2010 BMW X5 Owner's Manual - Page 137

> Adapt your driving speed to the road conditions. The steeper and rougher the road surface is, the lower the speed should be. > If you want to drive on very steep uphill or downhill gradients, make sure beforehand that the engine oil and coolant levels are near the MAX mark, refer to page 240. BMW X5: you can operate your vehicle on uphill and downhill gradients with a maximum slope of 50%. > On very steep downhill slopes, use Hill Descent Control HDC, refer to page 90. BMW X5: it is possible to start off on inclines of up to 33%. The permissible body roll is 50%. > While driving, watch carefully for obstacles such as rocks or holes. Try to avoid these obstacles whenever possible. > Make sure that the undercarriage does not touch the ground, for example on crests and bumpy roads. The ground clearance of the vehicle is a maximum of approx. 8 in/20 cm. Please note that the ground clearance can vary depending on loading and the driving conditions of the vehicle. > Only drive through road surface water up to a maximum water depth of > BMW X5 20 in/50 cm > BMW X6 17 in/45 cm and only drive at walking speed; do not remain stationary. Roof-mounted luggage rack* A special rack system is available as an option for your BMW. Please comply with the precautions included with the installation instructions. Loading roof-mounted luggage rack Because roof racks raise the vehicle's center of gravity when loaded, they have a major effect on its handling and steering response. You should therefore always remember not to exceed the approved roof load capacity, the approved gross vehicle weight or the axle weights when loading the rack. You can find the specified weights under Weights on page 271. The load on the roof must be evenly distributed and must not extend outward beyond the limits of the loading surface. Always stow the heaviest pieces on the bottom. Be sure that adequate clearance is maintained for raising the glass sunroof*/panorama glass sunroof* and that objects do not project into the opening path of the liftgate. Secure roof-mounted cargo correctly and securely to prevent it from shifting or falling off during the trip. Drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking maneuvers. Take corners gently. 135 Online Edition for Part no. 01 41 2 602 756 - © 06/09 BMW AG Reference Mobility Communications Entertainment Navigation Driving tips ger the car's occupants, for example if sudden braking or evasive maneuvers are necessary. Never exceed either the approved gross vehicle weight or either of the approved axle weights, refer to page 271, as excessive loads can pose a safety hazard, and may also place you in violation of traffic safety laws. You should never transport unsecured heavy or hard objects in the passenger compartment, as they could fly around and pose a safety hazard to the vehicle's occupants during abrupt braking or evasive maneuvers. Use only the lashing eyes pictured to fasten the heavy-duty cargo straps. Do not secure cargo with the attachment points for the top tether, refer to page 56; otherwise they could be damaged.< Driving on poor roads Your BMW is at home on all roads and surfaces. It combines a 4-wheel drive system with the advantages of a normal passenger car. Do not drive on unpaved terrain, as otherwise the vehicle may be damaged.< When you are driving on poor roads, there are a few points which you should strictly observe for your own safety, for that of your passengers, and for the safety of the vehicle: > Familiarize yourself with the vehicle before driving off and avoid taking risks at all costs. Controls At a glance