The Complete Guide to Using BMW Launch Control
Have you ever wondered how professional BMW drivers are able to achieve neck-snapping acceleration times from 0 to 60 mph in mere seconds? Well, the secret lies in a special performance feature called launch control.
Launch control is equipped on many modern BMW models to give drivers the ability to unlock the full acceleration potential of their Ultimate Driving Machine. With launch control properly set up and activated, you can experience supercar-rivaling acceleration times that seem almost impossible in a stock BMW.
But how exactly does BMW’s version of launch control work and how do you get the most out of it? This complete guide will teach you everything you need to know about using launch control to achieve lightning-fast acceleration in your BMW.
An Introduction to BMW Launch Control
Launch control is a special software mode built into many modern BMW models that optimizes the traction and power delivery systems to achieve the absolute quickest acceleration times possible from a standstill.
Here’s a quick overview of how BMW launch control works:
- It holds the engine RPM at an optimal level to build boost before launching
- It manages torque delivery to maximize traction off the line
- It uses advanced electronics to mitigate wheel spin when accelerating
- It helps the transmission deliver optimal, lightning-fast shifts
By controlling these variables, launch control aims to limit tire slippage and wasted power. The end result is the ability to produce neck-snapping acceleration times from 0 to 60 mph, all without requiring an expert level of finesse from the driver.
While primarily aimed at improving straight line acceleration, launch control can also provide handling benefits when exiting corners by allowing you to get back on the power faster and harder.
Which BMW Models Have Launch Control?
Most modern turbocharged BMW models are equipped with some form of OEM launch control. Here are some of the core BMW models that come with launch control capability from the factory:
- BMW M2 and M2 Competition
- BMW M3 and M4
- BMW M5 and Alpina B5
- BMW M8, M8 Competition, and Alpina B8
- BMW X3M and X4M
- BMW X5M and X6M
In general, BMW’s high performance M models and SUVs will come equipped with launch control standard. It may be an optional extra on some model trims.
The way launch control functions can vary slightly between models based on factors like drivetrain configuration and power outputs. For example, on BMW’s AWD performance SUVs, the launch control system has to manage torque distribution between front and rear wheels.
But while the tuning may differ, the general purpose remains the same – unleashing eye-watering acceleration from a dead stop.
How to Activate Launch Control in Your BMW
If you want to experience the absolutely bonkers acceleration launch control enables, then the first step is properly activating it in your BMW.
The launch control activation process can vary slightly by model, but generally follows these steps:
Enable Sport+ Mode
Launch control only functions when the vehicle is in its highest performance “Sport+” mode. For most BMWs you’ll engage this via the Sport button on the center console or using the iDrive settings.
Engaging Sport+ sets your BMW’s various dynamic systems to their most aggressive states to allow for maximum acceleration capabilities.
Hold Brake and Floor Gas Pedal
With the car stopped, fully press and hold the brake pedal. While maintaining brake pressure, then floor the gas pedal until it stops at full throttle.
You may feel the engine RPMs surge as the car’s computers prepare the engine and transmission for a quick launch.
Look for Launch Control Confirmation
Keep holding both pedals down and look for visual confirmation that launch control is activated. On some BMW models like the M5, the instrument display will show a message that says “Launch Control Active”.
You may also hear the engine tone change to a specific RPM level as it holds revs steady in anticipation of launch.
Release Brake to Launch
With launch control activated, firmly hold both pedals down, then quickly release the brake pedal while keeping the throttle pinned to the floor.
This will unleash the car’s maximum acceleration and allow the advanced electronics to optimize traction off the line.
And that’s it – properly launching with BMW’s launch control really is that simple. Now let’s get into some pro tips for making the most of your BMW’s launch control.
Tips for Using Launch Control in Your BMW
While launch control removes a lot of complexity from accelerating as quickly as possible from a stop, there are still some best practices you should keep in mind.
Here are some expert tips for getting the absolute quickest acceleration times when using your BMW’s launch control system:
Find the Ideal RPM Hold Level
Most BMW launch control systems will hold the engine RPM in an optimal range, usually between 3,000 to 4,500 RPM. Play around to see where your car seems to launch most effectively. Higher RPM can lead to more wheel spin, so start conservative.
Manage Wheel Spin on Launch
Some tire spin is inevitable, but too much wastes precious acceleration time. If spinning too much, dial back the RPM hold level slightly. Staggering tire pressures at front and rear can help plant the rear on launch.
Use Performance Tires
Sticky performance tires provide maximum grip for full traction during hard launches. Consider a set of summer performance tires to improve upon the OEM all-seasons.
Keep it Straight
Make sure to launch on a straight, even surface. Any steering input or car angle during launch can induce traction loss.
Full Throttle on Shift
Keep the throttle pinned when the transmission shifts gears. Avoid lifting off the gas which can cost acceleration.
Practice Your Technique
Getting the timing and feel down for executing a perfect launch sequence takes practice. Don’t get discouraged if it takes some time to master.
Following these tips will help any BMW owner learn how to best harness the incredible acceleration made possible by BMW’s factory launch control system. But next we’ll cover some more advanced learnings.
Advanced Tips for Getting the Most from BMW Launch Control
Serious BMW enthusiasts who want to extract every last hundredth of a second out of their car’s launch performance may want to consider these advanced tips as well.
Custom Tunes
Aftermarket ECU tuning can provide even more aggressive launch control settings for RPM hold levels and shift points optimized for your car’s specific setup.
Sticky Tires
Consider upgrading to ultra high performance tires for street use like Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 or track-focused rubber for maximum grip.
Weight Reduction
Remove excess weight from the car like the spare tire or rear seats to improve power-to-weight ratio for even quicker acceleration.
Aftermarket Downpipes
Less restrictive downpipes and exhausts systems reduce backpressure for quicker spool up and response from the turbos.
Intercooler Upgrade
A larger front mount intercooler can reduce heat soak effects allowing the engine to stay in an optimal state for back-to-back hard launches.
Increased Boost
Raising the maximum boost levels via tuning nets big power gains to exploit with launch control launches.
Combining some of these advanced modifications with an optimized launch technique lets you extract every last hundredth of performance possible from your BMW’s acceleration capabilities.
Is Launch Control Bad for Your BMW?
Launching at full throttle from a stop puts tremendous stress on engine and drivetrain components. So a question many BMW owners have is whether the repeated use of launch control may prematurely wear their car’s components.
The answer is using launch control aggressively can certainly increase the wear and tear on items like your clutch, driveshaft, and even engine internals. BMW does extensively test launch control systems before the reach production models though. So they are designed to withstand reasonable use.
However, there are still steps you can take to minimize the long term impact of using launch control:
- Don’t overly rely on launch control as your normal driving launch method
- Allow proper cool down time between successive hard launch control starts
- Closely monitor your fluid temps with gauges to avoid overheating
- Consider upgrading common failure points for preventative maintenance
- Use thicker oil to handle high temps from hard launches
As with any performance driving technique that stresses components, it ultimately comes down to proper care and maintenance to ensure long term durability.
Overall, while launch control certainly expedites wear of components like clutches, modern BMWs are remarkably robust machines that can handle occasional launch control use when proper precautions are taken.
Frequently Asked Questions About BMW Launch Control
Here are answers to some of the most common questions BMW owners have about getting the most from factory launch control systems:
Do you need an automatic transmission to use launch control?
No, most BMW manual transmissions also support launch control. Just use the clutch pedal instead of the brake when activating.
Can I use launch control continuously?
It’s best to avoid back-to-back full power launches. Allow components like turbos, drivetrain, and tires to cool between launches to avoid overheating.
Will launch control void my car’s warranty?
Launch control is a factory equipped system, so using it as intended will not void your BMW warranty coverage. Of course, improper use that damages components would not be covered.
Can I activate launch control while moving?
No, launch control is only designed to work from a complete stop. At speed activation could confuse the traction and stability control systems.
How much faster is launch control than normal acceleration?
Expect .2 to .5 second improvement in 0 to 60 mph times when properly using launch control versus just mashing the gas pedal.
Can I use launch control on public roads?
While tempting, we of course recommend only using launch control at sanctioned drag racing events for safety and obeying local road laws.
Conclusion
Thanks to advanced performance technology like launch control, modern BMW drivers have an incredible tool that unlocks the true neck-snapping acceleration potential of their Ultimate Driving Machine.
While launch control is designed to be simple to activate, mastering the technique that results in the absolute quickest acceleration times does require practice and tuning.
By following the tips in this complete guide, any BMW owner can learn how to fully harness the benefits of launch control. Just be sure to only use it in a responsible, controlled environment and care for your car properly if executing repeated hard launches.
With the right launch procedure and surface, BMW’s launch control technology provides an experience no other performance feature can match – pure unadulterated, face-melting acceleration sending you from 0 to 60 mph in the blink of an eye!
