
Under the hood
176
Topping off engine oil
Wait until the level has dropped to just above 
the lower dipstick mark before adding oil. When 
it falls to this level, a message also appears on 
the Control Display.
Refill the oil within the next 125 miles/
200 km, otherwise engine damage could 
result.<
Store oil, grease etc., well out of the reach 
of children; always observe all warning 
labels on the containers.<
Oil change
Have oil changes carried out only by a BMW 
center.
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil selected has critical 
significance for the operation and service life of 
an engine. BMW continuously approves spe-
cific oils after confirming their suitability for use 
in its vehicles with extensive testing.
Use only approved BMW High Performance 
Synthetic Oil.
If you are unable to obtain BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil, you can add small 
amounts of another synthetic oil between oil 
changes. Use only oils with the API SH specifi-
cation or higher.
Ask your BMW center for details concern-
ing the specific BMW High Performance 
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 information.BMW engines are designed to operate 
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 open the cooling system when the 
engine is hot. Escaping coolant can cause 
burns.<
Coolant consists of water and coolant additive. 
Not all commercially available additives are suit-
able for your BMW. Ask your BMW center for 
suitable additives.
Only use suitable additives, as otherwise 
engine damage may result. The additives 
present a health hazard.<
Always observe all applicable environ-
mental laws and regulations when dis-
posing of used coolant additives.<
Checking coolant level
1.The engine must be at ambient tempera-
ture. 

Maintenance
178
Maintenance
The BMW Maintenance 
System
The BMW maintenance system supports the 
preservation of the traffic and operating safety 
of your BMW. The service schedule also 
includes operations related to the vehicle's 
comfort and convenience features, such as 
replacement of the filters for the inside air. The 
ultimate objective is to ensure economical 
maintenance by providing the ideal service for 
your vehicle.
Should the day come when you decide to sell 
your BMW, you will find that a complete dealer 
service history is an asset of inestimable value.
CBS Condition Based Service
Sensors and special algorithms take the differ-
ent driving conditions of your BMW into 
account. Condition Based Service uses this to 
determine the current and future service 
requirements. By letting you define a service 
and maintenance regimen that reflects your 
own individual requirements, the system builds 
the basis for trouble-free driving.
You can set the Control Display to show 
remaining times or distances of selected main-
tenance intervals and legally mandated dead-
lines, refer to page70:
>Engine oil
>Brakes, front and rear separately
>Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter
>Brake fluid>Spark plugs
>Vehicle check
>Legally required tests depending on local 
regulations
Your vehicle stores this information continu-
ously in the master key while the vehicle is 
being driven. After accessing the data stored in 
the master key, your BMW Service Advisor can 
suggest precisely the right array of service pro-
cedures for your own individual vehicle. You 
should therefore give your BMW Service Advi-
sor the key you last used to drive when you take 
your vehicle in for service.
Make sure the date in the Control Center 
is always set correctly, refer to page78, 
as otherwise the effectiveness of CBS Condi-
tion Based Service is not ensured.<
Service and Warranty Information 
Booklet for US models and Warranty 
and Service Guide Booklet for 
Canadian models 
Please consult your Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet for US models and Warranty 
and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models 
for additional information regarding service 
requirements.
Have service and repair operations per-
formed at your BMW center.
Take the time to ensure that these service pro-
cedures are confirmed by entries in your vehi-
cle's Service and Warranty Information Booklet 
for US models and Warranty and Service Guide 
Booklet for Canadian models. These entries 
verify that your vehicle has received the speci-
fied regular maintenance, and may also be 
required when submitting warranty claims.< 

Mobility
 179Reference
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OBD Socket
The Onboard Diagnostics OBD interface 
socket is located on the left of the driver's side 
under the instrument 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 emission control sys-
tem for the vehicle's lifetime. The system mon-
itors emission-related components and sys-
tems for deterioration and malfunction.
An illuminated indicator 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 cen-
ter at the earliest possible opportunity.
Display of the previously described 
malfunction on Canadian models.
Under certain conditions, the indicator 
lamp 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 emissions control 
components, especially the catalytic converter.
When the fuel filler cap is not properly 
tightened, the OBD system can detect 
the vapor leak and the indicator lamp will light 
up. If the filler cap is subsequently tightened, 
the indicator lamp should go out within a few 
days.<
Event Data Recorders
Your vehicle may be equipped with one or more 
sensing and diagnostic modules or a recording 
device capable of recording or transmitting cer-
tain vehicle data or information. In addition, if 
you have a Subscription Service Agreement for 
the BMW Assist system, certain vehicle infor-
mation may be transmitted or recorded in order 
to provide such services.
Care
Important information on care and maintenance 
of your BMW is contained in the Caring for your 
vehicle brochure. 

Giving and receiving assistance
186
Warning triangle*
The warning triangle can be found in the lug-
gage compartment on the left side.
Comply with legal requirements requiring 
you to carry a hazard warning triangle in 
the vehicle.<
First-aid kit*
The first-aid kit is located in the filler element of 
the rear seat backrest.
1.Press the button downward and pull the 
filler element forward.
2.Take out first-aid kit.To refit the filler element, insert the two 
bottom tabs into the strip and press the 
filler element back into place. Make sure that 
you do not damage the rear seat upholstery.<
Some of the articles contained in the first-
aid kit have a limited service life. For this 
reason, check the expiration dates of each of 
the items regularly and replace any whose expi-
ration dates have passed. You can find replace-
ments in any pharmacy.
Comply with legal requirements requiring you 
to carry a first-aid kit in the vehicle.<
Roadside Assistance*
The Roadside Assistance of the BMW Group 
offers you breakdown assistance around the 
clock, including on weekends and public holi-
days.
The phone numbers of the Roadside Assis-
tance in your home country can be found in the 
BMW Contact directory.
In vehicles with BMW Assist or TeleService, 
you can call the Roadside Assistance of the 
BMW Group directly for breakdown assistance 
via the Control Center, refer to page161.
Jump starting
When your battery is discharged, you can use 
two jumper cables to start your BMW with 
power from the battery in a second vehicle. You 
can also use the same method to help start 
another vehicle. Use only jumper cables with 
fully-insulated clamp handles.
To avoid the risk of potentially fatal injury, 
always avoid all contact with electrical 
components while the engine is running. Care-
fully adhere to the following sequence, both to 
prevent damage to one or both vehicles, and to 
guard against possible personal injuries.< 

Mobility
 187Reference
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Preparing
1.Check whether the battery of the other 
vehicle has a voltage of 12 Volts and 
approximately the same capacitance in Ah. 
This information can be found on the bat-
tery.
2.Switch off the engine of the vehicle provid-
ing assistance.
3.Switch off all electrical accessories in both 
vehicles.
There must not be any contact between 
the bodies of the two vehicles, as other-
wise there is a danger of shorting.<
Connecting jumper cables
To avoid personal injury from sparks, 
observe this sequence when connecting 
jumper cables.<
In your BMW, the so-called jump-starting termi-
nal in the engine compartment serves as the 
battery positive terminal, also refer to engine 
compartment essentials on page175. The 
symbol + is embossed on the cover.
1.Fold open the cover of the BMW jump-
starting terminal. To do so, pull the tab.
2.Attach one end of the jumper cable plus/+ 
to the positive terminal of the battery or a 
jump-starting terminal of the vehicle provid-
ing assistance.3.Attach the second end of the cable to the 
positive terminal of the battery or to a jump-
starting terminal of the vehicle to be started.
Your BMW has a special nut as body ground or 
negative pole.
4.Attach one end of the jumper cable minus/– 
to the negative terminal of the battery or to 
an engine or body ground of the vehicle 
providing assistance.
5.Attach the second end of the cable to the 
negative terminal of the battery or to the 
engine or body ground of the vehicle to be 
started.
Starting engine
1.Start the engine on the assisting vehicle 
and allow it to run for several minutes at 
increased speed.
2.Start the engine on the other vehicle in the 
usual way.
If the first start attempt is not successful, 
wait a few minutes before another attempt 
in order to allow the discharged battery to 
recharge.
3.Let the engines run for a few minutes.
4.Disconnect the jumper cables by reversing 
the connection sequence
If required, have the battery inspected and 
recharged at your BMW center.
Never use spray fluids to start the 
engine.< 

Mobility
 189Reference
At a glance
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Communications
Navigation
Entertainment
>When mounted at an angle, the tow bar will 
exert lateral forces, tending to push the 
vehicle sideways.
Secure the tow bar to the tow fitting only. 
Otherwise to other vehicle parts could 
result.<
With tow rope
When starting off in the towing vehicle, make 
sure that the tow rope is taut.
To avoid jerking and the associated 
stresses on vehicle components when 
towing, always use nylon ropes or nylon straps. 
Secure the tow rope to the tow fitting only. Oth-
erwise damage to other vehicle parts could 
result.<
With tow truck
Have the BMW transported with a tow truck 
with a so-called lift bar or on a load bed.
Do not lift vehicle by tow fitting or body 
and chassis parts, as otherwise damage 
may result.<
Tow-starting
Do not tow-start vehicles with an auto-
matic transmission.
Jump starting, refer to page186.<
Only tow-start vehicles with a catalytic con-
verter with the engine cold. It is better to jump 
start the engine, refer to page186.
1.Switch on the hazard warning flashers, 
comply with country-specific regulations.
2.Turn the ignition key to position 2.
3.Shift into 3rd gear, vehicles with SMG, see 
below.4.Have the vehicle tow-started with the clutch 
pedal completely depressed and slowly 
release the clutch. After the engine starts, 
immediately depress the clutch pedal com-
pletely again.
5.Stop at a suitable location, remove the tow 
bar or rope and switch off the hazard warn-
ing flashers.
6.Have the vehicle checked.
Vehicles with SMG Sequential manual trans-
mission:
1.Tow-start in selector lever position N.
2.Select sequential mode. The correct gear 
will be selected and engaged automatically. 

Everything from A to Z
204 Emergency operation, refer to 
Manual operation
– convertible top41
– door lock31
– driver's door31
– fuel filler door166
– glass sunroof38
– luggage compartment 
lid32,33
Emergency release33
Emergency services, refer to 
Roadside Assistance186
"Emission inspect."71
"Enable services"160
"End call"153
Engine
– breaking-in108
– data192
– speed192
– starting54
– starting difficulties54
– switching off55
Engine compartment175
Engine coolant176
Engine oil
– checking the oil level175
– dipstick175
– specified engine oils176
– temperature70
– temperature gage70
– topping off176
Engine output, refer to Engine 
data192
Engine speed, refer to Engine 
specifications192
Engine starting, refer to 
Starting engine54
"Enter address" for 
navigation116
Entering destination116
Entering the address115
Entering the intersection117
Entering the town/city for 
navigation116
Entering zip code for 
navigation116
"Entertainment"133"Entertainment settings"133
Entry map for destination117
Entry to the rear48
"Equalizer", refer to Tone 
control135
"ESN"140
ESP Electronic Stability 
Program, refer to DSC 
Dynamic Stability 
Control82
Exhaust system, refer to Hot 
exhaust system108
Exterior mirrors49
– automatic dimming 
feature50
– automatic heating50
Eye for towing, refer to Tow 
fitting188
Eyes for lashing, refer to 
Securing load111
F
Fader, refer to Tone 
control134
Failure messages, refer to 
Check Control71
False alarms, refer to Avoiding 
unintentional alarms35
Fastening safety belts, refer to 
Safety belts48
Fastest route for 
navigation122
Fast forward
– CD changer145
– CD player145
"Fast route" for 
navigation122
First aid, refer to First-aid 
kit186
First-aid kit186
First-aid pouch, refer to First-
aid kit186
Flashing when locking and 
unlocking, refer to Setting 
acknowledgement 
signals30Flashlight, refer to 
Rechargeable flashlight101
Flat tire
– Flat Tire Monitor84
– run-flat tires85,172
Flat Tire Monitor84
– false alarms84
– initializing system84
– malfunction85
– snow chains173
– system limits84
– warning lamp85
"FM", reception 
range133,136
FM, waveband136
Fog lamps92
– indicator lamp13,92
Folding up convertible top 
compartment floor, 
Convertible34
Footbrake, refer to Braking 
safely109
Footwell lamps93
For your own safety6
Front airbags86
Front head restraints47
"FTM"84
Fuel
– average consumption74
– display70
– fuel specifications167
– high-quality brands167
– quality167
– tank capacity166
Fuel display, refer to Fuel 
gage70
Fuel filler door166
– releasing in the event of 
electrical malfunction166
Fuel gage70
Fuel specifications167
Fuses184 

Reference 213
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Communications
Navigation
Entertainment
Mobility
V
Vehicle
– battery183
– breaking-in108
– care, refer to the Caring for 
your vehicle brochure
– cargo loading110
– decommissioning, refer to 
the Caring for your vehicle 
brochure
– dimensions193
– parking55
– washing, refer to the Caring 
for your vehicle brochure
– weights192
Vehicle jack183
– jacking points183
Vehicle position, refer to 
Displaying current 
position125
"Vehicle settings"29
Ventilating
– independent ventilation98
– refer to Ventilation97
Ventilation97
– draft-free97
Vent outlets of automatic 
climate control94
Voice command system22
– short commands196
Voice instructions for 
navigation system126
– muting51
– repeating51,126
– switching on/off51,126
– volume126
Voice phone book157
Volume132
– audio sources132
– portable phone151,157
– setting speed-
dependent134
– voice instructions126
Volume adjustment in audio 
mode, front-to-rear134
W
Warning lamps, refer to 
Indicator/warning lamps13
Warning messages, refer to 
Check Control71
Warning triangle186
Warranty and Service Guide 
Booklet for Canadian 
models178
Washer fluid
– capacity of the reservoir61
– wiper system61
Washer fluid reservoir61
Water on roads, refer to 
Driving through water109
Waveband136
"WB"133,139
Wear indicators in tires, refer 
to Minimum tread depth171
Weights192
Wheel/tire combination, refer 
to New wheels and tires172
Wheel/tire replacement, refer 
to New wheels and tires172
Wheelbase, refer to 
Dimensions193
Wheels and tires168
Width, refer to 
Dimensions193
Wind deflector42
Windows35
– convenience 
operation30,31
– opening and closing, 
Convertible36
– opening and closing, 
Coupe36
– rear window, Convertible37
Windshield washer nozzles61
Windshield washer system, 
refer to Washer/wiper 
system61
Windshield wiper blade 
replacement180
Windshield wipers, refer to 
Wiper/washer system60Winter tires172
– setting speed limit76
– storage173
Wiper blade replacement180
Wiper system60
– washer fluid61
– windshield washer 
nozzles61
"With highways" for 
navigation122
Word matching principle for 
navigation123
Working in the engine 
compartment174
Wrenches/screwdrivers, refer 
to Onboard tool kit180
X
Xenon lamps180
– replacing bulbs180