2009 BMW 3 Series Owner's Manual - Page 118

Things to remember when driving Things to remember when driving Break-in period Moving parts need breaking-in time to adjust to each other. Please follow the instructions below in order to achieve the optimal service life and economy of operation for your vehicle. Following part replacement The same break-in procedures should be observed if any of the components mentioned above have to be renewed in the course of the vehicle's operating life. Engine and differential Always obey all official speed limits. Saving fuel The fuel consumption of your vehicle depends on several factors. You can lower fuel consumption and the environmental impact by taking certain measures, adjusting your driving style and having the vehicle serviced regularly. Up to 1,200 miles/2,000 km Drive at varying engine and road speeds but do not exceed: > Gasoline engine 4,500 rpm or 100 mph/160 km/h > Diesel engine 3,500 rpm or 93 mph/150 km/h Avoid full-throttle operation and use of the transmission's kickdown mode. Remove any unneeded cargo Additional weight increases fuel consumption. Remove any mounted parts after you have finished using them Remove unneeded additional mirrors, the roof rack and the rear luggage rack after use. Mounted parts affect the vehicle's aerodynamics and increase fuel consumption. After driving 1,200 miles/2,000 km Engine and vehicle speeds can be gradually increased. Tires Due to technical factors associated with their manufacture, tires do not achieve their full traction potential until after an initial break-in period. Therefore, drive cautiously during the first 200 miles/300 km. Close the windows and glass roof An open glass roof or window causes higher air resistance and thus increases fuel consumption. Check tire inflation pressure regularly Check the tire inflation pressure at least twice a month and before embarking on a long journey, and correct it if necessary. Low tire inflation pressure causes higher rolling resistance and thus increases fuel consumption and tire wear. Brake system Brakes require an initial break-in period of approx. 300 miles/500 km to achieve optimized contact and wear patterns between brake pads and rotors. Drive cautiously during this break-in period. Clutch The function of the clutch reaches its optimal level only after a distance driven of approx. 300 miles/500 km. During this break-in period, engage the clutch gently. 116 Set off immediately Do not let the engine warm up while the car is still standing, but set off immediately at moderate engine speed. This is the fastest way for the cold engine to reach its operating temperature. Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 603 048 - © 08/09 BMW AG