BMW X3 2004-2010 - Controls

Controls

This chapter is intended to provide you with

information for complete control of your vehicle

and describes its extensive array of features

and accessories, both for driving and for your

own safety, comfort and convenience.

Opening and closing

Key set

Vehicle Memory, Key Memory

How the system functions

You have probably frequently wished that you

could configure individual functions of your

vehicle to reflect your own personal require-

ments. In developing your vehicle, BMW has

incorporated a number of options for personal

adjustment. You can have these programmed

at your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

There are vehicle-related and person-related

adjustments: Vehicle Memory and Key Mem-

ory. You can configure up to four different basic

adjustments for four different persons. The only

requirement is that each person use his or her

own master key with remote control.

1

2

Master keys with remote control

Spare key

Master keys with remote control

Each master key contains a battery that is auto-

matically charged in the ignition lock during

driving. Use the master key at least twice a year

in order to maintain its charge condition.

When your vehicle is unlocked with the remote

control, the vehicle recognizes the individual

user by means of a data exchange with the key,

and makes adjustments accordingly.

Depending on which master key is detected by

the vehicle during unlocking, different settings

in the vehicle are requested and executed, refer

to Key Memory.

In order for you to distinguish between the mas-

ter keys with remote control, color-coded

decals are supplied together with the keys.

What the system can do

Spare key

Ask your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center

about the possibilities of Vehicle Memory and

Key Memory.

For storage in a safe place, such as in your wal-

let.

This key does not fit in the lock of the glove

compartment. This is an advantage, e.g. when

valet parking. The key is not intended for con-

stant use.

You will see this symbol throughout the

Owner's Manual. It is to remind you at

appropriate places of the settings that are avail-

able to you.<

New keys

Following configuration of memory func-

tions, vehicle operation may differ from

the description in the Owner's Manual. Should

you wish to sell your BMW some day, please

remember to have the memory functions reset

to the factory default settings.<

You can get replacement keys or spare keys

from your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

18

Examples of Vehicle Memory

Operating from outside

>

Different confirmation signals to confirm

locking/unlocking of the vehicle, refer to

page 19.

>

via the remote control

>

via the driver's door lock

The central locking system simultaneously

operates the antitheft alarm system. This pre-

vents the doors from being unlocked via the

lock buttons or door handles. The remote con-

trol also switches the interior lamps on and off.

The alarm system* is also armed or disarmed.

>

Activating/deactivating function for path-

way lighting, refer to page 58.

Activating/deactivating daytime running

lamps, refer to page 58.

Active PDC Park Distance Control is acous-

tically indicated by a signal tone when you

shift into reverse or move the selector lever

into position R, refer to page 49.

For additional details on the alarm system, refer

to page 25.

You can set an acoustic signal to remind

you if the ignition key is still in the ignition

lock after you open the driver's door.<

>

Different confirmation signals to confirm

arming/disarming of alarm system, refer to

page 25.

Operating from inside

After an outside temperature warning has

been issued, the computer display returns

to the previous setting, refer to page 47.

Via the central locking system button, refer to

page 21.

Acoustic warning if the ignition key remains

in the ignition lock after the driver's door has

been opened, refer to page 19.

When the system is locked from inside, the fuel

filler door remains unlocked.

In the event of an accident of sufficient severity,

the central locking system unlocks automati-

cally. In addition, the hazard warning flashers

and interior lamps switch on.

Examples of Key Memory functions

>

Locking the vehicle after starting to drive,

refer to page 21.

>

Automatic adjustment of the driver's seat

and exterior mirror position for each person

when unlocking the vehicle, refer to

page 30.

Opening and closing:

Using the remote control

Persons or animals left unattended in a

parked vehicle can lock the doors from

the inside. For this reason, bring the remote

control with you whenever you leave the vehicle

so that you will always be able to unlock the

vehicle from outside.<

>

Setting units of measure for instrument

cluster displays of time, outside tempera-

ture, distance driven, and fuel consumption,

refer to page 47.

Central locking system

Unlocking

1. Press the

button.

The concept

The driver's door and fuel filler door are

unlocked.

The central locking system is ready for opera-

tion whenever the driver's door is closed.

2. Press the

button again.

All remaining doors and the liftgate are

unlocked.

The system locks or unlocks:

>

doors

liftgate

fuel filler door

19

If you wish, you can have the liftgate open

only after the vehicle has been unlocked.

You may have this function activated/deacti-

vated.<

Convenience opening mode

Press and hold the

button.

The windows and the panorama glass sunroof*

are opened.

To avoid damage, make sure there is suf-

ficient space when opening the liftgate.

A previously locked liftgate is also locked again

after closing.

Before and after a drive, make sure that the lift-

gate has not been inadvertently released.<

If you wish, you can have this special fea-

ture activated/deactivated.<

Engaging locks

Press the

button.

Hazard warning flashers flash once.

Malfunction

If you wish, you can have this special fea-

ture deactivated on vehicles without an

alarm system.<

The remote control may malfunction due to

local radio waves.

Should this occur, use the master key to unlock

and relock the vehicle via the door lock.

Do not lock the vehicle from the outside

when people are in it since they will be

unable to unlock it from the inside if they do not

know the special procedure.<

If it is no longer possible to lock the vehicle

using the remote control, its battery is dis-

charged. Use this remote control during an

extended drive; this will recharge the battery,

refer to page 18.

If you unlock the vehicle, but do not open

any doors, the central locking system

automatically relocks the vehicle after a short

time. If you wish, you can have this special fea-

ture activated/deactivated.<

For US owners only

The transmitter and receiver units comply with

part 15 of the FCC/Federal Communications

Commission regulations. Operation is gov-

erned by the following:

Switching off tilt alarm sensor* and

interior motion sensor*

Press the

locking.

button again directly after

FCC ID:

LX8EWS

For details, refer to page 26.

LX8FZVS

LX8FZVE

Switching on interior lamps

With the vehicle locked:

Compliance statement:

Press the

button.

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC

Rules. Operation is subject to the following two

conditions:

You can also use this function to locate your

vehicle in parking garages etc.

>

This device must not cause harmful inter-

ference, and

Panic mode*

You can also trigger the alarm system* in case

of danger:

>

this device must accept any interference

received, including interference that may

cause undesired operation.

Press the

button for at least 3 seconds.

Deactivating alarm: press any button.

Any unauthorized modifications or

changes to these devices could void the

user's authority to operate this equipment.<

Unlocking liftgate

Press the

button.

The liftgate will open slightly, regardless of

whether it was previously locked or unlocked.

20

Opening and closing:

Using door lock

Opening and closing:

from inside

Do not lock the vehicle from the outside

when people are in it since they will be

unable to unlock it from the inside if they do not

know the special procedure.<

You can use this button to operate the central

locking system when the front doors are closed.

This button only unlocks or locks the doors and

the liftgate. It does not activate the anti-theft

system.

1. Turn key.

The driver's door and fuel filler door are

unlocked.

If only the driver's door was unlocked

from the outside and you press the but-

ton, then, with the driver's door still open, the

passenger side door, the tailgate and the fuel

filler door will unlock, too.

2. Turn key again.

All remaining doors and the liftgate are

unlocked.

If the driver's door is closed, it will be locked.<

When locking, the hazard warning flashers flash

once.

The central locking system locks auto-

matically after you begin to drive. You can

have your vehicle set to do this if you wish.<

If you wish, you can have this special fea-

ture deactivated on vehicles without an

alarm system.<

Unlocking and opening doors

>

Either unlock all of the doors via the central

locking system button and then pull on the

door handle above the armrest or

Convenience operation

You also have the option of using the door lock

to operate the windows and the panorama glass

sunroof*.

pull the door handle of each door twice: the

first time unlocks the door, the second time

opens it.

Hold the key in the unlocking or locking posi-

tion.

Watch during the closing process to be

sure that no one is injured. Releasing the

key stops the operation.<

Engaging locks

>

Either lock all doors via the central locking

system button or

>

press down the lock buttons of the doors.

To prevent you from being locked out, the

opened driver's door cannot be locked

using the lock button.

Manual operation

If an electrical malfunction occurs, you can

unlock or lock the driver's door with the key in

the end positions of the door lock.

Persons or animals left unattended in a

parked vehicle can lock the doors from

the inside. For this reason, bring the ignition key

with you whenever you leave the vehicle so that

21

you will always be able to unlock the vehicle

from outside.<

Closing

You can set an acoustic signal to remind

you if the ignition key is still in the ignition

lock after you open the driver's door.<

Liftgate

To avoid damage, make sure there is suf-

ficient space when opening the liftgate.<

The handle recesses on the interior trim of the

liftgate make it easier to pull down.

Opening from outside

Avoid injuries by making sure that the lift-

gate's closing region is clear and unob-

structed.<

Windows

Keep windows in your line of sight while

closing. Failure to do so can result in

bodily injury.

Press the button, refer to arrow, or the

ton on the remote control. The liftgate opens

slightly. It can be pivoted upward.

but-

Always remove the key when leaving the vehi-

cle; otherwise, children could operate the win-

dows and injure themselves.<

When the liftgate is open, the cargo area and

interior are illuminated.

Opening, closing

Opening manually

In the event of an electrical malfunction:

1. Lift up the floor cover in the cargo area.

2. Release the jack from the bracket.

3. Press the lever behind the cover to the side,

refer to arrow. The liftgate is released.

With the ignition key in position 1 or higher:

>

Press the switch to the resistance point:

The window continues to open as long as

you press the switch.

>

Press the switch past the resistance point:

The window opens automatically. Pressing

again stops the opening motion.

You can close the windows in the same manner

by pulling the switch.

The liftgate is locked again as soon as it is

closed.

22

In the back, separate switches are provided in

the armrests.

Safety switch

For convenience operation using the remote

control or the door lock, refer to pages 20, 21.

After switching off ignition

You can operate the windows for up to 1 minute

as long as no door has been opened.

Pinch protection system

If the closing force rises beyond a predefined

threshold when a window is being closed, the

system will interrupt the closing of the window

prior to lowering it slightly.

With the safety switch, you can prevent the rear

windows from being opened or closed via the

switches in the rear passenger area, by chil-

dren, for example. The LED lights up when this

safety function is activated.

Despite the presence of the pinch protec-

tion system, inspect the window's travel

path prior to closing it, as the safety system

might fail to detect certain kinds of obstruc-

tions, such as very thin objects, and the window

would continue closing.

Press the safety switch when children

ride in the rear; otherwise, unsupervised

closing of the windows could lead to injuries.<

Do not install any accessories in the movement

range of the window as this could impair the

function of the pinch protection system.<

Panorama glass sunroof*

The panorama glass sunroof is ready for opera-

tion with the ignition key in position 2.

Keep panorama glass sunroof in your line

of sight while closing. Failure to do so can

result in bodily injury.

Always remove the key when leaving the vehi-

cle; otherwise, children could operate the sun-

roof and injure themselves.<

Closing without pinch protection

system

When there is danger outside or when, for

example, ice on the window prevents a normal

closing, press the switch past the resistance

point and hold it there. The window will close

without the pinch protection system.

Following interruptions in electrical

power supply

After disconnecting the battery, the pinch pro-

tection system must be reinitialized. To do this,

open and close the windows once and continue

pull the switch for longer than approx. 2 sec-

onds after closing.

23

Raising

Comfort position

Press the switch.

In the comfort position, the sunroof is not com-

pletely open. This reduces the wind noise in the

passenger compartment.

The closed roof is raised and the sliding visor

opens slightly.

Each time the panorama glass sunroof is com-

pletely opened or closed, it stops in the comfort

position. If you wish, you can resume the motion

by activating the switch.

Do not use force to close the sliding visor

when the sunroof is in its raised position,

as this could damage the mechanism.<

Opening, closing

Sliding visor

After switching off ignition

You can operate the panorama glass sunroof for

approx. 1 minute as long as no door has been

opened.

You can move the sliding visor independently

when the roof is in the closed or raised position.

>

Slide the switch backward to the resistance

point.

Pinch protection system

If the panorama glass sunroof or sliding visor

encounter resistance when closing from

roughly one third of the roof opening or when

closing from the raised position, then the clos-

ing action is interrupted and the panorama

glass sunroof and sliding visor reopen slightly.

The sliding visor continues to open for as

long as you hold the switch in this position.

>

Press the switch backward briefly past the

resistance point.

The sliding visor opens automatically. Press

the switch briefly to stop the movement.

Despite the presence of the pinch protec-

tion system, inspect the sunroof's travel

path prior to closing it, as the safety system

might fail to detect certain kinds of obstruc-

tions, such as very thin objects, and the sunroof

would continue closing.<

You close the sliding visor in the same way by

sliding the switch forward.

Panorama glass sunroof

With the sliding visor open, proceed as

described under Sliding visor.

Closing without pinch protection

system

For convenience operation using the remote

control or the door lock, refer to page 20 or 21.

If there is danger outside, press the switch

beyond the resistance point and hold it there.

The sunroof will close without the pinch protec-

tion system.

Opening and closing sunroof and

sliding visor together

Briefly press the switch past the resistance

point twice consecutively.

Following interruptions in electrical

power supply

Press the switch briefly to stop the movement.

After a power supply interruption, it may only be

possible to raise the sunroof. Have the system

reinitialized. BMW recommends having this

work carried out by your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center.

Convenience functions

>

With the sunroof open, press the switch

twice:

The sunroof is raised.

With the sunroof raised, briefly press the

switch twice in the opening direction:

The sunroof is completely opened.

24

The alarm system signals unauthorized manip-

ulations for a short time by:

Moving manually

In the event of an electrical malfunction, you can

move the sunroof manually.

>

Sounding an acoustic alarm

1. Pull the cover firmly downward to remove.

Switching on the hazard warning flashers

Flashing the high beams

Arming and disarming alarm system

When you lock or unlock the vehicle, either with

the remote control or at the door lock, the alarm

system is armed or disarmed at the same time.

If the alarm system has been properly armed,

the hazard warning flashers light up once.

You can have different confirmation sig-

nals set to confirm arming and disarm-

ing.<

2. Take the Allen wrench from the compart-

ment under cargo area floor, refer to

page 109, and insert it into the opening pro-

vided. Move the sunroof into the desired

position. The arrow in the illustration indi-

cates the rotation direction for closing the

sunroof.

You can open the liftgate even when the system

is armed by using the

button of the remote

control, refer to page 20. When the liftgate is

closed, it is locked again and monitored.

Switching off alarm

>

Unlock the vehicle using the remote control,

refer to page 19.

>

Turn the ignition key to position 1.

Indicator lamp displays

Alarm system*

The concept

The vehicle alarm system responds:

>

When a door, the hood, or the liftgate is

opened.

>

The indicator lamp below the interior rear-

view mirror flashes continuously: the sys-

tem is armed.

To movements inside the vehicle: interior

motion sensor, refer to description below.

The indicator lamp flashes after the vehicle

is locked: doors, hood, or liftgate are not

properly closed. Even if you do not close the

alerted area, the system begins to monitor

the remaining areas, and the indicator lamp

flashes continuously after approx. 10 sec-

When the car's inclination changes, for

instance if an attempt is made to jack it up

and steal the wheels or to raise it prior to

towing away.

>

To interruptions in battery voltage.

25

onds. However, the interior motion sensor

is not activated.

If you wish, you can have the tilt alarm

sensor and interior motion sensor perma-

nently deactivated. You can have this setting

made at your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

Center.<

>

The indicator lamp goes out after unlocking:

no manipulation or attempted intrusions

have been detected in the period since the

system was armed.

The indicator lamp flashes for 10 seconds

after the vehicle is unlocked: an attempted

entry has been detected in the period since

the system was armed.

Following triggering of an alarm, the indicator

lamp will flash continuously.

Tilt alarm sensor

The tilt of the vehicle is monitored. The alarm

system reacts, e.g. in case of an attempted

wheel theft or towing.

Interior motion sensor

In order for the interior motion sensor to func-

tion properly, the windows and panorama glass

sunroof must be completely closed.

Avoiding unintentional alarms

The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor

may be switched off at the same time. This pre-

vents unintentional alarms, e.g. in the following

situations:

>

In duplex garages

When being transported on car-carrying

trains, aboard ship, or on a trailer

>

When animals are to remain in the vehicle

Switching off tilt alarm sensor and

interior motion sensor

Press the

button on the remote con-

trol again as soon as the vehicle is locked.

The indicator lamp lights up briefly and then

flashes continuously. The tilt alarm sensor and

the interior motion sensor are switched off until

the next time the vehicle is unlocked and subse-

quently locked again.

26

Adjustments

Head restraint

Sitting safely

A correctly adjusted head restraint reduces the

risk of damage to the cervical vertebrae in acci-

dents.

The ideal sitting position can make a vital con-

tribution to relaxed driving that is as fatigue-free

as possible. Together with safety belts, head

restraints, and airbags, sitting position plays an

important role in an accident. Compliance with

the following instructions is important; failure to

do so could impair the protective function of the

safety systems.

Adjust the head restraint so that its mid-

dle lies approximately at the height of

your ears. Otherwise, there is an increased risk

of injury in the event of an accident.<

Head restraints, refer to page 29.

For additional information on transporting chil-

dren safely, refer to page 34.

Safety belts

Make sure the safety belts are worn in all occu-

pied seats every time you drive. Although air-

bags enhance safety by providing added pro-

tection, they are not a substitute for safety

belts.

Airbags

Always maintain an adequate distance

between yourself and the airbags. Always

hold the steering wheel by its rim with hands at

the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions, to mini-

mize the risk of injuries to your hands and arms

in the event of airbag deployment.

Your vehicle has five seats that are each

equipped with a safety belt.

Never allow more than one person to

wear a single safety belt. Infants and chil-

dren must not ride on a lap. Make sure that the

belt in the lap area sits low against the hips and

does not press against the abdomen. The

safety belt must never rest against the throat,

rub against sharp edges, pass over hard or frag-

ile objects or be pinched. Fasten the safety belt

around your body snugly, making sure that it is

pulled taut across your lap and shoulder and

that it is not twisted; otherwise, the belt can

slide over the hips in the event of a frontal colli-

sion and injure your abdomen. Avoid wearing

clothing that prevents the belt from fitting prop-

erly and pull the shoulder belt upward periodi-

cally to readjust the tension across your lap in

order to avoid a reduction in the restraining

action of the safety belt.

No one and nothing is to come between the air-

bags and the seat occupant.

Do not use the cover of the front airbag on the

front passenger side as a storage area. Make

sure that the passenger sits correctly, e.g. does

not rest his feet or legs on the dashboard. Oth-

erwise, a triggering of the front airbag could

result in leg injuries. Make sure that passengers

do not lean their heads against side or head air-

bags. Otherwise, a triggering of the airbag could

result in injuries.<

Even if you adhere to all the instructions, inju-

ries resulting from contact with airbags cannot

be entirely ruled out, depending on the circum-

stances. The ignition and inflation noise may

provoke a mild – usually temporary – hearing

loss in extremely sensitive individuals.

If the middle safety belt is used, the larger part

of the backrest must be locked in position, refer

to page 74; otherwise, the middle safety belt

cannot exert any restraining action.<

For airbag locations and additional information

on airbags, refer to page 56.

Safety belts, refer to page 31.

27

Backrest

Seats

Note before adjusting

Never try to adjust your seat while operat-

ing the vehicle. The seat could respond

with unexpected movement, and the ensuing

loss of vehicle control could lead to an accident.

On the passenger seat as well, do not incline

the backrest too far to the rear while the vehicle

is being driven; otherwise, there is a danger in

the event of an accident of sliding under the

safety belt, eliminating the protection normally

provided by the belt.<

Pull the lever 3 and apply weight to or remove

weight from the backrest as needed.

Also follow the instructions regarding the

height of head restraints on page 29 and

regarding safety belt damage on page 32.

Adjusting electrically*

To ensure that the safety systems con-

tinue to provide optimized protection, fol-

low the adjustment instructions above.<

Adjusting manually

To ensure that the safety systems con-

tinue to provide optimized protection, fol-

low the adjustment instructions above.<

1

2

3

4

Tilt

Longitudinal direction

Height

Backrest

Longitudinal direction

Manually adjusting head restraint, refer to Head

restraints on page 29.

Pull the lever 1 and slide the seat into the

desired position.

After you release the lever, move the seat for-

ward or backward slightly so that it engages

fully.

Luxury seat*

With this seat, you can also electrically adjust

the height of the head restraint and the shoul-

der support.

Height

Pull the lever 2 and apply weight to or remove

weight from the seat as needed.

28

Sports seat*

1

2

Head restraint height

Shoulder support

With this seat, you can also adjust the tilt and

the thigh support:

Head restraint height

Upward tilt

>

To raise: move switch upward.

Pull the lever, arrow 1, repeatedly until you

reach the desired tilt.

>

To lower: move switch downward.

Shoulder support

Downward tilt

Move switch forward or back.

Push the lever, arrow 2, repeatedly until you

You can use the adjustable upper backrest for

supplementary support in the shoulder region.

This provides a relaxed sitting position and

helps relieve stress on the shoulder muscles.

reach the desired tilt.

Thigh support

Pull the lever, arrow 3, and slide the thigh sup-

port in the longitudinal direction.

Adjusting lumbar support*

Head restraints

A correctly adjusted head restraint reduces the

risk of damage to the cervical vertebrae in acci-

dents.

Adjust the head restraint so that its mid-

dle lies approximately at the height of

your ears. Otherwise, there is an increased risk

of injury in the event of an accident. Only

remove a head restraint if no one is riding in the

seat in question. Reinstall the head restraint

before passengers ride in the seat; otherwise

the head restraint cannot perform its important

safety function.<

You can also adjust the contours of the backrest

to obtain additional support in the lumbar

region.

The upper hips and spinal column receive sup-

plementary support to help you maintain a

relaxed, upright sitting position.

>

To increase or decrease curvature: press

front or rear section of switch.

>

To move curvature up or down: press upper

or lower section of switch.

29

Adjusting height

Heated seats*

Front

>

To raise: pull upward.

To lower: press button, arrow 1, and slide

Press once for each temperature level. Maxi-

mum temperature when three LEDs are lit.

head restraint downward.

With the luxury seat*, you adjust the height of

the head restraint electrically, refer to page 28.

To switch off:

Press the button and hold it longer.

Front head rest

Rear

Adjusting tilt

Pivot the head restraint.

Removal

1. Pull the head restraint upward to the stop.

2. Press button, arrow 1, and pull head

restraint all the way out.

Installation

Functions the same as front seat heating, two

temperature levels.

1. Press button, arrow 1, and slide the head

restraint into its sockets.

2. Adjust the head restraint.

Seat and mirror memory*

You can store and select three different adjust-

ment settings for the driver's seat and exterior

mirrors.

The adjustment of the lumbar support is not

stored in the memory.

30

You can have your vehicle programmed

to automatically recall your own individual

stored adjustment settings for the seat and

exterior mirror position whenever you use your

personal remote control to unlock the vehicle.<

Storing

If you make use of this setting, be sure

that the footwell behind the driver's seat

is unobstructed before unlocking the vehicle.

If you fail to do so, any persons, animals or

objects behind the seat could be injured or

damaged by a rearward movement of the

seat.<

1. Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 2.

2. Set the desired seat and exterior mirror

position.

3. Press the

button:

Safety belts

To ensure that the safety systems con-

tinue to provide optimum protection,

please follow the instructions on page 27.<

The LED in the button lights up.

4. Press the desired memory button 1, 2 or 3:

The LED goes out.

Make sure the safety belts are worn in all occu-

pied seats every time you drive. Although air-

bags enhance safety by providing added pro-

tection, they are not a substitute for safety

belts.

Requesting a stored setting

Do not request a position from the mem-

ory while the vehicle is moving; otherwise,

there is a risk of accident from unexpected seat

movement.<

Convenience mode

1. Open the driver's door after unlocking or

turn the ignition key to position 1.

2. Briefly press the desired memory button 1,

2 or 3.

The adjustment procedure is canceled when

you press one of the seat adjustment buttons or

use one of the memory buttons.

Fastening

Make sure you hear the latch plate engage in

the belt buckle.

Safety feature

1. Close the driver's door and turn the ignition

key to position 0 or 2.

Safety belt reminder for front seats

2. Press the desired memory button 1, 2 or 3

and maintain pressure until the adjustment

process has been completed.

The indicator lamp flashes or lights up.

In addition, a signal sounds. Please

make sure that the safety belts are

being worn correctly.

If the

ently:

button has been pressed inadvert-

The safety belt reminder is activated if the

safety belt on the driver's side has not yet been

fastened.

Press the button again, the LED goes out.

At speeds greater than 5 mph/8 km/h, the

31

safety belt reminder is also activated if the pas-

senger side safety belt has not yet been fas-

tened, if objects are placed on the passenger's

seat, or if the driver or front passenger's safety

belt is released.

Releasing

1. Hold the belt firmly.

2. Press the red button in the buckle.

3. Guide the belt back into its reel.

1

2

Adjustments

Switching over to the other mirror or to the

automatic parking function*

The upper shoulder strap's anchorage point will

be in the correct position for seat occupants of

every build if the seat is correctly adjusted, refer

to page 27.

Storing the mirror positions, refer to Seat and

mirror memory on page 30.

In the rear, the middle belt buckle embossed

with the word CENTER is intended exclusively

for use by passengers riding in the center posi-

tion.

Manual adjustments

The mirrors can also be manually adjusted by

pressing at the edges of the mirror glass.

To prevent the exterior mirrors on this

vehicle from being damaged, always fold

them in by hand before entering an automatic

car wash.<

Damage to safety belts

When strained by an accident or when

damaged: have the safety belt system,

including the belt tensioners, replaced and have

belt anchorage points inspected. Have this

work done only by your BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center or by a workshop that works

according to BMW repair procedures with cor-

respondingly trained personnel. Otherwise,

there can be no guarantee that the safety

devices will function properly.<

Automatic heating

When the outside temperature falls below a

specified temperature, both outside mirrors are

automatically heated whenever the engine is

running or the ignition is switched on.

Tilting down passenger's mirror,

automatic parking function*

Mirrors

Activating

1. Select the driver's exterior mirror with

Exterior mirrors

switch 1.

The passenger side mirror is more curved

than the driver's mirror. Objects in the

mirrors are closer than they appear. Do not esti-

mate the distance to following traffic based on

the view in the mirrors; otherwise, there is an

increased risk of accident.<

32

2. Shift into reverse or engage selector lever

position R.

Steering wheel

The mirror glass tilts downward slightly on

the passenger side. This allows the driver to

see the area immediately adjacent to the

vehicle – such as a curb – when parking, etc.

Adjustments

Do not adjust the steering wheel while the

vehicle is moving. There is a risk of acci-

dent from unexpected movement.<

Deactivating

Select the passenger side mirror with switch 1.

Interior rearview mirror

1. Fold the lever down.

2. Adapt the longitudinal position and height

of the steering wheel to the seat position.

3. Fold the lever back up.

To reduce glare from vehicles behind you when

you are driving at night, tilt the mirror by turning

the button.

Steering wheel heater*

The button for steering wheel heater is located

on the steering wheel, refer to page 13.

In vehicles without an alarm system: tilt the

small lever forward.

With the ignition switched on, press the

button.

Interior and exterior mirror,

automatically dimming*

When the heater is switched on, the

LED in the button lights up.

This function is controlled by two photocells in

the inside rearview mirror. One is integrated into

the mirror glass, the other is located on the back

of the mirror.

For trouble-free operation, keep the photocells

clean and do not cover the area between the

interior rearview mirror and the windshield. Do

not attach any kind of sticker to the windshield

in front of the mirror, either.

33

Transporting children safely

On the passenger's seat

The right place for children

After installing a child restraint system on

the passenger seat, make sure that the

front and side airbag on the front passenger

side have been deactivated. Otherwise, there is

an increased risk of injury when the airbags are

triggered.<

Do not leave children unattended in the

vehicle; otherwise, they could endanger

themselves and/or others, for example by open-

ing the doors.<

Children always in the rear

Accident research has demonstrated that the

safest place for children is in the rear seat.

Child seat security

Children younger than 13 or smaller than

5 ft/150 cm should only ride in the rear, in

child restraint systems provided in accordance

with their age, weight, and height. Otherwise,

there is an increased risk of injury in the event of

an accident.<

Children older than 13 must be secured with a

safety belt as soon as they have outgrown a

suitable child restraint system due to their age,

height, and weight.

In order to permit installation of child restraint

systems, all rear safety belts and the front pas-

senger safety belt can be locked to prevent

them from being pulled out.

Exception for the front passenger seat

If it should be necessary to use a child

restraint system on the front passenger

seat, the front and side airbags must be deacti-

vated. Otherwise, there is an increased risk of

injury to the child if the airbag is triggered, even

with a child restraint system.<

Locking safety belt

1. Secure child restraint system with the belt.

2. Pull safety belt strap all the way out.

3. Allow safety belt to retract and pull it snugly

against the child restraint system. The

safety belt is locked.

For more information on automatic deactivation

of the front passenger airbags, refer to page 56.

Unlocking safety belt

1. Open safety belt buckle.

Installing child restraint

systems

Follow the child restraint system manu-

facturer's instructions for selection,

installation and use of the child restraint sys-

tem. Otherwise, the degree of protection can be

reduced.<

2. Remove child restraint system.

3. Allow safety belt strap to retract all the way.

34

For child restraint systems with tether straps,

there are three additional attachment points,

refer to arrows, under covers in the floor of the

cargo area. To use them, remove the necessary

cover with a screwdriver.

LATCH child restraint fixing

system

LATCH: Lower Anchor and Tethers for CHil-

dren.

For attachment and use of LATCH child

restraint fixing systems, follow the oper-

ating and safety instructions of the system

manufacturer.<

Routing of tether strap

Make sure that the tether strap is not

routed over sharp objects and does not

twist on its way to the attachment point; other-

wise, the belt can fail to properly secure the

child restraint system in the event of an acci-

dent.<

Before attaching the child's seat, pull the belt

out of the vicinity of the child's seat attachment

points.

Make sure that the LATCH anchors have

correctly engaged and the child restraint

system is resting snugly against the backrest.<

Rear seats

The anchorage points for the LATCH mounts

are located behind the cover caps. Before

installing the child's seat, pull the cover caps

out toward the front.

Child restraint system with tether strap

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Direction of travel

Head restraint

The top tether strap attachment points

are only intended for attachment of child

restraint systems; other uses can damage the

attachment points.<

Child restraint system tether strap

Tether strap hook

Cargo area floor

Attachment point

Backrest

Before using the attachment points, remove the

cover caps.

35

Outer seats:

When driving

1. Slide head restraint upward.

With side airbags in the rear, make sure

2. Guide upper tether strap between the sup-

ports of the head restraint.

that children do not lean out of the child's

seat toward the door panel; otherwise, injuries

can result if the side airbags are triggered.<

3. Attach tether strap hook to attachment

point.

Child-safety lock of rear doors

4. Slide head restraint into the lowest position.

5. Pull tether strap tight.

Middle seat:

1. Fold center armrest slightly forward.

2. Guide tether strap through the opening.

Slide down the safety levers on the rear doors:

The door can now be opened from the outside

only.

Safety switch for power windows

Press the safety switch for the power windows,

refer to page 23, when children are in the rear of

the vehicle.

3. Fold center armrest back.

4. Attach tether strap hook to attachment

point.

5. Pull tether strap tight.

When using the cargo area cover:

Guide tether strap through between the rear

seat backrest and the cargo area cover.

36

Driving

Ignition lock

Starting engine

Do not run the engine in enclosed spaces;

otherwise, inhalation of toxic exhaust

gases can cause unconsciousness and death.

The exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide,

an odorless and colorless, but highly toxic gas.

Do not leave the vehicle unattended with the

engine running, since an unattended vehicle

with a running engine is a safety hazard.

To prevent the vehicle from rolling, always shift

into neutral or selector lever position P and

engage the handbrake firmly before leaving the

vehicle with the engine running.<

0

1

2

3

Steering locked

Steering unlocked

Ignition switched on

Starting engine

Do not discontinue the starting procedure pre-

maturely, but also do not prolong it for more

than 20 seconds. Release the ignition key

immediately as soon as the engine starts.

Steering locked

When starting the engine, do not press the

accelerator pedal.

The key can be inserted or removed in this posi-

tion only.

Do not allow the engine to warm up while

parked; instead, start driving immediately at a

moderate engine speed.

After removing the key, turn the steering wheel

slightly to the left or right until you hear the lock

engage.

Indicator lamps

Interlock with automatic transmission

The warning lamp lights up. Exhaust

values are deteriorating. Have the vehi-

cle checked as soon as possible.

The key can only be turned back to position 0 or

removed if the selector lever is in position P:

interlock.

Under certain conditions, the indicator will flash.

This indicates a serious rate of engine misfire.

When this occurs, you should reduce speed

and consult the nearest BMW Sports Activity

Vehicle Center as soon as possible. Severe

engine misfire, even for only a short period of

time, can seriously damage emission control

components, especially the catalytic converter.

Steering unlocked

A slight steering wheel movement often makes

it easier to turn the key from 0 to 1.

Some power accessories are ready for opera-

tion.

Ignition switched on

Display of the previously described mal-

function on Canadian models.

All vehicle systems are ready for operation.

The warning lamp lights up. Malfunc-

tion in the engine electronics. You can

continue to drive with reduced engine

37

output or speed. Have the system checked

immediately.

Manual transmission

1. Engage the parking brake firmly.

2. Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.

3. Shift into first gear or reverse.

Manual transmission

1. Step on the brake.

2. Depress the clutch pedal and shift into neu-

tral.

Automatic transmission*

1. With the vehicle at a stop, move the selector

lever into position P.

If the clutch pedal is not depressed,

the motor will not start.<

2. Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.

3. Engage the parking brake firmly.

3. Start the engine.

Automatic transmission*

1. Step on the brake.

Handbrake

The handbrake is primarily intended to prevent

the vehicle from rolling while parked; it brakes

the rear wheels.

2. Move selector lever into position P.

3. Start the engine.

Special starting conditions

In the following situations, press the accelerator

pedal halfway down while starting:

Indicator lamp

The indicator lamp lights up; an acous-

tic signal also sounds when you begin

to drive. The handbrake is still engaged.

>

If the engine fails to start on the first

attempt, for instance if it is very hot or cold.

>

When starting the engine at very low tem-

peratures, e.g. below approx. +57/–156,

at high altitudes over approx. 3,300 ft/

1,000 m.

Indicator lamp for Canadian models.

Engaging

Avoid frequent starting in quick succes-

sion or repeated start attempts in which

the engine does not start. Otherwise, the fuel is

either not burned or inadequately burned and

there is a danger of overheating and damaging

the catalytic converter.<

The lever engages automatically when you pull

up on it.

Releasing

Switching off engine

Do not remove the ignition key when the

vehicle is rolling; otherwise, the steering

wheel lock would engage, preventing you from

steering.

When leaving the vehicle, remove the ignition

key and lock the steering. To prevent the vehi-

cle from rolling, engage the parking brake firmly

when parking.<

Pull up slightly on the lever, press the button

and lower the lever.

If exceptional circumstances should

make it necessary to engage the hand-

brake while the vehicle is in motion, do not

38

engage it too forcefully. In doing so, continu-

ously press the button of the handbrake lever.

Otherwise, excessively forceful engagement of

the handbrake can cause the rear wheels to lock

and cause the rear of the vehicle to fishtail.<

Selector lever positions

P R N D M/S + –

Starting the engine

The engine can only be started in selector lever

positions P: Park or N: Neutral.

To prevent corrosion and one-sided brak-

ing action, occasionally engage the hand-

brake lightly when the vehicle is slowly coming

to a stop if traffic conditions permit. The brake

lamps do not light up when the handbrake is

applied.<

Displays in the instrument cluster

Manual transmission

P R N D SD M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6

The selector lever position is indicated, and in

the manual mode, the gear currently engaged.

Changing selector lever positions

>

Only move the selector lever from posi-

tion P with the engine running: interlock.

When shifting into 5th or 6th gear, press

the gearshift to the right. Otherwise, an

inadvertent shift into 3rd or 4th gear could harm

the engine.<

>

When the vehicle is stationary, step on the

brake before shifting out of P or N; other-

wise, the selector lever is locked: shiftlock.

To prevent the vehicle from creeping

after you select a drive position, press

on the brake pedal until you are ready to

start driving.<

Reverse

Select only when the vehicle is stationary. Press

the gearshift lever to the left to overcome the

resistance.

Automatic transmission with

Steptronic*

In addition to fully automatic operation, you can

also manually shift with the Steptronic, refer to

page 40.

Parking vehicle

A lock prevents the selector lever from being

inadvertently moved into positions R and P. To

release the lock, press the button on the front of

the selector lever handle, refer to arrow.

To prevent the vehicle from rolling,

always select position P and engage the

handbrake before leaving the vehicle with the

engine running.<

39

example, a downshift that would cause the

engine to overrev will not be executed by the

system. The gear selected will appear briefly in

the instrument cluster, followed by the current

gear.

P Park

Select only when the vehicle is stationary. The

transmission locks to prevent the rear wheels

from turning.

To use the automatic function again, move the

selector lever to the right into position D.

R Reverse

Select only when the vehicle is stationary.

Malfunction

N Neutral

You can shift into neutral, for example, in auto-

matic car washes. This allows the vehicle to roll.

Red warning lamp

The transmission is overheated.

Reduce speed immediately and stop at

a suitable location so that the transmis-

sion can cool down again. It is possible to con-

tinue driving moderately.

D Drive, automatic position

Under normal operating conditions, fuel con-

sumption is the lowest when the vehicle is

driven in position D.

Have the system checked immediately.

Kick-down

Yellow warning lamp

The kick-down mode provides maximum accel-

eration.

Press the accelerator pedal past the increased

resistance point at the full-throttle position.

A malfunction has occurred in the trans-

mission system. Avoid heavy loads.

While it will still remain possible to move

the selector lever to any desired position, the

transmission will revert to its default mode with

only a limited number of forward gears.

Have the system checked as soon as possible.

Sport program and manual mode M/S

Instructions on towing, tow starting and jump

starting begin on page 114.

Turn signals/

headlamp flasher

Move the selector lever from position D toward

the left into the M/S shifting slot.

The Sport program is activated and SD appears

in the instrument cluster. This position is rec-

ommended for a performance-oriented driving

style.

When you push the selector lever forward or

pull it back, this activates the manual mode and

Steptronic changes gear. The instrument clus-

ter displays M1 to M6.

1

2

3

High beams

Headlamp flasher

Turn signals

Upshifts and downshifts are executed only

when they will result in a plausible combination

of engine and vehicle speed; as a result, for

40

Atypically rapid flashing of the indicator

lamp indicates that a turn signal bulb has

gone out.<

Fold the wipers back down onto the wind-

shield before you turn the ignition key to

position 1 or 2 again. If you do not, they could be

damaged.<

Signaling briefly

Intermittent mode

Press lever to resistance point and hold for as

long as you wish to signal.

Not provided in vehicles with rain sensor.

You can set the wipe interval to four stages with

the knurled wheel 5.

Touch signaling

Press lever to resistance point.

The signal flashes three times.

In addition, the wipe interval is varied automati-

cally depending on road speed.

If you wish, you can have this function

activated.<

Rain sensor*

The rain sensor automatically controls wiper

operation as a function of the rain intensity.

The sensor is mounted on the windshield,

directly in front of the interior rearview mirror.

Washer/wiper system/

rain sensor*

Deactivate the rain sensor when passing

through an automatic car wash. Failure to

do so could result in damage caused by undes-

ired wiper activation.<

Activating

With the ignition key in position 1 or higher,

move the lever to position 1. The wipers travel

once across the windshield, regardless of the

weather conditions.

0

1

2

3

4

5

Wipers retracted

You can leave the lever permanently in posi-

tion 1 and then only need to activate the rain

sensor whenever the ignition key is in position 1

or higher. To do so:

Intermittent or rain sensor operation

Normal wiper speed

Fast wipe

>

Briefly turn the knurled wheel 5 or

Brief wipe

Clean the windshield 1, refer to page 42

Select interval time or set sensitivity of

rain sensor

Adjusting sensitivity

Turn the knurled wheel 5.

Fold-out position

The right wiper is partially concealed by the

hood.

To move the wipers into a vertical position:

Deactivating

Switch lever to position 0.

1. Switch on wipers in lever position 1.

Normal wiper speed

2. When the wipers are approximately vertical,

move the ignition key to position 0.

The system switches automatically to intermit-

tent mode when the vehicle is not moving, not

on vehicles with rain sensor.

For changing the wiper blades, refer to

page 104.

41

You can also program the interval:

Fast wipe

The wipers operate at normal speed when the

vehicle is not moving, not on vehicles with rain

sensor.

1. Briefly move the wiper lever from position 0

to position 2.

2. Wait for desired interval; maximum of

30 seconds.

Cleaning windshield, rear window and

headlamps*

3. Move the wiper lever from position 0 to

position 2 again.

Washer fluid

Washer fluid antifreeze is flammable. For

this reason, keep it away from sources of

flame and store it only in its original containers.

Store it so that it is inaccessible to children.

Always follow the instructions for use provided

on the containers.<

0

1

2

3

Wipers retracted

Cleaning windshield and headlamps

Rear window wiper intermittent mode

Cleaning rear window

Filler neck for Washer fluid

Only refill washer fluid when the engine is

cool in order to prevent contact with hot

engine components. Otherwise, there is a risk

of fire and personal injury if the fluid spills.<

Do not activate the washer if there is

any danger of the fluid freezing on the

windshield. If you do so, your vision could be

obscured. To avoid freezing, use a washer fluid

antifreeze, refer to Washer fluid. Do not activate

the washer when the washer fluid is empty as

this will damage the washer pump.<

Cleaning windshield

The system sprays washer fluid against the

windshield and activates the wipers for a brief

period.

The washer jets are automatically heated

whenever the engine is running or the ignition is

switched on.

All of the washer jets are supplied from one res-

ervoir.

Fill with water and, if required, with an antifreeze

additive according to manufacturer's recom-

mendations.

Cleaning headlamps*

To maintain the mixing ratio, mix the

washer fluid before adding it to the reser-

voir.<

When the vehicle lighting system is switched

on, the headlamps are cleaned at regular and

appropriate intervals.

Capacity

Rear window wiper

Approx. 3.2 US quarts/3 liters.

Rear window wiper in intermittent mode. When

reverse gear is engaged, the wiper operates

continuously.

With headlamp washer system* approx.

6.9 US quarts/6.5 liters.

42

ton increases the speed by approx. 1 mph/

1 km/h.

Cruise control*

The vehicle maintains and stores the speed that

you set at speeds greater than approx. 20 mph/

30 km/h.

Press and hold + button:

The vehicle accelerates without pressure on

the accelerator pedal. When you release the

button, the system maintains and stores the

current speed.

You can use cruise control whenever the sys-

tem is active while the engine is running.

Do not use the cruise control under unfa-

vorable conditions that do not permit a

If the braking action of the engine is insufficient

on a downhill stretch, then the set vehicle can

exceed the set speed. Speed can drop on uphill

grades if the engine output is insufficient.

constant speed, e.g. when driving on winding

roads or in heavy traffic or when negotiating

poor road conditions such as snow, rain, ice, or

a loose road surface. Otherwise, you could lose

control of the vehicle and cause an accident.<

Decelerating

Indicator lamp

The indicator lamp lights up green: sys-

tem ready for operation using the but-

tons on the steering wheel.

Briefly press – button:

Each press of the button decreases the vehi-

cle's speed by roughly 1 mph/1 km/h, provided

that you have already activated the cruise con-

trol.

Activating system

Press and hold – button:

With the cruise control active, the system auto-

matically reduces the fuel supply to slow the

vehicle. When you release the button, the sys-

tem maintains and stores the current speed.

With ignition key in position 2 or higher:

Press button on steering wheel; the indicator

lamp in the instrument cluster comes on. The

cruise control mode is enabled.

Interrupting cruise control

Deactivating system

When the system is activated, press the button.

The indicator lamp stays on. You can use the

cruise control again whenever required by

requesting the speed that was stored last.

Press the button repeatedly until the indicator

lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

The cruise control is also deactivated when the

ignition key is turned to position 0. The speed

stored in the memory is deleted in the process.

In addition, the system is automatically inter-

rupted in response to the following conditions:

>

When you apply pressure to the brake pedal

When you apply pressure to the clutch

pedal or when you move the automatic

transmission selector lever from D to N

Maintaining speed, storing, and

accelerating

>

If you exceed or fall below the set speed for

an extended period, by pressing the accel-

erator, for example

Briefly press + button:

The system maintains and stores the current

vehicle speed. Each additional touch of the but-

When DSC is activated

43

Resuming stored speed

Press button:

The vehicle accelerates to and maintains the

last speed stored.

44

Everything under control

Odometer

Fuel gauge

1

2

Odometer

Fuel tank capacity: approx. 17.7 US gal/

67 liters. Instructions for refueling can be found

on page 88.

Trip odometer

If the tilt of the vehicle varies, when you are driv-

ing in mountainous areas, for example, the indi-

cator may fluctuate slightly.

Odometer

You can activate the displays shown in the illus-

tration in ignition key position 0 or with the igni-

tion key removed by pressing the button in the

instrument cluster.

Reserve

If the LED 1 starts to light up continuously,

there are still approx. 2 US gal/8 liters of fuel left

in the tank.

Trip odometer

To reset to zero:

Refuel well before the tank is empty. If

you drive down to the last drop, engine

functions are no longer assured and damage

can occur.<

1. Ignition key in position 1.

2. Press and hold the button until the trip

odometer is reset to zero.

When you switch on the ignition, the LED

comes on briefly to confirm that the system is

operational.

Tachometer

Engine speeds in the red warning field must

absolutely be avoided.

In this range, the fuel supply is interrupted to

protect the engine.

45

Together with the message OIL SERVICE or

INSPECTION, the next scheduled service and

remaining distance to this service are displayed

in miles/kilometers.

Coolant temperature gauge

The remaining distance is determined on the

basis of the past driving style.

A flashing display and a – sign before the

numerical value mean that the service interval

has been passed by the displayed number of

miles/kilometers. Please make an appointment

with your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.

Blue

The engine is still cold. Drive at moderate

engine and vehicle speeds.

Clock

If you wish to have a continuous clock display,

you can also set the car radio display to show

the time, refer to Owner's Manual for Radio.

Between blue and red fields

Normal operating range. It is permissible for the

dial to drift up to the red field.

You can set the clock or the time that appears in

the car radio display as follows.

Red

Setting time

Comes on while driving:

The engine is overheated. Switch off the engine

immediately and allow it to cool down.

Checking coolant level, refer to page 101.

When you switch on the ignition, the warning

lamp 1 comes on briefly to confirm that the sys-

tem is operational.

Service Interval Display

With the ignition key in position 1 or higher:

Remaining distance until next service

due

Hours

1. Hold button 2 pressed for a few seconds

until the hours are displayed and the colon

flashes.

2. Press button 1 repeatedly until the desired

hour is set.

Minutes

3. Press button 2 to change to the minutes

display.

4. Press button 1 repeatedly until the desired

The displays shown in the illustration appear for

a few seconds once the ignition key is in posi-

tion 1 or after starting the engine.

minutes are set.

5. Press button 2 to confirm the time.

46

The set time is transferred to the display of the

radio or displayed in the instrument cluster.

Outside temperature

Display mode

Ignition key in position 0 or removed:

Press button 1.

The time and display of the miles/kilometers

appear for a few seconds.

Computer

Changing units of measure 7/6

During the display, hold down the button in the

turn signal lever until the display changes.

Mode selection

Outside temperature warning

If the outside temperature falls below approx.

+37.57/+36, the computer switches auto-

matically to the outside temperature display.

In addition, an acoustic signal sounds and the

display flashes for a short time. There is an

increased risk of icy conditions.

After an outside temperature warning has

been issued, the display returns to the

previous setting. You can have this activated/

deactivated.<

With the ignition key in position 1 or higher,

you can call up information from the computer

using the computer button in the turn signal

lever.

Ice can also occur at temperatures

greater than +37.57/+36. For this rea-

son, drive carefully on bridges and shaded

roadways, for example. Otherwise, there is an

increased risk of accidents.<

A new function appears each time you briefly

press the computer button.

The following information is displayed in the

sequence indicated:

>

Time

Clock

Outside temperature

Average fuel consumption

Cruising range

Average speed

With the ignition key in position 1 or higher, the

last active setting is displayed.

If you wish, you can display the following

functions in a different unit of measure.<

12 or 24 hour mode

If your vehicle is equipped with a computer, you

can have the time displayed in the 12 or 24 hour

mode.

47

During the display, hold down the computer

button in the turn signal lever until the display

changes.

Average fuel consumption

The average fuel consumption is calculated for

the time during which the engine is running.

Reset average consumption:

Press the computer button in the turn indicator

lever for approx. 2 seconds.

Cruising range

Displays the estimated cruising range available

with the remaining fuel. The current fuel level is

measured and the range is calculated taking

into account the driving style over the last

20 miles/30 km.

Always refuel as soon as possible once

your cruising range falls to below

30 miles/50 km; otherwise, engine functions

are not ensured and damage can occur.<

Average speed

The calculation of the average speed does not

take into account periods in which the vehicle is

parked with the engine switched off.

Resetting average speed: press the computer

button in the turn indicator lever for approx.

2 seconds.

48

Technology for comfort, convenience and

safety

Activating manual mode

PDC Park Distance Control*

The concept

PDC provides extra safety and convenience

during parking maneuvers. Audible signals indi-

cate that you are approaching an object in front

of or behind your vehicle. To measure the dis-

tance, there are four ultrasonic sensors in each

bumper.

An acoustic signal begins to sound when the

front sensors and the rear corner sensors are

In ignition key position 2, press the button; the

within approx. 2 ft/60 cm of an obstacle and

LED lights up.

when the rear middle sensors are within approx.

5 ft/1.50 m of an obstacle.

Deactivating manual mode

PDC is a parking aid that can indicate

Press the button again, the LED goes out.

objects when they are approached

The system is automatically deactivated once

slowly, as is usually the case when parking.

the vehicle travels approx. 160 ft/50 m or

Avoid approaching objects too fast; otherwise,

exceeds a speed of roughly 20 mph/30 km/h;

the system may give warning of physical obsta-

the LED goes out. You can reactivate the sys-

tem manually as needed.

cles too late.<

If you are driving with a trailer, the rear sensors

cannot take any meaningful measurements.

Consequently, they do not switch on.

Signal tones

An intermittent tone from a rear speaker signals

the distance to an object behind the vehicle as

Automatic mode

you approach it.

In ignition key position 2, the system is auto-

An intermittent tone from a speaker beneath

matically activated after approx. 1 second each

the dashboard signals the distance to an object

time you shift into reverse or move the selector-

in front of the vehicle as you approach it.

lever into position R. Wait for one second to

As the distance between vehicle and object

pass before moving.

decreases, the intervals between the tones

You can have a signal tone programmed

into the system to verify that the PDC is

active.<

become shorter. The signal tone becomes con-

tinuous once the distance to the nearest object

falls to below roughly 1 ft/30 cm.

An intermittent tone is interrupted after approx.

3 seconds:

>

If you remain in front of an object that is only

detected by one of the corner sensors

>

If you are moving parallel to a wall

49

Malfunction

Electronic brake-force distribution

The LED in the button flashes and a short con-

tinuous tone sounds. PDC is malfunctioning.

Switch off PDC. Have the system checked.

The system controls the brake pressure in the

rear wheels to ensure a stable braking behavior.

Brake assistant

To prevent this problem, keep the sensors

clean and free of ice or snow in order to ensure

that they will continue to operate effectively.

When using high-pressure washers, do not

spray sensors for long periods and keep the

sprayer at least 4 in/10 cm away from the sen-

sors.

When the brake pedal is depressed quickly, this

system automatically generates a maximum

braking force distribution and thus helps keep

the braking distance to a minimum during full

braking. This system exploits all of the benefits

provided by ABS.

As long as you want full braking to continue, do

not reduce pressure on the brake.

System limits

Even with PDC, final responsibility for

estimating the distance between the

DSC Dynamic Stability Control

vehicle and any obstructions always remains

with the driver. Even when sensors are involved,

there is a blind spot in which objects cannot be

detected. The system is also subject to the

physical limits that apply to all forms of ultra-

sonic measurement, such as those encoun-

tered with tow bars and trailer couplings, or thin

and wedge-shaped objects. Low objects

already displayed, e.g. curb edges, can come

into the blind spot of the sensors before or after

a continuous tone sounds. The system may fail

to detect higher obstacles such as projections

from walls.

DSC prevents slip at the drive wheels when

starting off and accelerating. The system also

detects unstable driving conditions, such as a

fishtailing of the vehicle's rear end or the sliding

of the vehicle on its front wheels. In these cir-

cumstances, DSC helps keep the vehicle on a

safe path, within physical limits, by reducing

engine output and by applying the brakes in

individual wheels.

The laws of physics cannot be repealed,

even with DSC. An appropriate driving

style always remains the responsibility of the

driver. Do not squander the additional margin of

safety by driving dangerously; otherwise, you

run the risk of causing an accident.<

Loud sources of sound, inside and outside the

vehicle, could drown out the PDC signal tone.<

Deactivating DSC

Driving stability control

systems

Your BMW is equipped with an extended array

of systems designed to enhance and maintain

vehicle stability even under unfavorable driving

conditions.

ABS Antilock Brake System

ABS prevents the wheels from locking during

braking. Safe steering response is maintained

even during full braking. This results in an

increase in the active safety.

Maintain pressure on the button until the DSC

indicator lamp lights up, but do not press for

longer than approx. 10 seconds. DTC Dynamic

Traction Control and DSC are deactivated

ABS is operational every time you start the

engine. Safe braking, refer to page 81.

50

jointly. These systems do not take their cus-

tomary stabilizing actions.

For monitoring purposes

When the indicator lamp flashes:

To increase vehicle stability, reactivate DSC as

soon as possible.

DTC is controlling the drive forces and

braking forces.

When the indicator lamp lights up:

DTC is activated.

Activating DSC

Press the button again; the indicator lamp in the

instrument cluster goes out.

Deactivating DTC

For monitoring purposes

Press the button again; the DTC indicator lamp

in the instrument cluster goes out.

When the indicator lamp flashes:

DSC is controlling the drive and braking

forces.

xDrive

When the indicator lamp lights up:

DSC is deactivated.

xDrive is the all-wheel drive system of your X3.

The combined effects of xDrive and DSC fur-

ther optimize the traction and dynamic driving

characteristics. The all-wheel drive system

xDrive variably distributes the drive torque to

the front and rear axle depending on the driving

situation and prevailing road conditions.

Dynamic Traction Control DTC

DTC is a variation of DSC that is optimized for

forward momentum for particular road condi-

tions, e.g. unplowed snow-covered roads. In

this mode, the system assures maximum for-

ward momentum, but with limited driving stabil-

ity. For this reason, drive with corresponding

caution.

HDC Hill Descent Control

The concept

In the following exceptional circumstances, it

may be useful to temporarily activate DTC:

HDC is a system for hill descent assistance that

reduces the speed on steep downward inclines

and makes it even easier to control the driving

characteristics of your BMW under these condi-

tions. The vehicle moves at slightly more than

walking speed without active intervention from

the driver.

>

When driving on snow-covered inclines, in

slush, or on unplowed, snow-covered roads

>

When freeing a stuck vehicle or starting up

in deep snow, sand, or on a loose ground

surface

You can activate HDC at vehicle speeds below

approx. 20 mph/35 km/h. If it is traveling down a

steep slope at a speed below approx. 20 mph/

35 km/h, the vehicle then automatically decel-

erates down to slightly more than walking

speed, approx. 5 mph/8 km/h, and then keeps

this speed constant.

>

When driving with snow chains*

Activating DTC

You can use the accelerator or brakes to vary

this automatically controlled speed within a

range extending from approx. 3 mph/5 km/h to

15 mph/25 km/h.

You can specify a target speed within the same

range by using the +/– buttons of the cruise

control on the steering wheel.

Press the button; the DTC indicator lamp in the

instrument cluster lights up.

51

dents can occur. When driving on poor road

surfaces, avoid full throttle or kickdown position

of the accelerator pedal as these could cause

damage to the drive system.<

Activating HDC

The warning lamp for the brake system

lights up in red, together with the warn-

ing lamps for ABS and DSC/xDrive. In

addition, a warning signal sounds.

The driving stability control systems

have failed. It is then possible to exert

driving force only via the rear axle.

Press the button; the LED lights up.

If the brake system warning lamp lights

up in yellow in the described combination, then

the EBV Electronic brake-force distribution is

still available. Have the system checked as soon

as possible.

The LED flashes when the brakes are applied

automatically.

Deactivating HDC

Press the button again; the LED goes out.

Display of the previously described mal-

function on Canadian models.

HDC is deactivated immediately above approx.

35 mph/60 km/h and after approx. 10 seconds

when the ignition is switched off.

Using HDC

Manual transmission:

Use HDC in low gears and in reverse.

The warning lamp lights up continu-

ously and a warning signal sounds:

Automatic transmission:

You can use HDC in every drive position.

Both DSC and DTC or the xDrive all-

wheel drive system have failed.

Malfunction

The stabilizing interventions of DSC or the all-

wheel drive system xDrive are no longer avail-

able. It is then possible to exert driving force

only via the rear axle. Have the system checked

as soon as possible.

If the LED in the button goes out in the HDC

mode or fails to light up when the button is

pressed:

HDC is temporarily not available, because the

brake temperature is too high.

Acceleration assistant

The acceleration assistant allows you to conve-

niently start off on inclines. You do not have to

use the handbrake.

Malfunction in vehicle stability control

systems

The warning lamp lights up yellow.

The brake assistant is malfunctioning.

Have the system checked as soon as

possible.

1. Hold the vehicle with the brake pedal.

2. Step off the brake and immediately start off

with no trouble.

Display of the previously described mal-

function on Canadian models.

The acceleration assistant holds the vehi-

cle for approx. 2 seconds after the brake

is released. Depending on the load or when

towing a trailer, it is also possible for the vehicle

to roll backward slightly during this interval.

If one of the malfunctions described

below occurs, drive with restraint and

caution and avoid full braking; otherwise, acci-

52

After releasing the brake, start driving immedi-

ately; otherwise, the acceleration assistant will

no longer hold the vehicle after approx. 2 sec-

onds and the vehicle will start to roll back-

ward.<

>

Sporty driving style: slip in the drive wheels,

high lateral acceleration.

When driving with snow chains*

When driving with a compact wheel, the Flat

Tire Monitor cannot operate.

Malfunction

Initializing system

The warning lamp for the brake system

lights up in yellow. The acceleration

assistant has failed. The vehicle will not

be held after the brake is released. Have the

system checked as soon as possible.

The initialization is completed while driv-

ing and can be interrupted at any time.

The initialization automatically continues when

driving resumes.

Do not initialize the system when driving with

snow chains* or with a compact wheel.<

1. Start the engine just before driving, but do

not begin to drive.

Flat Tire Monitor FTM*

2. Press the button for at least 4 seconds, but

not longer than 2 minutes. After the button

is released, the indicator lamp in the instru-

ment cluster lights up yellow for a few sec-

onds.

The concept

The Flat Tire Monitor keeps track of the infla-

tion pressures in the four mounted tires as you

drive. The system triggers an alert whenever

the inflation pressure in one tire drops signifi-

cantly in relation to the pressure in another tire.

When a loss of pressure occurs, the rolling

radius changes and with it, the rotational speed

of the wheels. This change is detected and sig-

naled as a flat tire.

Functional requirement

To ensure the reliable signaling of a flat tire, the

system must be initialized at the correct tire

inflation pressure.

3. Begin driving.

The initialization is completed while driving,

without requiring any further input from you.

The initialization must be carried out after

each correction of the tire inflation pres-

sure and after every tire or wheel change.<

Indication of a flat tire

System limits

The warning lamp lights up red. In addi-

tion, an acoustic signal sounds. There is

a flat tire or extensive inflation pressure

loss.

The Flat Tire Monitor cannot predict sud-

den severe tire damage caused by out-

side factors and does not detect a natural, even

pressure drop in all four tires.<

1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle care-

fully. Avoid sudden braking and steering

maneuvers.

In the following situations, the system could be

delayed or malfunction:

2. Identify damaged tire.

>

When the system has not been initialized

If identification is not possible, con-

tact your BMW Sports Activity Vehi-

cle Center.<

When driving on snow-covered or slippery

road surfaces

53

3. Replace the damaged wheel, refer to

Wheel changes on page 108.

Resetting system

The system must be reset after every cor-

rection of tire inflation pressure and after

every tire or wheel change.<

Malfunction

The warning lamp lights up yellow. The

Flat Tire Monitor is malfunctioning or

out of order. Have the system checked

as soon as possible.

1. Start engine, but do not begin to drive.

2. Press the button until the yellow warning

lamp in the instrument cluster lights up for a

few seconds.

TPM Tire Pressure Monitor*

The concept

TPM controls the tire inflation pressure in the

four mounted wheels. The system notifies you

if the tire inflation pressure has fallen signifi-

cantly in one or more tires.

Functional requirement

3. Begin driving.

To ensure the reliable signaling of a flat tire, the

system must be reset at the correct tire inflation

pressure.

After a few minutes of driving, the tire infla-

tion pressures in the tires are adopted as

the desired values to be monitored. The

resetting is completed during driving and

can be interrupted at any time without

requiring any input from you. The resetting

automatically continues when driving

resumes.

Always use wheels equipped with TPM elec-

tronics, including a metal valve; otherwise, there

is no guarantee that the system will function

properly.

The system must be reset after every cor-

rection of tire inflation pressure and after

every tire or wheel change.<

Low tire pressure message

The warning lamp lights up yellow. In

addition, a signal sounds. You have a

flat tire or a significant loss of tire pres-

sure in one or more tires.

System limits

TPM cannot warn you of sudden, serious

tire damage due to external factors.<

1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle care-

fully. Avoid sudden braking and steering

maneuvers.

The system does not function properly if it has

not been reset, e.g. it may identify a tire as flat in

spite of the fact that the tire is filled to the cor-

rect inflation pressure.

2. Identify the damaged wheel or wheels.

If identification is not possible, con-

tact your BMW Sports Activity Vehi-

cle Center.<

The system is deactivated and is unable to

detect flat tires if a wheel not equipped with

TPM electronics has been mounted, e.g. a

compact wheel, or if TPM is experiencing tem-

porary interference from other systems or

devices that use the same frequency.

3. Replace the damaged wheel, refer to

Wheel changes on page 108.

4. Check tire inflation pressure and correct as

needed.

54

The compact wheel is not equipped with the

required TPM electronics and is not monitored

when mounted.

also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life,

and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stop-

ping ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a

substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is

the driver's responsibility to maintain correct

tire pressure, even if underinflation has not

reached the level to trigger illumination of the

TPMS low tire pressure warning lamp.

When driving with the compact wheel, the sys-

tem indicates a malfunction.

Have the damaged tire replaced by your BMW

Sports Activity Vehicle Center or a workshop

that is familiar with TPM and works in accor-

dance with BMW repair procedures, using

appropriately trained personnel.

The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined

with the low tire pressure warning lamp. When

the system detects a malfunction, the warning

lamp will flash for approximately one minute and

then remain continuously illuminated. This

sequence will continue upon subsequent vehi-

cle startups as long as the malfunction exists.

When the malfunction indicator is illuminated,

the system may not be able to detect or signal

low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunc-

tions may occur for a variety of reasons, includ-

ing the installation of replacement or alternate

tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the

TPMS from functioning properly. Always check

the TPMS malfunction warning lamp after

replacing one or more tires or wheels on your

vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alter-

nate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to con-

tinue to function properly.

Malfunction

The yellow warning lamp flashes and

then lights up continuously. Flat tires

cannot be detected.

Such a message is displayed in the following

situations:

>

When a malfunction is occurring:

Have the system checked

When a wheel without TPM electronics is

mounted, e.g. a compact wheel

When TPM is experiencing temporary inter-

ference from other systems or devices that

use the same frequency

NHTSA/FMVSS-required explanation

of 138 Tire Pressure Monitoring

System

Brake force display

Each tire, including the spare, should be

checked monthly when cold and inflated to the

inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle

manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire infla-

tion pressure label. If your vehicle has tires of a

different size than the size indicated on the

vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label,

then you should determine the proper tire infla-

tion pressure for those tires. As an added safety

feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a

tire pressure monitoring system, TPMS, that

illuminates a low tire pressure warning lamp

when one or more of your tires are significantly

under-inflated. When the low tire pressure

warning lamp lights up, you should stop and

check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate

them to the proper pressure. Driving on a signif-

icantly underinflated tire causes the tire to over-

heat and can lead to tire failure. Underinflation

The brake lamps light up in two stages,

depending on how heavily you apply the brakes.

>

Normal braking

The brake lamps and the center brake lamp

light up.

>

Heavy braking

The rear fog lamps light up as well.

55

because there is a danger of burns.

Airbags

In the event of malfunctions, deactivation, or

triggering of the airbag restraint system, have

the testing, repair, removal, and disposal of air-

bag generators executed only by a BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center or a workshop that

works according to BMW repair procedures

with correspondingly trained personnel and

that has the required explosives licenses. Oth-

erwise, unprofessional attempts to service the

system could lead to failure in an emergency or

undesired airbag activation, either of which

could result in personal injury.<

The following airbags are located beneath the

marked covers:

Airbag warnings and information are also pro-

vided on the sun visors.

1

2

3

Front airbags

Head airbags

Automatic deactivation of front

passenger airbags

Side airbags in front and rear*

Protective action

By evaluating the pressure on the seat cushion

of the front passenger seat, the system detects

whether or not the seat is occupied. Depending

on the detection result, the system correspond-

ingly activates or deactivates the front and side

airbags for the passenger.

To ensure that the safety systems con-

tinue to provide optimum protection,

please follow the instructions on page 27.<

The front airbags help protect the driver and

front passenger by responding to frontal

impacts in which safety belts alone cannot pro-

vide adequate restraint. When needed, the

head and side airbags help provide protection in

the event of side impact. The relevant side air-

bag cushions the side upper body area. The

respective head airbag cushions the head.

The indicator lamp located above the

inside rearview mirror indicates whether

the front passenger airbag system is currently

deactivated or activated, refer to Status of pas-

senger airbag in the section below.<

Before transporting a child in the front

passenger seat, read the safety notices

and follow the safety instructions under Trans-

porting children safely on page 34.

The airbags are intentionally not triggered in

every collision situation, e.g. they are not trig-

gered not in less serious accidents, or rear-end

collisions.

When teenagers or adults assume certain sit-

ting positions, the front and side airbags on the

passenger side can deactivate; this causes the

indicator lamp for the front passenger airbag to

light up. If this happens, have them change their

sitting position so that the passenger airbag is

activated and the indicator lamp goes out. If the

desired status cannot be achieved by changing

their sitting position, then have the person ride

in the back. Do not attach seat covers, seat

cushion padding, ball mats or other items to the

passenger seat unless they are specifically rec-

ommended by BMW. Do not place any items

under the seat which could press against the

Do not apply adhesive materials to the

cover panels of the airbags, cover them or

modify them in any other way.

Do not attempt to remove the airbag retention

system from the vehicle. Do not modify the indi-

vidual components of the system or its wiring in

any way. This includes the padded covers in the

center of the steering wheel, on the dashboard,

the doors, and the roof pillars as well as the

sides of the headliner. Do not attempt to

remove or dismantle the steering wheel.

Do not touch the individual components

directly after the system has been triggered,

56

seat from below. Otherwise, a correct analysis

of the seat cushion is not ensured.<

Operational readiness of airbag system

Status of passenger airbags

When the ignition key is moved into position 1,

the warning lamp lights up briefly, thus indicat-

ing the operational readiness of the entire air-

bag system and the safety belt tensioners.

The indicator lamp for the passenger airbag

indicates the functional status of the front and

side airbag on the passenger side depending on

whether or not the seat is occupied. By lighting

up, the indicator lamp indicates that the pas-

senger airbags deactivated.

Airbag system malfunction

>

Warning lamp does not come on when the

ignition key is moved into position 1.

>

The warning lamp lights up continuously.

>

The indicator lamp lights up when a child

sitting as directed in a child restraint system

designed for this is detected.

Have the airbag system checked immedi-

ately if a malfunction occurs; otherwise,

there is a danger of the system failing to

respond in the expected manner to an impact

occurring within its normal response range.<

The front and side airbags on the passenger

side are deactivated.

Most child seats are detected by the

system. It is particularly advisable to

use the child seats approved by NHTSA at

the time the vehicle was produced. After

installing a child's seat, make sure that the

indicator lamp for the front passenger air-

bags has illuminated. This indicates that the

system has detected the child's seat and

that the front passenger airbags have been

deactivated.<

>

The indicator lamp does not come on as

long as a person of sufficient size and in a

correct sitting position is detected on the

seat. The front and side airbags for the pas-

senger are activated.

The indicator lamp does not light up when

the seat is empty.

In this case, the front and side airbags for

the passenger are deactivated.

57

Lamps

Pathway lighting

Parking lamps/low beams

When you activate the headlamp flasher after

parking the vehicle and switching off the lamps,

the low beams will come on for a brief period.

You may also have this function deacti-

vated if you wish.<

Daytime running lamps*

If so desired, the light switch can remain in

position 0, 1, or 3.

In positions 0 and 3, after the vehicle is

switched off, the exterior lighting is automati-

cally switched off. In position 1, the parking

lamps are lit after the ignition is switched off.

0

1

2

3

Lights off and daytime running lamps*

Parking lamps and daytime running lamps*

Low beams

The parking lamps can be switched on as

needed as described under Parking lamps.

Automatic headlamp control*, daytime run-

ning lamps*, and Adaptive Head Light*

You can have the daytime running lamps

activated on your vehicle.<

If you open the driver's door when the ignition is

switched off, then the exterior lighting is

switched off if the light switch is in position 0, 2,

or 3.

Automatic headlamp control*

In switch position 3, the low beams are

switched on or off automatically, for example in

tunnels, at dawn and dusk, and in the event of

precipitation. The Adaptive Head Light* is acti-

vated.

Switch on the parking lamps as needed, switch

position 1.

Parking lamps

In switch position 1, the vehicle is lit on all sides.

You can use the parking lamps for parking.

When you enter a tunnel with bright ceiling

lighting, this can delay the switching on of your

low beams.

The headlamps can also come on when the sun

is low on the horizon in a blue sky.

The parking lamps will discharge the bat-

tery. For this reason, avoid using them for

extended periods; otherwise, it may no longer

be possible to start the engine. It is preferable to

switch on the one-sided roadside parking

lamps, refer to page 59.<

The low beams remain switched on

regardless of the ambient light when you

switch on the front fog lamps*.

When the daytime running lamps are activated,

refer to page 58, the low beam headlamps are

always switched on when the switch is in

position 3 and the ignition is switched on.<

Low beams

The low beams light up when the switch is in

position 2 and the ignition is on.

If so desired, the light switch can remain in

position 3. The exterior lamps are automatically

switched off after the vehicle is switched off.

Defective lamps

The indicator lamp lights up:

At least one bulb of the exterior lighting

on the vehicle is defective.

Replacing bulbs, refer to page 104.

58

Automatic headlamp control cannot

serve as a substitute for the driver's judg-

ment in determining when the vehicle lamps

should be switched on. For example, the sys-

tem cannot detect fog or hazy weather. To

avoid safety risks, you should always switch on

the low beams manually under these condi-

tions.<

High beams/

roadside parking lamps

You can have the sensitivity of the head-

lamp control adjusted.<

Adaptive Head Light*

1

2

3

High beams

Headlamp flasher

Roadside parking lamps

The concept

Adaptive Head Light is a variable headlamp

control system that enables better illumination

of the road surface. Depending on the steering

angle and other parameters, the light from the

headlamp follows the course of the road.

Roadside parking lamps, left or right*

You also have the option of lighting up just one

side of your vehicle when parking. When doing

so, be sure to comply with national regulations.

In tight curves, e.g. serpentines, or when mak-

ing turns, up to a speed of approx. 43 mph/

70 km/h, a turning lamp is switched on and illu-

minates the inside of the curve.

After switching off the engine, press the lever

up or down past the resistance point, arrow 3.

The roadside parking lamps drain the bat-

tery. For this reason, avoid using them for

extended periods; otherwise, it may no longer

be possible to start the engine.<

Activating Adaptive Head Light

With the ignition on, turn the light switch to the

Control automatic driving lamp position, refer to

page 58.

Front fog lamps*

The turning lamp is switched on automatically

depending on the steering angle or the turn sig-

nal position.

In order not to blind oncoming traffic, the Adap-

tive Head Light points toward the passenger

side when the vehicle is stopped. When driving

in reverse, only the turning lamp is active and

lights up the region on the outside of the curve.

Malfunction

The LED next to the symbol for automatic head-

lamp control flashes. Adaptive Head Light is

malfunctioning or has failed. Have the system

checked as soon as possible.

Briefly press the button to switch on/off.

The parking lamps or low beams must

be switched on for the fog lamps to

operate. The green indicator lamp lights

up when the fog lamps are on.

59

If the automatic headlamp control is acti-

vated, the low beams will come on auto-

matically when you switch on the fog lamps.<

Switching interior lamps on and off

Briefly press button 1.

If you want the interior lamps to remain off all

the time, press and hold the button for approx.

3 seconds.

Instrument lighting

Press the button briefly to revert to normal

operation.

You can have your interior lamps set to

dim smoothly to the desired level when

you switch them on or off.<

Front reading lamps*

Switch on and off with buttons 2.

Rear reading lamps*

Turn the knurled wheel to adjust the illumina-

tion intensity.

Interior lamps

Switch on and off with the button.

To avoid discharging the battery, all of the

vehicle's interior lamps are automatically

extinguished approx. 15 minutes after the igni-

tion is switched off.<

The interior lamps operate automatically.

If you wish, you can have the interior

lamps switch on after you unlock the vehi-

cle mechanically. You may have this function

activated/deactivated if you wish.<

If the interior lamps remain switched on

after locking the vehicle, one of the doors

or the liftgate may not be completely closed.<

60

Air conditioner

1

Airflow directed toward windshield and

side windows

5

6

7

8

9

Recirculated-air mode 62

Temperature 62

2

3

4

Airflow toward upper body 63

Airflow to footwell 63

Air volume 62

Air distribution 62

Rear window defroster 62

Cooling function 62

61

Air volume

Recirculated-air mode

You can vary the air volume in

steps 1 through 4. The heating or

cooling output is more effective

with a higher air volume.

You can respond to unpleasant

odors outside the vehicle by tem-

porarily suspending the supply of

outside air. The system then recirculates the air

currently within the vehicle.

Switching system on/off

If condensation starts to form on the

inside window surfaces during operation

in recirculated-air mode, you should switch it off

and increase the air supply as needed.

The recirculated-air mode should not be used

over a sustained period of time; otherwise, the

air quality inside the vehicle will steadily deteri-

orate.<

Turn air volume rotary switch to 0. This com-

pletely shuts off the blower and air conditioning

system and stops the flow of air.

To switch on the air conditioning system, set an

arbitrary air volume.

Temperature

To increase the temperature, turn

to the right, toward red.

For a lower temperature, turn the

rotary switch counterclockwise

toward blue.

Defrosting windows and removing

condensation

Air distribution

You can direct air to flow onto the

windows

body

, toward the upper

and into the footwell

.

Intermediate settings are possible.

Rear window defroster

1. Air volume 1 at level 4.

The rear window heating switches

off automatically after a certain

amount of time. Depending on

2. Temperature 2 toward right, red.

3. Air distribution 3 in position

.

4. Deactivate recirculated-air mode 5.

your equipment package, the upper wires are

used as an antenna and are not part of the rear

window defroster.

5. Switch on the rear window heating 4 to

defrost the rear window.

6. Switch on cooling function.

Switching cooling function on/off

When the cooling function is on,

the air is cooled, dehumidified, and

then reheated depending on the

temperature setting.

Depending on the weather, the windshield may

fog over briefly when the engine is started.

62

Ventilation

1

Knurled wheels for opening and closing the

air vents through an infinitely variable range

2

3

Levers for changing airflow direction

Knurled wheel for more or less cool air from

the air vents for the upper body region

Ventilation for cooling

Adjust the vents to direct the flow of cool air in

your direction, for instance, if the interior has

become too warm.

Draft-free ventilation

Set the vent outlets so that the air flows past

you and is not directed straight at you.

Microfilter

The microfilter removes dust and pollen from

the incoming outside air. It is replaced when

maintenance is performed by your BMW Sports

Activity Vehicle Center. A substantial reduction

in air supply indicates that the filter should be

replaced before normal maintenance.

63

Automatic climate control*

1

Airflow directed toward windshield and

side windows

8

9

Defrosting windows and removing

condensation 65

2

3

4

5

6

Airflow toward upper body 66

Airflow to footwell 66

Rear window defroster 66

10 Switching cooling function on/off 65

Manually varying air distribution 65

Adjusting temperature 65

11 Outside air/AUC Automatic recirculated-air

control/recirculated-air mode 66

12 AUTO program 65

Temperature display 65,

Air volume 65

7

Manually varying air volume 65

64

The highest setting produces the maximum

heat output regardless of the outside tempera-

ture. The lowest setting activates maximum air

conditioning.

A congenial climate

For almost all conditions, the AUTO program 12

offers the optimum air distribution and air vol-

ume, refer to AUTO program below. You need

only select an interior temperature 5 that you

find pleasant.

When you change between different tem-

perature settings in rapid succession, the

system does not have enough time to achieve

the desired temperature.<

The following sections contain more detailed

information on the available setting options.

Your vehicle has been designed to auto-

matically select your personal climate-

control settings whenever you unlock the doors

using your individually programmed remote

control.<

Manually adjusting air volume

By pressing the lower button, you

can reduce the air volume. You can

increase it by pressing the upper

button.

You can reactivate the automatic

air volume mode by pressing the AUTO button.

AUTO program

The AUTO program handles the

adjustment of air distribution to the

windshield and side windows, in

Switching system on/off

the direction of the upper body, and in the foot-

well. It also adapts your instructions for the air

volume and temperature to outside influences

throughout the year, e.g. solar radiation or win-

dow condensation.

At the lowest fan speed, press the lower button

to turn off the automatic climate control com-

pletely. All displays disappear.

Press any button to turn the automatic climate

control back on again.

The cooling function is switched on automati-

cally along with the AUTO program.

Defrosting windows and removing

condensation

Manually switching air distribution on/

off

Quickly removes ice and conden-

sation from the windshield and

front door windows.

You can direct air to flow onto the

windows

body

, toward the upper

and into the footwell

Also switch on the cooling function.

.

Switching cooling function on/off

You can reactivate the automatic

air distribution mode by selecting

the AUTO button.

When the cooling function is on,

the air is cooled, dehumidified, and

then reheated depending on the

temperature setting. Depending on the

weather, the windshield may fog over briefly

when the engine is started.

Temperature

Set the desired temperature.

The automatic climate control

assures that this temperature is

reached as quickly as possible any

time of year, using maximum cool-

ing or heating capacity as needed, and then

keeps this temperature constant.

The cooling function is automatically switched

on along with the AUTO program. It is only pos-

sible to cool the passenger compartment when

the engine is running.

65

AUC Automatic Recirculated-air

Control/recirculated air mode

Ventilation

You can set the desired operating

mode by pressing the button

repeatedly:

>

LEDs off: outside air continuously flows into

the vehicle.

Left LED on, AUC mode: a sensor detects

pollutants in the outside air. The system

suspends the supply of outside air as

needed and recirculates the air currently

within the vehicle. As soon as the concen-

tration of pollutants in the outside air has

decreased sufficiently, the system switches

automatically back to supplying outside air.

1

Knurled wheels for opening and closing the

air vents through an infinitely variable range

2

3

Levers for changing airflow direction

Knurled wheel for more or less cool air from

the air vents for the upper body region

>

Right LED on, recirculated-air mode: the

outside air supply into the vehicle is shut off

continuously. The system then recirculates

the air currently within the vehicle.

Ventilation for cooling

Adjust the vents to direct the flow of cool air in

your direction, for instance, if the interior has

become too warm.

If the windows fog over in recirculated-air

mode, then press the AUTO button or

switch off the recirculated air mode and

increase the air volume as needed.

The recirculated-air mode should not be used

over a sustained period of time; otherwise, the

air quality inside the vehicle will steadily deteri-

orate.<

Draft-free ventilation

Set the vent outlets so that the air flows past

you and is not directed straight at you.

Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter*

The microfilter removes dust and pollen from

the incoming outside air. The activated-char-

coal filter provides additional protection by fil-

tering gaseous pollutants from the outside air.

This combined filter is replaced when mainte-

nance is performed by your BMW Sports Activ-

ity Vehicle Center. A substantial reduction in

air supply indicates that the filter should be

replaced before normal maintenance.

Rear window defroster

The rear window heating switches

off automatically after a certain

amount of time. Depending on

your equipment package, the upper wires are

used as an antenna and are not part of the rear

window defroster.

66

Practical interior accessories

HomeLink is a registered trademark of

Johnson Controls, Inc.<

Integrated universal remote

control*

Programming

The concept

The integrated universal remote control can

replace as many as three hand-held transmit-

ters for various radio-controlled accessories,

such as garages, exterior gates, or lighting sys-

tems. The integrated universal remote control

recognizes and learns the transmitted signal of

each of the original hand-held transmitters.

The signal of an original hand-held transmitter

can be programmed on one of the three mem-

ory buttons 1. Then, the programmed memory

button 1 can operate the device whenever the

ignition is switched on. The LED 2 indicates

transmission of the signal.

1

2

Memory buttons

LED

Fixed-code hand-held transmitters

Should you sell your vehicle one day, be sure to

delete the stored programs beforehand for your

security, refer to page 68.

1. Turn the ignition key to position 2.

2. For initial use: press the left and right mem-

ory button 1 for approx. 20 seconds until

the LED 2 flashes rapidly. All stored pro-

grams are deleted.

To prevent possible damage or injury,

before programming or using the inte-

grated universal remote control, always inspect

the immediate area to make certain that no peo-

ple, animals or objects are within the travel

range of the device. Also, comply with the

safety precautions of the original hand-held

transmitter.<

3. Hold the original hand-held transmitter at a

distance of approx. 4 in/10 cm to 12 in/

30 cm from the memory buttons 1.

The required distance between the

hand-held transmitter and memory

buttons 1 depends on the relevant system

of the original hand-held transmitter used.<

Checking compatibility

4. Simultaneously press the transmit button

on the original hand-held transmitter and

the desired memory button 1 of the inte-

grated universal remote control. Initially, the

LED 2 flashes slowly. Release both buttons

as soon as the LED 2 flashes rapidly. If the

LED 2 does not flash rapidly after approx.

15 seconds, then change the distance and

repeat the step.

If you see this symbol on the packaging

or in the manual supplied with the origi-

nal hand-held transmitter, then it is safe

to assume that the radio-controlled device is

compatible with the integrated universal

remote control.

If you have additional questions, please

ask at your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

Center or call: 1-800-355-3515.

You can find also information on the Internet at:

or

5. To program other original hand-held trans-

mitters, repeat steps 3 and 4.

67

The corresponding memory button 1 is now

programmed with the signal of the original

hand-held transmitter.

The corresponding memory button 1 is now

programmed with the signal of the original

hand-held transmitter.

You can use the system when the engine is run-

ning or when the ignition is switched on.

If you have questions, please contact your

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center.<

If the system cannot be operated after

repeated programming, check whether

Deleting stored programs

the original hand-held transmitter uses an alter-

nating-code system. To do so, either read the

instructions of the original hand-held transmit-

ter or press and hold down the programmed

memory button 1 of the integrated universal

remote control. If the LED 2 on the integrated

universal remote control flashes rapidly for a

short time then lights up for approx. 2 seconds,

this indicates that the original hand-held trans-

mitter uses an alternating-code system. In the

case of an alternating-code system, program

the memory buttons 1 as described in the sec-

tion below on alternating-code hand-held

transmitters.<

Press the left and right memory button 1 for

approx. 20 seconds until the LED 2 flashes rap-

idly.

All stored programs are deleted.

It is not possible to delete individual programs.

Digital compass*

Alternating-code hand-held

transmitters

Consult the operating instructions of the unit

you wish to set when programming the univer-

sal remote control. You will find information

there on the possibilities for synchronization.

When programming hand-held transmitters

that employ an alternating code, please follow

these additional instructions:

1

2

Adjusting button

Display

The display indicates the cardinal or intercardi-

nal direction in which you are currently driving.

Basic operation

Programming will be easier with the aid of

a second person.<

You can call up a number of functions by press-

ing the adjusting button with a sharp object

such as a ball-point pen or the like. The follow-

ing possible adjustments are displayed one

after another, depending on how long you press

and hold the adjusting button:

1. Park your vehicle within the range of the

remote-controlled equipment.

2. Program the integrated universal remote

control as described above in the section on

Fixed-code hand-held transmitters.

>

Press briefly: switches display on/off

3 to 6 seconds: set compass zone

6 to 9 seconds: calibrate compass

3. Locate the button on the receiver of the

equipment to be set, e.g. on its drive unit.

4. Press the button on the receiver of the

device you want to set up. After step 4, you

have approx. 30 seconds for step 5.

9 to 12 seconds: set for left-hand/right-

hand drive

5. Press the programmed memory button 1

of the integrated universal remote control

three times.

>

12 to 15 seconds: set language

68

Setting compass zones

Set your vehicle to the appropriate compass

zone so that the compass functions correctly,

refer to world map with compass zones.

To change the zone setting, repeatedly press

the adjusting button briefly until the number of

the compass zone that applies to your current

position is displayed.

In order to set the compass zone, press and

hold the adjusting button for approx. 3-4 sec-

onds. The display indicates the number of the

currently set compass zone.

The compass will be operational again after

approx. 10 seconds.

3. Press the adjusting button for approx.

6-7 seconds in order to call up C. Then drive

in at least one complete circle at a maximum

speed of 4 mph/7 km/h. If the calibration

was successful, then the display C is

replaced with the cardinal directions.

Calibrating digital compass

In the following situations, the digital compass

must be calibrated:

>

The wrong cardinal direction appears on

the display.

>

The cardinal direction displayed does not

change despite a change in the direction of

travel.

Setting for right-hand/left-hand drive

Your digital compass is already set to the right-

hand/left-hand drive of your vehicle at the fac-

tory.

>

Not all cardinal directions are displayed.

Procedure

Set language

1. Make sure that there are no large metal

objects or overhead power lines in the vicin-

ity of your vehicle and that you have enough

space to drive in a circle.

You can set the language of the display:

Press the adjusting button for approx.

12-13 seconds. Press the adjusting button

again briefly in order to change between

English "E" and German "O".

2. Input the currently applicable compass

zone.

69

The setting is automatically stored after approx.

10 seconds.

Rear

Cup holders

Use lightweight, unbreakable containers;

otherwise, there is a risk of injury in an

accident. Do not push unsuitable containers

into the cup holder as this can damage it.<

Front

A cup holder is located in the center armrest at

the rear:

Press the button to open.

Glove compartment

Opening

Depending on your optional equipment, the

center console contains either one or two cup

holders.

Passenger side*

Pull the handle. The lamp inside the glove com-

partment comes on.

Closing

Fold the cover up.

To prevent injury in the event of an acci-

dent while the vehicle is being driven,

close the glove compartment immediately after

use.<

The cup holder for the front passenger is

located beneath the air vent.

To open: briefly press the cover in the middle.

Locking

To close: press the cover in the middle and slide

the cup holder in.

Use one of the master keys. A master key is also

required for unlocking.

If you hand over only the spare key, e.g.

for valet parking at a hotel, refer to

page 18, then the glove compartment cannot

be unlocked.<

70

Rechargeable flashlight

Storage compartment in the

instrument panel*

The flashlight is located on the left side of the

glove compartment. It can remain plugged in

continuously. Remove the flashlight from the

socket whenever you need it.

To avoid damage, be sure that the flash-

light is switched off when it is inserted

into its holder.<

Storage compartments

Opening

Armrest, front*

Press the button in the direction of the arrow.

Closing

Fold the cover down.

Storage package*

Your convenience is enhanced by:

>

Armrest, front

Sliding lashing eyes in cargo area, refer to

page 76

The armrest contains two storage compart-

ments*.

>

Floor cover in cargo area that can be used in

two positions, refer to page 76

>

Compartment for CDs:

Nets in cargo area, on rear side of front seat,

and in passenger footwell

Press button 1.

>

Compartment for coins and miscellaneous

items:

Clothes hooks

Press button 2.

When hanging clothing from the hooks

ensure that it will not obstruct the driver's

vision. Do not hang heavy objects on the hooks.

If you do so, they could endanger passengers

during braking or evasive maneuvers.<

Armrest, rear

The rear armrest contains a storage compart-

ment:

To open, pull the cover upward.

71

Power socket in cargo area

Ashtray*

Emptying

Fold the cover upward.

Press the edge of the opened cover: the ashtray

moves up and can be removed.

Connection for external audio

device

You can connect an external audio device, e.g. a

CD or MP3 player, and play the sound over the

vehicle speakers. You can adjust the volume

and tone via the car radio, refer to the separate

instructions for the radio or for the on-board

monitor.

On vehicles with the non-smoker's equipment

package, the insert is removed in the same way.

Lighter*

Press in the cigarette lighter 1.

The lighter can be removed as soon as it pops

out.

Connecting

Hold or touch the hot cigarette lighter by

the knob only. Holding or touching it in

other areas could result in burns.

The cigarette lighter remains operational when

the ignition key has been removed. For this rea-

son, do not leave unsupervised children in the

vehicle.<

Connecting electrical devices

Connection for audio playback:

0.14 in/3.5 mm jack

You can use electrical devices such as flash-

lights, car vacuum cleaners, or the like with

power ratings of up to approx. 200 W at 12 V if

at least one of the following connection points

is provided. Avoid damage to the socket caused

by inserting plugs of the wrong shape or size.

For audio playback via the vehicle's speakers,

connect the headset or line out connection of

the device to the connection.

Depending on your vehicle's equipment pack-

age, the location of the connection may vary

slightly or be situated behind a protective cover.

Press briefly on the protective cover to open it.

Lighter socket

Remove cigarette lighter from its socket.

With the non-smoker's equipment package the

socket is covered with a removable cap.

72

3. Place the ski bag between the front seats

Car phone preparation*

and load.

The zipper facilitates access to the stowed

items.

Hands-free microphone

4. Insert the latch plate of the ski bag retaining

belt into the center safety belt buckle.

In vehicles with car phone preparation*, the

hands-free microphone is located on the head-

liner near the interior lamp.

Make sure to load only clean skis into the ski

bag. Wrap sharp edges so that no damage

occurs.

For more information on the car phone, refer to

the Owner's Manual for Telephone.

Securing load

Ski bag*

The ski bag allows the safe and clean transport

of up to four pairs of standard skis or up to two

snowboards.

The ski bag allows you to stow skis up to a

length of up to 6.8 ft/2.1 m. When skis of 6.8 ft/

2.1 m in length are loaded, the ski bag will tend

to narrow, reducing its overall capacity.

Loading

After loading, secure the ski bag and its con-

tents. Tension the retaining strap on the ten-

sioning buckle for this purpose.

1. Fold down the center armrest, pull off the

cover panel, press the button and disen-

gage the door.

Always secure the ski bag in this way.

If you fail to do so, it can endanger occu-

pants during braking or evasive maneuvers.<

To store the ski bag, perform the above steps in

reverse order.

Inserting ski bag

The ski bag is located in the cargo area under

the floor cover.

1. Fold down the center armrest and pull off

the cover.

2. Press the button again; the door in the

cargo area opens. If you press the button

firmly the first time, this also opens the door

in the cargo area.

2. Remove the tray behind the cover panel

with a screwdriver. Pivot the handle of the

73

screwdriver upward, arrow 1, and simulta-

neously pull toward the front, arrow 2.

Cargo area

When loading, follow the instructions on

page 82.

Enlarging cargo area

The rear backrest is split. You can fold down

both seats individually to enlarge the cargo

area.

3. Position the ski bag on the lower edge of the

opening, refer to arrow 1, then insert it, refer

to arrow 2.

Reach into the opening and pull forward, refer

to arrow.

Before folding down the rear backrests,

remove the cover caps for the LATCH

child restraint fixing system. Otherwise, impres-

sions can be left in the seat cushion.<

Removing ski bag

When you fold the backrest upright again,

be sure that the catch engages securely.

This causes the red warning field in the recess

to disappear. Otherwise, cargo can be thrown

into the passenger compartment during brak-

ing or evasive maneuvers, thus endangering the

passengers.<

To ensure that the safety belts continue

to provide optimum protection, please

follow the instructions on page 27.<

Pull the handle forward and remove the ski bag

upward.

Ski bag*

To create a flat cargo surface, you can remove

the ski bag and replace it with a tray before fold-

ing the rear backrest forward. The tray is

inserted in the same way as inserting the ski

bag, refer to Inserting ski bag on page 73.

Do not position cargo at the opening. If

you do, it can endanger the passengers

during braking or evasive maneuvers.<

74

Cargo area cover

Stowing* when rear backrest is folded

down

Pull the cargo area cover out by the handle and

hook it into the rear holders.

Holders for the case are mounted on the backs

of the rear seat backs, refer to arrows 1.

You can carry light objects such as articles of

clothing on the cargo area cover.

Guide the case in from the right side until it

locks into place, refer to arrow 2. As you do this,

the cargo area cover must always point in the

direction of travel and the loop of the partition

net must point upward.

Never place heavy, hard objects on the

cover. If you do so, they could endanger

passengers during braking or evasive maneu-

vers.

Do not allow the cover to snap back into place;

this can damage it.<

You can pull out the partition net and insert it

into the holders in the roof area above.

Removal

Partition net*

1. Press the side buttons, refer to arrow 1.

Do not allow the partition net to snap back

into place; otherwise, there is a danger of

injury and the partition net could be damaged.<

2. Pull the case toward the rear, refer to

arrow 2.

Hooking partition net into place

Installation

Pull the partition net out of the case by the

strap. Press the ends of the bar toward each

other, refer to arrows 1, and insert into the

brackets. Then press the bar all the way upward

in the middle, refer to arrow 2, so that it engages

in the brackets.

Push the case forward into the two side holders

until it locks into place.

75

Lowering partition net

Raising

Grasp bar on one side on the partition net, press

upward and push the ends of the bar together,

then release from the brackets.

Behind side trim panel

Swing up the floor cover and hook it onto the

handle of the cargo area cover by its catch.

Lashing eyes, rail*

Press the button to open.

Floor cover

Opening

You can secure heavy-duty cargo straps to the

lashing eyes on the cargo area floor.

The lashing eyes are stored in the cargo area

under the floor cover. They can be inserted into

the openings in the rails. To slide the lashing

eyes, press the button.

For access to the jack etc.

To open, raise the cover by the handle, refer to

arrow.

Read and follow instructions accompany-

ing the heavy-duty cargo straps.<

If needed, you can remove or raise the floor

cover.

Adaptive attachment system*

The adaptive attachment system is to divide up

the cargo area. It is comprised of two brackets

with a telescoping rail and a retaining strap.

These brackets are guided in the two rails on

the cargo area floor.

Before using the adaptive attachment

system, fold the rear backrests into the

upright position until they engage and then

hang the partition net* in position. Otherwise,

the cargo can be hurled into the passenger

compartment in the event of an accident.<

76

Positioning the cargo between the telescoping

rail and the retaining strap:

1. Place the cargo against the telescoping rail.

Press the button, arrow 1 and pull the

retaining strap around the cargo, arrow 2.

2. Hook the retaining strap to the recess 3 on

the telescoping rail.

3. Press the button on the bracket, arrow 1.

The retaining strap is pulled tight.

1

2

3

Bracket

You can also hook the two retaining

straps to each other.

Telescoping rail

Recess in the cargo area rail

After use of the adaptive attachment system,

roll the retaining strap back in and slide the

attachment system toward the front in order to

be able to make the best use of the cargo

area.<

Inserting brackets

The two brackets are connected by a telescop-

ing rail.

1. Insert each of the brackets into the respec-

tive recess in the rail on the cargo area floor.

Removing brackets

Press down on the brackets, slide them to the

recesses in the rails, and remove.

2. Press the brackets down to slide them into

the desired position.

You can also hook the two retaining

3. Make sure the brackets have seated

securely. They must engage audibly.

straps to each other.<

Do not place any cargo on the brackets;

this can cause them to disengage.<

Dividing cargo area

You have the following possibilities for place-

ment of the cargo:

>

between the backrest and the telescoping

rail

>

between the telescoping rail and the retain-

ing strap

77

Controls for your BMW X3 2004-2010

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