front quarter view of the 2021 BMW X3

How Does a Head-Up Display Work?

One of the newest innovations in driving technology is the head-up display. Sometimes called a heads-up display instead, it’s a technology that allows a driver to minimize distractions and process driving data faster while on the road. You will usually see it on premium trims or luxury cars, but there’s a good chance it will become a more common sight in the near future. So how does it work? Continue reading to learn more about the technology.

How Does my BMW Head-Up Display Work?

If you have a BMW head-up display or if you have ever seen it, you probably wonder how it works. It is based on a technology that is rather old but has not been practical for consumer electronics until recently. As tech has advanced, the components have gotten smaller, less expensive to produce, and more practical. The head-up display in a BMW uses a system of projectors and mirrors in the dashboard of the vehicle to shine an image onto the windshield.

What Does the Head-Up Display Show Me?

The most viewed part of a head-up display is the speedometer. Displaying driving speed digitally on the windshield itself lets drivers keep their eyes on the road while glancing down at the speed. You can also see turn-by-turn directions toward a determined destination, street signs the vehicle has detected, and messages like “door ajar.” For the full experience, try test driving one yourself.

instrument cluster of the 2021 BMW X3
side view of the 2021 BMW X3

What BMW Models have Head-Up Displays?

If you’re interested in a BMW with a head-up display, be sure to look for a model made after 2016. These models should have head-up displays available or standard:

BMW Series Sedans

  • BMW 2 Series
  • BMW 3 Series
  • BMW 4 Series
  • BMW 5 Series
  • BMW 6 Series
  • BMW 7 Series

BMW X Series SAVs

  • BMW X1
  • BMW X3
  • BMW X4
  • BMW X5
  • BMW X6

BMW M Series and i Series

  • BMW M3
  • BMW M4
  • BMW M5
  • BMW M6
  • BMW i8