2006 BMW M5 Owner's Manual - Page 108
2006 BMW M5 Manual
Page 108 highlights
Things to remember when driving Braking safely Your BMW is equipped with ABS as a standard feature. In situations that require it, it is best to brake with full force. Since the vehicle maintains steering responsiveness, you can still avoid possible obstacles with a minimum of steering effort. The pulsing of he brake pedal indicates that the ABS is controlling braking. In certain braking situations the perforated brake rotors can cause operating noises which, however, have not effect on the performance and operating safety of the brake system. Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake pedal. Even light but consistent pedal pressure can lead to high temperatures, brake wear and possibly even brake failure.< Corrosion on brake rotors When the vehicle is driven only occasionally, during extended periods when the vehicle is not used at all, and in operating conditions where brake applications are less frequent, there is an increased tendency for corrosion to form on rotors, while contaminants accumulate on the brake pads. This occurs because the minimum pressure which must be exerted by the pads during brake applications to clean the rotors is not reached. Should corrosion form on the brake rotors, the brakes will tend to respond with a pulsating effect that even extended application will fail to cure. When vehicle is parked Condensation forms in the air conditioner system during operation, and then exits under the vehicle. Traces of condensed water under the vehicle are therefore normal. Driving in wet conditions When roads are wet or there is heavy rain, briefly exert gentle pressure on the brake pedal every few miles. Monitor traffic conditions to ensure that this maneuver does not endanger other road users. The heat generated in this process helps dry the pads and rotors to ensure that full braking efficiency will then be available when you need it. Before driving into a car wash Fold in the exterior mirrors, refer to page 46, otherwise they could be damaged due to the width of the vehicle. General information on the care and maintenance of your BMW is contained in the Caring for your vehicle brochure. Hills To prevent overheating and the resulting reduced efficiency of the brake system, drive long or steep downhill gradients in the gear in which the least braking is required. Even light but consistent pressure on the brake pedal can lead to high temperatures, brake wear and possibly even brake failure.< Do not drive in idle or with the engine switched off, otherwise there will be no engine braking action or support of the braking force and steering. Never allow floor mats, carpets or any other objects to protrude into the area of movement of the pedals and impair their operation.< Ground clearance Ensure that sufficient ground clearance is available. To drive down curbs, select the "Sport" program of the EDC Electronic Damping Control, refer to page 76, to keep the ground clearance as uniform as possible. Otherwise the vehicle may be damaged.< Cargo loading To avoid loading the tires beyond their approved carrying capacity, never overload the vehicle. Overloading can lead to overheating and increases the rate at which damage develops inside the tires. The ultimate result can assume the form of a sudden blow-out.< 106 Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 012 213 - © 02/06 BMW AG