2007 BMW 3 Series Owner's Manual - Page 242

Giving and receiving assistance With a tow rope When starting off in the towing vehicle, make sure that the tow rope is taut. To avoid jerking and the associated stresses on vehicle components when towing, always use nylon ropes or nylon straps. Attach the tow rope to the tow fittings only, as attaching it to other parts of the vehicle could result in damage.< Tow-starting Avoid tow-starting the vehicle whenever possible; instead, jump-start the engine, refer to page 237. Vehicles with a catalytic converter should only be tow-started when the engine is cold, vehicles with an automatic transmission cannot be tow-started at all. 1. Switch on hazard warning flashers, comply with local regulations. 2. Switch on the ignition, refer to page 59. 3. Shift into 3rd gear. 4. Have the vehicle tow-started with the clutch depressed and slowly release the clutch. After the engine starts, immediately depress the clutch completely again. 5. Stop at a suitable location, remove the tow bar or rope and switch off the hazard warning flashers. 6. Have the vehicle checked. With xDrive: do not activate Hill Descent Control HDC when the vehicle is being tow-started, page 91.< With a tow truck: vehicle without xDrive Have the BMW transported with a tow truck with a so-called lift bar or on a flat bed. Do not tow the vehicle with just the rear axle raised as this may cause the steering to turn. Do not lift the vehicle by a tow fitting or body and chassis parts, otherwise damage may result.< With a tow truck: vehicle with xDrive Do not tow a BMW with xDrive with just the front or rear axle raised, otherwise the wheels could lock up and the transfer case could be damaged.< Have the BMW transported on a flatbed surface only. 240 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 0 013 670 - © 02/07 BMW AG