Deutsch
EnglishControls -> Technology for comfort, convenience and safety for your BMW 5 Series 2004-2010
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
