Winter Operation - BMW M COUPE Manual

Winter operation

The onset of winter is often accompa-
nied by rapid changes in weather.
Adaptations in driving style should be
accompanied by preparations on the
vehicle itself to ensure that your vehicle
operation through the winter remains
safe and trouble-free.
Coolant
Ensure that the coolant contains the
year-round 50:50 ratio of water and
antifreeze with corrosion inhibitor. This
mixture provides protection against
freezing down to approximately –34 7
(–37 6). Replace the coolant every
three years.
Locks
BMW door lock deicer can be used to
free the doors if they are frozen. This
deicer also contains lubricant.
After using deicer, treatment with BMW
lock cylinder grease is recommended.
Rubber seals and components
In order to prevent freezing, apply
rubber treatment or silicone spray to
weather-stripping on the doors, hood,
luggage compartment and to convert-
ible top seals.
A full range of car-care products is
available from your BMW
Snow chains
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BMW snow chains can be mounted on
both summer and winter tires. Mount
them in pairs on the rear wheels only.
Comply with the manufacturer's safety
precautions. Do not exceed a maximum
speed of 30 mph (50 km/h) when driv-
ing with chains. As an exception in this
situation, we recommend that you de-
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activate the ASC+T/DSC system when
snow chains are mounted. Refer to
page 76.
Starting off
When starting from a full stop or "rock-
ing" free in deep snow, we recommend
that you deactivate the ASC+T/DSC
system. Refer to page 76.
Driving on low-traction road
surfaces
center.<
Use smooth, gentle pressure to control
the accelerator pedal. Avoid excessive
engine speeds and shift to the next
higher gear at an early point. Shift down
into the next lowest gear when ap-
proaching uphill or downhill grades.
Maintain an adequate distance between
yourself and the car ahead.
Brakes
Winter road conditions substantially
reduce the traction available between
the tires and the road surface. Remem-
ber that – in every situation – braking
distances will be significantly longer as
a result of this.
ABS is intended to prevent the wheels
from locking during brake applications,
thus helping to maintain vehicle stability
and steering response.
Online Edition for Part-No. 01 41 0 155 149 - © 08/99 BMW AG
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