
Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
 29
distance to following traffic should not be 
regarded as precise.< 
1Adjustments 
2Switching over to the other mirror or to the 
automatic parking function
*
Storing the mirror positions, refer to Seat and 
mirror memory on page26. 
To prevent the exterior mirrors on this 
vehicle from being damaged, always fold 
them in by hand before entering an automatic 
car wash.< 
Manual adjustments
You can also adjust the mirrors manually if need 
be: by pressing the edges of the mirror glass.
Automatic heating 
When the outside temperature falls below a 
specified temperature, both outside mirrors are 
automatically heated whenever the engine is 
running or the ignition is switched on.
Tilting down passenger's mirror, 
automatic parking function* 
Activating
1.Select the driver's exterior mirror with 
switch 1.
2.When you shift into reverse or move the 
selector-lever into position R, the exterior 
mirror glass on the front passenger side tilts 
downward slightly. This allows the driver to 
see the area immediately adjacent to the 
vehicle – such as a curb – when parking, etc.
You can have the angle of downward tilt 
set to depend on the key used.< 
Deactivating
Select the front passenger's exterior mirror with 
switch 1.
Interior rearview mirror 
To reduce the dazzle effect of following vehi-
cles at night, turn the knob. 

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
 57
Air supply/blower 
You can select blower speeds 1 
to 4. The heating and ventilation 
become more and more effective 
as the air supply settings are 
increased. In position 0, the blower 
and heater are switched off. The air supply is 
blocked in position 0. 
Temperature 
To increase the temperature of the 
interior, turn to the right.
Air distribution 
You can direct air to flow onto the 
windows  , toward the upper 
body   and into the footwell  . 
All intermediate settings are possi-
ble. In the   setting, there is a 
slight flow of air onto the windows to keep them 
free of condensation.
Rear window defroster 
When the rear window defroster is 
activated, the indicator lamp 
comes on. The rear window 
defroster switches off automatically.
You can have your vehicle programmed in 
such a way that the rear window defroster 
switches on automatically. It is then switched 
on at outside temperatures of less than approx. 
+397/+46 within 5 minutes of the engine 
start.< 
Air conditioner 
The air is cooled and dehumidified 
and warmed again as needed, 
depending on the temperature set-
ting. Depending on the weather, the windshield 
may fog over briefly when the engine is started. 
You can reduce condensation forming on the 
windows by switching on the air conditioner.Condensation forms in the air conditioner 
system during operation, and then exits 
under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water 
under the vehicle are therefore normal.<
Outside air/recirculated-air mode 
You can respond to unpleasant 
odors outside the vehicle by tem-
porarily switching off the outside 
air supply. The system then recirculates the air 
currently within the vehicle.
If condensation starts to form on the 
inside window surfaces during operation 
in the recirculated-air mode, you should switch 
it off while also increasing air supply as 
required. The recirculated-air mode should not 
be used over a sustained period of time, other-
wise the air quality inside the vehicle will deteri-
orate.<
Ventilation 
The air vents for the upper body area can be 
adjusted:
1Serrated dials
Serrated dials for opening and closing the 
vent outlets through an infinitely-variable 
range.
2Levers 
Selector levers for airflow direction.
3Serrated dial
Use this serrated dial to adjust the amount 
of cool air that is added to the airflow 
emerging from the vent outlets for the 
upper body. 

A congenial climate
60
A congenial climate
For almost all conditions, the AUTO pro-
gram 12 offers the optimal air distribution and 
air volume. Select an interior temperature you 
find pleasant.
The following section contains more detailed
information on the available setting options.
Your vehicle has been designed to auto-
matically select your personal climate-
control settings whenever you unlock the doors 
using your individually programmed remote 
control.< 
Automatic air distribution and supply 
The AUTO program adjusts the 
airflow and distribution patterns for 
you while also using your prese-
lected temperature setting as the basis for 
adjusting the interior climate to adapt to exter-
nal influences: summer, winter. 
The cooling is switched on automatically with 
the AUTO program.
Individual air distribution 
You can cancel the AUTO program 
by selecting specific air distribu-
tion patterns for your personal 
comfort, the automatic air supply 
remains in operation. You can 
direct air to flow onto the win-
dows  , toward the upper body  , and into 
the footwell  . You can reactivate the auto-
matic air distribution mode by selecting the 
AUTO button.
Adjusting temperature 
The figures in the display provide a 
general indication of interior tem-
perature. When you start the vehi-
cle, the AUTO program ensures 
that the selected temperature is 
achieved as quickly as possible. It 
then maintains this temperature, regardless of 
the season.
Air supply/blower 
You can vary the air supply by 
pressing the upper or lower button. 
This switches off the automatic 
program for the air supply, and the 
word AUTO goes out in the dis-
play. The automatic mode for air 
distribution remains in operation as before. You 
can reactivate the automatic air supply mode by 
selecting the AUTO button.
If you press the lower button when at the lowest 
blower speed, all displays go out: the blower, 
heating and air conditioner are switched off. 
The outside air supply is shut off. You can 
restart the automatic climate control by press-
ing any of its buttons.
Defrosting windows and removing 
condensation 
This program quickly removes ice 
and condensation from the wind-
shield and door windows. 
Air conditioner 
When the air conditioning is on, 
the air is cooled, dehumidified, 
and then reheated depending on 
the temperature setting. Depending on the 
weather, the windshield may fog over briefly 
when the engine is started. The air conditioner 
reduces the formation of condensation on the 
windows.
The air conditioner can only operate when the 
engine is running and is automatically switched 
on with the AUTO program.
Condensation forms in the air conditioner 
system during operation, and then exits 
under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water 
under the vehicle are therefore normal.< 
Outside air/AUC Automatic 
recirculated-air control/recirculated-
air mode 
You can respond to unpleasant 
odors or pollutants in the immedi-
ate environment by suspending 
the supply of outside air. The system then recir- 

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
 63
The corresponding memory button1 is now 
programmed with the signal of the original 
hand-held transmitter.
You can use the system when the engine is run-
ning or when the ignition is switched on.
If the system cannot be operated after 
repeated programming, check whether 
the original hand-held transmitter uses an alter-
nating-code system. To do so, either read the 
instructions of the original hand-held transmit-
ter or press and hold down the programmed 
memory button 1 of the integrated universal 
remote control. If the indicator lamp 2 on the 
integrated universal remote control flashes rap-
idly for a short time then lights up for approx. 
2 seconds, this indicates that the original hand-
held transmitter uses an alternating-code sys-
tem. In the case of an alternating-code system, 
program the memory buttons 1 as described at 
the section on alternating-code transmitters.<
Alternating-code transmitters 
Consult the operating instructions of the unit 
you wish to set when programming the univer-
sal remote control. You will find information 
there on the possibilities for synchronization.
When programming hand-held transmitters 
that employ an alternating code, please follow 
these additional instructions: 
P r o g ra m m in g  w i ll  b e  ea s i er  w it h  t h e  a i d  o f  
a second person.<
1.Park your vehicle within the range of the 
remote-controlled equipment. 
2.Program the integrated universal remote 
control as described above at Fixed-code 
hand-held transmitters. 
3.Locate the button at the receiver of the 
equipment to be set, e.g. on the drive. 
4.Press the button on the receiver of the 
device you want to set up. After step 4, you 
have approx. 30 seconds for step 5.
5.Press the programmed memory button1 
of the integrated universal remote control 
three times. The corresponding memory button1 is now 
programmed with the signal of the original 
hand-held transmitter. 
If you have questions, please contact your 
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.<
Clearing memory buttons 
Press both outer buttons 1 for approx. 20 sec-
onds until the indicator lamp2 starts to flash: 
all of the memory buttons are cleared. 
The memory of individual memory buttons 1 
cannot be cleared. 
Cup holders 
Front
Depending on your optional equipment, the 
center console contains either one or two cup 
holders.
Passenger side*
The cup holder for the front passenger is 
located beneath the air/heating vent.
1.Press the trim piece below the air/heating 
vent, arrow.
2.Insert cup. 

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
 101
light-alloy wheels, different lug bolts may 
also be required.
4.Screw in the remaining lug bolts. Tighten all 
the bolts securely in a diagonal pattern.
5.Lower the jack and remove it from beneath 
the vehicle.
After mounting
1.Tighten the lug bolts in a diagonal pattern.
To ensure safety, always have the lug 
bolts checked with a calibrated 
torque wrench as soon as possible to 
ensure that they are tightened to the speci-
fied torque. The tightening torque is 
101lbft/140Nm.< 
2.Stow the defective wheel in the cargo area.
3.Check and correct the tire inflation pressure 
at the earliest opportunity.
Protect valve stems and valve stem 
seal caps against dirt and contamina-
tion. Dirt in valve stems is a frequent source 
of gradual air loss.< 
4.Reinitialize the Flat Tire Monitor, refer to 
page49.
Do not initialize the system when driv-
ing with the compact wheel.< 
5.Replace the damaged tire with a new one as 
soon as possible and have the new wheel 
balanced.
Driving with compact wheel 
Drive reservedly and do not exceed a 
speed of 50 mph/80 km/h. Do not deacti-
vate DSC, as otherwise unstable driving condi-
tions may result.< 
The driving characteristics change, for example 
reduced track stability on braking, extended 
braking distance, and altered self-steering 
characteristics in the limit range. In conjunction 
with winter tires, these characteristics are more 
pronounced. 
Only one compact wheel may be 
mounted. You should re-equip with 
wheels and tires of the original size as quickly as 
possible.<
Vehicle battery 
Maintenance
The battery is 100 % maintenance-free, i.e., the 
electrolyte will last for the life of the battery 
when the vehicle is operated in a temperate cli-
mate. Your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center 
will be happy to consult you on all questions 
concerning the battery.
Warning lamp 
The warning lamp lights up. The bat-
tery is no longer being charged. The 
alternator V-belt is defective or there is 
a malfunction in the charge current circuit of the 
alternator. Have the system checked immedi-
ately.
Do not continue driving if the V-belt is 
defective. The engine could be damaged 
due to overheating. 
Moreover, an increased amount of force is 
required for steering if there is a sharp drop in 
the onboard supply voltage.< 
Charging battery 
Charge the battery in the vehicle only when the 
engine is not running. Use the connections pro-
vided in the engine compartment. For connec-
tions, refer to Jump starting on page104. 
Disposal 
Have old batteries disposed of following 
replacement at your BMW Sports Activity 
Vehicle Center or bring them to a collection 
point. Maintain the battery in an upright position 
for transport and storage. Always secure the 
battery to prevent it from tipping over during 
transport.< 

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
 117
Glove compartment64
Grills, refer to 
Ventilation57,61
Gross vehicle weight, refer to 
Weights112
Ground clearance76
H
Halogen lamps96
Handbrake35
– indicator lamp35
Hands-free microphone, refer 
to Car phone preparation66
Hands-free system66
Hazard warning flashers10
HDC Hill Descent Control48
Head airbags51
Headlamp control, 
automatic53
Headlamp flasher38
– indicator lamp12
Headlamps96
– care, refer to the Caring for 
your vehicle brochure
– replacing bulbs95
Headlamp washer 
reservoir90
– capacity, refer to Filling 
capacities112
Headlamp washer system90
– headlamp washing39
– washer fluid90
Head Light, refer to Adaptive 
Head Light53
Head restraints25
Heated mirrors29
Heated rear window
– air conditioner57
– automatic climate control61
Heated seats27
Heated steering wheel28
Heater
– rear window57,61
– windshield washer jets39Heating
– exterior mirror29
– seats27
– steering wheel28
Heating and ventilation56,59
Heavy cargo, refer to Cargo 
loading74
Height, refer to 
Dimensions111
Height adjustment
– seats25,26
– steering wheel28
High beams54
– headlight flasher54
– indicator lamp12
– replacing bulbs96
High Performance Synthetic 
Oil91
Hill-climbing ability, refer to 
Driving on poor roads76
Hill descent assistance, refer 
to HDC Hill Descent 
Control48
Hill Descent Control HDC48
Hills74
Holder for cups63
Hood88
Horn10
Hotel function16
Hot exhaust system73
Hydraulic brake assistant, 
refer to DBC Dynamic Brake 
Control47
Hydroplaning73
I
Ice warning44
Ignition34
Ignition key16
Ignition lock34
Imprint2
Index113Indicator/warning lamp
– airbags52
– alarm system22
– automatic transmission with 
Steptronic38
– brakes92
– coolant temperature42
– DSC47
– engine temperature42
– Flat Tire Monitor50
– fog lamps54
– front passenger airbags52
– reserve42
– safety belt warning27
Indicator/warning lamps, 
overview11
Individual settings, refer to 
Vehicle Memory, Key 
Memory30
Inflation pressure, refer to Tire 
inflation pressure82
Inflation pressure monitoring, 
refer to Flat Tire Monitor49
Inside rearview mirror, 
automatic dimming 
feature73
INSPECTION message43
Instrument cluster11
Instrument lighting54
Instrument panel, refer to 
Cockpit10
Integrated universal remote 
control62
Interior lamps55
– remote control17
Interior motion sensor23
– switching off17,23
Interior rearview mirror29
Interlock34
Intermittent operation, 
wipers38
Interval indicator, Service43