2007 BMW X3 Owner's Manual - Page 86
2007 BMW X3 Manual
Page 86 highlights
Things to remember when driving Roof-mounted luggage rack* A special rack system is available as an optional accessory for your BMW. Please familiarize yourself with the information contained in the installation instructions. > Always adapt your driving speed to the road conditions. The more steep and uneven the roadway is, the lower the speed should be. > You can operate your vehicle on uphill and downhill gradients with a maximum slope of 50%. If you wish to drive on uphill and downhill grades of this nature, make sure beforehand that the engine oil and coolant levels are near the MAX mark, refer to pages 99 and 101. > When descending very steep hills, use HDC Hill Descent Control, refer to page 51. It is possible to start off on inclines of up to 32%. The permitted side tilt is 32%. > While driving, watch carefully for obstacles such as rocks or holes. Try to avoid these obstacles whenever possible. > Avoid having the body make contact with the ground, e.g. on the crests of hills and bumpy roads. The ground clearance of the vehicle is a maximum of approx. 8.0 in/ 20 cm. Please be aware that the ground clearance can vary depending on the load and operating conditions of the vehicle. > Do not drive in water that is deeper than 20 in/50 cm. If you must drive through water up to that depth, drive at a walking speed and do not stop. After leaving the water, press on the footbrake gently several times while driving at a low speed. The brake applications will help to dry the brakes, thus preventing a reduction in braking performance caused by the moisture. To clean the handbrake, apply the lever slightly at approx. 25 mph/40 km/h and continue to drive for approx. 200 yards/ 200 meters, provided that traffic conditions allow you to do so. > Depending on the road condition, it can be useful to temporarily activate DTC, refer to DTC Dynamic Traction Control on page 51. > If the drive wheels spin on one side, depress the accelerator pedal far enough to permit the driving stability control systems to dis- Loading luggage rack Because roof racks raise the vehicle's center of gravity when loaded, they have a major effect on its handling and steering response. You should therefore always remember not to exceed the approved roof load capacity, the approved gross vehicle weight, or the axle loads when loading the rack. These specifications can be found under Weights on page 122. The roof load must be evenly distributed and must not extend outward beyond the limits of the loading surface. Always stow the heaviest pieces on the bottom. Be sure that adequate clearance is maintained for raising the glass sunroof and that objects do not project into the opening path of the liftgate. Secure roof-mounted cargo correctly and securely to prevent it from shifting or falling off while you drive. Drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking maneuvers. Take corners gently. Driving on poor roads Your X3 is at home on all paved and unpaved roads. It combines all-wheel drive with the advantages of a normal passenger car. Driving on unpaved terrain can cause damage to the vehicle.< When you are driving on poor roads, there are a few points which you should strictly observe - for your own safety and that of your passengers, as well as to protect the vehicle: > Familiarize yourself with the vehicle before you begin driving. Do not take risks with the vehicle under any circumstances. 84 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 0 013 638 - © 03/07 BMW AG