2005 BMW X3 2.5I brakes

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
35
Display of the previously described
malfunction on Canadian models.
The warning lamp lights up. Malfunc-
tion in the engine electronics. You can
continue to drive with reduced engine
output or speed. Have the system checked
immediately.
Starting engine
When starting the engine, do not press the
accelerator pedal.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Step on the clutch when starting the vehicle.
A locking mechanism prevents the engine from
starting if the clutch is not depressed.
Do not end the starting procedure too early, but
do not prolong it for more than 20 seconds.
Release the ignition key immediately as soon as
the engine starts.
If the engine fails to start on the first attempt, for
instance, if it is very hot or cold:
Press the accelerator pedal halfway down while
engaging the starter.
During a cold start at very low temperatures,
below approx. +57/–156, at high altitudes
over 3,300 ft/1,000 m:
>Engage the starter for approx. 10 seconds
the first time.
>Press the accelerator pedal halfway down
while engaging the starter.
Avoid frequent starting in quick succes-
sion or repeated start attempts in which
the engine does not start. Otherwise, the fuel is
not burned or inadequately burned and there is
a danger of overheating and damaging the cat-
alytic converter.<
Manual transmission
1.Apply the handbrake.
2.Shift into neutral.
3.Press the clutch pedal.
If the clutch pedal is not pressed, the engine
cannot be started.
4.Start the engine.Before leaving the vehicle with the engine
running, place the gearshift lever in neu-
tral position and engage the handbrake.
Never leave an unattended vehicle with the
engine running, as such a vehicle represents a
potential safety hazard.<
Automatic transmission
1.Press the brake pedal.
2.Engage selector-lever position P or N.
3.Start the engine.
To prevent the vehicle from rolling,
always select position P and engage the
handbrake before leaving the vehicle with the
engine running. Never leave an unattended
vehicle with the engine running, as such a vehi-
cle represents a potential safety hazard.<
Switching off engine
Do not remove the ignition key when the
vehicle is moving, as otherwise the steer-
ing could lock.
When leaving the vehicle, always remove the
ignition key and lock the steering.
When parking on downward inclines, engage
the handbrake.<
Manual transmission
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Automatic transmission
Engage selector-lever position P, turn ignition
key to position 1 or 0.
Handbrake
The handbrake is primarily intended to prevent
the vehicle from rolling while parked; it brakes
the rear wheels.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp lights up red. An
acoustic signal also sounds when you
begin to drive. The handbrake is
engaged.

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
47
Malfunction
The indicator lamp in the button flashes and a
short continuous tone sounds. PDC is malfunc-
tioning. Switch off PDC. Have the system
checked.
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.
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 involved,
there is a blind spot in which objects cannot be
detected. The system is also subject to the
physical limits that apply to all forms of ultra-
sonic measurement, such as those encoun-
tered with tow bars and trailer couplings, or thin
and wedge-shaped objects etc. Low objects
already displayed, e.g. a curb, can also disap-
pear from the detection area of the sensors
again before a continuous tone sounds.
Loud sources of sound, inside and outside the
vehicle, could drown out the PDC signal tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free of ice or
snow in order to ensure that they will con-
tinue to operate effectively.
Do not apply high pressure spray to the sensors
for a prolonged period of time. Keep the spray at
least 4 in/10 cm away from the sensors.<
Driving stability control
systems
Your BMW is equipped with an extended array
of systems designed to enhance and maintain
vehicle stability under extreme conditions.
ABS Antilock Brake System
ABS prevents the wheels from locking during
braking. Safe steering response is maintained
even during full braking. This results in an
increase in the active safety.
ABS is operational every time you start the
engine. Safe braking, refer to page73.
EBV Electronic brake-force
distribution
EBV controls the brake system's application
pressure in the rear wheels to ensure stable
deceleration.
DBC Dynamic Brake Control
When the brake pedal is depressed quickly, this
system automatically generates a maximal
braking force distribution and thus helps keep
the braking distance to a minimum during full
braking. 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 application. DBC is
deactivated when you release the brake pedal.
DSC Dynamic Stability Control
DSC prevents slip at the drive wheels when
starting off and accelerating. DSC also detects
unstable driving conditions, such as a fishtailing
of the vehicle's rear end or the sliding of the
vehicle on its front wheels. In these circum-
stances, DSC helps keep the vehicle on a safe
path, within physical limits, by reducing engine
output and by applying the brakes in individual
wheels.
The DSC is operational every time you start the
engine.
The laws of physics cannot be repealed,
even with DSC. An appropriate driving
style always remains the responsibility of the
driver. Therefore, do not reduce the additional
safety margin again by taking risks.<
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp goes out shortly
after the engine starts.
When the indicator lamp flashes:
DSC is controlling the drive and braking forces.
When the indicator lamp stays lit:
DSC has been switched off with the button.

Technology for comfort, convenience and safety
48
Switching off DSC
Press the button; the indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster lights up continuously.
DSC is now deactivated.
Stabilizing interventions of the chassis control
system DSC are no longer available. However,
the braking interventions that simulate the
function of the differential lock continue to be
active.
In the following exceptional circumstances, it
may be useful to switch off DSC for a short
period:
>When rocking the vehicle and starting off in
deep snow or on loose road surfaces
>On sandy road surfaces
>On poor surfaces with deep ruts
>If the wheels spin on muddy surfaces
>When driving with snow chains
As a result of the braking interventions,
the brakes may be subjected to additional
loads when the system is switched off. In order
to limit the brake temperature, brief automatic
suppression of the brake activation is possible.
To maintain vehicle stability, always drive with
the system switched on when possible.<
Reactivating DSC
Press the button again; the indicator lamp in the
instrument cluster goes out. DSC is now acti-
vated.
xDrive
xDrive is the all-wheel drive system of your X3.
The combined effects of xDrive and DSC fur-
ther optimize the traction and dynamic driving
characteristics. The all-wheel drive system
xDrive variably distributes the drive torque to
the front and rear axle depending on the driving
situation and prevailing road conditions.
HDC Hill Descent Control
The concept
HDC is a system for hill descent assistance that
reduces the speed on steep downward inclines
and makes it even easier to control the driving
characteristics of your BMW under these condi-
tions. The vehicle moves at slightly more than
walking speed without active intervention from
the driver.
HDC is available for activation at vehicle speeds
below approx. 20 mph/35 km/h. When driving
down steep hills with a speed below approx.
20 mph/35 km/h, the vehicle reduces speed
automatically down to slightly more than walk-
ing speed, approx. 5 mph/8 km/h, and then
maintains this speed at a constant.
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 +/– buttons of the cruise
control on the steering wheel.

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
49
Activating system
Press the button; the indicator lamp comes on.
The indicator lamp flashes when the brakes are
applied automatically.
Deactivating system
Press the button again; the indicator lamp goes
out.
HDC is deactivated immediately above approx.
35 mph/60 km/h and after approx. 10 seconds
when the ignition is switched off.
Using HDC
In vehicles with manual transmission:
Use HDC in first gear and in reverse gear, as in
the higher gears the engine's braking action
diminishes.
On vehicles with automatic transmission:
You can use HDC in every drive position.
Malfunction
If the indicator lamp in the button goes out in the
HDC mode or fails to light up when the button is
pressed:
HDC is temporarily not available, as the brake
temperature is too high.
Malfunction in vehicle stability control
systems
The warning lamp lights up yellow.
DBC Dynamic Brake Control is defec-
tive. Have the system checked as soon
as possible.
Display of the previously described
malfunction on Canadian models.If one of the malfunctions described
below occurs, proceed cautiously and
defensively. When driving on poor roads, avoid
using the full throttle or kick-down positions of
the accelerator as well as heavy and panic brak-
ing. Otherwise the drive train may be damaged
or accidents can occur.<
The red brake warning lamp lights up
together with the warning lamps for
ABS and DSC/xDrive. In addition, a
warning signal sounds. ABS, DSC,
HDC and xDrive have failed. Drive may
then only be carried out via the rear
axle. If the brake warning lamp lights up
yellow in the described combination,
the EBV Electronic brake-force distribution is
still available. Have the system checked as soon
as possible.
Display of the previously described
malfunction on Canadian models.
The warning lamp lights up continu-
ously and a warning signal sounds:
DSC or the xDrive all-wheel system has
failed.
The stabilizing interventions of DSC or the all-
wheel drive system xDrive are no longer avail-
able. It is then possible to exert driving force
only via the rear axle. Have the system checked
as soon as possible.
Flat Tire Monitor
The concept
The Flat Tire Monitor keeps track of the infla-
tion pressures in the four mounted tires as you
drive. The system provides an alert whenever
the inflation pressure drops significantly in rela-
tion to the pressure in another tire.

Things to remember when driving
74 Pulsation at the brake pedal combined with
sounds from the hydraulic circuits indicates to
the driver that ABS is in its active mode.
Wet roads
While driving in wet conditions and in heavy
rain, it is a good idea to apply light pressure to
the brake pedal every few miles. Watch traffic
conditions to ensure that this maneuver does
not endanger other road users. The heat which
is generated by the brake applications helps to
dry the brake pads and rotors. The full braking
force will then be available when you need it.
Hills
To prevent overheating and reduced effi-
ciency of the brake system, drive long or
steep downhill gradients in the gear in which
the least braking is required. Otherwise, even
light but consistent pedal pressure can lead to
high temperatures, brake wear and possibly
even brake failure.<
You can further enhance the engine's braking
effect by selecting a lower gear in the automatic
transmission's manual mode, downshifting as
far as first gear on extremely steep stretches,
refer to page37. This strategy helps you avoid
placing excessive loads on the brake system.
During slower downhill driving, use the HDC Hill
Descent Control, refer to page48.
Never drive with the clutch engaged, the
transmission in Neutral or with the engine
switched off, as otherwise there is no engine
braking when the transmission is in neutral, and
no power-assist for brakes and steering with
the engine switched off.
Never allow floor mats, carpets or other objects
to protrude into the area around the brake or
accelerator pedals and obstruct their move-
ment.<
Corrosion on brake rotors
When the vehicle is driven only occasionally,
during extended periods when the vehicle is not
used at all, and in operating conditions where
brake applications are less frequent, there is an
increased tendency for corrosion to form on
rotors, while contaminants accumulate on the
brake pads. This occurs because the minimal
pressure which must be exerted by the pads
during brake applications to clean the rotors is
not reached.
Should corrosion form on the brake rotors, the
brakes will tend to respond with a pulsating
effect that even extended application will fail to
cure.
Cargo loading
To avoid loading the tires beyond their
approved carrying capacity, never over-
load the vehicle. Overloading can lead to over-
heating and increases the rate at which damage
develops inside the tires. The ultimate result
can assume the form of a sudden air loss.<
Determining load limit
1.Locate the following statement on your
vehicle's placard
*:
The combined weight of occupants
and cargo should never exceed
XXX Ibs. or YYY kg, as otherwise the vehicle
may be damaged and unstable driving con-
ditions may result.<
2.Determine the combined weight of the
driver and passengers that will be riding in
your vehicle.

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
77
to dry the brakes, thus preventing a reduc-
tion in braking performance caused by the
moisture.
For cleaning the handbrake, apply the lever
slightly at approx. 25 mph/40 km/h and con-
tinue to drive for approx. 200 yards/
200 meters, provided that traffic conditions
allow you to do so.
Please bear the following points in mind after
driving on poor roads, in order to preserve the
road safety of your BMW:
>Clean the heavy dirt from the body.
>Clean mud, snow, ice and other materials
from the wheels and tires. Check the tires
for damage.

Everything from A to Z
114 Black ice, refer to Ice
warning44
Blower
– air conditioner57
– automatic climate control60
BMW maintenance system93
Bottle holder, refer to Cup
holders63
Brake fluid92
– level92
– warning lamp92
Brake Force Display50
Brake lamps
– Brake Force Display50
– indicator lamp, defective
lamp12,53
– replacing bulbs98
Brake pads
– breaking-in72
Brake pedal, refer to Safe
braking73
Brake rotors
– brake system72
– breaking-in72
Brakes73,92
– ABS73
– brake fluid92
– breaking in72
– handbrake35
– indicator/warning lamp11
Brake system92
– brake fluid92
– brake pads92
– breaking-in72
– disc brakes74
– warning lamp92
Brake wear warning
– brake pads92
– warning lamp92
Breakdown service, refer to
Receiving assistance103
Breaking-in72
Bulb replacement, refer to
Lamps and bulbs95
Buttons on steering wheel12
C
California law
– Event Data Recorders94
– Proposition 65 Warning6
Calling, refer to telephone
Owner's Manual
Can holder, refer to Cup
holders63
Capacities112
Capacity, cargo area112
Car care, refer to the Caring
for your vehicle brochure
Car-care products, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Care, refer to the Caring for
your vehicle brochure
Cargo, securing75
Cargo area67
– capacity112
– cover67
– emergency operation, refer
to Manual unlocking19
– floor cover69
– folding rear seat backrest67
– lashing eyes69
– lid, refer to Tailgate19
– opening, remote control17
– power socket69
Cargo loading74
– determining load limit74
– securing cargo75
– stowing cargo75
– vehicle74
Caring for artificial leather,
refer to the Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Caring for leather, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Caring for plastic, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Caring for the carpet, refer to
the Caring for your vehicle
brochureCaring for the vehicle finish,
refer to the Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Car keys, refer to Key set16
Car phone, refer to separate
Owner's Manual
Car phone preparation66
Car radio, refer to Owner's
Manual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
Car wash73
– refer to the Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Cassette operation, refer to
Owner's Manual for Radio/
Onboard Computer
Catalytic converter, refer to
Hot exhaust system73
CD operation, refer to Owner's
Manual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
Central locking system16
– interior18
Changes, technical, refer to
For your own safety6
Changing a wheel99
Changing gears
– automatic transmission with
Steptronic37
Changing wheels86
Charge-current indicator
lamp12,101
Charging battery101
Check Gas Cap, warning
lamp12,80
Checking oil level90
Child's seats, refer to Child-
restraint systems31
Child-restraint fixing system
LATCH33
Child-restraint systems31
Child-safety locks33
Chock99
Chrome parts, care, refer to
the Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Cigarette lighter65

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
115
Circulation of air, refer to
Recirculated-air
mode57,60
Cleaning, vehicle, refer to the
Caring for your vehicle
brochure
Cleaning rear window39
Cleaning windows,
reservoir90
Cleaning windshield39
Clock43,44
– 12/24 hour mode44
– setting, also refer to Owner's
Manual for Radio/Onboard
Computer
– setting time43
Closing
– from inside18
– from outside16
Clothes hooks65
Clutch72
– breaking-in72
Cockpit10
Cold start, refer to Starting the
engine34
Combination of wheel/tire86
Compact wheel, wheel
changes99
Compartments, refer to
Storage compartments64
Computer44
– also refer to Owner's Manual
for Onboard Computer
– functions44
Condensation, refer to
– Air conditioner57,60
– Parking vehicle73
Connecting a car vacuum
cleaner, refer to Power
socket65
Consumption, refer to
Average fuel
consumption44
Consumption indicator, refer
to Fuel gage42
Controls, refer to Cockpit10Convenience operation
– from outside18
– panorama glass sunroof18
– windows18
Coolant91
– level91
– temperature gage42
– warning lamp91
Cooling, refer to
Temperature57,60
Cooling system filling
capacity, refer to Filling
capacities112
Copyright2
Cruise control40
– buttons on steering
wheel12
– indicator lamp40
Cruising range45
Cup holders63
Curb weight, refer to
Weights112
Cylinders, refer to Engine
data110
D
Dashboard lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting54
Dashboard system, refer to
Cockpit10
Data, technical110
– dimensions111
– engine110
– filling capacities112
– weights112
Daytime driving lamps53
DBC Dynamic Brake
Control47
– warning lamp49
Deactivating front passenger
airbags31,52
Decommissioning the vehicle,
refer to the Caring for your
vehicle brochure
Defective lamp53
Defects7Defrosting windows58,60
– air conditioner58
– automatic climate control60
Defrosting windows and
removing condensation
– air conditioner58
– automatic climate control60
Defrosting windshield, refer to
Defrosting windows58,60
Defrost position, refer to
Defrosting windows58,60
Digital clock43
Dimensions111
Dipstick, engine oil90
Directional indicators, refer to
Turn signals38
Disc brakes73
Displacement, refer to Engine
data110
Display illumination, refer to
Instrument lighting54
Display lighting, refer to
Instrument lighting54
Displays, refer to Instrument
cluster11
Disposal
– engine oil91
– vehicle battery101
Distance warning, refer to
PDC Park Distance
Control46
Door keys16
Door lock18
Doors, manual operation18
DOT Quality Grades84
Draft-free ventilation58,61
Driving lamps, refer to Parking
lamps/low beams53
Driving notes72
Driving on poor roads76
Driving stability control
systems47
Driving through water76
Drying the air, refer to Air
conditioner57,60
DSC Dynamic Stability
Control47
– indicator lamp47