Mobility

Jump-starting

8steps
~48min
2/5difficulty
Done 0 of 8

Jump-starting is one of the most important emergency procedures. This chapter of the BMW 5 VII generation describes it in detail. Everything is precisely explained, from safety and preparation instructions and the correct sequence for connecting the cables to starting both vehicles. Particularly important: switch off electrical consumers beforehand, do not touch any components, and do not use starting aid sprays. Recharging the battery is also addressed. The integrated jump-start terminals in the engine compartment are safely and practically positioned. The illustrated diagrams provide additional safety, ideal for when it matters most.

General

If the battery is discharged, the engine can be started using the battery of another vehicle via two jumper cables. Only use jumper cables with fully insulated clamps.

Safety information

DANGER Touching live components can cause an electric shock. There is a risk of injury or death. Do not touch any components that could be live

Preparation

NOTICE If the two vehicles touch, a short circuit can occur during jump-starting. There is a risk of property damage. Make sure the vehicles are not touching

  1. Check that the battery of the donor vehicle has 12 V. Voltage information is on the battery.
  2. Switch off the engine of the donor vehicle.
  3. Switch off all electrical consumers in both vehicles.

Jump-starting points

Safety information

WARNING If the jumper cables are connected in the wrong order, sparks can occur. There is a risk of injury.

Observe the correct connection sequence

Battery positive terminal

Batteriepluspol

The jump-start terminal in the engine compartment serves as the battery positive terminal.

Open the cover of the jump-start terminal.

Battery negative terminal

Batterieminuspol

A special nut serves as the battery negative terminal.

Connecting the cables

Before starting, switch off all consumers that are not needed, such as the radio, in the donor and receiving vehicles.

  1. Open the cover of the jump-start terminal.
  2. Connect one clamp of the positive jumper cable to the battery positive terminal or the corresponding jump-start terminal of the donor vehicle.
  3. Connect the second clamp to the battery positive terminal or the corresponding jump-start terminal of the vehicle to be started.
  4. Connect one clamp of the negative jumper cable to the battery negative terminal or to the corresponding engine or body ground of the donor vehicle.
  5. Connect the second clamp to the battery negative terminal or to the corresponding engine or body ground of the vehicle to be started.

Starting the engine

Do not use starting aid sprays to start the engine.

  1. Start the engine of the donor vehicle and let it run at increased idle speed for a few minutes.

For a vehicle to be started with a diesel engine: let the engine of the donor vehicle run for approx. 10 minutes.

  • Start the engine of the vehicle to be started as usual.
  • If starting fails, wait a few minutes before attempting to start again, to allow the discharged battery to recover.
  • Let both engines run for a few minutes.
  • Disconnect the jumper cables in reverse order. If necessary, check the battery and have it recharged.
  • A flat battery can happen to anyone, which is why it is so important that the BMW 5 Touring (G31, model years 2017–2024) provides clear and safe jump-starting instructions. The described connection sequence and the warnings about sparks or short circuits help to avoid hazardous situations.

    The illustrations and precise information on the location of the positive and negative jump-start terminals in the engine compartment are particularly helpful. They make correct connection easier, even for drivers without technical knowledge, and increase safety in an emergency.

    The BMW 5 Series thereby demonstrates that premium quality also shows in its details and in exceptional situations.

    Test yourself

    A quick BMW 5 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.