The Dirt on Springtime Driving
Avoid deep ruts made by vehicles ahead of you. Generally speaking, before tackling really slippery roads and inclines, use Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), which is activated with a push of the DSC button.
DTC allows some wheelslip, which helps improve traction. In addition, try to build up momentum at the foot of a slope, then drive up at a good speed. (If your BMW has a manual transmission, change gears once you’re headed uphill.)
Strong winds BMWs are designed with superb aerodynamics. However, spring’s strong, gusting winds can have a buffeting effect on your vehicle, impacting your straight-line stability and making for a difficult driving experience. When the wind picks up speed, slow down. Try to avoid driving alongside other vehicles – especially trucks, which can be blown by the wind into your lane.
Correct passing Stuck behind a slow-moving truck or bus in a heavy spring downpour, many drivers are caught in a dilemma. Stay put or pass? The latter might not necessarily help, as traffic might be just as slow-going on the flooded road ahead. It might also be risky: in addition to possibly encountering hard to see oncoming drivers, pulling out to pass might mean driving in a flooded lane or shoulder, which could cause hydroplaning.
When close behind or alongside a truck, you also have to adapt to the poor visibility caused by the water it kicks up. Be ready to turn your wipers on to a faster setting. Then pass as quickly as is safely possible at the earliest opportunity, leaving a large distance between you and the truck before returning back to your lane.
And whenever it rains, be sure to turn on your headlights. The Daytime Running Lights feature (a Vehicle Memory setting) does not illuminate the taillights, leaving you almost invisible in heavy rain.
Source: BMW Magazine