engine BMW 645I CONVERTIBLE 2005 E63 Owner's Guide

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Fuel specifications
The engine uses unleaded gasoline only.
Required fuel
Premium unleaded gasoline
The minimum octane rating is 91.
If you use gasoline with this minimum octane
rating, the engine may produce knocking
sounds when starting at high outside tempera-
tures. This has no effect on the engine life.
Minimum Octane Rating corresponds to the
Anti Knock Index AKI and is determined accord-
ing to the so-called (R+M)/2 method.
Do not use leaded gasoline, as otherwise
the lambda probe and catalytic converter
will be permanently damaged.<
Use high-quality brands
Field experience has indicated significant dif-
ferences in fuel quality: volatility, composition,
additives, etc., among gasolines offered for sale
in the United States and Canada. Fuels contain-
ing up to and including 10 % ethanol or other
oxygenates with up to 2.8 % oxygen by weight,
that is, 15 % MTBE or 3 % methanol plus an
equivalent amount of co-solvent, will not void
the applicable warranties with respect to
defects in materials or workmanship.
The use of poor-quality fuels may result in
drivability, starting and stalling problems,
especially under certain environmental condi-
tions such as high ambient temperature and
high altitude.
Should you encounter drivability problems
which 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 also result in unscheduled maintenance.<

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Engine compartment
1Filler neck for engine oil, refer to Topping off
engine oil
2Brake fluid reservoir, located beneath the
microfilter cover, refer to page177
3Dipstick for engine oil, refer to Checking oil
level
4Starting-aid terminal, refer to page186
5Washer fluid reservoir of the headlamp and
windshield cleaning systems, refer to
page61
6Expansion tank for coolant, refer to
page176
Engine oil
The engine oil consumption is dependent on
driving style and driving conditions.
Checking oil level
1.Park the vehicle on a level surface with the
engine warm, i.e. after an uninterrupted
drive of at least 6 miles/10 km.
2.Switch off the engine.3.After approx. 5 minutes, pull the dipstick3
out and wipe it off with a clean lint-free
cloth, paper towel, or similar material.
4.Carefully push the dipstick all the way into
the guide tube and pull it out again.
The oil should extend to between the two
marks on the dipstick.
The oil quantity between the centers of the two
marks on the dipstick, refer to arrows, is approx.
1.6 US quarts/1.5 liters.
Do not fill beyond the upper mark on the
dipstick. Excess oil can damage the
engine.<

Under the hood
176
Topping off engine oil
Wait until the level has dropped to just above
the lower dipstick mark before adding oil. When
it falls to this level, a message also appears on
the Control Display.
Refill the oil within the next 125 miles/
200 km, otherwise engine damage could
result.<
Store oil, grease etc., well out of the reach
of children; always observe all warning
labels on the containers.<
Oil change
Have oil changes carried out only by a BMW
center.
Specified engine oils
The quality of the engine oil selected has critical
significance for the operation and service life of
an engine. BMW continuously approves spe-
cific oils after confirming their suitability for use
in its vehicles with extensive testing.
Use only approved BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil.
If you are unable to obtain BMW High Perfor-
mance Synthetic Oil, you can add small
amounts of another synthetic oil between oil
changes. Use only oils with the API SH specifi-
cation or higher.
Ask your BMW center for details concern-
ing the specific BMW High Performance
Synthetic Oil or synthetic oils which 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.BMW engines are designed to operate
without additives, and their use could
even lead to damage in some cases.<
Viscosity ratings
Viscosity is the oil flow rating as defined in SAE
classes.
The selection of the correct SAE class depends
on the climatic conditions in the area where you
typically drive your BMW.
Approved oils are in SAE classes 5W-40
and 5W-30.<
These oils may be used for driving in all ambient
temperatures.
Coolant
Do not open the cooling system when the
engine is hot. Escaping coolant can cause
burns.<
Coolant consists of water and coolant additive.
Not all commercially available additives are suit-
able for your BMW. Ask your BMW center for
suitable additives.
Only use suitable additives, as otherwise
engine damage may result. The additives
present a health hazard.<
Always observe all applicable environ-
mental laws and regulations when dis-
posing of used coolant additives.<
Checking coolant level
1.The engine must be at ambient tempera-
ture.

Maintenance
178
Maintenance
The BMW Maintenance
System
The BMW maintenance system supports the
preservation of the traffic and operating safety
of your BMW. The service schedule also
includes operations related to the vehicle's
comfort and convenience features, such as
replacement of the filters for the inside air. The
ultimate objective is to ensure economical
maintenance by providing the ideal service for
your vehicle.
Should the day come when you decide to sell
your BMW, you will find that a complete dealer
service history is an asset of inestimable value.
CBS Condition Based Service
Sensors and special algorithms take the differ-
ent driving conditions of your BMW into
account. Condition Based Service uses this to
determine the current and future service
requirements. By letting you define a service
and maintenance regimen that reflects your
own individual requirements, the system builds
the basis for trouble-free driving.
You can set the Control Display to show
remaining times or distances of selected main-
tenance intervals and legally mandated dead-
lines, refer to page70:
>Engine oil
>Brakes, front and rear separately
>Microfilter/activated-charcoal filter
>Brake fluid>Spark plugs
>Vehicle check
>Legally required tests depending on local
regulations
Your vehicle stores this information continu-
ously in the master key while the vehicle is
being driven. After accessing the data stored in
the master key, your BMW Service Advisor can
suggest precisely the right array of service pro-
cedures for your own individual vehicle. You
should therefore give your BMW Service Advi-
sor the key you last used to drive when you take
your vehicle in for service.
Make sure the date in the Control Center
is always set correctly, refer to page78,
as otherwise the effectiveness of CBS Condi-
tion Based Service is not ensured.<
Service and Warranty Information
Booklet for US models and Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet for
Canadian models
Please consult your Service and Warranty Infor-
mation Booklet for US models and Warranty
and Service Guide Booklet for Canadian models
for additional information regarding service
requirements.
Have service and repair operations per-
formed at your BMW center.
Take the time to ensure that these service pro-
cedures are confirmed by entries in your vehi-
cle's Service and Warranty Information Booklet
for US models and Warranty and Service Guide
Booklet for Canadian models. These entries
verify that your vehicle has received the speci-
fied regular maintenance, and may also be
required when submitting warranty claims.<

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OBD Socket
The Onboard Diagnostics OBD interface
socket is located on the left of the driver's side
under the instrument panel and under a cover.
The cover has the letters OBD on it.
The purpose of the OBD system is to ensure
proper operation of the emission control sys-
tem for the vehicle's lifetime. The system mon-
itors emission-related components and sys-
tems for deterioration and malfunction.
An illuminated indicator lamp informs
you of the need for service, not of the
need to stop the vehicle. However, the
systems should be checked by your BMW cen-
ter at the earliest possible opportunity.
Display of the previously described
malfunction on Canadian models.
Under certain conditions, the indicator
lamp 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 emissions control
components, especially the catalytic converter.
When the fuel filler cap is not properly
tightened, the OBD system can detect
the vapor leak and the indicator lamp will light
up. If the filler cap is subsequently tightened,
the indicator lamp should go out within a few
days.<
Event Data Recorders
Your vehicle may be equipped with one or more
sensing and diagnostic modules or a recording
device capable of recording or transmitting cer-
tain vehicle data or information. In addition, if
you have a Subscription Service Agreement for
the BMW Assist system, certain vehicle infor-
mation may be transmitted or recorded in order
to provide such services.
Care
Important information on care and maintenance
of your BMW is contained in the Caring for your
vehicle brochure.

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High beams, parking lamps
The illustration shows the front left side of the
engine compartment.
High beams
Bulb 55 watts, H 7
1.Remove the cover cap1 by pressing the tab
and removing the cover cap upward.
2.Press the bulb holder from above to release
it.
3.Remove the bulb holder.
4.Remove and replace the bulb.
Parking lamps
Bulb 10 watts
Bulb holder and reflector are one unit and
are replaced together.<
1.Turn the bulb holder2 to the right and
remove.
2.Press the snap connection on the plug con-
nector, pull off the bulb holder and replace.
Front turn signal, sidemarker
Your BMW is equipped with two turn signal
lamps per side in the front.
Turn signal lamp 1
Bulb 21 watts, WY 21 SV
The illustration shows the front right side of the
engine compartment.1.The lever shown:
>Right turn signal: press downward
>Left turn signal: press upward
2.Remove the bulb holder towards the rear.
3.Remove and replace the bulb.
Turn signal lamp 2
Bulb 21 watts, WY 21 SV
Bulb replacement for the turn signal lamp 2 is
possible via the wheel well.
The illustration shows the left side of the vehi-
cle.
1.Turn the steering all the way to be able to
remove the cover, refer to illustration.
2.Turn the ignition key to position 0.
3.Unscrew the two bolts using the open-end
wrench from the onboard tool kit, refer to
page180.
4.Turn the bulb holder to the left and remove,
refer to arrow.
5.Remove and replace the bulb.

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1.Push a screwdriver from the left under the
lamp and lever up the lamp to the right.
2.Turn the bulb holder 905 to the left and
remove.
3.Remove and replace the bulb.
LEDs Light-emitting diodes
Light-emitting diodes installed behind translu-
cent lenses serve as the light source for many of
the controls and displays in your vehicle. These
light-emitting diodes, which operate using a
concept similar to that applied in conventional
lasers, are officially designated as Class 1 light-
emitting diodes.
Do not remove the covers, and never
stare into the unfiltered light several
hours, as irritation of the retina could result.<
Changing a wheel
Your BMW is equipped with run-flat tires as
standard. An immediate wheel change in the
event of a flat tire is therefore no longer
required.
You will recognize run-flat tires by a circular
symbol containing the letters RSC on the side
of the tire, refer to Run-flat tires on page171.
If you have new tires mounted or switch from
summer to winter tires, or vice versa, use run-
flat tires, as in the event of a flat tire there is no
spare tire available. Your BMW center will be
glad to advise you.
Also refer to New wheels and tires, page172.
Car jacking points
The jacking points for the car jack are located in
the positions shown.
The suitable tools for changing tires are
available as accessories from your BMW
center.<
Vehicle battery
Battery care
The battery is 100 % maintenance-free, i.e., the
electrolyte will last for the life of the battery
when the vehicle is operated in a temperate cli-
mate.
Your BMW center will be glad to advise in all
matters concerning the battery.
Charging battery
Only charge the battery in the vehicle via the
terminals in the engine compartment with the
engine switched off. For the connections, refer
to Jump starting on page186.
Disposal
After replacement, have old batteries dis-
posed of by your BMW center or deposit
them at a recycling center. Maintain the battery
in an upright position for transport and storage.
Always secure the battery to prevent it from tip-
ping over during transport.<

Giving and receiving assistance
186
Warning triangle*
The warning triangle can be found in the lug-
gage compartment on the left side.
Comply with legal requirements requiring
you to carry a hazard warning triangle in
the vehicle.<
First-aid kit*
The first-aid kit is located in the filler element of
the rear seat backrest.
1.Press the button downward and pull the
filler element forward.
2.Take out first-aid kit.To refit the filler element, insert the two
bottom tabs into the strip and press the
filler element back into place. Make sure that
you do not damage the rear seat upholstery.<
Some of the articles contained in the first-
aid kit have a limited service life. For this
reason, check the expiration dates of each of
the items regularly and replace any whose expi-
ration dates have passed. You can find replace-
ments in any pharmacy.
Comply with legal requirements requiring you
to carry a first-aid kit in the vehicle.<
Roadside Assistance*
The Roadside Assistance of the BMW Group
offers you breakdown assistance around the
clock, including on weekends and public holi-
days.
The phone numbers of the Roadside Assis-
tance in your home country can be found in the
BMW Contact directory.
In vehicles with BMW Assist or TeleService,
you can call the Roadside Assistance of the
BMW Group directly for breakdown assistance
via the Control Center, refer to page161.
Jump starting
When your battery is discharged, you can use
two jumper cables to start your BMW with
power from the battery in a second vehicle. You
can also use the same method to help start
another vehicle. Use only jumper cables with
fully-insulated clamp handles.
To avoid the risk of potentially fatal injury,
always avoid all contact with electrical
components while the engine is running. Care-
fully adhere to the following sequence, both to
prevent damage to one or both vehicles, and to
guard against possible personal injuries.<

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Preparing
1.Check whether the battery of the other
vehicle has a voltage of 12 Volts and
approximately the same capacitance in Ah.
This information can be found on the bat-
tery.
2.Switch off the engine of the vehicle provid-
ing assistance.
3.Switch off all electrical accessories in both
vehicles.
There must not be any contact between
the bodies of the two vehicles, as other-
wise there is a danger of shorting.<
Connecting jumper cables
To avoid personal injury from sparks,
observe this sequence when connecting
jumper cables.<
In your BMW, the so-called jump-starting termi-
nal in the engine compartment serves as the
battery positive terminal, also refer to engine
compartment essentials on page175. The
symbol + is embossed on the cover.
1.Fold open the cover of the BMW jump-
starting terminal. To do so, pull the tab.
2.Attach one end of the jumper cable plus/+
to the positive terminal of the battery or a
jump-starting terminal of the vehicle provid-
ing assistance.3.Attach the second end of the cable to the
positive terminal of the battery or to a jump-
starting terminal of the vehicle to be started.
Your BMW has a special nut as body ground or
negative pole.
4.Attach one end of the jumper cable minus/–
to the negative terminal of the battery or to
an engine or body ground of the vehicle
providing assistance.
5.Attach the second end of the cable to the
negative terminal of the battery or to the
engine or body ground of the vehicle to be
started.
Starting engine
1.Start the engine on the assisting vehicle
and allow it to run for several minutes at
increased speed.
2.Start the engine on the other vehicle in the
usual way.
If the first start attempt is not successful,
wait a few minutes before another attempt
in order to allow the discharged battery to
recharge.
3.Let the engines run for a few minutes.
4.Disconnect the jumper cables by reversing
the connection sequence
If required, have the battery inspected and
recharged at your BMW center.
Never use spray fluids to start the
engine.<

Giving and receiving assistance
188
Towing and tow-starting
Always observe all applicable towing laws
and regulations.<
Never allow passengers to ride in a towed
vehicle for any reason.<
Use tow fitting
The threaded tow fitting is stored in the tool kit
mounted on the inside of the luggage compart-
ment under the floor mat, refer to page180, and
should always remain in the vehicle. It can be
screwed in at the front or rear of the BMW.
To avoid damage to the tow fitting and the
vehicle, observe the following: only use
the tow fitting that comes with the vehicle and
screw it in as far as possible. Use the tow fitting
for towing only on roads. Avoid lateral strains on
the tow fitting, e.g. do not the lift vehicle by the
tow fitting.<
Access to screw thread
Rectangular cover in bumper:
Press the arrow symbol of the cover.
Front
Rear
Being towed
Make sure that the ignition key is in posi-
tion 1, as otherwise the steering wheel
could lock and it would be impossible to steer
the vehicle. There is no power assist with the
engine stopped. This then requires increased
effort for braking and steering. Active steering is
deactivated and larger steering wheel move-
ments are required.<
Switch on the hazard warning flashers depend-
ing on the local regulations. If the electrical sys-
tem fails, mark the vehicle to be towed, e.g. with
a sign or warning triangle in the rear window.
Vehicles with manual transmission
Gearshift lever in idle position
Vehicles with automatic transmission
Selector lever in position N.
Do not exceed a towing speed of 45 mph/
70 km/h and a towing distance of
90 miles/150 km, as otherwise the automatic
transmission may be damaged.<
Vehicles with SMG Sequential manual
transmission
With the ignition switched on, engage selector-
lever position N, then switch off the ignition.
Towing methods
In some countries, towing with tow bars or
ropes in public traffic is not permitted.
Familiarize yourself with the regulations on tow-
ing in the respective country.
With tow bar
The towing vehicle may not be lighter
than the vehicle to be towed, as otherwise
it will not be possible to control vehicle
response.<
The tow fittings used should be on the same
side on both vehicles. Should it prove impossi-
ble to avoid mounting the tow bar at an offset
angle, please observe the following:
>Clearance and maneuvering capability will
be strictly limited during cornering.