2007 BMW 5 Series Owner's Manual - Page 250

Giving and receiving assistance Manual transmission Gearshift lever in neutral position. With 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. Only attach tow ropes to the tow fittings, as attachment to other vehicle parts can lead to damage.< Automatic and sport automatic transmission Before towing, manually release the transmission lock, even if there is no malfunction in the transmission. Otherwise there is a risk that the transmission lock will automatically be engaged during towing.< Manually unlocking and locking transmission lock, refer to page 64. Do not exceed a towing speed of 45 mph/ 70 km/h and a towing distance of 90 miles/150 km, otherwise the automatic transmission may be damaged.< With tow truck Towing methods Do not lift vehicle by tow fitting or body and chassis parts, otherwise damage may result.< In some countries, towing with tow bars or ropes in public traffic is not permitted. Familiarize yourself with the regulations on towing in the respective country. Have the BMW transported with a tow truck with a so-called lift bar or on a flat bed. With tow truck for 528xi, 535xi 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.< With tow bar The towing vehicle may not be lighter than the vehicle to be towed, otherwise it will not be possible to reliably control vehicle response.< The tow fittings used should be on the same side on both vehicles. Should it prove impossible to avoid mounting the tow bar at an offset angle, please observe the following: > Clearance and maneuvering capability will be sharply limited during cornering. > When mounted at an angle, the tow bar will exert lateral forces, tending to push the vehicle sideways. Only attach the tow bar to the tow fittings, as attachment to other vehicle parts can lead to damage.< Have the vehicle transported on a flatbed surface only. 248 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 0 013 308 02/07 BMW AG