2008 BMW M5 Owner's Manual - Page 260

Giving and receiving assistance Being towed Make sure that the ignition is switched on, refer to page 59, otherwise the low beams, tail lamps, turn signals and windshield wipers would not be available. When the engine is stopped, there is no power assist. This then requires increased effort for braking and steering. Active steering is deactivated and larger steering wheel movements are required.< 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 triangle in the rear window. Engage transmission position N and release the parking brake before towing. If transmission position N cannot be engaged, manually release the transmission lock, refer to page 65. Do not exceed a towing speed of 45 mph/ 70 km/h and a towing distance of 90 miles/150 km, otherwise the automatic transmission may be damaged.< Only attach the tow bar to the tow fittings, as attachment to other vehicle parts can lead to damage.< With tow rope When starting off in the towing vehicle, make sure that the tow rope is taut. To avoid jerking and the associated stresses on vehicle components when towing, always use nylon ropes or nylon straps. Only attach tow ropes to the tow fittings, as attachment to other vehicle parts can lead to damage.< With tow truck Do not tow the X5 with the front or rear axle raised individually, otherwise the wheels may lock and the transfer case may be damaged.< Towing methods Do not lift vehicle by tow fitting or body and chassis parts, otherwise damage may result.< 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. The X5 may only be transported on a flat bed. Tow-starting The engine cannot be started by tow-starting. Start the engine by jump starting it, refer to page 256. Have the cause of the starting difficulties eliminated. With tow bar The towing vehicle may not be lighter than the vehicle to be towed, otherwise it will not be possible to reliably 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 following: > Clearance and maneuvering capability will be sharply limited during cornering. > When mounted at an angle, the tow bar will exert lateral forces, tending to push the vehicle sideways. 258 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 0 014 248 - © 08/07 BMW AG