BMW 5 Series 2020-2023 Parking Assistant Systems User Manual

Introduction

The BMW 5 Series has long been revered in the world of automotive innovation for its excellent performance, opulent amenities, and cutting-edge technology. The parking help technologies built into the BMW 5 Series from 2020 to 2023 stand out among the myriad improvements. These cutting-edge systems, which are intended to revolutionise parking, combine clever sensors, cameras, and cutting-edge algorithms to provide drivers a level of ease, accuracy, and safety that is unmatched.

Driving has always been a difficult undertaking, especially in busy urban areas. It can be stressful to navigate through confined places while precisely gauging distances and dodging obstructions. In response to this frequent problem, BMW engineers created a variety of parking assistance systems that provide assistance to drivers, making the formerly difficult task simple and stress-free.

Automatic Parking Sensors
The BMW 5 Series features a variety of clever parking sensors that are carefully positioned all over the car to give complete coverage. The distances between the car and its surroundings are precisely measured by these sensors using ultrasonic technology. In order to keep the driver continually aware of their proximity to impediments during parking manoeuvres, the data collected is subsequently processed in real-time and given to them in the form of visual and audio alerts.

360-degree cameras
A sophisticated surround vision camera system is a feature of the BMW 5 Series that works in conjunction with the parking sensors. The car is equipped with a number of high-resolution cameras that provide a 360-degree panoramic vision, providing drivers an unmatched perspective of their surroundings. With the help of this visual aid, even in the most difficult environments, perfect parking is made possible. Drivers can rely on the camera system in the BMW 5 Series to manoeuvre with confidence whether they are in a congested parking lot or a small parallel parking space.

Parking Aid
The BMW 5 Series has an innovative Park Assist feature that elevates parking assistance. Modern sensors and cameras are used by this technology to drive the car independently into both parallel and perpendicular parking spaces. The driver gives the automobile control by pressing a button to engage the Park Assist mode. The vehicle’s sophisticated algorithms determine the best steering angles, resulting in a quick and easy parking operation. While the automobile handles the challenging steering manoeuvres, the driver is in charge of the accelerator, brakes, and gear selection.

Remote Parking Control
The Remote Control Parking option in the BMW 5 Series’ parking aid systems is another impressive addition. With the help of this invention, drivers may park their cars in confined locations without ever leaving the vehicle. The driver can remotely operate the automobile and park it from outside the vehicle by using the BMW Display Key. When there isn’t enough room, this feature comes in handy especially when opening the car doors all the way is challenging. Drivers may easily cram their BMW 5 Series into small parking spaces using Remote Control Parking.

Plus Parking Assistant
The BMW 5 Series includes the Parking Assistant Plus package, which combines a number of cutting-edge technology, to further improve the parking experience. It also has further features including automatic braking, cross-traffic alert, and side collision warning in addition to the aforementioned systems. Together, these devices provide drivers with thorough parking assistance as well as an extra measure of security. The Parking Assistant Plus option demonstrates BMW’s dedication to placing a high value on both comfort and safety in their vehicles.

Conclusion

Parking aid technologies have advanced to new heights in the BMW 5 Series from 2020 to 2023, revolutionising how drivers navigate and park their cars. BMW has reimagined ease and safety in the parking experience by integrating sophisticated parking sensors, surround view cameras, automated Park Assist, remote control parking, and the full Parking Assistant Plus package. Drivers of the BMW 5 Series can maneuver even the tightest parking scenarios with ease thanks to this cutting-edge technology, freeing them up to enjoy the exceptional driving experience this classic series has to offer.

Parking Assistant Systems

Principle
The parking assistance systems support the driver in parking and maneuvering.

General information
The parking assistance systems comprise the following individual systems.

Additional information:

1. PDC Park Distance Control, refer to page 242.
2. Depending on the equipment version: emergency brake function, Active PDC, refer to page 245.
3. For side parking aid, refer to page 245.
4. Without Surround View: rearview camera, refer to page 246.
5. Automatic Parking Assistant, refer to page 249.
6. Automatic Parking Assistant, driving out of parking space, refer to page 253.
7. Back-up Assistant, refer to page 254.
8. Surround View with rearview camera, refer to page 256.
9. Panorama View, refer to page 261.
10. Remote 3D View, refer to page 263.
11. Remote Control Parking, refer to page 264.
12. Cross-traffic warnings refer to page 267.

PDC Park Distance Control

Principle
Park Distance Control (PDC) helps with parking. Acoustic and visual warnings signal obstacles in front of or behind the vehicle.
Depending on the equipment version: obstacles that are detected by the side ultrasonic sensors may also be reported by the side protection.

General information
The range of the system, depending on obstacles and environmental conditions, is approx. 6 ft/2 m.
An acoustic warning sounds in case of an impending collision at a distance to the object of approx. 27 in/70 cm.
For objects behind the vehicle, the acoustic warning is already issued at a distance to the object of approx. 5 ft/1.50 m.

Safety information

Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver’s personal judgment in assessing the traffic situation. Based on the limits of the system, it cannot independently react to all traffic situations. There is a risk of an accident. Adjust driving style to traffic conditions. Watch traffic closely and actively intervene where appropriate.

Warning
Due to high speeds when PDC Park Distance Control is activated, the warning can be delayed due to physical circumstances. There is a risk of injury or risk of damage to property. Avoid approaching an object too fast. Avoid driving off fast while PDC Park Distance Control is not yet active.

Overview

Button in the vehicle

Park assistance button

Sensors
The system is controlled by the following sensors:

1. Ultrasound sensors in the front/rear bumpers.
2. Depending on the equipment: ultrasonic sensors on the side.

Additional information:
For sensors of the vehicle, refer to page 35.

Turning on/off

Turning on automatically
The system switches on automatically in the following situations:

1. If selector lever position R is engaged when the engine is running.
2. Depending on the equipment version: while approaching detected obstacles at a speed slower than approx. 2.5 mph/4 km/h. The ac‐tivation distance depends on the situation in question.

You may switch automatic activation when ob‐stacles are detected on and off.

1. “CAR”
2. “Settings”
3. “Driver Assistance”
4. “Parking and Maneuvering”
5. If necessary, “Automatic PDC Activation”
6. “Automatic PDC Activation”

Depending on equipment, an additional camera view is also switched on.

Automatic deactivation during forward travel
The system switches off when a certain driving distance or speed is exceeded.
Switch the system back on, if needed.

Switching on/off manually

Press the park assistance button.

1. On: the LED lights up.
2. Off: the LED goes out.

The rearview camera image is displayed if the re‐verse gear is engaged when pressing the park assistance button.
Depending on the equipment version, the sys‐tem cannot be switched off manually if the re‐verse gear is engaged.

Warning

Signal tones

General information
An intermittent tone indicates when the vehicle is approaching an object. E.g., when an object is detected at the rear left of the vehicle, a signal tone sounds from the rear left speaker.
The shorter the distance to the object, the shorter the intervals. When the distance to a detected object is less than approx. 8 in/20 cm, a continuous tone is sounded.
When there are objects in front of and behind the vehicle at the same time, with a distance smaller than approx. 8 in/20 cm, an alternating constant tone will sound.
Steptronic transmission: the intermittent tone and constant tone are switched off if the selector lever position P is engaged.
The intermittent tone is switched off after a short time when the vehicle is stationary.

Volume
The PDC signal tone volume can be adjusted.

1. “CAR”
2. “Settings”
3. “Driver Assistance”
4. “Parking and Maneuvering”
5. “Volume PDC signal”
6. Set the desired value.

Visual warning
The approach of the vehicle to an object is shown on the Control Display. Objects that are farther away are already displayed on the Control Display before a signal sounds.
The display appears as soon as PDC is activated.
The range of the sensors is represented in the colors green, yellow and red when obstacles are detected.
Lanes are faded in for better estimation of the re‐quired space.
When the image of the rearview camera is dis‐played, the switch can be made to PDC or to a different view with obstacle markings as needed:

1. Press the Controller to the left, if needed.
2. For instance “Park. sensors only”

Cross traffic warning: depending on the equip‐ment, it is warned in the PDC display against ve‐hicles approaching in the front or rear from the side.

Additional information:
Cross traffic warning, refer to page 267.

System limits

Safety information

Warning
The system is designed to operate in certain conditions and circumstances. Due to condi‐tions or other factors, the system may not re‐spond. There may be a risk of accident or risk of damage to property. Actively intervene as warranted. Refer to the information in this Owner’s Manual regarding the scope of the sys‐tem’s operation and limitations.

System limits of the sensors
Additional information:
Ultrasonic sensors, refer to page 37.

Limits of ultrasonic measurement
The detection of objects with ultrasonic meas‐urements can run into physical limits, e.g., in the following situations:

1. With obstacles and persons at the edge of the lane.
2. Low objects already displayed, for instance curbs, can move into the blind area of the sensors before or after a continuous tone sounds.

Unwarranted warnings
Reaching the system limits can cause unwarranted warnings.
To prevent unwarranted alarms, switch off automatic Park Distance Control PDC activation on obstacle detection, for instance in automatic car washes.

Malfunction
A Check Control message is displayed.
White icon is displayed, and the range of the sensors is dimmed on the Control Display.
PDC Park Distance Control malfunction. Have the system checked by a dealer’s service center or another qualified service center or repair shop.

Depending on equipment version: emergency brake function, Active PDC

Principle
The emergency braking function of PDC initiates an emergency braking in case of acute risk of collision.

General information
Due to system limits, a collision cannot be prevented under all circumstances.
The function is available below walking speed when driving in reverse or rolling backward.
A press of the accelerator pedal interrupts the brake intervention.
After emergency braking to a stop, further creep‐ing toward an obstacle is possible. Proceed with caution. To move forward, lightly press the accel‐erator pedal and release as needed.
If the accelerator pedal is depressed longer, the vehicle drives off. Manual braking is possible at any time.
The system uses the ultrasonic sensors of the Park Distance Control PDC and the Parking As‐sistant.

Safety information

Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver’s personal judgment in assessing the traffic situation. Based on the limits of the sys‐tem, it cannot independently react to all traffic situations. There is a risk of accident. Adjust driving style to traffic conditions. Watch traffic and vehicle surroundings closely and actively intervene where appropriate.

Additionally, the safety information for the PDC Park Distance Control and the Automatic Parking Assistant apply.

Additional information:

1. PDC Park Distance Control, refer to page 242.
2. Automatic Parking Assistant, refer to page 249.

Temporary switching off
The emergency brake function can be switched off temporarily:
Confirm the message on the Control Display.
During continued driving in this surrounding situation, no further emergency braking will occur.

Settings
It is possible to set which areas on the vehicle will be protected by the system.

1. “CAR”
2. “Settings”
3. “Driver Assistance”
4. “Parking and Maneuvering”
5. “Active PDC with braking interv.”
6. Select the desired setting.

System limits
The limits of the systems of the Park Distance Control PDC and the Parking Assistant apply.
If required, deactivate the system via iDrive where applicable.

With Parking Assistant:
side parking aid

Principle
The side protection warns of obstacles on the side of the vehicle.

General information
The system uses the ultrasonic sensors of the Park Distance Control PDC and the Parking As‐sistant.

Safety information

Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver’s personal judgment in assessing the traffic situation. Based on the limits of the sys‐tem, it cannot independently react to all traffic situations. There is a risk of accident. Adjust driving style to traffic conditions. Watch traffic and vehicle surroundings closely and actively intervene where appropriate.

Additionally, the safety information for the PDC Park Distance Control and the Automatic Parking Assistant apply.

Additional information:

1. PDC Park Distance Control, refer to page 242.
2. Automatic Parking Assistant, refer to page 249.

Display

To protect the sides of the vehicle, obstacle markings are displayed on the sides of the vehi‐cle.

1. Color markings: warning against detected obstacles.
2. Gray markings, hatched area: no obstacles were detected.
3. No markings, black area: the area next to the vehicle was not yet captured.

Limits of the side parking aid
The system only displays stationary obstacles that were previously detected by sensors while passing them.
The system does not detect whether an obstacle moves later on. If the vehicle is stationary, the markings are shown in black after a certain time. The area next to the vehicle must be newly cap‐tured.
Additionally, the limits of the systems of the Park Distance Control PDC and the Parking Assistant apply.

Without Surround View:
rearview camera

Principle
The rearview camera provides assistance in parking and maneuvering backward. The area behind the vehicle is shown on the Control Display.
Additionally, assistance functions can be shown in the display, e.g., helplines.

Safety information

Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver’s personal judgment in assessing the traffic situation. Based on the limits of the system, it cannot independently react to all traffic situations. There is a risk of an accident. Adjust driving style to traffic conditions. Watch traffic and vehicle surroundings closely and actively intervene where appropriate.

Overview
Depending on the vehicle equipment: button in the vehicle

Park assistance button

Sensors
The system is controlled by the following sensors:

1. Rearview camera.

Additional information:
For sensors of the vehicle, refer to page 35.

Turning on/off

Turning on automatically
The system is switched on automatically if selector lever position R is engaged when the engine is running.

Automatic deactivation during forward travel
The system switches off when a certain driving distance or speed is exceeded.
Switch the system back on, if needed.

Depending on the vehicle equipment: switching on/off manually
Press the park assistance button.

1. On: the LED lights up.
2. Off: the LED goes out.

The parking assistance functions are shown on the Control Display.

Switching the view via iDrive
If the rearview camera view is not displayed, change the view via iDrive:

1. If necessary, tilt the Controller to the side.
2. “Rear view camera”
   The rearview camera image is displayed.

Functional requirements

1. The trunk lid is fully closed.
2. Keep the recording range of the camera open. Protruding cargo, roof rack systems or trailers can limit the detection range of the camera.

Display on the Control Display

Toolbars
The assistance functions can be activated manually via the toolbars on the sides of the Control Display.

1. Move the Controller to the right, if needed.
2. With corresponding equipment:
   “Camera image”
   1. “Parking aid lines”.
      Pathway lines and turning circle lines are displayed.
   2. “Obstacle mark.”.
      Depending on the vehicle equipment, the obstacles detected by PDC Park Distance Control are displayed by markings.

More than one assistance function can be active at the same time.

Parking aid lines

Lanes

Lanes help you to estimate the space required when parking and maneuvering on level roads.
Lanes depend on the steering angle and are continuously adjusted to the steering wheel movements.

Turning circle lines

Turning circle lines can only be superimposed on the camera image together with lanes.
Turning circle lines show the course of the small‐est possible turning radius on a level road.
Only one turning circle line is displayed after the steering wheel is turned past a certain angle.

Parking using lanes and turning circle lines

1. Position the vehicle so that the red turning circle line leads to within the limits of the parking space.
2. Turn the steering wheel to the point where the green lane covers the corresponding turning circle line.

Obstacle marking

Depending on the vehicle equipment, obstacles behind the vehicle are detected by the PDC Park Distance Control sensors.
Obstacle markings can be faded into the image of the rearview camera.
The colored thresholds of the obstacle markings match the markings of the PDC Park Distance Control.

Setting brightness and contrast

With the rearview camera switched on:

1. Move the Controller to the right, if needed.
2. “Camera image”
3. Select the desired setting.

System limits

System limits of the sensors
Additional information:

1. Cameras refer to page 35.

Deactivated camera
When the camera is deactivated, for instance when the trunk lid is open, the camera image is displayed hatched in gray.

Detection of objects
Very low obstacles as well as high, protruding objects such as ledges may not be detected by the system. Depending on the vehicle equipment, some as‐sistance functions also consider data from the PDC Park Distance Control. Follow the notes in the PDC Park Distance Control chapter.
The objects displayed on the Control Display may be closer than they appear. Do not estimate the distance from the objects on the display.

With Parking Assistant:
Parking Assistant

Principle

The Automatic Parking Assistant supports the driver in the following situations:

1. When parking parallel to the road, parallel parking.
2. When parking in reverse perpendicular to the road, perpendicular parking. The system orients itself with the middle of the parking space.
3. Depending on the equipment version: when driving out of parallel parking spaces.

General information

Handling
Automatic Parking Assistant handling is divided into three steps:

1. Switching on and activating.
2. Parking space search.
3. Parking.

System status and instructions on required ac‐tions are displayed on the Control Display.
Ultrasound sensors measure parking spaces on both sides of the vehicle.

Steptronic transmission
The Automatic Parking Assistant calculates the best possible parking line and takes control of the following functions during the parking opera‐tion:

1. Steering.
2. Accelerating and braking.
3. Changing gears.

The parking operation is automatic.

Safety information

Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver’s personal judgment in assessing the traffic situation. Based on the limits of the sys‐tem, it cannot independently react to all traffic situations. There is a risk of accident. Adjust driving style to traffic conditions. Watch traffic closely and actively intervene where appropri‐ate.

NOTICE
The system can steer the vehicle over or onto curbs. There is a risk of damage to property, among other potential damage. Watch traffic closely and actively intervene where appropri‐ate.

The safety information of the PDC Park Distance Control apply in addition.
Additional information:
PDC Park Distance Control, refer to page 242.

Overview

Button in the vehicle

Park assistance button

Sensors
The system is controlled by the following sensors:

1. Ultrasound sensors in the front/rear bumpers.
2. Ultrasonic sensors, side.
   Additional information:
   For sensors of the vehicle, refer to page 35.

Functional requirements

For the measurement od parking spaces

1. Maximum speed while driving forward approx. 22 mph/35 km/h.
2. Maximum distance to row of parked vehicles: 5 ft/1.5 m.

Suitable parking space
General information:

1. Gap behind an object that has a min. length of 1.7 ft/0.5 m.
2. Gap between two objects with a minimum length of approx. 1.7 ft/0.5 m.
   Parallel parking to the road:
3. Min. length of gap between two objects: own vehicle length plus approx. 2.6 ft/0.8 m.
4. Minimum depth: approx. 5 ft/1.5 m.
   Perpendicular parking:
5. Minimum width of the gap: own vehicle width plus approx. 2.3 ft/0.7 m.
6. Minimum depth: own vehicle length.
   The depth of diagonal parking spaces must be estimated by the driver. Due to technical limitations, the system is only able to approximate the depth of diagonal parking spaces.

For the parking operation

1. The doors and trunk lid are closed.
   Steptronic transmission:
2. The driver’s safety belt is fastened.

Switching on the button

Press the park assistance button. The LED lights up.

The current status of the parking space search is indicated on the Control Display.
Automatic Parking Assistant is activated automatically.

Switching on with reverse gear

1. Shift into reverse.
   The current status of the parking space search is indicated on the Control Display.
2. If necessary, activate: “Autom. Parking”

Switching on via iDrive
Display of the rearview camera or PDC view must be active.

1. Move the Controller to the right.
2. Activate the parking assistant on the Control
   Display: “Autom. Parking”

Display on the Control Display

System activated/deactivated

Parking space search and system status

1. Parking assistant is activated and parking space search is active.
2. Control Display shows suitable parking spaces at the edge of the road next to the vehicle symbol. When Park Assistant is active, suitable parking spaces are highlighted, and an acoustic signal sounds.
3. If a diagonal or parallel parking space is clearly detected, the system automatically adjusts the suitable parking method. In the case of parking spaces suitable for parallel and diagonal parking, a selection menu is displayed. In this case, the desired parking method must be selected manually.
4. The parking operation is active. The system takes over the steering.
5. Parking space search is always active whenever the vehicle is moving forward slow and straight, even if the system is deactivated. When the system is deactivated, the displays on the Control Display are shown in gray.

Switching signal tone for suitable parking spaces on/off

1. “CAR”
2. “Settings”
3. “Driver Assistance”
4. “Parking and Maneuvering”
5. “Automatic Parking”
6. “Alert if parking space detected”

Signal tones of the PDC Park
Distance Control

During an automatic parking operation, no intermittent tone will sound from the PDC Park Distance Control.
A continuous tone sounds when the distance to a detected object is less than approx. 8 in‐ches/20 cm.

Parking using the Automatic Parking Assistant

Parking

1. 1. Switching on and activating the parking assistant.
   For this, engage the reverse gear or press the parking assist button and activate the system on the Control Display, if needed.
   Automatic Parking Assistant is activated.
2. Pass the row of parked vehicles forward at a speed of up to approx. 22 mph/35 km/h and at a distance of a maximum 5 ft/1.5 m.
   The status of the parking space search and possible parking spaces are displayed on the Control Display.
3. Confirm the suggested parking space for the parking operation: select the parking space on the Control Display.
   The system takes over the steering.
4. Follow the instructions on the Control Display.
   Steptronic transmission:
   At the end of the parking operation, the P selector lever position is set. The end of the parking operation is indicated on the Control Display.
5. Adjust the parking position yourself, if needed.

Interrupting manually
The Automatic Parking Assistant can be interrupted at any time:

1. Press the park assistance button.
2. “Autom. Parking”: select the icon on the Control Display.

Interrupting automatically
The system is interrupted automatically in the following situations:

1. When the driver grasps the steering wheel or takes over the steering.
2. Possibly on a snow-covered or slippery road.
3. When there are obstacles that are hard to overcome, such as curbs.
4. When there are obstacles that suddenly appear.
5. If the PDC Park Distance Control displays clearances that are too small.
6. When the maximum number of parking attempts or the time taken for parking is exceeded.
7. When changing over to another function on the Control Display.
   Steptronic transmission:
8. If the trunk lid is open.
9. If doors are open.
10. When setting the parking brake.
11. During acceleration.
12. When the brake pedal remains pressed for an extended period while the vehicle is stationary.
13. When unfastening the driver’s safety belt. A Check Control message is displayed.

Resuming
An interrupted parking operation can be continued if needed.
Reactivate the parking assistant and follow the instructions on the Control Display.

Turning off

The system can be switched off manually:
Press the park assistance button.

System limits

Safety information

Warning
The system is designed to operate in certain conditions and circumstances. Due to conditions or other factors, the system may not respond. There may be a risk of accident or risk of damage to property. Actively intervene as warranted. Refer to the information in this Owner’s Manual regarding the scope of the system’s operation and limitations.

No parking assistance
The Automatic Parking Assistant does not offer assistance in the following situations:

1. In tight curves.
2. For diagonal parking spaces.

System limits of the sensors
Additional information:

1. For ultrasonic sensors, refer to page 37.

Functional limitations
The system may be limited in the following situations:

1. On bumpy road surfaces such as gravel roads.
2. On slippery ground.
3. On steep uphill or downhill grades.
4. With accumulations of leaves/snow in the parking space.
5. With a mounted emergency wheel.
6. In case of changes to an already-measured parking space.
7. With ditches or edges, for instance an edge of a port.
8. Parking spaces that are not suitable may be detected or suitable parking spaces may not be detected at all.

Malfunction
A Check Control message is displayed.
The Automatic Parking Assistant has malfunctioned. Have the system checked by a dealer’s service center or another qualified service center or repair shop.

Depending on the equipment version: driving out of a parking space
using the parking assistant

Principle
The system makes driving out of parallel parking spaces easier.

General information
Steptronic transmission
The parking assistant calculates an optimal line for pulling out of a parking space and takes control of the following functions during the maneu‐ver:

1. Steering.
2. Accelerating and braking.
3. Changing gears.

The vehicle maneuvers automatically until the vehicle reaches a position in which the driver can drive out of the parking space without further steering movements.

Safety information

Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver’s personal judgment in assessing the traffic situation. Based on the limits of the sys‐tem, it cannot independently react to all traffic situations. There is a risk of accident. Adjust driving style to traffic conditions. Watch traffic closely and actively intervene where appropri‐ate. Additionally, the safety information for the PDC Park Distance Control and the Automatic Parking Assistant apply.

Additional information:

1. PDC Park Distance Control, refer to page 242.
2. Automatic Parking Assistant, refer to page 249.

Functional requirements

1. The vehicle was parked manually and objects in front of and behind the car are detected. The distance to a detected curb is at least 6 inches/15 cm.
2. The vehicle was parked using the parking as‐sistant and an object is detected in front of the vehicle.
3. The parking space is at least 2.6 ft/0.8 m lon‐ger than your vehicle.
4. The vehicle has been parked in reverse.

Driving out of parking spaces

1. Turn on drive readiness.
2. Steptronic transmission:
   Press the park assistance button or shift into reverse gear when the vehicle is stationary to switch on the Automatic Parking Assistant.
3. Tilt the Controller to the right and activate the Automatic Parking Assistant on the Control Display: “Autom. Parking”
4. On the Control Display, confirm the required direction for driving out of the parking space if necessary.
5. Follow the instructions on the Control Dis‐play.
   Steptronic transmission:
   The system takes control of the maneuver. A message will be displayed at the end of the maneuver.
6. Make sure that the traffic situation permits driving out of the parking space and drive off as usual.
   The Automatic Parking Assistant is switched off automatically.

System limits
The limits of the systems of the Park Distance Control PDC and the Parking Assistant apply.

With Parking Assistant:
Reversing Assistant

Principle
The Back-up Assistant supports the driver when driving in reverse, for instance when driving out of tight or confusing parking or street situations.
The vehicle stores the driving movements of the last route. This stored route can be driven back with automated steering.

General information
The system takes control of the steering when driving in reverse along the stored route.
The driver controls driving the vehicle via an accelerator pedal and brake.
The Reversing Assistant uses the control elements and sensors of the PDC Park Distance Control and the Automatic Parking Assistant.

Additional information:

1. PDC Park Distance Control, refer to page 242.
2. Parking assistant, refer to page 249.

Safety information

Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver’s personal judgment in assessing the traffic situation. Based on the limits of the system, it cannot independently react to all traffic situations. There is a risk of an accident. Adjust driving style to traffic conditions. Watch traffic closely and actively intervene where appropriate.

Additionally, the safety information for the PDC Park Distance Control and the Automatic Parking Assistant apply.
Additional information:

1. PDC Park Distance Control, refer to page 242.
2. Automatic Parking Assistant, refer to page 249.

Functional requirements

1. Drive forward without interruption to store the route.
2. A maximum of 165 ft/50 m will be stored.
3. To store the route, do not exceed a driving speed of 22 mph/36 km/h.
4. DSC Dynamic Stability Control is activated.

Driving back with automated steering

1. Press the park assistance button or shift into reverse gear when the vehicle is stationary and the drive-ready state is switched on.
2. Move the Controller to the right.
3. “Back-up Assistant”
   The system takes over the steering.
4. Follow the instructions on the Control Display where required.
5. Take your hands off the steering wheel and carefully drive off with the accelerator pedal and the brake.
   When driving in reverse, pay attention to the vehicle’s surroundings, and if you encounter an obstacle, stop immediately and take over control of the vehicle. Follow the instructions on the PDC Park Distance Control.
6. Stop no later than when normal traffic is reached and take control of the vehicle, such as by shifting to a forward gear.
   At the end of the stored route, a signal will sound and a request will be displayed, also with the instruction to take control of the vehicle.

Terminating the system
The system automatically cancels in situations such as the following:

1. When the driver grasps the steering wheel or takes over the steering.
2. When engaging a forward gear.
3. During activation or intervention by driving control systems or assist systems.
4. After a few minutes when the vehicle is stationary.
5. If the vehicle leaves the stored lane during re‐versing; for example, at the maximum steering angle.
6. When the display on the Control Display is cross-faded with messages, e.g., due to incoming calls.

System limits

1. When you reach normal road traffic or if you encounter an obstacle, stop immediately and take over control of the vehicle.
2. The maximum speed for driving in reverse is limited to approximately 6 mph/9 km/h. If the maximum speed is exceeded, a warning is issued and the function may be canceled.
3. After driving a stored distance with major steering-wheel angles, the function of the system will be limited for the return trip.
4. Additionally, the limits of the systems of the Park Distance Control PDC and the Parking Assistant apply.
   Different influences can lead to side deviations when driving back on the stored route. For example, this includes the following factors:
5. Steering movements when the vehicle is stationary while storing the distance covered.
6. The speed is not adapted to the distance traveled.
7. Road characteristics, such as gradients or in‐clines.

With Parking Assistant Plus: Surround View

Principle
Surround View supports the driver in parking and maneuvering. The area around the vehicle is shown on the Control Display.

General information
Several cameras capture the area from different selectable perspectives.
The following camera perspectives can be displayed:

1. Automatic camera perspective: the system shows the camera perspective suitable for the respective driving situation.
2. Rearview camera: for representing the areas behind the vehicle.
3. Right-hand and left-hand side view: for representing the areas on the sides of the vehicle.
4. Unobstructed camera perspective, movable via iDrive.
5. Panorama View: to present cross traffic, for instance at junctions and driveways, depending on the currently engaged gear.

Depending on the view, the vehicle’s surroundings or a part of it is depicted. Additionally, assistance functions are shown in the display, e.g., helplines. More than one assistance function can be active at the same time. Some assistance functions can be manually activated.

The following assistance functions are automatically displayed:

1. Side parking aid.
2. Door opening angle.

Safety information

Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver’s personal judgment in assessing the traffic situation. Based on the limits of the system, it cannot independently react to all traffic situations. There is a risk of an accident. Adjust driving style to traffic conditions. Watch traffic and vehicle surroundings closely and actively intervene where appropriate.

Overview

Buttons in the vehicle

1. Park assistance button
2. Panorama View

Sensors
The system is controlled by the following sensors:

1. Front camera.
2. Top view cameras.
3. Rearview camera.
   Additional information:
   For sensors of the vehicle, refer to page 35.

Turning on/off

Turning on automatically
The system is switched on automatically if selec‐tor lever position R is engaged when the engine is running.
The camera perspective suitable for the respec‐tive driving situation is displayed.

Additional information:
Park Distance Control, turn on/off, refer to page 242.

Switching on/off manually
Press the park assistance button.

1. On: the LED lights up.
2. Off: the LED goes out.

Depending on the equipment version, the rear‐view camera cannot be switched off when the reverse gear is engaged.

Automatic deactivation during forward travel
The system switches off when a certain driving distance or speed is exceeded.
Switch the system back on, if needed.

Display on the Control Display

Overview

1. Toolbar, left
2. Camera image
3. Side view
4. Automatic camera perspective
5. Movable unobstructed camera perspective 6 Toolbar, right
6. Rearview camera
7. Selection window

Toolbar on the left
The left toolbar can be used for the direct selec‐tion of various views via iDrive. Move the Control‐ler to the left, if needed.

1. “Parking”: around the vehicle.
2. “3D view”: available camera.
3. “Car wash”.

Side view
The side view can be selected for the right or left vehicle side.
This view helps when positioning the vehicle at the curb or with other obstacles on the side by displaying the side surroundings.
The side view looks from rear to front and in case of danger, focuses automatically on possible ob‐stacles.

Automatic camera perspective
The automatic camera perspective shows a steering-dependent view in the respective driv‐ing direction.
This perspective adapts to the respective driving situation.
As soon as obstacles are detected, the view changes to a fixed display of the area in front or at the rear behind the bumper or, if necessary, changes to a side view.
When reverse gear is engaged, the automatic camera perspective is, if necessary, exited and the system uses a fixed perspective of the rear‐view camera. If necessary, manually select the automatic camera perspective when reverse gear is engaged. The automatic camera per‐spective will be retained for the current parking operation.

Movable unobstructed camera perspective
With selection of the movable camera perspec‐tive, a circle appears on the Control Display. By turning the Controller or via touch function, specified perspectives on the circle can be se‐lected.
The current perspective is marked with a camera symbol. To leave the function, move the Controller side‐ways and select another camera function.

Toolbar on the right
Assistance functions can be activated and set‐tings can be entered via the right toolbar via iDrive. Move the Controller to the right, if needed.

1. “Autom. Parking”.
2. “Back-up Assistant”.
3. “Camera image”:
   1. “Brightness”.
   2. “Contrast”.
   3. “Parking aid lines”.
   4. “Obstacle mark.”.
4. “Settings”: apply settings, for instance, to use the activation points for Panorama View.

Rearview camera
This view shows the picture of the rearview camera.

Selection window
The individual camera perspectives can be selected in the selection window via iDrive.

Parking aid lines
Lanes

Lanes help you to estimate the space required when parking and maneuvering on level roads.
Lanes depend on the steering angle and are continuously adjusted to the steering wheel movements.

Turning circle linesTurning circle lines can only be superimposed on the camera image together with lanes.

Turning circle lines show the course of the small‐est possible turning radius on a level road.
Only one turning circle line is displayed after the steering wheel is turned past a certain angle.

Parking using lanes and turning circle lines

1. Position the vehicle so that the red turning circle line leads to within the limits of the parking space.
2. Turn the steering wheel to the point where the green lane covers the corresponding turning circle line.

Obstacle marking

Obstacles behind the vehicle are detected by the PDC Park Distance Control sensors.
Obstacle markings can be shown in the camera image.
The colored thresholds of the obstacle markings match the markings of the PDC Park Distance Control.

Car wash viewThe car wash view assists when entering a car wash by displaying the floor and the vehicle’s own track.

Side parking aid

Principle
The system warns of obstacles on the side of the vehicle.

DisplayTo protect the sides of the vehicle, obstacle markings are displayed on the sides of the vehicle.

1. No markings: no obstacles were detected.
2. Color markings: warning against detected ob‐stacles.

Limits of the side parking aid
The system only displays stationary obstacles that were previously detected by sensors while passing them. The system does not detect whether an obstacle moves later on. For this reason, at standstill, the markings are not shown anymore in the display after a certain time. The area next to the vehicle must be newly captured.

Door opening angle

Principle
If obstacle marking is activated, the Surround View indicates fixed obstacles that obstruct the opening angles of the doors.
The system does not provide a warning of ap‐proaching road users.

DisplaySteptronic transmission: the maximum opening angles of the doors are displayed in selector lever position P. As soon as the vehicle begins moving, the opening angles are replaced by parking aid lines.

Limits of the display
The vehicle’s surroundings are displayed with distorted image for technical reasons.
Even if the symbols for the door opening angles do not cross other objects on the Control Dis‐play, the following needs to be noted when park‐ing next to other objects:
Because of the perspective, higher, protruding objects may be closer than they appear on the Control Display.

Setting brightness and contrast

Brightness and contrast can be adjusted with Surround View or Panorama View switched on.

1. Move the Controller to the right, if needed.
2. “Camera image”
3. Select the desired setting.

Functional limitations
The system can be used only to a limited extent in the following situations:

1. In poor light.
2. In the case of soiled cameras.
3. With a door open.
4. With the trunk lid open.
5. With exterior mirrors folded in.

Gray hatched areas with icons, for instance, open door, in the camera image mark areas that are currently not displayed.

System limits

System limits of the sensors
Additional information:

1. Cameras refer to page 35.

Non-visible areas
Because of the camera angle, the areas under the vehicle cannot be viewed by the cameras.

Detection of objects
Very low obstacles as well as high, protruding objects such as ledges may not be detected by the system.
Some assistance functions also consider data from the PDC Park Distance Control.
Follow the notes in the PDC Park Distance Control chapter.
The objects displayed on the Control Display may be closer than they appear. Do not estimate the distance from the objects on the display.

Additional information:
PDC Park Distance Control, refer to page 242.

Malfunction
A camera malfunction is displayed on the Control Display.
A yellow icon is displayed and the recording range of the malfunctioning camera is displayed in black on the Control Display.

With Parking Assistant Plus: Panorama View

PrinciplePanorama View gives you an earlier view of crossing traffic at blind driveway exits and intersections.

General information
Road users concealed by obstacles to the left and right of the vehicle can only be detected rel‐atively late from the driver’s seat. The cameras in the front and rear capture the sideways traffic area to improve the view. Yellow lines in the screen display mark the front and rear end of the vehicle.
The camera image shows different levels of dis‐tortion in some areas and is thus not suitable for distance estimations. Depending on the equipment version, the func‐tion can only be used when driving forward.

Additional information:
Surround View, refer to page 256.

Safety information

Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver’s personal judgment in assessing the traffic situation. Based on the limits of the sys‐tem, it cannot independently react to all traffic situations. There is a risk of accident. Adjust driving style to traffic conditions. Watch traffic and vehicle surroundings closely and actively intervene where appropriate.

Overview

Button in the vehicle

Panorama View

Sensors
The system is controlled by the following sensors:

1. Front camera.
2. Depending on the equipment: rearview camera.

Additional information:
Sensors of the vehicle, refer to page 35.

Display on the Control Display

Press the button when the engine is run‐ning.

Depending on the driving direction, the image of the respective camera is displayed:

1. ▷ “Front”: front camera image.
   ▷ “Rear”: rear camera image.

Depending on the vehicle equipment, cross traf‐fic warning can additionally warn of approaching vehicles using radar sensors.
Additional information:
Cross traffic warning, refer to page 267.
With navigation system: activation points

Principle
Positions, where Panorama View should switch on automatically, can be stored as activation points provided that a Global Positioning System signal is received.

General information
Up to ten activation points can be stored.
Activation points can be used when driving for‐ward for the front camera.

Storing activation points

1. Drive to the position at which the system is to be switched on, and stop.
2. Press the button.
3. Tilt the Controller to the right.
4. “Activation point”
   The current position is displayed.
5. “Save activation point”

Activation points are, if possible, stored with town/city and street address, or else with the Global Positioning System coordinates.

Using activation points
The use of activation points can be switched on and off.

1. Press the button.
2. Tilt the Controller to the right.
3. “Settings”
4. “Panorama View, GPS-based”
5. “Panorama View is displayed automatically when set activation points are reached.”

Displaying activation points

1. Press the button.
2. Tilt the Controller to the right.
3. “Manage points”
   A list of all activation points is displayed.

Renaming or deleting activation points

1. Press the button.
2. Tilt the Controller to the right.
3. “Manage points”
   A list of all activation points is displayed.
4. Select an activation point as needed.
5. Select the desired setting.

Functional limitations
The Surround View functional limitations apply. Additional information:
Surround View, refer to page 256.

System limits
The limits of the Surround View system apply. Additional information:
Surround View, refer to page 256.

With Parking Assistant Plus: Remote 3D View

Principle
The BMW app and the pictures of the Surround View cameras in combination with the corresponding equipment enable the display of the vehicle’s surroundings on a mobile device.
The function displays a momentary view of the situation.

Sensors
The system is controlled by the following sponsors:

1. Front camera.
2. Top view cameras.
3. Rearview camera.
   Additional information:
   For sensors of the vehicle, refer to page 35.

Functional requirements

1. Data transmission must be activated. Data protection, refer to page 66.
2. BMW app must be installed on the mobile device.
3. ConnectedDrive countries: a driver profile with an existing ConnectedDrive account must be activated.
   Driver profiles, refer to page 67.

Switching the Function On/Off

Switching on/off with other functions

1. “CAR”
2. “Settings”
3. “General settings”
4. “Data privacy”
5. Select the desired setting.

Switching on/off individually

Pre-adjustment

1. “CAR”
2. “Settings”
3. “General settings”
4. “Data privacy”
5. “Select services individually”
6. “My BMW app & customer portal”
7. “Remote 3D View”

Turning on/off

1. “CAR”
2. “Settings”
3. “General settings”
4. “Data privacy”
5. “Individual selection”

System Limits of the Sensors

Additional information:
Cameras refer to page 35.

Functional Limitations

The system may not be fully functional or may not be available in the following situations:

1. With a door or the trunk lid open. Dark fields in the display indicate areas that are not recorded by the system.
2. With manually folded-in exterior mirrors.
3. When other camera functions are being performed in the vehicle.
4. When the vehicle moves faster than walking speed.
5. It may not be possible to use the function in every country.
6. For reasons of data protection, the function can only be used three times within two hours.

FAQs

1. What is a Parking Assistant System?
   By offering direction and support, the Parking Assistant System in the BMW 5 Series (2020–2023) enables drivers to park their cars securely and accurately.
2. How does the Parking Assistant System work?
   To determine the surroundings of the car, the system makes use of a variety of sensors, cameras, and sophisticated algorithms. It offers the motorist both visual and aural clues to help them through parking maneuvers.
3. What parking maneuvers can the Parking Assistant System assist with?
   Both parallel and perpendicular parking can be helped with using the Parking Assistant System. Additionally, it can make leaving a parking place easier.
4. Can the Parking Assistant System park the vehicle automatically?
   The BMW 5 Series (2020–2023) has a Parking Assistant System that may maneuver the car into a parking place automatically. Only the brakes and accelerator need to be controlled by the driver.
5. Does the Parking Assistant System have a 360-degree view of the vehicle?
   The technology does indeed use cameras and sensors to provide a thorough view of the area around the car, helping the driver park and avoid impediments.
6. Can the Parking Assistant System detect parking spaces?
   When traveling at a low speed, the system is capable of spotting appropriate parking spaces. It alerts the motorist and requests that they activate the parking assistance option.
7. Does the Parking Assistant System provide real-time distance and trajectory information?
   The technology does offer trajectory guidance to help with maneuvering as well as real-time information about the distance between the vehicle and objects.
8. Can the Parking Assistant System assist in crowded parking lots?
   The technology is made to help with parking maneuvers even in congested parking lots. It may guide the driver through confined places and prevent accidents.
9. Does the Parking Assistant System provide warnings for potential collisions?
   The system does have collision alerts, and if it senses one coming when parking, it can immediately apply the brakes.
10. Can the Parking Assistant System handle parking on inclines or declines?
    The system can help with parking on slopes by giving instructions and adjusting for the grade to provide a precise and safe parking maneuver.
11. Does the Parking Assistant System work in all weather conditions?
    The Parking Assistant System is made to function in a variety of weather circumstances, although adverse weather, such as intense rain, snow, or fog, may impair its functionality.
12. Can the Parking Assistant System be disabled?
    Yes, the driver can choose to enable or disable the Parking Assistant System. It can be managed using the infotainment system or the vehicle’s settings.
13. Is the Parking Assistant System available in all BMW 5 Series models?
    The higher trims of the BMW 5 Series (2020-2023) often come with the Parking Assistant System as an optional feature. It might not be a part of the fundamental model.
14. Does the Parking Assistant System have any limitations?
    Although the Parking Assistant System is cutting-edge, it has several drawbacks. The driver must still pay close attention because the system might not always be able to detect all impediments or take into account abrupt changes in the environment.
15. Can the Parking Assistant System be retrofitted to older BMW 5 Series models?
    It might not be possible to retrofit the Parking Assistant System to older BMW 5 Series cars or it might need considerable modifications. The best place to find out about individual retrofitting choices is at a BMW dealership.

Useful Links

View Full User Guide: BMW 5 Series 2020-2023 User Manual |Auto User Guide
Download Manuals: BMW Owner’s Manuals – BMW USA | BMW