2007 BMW M5 Owner's Manual - Page 224

Giving and receiving assistance Being towed Make sure that the ignition is switched on, refer to page 55, otherwise the low beams, tail lamps, turn signals and windshield wipers would not be available. Do not tow the vehicle with the rear axle raised, as otherwise the steering can turn to the left or right. When the engine is stopped, there is no power assist. This then requires increased effort for braking and steering.< Switch on the hazard warning flashers depending on the local regulations. If the electrical system fails, mark the vehicle to be towed, e.g. with a sign or warning triangle in the rear window. > 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.< 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.< Manual transmission Gearshift lever in neutral position. With tow truck Sequential Manual Transmission with Drivelogic Make sure that selector lever position N is engaged with the ignition switched on, as otherwise the engine can be damaged during towing.< Do not tow the vehicle with only the front or rear axle raised, as otherwise the engine may be damaged or the steering can turn to the left or right.< 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 vehicle transported on a flatbed surface only. 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. Tow-starting Do not tow-start the vehicle if possible, but instead start the engine by means of jump starting, refer to page 220. With a catalytic converter, the vehicle should only be tow-started with the engine cold. 222 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 0 013 310 - © 02/07 BMW AG