Technology for comfort, convenience and safety
78 The laws of physics cannot be 
repealed, even with DSC. An appro-
priate driving style always remains the 
responsibility of the driver. Therefore, do 
not reduce the additional safety margin 
again by taking risks.<
DBC Dynamic Brake Control 
When you apply the brakes rapidly, this 
system automatically produces the maxi-
mum braking force boost and thus helps to 
achieve the shortest braking distance dur-
ing panic stops. This system exploits all of 
the benefits provided by ABS.
Do not reduce the pressure on the brake 
pedal for the duration of the brake applica-
tion. When the brake pedal is released, 
DBC is deactivated.
Malfunctions of driving stability 
control systems 
The brake system warning lamp 
lights up in red, appearing together 
with the indicator lamps for ABS 
and DSC. A message appears on 
the Control Display. Driving stability 
control and ABS have failed. Con-
ventional braking efficiency remains 
available without limitations.
While you may continue, you should 
remember to proceed cautiously and drive 
defensively while avoiding full brake appli-
cations.
Have the system checked as soon as pos-
sible.
Display of the previously described 
malfunction on Canadian models.
The DSC warning lamp lights up. 
DSC and DTC have failed. 
The stability maintenance functions 
are no longer available. The vehicle will 
remain completely operational, however, 
without DSC.Have the system checked as soon as pos-
sible.
The warning lamp for the brake sys-
tem lights up yellow and a message 
appears on the Control Display. 
DBC has failed.
Have the system checked as soon as pos-
sible.
Display of the previously described 
malfunction on Canadian models.
Active roll stabilization* 
The concept 
Active roll stabilization minimizes body roll 
and optimizes vehicle stability during cor-
nering and evasive maneuvers.
Dynamic stabilizers at the front and rear 
axles form the basis for active roll stabiliza-
tion. Suspension compliance adapts to suit 
driving conditions, varying from perfor-
mance-oriented during cornering to 
smooth and comfort-oriented when the 
vehicle is proceeding in a straight line. Dur-
ing vehicle operation, the system continu-
ously runs through closed-loop control 
cycles lasting only fractions of a second.
The system assumes operational status 
each time you start the engine.
Malfunction 
The warning lamp lights up and a 
message appears on the Control 
Display. There is a malfunction in 
the system. Have the system checked as 
soon as possible.
If there is a malfunction in the system, 
please remember to adapt your 
speed accordingly, especially in curves.
The suspension will be noticeably softer 
and the vehicle will display a greater ten-
dency to tilt during cornering and in cross-
winds.
If a message stating that you should stop 
appears on the Control Display, stop and 
switch off the engine as soon as possible. 
In this case the oil level in the reservoir may  
Under the hood
172
Topping up engine oil 
Wait until the level has dropped to just on 
the lower dipstick mark before adding oil. 
In this area a message also appears on the 
Control Display.
Store oil, grease etc., well out of the 
reach of children; always observe all 
warning labels on the containers.<
Specified engine oils 
The quality of the engine oil selected has 
critical significance for the operation and 
service life of an engine. BMW continu-
ously approves specific oils after confirm-
ing their suitability for use in its vehicles 
with extensive testing.
Use only approved BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil.
If you are unable to obtain BMW High Per-
formance Synthetic Oil, you can add small 
amounts of another synthetic oil between 
oil changes. Use only oils with the API SH 
specification or higher.
Ask your BMW center for details con-
cerning the specific BMW High Per-
formance Synthetic Oil or synthetic oils 
which 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 informa-
tion.
BMW engines are designed to oper-
ate without additives, and their use 
could even lead to damage in some 
cases.<
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as defined in 
SAE classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class 
depends on the climatic conditions in the 
area where you typically drive your BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes 
5W-40 and 5W-30.<
These oils may be used for driving in all 
ambient temperatures.
Coolant 
Do not add coolant to the cooling sys-
tem when the engine is hot. Escaping 
coolant can cause burns.<
Coolant consists of water and the addition 
of antifreeze and anticorrosion agent. Not 
all commercially available additives are 
suitable for your BMW. Ask your BMW cen-
ter for suitable additives.
Only use suitable additives, as other-
wise engine damage may result. The 
additives present a health hazard; observe 
the instructions on the containers.<
Always observe all applicable envi-
ronmental rules and regulations when 
disposing of used coolant additives.<
Checking coolant level 
1.The engine must be at ambient temper-
ature
2.Turn the cap of the expansion tank 
counterclockwise to allow any accumu-
lated pressure to escape, then continue 
turning to open 
Refueling
To ensure that you always have all the 
essential data at hand when refueling, we 
recommend that you fill in the following 
tables with the specifications and informa-
tion that apply to your vehicle. Consult the 
index for individual specifications. Fuel 
Engine oil
The oil quantity between the middle of 
the two marks on the dipstick is approx. 
1.6 US quarts/1.5 liters. 
Tire inflation pressures
Designation
Please enter your preferred fuel here. 
Quality
Summer tires
FrontRearWinter tires
FrontRear
Up to 4 persons
4 persons plus luggage