2008 BMW X6 Owner's Manual - Page 132

Things to remember when driving > Wrap sharp-edged or pointed objects which could strike the rear window while driving. Roof-mounted luggage rack* A special rack system is available as an option for your BMW. Please comply with the precautions included with the installation instructions. Securing cargo > Use the luggage net*, retaining straps*, or securing straps to hold down small and lightweight luggage and cargo. Loading roof-mounted 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. You can find the specified weights under Weights on page 260. The load on the roof 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 to maintain adequate clearance for the raising of 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 during the trip. Drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking maneuvers. Take corners gently. > For larger and heavier pieces, heavy-duty cargo straps* are available from your BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Center. Four lashing eyes* mounted in the cargo bay are used to secure these heavy-duty cargo straps, refer to illustration. > Please observe the special instructions supplied with the heavy-duty cargo straps. Position and secure the cargo as described above, so that it cannot endanger the car's occupants, for example if sudden braking or evasive maneuvers are necessary. Use only the lashing eyes*, refer to illustration, to secure the heavy-duty cargo straps; otherwise, the cargo straps could come loose or the vehicle could be damaged. Never exceed either the approved gross vehicle weight or either of the approved axle loads, refer to page 260, as excessive loads can pose a safety hazard, and may also place you in violation of traffic safety laws. You should never transport unsecured heavy or hard objects in the passenger compartment, as they could fly around and pose a safety hazard to the vehicle's occupants during abrupt braking or evasive maneuvers.< Driving on poor roads Your BMW is at home on all roads and surfaces. It combines a 4-wheel drive system with the advantages of a normal passenger car. Do not drive on unpaved terrain, as otherwise the vehicle may be damaged.< When you are driving on poor roads, there are a few points which you should strictly observe for your own safety, for that of your passengers, and for the safety of the vehicle: > Familiarize yourself with the vehicle before driving off and avoid taking risks at all costs. > Adapt your driving speed to the road conditions. The steeper and rougher the road surface is, the lower the speed should be. 130 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 0 015 021 - © 11/07 BMW AG