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.  
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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