How to Activate BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI) on the F-Series

BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI) is an intelligent driving-assistance feature designed to help drivers stay aware of the current speed limit at all times. By combining data from the BMW KAFAS camera system and the onboard navigation maps, SLI detects speed-limit signs and displays them directly on the instrument cluster or Head-Up Display (HUD). This feature is especially valuable when driving in urban areas or on highways where speed limits change frequently. If your BMW F-Series vehicle has not yet enabled Speed Limit Information, activating SLI will significantly enhance safety, driving comfort, and overall convenience.

  

What Is BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI)?

BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI) is an intelligent driver-assistance feature designed to detect, interpret, and display the current speed limit directly on your instrument cluster or Head-Up Display. Using a combination of the KAFAS camera (KAFAS 2 for F-Series, KAFAS 4 for G-Series) and navigation map data, SLI provides real-time speed-limit updates—even in areas where limits change frequently.

Unlike basic map-based systems that often display outdated or incomplete data, BMW’s advanced SLI actively reads road signs, temporary restrictions, construction-zone limits, and variable electronic signs. The system can even interpret conditional speed limits such as “45 mph when wet” by cross-checking with the vehicle’s rain sensor, ensuring the speed warning only appears when conditions are met.

SLI also incorporates the no-overtaking indicator, identifying both permanent and temporary overtaking restrictions. All information is shown clearly in the cluster or HUD depending on vehicle equipment.

For vehicles equipped with a KAFAS camera, SLI can be activated via coding. AutoExplain’s coding experts can enable this feature remotely for BMW F-Series (KAFAS 2) and G-Series (KAFAS 4) models. You only need an ENET cable and a Windows laptop to complete the session.

If you are unsure whether your BMW has the required KAFAS camera, simply contact AutoExplain via WhatsApp: +1 (936) 289 6695 and we can verify your vehicle’s compatibility.

Benefits of BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI)

BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI) offers a range of practical benefits that enhance driving safety, comfort, and overall awareness on the road. Below are the key advantages:

1. Improved Safety and Compliance

SLI ensures that drivers always know the current speed limit, reducing the risk of unintentionally driving too fast—especially in areas where speed limits change frequently, such as school zones, construction zones, and urban streets.

2. Real-Time and Accurate Speed Detection

Unlike map-only systems that may use outdated data, BMW’s SLI reads actual roadside signs through the KAFAS camera. This enables the system to detect temporary, variable, and digital speed limits, providing far more accurate information.

3. Smart Recognition of Conditional Speed Limits

The system intelligently interprets conditions like “60 km/h when raining” or “45 mph when towing” by cross-referencing vehicle sensors. This ensures the driver only receives relevant warnings when the condition is met.

4. Better Driver Focus and Reduced Distraction

By displaying speed limits directly in the instrument cluster or Head-Up Display, SLI allows drivers to keep their eyes on the road instead of searching for road signs.

5. Integration with No-Overtaking Information

SLI also detects no-overtaking signs and temporary overtaking restrictions, giving drivers a clearer understanding of road rules in real time.

6. Enhanced Driving Comfort on Long Trips

On long journeys or unfamiliar routes, SLI reduces the cognitive load on drivers by continuously updating speed-limit information without requiring extra attention.

7. Valuable Upgrade Without Hardware Replacement

For BMW F-Series and G-Series vehicles equipped with a KAFAS camera, SLI can be activated through coding—making it a cost-effective upgrade that significantly improves driving assistance features.

What You Need Before Activating BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI)?

Before enabling BMW Speed Limit Information, ensure your BMW is equipped with the necessary hardware and that you have the proper software tools for coding. Below are the essential prerequisites:

1. Required Hardware

• KAFAS Camera (KAFAS2 for F-Series / KAFAS4 for G-Series): The camera is typically included in packages such as Driving Assistant. Without a KAFAS camera, SLI cannot function.
• Navigation System (NBT, NBT EVO ID4/ID5/ID6): A compatible BMW navigation unit is required to combine camera data with map-based speed limit information.
• Head-Up Display (Optional): While not mandatory, vehicles equipped with HUD will also display speed-limit data directly in the driver’s line of sight.

2. Required Software & Tools

• E-Sys (with valid token): Coding software used to modify vehicle configurations and activate SLI features.
• Full PsdzData Version: Must match the production year of your BMW to ensure compatibility during coding.
• ENET or ICOM Cable: Required to connect your laptop to the vehicle’s OBD-II port for coding operations.

How to Activate BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI) – Step-by-Step Guide

Activating BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI) allows your vehicle to automatically display the current speed limit and provide warnings when necessary. Below is a detailed procedure for BMW F-Series equipped with KAFAS2 or G-Series with KAFAS4.

Step 1: Verify Hardware Compatibility

Check KAFAS Camera

• Start the vehicle → Go to Vehicle Status → Driving Data.
• If Speed Limit Info appears, your BMW is equipped with the KAFAS camera.

Check Head Unit Version

• Connect E-Sys → Read the VCM.
• Identify the head unit module: HU_NBT2 or HU_EVO.

Step 2: Modify Vehicle Order (FA)

• Connect E-Sys to the vehicle → Read the original FA.
• Add 8TH (Speed Limit Information) to FA: Navigate to SALAPA → Add 8TH.
• Save the new FA and reconnect the system.

Step 3: VO Coding of Relevant Modules

Code HU_NBT2 / HU_EVO

• Go to the module → CAFD → Code Default.
• Ensure parameter SPEEDLIMIT_INFO is set to aktiv.

Code KAFAS Module

• Open KAFAS2 / KAFAS4 → CAFD → edit parameters:
  • C_SLI_ENA → aktiv
  • C_SLI_COUNTRY → Rest_Of_World

Step 4: Adjust Display Settings

• In HU_NBT2: Navigate to 3000 HMI → SLI_TYPE → Set to variant_2 (display on HUD and cluster).
• Customize speed warning alert: 3000 HMI → SLI_WARNING → aktiv (alerts driver when exceeding speed limits).

Notes & Tips:

• Ensure E-Sys and PsdzData versions match the vehicle’s production year.
• Always backup original FA and module coding before making changes.
• After coding, restart the vehicle to apply all settings.
• HUD display is optional; SLI will still appear in the instrument cluster if HUD is not installed.

Common Troubleshooting for BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI)

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
SLI not displaying	KAFAS camera missing	Install KAFAS camera and recode the module.
Incorrect speed limit	Outdated or incorrect map data	Update maps via FSC Map Update.
Warning alert not working	SLI_WARNING not activated	Verify and enable the parameter in HU_NBT2.

Important Notes & Precautions

Hardware Requirement

SLI depends on a KAFAS camera. Vehicles without a camera must have one installed before the system can function.

Interaction with Other Systems

• SLI works in conjunction with Active Cruise Control (ACC) to automatically adjust vehicle speed based on the detected speed limit.
• SLI data is updated via FSC maps, which require a valid FSC code (1B/1D) to unlock features.

Legal Considerations

• Some countries may restrict SLI functionality due to HUD display regulations. Always verify local laws before enabling SLI.
• AutoExplain is not responsible for any legal or safety consequences if SLI is activated improperly.

Activating BMW Speed Limit Information (SLI) significantly enhances driving safety and convenience by providing real-time speed-limit data and intelligent alerts. With proper hardware, including a KAFAS camera and compatible navigation system, SLI can accurately detect permanent, variable, and conditional speed limits, while integrating seamlessly with features like Active Cruise Control.

By following the correct coding procedure, BMW owners can enable SLI on F-Series and G-Series vehicles without replacing hardware, saving both time and costs. However, it is essential to ensure all prerequisites are met and to observe local regulations regarding HUD displays.

For professional guidance or remote activation of BMW Speed Limit Information, contact AutoExplain via WhatsApp: +1 (936) 289 6695 or live chat on our website. Our experts provide safe, reliable support to enable SLI and enhance your BMW driving experience.

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