires 24
Fuel filler door 152 High beam headlamps, Protective glazing,
Controls
B Emergency actuation, replace lamps 141 care 131
Backup lamp, Door 32
replace bulb 143 Sliding/tilt sunroof 152 I R
Battery, Fuel filler door 152 Indicator lamps 19 Rear foglamps,
Car care
charging 150 External starts 153 Inflation pressure 24 replace bulb 142
Battery change, Interior lamps, Remove mist on
master key 145 F replace bulbs 144 windshields 91
radio remote control 145 Failure messages 70 Replace bulbs 141
Battery, Failure of an K Replace fuses 151
Repairs
add distilled water 149 electrical device 151 Key, battery change 145
discharged 153 Fault displays 70 S
Brake fluid, add 128 First aid 21 L Sliding/tilt sunroof,
Brake lamps, Fittings, tow-starting and License plate lamp, close in case of power
Technical
replace bulb 143 towing 154 replace bulb 144 supply interruption 152
Brakes, defects 105 Flat tire 146 Low beam headlamps, Snow chains 105
Foglamps, replace lamps 141 Starting difficulties 102, 153
C replace bulb 142 Luggage compartment lid, Starting with a discharged
Check air pressure 24 Footwell lamp, emergency actuation 32 battery 153
Check Control 70 replace bulb 145 Luggage compartment
Check engine oil level 124 lamps, replace bulb 145 T
Data
Coolant, add 127 G Taillamp 143
Glove compartment lamp, M Taillamp,
D replace bulb 145 Maintenance 63 replace bulb 143
Defrost windshields 91 Tire change 146
Difficult steering 129 O Tire damage 111
Index
Onboard tool kit 140 Tools 140
176 Owner service procedures from A to Z
Top up windshield washer
fluid reservoir 124
Towing 154
Tow fittings 154
Tow-starting 154
Turn signal,
replace bulb 142
U
Unlock tank cover
in the event of
electrical fault 152
Unlocking hood 118
Use antifreeze,
radiator 127
W
Warning lamps 19
Washer fluid, top up 124
Window mist, remove 91
Refueling
So that you will have important specifi- Fuel
cations available when you stop to re- For a description, refer to page 23
fuel, we recommend that you supple-
ment this table with data which apply to Designation
your vehicle.
AKI: Minimum
AKI: For rated performance
AKI: For enhanced

performance
Engine oil
For a description, refer to page 125
Quality
The space between the

two marks on the
dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter).
Tire inflation pressures Summer Winter

For a description, refer to page 25
Front Rear Front Rear
4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage

01 41 9 790 377 US-en
We wish you an enjoyable
driving experience. The Ultimate Driving Machine

Owner's Manual For The Vehicle.: With A Quick Reference Guide For Your Convenience

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Owner’s Manual for the vehicle.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Notes on the Owner's Manual Symbols used The individual vehicle

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Status when going to press

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

a Use unleaded gasoline only.

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Controls and features

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Lamps: Special operating instructions: Under the hood:

Controls and features

Care and maintenance

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Owner service procedure

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Everything from A to Z 172

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

1 Fuel gauge with low-fuel 13 Indicator lamps for

Automatic transmission*, yellow a Use only original BMW-approved

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

a Comply with legal requirements

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Unleaded gasoline only.

Higher octane fuels will provide in-

The OBD II interface (data link connec-

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

If the driver's door is open, the infla-

Tire inflation pressures (cont.)

See next page for additional models

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Tire inflation pressures (cont.)

Locks and security systems: Driving:

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

Technology for driving comfort Cabin convenience: At a glance

restore the electronic system authoriza-

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

If the vehicle is locked from the

a The door windows are lowered

a Avoid using the inside lock buttons

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

To lock the luggage compartment The luggage compartment lamp

and disconnected from the central lock-

a Do not drive with the luggage lid

To close Luggage straps

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

On vehicles equipped with front and Convenience mode

Safety switch* (arrow) a Careless and inattentive closing of

by means of rear switches, e.g., by chil-

a tance while closing, it will respond by

b During raising, the headliner also

windows remain operational

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

a When closing the power windows

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG

a The convertible top operates fully

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - © 07/98 BMW AG