BMW 525i Owner's Manual page 193

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 trian-
gle in the rear window.
Vehicles with manual transmission
Gearshift lever in idle position.
Vehicles with automatic
transmission
Selector lever in position N.
Do not exceed a towing speed of
45 mph/70 km/h and a towing dis-
tance of 90 miles/150 km, as otherwise
the automatic transmission may be dam-
aged.<
Vehicles with SMG Sequential
manual transmission
With the ignition switched on, engage the
selector-lever position N, then switch off
the ignition again.
Towing methods
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.
With tow bar
The towing vehicle may not be lighter
than the vehicle to be towed, as oth-
erwise it will not be possible to 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 fol-
lowing:
Clearance and maneuvering capability
>
will be strictly limited in corners
When mounted at an angle, the tow bar
>
will exert lateral forces, tending to push
the vehicle sideways.
Secure the tow bar on the tow fitting
only. Otherwise damage could result
on other vehicle parts.<
With tow-rope
When starting off in the towing vehicle,
make sure that the tow-rope is taut.
when towing, always use nylon ropes or
nylon straps. Secure the tow rope on the
tow fitting only. Otherwise damage could
result on other vehicle
With tow truck
Have the BMW transported with a tow
truck with a so-called lift bar or on a load
bed.
damage may
Tow-starting
Jump-starting, refer to page
Only tow-start vehicles with a catalytic
converter with the engine cold. It is better
to jump-start the engine, refer to page 189.
1. Switch on the hazard warning flashers,
comply with country-specific regula-
tions
2. Turn the ignition key to position 2
3. Engage the 3rd gear, vehicles with
SMG, see below
4. Have the vehicle tow-started with the
clutch pedal completely depressed and
slowly release the clutch. After the
engine starts, immediately depress the
clutch pedal completely again
Online Edition for Part No. 01 41 0 158 159 - © 02/04 BMW AG
To avoid jerking and the associated
stresses on vehicle components
parts.<
Do not lift vehicle by tow fitting or
body and chassis parts, as otherwise
result.<
Do not tow-start vehicles with an
automatic transmission.
191
189.<