Fuel. BMW Diesel with BluePerformance

BMW Diesel with BluePerformance in the BMW 5 Series G30 uses AdBlue technology to reduce nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas. This chapter explains how the reducing agent works, how and when it must be refilled, and which warning indicators appear in the vehicle. At low temperatures, consumption can increase and level measurement can be delayed. Most importantly, driving readiness depends directly on a sufficient fill level. Anyone who wants to refill it themselves will find detailed safety notes, instructions for opening the tank, and information on suitable refill containers. Disposal of empty bottles is also covered. With this system, the BMW 5 Series (7th generation) is not only powerful but also environmentally conscious and technically up to date.

Principle

BMW Diesel with BluePerformance reduces nitrogen oxides in the diesel exhaust gases by injecting the reducing agent AdBlue into the exhaust system. A chemical reaction takes place in the catalytic converter that minimises nitrogen oxides.

General

The vehicle has a tank that must be refilled.

To maintain driving readiness as usual, sufficient reducing agent must be present.

The reducing agent can be refilled at any time.

AdBlue is a registered trademark of the Verband der Automobilindustrie e. V. (VDA).

Reducing agent is available at many filling stations.

Preferably refill the reducing agent at a fuel pump.

AdBlue at low temperatures

Due to its physical properties, the reducing agent may need to be refilled more often at temperatures below -5 °C.

At temperatures below -11 °C, the fill level may only be measured and displayed after a short drive.

At low temperatures, refill the reducing agent only immediately before starting the journey.

Displays on the Control Display

Showing range and refill quantity

The range until the latest possible refill point and the exact refill quantity are shown on the Control Display.

Via iDrive:

1. 1
   "My Vehicle"
2. 2
   "Vehicle status"
3. 3
   "AdBlue"

Displays in the instrument cluster

Reserve indicator

The display in the instrument cluster shows the distance that can still be driven with the current fill level.

Do not use the displayed distance completely, otherwise driving readiness may not be restored after the vehicle is switched off.

• Lamp white: refill the reducing agent at the next opportunity.
• Lamp yellow: too little reducing agent present.

The remaining range is shown in the instrument cluster. Refill the AdBlue immediately.

AdBlue at minimum

The remaining range is shown in the instrument cluster: refill the reducing agent.

The engine keeps running as long as it is not switched off and all other operating conditions are met, e.g. sufficient fuel.

System fault

In the event of a system fault, a Check Control message is displayed.

Visit the nearest manufacturer's Service Partner, another qualified Service Partner, or a specialist workshop.

Have AdBlue refilled

BMW recommends that the reducing agent is refilled by a Service Partner during regular maintenance.

If this maintenance is observed, a single refill between maintenance dates is generally required.

Under certain circumstances, e.g. sporty driving or operating the vehicle with a trailer, multiple refills between maintenance dates may be necessary.

As soon as the reserve indicator appears in the instrument cluster, have the reducing agent refilled to prevent driving readiness from being lost.

Refilling AdBlue yourself

Safety notes

WARNING When the reducing agent container is opened, small amounts of ammonia vapours may escape. Ammonia vapours have a pungent odour and irritate the skin, mucous membranes and eyes. There is a risk of injury.

Do not inhale escaping ammonia vapours. Do not allow reducing agent to come into contact with clothing, skin or eyes, and do not swallow it. Keep reducing agents away from children.

WARNING Operating fluids, e.g. oils, greases, coolant and fuels, may contain substances hazardous to health. There is a risk of injury or fatal danger. Observe the notes on the containers. Do not allow clothing, skin or eyes to come into contact with operating fluids. Do not decant operating fluids into other bottles. Store operating fluids out of reach of children.

NOTICE The ingredients of the AdBlue are highly corrosive. There is a risk of property damage. Avoid contact of AdBlue with vehicle surfaces.

Suitable AdBlue

AdBlue conforming to ISO 22241-1. AdBlue is available from a separate pump at many gas stations. Preferably refill AdBlue at a pump.

If no pump is available, AdBlue can be refilled using a container.

AdBlue is available in various containers. Preferably use the special BMW-recommended bottle. This bottle and its special adapter allow convenient filling of AdBlue.

Refill quantity

When the reserve warning appears, refill at least 5 liters.

Displaying the refill quantity

The exact refill quantity is shown on the Control Display.

Via iDrive:

1. 1
   "My Vehicle"
2. 2
   "Vehicle status"
3. 3
   "AdBlue"

AdBlue tank

The AdBlue tank cap is located next to the fuel tank cap.

Refilling AdBlue at a pump

1. 1
   Open the tank flap.
2. 2
   Turn the AdBlue tank cap counterclockwise and remove it.

   

3. 3
   Using the nozzle, refill at least the recommended refill quantity, see page 293.

   

4. 4
   Place the tank cap on and turn it clockwise.
5. 5
   Close the fuel filler flap.

The tank is full when the fuel nozzle shuts off for the first time.

Refilling AdBlue using a bottle

1. 1
   Open the tank flap.
2. 2
   Turn the AdBlue tank cap counterclockwise and remove it.
3. 3
   Place the bottle on and turn it clockwise until it stops.

   

4. 4
   Press the bottle down.

The vehicle tank is being filled.

The tank is full when the fill level in the bottle no longer changes.

Overfilling is not possible.

1. 1
   Pull the bottle back and unscrew it.

   

2. 2
   Place the tank cap on and turn it clockwise.
3. 3
   Close the fuel filler flap.

Filling with the wrong fluid

General

If the wrong fluid is filled, a Check Control message is displayed.

After filling the wrong fluid, contact a BMW Service Partner or another qualified Service Partner or a qualified workshop.

Safety information

WARNING After filling the wrong fluid, the system can overheat and ignite.

There is a risk of fire and injury. Only fill fluids that are intended for the container. After filling the wrong fluid, do not start the engine.

After filling AdBlue

Reserve indicator

After filling, the reserve warning with remaining range continues to be displayed.

Driving readiness can be restored.

After driving for several minutes, the reserve warning goes out.

AdBlue at minimum

After filling, the display continues to be shown.

Driving readiness can only be restored after the display goes out.

1. Press the Start/Stop button three times.

Display goes out after approx. 1 minute.

Press the Start/Stop button and restore driving readiness.

Disposing of bottles

Have AdBlue bottles disposed of by a BMW Service Partner or another qualified Service Partner or a qualified workshop, or take them to a collection point.

Dispose of empty bottles with household waste only if local legal regulations permit it.

The BluePerformance system in the BMW 5 Series G30/G31 impressively demonstrates how modern exhaust technology helps reduce emissions. Precise dosing of AdBlue significantly minimizes nitrogen oxide emissions without negatively affecting driving dynamics. The interplay of technology and environmental responsibility is implemented here at the highest level.

The integration of the refill display and the option of refilling AdBlue yourself or through the Service Partner are particularly well thought out. This ensures that driving readiness is maintained at all times and that low fill levels can be addressed in time. The safety and handling information also shows how seriously BMW takes responsibility.

With this system, the BMW 5 Series G30/G31 demonstrates that efficiency, comfort and environmental awareness are not contradictions, but can be combined perfectly.