Deutsch
EnglishControls for your BMW 5 Series 2004-2010
Controls
This chapter is intended to provide you with
information for complete control of your vehicle.
Its extensive array of features and accessories,
both for driving and for your own safety,
comfort and convenience, are described here.
Opening and closing
The integrated key fits the following locks:
Keys/remote control
>
>
Glove compartment, refer to page 123
Sports Wagon: floor panel flap in cargo bay,
refer to page 129
>
>
Driver's door, refer to page 32
Luggage compartment lid, refer to page 33.
New remote controls
To obtain additional or replace lost keys, new
remote controls with an integrated key are
available at your BMW center.
1
2
3
Remote control with integrated key
Spare key
Spare key
Adapter for spare key, in glove compart-
ment
Store the spare key in a safe place such as your
wallet. This key is not intended for regular use.
The spare key and integrated key fit the same
locks.
Remote control with integrated key
Each remote control contains a battery which is
charged in the ignition lock while driving. Drive a
longer distance with each remote control at
least twice a year to keep the battery charged.
For comfort access*, the remote control con-
tains a replaceable battery, refer to page 40.
Adapter for spare key
The adapter is required so that the vehicle can
be started with the spare key or radio readiness
can be switched on.
Depending on which remote control is detected
by the vehicle during unlocking, different set-
tings are activated and executed in the vehicle,
refer to Personal Profile, page 29.
Information on the required for maintenance is
also stored in the remote control, refer to Ser-
vice data in remote control, page 235.
Integrated key
Remove the adapter from the holder in the
glove compartment and slide the spare key into
the adapter before use.
Press button 1 to unlock the key.
28
> High-beam assistant*, refer to page 110
Personal Profile
>
>
>
>
PDC Park Distance Control*: optical warn-
ing, refer to page 90
The concept
You can set a number of functions of your BMW
individually according to your preferences.
Personal Profile ensures that most of these set-
tings are stored for the remote control currently
in use without you having to do anything. When
the vehicle is unlocked, the corresponding
remote control is detected and the settings
stored for it are called up and carried out.
Head-Up Display*: selection and bright-
ness of display, refer to page 102
BMW Night Vision*: display settings, refer
to page 105
Automatic climate control: AUTO program
and intensity, cooling function, and auto-
matic recirculated air control/recirculated
air mode, temperature, air distribution, tem-
perature in the upper body region, refer to
text starting on page 115
This means that you will always find your BMW
set to your own personal settings even if
another person with his/her own remote control
and settings has used the vehicle since the last
time you drove it. The individual settings are
stored for a maximum of four remote controls.
>
Navigation system*: voice instructions for
destination guidance, refer to page 142
In addition, the following, most recently
selected settings are recalled during unlocking:
Personal Profile settings
>
Programmable memory/direct selection
buttons: selecting stored functions, refer to
page 21
Details on the settings are provided on the
specified pages.
>
>
>
Positions of driver's seat, outside mirrors,
and steering wheel*, refer to page 47
>
>
>
>
Behavior of the central locking system
when unlocking vehicle, refer to page 30
Audio sources: volume and tone settings,
refer to page 169
Automatic locking of the vehicle, refer to
page 32
Radio:
Programming buttons* on steering wheel,
refer to page 54
> Display of stored stations, refer to
page 172
Displays on Control Display:
> Switching RDS Radio Data System on/
off*, refer to page 175
> Brightness of the Control Display, refer
to page 88
>
Phone: volume setting, refer to
pages 200, 206
> Measuring units for consumption, route/
distances, temperature, and pressure,
refer to page 88
> 12h/24h clock format, refer to page 87
> Date format, refer to page 87
Central locking system
> Language on Control Display, refer to
The concept
page 88
The central locking system is ready for opera-
tion whenever the driver's door is closed.
>
Lighting settings:
> Triple turn signal activation, refer to
The system simultaneously engages and
releases the locks on the following:
page 67
> Welcome lamps, refer to page 108
> Pathway lighting, refer to page 109
>
>
Doors
Luggage compartment lid or tailgate and
rear window
> Daytime running lamps*, refer to
page 109
>
Fuel filler door
29
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
Operating from outside
>
>
>
via the remote control
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Door locks" is selected and
press the controller.
via the door lock
with comfort access* via the door handles
At the same time, the anti-theft system is also
operated. It prevents the doors from being
unlocked using the lock buttons or door han-
dles. In addition, it the remote control is used,
the welcome lamps, the interior lamps and the
courtesy lamps* are switched on or off. The
alarm system is armed/disarmed at the same
time.
You can find more detailed information on the
alarm system on page 37.
6. Select "Central locking" and press the con-
troller.
Operating from inside
Via the button for central locking, refer to
page 32. The fuel filler door is not locked.
7. Select "Unlock button" and press the con-
troller.
In the event of a sufficiently severe accident, the
central locking system unlocks automatically. In
addition, the hazard warning flashers and inte-
rior lamps come on.
8. Select a menu item:
> "All doors"
Pressing the
button once unlocks
the entire vehicle.
> "Driver's door only"
Pressing the
button once unlocks the
Opening and closing:
Using remote control
Persons or animals left unattended in a
parked vehicle can lock the doors from
the inside. Always take along the remote control
when leaving the vehicle so that the vehicle can
then be opened from the outside.<
driver's door and the fuel filler door.
Pressing the button twice unlocks the
entire vehicle.
Unlocking
Press the
button.
The interior lamps, the courtesy lamps* of the
doors and the welcome lamps are switched on.
You can set how the vehicle is unlocked. The
setting is stored for the remote control currently
in use.
9. Press the controller.
Comfort opening
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
Press and hold the
button. The windows and
1. Press the
button.
the glass sunroof* open.
This opens the start menu.
Locking
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
Press the
button.
30
Do not lock the vehicle from the outside if
persons are inside, as unlocking from the
inside is not possible without special knowl-
edge.<
If pointed or sharp-edged objects could
strike the rear window while driving, be
sure to provide protection around all edges.
Failure to do so could result in damage to the
heating conductors of the rear window.<
Switching on interior lamps
Confirmation signals
With vehicle locked:
Press the
button.
You can activate or deactivate the confirmation
signals.
You can also use this function to locate your
vehicle in parking garages etc.
1. Open the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
Panic mode*
You can trigger the alarm system in case of dan-
ger:
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
Press the
button for at least 3 seconds.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Door locks" is selected and
press the controller.
Switching off alarm: press any button.
Sedan: opening luggage
compartment lid
6. Select "Confirmation" and press the con-
troller.
Press the
button for approx. 1 second.
The luggage compartment lid opens, regard-
less of whether it was previously locked or
unlocked.
During opening, the luggage compart-
ment lid pivots back and up. Make sure
that adequate clearance is available before
opening.
To prevent accidentally locking yourself out,
never lay the remote control in the cargo bay. A
previously locked luggage compartment lid is
also locked again after closing.<
7. Select the desired signal.
8. Press the controller.
The signal is activated.
Sports Wagon: unlocking tailgate
Press the
button for approx. 1 second.
Malfunction
The tailgate will open slightly, regardless of
whether it was previously locked or unlocked.
The remote control may malfunction due to
local radio waves. Should the remote control fail
to operate due to interference of this kind,
unlock and lock the vehicle via the door lock
using a key.
During opening, the tailgate pivots back
and up. Make sure that adequate clear-
ance is available before opening.
To prevent accidentally locking yourself out,
never lay the remote control in the cargo bay. A
previously locked tailgate is also locked again
after closing.
If it is no longer possible to lock the vehicle
using the remote control, then the battery is
discharged. Use this remote control during an
extended drive; this will recharge the battery,
refer to page 28.
When opening the tailgate, the roll-up cover is
raised.<
31
For US owners only
Convenient operation
The transmitter and receiver units comply with
part 15 of the FCC/Federal Communication
Commission regulations. Operation is gov-
erned by the following:
You also have the option of operating the win-
dows and the glass sunroof* from the driver's
door lock.
Turn and hold the key in the positions for
unlocking or locking.
FCC ID:
LX8766S
LX8766E
LX8CAS
LX8CAS2
Watch during the closing process to be
sure that no one is injured. Releasing the
key stops the operation.<
Compliance statement:
Manual operation
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can
turn a key all the way to the right or left in the
door lock to lock or unlock the driver's door.
>
This device must not cause harmful inter-
ference, and
Opening and closing: from
inside
>
this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications or
changes to these devices could void the
user's authority to operate this equipment.<
Using door lock
Do not lock the vehicle from the outside if
persons are inside, as unlocking from the
inside is not possible without special knowl-
edge.<
This button serves to unlock or lock doors and
the luggage compartment lid or tailgate and
rear window with the front doors closed, but
does not activate the anti-theft system. The fuel
filler door remains unlocked.
Automatic locking
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
When unlocking
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
1. Turning the key once unlocks the driver's
door and the fuel filler door.
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
2. Turning the key a second time unlocks the
remaining doors and the luggage compart-
ment lid/tailgate.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Door locks" is selected and
press the controller.
32
6. Select "Central locking" and press the con-
troller.
Doors
Automatic soft closing*
To close the doors, merely push them gently.
The closing process will then be carried out
automatically.
Make sure that the closing path of the
doors is clear; otherwise injuries may
result.<
Luggage compartment lid/
tailgate
During opening, the luggage compart-
ment lid/tailgate pivots back and up. Make
sure that adequate clearance is available before
opening.<
7. Select a menu item:
> "Relock door if not opened"
The central locking system locks again
after a short time if no door has been
opened.
> "Lock after driving"
The central locking system locks the
vehicle as soon as you start to drive.
Sedan
8. Press the controller.
The setting is selected.
Opening from inside
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
Unlocking and opening
>
Either unlock the doors together with the
button for the central locking system and
then pull the door handle above the armrest
or
>
pull on the door handle of each door twice:
the first time unlocks the door, the second
time opens it.
Press button 1 or button 2*: the luggage com-
partment lid opens unless it has been locked.
Opening from outside
Locking
>
Use the central locking button to lock all of
the doors simultaneously, or
>
press down the lock button of a door.
To prevent you from being locked out, the
open driver's door cannot be locked using
the lock button.
Persons or animals left unattended in a
parked vehicle can lock the doors from
the inside. Always take along the remote control
when leaving the vehicle so that the vehicle can
then be opened from the outside.<
Press the button on the luggage compartment
lid or the
button on the remote control for
33
approx. 1 second: the luggage compartment lid
opens.
The handle recesses on the interior trim of the
luggage compartment lid make it easier to pull
down.
All keys, refer to page 28, fit the luggage-com-
partment lid lock.
Emergency release
Locking separately
Turn a key in the lock of the luggage compart-
ment lid to the right past a resistance point and
remove it in the horizontal position.
This locks the luggage compartment lid and
disconnects it from the central locking system.
If you then hand over the remote control without
the integrated key, refer to page 28, no access
is possible via the luggage compartment lid.
This is an advantage when using valet parking,
for example.
Pull the lever in the cargo bay. The luggage
compartment lid is unlocked.
Unlocking again and opening manually
Sports Wagon: opening and closing
rear window
Turn the key toward the left up to the stop: the
luggage compartment lid opens.
Small items can be loaded and unloaded
quickly when the rear window is opened sepa-
rately.
If you use the lock to unlock the luggage
compartment lid while the alarm system
is armed, the alarm will be triggered. You should
therefore unlock the vehicle ahead of time. If the
alarm is inadvertently triggered: switch off the
alarm, refer to page 37.<
Closing
Make sure that the closing path of the
luggage compartment lid is clear, other-
wise injuries may result.<
Press the button: the rear window opens some-
what. It can be swung upward.
Press the window closed to close.
When opening the rear window, the roll-
up cover is raised.<
34
If pointed or sharp-edged objects could
strike the rear window while driving, be
sure to provide protection around all edges.
Failure to do so could result in damage to the
heating conductors of the rear window.<
Automatic roll-up cover*
When opening the rear window, the roll-up
cover is raised, and when the rear window is
closed, it is lowered.
When opening the tailgate, the roll-up
cover is raised. Before closing the tail-
gate, press down the roll-up cover until it
engages.<
Make sure that the closing area of the roll-
up cover is clear of obstructions, other-
wise the payload or the roll-up cover may be
damaged.<
Details on the roll-up cover are provided on
page 128.
Opening manually
In case of an electrical malfunction:
1. From the cargo bay, press out the cover 1
Sports Wagon: tailgate
Opening from inside
on the tailgate with a screwdriver.
2. Press the locking bar 2 in the direction of
the arrow.
Press button 1 or button 2*: the tailgate opens
unless it has been locked.
3. Open the tailgate and press in the cover
again.
Opening from outside
The tailgate is locked again as soon as it is
closed.
Closing
Make sure that the closing path of the tail-
gate is clear, otherwise injuries may
result.<
Press the button on the tailgate or the
but-
ton on the remote control for approx. 1 second:
The tailgate opens somewhat. It can be swung
upward.
35
Opening tailgate
The tailgate opens automatically when you:
>
Press the button on the outside of the tail-
gate when the vehicle is unlocked.
The handle recesses on the interior trim of the
tailgate make it easier to pull down.
To close the tailgate, merely press it down gen-
tly. The closing process will then be carried out
automatically.
>
Press button 1 or button 2*.
Sports Wagon: automatic tailgate
operation*
Adjusting opening height
You can adjust how far the tailgate is to open.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
>
Press the
for approx. 1 second.
button on the remote control
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
During opening, the tailgate pivots back
and up. Make sure that adequate clear-
ance is available before opening.<
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Door locks" is selected and
press the controller.
Automatic roll-up cover
When the tailgate or rear window are opened,
the roll-up cover is raised, and when the tailgate
and rear window are closed, it is lowered.
6. Select "Tailgate" and press the controller.
Make sure that the closing area of the roll-
up cover is clear of obstructions, other-
wise the payload or the roll-up cover may be
damaged.<
Details on the roll-up cover are provided on
page 128.
7. Turn the controller. The adjustment is
applied; the field can be changed.
36
Closing tailgate
Arming and disarming alarm system
Make sure that the closing path of the tail-
gate is clear, otherwise injuries may
result.<
When you lock or unlock the vehicle, either with
the remote control or at the door lock, the alarm
system is armed or disarmed at the same time.
The luggage compartment lid/tailgate can also
be opened with the system armed with the
button on the remote control, refer to page 33.
When the luggage compartment lid/tailgate is
closed, it is locked and monitored again.
Switching off alarm
>
Unlock the vehicle using the remote control,
refer to page 30.
>
Insert the remote control all the way into the
ignition lock.
The tailgate closes automatically when the but-
ton on the inside of the tailgate is pressed.
To interrupt the opening or closing process:
Indicator lamp displays
>
Press the button on the inside of the tail-
gate.
>
Press the button on the outside of the tail-
gate.
Closing is not canceled when you put the
vehicle into motion.<
Alarm system
>
>
The indicator lamp under the interior rear-
view mirror flashes continuously: the sys-
tem is armed.
The concept
The vehicle alarm system responds:
>
When a door, the hood or the luggage com-
partment lid/tailgate or rear window are
opened
The indicator lamp flashes after locking:
doors, hood, luggage compartment lid/tail-
gate or rear window are not properly closed.
Even if you do not close the alerted area, the
system begins to monitor the remaining
areas, and the indicator lamp flashes con-
tinuously after approx. 10 seconds. How-
ever, the interior motion sensor is not acti-
vated.
>
>
To movements in the vehicle: interior
motion sensor, refer to page 38
To changes in the vehicle's tilt if someone
attempts to steal the wheels or tow the
vehicle
>
To interruptions in battery voltage
>
>
The indicator lamp goes out after unlocking:
your vehicle has not been disturbed while
you were away.
Unauthorized operations are briefly signaled by
the alarm system:
>
>
>
with an acoustic alarm
The indicator lamp flashes after unlocking
until the remote control is inserted into the
ignition lock, however for a maximum of
approx. 5 minutes: your vehicle has been
disturbed while you were away.
by switching on the hazard warning flashers
by flashing the high beams
37
>
>
Sports Wagon: opening rear window sepa-
rately
Tilt alarm sensor
The tilt of the vehicle is monitored. The alarm
system reacts, e.g. in case of an attempted
wheel theft or towing.
Starting engine
Functional requirement
Interior motion sensor
>
The vehicle or the luggage compartment
lid/tailgate can only be locked if the vehicle
detects that the remote control you are car-
rying is outside the vehicle.
In order for the interior motion sensor to func-
tion properly, the windows and glass sunroof*
must be completely closed.
>
>
The next unlocking and locking cycle is not
possible until after approx. 2 seconds.
Avoiding unintentional alarms
The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor
may be switched off at the same time. This pre-
vents unintentional alarms, e.g. in the following
situations:
The engine can only be started if the vehicle
detects that the remote control is located in
the vehicle.
>
>
In two-level garages
Comparison with ordinary remote
control
When transporting on car-carrying trains,
by sea or on a trailer
You can control the functions mentioned previ-
ously with the comfort access or by pressing
the buttons on the remote control. Therefore,
please familiarize yourself with the information
on opening and closing beginning on page 28
beforehand.
>
When animals are to remain in the vehicle
Switching off tilt alarm sensor and
interior motion sensor
Press the
again as soon as the vehicle is locked.
button on the remote control
The special features when using comfort
access are described in the following.
The indicator lamp lights up briefly and then
flashes continuously. The tilt alarm sensor and
the interior motion sensor are switched off until
the next time the vehicle is unlocked and subse-
quently locked again.
Should a short delay occur when opening
or closing the windows or the glass sun-
roof, the system is checking whether a remote
control is located in the vehicle. Please repeat
opening or closing if necessary.<
Unlocking
Comfort access*
Comfort access allows you to access your vehi-
cle without having to hold the remote control in
your hand. It is sufficient to carry the remote
control with you, e.g. in your jacket pocket. The
vehicle automatically detects the associated
remote control in the immediate vicinity or in
the interior.
Comfort access supports the following func-
tions:
Grasp a door handle fully, refer to arrow 1, but
do not touch the surfaces, arrow 2 or 3 when
doing so. This corresponds to pressing the
button.
>
>
>
Unlocking/locking vehicle
Comfort closing
Opening luggage compartment lid/tailgate
separately
38
Locking
Switching on radio readiness
>
On the driver's door, touch the highlighted
surface, arrow 2, with a finger for approx.
By pressing the Start/Stop button, you switch
on the radio readiness, refer to page 61.
1 second, but do not grasp the door handle.
When doing so, do not depress the brake
or clutch pedal, otherwise the engine will
start immediately.<
>
On the remaining doors, touch the high-
lighted surface, arrow 3, with the back of
your hand for approx. 1 second, but do not
grasp the door handle.
Starting engine
This corresponds to pressing the
ton.
but-
You can start the engine or switch on the igni-
tion if a remote control is located in the interior
of the vehicle. It need not be inserted in the igni-
tion lock, refer to page 61.
Please make sure that the ignition and all
electronic systems/consumers are
switched off before locking to save the bat-
tery.<
If you take the remote control with you when
leaving the vehicle with the engine running, a
warning lamp lights up. In addition, a message
appears on the Control Display. As long as no
remote control is detected, it is only possible to
restart the engine within approx. 10 seconds
after it is switched off.
Comfort closing
Hold a finger or the back of your hand against
the surface, arrow 2 or 3, but do not grasp the
door handle while doing so.
The windows and the glass sunroof* are
Switching off engine with automatic
and sport automatic transmission
closed.
Watch during the closing process to be
sure that no one is injured. Removing the
hand from the door handle stops the closing
process immediately.<
The engine can only be switched off in trans-
mission position P, refer to page 62.
To switch off the engine in transmission posi-
tion N, the remote control must be inserted in
the ignition lock.
Opening luggage compartment lid/
tailgate separately
Before driving into a car wash with
automatic and sport automatic
transmission
Press the button on the luggage compartment
lid/tailgate. This corresponds to pressing the
button.
1. Insert remote control into ignition lock.
If a remote control accidentally left in the
cargo bay is detected in the locked vehi-
cle after closing the luggage compartment lid/
tailgate or the rear window, the lid or rear win-
dow opens again. The hazard warning flashers
flash and a signal* sounds.<
2. Depress brake pedal.
3. Engage transmission position N.
4. Switch off the engine.
The vehicle can roll.
Sports Wagon: opening rear window
separately
Press the button on the rear window, refer to
page 34.
39
Malfunction
Windows
The comfort access function may malfunction
due to local radio waves. Then open or close the
vehicle with the buttons on the remote control
or with a key. To start the engine following this,
insert the remote control in the ignition lock.
To prevent injuries, exercise care when
closing the windows and keep them in
your field of vision until they are shut.
Always take along the remote control when you
leave the vehicle, otherwise children could, for
example, operate the windows and injure them-
selves.<
When unlocking or locking/comfort closing do
not simultaneously grasp the door handle and
touch the surfaces, arrow 2 or 3. Otherwise, you
may limit the function.
Opening, closing
Replacing battery
If the battery of the remote control is dead, a
message will appear in the Control Display.
1. Remove integrated key from remote con-
trol, refer to page 28.
2. Remove cover.
>
>
Press switch to resistance point:
The window continues to open as long as
you keep the switch pressed.
Press switch beyond resistance point:
The window opens automatically. Pressing
the switch again stops the opening move-
ment.
You can close the windows in the same manner
by pulling the switch.
3. Lay in new battery with positive side facing
upward.
Separate switches for the rear windows are
located in the rear.
4. Press cover closed.
Return used battery to a recycling collec-
For information on using the convenient opera-
tion at the door lock or with the remote control,
refer to page 30 or 32.
tion point or to your BMW center.<
For information on comfort closing with comfort
access, refer to page 39.
After switching off ignition
You can still operate the windows with the
remote control removed or the ignition
switched off for approx. 1 minute, as long as
neither of the front doors has been opened.
40
Always press the safety switch when chil-
dren ride in the rear, otherwise uncon-
trolled closing of the windows could lead to
injuries.<
Pinch protection system
If the closing force exceeds a specific value as a
window closes, the closing action is interrupted
and the window reopens slightly.
Despite the pinch protection system,
inspect the window's travel path prior to
closing it, as the safety system might fail to
detect certain kinds of obstructions, such as
thin objects, and the window would continue
closing.
Do not install any accessories in the range of
movement of the windows, otherwise the pinch
protection system will be impaired.<
Glass sunroof*, electric
The glass sunroof is ready for operation with
the ignition switched on, refer to page 61.
To prevent injuries, exercise care when
closing the glass sunroof and keep it in
your field of vision until it is closed.
Always take along the remote control when you
leave the vehicle, otherwise children could, for
example, operate the roof and injure them-
selves.<
Closing without pinch protection
system
In case of danger from outside or if, for example,
ice on the window prevents normal closing, pro-
ceed as follows:
1. Pull the switch beyond the resistance point
and hold. The pinch protection system is
limited and the window opens slightly if the
closing force exceeds a certain value.
2. Pull the switch beyond the resistance point
and hold again within approx. 4 seconds.
The window closes without the pinch pro-
tection system.
Raising
Press the switch.
The closed glass sunroof is raised and the slid-
ing visor opens slightly.
Safety switch
Do not use force to close the sliding visor
with the glass sunroof in its raised posi-
tion, otherwise the mechanism will be dam-
aged.<
Opening, closing
>
Slide the switch back to the resistance
point.
The glass sunroof and the sliding visor open
together for as long as you hold the switch
in this position.
With the safety switch, you can prevent the rear
windows from being opened or closed via the
switches in the rear passenger area, by chil-
dren, for example. The LED lights up when this
safety feature is activated.
>
Briefly press the switch back beyond the
resistance point.
The glass sunroof and the sliding visor open
automatically. Briefly pressing the switch
stops the motion.
41
In a similar manner, the glass sunroof closes
when you slide the switch forward. The sliding
visor remains open and can be closed by hand.
Following interruptions in electrical
power supply
After a power loss, the sunroof may only
respond to the raise command. Then have the
system initialized. BMW recommends having
this work done by your BMW center.
For information on using the convenient opera-
tion at the door lock or with the remote control,
refer to page 30 or 32.
For information on comfort closing with comfort
access, refer to page 39.
Moving manually*
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can
move the glass sunroof manually.
Opening and closing automatically
Briefly press the switch beyond the resistance
point.
1. Fold the cover panel down, if necessary
using a screwdriver from the onboard tool
kit, refer to page 237.
The following movements are also automatic:
>
Press the switch with the sunroof open: the
sunroof is raised all the way.
>
When the sunroof is raised, briefly press the
switch in the opening direction: the sunroof
is opened all the way.
Briefly pressing the switch stops the motion.
Pinch protection system
If the glass sunroof encounters resistance when
closing from roughly the center of the roof
opening or when closing from the raised posi-
tion, the closing action is interrupted and the
glass sunroof reopens a short way.
2. Insert the Allen wrench supplied with the
onboard tool kit, refer to page 237, into the
opening provided. Move the glass sunroof
in the desired direction. The arrow below
indicates the rotation direction for closing.
Despite the pinch protection system,
inspect the sunroof's travel path prior to
closing it, as the safety system might fail to
detect certain kinds of obstructions, such as
very thin objects, and the sunroof would con-
tinue closing.<
Closing without pinch protection
system
In case of danger from outside, slide the switch
forward beyond the resistance point and hold.
The roof closes without the pinch protection
system.
42
You can close the sliding visor in a similar man-
ner by sliding the switch forwards.
Sports Wagon:
Panorama glass sunroof
The panorama glass sunroof is ready for opera-
tion with the ignition switched on, refer to
page 61.
Panorama glass sunroof
With the sliding visor open, proceed as
described under Sliding visor.
To prevent injuries, exercise care when
closing the panorama glass sunroof and
keep it in your field of vision until it is closed.
Always take along the remote control when you
leave the vehicle, otherwise children could, for
example, operate the roof and injure them-
selves.<
For information on using the convenient opera-
tion at the door lock or with the remote control,
refer to page 30 or 32.
For information on comfort closing with comfort
access, refer to page 39.
Opening and closing sunroof and
sliding visor together
Briefly press the switch beyond the resistance
point twice consecutively.
Briefly pressing the switch stops the motion.
Comfort modes
>
>
Press the switch twice with the sunroof
open:
The sunroof is raised.
Raising
When the sunroof is raised, briefly press the
switch twice in the opening direction:
The sunroof is opened all the way.
Press the switch.
The closed sunroof is raised and the sliding
visor opens slightly.
Comfort position
Do not use force to close the sliding visor
with the glass sunroof in its raised posi-
tion, otherwise the mechanism will be dam-
aged.<
The sunroof is not completely open in the com-
fort position. This reduces the wind noises in
the interior.
Each time the panorama glass sunroof is com-
pletely opened or closed, it stops in the comfort
position. If desired, continue the motion follow-
ing this with the switch.
Opening, closing
Sliding visor
You can move the sliding visor independently
with the sunroof closed or raised.
Pinch protection system
>
Slide the switch back to the resistance
point.
The sliding visor opens as long as you keep
the switch in this position.
If the panorama glass sunroof or sliding visor
encounter resistance when closing from
roughly one third of the sunroof opening or
when closing from the raised position, the clos-
ing action is interrupted and the panorama
glass sunroof and sliding visor reopen a little.
>
Briefly press the switch back beyond the
resistance point.
The sliding visor will open automatically.
Briefly pressing the switch stops the
motion.
Despite the pinch protection system,
inspect the sunroof's travel path prior to
closing it, as the safety system might fail to
detect certain kinds of obstructions, such as
43
very thin objects, and the sunroof would con-
tinue closing.<
Closing without pinch protection
system
In case of danger from outside, slide the switch
forward beyond the resistance point and hold.
The roof closes without the pinch protection
system.
Following interruptions in electrical
power supply
After a power loss, the sunroof may only
respond to the raise command. Then have the
system initialized. BMW recommends having
this work done by your BMW center.
Moving manually*
In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can
move the sunroof manually.
1. Fold back the cover, using the screwdriver
from the toolkit at the points indicated if
necessary, refer to page 237.
2. Remove the Allen key from the mounting
next to the toolkit and insert it in the open-
ing provided. Move the sunroof in the
desired direction. The arrow below indi-
cates the rotation direction for closing.
44
Adjusting
Head restraints
Sitting safely
A correctly adjusted head restraint reduces the
risk of spinal injury in the event of an accident.
The ideal sitting position can make a vital con-
tribution to relaxed, fatigue-free driving. In the
interaction with the safety belts, the head
restraints and the airbags, the sitting position
plays an important role in an accident. To
ensure that the safety systems operate with
optimal efficiency, we strongly urge you to
observe the instructions contained in the fol-
lowing section.
Adjust the head restraint so that its center
is approx. at ear level. Otherwise there is
increased danger of injury in the event of an
accident.<
Head restraints, refer to page 49.
Safety belts
For additional information on transporting chil-
dren safely, refer to page 56.
Before every drive, make sure that safety belts
are being worn at all of the occupied seats. Air-
bags complement the safety belt as an addi-
tional safety device, but they do not represent a
substitute.
Airbags
Always maintain an adequate distance
between yourself and the airbags. Always
hold the steering wheel by its rim with hands at
the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions, to mini-
mize the risk of injuries to your hands and arms
in the event of airbag deployment.
Your vehicle is provided with five seats, which
are all equipped with a safety belt.
Never allow more than one person to
wear a single safety belt. Never allow
infants or small children to ride in a passenger's
lap. Make sure that the belt lies low around the
hips in the lap area and does not press on the
abdomen. The safety belt must not lie across
the neck, rub against sharp edges, be routed
over solid or breakable objects or be pinched.
Wear the safety belt without twisting, snugly
across the lap and shoulders, as close to the
body as possible. Otherwise the belt can slip
over the hips in the lap area in a frontal impact
and injure the abdomen. Avoid wearing clothing
that prevents the belt from fitting properly and
pull the belt in the upper body area periodically
to readjust the tension, in order to avoid a
reduction in the restraint of the safety belt.
Sports Wagon: if the center safety belt in the
rear is used, the larger backrest half must be
locked, refer to page 128, otherwise the middle
safety belt has no restraining action.<
No one and nothing is to come between the air-
bags and the seat occupant.
Do not use the cover of the front airbag on the
front passenger side as a storage area. Make
sure that the front passenger is sitting correctly
and does not rest feet or legs on the instrument
panel, otherwise leg injuries can occur if the
front airbags are triggered.
Make sure that occupants do not rest their head
on the side or head airbags, otherwise injuries
can occur if the airbags are triggered.<
Even if you adhere to all the instructions, inju-
ries resulting from contact with airbags cannot
be fully excluded, depending on the circum-
stances. The ignition and inflation noise may
provoke a mild hearing loss in extremely sensi-
tive individuals. This effect is usually only tem-
porary.
For airbag locations and additional information
on airbags, refer to page 100.
Safety belts, refer to page 50.
45
Seats
Note before adjusting
Never attempt to adjust your seat while
the vehicle is moving. The seat could
respond with unexpected movement, and the
ensuing loss of vehicle control could lead to an
accident.
Also on the passenger side, do not incline the
backrest too far to the rear while the vehicle is
being driven, otherwise there is a danger in the
event of an accident of sliding under the safety
belt, eliminating the protection normally pro-
vided by the belt.<
4
Backrest
Adjusting comfort seat*
In this seat, you can also adjust:
Please follow the instructions on damage to
safety belts provided on page 51 and the infor-
mation on the active front head restraints on
page 49.
Adjusting seat
To ensure that the safety systems con-
tinue to provide optimized protection,
please observe the adjustment instructions on
page 45.<
1
2
3
4
Backrest width
Shoulder support
Thigh support
Lumbar support*
Shoulder support
the adjustable upper backrest also supports the
back in the shoulder region. This provides a
relaxed driving position and helps relieve stress
on the shoulder muscles.
1
2
3
Longitudinal direction
Height
Angle
46
To deactivate: press button longer.
Lumbar support*
Button with one LED
You can also adjust the contour of the backrest
to obtain additional support in the lumbar
region.
Press the button repeatedly until the desired
program is shown on the Control Display.
The LED in the button lights up.
The upper hips and spinal column receive sup-
plementary support to help you maintain a
relaxed, upright sitting position.
>
Increase or decrease curvature: press front
or rear section of switch.
>
Shift curvature up or down: press upper or
lowers section of switch.
Adjusting active backrest width*
First set a comfortable backrest width, see
above. Based on the backrest width set, the lat-
eral support is automatically adapted to the cur-
rent driving situation.
To deactivate: press button longer.
Easy entry/exit*
The adaptation of the backrest width and the
speed of the adjustment vary depending on the
program. You can select from among three pro-
grams from comfort to sport.
To facilitate entry and exit, the backrest width
temporarily opens all the way.
Button with three LEDs
Seat, mirror and steering
wheel memory*
Press button once per program:
>
>
>
"Comfort": one LED
"Normal": two LEDs
"Sport": three LEDs
You can store and request two different posi-
tions for the driver's seat and passenger seat*,
exterior rearview mirrors, and steering wheel.
47
The adjustment of the lumbar support is not
stored in the memory.
When using this feature, always make
sure that the footwell behind the driver's
seat is empty and unobstructed. Failure to do
so could cause injury to persons or damage to
objects behind the seat as a result of a rearward
movement of the seat.<
Storing
1. Switch on radio readiness or ignition, refer
to page 61.
The system cancels the adjustment procedure
when you briefly press one of the seat adjust-
ment switches or one of the memory buttons.
2. Set the desired seat, exterior mirror and
steering wheel positions.
3. Press the
button:
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Open the start menu.
The LED in the button lights up.
4. Press the desired memory button 1 or 2:
The LED goes out.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
Requesting
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
Do not request a position from the mem-
ory while the vehicle is moving. There is a
risk of accident from unexpected movement of
the seat or steering wheel.<
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Door locks" is selected and
press the controller.
Comfort mode
1. Open the driver's door after unlocking or
switch on radio readiness.
2. Briefly press the desired memory button 1
or 2.
The system cancels the adjustment procedure
when you briefly press one of the seat adjust-
ment switches or one of the memory buttons.
6. Select "Central locking" and press the con-
troller.
Safety feature
1. Close the driver's door and switch the igni-
tion on or off.
7. Select "Last seat pos." and press the con-
troller.
2. Press the desired memory button 1 or 2
and maintain pressure until the adjustment
process has been completed.
8. Select "After unlocking" or "After door
opened".
If the
button was pressed inadvertently:
press the button again; the LED goes out.
Requesting with remote control
The last positions of the driver's seat, the exte-
rior rearview mirrors, and steering wheel are
stored for the remote control currently in use.
You can choose when the position is requested:
>
>
Request when unlocking vehicle
9. Press the controller.
Request when opening driver's door
48
To cancel the request:
Select "Deactivated" and press the controller.
Front seats: height adjustment
Head restraints
A correctly adjusted head restraint reduces the
risk of spinal injury in the event of an accident.
Adjust the head restraint so that its center
is approx. at ear level. Otherwise there is
increased danger of injury in the event of an
accident. Only remove the head restraints if no
one will be sitting on the seat in question. Rein-
stall the head restraints before transporting
passengers, as otherwise the head restraint
cannot provide its protective function.<
Front seats: adjusting distance to the
back of the head
Active front head restraints
In the event of a rear-end collision of sufficient
severity, the active head restraint reduces the
distance to the head.
Do not use seat covers or head restraint
covers that could impede the proper
>
>
Forward: pull up.
functioning of the active head restraint. Other-
wise, there is no assurance that the active head
restraint will perform its protective function and
it is not possible to take advantage of its injury-
reducing potential in the event of a rear-end
collision.
Back: push the button and slide the head-
rest cushion toward the rear.
Do not place any objects behind the
headrest cushion. Otherwise, you can
impair the proper function of the head
Have the active head restraints reset after they
are triggered in a rear-end collision. Only have
this work carried out by a BMW center or a
workshop that works according to BMW repair
procedures with correspondingly trained per-
sonnel. Otherwise, this safety equipment will
not function properly.<
restraint.<
Comfort seat*
You can adjust the distance to the back of the
head with the shoulder support, refer to
page 46.
Please contact a BMW center if you wish
to have the front head restraints removed
and installed.<
49
Adjusting side extensions
You can fold the side extensions on the head
restraint forward for increased lateral support in
the resting position.
Rear seats: height adjustment
Fastening
Make sure you hear the latch plate engage in
the belt buckle.
Safety belt reminder for driver's seat
and passenger seat*
>
>
To raise: pull up.
The indicator lamp lights up and a sig-
nal sounds. A message also appears on
the Control Display. Please check
To lower: press the button, arrow 1, and
push the head restraint downward.
whether the safety belt is correctly positioned.
Removing
The safety belt reminder is operative at speeds
above approx. 5 mph/8 km/h. It can also be acti-
vated if objects are placed on the passenger
seat.
1. Pull the head restraint upward to the stop.
2. Press the button, arrow 1, and pull the head
restraint all the way out.
Releasing
Safety belts
1. Grasp the belt firmly.
2. Press the red button in the buckle.
3. Guide the belt into its reel.
To ensure that the safety systems con-
tinue to provide optimized protection,
please observe the adjustment instructions on
page 45.<
The shoulder strap's anchorage point will be
correct for adult seat occupants of every build if
the seat is correctly adjusted, refer to page 46.
Before every drive, make sure that safety belts
are being worn at all of the occupied seats. Air-
bags complement the safety belt as an addi-
tional safety device, but they do not represent a
substitute.
The two rear safety belt buckles integrated into
the rear seat are for passengers sitting on the
left and right. The belt buckle embossed with
50
the word CENTER is intended exclusively for
use by passengers riding in the center position.
The maximum temperature is supplied when
three LEDs are lit.
The temperature is reduced and if need be, the
heating is switched off in order to reduce the
load on the battery. The LEDs remain lit.
Damage to safety belts
When subjected to strain due to an acci-
dent or in the event of damage, replace
the safety belts, the belt tensioners, and any
child restraint systems and have the belt anchor
points checked. Only have this work carried out
at a BMW center or at a workshop that works
according to BMW repair procedures with cor-
respondingly trained personnel. Otherwise cor-
rect operation of this safety equipment is not
guaranteed.<
To switch off: press button longer.
Temperature distribution without
active seat ventilation
The heat output can be distributed variously in
the seat cushion and the backrest.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Open the start menu.
2. Move the controller to the left to open "Cli-
mate".
Seat heating*
3. Select "Seat heater distribution" and press
the controller.
Front
4. Move the controller to the left or right to
select "Driver" or "Passenger".
The appearance and arrangement of the but-
tons may vary depending on the equipment.
5. Turn the controller to adjust the distribu-
tion.
The setting is applied.
Temperature distribution with active
seat ventilation
The heat output can be distributed variously in
the seat cushion and the backrest.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Open the start menu.
1
2
3
Seat heating, three LEDs
2. Move the controller to the left to open "Cli-
mate".
Seat heating, one LED
Seat heating with active seat ventilation*
Press the respective button once per tempera-
ture level. The temperature level is shown on
the Control Display with buttons 2 and 3.
51
3. Select "Driver's seat climate" or "Passen-
ger's seat climate" and press the controller.
Press the respective button once per ventila-
tion level. The ventilation level appears on the
Control Display. The maximum level is supplied
when three LEDs are lit.
The air quantity is reduced and if need be, the
ventilation is switched off in order to reduce the
load on the battery. The LEDs remain lit.
To switch off: press button longer.
The highest level is used for rapid cooling,
e.g. when the vehicle has become heated
up. After a short time, the system is automati-
cally switched down one level in order to pre-
vent excessive cooling.<
Turn the controller to adjust the distribution.
The setting is applied.
Rear
Active seat*
Operation similar to front seat heating; two tem-
perature levels, without temperature distribu-
tion.
The seat cushion is actively varied by alter-
nately raising and lowering the right and left half
of the seat cushion. This reduces muscular ten-
sion and fatigue to help prevent lower back
pain.
Active seat ventilation*
Press the button to switch on; the LED lights
up.
The appearance and arrangement of the but-
tons may vary depending on the equipment.
The action of the system is reduced and if need
be, switched off in order to reduce the load on
the battery. The LED remains lit.
If you switch off the active seat, it can take up
to 1 minute before the two halves of the seat
cushion have returned to their initial position.
1
2
Active seat ventilation
Active seat ventilation with seat heating
52
Automatic heating
Mirrors
Below a certain outdoor temperature, both
exterior mirrors are heated whenever the
engine is running or the ignition is switched on.
Exterior mirrors
The mirror on the passenger's side is
more curved than the driver's mirror.
Objects reflected in the mirror are closer than
they appear. Do not estimate the distance of
following traffic based on what you see in the
mirrors, otherwise there is an increased acci-
dent risk.<
Tilting down passenger-side exterior
mirror – automatic curb monitor*
Activating
1. Slide switch into the driver's side mirror
position, arrow 1.
1
2
Adjusting
2. Shift into reverse or move selector lever into
position R.
Switching to the other mirror or to the
automatic curb monitor
The mirror glass tilts downward somewhat
on the passenger's side. This allows the
driver to see the area immediately adjacent
to the vehicle – such as a curb – when park-
ing, etc.
3
Folding mirrors in and out*
Storing the mirror positions, refer to Seat, mir-
ror and steering wheel memory on page 47.
Adjusting manually
You can also adjust the mirrors manually by
pressing against the outer edges of their mirror
glass.
Deactivating
Slide switch into the passenger side mirror
position, arrow 2.
Folding mirrors in and out*
Interior rearview mirror
Pressing button 3 allows you to fold mirrors
in and out up to a speed of approx. 20 mph/
30 km/h. This is advantageous, for example, in
car washes, narrow streets or for bringing mir-
rors that have been manually folded in back into
the correct position. Mirrors that were folded in
are folded out automatically at a speed of
approx. 25 mph/40 km/h.
Before going through a car wash, fold the
mirrors in manually, or with button 3, oth-
erwise they could be damaged, depending on
the width of the car wash system.<
To reduce the dazzle effect of following vehi-
cles at night, turn the knob.
53
Interior and exterior mirrors,
automatic dimming feature*
Easy entry/exit*
To facilitate entry and exit, the steering wheel
temporarily moves into the uppermost position.
Steering wheel heating*
This feature is controlled by two photocells in
the interior rearview mirror. One is integrated
into the glass of the mirror, while the other is
located at an offset position on the rear of the
mirror housing.
Press the button.
When the steering wheel heater is operating,
the LED in the button lights up.
For trouble-free operation, keep the photocells
clean and do not cover the area between the
interior rearview mirror and the windshield. Do
not attach stickers of any kind to the windshield
in front of the mirror, either.
Programmable buttons* on steering
wheel
Steering wheel
Adjusting
Do not adjust the steering wheel while the
vehicle is moving. There is a risk of acci-
dent as the result of unexpected movement.<
You can program the buttons individually.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
The steering wheel can be adjusted in four
directions.
Storing steering wheel positions, refer to Seat,
mirror and steering wheel memory on page 47.
54
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
6. Select the button if necessary and press the
controller.
4. Select "Steering wheel buttons" and press
the controller.
You can operate the selected function using the
corresponding button.
A list of different functions appears:
> "Navigation voice instructions"
Voice instructions for the navigation
system*
Operating function
Press the corresponding button on the steering
wheel.
> "Air recirculation on / off"
Permanently shutting off outside air,
refer to AUC Automatic recirculated-air
control on page 117
If you have programmed "Navigation voice
instructions" for one of the buttons:
>
To switch voice instructions on/off:
Press button longer.
> "Mute on / off"
Mutes the audio sources
>
To repeat the last voice instruction:
Press the button.
> "Monitor on / off"
Switches the Control Display on/off
> "Telephone list"
*
Display/hide phone book or last list of
stored phone numbers
> "HDC on / off"
Switches HDC Hill Descent Control* on/
off
> "Next entertainment source"
Changes audio source
> "Night Vision on / off"
Switches BMW Night Vision* on/off
5. Select the desired function and press the
controller.
55
Transporting children safely
The right place for children
Installing child restraint
systems
Do not leave children unattended in the
vehicle, otherwise they could endanger
themselves and other persons, e.g. by opening
the doors.<
Observe the child restraint system manu-
facturer's instructions for selection,
installation and use of the child restraint sys-
tems. Otherwise the degree of protection may
be reduced.<
Children always in the rear
Accident research shows that the safest place
for children is on the rear seat.
Backrest width* on front passenger
seat
Children younger than 13 years of age or
with a height under 5 ft/150 cm may only
be transported in the rear in child restraint sys-
tems which correspond to the age, weight and
height of the child. Otherwise there is an
increased danger of injury in an accident.<
Open the backrest width setting of the
front passenger seat all the way. After
mounting the child's seat, deactivate the active
backrest width adjustment and do not call up
any memory position. Otherwise this limits the
stability of the child's seat on the front passen-
ger seat.<
Children 13 years of age or older must wear a
safety belt as soon as a suitable child restraint
system can no longer be used due to their age,
size and weight.
1. After unlocking the vehicle, sit on the front
passenger seat and close the door to call up
the memory position.
Exception for front passenger seat
2. Completely open the backrest width adjust-
ment, refer to page 46.
Should it ever be necessary to use a child
restraint system on the front passenger
seat, the front and side airbags on the passen-
ger side must first be deactivated. Otherwise,
there is an increased risk of injury for the child if
the airbags are triggered, even with a child
restraint system.<
3. Deactivate active backrest width adjust-
ment, refer to page 47.
4. Install child's seat.
Child seat security
For more information on automatic deactivation
of the front passenger airbags, refer to
page 101.
All rear safety belts and the safety belt for the
front passenger can be locked against pulling
out to secure child restraint systems.
56
Locking safety belt
Sedan: rear seats with through-loading
system*
1. Secure the child restraint system with the
belt.
2. Pull out the belt webbing completely.
3. Allow the belt webbing to be pulled in and
pull taut against the child restraint system.
The safety belt is locked.
Unlocking safety belt
1. Open the belt buckle.
2. Remove the child restraint system.
The anchor points for the LATCH anchors are
located behind the indicated protective caps.
Remove the cover caps before mounting the
child's seat.
3. Allow the belt webbing to be pulled in com-
pletely.
LATCH child restraint fixing system
Sports Wagon: rear seats
LATCH: Lower Anchor and Tethers for CHil-
dren.
Follow the system manufacturer's
instructions on installation and use of
LATCH child restraint systems in order not to
impair their protective function.<
Before attaching the LATCH child's seat, pull
the belt away from the region of the child
restraint fixing system.
Make sure that the LATCH mounts have
properly clicked into place and that the
child restraint system is resting snugly against
the backrest. Otherwise, the protective action
may be impeded.<
The anchor points for the LATCH anchors are
located behind the indicated protective caps
and are covered again after the child's seat is
removed.
Child restraint system with tether strap
Sedan: rear seats
Only use the tether-strap mounting
points to secure child restraint systems,
otherwise the mounting points could be dam-
aged.<
The anchor points for the LATCH anchors are
located at the positions indicated by arrows in
the gap between the seat and the backrest.
57
Sedan
Outer rear seat, Sedan
There are three additional mounting points for
child restraint systems with a tether strap, refer
to arrows. Fold the corresponding mounting
point upward before using.
Outer rear seats, Sports Wagon
Sports Wagon
Three additional mounting points for child
restraint systems with a tether strap are pro-
vided under covers in the cargo bay floor, refer
to arrows. Remove the corresponding covers
before use.
1
2
3
4
5
Direction of travel
Head restraints
Placement of tether strap
Make sure that the upper retaining strap
is not routed over sharp edges and does
not twist on its way to the upper mounting point;
otherwise, the belt may not properly secure the
child restraint system in the event of an acci-
dent.<
Hook of upper retaining strap
Mounting point
Rear window shelf/luggage compartment
floor
6
7
Backrest
Upper retaining strap of child restraint sys-
tem
58
Fold upward or remove covers before using the
mounting points.
1. Slide the head restraint upward.
2. Thread the upper retaining strap between
the head restraint supports.
3. Sports Wagon: thread the retaining strap
between the backrest and the roll-up cover.
Make sure that the rear backrest is locked in
position.
5. Attach the retaining strap hook to the
mounting point.
6. Pull the retaining strap taut.
On trips
4. Attach the retaining strap hook to the
mounting point.
5. Slide the head restraint into the bottom
position.
6. Pull the retaining strap taut.
Center rear seat
If the vehicle is equipped with rear side
airbags, make sure that children do not
lean out of the child's seat towards the door
panels. Otherwise injuries can be caused if the
side airbags are triggered.<
1. Fold the center armrest somewhat toward
the front.
2. Guide retaining strap through the opening.
Child-safety locks for rear doors
3. Fold back the center armrest.
4. Sports Wagon: thread the retaining strap
between the backrest and the roll-up cover.
Make sure that the rear backrest is locked in
position.
Slide down the safety lever on the rear doors:
the door can now be opened from the outside
only.
59
Safety switch for power windows
Always press the safety switch for the power
windows, refer to page 41, when children are
riding in the rear of the vehicle.
60
Driving
Ignition lock
Start/Stop button
Inserting remote control into ignition
lock
Pressing the Start/Stop button switches the
radio readiness or the ignition on and off.
The engine is started when you press the
Start/Stop button and depress the clutch
if the car has manual transmission or the brake if
the car has automatic transmission.<
Insert the remote control as far as possible into
the ignition lock.
Radio readiness switches on.
Some electronic systems/consumers are ready
for operation.
Radio readiness
Some electronic systems/consumers are ready
for operation. The time and outside tempera-
ture are displayed in the instrument cluster.
Comfort access*
With comfort access, only insert the remote
control into the ignition lock in exceptional
cases, refer to page 38.
Radio readiness is switched off:
>
when the remote control is removed from
the ignition lock
Removing remote control from ignition
lock
>
with comfort access* by touching the sur-
face on the door handle, refer to Locking on
page 39
Do not pull the remote control out of the
ignition lock using force, as otherwise
damage may result.<
Ignition on
Before removing the remote control, first press
it in as far as possible to release the locking
device.
All electronic systems/consumers are ready for
operation. The odometer and the trip odometer
are displayed in the instrument cluster, refer to
page 78.
The ignition is switched off if it was still
switched on.
Please switch off the ignition and the
electronic systems/consumers which are
not required when the engine is not running to
save the battery.<
Automatic and sport automatic
transmission
The remote control can only be removed when
transmission position P is selected: interlock.
61
3. Press the Start/Stop button.
Radio readiness and ignition
switched off
Automatic and sport automatic
transmission*
All indicator and warning lamps in the instru-
ment cluster go out.
Remote control in ignition lock or with comfort
access in vehicle, refer to page 38.
Starting engine
1. Depress brake pedal.
2. Press the Start/Stop button.
Do not run the engine in closed rooms,
otherwise the inhalation of toxic exhaust
gases can cause unconsciousness and death.
The exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide,
an odorless and colorless, but highly toxic gas.
Never leave an unattended vehicle with the
engine running, as such a vehicle represents a
potential safety hazard.
Before leaving the vehicle with the engine run-
ning, select the idling position, or shift the trans-
mission into position P and firmly apply the
handbrake, otherwise the vehicle can begin to
roll.<
Switching off engine
When leaving the vehicle, always take the
remote control with you.
When parking, firmly apply the handbrake, as
otherwise the vehicle could roll.<
Manual transmission
1. Press the Start/Stop button with the vehicle
stopped.
2. Shift into first gear or reverse.
3. Firmly apply the handbrake.
Avoid frequent starting in quick succes-
sion or repeated starting attempts in
which the engine does not start. Otherwise, the
fuel is not burned or inadequately burned and
there is a danger of overheating and damaging
the catalytic converter.<
4. Remove the remote control from the igni-
tion lock, refer to page 61.
Automatic and sport automatic
transmission*
Do not allow the engine to warm up by leaving it
running while the vehicle remains stationary.
Instead, begin to drive at a moderate engine
speed.
1. Shift transmission into position P with the
vehicle stopped.
2. Press the Start/Stop button.
3. Firmly apply the handbrake.
4. Remove the remote control from the igni-
tion lock, refer to page 61.
Before driving into a car wash
The vehicle can roll if you proceed according to
the following steps:
1. With comfort access: insert the remote con-
trol into the ignition lock.
Manual transmission
2. Depress brake pedal.
Remote control in ignition lock or with comfort
access in vehicle, refer to page 38.
3. Shift into transmission position N.
4. Switch off the engine.
1. Depress brake pedal.
Transmission position P will be engaged:
2. Depress the clutch pedal and shift into
idling position.
>
automatically after approx. 30 minutes
62
>
if you remove the remote control from the
ignition lock
Manual transmission
Handbrake
The handbrake is primarily intended to prevent
the vehicle from rolling while parked; it brakes
the rear wheels.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp lights up, and a sig-
nal also sounds when starting off. The
handbrake is applied.
While shifting in the 5th/6th gear lane,
press the gearshift lever toward the right,
otherwise accidental shifting into the 3rd or 4th
gear could result in engine damage.<
Indicator lamp for Canadian models.
Reverse gear
Select only when the vehicle is stationary.
When pressing the gearshift lever to the left,
overcome some resistance.
Applying
The lever locks in position automatically.
Releasing
Automatic transmission with
Steptronic*
In addition to fully automatic operation, you can
also manually shift with the Steptronic, refer to
page 64.
Transmission positions
P R N D M/S + –
Pull slightly upwards, press the button and
lower the lever.
Displays in instrument cluster
If exceptional circumstances should
make it necessary to apply the handbrake
while the vehicle is in motion, do not pull it too
firmly. In doing so, continuously press the but-
ton of the handbrake lever. Otherwise, too firm
an application of the handbrake can lock up the
rear wheels and cause the rear of the car to
swerve.<
To prevent corrosion and one-sided brak-
ing action, occasionally apply the hand-
brake lightly when the vehicle is slowly coming
to a stop if the traffic conditions are suitable.
The brake lamps do not light up when the hand-
brake is applied.<
P R N D DS S1* to S6* M1 to M6
The transmission position is indicated, and in
the manual mode, the gear currently engaged.
63
Engaging transmission position
P Park
>
Do not leave the transmission position P
until the engine is running: interlock.
Select only when the vehicle is stationary.
The rear wheels are locked.
>
With the vehicle stationary, depress the
brake pedal before shifting out of P or N;
otherwise the shift command will not be
executed: shiftlock.
P is engaged automatically as soon as
you switch off the engine unless N is
engaged and with comfort access the remote
control is inserted in the ignition lock, refer to
Before driving into a car wash, page 62.<
To prevent the vehicle from creeping
after you select a driving position,
maintain pressure on the brake pedal until
you are ready to start.<
N Neutral
Can, for example, be engaged in automatic car
washes. The vehicle can roll.
Engaging N, D, R
N remains engaged even after the engine
is switched off whenever you leave the
remote control in the ignition lock. This function
is useful, for example, in automatic car washes,
refer to page 62<
D Drive, automatic position
Position for normal vehicle operation. All for-
ward gears are available.
Kick-down
Briefly press the selector lever in the desired
direction, beyond a resistance point if neces-
sary. Press button 1 simultaneously out of P or
into R.
Kick-down enables you to achieve maximum
performance.
Press the accelerator pedal beyond the
increased resistance at full throttle.
The engaged transmission position is also dis-
played on the selector lever.
Sport program and manual mode M/S
The selector lever immediately returns to the
center position when released.
Engaging P
Press selector lever toward the left from trans-
mission position D:
The sport program is activated, and DS is dis-
played in the instrument cluster; with the sport
automatic transmission* also S1 to S6. This
position is recommended for a performance-
oriented driving style.
Press button P.
R Reverse
Select only when the vehicle is stationary.
64
When the selector lever is pressed forward or
back, the manual mode is activated and the
Steptronic shifts the gear. The instrument clus-
ter shows M1 through M6.
3. Insert a screwdriver from the onboard tool
kit, refer to page 237, into the opening,
arrow 1.
Upshifts and downshifts are only carried out at a
suitable engine and vehicle speed, e.g. a down-
shift is not carried out at excessively high
engine speeds. The selected gear is briefly dis-
played in the instrument cluster, followed by the
current gear.
To resume automatic mode, press the selector
lever to the right.
4. Pull the screwdriver toward the rear until it is
heard to engage, arrow 2, and leave it
inserted in the opening. The transmission
lock is released.
Manually unlocking and locking
transmission lock
In case of a power failure, e.g. when the battery
is drained or disconnected, or an electrical fault,
manually release the transmission lock, as oth-
erwise the rear wheels are blocked and the
vehicle cannot be towed.
Releasing on sport automatic
transmission*
1. Unclip the sleeve of the selector lever.
Only manually release the transmission lock for
towing and firmly apply the handbrake before-
hand so that the vehicle cannot roll. Reengage
the transmission lock after parking the vehicle
at its destination.
2. Pull the sleeve over the selector lever.
Unlocking
1. Reach into the trim-piece opening, arrow 1,
and firmly pull the trim piece upward,
arrow 2.
3. Reach into the trim-piece opening, arrow 1,
and firmly pull the trim piece upward,
arrow 2.
2. Remove cover over the opening, refer to 3.
4. Remove cover over the opening, refer to 5.
65
5. Insert a screwdriver from the onboard tool
kit, refer to page 237, into the opening,
arrow 1.
Shift paddles on steering wheel
The shift paddles allow you to shift gears
quickly, as both hands can remain on the steer-
ing wheel.
>
>
When you use the shift paddles on the
steering wheel to shift gears in automatic
mode, the gearshift system switches into
the manual mode.
If you do not shift with the shift paddles and
do not accelerate for a certain time, the sys-
tem switches into the automatic mode
again when the selector lever is in D.
6. Pull the screwdriver toward the rear until it is
heard to engage, arrow 2, and leave it
inserted in the opening. The transmission
lock is released.
Locking
1. Pull out the screwdriver upward.
The transmission lock is locked again.
>
>
To shift up: pull one of the shift paddles.
To shift down: press one of the shift pad-
dles.
Dynamic Driving Control
The Dynamic Driving Control makes it possible
for your BMW to react in an even more perfor-
mance-oriented manner at the push of a button:
2. Reinstall the cover and the trim piece.
>
The speed range of the engine is optimally
utilized.
Information on jump starting and towing from
page 248.
>
>
Gearshifts are faster.
The engine responds more spontaneously
to accelerator pedal movements.
Sport automatic
transmission*
You can also shift manually with two shift pad-
dles on the steering wheel.
>
>
The steering will operate in an even sportier
mode.
In the automatic mode, the 6th gear is not
engaged.
You can also choose between two driving pro-
grams: Normal or Sport, refer to Dynamic Driv-
ing Control.
66
Activating system
Using turn signals
Press the lever beyond the resistance point.
To turn off manually, press the lever to the
resistance point.
Atypically rapid flashing of the indicator
lamp indicates that a turn signal bulb
needs to be replaced.<
Signaling briefly
Press lever to resistance point and hold for as
long as you wish to signal.
Press the SPORT button.
The LED in the button lights up and SPORT is
displayed in the instrument cluster.
Triple turn signal activation
Press the lever to the resistance point; the turn
signal flashes three times.
Deactivating system
>
>
>
Press the SPORT button again
You can activate or deactivate this function.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
Engage reverse gear
Switch off engine
1. Press the
button.
The LED in the button and SPORT in the instru-
ment cluster go out.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
Turn signals/
headlamp flasher
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Lighting" is selected and
press the controller.
1
2
3
High beams
Headlamp flasher
Turn signals
6. Select "Triple turn signal" and press the
controller.
Triple turn signaling is activated.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
67
Activating rain sensor
Wiper system
Press the button, arrow 3. The LED in the but-
ton lights up.
1
2
3
4
Switching on wipers
Switching off wipers or brief wipe
Activating/deactivating rain sensor
Adjusting rain sensor sensitivity level
Turn the knurled wheel 5.
Cleaning windshield, headlamps and
BMW Night Vision camera*
Deactivating rain sensor
5
Adjusting rain sensor sensitivity level
Press the button again, arrow 3. The LED goes
out.
Switching on wipers
Deactivate the rain sensor when passing
through an automatic car wash. Failure to
do so could result in damage caused by undes-
ired wiper activation.<
Pull the lever upward, arrow 1.
The lever automatically returns to its initial posi-
tion when released.
Normal wiper speed
Cleaning windshield, headlamps* and
BMW Night Vision camera*
Press once.
The system reverts to operation in the intermit-
tent mode when the vehicle is stationary.
Pull the lever, arrow 4.
The system sprays washer fluid against the
windshield and activates the wipers for a brief
period.
Fast wiper speed
Press twice or press beyond the resistance
point.
The system reverts to normal speed when the
vehicle is stationary.
With the vehicle lighting switched on, the head-
lamps and the BMW Night Vision camera are
also cleaned simultaneously at suitable inter-
vals.
Rain sensor
Do not use the washing mechanisms if
there is any danger that the fluid will
The wiper operation is controlled automatically
as a function of the rain intensity. The rain sen-
sor is located on the windshield, directly in front
of the interior rearview mirror.
freeze on the windshield. If you do so, your
vision could be obscured. To avoid freezing,
use a washer fluid antifreeze, refer to Washer
fluid. Do not use washing mechanisms when
the washer fluid reservoir is empty, otherwise
you will damage the washer pump.<
68
Windshield washer nozzles
Both windshield washer nozzles are automati-
cally heated with the engine running or the igni-
tion switched on.
Sports Wagon:
Rear window wiper
All washer nozzles are supplied from one reser-
voir.
Fill with water and – if required – with a washer
antifreeze, according to manufacturer's recom-
mendations.
In order to maintain the mixture ratio, mix
the washer fluid before filling.<
1
2
Intermittent mode. When reverse gear is
engaged, continuous operation is switched
on automatically
Capacity
Sedan:
Cleaning the rear window
Approx. 3.2 US quarts/3 liters, with headlamp
washer system* approx. 5.3 US quarts/5 liters.
Do not use washing mechanisms when
the washer fluid reservoir is empty, other-
Sports Wagon: approx. 5.3 US quarts/5 liters.
wise you will damage the washer pump.<
Cruise control*
Washer fluid
The concept
Washer fluid antifreeze is flammable.
For this reason, keep it away from ignition
sources and store only in the closed original
container out of reach of children. Otherwise,
there is the danger of bodily injury. Always
observe the instructions for use provided on the
containers.<
The cruise control is available for use at speeds
of approx. 20 mph/30 km/h and higher. The
vehicle stores and maintains the speed that you
set using the lever mounted on the steering col-
umn. To maintain the specified speed, the sys-
tem brakes if the engine braking effect is not
sufficient on a downhill grade. Speed can drop
on uphill grades if the engine output is insuffi-
cient.
Filler neck for washer fluid
Only add washer fluid with the engine
cooled down to exclude contact with hot
engine components. Otherwise there is a dan-
ger of fire and to personal safety if the fluid is
spilled.<
Do not use the cruise control under driv-
ing conditions that do not permit a con-
stant speed, e.g. when driving on winding
roads, in heavy traffic or in poor road conditions
such as snow, rain, ice, and loose road surface.
Otherwise you could loose control of the vehi-
cle and cause an accident.<
69
>
when DTC is activated or DSC is deacti-
vated
One lever for all functions
>
>
when the DSC comes on
when you brake with the handbrake
Resuming stored speed
Press button 4:
The stored speed is resumed and maintained.
Deactivating system
1
2
Maintaining, storing and increasing speed
>
Press the lever up or down twice, arrow 3
Maintaining speed, storing speed, and
decelerating
>
Switch off the ignition
The speed stored in the memory is deleted.
3
4
Interrupting and deactivating system
Resuming stored speed
Displays in instrument cluster
Maintaining, storing and increasing
speed
Press lever to resistance point, arrow 1:
The speed currently being driven is maintained
and stored. The display 1 in the speedometer,
see below, indicates this regulated speed.
Every time you press the lever, the vehicle's
speed increases by roughly 1 mph/1 km/h.
Press lever to resistance point for a longer time:
The vehicle accelerates without pressure on
the accelerator pedal. The system maintains
and stores your current speed as soon as you
release the lever.
1
2
Stored speed
Selected speed is displayed briefly
Active cruise control*
Maintaining speed, storing speed, and
decelerating
With active cruise control you can select a
desired speed which is then automatically
maintained when driving on open roadways and
is varied to maintain a selected distance setting
to slower moving vehicles ahead.
Pull the lever, arrow 2:
Functions are the same as 1; the speed is
reduced.
Active cruise control represents a technological
advance over the familiar cruise control and is a
welcome relief from the constant adjustment of
speed that can accompany driving in traffic on
freeways or other high-speed thoroughfares.
Especially on longer trips and in traffic conges-
tion, the system can reduce fatigue and tension,
while increasing your enjoyment of driving.
Please use it safely and responsibly.
Interrupting system
Press the lever up or down, arrow 3: the
display 1 in the speedometer changes color.
In addition, the system is automatically inter-
rupted:
>
>
when braking
when you clutch, shift very slowly and when
you engage the idling or the N position of
the automatic transmission
70
In addition to holding a steady cruising speed, if
you encounter slower vehicles ahead, active
cruise control will, within limits, adjust your
vehicle's speed automatically so that you can
flow with the traffic without having to make con-
stant adjustments. If, for example, while cruis-
ing at the selected speed, you begin to
Brake pedal feel
When the system brakes and you also depress
the brake pedal, a somewhat different braking
feel results.
Professional* navigation system
If a navigation DVD is in the drive, refer to
page 142, within limits the system adjusts the
accelerating and braking behavior of the vehicle
to the road you are driving on.
approach a slower vehicle ahead of you in the
same lane, the system will reduce your vehicle's
speed to the same as that of the vehicle ahead
to maintain your selected distance setting. You
can vary the following distance, which will vary
with speed. Based on your selected distance
setting, the system automatically decreases the
throttle setting and lightly applies the brakes if
necessary. In addition, if the vehicle ahead of
you slows to a complete stop, the system can
follow this action within the given scope and
can also accelerate from a complete stop if the
vehicle ahead of you drives off again shortly
thereafter. During braking, your vehicle brake
lamps will automatically illuminate to alert a fol-
lowing driver to take action. In addition, it may
be necessary for your vehicle to downshift the
automatic transmission to maintain the dis-
tance setting selected. As soon as the road in
front of you has no moving vehicles, the system
will accelerate to your desired speed. This set
speed is also maintained on downhill grades,
however the vehicle speed can drop below the
set speed when driving uphill if the engine out-
put is not sufficient.
To ensure that the system is informed of
the current course of the road, always use
the latest navigation DVD if possible.<
When the vehicle position is unknown, e.g.
when you leave the map area, this influence of
the navigation system is not available.
Applications
Please try the system first during sparse traffic
and clear road conditions so that you can get
used to the system. After you have experience
and understand the system, only then use it
during normal traffic.
As with conventional cruise control systems,
active cruise control in no way reduces or sub-
stitutes for the driver's own personal experi-
ence, responsibility, alertness and awareness in
adjusting speed, braking or otherwise control-
ling the vehicle. The driver should decide when
to use the system on the basis of road, traffic,
visibility, and weather conditions. Active cruise
control is intended for use on highway-type
roadways where traffic is moving relatively
smoothly as well as in slow-moving traffic. Do
not use the system in city driving; in complex
driving situations; heavy traffic such as during
rush hour; on curvy, winding roads, slippery
roads or roads with sharp curves such as high-
way off-ramps; during inclement weather such
as snow, strong rain or fog; or when entering
interchanges, service/parking areas or toll
booths. It is also important to regulate your
vehicle's speed and distance setting within
applicable legal limits. Always be ready to take
action or apply the brakes if necessary, espe-
cially when the system is actively following a
vehicle in front of you. Otherwise, driving condi-
Active cruise control cannot detect stop
signs, red lights, or any object that is
stopped or is blocking the road.
Active cruise control is not and must not be
used as a collision avoidance/warning system.
Since this active cruise control system is a new
technology and operates differently from con-
ventional cruise control systems which you may
be accustomed to, it is necessary that you read
all of the pages relating to this system before
use. Carefully read and observe the information
on the system limitations beginning on page 75
to obtain a good command of the system and its
range of applications.<
71
tions can result which lead to a violation of the
law or elevated risk of an accident.
Increasing desired speed
Press or tap the lever to the resistance point or
beyond, arrow 1, until the desired speed is dis-
played.
The speed then displayed is stored and
achieved on a clear road.
The minimum initial activation speed is 20 mph/
30 km/h, and the maximum speed is 110 mph/
180 km/h. However, you can also activate the
system while stopped, refer to While stopped,
page 73.
>
>
Each time the lever is tapped to the resis-
tance point, the desired speed is increased
by approx. 1 mph/1 km/h.
One lever for all functions
Each time the lever is tapped beyond the
resistance point, the desired speed
increases to the next fives place of the mph
speedometer display or the next tens place
of the km/h speedometer display.
Reducing desired speed
Pull the lever, arrow 2, until the desired speed is
displayed.
1
2
3
Storing and increasing desired speed
Storing and reducing desired speed
These functions are operated in the same man-
ner as increasing your desired speed.
Interrupting, refer to page 73,
or deactivating system, refer to page 74
Selecting distance
4
5
Activating stored desired speed and dis-
tance, refer to page 73, or driving off, refer
to While stopped, page 73
Selecting distance to vehicle driving ahead,
refer to page 72.
Storing current speed
Tap the lever, arrow 1, or briefly pull it, arrow 2.
>
>
Briefly press rocker switch downward:
Increase distance.
Briefly press rocker switch upward:
Reduce distance.
The system stores the current vehicle speed. It
is indicated on the speedometer and briefly in
the instrument cluster.
72
The selected distance is displayed in the instru-
ment cluster.
>
when DTC is activated or DSC is deacti-
vated
>
>
>
when DSC comes on
Distance 1, closest
when you apply the handbrake
when you release the safety belt and open
the driver's door with the vehicle stopped
>
when the system does not recognize any
objects for an extended period of time, e.g.
on infrequently traveled roads without a
shoulder or guard rails, or if the radar sensor
is covered with dirt, refer to page 74
Distance 2
Distance 3
If the system is interrupted, then it is nec-
essary for the driver to actively intervene
by braking and steering. Otherwise, there is a
risk of an accident.<
Distance 4, furthest
This distance is always set when
you activate the system.
Resuming stored desired speed and
distance
While driving
Use good judgment to select the appro-
priate following distance, given road con-
ditions, traffic, applicable laws and State driving
recommendations for safe following distance.
Otherwise, a violation of the law or risk of an
accident could result.<
Press button 4.
The displays appear in the instrument cluster.
While stopped
Before leaving the vehicle with the engine
running, engage position P of the auto-
matic transmission and apply the handbrake.
Otherwise the vehicle can roll.<
Interrupting cruise control
If a detected vehicle in front of you brakes to a
complete stop and your vehicle has also been
braked to a complete stop by the system:
>
If the vehicle in front of you drives off while
the marking 1 for the desired speed in the
speedometer is green, your vehicle will
accelerate without you having to do any-
thing.
Press the lever upward or downward, and with
the vehicle stopped also depress the brake
pedal. The marking in the speedometer
changes color and the distance indicator goes
out.
>
If the vehicle in front of you drives off while
the marking 1 is orange, you briefly depress
the accelerator pedal or press button 4.
Rolling bars in the distance indicator 3
mean that the vehicle in front of you has
driven off.
In addition, the system is automatically inter-
rupted:
If you are stopped behind a vehicle with the
brake pedal depressed and the system is inter-
rupted or deactivated:
>
>
when you apply the vehicle brakes
when you shift the transmission
73
1. Press button 4 to activate a stored desired
speed or select a desired speed with the
lever, arrow 1 or arrow 2.
Warning lamps
The indicator 2 continuously
flashes yellow.
The prerequisites for operating the
system are no longer met, e.g. as a
result of ABS or DSC interven-
tions. The system brakes until you actively take
over.
2. Release the brake pedal.
3. If the vehicle in front of you drives off, briefly
depress the accelerator pedal or press
button 4.
Deactivating system
>
>
>
Press the lever upward or downward twice
while driving.
The indicator 2 flashes red; a sig-
nal sounds.
The system indicates that you
When stopped, do the same with the brake
pedal depressed.
must brake and/or maneuver the
vehicle yourself. The system can-
not automatically restore the distance to the
vehicle driving ahead.
However, this display cannot relieve the driver
of the responsibility for adjusting the desired
speed and driving style to the traffic conditions.
Switch off the ignition.
The displays turn off, and the stored desired
speed and distance are deleted.
Displays in instrument cluster
Radar sensors
1
Stored desired speed
> Green: the system is active.
> Orange: the system is interrupted.
1
2
Long-range sensor
Location of the short-range sensors behind
the bumper
2
3
Lights up yellow: vehicle detected ahead
Display also used for warnings, please read
all information on warnings
3
Location of the short-range sensors behind
the bumper with the M sports package*
Selected distance to vehicle ahead
The indicator lights up as soon as the sys-
tem is activated
Heavy rain and also dirt, snow or ice can limit
the detection of vehicles ahead. If needed,
clean the radar sensor under the front bumper
as well as the bumper area covering the short
range sensors. When doing so, be particularly
careful in removing layers of snow and ice.
Do not apply adhesive labels etc. in the area of
the short-range sensors.
The bars roll: the vehicle in front of you has
driven off
4
Brief display of stored desired speed
If the display --- mph/--- km/h appears
briefly, the conditions necessary for oper-
ation may currently not be met.<
If the sensor is not aligned properly, e.g. due to
damage, the active cruise control cannot be
activated.
74
System limitations
As with conventional cruise control sys-
that the system may not detect smaller moving
objects such as motorcycles or bicycles. Be
especially alert when encountering any of these
situations as the system will neither automati-
cally brake, nor provide a warning to you. Also,
be aware that every decrease in the distance
setting allows your vehicle to come closer to a
vehicle in front of you and requires a heightened
amount of alertness.<
tems, active cruise control in no way
diminishes or substitutes for the driver's own
personal responsibility, alertness and aware-
ness in adjusting speed, braking or otherwise
controlling the vehicle. The driver should
decide when to use the system on the basis of
road, traffic, visibility, and weather conditions.
Active cruise control is intended for use on
highway-type roadways where traffic is moving
relatively smoothly. Do not use this system in
city driving; in complex driving situations; on
curvy, winding roads, slippery roads or roads
with sharp curves such as highway off-ramps;
during inclement weather such as snow, strong
rain or fog; or when entering interchanges, ser-
vice/parking areas or toll booths. It is also
important to regulate your vehicle's speed and
distance setting within applicable legal limits.
Always be ready to take action or apply the
brakes if necessary, especially when the sys-
tem is actively following a vehicle in front of
you.<
The system cannot allow the vehicle to drive off
automatically in situations that make driving off
considerably more difficult, e.g. on steep uphill
grades, with a heavy trailer or before raised
areas in the road.
Near radio astronomy stations, the system
radar is deactivated at speeds under 20 mph/
30 km/h due to legal regulations.
Be certain to interrupt the system when
you pull into an exit lane for a highway
offramp.<
Also, vehicles traveling in a staggered manner
on a highway may cause a delay in the system's
reaction to a vehicle in front of you or may cause
the system to react to a vehicle that is actually in
the lane next to yours. Always be ready to take
action or apply the brakes if necessary.
Always remember that the range and abil-
ity of the system do have physical limita-
tions. For example, the system may not detect
vehicles driving ahead if they suddenly brake
heavily in stop-and-go traffic during accelera-
tion. The system will not apply the brakes or
slow your vehicle when a very slow-moving
vehicle, stopped vehicle or stationary object is
in the lane ahead of you, for example when
approaching a traffic light or parked vehicle or
when a vehicle is stalled in your lane. Also, the
system does not react to oncoming traffic,
pedestrians or other types of potential traffic
such as a rider on a horseback. It is also possible
In addition, the system is interrupted
whenever the driver applies the vehicle
brakes, shifts the transmission from drive/D to
neutral/N, or deactivates DSC. After any inter-
ruption, the system will no longer automatically
activate the vehicle brakes, which means the
driver must intervene and resume manual brak-
ing. You should then reactivate the system only
when you are fully aware of the prior speed and
distance settings.<
75
Active cruise control may brake when you
reduce the stored desired speed; however, the
driver must constantly monitor traffic and inter-
vene if necessary.
Take action yourself, otherwise there is a risk of
an accident.<
Behavior in curves
When you switch off the engine or ignition,
active cruise control is fully switched off, too,
and any settings you have selected are can-
celed.
Unexpected lane change
If the selected desired speed for a curve is too
high, the system reduces the speed within a
curve. However, it cannot detect curves in
advance. Therefore, select a suitable speed at
the start of a curve.
Because of the limited range of the system, it is
possible that in curves or on the peaks and val-
leys of hilly roads, a vehicle ahead may be rec-
ognized late, or not at all. Therefore, it is up to
the driver to select a speed that is prudent in
view of the curves and terrain of the roadway.
If a vehicle in front of you is behind a stopped
vehicle and unexpectedly changes lanes, you
must react yourself, as the system does not
react to stopped vehicles.
Swerving vehicles
In approaching a curve, it is possible that active
cruise control might react briefly to a vehicle in
the adjacent lane. In addition, the system can
sense if your vehicle is in a curve and may not
accelerate. If your vehicle decelerates in either
case, you can choose to overcome the deceler-
ation by briefly pressing the accelerator pedal.
When a vehicle swerves out of adjacent lanes
into your lane, the system does not detect the
vehicle until it is completely in your lane.
When a vehicle ahead suddenly swerves
into your lane, the system may not be able
to restore the selected distance automatically.
This also applies to great differences in speed
between your vehicle and vehicles ahead, e.g.
when quickly approaching a truck. Once the
system has established that a vehicle is indeed
in front of you, it will indicate that you must
brake and/or maneuver the vehicle yourself.
76
Driver interventions and your
responsibility
Anytime the driver presses down on the
accelerator pedal, any automatic braking
action by the system is interrupted and the dis-
tance indicator turns off until the pedal is fully
released. As soon as you fully release the accel-
erator, the system will once again control your
cruising speed and distance setting. While driv-
ing with the system activated, resting your foot
on the accelerator pedal will cause the system
not to brake even if necessary. Be certain that
floormats or other objects on the vehicle floor
do not interfere with movement of the accelera-
tor pedal.<
While active cruise control is capable of
braking your vehicle automatically when
you approach a slower vehicle ahead, it is
important to be aware that the ability of the sys-
tem to apply the brakes is also limited, e.g.
when you reduce your desired speed sharply. It
uses only a portion of braking system capacity
and does not utilize the full capacity of the vehi-
cle braking system. Therefore, the system can-
not decrease your speed due to large differ-
ences in speed between your vehicle and the
vehicle ahead. Example: when you approach a
vehicle traveling at a much lower speed than
your own speed such as approaching a toll
booth or when a much slower vehicle cuts in
front of you at close range.<
77
Everything under control
Odometer, outside
temperature display, clock
Tachometer
1
2
3
Time, outside temperature and date
Odometer and trip odometer
Press button:
> with ignition switched on, trip odometer
is reset
> with ignition switched off, time, outside
temperature, and odometer are briefly
displayed.
Avoid engine speeds in the white-striped
advance warning field, arrow 1, if possible.
From radio readiness the outside temperature
and the time are displayed.
Be sure to avoid engine speeds in the red warn-
ing field, arrow 2. At high revs in this range, the
flow of fuel is interrupted to protect the engine.
Date retrieval:
Press CHECK button on turn signal lever, refer
to page 84.
Time and date setting, refer to page 86.
You can set the unit of measure 7 or 6 on the
Control Display, refer to Units of measure on
page 88.
Coolant temperature
Should the coolant, and with it the engine
become too hot, a warning lamp lights up. In
addition, a message appears on the Control
Display.
Outside temperature warning
If the display drops to +377/+36, a signal
sounds and a warning lamp lights up. A mes-
sage appears on the Control Display. There is
an increased danger of ice.
Checking coolant level, refer to page 233.
Even at temperatures above +377/
+36 ice can form. Therefore, drive care-
fully, e.g. on bridges and sections of road in the
shade, otherwise there is an increased accident
risk.<
78
Refuel as soon as possible once your
cruising range falls below 30 miles/
Energy Control
50 km, otherwise engine functions are not
ensured and damage can occur.<
Computer
Displays in instrument cluster
Displays the current fuel consumption. This
allows you to see whether your current driving
style is conducive to fuel economy with mini-
mum exhaust emissions.
Fuel gauge
Press the button on the turn signal lever.
The following information is displayed in the
specified order:
>
>
>
>
Cruising range
Average speed
Average fuel consumption
No information
Cruising range
Fuel tank capacity: approx. 18.5 US gal/
70 liters, including the reserve capacity of
approx. 2.1 US gal/8 liters.
550i: approx. 2.6 US gal/10 liters reserve
capacity.
Displays the estimated cruising range available
with the remaining fuel. The range is projected
based on the driving style over the last 20 miles/
30 km.
Refuel as soon as possible once your
cruising range falls below 30 miles/
You will find information on refueling on
page 218.
50 km, otherwise engine functions are not
ensured and damage can occur.<
If the tilt of the vehicle varies for a longer period,
when you are driving in mountainous areas, for
example, the indicator may fluctuate slightly.
Average speed
Periods with the vehicle parked and the engine
switched off are not included in the calculations
of average speed.
Reserve
After the reserve quantity has been reached, a
message briefly appears on the Control Display;
the remaining range is shown in the computer.
Below a range of approx. 30 miles/50 km, the
message remains on the Control Display.
To reset average speed: press BC button on
turn signal lever for approx. 2 seconds.
79
>
Estimated time of arrival at destination and
remaining distance:
Average fuel consumption
The average fuel consumption is calculated for
the time during which the engine is running.
> Entering a distance manually in the com-
puter, see below.
To reset average fuel consumption: press BC
button on turn signal lever for approx. 2 sec-
onds.
> Entering a destination in the navigation
system*, refer to page 142.
>
>
>
Cruising range
For different routes
Average speed
You can display the average speed and average
consumption for two different routes on the
Control Display, refer to the following and to
Trip computer*.
Average fuel consumption
Resetting values
You can reset the values for the average speed
and average fuel consumption:
Displays on Control Display
1. Select the respective menu item and press
the controller.
You can also call up the computer via iDrive.
For operating principle refer to page 16.
2. To confirm your selection, press the con-
troller again.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Move the controller to the right to open
"Navigation".
Entering a distance manually
1. Select "Distance to dest." and press the
controller.
Without navigation system*:
Open "Car Data".
3. Select "Car Data" and press the controller.
2. Turn the controller to select the distance to
your destination. If needed, hold it against a
slight resistance to enter a larger differ-
ence.
4. Select "Onboard info" and press the con-
troller.
3. Press the controller to apply the setting.
The distance is automatically preset during the
destination guidance of the navigation sys-
tem*.
Trip computer*
The trip computer is suitable, for example, for a
vacation trip.
80
1. Open the start menu.
3. Press the controller.
2. Open "Navigation".
Without navigation system*:
Open "Car Data".
3. Select "Car Data" and press the controller.
4. Select "Trip computer" and press the con-
troller.
Service requirements
>
>
>
>
>
Departure time
Driving time
Distance traveled
Average speed
Average fuel consumption
The remaining driving distance and the date for
the next maintenance are displayed briefly with
the ignition switched on.
Starting or stopping the trip computer, or reset-
ting all values:
1. Select "Set" and press the controller.
2. Select the desired menu item.
3. Press the controller.
Your BMW Service Advisor can deter-
mine your vehicle's current service
requirements by reading out the data stored in
the remote control.<
Display options
Additional information
You can display the computer or the trip com-
puter in the assistance window.
You can select a display of more detailed infor-
mation on the maintenance scope on the Con-
trol Display. For operating principle refer to
page 16.
1. Move the controller to the right to change to
the assistance window and press the con-
troller.
1. Open the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Info sources" and press the control-
ler.
4. Select "Service Info" and press the control-
ler.
2. Select "Onboard info" or "Trip computer".
81
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Service requirements" is
selected and press the controller.
Symbols
No service is currently required.
The deadline for service or a legally man-
dated inspection is approaching. Please
arrange a service appointment.
The service deadline has already passed.
Entering deadlines for legally required
inspections*
Make sure the date on the Control Display is set
correctly, refer to page 86, otherwise the effec-
tiveness of CBS Condition Based Service is not
ensured.
6. Select "Status" and press the controller.
1. Open the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Info sources" and press the control-
ler.
4. Select "Service Info" and press the control-
ler.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Service requirements" is
selected and press the controller.
The display shows a list of selected service and
maintenance procedures, as well as legally
mandated inspections.
6. Select "Status" and press the controller.
You can request more detailed information on
every entry.
7. Select "State inspection" and press the
controller.
Select the entry and press the controller.
8. Select "Set service date" and press the
controller. The month is selected.
To exit from the menu:
Select the arrow and press the controller.
82
9. Turn the controller to make the adjustment.
means that a Check Control message has
been generated. The symbol continues to be
visible even when the Check Control message
disappears after a short time. The warning
lamps and text messages are stored and can be
displayed later, also refer to page 84.
10. Press the controller to apply the setting.
The year is selected.
11. Turn the controller to make the adjustment.
12. Press the controller to apply the setting.
The date entry is stored.
Explanatory text messages
To exit the menu:
Select the arrow and press the controller.
Check Control
The concept
The Check Control monitors functions in the
vehicle and issues a message if there is a mal-
function in the monitored systems. This kind of
Check Control message consists of indicator
and warning lamps in the instrument cluster,
and if necessary an acoustic signal and text
messages at the bottom of the Control Display.
Text message at the bottom edge of the Con-
trol Display explain the meaning of the dis-
played indicator and warning lamps.
Indicator and warning lamps
You can display additional information on most
Check Control messages later, e.g. on the
cause of the malfunction and on corresponding
need for action, see below.
The indicator and warning lamps can light up in
different combinations and colors.
In urgent cases, this information will be shown
as soon as the corresponding lamp comes on.
83
Exit the displayed information:
Displaying additional information later
Select the arrow and press the controller.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
Hiding Check Control messages
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Turn the controller until "Info sources" is
selected and press the controller.
Press the CHECK button on turn signal lever.
Some Check Control messages are displayed
until the malfunctions have been rectified. They
cannot be hidden. If a number of malfunctions
occur simultaneously, they are displayed in
succession.
4. Turn the controller until "Service Info" is
selected and press the controller.
Other messages are automatically hidden after
approx. 20 seconds, but remain stored.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Check Control messages"
is selected and press the controller.
Displaying stored Check Control
messages
1. Press the button longer:
The first stored message is displayed.
6. Select a text message and press the con-
troller.
2. Press the button:
When the button is pressed again, a differ-
ent message is displayed.
To exit the display:
Select the arrow and press the controller.
84
Indication of malfunction urgency
Speed limit
You can enter a speed and a Check Control
message indicates when you have reached this
speed. This enables you, for example, to
receive warnings if you exceed a speed limit in
an urban area.
You are only warned of reaching this speed a
second time if your vehicle speed falls below it
again by at least 3 mph/5 km/h.
Displaying, setting or changing limit
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Open the start menu.
Depending on your vehicle's equipment, the
stored Check Control messages are also dis-
played with the following symbols:
No malfunctions are present in the moni-
tored systems.
2. Open "Navigation".
Without navigation system*:
Open "Car Data".
Malfunctions are present in the moni-
tored systems. Depending on the mal-
function, supplementary information is
shown on the Control Display.
3. Select "Car Data" and press the controller.
4. Select "Limit" and press the controller.
The symbols also indicate the status of the ser-
vice requirements display, refer to page 81.
Displays after completion of trip
Malfunction reports generated during the trip
are shown consecutively when you switch off
the ignition.
Before the display disappears, you can display
the messages once again. Press the CHECK
button for approx. 2 seconds. If several mes-
sages are present, you can continue to press
the CHECK button to view them in succession.
5. Select the speed value and press the con-
troller.
6. Turn the controller to set the limit. If
needed, hold it against a slight resistance
to enter a larger difference.
The display goes out
>
>
automatically after a brief period
7. Press the controller to apply the setting.
The limit is automatically activated.
when you press the CHECK button again
for approx. 2 seconds
Applying your current speed as limit
Select "Select current speed" and press the
controller. The system adopts your current
speed as the limit.
Activating limit
Select "On" and press the controller.
Limit is automatically activated.
85
Stopwatch
Settings on Control Display
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Open the start menu.
1. Press the
button once or twice until
the start menu appears.
2. Open "Navigation".
Without navigation system*:
Open "Car Data".
3. Select "Car Data" and press the controller.
4. Select "Stopwatch" and press the control-
ler.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Turn the controller until "Settings" is
selected and press the controller.
Starting, stopping or resetting
>
Select "Start" and press the controller.
The stopwatch starts at the displayed time.
>
Select "Reset" and press the controller.
The stopwatch is reset and it restarts if it
was running beforehand.
>
Select "Stop" and press the controller.
This stops the timer.
Setting time
1. Turn the controller until "Time / Date" is
selected and press the controller.
Taking an intermediate time reading
Select "Interim time" and press the controller.
The interim time appears below the ongoing
primary stopwatch count.
All of the other functions remain available
even while the stopwatch is running. The
stopwatch continues operation in the back-
ground.<
86
2. Move the controller once to the front if nec-
essary to change to the first field from the
top.
Switching on hour signal*
You will hear three tones just before the top of
each hour.
Select "Hour memo" and press the controller.
The hour signal is activated.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
Setting 12h/24h format
1. Select "Time format" and press the control-
ler.
2. Select the desired format and press the
controller.
3. Turn the controller until "Time" is selected
and press the controller.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
Setting date
1. Select "Date" and press the controller.
4. Turn the controller until "Set time" is
selected and press the controller.
2. Select "Set date" and press the controller.
The first section of the date display is
selected, in this case the month.
3. Turn the controller to make the adjustment.
4. Press the controller to apply the setting.
The next setting is selected.
5. Make the remaining adjustments. After the
last adjustment, the date is stored.
Making settings
1. Turn the controller to set the hours and
press the controller.
Setting date format
2. Turn the controller to set the minutes and
press the controller.
1. Select "Date format" and press the control-
ler.
The changed time is stored.
2. Select the desired format and press the
controller.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
87
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Units" is selected and press
the controller.
Brightness of Control Display
The brightness is automatically adapted to the
ambient lighting conditions. However, you can
change the basic setting.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
4. Select "Display settings" and press the
controller.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Brightness" is selected and
press the controller.
6. Select the menu item to be set and press
the controller.
7. Select the desired unit of measure and
press the controller.
The settings are stored for the remote key cur-
rently in use.
Language on Control Display
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
6. If necessary, move the controller to the right
to select "Display".
4. Select "Language / Units" and press the
controller.
7. Turn the controller until the desired setting
is selected.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Languages" is selected and
press the controller.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
Units of measure
You can change the units of measure for con-
sumption, distances, temperature and pres-
sure.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
6. Select "Text language" and press the con-
troller. You can change the language of the
text displays.
4. Select "Language / Units" and press the
controller.
7. Select and activate the desired language by
pressing the controller.
88
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
Volume of warning tones*
On vehicles equipped with a single drive, you
can increase or decrease the volume of the
warning tones, e.g. for the safety belt reminder,
compared to the entertainment sound output.
The warning tones have a specified minimum
and maximum volume that cannot be dropped
below or exceeded.
1. Select "Tone / Volume" and press the con-
troller.
2. Select "Volume settings" and press the
controller.
3. Change to the second field from the top if
necessary. Select "Warning tones" and
press the controller.
4. If necessary, change the field and turn the
controller.
The setting is applied.
89
Technology for comfort, convenience and
safety
Automatic deactivation
PDC Park Distance Control*
After driving approx. 165 ft/50 m or at over
approx. 20 mph/30 km/h, the system is
switched off and the LED goes out. You can
reactivate the system manually as needed.
The concept
The PDC assists you when you are parking.
Acoustic signals and an optical display* alert
you to the approach of an object from behind
your vehicle. To measure the distance, there
are four ultrasonic sensors in each bumper.
The range of these sensors is approx. 7 ft/2 m.
However, an acoustic warning first sounds for
the sensors at the front and at the two rear cor-
ners at approx. 24 in/60 cm, and for the center
rear sensors at approx. 5 ft/1.50 m.
Signal tones
When nearing an object, the position is corre-
spondingly indicated by an interval tone. Thus,
an object detected to the left rear of the vehicle
will be indicated by a signal tone from the left
rear speaker, etc. As the distance between
vehicle and object decreases, the intervals
between the tones become shorter. If the dis-
tance to the nearest object falls to below
roughly 1 ft/30 cm, then a continuous tone
sounds.
PDC is a parking aid that can indicate
objects when they are approached
slowly, as is usually the case when parking.
Avoid approaching an object at high speed, oth-
erwise the physical circumstances would mean
that the system warning was too late.<
An intermittent tone is interrupted after approx.
3 seconds:
>
if you remain in front of an object that was
only detected by one of the corner sensors
Automatic activation
The system starts to operate approx. one sec-
ond after you shift into reverse or move the
selector lever into position R with the engine
running or the ignition switched on.
>
if you drive parallel to a wall
Malfunction
The LED in the button flashes and a message
appears on the Control Display. PDC is mal-
functioning. Have the system checked.
Wait this short time before driving off.
Manual activation
To prevent this problem, keep the sensors
clean and free of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they will continue to operate effectively. Do
not spray the sensors with high-pressure clean-
ers for long periods and maintain a distance of
at least 4 in/10 cm to them.
PDC with visual warning*
You can also have the system show distances
to objects on the Control Display. Objects that
are farther away are already shown there before
a signal tone sounds. The setting is stored for
the remote control currently in use.
Press the button, the LED lights up.
Manual deactivation
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
Press the button again; the LED goes out.
90
1. Press the
button.
Low objects already displayed, e.g. curbs, can
also disappear from the detection area of the
sensors again before or after a continuous tone
already sounds. Higher, protruding objects, e.g.
ledges, cannot be detected. For this reason,
drive with care; otherwise, there is a danger of
personal injury or property damage.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
Loud sources of sound, inside and outside the
vehicle, could drown out the PDC signal tone.<
Driving stability control
systems
Your BMW is equipped with an extended array
of systems designed to enhance and maintain
vehicle stability under extreme conditions.
3. Turn the controller until "Settings" is
selected and press the controller.
4. Turn the controller until "Vehicle / Tires" is
selected and press the controller.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "PDC" is selected and press
the controller.
ABS Antilock Brake System
ABS prevents locking of the wheels during
braking. Safe steering response is maintained
even during full braking. Active safety is thus
increased.
The ABS is operational every time you start the
engine. Braking safely refer to page 136.
CBC Cornering Brake Control
When braking during curves or when braking
during a lane change, driving stability and steer-
ing response are improved further.
6. Select "PDC display on" and press the con-
troller.
Electronic brake-force distribution
The PDC screen is activated.
The system controls the brake pressure in the
rear wheels to ensure stable braking behavior.
The display appears on the Control Display as
soon as PDC is activated.
Brake assistant
When you apply the brakes rapidly, this system
automatically produces the maximum braking
force boost and thus helps to achieve the short-
est possible braking distance during full brak-
ing. This system exploits all of the benefits pro-
vided by ABS.
System limits
Even with PDC, final responsibility for
estimating the distance between the
vehicle and any obstructions always remains
with the driver. Even when sensors are pro-
vided, there is a blind spot in which objects can
no longer be detected. The system is also sub-
ject to the physical limits that apply to all forms
of ultrasonic measurement, such as those
encountered with tow bars and trailer cou-
plings, or thin and wedge-shaped objects etc.
Do not reduce the pressure on the brake pedal
for the duration of the full braking.
91
To increase vehicle stability, activate DSC again
as soon as possible.
Adaptive brake assistant*
In conjunction with the active cruise control
with the stop-and-go function, the adaptive
brake assistant ensures that the brake
responds even more quickly during braking
with the brake assistant.
Activating DSC
Press the button; the indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster goes out.
DSC Dynamic Stability Control
For better control
DSC prevents traction loss in the driving wheels
when starting off and accelerating. The system
also identifies unstable driving conditions, such
as a loss of traction at the rear of the vehicle or
sliding of the vehicle in its front wheels. In these
cases, DSC helps the vehicle maintain a safe
course within physical limits by reducing engine
output and through braking actions in the indi-
vidual wheels.
The indicator lamp flashes:
DSC controls the drive forces and
brake forces.
The indicator lamp lights up:
DSC is deactivated.
DTC Dynamic Traction Control
DTC is a version of DSC in which the drive out-
put is optimized for particular road conditions,
e.g. unplowed snow-covered roads. The sys-
tem assures the maximal drive output, but with
reduced driving stability. It is therefore neces-
sary to drive with appropriate caution.
The laws of physics cannot be repealed,
even with DSC. An appropriate driving
style always remains the responsibility of the
driver. Therefore, do not restrict the additional
safety margin with a risky driving style, as other-
wise there is a risk of an accident.<
You may find it useful to briefly activate DTC
under the following special circumstances:
>
>
>
When driving on snowy inclines, in slush, or
on unplowed, snow-covered road surfaces
Deactivating DSC
When rocking a stuck vehicle free or start-
ing off in deep snow or on loose ground
When driving with snow chains*
Activating DTC
Press the button until the DSC indicator lamp in
the instrument cluster lights up, but not longer
than approx. 10 seconds. DTC Dynamic Trac-
tion Control and DSC are deactivated together.
Stabilizing and drive output promoting actions
are no longer executed. In addition, the stability
promoting intervention of the active steering*
is deactivated, refer to page 99.
Press the button briefly; the DTC indicator lamp
in the instrument cluster lights up.
A message appears on the Control Display.
Please note any supplementary information
that appears there.
92
For better control
Activating HDC
The indicator lamp flashes:
You can activate HDC:
DTC controls the drive forces and
brake forces.
>
with the programmable buttons on the
steering wheel, refer to page 54
The indicator lamp lights up:
DTC is activated.
>
using iDrive
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the button.
This opens the start menu.
Deactivating DTC
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
Press the button again; the DTC indicator lamp
in the instrument cluster goes out.
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
xDrive on 528xi, 535xi
xDrive is the 4-wheel drive system of your
BMW. The combined effects of xDrive and DSC
further optimize the traction and dynamic driv-
ing characteristics. The 4-wheel drive system
xDrive variably distributes the drive torque to
the front and rear axle depending on the driving
situation and prevailing road conditions.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "HDC" is selected and press
the controller.
HDC Hill Descent Control on 528xi,
535xi
The concept
HDC is a system for driving downhill in steep
terrain. This system reduces vehicle speed on
steep downhill gradients, thus allowing you to
maintain even better control of your BMW
under these conditions. The vehicle moves at
approximately twice walking speed without
active intervention from the driver.
6. Select "HDC on" and press the controller.
HDC is shown in the instrument cluster.
If the vehicle is automatically braked, a message
is displayed on the Control Display for approx.
20 seconds.
HDC is available for activation at vehicle speeds
below approx. 22 mph/35 km/h. When driving
down steep hills with a speed below approx.
22 mph/35 km/h, the vehicle reduces speed
automatically down to approximately double
walking speed, approx. 7 mph/12 km/h, and
then maintains this speed at a constant.
Deactivating HDC
When you use the programmable buttons on
the steering wheel or via iDrive, the HDC display
goes out.
HDC is automatically deactivated in the follow-
ing situations:
You can use the accelerator or brakes to vary
this automatically controlled speed within a
range extending from approx. 3 mph/5 km/h to
15 mph/25 km/h.
You can specify a target speed within the same
range by using the lever of the cruise control*.
>
>
Above approx. 37 mph/60 km/h
After switching off the ignition
Using HDC
Manual transmission:
Use HDC in low gears and reverse gear.
93
Automatic transmission:
You can use HDC in every drive position.
longer available. The vehicle remains opera-
tional. Have the system checked as soon as
possible.
Displays in instrument cluster
The brake system warning lamp lights
up yellow. A message appears on the
Control Display. The brake assistant is
defective. Have the system checked as soon as
possible.
Display of the previously described
malfunction in Canadian models.
Starting assistant
The starting assistant enables you to start off
conveniently on slopes. The handbrake is not
required for this purpose.
1
2
Display for target speed
HDC display
Malfunction in driving-stability control
systems
1. Hold the vehicle with the footbrake.
2. Release the footbrake and drive off quickly.
The warning lamp for the brake system
lights up, together with the indicator
lamps for ABS, DSC and Tire Pressure
Monitor or Flat Tire Monitor. A mes-
sage appears on the Control Display.
The driving-stability control systems
have failed. Conventional braking effi-
ciency remains available without limita-
tions. While you may continue, you
The starting assistant holds the vehicle
for approx. 2 seconds after releasing the
footbrake. After releasing the footbrake, begin
to drive immediately; otherwise, the starting
assistant no longer holds the vehicle after
approx. 1 second and your vehicle will start to
roll backward.<
should remember to proceed cau-
Dynamic Drive*
tiously and drive defensively while avoiding full
brake applications. The Tire Pressure Monitor
or the Flat Tire Monitor is also malfunctioning.
Have the system checked as soon as possible.
The concept
Dynamic Drive minimizes body roll and opti-
mizes vehicle stability during cornering and
evasive maneuvers.
Display of the previously described
malfunction in Canadian models.
Dynamic Drive is based on active stabilizers on
the front and rear axles. Suspension compli-
ance adapts to suit driving conditions, varying
from performance-oriented during cornering to
smooth and comfort-oriented when the vehicle
is proceeding in a straight line. During vehicle
operation, the system continuously runs
through closed-loop control cycles lasting only
fractions of a second.
The DSC indicator lamp lights up. A
message appears on the Control Dis-
play. A malfunction has occurred in the
DSC and DTC. The stabilizing actions are no
The system assumes operational status each
time you start the engine.
94
System limits
Sports Wagon: self-leveling
suspension
The Flat Tire Monitor cannot indicate sudden
severe tire damage caused by outside factors
and does not detect a natural, even pressure
drop in all four tires.
Malfunction
The warning lamp for self-leveling sus-
pension lights up yellow and a message
In the following situations, the system could be
delayed or malfunction:
is shown on the Control Display. A mal-
function has occurred in the self-leveling sus-
pension. Stop and check the vehicle. If it is con-
siderably lower at the rear than at the front, and
possibly also on one side – rear left compared to
rear right –, go to the nearest BMW center or a
workshop that works according to BMW repair
procedures with correspondingly trained per-
sonnel. Drive with appropriate caution in the
meantime. The vehicle has reduced ground
clearance and driving comfort may be notice-
ably reduced. Even if the position of the vehicle
is normal, go to the nearest BMW center or a
workshop that works according to BMW repair
procedures with correspondingly trained per-
sonnel.
>
>
>
System has not been initialized
Driving on snowy or slippery road surface
Sporty driving style: slip in the drive wheels,
high lateral acceleration
>
Driving with snow chains*
When you are driving with the compact wheel*
the Flat Tire Monitor is unable to function.
Initializing system
The initialization finishes during driving,
which can be interrupted at any time.
When driving resumes, the initialization is con-
tinued automatically. Do not initialize the sys-
tem when driving with snow chains* or com-
pact wheel*.<
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
FTM Flat Tire Monitor*
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
The concept
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
The Flat Tire Monitor detects a pressure loss in
one tire by comparing the speeds of the individ-
ual wheels during driving.
In the event of a pressure loss, there is a change
in the rolling circumference and therefore the
rotation speed of the corresponding wheel. The
system detects this change and reports it as a
flat tire.
Functional requirement
In order to assure the reliable reporting of a flat
tire, the system must be initialized for the cor-
rect tire inflation pressure.
3. Turn the controller until "Settings" is
selected and press the controller.
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
The initialization must be repeated after
each time the tire inflation pressure is cor-
rected and after every tire or wheel change.<
95
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "FTM" is selected and press
the controller.
Run-flat tires*
1. Cautiously reduce speed to below 50 mph/
80 km/h. Avoid severe braking and steering
maneuvers and do not exceed a speed of
50 mph/80 km/h.
If the vehicle is not equipped with run-
flat tires, refer to page 227, do not
continue driving. Continuing to drive with a
flat tire could cause severe accidents.<
2. At the next opportunity, check the air pres-
sure in all four tires.
If the tire inflation pressure in all four
tires is correct, the Flat Tire Monitor
may not have been initialized. The system
must then be initialized.<
6. Start the engine, but do not start driving.
7. Select "Reset" and press the controller.
8. Select "Yes" and press the controller.
3. In the event of complete tire pressure loss,
0 psi/0 kPa, you can estimate the possible
distance for continued driving on the basis
of the following guide values:
> With a light load:
1 to 2 persons without luggage:
approx. 155 miles/250 km
> With a medium load:
2 persons, cargo bay full, or
4 persons without luggage:
approx. 94 miles/150 km
9. Start to drive.
"resetting FTM …" is displayed.
> With a full load:
The initialization finishes during driving.
4 or more persons, cargo bay full:
approx. 30 miles/50 km
Indication of a flat tire
Drive cautiously and do not exceed
50 mph/80 km/h or else you run the risk of
causing an accident. In the event of pressure
loss, vehicle handling changes. This includes
reduced tracking stability in braking, extended
braking distance and altered natural steering
characteristics.
If unusual vibrations or loud noises occur while
the vehicle is being driven, this can indicate final
failure of the damaged tire. Reduce speed and
stop at a suitable location as soon as possible,
otherwise pieces of the tire could become
detached and cause an accident. Do not con-
tinue driving, but instead contact your BMW
center.<
The warning lamp lights up red. A mes-
sage appears on the Control Display.
In addition, an acoustic signal sounds.
There is a flat tire or extensive inflation pressure
loss.
1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle care-
fully. Avoid sudden braking and steering
maneuvers.
2. Identify damaged tire.
If identification is not possible, con-
tact a BMW center.<
3. Replace the damaged wheel, refer to
Changing wheels on page 242.
96
One wheel is yellow
TPM Tire Pressure Monitor*
Flat tire or a major drop in inflation pressure in
the indicated tire. A message appears on the
Control Display.
The concept
TPM checks the tire inflation pressure in the
four mounted tires. The system reports when
the tire inflation pressure has dropped consid-
erably in one or several tires.
All wheels are yellow
Flat tire or a major drop in inflation pressure in
several tires. A message appears on the Control
Display.
Functional requirement
In order to assure the reliable reporting of a flat
tire, the system must be reset at the correct tire
inflation pressure.
Gray
The system cannot detect a flat tire.
Reasons for this can be:
Always use wheels with TPM electronics, oth-
erwise fault-free operation of the system is not
ensured.
>
>
TPM is being reset
Temporary interference due to systems or
devices which use the same radio fre-
quency
Reset the system again after each correc-
tion of the tire inflation pressure and after
every tire or wheel change.<
>
Malfunction
System limits
Resetting system
TPM cannot announce sudden serious tire
damage caused by external influences.
Reset the system again after each correc-
tion of the tire inflation pressure and after
every tire or wheel change.<
The system does not function properly if it has
not been reset, e.g. a flat tire is reported despite
correct tire inflation pressures.
Resetting finishes during driving, which can be
interrupted at any time. When driving resumes,
resetting is continued automatically. Do not
reset the system when driving with a compact
wheel*.
The system is inactive and cannot display a flat
tire if a wheel has been mounted without TPM
electronics, e.g. a compact wheel, or if TPM is
temporarily interfered with by other systems or
devices which use the same radio frequency.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
Status display on Control Display
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
The tire and system status is indicated by the
color of the tires.
TPM takes the fact that the tire pressure
changes during driving into account. A correc-
tion is only required if requested by TPM with
the color.
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "TPM" is selected and press
the controller.
Green
The tire pressure matches the learned set state.
"TPM active" is displayed on the Control Dis-
play.
97
2. Check whether your vehicle is equipped
with standard tires or run-flat tires.
You will recognize run-flat tires by a
circular symbol containing the letters
RSC on the side of the tire, refer to
page 227.<
Standard tires
1. If all four wheels are shown in yellow, iden-
tify the damaged tire on the vehicle.
6. Start the engine, but do not start driving.
7. Select "Reset" and press the controller.
8. Select "Yes" and press the controller.
2. Replace the damaged wheel or wheels,
refer to Changing wheels on page 242.
In contrast to a compact wheel, a spare wheel is
equipped with the necessary TPM electronics
and also monitored after mounting and after
resetting the system.
Have the tire replaced by a BMW center or a
workshop informed on handling TPM which
works according to BMW repair procedures
with correspondingly trained personnel.
Run-flat tires*
9. Start to drive.
1. Cautiously reduce speed to below 50 mph/
80 km/h. Avoid severe braking and steering
maneuvers and do not exceed a speed of
50 mph/80 km/h.
The tires are shown in gray and "Resetting
TPM..." is displayed.
After a few minutes of driving, the set tire infla-
tion pressures in the tires are applied as the set
values to be monitored. Resetting finishes dur-
ing driving. The tires are shown in green on the
Control Display.
If the vehicle is not equipped with run-
flat tires, refer to page 227, do not
continue driving. Continuing to drive with a
flat tire could cause severe accidents.<
If a flat tire is detected during resetting
and applying the tire inflation pressures,
all tires are shown in yellow on the Control Dis-
play. The message "Tire low!" is displayed.<
2. In the event of complete tire pressure loss,
0 psi/0 kPa, you can estimate the possible
distance for continued driving on the basis
of the following guide values:
> With a light load:
Message with low tire inflation
pressure
1 to 2 persons without luggage:
approx. 155 miles/250 km
The warning lamp lights up yellow. A
message appears on the Control Dis-
play. In addition, an acoustic signal
sounds. There is a flat tire or extensive inflation
pressure loss.
> With a medium load:
2 persons, cargo bay full, or
4 persons without luggage:
approx. 95 miles/150 km
> With a full load:
1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle care-
fully. Avoid sudden braking and steering
maneuvers.
4 or more persons, cargo bay full:
approx. 30 miles/50 km
98
Drive reservedly and do not exceed a
speed of 50 mph/80 km/h. In the event of
pressure loss, vehicle handling changes. This
includes reduced tracking stability in braking,
extended braking distance and altered natural
steering characteristics.
If unusual vibrations or loud noises occur while
the vehicle is being driven, this can indicate final
failure of the damaged tire. Reduce speed and
stop at a suitable location as soon as possible,
otherwise pieces of the tire could become
detached and cause an accident. Do not con-
tinue driving, but instead contact your BMW
center.<
inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pres-
sure telltale illuminates, you should stop and
check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate
them to the proper pressure. Driving on a signif-
icantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to
overheat and can lead to tire failure. Underinfla-
tion also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread
life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and
stopping ability. Please note that the TPMS is
not a substitute for proper tire maintenance,
and it is the driver's responsibility to maintain
correct tire pressure, even if underinflation has
not reached the level to trigger illumination of
the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.
The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined
with the low tire pressure telltale. When the sys-
tem detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash
for approximately one minute and then remain
continuously illuminated. This sequence will
continue upon subsequent vehicle startups as
long as the malfunction exists. When the mal-
function indicator lights up, the system may not
be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as
intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a
variety of reasons, including the installation of
replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the
vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning
properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction
telltale after replacing one or more tires or
wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the
Malfunction
The yellow warning lamp flashes and
then lights up continuously. The tires
are shown in gray on the Control Dis-
play and a message is displayed. No flat tire can
be detected.
A message like this is displayed in the following
situations:
>
>
>
In case of a malfunction;
have the system checked.
If a wheel is mounted without TPM elec-
tronics
If TPM is temporarily interfered with by
other systems or devices which use the
same radio frequency.
replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow
the TPMS to continue to function properly.
Declaration according to NHTSA/
FMVSS 138 Tire Pressure Monitoring
Systems
Active steering*
Each tire, including the spare, should be
The concept
checked monthly when cold and inflated to the
inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle
manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire infla-
tion pressure label. If your vehicle has tires of a
different size than the size indicated on the
vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label,
you should determine the proper tire inflation
pressure for those tires. As an added safety fea-
ture, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire
pressure monitoring system, TPMS, that illumi-
nates a low tire pressure telltale when one or
more of your tires are significantly under-
The active steering is a system that actively var-
ies the steering angle of the front wheels in rela-
tion to the steering wheel movements.
When you are driving in the low road speed
range, e.g. in a town or when parking, the steer-
ing angle increases, i.e. the steering becomes
very direct. In the higher speed range, on the
other hand, the steering angle is reduced more
and more. This improves the handling capability
of your BMW over the entire speed range.
99
In critical situations, the system can make tar-
geted corrections to the steering angle pro-
vided by the driver and thus stabilize the vehicle
before the driver intervenes. This stabilizing
intervention is simultaneously deactivated
when DSC is switched off, refer to page 92.
Brake force display
Malfunction
The warning lamp lights up yellow and
a message is shown on the Control
Display. The active steering is no
longer operational. At low speeds, greater
steering wheel movements are required,
whereas at higher speeds, the vehicle reacts
more sensitively to steering wheel movements.
The stability-promoting intervention can also
be deactivated. Proceed cautiously and drive
defensively. Have the system checked.
On the left: normal braking.
On the right: heavy braking.
Airbags
The following airbags are located under the
marked covers:
the event of side impact. The relevant side air-
bag supports the side upper body area. The
head air bag supports the head.
1
2
3
Front airbags
The airbags are deliberately not triggered in
every impact situation, e.g. less severe acci-
dents or rear-end collisions.
Head airbags
Side airbags in front and rear
Do not apply adhesive materials to the
cover panels of the airbags, cover them or
Protective action
To ensure that the safety systems con-
modify them in any other way. Do not attempt to
remove the airbag restraint system from the
vehicle. Do not modify or tamper with either the
wiring or the individual components in the air-
bag system. This category includes the uphol-
stery in the center of the steering wheel, on the
instrument panel, the doors and the roof pillars
along with the sides of the headliner. Do not
attempt to remove or dismantle the steering
tinue to provide optimized protection,
please observe the adjustment instructions on
page 45.<
The front airbags help protect the driver and
front passenger by responding to frontal
impacts in which safety belts alone cannot pro-
vide adequate restraint. When needed, the
head and side airbags help provide protection in
100
wheel. Do not touch the individual components
immediately after the system has been trig-
gered, because there is a danger of burns.
In the event of malfunctions, deactivation, or
triggering of the airbag restraint system, have
the testing, repair, removal, and disposal of air-
bag generators executed only by a BMW center
or a workshop that works according to BMW
repair procedures with correspondingly trained
personnel and has the required explosives
licenses. Otherwise unprofessional attempts to
service the system could lead to failure in an
emergency or undesired airbag triggering,
either of which could result in personal injury.<
against the seat from below. Otherwise a cor-
rect evaluation of the occupied seat surface
cannot be ensured.<
Operating state of front passenger
airbags
Warnings and information on the airbags is also
provided on the sun visors.
Depending on the vehicle's equipment, the
arrangement of the switches and indicator
lamps may differ somewhat.
Automatic deactivation of front
passenger airbags
The indicator lamp for the front passenger air-
bags indicates the operating status of the front
and side airbags on the front passenger side
depending on the seat occupation. The indica-
tor lamp shows whether the front passenger
airbags are activated or deactivated.
The occupation of the seat is detected by eval-
uating the impression on the occupied seat sur-
face of the front passenger seat. The front and
side airbags on the front passenger side are
activated or deactivated accordingly by the sys-
tem.
>
The indicator lamp lights up when a child in
a child restraint system intended for the
purpose is properly detected on the seat.
The front and side airbags on the front pas-
senger side are not activated.
The current status of the front passenger
airbag, i.e. deactivated or activated, is
indicated by the indicator lamp over the interior
rearview mirror, refer to Operating state of front
passenger airbags in the following.<
Most child's seats are detected by the
system. Especially the child's seats
Before transporting a child on the front
passenger seat, observe the safety infor-
required by the NHTSA at the time the vehicle is
manufactured. After installing a child's seat,
make sure that the indicator lamp for the front
passenger airbags lights up. This indicates that
the child's seat has been detected and the front
passenger airbags are not activated.<
mation and handling instructions under Trans-
porting children safely refer to page 56.
The front and side airbags on the front passen-
ger side can be deactivated for teenagers and
adults in certain sitting positions; then the indi-
cator lamp for the front passenger airbags lights
up. In these cases, change the sitting position
so that the front passenger airbags are acti-
vated and the indicator lamp goes out. If the
desired status cannot be produced by changing
the sitting position, transport the correspond-
ing person on the rear seat. Do not fit seat cov-
ers, seat cushion padding, ball mats or other
items onto the front passenger seat unless they
are specifically recommended by BMW. Do not
lay objects under the seat which could press
>
The indicator lamp does not light up when,
for example, a correctly seated person of
sufficient height is detected on the seat.
The front and side airbags on the front pas-
senger side are activated.
>
The indicator lamp does not light up when
the seat is empty.
However, the front and side airbags on the
front passenger side are not activated.
101
Operational readiness of airbag system
From radio readiness, refer to page 61, the
warning lamp lights up briefly, indicating the
operational readiness of the entire airbag sys-
tem and the safety belt tensioners.
Airbag system malfunction
>
Warning lamp does not light up from radio
readiness.
>
Warning lamp lights up continuously.
Switching on/off
Have the airbag system checked immedi-
ately in case of a malfunction, otherwise
Press the button.
there is a danger that the airbag system may not
respond in the expected manner in an accident
despite an impact of corresponding intensity.<
Head-Up Display*
The concept
With the Head-Up Display important informa-
tion is projected into the driver's field of view,
e.g. navigation instructions. This enables you to
take in this information without looking away
from the road.
1
2
Navigation instructions
Display
> Cruise control
> Active cruise control
> Leaving lane warning
Speed
3
Selecting displays
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
102
4. Select "Display settings" and press the
controller.
6. Change into the second field from the top.
Turn the controller until "Brightness" is
selected and press the controller.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Head-Up Display" is
selected and press the controller.
6. Change into the second field from the top.
Turn the controller until "Head-Up Display"
is selected and press the controller.
7. Select desired information of Head-Up Dis-
play.
7. Turn the controller until the desired setting
is selected.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
Notes
The visibility of the displays in the Head-Up Dis-
play is influenced by:
8. Press the controller.
The information appears in the Head-
Up Display.
>
>
>
Sunglasses with certain polarization filters
Certain seating positions
The settings are stored for the remote control
currently in use.
Objects on the cover of the Head-Up Dis-
play
>
Wet road surface and unfavorable lighting
conditions
Setting brightness
The brightness of the display is automatically
adapted to the ambient lighting conditions.
However, you can change the basic setting.
With the low beams switched on, the brightness
can also be adjusted with the knurled wheel of
the instrument lighting.
If the image is distorted, please have the basic
setting checked at a BMW center.
Special windshield
The windshield is part of the system. The shape
of the windshield complies with the require-
ments of the Head-Up Display to enable a pre-
cise display. A film in the windshield prevents
the double images from being displayed.
Windshield replacement should be carried out
by a BMW center or a workshop that works
according to BMW repair procedures with cor-
respondingly trained personnel.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
4. Select "Display settings" and press the
controller.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Head-Up Display" is
selected and press the controller.
Care instructions
You can find everything you need to know on
this topic by consulting the separate Caring for
your vehicle brochure.
103
Any improvement in detection depends on
many factors such as the object size and tem-
perature compared to the surroundings, or
other nearby objects, the visual recognition
skills of the driver, weather conditions, and
other factors.
Driving hints
With the system active, periodically but briefly,
glance at the thermal image on the Control Dis-
play to notice objects that could be people or
larger animals. The glance should be similar to
glancing at the rear view mirror. Do not stare at
the image for long periods while driving, as this
will remove attention from the road. If you notice
an object of interest ahead, be prepared to slow
down or stop, blow the horn, or take other
appropriate action.
Only clean the cover of the Head-Up Dis-
play with a soft, nonabrasive cloth or with
a display cleaning cloth; otherwise, you may
damage it.<
BMW Night Vision*
The concept
BMW Night Vision is a driver assistance system
that is designed to provide enhanced vision for
certain objects at night. This can be especially
helpful for detecting people and larger animals.
When objects are detected, the driver may be
able to take appropriate action sooner. For
example, the driver may identify and detect the
presence of persons or animals in the road
ahead or off to the sides and can be more alert,
slow down or stop, blow the horn etc. The driver
can decide which actions are appropriate and
then react accordingly.
System limits
The system is designed to supplement but not
replace forward vision through the windshield.
The driver is responsible for safe driving at
night. BMW Night Vision is not designed to be
used as a continuous viewing window for driv-
ing at night.
A certain area in front of the vehicle is viewed by
an infrared camera and a generated image is
shown on the Control Display. The resulting
thermal image shows the relative heat radiation
of the objects present in the camera's field of
view. Warmer objects appear brighter and
cooler objects appear darker. Contrast is
dependent on the temperature difference
between the objects and the background and
on the amount of heat radiation of the object
itself. As a result, it is quite possible that a per-
son is not continually recognizable as a person
in shape, since the thermal radiation can be
affected by different clothing which blocks heat
loss. Objects with little temperature difference
to the surrounding area, or little heat radiation
are less noticeable, for example in cold weather.
No system, no matter how sophisticated, can
operate without limitations. BMW Night Vision
operation is subject to physical and environ-
mental limitations that will reduce the ability of
the system to detect and display a clear thermal
image. Some of the situations in which these
limitations can occur are:
>
on steep hilltops or depressions and in tight
curves
>
>
in tunnels, as the contrast is inherently low
when the camera lens is dirty
104
>
>
in dense fog, heavy rain or snowfall
when displaying very hot objects such as
transformers, car exhausts etc.
>
when the image briefly freezes during nor-
mal system adjustment.
BMW Night Vision's potential benefits
can be limited by the driving style of the
driver, the size and relative temperature of the
detected objects, dirt or contamination on the
camera lens, adverse weather like snow, rain or
fog, and other factors not mentioned here. It will
always be the driver's responsibility to drive at a
speed and in a manner that recognizes potential
hazards and adjust accordingly.
BMW Night Vision is not a substitute or replace-
ment for the driver's responsibility to adapt to
visibility and traffic conditions. The forward view
illuminated by the headlamps must always be
the basis for making safe driving decisions, oth-
erwise a safety risk will result.<
Due to the system's need to adjust periodically,
a still image is displayed at certain intervals for
fractions of a second. This is normal and not an
indication of a problem.
To prevent driving without headlamps, at a
speed of more than approx. 3 mph/5 km/h and
when dark, the thermal image on the Control
Display is only shown when the low beams are
on.
Deactivating BMW Night Vision
>
>
>
>
Press the
Press the button on the steering wheel.
Press the button.
Via iDrive, refer to Selecting settings.
button.
Activating BMW Night Vision
1. Turn the light switch to position 2 or 3, refer
to page 108.
2. With low beams switched on:
> Press the
button. Depending on the
Selecting settings
vehicle's equipment, the location of the
button may differ somewhat.
For iDrive details, refer to page 16.
1. Activate BMW Night Vision.
2. Press the controller to display the menu
items.
> Press one of the programmable buttons
on the steering wheel, refer to page 54.
The image will be displayed on the Control Dis-
play after a few seconds. Depending on the last
mode selected, either the normal or full screen
image will be displayed.
105
3. Select the menu item and press the control-
ler:
To minimize icing, the camera lens is automati-
cally heated. However, it may be necessary to
clean the camera lens manually under severe
weather conditions. When doing so, cautiously
remove any debris, ice or snow. To avoid dam-
age to the lens, do not use sharp or abrasive
instruments to clean ice, snow, or dirt off the
lens.
> "Night Vision off":
Deactivate BMW Night Vision.
> "Zoom":
At higher speeds, the image is zoomed
in.
> "Curve mode":
When the windshield is cleaned with the head-
lamps on, the camera lens area is automatically
sprayed as well. Refer to page 68.
Depending on the steering angle and
other parameters, the image sections
follows the course of the road to some
degree.
> "Full screen":
Leaving lane warning*
The image is shown on the entire Con-
trol Display.
The concept
> "Contrast":
This system warns you from a speed of approx.
40 mph/70 km/h when the vehicle is leaving the
lane you are currently in on roads with lane limit
lines. You feel this due to a slight vibration of the
steering wheel.
The system does not warn you if you signal
before leaving the lane.
It is best to use the system on well-developed
roads and freeways.
The contrast of the screen can be
adjusted.
> "Brightness":
The brightness of the screen can be
adjusted.
"Curve mode" can only be activated with
the "Zoom" function switched on. With
"Full screen" activated, "Curve mode" and
"Zoom" cannot be selected.<
Switching on/off
The settings are stored for the remote control
currently in use.
To exit the menu:
The image will automatically disappear after
approx. 5 seconds.
Cleaning camera
Press the button on the steering wheel.
>
The two lines 1 indicate that the system is
activated.
>
The two arrows 2 mean that the system has
detected one or two lane limit lines from a
speed of approx. 40 mph/70 km/h and
warns accordingly.
The function of the camera may be affected by
heavy rain and fog, dirt, snow or ice on the lens.
When this occurs, the displayed image on the
Control Display may become gray.
106
If you activate the system below a speed of
approx. 40 mph/70 km/h, a message will appear
stating that the system is not active until this
speed is reached.
A warning will be canceled:
>
>
>
>
after approx. 3 seconds
if you return to your lane
if you brake heavily
if you signal
System limits
The leaving lane warning cannot serve as
a substitute for your personal judgment in
determining the course of the road.
If the system issues a warning, do not move the
steering wheel with unnecessary severity, as
otherwise you could loose control of the vehi-
cle.<
The function of the system may be limited in the
following example situations:
>
>
in heavy fog, rain or snowfall
with worn-away, poorly visible limit lines, or
lines that run together or apart or are
unclear, e.g. in road construction areas
>
when limit lines are covered by snow, ice,
dirt or a great deal of water
>
>
>
>
in tight curves or on narrow roads
when limit lines are not white
when limit lines are covered by objects
when driving up close behind a vehicle driv-
ing ahead
>
>
with bright counter light
when the windshield is fogged up, dirty or
covered with stickers, vignettes etc. in the
area of the inside rearview mirror
107
Lamps
Automatic headlamp control*
Parking lamps/low beams
In switch position 3, the system activates the
low beams and switches them on or off in
response to changes in ambient light condi-
tions, for instance, in a tunnel, at dawn and dusk
and in case of precipitation. Adaptive Head
Light* is active. The LED next to the symbol
lights up when the low beams are on. You can
activate the daytime running lamps, refer to
page 109. In the situations named above, the
system then automatically switches over to the
low beams.
0
1
2
3
Lights off and daytime running lamps*
Parking lamps and daytime running lamps*
Low beams and welcome lamps
A blue sky with the sun low on the horizon can
cause the lights to be switched on.
The low beams remain switched on inde-
pendent of the ambient lighting condi-
tions when you switch on the fog lamps*.<
Automatic headlamp control*, daytime run-
ning lamps*, welcome lamps, Adaptive
Head Light* and high-beam assistant*
The automatic headlamp control cannot
serve as a substitute for your personal
If you open the driver's door with the ignition
switched off, the exterior lighting is automati-
cally switched off when the light switch is in
position 0, 2 or 3.
judgment in determining when the lamps
should be switched on in response to ambient
lighting conditions. For example, the sensors
cannot detect fog of hazy weather. To avoid
safety risks, you should always switch on the
low beams manually under these conditions.<
Parking lamps
In switch position 1, the front, rear and side
vehicle lighting is switched on. You can use the
parking lamps for parking.
Welcome lamps
The parking lamps drain the battery. Do
not leave them switched on for long peri-
ods of time, otherwise it may no longer be pos-
sible to start the engine. It is preferable to
switch on the roadside parking lamps on one
side, refer to page 110.<
If you leave the light switch in position 2 or 3
when parking the vehicle, then when you unlock
the vehicle, the parking lamps and interior light-
ing remain illuminated for a brief time.
Activating/deactivating welcome
lamps
Low beams
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
The low beams light up when the light switch is
in position 2 and the ignition is on.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
108
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Lighting" is selected and
press the controller.
6. Select "Pathway lighting" and press the
controller.
7. Turn the controller to select the desired
duration.
8. Press the controller to apply the setting.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
Daytime running lamps*
The daytime running lamps light up in
position 0, 1 and 3. If the light switch remains in
position 1, the parking lamps light up after the
ignition is switched off.
6. Select "Welcome light" and press the con-
troller.
Activating/deactivating daytime
running lamps*
The welcome lamps are switched on.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Open the start menu.
Pathway lighting
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
When you activate the headlamp flasher after
parking the vehicle and switching off the lamps,
the low beams will come on for a brief period.
You can set the duration or deactivate the func-
tion via iDrive.
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Lighting" is selected and
press the controller.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Open the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Lighting" is selected and
press the controller.
6. Select "Daytime running lamps" and press
the controller.
The daytime running lamps are
switched on.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
109
Roadside parking lamps, left or right*
Adaptive Head Light*
You also enjoy the option of lighting up just one
side of your vehicle when parking:
The concept
Adaptive Head Light is a variable headlamp
control system that enables better illumination
of the road surface. Depending on the steering
angle and other parameters, the light from the
headlamp follows the course of the road.
Switching on
After parking the vehicle, press the lever up or
down beyond the resistance point, arrow 3.
The roadside parking lamps drain the bat-
tery. Do not leave them switched on for
long periods of time, otherwise it may no longer
be possible to start the engine.<
In tight curves at speeds up to approx. 45 mph/
70 km/h, e.g. on mountainous roads or when
negotiating curves, turning lamps are switched
on that light up the inside area of the curve.
Switching off
Activating Adaptive Head Light
Briefly press the lever in the opposite direction
With the ignition switched on, turn the light
up to the resistance point, arrow 3.
switch into position 3, refer to page 108.
The turning lamps are automatically switched
on depending on the steering angle or the use
of turn signals.
High-beam assistant*
The concept
To avoid blinding oncoming traffic, the Adaptive
Head Light directs light towards the front pas-
senger side when the vehicle is at a standstill.
When driving in reverse, only the turning lamps
are active and illuminate the outer area of
curves.
This system automatically switches the high
beams on and off. A sensor on the front side of
the inside rearview mirror controls the process.
The assistant makes sure that the high beams
are switched on whenever traffic conditions
permit. This relieves you of the burden of con-
stantly switching back and forth and simulta-
neously provides you with the best possible vis-
ibility. Naturally, you can intervene at any time to
switch the high beams on and off as usual.
High beams/
roadside parking lamps
Activating system
1. Turn the light switch to position 3, refer to
page 108.
2. With the low beams switched on, briefly
press the turn signal lever in the high-beam
direction.
1
2
3
High beams
Headlamp flasher
Roadside parking lamps
110
The indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster lights up when the high-beam
assistant is activated. The system
>
in sensing road users with poor inherent
illumination such as pedestrians, cyclists,
equestrians, horsedrawn vehicles, railroad
or shipping traffic close to the road, and at
deer crossings
automatically switches between high beams
and low beams, reacting to oncoming traffic,
vehicles ahead of you, and sufficiently lit areas,
e.g. in built-up zones.
>
>
in tight curves, on steep crests or dips, with
cross-traffic, or with partially hidden
oncoming traffic on divided highways
Manually switching between high
beams and low beams
in poorly illuminated areas and in the pres-
ence of highly reflective signs
If you wish or the situation requires, you can
intervene at any time.
>
>
in the low speed range
when the windshield is fogged up, dirty or
covered with stickers, decals etc. in the area
of the inside rearview mirror
>
>
>
If the high-beam assistant has switched on
the high beams, but you wish to use the low
beams, just switch on the low beams with
the turn signal lever. This deactivates the
high-beam assistant.
In order to reactivate the system, briefly
press the turn signal lever in the high-beam
direction.
>
when the sensor is dirty. Clean the sensor
on the front side of the inside rearview mir-
ror with a cloth slightly moistened with glass
cleaner
Moreover, no system can operate without limi-
tations. High-beam assistant operation is sub-
ject to conditions that may reduce the system's
ability to recognize the difference between
actual vehicle head lamps or tail lamps and, for
example, highly reflective signs, markers, and
streetlights. To be on the safe side, the system
may periodically interpret these situations as
conditions that require low beams. Below are
some of the situations in which premature
switching to low beams can occur:
If the high-beam assistant has switched on
the low beams, but you wish to use the high
beams, simply switch on the high beams as
usual. This deactivates the system and it is
up to you to switch back to low beams.
In order to reactivate the system, briefly
press the turn signal lever in the high-beam
direction.
When the low beams are on, use the head-
lamp flasher as usual.
>
approaching large and/or highly reflective
signs
System limits
>
approaching certain lights, such as drive-
way lighting and porch lights
The high-beam assistant is designed to
maximize the amount of time that high
beams can be safely used and to quickly switch
back to low beams when traffic approaches.
The system cannot completely replace driver
intervention when unusual conditions are
encountered. For this reason, switch to low
beams when circumstances so dictate. Failure
to do so can pose a safety risk.<
>
>
approaching certain traffic signals
approaching large reflective markers
In these situations, the system may interpret
the above conditions as a vehicle ahead requir-
ing a switch to low beams. When the conditions
return to normal, the system will reactivate the
high beams.
Below are a few examples of situations in which
the system may not react or may only function
to a limited degree, requiring personal interven-
tion:
The high-beam assistant cannot replace the
driver's responsibility for complying with state
laws on high-beam switching or for adapting to
visibility and traffic conditions.
>
in extremely unfavorable weather condi-
tions such as fog or heavy precipitation
111
If the automatic headlamp control is acti-
vated, the low beams will come on auto-
matically when you switch on the fog lamps.<
Switching off via iDrive
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the menu.
3. Select "Settings" and press the controller.
Instrument lighting
4. Select "Vehicle / Tires" and press the con-
troller.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the
controller until "Lighting" is selected and
press the controller.
You can control the lighting intensity by using
the knurled wheel.
Interior lamps
Control of the interior lamps, footwell lamps,
door entry lighting, courtesy lamps* and the
cargo bay lamps* is automatic.
6. Select "High-beam assistant" and press
the controller.
High-beam assistant is switched off.
With the courtesy lamps, LED lights are located
in the door handles to illuminate the exterior
area before the doors.
The setting is stored for the remote control cur-
rently in use.
To protect the battery, all lamps in the
vehicle are switched off approx. 15 min-
utes after radio readiness is switched off, refer
to Start/Stop button on page 61.<
Fog lamps*
Switching interior lamps on and off
manually
The parking lamps or low beams must be
switched on for the fog lamps to operate. The
green indicator lamp in the instrument cluster
lights up whenever the fog lamps are on.
Press the button.
The fog lamps are switched off whenever the
high beams are switched on.
If the interior lamps, footwell lamps, door entry
lighting and courtesy lamps are to remain
112
switched off continually, press the button for
approx. 3 seconds.
Reading lamps
Reading lamps are located in the front and rear
adjacent to the interior lamps. Press the button
to switch the lamps on and off.
113
Climate
Automatic climate control
1
2
Air directed toward the windshield and side
windows
8
9
AUTO program
Switching cooling function on and off
manually
Air for the upper body region, refer to
Front ventilation on page 118
10 Temperature, right side of passenger
3
4
Air to footwell
compartment
Temperature, left side of passenger
compartment
11 Manual air distribution, front passenger side
12 Maximum cooling
5
6
Manual air distribution, driver's side
13 AUC Automatic recirculated-air control/
Defrosting windows and removing
condensation
recirculated-air mode
14 LED for residual heat utilization and parked-
7
Manual air volume, switching off automatic
climate control, residual heat utilization
car ventilation system
15 Rear window defroster
114
16 Air grill for interior temperature sensor –
3. Select "Automatic programs" and press the
controller.
please keep clear and unobstructed
The current setting for air distribution is dis-
played on the Control Display.
A congenial climate
The AUTO program offers the optimum air dis-
tribution and air volume for virtually all condi-
tions, refer to AUTO program below. Now you
only need to select an interior temperature
pleasant to you.
The following sections contain more detailed
information on the available setting options.
4. Select the desired intensity and press the
controller.
Most settings are stored for the remote control
currently in use, also refer to Personal Profile
settings on page 29.
The marked intensity of the automatic
program is switched on.
Temperature
AUTO program
Set the desired temperature indi-
vidually on the driver's and front
passenger side.
The AUTO program handles the
adjustment of air volume and air
distribution to the windshield and
side windows, in the direction of
the upper body and in the footwell.
The automatic climate control
adjusts this temperature as quickly as possible
at any time of year, if necessary with the maxi-
mum cooling or heating capacity, and then
keeps it constant.
It also adapts your instructions for the tempera-
ture to outside influences throughout the year.
The cooling is switched on automatically with
the AUTO program. At the same time, a con-
densation sensor controls the program in such
a way that window condensation is prevented
as much as possible.
When changing between different tem-
perature settings in rapid succession, the
automatic climate control does not have suffi-
cient time to adjust the set temperature.<
In the highest setting you activate the maximum
heating output, regardless of the outside tem-
perature.
Intensity of AUTO program
You can adjust the intensity of the AUTO pro-
gram by repeatedly pressing the AUTO button.
The respective current setting is briefly dis-
played on the Control Display when the button
is pressed.
Adjusting temperature in upper body
region
You can also adjust the intensity of the AUTO
program via iDrive.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Press the button to display the current set-
ting on the Control Display.
1. Press the
button.
This opens the start menu.
2. Move the controller to the left to open "Cli-
mate".
115
2. Select the field by moving the controller and
turning the controller to adjust the temper-
ature.
Air volume, manual
You can adjust the air volume by
turning. You can reactivate the
automatic mode for the air volume
with the AUTO button.
The air quantity is reduced and if need be, the
ventilation is switched off in order to reduce the
load on the battery. The display stays the same.
Manual air distribution
You can route the air flowing out into the vehicle
interior via various programs, separately for the
driver's and passenger's side:
You can also adjust the temperature in the
upper body region with iDrive.
>
>
>
>
>
Upper body region
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Open the start menu.
Upper body region and footwell
Footwell
2. Open "Climate".
Driver's side: windows and footwell
Individual program
3. Select "Vent settings" and press the con-
troller.
Selecting program
4. Select the field by moving the controller and
turning the controller to adjust the temper-
ature.
Press the button repeatedly until
the desired air distribution of the
respective program is shown on
the Control Display.
Adjusting air distribution individually –
individual program
Your settings are stored in this program.
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Open the start menu.
2. Open "Climate".
3. Select "Vent settings" and press the con-
troller.
Defrosting windows and removing
condensation
The driver's and front passenger side can
be adjusted separately with the fields on the
right or left side.
Quickly remove ice and condensa-
tion from the windshield and front
side windows.
To do this, also switch on the cooling function.
4. Select the driver's or front passenger side
if necessary.
Move the controller to the right or left
repeatedly until the driver's or front passen-
ger side is selected.
Rear window defroster
The rear window defroster
switches off automatically after a
while. Depending on the vehicle
equipment, upper wires are used as an antenna
and are not part of the rear window defroster.
5. Select the desired field by moving the con-
troller.
116
6. Turn the controller to adjust the air distribu-
tion.
At the lowest temperature, the automatic cli-
mate control switches into recirculating air
mode. The maximum air volume flows out of the
vents for the upper body. Therefore, open these
vents for maximum cooling.
AUC Automatic recirculated-air
control/recirculated-air mode
You can respond to pollutants or
unpleasant odors in the immediate
environment by suspending the
supply of outside air. The system then recircu-
lates the air currently within the vehicle. During
AUC operation, a sensor detects pollutants in
the outside air and controls the shut-off auto-
matically.
Driver's side:
1
Air directed toward the windshield and side
windows
2
3
Air for the upper body
Air to footwell
By pressing the button repeatedly, you can
request three operating modes:
Front passenger side:
>
>
LED off: outside air flows in continuously.
4
5
Air for the upper body
Air to footwell
Right LED on, AUC mode: the system
detects pollutants in the outside air and
shuts off the supply as needed.
Pressing the AUTO button cancels the
manual air distribution settings.<
>
Left LED on, recirculated-air mode: the
The automatic mode for the air volume remains
effective with manual air distribution.
supply of outside air is permanently shut off.
Should the windows fog up in the recircu-
lated-air mode, press the AUTO button or
Switching cooling function on and off
switch off the recirculated-air mode and
increase the air volume if necessary.
The recirculated-air mode should not be used
over an extended period of time, as the air qual-
ity inside the vehicle deteriorates continu-
ously.<
The cooling function cools and
dehumidifies the incoming air
before also reheating it as
required, according to the temperature setting.
This function is only available when the engine
is running.
Residual heat
The cooling function helps to avoid condensa-
tion on the window surfaces or to quickly
remove them.
The heat stored in the engine is
used to heat the passenger com-
partment, e.g. while stopped at a
school to pick up a child.
Depending on the weather, the windshield may
fog over briefly when the engine is started.
1. Switch off the engine.
The cooling function is switched on automati-
cally with the AUTO program.
2. Turn to the right, refer to arrow.
The function can be switched on when the fol-
lowing conditions are met:
Maximum cooling
Maximally cooled air is obtained as
quickly as possible at an outside
temperature above approx. 327/
06 and with the engine running.
>
up to 15 minutes after switching off the
engine
>
with engine at operating temperature
117
>
>
with sufficient battery voltage
Rear ventilation
at an outside temperature below 777/
256
From radio readiness the interior temperature,
the air volume and the air distribution can be
set.
Switching automatic climate control
on and off
1
2
Knurled wheel to smoothly open and close
vent outlets
Knurled wheel to adjust the temperature:
> Turn toward blue: colder
1. Turn to the left to minimum air volume.
2. After approx. 1 second, turn to the left
again.
> Turn toward red: warmer
3
Levers to change the vent outlet direction
You switch on the system again by pressing any
button of the automatic climate control.
Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter
The microfilter removes dust and pollen from
the incoming air. The activated-charcoal filter
provides additional protection by filtering gas-
eous pollutants from the outside air. Your BMW
center replaces this combined filter as a stan-
dard part of your scheduled maintenance.
Front ventilation
Parked car ventilation
The concept
The parked car ventilation blows air into the
passenger compartment to lower interior tem-
peratures.
1
2
Knurled wheels to smoothly open and close
vent outlets
Levers to change the vent outlet direction
It is ready to use in the parked car mode at any
outside temperature.
Do not drop any foreign objects into the
vent outlets, otherwise these could be
You can set two different times for the system
to start. The parked car ventilation can also be
switched on and off directly. It remains
switched on for 30 minutes.
catapulted outwards and lead to injuries.<
Ventilation for cooling
Adjust the vent outlets to direct the flow of cool
air in your direction, for instance, if the interior
has become too warm, etc.
Since the system uses a substantial amount of
electrical current, you should refrain from acti-
vating it twice in succession without allowing
the battery to be recharged in normal operation
between use.
Draft-free ventilation
Set the vent outlets so that the air flows past
you and is not directed straight at you.
118
The air emerges through the upper body region
vent outlets in the instrument panel. These vent
outlets must be open for the system to operate.
5. Move the controller to the left or right to
select "Timer 1" or "Timer 2".
The parked car ventilation is operated via iDrive.
Switching on and off directly
iDrive, for operating principle refer to page 16.
1. Open the start menu.
2. Move the controller to the left to open "Cli-
mate".
3. Select "Parked car operation" and press the
controller.
6. Select the time and press the controller.
The first time setting is selected.
4. Select "Automatic ventilation" and press
the controller.
5. Select "Parked car ventilation" and press
the controller.
7. Turn the controller to make the adjustment.
8. Press the controller to apply the setting.
The next setting is selected.
9. Make the remaining adjustments. After the
last adjustment, the time is stored.
The parked-car ventilation is switched on.
The symbol on the display of the automatic
climate control flashes.
Activating activation time
Move the controller to the left or right to select
"Timer 1" or "Timer 2" and press the controller.
Preselecting activation times
1. Open the start menu.
2. Move the controller to the left to open "Cli-
mate".
3. Select "Parked car operation" and press the
controller.
4. Select "Activation time" and press the con-
troller.
The activation time is activated.
The symbol on the display of the automatic
climate control lights up.
119
The symbol on the display of the automatic
climate control flashes when the parked car
ventilation has switched on.
The parked car ventilation is only avail-
able for activation within the next
24 hours. Please reactivated it after this time.<
120
Practical interior accessories
Programming
Integrated universal remote
control*
The concept
The integrated universal remote control can
replace as many as three hand-held transmit-
ters for various remote-controlled accessories,
such as garage and gate or lighting systems.
The integrated universal remote control regis-
ters and stores signals from the original hand-
held transmitters.
1
2
Memory buttons
LED
The signal of an original hand-held transmitter
can be programmed on one of the three mem-
ory buttons 1. After this, the programmed
memory button 1 will operate the system in
question. The LED 2 flashes to confirm trans-
mission of the signal.
Fixed-code hand-held transmitters
1. Switch on ignition, refer to page 61.
2. When starting operation for the first time:
Press the left and right-hand memory
button 1 for approx. 20 seconds until the
LED 2 flashes quickly. All stored programs
are deleted.
Should you sell your vehicle one day, be sure to
delete the stored programs beforehand for your
safety, refer to page 122.
To prevent possible damage or injury,
before programming or using the inte-
grated universal remote control, always inspect
the immediate area to make certain that no peo-
ple, animals or objects are within the travel
range of the device. Also, comply with the
safety precautions of the original hand-held
transmitter.<
3. Hold the original hand-held transmitter at a
distance of approx. 4 in/10 cm to 12 in/
30 cm from the memory buttons 1.
The required distance between the
hand-held transmitter and the mem-
ory buttons 1 depends on the relevant sys-
tem of the original hand-held transmitter
used.<
4. Simultaneously press the transmit button
on the original hand-held transmitter and
the desired memory button 1 on the inte-
grated universal remote control. The LED 2
flashes slowly at first. As soon as the LED 2
flashes rapidly, release both buttons. If the
LED 2 does not flash rapidly after approx.
15 seconds, alter the distance and repeat
the step.
Checking compatibility
If you see this symbol on the packaging
or in the manual supplied with the orig-
inal hand-held transmitter, it is safe to
assume that it is compatible with the integrated
universal remote control.
If you have additional questions, please
contact your BMW center or call:
1-800-355-3515.
Information is also provided on the Internet at:
or
5. To program other original hand-held trans-
mitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.
The corresponding memory button 1 is now
programmed with the signal of the original
hand-held transmitter.
HomeLink is a registered trademark of Johnson
Controls, Inc.<
121
You can operate the device when the engine is
running or when the ignition is switched on.
If you have any additional questions,
please contact your BMW center.<
If the device fails to function even after
repeated programming, check whether
Deleting all stored programs
the original hand-held transmitter uses an alter-
nating-code system. To do so, either read the
instructions for the original hand-held transmit-
ter or hold down the programmed memory
button 1 of the integrated universal remote
control. If the LED 2 on the integrated universal
remote control flashes rapidly for a short time
and then remains lit for approx. 2 seconds, this
indicates that the original hand-held transmitter
uses an alternating-code system. In the case of
an alternating-code system, program the mem-
ory buttons 1 as described at Alternating-code
hand-held transmitters.<
Press the left and right-hand memory button 1
for approx. 20 seconds until the LED 2 flashes
quickly:
All stored programs are deleted.
Individual programs cannot be deleted.
Rememorizing individual programs
1. Hold the original handheld remote control
approx. 10 to 30 cm away from the memory
buttons 1.
The required distance between the
hand-held transmitter and the mem-
ory buttons 1 depends on the relevant sys-
tem of the original hand-held transmitter
used.<
Alternating-code hand-held
transmitters
2. Press the desired memory button 1 of the
To program the integrated universal remote
control, consult the operating instructions for
the equipment to be set. You will find informa-
tion there on the possibilities for synchroniza-
tion.
When programming hand-held transmitters
that employ an alternating code, please observe
the following supplementary instructions:
integrated universal remote.
3. If the LED 2 flashes slowly after approx.
20 seconds, press the command button of
the original hand-held transmitter. As soon
as the LED 2 flashes rapidly, release both
buttons. If the LED 2 does not flash rapidly
after approx. 15 seconds, alter the distance
and repeat the step.
Programming will be easier with the aid of
a second person.<
1. Park your vehicle within the range of the
remote-controlled device.
Sun blinds*
2. Program the integrated universal remote
control as described above in the section
Fixed-code hand-held transmitters.
Sun blind for rear window
3. Locate the button on the receiver of the
device to be set, e.g. on the drive unit.
4. Press the button on the receiver of the
device to be set. After step 4, you have
approx. 30 seconds for step 5.
5. Press the programmed memory button 1
of the integrated universal remote control
three times.
Press the button on the driver's door.
The corresponding memory button 1 is now
programmed with the signal of the original
hand-held transmitter.
122
Sun blinds for rear side windows
Rechargeable flashlight
Pull the loop of the roller sun blind and hook
onto bracket.
Do not open the window with the roller
sun blind deployed. Otherwise, there is a
risk of damage and injury at higher speeds.<
Glove compartment
Opening
The flashlight is located on the left side of the
glove compartment.
The flashlight can remain plugged in continu-
ously. Pull the flashlight out of the socket when
needed.
To avoid possibly damaging the lamp,
always ensure that it is switched off
before inserting it in the socket.<
Center armrest, front
The compartment in the center armrest is
divided into two sections.
Pull the handle. The light in the glove compart-
ment switches on.
To prevent injury in the event of an acci-
dent while the vehicle is being driven,
close the glove compartment immediately after
use.<
Opening cover
Closing
Raise the lid into the closed position.
Locking
Lock with a key.
If you only hand over the remote control
without the integrated key, e.g. for valet
parking, refer to page 28, the glove compart-
ment cannot be unlocked.<
Press the button. The cover opens somewhat
and can be folded upwards.
Depending on vehicle equipment, the upper
section contains a compartment with a mat
that can be removed for cleaning or a telephone
cradle*.
123
Opening upper compartment
Adjusting
Press button and fold cover upward.
Push the illustrated section of the center arm-
rest into the desired position.
Accessing lower compartment
Connection for external audio device
You can connect an external audio device such
as a CD or MP3 player and play audio tracks
over the vehicle's loudspeaker system:
>
>
AUX-In connection, refer to page 188.
USB/audio interface*, refer to page 189.
Storage compartments
Storage compartments are located on the
doors, in the front center console and in the
rear.
Storage nets are located on the backrests of the
front seats, and a net* is provided in the front
passenger footwell.
Press the button at the front and fold the upper
compartment or the telephone cradle upward.
Ventilating lower compartment*
Push the slide in the lower compartment
upward.
Depending on the automatic climate con-
trol setting, the temperature inside the
ventilated compartment may be higher than in
the rest of the interior. Should this be the case,
push the slide downward to close off the venti-
lation.<
Do not stow hard or sharp-edged objects
in the storage nets or the net, otherwise
there is an increased risk of injury in an acci-
dent.<
Clothes hooks
Clothes hooks are located near the grab han-
dles in the rear.
When hanging clothing on the hooks,
ensure that it will not obstruct the driver's
vision. Do not hang heavy objects on the hooks.
If you do so, they could cause personal injury to
occupants during braking or evasive maneu-
vers.<
124
Emptying
Cup holders
Use lightweight, unbreakable containers
and do not transport hot beverages. Oth-
erwise, there is an increased risk of injury in the
event of an accident. Do not force containers
that are too large into the cup holders, other-
wise damage could result.<
Opening
Press the button, refer to arrow. The ashtray
rises and can be removed.
Cigarette lighter, front
Briefly press the button.
Closing
Press the cover in the center and push in the
cup holder.
Press in the lighter with the engine running or
the ignition switched on.
Ashtray, front
The lighter can be removed as soon as it pops
back out.
Opening
Hold or touch the hot cigarette lighter by
the knob only. Holding or touching it in
other areas could result in burns.
Always take along the remote control when you
leave the vehicle, otherwise children could, for
example, use the lighter and burn themselves.<
Briefly press the center of the cover.
125
In front passenger footwell
Ashtray, rear
Access to socket:
Fold open the cover.
Emptying
Press the entire cover down. The ashtray rises
and can be removed.
Sedan:
In cargo bay
Cigarette lighter, rear
Access to socket:
Fold open the cover.
Refer to Cigarette lighter, front.
Sports Wagon:
In cargo bay
Connecting electrical devices
Sockets
With the engine running or the ignition switched
on, the cigarette lighter socket can be used as a
power outlet for hand flashlights, car vacuum
cleaners, etc., with power ratings of up to
approx. 200 W at 12 V. Avoid damaging the
socket due to inserting plugs of different
shapes or sizes. The same is true for all power
outlets in the vehicle.
Access to socket:
Fold open the cover.
126
In the rear center console
Sedan:
Through-loading system*
Opening
1. Open the buckle of the center safety belt in
the rear and insert the latch plate at the end
of the belt into the fixture on the rear win-
dow shelf.
Depending on the equipment, the sockets in
the rear are covered with caps or equipped with
a lighter. Refer to Cigarette lighter, front,
page 125.
Access to socket:
Remove respective cap or lighter.
2. Push the corresponding head restraint
down as far as it will go, refer to page 50.
Center armrest, rear
3. To release the rear backrest, pull the corre-
sponding lever in the cargo bay.
Storage tray:
Pull the cover upward, arrow 1.
Access to cup holders:
Press button 2 and open the cover.
4. The unlocked rear backrest moves forward
slightly. Fold the backrest forward by the
head restraint.
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Closing
Manual roll-up cover
1. Fold the rear backrest into the seating posi-
tion and engage.
When opening the tailgate or rear window, the
roll-up cover is raised. Before closing the tail-
gate and rear window, press down the roll-up
cover until it engages.
When you return the seat to its upright
position, make sure that the catch
engages properly. If it is not properly engaged,
transported cargo could enter the vehicle dur-
ing braking or evasive maneuvers and endanger
the vehicle occupants.<
Automatic roll-up cover*
When the tailgate or rear window are opened,
the roll-up cover is raised, and when the tailgate
and rear window are closed, it is lowered.
2. Release the latch plate from the bracket on
the rear window shelf and insert it into the
buckle of the center safety belt. Make sure
the latch plate audibly engages.
Make sure that the closing area of the roll-
up cover is clear of obstructions, other-
wise the payload or the roll-up cover may be
damaged.<
The lashing eyes in the cargo bay provide you
with a way to attach cargo-bay nets* or luggage
straps for securing suitcases and luggage, refer
to page 138.
Expanding cargo bay
The rear backrest is divided. You can fold down
both sides separately in order to expand the
cargo bay.
Sports Wagon: cargo bay
Roll-up cover
Reach into the recess and pull toward the front.
When you fold back the backrest, be sure
that the catch engages securely. The red
warning indicator disappears in the recess
when the catch is engaged. If it is not properly
engaged, transported cargo could enter the
passenger compartment during braking or eva-
sive maneuvers and endanger the vehicle occu-
pants.<
Pull out the roll-up cover and hook it into the
brackets.
Do not place heavy or hard objects on the
roll-up cover. If you do so, they may pose
a danger to vehicle occupants during braking or
evasive maneuvers.
Do not allow the roll-up cover to snap back, oth-
erwise it can be damaged.<
To ensure that the safety systems con-
tinue to provide optimized protection,
please observe the safety belt information on
page 45.<
128
3. Pull out the case downward, arrow 2; avoid
Partition net
tilting when doing so.
Do not allow the partition net to snap
back, otherwise there is a risk of injury
and the partition net may be damaged.<
4. Push the case into the guides on the backs
of the backrests.
5. Carefully pull out the partition net and insert
it in the front brackets as described in With
normal cargo bay. This is best carried out
from the front seat.
With normal cargo bay
Pull the partition net out of the case by the loop.
Grasp the rod on both sides and insert it in the
brackets, arrow 1. This is best carried out from
the rear seat.
To restore the original state, proceed in the
reverse order. Finally, lay the case in the two
side brackets and then press forward until it
engages. The red warning indicator disappears
in the recess when the catch is engaged. Check
whether the case is properly locked in place by
pulling it with a sudden movement.
When you no longer require the partition net,
grasp the rod on both sides and remove it from
the brackets, arrow 2. Then slowly allow the
partition net to glide into the case.
With an expanded cargo bay
Compartment in floor
1. Fold down both rear backrests, refer to
Expanding cargo bay.
Automatic roll-up cover: the opened floor panel
strikes against the roll-up cover in the end posi-
tion. If necessary, unhook the roll-up cover at
the rear before opening the floor panel.
2. Unlock the case on both sides with the but-
tons, arrow 1.
To open, reach into the recess and swing up the
handle.
The floor panel flap can be locked.
The partitions in the compartment can be rear-
ranged.
129
Folding up spare tire cover
Compartments in floor
1. Swing up the cover.
Front compartment:
To open the flap, pull upward on the handle.
To close the flap, press downward until it locks.
2. Detach the hook from the bracket and hook
into the floor panel flap.
Rear compartment:
To open, reach into the recess and swing up the
handle.
Before swinging down, return the hook to its
original position.
The rear flap can be locked.
Storage area package*
Retaining straps
Dividing up rear compartment
You can unhook the right-hand retaining strap,
e.g. to open the side panel. To unhook at the
rear end, pull downward; to hook in, press it into
the opening. In addition, it can also be secured
in the center. This makes it possible to secure
objects of different sizes.
Hooks
Two hooks can be used to secure smaller
objects.
Fold out the partitions and press down.
Use the partition net, refer to page 129.
Otherwise objects could be thrown
around and endanger occupants, e.g. during
braking or evasive maneuvers.<
Press at bottom and fold out until they lock.
130
Securing cargo
Ski bag*
The ski bag is designed for safe, clean transport
of up to 4 pairs of standard skis or up to 2 snow-
boards.
With the ski bag you can stow skis with a length
of up to 6.9 ft/2.10 m. When skis of 6.9 ft/2.10 m
in length are loaded, the ski bag will tend to con-
tract, reducing its overall capacity.
Loading
After loading, secure the ski bag and its con-
tents. Tighten the retaining strap on the ten-
sioning buckle for this purpose.
1. Fold down the center armrest, press the
button and open the cover.
Secure the ski bag in this way. If you fail to
do so, it could endanger vehicle occu-
pants during braking or evasive maneuvers.<
To store the ski bag, perform the above steps in
reverse order.
Removing ski bag
The ski bag can be completely removed, e.g. for
faster drying or to allow you to put it to other
uses.
2. Press the button again; the cover in the
cargo bay opens. If you press the button
firmly the first time, this also opens the
cover in the cargo bay.
3. Extend the ski bag between the front seats
and fill it. The zipper facilitates access to the
stowed items and drying of the ski bag.
4. Insert the latch plate of the ski bag retaining
strap into the center safety belt buckle that
is marked CENTER.
1. Pull the handle forward and pull the ski bag
up and out.
2. Close the cover in the cargo bay.
Your BMW center will be glad to provide
you with more detailed information on the
various items of equipment.<
Only stow clean skis in the ski bag. Wrap sharp
edges to prevent damage.
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