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EnglishDriving tips for your BMW 5 Series 2010-2017
Driving tips
This chapter provides you with information
useful in dealing with specific driving and
operating modes.
Driving tips
BMW M5 technology
BMW M5 technology
For more information about the warmup proce‐
dure: Engine speed, refer to page 81, and en‐
gine oil temperature, refer to page 81.
Vehicle equipment
All standard, country-specific and optional
equipment that is offered in the model series is
described in this chapter. Therefore, equip‐
ment is also described that is not available in a
vehicle, e. g., because of the selected optional
equipment or country variant. This also applies
for safety-related functions and systems.
Compound brake
V8 high-performance engine
The vehicle has a high-performance brake sys‐
tem with perforated compound brake discs.
Because of particular structural characteristics,
there may be operation-related noises during
braking. However, this has no effect on per‐
formance, operational reliability and reliability
of the brake.
The high-performance V8 engine gets maxi‐
mum power of 412 kW and maximum torque of
680 Nm from a displacement of 4.4 liters. With
its spontaneous response behavior, a speed
range of wide utility results. The maximum en‐
gine speed is at 7,200 rpm and it electronically
controlled. Because of the high engine dynam‐
ics, the maximum engine speed with the vehi‐
cle stationary is progressively deactivated after
a short time.
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
Warmup
During the engine warmup phase, the V8 high-
performance engine has a somewhat rougher
running behavior because of the emission con‐
trols.
When the engine is cold, the exhaust system
has a slightly metallic undertone due to the na‐
ture of the system.
The vehicle is fitted with a high-performance
braking system with perforated carbon ce‐
158
BMW M5 technology
Driving tips
ramic brake discs designed for use on race‐
tracks.
Driving 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.
Requirements
Before driving on a racetrack:
▷
▷
Participation in the BMW Driver Training.
Check engine oil fill level and replenish as
necessary.
▷
Have vehicle checked at a service center.
The effects of moisture and road salt, from us‐
ing a carwash or dew formation overnight for
example, may render the braking effect com‐
parable to that of a conventional braking sys‐
tem. This may be perceived as reduced brak‐
ing effect and can be compensated for if
Hints
Racetrack operation leads to increased wear.
The vehicle is not designed for motorsports
competitive use. This wear is not covered by
the warranty.
necessary 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 build-ups, caused by salt crys‐
tals, for example, if the car is immobile
The standard brake linings and the wear indi‐
cators are not designed for racetrack opera‐
tion. For more information and advice, contact
your service center.
afterwards. The cleaning effect of automatic
carwashes or wash tunnels is usually not ade‐
quate for this in the area around the wheels.
To do this, also follow the instructions in
Washing the vehicle, refer to page 205, and
Braking safely, refer to page 162.
Drive train
With this vehicle, particular value was placed
on the direct connection from engine to the
drive train. Due to the torsionally rigid design of
the drive train, as is typical in a sports car, the
transmission of the torque also gives acoustic
feedback.
When there are load changes, this may result
in clacker noises. They do not cause any im‐
pairment of the operation or the service life of
the components.
159
Driving tips
Things to remember when driving
Things to remember when driving
Use the maximum speed of 155 mph/250 km/h
only briefly, e.g., when passing.
Vehicle equipment
All standard, country-specific and optional
equipment that is offered in the model series is
described in this chapter. Therefore, equip‐
ment is also described that is not available in a
vehicle, e. g., because of the selected optional
equipment or country variant. This also applies
for safety-related functions and systems.
Tires
Due to technical factors associated with their
manufacture, tires do not achieve their full
traction potential until after an initial breaking-
in period.
Drive conservatively for the first
200 miles/300 km.
Breaking-in period
Brake system
M Compound brakes require an initial break-in
period of approx. 300 miles/500 km to achieve
optimized contact and wear patterns between
brake discs and brake pads. Drive moderately
during this break-in period.
General information
Moving parts need to be broken in to adjust to
each other.
The following instructions will help achieve a
long vehicle life and good economy.
M carbon ceramic brakes require an initial
break-in period of approx. 600 miles/1,000 km
to achieve optimized contact and wear pat‐
terns between brake discs and brake pads.
Drive moderately during this break-in period.
During break-in, do not use the Launch Con‐
trol, refer to page 75.
Engine and differential
Always obey the official speed limit.
Clutch
Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km
The function of the clutch reaches its optimal
level only after a distance driven of approx.
300 miles/500 km. During this break-in period,
engage the clutch gently.
Drive at varying engine and road speeds, but
do not exceed 5,500 rpm and
106 mph/170 km/h.
Avoid full load or kickdown on the accelerator
pedal under all circumstances.
Following part replacement
The same breaking in procedures should be
observed if any of the components mentioned
above have to be renewed in the course of the
vehicle's operating life.
At 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Have drive-in checkup maintenance per‐
formed.
From 1,200 miles/2,000 km to
3,100 miles/5,000 km
The engine and road speed can gradually be
increased to a constant speed of
137 mph/220 km/h.
160
Things to remember when driving
Driving tips
Climate control windshield
General driving notes
Closing the trunk lid
Drive with the trunk lid closed
Only drive with the tailgate closed; other‐
wise, in the event of an accident or braking and
evasive maneuvers, passengers and other road
users may be injured, and the vehicle may be
damaged. In addition, exhaust fumes may en‐
ter the passenger compartment.◀
The marked area is not covered with heat re‐
flective coating.
If driving with the tailgate open cannot be
avoided:
Use this area for garage door openers, devices
for electronic toll collection, etc.
▷
▷
▷
Close all windows and the glass sunroof.
Greatly increase the blower speed.
Drive moderately.
Climate control laminated tinted
safety glass
The vehicle glass provides full protection
against the harmful effects of UV radiation on
the skin.
Hot exhaust system
Hot exhaust system
High temperatures are generated in the
exhaust system.
Mobile communication devices in the
vehicle
Do not remove the heat shields installed and
never apply undercoating to them. Make sure
that flammable materials, e. g. hay, leaves,
grass, etc. do not come in contact with the hot
exhaust system during driving, while in idle po‐
sition mode, or when parked. Such contact
could lead to a fire, and with it the risk of seri‐
ous personal injury as well as property dam‐
age.
Mobile communication devices in the ve‐
hicle
It is advised that you do not use mobile com‐
munication devices, e.g., mobile phones, in‐
side the vehicle without connecting them di‐
rectly to the external antenna. Otherwise, the
vehicle electronics and mobile communication
devices can interfere with each other. In addi‐
tion, there is no assurance that the radiation
generated during transmission will be dis‐
charged from the vehicle interior.◀
Do not touch hot exhaust pipes; otherwise,
there is the danger of getting burned.◀
Hydroplaning
On wet or slushy roads, a wedge of water can
form between the tires and road surface.
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.
161
Driving tips
Things to remember when driving
Hydroplaning
Only use floor mats that have been approved
for the vehicle and can be properly fixed in
place.
When driving on wet or slushy roads, re‐
duce your speed to prevent hydroplaning.◀
Ensure that the floor mats are securely fas‐
tened again after they were removed for clean‐
ing, for example.◀
Driving through water
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
6 mph/10 km/h.
Driving in wet conditions
When roads are wet coated with road salt or
there is heavy rain, briefly exert gentle pres‐
sure on the brake pedal every few miles.
Adhere to water depth and speed limita‐
tions
Ensure that this action does not endanger
other road users.
Do not exceed this water depth and walking
speed; otherwise, the vehicle's engine, the
electrical systems and the transmission may
be damaged.◀
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.
Braking safely
Your vehicle is equipped with ABS as a stand‐
ard feature.
Hills
Drive long or steep downhill gradients in the
gear in which the least braking is required.
Otherwise, the brake system may overheat, re‐
sulting in a reduction in the brake system effi‐
ciency.
Applying the brakes fully is the most effective
way of braking in situations when this is neces‐
sary.
The vehicle maintains steering responsive‐
ness. You can still avoid any obstacles with a
minimum of steering effort.
Manual transmission:
You can increase the engine's braking effect
by shifting down, going all the way to first gear,
if necessary.
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.
Double-clutch transmission:
You can increase the engine's braking effect
by shifting down in sequential mode, refer to
page 73.
Objects in the area around the pedals
Avoid load on the brakes
No objects in the area around the pedals
Avoid placing excessive load on the
brake system. Light but consistent brake pres‐
sure can lead to high temperatures, brake wear
and possibly even brake failure.◀
Keep floor mats, carpets, and any other
objects out of the area of motion of the pedals;
otherwise, the function of the pedals could be
impeded while driving
Do not place additional floor mats over existing
mats or other objects.
162
Things to remember when driving
Driving tips
Do not drive in neutral
M Driver's Package: Driving in the
higher speed range
Do not drive in neutral or with the engine
stopped, as doing so disables engine braking.
In addition, steering and brake assist is un‐
available with the engine stopped.◀
Damage to the vehicle
To ensure problem-free driving behavior
in the maximum speed range, have any dam‐
age to the vehicle repaired as soon as possible
as it could negatively impact driving perform‐
ance. This includes, among other things, tires,
undercarriage and parts for improving aerody‐
namics.
Brake disc corrosion
The corrosion on the brake discs and the con‐
tamination on the brake pads are furthered by:
▷
▷
Low mileage.
Until the damage is repaired, do not drive the
vehicle in the higher speed range; otherwise,
there is danger of an accident.◀
Extended periods when the vehicle is not
used at all.
▷
Infrequent use of the brakes.
Corrosion occurs when the minimum pressure
that must be exerted by the pads during brake
applications to clean the discs is not reached.
Should corrosion form on the brake discs, the
brakes will tend to respond with a pulsating ef‐
fect that generally cannot be corrected.
Condensation under the parked
vehicle
When using the automatic climate control,
condensation water develops that exits under‐
neath the vehicle.
Traces of water under the vehicle like this are
normal.
Ground clearance
Limited ground clearance
Observe the limited ground clearance of
the vehicle, e. g. while entering underground
parking garages or when driving over obsta‐
cles. Otherwise, damages to the vehicle may
result.◀
To drive down from curbs with the Electronic
Damper Control, refer to page 119, select the
following program, to keep the ground clear‐
ance as even as possible: "Sport Plus"
163
Driving tips
Loading
Loading
vehicle and unstable driving situations
may result.
Vehicle equipment
All standard, country-specific and optional
equipment that is offered in the model series is
described in this chapter. Therefore, equip‐
ment is also described that is not available in a
vehicle, e. g., because of the selected optional
equipment or country variant. This also applies
for safety-related functions and systems.
2. Determine the combined weight of the
driver and passengers that will be riding in
your vehicle.
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver
and passengers from XXX kilograms or
YYY pounds.
4. The resulting figure equals the available
amount of cargo and luggage load ca‐
pacity.
Hints
For example, if the YYY amount equals
1,000 lbs and there will be four 150 lbs
passengers in your vehicle, the amount of
available cargo and luggage load capacity
is 400 lbs: 1,000 lbs minus 600 lbs =
400 lbs.
Overloading the vehicle
To avoid exceeding the approved carry‐
ing capacity of the tires, never overload the ve‐
hicle. Overloading can lead to overheating and
increases the rate at which damage develops
inside the tires. This could result in a sudden
loss of tire inflation pressure.◀
5. Determine the combined weight of lug‐
gage and cargo being loaded on the vehi‐
cle. That weight may not safely exceed the
available cargo and luggage load capacity
calculated in Step 4.
No fluids in the trunk
Make sure that fluids do not leak into the
trunk; otherwise, the vehicle may be dam‐
aged.◀
Load
Determining the load limit
The maximum load is the sum of the weight of
the occupants and the cargo.
1. Locate the following statement on your ve‐
hicle’s placard:
The greater the weight of the occupants, the
less cargo that can be transported.
▷
The combined weight of occupants
and cargo should never exceed XXX kg
or YYY lbs. Otherwise, damage to the
164
Loading
Driving tips
Securing cargo
Stowing cargo
Always position and secure the cargo as
described above; otherwise, it can endanger
the car's occupants if sudden braking or
swerving becomes necessary.
▷
Cover sharp edges and corners on the
cargo.
▷
Heavy cargo: stow as far forward as possi‐
ble, directly behind and at the bottom of
the rear passenger seat backrests.
Heavy or hard objects should not be carried
loose inside the car; otherwise, they could be
thrown around as a result of hard braking, sud‐
den swerves, etc., and endanger the occu‐
pants.◀
▷
Very heavy cargo: when the rear seat is not
occupied, secure each of the outer safety
belts in the opposite buckle.
▷
▷
If necessary, fold down the rear backrests
to stow cargo.
Do not stack cargo above the top edge of
the backrests.
Roof-mounted luggage rack
Note
Roof racks are available as special accessories.
Securing cargo
Securing
Lashing eyes in the cargo area
Follow the installation instructions of the roof
rack.
Roof drip rail with flaps
To secure the cargo there are four lashing
eyes in the cargo area.
Securing cargo
The anchorage points are located in the roof
drip rail above the doors.
▷
Smaller and lighter items: secure with re‐
taining straps or with a cargo net or draw
straps.
Fold the cover outward.
▷
Larger and heavy objects: secure with
cargo straps.
Loading
Be sure that adequate clearance is maintained
for tilting and opening the glass sunroof.
Cargo straps, cargo netting, retaining straps or
draw straps on the lashing eyes in the cargo
area.
Because roof racks raise the vehicle's center
of gravity when loaded, they have a major ef‐
fect on vehicle handling and steering re‐
sponse.
165
Driving tips
Loading
Therefore, note the following when loading
and driving:
▷
Do not exceed the approved roof/axle
loads and the approved gross vehicle
weight.
▷
▷
Distribute the roof load uniformly.
The roof load should not be too large in
area.
▷
▷
▷
▷
Always place the heaviest pieces on the
bottom.
Secure the roof luggage firmly, e.g., tie
with ratchet straps.
Do not let objects project into the opening
path of the trunk lid.
Drive cautiously and avoid sudden acceler‐
ation and braking maneuvers. Take corners
gently.
166
Saving fuel
Driving tips
Saving fuel
Vehicle equipment
Close the windows and glass
sunroof
Driving with the glass sunroof and windows
open results in increased air resistance and
raises fuel consumption.
All standard, country-specific and optional
equipment that is offered in the model series is
described in this chapter. Therefore, equip‐
ment is also described that is not available in a
vehicle, e. g., because of the selected optional
equipment or country variant. This also applies
for safety-related functions and systems.
Tires
General information
General information
Your vehicle contains advanced technology for
the reduction of fuel consumption and emis‐
sions.
Tires can affect fuel consumption values in
various ways, for instance fuel consumption
can be influenced by the size of the tires.
Check the tire inflation pressure
regularly
Fuel consumption depends on a number of dif‐
ferent factors.
Check and, if necessary, correct the tire infla‐
tion pressure at least twice a month and before
starting on a long trip.
The implementation of certain measures, driv‐
ing style and regular maintenance can have an
influence on fuel consumption and on the envi‐
ronmental impact.
Low tire inflation pressure increases rolling re‐
sistance and thus raises fuel consumption and
tire wear.
Remove unnecessary cargo
Additional weight increases fuel consumption.
Drive away without delay
Do not wait for the engine to warm-up while
the vehicle remains stationary. Start driving
right away, but at moderate engine speeds.
Remove attached parts
following use
Remove auxiliary mirrors, roof or rear luggage
racks which are no longer required following
use.
This is the fastest way for the cold engine to
reach its operating temperature.
Attached parts on the vehicle impair the aero‐
dynamics and increase the fuel consumption.
Look well ahead when
driving
Avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking.
By maintaining a suitable distance to the vehi‐
cle driving ahead of you.
Driving smoothly and looking ahead reduces
fuel consumption.
167
Driving tips
Saving fuel
In addition, fuel consumption is also deter‐
mined by other factors, such as driving style,
road conditions, maintenance or environmental
factors.
Avoid high engine speeds
Use 1st gear to get the vehicle in motion. Be‐
ginning with 2nd gear, accelerate rapidly.
When accelerating, shift up before reaching
high engine speeds.
When you reach the desired speed, shift into
the highest applicable gear and drive with the
engine speed as low as possible and at a con‐
stant speed.
Switch off any functions that
are not currently needed
Functions such as seat heating and the rear
window defroster require a lot of energy and
consume additional fuel, especially in city and
stop-and-go traffic.
As a rule: driving at low engine speeds lowers
fuel consumption and reduces wear.
The gear shift indicator of your vehicle indi‐
cates the most fuel efficient gear.
Therefore, switch off these functions if they
are not actually needed.
Use coasting conditions
When approaching a red light, take your foot
off the accelerator and let the vehicle coast to
a halt.
Have maintenance carried
out
Have vehicles maintained regularly to achieve
optimal vehicle economy and operating life.
Have the maintenance carried out by your
service center.
On a downhill gradient, take your foot off the
accelerator and let the vehicle roll.
The flow of fuel is interrupted while coasting.
Please also note the BMW Maintenance Sys‐
tem, refer to page 190.
Switch off the engine during
longer stops
Switch off the engine during longer stops, e.g.,
at traffic lights, railroad crossings or in traffic
congestion.
Automatic Engine Start/Stop Function
The Auto Start/Stop function of your vehicle
automatically switches off the engine during a
stop.
If the engine is switched off and then restarted
rather than leaving the engine running con‐
stantly, fuel consumption and emissions are
reduced. Savings can begin within a few sec‐
onds of switching off the engine.
Using this system can cause certain compo‐
nents of the vehicle to become worn prema‐
turely.
168
Saving fuel
Driving tips
169
