Driving the X5

Poor roads: To avoid endangering yourself, your passengers and the vehicle, strictly observe the following rules when driving on poor roads:

Driving on loose ground may damage the vehicle.

► Select your speed according to road conditions. The steeper the climb and the rougher the road, the lower the speed should be.

► The gradient of descents and climbs must not exceed 50 %.

If you must negotiate such a descent or climb, make sure the engine oil and coolant levels are close to the maximum mark, see pages 152 and 154.

On very steep descents, use Hill Descent Control (HDC), see page 99.

Starting off is possible on gradients of up to 32 %.

The permissible lateral road gradient is 50 %.

► While driving, watch for obstacles, such as stones or potholes, and steer around them whenever possible.

► Note that on bumps and uneven ground the body may contact the ground. The vehicle ground clearance is:

up to four persons in the vehicle – 200 mm; at full load and without ride height control – 180 mm.

► The vehicle can ford water up to 50 cm deep. At this depth, drive through without stopping at walking pace.

Moisture reduces brake effectiveness. After driving onto a dry road, dry the brakes by applying the brake pedal lightly.

Back on asphalt: After driving off-road, it is strongly recommended to put the vehicle in order, including for safety reasons:

► Clean the body and check the condition of the underbody.
► Clean the wheels of mud, snow and ice, and check them for damage.
► Clean the brake discs and calipers of clumps of mud, stones and other foreign objects that could reduce braking efficiency.
► Clean the brake discs while driving.

To do this, while driving at low speed, lightly apply the brake pedal. Make sure your actions do not create hazards for other road users.

► Clean the parking brake: when traffic conditions allow, drive about 200 m with the parking brake lever slightly applied at a speed of 40 km/h.