If your car is driven only for short distances
of less than 10 miles over a prolonged
period of time, without an occasional drive
at highway speeds, the engine’s charging
system will not maintain the battery. In-
sufficient use of the vehicle could result in
short term starting problems and in the
long term could damage the battery.
In case the car is not operated for more
than four weeks it is advisable to:
a) consider using a proper trickle charger,
following the charger manufacturer’s
instructions, to maintain the battery’s
state of charge; or
b) consult your BMW center regarding
battery removal. Once removed, the
battery must be charged and stored in
a cool, dry place where it can be pro-
tected from freezing. If the battery will
be stored for over 3 months, it must be
recharged every 3 months, or else it will
become damaged and useless.
Please consult with your BMW center for further
guidance and information.
Extensive corrosion protection measures imple-
mented by BMW now make it possible to offer a
six-year limited anti-corrosion warranty against
rust perforation on your vehicle provided that
the vehicle is maintained in accordance with
the provisions of the New Vehicle Limited War-
ranty as outlined in the Warranty Section of this
Statement (page 30).
The major degree of corrosion protection is due
to the electrophoretic dip painting process which
cathodically deposits paint particles on all body
parts, attracting paint particles into the minutest
cavities or seams. Body parts are designed to
provide optimum corrosion protection.
During manufacture, exterior body parts receive
an additional corrosion protection coat. Hood,
trunk, doors and other body parts are coated
with PVC and sealed from the outside.
All floor panels receive a resilient coating of PVC
for maximum protection against damage due to
stones, etc.
Corrosion protection materials tested over many
years are applied to the surfaces of cavities and
to the entire underside of the vehicle during and
after assembly.
Requirements for maintaining the six-year lim-
ited anti-corrosion warranty are outlined in the
Warranty Section of this Statement (page 32).
Restoring corrosion protection
Please take care that anti-corrosion material is
replaced when your car is repaired after body or
chassis damage.
BMW will not accept any liability for any
parts and accessories not approved by
BMW.
Underbody maintenance
The underbody has to be cleaned at least once
a year, in spring, with plain water in order to
remove mud, chemical sediments and other
deposits. If those materials are not removed,
corrosion (rust) will occur on metal components.
Your BMW center will do this anti-corrosion ser-
vice for you.
WARNING
Do not apply additional undercoating or rust-
proofing on or near the exhaust manifold, ex-
haust pipes, catalytic converter or heat shields.
During driving, the substance used for under-
coating could overheat and cause a fire.
Battery Care
Corrosion Protection
14
