ESP BMW M ROADSTER COUPE 2001 Owner's Guide

122n
Caring for your vehicle AirbagsTo 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
your BMW center.<
Cleaning agents can contain
substances which are dangerous
or which pose health risks. Therefore,
always comply with the warnings and
danger notices on the package.
Open the doors or windows on your
vehicle when cleaning the interior
(when the roadster's convertible top is
closed). Never clean your vehicle with
solvents or other materials not specifi-
cally intended for this application.<
1 Front airbags on the driver and
passenger side
2 Side airbags on the driver and
passenger sideImportant safety notices
Do not attempt to remove the gas
generators of the airbag restraint
system from the vehicle or to disas-
semble them.
Have inspection and service proce-
dures performed by specially-trained
personnel only.
If the airbag restraint system malfunc-
tions, is deactivated or triggered as a
response to an accident, have the
system repaired or disassembled by a
BMW center only.
36mde786
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 adhe-
sive 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 emer-
gency or undesired airbag activation,
either of which could result in personal
injury.<
ProCarManuals.com

123n
IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
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 storageHave 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 tempera-
ture. As an additional corrosion
protection measure, a corrosion
inhibitor can be added to the engine
in accordance with the manufac-
turer's instructions.
3 Check the coolant level and concen-
tration and top up if necessary.
4 Check the fluid level of the wind-
shield washer fluid reservoir; top up if
necessary.
5 Fill the fuel tank completely to
prevent the formation of condensa-
tion.
6 Increase the tire inflation pressure to
51 psi (350 kPa).Before parking the vehicle for
storage1 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. Chock the
wheels to prevent the vehicle from
rolling if necessary. Do not apply the
parking brake.
3 Remove the battery, charge it
completely and store it in a cool (but
frost-free) room.
M roadster:
4 Remove the hardtop
* and store it
separately. Refer to page 97.
5 Close the convertible top.
During storageRecharge 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
storageRecharge the battery if the "Magic Eye"
turns black. Refer to page 141.
Then have Inspection I performed by
your BMW center, including a brake
fluid replacement if necessary. Refer to
the Service Manual.
ProCarManuals.com

125n
IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
OBD connectorThe connector for the Onboard Diag-
nostic system (OBD) is located in the
center console under a cover on the
passenger's side (arrow).
The purpose of the OBD system is to
ensure proper operation of the emis-
sion control system throughout the
vehicle's lifetime by monitoring emis-
sion-related components and systems
for deterioration and malfunction.367us235
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 subse-
quently tightened, the indicator should
go out within a few days.<
ProCarManuals.com

132n
Lamps and bulbs1 Lift up the luggage compartment floor
mat.
2 To release, turn the mounting clips
(arrows) of the trim panel on the rear
wall of the luggage compartment
approx. f turn with a coin or screw-
driver.
3 Pull out the clips and remove the trim
panel.367de322
M coupe
4 Turn the corresponding bulb holder
to the left (arrow) and remove it.
5 Press gently while turning the defec-
tive bulb 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 reverse
order:
Insert the clips and turn them f turn
to secure them.367us630
M coupe
Center (high-mount) brake lamp –
M roadsterSeven lamps at 5 watts each
1 Open the luggage compartment lid.
2 Remove the cover (use a screwdriver
if necessary).
3 Press gently while turning the defec-
tive bulb to the left and remove it.
4 Pull the bulb out of the bulb socket
and replace.
5 Install in the reverse order.367de074
M roadster
ProCarManuals.com

139n
IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
Repairing a flat tire
If the inflation pressure won't hold,
carry out step 10 anyway and then
repeat steps 7 through 10 again.
The use of the M Mobility system may
be ineffective if the damaged area in
the tire is larger than approx.
0.15 in (4 mm). Please consult the
nearest BMW center if the tire cannot
be temporarily repaired with the
M Mobility system.<
10 Unscrew the hose from the valve
and stow the M Mobility system in
the luggage compartment.
After the flat tire has been fixed and you
start driving again, do not exceed a
maximum speed of 50 mph (80 km/h).
You will find corresponding instructions
for using the M Mobility system on the
device.
Replace the defective tire as soon as
possible and have the new wheel
balanced. Re-initialize the Tire Pressure
Warning (RDW) system, refer to
page 67 for further information. Have
the M Mobility system refilled. Contact
your BMW center for this.
ProCarManuals.com

140n
Battery
Battery posts, terminals and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds. Wash hands after
handling.<
Battery locationThe battery is located in the luggage
compartment under the floor mat and a
cover.
To make the battery accessible, lift up
or remove the floor mat, unscrew the
nuts of the cover (arrows) and remove
the cover.36mde779
Z3 d Z3
MaintenanceThe battery is completely maintenance-
free. That means that the original elec-
trolyte will normally last for the service
life of the battery under moderate
climatic conditions.SymbolsYou will find the following symbols on
your vehicle battery. To avoid injury,
please comply with the corresponding
precautions whenever you work with or
near the battery.
Please read the following infor-
mation before working with the
battery.
Wear eye protection. Do not
allow particles containing
battery acid or lead to come into
contact with your eyes, your skin, or
your clothing.
Battery acid is extremely corro-
sive. Wear eye protection and
protective gloves. Do not tip the
battery. Battery acid can leak from the
ventilation openings.
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 elec-
trical equipment. Turn the key to posi-
tion 0 in the ignition lock when the
battery is disconnected or connected.
Do not short circuit the battery termi-
nals. This creates a risk of personal
injury from high-voltage sparks.
A highly-explosive gas is gener-
ated when the battery is charged.
If acid is accidentally splashed
into your eyes, rinse them thor-
oughly for 15 minutes with clear
water. Following that, consult a physi-
cian immediately. If acid splashes onto
your skin or clothing, rinse immediately
with ample clean water. If acid is acci-
dentally swallowed, consult a physi-
cian 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.
ProCarManuals.com

141n
IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
BatteryCharge condition 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. < 36mde780
Charging the batteryCharge the battery in the vehicle only
when the engine is off. Charge the
battery by using the connectors in the
engine compartment (Connectors, refer
to jump-starting on page 144).
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.
If you intend to store your vehicle 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 123.
Return used batteries to a recy-
cling point or your BMW center.
Maintain the battery in an upright posi-
tion for transport and storage. Secure
the battery against tilting when trans-
porting.<
ProCarManuals.com

142n
Battery FusesRemoval and installation
Do not disconnect the battery
cables when the engine is running.
If you do so, the ensuing voltage surge
will damage the vehicle's onboard elec-
tronics.
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 guaran-
teed. Repair and disposal must be
performed by trained technicians only.<
When removing the battery, disconnect
the cable on the negative terminal first,
then the cable on the positive terminal.
Unscrew the battery retaining clamp.
When installing the battery, connect the
positive terminal first, then connect the
negative terminal.
When installing a battery and
cover, be sure that they are
mounted properly. If this is not done,
the battery will not be adequately
secured in case of an accident.<
If an electrical accessory fails, 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.
1 Press the retaining flap in and lift off
the cover.
2 Use the plastic tweezers to remove
the fuse for the accessory or equip-
ment 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).36mde795
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 over-
load.<
If a fuse burns through again, have the
source of the fault checked and
corrected by a BMW center.
ProCarManuals.com

151n
IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
Highly sensitive sensors monitor the
number of revolutions of the wheels,
steering angle, lateral acceleration,
brake pressure and the movement of
the vehicle around its vertical axis.
If differences in wheel revolutions
should occur, the system will recognize
the potential danger this loss of traction
can cause and reduces the drive torque
going to the wheels. The system will
also apply the brakes to all four wheels,
if necessary.
In addition, DSC permanently monitors
the vehicle's current operating condi-
tion and compares it with an ideal
condition that is calculated from the
sensor's signals.
If conditions such as understeering or
oversteering should occur, DSC will
help stabilize the vehicle in fractions of
a second by reducing engine power
output, and applying the brakes to indi-
vidual wheels.
As a result, many dangerous skids can
be prevented even as they are just
beginning, within physically feasible
limits.You may need some time to become
accustomed to this system's interven-
tion. However, it provides optimum
drive force and vehicle stability.
The braking intervention may be
accompanied by a certain degree of
noise.
The safety belt tensioner responds to
severe frontal impacts 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 further reduce the
tendency to slide under the lap belt.
390de330
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Safety belt tensioner
ProCarManuals.com

152n
Interior rearview mirror with automatic dimming featureThe interior rearview mirror with auto-
matic dimming feature reduces blinding
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
is directed forward. It 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 367de398
changes in a semisolid layer incorpo-
rated in the lens.
The semisolid reacts chemically to this
electrical current, thus providing infi-
nitely variable dimming of the mirror
(electrochromic technology).
As a result, it is no longer necessary to
dim the inside rearview mirror manually,
and the driver can concentrate
completely on traffic conditions.
ProCarManuals.com