Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007-5 Series

The 2007-5 Series BMW comes with a variety of technology features for comfort, convenience, and safety. Some of these features include:

  • Automatic climate control: Allows you to set the temperature and airflow for the interior of the car, and the system will automatically maintain those settings.
  • Keyless entry and start: Allows you to unlock and start the car without having to take the key out of your pocket or purse.
  • Navigation system: A built-in GPS system that provides turn-by-turn directions and displays maps on the car’s dashboard screen.
  • Parking assist: Uses sensors to detect obstacles and alert the driver when the car is getting too close to something while reversing.
  • Reverse camera: Provides a view of the area behind the car, making it easier to back up and park.
  • Adaptive cruise control: Allows the car to maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front of it, automatically adjusting the speed to maintain that distance.
  • Lane departure warning: Alerts the driver if the car begins to drift out of its lane.
  • Automatic high beams: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on oncoming traffic.
  • Automatic wipers: Turns on the wipers automatically when it detects rain on the windshield.
  • Bluetooth and USB connectivity: Allows you to connect your smartphone or other devices to the car’s audio system for hands-free calling and streaming music.

PDC Park Distance Control*

The concept

The PDC assists you when you are parking. Acoustic signals and an optical display* alert you to the approach of an object from behind your vehicle. To measure the distance, there are four ultrasonic sensors in each bumper. The range of these sensors is approx. 7 ft/2 m. However, an acoustic warning first sounds for the sensors at the front and at the two rear corners at approx. 24 in/60 cm, and for the center rear sensors at approx. 5 ft/1.50 m.

⚠PDC is a parking aid that can indicate objects when they are approached slowly, as is usually the case when parking. Avoid approaching an object at high speed, otherwise the physical circumstances would mean that the system warning was too late.◀

Automatic activation

The system starts to operate approx. 1 second after you shift into reverse gear or move the selector lever into position R with the engine running or the ignition switched on. Wait this short time before driving off.

Manual activation
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series

Press the button, the LED lights up.

Manual deactivation

Press the button again; the LED goes out. After driving approx. 165 ft/50 m or at over approx. 20 mph/30 km/h, the system is switched off and the LED goes out. You can reactivate the system manually as needed.

Signal tones

When nearing an object, the position is correspondingly indicated by an interval tone. Thus, an object detected to the left rear of the vehicle will be indicated by a signal tone from the left rear speaker, etc. As the distance between vehicle and object decreases, the intervals between the tones become shorter. If the distance to the nearest object falls to below roughly 1 ft/30 cm, then a continuous tone sounds.

An intermittent tone is interrupted after approx. 3 seconds:

  • if you remain in front of an object that was only detected by one of the corner sensors
  • if you drive parallel to a wall
Malfunction

The LED in the button flashes and a message appears on the Control Display. PDC is malfunctioning. Have the system checked. To prevent this problem, keep the sensors clean and free of ice or snow in order to ensure
that they will continue to operate effectively. Do not spray the sensors with high-pressure cleaners for long periods and maintain a distance of at least 4 in/10 cm to them.

PDC with visual warning*

You can also have the system show distances to objects on the Control Display. Objects that are farther away are already shown there before a signal tone sounds. The setting is stored for the remote control currently in use.

  1. Press the MENU button. This opens the start menu.
  2. Press the controller to open the I menu.
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series1
  1. Turn the controller until “Settings” is selected and press the controller.
  2. Turn the controller until “Vehicle / Tires” is selected and press the controller.
  3. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the controller until “PDC” is selected and press
    the controller.
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series2
  1. Select “PDC display on” and press the controller.

✓The PDC screen is activated. The display appears on the Control Display as
soon as PDC is activated.

System limits

⚠Even with PDC, final responsibility for estimating the distance between the vehicle and any obstructions always remains with the driver. Even when sensors are provided, there is a blind spot in which objects can no longer be detected. The system is also subject to the physical limits that apply to all forms of ultrasonic measurement, such as those encountered with tow bars and trailer couplings, or thin and wedge-shaped objects etc.

Low objects already displayed, e.g. curbs, can also disappear from the detection area of the sensors again before or after a continuous tone already sounds. Higher, protruding objects, e.g. ledges, cannot be detected. Loud sources of sound, inside and outside the vehicle, could drown out the PDC signal tone.◀

Driving stability control systems

Your BMW is equipped with an extended array of systems designed to enhance and maintain vehicle stability under extreme conditions.

ABS Antilock Brake System

ABS prevents locking of the wheels during braking. Safe steering response is maintained even during full braking. Active safety is thus increased. The ABS is operational every time you start the engine.

CBC Cornering Brake Control

When braking during curves or when braking during a lane change, driving stability and steering response are improved further.

Electronic brake-force distribution

The system controls the brake pressure in the rear wheels to ensure stable braking behavior.

Brake assistant

When you apply the brakes rapidly, this system automatically produces the maximum braking force boost and thus helps to achieve the shortest possible braking distance during full braking. This system exploits all of the benefits provided by ABS. Do not reduce the pressure on the brake pedal for the duration of the full braking.

Adaptive brake assistant*

In conjunction with the active cruise control with the stop-and-go function, the adaptive brake assistant ensures that the brake responds even more quickly during braking with the brake assistant.

DSC Dynamic Stability Control

DSC prevents traction loss in the driving wheels when starting off and accelerating. The system also identifies unstable driving conditions, such as a loss of traction at the rear of the vehicle or sliding of the vehicle in its front wheels. In these cases, DSC helps the vehicle maintain a safe course within physical limits by reducing engine output and through braking actions in the individual wheels.

⚠The laws of physics cannot be repealed, even with DSC. An appropriate driving style always remains the responsibility of the driver. Therefore, do not restrict the additional safety margin with a risky driving style, as otherwise there is a risk of an accident.◀

Deactivating DSC
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series3

Press the button until the DSC indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up, but not longer than approx. 10 seconds. DTC Dynamic Traction Control and DSC are deactivated together. Stabilizing and drive output promoting actions are no longer executed. In addition, the stability promoting intervention of the active steering*

A message appears on the Control Display. Please note any supplementary information that appears there. To increase vehicle stability, activate DSC again as soon as possible.

Activating DSC

Press the button; the indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

For better control
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series4

The indicator lamp flashes: DSC controls the drive forces and brake forces. The indicator lamp lights up: DSC is deactivated.

DTC Dynamic Traction Control

DTC is a version of DSC in which the drive output is optimized for particular road conditions, e.g. unplowed snow-covered roads. The system assures the maximal drive output, but with reduced driving stability. It is therefore necessary to drive with appropriate caution.

You may find it useful to briefly activate DTC under the following special circumstances:

  • When driving on snowy inclines, in slush, or on unplowed, snow-covered road surfaces
  • When rocking a stuck vehicle free or starting off in deep snow or on loose ground
  • When driving with snow chains*
Activating DTC
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series3

Press the button briefly; the DTC indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up.

For better control
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series5
Deactivating DTC

Press the button again; the DTC indicator lamp in the instrument cluster goes out.

xDrive on 528xi, 535xi

xDrive is the 4-wheel drive system of your BMW. The combined effects of xDrive and DSC further optimize the traction and dynamic driving characteristics. The 4-wheel drive system xDrive variably distributes the drive torque to the front and rear axle depending on the driving situation and prevailing road conditions.

HDC Hill Descent Control on 528xi, 535xi

The concept

HDC is a system for driving downhill in steep terrain. This system reduces vehicle speed on steep downhill gradients, thus allowing you to maintain even better control of your BMW under these conditions. The vehicle moves at approximately twice walking speed without active intervention from the driver.

HDC is available for activation at vehicle speeds below approx. 22 mph/35 km/h. When driving down steep hills with a speed below approx. 22 mph/35 km/h, the vehicle reduces speed automatically down to approximately double Activating HDCwalking speed, approx. 7 mph/12 km/h, and then maintains this speed at a constant.

You can use the accelerator or brakes to vary this automatically controlled speed within a range extending from approx. 3 mph/5 km/h to 15 mph/25 km/h. You can specify a target speed within the same range by using the lever of the cruise control*.

Activating HDC

You can activate HDC:

  • with the programmable buttons on the steering whee.
  • using iDrive

1. Press the MENU button. This opens the start menu.
2. Press the controller to open the I menu.
3. Select “Settings” and press the controller.
4. Select “Vehicle / Tires” and press the controller.
5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the controller until “HDC” is selected and press the controller.

Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series6

6. Select “HDC on” and press the controller.

HDC is shown in the instrument cluster. If the vehicle is automatically braked, a message is displayed on the Control Display for approx. 20 seconds.

Deactivating HDC

When you use the programmable buttons on the steering wheel or via iDrive, the HDC display goes out. HDC is automatically deactivated in the following situations:

  • Above approx. 37 mph/60 km/h
  • After switching off the ignition
Using HDC

Manual transmission: Use HDC in low gears and reverse gear.

Automatic transmission: You can use HDC in every drive position.

Displays in instrument cluster
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1 Display for target speed
2 HDC display

Malfunction in driving-stability control systems
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series8

The warning lamp for the brake system lights up, together with the indicator and warning lamps for ABS, DSC and Tire Pressure Control or Flat Tire Monitor. A message appears on the Control Display. The driving-stability control systems have failed. Conventional braking efficiency remains available without limitations. While you may continue, you should remember to proceed cautiously and drive defensively while avoiding full brake applications. In addition, the Tire Pressure Control or the Flat Tire Monitor has also failed. Have the system checked as soon as possible.

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Display of the previously described malfunction in Canadian models.

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The DSC indicator lamp lights up. A message appears on the Control Display. A malfunction has occurred in the
DSC and DTC. The stabilizing actions are no longer available. The vehicle remains operational. Have the system checked as soon as possible.

Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series11

Dynamic Drive*

The concept

Dynamic Drive minimizes body roll and optimizes vehicle stability during cornering and evasive maneuvers.Dynamic Drive is based on active stabilizers on the front and rear axles. Suspension compliance adapts to suit driving conditions, varying from performance-oriented during cornering to smooth and comfort-oriented when the vehicle
is proceeding in a straight line.

During vehicle operation, the system continuously runs through closed-loop control cycles lasting only
fractions of a second. The system assumes operational status each time you start the engine.

Sports Wagon: self-leveling suspension

Malfunction

The warning lamp for self-leveling suspension lights up yellow and a message is shown on the Control Display. A malfunction has occurred in the self-leveling suspension. Stop and check the vehicle. If it is considerably lower at the rear than at the front, and possibly also on one side – rear left compared to rear right –, go to the nearest BMW center or a workshop that works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel.

Drive with appropriate caution in the meantime. The vehicle has reduced ground clearance and driving comfort may be noticeably reduced. Even if the position of the vehicle is normal, go to the nearest BMW center or a workshop that works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel.

FTM Flat Tire Monitor*

The concept

The Flat Tire Monitor keeps track of the inflation pressures in the tires as you drive. The system provides an alert whenever the inflation pressure drops significantly in relation to the pressure in another tire.

In the event of a pressure loss, the rolling radius and therefore the rotation speed of the wheels change. This change is detected and is reported as a flat tire.

Functional requirement

In order to assure the reliable reporting of a flat tire, the system must be initialized for the correct tire inflation pressure.

▶The initialization must be repeated after each time the tire inflation pressure is corrected and after every tire or wheel change.◀

System limits

⚠The Flat Tire Monitor cannot indicate sudden severe tire damage caused by outside factors and does not detect a natural, even pressure drop in all four tires.◀

In the following situations, the system could be delayed or malfunction:

  • System has not been initialized
  • Driving on snowy or slippery road surface
  • Sporty driving style: slip in the drive wheels, high lateral acceleration
  • Driving with snow chains*

When you are driving with the compact wheel* the Flat Tire Monitor is unable to function.

Initializing system

▶The initialization finishes during driving, which can be interrupted at any time. When driving resumes, the initialization is continued automatically. Do not initialize the system when driving with snow chains* or compact wheel*◀

  1. Press the MENU button. This opens the start menu.
  2. Press the controller to open the I menu.
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series12
  1. Turn the controller until “Settings” is selected and press the controller.
  2. Select “Vehicle / Tires” and press the controller.
  3. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the controller until “FTM” is selected and press the controller.
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  1. Start the engine, but do not start driving.
  2. Select “Reset” and press the controller.
  3. Select “Yes” and press the controller.
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  1. Start to drive.

“Resetting FTM …” is displayed. The initialization finishes during driving.

Indication of a flat tire
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The warning lamp lights up red. A message appears on the Control Display. In addition, an acoustic signal sounds. There is a flat tire or extensive inflation pressure loss.

  1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle carefully. Avoid sudden braking and steering maneuvers.
  2. Identify damaged tire. If identification is not possible, contact a BMW center.
  3. Replace the damaged wheel.
Run-flat tires*
  1. Cautiously reduce speed to below 50 mph/ 80 km/h. Avoid severe braking and steering
    maneuvers and do not exceed a speed of 50 mph/80 km/h.

⚠If the vehicle is not equipped with runflat tires, do not continue driving. Continuing to drive with a
flat tire could cause severe accidents.◀

  1. At the next opportunity, check the air pressure in all four tires.

▶If the tire inflation pressure in all four tires is correct, the Flat Tire Monitor may not have been initialized. The system must then be initialized.◀

  1. In the event of complete tire pressure loss, 0 psi/0 kPa, you can estimate the possible distance for continued driving on the basis of the following guide values:
    • With a light load: 1 to 2 persons without luggage: approx. 155 miles/250 km
    • With a medium load: 2 persons, cargo bay full, or 4 persons without luggage: approx. 94 miles/150 km
    • With a full load: 4 or more persons, cargo bay full: approx. 30 miles/50 km

⚠ Drive reservedly and do not exceed a speed of 50 mph/80 km/h. In the event of pressure loss, vehicle handling changes. This includes reduced tracking stability in braking, extended braking distance and altered natural steering characteristics.

If unusual vibrations or loud noises occur while the vehicle is being driven, this can indicate final failure of the damaged tire. Reduce speed and stop at a suitable location as soon as possible, otherwise pieces of the tire could become detached and cause an accident. Do not continue driving, but instead contact your BMW center.◀

TPM Tire Pressure Monitor*

The concept

TPM checks the tire inflation pressure in the four mounted tires. The system reports when the tire inflation pressure has dropped considerably in one or several tires.

Functional requirement

In order to assure the reliable reporting of a flat tire, the system must have been reset with the correct tire inflation pressure. Always use wheels with TPM electronics, otherwise fault-free operation of the system is not
ensured.

▶Reset the system again after each correction of the tire inflation pressure and after
every tire or wheel change.◀

⚠TPM cannot announce sudden serious tire damage caused by external influences.◀

The system does not function properly if it has not been reset, e.g. a flat tire is reported despite correct tire inflation pressures. The system is inactive and cannot display a flat tire if a wheel has been mounted without TPM electronics, e.g. a compact wheel, or if TPM is temporarily interfered with by other systems or devices which use the same radio frequency.

Green

The tire pressure matches the learned set state. “TPM active” is displayed on the Control Display.

One wheel is yellow

Flat tire or a major drop in inflation pressure in the indicated tire. A message appears on the Control Display.

All wheels are yellow

Flat tire or a major drop in inflation pressure in several tires. A message appears on the Control Display.

Gray

The system cannot detect a flat tire. Reasons for this can be:

  • TPM is being reset
  • Temporary interference due to systems or devices which use the same radio frequency
  • Malfunction
Resetting system

▶Reset the system again after each correction of the tire inflation pressure and after every tire or wheel change.◀

Resetting finishes during driving, which can be interrupted at any time. When driving resumes, resetting is continued automatically. Do not reset the system when driving with a compact wheel*.

  1. Press the MENU button. This opens the start menu.
  2. Press the controller to open the I menu.
  3. Select “Settings” and press the controller.
  4. Select “Vehicle / Tires” and press the controller.
  5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the controller until “TPM” is selected and press
    the controller.
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series16
  1. Start the engine, but do not start driving.
  2. Select “Reset” and press the controller.
  3. Select “Yes” and press the controller.
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series17
  1. Start to drive.

The tires are shown in gray and “Resetting TPM…” is displayed.

After a few minutes of driving, the set tire inflation pressures in the tires are applied as the set values to be monitored. Resetting finishes during driving. The tires are shown in green on the Control Display.

▶If a flat tire is detected during resetting and applying the tire inflation pressures, all tires are shown in yellow on the Control Display. The message “Tire low!” is displayed.◀

Message with low tire inflation pressure
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series15

The warning lamp lights up yellow. A message appears on the Control Display. In addition, an acoustic signal sounds. There is a flat tire or extensive inflation pressure loss.

  1. Reduce speed and stop the vehicle carefully. Avoid sudden braking and steering maneuvers.
  2. Check whether your vehicle is equipped with standard tires or run-flat tires.

You will recognize run-flat tires by a circular symbol containing the letters RSC on the side of the tire.

Standard tires
  1. If all four wheels are shown in yellow, identify the damaged tire on the vehicle.
  2. Replace the damaged wheel or wheels.

In contrast to a compact wheel, a spare wheel is equipped with the necessary TPM electronics and also monitored after mounting and after resetting the system.

Have the tire replaced by a BMW center or a workshop informed on handling TPM which works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel.

  1. Cautiously reduce speed to below 50 mph/ 80 km/h. Avoid severe braking and steering
    maneuvers and do not exceed a speed of 50 mph/80 km/h.

▶If the vehicle is not equipped with runflat tires, do not continue driving. Continuing to drive with a flat tire could cause severe accidents.⚠

  1. In the event of complete tire pressure loss, 0 psi/0 kPa, you can estimate the possible distance for continued driving on the basis of the following guide values:
    • With a light load: 1 to 2 persons without luggage: approx. 155 miles/250 km
    • With a medium load: 2 persons, cargo bay full, or 4 persons without luggage: approx. 95 miles/150 km
    • With a full load: 4 or more persons, cargo bay full: approx. 30 miles/50 km

⚠Drive reservedly and do not exceed a speed of 50 mph/80 km/h. In the event of pressure loss, vehicle handling changes. This includes reduced tracking stability in braking, extended braking distance and altered natural
steering characteristics.

If unusual vibrations or loud noises occur while the vehicle is being driven, this can indicate final failure of the damaged tire. Reduce speed and stop at a suitable location as soon as possible,
otherwise pieces of the tire could become detached and cause an accident. Do not continue driving, but instead contact your BMW center.◀

Malfunction
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series15

The yellow warning lamp flashes and then lights up continuously. The tires are shown in gray on the Control Display and a message is displayed. No flat tire can
be detected.

A message like this is displayed in the following situations:

  • In case of a malfunction; have the system checked.
  • If a wheel is mounted without TPM electronics
  • If TPM is temporarily interfered with by other systems or devices which use the same radio frequency.
Declaration according to NHTSA/ FMVSS 138 Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

Each tire, including the spare, should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label,
you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.

As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system, TPMS, that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires are significantly underinflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure.

Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Underinflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability. Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.

The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle startups as long as the malfunction exists. When the malfunction indicator lights up, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended.

TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction
telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.

Malfunction
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series18

The warning lamp lights up yellow and a message is shown on the Control Display. The active steering is no longer
operational. At low speeds, greater steering wheel movements are required, whereas at higher speeds, the vehicle reacts more sensitively to steering wheel movements. The stability-promoting intervention can also be deactivated. Proceed cautiously and drive defensively. Have the system checked.

Brake force display

Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series19

On the left: normal braking.
On the right: heavy braking.

Airbags
Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series20

The following airbags are located under the marked covers:

1 Front airbags
2 Head airbags
3 Side airbags in front and rear

Protective action

⚠To ensure that the safety systems continue to provide optimized protection.◀

The front airbags help protect the driver and front passenger by responding to frontal impacts in which safety belts alone cannot provide adequate restraint. When needed, the head and side airbags help provide protection in the event of side impact. The relevant side airbag supports the side upper body area. The head air bag supports the head. The airbags are deliberately not triggered in every impact situation, e.g. less severe accidents or rear-end collisions.

⚠Do not apply adhesive materials to the cover panels of the airbags, cover them or modify them in any other way. Do not attempt to remove the airbag restraint system from the vehicle. Do not modify or tamper with either the wiring or the individual components in the airbag system. This category includes the upholstery in the center of the steering wheel, on the instrument panel, the doors and the roof pillars along with the sides of the headliner.

Do not attempt to remove or dismantle the steering wheel. Do not touch the individual components immediately after the system has been triggered, because there is a danger of burns. In the event of malfunctions, deactivation, or triggering of the airbag restraint system, have the testing, repair, removal, and disposal of airbag generators executed only by a BMW center or a workshop that works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel and has the required explosives licenses.

Otherwise unprofessional attempts to service the system could lead to failure in an emergency or undesired airbag triggering, either of which could result in personal injury.◀

Warnings and information on the airbags is also provided on the sun visors.

Automatic deactivation of front passenger airbags

The occupation of the seat is detected by evaluating the impression on the occupied seat surface of the front passenger seat. The front and side airbags on the front passenger side are activated or deactivated accordingly by the system.

▶The current status of the front passenger airbag, i.e. deactivated or activated, is indicated by the indicator lamp over the interior rearview mirror, refer to Operating state of front passenger airbags in the following.◀

⚠Before transporting a child on the front passenger seat, observe the safety information and handling instructions under Transporting children safely The front and side airbags on the front passenger side can be deactivated for teenagers and adults in certain sitting positions; then the indicator lamp for the front passenger airbags lights up. In these cases, change the sitting position so that the front passenger airbags are activated and the indicator lamp goes out.

If the desired status cannot be produced by changing the sitting position, transport the corresponding person on the rear seat. Do not fit seat covers, seat cushion padding, ball mats or other items onto the front passenger seat unless they are specifically recommended by BMW. Do not lay objects under the seat which could press against the seat from below. Otherwise a correct evaluation of the occupied seat surface cannot be ensured.◀

Operating state of front passenger airbags

Depending on the vehicle’s equipment, the arrangement of the switches and indicator lamps may differ somewhat.
The indicator lamp for the front passenger airbags indicates the operating status of the front and side airbags on the front passenger side depending on the seat occupation. The indicator lamp shows whether the front passenger airbags are activated or deactivated.

  1. The indicator lamp lights up when a child in a child restraint system intended for the purpose is properly detected on the seat. The front and side airbags on the front passenger side are not activated.

▶Most child’s seats are detected by the system. Especially the child’s seats required by the NHTSA at the time the vehicle is manufactured. After installing a child’s seat, make sure that the indicator lamp for the front passenger airbags lights up. This indicates that the child’s seat has been detected and the front passenger airbags are not activated.◀

  1. The indicator lamp does not light up when, for example, a correctly seated person of sufficient height is detected on the seat. The front and side airbags on the front passenger side are activated.
  2. The indicator lamp does not light up when the seat is empty. However, the front and side airbags on the front passenger side are not activated.
Operational readiness of airbag system
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From radio readiness, the warning lamp lights up briefly, indicating the operational readiness of the entire airbag system and the safety belt tensioners.

Airbag system malfunction
  • Warning lamp does not light up from radio readiness.
  • Warning lamp lights up continuously.

⚠Have the airbag system checked immediately in case of a malfunction, otherwise there is a danger that the airbag system may not respond in the expected manner in an accident despite an impact of corresponding intensity.◀

Head-Up Display*

The concept

With the Head-Up Display important information is projected into the driver’s field of view, e.g. navigation instructions. This enables you to take in this information without looking away from the road.

Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007 5 Series23
Switching on/off

Press the button.

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1 Navigation instructions
2 Display

  • Cruise control
  • Active cruise control
  • Leaving lane warning

3 Speed

Selecting displays
  1. Press the MENU button. This opens the start menu.
  2. Press the controller to open the I menu.
  3. Select “Settings” and press the controller.
  4. Select “Display settings” and press the controller.
  5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the controller until “Head-Up Display” is selected and press the controller.
  6. Change into the second field from the top. Turn the controller until “Head-Up Display” is selected and press the controller.
  7. Select desired information of Head-Up Display.
  1. Press the controller.

√The information is shown on the HeadUp Display. The settings are stored for the remote control
currently in use.

Setting brightness

The brightness of the display is automatically adapted to the ambient lighting conditions. However, you can change the basic setting. With the low beams switched on, the brightness can also be adjusted with the knurled wheel of the instrument lighting.

  1. Press the MENU button. This opens the start menu.
  2. Press the controller to open the I menu.
  3. Select “Settings” and press the controller.
  4. Select “Display settings” and press the controller.
  5. Change to upper field if necessary. Turn the controller until “Head-Up Display” is selected and press the controller.
  6. Change into the second field from the top. Turn the controller until “Brightness” is selected and press the controller.
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Technology For Comfort and Safety BMW 2007-5 Series 36
  1. Turn the controller until the desired setting is selected.

The setting is stored for the remote control currently in use.

Notes

The visibility of the displays in the Head-Up Display is influenced by:

  • Sunglasses with certain polarization filters
  • Certain seating positions
  • Objects on the cover of the Head-Up Display
  • Wet road surface and unfavorable lighting conditions

If the image is distorted, please have the basic setting checked at a BMW center.

Special windshield

The windshield is part of the system. The shape of the windshield complies with the requirements of the Head-Up Display to enable a precise display. A film in the windshield prevents the double images from being displayed. Windshield replacement should be carried out by a BMW center or a workshop that works according to BMW repair procedures with correspondingly trained personnel.

Care instructions

You can find everything you need to know on this topic by consulting the separate Caring for your vehicle brochure.

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⚠Only clean the cover of the Head-Up Display with a soft, lint-free cloth or with a display cleaning cloth, otherwise damage may result.◀

BMW Night Vision*

The concept

BMW Night Vision is a driver assistance system that is designed to provide enhanced vision for certain objects at night. This can be especially helpful for detecting people and larger animals. When objects are detected, the driver may be able to take appropriate action sooner. For example, the driver may identify and detect the presence of persons or animals in the road ahead or off to the sides and can be more alert, slow down or stop, blow the horn etc. The driver can decide which actions are appropriate and then react accordingly.

A certain area in front of the vehicle is viewed by an infrared camera and a generated image is shown on the Control Display. The resulting thermal image shows the relative heat radiation of the objects present in the camera’s field of view. Warmer objects appear brighter and cooler objects appear darker. Contrast is dependent on the temperature difference between the objects and the background and on the amount of heat radiation of the object itself.

As a result, it is quite possible that a person is not continually recognizable as a person in shape, since the thermal radiation can be affected by different clothing which blocks heat loss. Objects with little temperature difference to the surrounding area, or little heat radiation are less noticeable, for example in cold weather.

Any improvement in detection depends on many factors such as the object size and temperature compared to the surroundings, or other nearby objects, the visual recognition skills of the driver, weather conditions, and
other factors.

Driving hints

With the system active, periodically but briefly, glance at the thermal image on the Control Display to notice objects that could be people or larger animals. The glance should be similar to glancing at the rear view mirror. Do not stare at the image for long periods while driving, as this will remove attention from the road. If you notice an object of interest ahead, be prepared to slow down or stop, blow the horn, or take other appropriate action.

System limits

The system is designed to supplement but not replace forward vision through the windshield. The driver is responsible for safe driving at night. BMW Night Vision is not designed to be used as a continuous viewing window for driving at night.

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No system, no matter how sophisticated, can operate without limitations. BMW Night Vision operation is subject to physical and environmental limitations that will reduce the ability of the system to detect and display a clear thermal image. Some of the situations in which these limitations can occur are:

  • on steep hilltops or depressions and in tight curves
  • in tunnels, as the contrast is inherently low
  • when the camera lens is dirty
  • in dense fog, heavy rain or snowfall
  • when displaying very hot objects such as transformers, car exhausts etc.
  • when the image briefly freezes during normal system adjustment.

Activating BMW Night Vision

  1. Turn the light switch to position 2 or 3.
  2. With low beams switched on:
  • Press the button. Depending on the vehicle’s equipment, the location of the button may differ somewhat.
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Press one of the programmable buttons on the steering wheel

  • The image will be displayed on the Control Display after a few seconds. Depending on the last mode selected, either the normal or full screen image will be displayed.
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Due to the system’s need to adjust periodically, a still image is displayed at certain intervals for fractions of a second. This is normal and not an indication of a problem. To prevent driving without headlamps, at a speed of more than approx. 3 mph/5 km/h and when dark, the thermal image on the Control Display is only shown when the low beams are on.

Deactivating BMW Night Vision
  • Press the button.
  • Press the button on the steering wheel.
  • Press the MENU button.
  • Via iDrive, refer to Selecting settings.
Selecting settings
  1. Activate BMW Night Vision.
  2. Press the controller to display the menu items.
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  1. Select the menu item and press the controller:
    • “Night Vision off”: Deactivate BMW Night Vision.
    • “Zoom”:At higher speeds, the image is zoomedin.
    • “Curve mode”: Depending on the steering angle and other parameters, the image sections follows the course of the road to some degree.
    • “Full screen”: The image is shown on the entire Control Display.
    • “Contrast”: The contrast of the screen can be adjusted.
    • “Brightness”: The brightness of the screen can be adjusted.

▶”Curve mode” can only be activated with the “Zoom” function switched on. With “Full screen” activated, “Curve mode” and “Zoom” cannot be selected.◀

The settings are stored for the remote control currently in use.

To exit the menu:

The image will automatically disappear after approx. 5 seconds.

Cleaning camera
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The function of the camera may be affected by heavy rain and fog, dirt, snow or ice on the lens. When this occurs, the displayed image on the Control Display may become gray. To minimize icing, the camera lens is automatically heated.

However, it may be necessary to clean the camera lens manually under severe weather conditions. When doing so, cautiously remove any debris, ice or snow. To avoid damage to the lens, do not use sharp or abrasive instruments to clean ice, snow, or dirt off the lens.

When the windshield is cleaned with the headlamps on, the camera lens area is automatically sprayed as well.

Leaving lane warning*

The concept

This system warns you from a speed of approx. 45 mph/70 km/h when the vehicle is leaving the lane you are currently in on roads with lane limit lines. You feel this due to a slight vibration of the steering wheel. The system does not warn you if you signal before leaving the lane. It is best to use the system on well-developed roads and freeways.

Switching on/off
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Press the button on the steering wheel.

  • The two lines 1 indicate that the system is activated.
  • The two arrows 2 mean that the system has detected one or two lane limit lines from a speed of approx. 45 mph/70 km/h and warns accordingly.

If you activate the system below a speed of approx. 45 mph/70 km/h, a message will appear stating that the system is not active until this speed is reached.

A warning will be canceled:

  • after approx. 3 seconds
  • if you return to your lane
  • if you brake heavily
  • if you signal
System limits

⚠The leaving lane warning cannot serve as a substitute for your personal judgment in determining the course of the road. If the system issues a warning, do not move the steering wheel with unnecessary severity, as otherwise you could loose control of the vehicle.◀

The function of the system may be limited in the following example situations:

  • in heavy fog, rain or snowfall
  • with worn-away, poorly visible limit lines, or lines that run together or apart or are unclear, e.g. in road construction areas
  • when limit lines are covered by snow, ice, dirt or a great deal of water
  • in tight curves or on narrow roads
  • when limit lines are not white
  • when limit lines are covered by objects
  • when driving up close behind a vehicle driving ahead
  • with bright counter light
  • when the windshield is fogged up, dirty or covered with stickers, vignettes etc. in the area of the inside rearview mirror

Categories BMW