
DSC indicator lamp also flashes:
M Dynamic Mode controls the drive
forces and brake forces.
Indicator lights light up:
M Dynamic Mode or DSC has failed.
Deactivating DSC: DSC OFF
When DSC is deactivated, driving stability is
reduced during acceleration and when driving in curves.
To increase vehicle stability, activate DSC
again as soon as possible.
Deactivating DSC Press and hold this button but not longer
than approx. 10 seconds, until the indica‐
tor lamp for DSC OFF lights up in the instru‐
ment cluster and displays DSC OFF.
The DSC system is switched off.
Activating DSC Press button.
DSC OFF and the DSC OFF indicator
lamp go out.
Via M DriveOn the Control Display:1."Settings"2."M Drive 1" or "M Drive 2"3. Select the symbol.4."DSC OFF"
To open M Drive with the selected settings,
press the corresponding button on the steer‐
ing wheel:
▷▷
A message appears in the instrument cluster.
This message is confirmed by pressing the
button again.
Indicator/warning lights
When DSC is deactivated, DSC OFF is dis‐
played in the instrument cluster.
The indicator lamp lights up: DSC is
deactivated.
Active M differential The concept The active M differential assures continuously
variable locking of the rear axle differential de‐
pending on the driving situation. This prevents
individual rear wheels from spinning even
when DSC is switched off and in M Dynamic
Mode, so that optimum traction is always as‐
sured in all driving situations.
The driver is responsible adapting his or her
driving behavior to the situation.
Dynamic Damping Control The conceptThis system reduces undesirable vehicle mo‐
tion when using a dynamic driving style or trav‐
eling on uneven road surfaces.
The system enhances driving dynamics and
comfort fitting road surface and driving style.
Programs Setting options for calibrating the shock ab‐
sorbers:
▷"Comfort": comfort-oriented.▷"Sport": balanced out.▷"Sport Plus": consistently sporty.Seite 129Driving stability control systemsControls129
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BMW M5 technologyVehicle features and options
This chapter describes all standard, country-
specific and optional features offered with the
series. It also describes features that are not
necessarily available in your car, e. g., due to
the selected options or country versions. This
also applies to safety-related functions and
systems.
V8 high-performance engine
The high-performance V8 engine gets a maxi‐
mum power of 412 kW, with Competition
Package 423 kW, from a displacement of
4.4 liters and a maximum torque of 680 Nm.
With its spontaneous response behavior, a
speed range of wide utility results. The maxi‐
mum engine speed is 7,200 rpm and is elec‐
tronically controlled. Because of the high en‐
gine dynamics, the maximum engine speed
with the vehicle stationary is reduced.
Warm-up
During the engine warm-up phase, the
V8 high-performance engine has a somewhat
rougher running behavior because of the emis‐
sion controls.
When the engine is cold, the exhaust system
has a slightly metallic undertone due to the na‐
ture of the system.
For more information about the warm-up pro‐
cedure: Engine speed, refer to page 87, and
engine oil temperature, refer to page 88.
Compound brake
The high-performance braking system has
perforated compound brake discs.
Because of particular structural characteristics,
there may be operation-related noises duringbraking. However, this has no effect on per‐
formance, operational reliability and reliability
of the brake.
Correct braking To keep the brake system in optimum condi‐
tion, it is expedient to apply them at regular in‐
tervals corresponding to the vehicle character.
M carbon ceramic brake
The high-performance braking system has
perforated carbon-ceramic brake disks and is
designed for use on racetracks.
Due to properties of the materials used, brak‐
ing may be associated with louder function
noises, particularly in wet conditions, just be‐
fore the vehicle comes to a stop. However, this
has no effect on the performance, operational
reliability and durability of the brake.
The effects of moisture and road salt, from us‐
ing a carwash or dew formation overnight e.g.,
may render the braking effect comparable to
that of a conventional braking system. This
may be perceived as reduced braking effect
and can be compensated for if needed by
pressing the brake pedal harder.
Before washing the vehicle in an automatic
carwash or wash tunnel, clean the brake discs
and brake calipers with a steam jet or high-
pressure washer as well, to prevent encrusta‐
tions and dirt buildups, caused by salt crystals,
e.g., if the car is immobile afterwards. The
cleaning effect of automatic carwashes or
wash tunnels is usually not adequate for this in
the area around the wheels.
To do this, also follow the instructions in
Washing the vehicle, refer to page 214, and
Braking safely, refer to page 170.Seite 166Driving tipsBMW M5 technology166
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This phenomenon is referred to as hydroplan‐
ing. It is characterized by a partial or complete
loss of contact between the tires and the road
surface, ultimately undermining your ability to
steer and brake the vehicle.
Driving through water Observe water level and speed
Do not exceed the maximum water level
and maximum speed; otherwise, the vehicle's
engine, the electrical systems and the trans‐
mission may be damaged.◀
Drive though calm water only and only if it is
not deeper than 9.8 inches/25 cm and at this
height, no faster than walking speed, up to
3 mph/5 km/h.
Braking safely
Your vehicle is equipped with ABS as a stand‐
ard feature.
Applying the brakes fully is the most effective
way of braking in situations needed.
Steering is still responsive. You can still avoid
any obstacles with a minimum of steering ef‐
fort.
The pulsing of the brake pedal indicates that
ABS is in its active mode.
In certain braking situations, the perforated
brake discs can cause functional problems.
However, this has no effect on the perform‐
ance and operational reliability of the brake.
Objects within the range of movement
of the pedals
No objects in the area around the pedals
Keep floor mats, carpets, and any other
objects out of the pedal area; otherwise, the
function of the pedals could be impeded while driving and create the risk of an accident.
Do not place additional floor mats over existing
mats or other objects.Only use floor mats that have been approved
for the vehicle and can be properly attached to
floor.
Ensure that the floor mats are securely fas‐
tened again after they were removed for clean‐
ing, e.g.◀
Driving in wet conditions When roads are wet, salted, or in heavy rain,
press brake pedal ever so gently every few
miles.
Ensure that this action does not endanger other traffic.
The heat generated in this process helps dry
the brake discs and pads.
In this way braking efficiency will be available
when you need it.
Hills Avoid stressing the brakes
Avoid placing excessive stress on the
brake system. Light but consistent brake pres‐
sure can lead to high temperatures, brakes
wearing out and possibly even brake failure.◀
Do not drive in neutral
Do not drive in neutral or with the engine
stopped, as doing so disables engine braking.
In addition, steering and brake assist are un‐
available with the engine stopped.◀
Drive long or steep downhill gradients in the
gear that requires least braking efforts. Other‐
wise the brakes may overheat and reduce
brake efficiency.
Manual transmission:
You can increase the engine's braking effect
by shifting down, going all the way to first gear,
if needed.
M double-clutch transmission:
You can increase the engine's braking effect
by shifting down in sequential mode, refer to
page 78.Seite 170Driving tipsThings to remember when driving170
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3.Unscrew the bulb holder counterclockwise.4.Remove the bulb and replace it.5.Insert the new bulb and attach the cover in
the reverse order.
LED headlights
At a glance
1Corner-illuminating lights2Low beams/high beams3Parking lamp, daytime running lights4Turn signal5Side marker lights
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
With LED headlights, all front lights and side
indicators are designed with LED technology.
Contact your service center in the event of a
malfunction.
Turn signal in exterior mirrorThe turn signals in the exterior mirrors feature
LED technology. Contact your service center
in the event of a malfunction.
Tail lights, bulb replacement
At a glance1Turn signal2Reversing lamp3Inside brake lamp4Rear lamp5Outside brake lamp6Rear reflector
Turn signal, outer brake, tail, and
license plate lights
Follow general instructions, refer to page 201.
These lights feature LED technology.
Contact your service center in the event of a
malfunction.
Lights in the trunk lid
Access to the lights
1.Remove the three screws using the screw
driver from the onboard vehicle tool kit.Seite 204MobilityReplacing components204
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other attempt in order to allow the dis‐
charged battery to recharge.3.Let both engines run for several minutes.4.Disconnect the jumper cables in the re‐
verse order.
Check the battery and recharge if needed.
Tow-starting and towing Note Tow-starting and towing
For towing the vehicle turn, switch off the
Intelligent Safety systems; otherwise malfunc‐
tions of the individual braking systems might
lead to accidents.◀
Manual transmission
Observe before towing your vehicle Gearshift lever in neutral position.
Towing When the parking brake is blocked
The parking brake cannot be released
manually.
Do not tow the vehicle with the parking brake
blocked, or the vehicle can be damaged.
Contact your service center.◀
Follow the towing instructions
Follow all towing instructions; otherwise,
vehicle damage or accidents may occur.◀
▷Make sure that the ignition is switched on;
otherwise, the low beams, tail lights, turn
signals, and wipers may be unavailable.▷Do not tow the vehicle with the rear axle
tilted, as the front wheels could turn.▷When the engine is stopped, there is no
power assist. Consequently, more force
needs to be applied when braking and
steering.▷Larger steering wheel movements are re‐
quired.▷The towing vehicle must not be lighter
than the vehicle being towed; otherwise,
it will not be possible to control the vehi‐
cle's response.
Tow truck
Have your vehicle transported with a tow truck
with a so-called lift bar or on a flat bed.
Do not lift the vehicle
Do not lift the vehicle by the tow fitting or
body and chassis parts; otherwise, damage
may result.◀
M double-clutch transmission:
transporting your vehicle
Note Your vehicle is not permitted to be towed.
Therefore, contact a service center in the
event of a breakdown.
Do not have the vehicle towed
Have your vehicle transported on a load‐
ing platform only; otherwise, damage may oc‐
cur.◀
Seite 211Breakdown assistanceMobility211
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M double-clutch transmission:1.Drive into the car wash.2.Engage selector lever position N.3.Switch the engine off.
In this way, the ignition remains switched
on, and a Check-Control message is dis‐
played.
Do not turn off the ignition in the car
wash
Do not turn off the ignition in the car wash;
otherwise, the transmission position P is
engaged and damages can result.◀
The vehicle cannot be locked from the outside
when in selector lever position N. A signal
sounds when an attempt is made to lock the
vehicle.
To start the engine with manual transmission:
1.Press on the clutch pedal.2.Press the Start/Stop button.
To start the engine with a M double clutch
transmission:
1.Depress the brake pedal.2.Press the Start/Stop button.
Pressing the Start/Stop button without step‐
ping on the brake turns the ignition off.
Transmission position
Transmission position P is engaged automati‐
cally:
▷When the ignition is switched off.▷After approx. 15 minutes.
Headlights
▷Do not rub dry and do not use abrasive or
acidic cleansers.▷Soak areas that have been dirtied e. g.,
from insects, with shampoo and wash off
with water.▷Thaw ice with de-icing spray; do not use an
ice scraper.After washing the vehicle
After washing the vehicle, apply the brakes
briefly to dry them; otherwise, braking action
can be reduced and corrosion of the brake
discs can occur.
Completely remove all residues on the win‐
dows, to minimize loss of visibility due to
smearing and to reduce wiper noises and
wiper blade wear.
Vehicle care
Car care products BMW recommends using care and cleaning
products from BMW, since these have been
tested and approved.
Car care and cleaning products
Follow the instructions on the container.
When cleaning the interior, open the doors or
windows.
Only use products intended for cleaning vehi‐
cles.
Cleansers can contain substances that are
dangerous and harmful to your health.◀
Vehicle paint
Regular care contributes to driving safety and
value retention. Environmental influences in
areas with elevated air pollution or natural con‐
taminants, such as tree resin or pollen can af‐
fect the vehicle's paintwork. Tailor the fre‐
quency and extent of your car care to these
influences.
Aggressive substances such as spilled fuel, oil,
grease or bird droppings, must be removed im‐
mediately to prevent the finish from being al‐
tered or discolored.
Only use respectively approved cleaning and
care products for vehicles with matte finish.
Suitable care products for matte finishes are
available from the service center.Seite 215CareMobility215
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Leather care
Remove dust from the leather often, using a
cloth or vacuum cleaner.
Otherwise, particles of dust and road grime
chafe in pores and folds, and lead to increased
wear and premature degradation of the leather
surface.
To guard against discoloration, such as from
clothing, provide leather care roughly every
two months.
Clean light-colored leather more frequently be‐
cause soiling on such surfaces is substantially
more visible.
Use leather care products; otherwise, dirt and
grease will gradually break down the protective
layer of the leather surface.
Suitable care products are available from the
service center.
Upholstery material care Vacuum regularly with a vacuum cleaner.
If upholstery is very dirty, e.g., with beverage
stains, use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth
with a suitable interior cleaner.
Clean the upholstery down to the seams using
large sweeping motions. Avoid rubbing the
material vigorously.
Damage from Velcro® fasteners
Open Velcro® fasteners on pants or
other articles of clothing can damage the seat
covers. Ensure that any Velcro® fasteners are
closed.◀
Caring for special components
Light-alloy wheels When cleaning the vehicle, use only neutral
wheel cleaners having a pH value from 5 to 9.
Do not use abrasive cleaning agents or steam
jets above 140 ℉/60 ℃. Follow the manufac‐
turer's instructions.Aggressive, acidic or alkaline cleaning agents
can destroy the protective layer of adjacent
components, such as the brake disk.
Chrome surfaces
Carefully clean components such as the radia‐
tor grille or door handles with an ample supply
of water, possibly with shampoo added, partic‐
ularly when they have been exposed to road
salt.
Rubber components Aside from water, treat only with rubber
cleansers.
When cleaning rubber seals, do not use any
silicon-containing car care products in order to
avoid damage or noises.
Fine wood partsClean fine wood facing and fine wood compo‐
nents only with a moist rag. Then dry with a
soft cloth.
Plastic components
These include:▷Imitation leather surfaces.▷Roofliner.▷Lamp lenses.▷Instrument cluster cover.▷Matt black spray-coated components.▷Painted parts in the interior.
Clean with a microfiber cloth.
Dampen cloth lightly with water.
Do not soak the roofliner.
No cleansers that contain alcohol or sol‐
vents
Do not use cleansers that contain alcohol or
solvents, such as lacquer thinners, heavy-duty
grease removers, fuel, or such; this could lead
to surface damage.◀
Seite 216MobilityCare216
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Everything from A to Z
IndexA ABS, Antilock Brake Sys‐ tem 127
Acceleration Assistant, refer to Launch Control 80
Activated-charcoal filter 146
Active Blind Spot Detec‐ tion 122
Active M differential 129
Active Protection 124
Active seat, front 54
Active seat ventilation, front 55
Adaptive brake lights, refer to Brake force display 124
Adaptive Light Control 101
Additives, oil 196
Adjustments, seats/head re‐ straints 52
After washing vehicle 215
Airbags 105
Airbags, indicator/warning light 106
Air circulation, refer to Recir‐ culated-air mode 145
Air, dehumidifying, refer to Cooling function 145
Air distribution, manual 144
Air flow, automatic climate control 144
Air outlets, see ventila‐ tion 146
Air pressure, tires 184
Alarm system 46
Alarm, unintentional 47
All around the center con‐ sole 16
All around the roofliner 17
All around the steering wheel 14 All-season tires, refer to Win‐
ter tires 189
Alternating-code hand-held transmitter 151
Alternative oil types 197
Ambient light 103
Animal detection, see Night Vision 118
Antifreeze, washer fluid 76
Antilock Brake System, ABS 127
Anti-slip control, refer to DSC 127
Approved axle load 220
Approved engine oils 197
Armrest, refer to Center arm‐ rest 160
Arrival time 95
Ashtray 152
Ashtray, front 152, 153
Ashtray, rear 153
Assistance, Roadside Assis‐ tance 209
Assistance when driving off 127
Attentiveness assistant 124
AUTO intensity 144
Automatic car wash 214
Automatic climate con‐ trol 143
Automatic Curb Monitor 60
Automatic deactivation, front- seat passenger airbags 107
Automatic headlight con‐ trol 101
Automatic locking 46
Automatic recirculated-air control 145
Automatic Soft Closing, doors 40
Automatic trunk lid 41 AUTO program, automatic cli‐
mate control 144
AUTO program, intensity 144
Auto Start/Stop function 70
Average fuel consumption 94
Average speed 94
Axle loads, weights 220
B Backrest curvature, refer to Lumbar support 53
Backrest, width 53
Band-aids, refer to First aid kit 209
Bar for tow-starting/ towing 212
Battery replacement, vehicle battery 206
Battery replacement, vehicle remote control 34
Battery, vehicle 206
Belts, safety belts 55
Beverage holder, cu‐ pholder 161
Blinds, sun protection 49
BMW Assist, see user's manual for Navigation, En‐
tertainment and Communi‐
cation
BMW maintenance sys‐ tem 199
BMW M technology 166
Bottle holder, refer to Cu‐ pholder 161
Brake assistant 127
Brake discs, break-in 168
Brake force display 124
Brake lights, adaptive 124
Brake lights, brake force dis‐ play 124 Seite 222ReferenceEverything from A to Z222
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