BMW X5: Tow-starting and towing

Safety information

Warning

Due to system limits, individual functions can malfunction during tow-starting/towing with the Intelligent Safety systems activated. There is a risk of accident. Switch all Intelligent Safety systems off prior to tow-starting/towing.

Steptronic transmission: transporting the vehicle

General information

The vehicle is not permitted to be towed.

Safety information

NOTICE

The vehicle can be damaged when towing the vehicle with a single lifted axle. There is a risk of damage to property, among other potential damage. The vehicle should only be transported on a loading platform.

NOTICE

The vehicle can become damaged when lifting and securing it.

There is a risk of damage to property, among other potential damage.

• Lift the vehicle using suitable means.
• Do not lift or secure the vehicle by its tow fitting, body parts, or suspension parts.

Pushing the vehicle

To remove a broken-down vehicle from the hazardous area, it can be pushed for a short distance.

Additional information: Rolling or pushing the vehicle.

Tow truck

The vehicle should only be transported on a loading platform.

Towing other vehicles

General information

Switch on the hazard warning system, depending on local regulations.

If the electrical system has failed, clearly identify the vehicle being towed by placing a sign or a warning triangle in the rear window.

Safety information

Warning

If the approved gross vehicle weight of the towing vehicle is lighter than the vehicle to be towed, the tow fitting can tear off or it will not be possible to control handling. There is a risk of accident. Make sure that the gross vehicle weight of the towing vehicle is heavier than the vehicle to be towed.

NOTICE

If the tow bar or tow rope is attached incorrectly, damage to other vehicle parts can occur.

There is a risk of damage to property, among other potential damage. Correctly attach the tow bar or tow rope to the tow fitting.

Tow bar

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 inclination, please follow the following:

• Free movement is limited going around corners.
• The tow bar will generate lateral forces if it is secured with an inclination.

Tow rope

Observe the following notes when using the tow rope:

• Use nylon ropes or straps, which will enable the vehicle to be towed without jerking.
• Make sure the tow rope is not twisted when fastening.
• Check the attachment of the tow fitting and tow rope in regular intervals.
• Do not exceed a towing speed of 30 mph/50 km/h.
• Do not exceed a towing distance of 3 miles/5 km.
• When starting to tow the vehicle, make sure that the tow rope is taut.

Tow fitting

General information

The screw-in tow fitting should always be carried in the vehicle.

The tow fitting can be screwed in at the front or rear of the vehicle.

The tow fitting is located beneath the cargo floor panel.

Observe the following notes when using the tow fitting:

• Use only the tow fitting provided with the vehicle.
• Turn the tow fitting at least 5 turns clockwise and screw it in as far as it will go. If necessary, tighten with a suitable object.
• After use, unscrew the tow fitting counterclockwise.
• Use the tow fitting for towing on paved roads only.
• Avoid lateral loading of the tow fitting, for instance do not lift the vehicle by the tow fitting.
• Check the attachment of the tow fitting in regular intervals.

Additional information: Onboard vehicle tool kit.

Safety information

NOTICE

If the tow fitting is not used as intended, there may be damage to the vehicle or to the tow fitting.

There is a risk of damage to property, among other potential damage. Follow the notes on using the tow fitting.

Screw thread for tow fitting

Press on the mark on the edge of the cover to push it out.

Tow-starting

Do not tow-start the vehicle.

Start the engine by jump-starting, if possible.

Have the reasons for the starting difficulties corrected by a dealer's service center or another qualified service center or repair shop.

Additional information: Jump-starting.

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