BMW Head-Up Display explained: how it works and how to set it up

The BMW Head-Up Display projects important information, such as your speed and navigation arrows, into your line of sight. You can read it without looking down at the instrument cluster, which helps you keep your eyes on the road.

BMW was one of the first manufacturers to offer a modern head-up display in a production car, and today it is available on most models. In this guide we explain how the BMW Head-Up Display works, what it can show, how to adjust it and what to know when replacing a windscreen.

How the BMW Head-Up Display works

The Head-Up Display uses a small projector unit built into the dashboard, in front of the instrument cluster. It creates an image with a display and a set of mirrors, then projects it onto the windscreen.

Because of the angle and the optics, the image appears to float above the bonnet, a few metres in front of the car. Your eyes do not need to refocus as much as when looking down at the instrument cluster. This is the main safety benefit: you see information while keeping your attention on the road.

BMW introduced its first Head-Up Display in the mid-2000s on the 5 Series. Since then, the displays have become larger, sharper and more colourful.

What it can show

Depending on the model and the settings, the BMW Head-Up Display can show:

• Current speed and the speed limit detected by the camera or navigation.
• Navigation instructions, including arrows, lane guidance and distance to the next turn.
• Driver assistance information, such as cruise control settings and distance warnings.
• Phone and media information, such as incoming calls or the current track.
• Warnings, including collision alerts and important vehicle messages.
• Gear and engine speed on sporty models.

You can choose which information appears, so the display stays clear and not distracting.

The M view on M cars

On BMW M cars and some M Performance models, the Head-Up Display offers a special M view. It shows:

• A large gear indicator.
• A bar for engine speed with coloured shift lights.
• Speed in a compact form.

The shift lights help you change gear at the right moment when driving on a circuit or a demanding road. The M view can often be stored in the M1 and M2 setups. Our article on the BMW M1 and M2 buttons explains how to configure them.

Setting up the BMW Head-Up Display

You can adjust the display in the iDrive settings. Typical options include:

• Height: move the image up or down so that it is in the right position for your seating position.
• Brightness: the system adjusts automatically, but you can change the basic level.
• Rotation: on some models, you can correct a slight tilt of the image.
• Content: choose which information is shown.

Adjust your seat first, then the display height. On cars with memory seats, the display height is often stored with the seat position, so each driver has the right setting.

Sunglasses and visibility

Some drivers notice that the Head-Up Display is difficult or impossible to see with polarised sunglasses. This happens because the projected light is polarised, and polarised lenses block light in one direction.

If you wear polarised sunglasses, test them with the display before a long drive. Non-polarised sunglasses usually work without problems. Bright sunlight can also reduce visibility on older systems, but newer displays are much brighter.

Windscreen replacement

A car with a Head-Up Display needs a special windscreen. The glass contains a wedge-shaped layer that prevents a double image. If you fit a normal windscreen, the projected information can appear blurred or doubled.

When replacing a windscreen:

• Use a windscreen approved for Head-Up Display.
• Make sure the camera and sensors behind the mirror are recalibrated if required. Many driver assistance systems depend on them.
• Check the display after fitting for sharpness and position.

Ask the glass specialist to confirm the correct part number for your car.

Common issues

The Head-Up Display is generally reliable. Typical problems include:

• A dim or faded image, often caused by a fault in the projector unit.
• No display at all, which can be a fuse, connector or control unit fault.
• Dust or objects on the dashboard opening, which block the image. Keep the opening clean and do not place items on it.
• A double image after a windscreen replacement with the wrong glass.

A specialist can read fault codes and test the unit. Software updates can also fix some display issues.

Is it worth it?

For many drivers, the Head-Up Display becomes one of the most appreciated options once they have used it. It makes driving more relaxed, especially with navigation in unfamiliar areas, and it helps you check your speed without looking away from the road.

When buying a used BMW, the Head-Up Display is a useful option to look for. Check that it works correctly on the test drive, and confirm that the windscreen is the correct type.

BMW Head-Up Display at a glance

Item	Details
Function	Projects information onto the windscreen
Main benefit	Information in the line of sight
Typical content	Speed, limits, navigation, warnings, media
M view	Gear, engine speed and shift lights
Adjustments	Height, brightness, rotation, content
Windscreen	Special HUD-compatible glass required
Sunglasses	Polarised lenses can hide the image

Frequently asked questions

Can I see the BMW Head-Up Display with sunglasses?

Usually yes with non-polarised sunglasses. Polarised lenses can make the image hard or impossible to see.

How do I adjust the BMW Head-Up Display?

Use the iDrive settings to change height, brightness and content, after adjusting your seat.

Does a BMW with Head-Up Display need a special windscreen?

Yes. A HUD-compatible windscreen prevents a double image.

What is the M view in the Head-Up Display?

A sporty display on M cars that shows gear, engine speed and shift lights.

Sources

• BMW owner's manuals – Head-Up Display
• BMW Group PressClub – display and operating technology press material