Being Towed - BMW 318i Owner's Handbook Manual

Front
Rear

Being towed

Make sure that the ignition is switched on,
see page 45, as otherwise low-beam
headlights, rear lights, turn indicators and wind-
screen wipers would not be available.
If the electrical system fails, do not attempt to
tow-start or tow away the car. The electrical
steering-wheel lock cannot be disengaged and
the car is not steerable. Jump-starting, see
page 138.
Servo assistance is not available when the
engine is not running. The steering and brakes
will require extra effort to operate. Active steer-
ing is not active and more extensive steering
wheel movements will be
Switch on the hazard warning flashers, depend-
ing on local regulations.
Manual gearbox
Gearshift lever in idle position.
Automatic gearbox
Selector lever in position N.
Changing selector lever positions, see page 48.
140
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required.<
Do not exceed a towing speed of 70 km/h
or 40 mph and a towing distance of
150 km or 90 miles, otherwise the automatic
gearbox could be damaged.<
Towing methods
In some countries, it is prohibited to tow
another vehicle on public roads by means of a
towbar or towrope.
Familiarise yourself with the relevant legislation
in the country in question.
With towbar
The towing vehicle must not be lighter
than the towed vehicle, otherwise it may
be impossible to maintain
The towing eyes of both vehicles should be on
the same side. If it is impossible to avoid attach-
ing the towbar at an angle, note the following:
>
Towbar clearance may be restricted when
cornering.
> The towbar will generate lateral forces if it is
attached offset.
Only attach the towbar to the towing
eyes. Attaching the towbar to other parts
of the vehicle can result in
With towrope
Ensure that the towrope is taut when the towing
vehicle moves off.
For towing, use nylon ropes or tapes, as
these will help avoid sudden tensile loads.
Only attach the towrope to the towing eyes.
Attaching the towrope to other parts of the
vehicle can result in damage.<
control.<
damage.<