2001 BMW X5 3.0I check engine

160n
Coolant
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 factory specifications.
Antifreeze and anticorrosion agents are
hazardous to health. You should always
store them in their original container
and in a location which is inaccessible
to children.
Extended-duty antifreeze with corro-
sion inhibitor contains the flammable
substance ethylene–glycol. For this
reason, do not spill antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor on hot engine parts.
It could ignite and cause serious
burns.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of extended-duty antifreeze
with corrosion inhibitor.<
Checking coolant levelCorrect coolant level when the engine
is cold approx. +68 7(+20 6):
Unscrew the cap from the expansion
tank.
The coolant level is correct when the
end of the red float is aligned with the
upper edge of the filler opening (refer to
the arrow in the illustration), or max.
0.8 in (2 cm) higher, i. e. up to the mark
on the float (refer also to the schematic
diagramm, next to the cap).530us102
Adding coolant Wait until the engine cools before
removing the cap from the expansion
tank. The needle of the coolant temper-
aturegauge in the instrument cluster
must be located in the blue zone. If it is
not, there is a danger of scalding.
1 Start by turning the cap counter-
clockwise. Pause to allow any accu-
mulated pressure to escape, then
open the cap.
2 If the coolant is low, slowly add
coolant until the correct level is
reached — do not overfill.
The coolant is a mixture of water
and extended-duty antifreeze with
corrosion inhibitor. Always maintain the
prescribed all-season 50:50 mixture
ratio for year-round protection against
internal corrosion. No other additives
are required.
Replace the coolant every four years.

IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
161n
Brake fluid Vehicle Identification
If the indicator lamp for the
brake hydraulic system appears
or if the CHECK BRAKE FLUID
warning appears in the Check
Control: the brake fluid level is
too low in the reservoir.
The brake fluid reservoir is located
under the microfilter housing trim panel
on the driver's side of the vehicle. For
adding brake fluid or for determining
and correcting the cause of brake fluid
loss, consult your BMW center. Your
BMW center is familiar with the specifi-
cations for factory-approved brake
fluids (DOT 4).
Brake fluid loss may result in extended
brake pedal travel. For this situation,
refer to the notes on page 141.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,
it absorbs moisture from the air
over time.
In order to ensure the safety and reli-
ability of the brake system, have the
brake fluid changed every two years by
a BMW center. Refer also to the Service
and Warranty Information Booklet (US
models) or the Warranty and Service
Guide Booklet (Canadian models).
Brake fluid is toxic and damages the
vehicle's paint. You should always store
it in its original container and in a loca-
tion which is out of reach of children.
Do not spill the fluid and do not fill the
brake fluid reservoir beyond the "MAX"
mark. The brake fluid could ignite upon
contact with hot engine parts and
cause serious burns.<
Comply with the applicable envi-
ronmental laws regulating the
disposal of brake fluid.<
Vehicle Identification NumberIn the engine compartment, stamped
on the right-hand strut dome (arrow)
and on the upper edge of the instru-
ment panel on the left-hand side. 530us103

162n
The BMW Maintenance System has
been designed as a reliable means of
providing maximum driving and oper-
ating safety – 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, which are then indicated in
the Service Interval Display. Conven-
tional systems rely solely on distance
traveled to determine when service is
due. The BMW Maintenance System,
on the other hand, began many years 390us008
ago to take the actual conditions under
which the vehicle is driven into consid-
eration. After all, different drivers can
accumulate mileage in very different
ways.
From the point of view of maintenance,
62,000 miles (100,000 km) accumulated
in short-distance urban driving are not
the equivalent of 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 loads on the
vehicle covers every kind of operating
situation. However, even those who
drive only short distances – significantly
less than 6,000 miles (10,000 km) annu-
ally – 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 Infor-mation Booklet (US models) or the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
As a precaution against corrosion, it is
advisable to have the body checked for
damage from rocks or gravel at the
same time, depending upon operating
conditions.
Have your BMW center do the
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 the
Warranty and Service Guide Booklet
(Canadian models).
These entries will constitute your proof
that the vehicle has received regular
maintenance. They are also required for
warranty claims.<
The BMW Maintenance System

170n
OBD interface socket The Onboard Diagnostic (OBD) inter-
face socket is located on the left of the
driver's side at the bottom of the instru-
ment panel and under a cover.
The cover has the letters "OBD" on it.
The purpose of the OBD system is to
ensure proper operation of the emis-
sion control system for the vehicle's
lifetime. The system monitors emission-
related components and systems for
deterioration and malfunction.530us105
An illuminated lamp informs you
of the need for service, not of
the need to stop the vehicle.
However, the systems should be
checked by your BMW center at the
earliest possible opportunity.
Under certain conditions, the indicator
will blink or flash. This indicates a rather
severe level of engine misfire. When
this occurs, you should reduce speed
and consult the nearest BMW center as
soon as possible. Severe engine misfire
over only a short period of time can
seriously damage emission control
components, especially the catalytic
converter.
Service Engine Soon warning
lamp for Canadian models.
When the filler cap is not properly
tightened, the OBD system can
detect the vapor leak and the indicator
will light up. If the filler cap is subse-
quently tightened, the indicator should
go out within a few days.<

IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
175n
Lamps and bulbsThe lamps and bulbs are essential
factors contributing to the safety of your
vehicle. For this reason, follow the
instructions below carefully when
replacing a bulb. If you are not familiar
with any of the procedures, consult
your BMW center.
Do not touch the glass portion of a
new bulb with your bare hands
since even small amounts of impurities
burn into the surface and reduce the
service life of the bulb. Use a clean
cloth, paper napkin, or a similar mate-
rial, or hold the bulb by its metallic
base.<
A replacement bulb set is available from
your BMW center.
Whenever working on the elec-
trical system, switch off the elec-
trical accessory you are working on or
disconnect the cable from the negative
terminal of the battery. Failure to do this
could result in short circuits.
To prevent injuries and damage,
comply with any instructions provided
by the bulb manufacturer.<
The illustration shows the right-hand
engine compartment.
For checking and adjusting head-
lamp aim, please contact your
BMW center.< 1 Low beams H7 bulb, 55 watts
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to comply
with this precaution could lead to injury
if the bulb is accidentally damaged
during replacement.<
1 Turn the bulb holder to the left (arrow)
and remove.
2 Remove and replace the bulb. 530us107
2 High beamsHB3 bulb, 60 watts
The bulb is pressurized. There-
fore, wear safety glasses and
protective gloves. Failure to comply
with this precaution could lead to injury
if the bulb is accidentally damaged
during replacement.<
1 Turn the bulb to the left and remove.
2 Disconnect the plug.
3 Plug the new bulb into the plug
connector. Be sure that it is securely
engaged.
4 Install in the opposite order.
When cleaning the headlamps,
please observe the following:
>Do not wipe dry (scratches). Never
use abrasives or strong solvents to
clean the covers.
>Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with plenty
of water.
>Always use a deicer spray to remove
accumulated ice and snow – never
use a scraper.<

186n
BatteryCharging the battery Charge the battery in the vehicle only
when the engine is not running. Use the
connections provided in the engine
compartment (for correct connections,
refer to "Jump-starting" on page 190).
The service life specified for the
battery can be achieved only if it
is always kept adequately charged.
Have the charge condition of the
battery checked frequently if the vehicle
is used primarily for driving short
distances.<
Before performing any work on
the electrical system, disconnect
the cable from the negative terminal. If
you do not, short circuits can create the
risk of fire or personal injury.<
If you plan to park the vehicle longer
than 4 weeks, have the battery discon-
nected from the vehicle's electrical
system by disconnecting the cable from
the negative terminal. Then have the
battery charged with an appropriate
battery charger.
If the vehicle will not be driven for a
period longer than 12 weeks, have the
battery removed, charged and store it
in a clean and cool (frost-free) area.
Recharge the battery at least every
three months during storage. Also,
recharge the battery before it is
installed. If you fail to do so, it will not
be serviceable. Every time the battery is
discharged, especially over extended
periods, its service life is reduced. Do not disconnect the battery
when the engine is running. If
you do so, the ensuing voltage surge
will damage the vehicle's onboard elec-
tronics.
Do not make any modifications in the
wires to the positive terminal. If you do
so, the protective function of the safety
battery terminal is no longer ensured.
Repair and disposal must be performed
by trained technicians only.<
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW center.
Maintain the battery in an upright posi-
tion for transport and storage. Secure
the battery against tilting during trans-
port.<

Everything from A to Z215n
Index
Data
Technology
Repairs
Car care
Controls
Overview
Cellular phone 118, 144
refer to the separate
Owner's Manual
Center (high-mount) brake lamp 177
Central locking system 36
button 40
Changing a wheel 180t
Charge indicator lamp 22
Charging the battery 186t
Check air pressure 30
CHECK button 79
Check Control 79
Checking engine oil level 157
tire pressure 30t
Child restraint systems 61, 62
Child's seat 61
Child-safety locks 63
Cigarette lighter front 120
rear 121
socket 121t
Clean the windshield 72
Climate control in the rear passenger area 111
Clock 85
refer also to the onboard
monitor Owner's Manual
Cockpit 16 Code
91
activating 91
deactivating 91
refer also to the radio
Owner's Manual
selecting 91
Cold start 65
Comfort seat 50
Compartments 118
Computer 82, 88
refer also to the onboard
computer Owner's Manual
remote control 92
Configuring the settings 56
Consumption, fuel 90
Contamination on paintwork 164
Convenience operation of windows and sliding/tilt
sunroof 36
Convenience starting feature 65
Coolant 141, 160
antifreeze 141
temperature gauge 78
Cornering Brake Control (CBC) 138
Cruise control 74
Cruising range 82, 90
Cup holder 119
Curb weight 208D
Data link connector for On-
board Diagnostics 170
Date calling up 85
changing 85
refer also to the onboard
monitor Owner's Manual
Daytime-driving lamp 97
DBC (Dynamic Brake Control) 24, 138
Deactivating 92
Deactivating the interior motion
sensor 38t , 44 t
Deep water 135
Defrosting the windows 105t, 109 t
Difficult steering 143t
Digital clock 85
refer also to the onboard
monitor Owner's Manual
Digital sound processor 199
Dimensions 207
Dipstick, engine oil 157t
Disc brakes 140
Disconnect the battery 186t
Displacement 206
Display lighting 97
Displays 18, 20 Disposal
used batteries 186t
used oil 159t
Distance 89
Distance warning 93
Diversity Antenna system 198
Divided rear backrest 124
Door keys 34
Door locks, care 141
Doors manual operation 36
remote control 38
unlocking and locking 36
DOT Quality Grades 146
Drink holder, refer to cup holder 119
Drive belts 210
Driving notes 136, 140
Driving through water 135
Driving your BMW X5 135
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) 24, 94 , 197
DSP amplifier, refer to the radio Owner's Manual
DSP sound system 199
Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) 24, 138
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) 24, 94 , 197