2006 BMW X3 Owner's Manual - Page 80
2006 BMW X3 Manual
Page 80 highlights
Things to remember when driving Safe braking Your BMW is equipped with ABS as standard equipment. In situations in which it is required, it is best to apply the brakes fully. Since the vehicle maintains steering responsiveness, you can nevertheless avoid possible obstacles with a minimum of steering effort. Pulsation at the brake pedal combined with sounds from the hydraulic circuits indicates to the driver that ABS is in its active mode. 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 minimal 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. Wet roads On wet roads or in heavy rain, briefly apply light pressure to the brake pedal every few miles. Watch traffic conditions to ensure that this maneuver does not endanger other road users. The heat that is generated by the brake applications helps to dry the brake pads and rotors. The full braking force will then be available when you need it. 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.< Hills To prevent overheating and reduced efficiency of the brake system, drive long or steep downhill grades in the gear in which the least braking is required. Otherwise, even light but continuous pressure on the brake can lead to high temperatures, brake wear and possibly even brake failure.< The braking action of the engine can be further intensified by downshifting, all the way down to first gear if need be. This strategy helps you avoid placing excessive loads on the brake system. Downshifting in manual mode of automatic transmission, refer to page 39. When descending hills slowly, use HDC Hill Descent Control, refer to page 49. Never drive with the clutch depressed, with the transmission in neutral, or with the engine switched off; otherwise, you will have neither the braking action of the engine or nor its power assistance to the brakes or steering. Never allow floor mats, carpeting, or other articles to protrude into the area around the brake or accelerator pedals and obstruct their movement.< 78 Determining load limit 1. Locate the following statement on your vehicle's placard*: The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX lbs. or YYY kg. Otherwise, the vehicle may be damaged and unstable driving conditions may result.< 2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle. Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 012 213 - © 02/06 BMW AG