tires BMW CONVERTIBLE 1998 User Guide

11 2
To maintain good handling and vehicle
response, use only tires of a single
tread configuration from a single manu-
facturer.
a
Do not use retreaded tires, as oth-
erwise driving safety may be impaired.
This is due to the possible variations in
casing structures and, in some cases, to
their extreme age, which can lead to a
decrease in their durability.cTread wear patterns differ at the front
and rear wheels according to the indi-
vidual operating conditions. In the inter-
est of safety and optimal vehicle
response, we advise against rotating
tires from front to rear and vice versa.
When considering the potential eco-
nomic benefits of interaxle tire rotation,
you must decide whether the expense
of having the tires rotated is likely to be
amortized during the anticipated exten-
sion in tire life. We recommend that you
discuss the matter with your BMW
Retailer.
Should you decide in favor of rotating
the tires, it is essential to observe the
following:
Leave the tires on the same side of the
vehicle (include spare in rotation pat-
tern as desired).
Braking response and traction may be
adversely affected.
Rotation should always be carried out
at short intervals, max. 3000 miles
(approx. 5000 km).
Following rotation always correct the
tire inflation pressure.Always replace tires after 10 years,
regardless of use or tread wear.
Spare tires over 6 years old should be
used only in case of emergency. Such a
tire should be replaced by a new tire
immediately, and should not be fitted
together with new tires.
The date on which the tire was manu-
factured is indicated by the code on
the sidewall: DOT ... 327 indicates that
the tire was manufactured in Week 32
of 1997.
Tire replacement Interaxle tire changes

11 3
At a glanceControlsCar careRepairsTechnicalDataIndex
Tires and wheelsUse only BMW-approved tires.
Due to the high speeds which this vehi-
cle can reach, the use of specific
brands, specifications and dimensions
is mandatory. Consult any BMW
Retailer for details.
Observe national, provincial and state
regulations.
The tire codes will aid you in selecting
the correct tire. The essential data for
radial tires are as follows: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)
ZR = over 149 mph (240 km/h)
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)
Use screw-on valve stem caps to
protect the tire valves against dirt. Dirt
in the valves frequently leads to slow
leaks.Example:Nominal width
in mm
Aspect ratio in %
Type of radial-code
letter for radial
Rim diameter in inches
Load rating
(not on ZR tires)
Speed rating
(before R on ZR tires)
205/60 R 15 91 H
Codes on steel/light-alloy wheels:
7 J x 15 H 2
Hump width (inches)
Code letter for
flange type
Denotes
drop-center rim
Rim diameter (inches)
Hump of 2 rim shoulders
The right choice

11 4
We recommend winter tires (M+S radial
tires) for operation under inclement win-
ter driving conditions. Although all-sea-
son M+S tires provide better winter
traction than standard summer tires
with H, V, W and ZR speed ratings, they
generally fail to provide the same levels
of performance as standard snow tires
in winter driving.
If you fit winter tires, install radial tires
of the same tread configuration and
from a single manufacturer on all four
wheels (better still: on all five wheels).
This ensures safe tracking and steering
response.
Fit BMW-approved winter tires only.
Any BMW Retailer will be glad to pro-
vide you with information on the best
winter tires for your particular driving
conditions.Winter tires display a perceptible loss in
their ability to cope with winter driving
conditions once the tread wears to
below 0.16 in (4 mm), and should thus
be replaced.
Observe the specified tire inflation
pressures - and be sure to have the
wheel and tire assemblies balanced
every time you change the tires!
a
Never exceed the maximum speed
for which the tires are rated.
Unprofessional attempts by laymen to
service tires can lead to damage and ac-
cidents.
Have this work performed by skilled pro-
fessionals only. Your BMW Retailer will
be glad to assist you.c
Store tires in a cool, dry place, away
from light whenever possible. Protect
the tires from contact with oil, grease
and fuel.
Winter tires

11 5
At a glanceControlsCar careRepairsTechnicalDataIndex
b
Size 185/65 R 15 88 T tires are
only for the BMW 318i Sedan.c
b
Sizes 225/55 R 15 92 V,
225/55 R 92 Q, T, H M+S, 225/50 ZR 16.
These tires are not suitable for use with
snow chains.c
ModiÞcations to the vehicle are required
before retrofitting tires in the above
dimensions.
Please consult your BMW Retailer.The use of fine-link BMW snow chains
*
on summer or winter tires is only per-
mitted in pairs on the rear wheels.
Always observe the tire manufacturerÕs
safety recommendations when fitting. Tire speciÞcations Steel rim
(wheel rim)Light-alloy wheel Rim offset
(mm)
BMW 318is Coupe, 318i Convertible, 318i Sedan
185/65 R 15 88 T 6 J x 15 H2 Ð 42
185/65 R 15 88 Q, T M+S
6 J x
15 H2
Ð42
205/60 R 15 91 H
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2 47
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2 47
225/55 R 15 92 V
6g Jx15
H2 7 J x 15 H2 47
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S Ð 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
225/50 ZR 16 Ð 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
Approved wheels and tires

11 6
b
Sizes 225/55 R 15 92 V,
225/55 R 92 Q, T, H M+S, 225/50 ZR 16.
These tires are not suitable for use with
snow chains.c
ModiÞcations to the vehicle are required
before retrofitting tires in the above
dimensions.
Please consult your BMW Retailer.The use of fine-link BMW snow chains
*
on summer or winter tires is only per-
mitted in pairs on the rear wheels.
Always observe the tire manufacturerÕs
safety recommendations when fitting. Tire speciÞcations Steel rim
(wheel rim)Light-alloy wheel Rim offset
(mm)
BMW 323is Coupe, 323i Convertible
185/65 R 15 88 Q M+S
6 J x
15 H2
Ð42
205/60 R 15 91 H
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2 47
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2 47
225/55 R 15 92 V
6g Jx15
H2 7 J x 15 H2 47
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S Ð 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
225/50 ZR 16 Ð 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
Approved wheels and tires

11 7
At a glanceControlsCar careRepairsTechnicalDataIndex
b
Size 225/50 ZR 16 tires are not
suitable for use with snow chains.c
ModiÞcations to the vehicle are required
if retrofitting these tires.
Please consult your BMW Retailer.The use of fine-link BMW snow chains
*
on summer or winter tires is only per-
mitted in pairs on the rear wheels.
Always observe the tire manufacturerÕs
safety recommendations when fitting. Tire speciÞcations Steel rim
(wheel rim)Light-alloy wheel Rim offset
(mm)
BMW 328is Coupe, 328i Convertible, 328i Sedan
205/60 R 15 91 H Ð 7 J x 15 H2 47
205/60 R 15 91 Q, H M+S
6g Jx15 H2
7 J x 15 H2 47
225/50 R 16 92 Q M+S Ð 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
225/50 ZR 16 Ð 7 J x 16 H2 45/46
Approved wheels and tires

At a glance
Controls and featuresCare and maintenanceAdvanced technology
Technical data
Owner service procedure
At a glanceControlsCar careRepairsTechnicalDataIndex
Index
13 9
Replacement procedures:
Onboard tool kit140
Windshield wiper blades140
Lamp and bulbs141
Master key with battery lamp145
Changing tires146
Battery149
Fuses151
In case of electrical
malfunction:
Fuel filler door 152
Sliding/tilt sunroof 152
Assistance, giving and receiving:
Jump-starting153
Towing the vehicle154
Towing154

14 6
a
Change tires only on a flat, hard
surface affording good traction. Avoid
jacking the car on a soft or slippery sup-
port surface (snow, ice, loose gravel,
etc.), as it could slide sideways.
Take extra care to ensure that the base
of the jack is positioned on a solid sup-
port surface.
Never use wooden blocks or similar
objects to support the base of the jack,
as the weight of the car could exceed
their support capacity.
Never lie beneath the vehicle or start
the engine while the car is supported by
the jack - risk of fatal injury.
Additional precautions to observe when
changing flat tires:
When pulling over on the roadside to
change a tire, always try to park the car
as far as possible from passing traffic.
Switch on the hazard flashers.
All passengers should be outside the
car and well away from your immediate
working area (e.g., behind the guard-
rail).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) and engage the parking
brake.
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. Observe all
safety guidelines and regulations.c
b
To avoid rattling noises, note the
positions of the tools and return them to
their original positions.c
To change the tire you will need
Car jackIn the luggage compartment below the
floor mat at the right next to the spare
tire.
After using, screw the jack all the way
back down and insert it in its holder.Spare wheel and hexagon
adapter
*
Both are stored in the luggage com-
partment below the floor mat. Take out
the floor mat. Remove the hexagon
adapter (only on models with light-alloy
wheels with wheel lug cover in the
shape of a large hexagon nut), unscrew
the wing nut by hand and remove the
wheel.Wheel stud wrench In the luggage compartment at the right
on the box. ScrewdriverIn onboard tool kit beneath luggage
compartment floor panel.b
The storage shelf in the spare tire
can be used to store small parts. To
avoid rattling noises, you can place
cloths between them.c
360de106
Changing tires

14 7
At a glanceControlsCar careRepairsTechnicalDataIndex
Procedure1 Wheel bolt cover
* removal.
Steel disk wheel: remove wheel cover
by hand. Light-alloy wheel with lug
cap in the shape of a large hexagon
nut: position the hexagon adapter on
the lug bolt cover, apply the lug
wrench and turn it to the left.2 Loosen lug bolts 1/2 turn.
3 Remove the respective cover cap
from the jacking point. Depending on
the vehicle version, remove the pro-
tective cap either by inserting the
screwdriver into the slot and turning
to the left (arrow in left illustration) or
by pressing in the cap on the bottom
(arrow in illustration above).4 Insert the jack all the way into the
support while ensuring that the base
of the jack is securely positioned on
the road surface. Always chock the
wheels to prevent the vehicle from
rolling.
5 Turn the handle to raise the jack until
the wheel is free of the ground.
a
The vehicle jack is designed for
changing tires only. Never use it to raise
another vehicle model or a load of an-
other kind, since that could result in ac-
cidents and personal injury.
Never lie beneath the vehicle when it is
supported by the jack Ð risk of fatal inju-
ry!c
6 Unscrew the lug bolts and remove the
wheel.
360de108
365de061
360de109
Changing tires

14 8
7 Lift the new or spare tire into posi-
tion, secure by screwing at least two
lug bolts into opposite sockets and
remove the alignment tool.
8 Screw in the remaining lug bolts,
then tighten down all the lug bolts,
working in a cross pattern.
9 Lower the vehicle, remove the jack
and screw the cover back into the
jack opening with the screwdriver.
10 Tighten the lug bolts, working in a
cross pattern.
a
To ensure safety, have the lug
bolts tested with a calibrated torque
wrench (torque specification is 72 lbs-ft/
100 Nm) at the earliest opportunity. If
you have mounted a new wheel
(e.g., the spare tire) for the first time,
check the lug nut torque after approx.
600 miles (1,000 km).c
11 Mount wheel cover. Position the
wheel cover with the valve opening
over the valve stem in the rim and
press with both hands starting from
the valve stem and moving around
the entire circumference of the
wheel cover.When storing the wheel, ensure that
you do not damage the retaining pin in
the spare tire recess.
When light-alloy wheels other than
Original BMW light-alloy wheels are fit-
ted to the car, it may be necessary to
use different lug bolts.
Have the defective tire repaired and
balanced at the earliest opportunity.
360de110
BMW
360de111
Changing tires