Get Controls and features Guide for BMW Z8 Roadster First Generation (2000-2003)

28n

Locks and security systems:

Keys 30

Electronic vehicle

immobilizer 31

Central locking system 32

Opening and closing – from the

outside 32

Using the key 32

Using the remote control 33

Opening and closing – from the

inside 36

Luggage compartment lid 37

Alarm system 38

Electric power windows 40

The automatic convertible

top 41

Adjustments:

Seats 45

Steering wheel 47

47

Vehicle Memory, Key

Memory 49

Passenger safety systems:

Safety belts 50

Airbags 51

Transporting children safely 53

Controls

29n

Driving:

Lamps:

Overview

Ignition and steering lock 55

Starting the engine 56

Switching off the engine 57

Parking brake 57

Parking lamps/Low beams 69

Instrument lighting 69

High beams/Standing lamps 70

Rear fog lamp 70

Controls and features

Manual transmission 58

Turn signal indicator/Headlamp

flasher 58

Interior lamps 71

Reading lamps 71

Controlling the climate for

pleasant driving:

Washer/Wiper system 59

Rear window defroster 60

Cruise control 61

Heating and ventilation/

Air conditioner 72

Seat heating 77

Operation, care

and maintenance

Everything under control:

Odometer 62

Tachometer 62

Interior conveniences:

Glove compartment 78

Storage compartments 78

Beverage holder 80

Cellular phone 81

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Fuel gauge 62

Coolant temperature gauge 63

Service Interval Display 63

Clock 64

Ashtray 81

Cigarette lighter 82

Multi-Information Radio (MIR) 64

Technology for safety and

driving convenience:

Dynamic Stability Control

(DSC) 65

Loading and transporting:

Cargo loading 83

Dynamic Performance

Control 66

Flat Tire Monitor 67

Index

³⁰ⁿKeys

2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,

such as in your wallet. This master

key is not intended for continuous

use

Replacement keys

Replacement keys are available exclu-

sively through your BMW center. Your

BMW center is obligated to ensure that

a person requesting a key is authorized

to do so, since the keys are an integral

element of the security system (refer to

"Electronic vehicle immobilizer" in the

following columns).

3 Door and ignition key

The lock for the glove compartment

cannot be operated with this key.

This is recommended for valet

parking, etc.

There is a key case available for using

your master key on a regular basis.

If possible, take all of the master

keys that belong to the vehicle

with you when you pick up your

replacement key.

1 The Key Memory functions are stored

in the remote-control key, refer to

page 49

Whenever you receive a new replace-

ment key, turn it once to position 2 in

the ignition lock (ignition switched on)

and then back, so that the electronic

vehicle immobilizer can initialize the

new key.<

You can mark individual keys for

subsequent identification by apply-

ingh the colored decals that you

received when accepting delivery of

your vehicle

There is an extended-life battery

in every master key that is

charged automatically in the steering

lock every time you drive.

For this reason, if you have a master

key that is not in regular use, use that

key approximately once every year

while driving for an extended period to

charge the battery. Also refer to

page 33.<

Electronic vehicle immobilizer

31n

Advanced electronics in action

At the heart of this system is an elec-

tronic chip that is integrated into the

key. The lock mechanism itself is actu-

ally a dual-function device, simulta-

neously serving as a communications

interface designed to allow the security

system to maintain a continuous stream

of variable, vehicle-specific signals with

the electronic circuitry in the key. The

system will release the ignition, elec-

trical steering lock, fuel injection and

starter for use only if it detects an

"authorized" key.

The key to security

The electronic vehicle immobilizer

reduces your BMW's susceptibility to

theft by rendering it impossible to start

the engine using any means other than

the car's own individual keys. The

system operates automatically, with no

action or intervention on your part. Your

BMW center can cancel the system

authorization for individual keys (for

instance, if a key is lost). A deactivated

key can no longer be used to start the

engine.

Exposure to external force can

damage the key's integrated elec-

tronic circuitry and render it inoperative.

A damaged key can no longer be used

to start the engine or release the

steering lock.<

³²ⁿCentral locking system

Opening and closing – from the outside

You can have various signals set

as an acknowledgment message

when locking.<

The concept

The central locking system is ready for

operation whenever the driver's door is

closed. The system engages and

releases the locks on the

Convenience operation

You can also operate the windows via

the door lock.

> doors

> luggage compartment lid

> fuel filler door

> To open: with the door closed, turn

the key to the "Unlock" position and

hold it

> glove compartment

> cellular phone holder.

> To close: with the door closed, turn

the key to the "Lock" position and

hold it.

The central locking system can be

operated

Using the key

> from the outside via the driver's door

lock or by using the remote control

> from the inside by pressing a button.

Swing the door lock mechanism's cover

upward. Return it to its original position

and allow the detent to engage when

you have finished locking or unlocking

the doors.

As the windows are closing you

should always monitor their path

and progress to ensure that no injuries

occur. Release the key to stop the

windows.<

If you initiate central locking from

inside, neither the fuel filler door, the

glove compartment, nor the cellular

phone holder are locked (refer to

page 36).

Turn the key in the driver's door once to

unlock the driver's door only; turning

the key a second time will unlock the

passenger door, the luggage compart-

ment lid, the fuel filler door, the glove

compartment, and the cellular phone

holder.

Manual operation

If you do set it from outside, the anti-

theft alarm is automatically activated as

well. This prevents the door handles

from unlocking the doors. The alarm

system is also activated or deactivated.

(in the event of electrical malfunction)

Turn the key to the extreme left or right

to unlock/lock the driver's door.

Refer to page 143 for operating the

passenger door.

If necessary, you can open the fuel filler

door by pressing the button inside the

vehicle; refer to page 25.

The central locking system unlocks

automatically in the event of an acci-

dent. In addition, the hazard warning

flashers and interior lamps come on.

Opening and closing – from the outside

33n

Master keys that are used repeat-

Using the remote control

edly are always ready for opera-

tion since the battery in the key is

charged automatically in the steering

lock every time you drive.

Remote control offers you optimal

convenience in using your vehicle's

locking system while also providing

three exclusive supplementary features:

If it is no longer possible to unlock the

vehicle via the remote control, the

battery is discharged. Use this key

while driving for an extended period in

order to charge the battery. Refer also

to page 30.

> Interior lamp activation, refer to

page 34.

With this function, you can also

"search for" your vehicle – if, for

example, it is parked in an under-

ground garage.

To prevent unauthorized use of the

remote control, surrender only the door

and ignition key 3 or the spare key 2

(refer to page 30) when leaving the

vehicle for valet parking, for example.

In the event of a system malfunction,

please contact your BMW center. You

can also obtain replacement keys

there.<

> Opening the luggage compartment

lid, refer to page 35

Master keys

Keys with remote control are master

keys. Refer to page 30.

> Panic mode, refer to page 35.

In case of danger, you can trigger an

alarm.

You can have different confirma-

tion signals programmed into the

system to verify that the vehicle has

been locked correctly.<

The anti-theft system is also deacti-

vated/activated simultaneously with the

unlocking or locking of the vehicle, and

the alarm system is disarmed/armed,

and the interior lamps are turned on/off.

Because passengers or animals

remaining in the vehicle could lock

the doors from the inside, you should

always remove the key and take it with

you to ensure that you remain able to

unlock the vehicle from the outside at

all times.<

³⁴ⁿOpening and closing – from the outside

To unlock the vehicle

To lock and secure

To deactivate the tilt alarm sensor

and interior motion sensor

Press button 1.

Press button 2.

Press button 2 again immediately after

locking.

Press the button once to unlock the

driver's door only; press it a second

time to unlock the passenger door, the

luggage compartment lid, the fuel filler

door, the glove compartment, and the

cellular phone holder.

You can have different confirma-

tion signals programmed into the

system to verify that it has assumed

active operational status.<

For additional information, refer to

page 39.

To switch on the interior lamps

With the vehicle locked, press button 2.

If necessary, you can open the fuel filler

door by pressing the button inside the

vehicle; refer to page 25.

Convenience opening mode

Press and hold button 1. The windows

are then opened.

Opening and closing – from the outside

35n

Interference from outside

systems

For US owners only

The transmitter and receiver units

comply with Part 15 of the FCC (Federal

The remote control system's perfor-

mance may be affected by other equip- Communications Commission) regula-

ment operating in the vehicle's vicinity. tions. Operation is governed by the

You can respond to problems of this

nature by using the master key to

engage and release the locks at the

door.

following:

FCC ID:

LX8EWS

LX8FZVS

LX8FZVE

Compliance statement:

This device complies with Part 15 of the

FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the

following two conditions:

To open the luggage

compartment lid

> This device may not cause harmful

interference, and

Press button 3.

The luggage compartment lid opens

slightly.

> this device must accept any interfer-

ence received, including interference

that may cause undesired operation.

Before and after a trip, be sure

that the luggage compartment lid

has not been opened unintentionally.<

Any unauthorized modifications to

these devices could void the

user's authority to operate the equip-

ment.<

Panic mode

You can respond to impending danger

by pressing and holding button 3 for

more than two seconds to trigger the

alarm system by hand. The alarm

system must be armed in advance for

this function to operate.

To switch off the alarm, press button 1.

³⁶ⁿOpening and closing – from the inside

If only the driver's door was

unlocked from the outside and

you press the button,

To unlock and open the doors

> Either unlock the doors together with

the button for the central locking

system and then pull each of the

release handles above the armrests

or

> the passenger door, the luggage

compartment lid, the fuel filler door,

the glove compartment and the

cellular phone holder will be

unlocked, when the driver's door is

open

> pull the release handle for each door

twice: the first pull unlocks the door,

and the second one opens it.

> the driver's door will be locked again

if it is closed.<

To engage the locks

> Lock both doors using the button for

the central locking.

Use this button to operate the central

locking system when the doors are

closed. The doors and the luggage

compartment lid are unlocked or locked

only. The anti-theft alarm system is not

activated.

Because passengers or animals

remaining in the vehicle could lock

the doors from the inside, you should

always remove the key and take it with

you to ensure that you remain able to

unlock the vehicle from the outside at

all times.<

You can also have the key preset

to engage the central locking

system as soon as you start to drive.<

Luggage compartment lid

37n

As with all closing procedures, be

sure that the travel path for the

luggage compartment lid is clear when

being closed to avoid injury.

Operate the vehicle only when the

luggage compartment lid is completely

closed. Otherwise exhaust fumes could

penetrate the interior of the vehicle. If,

however, the luggage compartment lid

has to stay open and the convertible

top is closed while driving,

> close all windows

> increase the air supply from the

heating and ventilation system to a

high level. Refer to page 74.<

To unlock from the inside

To open from the outside

Press on the upper half of the button

(luggage compartment lid symbol).

Reach into the recess and open the

luggage compartment lid all the way.

The luggage compartment lid opens

slightly.

The luggage compartment is illumi-

nated when the lid is opened.

This button will not open the

luggage compartment lid if the

glove compartment is locked. Refer to

page 78.<

Manual operation

Should the electrical system malfunc-

tion, the luggage compartment lid can

be opened from the inside. Refer to

page 142.

To close

The luggage compartment is locked

again as soon as you close the lid.

³⁸ⁿLuggage compartment lid Alarm system

The concept

To arm and disarm the alarm

system

The vehicle alarm system responds

When the vehicle is locked or unlocked

via a door lock or with the remote

control, the alarm system is also simul-

taneously armed or disarmed.

> when a door, the hood or the luggage

compartment lid is opened

> to movement inside the vehicle

(interior motion sensor)

The interior motion sensor and tilt alarm

sensor are activated approx.

> to variations in the vehicle's tilt angle

such as those occuring during

attempts to steal the wheels or tow

the vehicle

30 seconds after you have finished

locking the vehicle.

> to interruption of battery voltage.

The system indicates that it has been

correctly armed by switching on the

hazard warning flashers for a single

cycle and by emitting an acoustic

signal.

The system responds to attempts of

unauthorized vehicle incursion and theft

by simultaneously activating the

following

Emergency release

This lever releases the luggage

compartment lid from the luggage

compartment's interior.

> an alarm sounds for 30 seconds

> the hazard warning flashers are acti-

vated for approx. five minutes

> the high beams flash on and off in the

same rhythm.

You can select the individual

confirmation signal used to indi-

cate that the alarm system has been

armed or disarmed.<

Alarm system

39n

> The indicator lamp flashes for

10 seconds when the system is

disarmed: an attempted entry has

been detected in the period since the

system was armed.

Interior motion sensor

In order for the interior motion sensor to

function properly, the windows and the

luggage compartment lid must be

closed.

Following triggering of an alarm, the

indicator lamp will flash continuously.

Nevertheless, you should deactivate

the interior motion sensor (refer to the

previous column) if

Avoiding unintentional alarms

> children or animals are left in the

vehicle

> windows should remain open.

The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion

sensor may be switched off at the same

time to prevent a false alarm from being

triggered (in garages with elevator

ramps, for instance), or when the

Indicator lamp displays

For US vehicles only:

The indicator lamp is located in the

inside rear view mirror's rotary knob.

The interior motion sensor is not

installed on US models as it has not

received FCC (Federal Communica-

tions Commission) approval.<

vehicle is transported by trailer or train:

> The indicator lamp flashes continu-

ously: the system is armed

Lock the vehicle twice (= arm the

system) by pressing button 2 on the

remote control twice in succession

(refer to page 34), or lock the vehicle

twice with the key (refer to page 32).

The indicator lamp lights up briefly and

then flashes continuously. The tilt alarm

sensor and the interior motion sensor

remain deactivated for as long as the

system is armed.

> The indicator lamp flashes during

arming: a door, the hood or luggage

compartment lid is not completely

closed. Even if you do not respond by

securing the affected area, the system

starts to monitor all other points and

the indicator lamp reverts to contin-

uous, uninterrupted operation once

ten seconds have elapsed. The inte-

rior motion sensor remains off

> The indicator lamp goes out during

disarming: no manipulation or

attempted intrusions have been

detected in the period since the

system was armed

⁴⁰ⁿElectric power windows

Use switch 2 to select the window you

wish to open or close:

Because the power windows are

sealed at high pressure to prevent

wind noise when closed, a powerful

motor is required for efficient closing.

When closing the windows, always

ensure that they are not obstructed in

any way. Unsupervised use of these

systems can result in serious personal

injury. Remove the ignition key to deac-

tivate the electric power windows

whenever you leave the vehicle. Never

leave the keys in the vehicle with unsu-

pervised children.

> Driver's window

Push the switch all the way to the left

> Passenger-side window

Push the switch all the way to the

right

> To activate both windows at the

same time:

Move the switch to the center posi-

tion.

The switch on the passenger-side door

activates the window for that side only.

To open and close the windows

Never place anything that could

obstruct the driver's vision on or next to

the windows.<

From ignition key position 1:

After the ignition has been switched off:

> Depress the rocker switch 1 until you

feel resistance:

Provided that no door is opened in the

intervening period, the electric power

windows remain available for operation

for up to 15 minutes.

The window remains in motion for as

long as you maintain pressure on the

switch

To use the convenience mode via the

door lock or the remote control, refer to

page 32 or 34.

> Briefly press rocker switch 1 to just

beyond the initial point of resistance

(one-touch mode):

The window automatically remains in

motion until it reaches the end of its

travel. Briefly press the switch a

second time to stop the window.

The one-touch mode cannot be

used to close the passenger-side

window.<

The automatic convertible top

41n

Operate the convertible top only

when the vehicle is stationary,

Weather protection

The fabric convertible top combines

otherwise the procedure will be inter-

rupted. Driving before the opening or

closing procedure has been properly

concluded can lead to damage or

injury.

reliable protection from the elements

with simple, convenient operation. Here

are a few tips to ensure that you enjoy

your BMW Z8 roadster.

It is advisable to close the convertible

top when the vehicle is parked. The

closed convertible top not only protects

the passenger compartment from

unforeseeable damage from the

weather, it also provides a certain

degree of theft protection. Even if the

convertible top is closed, store your

valuables only in the locked luggage

compartment.

Do not lay objects on the convertible

top, since they would fall off when the

convertible top is operated and cause

damage or injuries.

Make sure that no objects or people get

in the way while the convertible top is

opening or closing, so that no damage

or injuries occur.

To open

From ignition key position 1:

If at all possible, only operate the

convertible top if the engine is running

to avoid discharging the battery.

The automatic operating procedure is

interrupted immediately if the switch

for actuating the top is released. The

procedure can be continued in the

desired direction by pressing this

switch.<

To prevent damage to its rear window,

avoid opening or closing the fabric top

unless the temperature is well above

freezing.

Press and hold the switch in the

"Open" (1) direction until the opening

procedure has been completed with the

convertible top being stored in the

convertible top compartment and the

indicator lamp on the instrument cluster

(refer to page 18) has gone out.

The side windows will lower slightly

when the convertible top is being

opened. To reclose the side windows,

maintain pressure on the switch after

the indicator lamp goes out.

⁴²ⁿThe automatic convertible top

The indicator lamp stays on while the

convertible top is in motion. If the

opening procedure has not been

completed, the indicator lamp will blink

after you release the switch.

In order to avoid subsequent

moisture damage, do not leave

the convertible top retracted when it is

wet (refer also to the chapter on vehicle

care beginning on page 118).<

To mount the cover

3. Circling it around, push the cover

under the rear edge of the convert-

ible top well. Lightly pounding on the

cover makes it easier to attach prop-

erly

In order to avoid damage or

getting dirt on the inside of the

convertible top, always drive with the

convertible top cover installed.<

Remove the folded cover from the

luggage compartment and extract it

from its protective slip case.

1. Unfold the cover and lay it out on top

of the convertible top

2. Guide the cover tabs into the slots at

the front, first on the right side, then

on the left (see arrows or detail)

While guiding the tabs in, use one

hand to press the inside part of

the convertible top down inside, so that

it does not get jammed in or

damaged.<

The automatic convertible top

43n

To remove the cover panel

Closing

4. Press on both left and right sides to

lock the cover in place

Follow the same steps as for assembly, 1. Push the switch toward "Close" (2)

however, in reverse sequence.

5. Pull the button to verify that the

locking mechanism is engaged

securely.

and maintain pressure until the auto-

matic closing process is completed,

just before the top frame comes to

rest against the windshield header

rail.

After removal, slide the two outside

ends of the cover under the retaining

strap, then tilt in the middle and fold

toward the outside (leather on leather).

The cover lock responds by alter-

nately engaging and releasing

with each successive application of

pressure.<

The side windows automatically

retract and remain lowered slightly

for the duration of the closing proce-

dure

After folding the cover, insert it in the

protective casing for subsequent

storage in the luggage compartment.

Be sure that the cover is properly

secured on the vehicle. If it is not

firmly secured, air pressure could

loosen the cover at higher speeds.<

⁴⁴ⁿThe automatic convertible top

The indicator lamp stays on while the

Power loss or malfunction

convertible top is in motion. The indi-

cator lamp will blink if you release one

of the buttons before the closing proce-

dure has been completed.

Should the electrical system malfunc-

tion, an opened convertible top can be

closed manually. Refer to page 143.

Wind deflector

Refer to page 95.

Hardtop

Refer to page 96 and following.

2. Insert your finger in the recess to

press the button. Maintain pressure

on the button

3. Pull the convertible top frame onto

the window frame's header rail. The

button you are pressing releases the

automatic locking mechanism that

attaches the top frame to the header

rail.

The closing procedure is finished

after you hear the locking device

audibly click into place; the indicator

lamp on the instrument cluster will

then go out (refer to page 18).

To reclose the side windows, main-

tain pressure on the button in the

recess after the indicator lamp goes

out.

Seat adjustment

45n

For maximum safety when adjusting the

seating position, please observe the

following:

Correct sitting posture

To reduce strain on the spinal column,

sit all the way back in the seat and rest

your back fully against the backrest.

The ideal sitting posture is achieved

with your head extending from your

spine in a straight line.

Never try to adjust your seat while

driving the vehicle. The seat could

respond with un unexpected move-

ment, and the ensuing loss of vehicle

control could lead to an accident.

Be sure that the safety belt remains

firmly against your body at all times. In

the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap

belt could slide over the hips, leading to

abdominal injury. In addition, the safety

belt's restraint effectiveness is reduced

if the belt is worn loosely.

For long-distance driving, you may wish

to increase the backrest tilt-angle

slightly to reduce muscular tension.

You should be able to grasp the

steering wheel at its highest point with

your arms slightly bent.

1 Backward/Forward adjustment

2 Cushion height

3 Backrest angle

Never ride with the backrest reclined to

an extreme angle (especially important

for the passenger to remember). If you

do so, there is a risk that you will slide

under the safety belt in an accident,

thus reducing the protection provided

by the safety belt.<

Adjust the head restraint manually.

Ensure that the backrest detent is

fully engaged before sliding the

seat to the rear. If the seat is moved back

with the backrest folded forward, the

detents may not engage during subse-

quent attempts to return the backrest to

its upright position. Both the rear of the

backrest and the upholstery in the rear

storage well may sustain damage as a

result. Always ensure that the backrest is

not reclined to an excessively steep

angle when sliding the seat back: failure

to observe this precaution can result in

damage to both the upholstery in the rear

storage well and to the backrest itself.<

⁴⁶ⁿHead restraints

Seat backrest

Belt guide

Adjustments

To unlock

The strap for the belt guide can be

opened: release the push button.

Upward: by pulling.

Pull on the outermost edge of the strap

and tip the backrest forward.

This feature can be used to facilitate

access to the rear storage well for

loading and when using equipment

features on the rear bulkhead.

Downward: unlock by first pressing the

button located on the right under the

leather (arrow 1).

The strap for the driver's backrest is

located on the outside, while the

passenger's seat is equipped with

Head restraints reduce the risk of release straps on both the left and right

spinal injury in the event of an

accident.

For further information regarding

loading, refer to page 83.

sides of the backrest.

Adjust the head restraint so that its

center is approximately level with your

ears.<

Lock both backrests while driving,

otherwise there is a danger of an

unexpected movement causing an

accident.

Before each trip, insert the safety

belt into the guide strap, other-

wise, it will not hold securely and lose

its effectiveness as a restraint device,

as it will be too loose.<

Do not use the strap as a holder, e. g.

for newspapers or other items. This

could cause the backrests to unlock.<

Adjusting the steering wheel

47n

Press the button to move the steering

wheel forward or back to suit your

selected seating position.

Do not adjust the steering wheel

while the vehicle is moving. If you

do so, there is a risk of accident from

unexpected movement.<

⁴⁸ⁿMirrors

You can also adjust the mirrors manu-

ally by pressing against the outer edges

of their lenses.

When estimating the distance

between yourself and other traffic,

bear in mind that the objects reflected

in the mirror are closer than they

appear. This means that estimates of

the distance to following traffic should

not be regarded as precise.<

Electric defrosting

Exterior mirrors

Interior rearview mirror with

automatic dimmer

Both mirrors are automatically

defrosted with the ignition key in posi-

tion 2.

1 Switch for 4-way adjustment

This mirror automatically responds to

ambient light and headlight glare from

following vehicles by dimming through

an infinitely-variable range. The

dimming function is regulated by two

photocells; one is integrated in the

mirror's frame (arrow), while the other is

located at an offset position on the rear

of the mirror.

2 Selection switch for changing

between mirrors, switch either all the

way to the left or the right

Mirrors

Vehicle Memory, Key Memory

49n

The mirror switches to its clear,

undimmed mode whenever you shift

into reverse.

The concept

What the system can do

No doubt you have reflected at one

time or another on how great it would

be if you could permanently configure

your vehicle's various features and

adjustments to mirror your own indi-

vidual preferences. In developing the

Your BMW center can provide you with

details on the capabilities of the Vehicle

Memory and Key Memory systems.

Below a few examples:

For trouble-free operation, keep the

photocells clean and do not cover the

area between the interior rearview

mirror and the windshield. Do not

A Vehicle Memory sampler:

> Various signals to confirm release

and engagement of the vehicle's

locks.

attach any kind of stickers on the wind- Z8, BMW has incorporated a number of

shield in front of the mirror, either.

options for personal adjustment that

can be programmed into your vehicle

by your BMW center.

For a more detailed explanation of the

electrochromatic technology used in

this mirror, please refer to page 153.

> Activate/deactivate the "Follow me

home" lamps.

The available configuration data fall into

two categories, according to whether

their primary orientation is the vehicle

("Vehicle Memory") or the individual

("Key Memory"). Provided that each

person has a separate remote-control

key, you can have your BMW center

enter adjustment data for as many as

four different individuals into the

system.

A Key Memory sampler:

> Engage vehicle locks as soon as the

vehicle is underway.

At various points throughout this

Owner's Manual you will find this

symbol, indicating that the equipment

or system described in the adjacent

section can be preset for automatic

adjustment using the Vehicle or Key

Memory.<

The system then relies on a bilateral

data exchange to identify the individual

user and dial in the selected settings

whenever the remote-control unit is

used to disengage the door locks.

⁵⁰ⁿSafety belts

For your safety, please comply

with the following instructions for

wearing safety belts. Otherwise, your

Expectant mothers should always wear

their safety belts, taking care to position

the lap belt against the lower hips,

personal safety will be diminished, and where it will not exert pressure against

the safety belts' protective function

impaired. The following information also

applies to your passengers:

the abdominal area.<

For care instructions, refer to page 121.

Never allow more than one person to

wear a single safety belt. Infants or

small children should never be held on

the lap of a passenger.

If the safety belt system has been

subjected to the stresses involved

in an accident or damaged in any other

way, have the complete mechanism

replaced by your BMW center,

Avoid twisting the belt while routing it

firmly across the pelvis and shoulder,

wear it as snugly against your body as

possible. Do not allow the belt to rest

against hard or fragile objects in your

pockets. Never route the belt across

your neck, do not run it across sharp

Drive with your safety belt on

including the safety belt tensioner and

the belt anchorages checked. If a child-

restraint system* is in the vehicle

during an accident, consult the manu-

facturer's instructions regarding

Fasten your safety belt at the beginning

of every trip.

To fasten:

Make sure you hear the lock engage in

the belt buckle.

edges and ensure that the belt does not replacement.<

become caught or jammed.

To release:

Press the red button in the buckle. Hold

the belt and guide it back into its reel.

Avoid wearing bulky clothing and pull

on the belt periodically to retension it

over your shoulder. In the event of a

frontal impact, a loose lap belt could

slide over your hips, leading to abdom-

inal injury. In addition, the safety belt's

restraint effectiveness is reduced if the

belt is worn loosely.

Child-restraint systems*

Since your vehicle is equipped

with an airbag for the front

passenger, never use any rear-facing

child-restraint systems on the front

passenger seat, otherwise serious inju-

ries can occur if the airbag is triggered.

Never modify a child-restraint system in

any way, as the result could be reduced

protection for your child.<

Airbags

51n

Indicator lamp

The indicator lamp in the instru-

ment cluster comes on to

confirm the system's operational

status from ignition key position 1.

System operational:

> The indicator lamp comes on briefly

then goes out.

System malfunction:

> The indicator lamp fails to come on

> The indicator lamp comes on briefly

before going out and then lighting up

again.

1 Front airbag on driver and passenger The illustration shows the system's

side

effective response range; major

impacts occuring within this area will

initiate airbag deployment.

A system malfunction could prevent the

system from responding to a high-

intensity impact sustained within its

normal response range.

2 Side airbags on driver and passenger

side

The airbags do not respond to

minor impacts, if the vehicle rolls

over, or if the vehicle is hit from the

rear.<

Protection

Have your BMW center inspect the

system immediately.

The front airbags protect the driver and

passenger in the event of severe frontal

impacts in which a safety belt alone is

not enough to provide optimal protec-

tion. The side airbags help provide

protection in the event of a collision

from the side. Each of the side airbags

is designed to help support the seat

occupant's upper body.

⁵²ⁿAirbags

Do not apply adhesive materials to the

cover panels of the airbags, or cover or

modify them in any other way.

Sitting correctly with airbags

Comply with the following instruc-

tions for the airbags, otherwise,

the airbags may not be able to provide

their maximum protection, with

Do not use a rear-facing child seat in

the front passenger seat. If you use a

child-restraint system, carefully read

and comply with the instructions on

page 53.

resulting risks to personal safety. All

passengers in the vehicle should be

aware of and comply with this informa-

tion:

Be sure that child seats are installed

correctly and with the greatest possible

distance between them and the side

airbag. Do not allow children to lean out

of the child's seat in the direction of the

side trim panels. If they do so, serious

injuries can occur if the airbag is trig-

gered.<

The airbag is a supplemental restraint

device; it is not a substitute or replace-

ment for your safety belt, which you

should continue to wear at all times.

When adjusting your seat, assume a

comfortable driving posture allowing

comfortable and secure access to all of

the vehicle's controls. Avoid sitting too

close to the steering wheel.

The illustration shows the correct

seating position for a child in a child-

restraint system* with sufficient

distance between the child and the side

airbag (arrow).

Even when all these guidelines are

observed, there is still a small residual

risk of injury to the face, hands and

arms occurring from airbag deployment

in isolated instances.

Always hold the steering wheel by the

rim – hands in the "9 o'clock" and

"3 o'clock" positions – otherwise, your

hands or arms could be injured if the

airbag is triggered.

The ignition and inflation noise may

cause a mild temporary hearing loss in

extremely sensitive individuals.

Never allow any other passengers,

animals or objects to intrude into the

area between the airbag and the driver You will find the proper airbag safety

or front passenger.

precautions on both sun visors and on

the instrument cluster (US models).

Do not use the cover panel above the

front passenger airbag as a storage

area.

For additional information concerning

the airbag system, refer to pages 123

and 150.

Airbags

Transporting children safely

53n

Before installing any child-

restraint device or child seat,

please read the following:

In the interest of the child's safety,

please carefully read and comply with

the instructions for installation and use

provided by the child restraint's manu-

facturer whenever you use such a

device.

Never install a rear-facing child-

restraint system in the passenger seat

of this vehicle.

If the airbag deploys and hits the back- Do not allow children to lean out of a

rest of the rear-facing child seat, it is

likely that the child sitting in the rear-

facing child seat will be seriously

injured or killed.

child-restraint system toward the door

or dashboard, as otherwise serious

injuries may result if the airbag deploys.

Always ensure that all occupants (of all

ages) remain properly and securely

restrained at all times.

If it is necessary for a child (not an

infant) to ride in the vehicle, certain

precautions should be taken. First,

move the passenger seat as far away

from the dashboard as possible. This

important precaution is intended to

maximize the distance between the

airbag and the child. Older children

should be tightly secured with the

safety belt. Younger children should be

secured in an appropriate forward-

facing child-restraint system that has

first been secured with a safety belt.

The illustration shows the correct

seating position for an older child

wearing a safety belt with sufficient

distance between the child and the side

airbag (arrow).

Read carefully and comply with the

safety precautions covering safety belts

on page 50. If you do not, the protec-

tive function of the safety belts will be

limited.<

⁵⁴ⁿTransporting children safely

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.

The belt cannot be retracted further.

Comply with the installation instructions

provided by the manufacturer of the

child-restraint system.

To release the belt

Child seat security

Release the buckle, remove the child-

restraint system and allow the inertia

reel to retract the belt completely.

The safety belt on the passenger side

can be locked for mounting and

securing child-restraint systems.

A label with operating instructions is

attached to the belt next to the sliding

latch plate.

Ignition and steering lock

55n

> Turning the key to position 2 provides

electrical power to the ignition and all

remaining electrical systems.

Removing the key

The key is removed in position 0. Turn

the steering wheel to engage the

steering lock and activate the electronic

vehicle immobilizer.

With a discharged or discon-

nected battery, the steering

column will not be locked or unlocked.

Leaving the key in the ignition uses up a

minimal amount of power. In order to

avoid discharging the battery, remove

the key if the vehicle is to be parked for

an extended period of time.<

Your vehicle is equipped with an elec-

trically powered steering lock mecha-

nism.

If the steering is locked and the

battery discharged or discon-

nected, do not tow the vehicle, as it will

not be possible to turn the steering

wheel.<

To activate the electrical power

supply and release the steering

> Insert key at position 1. The steering

detent can be heard disengaging. If

you encounter any resistance when

turning the key to the right this indi-

cates that the detent is still engaged:

turn the steering wheel slightly to free

the mechanism and turn the key.

The vehicle immobilizer is deacti-

vated

> The sound system and other elec-

trical accessories are available for

use when the ignition key is in posi-

tion 1

⁵⁶ⁿStarting the engine

Do not press the accelerator pedal

while starting the engine (pressing the

starter button).

To prevent the battery from

discharging, always deactivate elec-

trical devices that are not in use. Switch

the ignition off when the vehicle is not

being driven.

Do not actuate the starter button

for too short a time, but do not

keep it pressed for more than approx.

20 seconds.<

Do not allow the engine to warm up by

leaving it running while the vehicle

remains stationary. Instead, begin to

drive immediately at a moderate engine

speed.

Before starting

> Engage the parking brake

> Make sure that the transmission is in

neutral

Cold starts at very low temperatures,

from approx. +5 7 (–15 6) and at alti-

tudes above 3,300 ft (1,000 meters):

> Depress the clutch pedal

> Turn ignition key to position 2.

> On the first start attempt, engage the

starter for a longer period (approx.

10 seconds).

Do not allow the engine to run in

enclosed areas. The exhaust

Engine idle speed is controlled by the

electronic engine-management system.

A fast idle immediately after starting is

normal and should decrease as the

engine warms up. If the idle does not

return to normal as the engine reaches

normal operating temperature, service

is required.

gases contain carbon monoxide, an

odorless and colorless, but highly toxic

gas. Breathing the exhaust gases poses

an extreme health risk, and can lead to

unconsciousness and death.

Do not leave the vehicle unattended

with the engine running. An unattended

vehicle with a running engine repre-

sents a potential safety hazard.<

Switching off the engine Parking brake

57n

If, in rare circumstances, it should

Turn ignition key to position 1 or 0.

be necessary to engage the

parking brake while the vehicle is in

motion, do not pull hard on the lever.

Keep your thumb pressed against the

release button while carefully pulling

the lever up to apply moderate pres-

sure.

Never remove the ignition key

while the vehicle is rolling. If you

do so, the ignition lock would engage

when the steering wheel is turned.

When you leave the vehicle, always

remove the ignition key and engage the

steering lock.

Excessive pressure can lead to over-

braking and loss of traction (fishtailing)

at the rear axle.

Always engage the parking brake when

parking on hills and inclined surfaces,

as first gear or reverse may not provide

adequate resistance to rolling.<

The brake lamps do not come on when

the parking brake is engaged.

Always engage the parking brake when

parking on hills and inclined surfaces,

as selecting first gear or reverse may

not provide adequate resistance to

rolling.<

The parking brake is primarily designed

to prevent the vehicle from rolling while

parked. It operates on the rear wheels.

To engage

The lock engages automatically when

you lift the lever, and the indicator lamp

in the instrument cluster comes on

when the ignition key is in position 2.

Refer to page 21.

To avoid corrosion and one-sided

braking, apply the parking brake lightly

from time to time when coasting to a

standstill (at a traffic signal, for

instance), provided that it is safe to do

so.

To release

Pull up slightly on the lever, press the

button and lower the lever.

⁵⁸ⁿManual transmission

Indicator/Headlamp ﬂasher

When shifting across the gate to

the 5th/6th gear plane always

remember to push the lever to the right

to avoid inadvertent engagement of 3rd

or 4th gear.<

Reverse

Select only when the vehicle is

stationary. Press the shift lever to the

left to overcome the resistance.

As you do this, the backup lamp will

turn on automatically when the ignition

key is in position 2.

Every time you shift gears, always

depress the clutch pedal all the way

down, pushing the gear lever into the

desired position.

1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)

2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator

lamp)

Never slip the clutch to prevent

the vehicle from rolling backwards

when stopping on hills. Slipping the

clutch for extended periods leads to

rapid, premature clutch wear.<

3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator

lamp and cyclical clicking from the

blinker relay)

Always remember to depress the clutch

pedal when starting the engine; a lock-

out device prevents starting when the

clutch is engaged.

If the indicator lamp and the clicking

from the relay are faster than normal,

one of the turn signal bulbs is defective.

The shift lever's neutral plane is located

between 3rd and 4th gears.

The shift lever automatically returns to

the 3rd/4th plane whenever you select

neutral.

To signal briefly

Press the lever up to but not beyond

the pressure point. It then returns to the

center position when released.

Washer/Wiper system

59n

0 Wipers retracted

2 Normal wiper speed

The wipers are partially hidden behind

the hood. To bring the wipers up into

their vertical position (important when

changing the blades, or folding up

when frost is expected):

The wipers automatically revert to inter-

mittent mode when the vehicle is

stationary.

3 Fast wiper speed

With the lever in position 1, switch off

the ignition as soon as the wipers come

to a stop.

When the vehicle is stationary, the

wipers operate at normal speed.

For information on replacing the wiper

blades, refer to page 130.

0 Wipers retracted

1 Intermittent mode

2 Normal wiper speed

3 Fast wiper speed

4 Brief wipe

Fold the wipers back down onto

the windshield before you turn the

ignition key to position 1 or 2 again. If

you do not, they could be damaged.<

1 Intermittent mode

Wiper delay varies automatically

depending on actual road speed.

⁶⁰ⁿWasher/Wiper system

Rear window defroster

2 Clean windshield/headlamps

Automatic windshield washer and

headlamp washers are activated. Every

time they are actuated, both the wind-

shield and the headlamps are cleaned.

Do not use the washers if there is

any danger that the fluid will

freeze on the windshield. If you do so,

your vision could be obscured. Use an

antifreeze agent. Refer to page 110.

Do not use the washers when the reser-

voir is empty. If you do so, the washer

pump could be damaged.<

To activate

1 Clean windshield

With the hardtop in place, press the

button: as long as the indicator lamp

remains on, the rear window defroster

operates at high output (rapid thaw).

2 Clean windshield/headlamps

Windshield washer jets

1 Clean windshield

The windshield washer jets are heated

automatically when the ignition key is in

position 2.

The system sprays washer fluid against

the windshield and activates the wipers

for a brief period.

After the indicator lamp goes out, the

defroster continues operating at

reduced power for a limited period

before deactivating automatically.

If you only pull the lever briefly, the

system sprays washer fluid onto the

windshield without activating the

wipers.

To deactivate

If the indicator lamp is on, press the

button.

The indicator lamp is always

active, however the rear window

defroster will not work if the hardtop is

not in place.<

Cruise control

61n

Press and hold the lever in position 2:

With the cruise control active, the

system automatically reduces the

throttle opening to slow the vehicle.

Store and maintain

speed/accelerate

Press the lever briefly in direction 1:

The system maintains the current

vehicle speed. Every time you briefly

press the lever, the speed increases by

approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).

When you release the lever, the system

registers and maintains the current

speed.

Press and hold the lever in position 1:

The vehicle accelerates without pres-

sure on the accelerator pedal. When

you release the lever, the system main-

tains the current speed.

To cancel the cruise control

Press the lever briefly in direction 3:

The cruise control is immediately

canceled.

You can store and automatically main-

tain any desired vehicle speed above

approx. 20 mph (30 km/h).

In addition, the system automatically

deactivates in response to the following

The vehicle may accelerate

beyond the preselected speed on conditions:

steep downhill stretches, where engine

braking alone may not be enough to

> braking

> clutch disengagement

Refrain from using the cruise

control on twisting roads, when

high traffic density prevents driving at a

constant speed, and when driving on

slippery (snow, rain, ice) or loose

(gravel, sand) road surfaces.<

slow the vehicle. It can also slow when

the engine fails to maintain the prese-

lected speed when ascending steep

grades.<

> when vehicle speed deviates from

the preset speed for an extended

period, for instance, as a result of

pressure on the accelerator pedal.

To decelerate

To deactivate the system

Press the lever briefly in direction 2:

With the cruise control active, the

speed decreases by approx. 0.6 mph

(1 km/h) every time you briefly touch the

lever.

Turn ignition key to position 0.

⁶²ⁿOdometer

Tachometer

Fuel gauge

1 Odometer

Never allow engine speed to climb until When you switch on the ignition, the

the needle enters the tachometer's red indicator lamp lights up briefly to

With the ignition key in position 0, you

can activate the displays shown in the

illustration by pressing the button in the

instrument cluster (arrow).

sector.

confirm that the system is operational.

To protect the engine, the engine-

management system automatically

interrupts the fuel supply in this range,

producing the sensation of a sudden

loss of power.

Once the indicator lamp comes on and

stays on, there are approx. 2.5 gallons

(10 liters) of fuel left in the fuel tank.

2 Trip odometer

For fuel tank capacity, refer to

page 161.

To reset the trip odometer to zero,

press the button (arrow) with the igni-

tion key in position 1 and up.

Certain operating conditions (such

as those encountered in mountainous

areas) may cause the needle to fluc-

tuate slightly.

Please refuel early, since driving

to the last drop of fuel can result

in damage to the engine or catalytic

converter.<

Coolant temperature gauge

Service Interval Display ⁶³ⁿ

Between the blue and red zones

Normal operating range. It is not

unusual for the needle to rise as far as

the edge of the red zone in response

to high outside temperatures or severe

operating conditions.

For checking coolant level, refer to

page 113.

Blue

Remaining distance before

service

The engine is still cold. Drive at

moderate engine and vehicle speeds.

The displays shown in the illustration

appear for a few seconds when the

ignition key is in position 1 or after the

engine is started.

Red

When you switch on the ignition, the

warning lamp comes on briefly to

confirm that the system is operational.

The remaining distance in miles and the

next scheduled service will appear

together with the display OILSERVICE

or INSPECTION.

If the lamp comes on in the course of

normal vehicle operation, the engine

has overheated. Turn it off immediately

and let it cool down.

The computer bases its calculations for

the remaining distance on the previous

driving style.

A flashing display and a "–" in front of

the number indicate that service is past

due by the number of miles displayed.

Please contact your BMW center for an

appointment.

⁶⁴ⁿClock

Multi-Information Radio (MIR)

The Multi-Information Radio allows you

to operate the navigation system and

various cellular phone functions as well

as your in-car sound system.

Please refer to the supplementary

Owner's Manual provided with your

sound system for detailed information

on adjusting and operating the Multi-

Information Radio.

Outside temperature

You can have the outside temperature

shown on the Multi-Information Radio

display. Refer to the supplementary

Owner's Manual.

To set the clock

From ignition key position 0 on:

To set ahead: turn the button to the

right.

To set back: turn the button to the left.

Hold the button turned continuously to

move the hands faster.

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

65n

The concept

Indicator lamp

DSC maintains vehicle stability even in

critical driving situations.

The indicator lamp in the instru-

ment cluster goes out shortly

after you switch on the ignition.

DSC maintains optimal, predictable

response while maximizing traction

when you accelerate from a standing

start or speed up while already

Refer to page 22.

The indicator lamp flashes:

The system is actively regulating drive

torque and braking force.

underway. The system recognizes any

tendency for the vehicle to assume an

instable attitude such as oversteer and

understeer, and counteracts this

tendency with a combination of gradu-

ated reductions in engine torque and

braking intervention at individually

selected wheels. DSC provides optimal

stability – within the limits defined by

the laws of physics.

The indicator lamp does not go out

after the engine is started, or it comes

on during normal driving and stays on:

There is a system malfunction or the

system was deactivated with the

button. You can continue to drive the

vehicle normally, but without DSC.

Please respond to any suspected

defects by referring the problem to your

BMW center.

To deactivate the system

Press the button, the indicator lamp

comes on and stays on.

When DSC is deactivated, you are

operating the vehicle in the conven-

tional drive mode.

The system automatically assumes

operational status each time the engine

is started.

In the following rare circumstances, it

may be effective to deactivate the DSC

for a short period of time:

> When rocking the vehicle or starting

off in deep snow or on loose

surfaces.

To maintain vehicle stability,

always drive with the system

switched on when possible.<

⁶⁶ⁿDynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Dynamic Performance

To reactivate the system

Press the button again; the indicator

lamp goes out.

Not even DSC can suspend the

laws of physics. Responsibility for

careless driving remains in the hands

(and feet) of the driver. Never use the

added safety provided by DSC as an

excuse for taking unnecessary risks.

Do not make any modifications to the

DSC system. Service procedures on

the system are to be performed by

authorized technicians only.<

The system reacts to current conditions

with an instantaneous recalibration. It

revises the accelerator's standard

response designed to furnish an ideal

combination of comfort and perfor-

mance orientation – with a more perfor-

mance-oriented response program. The

result is crisper, faster reaction to

throttle inputs (Sport mode).

For additional information concerning

DSC, please refer to the chapter

"Advanced technology" on page 151.

The system resets to the standard

response mode, with its combination of

comfort and performance orientation,

each time the engine is restarted.

Dynamic Performance

Flat Tire Monitor

67n

Sport mode recognition

The concept

Activating:

In ignition position 2, press the button.

The indicator lamp will come on.

The Flat Tire Monitor keeps track of the

inflation pressures in all four wheels as

you drive. The system provides an alert

whenever the inflation pressure has

dropped significantly in one of the tires.

Deactivating:

Whenever the indicator lamp is on, it

will go out if you press the button again. To initialize the Flat Tire Monitor with

the correct inflation pressures, start by

ensuring that all of the vehicle's tires

are inflated to the pressures specified

in the inflation pressure table on

page 27. Now you can activate the

system.

To activate the system

1. Turn the ignition key to position 2

The indicator lamp within the

instrument cluster flashes to

alert you to substantial pres-

sure loss in any of the tires.

2. Press the button long enough for the

indicator lamp in the instrument

cluster to light up red for a few

seconds

3. As you drive, the Flat Tire Monitor

automatically enters the system

initialization mode in which it stores

the current pressures as its reference

figures. The initialization process

lasts for ten minutes or somewhat

longer. Once it has been completed

the Flat Tire Monitor is able to detect

and warn of flat tires.

⁶⁸ⁿFlat Tire Monitor

Repeat this process after any changes

in tire inflation pressure, tire rotation or

replacement.

Check tire pressure on a regular

basis and correct it as required.

System interference

The red indicator lamp in the instrument

cluster will stay on for as long as there

is a malfunction.

Refer to page 26.

Do not reactivate the system after peri- Do not activate the system when driving

odic corrections of inflation pressures

to maintain them at the levels stored

during an earlier initialization process.

on snow chains or when operating the

vehicle on a closed racing circuit. False

alarms and undetected pressure loss

are both possible under these condi-

tions.

The indicator lamp will come on if the

system malfunctions.

Please contact your BMW center for

additional information.

In the event of a flat tire

In certain circumstances, there could

be a delayed detection of any loss in

inflation pressure while driving on

snow-covered or slippery road

surfaces.

The red indicator lamp will flash in the

event of a flat tire.

A supplementary gong is also heard.

Carefully reduce speed to less than

50 mph (80 km/h), avoiding any hard

braking or steering maneuvers while

doing so.

Performance-oriented driving (slip at

the drive wheels, high levels of lateral

acceleration) can also delay the

appearance of status reports in the Flat

Tire Monitor's display panel.<

For additional details, refer to

page 137.

The Flat Tire Monitor cannot alert

you to severe and sudden tire

damage caused by external factors.

Another factor which the Flat Tire

Monitor does not recognize is the

balanced and very gradual pressure

loss that takes place in all tires over an

extended period of time.<

Parking lamps/Low beams

Instrument lighting

69n

"Follow me home" lamps:

If you actuate the headlamp

flasher after you have parked the

vehicle and shut off the engine, the low

beams will remain on for a brief period.

You may also have this function deacti-

vated if you wish.<

"LIGHTS ON" warning

If you turn the ignition key to position 0,

an acoustic signal will sound for a few

seconds after the driver's door has

been opened if the low beams have not

been switched off.

Parking lamps (side marker

lamps)

Turn the knob to adjust the lighting

intensity.

With the switch in this position,

the front, rear and side vehicle

lighting is switched on.

Daytime driving lamps*

The headlamps are automatically

switched on for daylight driving when

ignition key is in position 2.

When leaving the vehicle parked, you

also have the additional option of acti-

vating the lighting on just one side, refer

to page 70.

Low beams

If you switch off the ignition

while the low beams are on,

only the parking lamps (side

marker lamps) remain on.

⁷⁰ⁿHigh beams/Standing lamps

Rear fog lamp

1 High beams (blue indicator lamp)

The yellow indicator lamp in the

instrument cluster lights up

whenever the rear fog lamp is

2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator

lamp)

switched on.

3 Standing lamps

Comply with legal requirements

regarding fog lamp use.

Standing lamps, left or right

When leaving the vehicle parked, you

also have the additional option of acti-

vating the lighting on just one side:

With the ignition key in position 0, move

the turn signal lever in the desired

direction (for left or right side); allow the

detent to engage.

Interior lamps

Reading lamps

71n

In order to prevent battery

discharge, all of the lamps in the

vehicle are switched off automatically

approx. 15 minutes after the ignition

key has been turned to position 0.<

The interior lamps operate automati-

cally.

The reading lamps can be switched on

and off using the push button, located

next to each lamp.

Switching the interior lamps on

and off manually

Turn the knob.

If you want the interior lamps to remain

off, keep the knob turned for approx.

3 seconds.

Turn the knob again to turn it back on.

Footwell lamps

The footwell lamps operate in the same

way as the interior lamps.

⁷²ⁿHeating and ventilation/Air conditioner

Heating and ventilation/Air conditioner

73n

1 Air onto the windshield and the side

windows

2 Airflow for the upper body

The rotary dials make it possible for

you to open and close the air supply

through an infintely-variable range,

while the levers change the airflow

direction. Refer to page 75

3 Front footwell ventilation

4 Air supply

Both the heating and ventilation are

available from position 1 on. Refer to

page 74

5 Defrost windows and remove

condensation 75

6 Temperature 74

7 Air distribution toward

> the windows

> the upper body

> the footwell

A infinitely-variable range of inter-

mediate settings is also available.

Refer to page 74

8 Rear window defroster with the

hardtop in place 75

9 Operating:

> Recirculated air 74

> Incoming air 74

> Air conditioner/Incoming air 74

> Air conditioner/Recirculated air 74

⁷⁴ⁿHeating and ventilation/Air conditioner

Air supply

Recirculated-air mode

Air conditioner/Incoming-air

mode

You can select blower speeds

from 1 to 4. The higher the

setting, the greater the

If there are unpleasant odors

in the incoming air, you can

temporarily block the air

The air is cooled and dehu-

midified and – depending on

the temperature setting –

amount of heat and air supply.

In position 0, the blower, heating and

air conditioner are switched off.

supply. The system then recir-

culates the air already within the

vehicle.

warmed again when the air

conditioner is switched on.

Depending on the weather, the wind-

shield may fog over briefly when the

If condensation starts to form on

window surfaces during operation engine is started.

in the recirculated-air mode, switch this

Temperature

In order to increase the inte-

rior temperature, turn to the

right. For rapid heating, turn

completely to the right. Then

select an interior temperature that is

comfortable for you.

Use the button to switch the air condi-

mode off and increase the air supply as

required, or press the button for

"Defrosting windows and removing

condensation".<

tioner off at outside temperatures

below approx. 41 7(5 6). This will

help to prevent condensation from

forming on window surfaces.

If the windows fog over after switching

the air conditioner off, switch it back

on.

Incoming-air mode

Air distribution

Recommended when driving

with the convertible top down.

The degree to which the

You can direct the airflow onto

the windows

upper body

, toward the

and into the

. You can also

Air conditioner/Recirculated-air

mode

passenger compartment is

heated depends on temperature selec-

tion and air distribution.

footwell

make all intermediate settings. The

"6 o'clock" setting is recommended for

normal conditions (refer also to the

illustration and overview on page 72).

You may find it useful to acti-

vate both systems to cool the

vehicle more rapidly after it

has been parked with the top

up on a hot day. This setting provides

the coldest possible airflow from the

vent outlets (with temperature selection

switch turned all the way to the left).

Heating and ventilation/Air conditioner

75n

If condensation starts to form on

window surfaces during operation

in the recirculated-air mode, switch this

mode off and increase the air supply as

required, or press the button for

"Defrosting windows and removing

condensation".<

Defrost windows and remove

condensation

This operation quickly

removes ice and condensa-

tion from the windshield and

Draft-free ventilation

You can adjust the direction of the

airflow using the levers 2.

the side windows.

You can adjust the air outlets for the

upper body area for optimal personal

comfort:

Set the air outlets so that the air flows

past you and is not directed straight at

you.

Rear window defroster

Whenever the hardtop is on,

the indicator lamp lights up

when the rear window

Use rotary dials 1 to open and close the

air outlets through an infinitely-variable

range.

Microfilter

defroster is turned on. The rear window

defroster switches off automatically.

Refer to page 60.

The microfilter removes dust and pollen

from the incoming air. Your BMW

center will change this filter during

routine maintenance. A substantial

reduction in airflow indicates that the

filter needs to be replaced early.

The indicator lamp is always

active, however the rear window

defroster will not work if the hardtop is

not in place.<

⁷⁶ⁿHeating and ventilation/Air conditioner

Rapid ventilation

Cooling

Rapid cooling

1. Set the rotary control for the air

supply to position 4

1. Set the rotary control for the air

supply to position 2

2. Use the rotary temperature control to 2. Turn the rotary temperature control

1. Set the rotary control for the air

supply to position 4

2. Turn the rotary temperature control

completely to the left

select an interior temperature

comfortable for you

completely to the left

3. Rotary control for air distribution in

position

3. Rotary control for air distribution in

position

4. Select incoming air

3. Rotary control for air distribution in

position

4. Select the "air conditioner/recircu-

lated air" mode

5. Open the air outlets for the upper

body area.

4. Select the "air conditioner/incoming

air" mode

5 Open the air outlets for the upper

body area.

5. Open the air outlets for the upper

body area.

Heating and ventilation/Air conditioner

Seat heating

77n

The seat cushion and backrest can

be heated when the ignition key is in

position 2.

Rapid heating

Heating

1. Set the rotary control for the air

supply to positon 3

When the windows are free of ice and

condensation, we recommend the

following settings:

By repeatedly pressing the button, you

can select one of three different opera-

tion modes:

2. Turn the rotary temperature control

completely to the right

1. Set the rotary control for the air

supply to position 2

3. Rotary control for air distribution in

position

4. Select incoming-air mode.

> Two indicator lamps on: heating at

high temperature

2. Use the rotary temperature control to

select an interior temperature which

is comfortable for you

> One indicator lamp on: heating at low

temperature

3. Rotary control for air distribution in

position

> Indicator lamps off: seat heating

deactivated.

.

⁷⁸ⁿGlove compartment

Storage compartments

To lock

Use one of the master keys. The glove

compartment, the cellular phone holder

and the luggage compartment lid are

now locked.

A master key is also required for

unlocking.

If you turn over only your door and

ignition key for valet parking (refer

to page 30), for example, access to the

glove compartment, the cellular phone

holder and the luggage compartment is

not possible when the vehicle has been

locked.<

To open

In the doors

Pull the handle. The lamp comes on.

To open:

A beverage holder is stored in the glove

compartment.

Pull the grab recesses.

To close:

Manual operation

For further information, refer to

page 80.

Press cover back into place.

(in the event of electrical malfunction)

You can turn the key all the way to the

lock's end positions to engage and

release the glove compartment lock.

For information on the cellular phone

holder and the luggage compartment

lid, please refer to page 142.

To close

Flip the door up.

To prevent injury in the event of an

accident, reclose the glove

compartment immediately after use.<

Storage compartments

79n

In the center console

Behind the seats

Rechargeable flashlight

To open:

By way of example, the illustration

Located in the storage compartment

shows the storage compartment behind behind the driver's seat.

the driver's seat. Because of overload-protection, the

flashlight can remain in its holder.

Flip the cover up (arrows 1) – access to

the ashtray and cigarette lighter.

When the glove compartment has been To open:

unlocked, press the button (arrow 2) –

cellular phone holder.

Unlock by turning the master key all the

Be sure that the flashlight is

switched off when it is inserted

way to the left.

To close:

The cover will open slightly and can

then be flipped all the way up.

into its holder. Failure to do so could

lead to deep discharge and damage.<

Flip the cover back into place.

To close:

Manual operation

Press down until you hear it snap into

place. The cover has been locked

again.

(in the event of electrical malfunction)

For operating the cellular phone holder,

refer to page 142.

If you turn over only your door and

ignition key for valet parking (refer

to page 30), access is impossible.<

⁸⁰ⁿStorage compartments

Beverage holder

Navigation computer

CD changer

1. Push the front passenger seat all the

way back

Located in the storage compartment

behind the passenger's seat.

Located in the storage compartment

behind the driver's seat.

2. Take the beverage holder out of the

glove compartment and

For further information regarding the

3. place it in the bracket located on

the center console on the front

passenger side. Refer to the

illustration.

navigation system, refer to the separate CD changer, refer to the separate

Owner's Manual. Owner's Manual.

By using the removable plastic insert,

you can place beverage cans or cups of

various sizes in the holder.

Do not place any open drinks in

the holder while driving, otherwise

the liquid could slop over the side and

either stain the upholstery or cause

burns.<

Cellular phone

Ashtray

81n

Hands-free system

To open

Located in the storage compartment in

the center console.

Located over the interior rearview

mirror.

Lift cover.

To extinguish a cigarette, brush off the

ash and gently press the tip into the

funnel (arrow 1).

To remove

For further information on the cellular

phone, refer to the separate Owner's

Manual.

1. Press the button and remove the

plug.

2. Slide the button to the left and

remove the telephone.

To empty

Press button (arrow 2): the ashtray rises

and can now be extracted.

Press the phone into the storage

compartment to return. The button

locks the phone back in place.

For further information on the cellular

phone, refer to the separate Owner's

Manual.

⁸²ⁿCigarette lighter

Cigarette lighter socket

The socket is suitable for attaching

power supplies for flashlights, car

vacuum cleaners, or other appliances

up to a rating of approx. 200 watts at

12 volts. Avoid damaging the socket by

inserting plugs of improper shapes or

sizes.

Press in. You can remove the lighter

from its socket for use as soon as it

snaps back out.

Hold or touch the hot cigarette

lighter by the knob only. Holding

or touching it in other areas could result

in burns.

The cigarette lighter remains opera-

tional when the ignition key has been

removed. This is yet another reason you

should never allow unsupervised chil-

dren to remain alone in the vehicle.<

Cargo loading

83n

Always position and secure the load

correctly. If you do not, it can endanger

vehicle occupants during braking or

evasive maneuvers.

Stowing cargo

If you are carrying cargo in the luggage

compartment of your BMW Z8 roadster:

> Load heavy cargo as far forward as

possible, directly behind the luggage

compartment partition

Do not exceed the approved gross

weight or the approved axle loads (refer

to page 160), otherwise the vehicle's

operating safety is no longer assured

and you are in violation of the law.

Make sure to secure heavy or hard

objects you stow in the passenger area,

otherwise, these objects could be flung

about during braking or evasive maneu-

vers and possibly injure vehicle occu-

pants.<

> Cover sharp edges and corners.

If you are stowing cargo behind the

seats in your BMW Z8 roadster:

> Stow only lightweight objects, such

as clothing

> Do not pile objects higher than the

top edge of the backrest.

Do not stow either heavy cargo or

cargo with sharp edges and

corners behind the seats, or else they

could damage the back of the seat or

the rear trim panel.

Cargo that is too big or unwieldy and

stowed behind the seats can also

prevent the seat from locking properly

into position. Therefore, check to make

sure that the seat is properly locked

into place, moving the seat forward if

necessary. Refer to page 45.

Controls and features for Your BMW Z8 Roadster First Generation (2000-2003)

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