A-Z
Contents
Owner's Manual for the vehicle.
With a quick reference guide
for your convenience.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

318i
318is
323i
Sedan
323is
Coupe
328i
Convertible
328is
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Congratulations, and thank you for choosing a BMW.
Thorough familiarity with your vehicle will provide you with enhanced control and
security when you drive it. Therefore, we have this request:
Please take the time to read this Owner's Manual and familiarize yourself with the
information that we have compiled for you before starting off in your new car. It con-
tains important data and instructions intended to assist you in extracting maximum use
and satisfaction from your BMW's unique range of technical features. The manual also
contains information on care and maintenance designed to enhance operating safety
and contribute to maintaining your BMW's value throughout an extended service life.
This Owner's Manual should be regarded as a permanent part of the vehicle. When the
vehicle is sold, the manual should remain in the car to furnish the next owner with a
source of important information on operation, safety and maintenance procedures.
This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information booklet
(US models only). We recommend that you read this publication carefully.
Your BMW is covered by the following warranties:
Đ New Vehicle Limited Warranty
Đ Limited Rust Perforation Warranty
Đ Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
Đ Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
Đ California Emission Control System Limited Warranty
Detailed information on these warranties is contained in the Service and Warranty
Information booklet.
We wish you many miles of driving pleasure and satisfaction.
BMW AG
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

4
Notes on the Owner's Manual
Symbols used
The individual vehicle
We have made every effort to ensure
a
In buying your BMW, you have de-
that you are able to find what you need
indicates notes you should defi-
cided in favor of a model with individu-
in this Owner's Manual as quickly as
nitely read for the sake of your own
alized equipment and fittings. This
possible. The fastest way to find certain safety and the safety of others, and to
Owner's Manual describes all models
topics is by using the detailed index at
avoid damages to your BMW.c
and equipment that BMW offers within
the end. If you require an initial over-
b
the same vehicle range.
view of your vehicle, this can be found
indicates notes that alert you to
We hope you will understand that this
in the first chapter. The detailed table of specific features of your vehicle.c
manual describes equipment and fea-
contents immediately following the
tures which you might not have chosen
index is intended to arouse your curios- Aspecial information on recycling.c for your vehicle. You can easily recog-
ity about your BMW and stimulate you
nize any differences, as all optional
to read about it.
c indicates the end of a block of infor-
accessories are marked with an
mation.
If at some time you wish to sell your
asterisk *.
BMW, remember to leave the Owner's
* indicates special equipment, country- If your BMW features equipment which
Manual with the vehicle; consider it part specific equipment and optional extras.
is not described in this Owner's Manual
of the vehicle.
indicates that you should study
(e.g., car radio or telephone), (Supple-
Should you have any further questions,
the relevant section of this Owner's mentary) Owner's Manuals are
your BMW Retailer will be glad to assist Manual in connection with a particular
enclosed. We ask you to read these
at any time.
part or assembly.
manuals, too.
Š 1997 BMW AG
Munich, Germany
Reprinting, including excerpts, only with
the written consent of BMW AG,
Munich.
Order-No. 01 41 9 790 377
US VIII/97
Printed in Germany
Printed on environment-friendly paper
(recyclable and chlorine-free).
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

5
Status when going to press
BMW pursues a policy of continuous,
ongoing development that is conceived
to ensure that our vehicles continue to
embody the highest quality standards
combined with advanced, state-of-the-
art technology. For this reason, it is
possible that the features described in
this Owner's Manual could differ from
those on your vehicle. We are unable to
completely eliminate the possibility that
errors might have occurred. We there-
fore ask you to accept that no claims of
a legal nature involving the specifica-
tions, illustrations and descriptions can
be considered.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

For your own safety
a
Installation and operation of non-BMW
a
Important safety information!
approved accessories such as alarms,
Use unleaded gasoline only.
radios, amplifiers, radar detectors,
For your own safety, use genuine
Fuels containing up to 10% ethanol or
wheels, suspension components,
parts and accessories approved by
other oxygenates with up to 2.8% ox-
brake dust shields, telephones
BMW.
ygen by weight (i.e. 15% MTBE or
(including operation of any portable
When you purchase accessories
3% methanol plus an equivalent
cellular phone from within the vehicle
tested and approved by BMW and
amount of co-solvent) will not void the
without using an externally mounted
Original BMW Parts, you simulta-
applicable warranties with respect to
antenna) or transceiver equipment
neously acquire the assurance that
defects in materials or workmanship.
(e.g., C.B., walkie-talkie, ham radio or
they have been thoroughly tested by
Field experience has indicated signifi-
similar) may cause extensive damage
BMW to ensure optimum performance
cant differences in fuel quality (i.e.,
to the vehicle, compromise its safety,
when installed on your vehicle.
volatility, composition, additives, etc.)
interfere with the vehicle's electrical
among gasolines offered for sale in the
BMW warrants these parts to be free
system or affect the validity of the
United States and Canada. The use of
from defects in material and work-
BMW Limited Warranty.
poor-quality fuels may result in driving,
manship.
See your authorized BMW Retailer for
starting and stalling problems espe-
additional information.
BMW will not accept any liability for
cially under certain environmental
damage resulting from installation of
Do not use key or remote control to
conditions, such as high ambient tem-
parts and accessories not approved
lock doors or luggage compartment
perature and high altitude.
by BMW.
with anyone inside the car.
Should you encounter problems while
BMW cannot test every product from
"Maintenance, replacement or repair
driving that you suspect could be
other manufacturers to verify if it can
of the emission control devices and
related to the fuel you are using,
be used on a BMW safely and without
systems may be performed by any
we recommend that you respond
risk to either the vehicle, its operation,
automotive repair establishment or
by switching to a recognized high-
or its occupants.
individual using any certified automo-
quality brand.
tive part."c
Failure to comply with these recom-
Original BMW Parts, BMW Accesso-
mendations may result in unscheduled
ries and other products approved by
maintenance. Follow the relevant
BMW, together with professional
safety rules when you are handling
advice on using these items, are avail-
gasoline.c
able from all BMW Retailers.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

7
The following only applies to vehicles owned and operated in the US.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should
immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying BMW of
North America, Inc., P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, New Jersey 07675-1227, Telephone (201) 307-4000.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in indi-
vidual problems between you, your dealer, or BMW of North America, Inc.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 202-366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, DC 20590. You can
also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

9

At a glance
At a glance
Controls and features
Controls
Care and maintenance
Car care
Owner service procedure
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Contents
Cockpit
16
Locks and security systems:
Driving:
Instrument cluster
18
Keys
30
Steering/ignition lock
54
Indicator and warning
Electronic immobilizing device
35
Starting the engine
54
lamps
20
Doors
31
Switching off the engine
55
Hazard warning system
22
Trunk lid
33
Parking brake
56
At a glance
Hazard warning triangle
22
Luggage compartment
34
Manual transmission
57
First-aid kit
22
Power windows
35
Automatic transmission
58
Refueling
23
Sliding/tilt sunroof
36
Turn signals/high beam
60
Fuel specification
23
Convertible top operation
37
Wiper/washer system
61
CARB OBD II interface
24
Cruise control
62
Controls and features
Adjustments:
Tire inflation pressures
25
Seats
43
Everything under control:
Steering wheel
45
Odometer
63
Mirrors
46
Tachometer
63
Energy control
63
Passenger safety systems:
Fuel gauge
64
Safety belts
47
Coolant temperature gauge
64
Child restraint system
48
Service Interval Display
64
Installing child seats
49
Multi-Information Display (MID)
66
Airbags
50
Outside temperature display
Child-safety locks
52
and digital clock
68
Rollover protection system
Check Control
71
convertible
52
Check Control with outside
temperature display and
digital clock
74
Onboard computer
77
Technology for driving comfort
and safety:
Automatic stability control
plus traction (ASC+T)
84
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

11
Contents
Lamps:
Special operating instructions:
Under the hood:
Parking lamps/low beams
85
Break-in procedures
100
Hood
118
Instrument panel lighting
85
Driving notes
100
Engine compartment
120
Foglamps
86
Catalytic converter
102
Washer fluids
124
Interior lamps
86
Antilock Brake System
Engine oil
124
Reading lamps
86
(ABS)
103
Coolant
127
Disc brakes
104
Brake fluid
128
An inviting climate:
Brake system
105
Power steering fluid
128
Heated seats
87
Winter driving
105
Vehicle Identification Number
129
Independent ventilation
Roof-mounted luggage rack
107
Controls and features
system
87
Care and maintenance:
Care and maintenance
Radio reception
108
Automatic climate control
88
The BMW Maintenance
Mobile phones
108
System
130
Cabin convenience:
Hardtop Convertible
109
Caring for your car
131
BMW Hi-Fi System
93
Technical modifications
Cleaning and care
Glove compartment
93
to the vehicle
110
of the convertible top
136
Ashtray
94
Wheels and tires:
Vehicle storage
137
Coin box, cup holder
94
Tire inflation pressures
111
Cigarette lighter
94
Tire tread
111
Center arm rest, rear
95
Tire replacement
112
Through-loading system
95
Interaxle tire changes
112
Ski bag
95
The right choice
113
Cargo loading
98
Winter tires
114
Approved wheels and tires
115
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Contents
Replacement procedures:
Airbags
156
Engine specifications 160
Onboard tool kit
140
Automatic Stability Control
Dimensions 161
Windshield wiper blades
140
plus Traction (ASC+T)
156
Weights 163
Lamps and bulbs
141
Radio reception
157
Capacities 166
Master key with
Safety belt tensioner
157
Electrical system 167
battery lamp
145
Drive belts 167
Changing tires
146
Technical data
Battery
149
Fuses
151
In case of electrical
Advanced technology
malfunction:
Owner service procedure
Fuel filler door
152
Sliding/tilt sunroof
152
Assistance, giving and receiving:
Jump-starting
153
Towing the vehicle
154
Towing
154
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

13
Everything from A to Z
172
Owner service procedures
Index
from A to Z
174
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

15
Cockpit 16
At a glance
Instrument cluster 18
Indicator and warning lamps 20
Hazard warning system 22
Hazard warning triangle 22
At a glance
First-aid kit 22
Controls and features
Refueling 23
Fuel specification 23
CARB OBD II interface 24
Controls
Tire inflation pressures 25
Care and maintenance
Car care
Owner service procedure
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

16 Cockpit
A
TO
360us306
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Cockpit
17
1 Lamp switch 85
2 Foglamps 86
3 Horn, entire surface
4 Wiper/washer lever 61
At a glance
5 Rear window defroster 91
6 Hazard warning system 22
7 Automatic cruise control* 62
8 Adjust steering wheel* 45
Controls and features Controls
9 Turn signals, high beam headlamps
and headlamp flasher 60
10 Engine hood unlocking device 118
Maintenance Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

18 Instrument cluster
360us319
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Instrument cluster
19
1 Fuel gauge with low-fuel
13 Indicator lamps for
warning lamp 64
d Foglamps* 20
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 20
d Emissions-related systems
3 Speedometer
indicator 21
At a glance
4 Indicator and warning lamps for
d Rollover protection system* 21
d Battery charge current 20
14 Trip odometer reset button 63
d High beams 20
d Engine oil pressure 20
Controls and features Controls
5 Tachometer 63
Energy control 63
6 Coolant temperature gauge 64
7 Indicator and warning lamps for
d
Maintenance Car care
Brake pad wear 20
d Brake system hydraulics 21
d Parking brake 21
d Airbag 50
8 Indicator lamp for ASC+T 20
Repairs
9 Indicator and warning lamps for
d Automatic transmission* 20
d Warning lamp for Check Control*
71
Technical
d Please fasten seat belts* 21
d ABS 20
10 Trip odometer 63
11 Service Interval Display 64
Data
12 Odometer 63
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

20 Indicator and warning lamps
Turn signal left/right, green
Engine oil pressure, red
ASC+T (Automatic Stability
Control plus Traction), yellow
k Flashes when the turn signals
are in operation.
w Goes out after the engine has
started. May come on briefly at
idle when the engine is hot,
s Goes out shortly after the igni-
tion is switched on:
but must go out again at higher engine
System OK.
Battery charge current, red
speed.
Additional notes: Page 84
v Goes out after the engine has If the lamp comes on during normal vehi- ABS (Antilock Brake System),
started.
cle operation: stop vehicle and switch off yellow
If the lamp comes on during
engine immediately. Check engine oil
normal vehicle operation:
level; if necessary, add oil. If oil level is
The battery is no longer being charged. correct: contact your BMW Retailer.
o Goes out after the engine has
started. If the lamp comes on
Indicates a defect in the generator drive
during normal vehicle opera-
belt or the charging circuit.
Foglamps*, green
tion: ABS has been deactivated in
response to a system malfunction. Con-
a
t Lights up whenever you switch ventional braking force remains unim-
If the V-belt is defective, do not run
on the foglamps.
paired.
the coolant pump; overheating and
Additional notes: Page 103
potential engine damage would result.
Airbags, red
Contact your BMW Retailer.c
Brake pad wear, yellow
High beam, blue
p This lamp turns on for an oper-
ational check when you turn the # Lights up when starter is actu-
ated and goes out when the
l Lights up when the high beams
ignition key to position 1. If, at
engine is started.
are switched on or the head-
the operation check, it does not go on,
If the lamp comes on during normal
lamp flashers are activated.
or goes on while driving, have it checked vehicle operation: replace brake pads
at your BMW Retailer.
immediately.
Additional notes: Page 50
Automatic transmission*, yellow
aUse only original BMW-approved
O Goes out after the engine has brake pads otherwise the vehicle
started.
authorization is no longer valid.c
Additional notes: Page 58
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Indicator and warning lamps
21
Brake hydraulics, red
Please fasten safety belts*, red
n Goes out after the engine has
started.
q (With acoustic signal if the
driver's belt is not buckled).
At a glance
If the lamp comes on during
Lights up briefly when the
normal vehicle operation: low brake
ignition key is turned, and then goes out
fluid. Additional notes: Page 128
(in some models it goes out after you
fasten safety belts).
Parking brake, red
Controls
m
BMW Convertible
Goes out after the engine has
started. Comes on when you
Rollover Protection System*,
engage the parking brake.
yellow
Additional notes: Page 56
Car care
Emissions-related systems
; Goes out shortly after the igni-
tion is switched on:
Y
System OK.
Lamp goes out once engine
starts.
If this indicator lamp lights up
Repairs
during normal vehicle operation, either
continuously or intermittently, this indi-
cates a fault in one of the emissions-
related electronic circuits. Although the
vehicle remains operational, you should
Technical
have the systems checked by a BMW
Retailer at the earliest possible opportu-
nity.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

22 Hazard warning system
Hazard warning triangle*
First aid kit*
The warning triangle can be stored in
On the right in the luggage compart-
the luggage compartment in a storage
ment, on a shelf.
shelf at the right for convenient access.
a
a
Some of the items in the first-aid
Comply with legal requirements
kit are suitable for use for a limited
concerning the need to carry a warning period only. Therefore you should regu-
triangle in the car.c
larly check the contents and replace
defective articles. These are available in
any pharmacy.
Comply with legal requirements con-
360de040
cerning the need to carry a first-aid kit in
the car.c
The button flashes intermittently when
the hazard warning lamps are on.
The button is also illuminated whenever
the vehicle lighting is switched on.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Refueling
Fuel specification
23
Unleaded gasoline only.
Minimum octane requirement: 89 AKI
BMW engines are equipped with knock
sensors and automatically adapt to op-
At a glance
erate with fuels of different octane rat-
ings, as long as the minimum octane
requirement is met.
Higher octane fuels will provide in-
Controls
creased performance and fuel econ-
360de010
omy, while the use of gasoline with a
lower octane rating will have an adverse
effect.
To unlock the filler door in the event of a
central locking system failure, refer to
Car care
a
page 152.
Never use leaded fuel, as it would
a
cause permanent damage to both the
catalytic converter and the engine-man-
When handling fuel, comply with
agement system's oxygen sensors.c
the safety regulations displayed by gas
Repairs
stations.c
AKI = Anti Knock Index
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

24 CARB OBD II interface
360us301
The OBD II interface (data link connec-
tor) is located beneath a cover panel
(with the letters "OBD") near the foot
support in the driver's side footwell
(arrow).
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Tire inflation pressures
25
If the driver's door is open, the infla-
Sedan models
tion pressures are also visible on the
BCBC
BCBC
door pillar. Inflation pressures are
Tire sizes
+C/$
BMW
indicated in psi (bar) with tires cold
Inflation pressures are
model
(ambient temperature).
indicated in psi (bar)
At a glance
The inflation pressures apply to tires
185/65 R 15 88 Q, T M+S
29
35
36
44
from BMW-approved manufacturers;
185/65 R 15 88 T
(2.0)
(2.4)
(2.5)
(3.0)
your BMW Retailer will provide you
with this information. Higher pres-
205/60 R 15 91 H
Controls
318i
sures may be required for tires from
225/55 R 15 92 V
29
32
32
39
other manufacturers.
225/50 ZR 16
(2.2)
(2.2)
(2.2)
(2.7)
a
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
Periodically check the inflation
Car care
pressure also of the spare tire at
205/60 R 15 91 H
least twice each month and before
225/50 ZR 16
29
33
33
41
328i
setting out on an extended trip. Failing
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
(2.0)
(2.3)
(2.3)
(2.8)
this, incorrect tire pressure may ren-
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
der the car unstable or cause tire
Repairs
damage resulting in an accident.c
See next page for additional models
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

26
Tire inflation pressures (cont.)
Coupe models
BCBC
BCBC
Tire sizes
+C/$
BMW
Inflation pressures are
model
indicated in psi (bar)
205/60 R 15 91 H
225/55 R 15 92 V
29
32
32
39
225/50 ZR 16
318is
(2.0)
(2.2)
(2.2)
(2.7)
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
323is
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
29
35
36
44
185/65 R 15 88 Q M+S
(2.0)
(2.4)
(2.5)
(3.0)
205/60 R 15 91 H
225/50 ZR 16
29
33
33
41
328is
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
(2.0)
(2.3)
(2.3)
(2.8)
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
See next page for additional models
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

27
Tire inflation pressures (cont.)
Convertible models
max.
BC-
BCBC
Tire sizes
+$
BMW
Inflation pressures are
model
At a glance
indicated in psi (bar)
205/60 R 15 91 H
225/55 R 15 92 V
318i
29
32
32
39
225/50 ZR 16
323i
(2.0)
(2.2)
(2.2)
(2.7)
Controls
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
205/60 R 15 91 H
225/50 ZR 16
29
33
33
41
328i
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
(2.0)
(2.3)
(2.3)
(2.8)
Car care
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

28
Locks and security systems:
Driving:
Keys
30
Steering/ignition lock
54
Electronic vehicle immobilizer 30
Starting the engine
54
Doors
31
Switching off the engine
55
Luggage compartment lid
33
Parking brake
56
Luggage compartment
34
Manual transmission
57
Power windows
35
Automatic transmission
58
Sliding/tilt sunroof
36
Turn signals/high beam
60
Convertible top operation
37
Wiper/washer system
61
Cruise control
62
Adjustments:
Seats
43
Everything under control:
Steering wheel
45
Odometer
63
Mirrors
46
Tachometer
63
Energy control
63
Passenger safety systems:
Fuel gauge
64
Safety belts
47
Coolant temperature gauge
64
Child restraint system
48
Service Interval Display
64
Installing child seats
49
Multi-Information Display (MID)
66
Airbags
50
Outside temperature display
Child-safety locks
52
and digital clock
68
Rollover protection system
Check Control
71
convertible
52
Check Control with outside
temperature display and
digital clock
74
Onboard computer
77
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

29
Technology for driving comfort
Cabin convenience:
At a glance
and safety:
BMW Hi-Fi System
93
Automatic Stability Control
Glove compartment
93
plus Traction (ASC+T)
84
Ashtray
94
Coin box, cup holder
94
At a glance
Lamps:
Cigarette lighter
94
Controls and features
Headlamp switch
85
Center arm rest, rear
95
Instrument panel lighting
85
Through-loading system
95
Foglamps
86
Ski bag
95
Interior lamps
86
Controls
Cargo loading
98
Reading lamps
86
Care and maintenance
An inviting climate:
Heated seats
87
Independent ventilation
Car care
system
87
Owner service procedure
Automatic climate control
88
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

30 Keys
Electronic vehicle immobilizer
The electronic vehicle immobilization
Replacement of a key
1
2
3
4
unit increases the anti-theft protection
Replacement keys are available exclu-
of your BMW without additional
sively through your authorized BMW
adjustment or activation of systems.
Retailer, who is also under obligation to
M W
B
This electronic immobilization system is
M W
M W
B
B
request verification of vehicle owner-
M W
B
designed to reduce the susceptibility of ship before issuing a substitute key.
the vehicle to theft by making it impos-
Your BMW Retailer can also cancel or
sible to start the engine using any
restore the electronic system authoriza-
means other than the special keys fur-
tion for individual keys (e.g., if a key is
nished with the vehicle.
lost). A deactivated key can no longer
365de122
The system features an electronic chip
be used to start the engine.
integrated within the key as a supple-
1 Master key with battery-powered
ment to the conventional mechanical
For US owners only
lamp (switch on by pressing the BMW locking system.
The transmitter and receiver units com-
symbol).
The lock mechanism itself is actually a
ply with Part 15 of the FCC (Federal
2 Master key without lamp.
dual-function device, simultaneously
Communication Commission) Regula-
tions. Operation is governed by the fol-
3 Spare key to be kept in a safe place
serving as a communications interface
lowing:
e.g. in your wallet. This key is not
designed to allow the car security sys-
intended for continuous use.
tem to maintain a continuous stream of FCC ID: LXBEWS
variable, vehicle-specific signals with
4 Door and ignition key
As defined in the regulations, such a
the electronic circuitry in the key. The
This key does not operate the locks
device is not to emit significant interfer-
ignition, the flow of fuel and the starter
for the glove compartment and the
ence and must also be shielded against
are enabled only after the key has been
luggage compartment. This is useful
interference from external sources to
recognized as "authorized".
e.g. at a hotel.
prevent unauthorized or inadvertent
b
activation.
External force can damage the
electronic circuitry integrated in the key. aAny unauthorized modifications
Such a key can no longer be used to
or changes to these devices could void
start the engine.c
the user's authority to operate this
equipment.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Doors
31
a
Activating the central locking
Never use the keys or the remote
system from inside the vehicle
control* to lock an occupied vehicle, as Pressing the lock button of a front door
it would then be impossible to unlock it unlocks/locks the doors and luggage
At a glance
from inside.c
compartment, but does not arm the
Convenience closing* for power win-
alarm system.
dows and sliding/tilt sunroof: after clos-
ing the doors, hold the key in the lock
bIf the vehicle is locked from the
position to close the windows and slid-
Controls
inside with this lock button, the fuel
ing/tilt sunroof. The windows/sunroof
360de011
filler door remains unlocked to allow
stop moving immediately when you
refueling. On the BMW Convertible, the
release the key. To be able to keep the
glove compartment also remains un-
Operating central locking system
closing system in view, convenience
locked to allow for its use.
from outside the vehicle
closing can only be activated via the
Car care
It is also possible to unlock the car from
When the front doors are closed, the
driver's door lock for safety reasons,
the inside by pulling on one of the front
activation of a door lock or of the lug-
even on vehicles with remote control.
door handles.c
gage compartment lock with a key
Emergency lock operation
To preclude accidental locking of the
unlocks or locks the following:
vehicle
Repairs
(in the event of electrical failure)
d Doors
d
Turn the key to the end positions of the
it can not be locked with the lock
d Luggage compartment
door lock to unlock/lock the respective
button when the driver's door is open
d Fuel filler door
d
door.
the safety button of the passenger
d
door activates the central locking
BMW Convertible: the glove com-
Technical
system only when both front doors
partment.
are locked.
The double-lock system is engaged at
the same time. Both the door locks and
release handles remain locked.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

32 Doors
a
Opening doors from the outside
Children can lock the doors from
Lift the handle.
inside. Therefore, you should always
remove the key and take it with you to
Automatic window lowering
ensure that you can unlock the car from
(BMW Coupe, Convertible)
the outside at all times.c
S
a
In an accident, the central locking sys-
The door windows are lowered
tem automatically unlocks the doors
somewhat when the doors are opened
and the interior lamps switch on.
and then are raised again immediately
Depending on the version, the hazard
after the doors are locked. This makes it
360us124
warning flashers are also activated.
easier to open the doors, prevents the
rubber door seals from being damaged
a
Central locking system button
and ensures proper seating of the
Avoid using the inside lock buttons
windows in the rubber door seals after
to lock the rear doors while driving, as
This button operates the central locking closing.c
these doors would then fail to unlock au- system when the driver's door is
tomatically in the event of an accident.c closed. It unlocks the doors and lug-
Driver's door lock heating*
gage compartment, but does not arm
Opening doors from the inside
Lift the handle of the driver's door for
the alarm system.
approx. 3 seconds: the heating
Pull interior door handle of a front door
The fuel filler door remains unlocked to switches on. The switch-on time is
twice in succession (the initial pull
allow refueling.
automatically controlled to save power.
unlocks the door, the second opens it).
The picture shows, as an example, the
shift arrangement for the BMW sedan.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Luggage compartment lid
33
To lock the luggage compartment The luggage compartment lamp
separately
is on when the luggage compartment
lid is open.
At a glance
> Turn the master key to the right
until the slot is horizontal, then
extract the key from the lock.
The luggage compartment lid is locked
and disconnected from the central lock-
ing system. The luggage compartment
Controls
360de013
lid then remains locked when the cen-
tral locking system is unlocked with a
door lock or the lock knobs.
The lock actuation is only possible with Access to the luggage compartment lid
a master key.
Car care
is thus prevented when leaving the door
Central locking system
and ignition key with others (refer to
page 30); this is useful e.g., at a hotel.
To engage locks
To unlock car
Repairs
= Turn to the right: The luggage
compartment lid and - if the
< Turn to the left: the luggage
compartment lid and the doors
front doors are closed - the
are unlocked.
doors are locked and the alarm system
Technical
is armed.
Emergency lock operation
(in the event of electrical failure)
Turn the master key to the left as far as
possible: the luggage compartment lid
Data
is unlocked.
After closing, the luggage compartment
lid must be locked again separately.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

34 Luggage compartment lid
Luggage compartment
aDo not drive with the luggage lid
open, as exhaust fumes could be drawn
into the interior of the vehicle. Should it
be absolutely necessary to operate the
vehicle with the luggage lid open:
d Raise all windows and shut the slid-
ing/tilt sunroof
d Maximize the air volume of the air
conditioning, refer to page 88.c
360de302
394de302
To close
Luggage straps
The handle recess (arrow) makes it eas-
Attach the straps to the floor of the lug-
ier to pull down the luggage compart-
gage compartment to secure smaller
ment lid.
suitcases.
The luggage straps prevent objects
placed on them from slipping.
The fittings at the corners of the lug-
gage compartment provide you with a
convenient means of attaching luggage
nets* and flexible straps for securing
suitcases and luggage.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Power windows*
35
On vehicles equipped with front and
Convenience mode
rear* power windows:
After closing the doors, hold the key in
There are separate switches located
the lock position:
below the rear windows (except on the
Any windows still open will close.
BMW Convertible).
At a glance
a
Safety switch* (arrow)
Careless and inattentive closing of
In this way the actuation of the windows the windows can lead to injuries.c
by means of rear switches, e.g., by chil- Safety feature
Controls
dren, can be prevented.
If one of the windows encounters resis-
360us302
a
tance while closing, it will respond by
Always keep the safety switch
halting and then opening somewhat
Operational from ignition key posi-
(arrow) in the depressed position when
again.
tion 1.
children ride in the rear seat.
Car care
You can deactivate this protective func-
d Depress the rocker switch until you
Always remove the key from the ignition tion, (e.g., in case of unauthorized intru-
feel resistance:
when leaving the vehicle.c
sion into the vehicle) by pressing the
The window continues to move as
After the ignition is switched off, the
switch beyond its pressure point and
long as the rocker switch is pressed.
windows remain operational
holding it there.
Repairs
d Briefly press the rocker switch to just d with the ignition key at position 1 and
beyond the pressure point (one-
0, or removed, or
touch mode):
d when the front doors are open (max.
The window moves automatically.
15 minutes) or until the front doors
Press and let go again to stop move-
are opened for the first time.
Technical
ment.
The one-touch mode can be used to
open and close the front windows and
to open the rear windows*.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

36 Power windows*
Sliding/tilt sunroof*
bDuring raising, the headliner also
retracts a few inches.c
In the event of an electrical malfunc-
tion, you can also operate the sliding/tilt
sunroof manually, refer to page 152.
After the ignition is switched off, the
windows remain operational
d with the ignition key at position 1 and
36cde002
BMW Convertible
360de022
0, or removed, or
d when the front doors are open (max.
Pressing and holding down the center
Operate in ignition key position 2.
15 minutes) or until the front doors
button opens or closes all four side win-
are opened for the first time.
Open and lower
dows simultaneously.
Convenient closure*
Press recessed button (1) until pressure
During opening, briefly press the rocker point is reached.
After closing the doors, hold the key in
switch to just beyond the pressure
the lock position: the still-open sunroof
point (one-touch mode): the side win-
Close and raise
is closed.
dows move automatically. Press briefly
Press raised button (2) until pressure
and let go again to stop movement.
point is reached.
At transition from closing to raising and
vice-versa: system off.
One-touch mode
(only open/raise)
Briefly press the respective button
beyond the pressure point.
The sliding/tilt sunroof moves automati-
cally. Briefly press the button a second
time to stop the sunroof.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Sliding/tilt sunroof*
Convertible top operation
37
a
Manual convertible top
Careless closing can lead to inju-
operation
ries.
The fabric top offers perfect weather
Always remove the key from the ignition protection and can be opened and
At a glance
when leaving the vehicle.c
closed simply and quickly by one
To avoid unpleasant drafts and pres-
person.
sure variations within the passenger
Here are a few tips to ensure that you
compartment, you should keep the inte- have a lot of pleasure with your con-
rior ventilation outlets open when the
vertible: It is advisable to close the top
Controls
sunroof is open and particularly when it when the vehicle is parked. The closed
36cde006
is raised, and select a higher blower
convertible top not only protects the
speed as required.
passenger compartment from unfore-
seeable damage from the weather, it
Opening convertible top
Car care
also provides a certain degree of theft
Fold out the unlocking handle and turn
protection.
it to the end stop. Raise (relax) the top
Even with the top closed, it is always
approx. 8 in (20 cm).
advisable to keep valuables locked in
the luggage compartment.
Repairs
Do not mount roof racks on the convert-
ible top.
Please contact your BMW Retailer for
suitable mounting equipment and other
Technical
accessories.
aWhen closing the power windows
while driving: always close the rear win-
Data
dows first or all four windows simulta-
neously, otherwise the windows may
not seal tightly at higher speeds.c
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

38 Convertible top operation
36cde007
36cde008
36cde009
Unlock the convertible top storage
Position the rear convertible top bow
Close the convertible top compartment
compartment with the handle in the rear vertically and hold in place. Raise the
lid by pressing down on both sides until
left side panel.
convertible top compartment lid some-
they are heard to engage securely.
what and unlock the catch lock by
b
When the convertible top compartment
pushing it to the right. Open the con-
From ignition key position 1 or with
lid is closed, the central locking system
vertible top compartment lid com-
the door open: If the side windows are
is automatically unlocked, i.e., the lug-
pletely.
closed, they move downward slightly
gage compartment is no longer locked
when the convertible top compartment
Lay the rear convertible top bow in the
and can be opened again.
unlocking handle is operated.c
convertible top compartment. Lift the
top at the front and also lay down
a
a
If the convertible top compartment
towards the rear.
To prevent damage, it is not possi-
lid is not properly closed, the luggage
ble to unlock the convertible top com-
In the process, make sure the rear win-
compartment can not be opened to pre-
partment with the luggage compartment dow is laid down evenly and free of
vent damage.
open.c
folds. To prevent the rear window from
To prevent damage to the convertible
being scratched, a soft cloth should be top due to the permanent presence of
laid in the window fold.
moisture, never fold down the top while
wet (also refer to "Car care" starting on
page 136).c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Convertible top operation
39
Position the rear top bow vertically.
Fully automatic convertible top
Close the convertible top compartment operation*
lid by pressing down on both sides until The fully automatic convertible top per-
they are heard to engage securely. Fold fectly combines extremely simple, com-
down the top bow.
At a glance
fortable operation with reliable protec-
When the convertible top compartment tion from the elements. Here are a few
lid is closed, the central locking system tips to ensure that you have years of
is automatically unlocked, i.e., the lug-
pleasure with your convertible:
gage compartment is no longer locked
It is advisable to close the top when the
Controls
and can be opened again.
vehicle is parked. The closed top not
36cde010
Pull the convertible top frame onto the
only protects the passenger compart-
windshield frame with the locking han-
ment from unforeseen weather-related
Closing convertible top
dle and lock the top by turning the han-
damage, it also provides a certain
Car care
Move ignition key into position 1.
dle until it is heard to engage.
degree of theft protection. Even with
Unlock and open the convertible top
The rear convertible top bow is auto-
the top closed, it is always advisable to
storage compartment. Lift out the top
matically pressed onto the convertible
keep valuables locked in the luggage
by the side guide piece and the front
top compartment lid and closes water-
compartment.
top frame.
tight under tension.
Do not mount roof racks on the convert-
Repairs
ible top. Please contact your BMW
b
b
Retailer for suitable mounting equip-
From ignition key position 1 or with
If the convertible top or the rear
ment and other accessories.
the door open: If the side windows are
window begins to flutter at high speeds,
closed, they move downward slightly
increase the air intake via the ventilation To prevent damage, do not operate the
6
Technical
when the convertible top compartment
control to prevent a vacuum from
top at temperatures below 325F (0
).
unlocking handle is operated. Move the resulting in the passenger compart-
To protect the battery, it is advisable to
side windows into the desired position
ment.c
operate the top with the engine running
or close them after closing the convert-
when possible.
ible top.c
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

40 Convertible top operation
a
a
The convertible top operates fully
Do not reach into the convertible
automatically. Assistance with your
top mechanism during opening and
hand is necessary only as an exception closing. Keep children away from the
(refer to the note, next column).
swiveling area of the convertible top
Only operate the convertible top with
during operation.
the vehicle stopped and do not drive off Releasing the operating button for the
during operation, as otherwise the pro-
top immediately interrupts the automat-
cess will be interrupted. A half-opened
ic movement. Movement can be contin-
top can cause damage or injuries.
ued in the desired direction by pressing
Remove foreign objects from the wind-
the appropriate button.c
36cde020
shield frame before closing the convert-
ible top, since these may prevent the top bIf the convertible top has been
Opening and closing
from closing.
stored in the convertible top compart-
1 To open
Do not lay objects on the convertible
ment for a longer period, e.g., in the
top. They would fall off during top oper-
2 To close
winter when the hardtop is used, it may
ation and cause damage or injuries.
Press the convertible top operating but-
be necessary to support the first auto-
When closing the power side windows
ton until the opening or closing process
matic closing operation by hand:
during driving, always close the rear
is completed.
Should the top come to a stop shortly
windows first or all four windows simul-
before the end of the closing phase (still The indicator lamp (arrow) lights up
taneously, as otherwise the windows
open approx. 8 in/20 cm), reach into the continuously during convertible top
may not seal tightly at higher speeds.c
handle depression in the center of the
operation. The indicator lamp flashes
front convertible top frame and briefly
after releasing the button if the opening
support the closing process while
or closing process is not yet completed.
pressing the button until it is automati-
cally continued.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Convertible top operation
41
b
Convenience closing with the
The luggage compartment can not driver's door lock
be opened during convertible top oper-
Hold the key in the "lock" position with
ation.
the door closed.
At a glance
The side windows move down slightly
The windows/sunroof stop moving
when the convertible top operating but- immediately when you release the key.
ton is pressed; if you continue to press
the button after the indicator lamp goes b
out, they move up again as soon as the
At higher speeds, low air pressure
Controls
opening process is completed.c
in the passenger compartment can
cause the convertible top or the rear
36cde014
a
window to begin to flutter. Increase the
The side windows must be low-
air intake via the ventilation control to
ered slightly during convertible top op-
Closing convertible top manually
prevent low pressure from resulting in
when electrical operation fails
Car care
eration. If the convertible top operation
the passenger compartment.c
is interrupted, do not close the side win-
b
dows with the power window switches.
Manual closing is best carried out
If the opening or closing process is in-
from outside the vehicle with the driver's
terrupted, it may not be possible to open
door open and the driver's seat folded
Repairs
the luggage compartment.
forward. The rear seat bench must not
To prevent damage from continuous
be occupied while doing so.c
dampness, never fold down the convert-
1 Raise the left rear seat. Pull out the
ible top when wet.c
strap until resistance is felt. Now con-
Technical
tinue to pull firmly (two audible clicks)
to disengage the drives for the con-
vertible top and convertible top com-
partment lid.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

42 Convertible top operation
To eliminate the malfunction and re-
engage the drives, please see your
BMW Retailer.
aNever open the convertible top
manually in case of an electrical mal-
function. The convertible top compart-
ment lid can not be locked and would
open during driving.c
36cde021
36cde022
bPlease follow the instructions for
cleaning and care of the convertible top
2 Open the convertible top compart-
4 Place a screwdriver at the middle of
in your Owner's manual from page 136.c
ment lid up to the stop with the lug-
the cover on the front convertible top
gage compartment closed.
frame, and pry it out of its recess.
3 Grasp the convertible top on the lat-
5 Using the doubly bent allen key from
eral guide section and on the front
the onboard tool kit, place it in the
soft-top frame and lift it out (arrow).
internal hexagon (arrrow).
Position the rear convertible top bow
6 The closing process is continued by
vertically and close the convertible
turning to the left; turn until the front
top compartment lid. Now fold down
convertible top frame is locked to the
the rear convertible top bow.
windshield frame. The rear convertible
top frame is automatically pressed
onto the convertible top compartment
lid and closes watertight under ten-
sion.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Seats
43
At a glance
Controls
360de016
360de017
360de303
Longitudinal adjustment
Backrest angle
Front headrests
Car care
Pull lever 1 and slide seat into desired
Pull lever and load or relieve as required. Adjust height by pulling out or pushing
position.
in.
b
After releasing the lever, make sure that
You can reduce the load on your
Adjust angle by swiveling.
the locking device engages properly.
spinal column by sitting all the way
Remove and install the front
back in the seat with your back pressed
Repairs
Height adjustment
headrests
firmly against the backrest.
Pull lever 2 and load or relieve seat as
Ideal sitting posture is achieved with
Pull the headrests upward until they
required.
your head extending from your spine in stop.
a straight line.
With a forceful jerk, pull the headrests
Technical
For long-distance driving, you may wish out of their supports in the backrests.
to increase the backrest angle slightly
Rear head restraints
to reduce muscular tension. Please
remember that you should always
Adjust height by pulling out or pushing
remain able grasp the entire periphery
in.
Data
of the steering wheel without straight-
ening your arms.c
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

44 Seats
aHead restraints reduce the risk of
neck injuries. Always position the head
restraint so that it is centered roughly at
ear level.
Never try to adjust your seat while oper-
ating the vehicle. The seat could re-
spond by moving in a way that you had
not anticipated, causing you to lose
control of the vehicle which could lead
to an accident. The front passenger
360de018
360de019
should not move the backrest into the
"reclined" position during driving.
BMW Sports Seat*
Electrical seat adjustment*
While driving, both the driver and the
Additional adjustments for seat tilt and
1 Angle adjustment
front passenger should keep the back-
thigh support.
rest relatively upright. Otherwise there is
2 Longitudinal adjustment
a danger of the occupants "sliding
Angle adjustment
3 Height adjustment
through" the belt in the event of an acci- Pull lever 1 and move seat as required. 4 Backrest angle
dent, thus considerably reducing the
The tilt angle of the head restraints -
protective effect of the belt (see also
Thigh support adjustment
and on the BMW Sports Seat also the
safety precautions in the "Safety belts"
Pull lever 2 and slide front section of
thigh support - is adjusted manually.
section, page 47).c
seat into the desired position.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Seats
Adjusting steering wheel* 45
At a glance
Controls
360de020
360de021
360de028
Lumbar support*
Releasing backrest*
d Pull out clamping lever.
d Adjust steering wheel tilt for your
Car care
Adjust the curvature as desired with the Pull up lever: the backrest can now be
rocker switch.
folded forward.
seating position.
d Push the lever back in to clamp the
You can adjust the backrest's contour
The outer levers also serve as a storage
steering wheel in the new position.
for additional support in the curvature
point for the seat belt (not on BMW
of your spine's lumbar region.
Convertible).
Repairs
a
The upper hips and spinal column
a
Never adjust the steering wheel
receive supplementary support to help
while driving accident danger.c
The front seat backrests must al-
you maintain a relaxed, upright posture. ways be locked during driving.c
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

46 Mirrors
aThe mirror on the passenger's side
features a lens with a more convex cur-
vature than the mirror installed on the
1
driver's door. When estimating the dis-
tance between yourself and other traffic,
bear in mind that the objects reflected in
2
the mirror are closer than they appear.
This means that estimations of the dis-
tance to following traffic should not be
360de304
regarded as precise.c
360de030
Electric heaters
Exterior mirrors
Inside rearview mirror
Both mirrors are heated automatically
1 Mirror switch for 4-way adjustment.
To reduce glare from behind during
corresponding to the outside tempera-
2 Switch for changing to the other
night driving: tilt small lever to dimmed
ture with the ignition key in position 2.
mirror:
position.
d Push switch to left driver's mirror.
Lighted make-up mirror
d Push switch to right passenger's
Fold down the sun visor, slide the cover
mirror.
panel to the side.
You can also adjust the mirrors manu-
The mirror lamps operate from ignition
ally by pressing against the outer edges
key position 1 onward.
of the lens.
Sun visors
These can be folded down toward the
windshield or swiveled out against the
side windows.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Safety belts
47
aFor your own safety, please ob-
serve the following when putting on the
safety belt, otherwise its protective
At a glance
function may be impaired. Also ensure
that the other occupants follow these in-
structions.
Never allow more than one person to
wear a single safety belt. Never allow in-
Controls
fants or small children to ride in a pas-
360de032
360de033
senger's lap.
Avoid twisting the belt while routing it
Always fasten your seat belt before
The safety belt can be adjusted individ-
firmly across the hips and shoulder. Do
starting off.
ually to different body sizes with the
not allow the belt to rest against hard or
Car care
fragile objects in your pockets. The
To fasten: make sure you hear the catch belt height adjustment:
safety belt must not run across the
engage in the belt buckle.
Downward adjustment (1):
wearer's neck, nor should it be trapped
To release: press the red button in the
Push button downward.
or abraded by coming into contact with
buckle, hold the belt and guide it back
sharp edges or objects.
Repairs
Upward adjustment (2):
into its reel.
The belt should rest as firmly as possible
Grasp deflection fitting on ribbed side
The safety belt inertial mechanism
against your body You should avoid
sections and slide upward.
locks:
wearing clothing that prevents it from
d in a sudden stop or crash
doing so. Pull the belt periodically to re-
Technical
d when you pull it sharply
tention it across your shoulder. In the
d
event of a frontal collision, a loose lap
during abrupt braking and
belt could slide over your hips, leading
acceleration
to abdominal injury. Due to the in-
d in curves
creased distance between belt and
Data
d when the vehicle is at an
body, there would also be a delay before
extreme angle.
restraint becomes effective.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

48 Safety belts
Child restraint system
Expectant mothers should always wear Never install a rear-facing child restraint
their safety belts, taking care to position system in the front passenger's seat!
the lap belt against the lower hips,
Never attempt to modify either the
where it will not exert pressure against
safety belts or any child restraint sys-
the abdominal area.
tem.
Never attempt to modify the safety
Should the safety belts be damaged or
belts.c
stretched in an accident, the entire belt
For care instructions refer to page 134.
system - including safety belt tension-
ers - must be replaced and the anchor-
ing mounts inspected at a BMW
360us125
Retailer.
If the safety belt tensioner has been
Installing child restraints
activated, a distance of roughly 0.8 in
(20 mm) will remain between the safety To install and secure child restraint sys-
belt lock and the tensioner module.
tems, all rear safety belts (and the front
passenger's safety belt) are equipped
with a special locking mode.
A label with operating instructions is
attached to the belt next to the latch
plate.
To lock the belt
Extract the entire length of the belt from
the inertia reel mechanism. Allow the
reel to retract the belt somewhat and
engage the buckle, then tighten the belt
against the child restraint system. The
retraction mechanism is now locked.
Always observe the installation instruc-
tions provided by the manufacturer of
the child restraint system.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Child restraint system
Installing child seats
49
To release the belt
All passengers, and especially children,
Release the buckle, remove the child
should use a restraint device when
restraint device and allow the inertia
riding in the car.
reel to retract the belt completely.
Infants or small children should never
At a glance
be permitted to ride on a passenger's
b
lap.
Please also make this information
available to your passengers and urge
Children should always sit in the rear
them to observe the instructions for
seat and use, depending on age, either
a child restraint system or the safety
Controls
safety belt use.c
belts installed in the vehicle. Accident
For care instructions refer to page 134.
360us126
BMW Sedan/Coupe
statistics have shown that children are
safer when properly restrained in the
rear seats than when riding in the front.
Commercially available child seats
complying with legal standards are
Car care
Infants and toddlers should be secured designed to be secured using either a
with a child restraint system appropri-
lap belt or a combined lap-shoulder
ate for their size.
belt. Because improperly installed
Children of six years and older should
restraint systems can increase the risk
wear safety belts.
Repairs
of injury to children, we strongly urge
you to carefully read and follow the
instructions supplied with the system.
Should the child restraint system of your
choice require the use of a securing or
Technical
tether strap, note that three anchoring
points (arrows) have been provided for
mounting it in your vehicle.
Ask your BMW Retailer to perform the
Data
necessary installation work.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

50 Installing child seats
Airbags
precautions should be taken. First,
aBefore install- move the passenger seat as far away
from the dashboard as possible. This
ing any child re-
important precaution is intended to
maximize the distance between the air-
bag and the child. Older children should
straint device or be tightly secured with the safety belt.
Younger children should be secured in
child seat, please an appropriate forward-facing child
restraint system that has first been
read the follow-
properly secured with a safety belt.
360de305
We strongly urge you to carefully read
ing:
and observe the instructions for instal-
1 Front airbag system, consisting of
lation and use provided by the child re-
driver and passenger airbag
straint's manufacturer whenever you
Never install a rearward-facing child
use such a device.
2 Side airbags*
restraint system in the front passenger
Always ensure that all occupants (of
Protective effect
seat of this car.
all ages) remain properly and securely
The front airbags provide additional
Your car is equipped with an airbag
restrained at all times.c
protection for the front-seat occupants
supplemental restraint system for the
All rear seating positions in your vehicle in the event of a severe frontal collision
front passenger. Because the backrest
meet the recommendations of SAE
in which the protection afforded by the
on any rear-facing child restraint sys-
J1819, an industry recommended prac-
safety belts alone would no longer be
tem (of the kind designed for infants
tice for securing child restraint systems sufficient. The side airbags help protect
under 1 year and 20 lbs.) would be
in motor vehicles.
the front seat occupants in a severe
within the airbag's deployment range,
side impact.
you should never mount such a device
in the front passenger seat, as the
impact of the airbag against the child
restraint's backrest could lead to seri-
ous or fatal injuries.
If it is necessary for a child (not an
infant) to ride in the front seat, certain
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Airbags
51
d Indicator lamp lights up for approx.
instrument panel and the door while still
4 seconds, goes out briefly and then
allowing comfortable and safe access to
lights up again.
all vehicle controls.
A system malfunction could prevent the Always grip the steering wheel on its
At a glance
system from responding to an impact
rim with your hands at the 9 and 3 o'clock
occurring within its normal response
positions, otherwise hand and arm inju-
range.
ries could occur when the airbag
Please have your authorized BMW
inflates.
Retailer inspect and repair the system
Never allow any objects to obstruct the
Controls
as soon as possible.
area between the airbag and the driver/
390de142
passenger.
a
Do not use the cover panel above the
The airbags are triggered by impacts
For your own safety, please ob-
passenger-side airbag as a storage
coming from the directions shown in
serve the following precautions con-
area.
Car care
the illustration. Note that the supple-
cerning airbags, as otherwise their
Do not glue, cover or in any way alter
mentary protection against lateral
protective function may be impaired. We the padded covers on the steering
impact is available only on vehicles
also request that you make this informa- wheel, the instrument panel or the side
equipped with optional door-mounted
tion available to your passengers, and
trim panels of the front doors.
that you urge them to observe the in-
Repairs
airbags.
Do not install a rear-facing child re-
structions for safety belt use: the air-
straint device on the front passenger
Indicator lamp in instrument
bags are a supplemental restraint
seat. Children under 12 years of age
cluster
device designed to provide extra pro-
should only sit in the back.c
tection; they are not a substitute for
Even when all these guidelines are
Technical
safety belts. Wear your safety belt at all
p The indicator lamp comes on from
ignition key position 1 to indicate
observed, there is still a residual risk of
that the system is operational.
times. The system does not respond to mild facial injuries occurring in isolated
System operational:
minor collisions, if the vehicle rolls over, instances of airbag actuation. The igni-
or if the impact is at the rear of the vehi-
d The indicator lamp comes on briefly.
tion and inflation noise may induce a
cle. In this situation, only the safety belt mild temporary hearing loss in sensitive
Data
System malfunction:
protects you.
individuals.
d The indicator lamp fails to come on.
When adjusting your seat, select a posi-
tion that provides maximum distance
Airbag information is also located on
between you and the steering wheel, the the sun visors.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

52 Airbags
Child-safety locks
Rollover protection system*
Notes on safety
The rollover protection system is acti-
Never attempt to remove the gas gener-
vated automatically in the event of an
ator for the airbag passenger-restraint
accident or in a critical driving situation
system from the vehicle. Testing and
(extreme tilting in the longitudinal or lat-
service procedures are to be performed
eral axis, loss of ground contact). The
exclusively by qualified technicians. In
protective bars located behind the rear
the event of malfunction, deactivation
head restraints extend within a fraction
or triggering (in response to an acci-
of a second.
dent), always entrust repair and service
In addition to the roll bar integrated in
operations to your authorized BMW
the windshield frame, the rollover pro-
360de012
Retailer.
BMW Sedan
tection system helps provide all vehicle
occupants, and in particular the rear
Do not modify or tamper with either the
passengers, with needed headroom.
wiring or the individual components in
Insert the key in the slot in one of the
the airbag system; these include also
rear door latch mechanisms and turn
b
the padded covers on the steering
toward the outside: the door can now
When the hardtop* is on, it is
wheel, on the instrument panel or on
be opened from the outside only.
advisable to use "soft" protective cov-
the side trim panels of the front doors.
ers, in order to prevent damage to the
Never apply adhesive materials to these
luggage compartment lid when the sys-
components and never cover or modify
tem is activated. Please contact your
them in any way. Do not remove or dis-
authorized BMW Retailer for additional
mantle the steering wheel.
information.c
The airbag generator can be disposed
a
of only by a BMW Retailer.
Always keep the space required by
Unprofessional attempts to service the
the rollover protection system free of
system could lead to failure in an emer-
obstacles.
gency or undesired airbag activation,
In the case of minor, non-rollover acci-
either of which could result in personal
dents, passengers are protected only by
injury.
the buckled safety belt and the belt ten-
sioner and, depending on the severity of
the accident, the airbag restraint sys-
tem.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Rollover protection system* Convertible
53
Follow the same procedure for the sec-
ond protective bar.
Have the rollover protection system
checked by a BMW Retailer.
At a glance
aThe opened convertible top can not
be closed with the rollover protection
system extended.c
Controls
Notes on safety
36cde016
36cde017
No changes should be made to the indi-
vidual components of the rollover pro-
Following an unforeseen, automatic
d Push the special tool into the guide
tection system or to its wiring.
extension, the rollover protection sys-
of the click-and-pawl mechanism as
Car care
All work on the rollover protection sys-
tem can be lowered again.
far as possible (handle rests on the
tem must be carried out by a BMW
To do this, remove the screwdriver han-
backrest) and hold in place.
d
Retailer.
dle and the special tool (stored on the
Gently press down the protective bar
Work carried out incorrectly may lead to
socket wrench) from the onboard tool
until the special tool is loose.
d
the failure or an accidental triggering of
Repairs
kit and push them together.
Pull out the special tool and press
down the protective bar completely
the system.
d Pull out the head restraint upward.
until it audibly engages.
d
To check the system and to ensure its
Remove the protective cap upward
d Remount the protective cap on the
long-term operation, it is imperative that
from the protective bar.
protective bar and push on firmly.
you observe the maintenance intervals
Technical
d Push in the head restraint again.
of the Service Interval Display. The roll-
over protection system must be in-
spected every 2 years at the latest by a
BMW Retailer.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

54 Steering/ignition lock
Starting the engine
1 Steering lock disengaged
Before starting
You will often find that it is easier to turn d Apply the parking brake.
3
the ignition key from position 0 to 1 if you d The manual-shift gear lever should
move the steering wheel slightly to help
be in neutral; the automatic transmis-
disengage the lock.
sion selector lever should be in P
2
or N.
2 Ignition on
d At low temperatures keep the clutch
All electrical equipment and accesso-
pedal depressed.
1
ries are available for use.
d
0
Start the engine without depressing
360de009
3 Starter activation
the accelerator.
b
bDo not operate the starter too briefly,
0 Steering lock engaged
Vehicles with manual transmis-
sion: depress the clutch pedal while
but not longer than approx. 20 seconds.
The key can only be inserted and
you turn on the ignition, otherwise a
Release the ignition key as soon as the
removed in this position.
blocking system will prevent the engine engine starts. Do not allow the engine to
After extracting the key, turn the steer-
from starting.c
warm up by leaving it running while the
ing wheel a small amount to the left or
vehicle remains stationary. Instead, drive
right until you hear the lock engage.
off immediately at a moderate engine
speed.c
Your vehicle is equipped with an inter-
lock; this means that the ignition key
Should the engine fail to start on the first
can not be turned into position 0 and
attempt, e.g., if it is very hot or cold:
removed until the selector lever is in
d Stop and pause briefly before repeat-
position P.
ing the starting procedure. This pre-
Furthermore, the selector lever is locked
vents the spark plugs from becoming
in position P when the ignition key is in
damp.
position 0 or removed from the ignition
d Press the accelerator pedal halfway
switch.
down while engaging the starter.
To turn the key back into position 0 or
remove it, move the selector lever into
position P first.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Starting the engine
Switching off the engine
55
When starting a cold engine at extreme- Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
ly low temperatures (+55F/-156 or be-
low) or at high altitudes (above 3,300 ft./ aAlways remove the ignition key
1,000 meters), proceed as follows:
and engage the steering lock before
At a glance
d At the first attempt, keep the starter
leaving the vehicle.
engaged for a bit longer (approx.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
10 seconds).
Always engage the parking brake when
d Press the accelerator pedal halfway
parking on slopes and inclined surfaces,
down while engaging the starter.
since selecting 1st gear or reverse may
Controls
If you operate the vehicle for longer
not provide adequate resistance to roll-
periods of time at high altitudes and
ing.
very low temperatures, put into the
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
engine an oil with a viscosity of 5W30
Place the selector lever in Park.c
Car care
(refer to page 126). Please contact your
authorized BMW Retailer for additional
information.
aNever allow the engine to run with
Repairs
the vehicle standing in an enclosed ar-
ea. The exhaust gases contain carbon
monoxide, an odorless and colorless,
but highly toxic gas. Breathing the ex-
Technical
haust gases poses an extreme health
risk, and can lead to unconsciousness
and death.
Never leave the vehicle unattended with
the engine running, as such a vehicle
Data
represents a serious potential safety
hazard.c
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

56 Parking brake
The parking brake is primarily designed To avoid corrosion, apply the parking
to prevent the vehicle from rolling while brake lightly from time to time when
parked, and acts on the rear wheels.
coasting to a standstill, e.g., at a traffic
signal, provided that it is safe to do so.
aShould exceptional circumstances
make it necessary to engage the brake
with the vehicle in motion, do not apply
excessive pressure. Keep your thumb
pressed against the release button while
carefully pulling up the lever to apply
360us303
moderate pressure.
Excessive pressure can lead to over-
To engage
braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)
The lock engages automatically when
at the rear.
you lift the lever. The "P" indicator lamp The brake lamps do not come on when
appears in the instrument cluster when
the parking brake is engaged.
you turn the ignition key to position 2
Vehicles with manual transmission:
(refer to page 21).
Always engage the parking brake when
parking on slopes and inclined surfaces,
To release
since selecting 1st gear or reverse may
Pull up on the lever, then press the
not provide adequate resistance to
release button and lower the lever.
rolling.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
Place the selector lever in "Park".c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Manual transmission
57
Reverse
Select only with the vehicle stationary.
Press the shift lever to the left to over-
come the slight resistance.
At a glance
Backup lamps
As you do this the backup lamps will
turn on automatically when the ignition
key is in position 2.
Controls
360de044
aDo not "ride" the clutch to hold the
vehicle in place on slopes; use the park-
The shift lever's neutral plane (dot in the ing brake instead. A slipping clutch in-
illustration) is located between 3rd and
Car care
creases clutch wear.c
4th gears
Whenever you shift from any gear into
"Neutral", the shift lever will automati-
cally return to the specified gear plane.
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

58 Automatic transmission*
Range selection
a
A lock prevents inadvertent shifts into
Place the selector lever in position
certain selector lever positions. To re-
P or N and firmly engage the parking
lease the shift-lock mechanism, press
brake before leaving the vehicle with the
the button on the front side of the se-
engine running, otherwise the vehicle
lector handle (arrow).
could roll. Never leave the vehicle unat-
tended with the engine running, since
The engine can only be started in selec- such a vehicle represents a serious po-
tor lever position P or N.
tential safety hazard.
360us304
b
If you should accidentally select Neutral
You must step on the footbrake
while traveling at high speed, remove
with the vehicle stationary before the
your foot from the accelerator pedal im-
Selector lever positions
selector lever will move out of P or N.
mediately. Wait until the engine is at idle
The footbrake must also be depressed
speed; only then should you select a
P R N D 3 2 1
before selecting a drive position, since
gear, otherwise the transmission could
Shift programs
the vehicle "creeps" in idle when a drive be damaged.c
Switch:
position is engaged.
At engine speeds of over 2500 rpm
P - Park
d A (Automatic)
a lock also prevents shifting out of P
Select only with the vehicle stationary.
d M (Manual)
or N.c
Transmission locks to prevent rear
Shift lever in position 3:
However, it is possible to "rock" the car wheels from turning.
d Sport program
free by shifting rapidly between D and
R - Reverse
R, e.g., should you get stuck in deep
See next page for an explanation of the
Select only with the vehicle stationary.
snow or sand.
programs.
N - Neutral
Select only if your journey is interrupted
for a longer period. Select while the car
is being driven only if the vehicle begins
to skid.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Automatic transmission*
59
D - Drive (automatic shift program) 2 and 1 - Mountain ascents and
Shift programs
This position is designed for driving
engine braking
A - Automatic program
under all normal operating conditions.
Select these positions to prevent un-
For economical driving. This is the initial
All forward gears are selected by the
desired shifts on mountain roads or
position each time the engine is started.
At a glance
transmission as necessary.
extended uphill and downhill stretches. M - Manual program
These ranges let you use the engine's
3 - Sport Program, direct control
braking effect to maximum advantage.
This program is for driving conditions
This position is designed for perfor-
The transmission upshifts only as far as under which the selected gear is to be
mance-oriented driving, and features
the selected gear (1st or 2nd).
retained. The transmission then remains
Controls
delayed upshifts for optimal utilization
in this gear both when starting off and
Do not move the selector lever to either
of the vehicle's power reserves.
during acceleration. With this program
of these positions when traveling at
When D is engaged, the transmission
you drive only in 3rd gear in position D.
speeds of 108 mph (170 km/h) or
may respond to certain conditions by
above. The transmission downshifts
It is advantageous, e.g., on slopes or
repeatedly shifting between 3rd and 4th
when towing a trailer, to drive in selec-
Car care
only at correspondingly low speeds.
gears. You can select this position to
tor lever position 1 or 2, or in winter on
suppress upshifts into 4th gear and pre- "Kickdown" (automatic downshift) slippery roads in selector lever position
vent the transmission from "hunting" in
To obtain maximum acceleration, the
3, which enables gentle starts and pre-
this way.
accelerator pedal can be depressed
vents undesirable shifting.
Repairs
beyond the normal to the full-throttle
position, at which a pressure point must
be overcome.
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

60 Automatic transmission*
Turn signals/high beam
Indicator lamp for shift
a
electronics
Never carry out any work in the
engine compartment without first
3
ensuring that the transmission is in Park
O Goes out after the engine has
started.
or Neutral. Never leave children in the
vehicle unattended.c
1
d
2
If the lamp fails to go out or
For information on tow-starting, towing
d if it lights up during driving, there is a and jump starting refer to pages 153
malfunction in the shifting electronics and 154.
3
or in the transmission.
360de039
Bring the vehicle to a stop, select trans-
mission position "P", set the parking
brake and turn the engine off (ignition
1 High beam (blue indicator lamp)
key to position 0).
2 Headlamp flasher
Wait a few seconds, then start the
3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator
engine.
lamp and rhythmic ticking of the
If the indicator lamp goes out after a
blinker relay).
few seconds, normal transmission per-
Flashing of the indicator lamp and tick-
formance has been restored. Drive off
ing faster than normal: a turn-indicator
normally.
lamp is defective.
If the indicator lamp does not go out, all
selector lever positions can still be
To signal briefly
selected, however in the forward posi-
Press the lever up to but not beyond the
tions the vehicle has limited perfor-
lock.
mances as it drives only in the 3rd or
4th gear.
If this happens, avoid extreme engine
loads and consult the nearest autho-
rized BMW Retailer.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Wiper/washer system
61
1 Intermittent wipe
a
3
The length of the interval is varied auto-
Do not use the washers when there
matically according to the car's actual
is a danger of the fluid freezing on the
2
road speed.
windshield, as otherwise your vision
At a glance
could be obscured. Use antifreeze (refer
The headlamp cleaning equipment* can to page 124).
5
1
also influence this interval.
Do not use the washers when the reser-
d Shift briefly out of 0 into 1, and back
voir is empty, otherwise damage to the
0
to 0.
washer pump could result.c
d
Controls
The time lapse until the switching on
4
360us305
(out of 0 into 1) is the desired interval Windshield washer jets*
(maximum 25 seconds).
The windshield washer jets are auto-
0 Wipers retracted
Delete the programming:
matically heated with the ignition key in
d
position 2.
approx. 10 seconds after the lever is
Car care
1 Intermittent wipe
in position 0 or
2 Normal wipe
d after switching off the engine.
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
2 Normal wipe
Repairs
5 Automatic windshield washer
The wipers automatically revert to inter-
mittent operation when the vehicle is
stationary.
5 Automatic windshield washers
Technical
The system sprays washer fluid against
the windshield and actuates the wipers
for a brief period.
(Exception: If you pull the lever briefly,
Data
the system sprays fluid onto the wind-
shield without activating the wipers).
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

62 Cruise control*
2 Decelerate
The system is switched off and the
Hold the lever in this position:
stored speed deleted from its memory
With the cruise control active, the system when you turn the ignition key to posi-
automatically reduces the throttle open-
tion 0.
ing to slow the vehicle. As soon as you
a
release the lever, the system records and
Refrain from using the cruise con-
maintains the current speed.
trol on twisting roads, when high traffic
Tap the lever briefly:
density prevents driving at a constant
Each time you tap it you decelerate
speed and when driving on slippery
approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h) if you are
(snow, rain, ice) or loose (stones, sand)
360de063
cruising at a controlled speed.
road surfaces.c
You can store and automatically main-
3 Resume
bIf, on a downhill gradient, the
tain any desired vehicle speed above
Tap the lever briefly:
engine braking effect is not sufficient,
approx. 25 mph (40 km/h).
The vehicle accelerates to and main-
the controlled speed can be exceed-ed.
The stored speed is deleted when the
tains the last speed stored.
Speed can drop on uphill grades if the
motor is switched off.
4 Off
engine output is insufficient.c
1 Accelerate
Tap the lever briefly:
Tap the lever briefly:
Immediately deactivates the cruise con-
The system records and maintains the
trol.
current vehicle speed. Every time you
In addition, the system is also automati-
tap the button the speed increases by
cally disabled in response to the follow-
approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).
ing conditions:
Hold the lever in this position:
d When you apply pressure to the
The vehicle accelerates without pres-
brake or clutch pedal, and when you
sure on the accelerator pedal. As soon
move the automatic transmission
as you release the lever, the system
selector lever from Drive to Neutral,
records and maintains the current
d if you exceed the programmed speed
speed.
by more than 10 mph (16 km/h) for a
period of more than 30 seconds.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Odometer
Tachometer
Energy control*
63
140
120
160
120
100
180
40
km/h
80
200
60
220 140
40
20
240
F
20
At a glance
MPH
Controls
360us320
360us030
360us031
Records the total vehicle mileage
Never allow the engine to operate with
Indicates the current fuel consumption
(registers distance in kilometers on
the needle in the red overspeed sector
in mpg (in liters per 100 km on Cana-
Car care
Canadian vehicles).
of the gauge.
dian vehicles).
Trip odometer
In this range the fuel supply is inter-
When the vehicle is stationary, the nee-
rupted to protect the engine, producing dle returns to zero (maximum reading
Records trip distances up to 999.9 miles the sensation of a loss of power.
on Canadian models).
(kilometers).
Repairs
To reset to zero
Press button.
The displays appear from ignition key
Technical
position 1.
To display with ignition switched off:
Press the reset button (arrow).
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

64 Fuel gauge
Coolant temperature
Service Interval Display
1 2
R
F
UNLEADED GASOLINE
ONLY
360us032
360de007
360us009
When you switch on the ignition, the
Blue
Green lamps
indicator lamp comes on briefly to indi-
The engine is still cold. Drive at moder-
The number of illuminated lamps
cate that the system is operational.
ate engine and vehicle speeds.
decreases as the time for your next
If the indicator lamp comes on and
maintenance visit approaches.
Red
stays on, there are approx. 2.1 gallons
Yellow lamp
(8 liters) of fuel in the tank.
Indicator lamp comes on, the warning
"COOLANT TEMPERATURE" appears
This field appears together with
Tank volume: Page 166.
in Check Control*: engine overheated.
OILSERVICE or INSPECTION.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies, e.g.,
Switch off the engine immediately and
Maintenance is due. Please contact
when you are driving in mountainous
allow it to cool down.
your BMW Retailer for an appointment.
areas, this may cause the needle to
fluctuate slightly.
Between the blue and red sectors Red lamp
a
Normal operating range. It is not un-
Maintenance overdue.
usual for the needle to rise as far as the
Please refuel early, as driving
edge of the red sector in response to
to the last drop of fuel can result in
high outside temperatures or severe
damage to the engine and/or catalytic
operating conditions.
converter.c
Checking coolant level: Page 127.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Service Interval Display
65
bHave your BMW Retailer carry out
the maintenance and repair. Your BMW
Retailer is always informed on the latest
At a glance
maintenance work and repair tech-
niques and equipped with the required
special tools. In addition, the testing of
parts known from experience to be sub-
ject to wear is a permanent part of the
Controls
maintenance specifications.c
Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

66 Multi-information display (MID)*
With the different versions you can dis-
play not only the time and the date, but
also information e.g., on economical
driving and warnings on defective sys-
tems.
The following applies to all versions:
The unit will reject implausible entries.
When entering numerical values with
the number entry keys, the numerical
value is increased by one each time the
360us307
360us308
key is pressed and after each additional
half second with the key held down.
Outside temperature display and
Check Control
Numbers can be entered in any order.
digital clock
For explanations and operating instruc-
The entries are saved in the memory by For explanations and operating instruc- tions, refer to page 71 ff.
pressing the SET/RES or SET key.
tions, refer to page 68 ff.
Any interruption in the power supply,
e.g., when changing the battery, will
result in the loss of all data saved in the
memory. After the power supply is
restored, you will need to re-enter the
time, date and any switch-on times, the
distance or speed warning threshold.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Multi-information display (MID)*
67
At a glance
Controls
360us309
360us310
Check Control with outside
Onboard computer
temperature display and digital
Car care
For explanations and operating instruc-
clock
tions, refer to page 77 ff.
For explanations and operating instruc-
tions, refer to page 74 ff.
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

68 Outside temperature display and digital clock*
1
2
3
To display time and date
d Press the function key (8).
When the ignition key is in position 0 or
removed, the displays appear for a few
seconds; in ignition key position 1 the
desired value is displayed indefinitely.
A-TEMP
°C/°F
HR/DAT
MEMO
SET
h/DAT
min/DAT
You can display the time in 12 or 24 hour
increments; the date can be shown in
European or US sequence. To change
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
360us109
setting:
d Press the HR/DAT key for approx.
You can
1 Display for outside temperature
3 seconds until the dots in the
d
display flash.
display the time and date
gauge
d pre-program an hourly reminder sig-
2 Display for time and date
d Press the scale selection key.
nal (memo) e.g., a reminder of the
3 Tone symbol for active memo
In the 12-hour mode, AM or PM will
news
function
appear on the right side of the clock
d display the outside temperature.
display.
4 Entry key for minutes/date
5 Entry key for hours/date
6 SET key for starting
7 Function key - memo
8 Function key - time/date
9 Scale selection key
10 Function key - outside temperature
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Outside temperature display and digital clock*
69
Memo mode
After a power failure
Press the MEMO key to activate or
The dots in the display flash.
deactivate the signal. When MEMO is
d Press the scale selection key as
active, a tone symbol appears in the
required.
At a glance
right display. The signal sounds every
d Enter the time with the h/DAT and
hour at the pre-programmed time or
min/DAT entry keys.
without programming 15 seconds
d Press SET. The clock starts.
before each full hour.
d Press the HR/DAT key.
d Enter the date with the entry keys.
Controls
Outside temperature
d Press SET.
Data request: Press TEMP key.
360us321
d Confirm the year by pressing the SET
If the outside temperature drops below
key or correct with the entry key and
37.5 5F (+36), a warning signal sounds, Entries
complete the number entry by press-
the temperature display automatically
Car care
All numbers for the time and date are
ing the SET key.
appears and the unit of measure flashes entered with the entry keys according
for 8 seconds.
to the following principle: The numbers
The warning is repeated whenever the
can be entered in any order. Each time
temperature has increased to 43 5F
the key is pressed, or for each half sec-
Repairs
(+66) at least once before falling to
ond the key is held down, the numerical
37.5 5F (+36) again.
value increases by one.
a
Pressing the key longer starts the rapid-
The temperature warning device
advance function.
Technical
does nothing to alter the fact that sur-
face ice can still form at temperatures
above 37.5 5F (+36), e.g., on bridges
and on shade-covered road surfaces.c
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

70 Outside temperature display and digital clock*
HR/DAT
h/DAT
min/DAT
SET
HR/DAT
h/DAT
min/DAT
SET
MEMO
h/DAT
min/DAT
SET
360de144
360de144
360de144
To reset the time
To reset the date
Programming a reminder signal
Press the HR/DAT key in the clock
Press the HR/DAT key in the date mode Press the MEMO key for approx. 3 sec-
mode for approx. 3 seconds until the
for approx. 3 seconds until the dots in
onds until two zeros appear in the min-
dots in the display flash. Confirm your
the display flash. After entering the date utes display. Complete the number
entry by pressing the SET key.
and year, confirm your entry by press-
entry (min/Dat increase, h/Dat decrease)
ing the SET key.
by pressing the SET key.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Check Control*
71
Brake lamps defective
Brake lamps have failed - bulbs
defective.
Replace bulbs. Refer to page 143.
At a glance
Priority 2
These defects appear when the ignition
key is in position 2. The warning sym-
bols remain after the message disap-
Controls
pears. If the plus symbol (3) appears:
360us110
Additional messages are present and
can be displayed by pressing the
Texts with messages and warnings are
Priority 1
CHECK key.
used to alert the driver to defective sys-
Car care
These defects are indicated immedi-
1 Brake lamp defective
tems. In addition, there is a warning
ately with the flashing warning lamp and
lamp in the instrument panel.
A bulb has failed. Refer to page 143.
the flashing warning symbol (1). Several
The time and date can be displayed
simultaneous defects are displayed
Low beams defective,
with the digital clock.
consecutively. After 20 seconds or
Backup lamps defective,
Repairs
1 Status report symbol
when the CHECK key is pressed, the
License plate lamp
warning lamp in the instrument cluster
2 Display
Bulb has failed or fuse or electrical
stops flashing.
3 Plus symbol for additional messages
circuit defective. Refer to pages 141,
The messages continue to be displayed 143, 145 or visit a BMW Retailer.
4 CHECK key
until the defects are eliminated and can
Technical
Washer fluid low
The defective-system messages are
not be deleted by pressing the CHECK
divided into 3 different priorities:
key (4).
Too low, top up at next opportunity.
Refer to page 124.
Brake lamp electrical system
Check Control inactive
The brake lamps have failed. Fuse or
Data
electrical circuit is defective. Refer to
Messages and warnings can not be
page 151 or consult your BMW Retailer. displayed. See BMW Retailer.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

72 Check Control*
Priority 3
To check the Check Control display
These status reports usually appear
(only when no messages are displayed):
after the car is parked and the ignition
Press the CHECK key with the ignition
key returned to position 0 (if several
key in position 2: CHECK CONTROL
AM
messages have been recorded, they will OK appears in the display.
appear consecutively, with Priority 3
messages following Priority 1 and 2
messages).
1000
100
10
1
Messages remain available for a period
of approx. two minutes after the display
360us322
goes out and the ignition key has been
removed, and can be displayed by
pressing the CHECK key.
Entries
The messages can also be displayed
All numbers for the time and date are
before you start driving with the ignition
entered with the entry keys according
key in position 2. The texts then go out
to the following principle:
after a short time or when you start driv-
The numbers can be entered in any
ing, and no warning symbols remain.
order. Each time the key is pressed, or
Messages are not displayed again until
for each half second the key is held
the ignition key is turned to position 0.
down, the numerical value increases by
one.
If a plus symbol appears: display addi-
tional messages by pressing the CHECK
To display time and date
key.
d Press the respective function key
Check coolant level
(CLOCK/DATE).
Indicates that coolant is almost down to
When the ignition key is in position 0 or
minimum level. Top up at the next
removed, the displays appear for a few
opportunity. Refer to page 127.
seconds; in ignition key position 1 the
desired value is displayed indefinitely.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Check Control*
73
After a power failure
The time display flashes and the follow-
ing appears in the left display: enter
time.
At a glance
d Enter the time with the entry keys.
1000
100
1000
100
d
CLOCK
DATE
SET/RES
Press the SET/RES key. The clock
SET/RES
10
1
10
1
starts.
The left display shows: enter date.
Controls
d Enter the date with the entry keys.
d Press the SET/RES key.
360de146
360de146
d Confirm the year by pressing the
SET/RES key or correct it with the
To reset the time
To reset the date
entry key and complete the number
Car care
Press the CLOCK key until the left dis-
Press the DATE key until the left display
entry by pressing the SET/RES key.
play indicates: Enter time. The dots
indicates: Enter date. The dots flash.
flash.
Complete the number entry for the date
Complete the number entry by pressing and year by pressing the SET/RES key.
the SET/RES key.
If necessary, enter the year before
Repairs
pressing the SET/RES key, as
requested in the display. Leap years are
programmed into the system and there-
fore need not be taken into account.
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

74 Check Control with outside temperature display and digital clock*
To display time and date
d Press the respective function
key (4/3).
When the ignition key is in position 0
or removed, the displays appear for a
few seconds; in ignition key position 1,
the desired value is displayed indefi-
nitely.
You can display the time in 12 or 24 hour
360us111
increments; the date can be shown in
European or US sequence. To change
setting:
The Check Control uses texts with mes- 1 Digital clock display
sages and warnings to alert the driver
d Press time or date function key (4/3)
2 Tone symbol for active memo
to defective systems. In addition, an
until the dots flash.
function
indicator lamp is provided in the instru-
d Press scale selection key (7).
3 Function key - date
ment cluster. For details and operating
In the 12-hour mode, AM or PM will
instructions, refer to pages 71, 72.
4 Function key - clock
appear on the right side of the clock
The outside temperature can also be
5 SET/RES key
display.
displayed.
6 Function key - memo
Memo mode
With the digital clock you can
7 Scale selection key
Switch on and off with the MEMO key.
d display the time and date,
8 Function key - outside temperature
When MEMO is active, a tone symbol
d pre-program an hourly reminder sig-
9 Entry keys for numerical values
appears in the right display. The signal
nal (memo) e.g., a reminder of the
sounds every hour at the pre-pro-
news.
grammed time or without program-
ming 15 seconds before each full
hour.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Check Control with outside temperature display and digital clock*
75
Display outside temperature
After a power failure
Press TEMP key.
The time display flashes and the follow-
If the outside temperature drops below
ing appears in the left display: "Enter
37.5 5F (+36), a warning signal sounds,
time".
AM
At a glance
the temperature display automatically
d Enter the time with the entry keys.
appears and flashes for 8 seconds.
d Press the SET/RES key.
The warning is repeated whenever the
The clock starts.
temperature has increased to 43 5F
1000
100
10
1
The left display shows: Enter date.
Controls
(+66) at least once before falling to
d Enter the date with the entry keys.
37.5 5F (+36) again.
360us322
d Press the SET/RES key.
a
d Confirm the year by pressing the
The temperature warning device
Entries
SET/RES key or correct it with the
does nothing to alter the fact that sur-
entry key; complete the number entry
Car care
All numbers for the time and date are
face ice can still form at temperatures
by pressing the SET/RES key.
entered with the entry keys according
above 37.5 5F (+36), e.g., on bridges
to the following principle:
and on shade-covered road surfaces.c
The numbers can be entered in any
order. Each time the key is pressed, or
Repairs
for each half second the key is held
down, the numerical value increases by
one.
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

76 Check Control with outside temperature display and digital clock*
1000
100
1000
100
1000
100
CLOCK
SET/RES
DATE
SET/RES
MEMO
SET/RES
10
1
10
1
10
1
360de146
360de146
360de146
To reset the time
To reset the date
Programming a reminder signal
Press the CLOCK key until the left dis-
Press the DATE key until the left display Press the MEMO key for approx. 3 sec-
play indicates: Enter time. The dots
indicates: Enter date. The dots flash.
onds until the left display indicates:
flash.
Complete the number entry for the date Enter memo. Complete the number
Complete the number entry by pressing and year by pressing the SET/RES key.
entry by pressing the SET/RES key.
the SET/RES key.
If necessary, enter the year before
pressing the SET/RES key, as request-
ed in the display. Leap years are pro-
grammed into the system and therefore
need not be taken into account.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Onboard computer*
77
Standard displays (no previous
data entries required)
Page
TEMP
outside
temperature
78
At a glance
RANGE
estimated cruising
range
79
SPEED
average speed
78
CONSUM
2 levels of average
Controls
consumption
79
360us112
With previous data entries
Allows you to select display data for
1 Display
DIST
distance remaining
safe and economical driving.
to destination with
Car care
2 Arrival time
estimated
If your car is equipped with the Check
3 Entry keys for numerical values
arrival time
79
Control option, texts with information
4 Information keys
and warnings are used to alert the
LIMIT
speed limit warning 80
For the onboard computer version
driver to system malfunctions. In addi-
The following systems are controlled by
without Check Control, pressing the
Repairs
tion, an indicator lamp is provided in the
the onboard computer:
Page
CHECK key simply activates all dis-
instrument cluster. For details and
play elements.
TIMER
2 switch-on times
operating instructions, refer to
for independent
pages 71 and 72.
5 Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
ventilation
81
With the digital clock you can
6 Scale selection key
Technical
independent
d display the time and date,
7 SET/RES key (start/stop)
ventilation in direct
d pre-program a reminder signal
operating mode or
82
(memo), e.g., to remind you of news
timer
80
broadcasts.
Data
CODE
immobilization/
Refer to page 74 for information and
protection from
details on using the digital clock.
misuse
82
The onboard computer operates at igni-
tion key positions 1 and 2.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

78 Onboard computer*
In the interest of driving safety, you
should always enter data with the vehi-
cle parked/stationary. The on-board
computer starts its calculations as soon
as the vehicle starts to move.
You can also use the remote control to
select information for display, refer to
page 83.
The scale selection key (6) allows you to
display all information in either metric or
360us114
360us115
US units.
b
Outside temperature
Average speed
Messages of the Check Control
Data request: Press TEMP key.
To start calculations:
system override the display of the
onboard computer.
If the outside temperature drops below Key sequence as in illustration.
With the exception of Priority 1 mes-
37.5 5F (+36), a warning signal sounds; Data request: press SPEED key.
sages, the display can be cleared by
the temperature display automatically
pressing the CHECK key.c
appears and flashes for 8 seconds.
If the malfunction display "PPPP"
The warning is repeated whenever the
appears, consult your BMW Retailer.
temperature has increased to 43 5F
(+66) at least once before falling to
37.5 5F (+36) again.
aThe temperature warning device
does nothing to alter the fact that sur-
face ice can still form at temperatures
above 37.5 5F (+36), e.g., on bridges
and on shade-covered road surfaces.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Onboard computer*
79
At a glance
Controls
360us116
360us117
360us118
Estimated cruising range
Average fuel consumption
Distance remaining to destination
Car care
Displays the estimated travel range
The computer can calculate average
Displays the distance to the destination.
based on the remaining fuel. The value
fuel consumption rates simultaneously
Available only if the total distance was
takes into account the way in which
for two distances, e.g., for an entire
entered before the start of the journey.
way the car has been driven.
journey and for a single section of it.
Enter the distance:
Data request: press RANGE key.
To start calculations for distance 1:
Key sequence as in illustration.
Repairs
A plus symbol (+) in front of the value
Key sequence as in illustration.
Data request: press DIST key.
indicates that the cruising range is still
To start calculations for distance 2:
At the same time, the estimated time of
being corrected (measuring tolerance).
arrival is displayed, which is continuously
Repeat key sequence as in illustration.
If three segments flash in the display,
calculated in accordance with the driving
Technical
Data request: press CONSUM key.
the cruising range is less than 9 miles
style.
(15 km) and the car should be refueled
Press the key repeatedly to switch
Any additional mileage extending
as soon as possible.
between the average consumption of
beyond the total defined in the initial
the 1st and 2nd section of the journey.
entry is indicated by a minus sign.
When you refuel, the onboard computer At the same time, the display also indi- To change scale:
Data
registers the action only
cates which consumption (1 or 2) is cur-
d
Press the km/mls key once
if the fuel amount is over 1.2 gallons
rently indicated.
d
(approx. 4 liters).
to change the distance
d the engine is switched off.
or twice to also
d change the arrival time.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

80 Onboard computer*
To cancel speed warning:
d Press the LIMIT key again.
The LED goes out, but the value re-
mains stored and can be reactivated
with the LIMIT key.
To adopt current speed as limit:
d Press the LIMIT and SET/RES keys.
360us119
360us120
Speed limit warning (Limit)
Timer*
You are alerted when you exceed the
The timer can be used only on vehicles
maximum speed that you entered ear-
without independent ventilation. The
lier (e.g., posted speed limit). An acous-
running time ranges up to 99 hours and
tic signal sounds, the corresponding
59 minutes. The time is shown in the
LED flashes and the stored limit briefly
display: first in seconds and tenths of a
appears in the display.
second, after a minute in minutes and
Vehicle speed must drop back to at
seconds and after an hour in hours and
least 3 mph (5 km/h) below the pro-
minutes.
grammed speed to reset the system for
To start:
repeat warnings.
Key sequence as in illustration.
To enter the speed warning threshold:
The LED lights up and the time runs in
Key sequence as in illustration. The
the display.
LED lights up.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Onboard computer*
81
To stop:
Enter a switch-on time:
When the time is displayed:
Before you can enter data, the ignition
d Press the SET/RES key.
key must be at position 1 and the digital
clock must be visible in the display.
If other information is displayed:
At a glance
Repeat key sequence as in the illustra-
d Key sequence as in illustration.
tion. (Press the TIMER key twice).
Take intermediate time:
Enter the second switch-on time:
d Press the TIMER key.
Repeat key sequence as in illustration.
Controls
The LED flashes, the intermediate time
Correct the entered time:
is displayed and the timer continues to
360us311
run.
Repeat the key sequence as shown in
the illustration, but enter a different
Display time again:
Independent ventilation*
time.
d
Car care
Press the TIMER key again.
To enter activation times
After you enter the time, an asterisk
b
You can select two starting times for
appears in the display and the LED
The timer stops with the ignition
independent ventilation. After 30 min-
lights up, so that you can ascertain that
key in position 0 and runs again in posi- utes the ventilation shuts off again auto- a switch-on time has been selected.
tion 1.c
matically.
Repairs
During ventilation the LED blinks. It
Refer to page 87 for important informa-
goes off when you turn the switch off.
tion on using the independent ventila-
Request a previously selected time
tion system.
(LED lights up):
When you press the TIMER key, the
d For the first switch-on time, press the
Technical
current status of the ventilation appears
TIMER key twice.
in the display.
d For the second switch-on time, press
the TIMER key three times.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

82 Onboard computer*
To set (ignition key in position 1):
Press the keys in the sequence illus-
trated and then turn the ignition key into
position 0 or remove the key.
1000
100
CONSUM
TEMP
SPEED
DIST
CHECK
CLOCK
DATE
Code numbers from "0000" to "9999"
10
1
RANGE
CODE
LIMIT
TIMER
km/mls
MEMO
SET/RES
can be entered. (You will have to re-
enter the code each time you activate
1
2
the system).
The LED lights up for up to 36 hours
360us313
360us122
with the ignition key in position 0 or with
the key removed. If the LED flashes for
10 seconds the engine hood has not
Switch on directly
Enter code
been closed or the radio has been
Available only with ignition key at posi-
In addition to electronic vehicle immo-
removed.
tion 1.
bilization (refer to page 30), you can
To cancel with ignition key in position 1
Key sequence as in illustration.
attain further engine immobilization or
or 2:
protection against tampering by enter-
Switch off directly
ing a code into the onboard computer.
A gong and the display "---- Code"
In ignition key position 1: key sequence
request you to enter a code.
A code number is used to arm the sys-
as in the illustration.
tem. The code is then required for sub-
d Use entry keys to enter the code
In ignition key position 0: press only the sequent starting attempts. Always
number
key SET/RES.
remember the code number.
d Press the SET/RES key
d Start the engine.
The system responds to attempts to
start the vehicle using an incorrect code
or no code at all by preventing the
engine from starting.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Onboard computer*
83
If you wish to display all data:
b
d Keep the direction indicator
For average fuel consumption 1
depressed until "Prog 1" appears in
and 2 please note the following: If, for
the display.
example, both consumptions are to be
At a glance
d Press the SET/RES key.
displayed, the CONSUM key must be
R
pressed twice. If, for example, con-
L
sumption 2 is to be displayed (not con-
sumption 1), press the km/mls key after
pressing the CONSUM key (pressing
Controls
the km/mls key repeatedly switches
360de083
between consumption 1 and 2 as often
as desired).
Remote control
Proceed in a similar manner for switch-
on times 1 and 2 for the independent
Car care
You can use the turn signal lever to
ventilation*.c
select various display sequences for
computer data following entry.
Data request:
To enter:
Briefly tap the turn signal lever each
d
time.
Keep the turn signal lever depressed
Repairs
until "Prog 1" appears in the display.
d Press the keys in the sequence in
which you want the information to be
displayed.
Technical
Each time you store data, the pro-
gram number in the display changes.
d Press the SET/RES key.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

84 ASC+T
To deactivate the system
When ASC+T is switched off, you drive
Press the button; the indicator lamp
with a conventional drive system. We
comes on.
recommend that you deactivate the
system for increased traction
To reactivate the system
d when rocking the vehicle or starting
ASC
Press the button again; the indicator
off in deep snow or on loose surfaces
lamp goes out.
(refer to "Starting off", page 105)
Indicator lamp flashes
d or when driving with snow chains.
The system is actively regulating drive
360de064
b
torque in response to monitored vehicle
But even with ASC+T the laws of
operating conditions.
physics can not be suspended. Any
Automatic Stability Control plus
consequences arising from traction loss
Indicator lamp fails to go out after
Traction (ASC+T)
due to excessive vehicle speed remain
the engine is started, or comes on the responsibility of the driver. We
This system is designed to enhance
in the course of normal vehicle
therefore urge you to avoid using the
operating stability, especially while
operation
additional safety margin of the system
accelerating and during cornering.
The system has a defect. The vehicle
as an excuse for taking risks.c
ASC+T automatically assumes opera-
normally remains operational even with- For more details, please refer to section
tion each time you start the engine.
out ASC+T. Consult your authorized
"Advanced Technology" on page 156.
BMW Retailer for repair.
The indicator lamp in the instrument
cluster goes out shortly after you switch
on the ignition.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Parking lamps/low beams
Instrument lighting
85
LIGHTS ON warning
When you turn the ignition key to 0, a
0
buzzer sounds for a few seconds after
the driver's door has been opened, if
At a glance
the lamps have not been turned off.
On vehicles with alpha-numeric Check
Control*:
This warning comes through the Check
Control, refer to page 71.
Controls
360us312
Daytime-running lamps switch*
360us323
If desired, the lighting switch can be left
Parking lamps
in the second position: when the igni-
Adjust the illumination intensity by turn-
tion is switched off, the external lighting ing the rotary dial.
Car care
D
is also switched off.
On vehicles with daytime running fea-
ture, the lamps come on whenever the
Low beams
ignition key is turned to position 2 with
Repairs
the headlamp switch remaining at 0.
E When you switch off the ignition
without turning off the head-
lamps, only the parking lamps
stay on.
When you return the ignition key to
Technical
position 0, a buzzer sounds for a few
seconds to remind you that the lamps
have been left on.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

86 Foglamps
Interior lamps
2
1
0
2
0
0
1
360us034
360de041
36cde001
BMW Convertible
Foglamps*
0 Continuously off.
BMW Convertible: With the switch set
1 Lamps on:
to position 1, a safety circuit ensures
that any lamps in the vehicle which may
t A green indicator lamp lights
up in the instrument cluster to
d With door open (switching via door
still be on are switched off automatically
indicate that the front foglamps
contact).
approx. 15 minutes after leaving the
are on.
d For a few seconds after closing the
vehicle.
door; lamps go out immediately
when the ignition is switched on.
2 Continuously on.
d After the ignition has been switched
Footwell lamps*
off for a few seconds, if the vehicle
The footwell lamps operate in the same
lighting was switched on.
way as the interior lamp.
d If your car is equipped with the
driver's door lock heating option,
Reading lamps*
when the driver's door handle is
The reading lamps are located in the
lifted for a few seconds with the vehi- front near the interior lamp and in the
cle closed (possible a maximum of
rear*. They can be switched on and off
three times).
with the switch adjacent to each lamp.
d Following an accident.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Interior lamps
Seat heating*
Independent ventilation* 87
BMW Convertible
This ventilates the vehicle's interior and
The switches for the map reading lamps
lowers its temperature using the heater
next to the interior lamp are operated in
or the air conditioner fan.
the same manner as the interior lamp
The system is operated by the onboard
At a glance
switch.
computer, refer to page 77.
You can set the time for the system to
start; it will remain active for 30 min-
utes. You can also turn it on and off
directly.
Controls
360de026
As the system uses a substantial
amount of electric current, you should
refrain from activating it twice in suc-
The seat cushion and backrest can be
cession without allowing the battery to
heated at ignition key position 2.
Car care
be recharged in normal operation
Press the switches with the heating
between use.
symbols:
The independent ventilation is available
Rapid heat-up as long as the
for use when the outside temperature is
switch lights up brightly. Auto-
above 60 5F (166), but not when driv-
Repairs
matic changeover to regular
ing.
heating.
The air comes out through the vents for
the upper body area. The vents must
Heating as long as the switch
therefore be open for the system to
lights up brightly. The heater
Technical
operate.
switches off automatically.
To switch over while heating: press the
dimly lit switch.
Data
To switch off prematurely: press the
brightly lit switch.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

88 Automatic climate control
1
2
M
M W
B
W
B
AUTO
A
AUTO
4
3
360de306
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Automatic climate control
89
1 Air flow directed against windshield
and door windows
2 Air flow toward upper body
The rotary dial on the right affords
At a glance
continuous opening or closing of the
air supply, the lever changes the
direction of the air flow. The rotary dial
on the left tempers the air coming out
(page 92).
Controls
3 Front footwell ventilation
Corresponding vent outlets are also
located in the rear footwell.
4 Controls
Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

90 Automatic climate control
Air conditioning for comfort
Automatic air distribution
Use the automatic system; switch on
When you activate the AUTO
AUTO key1. Select the interior temper-
AUTO
mode, the program takes
ature that is comfortable for you, e.g.,
over the setting of the air distribution
70 5F (226). With exterior temperatures and the air supply and, in addition,
above 41 5F (56) you can also use air-
adjusts your temperature pre-selections
conditioning 6. This dries the air and
to exterior conditions (summer, winter).
prevents window mist when e.g., per-
This program maintains a comfortable
sons with damp clothing are in the vehi- in-car climate regardless of the season.
cle. Adjust vent 2 in such a way that the Select the interior temperature that is
360us314
air blows past you and does not strike
comfortable for you, e.g., 70 5F (226).
you directly. Turn the rotary control on
The temperature pre-selections as well
Controls
the left under the vents 2 for the upper
as the lettering AUTO for the air supply
1 Automatic air distribution
body area to a middle setting, so that
appear in indicator 3.
you will be driving in cooler air that
Open the vent outlets for the upper
2 Individual air distribution
does not tire you out.
body area. Switch on the air conditioner
3 Temperature and air flow display
The following description gives you
in warm weather.
4 Air grill for interior temperature
additional individual settings.
The maximum cooling capacity is
sensor - please keep clear and
achieved when you set the rotary dial 3
unobstructed
(refer to page 92) to cold.
5 To defrost windshield and door
Individual air distribution
windows
You can cancel the automatic
6 Air conditioner
program by selecting distri-
7 Recirculated-air mode
bution patterns to suit your
8 Rear window defroster
individual requirements. You
can direct air toward the windshield and
9 Temperature control right-hand
windows 7, toward the upper body 5
side
and/or into the footwell 6.
10 Air supply
11 Temperature control left-hand side
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Automatic climate control
91
To defrost windshield and door
Circulated air mode/Automatic
Rear window defroster
windows
recirculated air control (AUC)*
The indicator lamp comes
This program is designed for
You can respond to unpleas-
on to confirm that the rear
A
rapid removal of ice and con-
ant odors in the outside air
defroster is operating.
At a glance
densation from the windshield and side by temporarily excluding the outside air. The defroster switches off automatically
windows.
The system then recirculates the air
after approx. 15 minutes.
Air conditioner
currently within the vehicle.
BMW Convertible: Heated rear-window
Press the button repeatedly to run
blower.
The air conditioner cools and
The rear-window blower is always
Controls
through the following control sequence:
dehumidifies incoming air
d Indicator lamps off: outside air flow
switched off with the convertible top
before reheating it to the selected tem-
operational.
down.
perature.
When the hardtop* is in place, press
d
Depending on the weather, the wind-
Left-hand indicator lamp on AUC
the rear-window heating button.
shield may fog over briefly when the
mode: the system detects pollutants
Car care
engine is started.
in the outside air and responds by
Temperature
Switching off the air conditioner at out-
deactivating the outside air flow as
On both the driver's and the
side temperatures below approx. 41 5F
required. The system then recircu-
passenger's side you can
(56) will prevent the windows from
lates the air currently within the vehi- adjust the specific temperature. The fig-
Repairs
fogging up.
cle.
ures in the display provide a general
Frequently switching the air condi-
d Right-hand indicator lamp on: the
indication of interior temperature. We
tioner on and off may also promote the
flow of outside air into the vehicle is
recommend 70 5F (226) as a standard
formation of condensation on the win-
permanently blocked. The system
setting for comfortable travel, both with
dow surfaces.
then recirculates the air currently
and without the air conditioner. When
Technical
within the vehicle.
b
you start the vehicle, the system
Condensation forms in the air
ensures that the selected temperature
conditioner system during operation,
aIf the windshields fog over in circu- is achieved as quickly as possible and
which then exits under the vehicle. It is
lated air mode, switch off the circulated maintained at a constant level by the
Data
not unusual for a small puddle to form
air mode/Automatic recirculated air
control.
there.c
control and increase the air supply. if
necessary.c
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

92 Automatic climate control
Air supply
Microfilter
3
2
1
The microfilter removes dust and pollen
In the AUTO mode, the air
from the incoming air. The filter is
supply is controlled automat-
changed by your BMW Retailer when
ically and AUTO appears in display 3,
you bring your vehicle for maintenance.
refer to the summary on page 90. Using
A substantial reduction in air flow indi-
"+" and "" you can vary the air flow.
cates that the filter needs to be
Your setting is indicated by bars, the
replaced prematurely.
automatic control is switched off. You
can reactivate it by pressing the AUTO
key.
360de056
When you press "-" during operation at
minimum blower speed all displays are
Draft-free ventilation
canceled: the fan, heating and air con-
You can adjust the vent outlets for the
ditioner are switched off, the air supply
upper body area to select the optimum
is blocked. By pressing on any key of
airflow rates and directions for your
the air conditioning you can again
own personal requirements:
engage the system.
Use rotary controls 1 to open and close
Effective heating and cooling is ensured the vents throughout and infinitely-vari-
at a medium blower speed.
able range. Use the levers 2 to adjust
the direction of the air flow.
The rotary control 3 allows you to mix
the air from the outlets for your upper
body by warming or cooling it as
desired:
Turn toward blue colder
Turn toward red
warmer
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

BMW Hi-Fi System*
Glove compartment
93
Rechargeable flashlight
The connection for the rechargeable
flashlight is located on the left side of
the glove compartment.
At a glance
1
The flashlight features overcharging
HIFI
protection, so it can be left in its holder
continuously.
2
However, it must be removed when the
Controls
battery is disconnected or removed.
360de057
360de058
aEnsure that the flashlight is off be-
BMW Hi-Fi System (Harman/
To open
fore inserting it in its holder.c
Kardon)
Car care
Press the button and fold down the
1 On
door.
2 Off
The glove compartment lamp switches
In the "On" position, the listener is given on from ignition key position 1.
the impression of a considerably larger
Repairs
To close
passenger compartment with an
Fold up door.
improved stereo effect in all seats.
This function should be switched off in
To engage locks
the case of poor radio reception due to Only possible with a master key.
Technical
the frequent changes between stereo
and mono which result.
aTo reduce the risk of injury, always
BMW Convertible:
close the glove compartment immedi-
You do not have to operate the con-
ately after use.c
Data
trols. The system detects whether the
top is open or closed and regulates the
sound automatically.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

94 Ashtray
Coin box, cup holder
Cigarette lighter
1
2
3
1 2
3
4
5
6
AUTO
A
AUTO
11
10
9
8
7
360us315
360us318
360de060
To open
The components ashtray (1), coin box
Press in. Remove as soon as the lighter
Press against the recess (arrow).
(2) and the two cup holders (3) can be
jumps back out.
arranged as you wish.
To extinguish a cigarette, tap off the ash
aAlways hold the hot lighter by its
and gently press the tip into the funnel.
Simultaneously press lightly on the
ribbed surfaces (arrows) of the desired
plastic knob, as otherwise serious
To empty
components and pull them upward.
burns could result.
Press on the edge of the lid with the
The cigarette lighter remains opera-
Replace the components in the bracket
ashtray open: the ashtray insert pops
tional when the ignition key has been
in the desired arrangement and clip into
up and can be removed.
removed. For this reason, children
place.
should never be left in the car unat-
The rear ashtray is operated in the
tended.c
same manner.
Cigarette lighter socket
Suitable for attaching power supplies
for flashlights, car vacuum cleaners,
etc., up to a rating of approximately
200 watts at 12 volts.
Inserting plugs of a different shape or
size may damage the socket.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Center armrest (rear)*
Through-loading system*
Ski bag*
95
Pull the strap to fold down the armrest.
It makes possible a safe, convenient
To open drawer*:
transport of 3 to a maximum of 4 pairs
of skis (BMW Convertible, maximum of
Unlock and pull out the drawer by pull-
2 pairs of skis).
ing on the drawer handle. The drawer
At a glance
locks in any position. The cup holder
The length of the ski bag in combination
can be shifted as necessary.
with the additional space in the luggage
compartment makes it possible to trans-
BMW Convertible
port skis of up to 6.8 ft. (2.10 m) in
Vehicles without ski bag*: Storage
length. Because the ski bag contracts
Controls
compartment, accessible by removing
as additional skis are inserted, the bag
360de027
the filler piece and releasing the trim
BMW Sedan/ Coupe
is suitable for transporting only two
(refer to page 97).
pairs of skis when both are a maximum
The rear backrest is divided in the cen-
of 6.8 ft. (2.10 m) long.
ter. Each side can be folded down sep-
Car care
If the ski bag is not used for longer peri-
arately to carry long objects.
ods, it should be stored in a dry place.
To release:
It is advisable to wipe off any water
Reach into the handle recess, press
which has collected on the waterproof
down and pull forward.
ski bag from time to time.
Repairs
When folding back the rear backrest,
make sure that the locking device is
aThe ski bag must not hinder the
properly engaged to ensure proper
driver during driving.c
operation of the safety belt. The red
slide must move downward.
Technical
If the rear backrest is not locked, the
safety belt can not be pulled out.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

96 Ski bag*
1
3
2
360de065
360de066
360de067
BMW Sedan - loading the ski bag
Press the round button to unlock the
Use the magnetic retainers to attach the
Fold down the center armrest. Detach
cover panel in the luggage compart-
cover panel to the lower side of the rear
from the mounts (1) with one hand,
ment.
shelf within the luggage compartment.
press slightly toward the rear with the
Then unhook the retaining strap at the
Please ensure that the skis are clean
other hand (2) and remove upward.
top and fold it down.
before loading them into the bag. Take
Detach the VelcroŽ strip at the top of
Extend the ski sack between the front
care to avoid damage from sharp
the cut-out trim and lay it on the seat.
seats. The zipper provides convenient
edges.
access to the inside of the sack, and
For general information on the ski bag,
b
can also be left open to promote drying. refer to page 95.
When reinstalling the center arm-
rest, guide it into position from above,
then apply downward pressure until you
hear it snap into position (3).c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Ski bag*
97
At a glance
Controls
36cde003
36cde004
36cde005
BMW Convertible - loading the ski Detach cut-out trim at bottom.
Open the cover panel from the luggage
bag
compartment and use the magnetic
Car care
Extend the ski sack between the front
Removing filler piece.
seats. The zipper provides convenient
retainers to attach it to the lower side of
access to the inside of the sack, and
the rear shelf within the luggage com-
can also be left open to promote drying. partment.
Repairs
b
b
When remounting the trim, press it
Secure the stored skis or other
firmly onto the guide rod at the bot-
objects by tightening down the strap on
tom.c
the ski bag at the buckle.c
For general information on the ski bag,
Technical
refer to page 95.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

98 Cargo loading
Stowing a load
a
If you are transporting a load in your
Always position and secure the
BMW
load correctly, otherwise it can endan-
d
ger the passengers in the event of brak-
Stow a heavy load as far forward as
ing or swerving.
possible - directly behind the back-
Do not exceed the permissible gross
rests or the front wall of the luggage
weight and axle load (refer to page 163),
compartment - and on the floor.
d
otherwise the vehicle's operating safety
Cover sharp edges and corners.
d
is no longer assured and does not com-
Do not pile objects higher than the
ply with traffic laws.
top edge of the backrest.
360us316
d
Do not stow heavy or hard objects in the
If the load is heavy and the rear seat
passenger compartment, otherwise
is unoccupied, put the outer safety
they would be thrown around during
belt in its lock.
Securing load
d
braking and evasive maneuvers and en-
Secure smaller, lighter items with
danger the occupants.c
retaining straps or draw straps (refer
to page 34).
d For large, heavy items, see your
BMW Retailer for load-securing
devices*. The lashing eyes on the
corners of the luggage compartment
are used to attach these straps.
d Observe the information enclosed
with the load-securing devices.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

99
Special operating instructions:
Under the hood:
At a glance
Break-in procedures
100
Hood
118
Driving notes
100
Engine compartment
120
Catalytic converter
102
Washer fluids
124
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
103
Engine oil
124
At a glance
Disc brakes
104
Coolant
127
Controls and features
Brake system
105
Brake fluid
128
Winter driving
105
Power steering fluid
128
Roof-mounted luggage rack
107
Vehicle Identification Number
118
Controls
Radio reception
108
Care and maintenance:
Cellular phones
108
Care and maintenance
The BMW Maintenance
Hardtop Convertible
109
System
130
Technical modifications to
Caring for your car
131
the vehicle
110
Car care
Cleaning and care of the
Wheels and tires:
convertible top
136
Owner service procedure
Tire inflation pressures
111
Vehicle storage
137
Tire tread
111
Tire replacement
112
Repairs
Interaxle tire changes
112
The right choice
113
Advanced technology
Winter tires
114
Approved wheels and tires
115
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

100 Break-in procedures
Driving notes
To ensure that your vehicle provides
Tires
Engine
maximum economy throughout a long
Due to technical factors associated with Do not allow the engine to warm to its
service life, we request that you
their manufacture, tires do not achieve
normal operating temperature by leav-
observe the following.
their full traction potential until an initial ing it idling with the vehicle parked.
Engine and differential
break-in period has elapsed. This
However, when starting in extremely
means that you should drive with addi-
Up to 1,250 miles (2,000 km):
cold weather it is a good idea to allow
tional caution for the first 200 miles
the engine to run at fast idle for about
Drive at different engine speeds and
(300 km).
30 seconds before getting underway;
vehicle speeds, but be careful not to
this precaution ensures adequate lubri-
exceed the following engine speed:
Brake system
cation.
4,500 rpm
Brake pads and disks attain their opti-
mal wear patterns only after approx.
Avoid high engine speeds while the
Refrain from using full throttle and avoid 300 miles (500 km).
engine is still cold; this helps avoid pre-
pressing the accelerator beyond the
mature wear and reduced service life.
kickdown point.
When driving under high engine loads
After 1,250 miles (2,000 km) you can
(acceleration, steep hills), try to keep
gradually increase the number of revo-
the engine running above 1,500 rpm.
lutions or the speed.
We recommend downshifting into a
You should also observe these break-in
more suitable range, especially when
procedures if the engine or differential
driving up extended inclines.
is replaced later in the course of the
It is a good idea to follow extended
vehicle service life.
periods of low-speed operation (dense
urban traffic, stop-and-go driving) by
maintaining an engine speed consis-
tently above 3,000 rpm for several
miles. This procedure helps prevent
deposits from accumulating in the
engine.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Driving notes
101
Clutch
Water on the roads:
Depress the clutch throughout its com-
When driving through water (maximum
plete travel range to shift gears. Do not depth one foot = 30 cm) always drive at
"ride" the clutch by driving with your
walking speed, otherwise damage to
the engine, the electrical system and
At a glance
foot resting against the pedal.
the transmission can occur.
a
Rear window shelf:
Brakes:
Never use the rear window shelf to
Do not drive with your foot resting on the store heavy or bulky objects. They
Controls
brake pedal. Even light but consistent
could pose a danger to the occupants
pedal pressure can lead to high temper- when the car is braked heavily.
atures, brake wear and possibly even
brake failure.
Clothes hooks:
When suspending clothing from the
Aquaplaning:
Car care
hooks, ensure that they will not obstruct
A wedge of water can form between
the driver's vision. Refrain from hanging
tires and road surface when you oper-
heavy objects from the hooks, as these
ate the vehicle on wet or slushy roads.
could cause personal injury when the
This phenomenon is referred to as
car is braked heavily.c
aquaplaning, or hydroplaning, and it is
Repairs
characterized by a partial or complete
loss of contact between the tires and
the road surface. The ultimate results
are loss of steering and braking control.
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

102 Catalytic converter
The catalytic converter reduces harmful a
Traveling abroad
exhaust emissions.
Always observe the above points
Always make sure that unleaded fuel
It is designed for use with unleaded fuel to prevent unburned mixture from
meeting your engine's octane require-
only.
entering the catalytic converter. This
ments will be available when planning
Even minute quantities of lead would be could result in overheating, leading to
trips outside the country. The use of
enough to permanently damage both
serious damage.
fuel failing to meet the official octane
the catalytic converter and the system's High temperatures occur on all vehicles requirements could result in engine
oxygen sensor.
equipped with a catalytic converter.
damage.
Heat shields are installed adjacent to
To ensure efficient, trouble-free engine
If you are considering traveling to a
some sections of the exhaust system.
operation and avoid potential damage:
country in which unleaded fuel is not
Never remove these shields; do not
d Always have your car serviced in
readily available, please remember that
apply undercoating to their surfaces.
accordance with maintenance
leaded fuel will destroy the lambda oxy-
When driving, standing at idle or park-
instructions.
gen sensor and the catalytic converter
ing the vehicle, take care to avoid con-
d Never continue driving until the fuel
on your BMW. After operation on
tact between the exhaust system and
tank is empty.
leaded fuel, your vehicle will no longer
flammable materials (e.g., grass, hay,
d Respond to engine miss by switching
meet American and Canadian exhaust
leaves, etc.). Such contact could lead to
off the engine at once.
emission standards, and there will also
a fire, resulting in personal injury and
d Never tow-start the car unless the
be a loss of fuel economy. Upon your
property damage.c
engine is cold, or else unburned fuel
return to the US or Canada, you will be
may reach the catalytic converter.
expected to comply with legal ordi-
Better yet: use jumper cables!
nances requiring that you replace both
d Avoid other situations in which the
the oxygen sensor and the catalytic
fuel would not be (completely)
converter, and to have the fuel system
burned, for instance:
flushed to remove any traces of leaded
Frequent, extended, or repeated
fuel.
starting attempts during which the
engine fails to start. (Switching off
and restarting a healthy engine
causes no damage).
Never let the engine run with any of
the spark-plug cables disconnected.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Antilock Brake System (ABS)
103
ABS enhances active safety by helping
Driving with ABS
On road surfaces featuring a loose top
to prevent the wheels from locking under The yellow ABS warning in the instru-
layer on a firmer substratum, e.g., on
braking. When the front wheels slide, the ment panel goes out as soon as the
gravel or snow, the braking distances
driver loses steering control over the
engine is started.
with ABS may be longer than with the
vehicle. Traction loss at the rear wheels
wheels locked. However, ABS continues
At a glance
The system becomes operative once the
can cause the rear end to break into
to provide enhanced vehicle and steer-
vehicle exceeds a speed of 5 mph
uncontrolled oversteer.
ing control under these conditions.
(8 km/h). The ABS is deactivated when-
ABS is designed to meet two essential
ever the vehicle's speed drops below
a
requirements during every application:
approx. 2 mph (3 km/h). This means that
To ensure that the system remains
Controls
d to help provide vehicle stability on all
the wheels can lock in the final phase of completely operational, never modify the
types of road surface (asphalt,
a braking action - a factor of no signifi-
ABS. Service procedures on ABS are to
cement, dirt, moisture, snow and ice).
cance in actual practice.
be performed by authorized technicians
d to help to retain steering and maneu-
only.c
The ABS system closed-loop control cir-
Car care
vering capability under the same con-
cuit cycles in fractions of a second. A
ABS may fail to function with maximum
ditions.
pulsation at the brake pedal indicates to efficiency when tires of different sizes
However, certain important consider-
the driver that ABS is active, that is, that
are mounted (e.g., winter tires/spare tire;
ations must be borne in mind in connec- the car is within its maximum braking
remount the correct tires at all wheels as
tion with these requirements:
range. In addition, the audible pulsation
soon as possible).
Repairs
Not even ABS can suspend the normal
that accompanies the control operation
In the event of a fault, the ABS warning
laws of physics. ABS alone can not pre-
calls your attention to the reduced trac-
lamp in the instrument cluster lights up,
vent accidents when the brakes are
tion between tires and road surface
refer to page 18. The braking system
applied without an adequate safety
(marginal adhesion), and reminds you
then reverts to conventional operation as
interval between vehicles, when the car
that the vehicle's speed should be
Technical
on a vehicle without ABS. However,
reaches excessive rates of lateral accel-
reduced to adapt to road conditions.
have the brake system checked by your
eration in curves, or if aquaplaning
BMW Retailer as soon as possible. To
occurs. Responsibility for these types of
prevent undetected defects and cumu-
situations remains in the hands (and feet)
lative faults from adversely affecting the
Data
of the driver. You should never allow the
brake system, refer any problems to
added safety of ABS to lull you into a
your authorized BMW Retailer at the
false sense of security, or mislead you
earliest opportunity.
into taking increased risks that could
affect your own safety and that of others.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

104 Disc brakes
Disc brakes furnish optimum decelera-
Driving notes
Should engine braking prove inade-
tion and braking control as well as
While driving in wet conditions and in
quate, you should still avoid extended,
greater fade resistance under heavy
heavy rain, it is a good idea to apply
continuous braking. Instead of main-
use.
light pressure to the brake pedal every
taining low to moderate pressure over
Limited vehicle use, extended periods
few miles - Watch traffic conditions to
an extended period of time, you should
with the car parked or in storage and
ensure that this maneuver does not
decelerate the vehicle by applying more
light loading will increase the tendency
endanger other road users. The heat
substantial force at the pedal (watch for
for corrosion to form on the rotors, and generated in this braking process helps following traffic!) and then pausing
dirt to accumulate on the pads. This
dry the brake pads and rotors.
before repeating the application. This
happens because the minimum pres-
Maximum braking force is obtained
staggered braking technique allows the
sure between the pad and the disc
while the wheels continue to rotate,
brakes to cool in the intervals between
required for the self-cleaning function
peaking when the wheels remain on the active braking phases, preventing over-
of the disc brakes is not achieved.
verge of locking without actually doing
heating and ensuring that full braking
capacity remains available at all times.
If the brake rotors are corroded, they
so. ABS maintains this state automati-
will tend to respond to braking with a
cally. If the ABS fails, you should revert a
pulsating effect which even extended
to the staggered braking technique
Do not allow the vehicle to coast by
application will fail to cure.
described above (refer to page 106).
pressing down the clutch pedal or shift-
Extended or steep mountain descents
ing into neutral while underway. Never
a
do not necessarily have to lead to
drive with the engine switched
Use only original BMW-approved
reduced braking efficiency; downshift
off (!). The engine provides no braking
brake pads, as otherwise vehicle autho- to a gear in which only minimal periodic effect when the clutch is disengaged or
rization is no longer valid.c
brake applications are required (you
the transmission is in neutral, and there
can move the selector lever to the
is no power-assist for brakes and steer-
appropriate lower range if your car is
ing when the engine is not running.
equipped with an automatic transmis-
Never allow floor mats, carpets or other
sion).
objects to protrude into the area around
You can further increase the engine's
the accelerator, clutch and brake pedals
braking effect by selecting a lower gear, and obstruct their movement.c
downshifting as far as first gear or plac-
ing the selector lever in position 1 (2).
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Brake system
Winter driving
105
Failure of one brake circuit
The onset of winter is often accompa-
Snow chains
Pedal travel increases, more pressure is nied by rapid changes in weather.
BMW snow chains* can be mounted on
required at the pedal.
Adaptations in driving style should be
both summer and winter tires. Mount
accompanied by preparations on the
The remaining circuit continues to pro-
them in pairs on the rear wheels only
vehicle itself to ensure that your
At a glance
vide good braking response.
and observe the manufacturer's safety
progress through the winter remains
precautions. Do not exceed a maximum
a
safe and trouble-free.
speed of 30 mph (50 km/h). For maxi-
In the event of any malfunction in
Coolant
mum traction, deactivate ASC+T when
the brake system, consult the nearest
Ensure that the coolant contains the
driving with snow chains mounted, refer
Controls
BMW Retailer as soon as possible.c
year-round 50:50 ratio of water and
to page 84.
antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor. This
Starting off
mixture provides protection against
When driving off in deep snow or "rock-
freezing down to approximately -345F
ing" the vehicle to free it, you should
Car care
(-376). Replace the coolant every
switch off ASC+T, refer to page 84.
three years.
Locks
Driving on low-traction road
surfaces
can be made operative again using
BMW lock de-icer. This de-icer also
Operate the accelerator pedal sensi-
Repairs
contains lubricants.
tively, avoid high engine speeds and
In addition, a treatment with BMW lock
shift up to the next-higher gear early.
cylinder grease is recommended.
Shift down into the next lowest gear
when approaching uphill or downhill
Rubber seals and components
Technical
grades. Maintain an adequate distance
To prevent the weather-stripping from
between yourself and the car ahead.
freezing, apply a spray-on rubber treat-
ment or silicone spray to the door, hood
and luggage compartment lid seals.
Data
bA complete range of car-care
products is available from any autho-
rized BMW Retailer.c
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

106 Winter driving
Brakes
a
Parking
Winter road conditions substantially
Never downshift to exploit engine Select 1st or reverse gear. If your car is
reduce the amount of traction available braking when driving on slippery road
equipped with an automatic transmis-
between the tires and the road surface; surfaces; it could lead to loss of rear-
sion, select Park. Engage the parking
the resulting - considerable - increases wheel traction and endanger vehicle
brake when parking on hills and
in braking distance should be continu-
control. ABS and ASC+T can not protect inclined surfaces. To prevent frost and
ally borne in mind.
against such loss of traction, since they corrosion from locking the parking
have no effect on this kind of decelera-
ABS is intended to prevent the wheels
brake liners at the drum, you can dry
tion.c
from locking under braking; to help the
them by gently pulling up the lever
vehicle to remain stable and sensitive to b
while stopping (ensure that you do not
steering. Should the ABS fail, with lock-
Disengage the clutch during hard
endanger following traffic).
ing wheels as a result: Reduce the
braking on road surfaces affording only a
pressure on the brake pedal until the
poor or uneven traction.c
The brake lamps do not light up
wheels just start to roll again while still
Loss of lateral traction (sliding)
when the parking brake is applied.c
maintaining enough force to continue
braking. Then increase the pressure,
Release the accelerator pedal and
release the pressure when the wheels
depress the clutch pedal or push the
lock, reapply pressure, etc.
selector lever to position N with auto-
matic transmission. Countersteer care-
This staggered braking procedure will
fully and attempt to regain control of the
reduce stopping distances while help-
vehicle.
ing you maintain steering control.
It can allow you to steer around hazards
once you have reduced the pressure on
the brake pedal.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Roof-mounted luggage rack*
107
A special luggage system is available as Secure the roof luggage correctly and
an option for your BMW. Please
securely to prevent it from shifting or
observe the precautions included with
being lost during driving (danger to fol-
the installation instructions.
lowing traffic).
At a glance
Because roof racks raise the center of
Drive smoothly: avoid sudden accelera-
gravity of the car when loaded, they
tion and braking maneuvers; corner
exercise a major effect on its handling
gently.
and steering response.
The roof load increases the surface
You should therefore always remember area exposed to the wind: increased
Controls
not to exceed the approved roof weight, fuel consumption and stress on the roof
the approved gross vehicle weight or
are the immediate results.
the axle weights when loading the rack.
For specifications refer to "Technical
Car care
data", page 163ff.
Make sure that the load is not too heavy,
and attempt to distribute it evenly.
Always load the heaviest items first (on
the bottom).
Repairs
Make sure there is sufficient space to
raise the sliding/tilt sunroof.
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

108 Radio reception
Cellular phones*
The reception and sound quality
Mobile communications devices (mo-
obtained from mobile radios varies
bile phones, two-way radios, etc.) not
according to a variety of factors, includ- specifically designed for use in your car
ing the broadcast range of the transmit- may trigger malfunctions in other vehic-
ter and the directional orientation of the ular systems. BMW can neither test nor
antenna.
assume responsibility for every individ-
Interference factors such as high-ten-
ual product being offered on the mar-
sion power lines, buildings and natural
ket. We recommend that you consult
obstructions can all lead to unavoidable your BMW Retailer before purchasing
reception interference, regardless of
any device of this kind.
how well the vehicle's sound system is
To ensure that your BMW continues to
operating.
provide reliable and trouble-free opera-
Climatic factors such as intense solar
tion, refrain from using a cellular tele-
radiation, fog, rain and snow can also
phone or other radio device with an
interfere with reception.
antenna located inside the passenger
compartment. The antenna should
Cellular telephones without official BMW always be mounted on the outside of
approval can generate radio interfer-
the vehicle.
ence. This is noticeable e.g., as a low-
pitched hum in the loudspeakers.
bBefore loading the vehicle on a
Please refer to the supplementary oper- train or driving it through a car-wash,
ating instructions provided with your
remove the antenna.c
sound system for detailed information
on its use.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Hardtop*  Convertible
109
Even in winter, when the hardtop may
be in constant use, the fabric top does
not need to be removed. Before storing
the fabric top in the convertible top
compartment, it must be absolutely dry
At a glance
to prevent the formation of water and
mildew spots.
Two persons are required for mounting
and removal. Use extreme care when
Controls
working to prevent paint damage and
36cde018
36cde019
damage to the body and hardtop.
To make it easier to mount and remove
the hardtops, you can purchase a spe-
Mounting
Before positioning the hardtop on the
car, fold down the covers below the
Car care
cially developed hardtop lift* from your Lower the side windows and remove
BMW Retailer.
the rod antenna if necessary to prevent interior lamps at the left and right and
damage.
open the locking levers outward.
Unlock the convertible top compart-
Now, with somebody else's help, posi-
ment lid on vehicles with manual con-
tion the hardtop on the mounts.
Repairs
vertible top operation, or open the con-
Close the locking lever at the back by
vertible top compartment lid slightly
turning it inward (arrow) up to the stop
with the convertible top operating but-
behind the trim.
ton on vehicles with electric convertible As with the fabric top, fold out the lock-
top operation, as illustrated.
Technical
ing handle inside and lock the hardtop
Remove the trim pieces on both sides
at the front by turning the handle until it
and then close the convertible top com- audibly engages.
partment lid again.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

110 Hardtop*  Convertible
Technical modifications to the vehicle
a
Any BMW Service station will gladly
Do not lift the hardtop by the seals. provide information on the purpose of
Accidentally shifted or pulled-out seals
technical modifications to the car, the
cause leaks.c
legal position and the manufacturer's
recommendations. For this purpose,
Remove
the Retailer requires the Vehicle Identi-
Proceed as for mounting, however in
fication Number and, in some cases,
the reverse order.
also the engine number.
Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
Control units, displays and other interior
equipment of your vehicle have LED's
behind protective lenses as a light
source. These LEDs resemble conven-
tional lasers and are classified by law as
"Class 1 light-emitting diodes".
aDo not remove the protective
lens and avoid staring directly at the
unfiltered beam for extended periods
(several hours), as inflammation of the
iris could result.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Tire inflation pressures
Tire tread
111
Information for your safety
Tire tread - tire damage
Unusual vibrations encountered during
The factory-approved radial tires have
Inspect your tires frequently for tread
normal vehicle operation can indicate
been selected to provide optimum
wear, signs of damage and for foreign
tire failure or some other vehicle defect,
safety and driving comfort on your vehi- objects lodged in the tread. Check the
as can variations in normal vehicle
response, such as a pronounced ten-
At a glance
cle.
tread depth.
dency to pull to the left or right. Should
In a very real sense, both tire life and
The tread depth should not be less than this occur, you should respond by
your own safety are riding on correct
0.12 in (3 mm). Otherwise there is an
immediately reducing your speed and
tire specifications and inflation pres-
increased risk of aquaplaning, even at
carefully proceeding to the nearest
sures.
relatively moderate speeds and with
Controls
BMW Retailer or professional tire cen-
Incorrect inflation pressures are a fre-
only small amounts of water on the
ter, or having the vehicle towed in to
quent cause of tire damage. To a great
road.
have it and its tires inspected.
extent it also influences the ability of
We recommend that you always replace Tire damage (up to and including blow-
your BMW to hold the road.
the tires once the tread wears to 0.12 in outs) can endanger the lives of both the
Car care
(3 mm). Once the tread has worn to
a
vehicle occupants and other road
0.063 in (1.6 mm), tread depth indica-
Check the tire pressures also in
users.c
tors appear.
the spare tire at least every two weeks,
and before every extended trip.
a
Repairs
Incorrect inflation pressures can also
Never continue driving on a deflat-
lead to tire damage and accidents.c
ed (flat) tire. A flat tire greatly impairs
steering and braking response, and can
lead to complete loss of control over the
vehicle.
Technical
Avoid overloading the vehicle so that the
permitted load on the tires is not ex-
ceeded. This can cause overheating and
gradual internal damage. The ultimate
result can assume the form of a sudden
Data
air loss.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

112 Tire replacement
Interaxle tire changes
To maintain good handling and vehicle
Tread wear patterns differ at the front
Always replace tires after 10 years,
response, use only tires of a single
and rear wheels according to the indi-
regardless of use or tread wear.
tread configuration from a single manu-
vidual operating conditions. In the inter- Spare tires over 6 years old should be
facturer.
est of safety and optimal vehicle
used only in case of emergency. Such a
response, we advise against rotating
a
tire should be replaced by a new tire
tires from front to rear and vice versa.
Do not use retreaded tires, as oth-
immediately, and should not be fitted
erwise driving safety may be impaired.
When considering the potential eco-
together with new tires.
This is due to the possible variations in
nomic benefits of interaxle tire rotation, The date on which the tire was manu-
casing structures and, in some cases, to you must decide whether the expense
factured is indicated by the code on
their extreme age, which can lead to a
of having the tires rotated is likely to be the sidewall: DOT ... 327 indicates that
decrease in their durability.c
amortized during the anticipated exten-
the tire was manufactured in Week 32
sion in tire life. We recommend that you of 1997.
discuss the matter with your BMW
Retailer.
Should you decide in favor of rotating
the tires, it is essential to observe the
following:
Leave the tires on the same side of the
vehicle (include spare in rotation pat-
tern as desired).
Braking response and traction may be
adversely affected.
Rotation should always be carried out
at short intervals, max. 3000 miles
(approx. 5000 km).
Following rotation always correct the
tire inflation pressure.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

The right choice
113
Tires and wheels
The speed rating indicates the
Use only BMW-approved tires.
approved maximum speed for the tire.
Due to the high speeds which this vehi- Summer tires:
cle can reach, the use of specific
S
= up to
112 mph (180 km/h)
At a glance
brands, specifications and dimensions
T
= up to
118 mph (190 km/h)
is mandatory. Consult any BMW
H
= up to
130 mph (210 km/h)
Retailer for details.
V
= up to 149 mph (240 km/h)
Observe national, provincial and state
W = up to
167 mph (270 km/h)
regulations.
ZR = over
149 mph (240 km/h)
Controls
The tire codes will aid you in selecting
Winter tires:
the correct tire. The essential data for
Q M+S = up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
radial tires are as follows:
T M+S = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)
H M+S = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)
Car care
Example:
205/60 R 15 91 H
Codes on steel/light-alloy wheels:
Nominal width
7 J x 15 H 2
in mm
Hump width (inches)
Aspect ratio in %
Repairs
Code letter for
Type of radial-code
flange type
letter for radial
Denotes
Rim diameter in inches
drop-center rim
Load rating
Rim diameter (inches)
Technical
(not on ZR tires)
Hump of 2 rim shoulders
Speed rating
Use screw-on valve stem caps to
(before R on ZR tires)
protect the tire valves against dirt. Dirt
in the valves frequently leads to slow
Data
leaks.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

114 Winter tires
We recommend winter tires (M+S radial Winter tires display a perceptible loss in
tires) for operation under inclement win- their ability to cope with winter driving
ter driving conditions. Although all-sea-
conditions once the tread wears to
son M+S tires provide better winter
below 0.16 in (4 mm), and should thus
traction than standard summer tires
be replaced.
with H, V, W and ZR speed ratings, they
Observe the specified tire inflation
generally fail to provide the same levels pressures - and be sure to have the
of performance as standard snow tires
wheel and tire assemblies balanced
in winter driving.
every time you change the tires!
If you fit winter tires, install radial tires
of the same tread configuration and
aNever exceed the maximum speed
from a single manufacturer on all four
for which the tires are rated.
wheels (better still: on all five wheels).
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
This ensures safe tracking and steering service tires can lead to damage and ac-
response.
cidents.
Fit BMW-approved winter tires only.
Have this work performed by skilled pro-
Any BMW Retailer will be glad to pro-
fessionals only. Your BMW Retailer will
vide you with information on the best
be glad to assist you.c
winter tires for your particular driving
Store tires in a cool, dry place, away
conditions.
from light whenever possible. Protect
the tires from contact with oil, grease
and fuel.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Approved wheels and tires
115
Tire specifications
Steel rim
Light-alloy wheel
Rim offset
(wheel rim)
(mm)
BMW 318is Coupe, 318i Convertible, 318i Sedan
At a glance
185/65 R 15 88 T
6 J x 15 H2

42
185/65 R 15 88 Q, T M+S
6 J x 15 H2

42
205/60 R 15 91 H
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2
47
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2
47
Controls
225/55 R 15 92 V
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2
47
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S

7 J x 16 H2
45/46
225/50 ZR 16

7 J x 16 H2
45/46
b
The use of fine-link BMW snow chains*
Car care
Size 185/65 R 15 88 T tires are
on summer or winter tires is only per-
only for the BMW 318i Sedan.c
mitted in pairs on the rear wheels.
Always observe the tire manufacturer's
b
safety recommendations when fitting.
Sizes 225/55 R 15 92 V,
225/55 R 92 Q, T, H M+S, 225/50 ZR 16.
Repairs
These tires are not suitable for use with
snow chains.c
Modifications to the vehicle are required
before retrofitting tires in the above
Technical
dimensions.
Please consult your BMW Retailer.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

116 Approved wheels and tires
Tire specifications
Steel rim
Light-alloy wheel
Rim offset
(wheel rim)
(mm)
BMW 323is Coupe, 323i Convertible
185/65 R 15 88 Q M+S
6 J x 15 H2

42
205/60 R 15 91 H
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2
47
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2
47
225/55 R 15 92 V
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2
47
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S

7 J x 16 H2
45/46
225/50 ZR 16

7 J x 16 H2
45/46
b
The use of fine-link BMW snow chains*
Sizes 225/55 R 15 92 V,
on summer or winter tires is only per-
225/55 R 92 Q, T, H M+S, 225/50 ZR 16.
mitted in pairs on the rear wheels.
These tires are not suitable for use with Always observe the tire manufacturer's
snow chains.c
safety recommendations when fitting.
Modifications to the vehicle are required
before retrofitting tires in the above
dimensions.
Please consult your BMW Retailer.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Approved wheels and tires
117
Tire specifications
Steel rim
Light-alloy wheel
Rim offset
(wheel rim)
(mm)
BMW 328is Coupe, 328i Convertible, 328i Sedan
At a glance
205/60 R 15 91 H

7 J x 15 H2
47
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2
47
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S

7 J x 16 H2
45/46
225/50 ZR 16

7 J x 16 H2
45/46
Controls
b
The use of fine-link BMW snow chains*
Size 225/50 ZR 16 tires are not
on summer or winter tires is only per-
suitable for use with snow chains.c
mitted in pairs on the rear wheels.
Modifications to the vehicle are required Always observe the tire manufacturer's
safety recommendations when fitting.
Car care
if retrofitting these tires.
Please consult your BMW Retailer.
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

118 Hood
M W
B
M W
B
360de085
360de307
360de308
Unlocking
To open
To close
Pull the lever located under the left-
Push the release handle at the front
Simultaneously press down both sides
hand side of the instrument panel.
left under the hood upward and open
of the hood; continue pressing until you
a
the hood.
hear the latches engage.
Do not work on your vehicle with-
a
out appropriate skills. Always switch off
Should you determine that the
the engine and allow it to cool down be-
hood is not completely closed while
fore working in the engine compart-
driving, stop immediately and close it
ment.
securely.c
Always disconnect the battery before
working on the electrical system. When
working on the vehicle, follow the rele-
vant instructions and information. When
you are not familiar with the relevant
specifications, have service operations
performed by your authorized BMW Re-
tailer. Failure to proceed in an informed,
professional manner when servicing
components and materials constitutes a
safety hazard for yourself and other us-
ers of the public roads.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

119
At a glance
Controls
Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

120 Engine compartment BMW 318i, 318is
7
1
3
2
6
5
5
4
4
360de090
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Engine compartment BMW 318i, 318is
121
1 Fuse box
2 Brake fluid reservoir
3 Engine oil dipstick
4 Coolant expansion tank
At a glance
5 Engine oil filler neck
6 Supply tank for headlamp washer*
and windshield washer system
Controls
7 Battery
Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

122 Engine compartment BMW 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is
1
2
8
3
6
7
4
5
360de091
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Engine compartment BMW 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is
123
1 Fuse box
2 Engine oil dipstick
3 Brake fluid reservoir
4 Power steering oil reservoir
At a glance
5 Coolant expansion tank
6 Engine oil filler neck
7 Supply tank for headlamp washer*
Controls
and windshield washer system
8 Auxiliary terminal for jump starting
Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

124 Washer fluids
Engine oil
Windshield washer spray
nozzles
The spray from the nozzles should be
directed so as to ensure effective
cleaning, even at high speeds.
Use a needle to adjust the nozzles as
required, or have them adjusted by your
BMW Retailer.
360de100
360de095
Headlamp washer* and
Checking oil level
windshield washer
As with fuel economy, oil consumption
Capacity approx. 2.65 US quarts
is directly influenced by your driving
(2.5 liters) for the windshield washer or
style and vehicle operating conditions.
5.3 US quarts (5 liters) in conjunction
Consequently you should check the oil
with the headlamp cleaning system.
level regularly with the vehicle posi-
Fill with water and - if required - with
tioned on a level surface - approx. every
antifreeze (according to the manufac-
600 miles (1,000 km), or more fre-
turer's recommendations).
quently if your vehicle is driven under
increased demands.
b
To obtain precise readings:
We recommend that you mix the
washer fluid before adding it to the res-
d Check with engine cold, before start-
ervoir.c
ing.
d When checking with the engine
warm, wait briefly for the oil to drain
back down into the oil pan (e.g.,
while refueling).
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Engine oil
125
Measure the oil level:
Engine oil specifications
1 Pull out dipstick and wipe off with a
Always refer to the API specifications
lint-free cloth, paper tissue, etc.
when selecting oil.
2 Push the dipstick all the way into the
Required quality:
At a glance
guide tube and pull it out again.
API SH
3 The oil level should be between the
API-SH/CD
two marks on the dipstick.
API-SH/CE
Viscosity ratings
Controls
Viscosity = Oil flow rating according to
360de096
SAE class.
Select the SAE viscosity rating accord-
Add oil
ing to the average seasonal air temper-
Car care
Wait until the level has dropped to just
ature.
above the lower graduation before add- Consult the table on the following page
ing oil. Never wait until the oil drops
to determine the correct SAE viscosity.
below the lower mark.
You can continue to operate the vehicle
The space between the two marks on
Repairs
for short periods of time at tempera-
the dipstick corresponds to approxi-
tures beyond the range for the SAE rat-
mately 1.1 US quarts (1 liter). Do not fill ing of the oil being used.
to beyond the upper mark on the dip-
stick. Excess oil harms the engine.
A
Because it would be consumed within a
Always observe all environmental
Technical
short period, it would also result in an
protection guidelines and regulations
abnormally high rate of oil consump-
when disposing of used oil.c
tion.
Recommendation: have the oil changed
by your BMW Retailer.
Data
aBMW engines are designed to op-
erate without oil additives; the use of ad-
ditives could lead to damage in some
cases. This also applies to the manual
and automatic transmissions, the differ-
Index
ential and the power steering system.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

126 Engine oil
a
°
Continuous exposure to used oil
C
°F
has caused cancer in laboratory testing.
Any skin areas that come in contact with
30
oil should be thoroughly washed with
soap and water.
80
Always store oil, grease, etc., out of
reach of children. Observe all warning
20
labels and information on lubricant
60
le
containers.
.
rab
If you use SAE 15W-40 engine oil in low
e
10
temperatures below 145F (-10 6) the
15W - 40
engine may become difficult to start.c
40
0
20
-10
5W - 30
0
Special - Oils* most pref
-20
-20
-30
* Special engine oils individually
SERVICE
I
S
P
G
approved by BMW are the most suited
A
SAE
to your engine. Please contact your
EN
5W-30
II
E
G
BMW Retailer for details.
RGY CONSERVIN
365us312
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Coolant
127
To add coolant
Long-term antifreeze and corrosion
Wait until the engine cools before re-
protectant contains the flammable
moving the cap from the expansion
substance ethylene glycol. You should
tank. Before unscrewing the cap, en-
therefore avoid spilling it on hot engine
components, as it could catch fire and
At a glance
sure that the needle on the temperature
gauge is in the blue sector to avoid
cause serious burns.c
scalding.
A
d Start by turning the cap counter-
Observe the applicable environ-
clockwise. Pause to allow any accu-
mental protection laws when disposing
Controls
mulated pressure to escape, then
of used antifreeze.c
360de099
open.
d Add coolant up to the KALT/COLD
Coolant level with engine cold: up to
mark. Excess coolant drains off
the KALT/COLD mark on the transpar-
Car care
through the overflow line.
ent coolant expansion tank.
The coolant is a mixture of water and
aDo not add coolant while the
extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion engine is hot.
inhibitor. Always maintain the prescribed To avoid the possibility of damage later
Repairs
all-season 50:50 mixture ratio for year-
on, never use anything other than
round protection against internal corro-
factory-approved nitrite and amino-free
sion. No other additives are required.
long-term antifreeze and corrosion
Replace the coolant every three years.
protectant. Your authorized BMW
Technical
Retailer is familiar with the official
specifications.
Antifreeze with corrosion protectant is
toxic. Always store in original contain-
ers only, keeping them tightly closed.
Data
Store well out of reach of children.
When disposing of it, observe the
applicable environmental protection
laws.
Index
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128 Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
booklet). Brake fluid is toxic, and also at-
tacks vehicle paintwork. Always store in
the original containers, and keep them
tightly closed, out of reach of children.
MAX
When disposing of it, observe the appli-
cable environmental protection laws. Do
MIN
not spill brake fluid and do not fill be-
yond the MAX graduation on the reser-
voir. Should it come into contact with
hot engine components, the brake fluid
360de098
could catch fire and cause serious
360de097
burns.c
Warning lamp for brake hydraulic sys-
A
With the engine off, unscrew the reser-
tem lights up:
Please observe the applicable envi-
voir cap, then reinsert it.
Brake fluid loss resulting in extended
ronmental protection laws when dis-
The fluid level should be in between the
pedal travel.
posing of used brake fluid.c
graduations on the dipstick.
Fill up to the upper mark (MAX, level
Use ATF to top up as required. Your
visible from the outside).
BMW Service representative can pro-
Any BMW Retailer can provide you with
vide you with the fluid specifications.
information on factory-approved brake
Start the engine. Pour in more fluid as
fluids (DOT 4).
required, continuing until it reaches to
between the two marks.
aBrake fluid is hygroscopic, i.e., it
Switch off the engine. The fluid may rise
absorbs moisture from the atmosphere
to about 0.2 inches (5 mm) above the
over the course of time. To ensure that
upper mark.
your brake system continues to operate
Screw the reservoir cap back on.
at maximum efficiency, we strongly rec-
ommend that you have the brake fluid
bBMW 318i, 318is: Please contact
changed at a BMW Retailer every two
your BMW Retailer for the required
years (refer to pages 71, 105 and 138
work.c
and to Service and Warranty Information
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Power steering fluid
Vehicle Identification Number
129
High steering effort:
Check oil level, refer to previous page.
High steering effort during sudden tran-
sitions:
At a glance
Please contact your BMW Retailer for
an immediate inspection.
aIf the power steering fails, in-
Controls
creased effort will be required to steer
360de310
the vehicle.c
In the engine compartment on the right-
hand side of the heater partition panel
Car care
(arrow).
The information on the type plate and
the Vehicle Identification Number must
match those contained in the vehicle
Repairs
papers.
These data are essential for processing
inquiries, expediting service procedures
and when ordering replacement parts.
Technical
Data
Index
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130 The BMW Maintenance System
Service Interval Display
Service and Warranty Information
Advanced technology is employed to
booklet
calculate the optimal maintenance
Please refer to the Service and War-
intervals, which are then indicated in
ranty Information booklet for additional
the Service Interval Display. While con-
information on maintenance intervals
ventional maintenance systems rely on
and procedures.
mileage alone to determine when ser-
Depending on operating conditions, as
vice is due, the BMW Maintenance Sys- a precaution against rust it may be a
tem reflects the actual conditions under good idea to have the body checked for
which the vehicle is operated, because stone damage and chips at the same
360us009
mileage is not simply mileage:
time.
From the point of view of maintenance, Please ensure that all maintenance
The BMW Maintenance System has
62,000 miles (100,000 km) accumulated operations are entered in the Service
been designed as a reliable means of
in short-distance driving are not the
and Warranty Information booklet upon
providing the customer with maximum
equivalent of the same distance cov-
completion. These entries will consti-
vehicle safety and reliability with mini-
ered in long-distance highway travel.
tute your proof that the vehicle has
mum complication and expense.
The BMW Maintenance System
received regular maintenance. They
Please remember that regular periodic
includes the Engine Oil Service as well
are also required for warranty claims.
maintenance plays an essential part in
as Inspections I and II.
ensuring continued vehicle security. It
Determining the maintenance intervals
b
also helps maintain the resale value of
according to the actual loads on the car
Have your BMW Retailer carry out
the vehicle.
covers every kind of operating situation.
the maintenance and repair. Your BMW
However, drivers who cover only
Retailer is always informed on the latest
extremely short distances - substantially maintenance work and repair tech-
less than 6,200 miles (10,000 km) annu-
niques and equipped with the required
ally - should have the engine oil changed special tools. In addition, the testing of
at least once a year, as it continues to
parts known from experience to be sub-
age whether or not the car is used on a
ject to wear is a permanent part of the
regular basis.
maintenance specifications.c
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Caring for your car
131
Washing your car
a
In the winter months, it is especially
Right from the start, you can wash your
Always maintain an adequate dis-
important to ensure that the car is
new BMW either by hand or in an auto-
tance between the spray source and the washed on a regular basis. Large quan-
matic car wash. BMW Convertible: For
vehicle's surface when using spray
tities of dirt and road salt are difficult to
remove, and they also cause damage to
At a glance
instructions on cleaning and care of the wands and high-pressure washers. In-
convertible top, refer to page 136 ff.
adequate distance and excessive pres-
the vehicle.
sure can damage or weaken the finish,
To prevent spots, avoid washing when
making it more susceptible to subse-
a
the hood is still warm, or immediately
After washing, the brakes may be
quent attack. In addition, moisture could
after and during exposure to strong
wet and thus less effective! Apply the
Controls
penetrate to vehicle components, lead-
sunlight.
brakes briefly to dry them.c
ing to long-term damage.c
When using an automatic car wash,
Parts of the car which are inaccessible
ensure that
to the automatic washer - such as door
d no damage occurs to vehicles with
sills, door and hood edges, etc. -
Car care
add-on body elements (e.g., spoilers, should be cleaned by hand.
telephone aerials). Consult the car
wash operator if necessary
b
d the vehicle is cleaned with minimum
Please observe the following
brush pressure, and that ample water when cleaning the headlamp covers:
Repairs
is available for washing and rinsing.
d Do not clean by wiping with a dry
Loosen and remove stubborn dirt and
cloth (scratches). Never use abra-
dead insects before washing the car.
sives or strong solvents to clean the
covers.
Technical
d Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Shampoo and then rinsing with
plenty of water.
d Always use a de-icer spray to remove
Data
accumulated ice and snow Never
use a scraper!c
Index
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132 Caring for your car
Exterior finish
extending beneath the finish, starting at Caring for the vehicle finish
To provide effective corrosion protec-
the point of impact.
As a precaution against damage result-
tion, multilayer paintwork is applied at
Road dirt, tar spots, dead insects, ani-
ing from exposure to aggressive sub-
the factory. Cataphoretic immersion
mal droppings (strong alkali effect) and
stances, we recommend that you wash
priming techniques are supplemented
tree excretions (resins and pollen) all
the car weekly when it is used in an
using special body-cavity protectants,
contain substances capable of causing area with high levels of air pollution or
with the application of specially-devel-
damage when allowed to remain on
aggressive natural substances (tree
oped and extensively tested materials.
your car's finish for any period of time
resin, pollen).
The entire underbody is sprayed with a
(spots, etching, flaking, separation in
Remove particularly aggressive sub-
flexible PVC layer before final compre-
the top coat).
stances immediately in order to prevent
hensive application of a wax-based
In industrial areas, deposits from fly ash, changes to, and discoloration of, the
protectant.
lime, oily soot, sulphur dioxide in pre-
paint. Such substances are e.g., gaso-
Regular maintenance makes an impor-
cipitation (acid rain) and other environ-
line spilled during refueling, oil, grease,
tant contribution to maintaining the
mental pollutants will damage the car's brake fluid and bird droppings.
safety and value of your vehicle.
surface (usually limited to the external
Any contamination remaining on the
horizontal surfaces) unless adequate
Increasing awareness of the effects of
surface of the vehicle will be especially
protection is provided.
harmful environmental factors on vehi-
conspicuous after washing. Use clean-
cle finishes have led paint and vehicle
In coastal regions, high levels of atmo-
ing fluid or alcohol with a clean cloth or
manufacturers to initiate ongoing pro-
spheric salt and humidity promote cor-
cotton pad to remove. You can use tar
grams designed to further improve the
rosion.
remover to remove any spots on the fin-
durability of their finishes. Despite the
In tropical zones, temperatures of over
ish of the vehicle, but should never
high quality of the resulting products,
100 5F (approx. 406) in the shade pre-
apply it or any other aggressive
local and regional factors can still have
vail, in addition to heavy ultraviolet radi-
cleanser to lenses or headlamp covers.
a negative effect on your car's paint-
ation and high humidity. Under those
These areas should then be waxed to
work. These should guide you in deter-
circumstances, light-colored paints
maintain protection.
mining the frequency and extent of your reach temperatures of up to 175 5F
b
efforts to maintain the vehicle finish.
(approx. 806) and dark paints up to
A full range of car-care products is
Depending upon material and type of
250 5F (approx. 1206).
available from your BMW Retailer.c
impact (perforation of paint layer), phys-
ical stresses from sand, road salt,
gravel, etc. can cause corrosion to start
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Caring for your car
133
Waxing your car
Paint damage
Caring for other vehicle compo-
Protect the finish using carnauba or
You can touch up small areas of dam-
nents and materials
synthetic-based waxes only.
age with BMW spray paint, a BWM
Light-alloy wheels* should be treated
The best way to determine when the
touch-up stick or BMW paint tape.
with alloy wheel cleaner, particularly dur-
At a glance
finish needs to be waxed is by noting
The paint color code for your car is pro- ing the winter months. Refrain from using
when water stops beading on the sur-
vided on a sticker located next to the
aggressive products containing acids,
face.
type plate and on the first page of your
strong alkalis or abrasives. Alloy wheels
should not be cleaned with a steam jet
You can use a glass cleaner to remove
Service and Warranty Information book-
let.
operating at temperatures in excess of
Controls
any wax or silicone that may have been
140 5F (606) (note manufacturer's
left on the windows during waxing.
Damage caused by flying stones,
instructions).
b
scratches, etc. must be touched up
You can use window and glass cleaner to
without delay to prevent rust from form-
A full range of car-care products is
clean inside window surfaces and mir-
ing.
available from your BMW Retailer.c
rors without smearing and streaking.
Car care
If corrosion has started to form in an
Never use polishing pastes or abrasive
area with paint damage, remove all rust (quartz) cleansers on mirror lenses.
and clean the area, then prime the area Clean plastic parts, imitation leather sur-
with a BMW Primer Stick. Finally, apply faces, the roof lining, the lenses of lamps,
the finish coat. Wait a few days, then
Repairs
the glass cover of the instrument panel
polish the repaired area. Finish by
and all dull black sprayed parts with
applying a wax preservative.
water or products for the care of plastics.
More extensive paint damage should be Avoid soaking the headliner. Never use
professionally repaired in accordance
solvents such as lacquer thinner, heavy-
Technical
with the manufacturer's instructions.
duty grease remover, fuels, etc.
Your BMW Retailer uses original BMW
Rubber components should be cleaned
finish materials in accordance with offi-
with water only; a rubber treatment or sil-
cial repair procedures.
icone spray may also be applied.
Data
Clean the wiper blades with soapy water.
The wiper blades should be replaced
twice a year, before and after the cold
season.
Index
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134 Caring for your car
The safety belts should be cleaned with Care of upholstery materials
The build-up of an electrostatic charge
a mild soap and water solution without
Depressions resulting in the upholstered on the seat covers, particularly if atmo-
being removed from the car. Never
materials in the course of everyday use spheric humidity is low, can give the
attempt chemical or dry cleaning, as
can be brushed up by brushing with a
occupants an unpleasant electric shock
damage to the belt fabric could result.
lightly dampened brush "against the
if they touch metal body parts after
After cleaning, never allow the inertia
nap".
leaving the vehicle. Although this is not
reel to retract the belts until they are
dangerous in any way, it can be
The tendency of the pile to lie in a par-
completely dry. Dirty safety belts pre-
avoided by touching a bare or polished
ticular direction on velour upholstery is
vent the inertia reel mechanism from
metal part of the car while getting out.
not a quality defect, and, just as on
retracting the strap properly, and thus
home textiles or clothing, can not be
If necessary, anti-static products can
constitute a safety hazard.
avoided.
be used to eliminate this effect to a
Heavily soiled floor carpets and mats*
large extent.
Fuzz on upholstery materials, rubbed-in
can be cleaned with an interior cleaner. fabric or suede residues can be removed
The floor mats can be removed from the with a fuzz or VelcroŽ brush. A cleaning
vehicle for cleaning.
glove is available for particularly "stub-
Please use only a damp cloth to clean
born" fuzz. Stains and fairly large areas
wooden fascia panels and components. of dirt should be cleaned off without
Follow up by drying with a soft cloth.
delay, using lukewarm water and an
b
interior cleaner, stain remover or clean-
Products for cleaning and care are ing-grade benzene. Brush the fabric
available from your BMW Retailer.c
afterwards to restore its appearance.
If the upholstery is to be exposed to
intense sunlight or if the vehicle is to be
stored for an extended period, cover all
seats to prevent fading.
bA full range of car-care products is
available from your BMW Retailer.c
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Caring for your car
135
Leather care
We recommend that you perform this
a
The leather upholstery* used by BMW
procedure twice a year on leather ex-
Cleaning agents can contain dan-
is a natural product of the highest qual-
posed to normal use.
gerous or unhealthy ingredients. There-
ity, processed using state-of-the-art
Spills should be wiped up immediately. fore always observe the warnings and
At a glance
methods to ensure that it will maintain
Remove grease and oil stains without
danger notices on the package.
its high quality for years to come, pro-
rubbing, but rather by dabbing with
Open the doors or windows on your ve-
vided that it is properly cared for.
spot remover.
hicle when cleaning the interior.
Never clean your vehicle with solvents
Because this product is manufactured
If the upholstery is to be exposed to
or other materials not specifically in-
using natural materials, you must make intense sunlight or if the vehicle is to be
Controls
tended for this application.c
allowance for its special characteristics stored for an extended period, cover all
as well as for the peculiarities of its use leather surfaces (or, better yet, the win-
and care.
dows) to prevent fading.
Regular periodic cleaning and care are
Car care
essential, as dust and road dirt act as
abrasives in the pores and creases of
the material. This leads to wear spots
and premature brittleness on the sur-
face of the leather. We therefore sug-
Repairs
gest that you clean the leather with a
vacuum cleaner or dust cloth at frequent
intervals.
For cleaning, use BMW leather cleaning
Technical
foam.
As dirt and grease can slowly attack the
protective layer of the leather, the
cleaned leather surfaces must be
treated with BMW Leather Care. This
Data
serves also as an anti-static agent.
To protect against moisture and water
you can treat the leather with BMW
Impregnating Agent.
Index
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136 Cleaning and care of the convertible top
Care
Besides water, only treat rubber seals
Washing your car
The appearance and life of the convert-
with talcum powder, rubber care prod-
You can wash your BMW Convertible in
ible top are highly dependent on its
ucts or silicone spray, particularly when automatic car washes. Here preference
proper care and operation. You should
they feel dry or tend to stick.
should be given to brushless systems.
pay particular attention to the following Noises, e.g., squeaks, can be elimi-
If a brushless car wash is unavailable
instructions if your care has a light-col-
nated with a lubricant spray.
and brush car wash must be used,
ored top.
Never use sharp-edged objects to
modern systems with soft brushes are
Protect the vehicle from exposure to
clean the rear window of snow and ice. preferable. Do not select special wax-
intense sunlight whenever possible by
The use of de-icing spray is not permit-
ing programs. The small amount of
parking it in the shade to prevent the
ted. Due to the danger of damage and
beading wax always used in automatic
paint, rubber and fabric-covered parts
discoloration, do not apply adhesive
car washes will not harm your vehicle's
from being attacked.
tape, stickers etc. to the window or
finish.
Never fold up the convertible top and
cover it with plastic film.
In the case of more extensive dirt,
store it in the convertible top compart-
The convertible top and its seams may
which is especially visible on light-col-
ment when wet, dirty or frozen, as mil-
become leaky as the result of improper ored top materials, clean the top with
dew stains and rub spots may result.
care and cleaning and from the strain of the BMW Convertible Cleaning Set.
To prevent the formation of a fold in the long use, and depressions and dirt can
Please proceed as follows:
rear window and mildew stains, do not
result. All warranty claims are void in
Spray the top with the cleaning agent
leave the top folded up in the convert-
these cases. Please take your vehicle to and then rub with a well-dampened
ible top compartment for longer peri-
your BMW Retailer for servicing.
sponge using circular motions until a
ods.
foam develops. Then you can finish
If the vehicle is temporarily stored in a
washing the vehicle in an automatic car
close room, ensure that the top is dry
wash. After three to five washings the
and provide sufficient ventilation.
top should be treated with a special
impregnating spray. Please follow the
Clean off bird droppings immediately,
instructions on the spray can.
as they attack the convertible top and
cause the rubber seals to swell due to
their caustic characteristics.
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Cleaning and care of the convertible top
Vehicle storage
137
Never use spot remover, paint thinner,
a
If the vehicle is to be temporarily stored
solvents, gasoline etc. to remove spots
Cleaning agents can contain sub-
for more than three months, have the
from the convertible top and from the
stances that are dangerous or bad for
following maintenance performed by
rear window, as these substances
your health. Therefore always observe
your BMW Retailer:
destroy the rubber seals and lead to
At a glance
the warnings and danger notices on the 1 Cleaning, preservation and retreat-
leaks. Use only BMW-approved clean-
package.
ment of the engine, engine compart-
ers.
Open the doors or windows on your ve-
ment, underbody, axles and
In addition to the advantage of being
hicle when cleaning the interior.
subassemblies in accordance with
extremely flexible, the rear window also Never clean your vehicle with solvents
the factory specifications. Vehicle
Controls
has the disadvantage of having a rela-
or other materials not specifically in-
washing with interior cleaning fol-
tively soft surface. For this reason, only tended for this application.c
lowed by paint and chrome care.
clean the rear window with a soft, anti-
Hardtop:
Clean rubber seals of the hood, lug-
static cloth or with BMW Convertible
gage compartment lid and doors and
Rear Window Cleaner.
Please follow the instructions for car
rub with either talcum powder or
Car care
care from page 131.
If you wash the vehicle frequently in
glycerine oil.
brush car washes, and in particular in
2 Change engine oil and oil filter at
those with hard brushes, faint scratches
operating temperature. As an addi-
in the rear window may result. With the
tional corrosion protection measure,
Repairs
window replacement system you can
an anti-corrosive agent can be added
replace a heavily scratched window at a
to the engine in accordance with the
relatively low price. Please contact your
manufacturer's instructions.
authorized BMW Retailer for additional
3 Check the coolant level and concen-
information.
tration and top up if necessary.
Technical
b
4 Check the acid level in the battery
A full range of car-care products is
cells and add distilled water if neces-
available from your BMW Retailer.c
sary.
5 Increase the tire inflation pressure to
Data
50.9 psi (3.5 bar).
Index
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138 Vehicle storage
Conduct the following work immedi-
Removing vehicle from storage
ately prior to storing the vehicle:
Recharge the battery and replace if
1 Activate the parking brake and foot-
necessary.
brake to dry them; this will prevent
Then have Inspection I carried out by
the brake disks and drums from cor-
your BMW Retailer.
roding.
2 Store the vehicle in a dry, well-venti-
aStorage periods during which the
lated room, shift into reverse gear or
battery is disconnected are not taken
set the selector lever to position P
into consideration by the Service Inter-
and chock the wheels to prevent roll-
val Display for changing the brake fluid.
ing. Do not set the parking brake.
Therefore, make sure that the brake fluid
3 Remove the battery, recharge and
is changed every two years at the latest,
store in a cool, frost-free room.
regardless of the display. Additional
During storage, recharge the battery
notes: refer to page 128.c
every three months, as otherwise it will
become unusable. Every time the bat-
tery is discharged, especially over
extended periods, its service life is
reduced.
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139
Replacement procedures:
At a glance
Onboard tool kit
140
Windshield wiper blades
140
Lamp and bulbs
141
Master key with battery lamp
145
At a glance
Changing tires
146
Controls and features
Battery
149
Fuses
151
In case of electrical
Controls
malfunction:
Care and maintenance
Fuel filler door 152
Sliding/tilt sunroof 152
Assistance, giving and receiving:
Car care
Jump-starting
153
Owner service procedure
Towing the vehicle
154
Towing
154
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

140 Onboard tool kit
Windshield wiper blade replacement
Under the luggage compartment lid.
Unscrew the wingnut for access.
360de114
Lift the wiper arm, press the locking
spring and pull off the wiper blade, pull-
ing along the wiper arm.
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Bulb replacement
141
The lamps and bulbs on your car play a
Parking lamp
vital role in ensuring road safety, a fact
5 watt bulb
which you should always bear in mind
d Press in the upper tab of the bulb
in caring for them. Carefully observe the
holder to release and remove.
following instructions during bulb
At a glance
d Pull out the bulb holder.
replacement, referring any procedures
d Pull off the bulb and replace.
with which you are not familiar to your
BMW Retailer.
bPlease observe the following
Controls
b
when cleaning the headlamp covers:
Never touch the bulb glass of a
360us089
new lamp with your bare hands. Use a
d Do not rub them dry and do not apply
clean cloth, paper napkin, etc. or hold
scouring or caustic cleaning agents.
the bulb by its metallic base.c
Low and high beams
d Remove dirt and contamination (such
as insects) by soaking with BMW Car
Car care
A replacement bulb set is available from Low beam:
HB4, 55 watts
Shampoo and then rinsing with
your BMW Retailer.
High beam:
HB3, 65 watts
plenty of water.
a
a
d Always use a de-icer spray to remove
To prevent short circuits, always
Each bulb is pressurized; always
accumulated ice and snow Never
switch off all electrical systems and
wear gloves and eye protection! Failure
Repairs
use a scraper!c
components, or disconnect the negative to observe this precaution could lead to
terminal of the battery, before working
injury if the bulb is accidentally dam-
on them.
aged during replacement.c
To prevent injuries and damage, always d Turn the bulb holder to the left and
Technical
observe any instructions provided by
remove.
the bulb manufacturer.c
d Replace the bulb.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

142 Bulb replacement
360de116
360de148
360de117
Front turn signals
Side turn signals*
Foglamps*
21 watt bulb
5 watt bulb
H1 55 watt bulb
d Release the hooks with a screw-
d Use finger pressure against the rear
d Release the lamp bracket with a
driver.
edge of the lens (arrow) to press it
screwdriver.
d Remove the lamp from the front.
forward for removal.
d Pull the foglamp out toward the front
d Release the bulb holder and remove.
d Press gently on the bulb and turn it to d Turn the plastic cap on the back of
d Apply gentle pressure to the bulb
the left to remove.
the lamp to the left and remove.
while turning it to the left to remove.
d Pull off the plug.
d After replacing the bulb, re-insert the
d Release the wire spring.
lamp and push it back until it
d Replace bulb.
engages audibly twice.
d After replacing the bulb, guide in the
lamp again and press on firmly until it
audibly engages.
bThe retainer must be in the "Open"
position, otherwise the foglamp can not
be guided in.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Bulb replacement
143
1
2
At a glance
3
4
Controls
360us093
360de119
360de120
Taillamps
d Remove the lamp cover after releas-
Center brake lamp*
ing the locking device.
Car care
1 Turn signal
yellow
21 watt bulb
21 watt bulb
d Once you have found the lamp
d
holder for the defective bulb, push it
Open the luggage compartment lid.
2 Backup lamp
white
d
gently to the rear while turning to the
Push the bulb holder's release knob
21 watt bulb
left to remove.
gently to the rear while turning to the
3 Brake lamp
red
left to remove.
Repairs
d Use the same procedure to remove
21 watt bulb
d
the bulb.
Use the same procedure to remove
the bulb.
4 Taillamp
red
5 watt bulb
BMW Convertible:
LED strip in luggage compartment lid.
Technical
Please contact a BMW Retailer in the
case of a malfunction.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

144 Bulb replacement
Front interior lamp
d Pull the lamp out of the trim.
d
Interior lamp with reading lamps:
Fold up the PCB and remove the
(Bulbs 10 watt)
bulb.
d Interior lamp: use a screwdriver to
Illuminated make-up mirror*
press out the lens at the left recess.
10 watt bulb
Extract the bulb from the contacts.
d
d
Remove lamp housing (use a screw-
Reading lamp: remove the entire
driver if necessary).
lamp from the trim, remove the con-
d Replace bulb.
tact strip and gently press against
the lamp while turning it to the left to
360de121
remove.
License plate lamps
bWhen reinstalling first, engage the
5 watt bulb
housing then the lens.c
d Screw out the screws and remove
the handle.
Rear interior lamps
d Press the bulb holder to the left and
BMW Sedan, Coupe
remove.
Without reading lamp
d Extract the bulb from the contacts.
5 watt bulb
d Pull the lamp out of the trim.
d Fold up the reflector and remove the
bulb.
With reading lamp*
6 watt bulb
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Bulb replacement
Master keys
145
Luggage compartment lamps
BMW Sedan, Coupe
10 watt bulb
Lamp on underside of rear shelf:
At a glance
d Use a screwdriver to pry out the lamp
at the recess.
d Replace bulb.
BMW Convertible:
Controls
5 watt bulbs
365de132
There is one lamp each in the bulb cov-
ers of the rear lamps.
Replace battery
d Use a screwdriver to pry out the lamp
Car care
If lamp intensity drops, renew the bat-
at the recess.
tery to safeguard against acid escaping.
d Replace bulb.
To change the battery, use a screw-
Glove compartment lamp
driver to remove the cover on the back
of the key.
Repairs
5 watt bulb
d Use a screwdriver to pry out the lamp Insert a new battery of the same type
forward.
(CR 2025) - as shown in the picture - so
d Replace bulb.
that it touches the contacts.
Snap the cover back on and press it in
Technical
Footwell lamps*
evenly.
5 watt bulb
d Use a screwdriver to pry the lamp out ABring old batteries to a collection
of the lower instrument panel trim.
point or your BMW Retailer.c
Data
d Replace bulb.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

146 Changing tires
a
To change the tire you will need
Change tires only on a flat, hard
Car jack
surface affording good traction. Avoid
jacking the car on a soft or slippery sup-
In the luggage compartment below the
port surface (snow, ice, loose gravel,
floor mat at the right next to the spare
etc.), as it could slide sideways.
tire.
Take extra care to ensure that the base
After using, screw the jack all the way
of the jack is positioned on a solid sup-
back down and insert it in its holder.
port surface.
Spare wheel and hexagon
Never use wooden blocks or similar
360de106
adapter*
objects to support the base of the jack,
as the weight of the car could exceed
Both are stored in the luggage com-
their support capacity.
Turn the steering wheel to the straight-
partment below the floor mat. Take out
Never lie beneath the vehicle or start
ahead position, remove the key and
the floor mat. Remove the hexagon
the engine while the car is supported by engage the steering lock. Shift into 1st
adapter (only on models with light-alloy
the jack - risk of fatal injury.
or reverse (selector lever in Park with
wheels with wheel lug cover in the
Additional precautions to observe when automatic) and engage the parking
shape of a large hexagon nut), unscrew
changing flat tires:
brake.
the wing nut by hand and remove the
When pulling over on the roadside to
wheel.
If a warning triangle or portable hazard
change a tire, always try to park the car warning lamp is available, set it up on
Wheel stud wrench
as far as possible from passing traffic.
the roadside at an appropriate distance In the luggage compartment at the right
Switch on the hazard flashers.
from the rear of the vehicle. Observe all on the box.
All passengers should be outside the
safety guidelines and regulations.c
car and well away from your immediate
Screwdriver
working area (e.g., behind the guard-
b
In onboard tool kit beneath luggage
rail).
To avoid rattling noises, note the
compartment floor panel.
positions of the tools and return them to
their original positions.c
bThe storage shelf in the spare tire
can be used to store small parts. To
avoid rattling noises, you can place
cloths between them.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Changing tires
147
At a glance
Controls
360de108
365de061
360de109
Procedure
2 Loosen lug bolts 1/2 turn.
4 Insert the jack all the way into the
support while ensuring that the base
Car care
1 Wheel bolt cover* removal.
3 Remove the respective cover cap
Steel disk wheel: remove wheel cover
from the jacking point. Depending on
of the jack is securely positioned on
by hand. Light-alloy wheel with lug
the vehicle version, remove the pro-
the road surface. Always chock the
cap in the shape of a large hexagon
tective cap either by inserting the
wheels to prevent the vehicle from
nut: position the hexagon adapter on
screwdriver into the slot and turning
rolling.
Repairs
the lug bolt cover, apply the lug
to the left (arrow in left illustration) or
5 Turn the handle to raise the jack until
wrench and turn it to the left.
by pressing in the cap on the bottom
the wheel is free of the ground.
(arrow in illustration above).
aThe vehicle jack is designed for
Technical
changing tires only. Never use it to raise
another vehicle model or a load of an-
other kind, since that could result in ac-
cidents and personal injury.
Never lie beneath the vehicle when it is
Data
supported by the jack risk of fatal inju-
ry!c
6 Unscrew the lug bolts and remove the
wheel.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

148 Changing tires
When storing the wheel, ensure that
you do not damage the retaining pin in
the spare tire recess.
When light-alloy wheels other than
Original BMW light-alloy wheels are fit-
B M W
ted to the car, it may be necessary to
use different lug bolts.
Have the defective tire repaired and
balanced at the earliest opportunity.
360de110
360de111
7 Lift the new or spare tire into posi-
a
tion, secure by screwing at least two
To ensure safety, have the lug
lug bolts into opposite sockets and
bolts tested with a calibrated torque
remove the alignment tool.
wrench (torque specification is 72 lbs-ft/
8 Screw in the remaining lug bolts,
100 Nm) at the earliest opportunity. If
then tighten down all the lug bolts,
you have mounted a new wheel
working in a cross pattern.
(e.g., the spare tire) for the first time,
check the lug nut torque after approx.
9 Lower the vehicle, remove the jack
600 miles (1,000 km).c
and screw the cover back into the
jack opening with the screwdriver.
11 Mount wheel cover. Position the
wheel cover with the valve opening
10 Tighten the lug bolts, working in a
over the valve stem in the rim and
cross pattern.
press with both hands starting from
the valve stem and moving around
the entire circumference of the
wheel cover.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Battery
149
Symbols
VA highly-explosive gas is gener-
You will find the following symbols on
ated when the battery is
your car battery. To avoid injury, please
charged.
observe the corresponding precautions
At a glance
whenever you work with or near the
W If you happen to get acid in your
eyes, rinse thoroughly for sev-
battery.
eral minutes with clear water.
Before working with the battery,
Then consult a physician immediately. If
read the following:
you get acid spray on your skin or cloth-
Controls
ing, apply soap immediately to neutral-
360de125
R Wear eye protection. Avoid let- ize the acid, then rinse with plenty of
ting acid or lead particles come
water. If electrolyte is accidentally
into contact with your eyes, your ingested, consult a physician immedi-
The battery is located behind the right-
skin or your clothing.
ately.
side trim panel in the luggage compart-
Car care
ment. A separate positive terminal in
SBattery acid is extremely corro-
the engine compartment is available for
sive. Wear eye protection and
XTo protect the casing against
ultraviolet radiation, avoid
jump-starting (also refer to page 153).
protective gloves. Do not tilt the
exposing it to direct sunlight.
Only certain battery types may be used battery; acid could emerge from the
ventilation openings.
A discharged battery can freeze; always
Repairs
on the BMW convertible. Consult your
store the battery in areas where the
BMW Retailer for details.
temperature remains above freezing.
The battery is maintenance-free, mean-
T Ensure that children keep well
away from batteries and battery
ing that the electrolyte will normally last
acid.
for the life of the battery.
Technical
Should the electrolyte drop to below
the minimum level - e.g., during extend- U Never allow sparks or open
flame, and do not smoke in the
ed operation in hot climates - add dis-
vicinity of the battery. Avoid
tilled water (no acid!).
sparks from electrical cables and
Electrolyte level: Up to the "MAX" mark equipment. Never short-circuit the bat-
Data
on the outside of the battery in each
tery terminals. There is a danger of
cell, approx. 0.2 inches (5 mm) above
injury from powerful sparks.
the top of the plates.
Keep the top of the battery clean and
Index
dry.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

150 Battery
Removal and installation
On vehicles with a connecting point in
A
the engine compartment, it is easiest to
a
Bring used batteries to an autho-
charge the battery by using this con-
Do not disconnect the battery
rized collection point or a BMW Re-
necting point (positive pole), and a
cable from its terminal while the engine
tailer. Always maintain the battery in an
ground in the engine compartment
is running, as the resulting voltage surge
upright position for transport and stor-
(refer to "Jump-starting" on page 153).
would destroy the vehicle's electronic
age. Secure the battery against tilting
systems.c
If you are planning to remove the vehi-
when transporting.c
cle from service for more than four
When disconnecting, start with the neg- weeks, you should disconnect the bat- a
ative terminal, then proceed to the pos-
Storage periods during which the
tery at the negative terminal.
itive side. Unscrew the battery retaining
battery is disconnected are not taken
clamp.
If you intend to store your car for longer into consideration by the Service Inter-
When installing the battery, connect the than six weeks: remove the battery,
val Display for changing the brake fluid.
positive terminal first, then proceed to
charge it and store it in a cool (but frost- Therefore, make sure that the brake fluid
the negative pole.
free) room. Recharge the battery after
is changed every two years at the latest,
three months at the latest, as it will oth- regardless of the display. Additional
a
erwise be damaged beyond use. Every
notes: refer to page 128.c
When installing, always ensure that time the battery is discharged, espe-
the battery is properly mounted.
cially over extended periods, its service
Otherwise it will not be sufficiently
life is reduced.
secured in an accident.c
Charging the battery
Always ensure that the engine is off
before recharging an installed battery.
aTo avoid short circuits, always
disconnect the cable from the battery's
negative terminal before working on the
electrical system.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Fuses
151
A list of the fuses with their respective
ampere ratings and the equipment in
their circuits is provided in the fuse box
lid.
At a glance
aDo not patch burned out fuses or
replace them with fuses of a different
color or ampere rating, since this could
cause an overload on an electrical wire
Controls
and lead to fire in the vehicle.c
360de102
If the fuse continues to burn through,
refer the problem to a BMW Retailer for
If an electrical device fails, switch it off
repair.
and check the fuse.
Car care
The fuse box (electrical distribution
center) with spare fuses, relays and
plastic tweezers, is located on the left-
hand side of the engine compartment.
Repairs
d Press the retaining flap in and lift off
the cover.
d Remove the fuse of the defective
consumer from the socket with the
plastic tweezers.
Technical
d If the fuse is burned through (the
metal wire will have melted and sep-
arated), replace it with a new fuse of
the same ampere rating.
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

152 Manual activation in the event of electrical failure
2
1
360de112
360de113
Unlock tank filler door
Sliding/tilt sunroof
Pull the handle with the fuel pump sym- d Press out the interior lamp with a
bol on the right trim panel in the lug-
screwdriver at the left recess.
gage compartment.
d Remove the cover panel.
d Remove the Allen wrench from the
onboard tool kit, insert it in the hexa-
gon head (arrow 1) and turn the slid-
ing/tilt sunroof in the desired
direction.
bTurning is easier if the plug
(arrow 2) is pulled out beforehand.c
Have the malfunction rectified by your
BMW Retailer at the earliest opportu-
nity.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Jump-starting
153
Never use spray starter fluids to start
a
the engine.
Observe the same sequence for
When the battery is discharged, you
connecting the jumper cables when
can use two jumper cables to start your
helping other vehicles; this will help pre-
1
2
At a glance
car with power from the battery in a
vent sparks from being generated at the
second vehicle. Always use jumper
battery.c
cables with fully insulated handles on
5 If the battery on the support vehicle is
the terminal clamps.
weak, start the engine and let it run.
Start the engine on the vehicle need-
Controls
aWhen the engine is running, con-
ing the jump-start, and allow it to run
360de105
tact with electrical conductors and com-
as usual. If necessary repeat the
ponents is dangerous and can be fatal.c
attempt to start after a few minutes;
4 Start by connecting the positive ter-
this allows for current intake by the
Carefully observe the following instruc-
minal of both batteries with a jumper
discharged battery.
Car care
tions to avoid personal injury as well as
cable. If the battery of the BMW is not
Before disconnecting the jumper
damage to one or both vehicles:
installed in the engine compartment,
cables from your BMW, turn on the
1 Ensure that the battery on the sup-
a supplementary positive terminal is
lamps, rear window defroster and
port vehicle is also rated at 12 volts,
provided in the engine compartment
highest blower speed to prevent a
Repairs
and that the capacity (Ah) is roughly
(the cover is marked "+", remove by
voltage surge at the voltage regulator.
comparable (printed on casing).
pulling tab, see arrow 1 in illustration).
Then disconnect the jumper cables in
2 Leave your battery connected to the
Then connect up the batteries' nega-
reverse sequence.
car's electrical system.
tive poles. Attach the cable to either
Depending on the cause of the fault,
the support vehicle's negative battery
3 The bodies of the two vehicles must
recharge the battery.
Technical
terminal, or to a suitable ground on its
not touch, or a short circuit could
engine or bodywork. On the BMW
result.
there is a special nut, refer to arrow 2;
the nut might also be located further
forward, on the suspension strut
Data
dome.
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

154 Towing the vehicle
Towing
360de103
360de104
360us128
Tow fittings
Rear:
Towing with a commercial tow
The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the Pry out the cover with a screwdriver.
truck
onboard tool kit; ensure that it remains
Never use sling-type equipment to
with the vehicle at all times. It can be
a
transport the vehicle.
Ensure that the tow fitting is
screwed in to either the front or the rear screwed in tightly.c
Use wheel lifts or transport the vehicle
of the vehicle and is intended for towing
on a flatbed truck.
only on a roadway.
Vehicles with automatic transmission:
d
Please observe all applicable national,
Selector lever on N.
Access to tow sockets
state, provincial and local towing laws.
Towing speed:
Front:
maximum 30 mph (50 km/h).
a
Pry out the cover with a screwdriver.
Never allow passengers to ride in
Towing distance:
a towed vehicle.c
maximum 30 miles (50 km).
aThe steering and brakes are with-
out power assist when the engine is off.
This means that increased effort is re-
quired for steering and braking.c
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

155
Airbags
156
At a glance
Automatic Stability Control
plus Traction (ASC+T)
156
Radio reception
157
Safety belt tensioner
157
At a glance
Controls and features
Controls
Care and maintenance
Car care
Owner service procedure
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

156 Airbags
ASC+T*
grammed separation points in their
Automatic Stability Control plus Trac-
upholstered covers.
tion helps maintain stable and con-
Because the inflation process must be
trolled vehicle response by inhibiting
virtually instantaneous, it is necessarily
slip at the drive wheels.
accompanied by a certain amount of
The system employs special sensors to
ignition and inflation noise. The gas
monitor wheelspeed and relay the data
which the system employs to inflate the to the system's electronic control unit,
airbag is not dangerous, and the asso-
which uses this information to calculate
ciated smoke is quickly dissipated.
slip rates at the individual wheels.
The entire process is completed within
Depending on the driving situation, two
390de012
one twentieth of a second.
forms of remedial action can then be
taken by the system: it reacts to slip-
Deceleration sensors continuously
page caused by large amounts of
monitor the physical forces acting upon
excess torque by instructing the engine
the vehicle. If a frontal impact results in
management system to reduce power
deceleration, for which the protection
output. As a supplementary measure,
afforded by safety belts no longer suf-
the system will also respond to an
fices, the gas generators of the driver's
especially pronounced tendency to-
and the passenger's airbags ignite
ward traction loss at either of the drive
simultaneously. The passenger's air-
wheels with automatic individual appli-
bag is activated only when a special
cation of the affected wheel's brakes.
sensor indicates that the front passen-
This achieves a locking action compa-
ger's seat is occupied.
rable with a controlled limited-slip dif-
In the event of a severe side impact the
ferential. This brake action is active up
side airbag* is activated on the side on
to 25 mph (40 km/h). From 25 mph
which the impact occurred.
(40 km/h) upward, a diminished brake
action improves the traction up to
The airbags, which are under the cover
60 mph (100 km/h).
of the steering wheel, in the instrument
panel or the side trim panels of the front
doors, are deployed and inflated by the
gas within a few milliseconds. In the
process they tear or push apart the pro-
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Radio reception
Safety belt tensioner
157
Although numerous factors combine to
impose inherent limitations on the
reception quality available from mobile
radios, specially designed systems can
be employed to minimize their effects:
At a glance
The Antenna Diversity system employs
several FM antennas integrated within
the rear window to provide three sepa-
rate sources for receiving broadcast
Controls
waves. An integral processor automati-
360de084
390de108
cally selects the antenna with the best
FM reception quality at any given time.
AM provides substantially longer recep-
Because the ongoing antenna selection The safety belt tensioner responds to
tion ranges than FM. AM broadcast sig-
process is completed within millisec-
collisions by tightening the belts to
Car care
nals, propagated at ground level in the
onds, it remains inaudible to the radio
ensure that occupants remain firmly
form of surface waves, are also reflected listener.
positioned in their seats. A gas-pres-
from the ionosphere as atmospheric
sure system retracts the buckle assem-
waves.
bly to tension the shoulder and lap belts
Repairs
Frequency-modulation (FM) provides
within fractions of a second, preventing
substantially better sound quality than
the driver and passenger from slipping
AM. However, because FM transmis-
forward.
sions rely on line-of-sight broadcast
waves, their effective reception range is
Technical
limited.
Data
Index
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158
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

159
Engine specifications 160
At a glance
Dimensions 161
Weights 163
Capacities 166
Electrical system 167
At a glance
Drive belts 167
Controls and features
Controls
Care and maintenance
Car care
Owner service procedure
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

160 Engine specifications
BMW 318i Sedan
BMW 323is Coupe
BMW 328i Sedan
BMW 318is Coupe
BMW 323i Convertible
BMW 328is Coupe
BMW 318i Convertible
BMW 328i Convertible
Displacement
cu.in (cmm)
115.6 (1,895)
152.2 (2,494)
170.4 (2,793)
Number of cylinders
4
6
6
Maximum output
hp
138
168
190
kW
103
125
142
at engine speed
rpm
6,000
5,500
5,300
Maximum torque
lb-ft (Nm)
133 (180)
181 (245)
206 (280)
at engine speed
rpm
4,300
3,950
3,950
Compression ratio

10
10.5
10.2
Stroke
in. (mm)
3.29 (83.5)
2.95 (75)
3.31 (84)
Bore
in. (mm)
3.35 (85)
3.31 (84)
3.31 (84)
Fuel-injection system
Digital-electronic engine-management system
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Dimensions
161
BMW 318i
BMW 318is
BMW 318i
Sedan
Coupe
Convertible
Length
in. (mm)
174.5
(4,433)
174.5
(4,433)
174.5
(4,433)
At a glance
Width
in. (mm)
66.9
(1,698)
67.3
(1,710)
67.3
(1,710)
Height (unloaded)
in. (mm)
54.8
(1,393)
53.8
(1,366)
53.1
(1,348)
Wheelbase
in. (mm)
106.3
(2,700)
106.3
(2,700)
106.3
(2,700)
Controls
Track, front
in. (mm)
55.8
(1,418)
55.4
(1,408)
55.4
(1,408)
Track, rear
in. (mm)
56.3
(1,431)
55.9
(1,421)
55.9
(1,421)
Minimum turning circle D
ft. (m)
35.4
(10.8)
35.4
(10.8)
35.4
(10.8)
Car care
BMW 323is
BMW 323i
Coupe
Convertible
Length
in. (mm)
174.5
(4,433)
174.5
(4,433)
Repairs
Width
in. (mm)
67.3
(1,710)
67.3
(1,710)
Height (unloaded)
in. (mm)
53.8
(1,366)
53.1
(1,348)
Wheelbase
in. (mm)
106.3
(2,700)
106.3
(2,700)
Technical
Track, front
in. (mm)
55.4
(1,408)
55.4
(1,408)
Track, rear
in. (mm)
55.9
(1,421)
55.9
(1,421)
Minimum turning circle D
ft. (m)
35.4
(10.8)
35.4
(10.8)
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

162 Dimensions
BMW 328i
BMW 328is
BMW 328i
Sedan
Coupe
Convertible
Length
in. (mm)
174.5
(4,433)
174.5
(4,433)
174.5
(4,433)
Width
in. (mm)
66.9
(1,698)
67.3
(1,710)
67.3
(1,710)
Height (unloaded)
in. (mm)
54.8
(1,393)
53.8
(1,366)
53.1
(1,348)
Wheelbase
in. (mm)
106.3
(2,700)
106.3
(2,700)
106.3
(2,700)
Track, front
in. (mm)
55.4
(1,408)
55.4
(1,408)
55.4
(1,408)
Track, rear
in. (mm)
55.9
(1,421)
55.9
(1,421)
55.9
(1,421)
Minimum turning circle D
ft. (m)
35.4
(10.8)
35.4
(10.8)
35.4
(10.8)
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Weights
163
BMW 318i
BMW 318is
BMW 318i
Sedan
Coupe
Convertible
Vehicle weight empty
(including driver, ready for operation, with full tank of fuel,
At a glance
options not included)
with manual transmission
lbs (kg)
2,954 (1,340)
2,987 (1,355)
3,153 (1,430)
with automatic transmission
lbs (kg)
3,042 (1,380)
3,075 (1,395)
3,230 (1,465)
Controls
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission
lbs (kg)
3,924 (1,780)
3,957 (1,795)
3,990 (1,810)
with automatic transmission
lbs (kg)
4,012 (1,820)
4,045 (1,835)
4,068 (1,845)
Approved front axle load
lbs (kg)
1,830 (830)
1,830 (830)
1,830 (830)
Car care
Approved rear axle load
lbs (kg)
2,304 (1,045)
2,337 (1,060)
2,348 (1,065)
Maximum payload
lbs (kg)
970 (440)
970 (440)
838 (380)
Approved roof load capacity
lbs (kg)
165 (75)
165 (75)
88 (40)
Never exceed either the approved axle weights or the gross vehicle weight.
Repairs
Luggage compartment capacity
cu. ft. (liter)
15.4 (435)
14.3 (405)
8.1 (230)
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

164 Weights
BMW 323is
BMW 323i
Coupe
Convertible
Vehicle weight, empty
(incl. driver, ready for operation, with full tank of fuel,
options not included)
with manual transmission
lbs (kg)
3,075 (1,395)
3,296 (1,495)
with automatic transmission
lbs (kg)
3,175 (1,440)
3,373 (1,530)
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission
lbs (kg)
4,045 (1,835)
4,134 (1,875)
with automatic transmission
lbs (kg)
4,145 (1,880)
4,211 (1,910)
Approved front axle load
lbs (kg)
1,929 (875)
1,984 (900)
Approved rear axle load
lbs (kg)
2,337 (1,060)
2,359 (1,070)
Maximum payload
lbs (kg)
970 (440)
838 (380)
Approved roof load capacity
lbs (kg)
165 (75)
88 (40)
Never exceed either the approved axle weights or the gross vehicle weight.
Luggage compartment capacity
cu. ft. (liter)
14.3 (405)
8.1 (230)
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Weights
165
BMW 328i
BMW 328is
BMW 328i
Sedan
Coupe
Convertible
Vehicle weight, empty
(incl. driver, ready for operation, with full tank of fuel,
At a glance
options not included)
with manual transmission
lbs (kg)
3,131 (1,420)
3,142 (1,425)
3,395 (1,540)
with automatic transmission
lbs (kg)
3,208 (1,455)
3,230 (1,465)
3,472 (1,575)
Controls
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission
lbs (kg)
4,101 (1,860)
4,112 (1,865)
4,233 (1,920)
with automatic transmission
lbs (kg)
4,178 (1,895)
4,200 (1,905)
4,310 (1,955)
Approved front axle load
lbs (kg)
1,940 (880)
1,940 (880)
1,995 (905)
Car care
Approved rear axle load
lbs (kg)
2,348 (1,065)
2,370 (1,075)
2,425 (1,100)
Maximum payload
lbs (kg)
970 (440)
970 (440)
838 (380)
Approved roof load capacity
lbs (kg)
165 (75)
165 (75)
88 (40)
Repairs
Never exceed either the approved axle weights or the gross vehicle weight.
Luggage compartment capacity
cu. ft. (liter)
15.4 (435)
14.3 (405)
8.1 (230)
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

166 Capacities
Quarts (Liter)
Notes
Fuel tank
approx. 17 gal. (62)
Fuel specification: Page 24
of which reserve
approx. 2 gal. (8)
Windshield washer system
approx. 2.6 (2.5)
For details: Page 124
with headlamp washer system
approx. 5.3 (5.0)
Cooling system including
6.9 (6.5) - 318i, 318is
For details: Page 88
heater circuit
11.1 (10.5) - 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is
Engine oil and filter change
5.2 (5.0) - 318i, 318is
Approved HD oil
6.9 (6.5) - 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is
Specifications: Page 126
Shift, Automatic- and final drive

Lifetime fluid, no fluid change required.
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Electrical system
Drive belts
167
Battery
AC generator - Water pump -
BMW 318i, 318is
12 V, 65 Ah
Power steering
BMW 323i, 323is,
BMW 318i, 318is
328i, 328is
12 V, 75 Ah
Ribbed V-belt 6 PK x 1733
At a glance
BMW Convertible
12 V, 70 Ah
BMW 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is
Spark plugs
Ribbed V-belt 6 PK x 1555
Dual electrode:
Air conditioning compressor
Bosch F7 L DC R or
Controls
BMW 318i, 318is
NGK BKR 6 EK
Ribbed V-belt 4 PK x 889
BMW 323i, 323is, 328i, 328is
Ribbed V-belt 5 PK x 906
Car care
Repairs
Technical
Data
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

168
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

169
Everything from A to Z 170
At a glance
Owner service procedures
from A to Z 175
At a glance
Controls and features
Controls
Care and maintenance
Car care
Owner service procedure
Repairs
Advanced technology
Technical
Technical data
Data
Index
Index
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

170
Everything from A to Z
A
Automatic transmission 58
Hardtop 109
C
ABS (Antilock Brake
Capacity 166
Manual convertible top
Car battery 149
System) 103
Filling capacity 166
Actuation 41
Car wash 131
Acceleration values 163
Autoradio 108
Manual convertible top
CARB OBD II interface 24
Activated charcoal filter 92
Average fuel
actuation 37
Care of upholstery 134
Adjusting steering wheel 45
consumption 79
Rear window
Care of wool velour 134
Air conditioner 91
Average speed 78
Ventilation 91, 105
Care, exterior 132
Air distribution 90
Axle load, permissible 163
Rollover protection
Care, interior 133
Air pressure 111
B
system 52
Care, vehicle exterior 132
Air supply 92
Backrest unlock 45
Ski bag 97
Catalytic converter 102
Airbag 50
Backup lights 57, 143
Storage compartment 95
Cellular phone 108
Aluminum wheel 115
Battery 149, 167
Vehicle
Center armrest 95
Antifreeze 105, 127
Removal and
decommissioning 137
Central brake light 143
Antifreeze,
installation 150
BMW Convrtible
Central locking system 31
Radiator 105, 127
Symbols 149
Electrical windows
Central locking system
Antifreeze,
Battery capacity 167
Lifters 36
button 32
radiator 127, 105
Battery change
BMW Hi-Fi System 93
Central locking unit 31
Anti-lock braking system
Key 145
BMW Sport seat 44
Changes,
ABS 103
Battery charge current 20
Brake fluid 128
technical 6
Aquaplaning 100, 111
Battery electrolyte 149
Brake lights,
Charge-current indicator
ASC+T Automatic stability
Battery, discharged 153
Replace bulbs 143
light 20
control plus
Belts 47
Brake pads 20
Charging the battery 150
Traction
blower 92
Brake system hydraulic
Check air pressure 25
Traktion 10, 84
BMW Convertible
circuits 21
Check control 71
Ashtray 94
Car wash 136
Brake-in procedure 100
Check Control with outside
AUC Automatic
Care 136
Brakes 104
temperature gauge and
recirculated-air control 91
Electrical
Defects 128
digital clock 74
Automatic car washes 131
Convertible top
Interference 105
Check engine oil level 124
Automatic recirculated-air
actuation 39
Braking system 105
CHECK key 71
control AUC 91
Emergency closure 41
Breaking in vehicle 100
Check oil level 124
Automatic stability control
Fully automatic
Bulb replacement 141
Childproof door locks 52
plus traction
Convertible top
Child-restraint system 48
ASC+T 10, 84
actuation 39
Cigarette lighter 94
Note: This index does not correspond to the original manual in all details
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Everything from A to Z
171
Clock 66, 67, 68, 69
Injection system 19
Capacity 166
Preparation 160
Cockpit 16
Interference 19
Filling capacity 166
Processing 160
Coinbox 94
Digital clock 66, 67, 68, 69
Engine oil additives 125
Fuel consumption indicator
Computer 77, 78, 79, 80,
Dimensions 161
Engine oil consumption 124
63
81, 82, 83
Dipstik, engine oil 124
Engine oil level 20
Fuel gauge 64
At a glance
Consumption display 64
Disc brakes 104
Engine oil pressure 20
Fuses,
Convenient closure 31
Disconnect the battery 150
Eyelets, tow starting and
Replacing 151
Convertible, refer to BMW
Display lighting 85
Towing 154
G
convertible
Distance, remaining 79
F
Glove compartment 93
Controls
Coolant 105, 127, 166
Door keys 30
Failure message 71
Glove compartment light,
Coolant, Antifreeze 105
Door locks 31
Failure of an electrical
bulb replacement 145
Cooling system 166
Doors, emergency actuation
device 151
Gross weight,
Cruise control 62
31
Fault display 71
permissible 163
Cruising range 79
Drive belts 167
Filler cap cover 23
H
Car care
Cup holder 94
Driver's airbag 50
Filling capacity 166
Hand light 93
D
Driving hints 100
Final drive
Handbrake 56
Dashboard 16
Driving in winter 105
Capacity 166
Hazard warning system 22
Dashboard lighting 85
E
Filling capacity 166
Hazard warning triangle 22
Data
Electric window actuator 35
First aid 22
Repairs
Head restraint 43
Dimensions 161
Electrical seat
First aid kit 22
Headlight cleaning System
Engine 160
Adjustment 44
Flashers 60
124
Road performance 163
Electrical system 167
Flat tire 111, 146
Headlight cleaning system
Weights 163
Electrolyte 149
Flower pollen 92
166
Technical
Data, technical 160
Electronic unit
Foglight 86
Headlight covers, care 131
Date 68, 72, 74
Vehicle immobilization 30
Foglights, replace bulb 142
Headlight flasher 60
Daytime light switch 85
Elements of operation 16
Folding
Heated seats 87
Decommissioning of the
Emergency actuation,
Rear backrest 95
Height 161
Vehicle 137
Central locking system 31
Footbrake 104
Hi-Fi System 93
Data
Deep water 101
Tank cover 152
Footwell light,
High beams 60
Defrost windshields 91
Energy Control 63
Replace bulb 145
Highbeam headlights,
Defrost, windshields 91
Engine coolant 166
Footwell lights 86
Replace lights 141
Defrosting position 91
Engine data 160
Front seat, position 43
Hood release 118
Diesel
Engine oil 124
Fuel
Horn 17
Index
Note: This index does not correspond to the original manual in all details
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

172
Everything from A to Z
I
Light switch 85
Capacity 166
Parking lights 60
Ice warning 66
Light-emitting diode LED
Oil additives 125
Parking, Winter 106
Identification mark, tires 113
110
Oil change interval,
Passenger airbag 50
Ignition 54
Limit 80
Refer to the service
Payload, maximum 163
Ignition key 30
Loading 98
booklet 124
Pocket light 93
Ignition switch 54
Lock buttons 31
Oil consumption 124
Power door locks 31
Independent ventilation 81
Locks, care 105
Oil dipstick 124
Power steering, oil 128
Indicator lights 20
Lowbeam headlight 85
Oil filter change 166
Pressure, tire 25
Inflation pressure 25, 111
Lowbeam headlights,
Oil filter renewal 166
Pressure, tires 111
Inside mirror 46
Replace lights 141
Oil level, indicator light 20
Procedure 147
Inside rearview mirror 46
Low-fuel warning light 64
Oil pressure, indicator light
R
INSPECTION 64
Luggage straps 34
20
Radiator 166
Installing child seats 49
Lumbar support 45
OIL SERVICE 64
Reading lights 86
Instrument 18
M
Oil, power steering 128
Rear backrest,
Instrument lighting 85
M+S-Tires 114
On-board computer 77, 78,
folding 95
Interior lights 86, 144
Maintenance 64, 130
79, 80, 81, 82, 83
Rear foglight 86, 143
Interior lights,
Make-up mirror 46
Operating 31
Reclining seat 43
Replace bulbs 144
Manual transmission 57
Outside rearview mirror 46
Refueling 23
Intermittent wiper switch 61
Capacity 166
Outside temperature 66, 78
Remote control
J
Manually controlled
Display 66
On-board computer 83
Jack 146
recirculated-air 91
Outside temperature
Remove mist
Jump start 153
Maximum speed 163
indicator 68
Windshields 91
K
Micro-filter 92
P
Replacement keys 30
Keys 30
MID Multi-information
Paintwork, care 132
Reverse 57
Kickdown 59
display 66, 67, 68, 69
Paintwork, dirt and
Rims 113, 115
L
Mirror heating 46
contaminants 132
Road performance 163
Mirrors 46
Paintwork, minor repairs
Roof load, approved 163
Leather care 135
Multifunction switch 60
133
Roof load, permissible 163
LED Light-emitting diodes
Multi-information display
Paintwork, waxing 133
Roof rack 107
110
MID 66, 67, 68, 69
Parking brake 56
Roof-mounted luggage rack
Length 161
Parking light 85
107
License plate light,
O
Parking light,
Rubber parts 105
Replace bulb 144
Odometer 63
Oil
Replace bulb 141
Rubber seals and
Note: This index does not correspond to the original manual in all details
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Everything from A to Z
173
components 105
Starting problems 102
Through loading system 95
Replace bulb 142
S
Steel wheel 115
Timer 81
Turn signals 143
SAFETY DEFECTS 7
Steering 128
Tire change 146
Turning circle 161
Seat heaters 87
Steering lock 54
Tire damages 111
Turning radius 161
Steering wheel lock 54
Tire inflation pressure 25,
At a glance
Seat, electric 44
U
Seat, mechanical 43
Stopwatch 80
111
Unloaded vehicle weight
Seatback release 45
Storage shelves 93
Tire inscription 113
163
Seatbelts 47
Summer tires 113
Tire replacement 112
Unlocking and locking doors
Seats, adjustment 43
Sun visor 46
Tire sizes 115
31
Controls
Selector lever, automatic
Switching off the engine 55
Tire tread 111
Used batteries 150
transmission 58
Switching off the vehicle 55
Tool kit 140
V
Service Interval Display 64
Symbols 4
Tools 140
Vehicle care, interior 133
Shift programs 59
Battery 149
Tow starting 154
Vehicle decommissioning
Side airbag 50
T
Towing 154
137
Car care
Sliding 106
Tachometer 63
Towing eyelets 154
Vehicle identification 129
Sliding/tilt sunroof 36
Tailgate 33
Track 161
Vehicle identification
Close in case of electrical
Taillights 143
Trailer load, permissible 163
number 129
fault 152
Taillights,
Trailer nose weight,
Vehicle immobilization unit
Slippery roads 105
Replace bulbs 143
permissible 163
Repairs
30
Snow chains 105
Tank cover
Transmission 57
Vehicle paintwork 132
Spare key 30
Unlock in case of
Traveling abroad 102
Vehicle weight 163
Spare keys 30
electrical fault 152
Tread depth, tires 111
Ventilate at a standstill 81
Spare tire 112, 146
Technical Data 160
Trip 63
Ventilation, draft free 92
Technical
Spark plugs 167
Technical data 160
Trip distance recorder 63
W
Special oils 125
Telephone 108
Trip odometer 63
Warm feet - cool head 92
Speed warning activation
Temperature 91
Trunk
Warning 71
threshold 80
Temperature display 66
Capacity 163
Warning Light-On 85
Sport seat 44
Temperature layering 92
Trunk lights,
Warning lights 20
Data
Start 54
Tempomat 62
Replace bulb 145
Washer fluid
Start the engine
Thigh support
Turn on 54
Add 124
Preheating 54
Ajustment 44
Turn signal indicator 60
Fill up 166
Starting assistance 153
Third brake light 143
Turn signal,
Washer fluid reservoir
Index
Note: This index does not correspond to the original manual in all details
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

174
Everything from A to Z
Fill up 166
Windshield washer nozzle
Washer reservoir
adjustment 124
Fill up 124
Windshield wiper blade
Washing your car 131
replacement 140
Water on the roads 101
Windshield wipers 61
Waxing, paintwork 133
Winter operation 105
Weights 163
Winter tires 113
Wheel bolts 147
Wiper blade replacement
Cover 147
140
Wheel lug wrench 146
Wiper/washer system 61
Wheel rotation on the
Wipers 61
Axles 112
Work in the engine
Wheel trim 147
compartment 118
Wheelbase 161
Wheels and tires 113, 115
Wheelslip control, refer to
ASC+T 10, 84
Width 161
Window 31
Window actuator,
Safety switch 35
Window actuator, electric
35
Window mist
Remove 91
Windshield cleaning
Automatic program 61
Windshield washer fluid
reservoir
Fill up 124, 166
Windshield washer jet,
Heating 61
Note: This index does not correspond to the original manual in all details
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Owner service procedures from A to Z
175
A
Door, emergency
H
P
Add coolant 127
actuation 32
Hazard warning system 21
Parking lamp,
Adding oil 125
Hazard warning triangle 21
replace bulb 141
Adjusting washer
E
Headlamp cover, care 141
Power steering,
nozzles 124
Electrical fault
Help in case of a
add oil 128
At a glance
Antifreeze, use 127
Sliding/tilt sunroof 152
breakdown 153
Pressure, tires 24
Fuel filler door 152
High beam headlamps,
Protective glazing,
B
Emergency actuation,
replace lamps 141
care 131
Backup lamp,
Door 32
Controls
replace bulb 143
Sliding/tilt sunroof 152
I
R
Battery,
Fuel filler door 152
Indicator lamps 19
Rear foglamps,
charging 150
External starts 153
Inflation pressure 24
replace bulb 142
Battery change,
Interior lamps,
Remove mist on
master key 145
F
replace bulbs 144
windshields 91
Car care
radio remote control 145
Failure messages 70
Replace bulbs 141
Battery,
Failure of an
K
Replace fuses 151
add distilled water 149
electrical device 151
Key, battery change 145
discharged 153
Fault displays 70
S
Brake fluid, add 128
First aid 21
L
Sliding/tilt sunroof,
Repairs
Brake lamps,
Fittings, tow-starting and
License plate lamp,
close in case of power
replace bulb 143
towing 154
replace bulb 144
supply interruption 152
Brakes, defects 105
Flat tire 146
Low beam headlamps,
Snow chains 105
Foglamps,
replace lamps 141
Starting difficulties 102, 153
Luggage compartment lid,
Starting with a discharged
Technical
C
replace bulb 142
Check air pressure 24
Footwell lamp,
emergency actuation 32
battery 153
Check Control 70
replace bulb 145
Luggage compartment
Check engine oil level 124
lamps, replace bulb 145
T
Coolant, add 127
G
Taillamp 143
Data
Glove compartment lamp,
M
Taillamp,
D
replace bulb 145
Maintenance 63
replace bulb 143
Defrost windshields 91
Tire change 146
Difficult steering 129
O
Tire damage 111
Onboard tool kit 140
Tools 140
Index
Note: This index does not correspond to the original manual in all details
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

176 Owner service procedures from A to Z
Top up windshield washer
fluid reservoir 124
Towing 154
Tow fittings 154
Tow-starting 154
Turn signal,
replace bulb 142
U
Unlock tank cover
in the event of
electrical fault 152
Unlocking hood 118
Use antifreeze,
radiator 127
W
Warning lamps 19
Washer fluid, top up 124
Window mist, remove 91
Note: This index does not correspond to the original manual in all details
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Refueling
So that you will have important specifi-
Fuel
cations available when you stop to re-
For a description, refer to page 23
fuel, we recommend that you supple-
ment this table with data which apply to Designation
your vehicle.
AKI: Minimum
AKI: For rated performance
AKI: For enhanced
performance
Engine oil
For a description, refer to page 125
Quality
The space between the
two marks on the
dipstick corresponds to approx.
1.1 US quarts (1 liter).
Tire inflation pressures
Summer
Winter
For a description, refer to page 25
Front
Rear
Front
Rear
4 persons
5 persons or 4 plus luggage
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

US-en
377
790
9
41
01
We wish you an enjoyable
driving experience.
The Ultimate Driving Machine
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 9 790 377 - Š 07/98 BMW AG

Document Outline