fuel BMW X3 3.0I 2004 E83 Owner's Manual

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility

Contents
The fastest way to find specific topics is to
use the index, refer to page 119.

Using this Owner's Manual

4Notes

At a glance

10Cockpit

Controls

18Opening and closing
27Adjustments
34Transporting children safely
37Driving
45Everything under control
49Technology for comfort, convenience
and safety
57Lamps
60A congenial climate
66Practical interior accessories

Driving tips

76Things to remember when driving

Mobility

84Refueling
86Wheels and tires
92Under the engine hood
97Maintenance
98Laws and regulations
99Replacing components
107Giving and receiving assistance

Reference

114Technical data
117Everything from A to Z

Notes

6

For your own safety

Fuels

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 Ð will not void the applicable
warranties respecting defects in materials
or workmanship. Field experience has indi-
cated significant differences in fuel quality Ð
i.e. volatility, composition, additives, etc. Ð
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 prob-
lems 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 recommenda-
tions may result in unscheduled mainte-
nance.
Follow the relevant safety rules when you
are handling gasoline.

<

Maintenance and repair

Advanced technology, e.g. the use of
modern materials and high-perfor-
mance electronics, requires specially
adapted maintenance and repair methods.
Therefore, only have corresponding work
on your BMW carried out by a BMW Sports
Activity Vehicle Center or a workshop that
works according to BMW repair proce-
dures with correspondingly trained person-
nel. If work is carried out improperly, there
is a danger of consequential damage and
the related safety risks.

<



Parts and accessories

For your own safety, use genuine
parts and accessories approved by
BMW.
When you purchase accessories tested
and approved by BMW and Genuine BMW
Parts, you simultaneously acquire the
assurance that they have been thoroughly
tested by BMW to ensure optimum perfor-
mance 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 dam-
ages 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 occu-
pants.
Genuine BMW Parts, BMW Accessories
and other products approved by BMW,
together with professional advice on using
these items, are available from all BMW
Sports Activity Vehicle Centers.
Installation and operation of non-BMW
approved accessories such as alarms,
radios, amplifiers, radar detectors, wheels,
suspension components, brake dust
shields, telephones Ð including operation of
any portable phone from within the vehicle
without using an externally mounted
antenna Ð or transceiver equipment, for
instance, CBs, walkie-talkie, ham radio or
similar accessories, 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 Sports
Activity Vehicle Center for additional infor-
mation.

<

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

<

At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility Reference

11

Instrument cluster

1

Speedometer

2

Indicator and warning lamps12

3

Tachometer45
with indicator and warning lamps12

4

Coolant temperature gauge45

5

Fuel gauge45

6

Button for

>

Displaying the time46

>

Service Interval Display46

7

Selector lever and program display for
automatic transmission40

8

Button for

>

Resetting trip odometer45

>

Setting the time46

9

Display for

>

Trip odometer/odometer45

>Time46
>Service Interval 46
>Computer47

Opening and closing
18
Opening and closing
Key set
1Master keys with remote control deter-
mine the functions of the Key Memory,
refer to page 33.
You can mark the keys using the col-
ored decals you received on taking
delivery of the vehicle
There is an extended-life battery
in every master key which is
charged automatically in the ignition
lock as you drive.
If you have any master keys that are not
being used on a regular basis, you
should therefore remember to recharge
these units by using them to drive the
vehicle for an extended period at least
once a year.<
2Spare key for storage in a safe place,
such as in your wallet.
This key cannot be used to open the
lock for the glove compartment. This is
an advantage, e.g. at a hotel. The key is
not intended for constant use.
Central locking system
The concept
The central locking system is ready for
operation whenever the driver's door is
closed. The system engages or releases
the locks on the
>doors
>tailgate >fuel filler door.
The central locking system can be oper-
ated from the outside
>via the remote control
>via the driver's door lock
and from inside via the button for the cen-
tral locking system.
When the system is locked from inside, the
fuel filler door remains unlocked, refer to
page 20.
The anti-theft system is automatically acti-
vated whenever you activate the central
locking system from outside the vehicle.
This prevents the doors from being
unlocked via the safety lock buttons or
door handles. The alarm system is also
armed or disarmed.
In an accident, the central locking system
automatically unlocks the vehicle. In addi-
tion, the hazard warning flashers and inte-
rior lamps switch on.
You can have an acknowledgment
signal set to confirm that the vehicle is
correctly locked.<
Opening and closing Ð from
outside
Using the remote control
The remote control provides two additional
functions for the central locking system:
>Switching on the interior lamps, refer to
page 19.
You can also use this function to locate
your vehicle in parking garages etc.
>Opening the tailgate, refer to page 19.
The tailgate will open slightly, regard-
less of whether it was previously locked
or unlocked.

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
19
In addition, the remote control offers you
another function:
>Panic mode
In case of danger, you can trigger an
alarm.
When you engage/release the vehicle
locks, you simultaneously activate/deacti-
vate the anti-theft system, arm/disarm the
alarm system, and switch the interior lamps
on/off.
As a reminder that the ignition key is
still in the ignition lock after you open
the driver's door, you can have a sound sig-
nal set.<
Protect the remote control against
unauthorized use by handing over
only the spare key, for example when using
hotel valet parking.<
Because any persons or animals left
unattended in a parked vehicle could
lock the doors from the inside, you should
always take the vehicle's keys with you so
that the vehicle can be opened again from
the outside at any time.<
Unlocking
Press the button.
Press the button once to unlock the driverÕs
door only; press a second time to unlock all
remaining doors as well as the tailgate and
the fuel filler door.
Convenience opening mode
Press and hold the button. The windows
and the sliding panel of the panorama glass
roof are opened.
Press the button a second time and hold.
The panorama glass roof is opened.
If you desire, you can have this spe-
cial feature activated/deactivated on
a vehicle-specific basis.<
Locking and securing
Press the button.
If you desire, the vehicle locks auto-
matically if no door or lid is opened
after unlocking. You may have this function
set on a vehicle-specific basis if you wish.<
Switching off the tilt alarm sensor*
and interior motion sensor*
Press the button once again directly
after locking.
For details, refer to page 25.
Switching on the interior lamps
If the vehicle is locked, press the
button.
Panic mode*
By pressing and holding the button for
more than approx. two seconds, you can
trigger the alarm system in response to any
impending danger.
To switch off the alarm: press any of the
buttons.
Unlocking tailgate
Press the button.
The tailgate will open slightly, regardless of
whether it was previously locked or
unlocked.
Before and after a trip, ensure that the
tailgate has not been opened uninten-
tionally.
A previously locked tailgate is also locked
after closing.<
If you desire, the tailgate can only be
opened using the remote control if the
vehicle is unlocked. This can be adjusted.<
Malfunctions
The remote control system may be affected
by other units or equipment operating in
the immediate vicinity of your vehicle.
Should the remote control fail to operate
owing to interference of this kind, you can
respond by using the master key to unlock
your vehicle at one of the doors.
In case of faults, please contact your BMW
Sports Activity Vehicle Center. You can
also obtain replacement keys there.
If it is no longer possible to lock the vehicle
via the remote control, the battery is dis-
charged. Use this remote control during an
extended drive; this will recharge the bat-
tery, refer to page 18.

Opening and closing
20
For US owners only
The transmitter and receiver units comply
with part 15 of the FCC Ð Federal Commu-
nications Commission Ð regulations. Oper-
ation is governed by the following:
FCC ID: LX8EWS
LX8FZVS
LX8FZVE
Compliance statement:
This device complies with part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the fol-
lowing two conditions:
>This device may not cause harmful
interference, and
>this device must accept any interfer-
ence received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Any unauthorized modifications or
changes to these devices could void
the user's authority to operate the equip-
ment.<
Using the door lock
One turn of the key in the driver's door lock
unlocks the driver's door only.
Turning the key a second time unlocks all of
the remaining doors, the tailgate and the
fuel filler door.
You can have a signal set to confirm
that the vehicle's locks have engaged
securely.<
Convenience operation
You also have the option of operating the
windows and the panorama glass roof from
the driver's door lock.>To open:
With the door closed, turn the key to the
Unlock position and hold it there.
>To close:
With the door closed, turn the key to the
Lock position and hold it there.
Watch during the closing process to
be sure that no one is injured. Releas-
ing the key stops the operation.<
Manual operation
In the event of an electrical defect:
You can turn the key all the way to the
right or left in the door lock to lock or
unlock the driver's door.
Opening and closing Ð from
inside
You can use this button to operate the cen-
tral locking system when the front doors
are closed. With this button, only the doors
and the tailgate are unlocked or locked.
The anti-theft system is not activated.
If only the driver's door was unlocked
from the outside and you press the
button, then, with the driver's door still
open, the passenger-side door, the tailgate
and the fuel filler door will also unlock.
If the driver's door is closed, it will be
locked.<
The central locking system locks
automatically after driving off. This
can be adjusted to be vehicle-specific or
key-specific.<

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
33
Vehicle Memory,
Key Memory
How the system functions
You have probably frequently wished that
you could configure individual functions of
your vehicle to reflect your own personal
requirements. In developing your vehicle,
BMW has incorporated a number of
options for personal adjustment. You can
have these programmed at your BMW
Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
There are vehicle-related and person-
related adjustments: Vehicle Memory and
Key Memory. You can configure up to four
different basic adjustments for four differ-
ent persons. The only requirement is that
each person uses his or her own master
key with remote control.
When your vehicle is unlocked with the
remote control, the vehicle recognizes the
individual user by means of a data
exchange with the key, and makes adjust-
ments accordingly.
In order for you to distinguish between the
remote control master keys, colored decals
are supplied together with the keys.
What the system can do
Your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center
can provide you with details on the capabil-
ities of the Vehicle Memory and Key Mem-
ory systems.
You will see this symbol throughout
the Owner's Manual. It is to remind
you at appropriate places of the settings
that are available to you.<
Examples of Vehicle Memory
functions
>Different acknowledgment signals to
confirm locking/unlocking of the vehi-
cle, refer to page 18
>Activate/deactivate function for path-
way lighting, refer to page 57
>Activate/deactivate daytime driving
lamps, refer to page 57
>Setting measurement units for displays
in the instrument cluster of the time,
outside temperature, distance driven
and fuel consumption, refer to page 47
>Active PDC is indicated by an acoustic
sound signal when reverse gear or
selector-lever position R is engaged,
refer to page 49
>The rear window defroster switches on
automatically, refer to page 61
>Different acknowledgment signals to
confirm arming/disarming the alarm
system, refer to page 25
>After an ice warning has been issued,
the display of the computer returns to
the previous adjustment, refer to
page 47
>Acoustic warning if the ignition key
remains in the ignition lock after the
driver's door has been opened, refer to
page 21.
Examples of Key Memory functions
>On unlocking, first unlock the driver's
door, then the entire vehicle, refer to
page 19
>Locking the vehicle after moving off,
refer to page 20
>Automatic adjustment of the driver's
seat and exterior mirror position for
each person when unlocking the vehi-
cle, refer to page 30
>Angle of downward tilt of mirror on pas-
senger side, refer to page 32.

Driving
38 sion control system components, espe-
cially the catalytic converter.
Service Engine Soon indicator lamp
for Canadian models.
Malfunction in the engine electron-
ics.
You can continue to drive with
reduced engine output or engine speed.
Please have it checked by your BMW
Sports Activity Vehicle Center.
Starting the engine
When starting the engine, do not press the
accelerator pedal.
Vehicles with manual transmission:
Step on the clutch when starting the
vehicle. A lockout prevents the engine from
starting if the clutch is not depressed.<
Do not actuate the starter for too
short a time. Do not turn it for more
than approx. 20 seconds. Release the igni-
tion key immediately as soon as the engine
starts.<
If the engine fails to start on the first
attempt, for instance, if it is very hot or cold:
>Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
During a cold start at very low tempera-
tures, as of approx. +57/Ð156, at high
altitudes over 3,300 ft/1,000 m:
>For the first attempt, run the start for
longer, approx. 10 seconds
>Press the accelerator pedal halfway
down while engaging the starter.
Avoid frequent starting is quick suc-
cession or repeated start attempts in
which the engine does not start. Otherwise,
the fuel is not burned or inadequately
burned and there is a danger of overheat-
ing and damaging the catalytic converter.<
Manual transmission
1.Engage the handbrake
2.Gearshift lever in idle position
3.Press the clutch pedal
4.Start the engine.Before leaving the vehicle with the
engine running, place the gearshift
lever in idle position and apply the hand-
brake.
Never leave an unattended vehicle with the
engine running, as such a vehicle repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.<
Automatic transmission
1.Press the brake pedal
2.Place the selector lever in position P
or N
3.Start the engine.
To prevent the vehicle from rolling,
always select position P and engage
the handbrake before leaving the vehicle
with the engine running.
Never leave an unattended vehicle with the
engine running, as such a vehicle repre-
sents a potential safety hazard.<
Switching off the engine
Do not remove the ignition key when
the vehicle is moving, as otherwise
the steering could lock.
When leaving the vehicle, always remove
the ignition key and lock the steering.
When parking on downward inclines, apply
the handbrake.<
Manual transmission
Turn the ignition key to position 1 or 0.
Automatic transmission
Engage selector-lever position P, turn igni-
tion key to position 1 or 0.
Handbrake
The handbrake is primarily intended to pre-
vent the vehicle from rolling while parked; it
brakes the rear wheels.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp lights up from
ignition switch position 2 with the
handbrake set Ð an acoustic signal
also sounds when starting off.

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
45
Everything under control
Odometer
1Odometer
2Trip odometer
Odometer
You can activate the displays shown in the
illustration in ignition key position 0 or with
the ignition key removed by pressing the
button in the instrument cluster.
Trip odometer
To reset to zero:
1.Ignition key in position 1
2.Press the button until the trip odometer
is reset to zero.
Tachometer
Engine speeds in the red warning field
must be avoided.
In this range, the fuel supply is interrupted
to protect the engine.
Fuel gauge
If the indicator lamp 1 starts to light up con-
tinuously, there are approx. 2 gallons /
8 liters of fuel in the tank.
Fuel tank capacity:
approx. 17.7 gallons/67 liters.
If the tilt of the vehicle varies, when you are
driving in mountainous areas, for example,
the indicator may fluctuate slightly.
Refuel well before the tank is empty,
as otherwise engine functions will not
be ensured and damage can occur if you
drive down to the last drop.<
When you switch on the ignition, the indi-
cator lamp comes on briefly to confirm that
the system is operational.
Coolant temperature gauge
Blue
The engine is still cold. Drive at moderate
engine and vehicle speeds.

Reference
At a glance
Controls
Driving tips
Mobility
47
Setting the time
As of ignition key position 1:
Hours
1.Hold button 2 pressed for a few sec-
onds until the hours are displayed and
the colon flashes
2.Press button 1 repeatedly until the
desired hour is set
Minutes
3.Press button 2 to change to the minute
display
4.Press button 1 repeatedly until the
desired minutes are set
5.Press button 2 to confirm the time.
The set time is transferred to the display of
the radio or displayed in the instrument
cluster.
Display mode
Ignition key in position 0 or removed:
Press button 1.
The time and display of the miles/kilome-
ters appear for a few seconds.
Computer*
Mode selection
As of ignition key position 1, you can call
up information from the computer using the
button in the turn signal indicator lever. By
pressing the button briefly in the direction
of the steering column, you can call up a
new function for display.
The displays appear in the following order:
Time, outside temperature, average fuel
consumption, cruising range, average
speed.
As of ignition key position 1, the last active
setting is displayed.
If you desire, you can display the fol-
lowing functions in a different unit.<
Outside temperature
Changing the unit of measure 7/6
During the display, hold down the button in
the turn indicator lever until the display
changes.
Ice warning
If the outside temperature falls below
approx. +37.57 /+36, the computer
switches automatically to the outside tem-