Car Care, Information

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Taking Your BMW on a Camping Trip

Your bimmer is tougher than you think. Many of the SUVs feature AWD that’s perfect for exploring tough terrain, with ample skid plates to protect their undercarriages. Still, many owners hesitate and never head into the wild.

Why hold back when adventure awaits? Knowing how to avoid the following five mistakes when taking your BMW on a camping trip frees you to marry your love of the great outdoors with your passion for your ride.

1. Paint Scratches 

Rugged, off-road terrain can harm your vehicle in two ways. Fortunately, the right skid plates protect your underbody. The new X5 Silver Anniversary Edition comes with these pre-equipped, although those with other models can invest in after-market versions. While many sports models sit a bit too low to the ground to navigate dirt comfortably, the SUVs provide ample ground clearance for all but the rockiest climbs.

Skid plates won’t protect your paint job. However, your average grocery parking lot poses as many dangers from wayward carts as random branches along the typical forest road. Of course, you could stick to established campgrounds close to paved thoroughfares, like many KOAs. Take heart, though. You can avoid paint scratches by driving carefully and fixing any minor ones with a miracle paint pen or a polishing compound and microfiber cloth.

2. Going Flat 

A flat tire can put a serious damper on any camping trip, especially if roadside assistance charges extra for rescuing you on dirt. However, one feature that makes BMWs so ideal for camping is the run-flat tires features on many models. These are designed to let you travel up to 50 miles to the nearest shop should you roll over a particularly sharp stone.

Furthermore, a spare tire, a quality jack and a little know-how assuage flat tire fears. Practice in your driveway, playing “pit crew” — your kiddos will love it. Investing in a hydraulic floor jack is a must if you lack upper body strength.

3. Pulling Too Much Weight

The X3, X5 and X7 models can tow small pull-behind campers — if you know your limits and don’t overload your vehicle. To determine how much your bimmer can safely tow, you must understand the following few key terms and do a little math:

  • Towing capacity: The maximum weight a vehicle can tow behind it on a trailer
  • Load/payload capacity: The amount of weight a vehicle or trailer can safely carry in its cabin and bed
  • GVWR: Gross vehicle weight rating, or the maximum weight capacity of a vehicle with passengers and cargo — including your trailer — indicated on the sticker inside your driver’s door

You can calculate the load capacity by subtracting the weight of your unloaded trailer from the GVWR. Then, add the weight of any gear you stow in your BMW or trailer and compare it against the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Give yourself a 10% buffer, as factors like rough terrain and inclement weather can make towing more difficult. Towing too much can damage your suspension or even lead to accidents.

4. Getting Stuck

Even if you head into the wild in broad daylight, accidents happen. Going off the beaten path can mean getting stuck in the mud — or even a deep hole you didn’t see. You might have a buddy to assist if you travel in a group, but if not, carrying a portable winch is a must. A little kitty litter also comes in handy when icy or slushy conditions make things a bit slick.

5. Going Cold and Hungry

Who needs a tent? BMWs are known for luxurious interiors that are perfect for sleeping. Models like the X7 allow you to fold down three rows of seats to create a far more comfortable bed than even the best air mattress.

However, those who lack an X5 plug-in hybrid’s ability to run the heat via an electric motor need a way to keep warm at night. A well-insulated sleeping bag is a must, even if you watch the stars through your moonroof.

Are you headed to Yellowstone? Don’t think car camping makes it safe to keep your jerky in your ride — bears can break into cars, even as you sleep within. Use the bear boxes provided by the campsite or, better yet, bring your own.

Keep Yourself and Your BMW Safe While Camping

You may have never considered taking your bimmer on a camping trip, but doing so is a fun way to test your sweet ride’s off-road performance. Whether you stick to established campgrounds or head out for a bit of quiet boondocking, your BMW can carry the gear you need, serve as a temporary shelter and provide oodles of fun while traversing rough terrain. Get on out there and see what your car can really do.

Editorial, Information

Planning a Cross-Country BMW Road Trip? Here Are a Few Things to Keep in Mind

You love your bimmer, and you’d rather be behind the wheel than just about anywhere. Why not combine your driving fun with vacation? Planning a cross-country BMW road trip is only slightly less fun than living out the dream. 

The ultimate escape deserves a mindful approach. Here’s what to keep in mind as you plan.

Gear Up 

The right supplies make smooth sailing even more enjoyable and transform major headaches into minor inconveniences. Ensure you cross the following items off your BMW road trip checklist before departure: 

  • Copies your license, registration and insurance, including enrolling in your state’s digital id program, if available where you live. Electronic copies make everything easier. 
  • A spare tire and repair kit, including flares, triangles and a jack. Many BMWs come with run-flat tires, which let you travel up to 50 miles at low speeds to reach a repair shop — no dangerous changes by the side of the road. 
  • A roadside emergency kit with reflective vest, rain poncho, tire pressure gauge, window breaker, some pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers and spare gas. 
  • A paper map, just in case, although many newer bimmers have built-in navigation systems. 
  • Auxilary and charging cables 
  • An ice scraper, de-icer and gloves 
  • Comfort supplies not otherwise in your luggage, such as a blanket if you must wait for roadside assistance in the cold, spare cash, snacks, toys for the kiddos and, most importantly, plenty of bottled water — especially if traveling through desert regions. 

Plan the Perfect Itinerary 

The journey is as important as the destination on a BMW road trip. On the east coast, Florida’s Overseas Highway connects the Florida Keys and features the Seven Miles Bridge, where you can pretend you’re Bond, James Bond. Finish in Key West and hobnob with the celebrity set. 

Out west, the Pacific Coast Highway or Route 101 provides breathtaking views of the world’s largest ocean. It’s also one of the safer routes in the Golden State, as the I-405, SR 60, I-10 and I-105 saw over 3,500 fatalities in 2018. Although you could theoretically make this 10-hour drive in a single day, why rush? Stop by the sleepy mountain town of Felton to visit the Bigfoot Museum or go hiking in the rugged mountains surrounding Big Sur to stretch your legs. 

What about America’s heartland? You can still get your kicks on Route 66 and see 2,448 miles of the nation’s countryside. If traveling as winter approaches with your kids, a stop in Williams, AZ is a must for the genuine Polar Express experience. If traveling earlier in the fall, get your tickets for the nation’s biggest rodeo. Of course, you must stop a bit further east and take your picture standing on the corner in Winslow, AZ. 

Although you’ll need to make a few detours on your way to Chicago, thanks to time taking its toll on the road, the side trips are all part of the fun. Remember, the fastest route isn’t necessarily the best, and your GPS system makes plugging in new directions a snap. The Meremec Caverns in Stanton, Missouri once stood as the underground hideout for Jesse James, and the Shea Gas Station Museum and Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum await you in Illinois. 

White BMW driving down the road

Finding Lodging and Supplies 

If nothing else, you’ll need to refuel or charge your bimmer if you’re driving one of the newer all-electric models like the i4XDrive40 or i4M50. Fortunately, you’ll find plenty of charging stations nearly anywhere you go. Making your reservations in advance and calling your hotel before you depart is always wise to ensure your accommodations meet your discriminating tastes. 

What if you just want to catch some quick shuteye without leaving your ride? Download an app such as Trucker’s Path or iOverlander before you depart to find the safest rest stops along your route. 

Timing Is Everything 

Another consideration for your BMW road trip is when to go. Of course, spontaneous types might throw a dart at a map, anytime, anywhere and go where the highway takes them. However, if, like most mere mortals, you have limited vacation time, combining your excursion to coincide with festivals and special events can make the journey extra memorable. Some up-and-coming fun to consider for the fall include: 

  • Elk Fest in Estes Park, Colorado, lets you see the massive beasts live and in the flesh while experiencing Native American performances. Stop for lunch at the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining.” 
  • Salem, MA, is the ultimate Halloween destination for lovers of all things spooky. Can you communicate with the ghost of Giles Corey and others from beyond the grave? 
  • Oktoberfest Zinzinatti brings America’s heartland alive with German music, dance and, of course, fantastic beers and microbrews. 

Planning a Cross-Country BMW Road Trip 

When it comes to your next getaway, make the journey as much fun as the destination. Planning a cross-country BMW road trip marries your love of your ride and the open road with whatever destination you choose. Enjoy the best drives America has to offer in your bimmer.

Car Care, Editorial

6 Proactive Ways to Prolong Your BMW’s Life Span

Some cars last five years, whereas others can give you two decades of reliable performance. What makes a significant difference in your BMW’s life span? It depends on how well you treat it. Caring for your bimmer goes a long way to ensure you get the most from it. 

Here are six proactive ways to prolong your BMW’s longevity. 

Regularly Service the Vehicle

Getting regular service is an excellent way to extend your BMW’s life. Take your car to a mechanic with extensive BMW experience to ensure you get solid upkeep. Follow your owner’s manual to see how frequently you should service the car. Modern vehicles need an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles, but the guide provides the best information. 

Regular maintenance is advantageous because it shows problems you didn’t know before. If unattended, they could worsen and damage your BMW. For instance, the average driver might overlook brake pad thinning. A keen mechanic would recommend changing them and warn you about a damaged rotor or other problems. 

Maintain the Battery

Batteries have become more critical than ever because of electric vehicles (EVs). Gas-powered and electric cars need close battery inspections, or else your bimmer could see extensive under-the-hood damage. For instance, a poorly maintained battery could see corrosion and a hindered electricity flow. The last thing you want is a bill for battery replacement. 

Experts say your battery should last about five years, but proper maintenance extends its life. Start by cleaning the built-up corrosion, as it’s one of the most obvious signs of wear. Dirt and oxidation can ruin the battery, so regularly inspect it for this mess. Another way to protect your battery is to tighten all the fasteners and secure it to the mounting bracket. 

Watch Your Tires

Tires are significant to your BMW’s long-term health because they affect your engine and suspension. Watch your tires and regularly check their status for best upkeep. You should visually inspect tire pressure and refill the air according to the manual’s recommendations. Another proactive strategy is to check tread depth and replace the tires when necessary. 

Rotating your tires might not seem like a big deal, but it’s crucial for even wear. Regular rotations improve traction and optimize BMW performance on the road. Bimmer owners should also balance their tires to ensure the wheel assembly has the correct wheel distribution. Tires don’t get as much attention as engines, but they can make or break your BMW’s life span. 

Obtain Optional Auto Insurance

Most states require drivers to have auto insurance, but coverage may only protect them in some situations. BMW owners should check their service contracts to see what the automaker will cover during disastrous events. These programs last seven years or 100,000 miles and have different protection levels. Depending on your risk, you may need optional insurance coverage.

An estimated 14% of drivers were uninsured in 2022, emphasizing the need for enhanced protection. For instance, underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage pays for expenses if the at-fault driver hits you and doesn’t have adequate insurance. Extraordinary medical benefits cover medical bills exceeding $100,000 and may cover what your ordinary insurance doesn’t. 

Adjust to the Weather

You have less control over the weather, so you must adjust to it for your car’s sake. Extreme heat and cold tax your vehicle and make the engine work harder. Foster a safe environment for your bimmer by storing it in a garage, shed or another enclosed space during dangerous weather. If you don’t have a garage, cover the vehicle to shield it from the elements. 

If you don’t store your car during extreme temperatures, your BMW may suffer cosmetic and mechanical damage. For example, snow or intense ultraviolet (UV) rays harm your paint job by causing it to fade. Leaving your car outside is a bad idea, even when temperatures are normal in spring. You don’t want precipitation to seep into your BMW and risk rusting. 

Wash and Wax Your Vehicle

Watching where you drive is critical to limiting the amount of mud and dust entering your vehicle. Take your BMW to a professional car wash and detailer to eliminate the surface-level grime and contaminants in the undercarriage. Regular washes protect your paint job and make it less vulnerable to outside factors. You also need it to protect from rust. 

Corrosion is a silent killer of motor vehicles. Even if your car looks dry, moisture could still be present in its internal components. The metals react with water and oxygen to create a fatal orange and brown stain. If you see rust on your bimmer, act quickly to save your vehicle. For example, spray WD-40 and wait 15 minutes before cleaning with a microfiber towel. 

Extending Your BMW’s Longevity

Being proud of your BMW means giving it the care and attention it deserves. How can you get the most out of your vehicle? Proactive maintenance and regular service trips give your bimmer a clean health bill. 

The Ultimate BMW Forum