
146n
Engine oil Specified engine oilsThe quality of the engine oil is 
extremely important for the function 
and life of an engine. Based on exten-
sive testing, BMW has approved only 
certain types of engine oils. 
Use only approved "BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil." 
If you are unable to obtain "BMW High 
Performance Synthetic Oil," you may 
use small volumes of other approved 
synthetic oils for topping up between oil 
changes. Use only oils with the specifi-
cation API SH or higher. 
Ask your BMW center for details 
concerning the specific "BMW 
High Performance Synthetic Oil" or 
synthetic oils that have been 
approved.<
You can also call BMW of North 
America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this 
website: www.bmwusa.com to obtain 
this information.
Viscosity ratings Viscosity is the oil flow rating as estab-
lished in SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class 
depends on the climatic conditions in 
the area where you drive your BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes 
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These kinds of oil may be used for 
driving in all ambient temperatures.
530us200 

147n
IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
Engine oil Coolant 
Always observe all environmental 
protection laws when disposing of 
used oil.<
Recommendation: have the oil changed 
by your BMW center only.
Continuous exposure to used oil 
has caused cancer in laboratory 
testing.
For this reason, thoroughly wash any 
areas of skin that come into contact 
with oil using soap and water.
Always store oils, grease and similar 
materials so that they are inaccessible 
to children. Comply with warning labels 
and information on containers.<
Do not add coolant to the cooling 
system when the engine is hot. If 
you attempt to do so, escaping coolant 
can cause burns. 
To avoid the possibility of damage later 
on, never use anything other than 
factory-approved, nitrite and amino-
free extended-duty antifreeze with 
corrosion inhibitor. Your BMW center is 
familiar with the official specifications. 
Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents are 
hazardous to health. You should always 
store it in its original container and in a 
location that is inaccessible to children. 
Extended-duty antifreeze with corro-
sion inhibitor contains ethylene glycol, a 
flammable substance. For this reason, 
do not spill antifreeze with corrosion 
inhibitor on hot engine parts. It could 
ignite and cause burns.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the 
disposal of extended-duty antifreeze 
with corrosion inhibitor.<
Checking coolant levelCorrect coolant level for cold engine 
(approx. 68 7 or +20 6):
Unscrew the cap from the expansion 
tank.
The coolant level is correct when the 
upper end of the red float is at least 
even with the upper edge of the filler 
neck (refer to the arrow in the illustra-
tion), but no more than 0.8 in (2 cm) 
above it Ð that is, up to the second mark 
on the float (refer also to the schematic 
diagram next to the filler neck).46cde036 

150n
The BMW Maintenance System has 
been designed as a reliable means of 
providing maximum driving and operat-
ing safety Ð and as cost-effectively as 
possible for you. 
Please keep in mind that regular main-
tenance is not only necessary for the 
safety of your vehicle, but also plays a 
significant role in maintaining the resale 
value of the vehicle. 
Service Interval DisplayAdvanced technology is employed 
to calculate the optimal maintenance 
intervals. These are then indicated in 
the Service Interval Display. While 
conventional systems rely on distance 
traveled alone to determine when 
service is due, the BMW Maintenance 
System has for years considered the 46cus018
actual conditions under which the 
vehicle operates, because miles can be 
traveled in many different ways:
From a maintenance point of view, 
62,000 miles (100,000 km) of short-
distance urban driving are not equiva-
lent to the same distance covered at 
moderate speeds in long-distance 
highway travel.
The BMW Maintenance System 
includes the Engine Oil Service and 
Inspections I and II.
Determining the maintenance intervals 
according to the actual use of the 
vehicle covers every kind of operating 
situation. However, even those who 
drive only short distances Ð significantly 
less than 6,000 miles (10,000 km) annu-
ally Ð should have the engine oil 
changed at least every 2 years, since oil 
deteriorates over time, regardless of 
use.Service and Warranty Information 
Booklet (US models)/Warranty 
and Service Guide Booklet 
(Canadian models)For additional information on mainte-
nance intervals and procedures, please 
refer to the Service and Warranty 
Information Booklet (US models), or the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet 
(Canadian models).
As a precaution against rust, it is advis-
able to have the body checked for 
damage from rocks or gravel at the 
same time, depending upon operating 
conditions.
Have your BMW center perform 
maintenance and repair. 
Your BMW center is always informed on 
the latest maintenance work and repair 
techniques and equipped with the 
required special tools. In addition, 
checking parts known from experience 
to be subject to wear is a permanent 
part of the maintenance specifications. 
Be sure that all maintenance work is 
confirmed in the Service and Warranty 
Information Booklet (US models), or in 
the Warranty and Service Guide 
Booklet (Canadian models). These en-
tries are your verification for the regular 
maintenance of your vehicle and are 
required for the performance of 
warranty repairs.<
The BMW Maintenance System 

160n
Vehicle storage
If you plan on parking the vehicle 
for more than three months, have 
the maintenance operations described 
on this page performed.<
Preparations for storageHave your BMW center perform the 
following procedures:
1 Clean and apply a rustproofing agent 
or other treatment to the engine, 
engine compartment, undercarriage, 
axles and major components in 
accordance with approved repair 
procedures. First wash the vehicle 
surface, then clean the interior, 
following up with paint and chrome 
care, after which you clean the 
rubber seals for the hood and doors.
2 Change the engine oil and oil filter at 
operating temperature. As an addi-
tional corrosion protection measure, 
an anticorrosive agent can be added 
to the engine in accordance with the 
manufacturer's instructions.
3 Check the coolant level and concen-
tration and top up if necessary.
4 Check the fluid level of the wind-
shield washer fluid reservoir and top 
up if necessary.
5 Fill the fuel tank completely to pre-
vent the formation of condensation.
6 Increase the tire inflation pressure to 
51 psi (350 kilopascal).
Before parking the vehicle1 To prevent the brake discs and 
drums from corroding, dry the park-
ing and footbrake by applying the 
brakes.
2 Park the vehicle in a covered, dry and 
well-ventilated space. Place the 
transmission in 1st gear or set the 
selector lever to the "P" position. 
Chock the wheels to prevent the 
vehicle from rolling if necessary. Do 
not set the parking brake.
3 Remove the battery, charge it 
completely and store it in a cool (but 
frost-free) room.
4 Remove the hardtop and store 
separately. Refer to page 130.
5 Close the convertible top.During storageRecharge the battery every six months. 
If it is not recharged, it will not be 
serviceable. Every time the battery is 
drained, especially over extended 
periods, its service life is reduced.
Removing the vehicle from 
storageRecharge the battery if the "Magic 
Eye"
* turns black. Refer to page 176.
Then have Inspection I performed by 
your BMW center, including a brake 
fluid replacement if necessary. Refer 
to the Service Manual. 

199n
IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
Capacities 
Notes
Fuel tank 
Reserve gal. (liters)
gal. (liters)approx. 16.6 (approx. 63) 
approx. 2.1 (approx. 8)Fuel specification: page 27
Windshield/headlamp washer system quarts (liters) approx. 5.6 (approx. 5.3) Specifications: page 144
Cooling system including heater circuit quarts (liters) approx. 8.9 (approx. 8.4) Specifications: page 147
Engine oil filter change quarts (liters) approx. 6.9 (approx. 6.5) BMW High Performance 
Synthetic Oil
Specifications: page 146
Manual and automatic transmission, transfer box 
and differentialÐ Lifetime fluid, no fluid 
change required 

Everything from A to Z
A 
ABS (Antilock Brake  System) 22,122  
Accessories 6 
Activated-charcoal  filter 106,180  
Adaptive Transmission  Control (ATC) 73,188  
Adding engine oil 145 
Adding washer  fluid 144,199  
Adjusting backrest 52 
Adjusting headrests 53 
Adjusting the steering  wheel 57 
Adjusting the  temperature 98,104  
Adjusting thigh support 54 
Air conditioner 96 
Air distribution 98,104  
Air nozzles 96,102  
Air outlets 96,102  
ventilation 96,102  
Air pressure, tires 27,132  
Air supply 98,105  
Airbags 21,61 ,159 ,189  
sitting properly with 62 
Alarm system 42 
Antenna 129 
Antenna, Diversity 190  Antifreeze
147 
radiator 127 
Antilock Brake System  (ABS) 22,122  
Anti-theft alarm system 42 
Aquaplaning 121,132  
Armrest 110 
ASC+T (Automatic Stability  Control plus  
Traction) 22,88  
Ashtray  front 111 
rear 112 
ATC (Adaptive Transmission  Control) 73,188  
Attach vacuum cleaner 112 
AUC (Automatic  recirculated-air 
control) 105 
Automatic car washes 151 
Automatic climate  control 102 
remove window 
condensation 105 
Automatic cruise control 79 
Automatic dimming, interior  rearview mirror 58 
Automatic recirculated-air  control (AUC) 105 
Automatic Stability Control  plus Traction 
(ASC+T) 22,88   Automatic transmission with 
Steptronic 21,73  
Automatic windshield  washer 77 
Average consumption 85 
Average speed 86 
Avoiding unwanted  alarm 43 
Axle loads 198 
B 
Backrest  adjusting 52 
locking 21,55  
releasing 55 
Backup lamps 72 
bulb replacement 169 
Battery 176,200  
capacity 200 
charge current 20,176  
charging 178 
discharged 183 
removal and 
installation 178 
Belts 60 
Beverage holder 111 
Blower 98,105  
BMW High Performance  Synthetic Oils 146 
BMW Maintenance  System 150  BMW sports seat
54 
Bore 196 
Brake fluid 148 
Brake hydraulic system 20 
Brake lamps, bulb  replacement 169 
Brake pads 22,126  
Brake system 126 
Brakes 125 
malfunctions 126 
Break-in procedures 120 
Bulb replacement 166 
C 
California Proposition  65 Warning 161 
Capacities 199 
Car Memory 59 
Car radio 129 
reception 129,190  
refer also to the Radio 
Owner's Manual 
Car washes 151 
Care  convertible top 157 
exterior 152 
interior 154 
leather upholstery 155 
rubber seals and 
components 127  

Everything from A to Z
205n
IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
upholstery155 
vinyl upholstery154 
wool velour155 
Cargo 
loading114 
securing114 
Caring for the vehicle's 
finish153 
Cassette operation, refer 
also to the Radio Owner's 
Manual 
Catalytic converter121 
CBC (Cornering Brake 
Control)21,123 
CD operation, refer also to 
the Radio Owner's Manual 
Cellular phone111,129 
refer to also the separate 
Owner's Manual 
Center (high-mount) brake 
lamp171 
Center armrest110 
Central locking system34 
button38 
Changing a tire173 
Changing a wheel173 
Check Control83 
Child restraints64 
Child restraint
systems61,64 
Child seat security65 
Child's seat61,64 
Cigarette lighter112 Cleaning headlamps78 
Cleaning windshield77 
Clock84 
Cockpit16 
Code, refer to the radio 
Owner's Manual 
Coin box, cup holder111 
Combination switch76 
Compression196 
Computer83 
refer also to the separate 
Owner's Manual 
Configure settings59 
Consumption85 
Contents10 
Convertible top45 
cleaning and care157 
closing following an 
electrical malfunction181 
compartment panel41 
convenience operation34 
electrical fault181 
emergency closure181 
Coolant127,147,199 
antifreeze127 
Cooling system199 
Copyright4 
Cornering Brake Control 
(CBC)21,123 
Cruise control79 
Cruising range85 
Curb weight198 
Current check indicator20 
D 
Data 
dimensions197 
engine196 
technical196 
weights198 
Daytime-driving lamp 
switch93 
DBC (Dynamic Brake 
Control)124 
Deep water121 
Defrost setting100,105 
Defrostable rear 
window98,106 
Defrosting the 
windows100,105 
Digital clock84 
Dimensions197 
Dipstick145 
Disc brakes125 
Displacement196 
Display lighting93 
Displays18 
Disposal 
batteries178 
engine oil147 
Distance warning87 
Diversity Antenna190 
Door key32 
Door locks, care127 Doors 
emergency operation34 
remote control35 
unlocking and locking34 
DOT Quality Grades133 
Draft-free 
ventilation99,106 
Drive belts200 
Driving hints121 
Driving in winter127 
Driving lamps93 
DSC (Dynamic Stability 
Control)22,88,189 
Dynamic Brake Control 
(DBC)124 
Dynamic Stability Control 
(DSC)22,88,189 
E 
Electric power windows44 
Electrical accessories, 
failure179 
Electrical system200 
Electronic vehicle 
immobilizer33 
Elements of operation16 
Emergency closure181 
Emergency operation 
convertible top181 
doors34 
fuel filler door180 
Energy Control81  

Everything from A to ZEngine 
compartment142,143 
Engine coolant147,199 
Engine data196 
Engine oil145 
adding145 
capacity199 
consumption145 
disposal147 
level check145 
pressure20 
quality146 
specifications146 
viscosity146 
Engine speed196 
Engine, starting69 
Engine, switching off70 
Enlarging the luggage 
compartment41 
Enter the rear55 
Entry to the rear55 
Exterior mirrors57 
Eyelets, towing184 F 
Failure messages83 
Fault, ABS123 
Filler cap cover26 
Filling capacities199 
Filling the washer 
reservoir199 
First-aid kit25 Fittings, towing and tow 
starting184 
Flashlight107 
Flat tire132,173 
Fog lamps94 
bulb replacement169 
Follow-Me-Home lamps93 
Footbrake125 
Footwell lamps94 
bulb replacement172 
Front seat adjusting52 
Frost protection, 
radiator147 
Fuel27 
consumption85 
gauge82 
preparation196 
quality27 
reserve indicator85 
specifications27 
tank capacity199 
Fuel filler door 
unlock in case of electrical 
fault180 
Functional status of 
electrical and electronic 
systems192 
Fuses179 
replacing179 
G 
Garage-door opener108 
Gasoline27 
Gasoline gauge82 
Glove compartment107 
Glove compartment lamp, 
bulb replacement172 
Gross vehicle weight198 H 
Handbrake71 
Handsfree system111 
Hazard warning flashers25 
Hazard warning triangle25 
Head restraints53 
Headlamp cover, 
care151,167 
Headlamp flasher76,94 
Headlamp washer 
system78,144,199 
Heated seats107 
Heating, rapid100 
Heavy loads114 
Height197 
High beams23,76,94 
bulb replacement167 
High Performance Synthetic 
Oils146 
High-mount brake lamp171 
Hood, release140 
Horn17 Hubcap174 
Hydraulic Brake assistant, 
refer to DBC 
I 
Ice warning85 
Identification, tires135 
Ignition key32 
Ignition lock69 
Imprint4 
Indicator lamps20 
Inflation pressure27,132 
monitoring91,192 
INSPECTION82 
Instrument cluster18 
Instrument panel16,18 
lighting93 
Interaxle tire rotation134 
Interface socket for Onboard 
Diagnostics162 
Interference 
cellular phones129 
Interior lamps36,94 
bulb replacement171 
remote control36 
Interior motion 
sensor36,43 
Interior rearview mirror58 
automatic dimming 
feature58,191