M Coupe (1999) - Automotive BMW - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL M Coupe (1999) BMW

Owner's Manual for the vehicle. With a quick reference guide for your convenience.

Exterior view of a BMW car on display with abstract red and blue background (no visible text or symbols)

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Z3 roadster 2.3
Z3 roadster 2.8
Z3 coupe 2.8
M roadster
M coupe

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. We therefore 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 contains important data and instructions intended to assist you in gaining maximum use and satisfaction from the unique range of technical features on your BMW. The manual also contains information on care and maintenance designed to enhance operating safety and contribute to maintaining the value of your BMW throughout an extended service life.

This manual is supplemented by a Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or a Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models). We recommend that you read this publication thoroughly.

Your BMW is covered by the following warranties:

– New Vehicle Limited Warranty
- Limited Warranty Rust Perforation
– Federal Emissions System Defect Warranty
– Federal Emissions Performance Warranty
– California Emissions Control System Limited Warranty

Detailed information about these warranties is listed in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or in the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).

We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.

BMW AG

Notes on the Owner's Manual

We have made every effort to ensure that you are able to find what you need in this Owner's Manual as quickly as possible. The fastest way to find certain topics is by using the detailed index at the end. If you wish an initial overview of your vehicle, this can be found in the first chapter. The detailed list of contents that directly follows the summary of contents is intended to stimulate your curiosity regarding your BMW and to encourage you to read the manual.

Should you wish to sell your BMW at some time in the future, please remember to pass the Owner's Manual on to the new owner – the manual represents a legally-required element of the vehicle.

If you have additional questions, a BMW center will be glad to advise you.

Symbols used

These sections contain vital information – please read the accompanying text passages carefully, both for the your own safety and to prevent damage to your BMW.

These passages contain information on special and unique features of your vehicle.

Indicates special information concerning recycling.

Indicates the end of a note.

* Indicates special equipment, country-specific equipment and optional extras.

The individual vehicle

On buying your BMW, you have decided in favor of a model with individualized equipment and features. This Owner's Manual describes all models and equipment that BMW offers within the same group.

We hope you will understand that equipment and features are included which you might not have chosen for your vehicle. Any differences can easily be identified, since all optional accessories and special equipment are marked with an asterisk *.

If your BMW features equipment which is not described in this Owner's Manual (a car radio or telephone, for instance), Supplementary Owner's Manuals are enclosed. We ask you to read these manuals as well.

© 1999 BMW AG

Munich, Germany

Reprinting, including excerpts, only with the

written consent of BMW AG, Munich.

Order no. 01 41 0 155 149

US English IX/99

Printed in Germany

Printed on environmentally friendly paper

(bleached without chlorine, suitable for recycling).

Status at time of printing

BMW pursues a policy of continuous, ongoing development which 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. Nor can errors and omissions be entirely ruled out. You are therefore asked to appreciate that no legal claims can be entertained on the basis of the data, illustrations or descriptions in this manual.

For your own safety

Use unleaded gasoline only. Fuels containing up to and including 10% ethanol or other oxygenates with up to 2.8% oxygen by weight (i.e. 15% MTBE or 3% methanol plus an equivalent amount of co-solvent) will not void the applicable warranties respecting defects in materials or workmanship. Field experience has indicated significant differences in fuel quality (i.e. volatility, composition or additives, etc.). among gasolines offered for sale in the United States and Canada. The use of poor-quality fuels may result in driveability, starting and stalling problems especially under certain environmental conditions such as high ambient temperature and high altitude.

Should you encounter driveability problems that you suspect could be related to the fuel you are using, we recommend that you respond by switching to a recognized high-quality brand. Failure to comply with these recommendations may result in unscheduled maintenance.

Follow the relevant safety rules when you are handling gasoline.

Important safety information!

For your own safety, use genuine parts and accessories approved by BMW. When you purchase accessories tested and approved by BMW and Original BMW Parts, you simultaneously acquire the assurance that they have been thoroughly tested by BMW to ensure optimum performance when installed on your vehicle.

BMW warrants these parts to be free from defects in material and workmanship.

BMW will not accept any liability for damage resulting from installation of parts and accessories not approved by BMW.

BMW cannot test every product made by other manufacturers to verify if it can be used on a BMW safely and without risk to either the vehicle, its operation, or its occupants.

Original BMW Parts, BMW Accessories and other products approved by BMW, together with professional advice on using these items, are available from all BMW centers.

Installation and operation of non-BMW approved accessories such as alarms, radios, amplifiers, radar detectors, wheels, suspension components, brake dust shields, telephones (including operation of any portable cellular phone from within the vehicle without using an externally mounted antenna) or transceiver equipment (such as C.B., walkie-talkie, ham radio or similar) may cause extensive damage to the vehicle, compromise its safety, interfere with the vehicle's electrical system or affect the validity of the BMW Limited Warranty. See your BMW center for additional information.

Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and systems may be performed by any automotive repair establishment or individual using any certified automotive part.

Symbol on vehicle parts

Indicates that you should consult the relevant section of this Owner's Manual for information on a particular part or assembly.

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 [phone].

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 individual 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, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

Close-up of a car wheel and a syringe, no visible text or symbols on the main subjects

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Overview

Controls and features

Operation, care and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Index

Contents

Overview

Cockpit 16

Instrument cluster – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe 18

Instrument cluster – M roadster, M coupe 20

Indicator and warning lamps 22

Hazard warning flashers 26

Warning triangle 26

First-aid kit 27

Refueling 27

Fuel specifications 28

Tire inflation pressure (table) 29

Controls and features

Opening and closing:

Keys 34

Electronic vehicle immobilizer 35

Central locking system 36

Opening and closing from the outside 36

Opening and closing from the inside 37

Luggage compartment lid 38

Electric power windows 39

Sunroof, coupe 40

Convertible top 41

Adjustments:

Seats 50

Mirrors 51

Safety systems:

Safety belts 53

Airbags 55

Child restraint systems 57

Driving:

Steering/Ignition lock 59

Starting the engine 60

Switching off the engine 61

Parking brake 61

Manual transmission 62

Automatic transmission 63

Turn signals/High beams 65

Wiper/Washer system 66

Rear window defroster 67

Cruise Control 68

Everything under control:

Odometer 69

Tachometer 69

Fuel gauge 69

Temperature gauge 70

Service Interval Display 70

Auxiliary instruments, M roadster, M coupe 71

Digital clock, Z3 coupe 72

Analog clock, Z3 roadster 72

Onboard computer 73

Technology for safety and convenience:

Automatic Stability Control plus Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) 76

Lamps:

Parking lamps/Low beam 77

Fog lamps 78

Interior lamps 78

Reading lamps 79

Controlling the climate for pleasant driving:

Heating and ventilation 80

Heating and ventilation/ Air conditioning 84

Seat heating 89

Cabin convenience:

Glove compartment 90

Additional storage areas 90

Storage boxes 90

Beverage holder 91

Ashtray 91

Cigarette lighter 92

Loading and transporting:

coupe:

Roll-up cover 93

Separation net 93

Cargo loading 94

Roof-mounted luggage

rack 95

Operation, care and maintenance

Special operating instructions:

Break-in procedure 98

Driving notes 99

Catalytic converter 100

Antilock Brake System (ABS) 101

Disc brakes 103

Brake system 104

Winter operation 105

Power steering 106

Cellular phone 107

Radio reception 107

Hardtop – roadster 108

Wheels and tires:

Notes on inflation pressure 110

Tire condition 110

Tire replacement 111

Tire rotation 113

Wheel and tire combinations 114

Snow chains 115

Winter tires 115

Approved wheel and tire specifications 116

In the engine compartment:

Hood 119

Engine compartment 120

Fluids for the washer systems 124

Washer nozzles 124

Engine oil 125

Coolant 128

Brake fluid 130

Vehicle Identification 130

Care and maintenance:

The BMW Maintenance System 131

Caring for your car 132

Airbags 139

Storing your vehicle 140

Laws and regulations:

Technical modifications to the vehicle 141

OBD connector 142

Contents

Replacement procedures:

Onboard tool kit 146

Windshield wiper blades 146

Lamps and bulbs 147

Master key with battery lamp 154

Tire change – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe 155

Repairing a flat tire, M roadster, M coupe 162

Battery 166

Fuses 169

In case of electrical malfunction:

Power convertible top 170

Assistance, giving and receiving:

Jump-starting 170

Towing the vehicle 172

Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC) 176

Airbags 176

Automatic Stability Control plus Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) 177

Radio reception 177

Safety belt tensioner 178

Interior rearview mirror with automatic dimmer 178

Limited slip differential 179

Engine specifications 182

Dimensions 183

Weights 184

Capacities 185

Electrical system 186

Drive belts 186

Everything from A to Z 190

Owner service procedures 195

Close-up of a steering wheel and a circular gauge (no visible text or symbols)

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Cockpit 16

Instrument cluster – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe 18

Instrument cluster - M roadster, M coupe 20

Indicator and warning lamps 22

Hazard warning flashers 26

Warning triangle 26

First-aid kit 27

Refueling 27

Fuel specifications 28

Tire inflation pressure (table) 29

Overview

Controls and features

Operation, care and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Index

Cockpit

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 367 us 390

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Cockpit

1 Parking lamps/Low beam 77
2 Horn
3 Wiper/Washer system 66
4 Hazard warning flashers 26
5 Cruise control* 68
6 ▷ Turn signals 65
▷ High beam 65
▷ Headlamp flasher 65
Onboard computer* 73
7 Fog lamps 78
8 Hood release 119

Instrument cluster – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

1 2 3 4 5 2 6 UNI CADED GASOLINE ONLY MPH 123456 - 543.2 0 EML SVEZ DAUSE SOCK ABS BRASS FLUO PANE BRASS 1/min x1000

367us705

Instrument cluster – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

1 Fuel gauge with indicator lamp for reserve range 69
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 25
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator and warning lamps for:
▶ Battery charge current 22
▷ High beam 25
▶ Engine oil pressure 22

5 Tachometer 69

6 Coolant temperature gauge 70

7 Indicator and warning lamps for:
▶ Brake pad wear 24
▶ Brake hydraulic system 22, 23
Parking brake 23
Airbags 23

8 Indicator and warning lamps for:
Service Engine Soon 24
▶ Automatic transmission* 24
Safety belts 23
▷ Engine oil level 23, 24
Antilock Brake System (ABS) 23, 24

9 Indicator lamp for Automatic Stability Control plus Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)* 23, 24

10 Trip odometer 69

11 Service Interval Display 70, 131

12 Odometer 69

13 Indicator and warning lamps for:
▷ Front fog lamps* 25
Electronic Engine Power Control (EML) 24

14 Trip odometer reset button 69

The illustration shows the instrument cluster in the US version. In the Canadian models, some of the indicator and warning lamps have a different appearance. Refer to pages 22 to 25.

Instrument cluster - M roadster, M coupe

1 2 3 4 5 2 6 UN CAGED GASOLINE ONLY MPH 123456 - 545.2 01/00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 1/1win x1008 1/M REBASTER SINCO BEACH SINCO ABS BRAKE FLOOD PANE SMRGE S7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7

367us706
M roadster

Instrument cluster - M roadster, M coupe

1 Fuel gauge with a lamp for the reserve tank 69
2 Indicator lamp for turn signals 25
3 Speedometer
4 Indicator and warning lamps for:
▶ Battery charge current 22
▷ High beam 25
▶ Engine oil pressure 22

5 Tachometer 69

6 Engine coolant gauge 70

7 Indicator and warning lamps for:

▶ Brake pad wear 24
▶ Brake hydraulic system 22, 23
Parking brake 23
Airbags 23

8 Indicator and warning lamps for:

Service Engine Soon 24

Safety belts 23

Antilock Braking System (ABS) 23, 24

9 Indicator lamp for Automatic Stability Control plus Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)* 23, 24

10 Trip odometer 69
11 Service Interval Display 70, 131
12 Odometer 69
13 Trip odometer reset button 69
The illustration shows the instrument cluster in the US version. In the Canadian models, some of the indicator and warning lamps have a different appearance. Refer to pages 22 to 25.

Indicator and warning lamps

Technology that monitors itself

Many of the systems of your BMW monitor themselves automatically, both during engine starts and while you are driving. Indicator and warning lamps that are identified by "●" are tested for proper functioning whenever the ignition key is turned. They each light up once for different periods of time.

If a fault should occur in one of these systems, the corresponding lamp does not go out after the engine is started or it lights up while the vehicle is moving. You will see how to react to this below.

Red: Stop immediately

Battery charge current • The battery is no longer being charged. The alternator drive

belt is defective or there is a malfunction in the charging circuit of the alternator. Please contact the nearest BMW center.

If the drive belt is defective, do not continue driving. The engine could be damaged due to overheating. In-sed force is required to steer the sole if the drive belt is defective.

Engine oil pressure • Stop the vehicle and switch off the engine immediately. Check

the engine oil level. Top up as required. If oil level is correct: Please contact the nearest BMW center.

Do not continue driving. The engine could be damaged because of inadequate lubrication.

Brake hydraulic system • The brake fluid level is too low. Before driving further, be sure to e notes on pages 104 and 130.

Warning lamp, brake hydraulic system for Canadian models.

Indicator and warning lamps

Yellow: Stop immediately

Engine oil level*

Comes on while driving: Stop the vehicle and switch off the

engine immediately. The oil level is at the absolute minimum.

Do not continue driving. If you do, the engine could be damaged due

to inadequate lubrication.

Red and yellow: Continue to drive; drive cautiously

BRAKE FLUID If the red warning lamp for the brake hydraulic system comes on together with the yellow indi- cator lamps for ABS and ASC+T/DSC*: The entire ABS and ASC+T/DSC control system has failed. Continue to drive; drive cautiously and defensively and avoid full brake applica-

tions. Have the system checked by your BMW center as soon as possible. For additional information: Refer to pages 76 and 102.

Warning lamps for Canadian models.

Red: An important reminder

Parking brake Comes on when the parking brake is applied.

For additional information: Refer to page 61.

Parking brake warning lamp for Canadian models.

Please fasten your safety belt • Together with an acoustic signal. Comes on until the safety belts tened. For additional information,ety belts: Refer to page 53.

Airbags • Please have the system in- spected by your BMW center.

For additional information: Refer to pages 55 and 176.

24 Indicator and warning lamps

Yellow: Check as soon as possible

Antilock Brake System (ABS) • Comes on during normal vehicle operation: ABS has been deactivated in response to system malfunction. Conventional braking efficiency is available without limitations. Please have the system inspected by your BMW center. For additional information: Refer to page 101.

Antilock Brake System warning lamp for Canadian models.

Engine oil level*
Comes on after the engine has been shut off: Check the engine oil level. For additional information: Refer to page 125.

Automatic transmission ^* Because of a malfunction, the automatic transmission shifts only in the emergency program. Please consult the nearest BMW center. For additional information: Refer to page 64.

Brake pads • Have the brake pads checked. For additional information:

Refer to page 104.

Automatic Stability Control plus Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)*

ASC+T/DSC has been switched off or has been deactivated because of a malfunction. In the event of a malfunction, have the system checked as soon as possible by your BMW center. For additional information: Refer to page 76.

Service Engine Soon • If the indicator lamp comes on either continuously or intermittently, this indicates a fault in the emissions-related electronic systems. Although the vehicle remains operational, you should have the systems checked by your BMW center at the earliest possible opportunity.

For additional information: Refer to page 142.

"Service Engine Soon" warning lamp for Canadian models.

Electronic Engine Power Control (EML)* Malfunction in the EML*. During braking, greater pedal pressure may be required and pedal travel may be increased. Please have the system inspected by your BMW center.

Indicator and warning lamps

Green: For your information

Turn signals

Flashes when the turn signals are in operation. Rapid flashing

indicates a system malfunction.

For additional information: Refer to page 65.

Front fog lamps*

Lights up whenever you switch on the front fog lamps.

For additional information: Refer to page 78.

Blue: For your information

High beams

Lights up when the high beams are on or the headlamp flasher

is actuated.

For additional information: Refer to page 65.

Hazard warning flashers Warning triangle\*

367de025

The push-button flashes rhythmically when the hazard flashers are on.

To help you locate the switch in an emergency, the button is also illuminated whenever the car lamps are on.

Black-and-white photo of a mechanical tool set with components and a labeled part 'Z3 coupe' (no readable text or symbols on the main objects)

Z3 coupe

The warning triangle is located in the luggage compartment under the floor mat so that it is readily accessible (refer to the illustration).

Grasp the floor mat by the straps on the left and right. Pull it upward and remove it.

Z3 roadster, M roadster

The warning triangle is located in the luggage compartment in the area of the sill.

Diagram of a mechanical component with labeled parts and directional arrows, no readable text or symbols present.

M coupe

The warning triangle is located at the right in the luggage compartment behind a trim panel.

Loosen the cover panel:

1 Fold the luggage compartment floor mat up.
2 To loosen, turn the four mounting clips (arrows) of the right-hand trim panel on the rear wall of the luggage compartment approx. 1/4 of a turn with a coin or screwdriver.
3 Pull out the clips and remove the trim panel.

Comply with legal requirements which cover the availability of a

hazard warning triangle in the car.

First-aid kit\* Refueling

Z3 coupe, M coupe

In the luggage compartment at the left rear. Release the Velcro® fasteners.

Z3 roadster

In the luggage compartment on the right in a storage tray.

M roadster

In a storage tray in the luggage compartment at the left. Swing the retaining bar upward.

Some of the articles in the first-aid kit may be used within a limited

time only. For this reason, check the expiration dates of each of the items regularly, and replace any whose expiration dates have passed.

You can acquire replacements in any drugstore or pharmacy.

Comply with legal requirements which cover availability of a first-aid kit in the car.

Close-up of a mechanical component with a circular housing and a bracket, showing no visible text or symbols.

Before filling the tank, shut off the engine. If you do not, fuel cannot into the tank and the "Service

Engine Soon" warning lamp may come on. Refer to page 24.

Open the fuel filler cap:

Open the fuel filler door, turn the fuel filler cap counterclockwise and remove the cap. Place the filler cap in the bracket attached to the fuel filler door.

Open the filler cap carefully. If you do not, fuel could spray out.

When refueling, insert the filler nozzle completely into the filler pipe. Pulling the nozzle out of the pipe during refueling

results in premature shutoff and will reduce the effect of the vapor recovery system.

If the filler nozzle is operated correctly, the fuel tank is full when it shuts off the first time.

Tank capacity: Refer to page 185.

Close the fuel filler cap: Position the cap on the neck. Turn the cap clockwise to the stop.

Close the fuel filler cap carefully. If you do not, fuel may escape and

the "Service Engine Soon" warning lamp may come on. Refer to page 24.

Close the fuel filler door.

When handling fuels, comply with all of the applicable safety pre-

cautions and regulations pertaining to fuels.

Never carry spare fuel containers in your vehicle. Whether they are empty or full, these containers can leak, cause an explosion, or lead to fire in the event of a collision.

Fuel specifications

Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

The engine uses lead-free gasoline only. However, you can refuel with different fuel qualities since the engine is equipped with a knock sensor.

In order to achieve rated values for engine performance and fuel consumption:

Super lead-free premium gasoline (91 AKI).

The minimum fuel quality is:

Regular lead-free gasoline (87 AKI)
Because of the engine's design, you should refuel with this gasoline only as an exception.

Do not use leaded fuels. The use of leaded fuels will cause perma-

nent damage to the system's oxygen sensor and the catalytic convertor.

M roadster, M coupe

The engine uses lead-free gasoline only. However, you can refuel with different fuel qualities since the engine is equipped with a knock sensor.

In order to achieve rated values for engine performance and fuel consumption:

▶ Super lead-free premium gasoline (91 AKI).

The minimum fuel quality is:

Lead-free premium gasoline (89 AKI)
Because of the engine's design, you should refuel with this gasoline only as an exception.

Do not use leaded fuels. The use of leaded fuels will cause perma-

nent damage to the system's oxygen sensor and the catalytic convertor.

AKI = Anti Knock Index

AKI = Anti Knock Index

Tire inflation pressure

Close-up of a mechanical component with internal components and a visible part (no text or symbols)

The inflation pressures are indicated on a label attached to the B-pillar behind the driver's door (visible with door open).

Check tire pressures

All pressure specifications are indicated in psi (Kilopascal [kPa]) with the tires at ambient temperature (refer also to the next pages).

Check tire inflation pressures regularly – at least every two weeks and before beginning a longer trip. Incorrect tire pressure can otherwise lead to tire damage and accidents. Check the air pressure of the spare tire (Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe) as well. Refer to the following tables and page 110.

Comply with tire approval specifications

The inflation pressures in the table apply to tires made by BMW-approved manufacturers. Your BMW center is familiar with these pressures. Higher pressures may be specified for tires made by other manufacturers. You will find a list of approved tires beginning on page 116.

Your vehicle is equipped with tires that meet both US standards and European standards. We recommend the exclusive use of BMW-approved tires.

Tire inflation pressure

BMW Tires	All tire pressures are in psi(kilopascals [kPa])
Z3 roadster 2.3	225/50 R 16 92 V225/50 ZR 16	29 (200) 32 (220)
	Front: 225/45 ZR 17Rear: 245/40 ZR 17	29 (200)-32 (220)
	205/60 R 15 91 Q M+S205/55 R 16 91 Q M+S225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S225/45 R 17 91 Q M+S	32 (220) 35 (240)
	Spare tire:T 125/90 R 15 96 M	60 (420) 60 (420)
Z3 roadster 2.8Z3 coupe 2.8	225/50 ZR 16225/50 R 16 92 W	29 (200) 32 (220)
	Front: 225/45 ZR 17Rear: 245/40 ZR 17	29 (200)-32 (220)
	205/60 R 15 91 Q M+S205/55 R 16 91 Q M+S225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S225/45 R 17 91 Q M+S	32 (220) 35 (240)
	Spare tire:T 125/90 R 15 96 M	60 (420) 60 (420)

Tire inflation pressure

BMW	TiresAll tire pressures are in psi (kilopascals [kPa])
M roadsterM coupe	Front: 225/45 ZR 17	32 (220)	-	35 (240)	-
	Rear: 245/40 ZR 17	-	32 (220)	-	38 (260)
	225/45 R 17 91 H M+S 32 (220) 35 (240) 35 (240) 38 (260)

Have the winter tires changed at your BMW center or at a tire

service.

Opening and closing:

Keys 34

Electronic vehicle immobilizer 35

Central locking system 36

Opening and closing from the outside 36

Opening and closing from the inside 37

Luggage compartment lid 38

Electric power windows 39

Sunroof, coupe 40

Convertible top 41

Adjustments:

Seats 50

Mirrors 51

Safety systems:

Safety belts 53

Airbags 55

Child restraint systems 57

Driving:

Steering/Ignition lock 59

Starting the engine 60

Switching off the engine 61

Parking brake 61

Manual transmission 62

Automatic transmission 63

Turn signals/High beams 65

Wiper/Washer system 66

Rear window defroster 67

Cruise control 68

Everything under control:

Odometer 69

Tachometer 69

Fuel gauge 69

Temperature gauge 70

Service Interval Display 70

Auxiliary instruments,

M roadster, M coupe 71

Digital clock, Z3 coupe 72

Analog clock, Z3 roadster 72

Onboard computer 73

Technology for safety and convenience:

Automatic Stability Control

plus Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic

Stability Control (DSC) 76

Lamps:

Parking lamps/Low beam 77

Fog lamps 78

Interior lamps 78

Reading lamps 79

Controlling the climate for pleasant driving:

Heating and ventilation 80

Heating and ventilation/

Air conditioning 84

Seat heating 89

Cabin convenience:

Glove compartment 90

Additional storage areas 90

Storage boxes 90

Beverage holder 91

Ashtray 91

Cigarette lighter 92

Loading and transporting cargo:

coupe:

Roll-up cover 93

Separation net 93

Cargo loading 94

Roof-mounted luggage

rack 95

Overview

Controls and features

Operation, care and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Index

Keys

365de122 1 2 3 4

1 Master key with battery-powered lamp (switch on by pressing the BMW symbol)
2 Master key without lamp
3 Spare key for storage in a safe place such as your wallet. This key is not intended for continuous use
4 Door and ignition key The luggage compartment lid and the storage boxes* cannot be opened with this key – this is useful for valet parking, for instance

Replacement keys

Replacement keys are available exclusively 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 belong to a security system (refer to "Electronic vehicle immobilizer" on the following page).

Whenever you receive a new replacement key, turn that key to

position 2 in the ignition lock once (ignition switched on) and then back. This allows the electronic vehicle immobilizer to "learn" the new key.

Electronic vehicle immobilizer

The key to security

The electronic vehicle immobilization unit increases the anti-theft protection of your BMW – you do not have to adjust or activate anything. This electronic immobilization system is designed to reduce the susceptibility of the vehicle to theft by making it impossible to start the engine using any means other than the special keys furnished with the vehicle.

Your BMW center can cancel the electronic system authorization for individual keys (in the event a key is lost, for instance). A deactivated key can no longer be used to start the engine.

How the electronics work

At the heart of this system is an electronic chip which is integrated into the key. The lock mechanism itself is actually a dual-function device, simultaneously 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 not release the ignition, fuel injection and starter unless it recognizes an "authorized" key.

Force applied to the key can damage the integrated electronic circuitry. A damaged key can no longer be used to start the engine.

For US owners only

The transmitter and receiver units comply with part 15 of the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) regulations. Operation is governed by the following:

FCC ID: LX8EWS

Compliance statement:

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

This device may not cause harmful interference, and
this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Any unauthorized modifications to these devices could void the

user's authority to operate the equipment.

Central locking system Opening and closing from the outside

The concept

The central locking system becomes operational when the doors are closed. The system simultaneously engages and releases the locks on the

doors
luggage compartment
fuel filler door.

The central locking system can be operated

from outside via the door locks and the luggage compartment lock (M coupe: Open only)
from inside via the safety lock buttons (locks doors only).

The alarm system is automatically armed whenever you activate the central locking system from outside the vehicle. It prevents the doors from being unlocked with the lock buttons or release handles.

The central locking system unlocks automatically in the event of an accident. In addition, the hazard warning flashers and interior lamps come on.

Close-up of a car handle panel with directional arrows indicating rotation (no text or symbols)

With the key

If the vehicle has been locked from the outside, persons remaining inside the vehicle cannot unlock it.

Convenience locking mode

Electrically powered windows can also be closed from the door locks: When the doors are closed, hold the key in the "Lock" position.

Watch the closing process carefully and be sure that no one is trapped by the closing motion. The movement stops when you release the key.

Manual operation

(in the event of electrical failure) Turn the key all the way to the extreme left or right to unlock/lock the door.

Opening and closing from the inside

To unlock and open the doors

▶ Pull the door handle of a door twice (the initial pull unlocks the door, and the second opens it).

Children might be able to lock the doors from the inside. For this reason, take the vehicle's keys with you so that the vehicle can be opened again from the outside at any time.

To engage the locks

When the lock button of any door is pressed down, the doors and luggage compartment are locked. The anti-theft system is not activated. The fuel filler door also remains unlocked to allow refueling.

To avoid being accidentally locked out of the car:

The vehicle cannot be locked with the lock button when the driver's door is open.
The lock button on the passenger's door only operates the central locking system if both doors are closed.

Luggage compartment lid

3679e368 Z3 roadster

The lock

The illustration depicts the luggage compartment lock of the Z3 roadster as an example.

The controls and function for the Z3 coupe, M coupe (open only) and the M roadster are the same as for the Z3 roadster.

Only the master keys (refer to page 34) will fit in the luggage compartment lock.

Locking separately

Turn the master key to the right until the slot is horizontal, then remove the key.

This locks the luggage compartment and disengages it from the central locking system. If you then surrender only the door and ignition key (refer to page 34), access to the vehicle through the luggage compartment is not possible (for valet parking, for instance).

Manual operation

(in the event of electrical failure)

Turn the master key in the lock of the luggage compartment lid to the left to the stop – the luggage compartment opens easily.

The luggage compartment is locked again as soon as it is closed.

The illustration depicts the luggage compartment lid of the Z3 coupe or M coupe.

The handle recess in the interior trim panel of the luggage compartment lid (arrow) makes it easier to pull the lid down.

On the Z3 roadster and M roadster, the handle recess is located to the left of the lock mechanism.

To avoid injuries, be sure that the travel path of the luggage com-

partment lid is clear when it is closed, as with all closing procedures.

Luggage compartment lid Electric power windows

Do not drive with the luggage compartment lid open, since exhaust fumes could penetrate the interior of the vehicle. Should it be absolutely necessary to operate the vehicle with the luggage compartment lid open (coupe; roadster with closed convertible top):

▷ Close all windows. On the coupe, close the sunroof.
▶ Increase the air supply of the heating and ventilation system to a high level. Refer to page 80 or 84.

Close-up of a car gear shift lever with buttons and a handle (no visible text or symbols)

Opening and closing windows

From ignition key position 1 and up:

▶ Depress the rocker switch until you feel resistance.
The window continues moving for as long as you maintain pressure on the switch.
Press the rocker switch beyond the pressure point (one-touch mode):
The window moves automatically. Press the switch a second time to stop the window.

After the ignition has been switched off:

Actuation is still possible for up to 15 minutes in ignition key position 0 or if the ignition key has been removed, as long as no doors have been opened.

Because the power windows are sealed at high pressure to prevent noise when closed, a powerful or 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 deactivate the electric power windows whenever you leave the car. Never leave the keys in the car with unsupervised children.

Never place anything that could obstruct the driver's vision on or next to the windows.

For convenience closing via the door lock, refer to page 36.

Electric power windows Sunroof\*, coupe

Jam protection

If one of the windows comes into contact with an object between the window and roof frame when it is closing, the closing cycle is interrupted immediately and the window will open again slightly.

You can override this jam protection function (if there is an at-

tempted unauthorized entrance from the outside, for instance) by pressing the switch beyond the resistance point and holding it.

From ignition key position 1 and up:

To lift: Press button 1.

To close: Press button 2.

To prevent injuries, exercise care when closing the sunroof. Keep it ur field of vision until it is closed.

To avoid pressure or drafts in the passenger compartment when the sunroof is open, keep the air vents in the dashboard open and increase the air supply if necessary. Refer to pages 82 and 86.

Manual convertible top, roadster

Weather protection

The convertible top combines reliable protection from the elements with simple, convenient operation. Here are a few tips to ensure that you have pleasure with your 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. In addition, keep valuables only in the locked luggage compartment, even with the convertible top closed.

Never mount a roof-mounted luggage rack on the convertible top. Please contact your BMW center for suitable securing devices and additional accessories.

To prevent damage, do not operate the convertible top at temperatures below 32 °F (0 °C).

Close-up of a car door handle with an arrow indicating direction (no text or symbols)

To open

1 With the doors closed, lower the side windows a few inches (centimeters).
2 Releasing the convertible top: Pull the levers outward on the left and the right of the convertible top frame (refer to the illustration).

3676e399 1 2

3 Raise the convertible top approx. 8 inches (20 cm) from the convertible top frame on the inside to relieve ten- sion on the top. Refer to arrow 1.
Be sure that the convertible top folds at the front linkage joints first (refer to arrow 2). If it does not, the convertible top linkage could be bent.
4 Continue to raise the top at the front and push it toward the rear into the convertible top well. In the process, make sure the rear window is laid down evenly and free of creases. To prevent the rear window from being scratched, a soft cloth should be laid in the window fold.

42 Manual convertible top, roadster

5 Fold the release lever against the convertible top frame.

In order to avoid subsequent moisture damage, do not open

and store the convertible top when it is wet (refer also to the chapter on vehicle care).

3D diagram of a mechanical component with two downward arrows and a small human figure at the base (no text or symbols)

Top-down view of a car showing rear seats and side seats with directional arrows indicating movement (no text or symbols)

To mount the cover

The illustration depicts a representative schematic of the fasteners for the convertible cover.

To secure, press the outer ring of the cover fastener onto the mating piece on the vehicle (refer to the arrows).

The attachment points of the cover are indicated by the four arrows in the illustration.

1 Position the convertible cover on the convertible top well and align the upper portions of the fasteners with the lower portions on the vehicle.
2 Lift the cover at the rear, reach underneath it and engage the two middle fasteners.
3 Attach the front fasteners.

Manual convertible top, roadster

Close-up of a curved mechanical component with a white arrow pointing to a feature, no visible text or symbols.

4 Push the peripheral frame of the cover under the edge of the convertible top well.
5 Check the convertible cover to be sure it is properly secured.

In order to avoid soiling of the inside of the convertible top, always

drive with the cover secured in place.

Be sure that the cover is secured properly on the vehicle. If it is not

firmly secured, the flow of air while driving could loosen the cover at higher speeds.

Close-up of hands holding a circular mechanical component with an upward arrow, no visible text or symbols

To close

1 To remove the convertible top cover:

Loosen the fasteners. Pull the cap of the latch upward. Refer to the arrow.

Top-down view of a car showing rear seats and side-mounted dashboard (no text or symbols)

Loosen the front fasteners (outer arrows).
▶ Pull the outer frame of the cover under the edge of the convertible top well.
Lift the cover from the rear and release the middle fasteners (middle arrows).

Manual convertible top, roadster

Close-up of a dark, textured object resembling a butterfly or cushion, with no visible text or symbols.

To avoid damage, carefully fold the cover and store it in the luggage compartment.

1 2 367de047

Do not position heavy objects on the cover.

If you store the cover away from the vehicle, the cover should be spread out.

2 When the doors are closed, lower the side windows slightly.

3 Pull the release lever away from the frame as far as possible.

4 Holding the convertible top at the front convertible top frame, lift it out of the convertible top well and fold it forward.

When folding the convertible top forward, do not grasp it by the

side linkage. If you do so, there is a risk of injury to your hands and fingers.

5 Insert the pins 1, on the left and the right, into the guides in the windshield frame. Using the handle recess in the center of the convertible top frame, pull the convertible top down. Hold the top in this position and secure both fasteners (refer also to page 109).

Be sure that the fastener hooks 2 on the left and right are securely aged in the frame of the windshield. They are not, the convertible top could be while the vehicle is moving.

At higher speeds, it may occur that the lower air pressure which heated in the passenger compartment will cause the top or the rear wind-to flutter. Increase the air supply of ventilation controls so that a maximum does not occur in the vehicle.

Power convertible top, roadster\*

Weather protection

The convertible top combines reliable protection from the elements with simple, convenient operation. Here are a few tips to ensure that you have pleasure with your 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. In addition, keep valuables only in the locked luggage compartment, even with the convertible top closed.

Never mount a roof-mounted luggage rack on the convertible top. Please contact your BMW center for suitable securing devices and additional accessories.

To prevent damage, do not operate the convertible top at temperatures below 32 °F (0 °C).

To conserve the battery, it is advisable to operate the top only with the engine running.

Operate the convertible top only when the vehicle is stationary.

Do not lay objects on the convertible top, since they would fall off when the convertible top is operated and cause damage or injuries.

Do not reach into the convertible top mechanism during opening and closing. Keep children away from the moving parts of the convertible top during operation.

The automatic sequence is interrupted immediately if the button for actuating the top (page 46 and 49) is released. The sequence can be continued in the desired direction by pressing the button.

Close-up of a car door handle with an arrow pointing to the interior area (no text or symbols visible)

To open

1 With the doors closed, lower the side windows a few inches (centimeters).
2 Releasing the convertible top: Pull the levers outward on the left and the right of the frame of the top (refer to the illustration).

Power convertible top, roadster\*

367de399 1 2

3 Raise the convertible top approx. 8 inches (20 cm) from the convertible top frame on the inside to relieve tension on the top. Refer to arrow 1.

Be sure that the convertible top folds at the front linkage joints first (refer to arrow 2). If it does not, the convertible top linkage could be bent.

4 Press the release lever against the frame of the top.

Close-up of a small electronic component with two circular features, labeled 1 and 2, placed on a flat surface (no text or symbols beyond labels)

5 Hold the footbrake down during the entire opening procedure.

6 Lift the convertible top frame. Press and hold the button for convertible top operation in the "Open" direction (2) until the opening process is completed and the convertible top is folded into the convertible top well. Depending on the vehicle model, the arrangement and appearance of the buttons may vary. Please refer to the individual symbols for selecting the desired function.

If the convertible top has not been lifted far enough, or if the foot-brake is not applied, the motor which operates the convertible top will not operate.

In order to avoid subsequent moisture damage, do not leave the convertible top open when it is wet (refer also to the chapter on vehicle care).

Power convertible top, roadster\*

3D diagram of a mechanical component with arrows indicating direction, no text or symbols present

To mount the cover

The illustration depicts a representative schematic of the fasteners for the convertible cover.

To secure, press the outer ring of the cover fastener onto the mating piece on the vehicle (refer to the arrows).

Top-down view of a car showing three seats with arrows pointing to the front panel (no text or symbols)

The attachment points of the cover are indicated by the four arrows in the illustration.

1 Position the convertible cover on the convertible top well and align the upper portions of the fasteners with the lower portions on the vehicle.
2 Lift the cover at the rear, reach underneath it and engage the two middle attachments.
3 Attach the front fasteners.

Close-up of a curved mechanical component with a white arrow pointing to a feature (no text or symbols visible)

4 Push the peripheral frame of the cover under the edge of the convertible top well.
5 Check the convertible cover to be sure it is properly secured.

In order to avoid soiling of the inside of the convertible top, always drive with the cover secured in place.

Be sure that the cover is secured properly on the vehicle. If it is not firmly secured, the flow of air while driving could loosen the cover at higher speeds.

Power convertible top, roadster\*

Close-up of hands holding a circular mechanical component with an upward arrow, no visible text or symbols

To close

1 To remove the convertible top cover:

Loosen the fasteners. Pull the cap of the latch upward. Refer to the arrow.

Top-down view of a car showing front seats and seatbelt structure with directional arrows (no text or symbols)

Release the front fasteners (outer arrows).
▶ Pull the outer frame of the cover under the edge of the convertible top well.
Lift the cover from the rear and release the middle fasteners (middle arrows).

Close-up of a dark, butterfly-shaped object with a horizontal bar, placed on a textured surface (no visible text or symbols)

To avoid damage, carefully fold the cover and store it in the luggage compartment.

Do not position heavy objects on the cover.

The cover should be spread out if you store it away from the vehicle.

Power convertible top, roadster\*

Close-up of a small electronic component with labeled parts (1 and 2), no readable text or symbols beyond labels

2 When the doors are closed, lower the side windows slightly.
3 Pull the release lever away from the frame as far as possible.
4 Hold the footbrake down during the entire closing procedure.
5 Press and hold the button for convertible top operation in the "Close" direction (1) until the closing process is completed and the convertible top frame has docked against the windshield frame.

Depending on the vehicle model, the arrangement and appearance of the buttons may vary. Please refer to the specific symbols for selecting the desired function.

367de047 1 2

6 Insert the pins 1, on the left and the right, into the guides in the windshield frame. Using the handle recess in the center of the convertible top frame, pull the convertible top down. Hold the top in this position and secure both fasteners (refer also to page 109).

If the footbrake is not applied, the motor which operates the convertible top will not operate.
Be sure that the fastener hooks 2 on the left and right are securely engaged in the frame of the windshield. If they are not, the convertible top could open while the vehicle is moving.

At higher speeds, it may occur that the lower air pressure which is created in the passenger compartment will cause the top or the rear window to flutter. Increase the air supply via the ventilation controls so that a vacuum does not occur in the vehicle.

Seat adjustment

For maximum safety, please comply with the following:

Never try to adjust your seat while operating the vehicle. The seat could respond with an unexpected movement, and the ensuing loss of vehicle control could result in an accident. Be sure that the safety belt is fastened firmly against your body at all times. In the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap belt could slide over your hips, leading to abdominal injury. In addition, the safety belt's restraint effectiveness is reduced if the belt is worn loosely. When adjusting your seat, select a position that provides the maximum distance between you and the steering wheel, instrument panel and door while still allowing comfortable and safe access to all vehicle controls.

Correct sitting posture

To reduce strain on your spinal column, sit all the way back in the seat and rest your back fully against the backrest. In the ideal sitting posture, your head extends along a straight line from your spine.

For long-distance driving, you may wish to increase the backrest tilt angle slightly to reduce muscular tension. You should also be able to grasp the highest point of the steering wheel with your arms slightly bent.

After a seat adjustment in the coupe, adjust the height of the safety belt also. Refer to page 53.

1 2 367de015

1 Height*
2 Backward/Forward adjustment

Seat adjustment Mirrors

Top-down view of a vehicle interior with directional arrows indicating movement or flow (no text or symbols)

Backrest angle

Pull the lever and apply or remove weight as required.

Read and comply with the adjustment instructions on page 50.

Failure to do so can result in diminished personal safety.

Head restraints

The head restraints are integrated into the backrests.

Head restraints reduce the risk of spinal injury in the event of an accident.

Close-up of a mechanical component with directional arrows indicating motion (no text or symbols)

Exterior mirrors

Make adjustments with the large, four-directional mirror switch.

Change to the other rearview mirror with the smaller switch.

▶ Push the switch up – mirror on the driver's side.
▶ Push the switch down – mirror on the passenger's side.

You can also adjust the mirrors manually by pressing against the outer edges of their lenses.

The mirror on the passenger's side features a lens with a more convex surface than the mirror installed on the driver's side. 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 estimations of the distance to following traffic should not be regarded as precise.

Electric defrosting\*

Both mirrors are defrosted automatically when the ignition key is in position 2.

Mirrors

367de017 Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

Interior rearview mirror - Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

To reduce the glare effect from the rear while driving at night, tilt the mirror by moving the small lever.

367de397 M roadster, M coupe

Interior rearview mirror - M roadster, M coupe

This mirror dims automatically through an infinitely-variable range by responding to the effects of light (ambient light and headlamp glare).

The mirror automatically reverts to its clear, undimmed setting whenever you select "Reverse."

The two photocells should be kept clean and unobstructed to ensure that the mirror continues to operate properly. One photocell (arrow) is on the lower edge, while the other is on the opposite side of the mirror.

For an explanation of the electrochromic technology used in this mirror, refer to page 178.

Vanity mirrors

Fold the sun visors down and push the cover (coupe only) to the side.

Safety belts

Close-up of a car seatbelt buckle being adjusted, showing no text or symbols on the belt (labeled '367de018')

Fasten your safety belt before beginning every trip.

To fasten: Make sure you hear the catch engage in the belt buckle.

To release: Press the red button in the buckle. Hold the belt and guide it back to its reel.

The safety belt locks also:

In an abrupt stop or a collision
When you pull it sharply
During sudden braking or acceleration
In curves
When the vehicle is at an extreme angle.

3670e019 Z3 roadster, M roadster

Z3 roadster, M roadster

Make sure the safety belts are routed through the belt guide loops on the seat backrests.

Safety belt height adjustment - Z3 coupe, M coupe

You can adjust the safety belts to fit your own physical dimensions by using the safety belt height adjustment mechanism.

Downward adjustment:

Press the button down (arrow 1).

Upward adjustment:

Grasp the deflection fitting on the side and slide it upward (arrows 2).

Safety belts

Comply with the following instructions for wearing safety belts. If you do not, maximum personal protection will not be provided and the safety function of the belt is limited. These instructions also apply for vehicle passengers:

Never allow more than one person to wear a single safety belt. Never allow infants or small children to ride in a passenger's lap.

Avoid twisting the belt while routing it firmly across your hips and shoulder. Do not allow the belt to rest against hard or fragile objects in your pockets.

Do not route the belt across your neck, or run it across sharp edges. Be sure that the belt does not become caught or jammed.

Be sure that the safety belt is fastened firmly against your body at all times. For this reason, avoid wearing bulky clothing which will prevent proper belt fit.

Pull the safety belt across your shoulders frequently to re-tension it. In the event of a frontal impact, a loose lap belt could slide over your hips, leading to abdominal injury. In addition, the safety belt's restraint effectiveness is reduced if the belt is worn loosely.

Expectant mothers should also wear their safety belt at all times, taking care to ensure that the lap belt fits against the lower hips and does not exert pressure on the abdominal area.

For care and cleaning, refer to page 137.

If the safety belt system has been stressed as a result of an accident or if it has been damaged in any other way: Have the belt system, including the safety belt tensioner replaced by an BMW center. In addition, have your BMW center inspect the safety belt anchors.

If a child restraint system was in your vehicle during an accident, consult the manufacturer's instructions regarding replacement.

Airbags

1 2 367de679

1 Front airbags for driver and front passenger
2 Side airbags

Protective effect

The front airbags help protect the driver and passenger in the event of a head-on collision where the protection provided by the safety belt alone would not be adequate. The side airbags help provide protection in the event of a side collision. Each side airbag provides support to the side chest area.

Top-down view of a car with four directional arrows indicating orientation (no text or symbols)

The illustration depicts schematically the primary directions of vehicle impact which initiate airbag deployment.

Indicator lamp

The indicator lamp displays the operational readiness of the air-bag system from ignition key

position 1 and up.

System operational:

The indicator lamp comes on briefly.

System malfunction:

The indicator lamp fails to come on. The indicator lamp comes on briefly before going out and then lighting up again.

A system malfunction could prevent the system from responding to a high-intensity frontal impact occurring within its normal response range.

Please have your BMW center inspect and repair the system as soon as possible.

Airbags

Sitting correctly with airbags

For your safety, comply with the following instructions for the airbags. If you do not, the airbags may not be able to provide their maximum protection. All passengers in the vehicle should be aware of and comply with this information:

The airbags are supplemental restraint devices designed to provide extra protection; they are not a substitute for safety belts. Wear your safety belt at all times. The airbags will not be triggered in the event of a minor accident, a vehicle roll-over, or collisions from the rear. In these instances, the safety belt provides optimal protection.

Airbags are located under cover panels in the steering wheel, in the dashboard and in the side trim panels of the doors. Adjust your seat to a position that provides maximum distance between you and the steering wheel, the instrument panel and the door while still allowing comfortable and safe access to all vehicle controls.

To avoid sustaining hand and arm injuries, always grasp the steering wheel on the rim with the hands at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions. Do not place your hands on the center pad. Never allow any objects to obstruct the area between the airbag and an occupant.

Do not use the cover panel above the passenger-side airbag as a storage area.

If you use a child restraint system, read carefully and comply with the instructions on page 57.

Be sure that child restraints are mounted correctly and provided with the greatest-possible distance between the airbags in the side trim panels. 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 triggered.

Even when you have complied with all of these guidelines, there is still a small residual risk of minor facial, hand and arm injuries from airbag deployment occurring in isolated instances.

The ignition and inflation noise may cause a mild temporary hearing loss in extremely sensitive individuals.

Corresponding airbag safety precautions are provided on both sun visors and the instrument panel (US models).

For additional information concerning the airbag system, refer to pages 139 and 176.

Interior view of a car seat with a person seated and a teddy bear on the back, no visible text or symbols

This is the correct way for a child to sit in a child restraint when side airbags (arrow) are provided.

Airbags Child restraint systems\*

Illustration of a person wearing a seatbelt and holding a weight, with no visible text or symbols.

This is the correct way for a larger child to sit wearing the safety belt when side airbags (arrow) are provided.

Before installing any child restraint device or child seat, please read the following:

Never install a rearward-facing child restraint system in the passenger seat of this car.

If the airbag deploys and hits the back-rest of the rear-facing child seat (of the kind designed for infants under 1 year and 20 lbs./9 kg), it is likely that the child sitting in the rear-facing child seat will be seriously injured or killed.

If it is necessary for a child (not an infant) to ride in the car, 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 properly secured with a safety belt.

In the interest of the child's safety, please read carefully and comply with the instructions for installation and use provided by the child restraint's manufacturer whenever your use such a device.

Do not allow children to lean out of a 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.

Read carefully and comply with the safety precautions covering safety belts on pages 53 and 54. If you do not, the protective function of the safety belts will be limited.

Child restraint systems\*

Top-down view of a car seat with visible frame and side arm (no text or symbols)

Child restraint installation

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.

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

Release the buckle, remove the child restraint system and allow the inertia reel to retract the belt completely.

Close-up of a mechanical component with an arrow pointing to a circular feature, labeled 'Z3 coupe' (no readable text or symbols beyond label)

Z3 coupe, M coupe

For the use of child restraint systems with a tether strap, an additional mounting point is provided in the coupe at the right rear on the roof frame. Attach the tether strap hook to the mounting point. Adjust the tether strap according to the child restraint manufacturer's instructions.

Steering/Ignition lock

3 2 1 0 S8760406

0 Steering lock engaged

This is the only position in which the ignition key can be inserted and removed.

An acoustic warning sounds when you fail to remove the ignition key after opening the driver's door.

After removing the key, turn the steering wheel slightly to the left or right until you hear the lock engage.

Vehicles with automatic transmission*: Your vehicle is equipped with an interlock. This means that the ignition key can not be turned to position 0 and removed until the selector lever is in position "P."

Furthermore, the selector lever is locked in position "P" when the ignition key is in position 0 or removed from the ignition switch.

To turn the key back to position 0 or to remove it, first move the selector lever to position "P."

1 Steering lock disengaged

You will often find that it is easier to turn the ignition key from position 0 to 1 if you move the steering wheel slightly to help disengage the detent. Individual electrical equipment and accessories are available for use.

2 Ignition on

All electrical equipment and accessories are available for use.

3 Starting the engine

Vehicles with manual transmission: When starting, depress the clutch, since a lock otherwise prevents the engine from being started.

Starting the engine

Before starting

Engage the parking brake.
Be sure that the transmission selector is in "Neutral" (or "Park" if vehicle is equipped with automatic transmission).
Depress the clutch pedal.

Do not run the engine in enclosed spaces. The exhaust 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 car unattended with the engine running. An unattended vehicle with a running engine represents a potential safety hazard.

Starting the engine

Start the engine. Do not press the accelerator pedal.

Do not actuate the starter for too short a time. Do not turn it for more than approx. 20 seconds. Release the ignition key immediately after the engine starts. Do not allow the engine to warm up by allowing it to run while the vehicle remains stationary. Instead, begin driving immediately at a moderate engine speed.

Should the engine fail to start on the first attempt (if it is very hot or cold, for instance):

Press the accelerator pedal halfway down while engaging the starter.

Cold starts at very low temperatures, from approx. +5 °F (-15 °C) and at altitudes above approx. 3,300 ft (1,000 meters):

On the first start attempt, engage the starter for a longer period (approx. 10 seconds).
Press the accelerator pedal halfway down while engaging the starter.

If these temperature conditions are anticipated for a longer period, have the engine oil changed to a special oil (see page 126). Please contact your BMW center for additional information.

Usually, it is not necessary to depress the accelerator pedal. However, at high altitudes or in very hot or very cold weather, depress the pedal halfway down when starting the engine.

Engine idle speed is controlled by the engine computer system. Increased speeds at start-up are normal and should decrease as the engine warms up. If engine speed does not decrease, service is required.

To prevent the battery from discharging, always switch off any accessories which are not required. Switch off the ignition when the vehicle is not being driven.

Switching off the engine Parking brake

Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.

Never withdraw the ignition key while the vehicle is rolling. The steering locks and it is impossible to steer the vehicle.

Always remove the ignition key and engage the steering lock before leaving the vehicle.

Vehicles with manual transmission: Always engage the parking brake when parking on slopes and inclined surfaces, since placing the lever in 1st gear or reverse may not provide adequate resistance to rolling.

Vehicles with automatic transmission: Place the selector lever in "Park."

Interior view of a vehicle showing a car seatbelt with a black plastic clip inserted, no visible text or symbols

To engage

The lock engages automatically when you lift the lever, and the indicator lamp in the instrument panel comes on when the ignition key is in position 2. Refer to page 23.

To release

Pull up slightly on the lever, press the button and lower the lever.

The parking brake is designed primarily to prevent the vehicle from rolling when parked. It operates against the rear wheels.

If, in exceptional circumstances, it should be necessary to engage the parking brake while the vehicle is in motion, do not pull it with excessive pressure. Keep your thumb pressed against the release button while carefully pulling up the lever to apply moderate pressure. Excessive pressure can lead to overbraking and loss of traction (fishtailing) at the rear.

The brake lamps do not come on when the parking brake is engaged.

Vehicles with manual transmission: Always engage the parking brake when parking on slopes and inclined surfaces, since placing the lever in 1st gear or reverse may not provide adequate resistance to rolling.

Vehicles with automatic transmission: Place the selector lever in "Park."

To avoid corrosion, 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.

Manual transmission

R 1 3 5 2 4 367de353

The shift lever's neutral plane is located between 3rd and 4th gear.

When shifting from each gear into "Neutral," the shift lever returns automatically to this neutral position because of its spring loading.

Reverse

Select reverse only when the vehicle is stationary. Press the shift lever to the left to overcome the resistance.

As you do this, the backup lamps will turn on automatically when the ignition key is in position 2.

Do not hold the vehicle in place on slopes by slipping or "riding" the h. Use the parking brake instead. A ting clutch increases clutch wear.

Automatic transmission\*

Adaptive Transmission Control ATC\* (Z3 roadster 2.3, 2.8, Z3 coupe)

The automatic transmission of your BMW is equipped with an Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC). This system reacts with precision to your individual driving style and the current driving conditions. Different shift programs are utilized to achieve this.

For details concerning ATC, please refer to the chapter describing "Advanced technology" on page 176.

Interior view of a vehicle gear shift control panel with mode dial and control buttons (no visible text or symbols)

Selector lever positions

PRND321

Shift programs

Press the switches:

E (Economy)

M (Manual)

Selector lever in position 3:

S (Sport Program)

Starting the engine

The engine can only be started in positions "P" or "N."

Range selection

A detent prevents inadvertent shifts to the "Reverse" or "Park" selector lever positions. To disengage the detent, press the button on the front side of the shift knob (arrow in the illustration on the left).

While the vehicle is stationary and before shifting out of "Park" or

"Neutral," depress the footbrake in order to disengage the selector lever's lock mechanism (Shiftlock).

Hold the footbrake down until starting off. The vehicle will otherwise "creep" when a drive position is engaged.

Before exiting the vehicle when the engine is running, place the

selector lever in the "Park" or "Neutral" position and apply the parking brake. If you do not, the vehicle can move. Do not leave the car unattended with the engine running. An unattended vehicle with a running engine represents a potential safety hazard. If you should accidentally select "Neutral" while traveling at high speed, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal immediately. Allow the engine speed to drop to idle before selecting the desired drive position. Damage could otherwise occur due to excessive engine speed.

64 Automatic transmission\*

P - Park

Select "Park" only when the vehicle is stationary. The transmission locks to prevent the rear wheels from turning.

R - Reverse

Select "Reverse" only when the vehicle is stationary.

N - Neutral

Select "Neutral" only if your journey is interrupted for a longer period.

D – Drive (automatic shift program)

This position is designed for driving under all normal operating conditions. All forward gears are available; the ATC* is fully operational.

3 - Sport Program

This program is designed for performance-oriented driving. It employs delayed shift points for full utilization of the vehicle power reserves.

2 and 1 - Mountain ascents and engine braking

Select these ranges to prevent undesired shifts and use the engine braking effect to maximum advantage on mountain roads or extended uphill and downhill stretches. The transmission shifts up only as far as the selected gear.

Kickdown (automatic downshift)

In the "Kickdown" mode, you achieve the maximum engine performance in position "D."

Press the accelerator pedal past the increased resistance point at the full-throttle position.

E - Economy

For economical driving. This is the initial position whenever the engine is started.

M - Manual program

This program is for driving conditions under which the selected gear is to be retained. The transmission then remains in this gear both when starting off and during acceleration. With this program, you drive only in 4th gear when in position "D."

Electronic transmission control module

If the indicator lamp comes on, there is a malfunction in the transmission system.

Bring the vehicle to a stop, select transmission position "Park," set the parking brake and turn the engine off (ignition key to position 0). Wait a few seconds, then start the engine.

If the indicator lamp goes out again after a few seconds, normal transmission performance has been restored. Continue to drive normally.

If the indicator lamp does not go out, all selector lever positions can still be selected. However, the vehicle has limited performance in the forward drive positions because the transmission utilizes only 3rd gear (position 1 or 2) or 4th gear (position 3 or "D").

In this situation, avoid severe loads and take the car to the nearest BMW center without delay.

Automatic transmission\* Turn signals/High beams

Do not perform service operations in the engine compartment with a position engaged. If you do so, vehicle could move.

For towing and jump-starting, refer to pages 170 and 172.

367us024 1 2 3

1 High beam (blue indicator)
2 Headlamp flasher (blue indicator)
3 Turn signal indicator (green indicator lamp and rhythmic clicking of the blinker relay)
If the indicator lamp and the clicking from the relay are both faster than normal, one of the turn indicators has failed.

To signal briefly

Press the lever up to but not beyond the detent. It then returns to the center position when released.

Wiper/Washer system

3 2 1 5 0 6 4 367de631

Windshield

0 Wipers retracted
1 Intermittent wipe
2 Normal wipe
3 Fast wipe
4 Brief wipe
5 Automatic window washer

Rear window -

6 Intermittent wipe/ Automatic window washer

0 Wipers retracted

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):

Switch on the wipers and switch off the ignition when the wipers are approximately vertical.

Fold the wipers down onto the windshield before turning on the ignition key. Failure to do this could result in damage to the wiper/washer system and hood.

1 Intermittent wipe

The length of the interval is varied automatically according to the car's actual road speed.

2 Normal wiper speed

The wipers automatically revert to intermittent operation when the vehicle is stationary.

3 Fast wiper speed

When the vehicle is stationary, the system does not switch to a lower wiper speed.

4 Brief wipe

The wipers move once across the wind-shield.

5 Automatic windshield washer

The system sprays washer fluid against the windshield and activates the wipers for a brief period.

If you only pull the lever briefly, the system sprays washer fluid onto the wind-shield without activating the wipers.

Wiper/Washer system Rear window defroster

6 Intermittent wipe/ Automatic rear window washer

Press the lever briefly: The intermittent setting of the rear window wiper is switched on or off.

Press and hold the lever: The system sprays washer fluid against the rear window and activates the wiper. After the lever is released, the wiper continues to cycle for a few seconds.

To change the wiper blades, refer to page 146.

Headlamp washers\*

If the headlamps are on, they will also be cleaned every fifth time you activate the automatic windshield washer.

Do not use the washers if there is any danger that the fluid will freeze on the windshield, otherwise vision could be obscured. For this reason, use an antifreeze agent. Refer to page 124. Do not use the washers when the reservoir is empty, otherwise damage to the washer pump could result.

Windshield washer jets

The windshield washer jets are heated automatically* when the ignition key is in position 2.

Close-up of a car air conditioner unit with control panel and door (no visible text or symbols)

The Z3 coupe (illustration) and M coupe both have a rear window defroster. Depending on the vehicle model, the arrangement and appearance of the switches may vary. Please refer to the individual symbol for selecting the desired function.

To activate

Press the button, the indicator lamp comes on.

To deactivate

Press the button if the indicator lamp is on.

M coupe: Activation duration: 8 minutes maximum.

Cruise control\*

365000 4 2 1 4

You can store and automatically maintain any desired vehicle speed above approx. 25 mph (40 km/h).

The system is switched off and the stored speed deleted from its memory when you turn the ignition key to position 0.

To store and maintain speed/ to accelerate

Press the lever briefly in direction 1: The system records and maintains the current vehicle speed. Every time you briefly press the lever, the speed increases by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h).

Hold the lever in position 1:

The vehicle accelerates without pressure on the accelerator pedal. When you release the lever, the system memorizes and maintains the current speed.

If, on a downhill gradient, the engine braking effect is not sufficient, the controlled speed can be exceeded. Speed can drop on uphill grades if the engine output is insufficient.

To decelerate

Press the lever briefly in direction 2: If you are already driving with active cruise control, the speed is decreased by approx. 0.6 mph (1 km/h) every time you briefly touch the lever.

Hold the lever in position 2:

With the cruise control active, the system automatically reduces the throttle opening to slow the vehicle. When you release the lever, the system memorizes and maintains the current speed.

Activate stored setting (resume)

Press the lever briefly in direction 3: The vehicle accelerates to and maintains the last speed stored.

To cancel

Press the lever briefly in direction 4: The cruise control is deactivated immediately.

In addition, the system is also automatically deactivated in response to the following conditions:

When you apply the brakes
When you depress the clutch or move the automatic transmission selector lever from "D" to "N"
If you exceed or fall below the programmed speed for an extended period (by depressing the accelerator, for example).

Do not use cruise control on twisting roads, when high traffic density prevents driving at a constant speed, when the road surface is slick (snow, rain, ice), or when the road surface is loose (rocks or gravel, sand).

Odometer Tachometer Fuel gauge

MPH 123456 - 543.2 00:00:00:00 367us347

1 Odometer

You can activate the displays shown in the illustration with the ignition key in position 0 by pressing the button in the instrument cluster (arrow).

2 Trip odometer

To reset the trip odometer to zero, press the button (arrow) with the ignition key in position 1 and up.

367de005 1900 ±1300 -1 -0

Never allow the engine to operate with the needle in the red overspeed sector of the gauge.

To protect the engine, the Engine Management system automatically interrupts the fuel supply in this range; you will notice a loss of power.

UNTADED GASOLINE ONLY

When you switch on the ignition, the indicator lamp comes on briefly to confirm that the system is operational.

Once the indicator lamp stays on continuously, there are still approx. 2.1 gallons (8 liters) of fuel in the fuel tank.

Tank capacity: Page 185.

If the tilt of the vehicle varies (extended driving in mountainous areas, for example), the needle may fluctuate slightly.

Please refuel early, since driving to the last drop of fuel can result in

damage to the engine and/or catalytic converter.

70 Temperature gauge Service Interval Display

Circular gauge or indicator with a pointer and tick marks, no readable text or symbols

Blue

The engine is still cold. Drive at moderate engine and vehicle speeds.

Red

When you switch on the ignition, the warning lamp comes on briefly to confirm that the system is operational.

Comes on while driving: The engine is overheated. Switch off the engine immediately and allow it to cool down.

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.

Checking coolant level: Page 128.

MPH 123456 - 543.2 OILSERVICE INSPECTION

Green lamps

The number of illuminated lamps decreases as the time for your next maintenance visit approaches.

Yellow lamp

This field appears together with OILSERVICE or INSPECTION.

This alerts you that maintenance is due. Please arrange for an appointment with your BMW center.

Red lamp

Maintenance is overdue.

Auxiliary instruments, M roadster, M coupe

3670e303 M roadster, M coupe

Motor oil temperature

Under normal operating conditions, the temperature of the engine oil is between 175 °F and 250 °F (80 °C and 120 °C). During performance-oriented driving, do not exceed the maximum temperature of 265 °F (130 °C).

Until the oil temperature reaches 140 °F (60 °C), do not exceed an engine speed of 4,000 RPM.

367de280 M roadster, M coupe

Analog clock

To adjust the time on the clock, simultaneously press and turn the button in the center.

VOLT 8 10 12 14 16 VDO M roadster, M coupe

Voltmeter

The display is provided at ignition key position 1 and above.

72 Digital clock, Z3 coupe Analog clock, Z3 roadster

432m H M 367us080 Z3 coupe

The display is provided at ignition key position 1 and above. In ignition key position 0 and when the vehicle lighting is off, the display is not illuminated.

After a power loss, 0:00 appears in the display.

Time entries are made with the key for setting the hour and with the key for setting the minutes.

Each time a key is pressed, the display is increased by one. Holding down the key starts the rapid advance. The time begins to run exactly on the second each time is pressed.

To correct the time:

Depending on the correction, press the key for hours or the key for minutes.

Switching the time display into the 12 or 24-hour mode:

If you press the and keys simultaneously, the display converts from the 12-hour mode to the 24-hour mode.

When you select the 12-hour mode, AM or PM will appear to the right of the time.

ASC 367de380 Z3 roadster

You can correct the time by pressing the buttons (arrows) with a sharp object such as a ball-point pen.

Set the clock forward by pressing the right button; set the clock back by pressing the left button.

Onboard computer\*

Close-up of a car seatbelt buckle with a white arrow pointing to it, no visible text or symbols

Mode selection

You can call up the onboard computer data in the display from ignition switch position 1 with the turn indicator lever. Press the button briefly to select the next display mode.

In addition, you can change the time by pressing the key.

With the key, the calculations for average fuel consumption and speed are reset and begin again.

1:36° S/H O 367us040 Z3 coupe

The illustration depicts the onboard computer of the Z3 coupe as an example. The onboard computer of the Z3 roadster has minor differences in appearance.

Time

The display is provided at ignition key position 1 and above. In ignition key position 0, the time is displayed for approx. 8 seconds by pressing the key.

Following a power loss, the clock automatically switches to the setting mode: The colon flashes. Two dashes are displayed for entering the hour.

To enter the time

Enter the numbers for hours and minutes by pressing the key.

Enter the hour first. Each time the key is pressed, the hour display increases by one. Pressing and holding the key starts the rapid advance.

Confirm the time set with the key. Now enter the minutes when two zeros appear.

Enter the minutes in the same manner as the hours.

Press the save key the time is started exactly on the second. The two dots stop flashing.

To reset the time

Press and hold the key for approx. 3 seconds: Enter the hour when the colon begins to flash.

Enter the numbers by pressing the key in the same manner as when entering the time.

74 Onboard computer\*

Setting the 12-hour or 24-hour mode

Press and hold the 1 keys simultaneously for approx. 1 second.

Then press the key. Now, the mode changes from 12 to 24 hours whenever you press the key.

When you select the 12-hour mode, AM or PM will appear on the right-hand side of the display panel.

The last mode selected is adopted when you press automatically stored approx. 5 seconds after the last setting.

+ 68°F S/A @ Z3 coupe

Outside temperature

If the outside temperature drops to approx. +37.5 °F (+3 °C), a warning signal sounds (ice warning). The temperature display appears automatically and flashes for 8 seconds.

The warning is repeated whenever the temperature climbs to at least +43 °F (+6 °C) and then drops to +37.5 °F (+3 °C) again.

The ice warning does not alter the fact that surface ice can form at temperatures above +37.5 °F (+3 °C), on bridges or shaded road surfaces, for instance.

Onboard computer\*

367us043 3.11 MPG S/R O Z3 coupe

Average fuel consumption

The computation is made when the engine is running. Periods when the vehicle is parked and the engine is not running are not included.

New computation:

When this function has been activated and you press the key, the fuel consumption is recalculated from that point in time.

270 - V S/R O 367US044 Z3 coupe

Estimated cruising range

The computer bases its calculations of the cruising range on the rate of fuel consumption in the period immediately preceding your data request.

When three dashes flash in the display, the cruising range is below 9 miles (15 km). You should refuel as soon as possible.

Refueling is registered by the onboard computer with the ignition key in position 1 or higher.

If the vehicle has been parked at an angle, the cruising range cannot be displayed accurately. The display will be corrected while the vehicle is moving.

367us045 35.0 MPH S/R E Z3 coupe

Average speed

Periods when the vehicle is parked and the engine is not running are not included in the computation.

At speeds below 100 mph (100 km/h), the display includes decimals.

New computation:

When this function has been activated and you press the key, the average speed is recalculated from that point in time.

Automatic Stability Control plus Traction (ASC+T)/Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)\*

This system helps provide additional dynamic stability, particularly when accelerating and cornering.

The DSC enhances the benefits of the ASC+T. In addition to optimizing vehicle stability and traction during acceleration or when starting from a standstill, a further benefit is realized in cornering. This, of course, is true only within physically feasible limits.

The system activates automatically each time you start the engine.

Indicator lamp

The indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out shortly after you switch on the ignition.

Refer to page 24.

Indicator lamp flashes:

The system is actively regulating drive torque in response to monitored vehicle operating conditions.

If the indicator lamp fails to go out after the engine is started, or comes on during the course of normal vehicle operation:

There is a system fault or the system has been switched off. The vehicle remains operational, but without ASC+T/DSC.

For repairs, please consult your BMW center.

967de701 ASC Z3 roadster

To deactivate the system

Press the switch (arrow) – the indicator lamp comes on and stays on.

Depending on equipment options, the button is marked with ASC or DSC.

The illustration depicts the button for the Z3 roadster. Depending on

the vehicle model, the arrangement and appearance of the button may vary.

Please refer to the specific switch symbols for selecting the desired function.

ASC+T/DSC\* Parking lamps/Low beam

In the following exceptional circumstances, we recommend that you deactivate the ASC+T/DSC system:

When "rocking" the vehicle to free it or when starting from a full stop in deep snow or on loose surfaces
or when driving with snow chains. Refer also to page 105.

To reactivate the system

Press the button again; the indicator lamp goes out.

Not even ASC+T/DSC can suspend the normal laws of physics.

A driving style that is appropriate for the conditions is always the responsibility of the driver. For this reason, do not take risks, using the additional safety margin provided by the system as an excuse.

For additional details concerning ASC+T/DSC, please refer to the chapter titled "Advanced technology" on page 177.

3670S021 1 2

Parking lamps (position lamps/ side marker lamps)

Position 1

With the switch in this position, vehicle lighting on both sides is on.

Low beam headlamps

Position 2

When you switch the ignition off while the low beams are still on,

only the parking lamps (position lamps/ side marker lamps) remain on.

Instrument panel lighting

With the lamp switch in the "On" position, turn the switch to adjust the illumination intensity.

"LIGHTS ON" warning

When you open the driver's door after turning the ignition key to position 0, a warning signal sounds for a few seconds to remind you that the headlamps have not been switched off.

Daytime running lamps\*

The headlamps are automatically switched on for daylight driving at ignition key position 2.

78 Fog lamps Interior lamps

Close-up of a computer mouse with a small circular head and a small letter 'D' on the screen (no visible text or symbols)

Front fog lamps\*

A green indicator lamp appears in the instrument cluster to indicate that the front fog lamps

are on.

It is not possible to switch on the front fog lamps together with the high beams.

1 2 3 367de026 Z3 roadster, M roadster

Z3 roadster, M roadster

1 Continuously off
2 Automatically controlled
3 Continuously on

1 Continuously on
2 Continuously off
3 Automatically controlled

Interior lamps Reading lamps

1 Continuously on
2 Continuously off
3 Automatically controlled

The Z3 coupe and M coupe have reading lamps:

1 Continuously on
2 Continuously off
3 Automatically controlled

In order to conserve the battery, all of the lamps in the vehicle are switched off automatically about

15 minutes after the ignition key is turned to position 0.

Heating and ventilation

Diagram of a car interior with numbered directional arrows and labeled controls, likely illustrating vehicle dynamics or airflow patterns.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Heating and ventilation

1 Air flow toward the windshield and side windows
2 Air flow toward upper body The rotary dials allow infinitely-variable regulation of the air supply. You can change the airflow direction with the lever in the center of the vent or by rotating the vent grille 82

3 Front footwell ventilation

4 Air distribution onto the ▷ windows ▷ upper body ▷ footwell All intermediate positions are possible 82

5 Temperature 82

6 Air supply The heating and ventilation are operational beginning with position 1 82

Heating and ventilation

Air distribution

You can direct the flow of air onto the windows, toward the upper body and into the footwell. Any intermediate setting is possible. In this position, a small volume of air is directed onto the windows in order to keep them free of condensation.

A "6 o'clock" position is recommended as the normal operating setting.

367de224 1 2

Close-up of a control panel with three circular buttons and a numeric keypad (no visible text or symbols)

Temperature

In order to increase the temperature of the passenger compartment, turn to the right (red). For rapid heating, turn completely to the right. Then select an interior temperature which is comfortable for you.

Draft-free ventilation

The outlets for the occupants' upper body area can be adjusted to suit your personal preferences:

Use the rotary dial (2) to open and close the vent throughout an infinitely-variable range. With the levers (1), you can direct the air flow to the side. Adjust the air flow up or down by rotating the vent grill.

Set the outlets so that the air flows past you and is not directed straight at you.

Rapid ventilation

1 Set the blower speed control for the air flow rate to position 4.
2 Turn the rotary temperature control completely to the left (blue). Then select an interior temperature which is pleasant for you.
3 Rotary control for air distribution in position ↗.
4 Open the outlets for the upper body area.

Air supply

You can select blower speeds from 1 to 4. Both heating and ventilation become more effective as the air flow rate is increased. In position 0, the blower and the heater are switched off.

Heating and ventilation

Close-up of a control panel with three rotary dials and buttons (no visible text or symbols)

Rapid heat-up

1 Set the blower speed control for the air flow rate to position 3.
2 Turn the rotary temperature control completely to the right (red). Then select an interior temperature which is pleasant for you.
3 Rotary dial for air distribution in position

Close-up of a vintage refrigerator control panel with three rotary dials and buttons (no visible text or symbols)

Heating

This setting is recommended if the windows are free of ice or condensation:

1 Set the blower speed control for the air flow rate to position 2.
2 Use the rotary temperature control to select an interior temperature which is comfortable for you.
3 Rotary control for air distribution in position ↗.

Close-up of a kitchen air conditioner unit with three rotary controls (no visible text or symbols)

To defrost the windshield and side windows

1 Set the blower speed control for the air flow rate to position 4.
2 Turn the rotary temperature control completely to the right (red).
3 Rotary control for air distribution in position 📋.
4 To defrost the rear window on the coupe, switch on the rear window defroster.

84 Heating and ventilation/Air conditioning*

Diagram of car interior with numbered directional arrows and control switches, likely for vehicle air or air conditioning system.

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Heating and ventilation/Air conditioning\*

1 Air flow toward the windshield and side windows
2 Air flow toward upper body The rotary dials allow infinitely-variable regulation of the air supply. You can change the airflow direction with the lever in the center of the vent or by rotating the vent grille 87

3 Front footwell ventilation

4 Air distribution onto the ▷ windows ▷ upper body ▷ footwell All intermediate positions are possible 86

5 Temperature 86

6 Air supply The heating and ventilation are operational beginning with position 1 86

7 Air conditioning 86

8 Recirculated air mode 86

Heating and ventilation/Air conditioning\*

Air distribution

You can direct the flow of air onto the windows, toward the upper body and into the footwell. Any intermediate setting is possible. In this position, a small volume of air is directed onto the windows in order to keep them free of condensation.

A "6 o'clock" position is recommended as the normal operating setting.

Temperature

In order to increase the temperature of the passenger compartment, turn to the right (red). For rapid heating, turn completely to the right. Then select an interior temperature which is comfortable for you.

Air supply

You can select blower speeds from 1 to 4. Both heating and ventilation become more effective as the air flow rate is increased. In position 0, the blower and the heater are switched off.

Depending on the vehicle model, the arrangement and appearance of the switches may vary. Please refer to the specific switch symbols for selecting the desired function.

Air conditioning

The air is cooled and dehumidified and – depending on the temperature setting – warmed again when the air conditioner system is switched on. Depending on the weather, the windshield may fog over briefly when the engine is started. At outside temperatures below approx. 41 °F (+5 °C), switch off the air conditioning. This will help to prevent the windows from fogging up. If the windows fog over after switching the air conditioning off, switch it back on.

Condensation forms in the air conditioner system during operation, which then exits under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water of this kind are thus normal.

Recirculated air mode

If there are unpleasant odors in the outside air, you can temporarily block the flow of air. The system then recirculates the air currently within the vehicle.

If the windows fog over in the recirculated air mode, switch this mode off and increase the air supply as required.

Heating and ventilation/Air conditioning\*

1 2 367de224

Draft-free ventilation

The outlets for the occupants' upper body area can be adjusted to suit your personal preferences:

Use the rotary dial (2) to open and close the vent throughout an infinitely-variable range. With the levers (1) you can direct the air flow to the side, and up or down by rotating the vent grill.

Set the outlets so that the air flows past you and is not directed straight at you.

Close-up of a car air conditioner panel with three rotary gauges and a control panel (no visible text or symbols)

The illustration depicts the switches of the Z3 coupe an example. Depending on the vehicle model, the arrangement and appearance of the switches may vary. Please refer to the specific symbols for switch functions.

Rapid ventilation

1 Set the blower speed control for the air flow rate to position 4.
2 Switch on the air conditioning ^* .
3 Turn the rotary temperature control completely to the left (blue). Then select an interior temperature which is pleasant for you.
4 Rotary control for air distribution in position ^9 .
5 Open the outlets for the upper body area.

Front panel of a vehicle air conditioner unit showing three rotary controls and a control panel (no visible text or symbols)

Cooling

1 Set the blower speed control for the air flow rate to position 2.
2 Switch on the air conditioning *.
3 Use the rotary temperature control to select an interior temperature which is comfortable for you.
4 Rotary control for air distribution in position ♦.
5 Open the outlets for the upper body area.

Heating and ventilation/Air conditioning\*

Close-up of a car air conditioner panel with three rotary controls and a control panel (no visible text or symbols)

Heating

This setting is recommended if the windows are free of ice or condensation:

1 Set the blower speed control for the air flow rate to position 2.
2 Use the rotary temperature control to select an interior temperature which is comfortable for you.
3 Rotary control for air distribution in position ♦.

Front panel of a vehicle air conditioner unit showing three rotary controls and a control panel (no visible text or symbols)

Rapid heat-up

1 Set the blower speed control for the air flow rate to position 3.
2 Turn the rotary temperature control completely to the right (red). Then select an interior temperature which is pleasant for you.
3 Rotary dial for air distribution in position.

Front panel of a car air conditioner unit showing three rotary controls and a control panel (no visible text or symbols)

To defrost the windshield and side windows

1 Set the blower speed control for the air flow rate to position 4.
2 Turn the rotary temperature control completely to the right (red).
3 Rotary control for air distribution in position 📋.
4 To defrost the rear window on the coupe, switch on the rear window defroster.

Seat heating\*

Close-up of a roadster control panel with multiple display screens and buttons (no readable text or symbols)

The illustration depicts the switches of the Z3 roadster as an example. Depending on the vehicle model, the arrangement and appearance of the switches may vary. Please refer to the specific switch symbols for the desired function.

The seat cushion and backrest can be heated at ignition key position 2.

Press the switches with the heating symbols:

Rapid heat-up as long as the switch comes on brightly. Automatic changeover to regular heating.

Heating as long as the switch comes on brightly. Heating switches off automatically.

To switch over while heating: Press the section of the switch that is dimly lit.

To switch off early: Press the section of the switch that is brightly lit.

Glove compartment Additional storage areas Storage boxes\*

Close-up of a door handle with a white arrow pointing to a small object, no visible text or symbols

To open

Pull the handle and push down the door.

To close

Push the door up.

To prevent injury in the event of an accident, close the glove comment immediately after use.

Close-up of a white plastic or ceramic container with visible internal structure, no text or symbols present.

Storage compartments are located in the center console, in the doors and, on the Z3 coupe and M coupe, between the backrests (refer to the illustration).

A coin box* is located in the door pocket on the driver's side.

A storage net is mounted on the passenger side of the center console.

1 2 3 0 Z3 roadster, M roadster

The Z3 roadster and M roadster have locking storage boxes*:

Small storage box

Press button 1 to open the box.

Large storage box

Press button 3 and lift the lid of the box.

Both of the storage boxes can be locked with the master keys (refer to page 34) at lock 2.

Beverage holder\* Ashtray\*

Close-up of a mechanical component with no visible text or symbols

The beverage holder is located in the center console next to the parking brake.

You will find a coin box* in front of the beverage holders.

In the M roadster and M coupe, the coin box is located in the door pocket on the driver's side.

Close-up of a mechanical component with a downward arrow indicating a process or operation (no visible text or symbols)

To open

Press down on the left of the lid (arrow).

To extinguish a cigarette, tap off the ash and gently press the tip into the funnel.

Close-up of a car interior with a white arrow pointing to a rectangular object, no visible text or symbols.

To empty

Open the lid and press down (arrow): The ashtray insert pops up and can be removed.

Cigarette lighter\*

367de374 Z3 roadster

Press in. Remove as soon as the lighter pops up.

Hold or touch the hot cigarette lighter by the knob only. Holding

or touching it in other areas could result in burns.

The cigarette lighter remains operational when the ignition key has been removed. For this reason, children should never be left in the car unattended.

Cigarette lighter socket

This socket can be used for connecting a flashlight, car vacuum cleaner, or other appliances up to approx. 200 watts at 12 volts. Do not damage the socket by inserting plugs of a different shape or size.

Close-up of a vehicle's front panel with control buttons and a circular vent (no readable text or symbols)

Non-smoker's equipment package\*

On vehicles with the non-smoker's equipment package, the socket is concealed by a cover.

For access to the socket: Lift the cover off.

Roll-up cover Separation net\*

Pull out the roll-up cover and hook it into the holders at the rear.

The roll-up cover can carry light items such as articles of clothing.

Do not place heavy or hard objects on the roll-up cover. These objects could endanger vehicle occupants during heavy brake applications and evasive action or in a crash. Do not allow the roll-up cover to snap back when it is retracted. This could damage it.

Pull the separation net out by the strap. Grasp the bar on both sides and engage it in the holders.

Do not allow the separation net to snap back when it is retracted. If this is done, there is a risk of personal injury, and the separation net could be damaged.

Cargo loading

If you are transporting cargo in your coupe:

Load heavy cargo as far forward as possible – directly behind the luggage compartment partition – and as low as possible.
Cover sharp edges and corners.
Do not pile objects higher than the top edge of the backrest.
Pull the separation net out (refer to page 93). Be sure that no items are able to penetrate the separation net.

Close-up of a white bed with a black camera lens on top, labeled 'Z3 coupe, M coupe' (no other text or symbols visible)

Securing the load

For securing suitcases, you can obtain load-securing devices* from your BMW center. The lashing eyes located in the luggage compartment serve for mounting these load-securing devices.

Comply with the information enclosed with the load-securing devices.

Always position and secure the load correctly. If you do not, it can endanger the passengers during braking or evasive maneuvers, for example. Do not exceed the permissible gross weight and the permissible axle loads (refer to page 184). If you do so, the operating safety of the vehicle is no longer ensured, and you are in violation of the law.

Do not carry hard or heavy objects unsecured in the passenger compartment. If you do so, they may be projected through the air during braking and evasive maneuvers, for example, thus endangering vehicle occupants.

Roof-mounted luggage rack

A special luggage system is available for your coupe as an optional accessory. Please comply with the precautions included with the installation instructions.

Because roof racks raise the center of gravity of the car when loaded, they exercise a major effect on its handling and steering response.

You should therefore always remember not to exceed the approved roof weight, the approved gross vehicle weight or the axle weights when loading the rack. You will find the specifications for this under "Technical Data" on page 184.

Make sure that the load is not too heavy, and attempt to distribute it evenly. Always load the heaviest pieces first (on the bottom). Be sure that adequate clearance is maintained for raising the sunroof, and that objects do not project into the opening path of the luggage compartment lid.

Lash the roof luggage down correctly and securely to prevent it from shifting or being lost during driving – this would endanger following traffic.

Drive smoothly and avoid sudden acceleration or braking. Do not corner at high speeds.

The roof load increases the aerodynamic resistance. Increased fuel consumption and additional stresses on the vehicle's body result from this.

Close-up of a car wheel with chain links, no visible text or symbols

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Special operating instructions:

Break-in procedure 98

Driving notes 99

Catalytic converter 100

Antilock Brake System (ABS) 101

Disc brakes 103

Brake system 104

Winter operation 105

Power steering 106

Cellular phone 107

Radio reception 107

Hardtop-roadster 108

Wheels and tires:

Notes on inflation pressure 110

Tire condition 110

Tire replacement 111

Tire rotation 113

Wheel and tire combinations 113

Winter tires 115

Snow chains 115

Approved wheel and tire specifications 116

In the engine compartment:

Hood 119

Engine compartment 120

Fluids for the washer systems 124

Washer nozzles 124

Engine oil 125

Coolant 128

Brake fluid 130

Vehicle Identification 130

Care and maintenance:

The BMW Maintenance System 131

Caring for your car 132

Airbags 139

Storing your vehicle 140

Laws and regulations:

Technical modifications to the vehicle 141

OBD connector 142

Overview

Controls and features

Operation, care and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Index

Break-in procedure

To ensure that your vehicle provides maximum economy throughout a long service life, we request that you observe the following:

Engine and differential

Up to 1,200 miles (2,000 km):

Drive with varying engine and road speeds, but do not exceed 4,500 RPM or 100 mph (150 km/h).

Comply with local and state maximum speed limits.

Refrain from using full throttle and avoid pressing the accelerator beyond the kickdown point.

After you have driven 1,200 miles (2,000 km), you can gradually increase the engine and road speeds.

You should also comply with these break-in procedures if the engine or differential is replaced later in the course of the vehicle's service life.

Tires

Due to technical factors associated with their manufacture, tires do not achieve their full traction potential until an initial break-in period has elapsed. You should therefore drive with extra caution during the initial 200 miles (300 km).

Comply with local and state maximum speed limits.

When the vehicle is operated on wet or slushy roads, a wedge of water may form between the tire and the road surface. This phenomenon is referred to as aquaplaning or hydroplaning, and can lead to partial or complete loss of traction, vehicle control and braking effectiveness. Reduce your speed on wet roads.

Brake system

Approximately 300 miles (500 km) must elapse before the brake pads and rotors achieve the optimal surface and wear pattern.

To break in the separate parking brake drums, apply the parking brake lightly when coasting to a standstill (at a traffic signal, for instance), provided that traffic conditions allow you to do so. To avoid corrosion, repeat this procedure from time to time.

The brake lamps do not light up when the parking brake is applied.

Vacuum for the brake system booster on your BMW is available only when the engine is running. When you move the car with the engine off – for instance, by towing – substantially higher levels of pedal force will be required to brake the vehicle.

Driving notes

Brakes:

Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake pedal. Even light but consistent pedal pressure can lead to high temperatures, brake wear and possibly even brake failure.

Aquaplaning:

When driving on wet or slushy roads, reduce vehicle speed. If you do not, a wedge of water may form between the tires and the road surface. This phenomenon is referred to as aquaplaning or hydroplaning. It is 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.

Driving through water:

When there is water on the roads, do not drive in it if it is deeper than 1 foot (30 cm). If the water is at that depth, drive only at walking speed, otherwise the vehicle can sustain damage to the engine, the electrical systems and the transmission.

Hang items of clothing on the hooks in such a manner that they do not obstruct the driver's vision. Do not hang heavy objects on the hooks. If you do so, they could cause personal injury during braking and evasive maneuvers or in a crash, for example.

Catalytic converter

The catalytic converter reduces harmful exhaust emissions.

It is designed for use with unleaded fuel only.

Even minute quantities of lead would be enough to permanently damage both the catalytic converter and the system's oxygen sensor.

To ensure efficient, trouble-free engine operation and avoid potential damage:

Be sure to comply with the scheduled maintenance requirements.
Fill the fuel tank well before it is empty.
If the engine runs roughly, shut it off as soon as possible.
Tow-start the vehicle only when the engine is cold. Tow-starting when the engine is warm could cause unburned fuel to ignite in the catalytic converter, resulting in significant damage. It is better to start the vehicle with an outside starting aid.

Avoid any other situations in which the fuel would not be (completely) burned, for instance:

Frequent or consecutive extended starting attempts or repeated starting attempts when the engine fails to start. (Shutting down and restarting an engine which is running properly does not present a problem.)

Never let the engine run with any of the spark plug cables disconnected.

Be sure to comply with the instructions above to prevent unburned fuel from reaching the catalytic converter. This could cause overheating, leading to serious damage of the catalytic converter.

Extreme temperatures occur at the catalytic converter on this and every catalyst-equipped vehicle. Heat shields are installed adjacent to some sections of the exhaust system. Never remove these shields; do not apply undercoating to their surfaces.

When driving, standing while the engine is idling, or when parking, be careful to avoid contact between the hot exhaust system and easily-flammable materials (hay, dry grass, leaves, etc.). Such contact could cause a fire, resulting in personal injuries and property damage.

Antilock Brake System (ABS)

The concept

ABS increases active safety by preventing the wheels from locking when braking. The reason: Locked wheels are dangerous. When the front wheels slide, the driver loses steering control over the vehicle. Traction loss at the rear wheels can cause the rear end to break into an uncontrolled skid.

ABS is designed to meet two essential requirements during every brake application:

To help provide vehicle stability.
Assured ability to steer and maneuver on the various road surfaces – (asphalt, concrete, dirt, wet conditions, snow, ice).

The system can achieve the shortest braking distances possible under most conditions (on straight-aways and in curves, on asphalt, ice, wet road surfaces, etc.).

Braking with ABS

The system is operative once the vehicle exceeds a speed of approx. 6 mph (10 km/h). It is inactivated once again below approx. 4 mph (6 km/h). Therefore, the wheels could theoretically tend to lock in the final phase of a braking action, but this is insignificant in actual practice.

If you are in a situation which requires full braking, you will exploit the full benefits of the ABS system if you apply maximum brake pressure ("panic stop"). Since the vehicle maintains steering responsiveness, you can avoid possible obstacles with a minimum of steering effort, despite the full brake application.

Depress the brake pedal with steady pressure and do not release it. Do not pump the brakes.

The ABS closed-loop control circuit cycles in fractions of a second. The pulsation at the brake pedal, together with sounds generated by the hydraulic control system, indicate to you that the vehicle is approaching its maximum braking range. It is a reminder to you that you must adapt the vehicle's road speed to existing road conditions.

On road surfaces that have a loose surface layer on a firm base with good traction (on gravel, deep sand or snow, for example), braking distances may be longer than with locked wheels. This also applies for driving with snow chains. However, ABS continues to provide enhanced vehicle stability and steering response under these conditions.

Antilock Brake System (ABS)

Information for your safety

Not even ABS can suspend the laws of physics. ABS alone cannot prevent accidents if the brakes are applied without an adequate, safe distance between vehicles or if the speed limit has been exceeded in curves. Nor can it prevent the hazards of aquaplaning. Responsibility for these types of situations remains in the hands (and at the feet) of the driver. You should never allow the added safety of ABS to lull you into a false sense of security, or mislead you into taking increased risks that could affect your own safety and that of others.

Do not make any modifications to the ABS system.

Service procedures on ABS are to be performed by authorized technicians only.

In the event of a fault

If the ABS warning lamp in the instrument cluster comes on, refer to page 24. The brake system then reverts to conventional operation as on vehicles without ABS. However, have the brake system checked by your BMW center as soon as possible. To prevent undetected defects and cumulative faults from adversely affecting the brake system, refer any problems to your BMW center at the earliest opportunity.

If the red warning lamp for the brake hydraulic system comes on together with the yellow indicator lamps for ABS and ASC+T/DSC* (refer to page 24), the entire ABS and ASC+T/DSC control system has failed. Continue to drive; drive cautiously and defensively. Avoid full brake applications because the vehicle could become unstable and go out of control. Have the system checked by your BMW center as soon as possible.

Warning lamps for Canadian models.

Disc brakes

Disc brakes furnish optimum deceleration and braking control and greater fade resistance under heavy use.

When the vehicle is driven only occasionally, during extended periods when the vehicle is not used at all, or in operating conditions where brake applications are less frequent, there is an increased tendency for corrosion of the rotors and accumulation of contamination on the brake pads. This occurs because the minimal pressure which must be exerted by the pads to clean the rotors by brake applications is not reached.

The pads must exert a minimal pressure against the rotors for the brakes to clean themselves effectively; under the conditions described above, this may not happen. If the brake rotors are corroded, they will tend to respond to braking with a pulsating effect which even extended application will fail to cure.

For your own safety: Use only brake pads that BMW has ap-

proved for your specific vehicle model. BMW cannot evaluate non-approved brake pads to determine if they are suited for use, and therefore cannot ensure the operating safety of the vehicle in the event of their use.

Driving notes

While driving in wet conditions and in heavy rain, it is a good idea to apply light pressure to the brake pedal every few miles – watch traffic conditions to ensure that this maneuver does not endanger other road users. The heat generated in this braking process helps dry the brake pads and rotors.

Maximum braking force is obtained while the wheels continue to rotate, peaking when the wheels remain on the verge of locking without actually doing so. ABS maintains this state automatically. If the ABS fails, you should revert to the staggered braking technique described below on page 106.

Extended or steep mountain descents do not necessarily have to lead to reduced braking efficiency; shift down to a gear in which only minimal periodic brake applications are required (you can move the selector lever to the appropriate lower range if your car is equipped with an automatic transmission).

You can continue to increase the engine's braking effect by selecting progressively lower gears, shifting down as far as 2nd or 1st for extreme descents, or position 1 or 2 with automatic transmission.

Should engine braking prove inadequate, you should still avoid extended, continuous braking. Instead, decelerate the vehicle with increased pressure on the brake pedal (watch for following traffic), release the pedal and then repeat the brake application (staggered braking). This staggered braking technique allows the brakes to cool in the intervals between active braking phases, preventing overheating and ensuring that full braking capacity remains available at all times.

Do not allow the vehicle to coast when the clutch is depressed or shifting into neutral while moving. Do drive when the engine is switched the engine provides no braking rol when the clutch is depressed or transmission is in neutral and there power assist for the brakes when engine is shut off.

Never allow floor mats, carpets or any other objects to protrude into the area around the accelerator, clutch and brake pedals and obstruct their movement.

Brake system

Brake fluid level

If the warning lamp for the hydraulic brake system comes on: The brake fluid level is too low in the reservoir (refer to page 130). If the brake fluid level is too low and brake pedal travel is notice-

ably longer, there may be a defect in one of the two hydraulic brake circuits.

Proceed to the nearest BMW center. Higher brake application presmay be necessary under these conditions, and brake pedal travel may be significantly longer. Please remember to adapt your driving style accordingly.

Brake pads

If the warning lamp for the brake pads comes on:

The brake pads have reached their minimum pad thickness. Proceed to the nearest BMW center as soon as possible to have the pads replaced.

For your own safety: Use only brake pads that BMW has ap-ed for your specific vehicle model. BMW cannot evaluate non-approved brake pads to determine if they are suited for use, and therefore cannot ensure the operating safety of the vehicle in the event of their use.

Winter operation

The onset of winter is often accompanied by rapid changes in weather. Adaptations in driving style should be accompanied by preparations on the vehicle itself to ensure that your vehicle operation through the winter remains safe and trouble-free.

Coolant

Ensure that the coolant contains the year-round 50:50 ratio of water and antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor. This mixture provides protection against freezing down to approximately -34 °F (-37 °C). Replace the coolant every three years.

Locks

BMW door lock deicer can be used to free the doors if they are frozen. This deicer also contains lubricant. After using deicer, treatment with BMW lock cylinder grease is recommended.

Rubber seals and components

In order to prevent freezing, apply rubber treatment or silicone spray to weather-stripping on the doors, hood, luggage compartment and to convertible top seals.

A full range of car-care products is available from your BMW center.

Snow chains

BMW snow chains* can be mounted on both summer and winter tires. Mount them in pairs on the rear wheels only. Comply with the manufacturer's safety precautions. Do not exceed a maximum speed of 30 mph (50 km/h) when driving with chains. As an exception in this situation, we recommend that you deactivate the ASC+T/DSC* system when snow chains are mounted. Refer to page 76.

Starting off

When starting from a full stop or "rocking" free in deep snow, we recommend that you deactivate the ASC+T/DSC ^* system. Refer to page 76.

Driving on low-traction road surfaces

Use smooth, gentle pressure to control the accelerator pedal. Avoid excessive engine speeds and shift to the next higher gear at an early point. Shift down into the next lowest gear when approaching uphill or downhill grades. Maintain an adequate distance between yourself and the car ahead.

Brakes

Winter road conditions substantially reduce the traction available between the tires and the road surface. Remember that – in every situation – braking distances will be significantly longer as a result of this.

ABS is intended to prevent the wheels from locking during brake applications, thus helping to maintain vehicle stability and steering response.

Winter operation Power steering

If it should occur that the ABS does not respond in a critical braking situation and the wheels lock: Reduce the pressure on the brake pedal until the wheels just start to roll again while still maintaining enough force to continue braking. Following that, increase pedal pressure again. Reduce the pressure as the wheels lock, then reapply pressure. Repeat this process.

This type of staggered braking will lower the braking distance, and the vehicle still remains responsive to steering.

You can still attempt to steer around hazards once you have reduced the pressure on the brake pedal.

Do not shift down on slick road surfaces. Doing so could cause

the rear wheels to lose traction and skid, which could result in the loss of vehicle control.

Depress the clutch during hard braking on road surfaces which

provide only poor or uneven traction.

Skid control

Release the accelerator pedal and depress the clutch pedal. Countersteer carefully and attempt to regain control of the vehicle.

Parking

Engage 1st or reverse gear. If your car is equipped with an automatic transmission, place the selector lever in Park. On vehicles with manual transmission, also apply the parking brake when parking on inclined surfaces. In order to prevent the parking brake pads from locking due to frost or corrosion, dry them by gently applying the parking brake as the vehicle is coming to a stop. Make sure that following traffic is not endangered.

The brake lamps do not light up when the parking brake is

applied.

Changes in steering response (high steering effort, for example): Consult a BMW center to have the system checked.

If the power steering fails, increased effort will be required

to steer the vehicle.

Cellular phone\* Radio reception

Mobile communications systems (cellular phones, two-way radios, etc.) are approved only up to a power output of 10 watts. Nonetheless, they may cause interference in the operation of your vehicle if they are not specifically designed for use in your vehicle. BMW can neither test nor assume responsibility for every individual product being offered on the market. We recommend that you consult your BMW center before purchasing any device of this kind. To ensure that your BMW continues to provide reliable and trouble-free operation, refrain from using a cellular phone or other radio device with an antenna located inside the passenger compartment. The antenna should always be fitted on the outside of the vehicle.

Before loading the vehicle on a car-carrier train or driving it through a car-wash, remove the antenna.

The reception and sound quality obtained from mobile radios varies according to a variety of factors, including the broadcast range of the transmitter and the directional orientation of the antenna. Interference factors such as high-tension power lines, buildings and natural obstructions can all lead to unavoidable reception interference, regardless of how well the vehicle's sound system is operating. Climatic factors such as intense solar radiation, fog, rain and snow can also interfere with reception.

Cellular phones without official BMW approval can also generate interference during use. This phenomenon assumes the form of a low-pitched hum emanating from the speaker system.

Please refer to the Owner's Manual provided with your sound system for detailed information on its use.

Whenever necessary (when entering a car wash, for instance), remove the rod antenna* (refer also to page 132). To remove the antenna, grasp the rod at the bottom and unscrew it to the left from the antenna base.

Hardtop\* – roadster

The fabric top does not have to be removed even in winter, when the hardtop is normally in constant use. In order to prevent water spots and mildew stains, the fabric top must be completely dry before it is stored in the convertible top well.

Two people are necessary for the installation and removal of the hardtop. Work with extreme caution during this operation to avoid paint damage and damage to the body and hardtop.

You may purchase a Hardtop Lift* from your BMW center. This accessory is especially designed to facilitate installation and removal of the hardtop.

Close-up of a car's front wheel and windshield (no visible text or symbols)

Installation

Hook the protective fabric on the convertible top linkage (arrow).

Open the convertible top and fold it down in the convertible top well. Refer to pages 41 and 45.

When doing this, make sure the rear window is laid down evenly and free of creases. To prevent the rear window from being scratched, position the protective fabric in the window fold.

Do not install the convertible cover.

Lower the side windows and remove the rod antenna if necessary to avoid damage.

Close-up of a mechanical component with a curved cutout and internal structure (no visible text or symbols)

Rotate the cover panel which is located in the right and left trim panels behind the seats in the direction of the arrow until the opening for the hardtop mount is completely free.

Remove the hardtop from the protective cover. Clean any dirt and dust from the contact surfaces between the hard-top and the vehicle body in order to protect against abrasion.

Position the hardtop on the mounts with the assistance of a second person.

Hardtop\* – roadster

Close-up of a car door handle with a white arrow pointing to a small circular object on the side (no text or symbols visible)

Using the wrench from the onboard tool kit (fastened to the jack with a Velcro® strip), turn the screw (arrow) two to three turns into the windshield frame on the right and left sides.

Mechanical device with rotating arm and base, no visible text or symbols

Turn the right and left locking levers of the rear hardtop mounting fasteners in the direction of the arrow to the stop.

The rear mounting fasteners are locked correctly when the locking levers engage audibly and point to the rear of the vehicle.

Finally, tighten the screws in the windshield frame (refer to the left column) and secure the wrench in the onboard tool kit.

After you have driven approx. 30 to 60 miles (50 to 100 km), check the front hardtop fasteners to be sure that they are seated securely.

Removal

Reverse the above procedure for removal of the hardtop.

The two screws of the front hard-top fasteners remain permanently in the windshield frame of your vehicle to prevent their loss.

Following the initial delivery of the vehicle, or after the hardtop has been in use for an extended period, closing the convertible top requires increased effort. You may find this operation easier with the assistance of a second person. Following that, the convertible top should remain closed for at least 12 hours.

110 Notes on inflation pressure Tire condition

Information for your safety

The factory-approved radial tires are matched to the car and have been selected to provide optimum safety and driving comfort on your car.

In a very real sense, both tire life and your own safety are riding on correct tire specifications and inflation pressures. Refer to page 29.

Incorrect inflation pressure is a frequent cause of tire damage. It also significantly influences the roadholding ability of your BMW.

Check the tire pressures – including the spare tire* – regularly (at least every two weeks and before you begin an extended journey). If this is not done, incorrect tire pressures may cause tire damage and accidents.

367de309 Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

Check the inflation pressure of the spare tire\*

For checking tire pressures on the Z3 roadster and Z3 coupe, there is a valve extension (arrow) on the storage tray of the spare wheel which is accessible from outside.

Close-up of a car tire with visible tread pattern and a white arrow pointing to a specific area (no text or symbols)

Tire tread - Tire damage

Inspect your tires frequently for tread wear, signs of damage and for foreign objects lodged in the tread.

The tread depth should be at least 0.12 in (3 mm), although the legally permissible minimum tread depth is 0.063 in (1.6 mm). Wear indicators appear in the tread at 0.063 in (1.6 mm) to indicate that the legally permissible wear limit has been reached. There is a significantly increased risk of aquaplaning at higher speeds when the tread depth is below 0.12 in (3 mm), even if there is only a small amount of water on the road surface.

Tire condition Tire replacement

Never continue driving on a deflated (flat) tire. A flat tire greatly impairs steering and braking response, and can lead to complete loss of control over the vehicle.

Avoid overloading the vehicle so that the permitted load on the tires is not exceeded. This can lead to overheating and increases the rate at which damage develops inside the tires. The ultimate result can assume the form of a sudden air loss.

Unusual vibrations encountered during normal vehicle operation can indicate tire failure or some other vehicle defect, as can variations in normal vehicle response, such as a pronounced tendency to pull to the left or right. Should this occur, respond by reducing your speed immediately. Drive carefully to the nearest BMW center or professional tire dealer, or have the vehicle towed in to have it and its tires inspected.

Tire damage (up to and including sudden and complete air loss) can pose an extreme hazard for both vehicle occupants and other road users.

To maintain good handling and vehicle response, use only tires of a single tread configuration from a single manufacturer. BMW tests and approves wheel-tire combinations. Refer to page 116.

DOT Quality Grades

Tread wear

Traction AA A B C

Temperature A B C

All passenger car tires must conform to Federal Safety Require-

ments in addition to these grades.

Tread wear

The tread wear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course.

For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1- 12 ) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

Traction

The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B and C.

Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on straightahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

112 Tire replacement

Temperature

The temperature grades are A (the highest), B and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel.

Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is

properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, under-inflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:

Tread wear 200 Traction AA Temperature A

Do not use retreaded tires as this could negatively affect driving safety. This is due to the possible variations in casing structures and, in some cases, to their extreme age, factors which can lead to a decrease in their durability.

Tire age

The date on which the tire was manufactured is indicated by the code on the sidewall:

DOT ... 109 indicates that the tire was manufactured in Week 10 of 1999.

BMW recommends the replacement of all tires when the tires are no more than 6 years old, even if a tire life of 10 years is possible.

Spare tires over 6 years old should be used only in case of emergency. A tire of this age should be replaced by a new tire immediately, and should not be fitted together with new tires.

Tire rotation

Between the axles

The tread wear patterns at the front end differ from those at the rear – the actual patterns will vary according to individual driving conditions. In the interest of safety and optimal vehicle response, we advise against rotating tires from front to rear and vice versa.

If rotating the tires between the axles is under consideration for economic reasons, the costs for remounting the wheels must be calculated against any savings which might result from the anticipated extension in tire life. Rotation should always be carried out at short intervals, with a maximum of 3,000 miles (5,000 km). Consult your BMW center for more information.

Should you decide to rotate the tires, it is essential to comply with the following:

Rotate wheels on the same side of the car only, otherwise braking efficiency and road grip could be adversely affected.

Following rotation, correct the tire inflation pressure.

If tires with different sizes are mounted on the front and rear

axles (refer to the information beginning on page 116), the wheels may not be rotated from one axle to the other.

114 Wheel and tire combinations

The right choice

Use only tires which have been approved by BMW. Refer to the information beginning on page 116.

Because of the potential high speeds which this vehicle can reach, the use of specific brands, specifications and dimensions is mandatory. Consult any BMW center for details.

Comply with national, state or provincial regulations.

The correct wheel-tire combination affects different systems such as ABS and ASC+T/DSC*. The function of these systems is impaired if improper wheel-tire combinations are used.

For this reason, use only tires made by the same manufacturer which have the same tread configuration. If you must deviate from this (following a flat tire, for instance), restore the approved wheel-tire combination as soon as possible.

Codes on tires and wheels

The tire codes will aid you in selecting the correct tire.

Codes on radial tires:

Example: 205/60 R 15 91 H Nominal width in mm Aspect ratio in % Belt rating ID code for radial tires Wheel diameter in inches Load rating (not on ZR tires) Speed rating (before R on ZR tires)

The speed rating indicates the approved maximum speed for the tire.

Summer tires:

S = up to 112 mph (180 km/h)

T = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)

H = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)

V = up to 149 mph (240 km/h)

W = up to 167 mph (270 km/h)

Y = up to 186 mph (300 km/h)

ZR = over 149 mph (240 km/h)

All-Season and winter tires:

Q M+S = up to 100 mph (160 km/h)

T M+S = up to 118 mph (190 km/h)

H M+S = up to 130 mph (210 km/h)

Codes stamped on light-alloy wheels:

Example: Rim width in inches Code letter for flange type Symbol for full-drop center rim Rim diameter in inches Hump on the 2 rim shoulders

Protect valve inserts against dirt by using valve caps. Dirt in the valves frequently leads to slow leaks.

5 H

Winter tires Snow chains\*

Choosing the right tire

BMW recommends winter tires (M+S radial tires) for driving in adverse winter road conditions. While tires known as all-season tires (M+S designation) provide better winter traction than summer tires with load ratings H, V, W, Y and ZR, they generally do not achieve the performance of winter tires.

In the interests of sure tracking and safe steering response, mount winter tires which are made by the same manufacturer and which have the same tread configuration at all four wheels.

Mount only winter tires which have been approved by BMW. Any BMW center will be glad to provide you with information on the best winter tires for your particular driving conditions.

Comply with recommended speed

Never exceed the maximum speed for which the tires are

rated

Unprofessional attempts by laymen to service tires can lead to damage and accidents.

Have this work performed by skilled professionals only. Any BMW center has the required technical knowledge and the proper equipment and will be happy to assist you.

Tire condition, tire pressure

Once the tire wears to below 0.16 in (4 mm), winter tires display a perceptible decrease in their ability to cope with winter driving conditions, and should be replaced in the interest of safety.

Comply with the specified tire inflation pressures – and be sure to have the wheel and tire assemblies balanced every time you change the tires.

Storage

Store tires in a cool, dry place, away from light whenever possible. Protect the tires against contact with oil, grease and fuel.

Small-link BMW snow chains* can be mounted on summer and winter tires. Install on the rear tires only. Do not install snow chains on the front. Always comply with the manufacturer's safety recommendations when mounting chains.

Approved wheel and tire specifications

Tire specifications Suitable for snow chains		Steel rim (wheel rim)	Light-alloy wheel
Z3 roadster 2.3
Summer
225/50 R 16 92 V	-7Jx16
225/50 ZR 16
Front: 225/45 ZR 17 -- 7.5Jx17
Rear: 245/40 ZR 17 -- 8.5Jx17
Winter (M+S)
205/60 R 15 91 Q 6.5Jx15 7Jx15
205/55 R 16 91 Q	-7Jx16
225/50 R 16 92 Q
225/45 R 17 91 Q -7.5Jx17			8Jx17

Spare tire

T 125/90 R 15 96 M - 3.5Bx15 -

Use the spare tire only for short distances (to reach the nearest BMW center, for instance). Due to the altered handling characteristics, do not exceed a maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). Mounting snow chains on the spare tire is not possible. Be sure that all tires are properly inflated. Refer to page 30.

Comply with the specifications for tires and wheels in the vehicle's manuals. If tires with specifications not approved by the factory are used, an entry in the vehicle documentation may be required.

The use of rims and lug bolts that do not meet the specifications of the original factory-installed equipment will affect the safe operation of your vehicle and may cause an accident and personal injury.

Never mix tires of different design, such as steel-belted radials with bias-belted or bias-ply tires, etc. Mixing tire types will adversely affect road-holding and can lead to loss of vehicle control.

Approved wheel and tire specifications

Tire specifications Suitable for snow chains		Steel rim (wheel rim)	Light-alloy wheel
Z3 roadster 2.8, Z3 coupe 2.8
Summer
225/50 R 16 92 W	-7Jx16
225/50 ZR 16
Front: 225/45 ZR 17 -- 7.5Jx17
Rear: 245/40 ZR 17 -- 8.5Jx17
Winter (M+S)
205/60 R 15 91 Q	6.5Jx15	7Jx15
205/55 R 16 91 Q	-7Jx16
225/50 R 16 92 Q
225/45 R 17 91 Q -7.5Jx17			8Jx17

Spare tire

T 125/90 R 15 96 M	-	3.5Bx15	-
Use the spare tire only for short distances (to reach the nearest BMW center, for instance). Due to the altered handling characteristics, do not exceed a maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). Mounting snow chains on the spare tire is not possible. Be sure that all tires are properly inflated. Refer to page 30.	Comply with the specifications for tires and wheels in the vehicle's manuals. If tires with specifications not approved by the factory are used, an entry in the vehicle documentation may be required.

The use of rims and lug bolts that do not meet the specifications of the original factory-installed equipment will affect the safe operation of your vehicle and may cause an accident and personal injury.

Never mix tires of different design, such as steel-belted radials with bias-belted or bias-ply tires, etc. Mixing tire types will adversely affect road-holding and can lead to loss of vehicle control.

118 Approved wheel and tire specifications

Tire specifications Suitable for snow chains		Light-alloy wheel
M roadster, M coupe
Summer
Front: 225/45 ZR 17	-	7.5Jx17 AH 2
Rear: 245/40 ZR 17	-	9Jx17 AH 2
Winter
225/45 R 17 91 H M+S - Front: 7.5Jx17 AH 2		Rear: 8Jx17 AH 2

Have the winter tires changed at your BMW center or at a tire ser-shop.

Comply with the specifications for tires and wheels in the vehicle's manuals. If tires with specifications not approved by the factory are used, an entry in the vehicle documentation may be required.

Wheel with asymmetrical hump (AH)

If the rim has a so-called asymmetrical hump in place of the usual symmetrical hump, the tire will remain on the rim much longer if air pressure is lost, thus enabling the car to be braked to a standstill more easily. A further advantage of the asymmetrical hump wheel rim is that special tires are not needed.

Hood

Close-up of a mechanical component with an arrow indicating a directional movement (no text or symbols visible)

To release

Pull the lever located under the left-hand side of the instrument panel.

Do not work on your vehicle without appropriate skills. Always switch off the engine and allow it to cool down before working in the engine compartment.

Always disconnect the battery before working on any electrical systems or equipment, especially when these are located within the engine compartment. Comply with all applicable instructions and warnings. If you are not familiar with all guidelines, have the work performed by your BMW center. Otherwise, safety hazards for vehicle occupants and other road users may occur as a result of improper handling of components and materials.

Top-down view of a car's front dashboard and rear seats, showing structural details with arrows indicating directions (no text or symbols)

To open

Grasp the hood on both sides on the level of the latch (arrow 1); press the latch upward and simultaneously lift the hood with both hands.

Front view of a car with visible headlights and grille, showing no text or symbols on the car itself.

To close

Allow the hood to fall from a height of about 12 inches (30 cm) so that it audibly engages.

To avoid injuries, be sure that the travel path of the hood is clear when it is closed, as with all closing procedures.

If it is determined that the hood is not completely closed while driving, stop immediately and close it securely.

120 Engine compartment - Z3 roadster 2.3, 2.8, Z3 coupe 2.8

Technical diagram of a car engine bay with numbered components for identification

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Engine compartment – Z3 roadster 2.3, 2.8, Z3 coupe 2.8

1 Auxiliary terminal for jump-starting – positive terminal 171
2 Engine oil dipstick 125
3 Brake fluid reservoir 130
4 Coolant expansion tank 128
5 Fuse box 169
6 Engine oil filler neck 125
7 Reservoir for windshield and headlamp* washer fluid 124
8 Auxiliary terminal for jump-starting - negative terminal 171

122 Engine compartment - M roadster, M coupe

BMW MPOWER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Engine compartment - M roadster, M coupe

1 Auxiliary terminal for jump-starting – positive terminal 171
2 Engine oil dipstick 125
3 Brake fluid reservoir 130
4 Fuse box 169
5 Engine oil filler neck 125
6 Coolant expansion tank 128
7 Reservoir for windshield and headlamp* washer fluid 124
8 Auxiliary terminal for jump-starting - negative terminal 171

Fluids for the washer systems Washer nozzles

Close-up of a black rectangular device with a handle and metallic ring, partially enclosed by a transparent plastic border (no visible text or symbols)

Headlamp\* and windshield washer system

Capacity: Approx. 5.3 US quarts (5.0 liters).

Fill with water and – if required – with a washer antifreeze (according to the manufacturer's recommendations).

We recommend that you mix the washer fluid before adding it to

the reservoir.

Antifreeze agent for the washer systems is inflammable. For this reason, keep it away from sources of flame and store it only in its original container. Store it so that it is inaccessible to children. Comply with the instructions on the containers.

Windshield washer system

Windshield:

The spray from the nozzles should be directed so as to ensure effective cleaning, even at high speeds.

If necessary, correct the adjustment with a needle, or have the adjustment made by your BMW center.

Rear window - Z3 coupe, M coupe only:

Have this system adjusted by your BMW center as required.

Headlamp washer system\*

Have this system adjusted by your BMW center as required.

Engine oil

Close-up of a mechanical component with no visible text or symbols

Checking oil level

1 Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2 Shut the engine off after it has reached normal operating temperature.
3 After approx. 5 minutes, pull the dipstick out and wipe it off with a clean lint-free cloth, paper towel, or similar material.
4 Push the dipstick carefully all the way into the guide tube and pull it out again.
5 The oil level should be between the two graduations on the dipstick.

As with fuel economy, oil consumption is directly influenced by your driving style and vehicle operating conditions.

MIN MAY 460d0189

The space between the two marks on the dipstick corresponds to approx.

1.1 US quarts (1 liter). Do not fill beyond the upper mark on the dipstick. Excess oil will damage the engine.

Close-up of a white electronic device with a black T-shaped display and 'BANK' branding, no readable text or symbols on the device itself.

To add oil

Wait until the level has dropped to just above the lower mark before adding oil. Do not wait until the oil drops below the lower mark.

BMW engines are designed to operate without oil additives; the use of additives could lead to damage in some cases. This also applies to the manual and automatic transmission, the differential and the power steering system.

Engine oil

The quality of the engine oil which is selected has critical significance for the operation and service life of an engine. Based on extensive testing, BMW has approved only certain engine oils.

Specified engine oils for the Z3 roadster and Z3 coupe

Use approved "BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil" only.

If you are unable to obtain "BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil," you may use small volumes of the "special oils" approved by BMW for topping up between oil changes. You may use synthetic oils with the specification API SH or higher only if the special oils are also not available.

Ask your BMW center for details concerning the specific "BMW

High Performance Synthetic Oil" or "special oils" that have been approved.

You can also call BMW of North America at 1-800-831-1117 or visit this website: www.bmwusa.com to obtain this information.

Specified engine oils for the M roadster and M coupe

Always refer to the API specifications when selecting oil.

Required quality:

API SH

API-SH/CD

API-SH/CE

Viscosity - Definition

Viscosity is the oil flow rating as established in SAE classes.

The selection of the correct SAE class depends on the climatic conditions in the area where you drive your BMW.

SAE classes for the Z3 roadster and Z3 coupe

Approved oils are in SAE classes 5W-40 and 5W-30.

These oils may be utilized in all ambient temperatures. Refer to right side of the chart.

SAE classes for the M roadster and M coupe

Refer to the left half of the chart for the correct SAE class.

You can continue to operate the vehicle for short periods of time at temperatures beyond the range for the SAE rating of the oil being used.

Engine oil

Comply with the applicable environmental laws regulating the dis- of used oil.

Recommendation: Have the oil changed by your BMW center only.

Continuous exposure to used oil has caused cancer in laboratory

testing. Any skin areas that come in contact with oil should thus be thoroughly washed with soap and water. Store oil, grease, etc., out of reach of children. Comply with warning labels and information on containers. If you use SAE 15W-40 engine oil in low temperatures (below 14 °F/-10 °C), the engine may become difficult to start. Special engine oils individually approved by BMW are preferred for use in your engine. Please contact your BMW center for details.

Coolant

Do not add coolant to the cooling system when the engine is hot. If you do, escaping coolant can cause burns.

To avoid the possibility of damage later on, do not use anything other than factory-approved, nitrite and amino-free extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor which can be used with aluminum radiator cores. Your BMW center is familiar with the approved specifications.

Antifreeze and anti-corrosion agents are hazardous to health. Store them in their original containers. Keep the containers tightly closed and out of reach of children.

Extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor contains the flammable substance ethylene glycol. For this reason, do not spill extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor on hot engine components. If you do, it could be ignited and cause serious burns.

Comply with the applicable environmental laws regulating the dis- of extended-duty antifreeze with sion inhibitor.

3D mechanical component diagram with no visible text or symbols, labeled 'Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe' at bottom (no readable document content)

Checking coolant level

Z3 roadster 2.3, 2.8, Z3 coupe 2.8: The correct coolant level when the engine is cold (approx. 68 °F/20 °C):

Unscrew the cap from the expansion tank.

The coolant level is correct when the upper end of the red float is at least even with the upper edge of the filler neck (refer to the arrow in the illustration), but no more than 0.8 inches (2 cm) above it – that is, up to the second mark on the float (refer also the schematic diagram next to the filler neck).

Coolant

367de310 M roadster, M coupe

M roadster, M coupe:

The correct coolant level when the engine is cold (approx. 68 °F/20 °C): Up to the KALT/COLD mark (arrow) of the transparent expansion tank.

To add coolant

Wait until the engine cools before removing the cap from the expansion tank. The needle of the coolant gauge in the instrument cluster must be located in the blue field; otherwise, there is a danger of scalding.

1 Turn the cap slightly counterclockwise in order to allow accumulated pressure to escape. Then open.
2 If the coolant is low, slowly add coolant until the correct level is reached - do not overfill.

The coolant is a mixture of water and extended-duty antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor. Always maintain the prescribed all-season 50:50 mixture ratio for year-round protection against internal corrosion. No other additives are required.

Replace the coolant regularly. Refer to the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or the Warranty and Service Guide (Canadian models).

Brake fluid Vehicle Identification

Close-up of a mechanical component with no visible text or symbols

If the warning lamp for the brake hydraulic system comes on:

Check the brake fluid level. Add brake fluid to the upper mark ("MAX") if necessary. For this, refer also to the instructions on page 104.

To eliminate the cause of the brake fluid loss, please consult a BMW center. You can also receive information concerning approved brake fluids (DOT 4) there.

Brake fluid loss may result in extended brake pedal travel. If this occurs, refer to the notes on page 104.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is, it absorbs moisture from the air over time.

In order to ensure the operating safety and reliability of the brake system, have the brake fluid changed every two years by an BMW center. Refer also to the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or the Warranty and Service Guide (Canadian models). Brake fluid is toxic and will damage the vehicle's paint. You should always store it in its original container and in a location which is inaccessible to children. Avoid brake fluid spills. Do not fill brake fluid beyond the "MAX" level in the reservoir. The brake fluid could ignite upon contact with hot engine parts and cause serious burns.

Comply with the applicable environmental laws regulating the disposal of brake fluid.

367us053 #18ECJ100#1 A2948+

The Vehicle Identification Number is located in the engine compartment below the windshield and on the top of the instrument panel.

The BMW Maintenance System

MPH 123456 - 543.2 OILSERVICE INSPECTION 3670S346

The BMW Maintenance System has been designed as a reliable means of providing maximum driving and operating safety – and as cost-effectively as possible for you.

Please keep in mind that regular maintenance is not only necessary for the safety of your vehicle, but also plays a significant role in maintaining the resale value of your vehicle.

Service Interval Display

Advanced technology is employed to calculate the optimal maintenance intervals, which are then indicated in the Service Interval Display. While conventional systems rely solely on distance traveled to determine when service is due, the BMW Maintenance System considers the actual conditions under which the vehicle operates.

From the point of view of maintenance, 62,000 miles (100,000 km) accumulated in short-distance urban driving are not the equivalent of the same distance covered at moderate speeds in long-distance highway travel. In response to this fact, the BMW Maintenance System monitors operating conditions as the basis for determining the optimum service intervals for your individual vehicle.

The BMW Maintenance System includes the Engine Oil Service as well as Inspections I and II.

Determining the maintenance intervals according to the actual loads on the car covers every kind of operating situation. However, since oil deteriorates over time regardless of use, even those who drive only short distances – significantly less than 6,200 miles (10,000 km) annually – should have the engine oil changed regularly. Refer to the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or to the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).

The BMW Maintenance System Caring for your car

Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models)/Warranty and Service Guide (Canadian models)

For detailed information on required maintenance items and the work involved, please refer to the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or to the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).

Depending upon operating conditions, it might be a good idea to have the body checked for damage from rocks or gravel at the same time as a precaution against rust.

Have your BMW center do the maintenance and repair. Your BMW center is always informed on the latest maintenance work and repair techniques and is equipped with the required special tools. In addition, checking parts known from experience to be subject to wear is a permanent part of the maintenance specifications. Be sure that all maintenance work is confirmed in the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models). These entries will constitute your proof that the vehicle has received regular maintenance. They are also required for warranty claims.

Washing your car

You can wash your BMW by hand or in an automatic car wash – even when it is new. Car wash systems that do not employ brushes are preferable.

Wipe away tough dirt and loosen and remove dead insects before washing the car.

To prevent spots, avoid washing when the hood is still warm, or immediately after and during exposure to strong sunlight.

If a brushless car wash is unavailable and a brush car wash must be used, modern systems with soft brushes are preferable. In order to protect the convertible top, special waxing programs may not be selected for the Z3 roadster and the M roadster. The small amount of beading wax always used in automatic car washes will not harm your vehicle's finish.

Caring for your car

When using an automatic car wash, be sure that:

The car wash system is suited for the dimensions of your vehicle.
No damage will occur on vehicles with attached body accessories (such as spoilers or antennas). Consult the car wash operator if necessary.
The wheels and tires of your vehicle cannot be damaged by the conveyance devices of the car wash system.
The vehicle is cleaned with minimum brush pressure, and ample water is available for washing and rinsing.

Parts of the car which are inaccessible to the automatic washer – such as door sills, door and hood edges, etc. – should be cleaned by hand.

In the winter months, it is especially important to ensure that the car is washed on a regular basis. Large quantities of dirt and road salt are difficult to remove, and they also cause damage to the vehicle.

If spray wands or high-pressure washers are used, be sure to maintain an adequate distance between the spray source and the vehicle's surface. Inadequate clearance and excessive pressure can damage or weaken the finish, making it more susceptible to subsequent attack. In addition, moisture could penetrate to vehicle components, leading to long-term damage.

When cleaning the headlamps, please observe the following:

Do not clean by wiping with a dry cloth (this causes scratches). Never use abrasives or strong solvents to clean the covers.
Remove dirt and contamination (such as insects) by soaking with BMW Car Shampoo and then rinsing with plenty of water.
Always use a deicer spray to remove accumulated ice and snow – never use a scraper.

After washing the car, apply the brakes briefly to dry them. Braking efficiency might otherwise be reduced by the moisture and the brake rotors could also be corroded.

Caring for your car

Cleaning and care of the convertible top, Z3 roadster and M roadster

The appearance and life of the convertible top are highly dependent on its proper care and operation. You should pay particular attention to the following instructions if your car has a light-colored top.

Protect the vehicle from exposure to intense sunlight whenever possible by parking it in the shade. This will prevent the paint, rubber and fabric-covered parts from being attacked.

Never fold up the convertible top and store it in the convertible top well when wet, dirty or frozen, since mildew stains and rub spots may result.

To prevent the formation of creases in the rear window and mildew stains in the fabric, do not leave the top folded in the convertible top well for extended periods.

If the vehicle will be parked for lengthy periods in an enclosed space, be sure that the convertible top is dry and that there is adequate ventilation.

Clean off bird droppings immediately, since they attack the convertible top and cause the rubber seals to swell due to their caustic characteristics.

Besides water, treat rubber seals only with talcum powder, rubber care products or silicone spray, particularly when they feel dry or tend to stick.

Eliminate noises such as squeaks with lubricant spray.

Never use sharp-edged objects to clean snow or ice from the rear window. The use of deicing spray is not approved. Due to the danger of damage and discoloration, do not apply adhesive tape, stickers, etc., to the window or cover it with plastic film.

Depressions and discoloration may occur in the convertible top as a result of improper maintenance and cleaning or as the result of stresses from excessive use. The convertible top and its seams may also develop leaks. These occurrences are not covered by the warranty. For repairs, please consult your BMW center.

Special wash for the top

In the case of more extensive dirt, which is especially visible on light-colored top materials, clean the top with the BMW Convertible Cleaning Set. Please proceed as follows:

Spray the convertible top with the cleaning agent and then rub with a well-dampened sponge using circular motions until a foam develops. Then you can finish washing the vehicle in an automatic car wash. After three to five washings the convertible top should be treated with a special impregnating spray. Please follow the instructions on the spray can.

Use the cleaning and car-care products that you can obtain at BMW center.

Caring for your car

Rear window cleaning

While the roadster's rear window has the advantage of being extremely flexible, there is the disadvantage that it has a relatively-soft surface. For this reason, clean the rear window only with a soft, antistatic cloth or with BMW Convertible Rear Window Cleaner.

If you wash the vehicle frequently in brush car washes, and in particular in those with hard brushes, faint scratches in the rear window may result. With the window replacement system you can replace a heavily scratched window at a relatively low price. Please contact your BMW center for additional information.

Do not use spot removers, paint thinners, solvents, gasoline or

similar substances for removing spots from the convertible top or from the rear window. These materials destroy the rubber seals, which will lead to leaks. Use only BMW-approved cleaners.

Exterior finish

To provide effective corrosion protection, multilayer paintwork is applied at the factory. Cataphoretic immersion priming techniques are supplemented using special body-cavity protectants, with the application of specially-developed and extensively tested materials. A layer of flexible PVC is first applied to the undercarriage. Following this, a comprehensive undercoating treatment with a wax-based protectant is applied.

Regular maintenance makes an important contribution to maintaining the safety and value of your vehicle.

Increasing awareness of the effects of harmful environmental factors on vehicle finishes have led paint and vehicle manufacturers to initiate programs designed to further improve the durability of their finishes. Despite this, environmental factors which occur locally or regionally can have negative effects on the finish of your vehicle. These should guide you in determining the frequency and extent of your efforts to maintain the vehicle finish.

Depending upon material and type of impact (perforation of paint layer), physical stresses from sand, road salt, gravel, etc., can cause corrosion to start extending beneath the finish, starting at the point of impact.

Road dirt, tar spots, dead insects, animal droppings (strong alkali concentration) and tree excretions (resins and pollen) all contain substances capable of causing damage when allowed to remain on the finish of your car for any period of time (spots, etching, flaking, separation in the top coat).

In industrial areas, deposits of flue dust, lime, oily soot, precipitation containing sulfur-dioxide (acid rain) and other environmental pollutants will damage the car's finish unless adequate care is provided – even though this is generally limited to the outside horizontal surfaces.

In coastal regions, high levels of atmospheric salt and humidity promote corrosion.

In the tropics, in addition to ultra-violet radiation and high humidity, temperatures over 105 °F (40 °C) in the shade are common. Under those conditions, light paints can reach temperatures up to 175 °F (80 °C) and dark paints up to 250 °F (120 °C).

Caring for your car

Caring for the vehicle finish

Regular washing is a preventive measure against long-term effects from substances which are harmful to the vehicle's finish, especially if you drive your vehicle in areas with high levels of air pollution or aggressive natural substances (tree resins, pollen).

Nevertheless, you should immediately remove especially aggressive substances. Failure to do so can lead to changes in the paint's chemical structure or to discoloration. Gasoline spilled during refueling, oil, grease and brake fluid should always be cleaned away immediately, as should bird droppings (finish damage).

Any contamination remaining on the surface of the vehicle will be especially conspicuous after washing. Use cleaning fluid or alcohol with a clean cloth or cotton pad to remove. Remove tar spots with tar remover. After cleaning, the affected areas should be waxed to ensure continued protection.

Use the cleaning and car-care products that you can obtain at BMW center.

Waxing your car

Protect the finish using carnauba or synthetic-based waxes only.

The best way to determine when the finish needs to be waxed is by noting when water stops beading on the surface.

You can use a glass cleaner to remove any wax or silicone that may have been left on the windows during waxing.

Use the cleaning and car-care products that you can obtain at BMW center.

Paint damage

You can touch up minor paint flaws with BMW spray paint or a BMW touchup stick.

The color code for your vehicle is provided on a tag located near the vehicle data plate and on the first page of the Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) or the Warranty and Service Guide Booklet (Canadian models).

Damage caused by flying stones, scratches, etc., must be touched up without delay to prevent rust from forming.

If corrosion has started to form in an area with paint damage, remove all rust and clean the area. Finally, apply the finish coat. Wait a few days, then polish the repaired area. Finish by applying a wax preservative.

More extensive paint damage should be repaired professionally in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Your BMW center uses original BMW finish materials in accordance with approved repair procedures.

Caring for your car

Window care

You can use window and glass cleaner to clean inside window surfaces and mirrors without smearing and streaking. Never use polishing pastes or abrasive (quartz) cleansers on mirror lenses!

Clean the wiper blades with soapy water. The wiper blades should be replaced twice a year, before and after the cold season.

Use only wiper blades which have been approved by BMW.

Caring for other vehicle components and materials

Light-alloy wheels should be treated with alloy wheel cleaner, particularly during the winter months. Do not use aggressive products containing acids, strong alkalis or abrasives. Alloy wheels should not be cleaned with a steam jet operating at temperatures in excess of 140 °F (60 °C). Follow the manufacturer's instructions.

If your vehicle is equipped with chromed parts* such as window frames, door handles, etc., clean these parts thoroughly with plenty of water and, if they are exposed to the effects of salt, also with a shampoo additive. Use chrome polish for additional treatment.

Plastic components, vinyl upholstery, the headliner of the coupe, lamp lenses, the clear cover of the instrument panel and components with a sprayed dull black surface can be cleaned with water (add plastic shampoo as required). Do not allow moisture to soak through the seats or headliner. Never use solvents such as lacquer thinner, heavy-duty grease remover, fuels, etc.

Rubber components should be cleaned with water only; a rubber treatment or silicone spray may also be applied.

The safety belts should be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution without being removed from the car. Never attempt chemical or dry cleaning, since this could cause damage to the belt fabric.

After cleaning, never allow the inertia reel to retract the belts until they are completely dry. Dirty safety belts prevent the inertia reel mechanism from retracting the strap properly, and thus constitute a safety hazard.

Heavily soiled floor carpets and mats* can be cleaned with an interior cleaner. The floor mats can be removed from the vehicle for cleaning.

Please use only a damp cloth to clean wooden fascia panels and components. Follow up by drying with a soft cloth.

Use the cleaning and car-care products that you can obtain at BMW center.

Caring for your car

Care of upholstery materials

Depressions formed in the upholstered materials in the course of everyday use can be brushed up working with a lightly dampened brush "against the nap."

The tendency of the pile to lie in a particular direction on velour upholstery is not a quality defect, and, just as on home textiles or clothing, cannot be avoided.

Fuzz on upholstery materials, rubbed-in fabric or suede residues can be removed with a fuzz or Velcro® brush. A cleaning glove is available for particularly "stubborn" lint. Remove spots and larger soiled areas immediately with luke-warm water, an interior cleaner, or a spot remover. Brush the fabric afterwards to restore its appearance.

If the vehicle will be stored for an extended period or if it is exposed to intense sunlight, cover all the seats or the windows to prevent fading (roadster: Convertible top closed).

Use the cleaning and car-care products that you can obtain at BMW center.

The buildup of an electrostatic charge on the seat covers, particularly if atmospheric humidity is low, can give the occupants an unpleasant electric shock if they touch metal body parts after leaving the vehicle. Although this is not dangerous in any way, it can be avoided by touching a bare or polished metal part of the car while getting out. If necessary, antistatic products can be used to eliminate this effect to a large extent.

Leather care

The leather upholstery* used by BMW is a natural product of the highest quality, processed using state-of-the-art methods to ensure that it will maintain its high quality for years to come, provided that it is properly cared for.

As this product is manufactured using natural materials, you must make allowances for special characteristics and possible surface irregularities. You should also bear in mind that this kind of material requires special care and attention.

Regular cleaning and care are essential, since 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 surface of the leather. We therefore suggest that you clean the leather with a vacuum cleaner or dust cloth at frequent intervals.

For cleaning, use BMW leather cleaning foam.

Since dirt and grease gradually attack the protective layer of the leather, the cleaned surfaces should be treated with BMW leather care agent. This also acts as an antistatic agent.

Caring for your car Airbags

To protect the leather from dampness or moisture, you can treat it with a BMW impregnating agent.

We recommend that you perform this procedure twice a year on leather exposed to normal use.

Spilled liquids should be wiped up immediately, and greasy and oily stains dabbed with a stain remover.

If the upholstery is to be exposed to intense sunlight or if the vehicle is to be stored for an extended period, cover all leather surfaces (or, better yet, the windows) to prevent fading.

Use the cleaning and car-care products that you can obtain at BMW center.

Cleaning agents can contain sub- stances which are dangerous or h pose health risks. Therefore, ys comply with the warnings and er notices on the package.

Open the doors or windows on your vehicle when cleaning the interior (or when the roadster's convertible top is closed). Never clean your vehicle with solvents or other materials not specifically intended for this application.

1 2 367de679

1 Front airbags for driver and passenger

2 Side airbags

Important safety notices

Do not attempt to remove the gas generators of the airbag restraint system from the vehicle or to disassemble them.

Have inspection and service procedures performed by specially-trained personnel only.

If the airbag restraint system malfunctions, is deactivated or triggered as a response to an accident, have the system repaired by an BMW center only.

Do not make modifications of any kind to the individual components or system wiring. These include the upholstered covers on the steering wheel hub, in the instrument panel and in the side trim panels of the doors. Never apply adhesive materials to these components or cover or modify them in any way. Do not attempt to disassemble the steering wheel itself.

To ensure compliance with applicable safety regulations, have the airbag generators disposed of by an BMW center only.

Unprofessional attempts to service the system could lead to failure in an emergency or undesired airbag activation, either of which could result in personal injury.

Storing your vehicle

If you intend to store the vehicle for longer than three months, have the maintenance operations described on this page performed.

Preparation for storage

Have the following operations performed by your BMW center:

1 Clean and apply a rustproofing agent or other treatment to the engine, engine compartment, undercarriage, axles and major components in accordance with approved repair procedures. Wash the vehicle, clean the interior and treat painted and chromed parts. Clean the rubber seals around the hood, luggage compartment and doors.
2 Change the engine oil and oil filter with the engine at operating temperature. As an additional corrosion protection measure, an anticorrosive agent can be added to the engine in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
3 Check the coolant level and concentration and top up if necessary.
4 Check the fluid level of the windshield washer fluid reservoir; top up if necessary.
5 Fill the fuel tank completely to prevent the formation of condensation.
6 Increase the tire inflation pressure to 51 psi (350 kPa).

Before parking the vehicle for storage

1 Dry the parking brake and footbrake by brake applications to prevent the brake discs and drums from corroding.
2 Park the vehicle in a covered, dry, and well-ventilated room. Place the transmission in 1st gear or set the selector lever to the "P" position. Chock the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling if necessary. Do not set the parking brake.
3 Remove the battery, charge it completely and store it in a cool (but frost-free) room.

Z3 roadster/M roadster:

4 Remove the hardtop ^* and store it separately. Refer to page 109.
5 Close the convertible top.

During storage

Recharge the battery every six months. If it is not recharged, it will not be serviceable. Every time the battery is discharged, especially over extended periods, its service life is reduced.

Removing the vehicle from storage

Recharge the battery if the "Magic Eye" turns black. Refer to page 167.

Then have Inspection I performed by your BMW center, including a brake fluid replacement if necessary. Refer to the Service Manual.

Technical modifications to the vehicle

Any BMW center will be happy to advise you concerning the advisability, legal implications and factory recommendations for technical modifications to the vehicle. For this purpose, the BMW center will require the Vehicle Identification Number. The engine number is also required in some instances.

Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)

Light-emitting diodes installed behind translucent lenses serve as the light source for many of the controls and displays in your vehicle. These LEDs are similar to laser technology and are legally classified as "Class 1 light emitting diodes."

Do not remove the protective lens and avoid staring directly at the unfiltered beam for extended periods (several hours), since inflammation of the iris could result.

OBD connector

Close-up of a black rectangular object with an arrow pointing to it, against a blurred background (no text or symbols)

Access to the connector for the Onboard Diagnostic system (OBD): Lift off the side cover in the center console on the passenger's side (arrow).

The purpose of the OBD system is to ensure proper operation of the emission control system throughout the vehicle's lifetime by monitoring emission-related components and systems for deterioration and malfunction.

SERVICE ENGINE SOON An Illuminated indicator informs you of the need for service, but not of the need to stop the vehicle. However, the systems should be checked by your BMW center at the earliest possible opportunity.

Under certain conditions, the indicator will blink or flash. This indicates a rather severe level of engine misfire. When this occurs, you should reduce speed and consult the nearest BMW center as soon as possible. Severe engine misfire over only a short period of time can seriously damage emission control components, especially the catalytic converter.

"Service Engine Soon" warning lamp for Canadian models.

When the filler cap is not properly tightened, the OBD system can detect the vapor leak and the indicator will light up. If the filler cap is subsequently tightened, the indicator should go out within a few days.

Three different wrenches shown in grayscale, no text or symbols visible

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Replacement proced Onboard tool kit 146 Windshield wiper black Lamps and bulbs 147 Master key with batte lamp 154 Tire change - Z3 roadster, Z3 cou Repairing a flat tire, M roadster, M coup Battery 166 Fuses 169 In case of electrical malfunction: Power convertible top Fuel filler door 170 Assistance, giving an receiving: Jump-starting 170 Towing the vehicle 17

Replacement procedures:

Onboard tool kit 146

Windshield wiper blades 146

Lamps and bulbs 147

Master key with battery lamp 154

Tire change -

Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe 155

Repairing a flat tire,

M roadster, M coupe 162

Battery 166

Fuses 169

In case of electrical malfunction:

Power convertible top 170

Assistance, giving and receiving:

Jump-starting 170

Towing the vehicle 172

Overview

Controls and features

Operation, care and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Index

Onboard tool kit Windshield wiper blades

The onboard tool kit is located in the luggage compartment, under the floor mat.

Z3 coupe, M coupe:

Grasp the floor mat by the straps on the left and right. Pull it upward and remove it.

Z3 roadster, M roadster:

Lift the floor mat from the rear by the strap and fold it forward.

Close-up of a mechanical component with a bracket and cable, no visible text or symbols

Front

1 Position the wipers vertically. To do this, switch on the wipers and switch off the ignition when the wipers are approximately vertical.
2 Raise the wiper arm completely.
3 Press the spring retainer (arrow) and extract the blade, pulling toward the wiper arm.
4 Insert a new wiper blade and apply pressure until you hear it engage.

Rear window wiper, Z3 coupe, M coupe

Follow the same procedure as that described for changing the front wiper blades, except that the wiper does not have to be positioned vertically.

Fold the wiper back onto the window before you turn the ignition o position 1 or 2.

Use only wiper blades which have been approved by BMW.

Lamps and bulbs

The lamps and bulbs make essential contributions to the safety of your vehicle. Therefore, comply fully with the following instructions during bulb replacement. If you are not familiar with any of the procedures, consult your BMW center.

Do not touch the glass portion of a new bulb with your bare hands since even small amounts of impurities burn in to the surface and reduce the service life of the bulb. Use a clean cloth, paper napkin, or a similar material, or hold the bulb by its metallic base.

A replacement bulb set is available from your BMW center.

Before performing any work on the electrical system, switch off the affected accessories or disconnect the cable from the negative terminal of the battery. Failure to do so could result in short circuits in the electrical system. To prevent injuries and damage, comply with any instructions provided by the bulb manufacturer.

1 2 367us067

The illustration depicts the right side of the engine compartment.

1 High beams

HB3, 65-watt bulb

2 Low beam headlamps

HB4, 55-watt bulb

The bulb is pressurized. Therefore, wear safety glasses and protective gloves. Failure to comply with this precaution could lead to injury if the bulb is accidentally damaged during replacement.

1 Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to the left and remove toward the rear.
2 Pull off the plug.
3 Push the new bulb holder with bulb onto the plug – ensure proper locking.
4 Reinstall in reverse order.

When cleaning the headlamps, please observe the following:

Do not clean by wiping with a dry cloth (this causes scratches). Never use abrasives or strong solvents to clean the covers.
Remove dirt and contamination (such as insects) by soaking with BMW Car Shampoo and then rinsing with plenty of water.

Always use a deicer spray to remove accumulated ice and snow – never use a scraper.

Lamps and bulbs

367us240

Position lamps

5-watt bulb

1 Use finger pressure against the inner edge of the lens (arrow) to press it outward for removal.
2 Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to the right and remove it from the lamp.
3 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb to the left. Remove and exchange the bulb.
4 Install in the reverse order.

Close-up of a car's side panel showing the wheel and seat, with no visible text or symbols.

Front turn signals

21-watt bulb

1 Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to the left and remove toward the rear.
2 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb to the left. Remove and exchange the bulb.
3 Insert the bulb holder and turn to the right as far as possible.

Close-up of a car door with a pointing arrow (no text or symbols visible)

Side turn signals

5-watt bulb

1 Use finger pressure against the rear edge of the lens (arrow) to press it toward the rear for removal.
2 Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to the right and remove it from the lamp.
3 Applying light pressure, turn the bulb to the left. Remove and exchange the bulb.
4 Install in the reverse order.

Lamps and bulbs

Close-up of a hand using a tool to clean or store items inside a vehicle door (no visible text or symbols)

Front fog lamps\*

H1, 55-watt bulb

1 Unclip the plastic cover (on the inside of the fog lamp) with a screwdriver.
2 Loosen two screws, tilt the fog lamp outward and remove it.
3 Release the plastic cap on the back of the fog lamp and remove it.
4 Remove the plug.
5 Detach the wire clamp.
6 Replace the bulb.
7 Install in the reverse order.

1 2 Z3 5 4 3 367de370. Z3 roadster

Tail lamp assembly - Z3 roadster

Tail lamp, side marker lamp:

5-watt bulbs

Remaining bulbs: 21 watts

1 Turn signal yellow
2 Brake lamp red
3 Backup lamp white
4 Tail lamp, reflector red
5 Side marker lamp red

367de378 121 5 Z3 roadster

1 Open the quick-release fastener (arrow) and remove the cover.
2 Turn the corresponding bulb holder to the left and remove it.
3 Press the defective bulb gently and turn it to the left. Remove the bulb and replace it.
4 Insert the bulb holder and turn to the right as far as possible.
5 Secure the cover.

Lamps and bulbs

367us070 1 2 5 4 3 M roadster

Tail lamp assembly - M roadster

Tail lamp, side marker lamp:

5-watt bulbs

Remaining bulbs: 21 watts

1 Turn signal yellow
2 Backup lamp white
3 Tail lamp, reflector red
4 Brake lamp red
5 Side marker lamp red

Close-up of a roadster component with visible angle and scale markings (no readable text or symbols)

1 Turn the bulb holder retainer to the left (arrow) and remove bulb holder.
2 Pull the bulb holder for the side marker lamp toward the front and out of the tail lamp assembly.
3 Press the defective bulb gently and turn it to the left. Remove the bulb and replace it.

Tail lamp, side marker lamp:

5-watt bulbs

Remaining bulbs: 21 watts

1 Turn signal yellow
2 Backup lamp white
3 Tail lamp, reflector red
4 Brake lamp red
5 Side marker lamp red

Lamps and bulbs

1 Lift up the luggage compartment floor mat.
2 To loosen, turn the mounting clips (arrows) of the right-hand trim panel on the rear wall of the luggage compartment approx. 1/4 turn with a coin or screwdriver.
3 Pull out the clips and remove the trim panel.

Close-up of a mechanical component with multiple pins and mounting holes (no visible text or symbols)

4 Turn the corresponding bulb holder to the left (arrow) and remove it.
5 Press the defective bulb gently and turn it to the left. Remove the bulb and replace it.
6 Insert the bulb holder and turn to the right as far as possible.

Side marker lamp:

Pull the bulb holder out of the tail lamp assembly toward the front.

7 Reinstall the trim panel in the opposite order:

Insert the clips and turn them approx. 1/4 turn to secure them.

Top-down view of a car's rear window and side door, labeled 'Z3 roadster' (no other text or symbols visible)

Center (high-mount) brake lamp - Z3 roadster

In the event of a malfunction, please consult your BMW center.

Lamps and bulbs

367 de074 M roadster

Center (high-mount) brake lamp - M roadster

Seven 5-watt bulbs

1 Open the luggage compartment lid.
2 Remove the cover (use a screwdriver if necessary).
3 Press the defective bulb gently on the bulb socket, turn it to the left and remove.
4 Pull the bulb out of the bulb socket and replace.
5 Install in the reverse order.

Center (high-mount) brake lamp - Z3 coupe, M coupe

In the event of a malfunction, please consult your BMW center.

Illustration of a desk lamp with adjustable arm and base, labeled 'Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe' (no other text or symbols)

License plate lamps - Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

5-watt bulb

1 Press the lamp to the left and remove it.
2 Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to the left and remove it from the lamp.
3 Pull the bulb out of the bulb socket and replace.

4 Install in the reverse order.

Lamps and bulbs

367de307 M roadster, M coupe

License plate lamps - M roadster, M coupe

5-watt bulb

1 Press down and remove the lamp on the top side (see arrow).
2 Turn the bulb holder with the bulb to the left and remove it from the lamp.
3 Pull the bulb out of the bulb socket and replace it.
4 Install in the reverse order.

Interior lamp – Z3 roadster, M roadster

10-watt bulb

1 Use a screwdriver to press out the lens at the left recess.
2 Pull the bulb out of the contact lugs.

When reinstalling the lens, first position it on the left, then snap it into place.

Luggage compartment lamp - Z3 roadster, M roadster

5-watt bulb

The lamp is located above in the luggage compartment.

1 Use a screwdriver to pry out the lamp.
2 Pull the bulb out of the contact lugs.

Interior lamps – Z3 coupe, M coupe

Front:

15-watt bulb

1 Use a screwdriver to press out the lamp at the left recess.
2 Press back the plastic tab on the reflector, open the reflector and replace the bulb.

Rear:

10-watt bulb

1 Use a screwdriver to press out the lamp at the side recess.
2 Press back the plastic tab on the reflector, open the reflector and replace the bulb.

Reading lamps – Z3 coupe, M coupe

10-watt bulbs

1 Use a screwdriver to press out the lamp at the left recess.
2 Press the defective bulb gently and turn it to the left. Remove the bulb and replace it.

154 Master key with battery lamp

Two mechanical components with hexagonal end caps and shafts, no visible text or symbols

Return used batteries to a recycling point or to your BMW center.

If light intensity drops, renew the battery to safeguard against acid escaping.

Battery change

1 Remove the cover on the back of the key with a screwdriver.
2 Insert a new battery of the same type (CR 2025; refer to the illustration) so that it touches the contacts.
3 Snap the cover into place and apply uniform pressure to seat it.

Tire change – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

Safety measures in the event of a breakdown or flat tire:

Stop the vehicle on a firm, level surface as far as possible from the flow of traffic. Turn on the hazard warning flashers.

Turn the steering wheel to the straight-ahead position, remove the key and engage the steering lock. Shift into 1st or reverse (selector lever in "Park" with automatic transmission) and engage the parking brake.

All passengers should be outside the car and well away from your immediate working area (for instance, behind the guardrail).

If a warning triangle or portable hazard warning lamp is available, set it up on the roadside at an appropriate distance from the rear of the vehicle. Comply with all safety guidelines and regulations.

Change the wheel only on a level, firm surface which is not slippery. Avoid jacking the car on a soft or slippery support surface (snow, ice, tiles, loose gravel, etc.), since it could slide sideways.

Place the jack on a firm support surface.

Do not place wooden blocks or similar objects under the jack. If this done, the jack might not be able to reach its full support capacity because of the limited height.

Do not lie under the vehicle or start the engine when the vehicle is supported by the jack. This creates the risk of fatal injury.

Black-and-white photo of a mechanical tool kit with various components and no visible text or symbols

What you will need

The illustration depicts an example of the onboard tool kit of the Z3 coupe.

Other than the warning triangle, the same tools are arranged somewhat differently in the storage compartment of the Z3 roadster.

In order to avoid rattling noises later, note the position of the tools when you remove them and return them to their original position when you are through using them.

Car jack

Release the Velcro® fastener in the luggage compartment under the floor mat.

After use, wind down the jack completely.

Tire change – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

Wedge (wheel chock)
Next to the jack.
Lug wrench, centering pin, spark-plug wrench and lifting handle – In the luggage compartment under the floor mat.
Spare tire Stored under the luggage compartment on the vehicle floor and protected with a storage tray.

367de317 Z3 coupe

367de318 Z3 roadster

Remove the spare tire

Z3 coupe:

Remove the floor of the storage compartment (arrow) at the right in the luggage compartment.

Release the Velcro® fastener and remove the warning triangle.

Z3 roadster:

Loosen the screw connection on the floor of the storage tray (arrow) at the right in the luggage compartment and remove the compartment.

Tire change - Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

367de312 1 2 Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

Raise and secure the floor panel in the luggage tray.

The spare tire is secured at two mounting points.

Left-hand attachment point - arrow 1 Right-hand attachment point - arrow 2

36700268 Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

Right-hand attachment point: Place the spark plug wrench on the hexagon nut and, using the alignment tool to assist you, loosen the hexagon nut. Remove the hexagon nut and the protective cap.

Place the hexagon nut in a secure location.

Close-up of a mechanical lever component with no visible text or symbols on the device itself

Left-hand attachment point: Take the lifting handle from the tool kit, lower it on the rope and fit it on the hexagon nut. Hold the rope at the top and unscrew the nut with the lifting handle.

Tire change – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

367de270 Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

Pull the lifting handle downward until the spare wheel tray is lifted slightly. At the same time, compress the locking spring (arrow). This releases the spare tire (weight: approx. 8.8 lb./4 kg). The spare tire must then be held with the lifting handle.

Using the lifting handle, lower the spare tire bracket with storage tray and spare tire and place it on the ground.

Do not put your feet beneath the rear of the vehicle because the spare tire could fall as it is being lowered.

367de276 Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

Pull the storage tray with the spare tire completely out of the spare tire bracket toward the rear.

367de277 Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

Lift the spare tire at the front. Lay it down toward the rear next to the storage tray and with the valve facing upward. Quickly unscrew the valve extension from the valve of the spare tire. Unscrew the valve cap from the storage tray and mount it on the spare tire.

When the valve extension is screwed onto or off of the spare tire, you may hear a brief hissing as air escapes.

The procedure for removing the spare tire is also illustrated with pictographs located on the floor mat of the luggage compartment.

Tire change – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

The wheel with the flat tire cannot be placed in the spare tire bracket, the place of the spare tire.

There is a plastic bag in the onboard tool kit. Put the flat tire and the storage tray into this bag.

Do not reposition the storage tray in the spare tire bracket without pare tire.

Using the lifting handle, pull the spare tire bracket upward until the spring retainer catches. Secure the bracket with the hexagon nut – ensure that it is snug.

367de271 Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

The spare tire is returned to its original position in the same manner as it is removed, however in the reverse order. When doing so, make sure that:

The valve extension is mounted on the spare tire valve.
The storage tray is facing toward the rear (see arrow) with the valve extension pointing to the inside left to ensure that it is possible to check the tire inflation pressure.

Mount the spare tire

1 Secure the vehicle to prevent it from rolling: Place the wedge against the rear surface of the front tire on the side opposite the side being raised. If the vehicle is parked on a downward slope, place the wedge securely in front of the tire. If the wheel must be changed on a surface with a more severe slope, take additional precautions to secure the vehicle from rolling.
2 Wheels with full wheel covers ^* : Reach into the ventilation openings and pull the cover off.
3 For wheels equipped with hub covers*: Position a screwdriver in the slot and pry the hub cover off.
4 Loosen the lug bolts 1/2 turn.

Tire change – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

367de382 Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

Mechanical assembly diagram showing a Z3 roadster and Z3 coupe component (no text or symbols on the diagram itself)

Close-up of a roadster with visible tire and wheel (no text or symbols on the diagram itself)

5 Position the jack on the vehicle:

Plastic elements are mounted on the vehicle floorpan for positioning the car jack. These positions (refer to the arrows) are located approximately 16 inches (40 cm) from the front wheel opening and 10 inches (25 cm) from the rear wheel opening.
If necessary, remove snow, ice or mud from the plastic elements.
Screw the jack arm up until the car jack just fits under the vehicle.

Position the jack at the jacking point closest to the flat tire so that the jack base is vertically below the jacking point and the entire surface of the head of the jack will move squarely into the recess of the plastic element when the jack is cranked.
Crank the jack until the wheel you are changing is off of the ground.

6 Unscrew the lug bolts and remove the wheel.
7 Remove accumulations of mud or dirt from the mounting surfaces of the wheel and hub. Clean the lug bolts.

8 Take the centering pin from the vehicle tool kit. Insert the centering pin together with the plastic cap into one of the bolt sockets.
9 Position the spare wheel and screw at least two lug bolts into opposite bolt sockets. Remove the centering pin.
10 Screw in the remaining lug bolts. Tighten all the bolts snugly.
11 Lower the jack and remove it from beneath the car.
12 Tighten the lug bolts in a diagonal pattern.

Tire change – Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe

13 Wheels with full wheel covers: Place the wheel cover with the valve opening over the valve. Use both hands to press the cover securely onto the rim.
14 Check and correct the air pressure at the earliest opportunity.

Use only the full wheel cover installed by the factory. Other wheel

covers may not fit securely. The full wheel cover may not be installed on the spare wheel because the cover could be damaged.

The vehicle jack is designed for changing tires only. Do not at-

tempt to lift a different vehicle model or any other type of load with the jack. To do so could lead to property damage or personal injury.

To ensure continued safety, check the tightness of the lug bolts at the earliest opportunity (torque specification: 72 ft.lbs [100 Nm]).

If light-alloy wheels other than Original BMW light-alloy wheels have been mounted, it may be necessary to use different lug bolts for those wheels. Replace the defective tire as soon as possible and have the new wheel/tire balanced.

Driving with the spare tire

Drive cautiously and do not exceed a speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).

Be aware that vehicle handling will be altered. Slower brake response time, longer braking distances and changed steering characteristics may be anticipated when approaching limit conditions.

Only one spare tire may be mounted at any time. Mount a net and tire with the same size andifications as the others at the earliest possible opportunity. Maintain the unified tire pressures. Refer to 29.

Changing a tire, M roadster, M coupe

The M roadster and M coupe do not have a jack or lug wrench when they are shipped from the factory.

Have the winter tires changed at your BMW center or at a tire service shop.

For changing a flat tire, refer to page 162.

162 Repairing a flat tire, M roadster, M coupe

Safety measures in the event of a flat tire:

Stop the vehicle as far as possible from the flow of traffic. Turn on the hazard warning flashers.

Engage the steering lock with the wheels in the straight-ahead position.

Set the parking brake and engage either first gear or reverse gear.

All passengers should be outside the car and well away from your working area (behind a guard rail, for instance). If a warning triangle or portable hazard warning lamp is available, set it up on the roadside at an appropriate distance from the rear of the vehicle.

Comply with all safety guidelines and regulations.

Close-up of a roadster device with visible battery and sensor (no text or symbols on the device itself)

M Mobility system

In place of a spare tire, the M roadster and the M coupe have the M Mobility System.

It is located at the right-rear of the luggage compartment. In the M coupe, it is below a cover panel. Refer to page 163.

Before using the M Mobility System, carefully read the warning danger information on the device.

Always wear the enclosed protective gloves and the protective goggles. Failure to comply with this information can lead to risks to personal safety.

The use of the M Mobility System is not effective if the damaged in the tire is larger than approx.

0.15 inches (4 mm). Please consult the nearest BMW center if the tire cannot be temporarily repaired with the M Mobility System or contact BMW Roadside Assistance at 1-800-332-4269.

Repairing a flat tire, M roadster, M coupe

Diagram of a mechanical component with labeled parts and directional arrows, no readable text or symbols present.

Loosen the cover panel, M coupe:

1 Fold the luggage compartment floor mat up.
2 To loosen, turn the four mounting clips (arrows) of the right-hand trim panel on the rear wall of the luggage compartment approx. 1/4 of a turn with a coin or screwdriver.
3 Pull out the clips and remove the trim panel.

367us701 M roadster, M coupe

To apply the system, use the grab handle to remove it from the luggage compartment.
The system consists of:

1 Grip with button, cable and plug connector for the compressor actuator igniter.
2 Black connection hose from the compressor to the sealant bottle.
3 Pressure indicator.
4 Clear connection hose from the system to the wheel.
5 Protective goggles.
6 Protective gloves (no illustration).

367de355 2 M roadster, M coupe

Using the M Mobility system

If possible, do not remove foreign objects that have penetrated the

tire.

1 Remove the maximum speed warning sticker from the top of the device and affix it to the steering wheel.
2 Remove the cables and hoses from the device.
3 Put on the protective gloves and goggles.
4 Connect the black hose (2) to the connection as shown in the illustration.

164 Repairing a flat tire, M roadster, M coupe

367de350 M roadster, M coupe

5 Remove the clear hose (4) from the plastic bag. Unscrew the valve cap from the tire valve of the wheel with the defective tire and screw hose (4) onto the valve.
6 Attach the free end of the clear hose (4) to the connection on the device as shown in the illustration.
7 Plug the connector (1) into the cigarette lighter socket in the vehicle's interior. Refer to page 92.

3670e352 M roadster, M coupe

8 Press and hold the button for compressor actuation. While doing this, carefully monitor the pressure indicator. As long as the pressure indicator displays a value between approx. 75 to 120 psi (517 to 827 kPa), the system is forcing sealant into the tire. When the pressure indicator's displayed value falls significantly below approx. 75 to 120 psi (517 to 827 kPa) while the compressor is actuated, all of the sealant has been forced into the tire, and air is flowing in.

367de351 M roadster, M coupe

9 Continue to inflate until the pressure reaches a reading of 35 psi (250 kP). This may require several minutes.
10 Release the button to check the tire inflation pressure that has been reached.
11 After the tire has been inflated, unplug the connector (1) from the cigarette lighter socket. Remove the black hose (2) from the device and detach the clear hose (4) from the device. To do this, press the outer ring of the connection toward the device.

Repairing a flat tire, M roadster, M coupe

12 Then unscrew the clear hose (4) from the tire valve. Screw the valve cap back onto the valve.
13 Place the clear hose (4) in the plastic bag and store the M Mobility System in the luggage compartment.

Following use of the M Mobility System, resume driving for a distance of at least 1.2 miles (2 km) so that the sealant will be distributed uniformly in the tire. Drive at a speed of at least 15 mph (20 km/h), but do not exceed 35 mph (60 km/h). Finally, check and correct the tire inflation pressure as soon as possible (at the nearest filling station, for example). Refer to page 29. If the tire does not retain inflation pressure, do not continue driving. Consult the nearest BMW center or tire dealer.

Replace the defective tire as soon as possible and have the new wheel/tire balanced. Have the M Mobility System refilled.

For this, please consult the nearest BMW center.

Please note that the sealant bottle of the system must be replaced every three years by your BMW center if the device is not used.

You will find corresponding instructions for the use of the M Mobility System on the device.

Battery

Close-up of a car battery with visible circuitry and wiring, labeled 'Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe' (no other text or symbols)

Installation location, Z3 roadster and Z3 coupe

The battery is located in the luggage compartment under the floor mat.

367de301 M roadster, M coupe

Installation location, M roadster and M coupe

The battery is located in the luggage compartment under the floor mat and a cover.

In order to gain access to the battery, lift up or remove the floor mat. Unscrew the nuts on the cover (arrows) and remove the cover.

Maintenance

The battery is completely maintenance-free. That means that the original electrolyte will normally last for the service life of the battery under moderate climatic conditions.

Symbols

You will find the following symbols on your car battery. To avoid injury, please comply with the corresponding precautions whenever you work with or near the battery.

Please read the following information before working with the battery.

Wear eye protection. Do not allow particles containing battery acid or lead to come into con-

tact with your eyes, your skin, or your clothing.

Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Wear eye protection and protective gloves. Do not tip the

battery. Battery acid can leak from the ventilation openings.

Battery

Ensure that children keep well away from batteries and battery acid.

Do not allow sparks or open flame near the battery. Do not smoke near the battery. Avoid sparks from electrical cables or electrical equipment. Turn the key to position 0 in the steering lock when the battery is disconnected or connected. Do not short circuit the battery terminals. This creates a risk of personal injury from high-voltage sparks.

A highly-explosive gas is generated when the battery is charged.

If acid is accidentally splashed into your eyes, rinse them thoroughly for 15 minutes with clear water. Following that, consult a physician immediately. If acid splashes onto your skin or clothing, rinse immediately with ample clean water. If acid is accidentally swallowed, consult a physician immediately.

In order to protect the battery case from ultraviolet radiation, do not place it in direct sunlight. A discharged battery can freeze. Store the battery in areas where temperature remains above freezing.

Close-up of a Z3 roadster electronic device with an arrow pointing to its component (no visible text or symbols on the device itself)

Charge condition

The illustration depicts the battery installation location in the Z3 roadster as an example.

You can read the charge condition of the battery with the "Magic Eye" (a hydrometer):

Green: Adequate charge.
Black: Not charged adequately. The battery must be recharged. Please contact your BMW center.
Yellow: Replace the battery.

The projected service life of the battery can only be reached if the battery is fully-charged at all times. Check the charge condition of the battery frequently if the vehicle is used primarily for driving short distances.

Charging the battery

Charge the battery in the vehicle only when the engine is off. Charge the battery using the auxiliary jump-start terminal and a ground in the engine compartment (refer to jump-starting on page 170).

Before performing any work on the electrical system, disconnect the cable from the negative terminal. If you do not, short circuits can create the risk of fire or personal injury.

If you plan to park the vehicle for longer than 4 weeks, disconnect the battery from the vehicle electrical system by disconnecting the cable at the negative terminal. Then recharge the battery with an appropriate battery charger.

Battery

If you intend to store your car for longer than twelve weeks: Remove the battery, charge it and store it in a cool (but frost-and dust-free) room. Every three months and before reinstalling the battery, have it recharged. If it is not recharged, it will not be serviceable. Every time the battery is discharged, especially over extended periods, its service life is reduced. Refer also to page 140.

Return used batteries to a recycling point or your BMW center. Maintain the battery in an upright position for transport and storage. Secure the battery against tilting when transporting.

Removal and installation

Do not disconnect the battery cables when the engine is running. Disconnecting the battery cables when the engine is running will cause a voltage surge which will damage the vehicle's onboard electronics. Do not make any modifications in the wires leading to the positive terminal. If you do so, the Battery Safety Terminal's safety function will no longer be guaranteed. Repair and disposal must be performed by trained technicians only.

When removing the battery, disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal.

Unscrew the battery retaining clamp.

Close-up of a mechanical component with a highlighted section and arrow, labeled 'Z3 coupe' (no readable text or symbols beyond label)

Z3 coupe: Loosen the screw (arrow) on the battery safety bar and remove the bar.

When installing the battery, connect the positive terminal first, then connect the negative terminal.

When installing a battery, be sure that the battery, the safety bar (Z3 coupe) or the cover (M roadster, M coupe) are mounted properly. If this is not done, the battery will not be adequately secured in case of an accident.

Fuses

Interior view of a cluttered room with furniture and a monitor (no visible text or symbols)

If an electrical accessory should fail, switch it off and check the fuse.

The fuse box (electrical distribution center), which contains spare fuses, relays and plastic tweezers, is located on the left-hand side of the engine compartment. Refer to page 120 forward.

1 Press the retaining flap in and lift off the cover.
2 Use the plastic tweezers to remove the fuse for the accessory or equipment that has stopped working.
3 If the fuse is burned through ("blown"), the metal strip will have melted and separated. Replace the blown fuse with a new fuse of the same ampere rating (color code).

A listing of the fuses, their respective ampere ratings and the equipment in their circuits is provided on the cover of the fuse box.

When you close the fuse box, be sure that the cover is seated securely.

Do not attempt to repair a burned fuse or replace it with a fuse having a different color or amperage rating. To do this could cause a fire in the vehicle resulting from a circuit overload.

If a fuse burns through again, have the source of the fault checked and corrected by an BMW center.

Power convertible top\* Fuel filler door Jump-starting

367de285 Z3 roadster, M roadster

Manual closing

For roadsters with electrical power convertible top*, the convertible top drive unit is located in the luggage compartment behind the left side trim panel.

Turn the clip at the top of the trim panel to the left or right and swing the trim panel to the side.

Turn the T-pin a half turn to the left (refer to illustration).

The convertible top drive unit is disengaged and the convertible top can be operated manually. Refer to page 41.

Please have your BMW center eliminate the defect and re-engage the drive.

Close-up of a car's side window with a small object on the door, labeled 'Z3 roadster' (no other text or symbols visible)

Releasing manually

M roadster, M coupe: Remove the M Mobility System (see page 162) from the mounting.

Pull the button at the right in the luggage compartment sharply (arrow).

Please consult your BMW center to have the defect corrected.

Never use spray starter fluids to start the engine.

If the battery is discharged, the engine can be started with the use of two jumper cables and the battery of another vehicle. Always use jumper cables with fully insulated handles on the terminal clamps.

Do not touch voltage-carrying components when the engine is ing. To do so creates a risk of fatal y.

Carefully comply with the following instructions to avoid personal injury and damage to one or both vehicles:

1 Ensure that the battery on the support vehicle is also rated at 12 volts, and that the capacities of the two batteries (Ah) are roughly comparable (printed on casing).
2 Leave your battery connected to the car electrical system.
3 Make sure that there is no contact between the bodywork of the two vehicles. This creates the risk of short-circuiting.

Jump-starting

Close-up of a mechanical component with wires and a small metallic component (no visible text or symbols)

4 Start by connecting the jumper cable from the positive terminal of the support vehicle to the positive terminal connector located in your BMW's engine compartment. The cover of the auxiliary terminal for jump-starting is indicated by a "+" sign. Refer to the illustration. To open the cover on the M roadster, fold it forward; fold upward on the M coupe.

The illustration depicts the auxiliary terminal for jump-starting on the Z3 roadster and Z3 coupe as an example.

For the auxiliary terminal to jump-start the M roadster and M coupe, refer to Engine compartment, page 122.

Interior view of a car showing the engine compartment with a belt switch and exhaust pipe (no visible text or symbols)

5 Then connect the negative terminals. First attach the cable to either the support vehicle's negative battery terminal (−), or to a suitable ground on its engine or body. Then connect the other terminal of the cable to a ground on the engine or on the body of the vehicle which is to be started. This a special nut which is provided on the suspension strut dome of the BMW. Refer to the arrow in the illustration.

Follow the same sequence when connecting jumper cables if you are assisting another vehicle. If you do not, there is a risk of personal injury from spark generation at the battery.

6 Start the support vehicle's engine and let it run.
7 Start the engine on the vehicle needing the jump-start, and allow it to run as usual. If the first start attempt is not successful, wait a few minutes before another attempt in order to allow the discharged battery to recharge.
8 Before disconnecting the jumper cables from your BMW, turn on the lamps, set the blower at the highest speed and run the engine for at least 10 seconds. This will prevent a voltage surge at the voltage regulator.
9 Then disconnect the jumper cables in reverse sequence.
Depending on the cause of the fault, recharge the battery.

Towing the vehicle

Front view of a car with visible grille and front headlights (no text or symbols)

Tow fitting

The screw-in tow fitting is stored in the onboard tool kit; be sure that it remains in the vehicle at all times. This fitting is designed for installation in the tow sockets located at the front and rear of the vehicle, and is intended for towing on paved road surfaces only. It should not be used to pull a vehicle out of deep snow, mud, sand, etc. Comply with all applicable towing laws and regulations at all times.

Access to tow sockets

Front:

Use a screwdriver to press the cover out.

Close-up of a car's front bumper with a white arrow pointing to a small square component (no text or symbols visible)

Rear:

Use a screwdriver to press the cover out.

Screw the tow fitting in until it is tight against the stop. If you do the threads can be damaged.

Do not tow the vehicle by any components of the running gear, or lash them down in any way. If you do so, the components could be damaged, leading to possible accidents.

Use only a nylon towing strap to tow the vehicle, since the inherent resilience of this material helps protect both vehicles from sudden jerking movements.

The towed vehicle should always be the lighter of the two vehicles.

If this is not the case, it will not be possible to control vehicle handling.

Tow-starting

It is better to start the vehicle's engine by jump starting. For instructions on jump-starting, refer to page 170.

Never attempt to use your vehicle to push another vehicle. This could result in damage to the energy-absorbing bumpers.

Towing the vehicle

Towing a vehicle with automatic transmission

1 Place the shift lever into "Neutral."
2 Leave the ignition key at position 1 to ensure that the brake lamps, turn signals, horn and windshield wipers remain operational and to prevent the steering lock from engaging.
3 Switch on the hazard-warning system (comply with applicable legal regulations).

Find some means of identifying the vehicle in tow. Place a sign or warning triangle in the rear window, for instance.

Even when the electrical system

has failed, make sure that the igni-

tion key remains in position 1 to prevent the steering lock from engaging.

The steering and brakes are without power assist when the engine is off. This means that increased effort is required for steering and braking.

NO 367us124

Towing with a commercial tow truck

Do not tow with sling-type equipment.
▶ Use a wheel-lift or flatbed equipment.
Comply with applicable towing laws.

Never allow passengers to ride in a towed vehicle for any reason.

Never attach tie-down hooks, chains, straps, or tow hooks to tie rods, control arms, or any other part of the vehicle suspension, as severe damage to these components will occur, leading to possible accidents.

Exterior view of a modern office building (no signage)

Close-up of a circular gauge or dial with measurement markings (no readable text or symbols)

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Advanced technology:

Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC) 176

Airbags 176

Automatic Stability Control plus Traction ASC+T/Dynamic Stability Control DSC 177

Radio reception 177

Safety belt tensioner 178

Inside rearview mirror with automatic dimmer 178

Limited slip differential 179

Overview

Controls and features

Operation, care and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Index

ATC\* Airbags

ATC 367us358

For vehicles with automatic transmission, Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC) makes the optimum gear selection based on a number of factors. This system reacts to your individual driving style and the current driving conditions.

The ATC recognizes your individual driving style from the positions and movements of the accelerator pedal, delays during braking, and the vehicle's lateral acceleration when cornering. ATC makes the appropriate selection from different shift characteristics which range from comfort-oriented to performance-oriented.

In order to take driving conditions into account, ATC registers corners and road gradients. In order to exploit power reserves more fully, the transmission does not shift up until higher engine speeds are reached if you maintain speed through a curve.

Abstract 3D rendered figure in a minimalist pose, no text or symbols visible

Deceleration sensors continuously monitor the physical forces acting upon the vehicle. In the event of a severe frontal impact, the gas generators of the driver-side and passenger-side airbags are ignited simultaneously. However, the passenger-side airbag is only triggered if an additional sensor has recognized that the passenger seat is occupied.

In the event of a side collision, only side airbags are triggered if necessary. Only the side airbag located on the collision side is triggered.

Airbags ASC+T/DSC\* Radio reception

The airbags located under the marked covers inflate and unfold in a matter of a few milliseconds. In this process they tear through the designed breaking points of the upholstered covers or press them out.

Because the inflation process must be virtually instantaneous, it is necessarily accompanied by a certain amount of ignition and inflation noise. The gas required to inflate the airbags is not dangerous, and it dissipates together with the associated smoke.

The entire process is completed within one twentieth of a second.

Precision sensors monitor the number of revolutions of the wheels. When equipped with DSC, they also monitor steering angle, lateral acceleration, brake pressure and the movement of the vehicle around its vertical axis.

If differences in the wheel speeds occur, the system counteracts the danger of wheelspin by reducing the torque flow. If necessary, the system also responds with additional braking intervention at all four wheels.

In addition, DSC permanently monitors the vehicle's current operating condition and compares it with an ideal condition that is calculated from the sensor's signals. If deviations from this occur (understeering or oversteering, for instance), DSC can stabilize the vehicle in fractions of a second by reducing engine output and with the assistance of braking intervention at individual wheels. As a result, dangerous skids can be prevented even as they are just beginning.

You may need some time to become accustomed to this system's intervention. However, it provides optimum propulsive force and driving stability.

The braking intervention may be accompanied by a certain degree of noise.

Abstract geometric pattern with diagonal stripes and two human figures on a curved base (no text or symbols)

The AM frequency bands (medium-wave, long-wave and short-wave) make it possible to receive stations from a great distance, because the broadcast signals travel not only along the ground as surface waves, but also as atmospheric waves that are reflected from the ionosphere.

Frequency-modulation (FM) provides substantially better sound quality than AM. However, because FM transmissions rely on line-of-sight broadcast waves, their effective reception range is limited.

The limitations which are inherent to radio reception in a moving vehicle have been minimized by the use of innovative systems.

Safety belt tensioner Inside rearview mirror with automatic dimmer\*

Close-up of a car seatbelt with a black strap and lever mechanism (no text or symbols visible)

The safety belt tensioner responds to severe collisions by tightening the belts to ensure that occupants remain firmly positioned in their seats. A gas-pressure system retracts the buckle assembly to tension the shoulder and lap belts within fractions of a second. This tends to reduce the tendency to slide under the lap belt even more.

Diagram showing a car inside a vehicle's dome with an arrow indicating direction (no text or symbols)

The interior rearview mirror with automatic dimming feature reduces glare from following traffic by adapting the intensity of the reflected images to correspond to levels of light registered by the unit's sensors. The mirror reverts to its undimmed setting as soon as the light source disappears. One light sensor is mounted on the front of the mirror housing. This sensor, which is directed forward, measures light intensity in the area ahead of the vehicle. A second light sensor is located on the lower edge of the mirror. The electronic control system compares the light intensity from front and rear. The difference provides the basic parameter used to modulate an electrical current and induce chemical changes in a semisolid layer incorporated in the lens.

The semisolid reacts chemically to this electrical current, thus providing infinitely-variable dimming of the mirror (electrochromic technology).

As a result, it is no longer necessary to dim the mirror manually, and the driver can concentrate completely on traffic conditions.

Limited slip differential\*

With unfavorable road conditions, the drive forces that should be transferred may not accommodate by the traditional differential, and therefore one wheel spins. Such wheelspin is largely prevented by the limited slip differential (locking value approx. 25 %).

Under actual driving conditions, this means better traction characteristics when starting and accelerating under adverse road conditions as described as well as during performance-oriented driving on winding roads.

However, in the case of extremely dynamic driving, the vehicle may tend at the same time to spin around its vertical axis in the vehicle center of gravity on road surfaces with different adhesion characteristics. Controlling this rotation tendency places greater demands on the driver and therefore requires special alertness.

The limited slip differential is automatically activated under actual driving conditions.

Front view line drawing of a car (no text or symbols)

Front view line drawing of a car (no text or symbols visible)

Side profile sketch of a sedan car with red racing wheel and star insignia (no text or symbols)

Electrical system 186 Drive belts 186

Engine specifications 182

Dimensions 183

Weights 184

Capacities 185

Electrical system 186

Drive belts 186

Overview

Controls and features

Operation, care and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Index

Engine specifications

		Z3 roadster 2.3 Z3 roadster 2.8, Z3 coupe 2.8		M roadster, M coupe
Displacement	cu in (cm3) 152.2 (2,494)		170.4 (2,793)	192.3 (3,152)
Number of cylinders		6	6	6
Max. output	hp	170	193	240
at engine speed	rpm	5,500	5,500	6,000
Max. torque	lb-ft (Nm)	181 (245)	206 (280)	236 (320)
at engine speed	rpm	3,500	3,500	3,800
Compression ratio ε	10.5		10.2	10.5
Stroke	in (mm)	2.95 (75.0)	3.31 (84.0)	3.53 (89.6)
Bore	in (mm)	3.31 (84.0)	3.31 (84.0)	3.40 (86.4)

Fuel-injection system Digital-electronic Engine Management system

Dimensions

	Z3 roadster 2.3, 2.8 Z3 coupe 2.8
Length in (mm) 159.4 (4,050) 158.5 (4,025)
Width in (mm) 68.5 (1,740) 68.5 (1,740)
Height (unloaded) in (mm) 50.9 (1,293) 51.4 (1,306)
Wheelbase in (mm) 96.3 (2,446) 96.3 (2,446)
Track, front in (mm) 55.6 (1,413) 55.6 (1,413)
Track, rear in (mm) 58.8 (1,494) 58.8 (1,494)
Min. turning circle dia. ft (m)	32.8 (10.0)	32.8 (10.0)
	M roadster	M coupe
Length in (mm) 158.5 (4,025) 158.5 (4,025)
Width in (mm) 68.5 (1,740) 68.5 (1,740)
Height (unloaded) in (mm) 49.8 (1,266) 50.4 (1,280)
Wheelbase in (mm) 96.8 (2,459) 96.8 (2,459)
Track, front in (mm) 56.0 (1,422) 56.0 (1,422)
Track, rear in (mm) 58.7 (1,492) 58.7 (1,492)
Min. turning circle dia. ft (m)	34.1 (10.4)	34.1 (10.4)

Weights

		Z3 roadster 2.3 Z3 roadster 2.8 Z3 coupe 2.8
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included)
with manual transmission	lbs. (kg)	2,899 (1,315)	2,910 (1,320)	2,943 (1,335)
with automatic transmission	lbs. (kg)	2,987 (1,355)	2,998 (1,360)	3,031 (1,375)
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission	lbs. (kg)	3,450 (1,565)	3,461 (1,570)	3,494 (1,585)
with automatic transmission	lbs. (kg)	3,538 (1,605)	3,549 (1,610)	3,582 (1,625)
Approved front axle weight lbs. (kg) 1,830 (830) 1,830 (830) 1,830 (830)
Approved rear axle weight lbs. (kg) 1,918 (870) 1,918 (870) 1,918 (870)
Approved maximum roof load lbs. (kg) 77 (35) 77 (35) 165 (75)
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft (liters) 5.8 (165) 5.8 (165) 7.2-14.3 (205-405)

	M roadster M coupe
Curb weight (with one person, ready for operation, full tank of fuel, options not included)
with manual transmission	Ibs. (kg)	3,086 (1,400)	3,131 (1,420)
with automatic transmission	Ibs. (kg)	-	-
Approved gross vehicle weight
with manual transmission	Ibs. (kg)	3,638 (1,650)	3,682 (1,670)
with automatic transmission	Ibs. (kg)	-	-
Approved front axle weight Ibs. (kg) 1,808 (820) 1,874 (850)
Approved rear axle weight Ibs. (kg) 1,918 (870) 1,962 (890)
Approved maximum roof load Ibs. (kg) 77 (35) 165 (75)
Luggage compartment capacity cu ft (liters) 5.8 (165) 7.2-13.9 (205-395)

Capacities

			Notes
Fuel tank reserve	gal. (liters) gal. (liters)	approx. 13.5 (approx. 51) approx. 2.1 (approx. 8.0)	Fuel specification: Page 28
Windshield washer system/Headlamp washer system quarts (liters) approx. 5.3 (approx. 5.0)			For details: Page 124
Cooling system including heater circuit quarts (liters) 11.1 (10.5) - Z3 roadster 2.3, Z3 roadster 2.8, Z3 coupe 2.811.4 (10.8) - M roadster, M coupe			For details: Page 128
Engine oil and filter change quarts (liters) 6.9 (6.5) - Z3 roadster 2.3, Z3 roadster 2.8, Z3 coupe 2.86.3 (6.0) - M roadster, M coupe			Approved HD oil for gasoline enginesSpecifications: Page 126
Manual transmission, automatic transmission		-Lifetime fluid, no fluid change required.
Differential quarts (liters) - Z3 roadster 2.3,		Z3 roadster 2.8, Z3 coupe 2.81.5 (1.4) - M roadster, M coupe	Lifetime fluid, no fluid change required.Approved hypoid gear oil (any BMW center can provide information on oil specifications)

Electrical system Drive belts

Battery

12 V, 70 Ah

Spark plugs

Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe:

NGK BKR 6 EQU P

M roadster, M coupe:

Bosch FGR 8 KQC

This spark ignition system meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations (ICES-2).

Z3 roadster 2.3, 2.8, Z3 coupe 2.8:

AC alternator – Water pump – Power steering

Drive belt, 6 PK x 1538

A/C compressor

Drive belt, 5 PK x 906

M roadster, M coupe:

AC alternator - Water pump - Power steering

Drive belt, 6 K x 1515

Compressor for air conditioning system and secondary air pump

Drive belt, 5 PK x 1125

Secondary air pump (without air conditioner) Drive belt, 5 K x 785

You can obtain Original BMW

Parts and Accessories, as well as professional advice from your BMW center.

188 A B C R Q Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG

Everything Owner see

Everything from A to Z 190

Owner service procedures 195

Overview

Controls and features

Operation, care and maintenance

Owner service procedures

Advanced technology

Technical data

Index

Everything from A to Z

A

ABS (Antilock Brake System) 101

Accessories 6

Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC) 63, 176

Adding engine oil 125

Adding washer fluid 124

Adjusting the backrest 51

Adjusting the washer nozzles 124

Air conditioner 86

Air distribution 82, 86

Air outlets 80

Air pressure 29, 110

Air vents 84

Airbags 23, 55, 139, 176

Airflow rate 82, 86

All Season Traction (AST)/(ASC+T) 76, 177

Analog clock 71, 72

Antenna 107

Antifreeze 129

Antifreeze protection, radiator 105, 128

Antilock Brake System (ABS) 101

Anti-theft protection 36

Approved gross vehicle weight 184

Aquaplaning 99, 110

Ashtray 91

Automatic car wash 132

Automatic cruise control 68

Automatic rear window washer 66

Automatic transmission 63

Automatic windshield washer 66

Average fuel consumption 75

Average speed 75

Axle weights 184

B

Backup lamps 62

Bulb

replacement 149, 150

Battery 166, 186

Capacity 186

Charge condition 167

Charging 167

Discharged 170

Removal and

installation 168

Battery change, keys 154

Battery Safety Terminal (BST) 168

Body-cavity protectant 135

Brake fluid 130

Brake hydraulic system 22

Brake lamps, bulb

replacement 149, 150

Brake pads 24

Brakes 103

Break-in 98

Breaking in the vehicle 98

Bulb replacement 147

C

Capacities 185

Car care, exterior 132

Car care, interior 137

Car keys 34

Car radio

refer to the separate

Owner's Manual

Car radio

reception 107, 177

Car wash 132, 134

Care, exterior 136

Care, interior 137

Cargo loading 94

Caring for the vehicle finish 136

Cassette mode

refer to the Radio Owner's Manual

Catalytic converter 100

Cellular phone 107

refer to the separate

Owner's Manual

Center (high-mount) brake lamp 151, 152

Central locking system 36

Changing a tire 155

Charge condition of the

battery 167

Charge indicator light 22

Chassis number 130

Checking oil level 125

Checking tire

pressure 29, 110

Child restraints

Installation 58

Cigarette lighter 92

Clearing fogged

windows 83, 88

Clock 71, 72

Cockpit 16

Code

refer to the Radio Owner's

Manual

Cold start 60

Compartments 90

Computer 73

Connecting a car vacuum

cleaner 92

Controls 16

Convertible top care 134

Convertible top

operation 41, 45

Coolant 105, 129

Coolant temperature 70

Coolant, antifreeze

protection 105

Cover 42, 47

Cruise control 68

Cruising range 75

Curb weight 184

Everything from A to Z

D

Dashboard 16

Data link connector for Onboard Diagnostics 142

Date refer to the Radio Owner's Manual

Daytime-driving lamps 77

Deep water 99

Defrost position 83, 88

Defroster, rear window 67

Defrosting windows 83, 88

Digital clock 72

Dimensions 183

Dipstick, engine oil 125

Dirty spots on paintwork 135

Disc brakes 103

Displacement 182

Display lighting 77

Displays 18, 20

Door key 34

Doors Manual operation 36 Unlocking and locking 36

DOT Quality Grades 111

Drive belts 186

Driving through water 99

DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) 76, 177

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) 76, 177

E

Electric convertible top operation 45

Electric power windows 39

Electrical system 186

Electronic immobilizer 35

Emergency operation Convertible top 170 Doors 36

Luggage compartment lid 38

Engine compartment 120

Engine coolant 129

Engine knock control 28

Engine oil grades 126

Engine oil level 23, 24

Engine oil pressure 22

Engine oil temperature 71

Engine oil temperature gauge 71

Engine output 182

Engine specifications 182

Estimated cruising range 75

Exterior finish 135

F

Failure of an electrical accessory 169

Fan 82, 86

Filler cap cover 27

Filling the washer reservoir 124

Filling the windshield washer reservoir 124

First-aid kit 27

Fittings for tow-starting and towing 172

Flat tire 111

Flat tire, M roadster, M coupe 162

Fog lamps 78

Folding top 41

Footbrake 103

Front fog lamps 78 Bulb replacement 149

Frost protection, radiator 105

Fuel 28

Fuel filler door Emergency operation 170

Fuel gauge 69

Fuel quality, M roadster, M coupe 28

Fuel quality, Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe 28

Fuel tank capacity 185

Fuses 169

G

Gasoline 28

Glass sunroof 40

Glove compartment 90

Grilles 80, 84

Gross vehicle weight 184

H

Hardtop 108

Hazard warning system 26

Hazard warning triangle 26

Head restraints 51

Headlamp cleaning system 124

Headlamp cover, care 133, 147

Headlamp flasher 65

Headlamp washers 67

Heated seats 89

Heating and

ventilation 80, 84

Heat-up, rapid 83, 88

Height 183

Height adjustment, seats 50

Help with jump starting 170

High beams 25, 65

Highbeam headlights Bulb replacement 147

High-performance synthetic oils 126

Horn 17

Hubcap 159

|

Ice warning 74

Identification number of the vehicle 130

Identification, tires 114

Ignition key 34

Everything from A to Z

Ignition switch 59

Indicator lamps 22

Inflation pressures 29, 110

INSPECTION 70

Instrument cluster 18, 20

Instrument lighting 77

Instrument panel lighting 77

Instruments 18, 20

Interior lamps 78

Bulb replacement 153

Interior rearview mirror 52

Interlock 59

Intermittent wipe switch 66

J

Jack 155

K

Keys 34

Kickdown 64

L

Lamp switch 77

Lashing eyes 94

Leather care 138

Length 183

License plate lamps

Bulb

replacement 152, 153

Light-alloy wheel 116

LIGHTS ON warning 77

Limited slip differential 178

Load-securing devices 94

Lock buttons 37

Locks, care 105

Low beam headlamps 77

Bulb replacement 147

Low-fuel indicator lamp 69

Lug bolts 159, 160

Lug wrench 156

Luggage compartment 38

Capacity 184

Locking separately 38

Manual operation 38

Luggage compartment lamp

Bulb replacement 153

Luggage compartment

lid 38

Manual operation 38

Luggage net 93

M

M + S tires 115

M Mobility System 162

Magic Eye

refer to Battery charge condition 167

Maintenance 131

Malfunction, cellular

telephone 107

Manual operation

Convertible top 41

Doors 36

Luggage compartment

lid 38

Manual transmission 62

Mirror defrosting 51

Mirrors 51

Mobile phones 107

Mobile telephone

refer to the separate

Owner's Manual

Modifications,

technical 6, 141

Multifunction switch 65

N

Net 93

Non-smoker's equipment package 92

Notes on driving 99

0

OBD data link

connector 142

Odometer 69

Oil additives 125

Oil change intervals, refer to the Service and Warranty

Information Booklet (US models) or the Warranty

and Service Guide

(Canadian models)

Oil consumption 125

Oil dipstick 125

Oil grades 126

Oil level, indicator

lamp 23, 24

Oil pressure, indicator

lamp 22

Oil temperature 71

OILSERVICE 70

Old batteries 168

Onboard computer 73

Onboard tool kit 146

Opening and closing

From outside 36

From the inside 37

Operation 140

Output 182

Outside mirrors 51

Outside temperature in the onboard computer 74

P

Paint damage 136

Paint, protection 136

Parking brake 23, 61

Parking lamps 77

Parking, winter 106

Please wear your safety belt warning lamp 23

Position lamps

Bulb replacement 148

Power seat adjustment 50

Power steering 106

Pressure, tires 29, 110

Protection, paint 136

Everything from A to Z

R

Radio

refer to the separate

Owner's Manual

Radio reception 177

Reading lamps 79

Rear window defroster 67

Rear window wiper 66

Wiper blade

replacement 146

Rearview mirrors 51

Recirculated air mode 86

Refueling 27

Releasing the hood 119

Remote control for onboard computer 73

Replacement, tires 111

Replacing windshield wiper blades 146

Reporting Safety Defects 7

Reservoir, washer

system 124

Restraint systems 56, 57

Reverse gear 62

Rims 114

Roll-up cover 93

Roof load capacity 184

Roof rack 95

Rubber seals and components 105, 137

s

Safety belt tensioner 178

Safety belts 53

Seat adjustment 50

Seat heaters 89

Securing cargo 94

Selector lever, automatic transmission 63

Separation net 93

Service and Warranty Information Booklet (US models) 132

Service Interval

Display 70, 131

Set temperature 82, 86

Shiftlock 63

Side airbags 55

Side marker lamps

Bulb replace- ment 149, 150, 151

Skid control 106

Slippery roads 105

Snow chains 105, 115

Socket 92

Spare keys 34

Spare tire 156

Spare wheel 156

Spark plugs 186

Special oils 126

Speed control 68

Speedometer 18, 20

Starting 60

Starting assistance 170

Starting prob- lems 60, 100, 170, 172

Starting the engine 60

Steel wheel 116

Steering 106

Steering wheel lock 59

Storage boxes 90

Storage trays 90

Storing the vehicle 140

Summer tires 114

Sunroof 40

Switching off the engine 61

Symbols 4, 166

T

Tachometer 69

Tail lamp assembly, bulb replacement 149, 150

Tail lamps 149, 150

Taillights 149, 150

Tank capacity 185

Technical Data 181

Technical modifications 6, 141

Telephone refer to the separate Owner's Manual

Temperature display, engine coolant 70

Temperature display, engine oil 71

Temperature display, outside temperature 74

Temperature layering 82, 87

Third brake lamp 151, 152

Tire codes 114

Tire condition 110

Tire damage 110

Tire failure, Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe 155

Tire inflation pressures 29, 110

Tire replacement 112

Tire rotation between front and rear 113

Tire size 116

Tire tread 110

Tools 146

Torque 182

Tow fittings 172

Towing 172

Tow-starting 172

Track width 183

Traction control system refer to ASC+T/DSC 76

Transmission 62, 63

Tread depth, tires 110

Trip odometer 69

Trunk

Capacity 184

Turn signals 25, 65

Bulb replace- ment 148, 149, 150

Everything from A to Z

Turning circle 183

Two-way radios 107

U

Uniform Tire Quality Grading 112

Upholstery care 138

v

Valve caps 114

Vanity mirrors 52

Vehicle battery 166, 186

Vehicle Identification Number 130

Vehicle immobilizer 35

Vehicle storage 140

Velour care 138

Ventilation 80, 82, 84, 87

Ventilation outlets, ventilation 80, 84

Ventilation, draft-free 82, 87

Vents 80, 84

Vinyl upholstery, care 137

Viscosity 126

Voltmeter 71

W

Warm feet – cool head 82, 87

Warning lamps 22

Warning triangle 26

Warranty and Service Guide (Canadian models) 132

Washing your car 132

Weights 184

Wheelbase 183

Wheels and tires 114, 116

Width 183

Wind blocker refer to the separate Owner's Manual

Windows, convenience closing mode 36

Windshield washer nozzles 124

Windshield wipers 66

Winter driving 105

Winter tires 115

Wiper/Washer system 66

Wipers 66

Working in the engine compartment 119

Owner service procedures

A

Adding brake fluid 130

Adding coolant 129

Adding engine coolant 129

Adding oil 125

Adding washer fluid 124

Adjusting washer nozzles 124

Air pressure 110

Antifreeze protection, radiator 129

B

Backup lamps Bulb replace- ment 149, 150

Battery change, keys 154

Battery charge condition 167

Battery, discharged 170

Brake lamps Bulb replacement 149, 150

Brakes, malfunctions 104

Bulb replacement 147

C

Changing a tire, M roadster, M coupe 161

Changing a tire, Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe 155

Charge condition of the battery 167

Charging the battery 167

Checking oil level 125

Checking tire pressure 29, 110

Clear fogged windows 83, 88

Convertible top, electrical defect 170

D

Defrosting windows 83, 88

Difficult steering 106

Doors, manual operation 36

E

Electrical defect Convertible top 170 Fuel filler door 170

Emergency operation Convertible top 170 Doors 36

Fuel filler door 170 Luggage compartment lid 38

Engine oil grades 126

F

Failure of an electrical accessory 169

Filling the windshield washer reservoir 124

First-aid kit 27

Fittings, tow-starting and towing 172

Flat tire, M roadster, M coupe 162

Flat tire, Z3 roadster, Z3 coupe 155

Front fog lamps Bulb replacement 149

Fuel filler door, electrical defect 170

H

Hazard warning flashers 26 Hazard warning triangle 26

Headlamp cover, care 133, 147

High beams Bulb replacement 147

Hood release 119

|

Indicator lamps 22

Inflation pressures 29

Interior lamps, bulb replacement 153

J

Jump-starting 170

K

Key, battery change 154

L

License plate lamps Bulb replace- ment 152, 153

Low beam headlamps Bulb replacement 147

Lug wrench 156

Luggage compartment lamp Bulb replacement 153

Luggage compartment lid, manual operation 38

M

M Mobility System 162

Maintenance 70, 131

Manual operation Convertible top 41 Doors 36

Luggage compartment lid 38

Master key, battery change 154

0

Oil grades 126

Onboard tool kit 146

Owner service procedures

P

Position lamps Bulb replacement 148

Pressure, tires 29, 110

R

Rear lamps 149, 150

Rear window wiper, wiper blade replacement 146

Releasing the hood 119

Repairing a flat tire, M roadster, M coupe 162

Replacement key 34

Replacing fuses 169

Reservoir, washer system 124

S

Side marker lamps Bulb replace- ment 149, 150, 151

Snow chains 105, 115

Spare key 34

Spare tire 156

Spare wheel 156

Starting assistance 170

Starting difficulties 170

Starting problems 60, 100, 172

T

Tail lamp assembly Bulb replace- ment 149, 150

Tail lamps Bulb replace- ment 149, 150

Thaw windows 83, 88

Tire change 155, 161

Tire damage 110

Tire inflation pressures 29, 110

Tools 146

Tow fittings 172

Towing 172

Tow-starting 172

Turn signals Bulb replace- ment 148, 149, 150

U

Use of antifreeze 129

W

Warning lamps 22

Windshield wiper blade replacement 146

Wiper blade replacement 146

Working in the engine compartment 119

So that you will have important specifications available when you stop to refuel, we recommend that you supplement this table with data which apply to your vehicle.

Refueling

Fuel

Designation
AKI: minimum
AKI: for rated performance
AKI: for enhanced performance

Engine oil

Quality

The space between the two marks on the dipstick corresponds to approx. 1.1 US quarts (1 liter).

Tire inflation pressure	Summer Winter
	Front Rear	Front Rear
1 - 2 passengers
2 passengers plus luggage

We wish you an enjoyable driving experience.

The Ultimate Driving Machine

Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG