DRIVING TIPS for your BMW X1 2022-2025
Things to remember when driving
DRIVING TIPS
Things to remember when driving
Engine, transmission, and axle drive
Vehicle features and options
Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km
Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km, do not exceed the
maximum engine speed and vehicle speed:
This chapter describes model-specific equip-
ment, systems, and functions that are currently
available, or may become available in the fu-
ture, even if they are not present in the vehicle.
▷
For gasoline engine 4,500 rpm and
100 mph/160 km/h.
Additional information:
Vehicle equipment, refer to page 8.
Avoid full throttle or kickdown under all circum-
stances.
Break-in procedures
From 1,200 miles/2,000 km
From 1,200 miles/2,000 km, the engine speed
and the vehicle speed can be gradually in-
creased.
General information
Moving parts need to interact with one another
smoothly.
Tires
The following break-in procedures will help the
vehicle achieve a long service life and good
efficiency.
Tire traction is not optimal due to manufactur-
ing circumstances when tires are brand new.
Drive conservatively for the first
200 miles/300 km.
During break-in, do not use the Launch Con-
trol.
Brake system
Safety information
Brake disks and brake pads must be broken
in to avoid the conditions that can lead to
brake noise. Drive cautiously for the first ap-
prox. 300 miles/500 km.
Warning
Due to new parts and components, safety
and driver assistance systems can react with
a delay. There is a risk of accident, injury, and
property damage. After installing new parts
or with a new vehicle, drive conservatively
and intervene early if necessary. Observe the
break-in procedures of the respective parts
and components.
Following part replacement
The same break-in procedure should be ob-
served if any of the components mentioned
above have to be renewed.
304
Things to remember when driving
DRIVING TIPS
Driving at high speeds
General driving notes
Warning
Closing the tailgate
Damage to vehicle components can nega-
tively impact handling at high speeds. This
includes, among other things, tires, under-
body and parts for improving aerodynamics.
There is a risk of accident, injury, and prop-
erty damage. Have damage corrected by an
authorized service center or another qualified
service center or repair shop. Do not drive at
high speeds until the damage is corrected.
Safety information
Warning
An open tailgate protrudes from the vehicle
and can endanger occupants and other road
users or damage the vehicle in the event of
an accident, braking or evasive maneuvers.
In addition, exhaust gas or water may enter
the vehicle interior. There is a risk of injury
and risk of property damage. Do not drive
with the tailgate open.
Hot exhaust system
Warning
Driving with the tailgate open
If the vehicle still needs to be driven with the
tailgate open:
High temperatures can occur underneath the
body, for instance caused by the exhaust
system, while driving. Contact with the ex-
haust system can cause burns. There is a risk
of injury. Do not touch the exhaust system,
including the exhaust pipe, when hot.
▷
▷
▷
▷
Close all windows and the glass sunroof.
Greatly increase the blower output.
Drive moderately.
Secure the tailgate, e.g., with a tensioning
belt.
Warning
If combustible materials such as leaves or
grass come in contact with hot parts of the
exhaust system, these materials can ignite.
There is a risk of fire and an injury hazard.
Do not remove the heat shields installed and
never apply undercoating to them. Make sure
that no combustible materials can come in
contact with hot vehicle parts while driving, in
Neutral or during parking.
Ground clearance
NOTICE
If the ground clearance is insufficient,
e.g., underground garage entrances, speed
bumps, or curbs, the ground may come
into contact with vehicle parts, e.g., spoiler,
and the underbody. There is a risk of prop-
erty damage. Ensure that there is sufficient
ground clearance available. Adjust your driv-
ing style to the respective conditions.
Exhaust gas particulate filter
Principle
The exhaust gas particulate filter collects soot
particles. The soot particles are burned at high
305
Things to remember when driving
DRIVING TIPS
temperatures to clean the exhaust gas particu-
late filter as necessary.
▷
▷
▷
Deactivate the speed control system.
Activate Sport Mode via My Modes.
If possible, drive at varying speeds.
General information
Additional information:
My Modes, refer to page 129.
Depending on vehicle equipment and national-
market version, the vehicle is equipped with
an exhaust particulate filter. For more informa-
tion on the exhaust particulate filter, contact an
authorized service center or another qualified
service center or repair shop.
▷
Additional information:
My Modes, refer to page 129.
Mobile communications in the
vehicle
The following may occur when cleaning for
several minutes:
▷
▷
▷
The combustion engine may not run as
smoothly for a short time.
Warning
Vehicle electronics and mobile communica-
tion devices can influence one another. There
is radiation due to the transmission oper-
ations of mobile communication devices.
There is a risk of injury and risk of property
damage. If possible, only use mobile commu-
nication devices, e.g., mobile phones, when
connected directly to an external antenna or
Personal eSIM in order to prevent mutual in-
terference and to deflect radiation from the
vehicle interior.
A somewhat higher RPM is necessary to
reach usual power development.
Fuel consumption may be higher. The
higher fuel consumption is included as
mean value in the display for the current
consumption.
▷
▷
The exhaust system is emitting a small
amount smoke, even after the engine is
shut off.
There is audible noise, e.g., radiator fan is
running, even several minutes after the en-
gine is shut off.
Aquaplaning
On wet or slushy roads, a wedge of water can
form between the tires and the surface of the
road.
It is normal for the radiator fan to run for sev-
eral minutes after driving, even with short trips.
Condensation in drive system
This phenomenon is referred to as aquaplan-
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.
Various driving profiles ensure that the drive
system functions properly. A driving style with
consistently low loads can negatively affect
overall functionality, e.g., condensation forming
in the drive system. Occasionally running the
engine longer with higher loads can counteract
this.
Driving through water
If condensation has formed in the drive sys-
tem, a corresponding Check Control message
appears. In this case, on the next drive outside
of town, proceed as follows for approx. 30 mi-
nutes:
General information
When driving through water, follow the follow-
ing:
306
Things to remember when driving
DRIVING TIPS
▷
▷
Only drive through when the combustion
engine is running.
Objects in the travel path of the pedals
To prevent the combustion engine from
being switched off by the Auto Start/Stop
function, engage selector lever position S or
L, depending on vehicle equipment.
Warning
Objects in the driver's footwell can limit the
pedal travel or block a depressed pedal.
There is a risk of accident, injury, and prop-
erty damage. Stow objects in the vehicle such
that they are secured and cannot enter into
the driver's footwell. Use floor mats that are
suitable for the vehicle and can be safely at-
tached to the floor. Do not use loose floor
mats and do not layer several floor mats.
Make sure that there is sufficient clearance
for the pedals. Ensure that the floor mats
are securely fastened again after they were
removed, for instance for cleaning.
▷
The combustion engine also does not shut
off in selector lever position R.
▷
▷
Only drive through calm water.
Drive through water only up to a depth of
max 9.8 in/25 cm.
▷
Drive through water at a maximum of walk-
ing speed, up to 3 mph/5 km/h.
Additional information:
Auto Start/Stop function, refer to page 120.
Safety information
Pedal feel when driving off
After turning on drive-ready state from idle
state, the pedal may feel unusual, e.g., the
pedal travel path may feel short or long. After
the brake pedal has been fully released, the
pedal will feel as usual again.
NOTICE
When driving too quickly through deep water,
the water can penetrate the engine compart-
ment, the electrical system, or the transmis-
sion. There is a risk of property damage.
When driving through water, do not exceed
the maximum indicated water level and the
maximum speed for driving through water.
Driving in wet conditions
In case of wet roads, exposure to road salt or
in heavy rain, gently depress the brake pedal
every few kilometers. Ensure that this action
does not endanger other road users.
Braking safely
The heat generated while braking dries brake
disks and brake pads and protects them
against corrosion.
General information
The vehicle is equipped with an Antilock Brak-
ing System as a standard feature. Perform
emergency braking as required by the situa-
tion. To achieve the best possible braking as-
sistance, do not reduce the pressure on the
brake pedal during full braking.
In this way the brake power will be available
when you need it.
Hills
General information
Steering is still responsive. You can still avoid
any obstacles with a minimum of steering
movement.
Drive long or steep downhill gradients in the
gear that requires least braking effort. Other-
wise, the brake system may overheat and re-
duce braking effect.
The sounds from the hydraulic circuits indicate
that the Antilock Braking System is regulating
the vehicle.
307
Things to remember when driving
DRIVING TIPS
You can increase the engine braking effect by
downshifting, going all the way to first gear, if
needed.
Driving on poor roads
Principle
Safety information
Because of its greater ground clearance, the
vehicle can be driven on a variety of road types
and qualities.
Warning
Light but constant pressure on the brake
pedal can lead to high temperatures, brake
wear, and even failure of the brake system.
There is a risk of accident, injury, and prop-
erty damage. Avoid placing excessive stress
on the brake system.
Safety information
NOTICE
Objects in unpaved areas, for instance
stones or branches, can damage the vehicle.
There is a risk of property damage. Do not
drive on unpaved terrain.
Warning
In Neutral or with drive-ready state switched
off, safety functions, for instance engine brak-
ing effect, braking assistance and steering
assistance, may be restricted or not availa-
ble. There is a risk of accident, injury, and
property damage. Do not attempt to drive in
Neutral or with drive-ready state switched off.
When driving on poor roads
For your own safety and the safety of passen-
gers, as well as of your vehicle when driving on
poor-quality roads, note the following:
▷
Familiarize yourself with the vehicle before
driving off.
▷
▷
Do not take risks when driving.
Adjust the speed to the road surface con-
ditions. The steeper and more uneven the
road, the slower your speed should be.
Brake disk corrosion
Corrosion on the brake disks and soiling of the
brake pads are increased under the following
circumstances:
▷
When driving on steep uphill or downhill
gradients, add engine oil up to near the
max. level mark.
▷
▷
▷
▷
Low mileage.
Extended stationary periods.
Low load.
▷
▷
▷
For steep downhill driving, use Hill Descent
Control.
Aggressive, acidic, or alkaline cleaning
agents.
Do not allow the vehicle body or underbody
to come into contact with the ground.
If corroded, the brake disks can cause corro-
sion adhesion with the brakes when braking
slowly. This usually cannot be corrected.
To ensure the best possible traction when
driving off, activate driving off support as
necessary.
▷
If the wheels continue to spin, press the ac-
celerator pedal with enough force that the
driving stability control systems can distrib-
ute the driving force to the wheels.
Condensation water under the
parked vehicle
When using the automatic climate control, con-
densation water develops and collects under-
neath the vehicle.
Additional information:
308
Things to remember when driving
DRIVING TIPS
▷
▷
Hill Descent Control, refer to page 211.
Drive-off support, refer to page 210.
Roof bars
Principle
After a trip on poor roads
To ensure driving safety, check the wheels and
tires for damage after driving on poor-quality
roads. Clear heavy soiling from the body.
Roof bars are devices that are mounted on the
vehicle to facilitate the transport of luggage.
When driving with a roof bar, various specifica-
tions, e.g., correct load, must be followed.
If the vehicle body or underbody has come
into contact with the ground, have the vehicle
checked by an authorized service center or an-
other qualified service center or repair shop.
General information
Roof bars recommended by the manufacturer
of the vehicle are available as optional acces-
sories.
Driving on racetracks
Safety information
Warning
Warning
The vehicle is not designed for use in M Sport
or motorsport-like competition. There is a risk
of accident, injury, and property damage. Do
not use the vehicle for M Sport or motorsport-
like competitions.
When driving with a roof load, e.g., roof bars,
the vehicle's center of gravity is higher. This
increases the risk of the vehicle tipping in
critical driving situations. There is a risk of
accident, injury, and property damage. Drive
with roof load only with activated Dynamic
Stability Control.
Higher mechanical and thermal loads during
racetrack operation lead to increased wear.
Use of the vehicle in M Sport or motor sport
type competition is an improper use of the ve-
hicle and may affect your warranty coverage.
Please consult the New Vehicle Limited War-
ranty Booklet for further information on war-
ranty matters.
Installation
You can only install roof bars if the vehicle has
a roof rail.
Follow the installation instructions for roof bars
when installing.
The vehicle manufacturer recommends using
special sport tires, e.g., high-performance tires.
Sports tires are matched to the special require-
ments of a sporty driving style. For more infor-
mation on sport tires, contact an authorized
service center or another qualified service cen-
ter or repair shop.
Be sure that adequate clearance is maintained
for tilting and opening the glass sunroof.
Loading
Because roof racks raise the vehicle's center
of gravity when loaded, they have a significant
effect on vehicle handling and steering.
Before and after driving on a racetrack, have
the vehicle checked by an authorized service
center or another qualified service center or
repair shop.
When loading and driving, note the following:
▷
Do not exceed the permissible roof load,
axle load, and gross vehicle weight.
▷
Distribute the roof load evenly.
309
Things to remember when driving
DRIVING TIPS
▷
▷
▷
▷
▷
The roof load should not extend past the
vehicle sides.
Always place the heaviest items on the bot-
tom.
Secure roof luggage firmly, for instance us-
ing tie-down straps.
Do not let objects project into the swiveling
range of the tailgate.
Drive carefully. Do not drive off or brake
suddenly or take corners at speed.
310
Trailer and rear carrier
DRIVING TIPS
Trailer and rear carrier
Stow the cargo as low and close to the trailer
axle as possible. A low center of gravity in the
trailer increases the driving safety of the entire
trailer.
Vehicle features and options
This chapter describes model-specific equip-
ment, systems, and functions that are currently
available, or may become available in the fu-
ture, even if they are not present in the vehicle.
Do not exceed the approved gross vehicle
weight of the trailer and the permissible trailer
load of the vehicle. The smaller value applies
in each case.
Additional information:
Vehicle equipment, refer to page 8.
Tire pressure
When towing a trailer, follow the tire pressure
specifications for the vehicle and the trailer.
Using trailers and rear
carriers
For the vehicle, the tire inflation pressure for
higher loads applies.
Principle
For the trailer, the specifications of the manu-
facturer apply.
The trailer and rear carrier, e.g., rear bicycle
rack, can be connected to the vehicle. When
driving with a trailer or rear carrier, you must
follow certain values and specifications for
drawbar nose weight, load, tire pressure, exte-
rior mirrors, and electrical consumption.
After correcting the tire pressure or connecting
or disconnecting a trailer, reinitialize the Flat
Tire Monitor or reset the Tire Pressure Monitor.
Additional information:
▷
Tire pressure specifications, refer to
page 328.
General information
▷
▷
Flat tire monitor, refer to page 351.
The permissible trailer loads, the axle loads,
the drawbar nose weights, and the permissible
gross vehicle weight are specified in the tech-
nical data.
Tire pressure monitor, refer to page 343.
Exterior mirrors
Exterior mirrors, which bring both rear edges
of the trailer into the driver's field of vision,
are available as optional accessories from an
authorized service center or another qualified
service center or repair shop.
Drawbar nose weight
The maximum payload of the towing vehicle is
reduced by the weight of the trailer hitch and
the drawbar nose weight. The drawbar nose
weight increases the vehicle weight. Do not ex-
ceed the approved gross vehicle weight of the
towing vehicle.
Electrical consumption
General information
Loading
To preserve the vehicle battery and reduce
electrical consumption, keep the switch-on
times of power consumers short during
camper operation.
To load the trailer, distribute the cargo as
evenly as possible over the loading surface.
311
Trailer and rear carrier
DRIVING TIPS
Follow the instructions for maintaining the
trailer hitch mount.
Trailer lighting
Before starting a drive, make sure that the
trailer lighting is working properly.
Additional information:
The output of the trailer lighting should not ex-
ceed:
Caring for special components, refer to
page 390.
▷
▷
▷
Turn signals/brake lights: 54 watts per side.
Tail lights: 100 watts total.
Safety information
Reversing lights: 54 watts total.
Warning
Care for trailer hitch mount
When driving, high temperatures can occur
underneath the vehicle body, e.g., due to the
exhaust system, brakes or radiator. Contact
with the hot components can cause burns.
There is a risk of injury. Do not touch hot
components. Do not perform work in the vi-
cinity of hot components until after they have
cooled down.
Depending on vehicle equipment, keep the
trailer hitch mount clean.
Regularly treat the bearing points and sliding
surfaces with resin-free grease or oil.
Before using steam/high-pressure cleaners on
the vehicle, remove the ball head and insert
the cover into the mount.
Removing the cover
Mount for trailer hitch
Principle
The trailer hitch mount is located at the rear of
the vehicle and is used to mount a trailer hitch.
General information
Pull the cover to the rear out of the mount and
stow it in your vehicle.
The mount for the trailer hitch is located on the
rear of the vehicle, see arrow.
Information on suitable trailer hitches is pro-
vided on the underside of the mount cross
member.
312
Trailer and rear carrier
DRIVING TIPS
Trailer power socket
Warning
If the trailer safety line or the trailer safety
chain is not fastened correctly, the safety line
or safety chain may get caught and cause
damage to the vehicle or trailer. There is a
risk of accident. Before driving with a trailer,
correctly couple the trailer safety line or the
trailer safety chain to the eye of the trailer
hitch. Ensure that the safety line or safety
chain can move freely and is not dragging on
the ground.
The trailer power socket is located to the left of
the trailer hitch mount.
Loops for trailer safety chain
Driving with trailers or rear
carriers
General information
Principle
To drive with a trailer or rear carrier, your
vehicle must meet certain requirements, e.g.,
trailer towing is activated. In certain driving sit-
uations, you must follow given instructions for
correct handling of your trailer or rear carrier,
e.g., when driving uphill or downhill.
When driving with a trailer or rear carrier, some
driver assistance systems may be restricted or
not available. A Check Control message is dis-
played where applicable. The driving stability
control systems, e.g., Antilock Braking System,
are still available.
Two eyes can be found on the mount for
the trailer hitch for attaching the trailer safety
chain.
Safety information
Additional information:
▷
Driver assistance systems, refer to
page 213.
Warning
If the trailer safety line or the trailer safety
chain is not fastened correctly, the trailer
may unintentionally come loose. There is a
risk of accident. Before driving with a trailer,
correctly couple the trailer safety line or the
trailer safety chain to the eye of the trailer
hitch.
▷
Driving stability control systems, refer to
page 208.
313
Trailer and rear carrier
DRIVING TIPS
socket. To avoid malfunctions, activate use of
the trailer or rear carrier manually.
Safety information
When the trailer socket is occupied or trailer
towing is activated, some driver assistance
systems may be restricted or not available. A
Check Control message is displayed where ap-
plicable.
Warning
If a trailer hitch is faulty, a trailer cannot be
sufficiently secured. There is a risk of acci-
dent, injury, and property damage. Do not
continue driving with a faulty trailer hitch.
Safety information
Warning
Warning
Depending on the design and loading of trail-
ers, they may begin swinging at speeds ex-
ceeding approx. 50 mph/80 km/h. There is a
risk of accidents and risk of property damage.
If the control display is configured incorrectly,
some driver assistance systems may have
limited functionality or malfunction. There is
a risk of accident. Make sure that the corre-
sponding setting is enabled when using the
trailer or rear carrier.
Adapt your speed when driving with a trailer.
Immediately brake in the case of swinging.
Apply necessary steering corrections as care-
fully as possible.
Activating/deactivating trailer towing
manually
Warning
Trailer towing can be activated or deactivated
manually.
The tire inflation pressure must be adjusted
to the increased axle weight in trailer tow-
ing. Driving with too low tire inflation pres-
sure can damage the tires. There is a risk of
accidents and risk of property damage. Do
not exceed a speed of 60 mph/100 km/h. In-
crease the tire pressure of the towing vehicle
by 0.2 bar/3 psi. Note the maximum possible
tire inflation pressure indicated on the tire.
1. Go through the menu as follows: Apps
menu / "Vehicle" / "Driving settings" /
"Driver Assistance" / "Trailer mode" /
"Type".
2. Select whether you are driving with or with-
out a trailer/rear carrier.
Setting the maximum speed
The maximum permitted speed for the vehicle-
trailer combination can be set when towing a
trailer. Depending on vehicle equipment, this
setting is considered by speed limit systems.
Using a trailer or rear carrier
General information
When the trailer socket is occupied, a selection
menu is shown on the control display. In the
menu, you can specify whether you are driving
your vehicle with a trailer or rear carrier.
1. Go through the menu as follows: Apps
menu / "Vehicle" / "Driving settings" /
"Driver Assistance" / "Trailer mode" / "Max.
speed".
Some driver assistance systems may have
limited functionality or may malfunction when
driving with a trailer or rear carrier, e.g., rear
bicycle rack, and an unoccupied trailer power
2. Select the desired speed.
Additional information:
314
Trailer and rear carrier
DRIVING TIPS
▷
▷
Speed Limit Info, refer to page 213.
With the Trailer Assistant, the steering wheel
is not used to steer the vehicle-trailer combina-
tion when reversing. The vehicle-trailer combi-
nation is steered by continuously entering and
correcting the articulation angle on the control
display or using the buttons for adjusting the
exterior mirrors. The articulation angle is the
angle between the vehicle and trailer. This an-
gle is thus the desired direction of travel for the
vehicle-trailer combination in reverse.
Speed Limit Assistant, refer to page 236.
Uphill grades
Permissible gradients
Trailer towing is permitted up to gradients of
12 %.
If higher trailer loads are approved at a later
point in time, the permitted gradient limit is
8 %.
When reversing, the system takes control of
steering the front wheels. The driver must con-
trol the speed using the accelerator and brake
pedals.
Driving off on uphill grades
When driving off on gradients with a vehicle-
trailer combination, use the parking brake to
prevent the vehicle-trailer combination from
rolling backwards.
Vehicle features and options
This system may not be available in the
owned vehicle, e.g. due to the selected op-
tional equipment, the national-market version
or the option for later enabling and software
updates. This also applies to individual func-
tions of the system.
1.
On the center console, press and
release the parking brake button shortly be-
fore driving off.
For information on whether a function is cur-
rently available in the vehicle or when the func-
tion can be installed in the vehicle, contact an
authorized service center or another qualified
service center or repair shop.
The parking brake is set.
2. Step on the accelerator pedal sufficiently to
drive off.
The parking brake is automatically released
when the accelerator pedal is activated.
Additional information:
Vehicle equipment, refer to page 8.
Hills
Vehicle-trailer combinations tend to sway
more on hills.
General information
Follow the information in the "Parking assis-
tance systems" chapter.
Manually downshift to the next-lowest gear
before driving on a hill and drive downhill
slowly.
Additional information:
Parking assistance systems, refer to page 240.
Safety information
Trailer Assistant
Principle
Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for
the driver’s personal judgment in assessing
the traffic situation. Based on the limits of
the system, it cannot independently react to
The Trailer Assistant helps when reversing
with a trailer.
315
Trailer and rear carrier
DRIVING TIPS
all traffic situations. There is a risk of acci-
dent, injury, and property damage. Adjust
driving style to traffic conditions. Watch the
surrounding traffic situation closely, be ready
to take over steering and braking at any time,
and actively intervene where appropriate.
properly. The operating tips can be turned on/
off.
1. Select a BMW ID or driver profile on the
control display.
2. Go through the menu as follows: Apps
menu / "Vehicle" / "Driving settings" /
"Driver Assistance" / "Parking" / "Operating
tips for Trailer Assistant".
Warning
The system can steer the vehicle over or onto
curbs. There is a risk of injury and risk of
property damage. Watch surrounding traffic
closely and actively intervene where appro-
priate
Reversing with the Trailer Assistant
The Trailer Assistant can be used for reversing
with a trailer.
1. Attach and connect a trailer to the vehicle.
2. Teach the Trailer Assistant.
3. Depending on vehicle equipment and na-
tional-market version, activate trailer tow-
ing on the control display.
Functional requirements
The following functional requirements apply for
the Trailer Assistant:
▷
▷
A trailer is attached and connected.
4.
When your vehicle is stationary,
press the Park Assist key on the center
console or engage reverse gear.
The system is taught for the trailer to be
used.
▷
Depending on vehicle equipment and na-
tional-market version, trailer towing is acti-
vated.
Parking assistance systems displays are
shown on the control display.
5. Bring up the following menu via iDrive:
"Start Trailer Assistant".
▷
▷
The rearview camera must be clean and
clear.
The control display shows the rearview
camera image with a view of the tow bar
and a stylized view of the vehicle with
trailer.
Vehicles with removable trailer hitch: Only
use suitable accessories approved by the
vehicle manufacturer.
6. Confirm or turn off operating tips on the
control display as necessary.
Teaching the Trailer Assistant
Whenever you hitch a trailer, the Trailer Assis-
tant must be taught again.
7. If necessary, shift into reverse.
8. Set the desired articulation angle.
A message on the control display prompts the
driver to drive forward at low speed while also
steering.
Follow the instructions on the control dis-
play.
9. Take your hands off the steering wheel
and carefully drive off using the accelerator
pedal and the brake.
Turning operating tips on/off
The Trailer Assistant operating tips provide
specific information for operating the system
The status symbol for the Trailer Assis-
tant illuminates green. The system takes
over the steering.
316
Trailer and rear carrier
DRIVING TIPS
When driving in reverse, observe the vehi-
cle's surroundings.
Activating/deactivating the trailer
brake
In case of obstacles, stop immediately and
take over steering.
The trailer brake intervention system helps
prevent the vehicle-trailer combination from
rolling away in an uncontrolled way. Whenever
the Trailer Assistant is canceled, the trailer
protection brake is applied and the vehicle is
secured at a standstill. The trailer brake can be
activated or deactivated.
10. If necessary, adjust the kink angle while
driving to correct the direction.
11. Engage selector lever position P when you
are finished maneuvering.
Go through the menu as follows: Apps
menu / "Vehicle" / "Driving settings" / "Driver
Assistance" / "Parking" / "Trailer protection
braking".
Canceling the Trailer Assistant
manually
Maneuvering of the car-trailer combination can
be aborted manually:
Bring up the following menu via iDrive:
"Cancel".
System limits
Speed threshold
The maximum speed is limited to approx.
6 mph/10 km/h.
Canceling the Trailer Assistant
automatically
The Trailer Assistant is canceled automatically
in situations such as the following:
If the maximum speed is exceeded, the func-
tion is interrupted.
▷
When the driver grasps the steering wheel
or takes over steering.
A warning is given at a speed of approx.
4 mph/7 km/h.
▷
When shifting from reverse gear to selec-
tor lever position D, the Trailer Assistant
switches to standby mode.
Functional limitations
The Trailer Assistant may be restricted in the
following situations:
If reverse gear is engaged again after a
short distance, the function is active again.
▷
Trailers with fifthwheel steering are not
supported.
▷
▷
During activation or intervention by driver
assistance systems.
▷
Accessories on tow bar, e.g., a rear bicycle
rack.
When the view on the control display is
overlaid with messages.
▷
▷
▷
Tow bars and trailers with unusual shapes.
Unsuitable removable trailer hitches.
Rearview camera is dirty or covered.
▷
▷
In case of a slippery surface.
When the vehicle is rolling such as on a
slope.
Additional information:
▷
▷
In case of changed ambient conditions.
Cameras, refer to page 34.
If the vehicle speed exceeds approx.
6 mph/10 km/h.
317
Trailer and rear carrier
DRIVING TIPS
Trailer stabilization control
Brake Controller
Trailer brakes only work if a brake controller is
installed.
Principle
Trailer stabilization control helps by absorbing
the swinging movements of the trailer.
Trailer brakes will not work without the brake
controller.
The system detects swinging and automati-
cally brakes the vehicle quickly in order to
leave the critical speed range and stabilize the
trailer.
The vehicle manufacturer recommends having
the brake controller installed by an authorized
service center or another qualified service cen-
ter or repair shop. Incorrect installation or pin-
ning of the connector can cause the trailer
lights and brake system to fail.
General information
If the trailer power socket is occupied but a
trailer has not been hitched, the system can
also become active in extreme driving situa-
tions, e.g., when using a bicycle rack with light-
ing.
For information on installing a brake control-
ler, contact an authorized service center or an-
other qualified service center or repair shop.
Rear carriers
Functional requirement
To use trailer stabilization control, the follow-
ing functional requirements must be met:
Principle
Rear carriers, e.g., rear bicycle racks, are devi-
ces that are mounted on the vehicle in order to
help transport cargo.
▷
▷
▷
A trailer is attached.
The trailer power socket is occupied.
Vehicle speed must be more than approx.
40 mph/65 km/h.
When driving with a rear carrier, you must fol-
low various specifications, e.g., correct load.
System limits
The system cannot intervene or not intervene
in time in the following situations, for instance:
General information
Rear carriers recommended by the manufac-
turer of the vehicle are available as optional
accessories.
▷
▷
▷
▷
If a trailer jackknifes suddenly, for instance
on slippery roads or loose surfaces.
Rear bicycle racks for a maximum of three bi-
cycles can be used.
If a trailer with a high center of gravity tilts,
before swinging is detected.
Only use rear carriers that are mounted directly
on the mount for the trailer hitch.
If Dynamic Stability Control is deactivated
or has malfunctioned.
Installation
Follow the assembly instructions for the rear
carrier when installing.
When the power consumption of a trailer is
too low, for instance due to tail lights with
LED technology, to be detected by the sys-
tem.
318
Trailer and rear carrier
DRIVING TIPS
Loading
Driving with a rear carrier
When loaded, rear carriers move the vehicle's
center of gravity, which affects how the vehicle
handles and steers.
Therefore, note the following when loading
and driving:
▷
Do not exceed the gross axle weight rating
and permissible gross vehicle weight.
▷
Drive cautiously and avoid driving off and
braking with jerky movements or fast cor-
nering.
The permissible gross weight of the loaded
rear carrier depends on how far its center of
gravity is from the ball head.
▷
If the center of gravity is up to 11.8 in-
ches/30 cm from the ball head, the gross
weight of the rear carrier must not exceed
165 lbs/75 kg.
▷
If the center of gravity is 23.5 inches/60 cm
from the ball head, the gross weight of the
rear carrier must not exceed 77 lbs/35 kg.
▷
▷
Stow heavy cargo as close as possible to
the ball head.
Fasten cargo securely to the rear carrier,
making sure it will not slip.
Before driving
Before starting your trip, make sure that the
tail lights on the rear carrier are working.
The maximum output of the rear carrier tail
lights should not exceed that of the trailer light-
ing.
Activate trailer towing when necessary to pre-
vent functional limitations and malfunctions of
driver assistance systems.
Additional information:
▷
▷
Electrical consumption, refer to page 311.
Driving with trailer or rear carrier, refer to
page 313.
319
Saving fuel
DRIVING TIPS
Saving fuel
Vehicle features and options Adaptive recuperation
This chapter describes model-specific equip-
ment, systems, and functions that are currently
available, or may become available in the fu-
ture, even if they are not present in the vehicle.
Principle
Adaptive recuperation supports an anticipatory
and comfort-oriented driving style.
The system decides based on the situation if
energy is recovered through recuperation or if
Additional information:
Vehicle equipment, refer to page 8.
the vehicle is to coast.
In vehicles with mild hybrid technology, the
power of recuperation is adaptive, which
causes the vehicle to decelerate to varying de-
Reducing fuel consumption
grees when coasting.
Principle
The vehicle features numerous technologies
that reduce energy consumption and maximize
range.
General information
Various sensors analyze the current driving sit-
uation, e.g., the distance to the vehicle in front.
There are some actions you can take to
change your fuel consumption and environ-
mental impact:
Adaptive recuperation is available depending
on the equipment and national-market version.
▷
▷
▷
▷
▷
Remove unnecessary cargo from the vehi-
cle.
Functional requirements
The system active under the following condi-
tions:
Remove add-on parts, e.g., a rear carrier,
after use.
▷
▷
▷
Selector lever position D is engaged.
The brake has not been applied.
Close the windows and glass sunroof while
driving.
The accelerator pedal has not been
pressed.
Check the tire pressure regularly and in-
crease it as necessary.
▷
▷
SPORT driving mode is not activated.
Shut off the engine if the vehicle is to re-
main stationary for a longer period.
Depending on national-market version:
PERSONAL drive mode is not activated.
▷
▷
Select Efficient Mode or Personal Mode.
▷
Dynamic Stability Control is activated.
Practice anticipatory driving and let the ve-
hicle coast more often.
Activating/deactivating adaptive
recuperation
Adaptive recuperation activates when all func-
tional requirements have been met.
▷
▷
Deactivate functions that are not required,
e.g., rear window heating.
Have the vehicle serviced regularly.
320
Saving fuel
DRIVING TIPS
Depending on vehicle equipment, “coasting” is
displayed in the Live Vehicle menu as “Efficient
coasting”.
Display
Display in the instrument cluster
Adaptive recuperation can be displayed on the
instrument cluster.
Additional information:
Current driving condition, refer to page 152.
Additional information:
Exemplary driving situations
Power gauge, refer to page 145.
If you can travel a certain distance without any
foreseeable need to brake, it is beneficial to
coast.
Display on the control display
The adaptive recuperation can be displayed on
the control display.
The following example driving situations may
be suitable for coasting:
Additional information:
▷
Rolling on a straight downhill route without
obstacles.
Current driving condition, refer to page 152.
▷
Coasting on a distance without obstacles.
System limits
Adaptive recuperation cannot be used, or can
only be used to a limited extent, in the follow-
ing situations:
Avoid late or strong braking.
Functional requirements
For coasting, note the following functional re-
quirements:
▷
▷
When Active Cruise Control is on.
If driver assistance system sensors are de-
fective, dirty, or covered.
▷
▷
▷
Selector lever position D is engaged.
The brake has not been applied.
The accelerator pedal has not been
pressed.
Coasting
▷
▷
SPORT driving mode is not activated.
Principle
Depending on national-market version:
PERSONAL drive mode is not activated.
The drive system allows the vehicle to roll
freely with minimal deceleration in selector
lever position D. This driving condition is refer-
red to as coasting. This reduces fuel consump-
tion.
▷
Dynamic Stability Control is activated.
The function is available in the speed
range from approx. 16 mph/25 km/h to
100 mph/160 km/h.
Vehicles with mild hybrid technology do not
consume fuel when coasting.
Operation via shift paddles
General information
An anticipatory driving style helps the driver
use the coasting function often and enhances
the consumption-reducing effect of coasting.
Principle
Depending on the vehicle's equipment, the
Coasting mode can be influenced with the shift
paddles.
Coasting is automatically adapted to the re-
spective driving situation.
321
Saving fuel
DRIVING TIPS
Activating/deactivating coasting via
shift paddles
Selecting the driving mode
To select Efficient Mode, proceed as follows:
To activate coasting, operate the right shift
paddle.
1.
Press the My Modes button on the
center console.
To deactivate, actuate the left shift paddle.
2. "EFFICIENT"
System limits
Coasting cannot be used, or can only be used
to a limited extent, in the following situations:
Configuring Efficient mode
To configure Efficient Mode, proceed as fol-
lows:
▷
▷
When Active Cruise Control is on.
If driver assistance system sensors are de-
fective, dirty, or covered.
1.
Press the My Modes button on the
center console.
2. "EFFICIENT"
Efficient Mode
Principle
3.
Select the settings icon.
Efficient mode helps promote an efficient driv-
ing style.
4. Select the desired setting.
In addition, the efficiency trainer displays situa-
tion dependent notes to assist with an efficient
driving style.
Resetting the settings
To reset the settings, proceed as follows:
The extended range achieved is displayed on
the instrument cluster as a bonus range.
1.
Press the My Modes button on the
center console.
2. "EFFICIENT"
Overview
Button in the vehicle
3.
Select the settings icon.
4. "Reset settings".
Efficiency trainer
Principle
The Efficiency Coach supports an anticipatory
and comfort-oriented driving style. To do so,
map and sensor data is used to analyze the
current driving situation, e.g., upcoming speed
limits and preceding vehicles. Based on this
information, the driver receives notices for an
efficient driving style early on. The efficiency
The My Modes button located on the
center console.
322
Saving fuel
DRIVING TIPS
of the driving style is evaluated in the control
display and shown in three categories.
Bonus range
A modified driving style helps
you extend your driving range.
General information
The system has different displays to support
the driver with an efficient driving style.
The range extension is dis-
played as the bonus range in
the instrument cluster.
If the bonus range is shown in gray or is hid-
den, the current driving style is inefficient.
Functional requirements
Note the following functional requirements
when using the Efficiency Coach:
The display turns blue as soon as all condi-
tions for consumption-optimized driving are
met.
▷
▷
Selector lever position D is engaged.
Efficient Mode is activated.
The intervals for resetting the bonus range de-
pend on the settings of the trip data.
Display
Display in case of inefficient driving
style
Power gauge
When Efficient Mode is activated, the instru-
ment cluster displays a special view.
An arrow appears on the instrument
cluster when the vehicle is driven be-
yond its efficient range.
Depending on the equipment, some system
information can also be displayed in the Head-
up display.
This is displayed in the following situations, for
example:
▷
▷
Excessive acceleration.
Excessive speed.
In addition, information on the reason for the
delay can be displayed.
System limits
This function may not be available in the fol-
lowing situations, for example:
The efficient range of the power gauge is col-
ored blue. Additionally, the bonus range will be
displayed.
▷
▷
▷
When Active Cruise Control is on.
When towing a trailer.
The efficient range is adjusted depending on
the driving situation.
When the transmission Sport program is
activated.
If the power gauge moves within the blue
range, the current driving style is efficient. The
display will change to gray if the driving style is
inefficient.
Efficiency evaluation
Principle
Driving style efficiency is evaluated on the con-
trol display and shown in three categories, e.g.,
acceleration. The current trip is evaluated.
323
Saving fuel
DRIVING TIPS
Functional requirement
The efficiency analysis function is provided by
Efficient Mode.
Calling up the efficiency evaluation
To go to the efficiency analysis, go through the
menu as follows: Apps menu / "Vehicle" / "Live
Vehicle".
Additional information:
Live Vehicle, refer to page 135.
Display on the control display
Driving style efficiency is shown on the effi-
ciency analysis display on the control display.
The more efficient the driving style is, the
larger the colored range is, and the faster the
bonus range increases.
In contrast, the range shown will be smaller
with an inefficient driving style.
324
Saving fuel
DRIVING TIPS
325





