BMW E38 7 series owner’s Manual.

The manual is from original bmw manual for BMW 7 series in E38 body. You can read it in html or download to your computer in pdf (1.7Mb)
Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW. Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced control and security when you drive it. We therefore have this request: Please take the time to read this Owner's Manual and familiarize yourself with the information that we have compiled for you before starting off in your new car. It contains important data and instructions intended to assist you in gaining maximum use and satisfaction from the unique range of technical features on your BMW. The manual also contains information on care and maintenance designed to enhance operating safety and contribute to maintaining the value of your BMW throughout an extended service life.
This BMW E38 Owner's Manual should be considered a permanent part of this vehicle. It should stay with the vehicle when sold to provide the next owner with important operating, safety and maintenance information.
This manual for E38 is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or a Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models). We recommend that you read this publication thoroughly. Your BMW is covered by the following warranties:
> New Vehicle Limited Warranty
> Limited Warranty Rust Perforation
> Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
> Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
> California Emission Control System Limited Warranty
Detailed information about these warranties is listed in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.
BMW AG

Notes on the Owner's Manual

We have made every effort to ensure that you are able to find what you need in this Owner's Manual as quickly as possible. The fastest way to find certain topics is by using the detailed index at the end. If you desire an initial overview of your vehicle, this can be found in the first chapter. The detailed list of contents that directly follows the summary of contents is intended to stimulate your curiosity regarding your BMW and to encourage you to read the manual. Should you wish to sell your BMW at some time in the future, please remember to hand over the Owner's Manual to the new owner; it is part of the vehicle. If you have any additional questions, an authorized BMW center will be glad to advise you.

The individual vehicle

On buying your BMW, you have decided in favor of a model with individualized equipment and features. This Owner's Manual describes all models and equipment that BMW offers within the same group.
We hope you will understand that equipment and features are included which you might not have chosen for your vehicle. Any differences can easily be identified, since all optional accessories and special equipment are marked with an asterisk. If your BMW features equipment which is not described in this Owner's Manual (car radio or telephone, for instance), Supplementary Owner's Manuals are enclosed. We ask you to read these manuals as well.

Status at time of printing

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

For your own safety

Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels containing up to 10% ethanol or other oxygenates with up to 2.8% oxygen by weight (i.e., 15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an equivalent amount of co-solvent) will not void the applicable warranties with respect to defects in materials or workmanship. Field experience has indicated significant differences in fuel quality (i.e., volatility, composition, additives, etc.) among gasolines offered for sale in the United States and Canada. The use of poor-quality fuels may result in driveability, starting and stalling problems, especially under certain environmental conditions, such as high ambient temperature and high altitude. Should you encounter driveability problems that you suspect could be related to the fuel you are using, we recommend that you respond by switching to a recognized high-quality brand. Failure to comply with these recommendations may result in unscheduled maintenance. Follow the relevant safety rules when you are handling gasoline
Important safety information! For your own safety, use genuine parts and accessories approved by BMW. When you purchase accessories tested and approved by BMW and Original BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire the assurance that they have been thoroughly tested by BMW to ensure optimum performance when installed on your vehicle. BMW warrants these parts to be free from defects in material and workmanship. BMW will not accept any liability for damage resulting from installation of parts and accessories not approved by BMW. BMW cannot test every product from other manufacturers to verify if it can be used on a BMW safely and without risk to either the vehicle, its operation, or its occupants. Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories and other products approved by BMW, together with professional advice on using these items, are available from all BMW centers. Installation and operation of non-BMW approved accessories such as alarms, radios, amplifiers, radar detectors, wheels, suspension components, brake dust shields, telephones (including operation of any portable cellular phone from within the vehicle without using an externally-mounted antenna) or transceiver equipment (C.B., walkie-talkie, ham radio, for instance) may cause extensive damage to the vehicle, compromise its safety, interfere with the vehicle's electrical system, or affect the validity of the BMW Limited Warranty. See your authorized BMW center for additional information. Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and systems may be performed by any automotive repair establishment or individual using any certified automotive part.
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 individual problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of North America, Inc.

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

Overview

Cockpit
Instrument cluster
Indicator and warning lamps
Multifunction steering wheel (MFL)
Hazard warning flashers
Warning triangle
First-aid kit
Refueling
Fuel specifications
Tire inflation pressure

Controls and features

Locks and security systems:
Keys 30
Electronic vehicle
immobilizer 31
Central locking system 32
Door locks – outside 32
Radio remote control 33
Door locks – inside 36
Luggage compartment lid 37
Luggage compartment 39
Alarm system 40
Electric power windows 42
Security glass 43
Sliding/Tilt sunroof 44
Adjustments:
Seats 46
Steering wheel 49
Mirrors 50
Seat, mirror and steering wheel
memory 51
Car Memory, Key Memory 53
Passenger safety systems:
Safety belts 54
Airbags 55
Child restraints 57
Child restraint installation 58
Child-safety locks 58
Driving:
Steering/Ignition lock 59
Starting engine 59
Switching off engine 60
Parking brake 61
Automatic transmission 62
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic 65
Turn signal/Headlamp flasher 68
Washer/Wiper system/Rain
sensor 68
Rear window defroster 70
Cruise control 70
Everything under control:
Odometer, outside temperature
display 72
Tachometer 72
Energy control 73
Fuel gauge 73
Temperature gauge 74
Service Interval Display 74
Check Control 75
Multi-Information Display
(MID) 78
Digital clock 79
Onboard computer 84
Technology for safety and convenience:
Park Distance Control PDC 90
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) 92
Electronic Damper Control
(EDC) 93
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 94
Parking lamps/Low beams 96
Instrument panel lighting 96
High beams/Parking lamps 97
Fog lamps 97
Interior lamps 97
Reading lamps 98
Controlling the climate for pleasant driving:
Automatic climate control 100
Rear passenger-area air
conditioning 105
Seat heating 106
Steering wheel heating 106
Roller sun blind 107
Independent ventilation
system 107
Cabin convenience:
Integrated Universal
Remote Control 108
Glove compartment 110
Center armrests 111
Additional storage areas 113
Cup holder 113
Cellular phone 113
Ashtray 114
Cigarette lighter 115
Rear footrests 115
Loading and transporting cargo:
Ski bag 116
Cargo loading 118
Roof-mounted luggage rack 118

Operation, care and maintenance

Special operating instructions:
Break-in procedure 122
Driving notes 123
Catalytic converter 124
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) 125
Disc brakes 126
Brake system 128
Winter operation 128
Power steering 130
Level control system 130
Cellular phone 131
Radio reception 131
Wheels and tires:
Tire inflation pressure 132
Tire condition 132
Tire replacement 133
Tire rotation 133
Wheel and tire
combinations 134
Winter tires 135
Snow chains 135
Approved wheel and tire
specifications 136
Under the hood:
Hood 137
Engine compartment 138
Washer fluids 142
Washer nozzles 142
Engine oil 143
Coolant 146
Brake fluid 147
Oil for power steering/
Level control system 148
Vehicle Identification
Number 148
Care and maintenance:
The BMW Maintenance
System 149
Caring for your car 150
Airbags 156
Vehicle storage 156
Laws and regulations:
Technical modifications to the
vehicle 157
OBD connector 158

Owner service procedures

Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit 162
Windshield wiper blades 162
Lamps and bulbs 163
Remote control 168
Changing tires 170
Battery 173
Fuses 176
In case of electrical malfunction:
Fuel filler door 178
Sliding/Tilt sunroof 178
Assistance, giving and receiving:
Jump-starting 179
Towing the vehicle 180

Advanced technology

Airbags 184
Adaptive Transmission Control
(ATC) 184
Automatic Stability Control plus
Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability
Control (DSC) 185
Radio reception 186
BMW Active Seat 186
Safety belt tensioner 187
DSP sound system 187
Interior rearview mirror with automatic
dimming feature 188
Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 189
Xenon lamps 190
Water and dirt repelling
windshield 191

Technical data

Engine specifications
Dimensions 195
Weights 196
Capacities 197
Electrical system 198
Drive belts 198

Cockpit

1 Parking lamps/Low beams 96

2

>Turn signal 68

>Parking lamp 97

>High beams 97

>Headlamp flasher 68

>Onboard computer 89

3 Horn: The entire surface

4 Fog lamps 97

5 Wiper/Washer lever 68

6 Central locking system 32

7 Hazard warning system 24

8 Rear window defroster 70

9 Electric steering wheel

adjustment 49

10 Parking brake release handle 61

11 Parking brake pedal 61

Instrument cluster

1 Fuel gauge with lamp for fuel

reserve range 73

2 Turn signal indicators 22

3 Speedometer

4 Indicator lamp for high beam

headlamps 22

5 Tachometer and

Energy Control 72, 73

6 Coolant temperature gauge 74

7 Indicator and warning lamps for

>Parking brake 21

>Hydraulic brake system/Dynamic

Brake Control (DBC)20, 21

>ABS 21

>Airbag 21

>Please fasten safety belts 21

>Cruise control 22

8 Check button 75

9 Program display for automatic

transmission 64, 67

10 Outside temperature display 72

11 Indicator lamp for Automatic

Stability Control plus Traction

(ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability

Control (DSC)21

12 Trip odometer 72

13 Check Control display 75

14 Odometer 72

15 Service Interval Display 74, 149

16 Reset button for trip odometer 72

17 Indicator and warning lamps for

>Fog lamps 22

>Battery charge current 20

>Engine oil pressure 20

>Check Engine lamp 21

You can display the outside temperature

and distance driven in

different units of measurement.

Indicator and warning lamps

Technology that monitors itself

Many of the systems of your BMW monitor themselves automatically, both during engine starts and while you are driving. Indicator and warning lamps that are identified by "" are tested for proper functioning whenever the ignition key is turned. They each light up once for different periods of time. If a fault should occur in one of these systems, the corresponding lamp does not go out after the engine is started or it lights up while the vehicle is moving. You will see how to react to this below.
Battery charge current l The battery is no longer being charged. There is a malfunction of the alternator ribbed V-belt or in the charging circuit of the alternator. Please contact the nearest BMW center.

If the V-belt is defective, do not continue driving. The engine could be damaged due to overheating. If the ribbed V-belt is defective, increased steering effort is also required.


Engine oil pressure Comes on while the engine is running and the "Stop! ENGINE OILPRESS" message appears in the Check Control: Stop vehicle and switch off engine immediately. Check level of oil in engine, top up as required. If oil level is correct: Please contact the nearest BMW center.


Do not continue driving. The engine could be damaged because of inadequate lubrication.


Brake hydraulic system l The brake fluid level is too low. Before driving further, be sure to read the notes on pages 128 and 147. Also comes on with the message "Check brake pads" in the Check Control.


Brake hydraulic system warning lamp for Canadian models.

Red: An important reminder

Parking brake Comes on when you engage the parking brake. For additional information: Refer to page 61.


Parking brake warning lamp for Canadian models.


Please fasten safety belts An acoustic signal and message in the Check Control for 4 to 8 seconds. The acoustic signal ends after the safety belts are fastened. For additional information on safety belts: Refer to page 54.


Airbags Please have the system checked by your authorized BMW center as soon as possible. For additional information: Refer to page 55.

Yellow: Check as soon as possible

Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) Fault in the DBC System. Conventional braking efficiency is available without limitations. For additional information: Refer to page 127.


Warning lamp, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) * for Canadian models.


Antilock Brake System (ABS) l The ABS system has been deactivated because of a system fault. Conventional braking efficiency is available without limitations. Please have the system inspected by your authorized BMW center. For additional information: Refer to page 125


ABS warning lamp for Canadian models.



Automatic Stability Control plus Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) The ASC+T/DSC has been switched off or has been deactivated because of a malfunction. In the event of a malfunction, have the system checked by your authorized BMW center. For additional information: Refer to page 92.



Check Engine lamp If the indicator lamp comes on either continuously or intermittently, this indicates a fault in the emissions- related electronic systems. Although the vehicle remains operational, you should have the systems checked by your BMW center at the earliest possible opportunity. For additional information: Refer to OBD connector on page 158.

Green: For your information

Turn signal Flashes when the turn signals are in operation. Rapid flashing indicates a system malfunction. For additional information: Refer to page 68.



Cruise control Lights up when the cruise control is activated. Available for operation via the multi-function steering wheel. For additional information: Refer to page 70.


Fog lamps Lights up whenever you switch on the fog lamps. For additional information: Refer to page 97.

Blue: For your information

High beam Lights up when the high beams are on or the headlamp flasher is actuated. For additional information: Refer to pages 68, 97.

Multifunction steering wheel (MFL)

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

> Some of the functions of the radio, the CD and cassette modes

> The recirculated-air mode of the air conditioner or

> The steering wheel heating

> The cruise control and

> Selected cellular phone functions.

In order to operate a system via the MFL, the corresponding system controls must be switched on. The illustration shows the maximum possible number of controls, corresponding to a full range of optional equipment. Refer to the individual accessory manuals for more detailed descriptions.


1 Cellular phone: Receive an incoming call, initiate dialing and end a call. Pressing and holding the key for a longer period activates or deactivates the voice input

2 Radio/Telephone: Selection

3 Radio/Telephone: Search backward or station keys or scroll in the phone book. Fast forward and reverse for CD and cassette modes

4 Radio/Telephone: Volume

5 Radio/Telephone: Search forward or station keys or scroll in the phone book. Fast forward and reverse for CD and cassette modes

6 Horn: The entire surface

7 Cruise control: Activate stored setting (resume)

8 Cruise control: Store and accelerate (+); decelerate and store (–)

9 Cruise control: Activate/Interrupt/ Deactivate

10 Recirculated-air mode and AUC or steering wheel heating: Switch on and off

Hazard warning flashers

The push-button flashes rhythmically when the hazard flashers are on. To help you to locate the switch, the button is also lighted whenever the car lamps are on.

Warning triangle

The hazard warning triangle is stored underneath the luggage compartment lid in the onboard tool holder where it is quickly available. Comply with legal requirements which cover the availability of a hazard warning triangle in the car.

First-aid kit

Stored between the rear seats. Pull the lever (arrow) and fold the cover forward. Some of the articles in the first-aid kit may be used within a limited time only. For this reason, check the expiration dates of each of the items regularly, and replace any whose expiration dates have passed. You can acquire replacements in any drugstore or pharmacy. Comply with legal requirements which cover availability of a first-aid kit in the car.

Refueling

Before filling the tank, shut off the engine. If you do not, fuel cannot flow into the tank and the "Check Engine" warning lamp may come on.

To open the fuel filler door, press against its forward edge. To unlock the fuel filler door if there is a malfunction of the central locking system, refer to page 178.

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

Open the filler cap carefully to prevent fuel from spraying out. Fuel spray may cause injury. Do not top off. Topping off may cause fuel spillage.

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

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

> results in premature pump shutoff

> and will reduce the effect of the recovery vapor system on the pump.

Close the fuel cap carefully after refueling. A loose or missing cap will activate the "Check Engine“ lamp.

Fuel specifications

Use unleaded gasoline only.

Minimum octane requirement: 91 AKI.

BMW engines are equipped with knock sensors and will adapt automatically to different octane ratings, provided that the minimum octane requirement (87 AKI) is met.

Fuels with higher octane ratings will provide enhanced performance and lower fuel consumption, while the use of fuels with lower octane ratings will have the opposite effect.

Do not use leaded fuels. The use of leaded fuels will cause permanent damage to the system's oxygen sensor and the catalytic convertor.

AKI = Anti Knock Index

Tire inflation pressure

The inflation pressures are indicated on a sticker attached to the B-pillar behind the driver's door (visible with door open).

Check tire pressures

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

For vehicles with Tire Pressure Control (RDC)

After a correction of the tire inflation pressure, reactivate the system. Refer to page 94.

Check tire inflation pressures regularly - at least every two weeks and before beginning a longer trip. Incorrect tire pressure can otherwise lead to tire damage and accidents. Also check the inflation pressure of the spare tire. Inflate the spare tire to the highest inflation of any tire on your vehicle.

Comply with tire approval specifications

The inflation pressures in the table apply to tires from BMW-approved manufacturers. Your BMW center is familiar with these pressures. Higher pressures may be specified for tires from other manufacturers. You will find a list of approved tires beginning on page 136.

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

Tire inflation pressure

Locks and security systems:

Keys 30

Electronic vehicle

immobilizer 31

Central locking system 32

Door locks – outside 32

Radio remote control 33

Door locks – inside 36

Luggage compartment lid 37

Luggage compartment 39

Alarm system 40

Electric power windows 42

Security glass 43

Sliding/Tilt sunroof 44

Adjustments:

Seats 46

Steering wheel 49

Mirrors 50

Seat, mirror and steering wheel

memory 51

Car Memory, Key Memory 53

Passenger safety systems:

Safety belts 54

Airbags 55

Child restraints 57

Child restraint installation 58

Child-safety locks 58

Driving:

Steering/Ignition lock 59

Starting engine 59

Switching off engine 60

Parking brake 61

Automatic transmission 62

Automatic transmission with

Steptronic 65

Indicator/Headlamp flasher 68

Washer/Wiper system/Rain

sensor 68

Rear window defroster 70

Cruise control 70

Everything under control:

Odometer, outside temperature

display 72

Tachometer 72

Energy control 73

Fuel gauge 73

Temperature gauge 74

Service Interval Display 74

Check Control 75

Multi-Information Display

(MID) 78

Digital clock 79

Onboard computer 84

Technology for safety and convenience:

Park Distance Control (PDC) 90

Automatic Stability Control plus

Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability

Control (DSC) 92

Electronic Damper Control

(EDC) 93

Tire Pressure Control (RDC) 94

Lamps:

Parking lamps/Low beams 96

Instrument panel rheostat 96

High beams/Parking lamps 97

Fog lamps 97

Interior lamps 97

Reading lamps 98

Controlling the climate

for pleasant driving:

Automatic climate control 100

Rear passenger-area air

conditioning 105

Seat heating 106

Steering wheel heating 106

Rear window blind 107

Independent ventilation

system 107

Cabin convenience:

Integrated Universal

Remote control 108

Glove compartment 110

Center armrests 111

Additional storage areas 113

Cup holder 113

Cellular phone 113

Ashtray 114

Cigarette lighter 115

Rear footrests 115

Loading and transporting cargo:

Ski bag 116

Cargo loading 118

Roof-mounted luggage rack 118

Keys

Key with radio remote control

1 Master key with transmitter for radio remote control. 2 Spare key for storage in a safe place, such as your wallet. This key is not intended for continuous use. 3 Door and ignition key The locks for the luggage compartment lid and glove compartment cannot be operated with this key – this is useful for valet parking, for instance.

Replacement keys

Replacement keys are available exclusively through your authorized BMW center. Your BMW center is obligated to ensure that a person requesting a key is authorized to do so since the keys belong to a security system (refer to "Electronic vehicle immobilizer" on page 31).

Electronic vehicle immobilizer

The key to security

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

How the electronics work

At the heart of this system is an electronic chip which is integrated into the key. The lock mechanism itself is actually a dual-function device, simultaneously serving as a communications interface designed to allow the security system to maintain a continuous stream of variable, vehicle-specific signals with the electronic circuitry in the key. The system will not release the ignition, fuel injection and starter unless it recognizes an "authorized" key. Force applied to the key can damage the integrated electronic circuitry. A damaged key can no longer be used to start the engine

Central locking system

The concept

The central locking system is ready for operation as soon as you close the driver's door. The system engages and releases the locks on the > doors > luggage compartment lid > fuel filler door. The central locking system can be operated > from outside via the driver's door or luggage compartment lock and with the remote control > from inside via the central locking button. The fuel filler door remains unlocked when you activate the system from inside the vehicle. The anti-theft system is automatically armed whenever you activate the central locking system from outside the vehicle. The alarm system is also activated or deactivated. In the event of an accident, the central locking system unlocks automatically (only those doors which were not locked separately with the safety lock buttons). Refer to page 36. In addition, the hazard warning flashers and interior lamps come on.

Door locks – outside

To engage and release locks

One turn of the key in the driver's door lock unlocks the driver's door only. Turning the key a second time unlocks all of the remaining doors, the luggage compartment lid and the fuel filler door. When a door is opened, the interior lamps and the exterior door handle illumination are switched on. Switching off is automatic.

Convenience operating mode

You can also use your remote control transmitter to open and close the electric power windows and the sliding/tilt sunroof.

> To open: With the door closed, turn the key to the "Unlock" position and hold it.

> To close: With the door closed, turn the key to the "Lock" position and hold it. Watch the closing process carefully and be sure that no one is trapped by the closing motion. The movement stops when you release the key.

Manual operation

(in the event of an electrical failure) Turn the key all the way to the extreme left or right to unlock/lock the door.

Radio remote control

The remote control makes opening and locking the doors of your vehicle very convenient. Furthermore, it provides three additional functions which can only be executed by means of the remote control:

> Switching on the interior lamps and illuminating the exterior door handles. With this function, you can also "search for" your vehicle, when parked in an underground garage, for instance

> To open luggage compartment lid The luggage compartment lid will open slightly, regardless of whether the lid was previously locked or unlocked

> Panic Mode In case of danger, you can trigger an alarm.

The anti-theft system is also deactivated/ activated simultaneously with the unlocking or locking of the vehicle, and the alarm system is disarmed/ armed.

When the vehicle is unlocked, the interior lamps and the exterior door handle illumination are switched on.

Master keys

Keys with a transmitter for remote control are master keys. Refer to page 30.

Since children might be able to lock the doors from the inside, take the vehicle's keys with you so that the vehicle can be opened again from the outside at any time.

Every transmission is indicated by a light signal. If the signal no longer lights up when a button is pressed and locking with the remote control no longer functions: Change the battery. Refer to page 168.

Unlocking and convenience opening mode

To release: Press button 1. Press the button once to unlock the driver's door only; press a second time to unlock all remaining doors as well as the luggage compartment and fuel filler door.

Convenience opening mode: Press and hold button 1. The electric power windows and the sliding/tilt sunroof are opened.

If you desire, you can have this feature set so that it is related to specific keys.

Radio remote control

To lock and secure

Press button 2

The interior lamps and illuminated exterior door handles switch on; the tilt sensor alarm system switches off

To switch on the interior lamps and illuminating the exterior door handles: After locking the car, press button 2. With this function – keeping the range of the remote control in mind – you can "search for" your car (in a large parking lot, for instance). To deactivate the tilt sensor alarm system: Press button 2 again briefly after the system is locked. This also deactivates the interior motion sensor of the alarm system (refer to page 41)

Opening the luggage compartment lid - Panic Mode

To open the luggage compartment: Press button 3. Before beginning a trip, be sure that the luggage compartment lid was not opened unintentionally.< Panic Mode: By pressing and holding button 3 for 2 to 5 seconds, you can trigger the alarm system if there is an impending danger if the system has been armed. The alarm is deactivated by pressing button 1

Same-frequency interference

Operation of the remote control system may be affected by other units or equipment employing the same transmission frequency in the immediate vicinity of your car.

For US owners only

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

FCC ID:

LX8EWS

LX8FZVS

LX8FZVE

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

> This device may not cause harmful interference, and

> this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Any unauthorized modifications to these devices could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Door locks – inside

Use this button to operate the central locking system when the front doors are closed. With this button, only the doors and luggage compartment lid are unlocked or locked. The anti-theft system is not activated. The fuel filler door also remains unlocked to allow refueling. If only the driver's door was unlocked from the outside and you press the button

> all other doors, the luggage compartment lid and the fuel filler door will be unlocked if the driver's door is open

> the driver's door will be locked again if it is closed.

To unlock and open the doors

> Either unlock the doors together with the button for the central locking system and then pull each of the release handles above the armrests or

> pull the release handle for each door twice: The first pull unlocks the door, and the second one opens it.

To engage locks

> Use the central locking system button to locks all doors at once, or

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

When the vehicle is moving, do not lock the doors with safety lock buttons since the doors would not then open automatically in the event of an accident. Children might be able to lock the doors from the inside. For this reason, take the vehicle's keys with you so that the vehicle can be opened again from the outside at any time.

When the low beams are switched on, the interior door handles are lighted. The brightness is controlled by the instrument panel lighting. Refer to page 96

Luggage compartment lid

The lock

Only the master key (refer to page 30) fits in the lock of the luggage compartment.

Secure separately

Turn the master key to the right past the resistance point and then pull it out in the horizontal position. This locks the luggage compartment lid and disconnects it from the central locking system. This feature can be used to prevent unauthorized access to the luggage compartment when you surrender the door and ignition key (refer to page 30) for valet parking, for instance.

Manual operation

(in the event of electrical failure) Turn the master key to the left in the luggage compartment lock clear to the stop – the luggage compartment lid will open. The luggage compartment is locked again as soon as you close the lid.

Luggage compartment lid

Opening from inside the car

If the luggage compartment lid has not been locked separately, you can open it with this button when the vehicle is stationary.

Closing

The handle recess in the interior trim panel of the luggage compartment lid (arrow) makes it easier to pull the lid down.

Automatic Soft-Close feature

To close the luggage compartment lid, merely press it down gently. The closing process will then be carried out automatically. To avoid injuries, be sure that the travel path of the luggage compartment lid is clear when it is closed, as with all closing procedures. Operate the vehicle only when the luggage compartment lid is completely closed. Otherwise, exhaust fumes could penetrate the interior of the vehicle. Should it be absolutely necessary to operate the vehicle with the luggage compartment lid open:

> Close all windows. Shut the sliding/ tilt sunroof

> Increase the airflow of the automatic climate control to a high level. Refer to page 104.

Luggage straps

Use the straps on the floor of the luggage compartment to secure smaller suitcases. Movement is reduced, when objects are placed on the straps. Lashing eyes located at the front corners and the rear wall of the luggage compartment provide you with a convenient means of attaching draw straps to secure luggage. Refer also to "Cargo Loading" on page 118.

Nets

To secure your luggage, you may either hook nets

> into the lashing eyes on the front corners and rear wall of the luggage compartment or
> into the rear wall of the luggage compartment and the mounting points under the rear parcel tray.

You can store smaller articles in the net on the rear wall of the luggage compartment.





40n

Alarm system

The vehicle alarm system responds:

> When a door, the hood or the luggage compartment lid is opened

> To movement inside the vehicle (interior motion sensor)

> To variations in the vehicle tilt sensor such as occur during attempts to steal the wheels or tow the vehicle

> To interruption of battery voltage.

The system responds to unauthorized vehicle entry and attempted theft by simultaneously activating the following:

> Sounding an acoustical alarm for 30 seconds

> The hazard warning flashers are activated for approx. five minutes

> The high beams flash on and off in the same rhythm.

To arm and disarm the alarm system

When the vehicle is locked or unlocked by using a key or with the remote control, the alarm system is also simultaneously armed or disarmed. The interior motion sensor is activated approx. 30 seconds after you have finished locking the car. The system indicates that it has been correctly armed by switching on the hazard flashers for a single cycle and by emitting an acoustical signal. When the system is active, you can still gain access to the luggage compartment by pressing button 3 on the remote control transmitter. When the lid is closed, it is armed once again.

Indicator lamp displays

> The indicator lamp on the top of the instrument panel flashes continuously: The system is armed

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

> If the indicator lamp goes out when the system is disarmed: No unauthorized entries have been detected in the period since the system was armed



> If the indicator lamp flashes for 10 seconds when the system is disarmed: An attempted entry has been detected in the period since the system was armed.

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

Tilt alarm sensor

The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor may be switched off at the same time. By doing this, you can prevent false alarms on garage ramps or when the vehicle is transported by trailer or train, for instance. Lock the vehicle twice (= arm the system). In other words, press button 2 of the remote control twice in succession or lock the vehicle twice with the key. The indicator lamp lights up briefly and then flashes continuously. The tilt alarm sensor and the interior motion sensor are deactivated for as long as the system remains armed.

Interior motion sensor

The transmitter and receiver of the interior motion sensor are located in a trim panel in the vehicle's headliner. In order for the interior motion sensor to function properly, the windows and sliding/tilt sunroof must be completely closed. Nevertheless, you should deactivate the interior motion sensor whenever

> children or animals are left in the vehicle

> the windows and/or sunroof are left open.

Emergency deactivation procedure

If the car is locked and it is not possible to disarm the system in the normal manner, proceed as follows:

1 Use the key to unlock the door (the alarm sounds for 30 seconds when opening the door)

2 Turn the key to ignition key position 1; the central locking system unlocks the remaining doors.

The alarm system is now disarmed. Refer the problem to your BMW center.

Electric power windows

Open and close windows

In ignition key position 1 or 2:

> Depress the rocker switch until you feel resistance: The window continues moving for as long as you maintain pressure on the switch

> Press the rocker switch beyond the resistance point: The window moves automatically. Press the switch a second time to stop the window

After the ignition has been switched off:

> You can continue to operate the power windows as long as one of the front doors has not been opened. To open a window, press the rocker switch past the resistance point.

Remove the ignition key when you leave the vehicle and close the doors so that children can no longer operate the power windows, possibly injuring themselves, for instance.< For the convenience operating mode via the door lock or the remote control, refer to page 32 or page 33.

Safety feature

A contact strip is integrated into each of the upper window frame sections. If pressure is exerted against this contact strip while a window is being raised, the system will respond by stopping the window and then retracting it a small distance. Despite this safety feature, be extremely careful that the closing path of the window is not obstructed whenever it is closed. Otherwise, an object might not touch the contact strip in some situations (with very thin objects, for instance). You can override this safety feature by pressing the switch beyond the resistance point and holding it. Because the power windows are sealed at high pressure to prevent wind noise when closed, a powerful motor is required for efficient closing. When closing the windows, always ensure that they are not obstructed in any way. Unsupervised use of these systems can result in serious personal injury. Remove the ignition key to deactivate the electric power windows whenever you leave the car. Never leave the keys in the car with unsupervised children. Never place anything that could obstruct the driver's vision on or next to the windows.

Electric power windows Security glass

Safety switch

You can use the safety switch (arrow) to deactivate the rear window switches (when children are riding in the rear seats, for instance). Press the safety switch whenever children are riding in the rear of the vehicle. Careless use of the power windows can lead to injury.

Break-resistant security glass

The glass installed on all side windows and the rear window is designed to offer resistance to breakage and vandalism. Each break-resistant window contains several layers of clear synthetic plastic film sandwiched between the inner and outer glass panes. In addition, another film is applied to the inner surface of the glass (facing the passenger compartment). This film prevents the glass, if shattered, from spreading into the passenger compartment. Please note the following precautions regarding this inner glass surface film:

1 The film is not scratch-resistant. Avoid contact with sharp objects which may break through or cut the film

2 Clean the glass with water. If ineffective, you may use regular household window cleaner; wipe the cleaner off immediately. Do not use window cleaners containing solvents or abrasives, as these may scratch the film

3 Do not apply any self-adhesive labels, or labels with tape to the inner surface

4 Do not apply window tint film to the inner window surface

5 If frost or ice builds up on the inner surface in cold, high-humidity climates, do not use a scraper or an "ice-removing spray." Start the engine and refer to the instructions on defrosting the door windows.

44n

Sliding/Tilt sunroof

To prevent injuries, exercise care when closing the sliding/tilt sunroof and keep it in your field of vision until it is shut. Before leaving the car, switch off the electric sunroof mechanism by taking out the ignition key. Do not leave children unattended in the vehicle with access to vehicle keys. Use of the key can result in starting of the engine and operation of vehicle systems such as power sunroof, etc. Unsupervised use of these systems can result in serious personal injury.< To avoid pressure or drafts in the passenger compartment when the sunroof is open or lifted, keep the air vents in the dashboard open and increase the air supply if necessary. Refer to pages 100, 104. For the convenience operating mode via the door lock or the radio remote control, refer to page 32 or page 33.

Safety feature

If the sliding/tilt sunroof encounters resistance at a point roughly past the middle of its travel when it is closing, the closing cycle is interrupted and the sunroof will open again slightly. Despite this safety feature, be extremely careful that the closing path of the sunroof is not obstructed whenever it is closed. Otherwise, triggering the closing-force limitation may not be ensured in some situations (with very thin objects, for instance). You can override this safety feature by pressing the switch beyond the resistance point and holding it.

Lifting – opening – closing

From ignition key position 1 press the switch or slide it to the desired direction until you feel resistance. When lifting, the headliner retracts several inches. You can continue to operate the sunroof after the ignition has been switched off as long as one of the front doors has not been opened.

Automatic* opening and closing

Press the switch past the resistance point briefly: The sunroof travels to either the fully-closed or fully-open position. Other automatic operations are: > With the sunroof open, press the switch briefly toward "Lift:" The sunroof automatically extends to its fully raised position > With the sunroof lifted, press the switch briefly toward "Open:" The sunroof automatically opens all the way. Pressing the switch again briefly stops the motion immediately.

Sliding/Tilt sunroof with glass moonroof

*

The options and control procedures are essentially the same as those previously described for the sliding/tilt sunroof. In order to open the raised roof, press the control switch towards "Open" until the roof has reached the desired position. The headliner insert slides back somewhat when you raise the roof. When the roof is opened, the headliner retracts with it. The headliner will then automatically remain in its retracted position, but can be repositioned as desired.

Power loss or malfunction

After interruptions in electrical supply (when the battery is disconnected, for instance), the sunroof will only lift. To reinitialize the mechanism: 1 Raise the sliding/tilt sunroof all the way 2 Continue to hold the switch for approx. five seconds. In the eve