Positioning:
Premium Executive Sedan and Wagon segment, known for performance, luxury, and advanced technology.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type
Vehicle Highlights:
Advanced chassis dynamics (Dynamic Drive, Adaptive Drive), iDrive infotainment system, powerful inline-6 and V8 engines, sophisticated electronics.
Value For Owner:
Empowers owners with factory-level repair and maintenance knowledge, saving on dealership labor costs and ensuring proper vehicle care.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive Service, Repair, and Workshop Procedures
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (Specific count not provided, but described as extensive)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Language:
English (Implied by description and typical factory manuals)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (mechanical and electrical), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual and automatic), Drive Shafts, Axles, Differentials, Transfer Case (if applicable)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Braking System (hydraulic and ABS), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Complete Electrical System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Powertrain Control Modules (DME/ECU), Body Control Modules (BCM), Infotainment Systems, HVAC Electronics, Safety Systems Electronics (Airbags, ABS, DSC)
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC (mechanical components), Safety Restraint Systems (Airbags)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation, Component testing procedures
Repair:
Component removal and installation, Sub-assembly rebuilds, Engine mechanical repairs, Transmission overhauls, Suspension component replacement, Electrical component repair/replacement
Bodywork:
Panel alignment, Dent repair, Rust prevention/repair procedures, Sealing and weatherstripping replacement
Depth:
Full Professional Level, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex diagnostics, and electrical system troubleshooting.
Diagrams:
Hundreds of detailed photos and exploded diagrams for precise component identification and assembly guidance.
Engine Options:
Includes details for various gasoline engines such as the N52 (3.0L I6), N54 (3.0L Twin-Turbo I6), N62 (4.0L/4.4L V8), and diesel engines like M57 (3.0L I6 Diesel)
Horsepower Torque:
Detailed specifications for horsepower and torque output for each engine variant covered.
Fuel Delivery:
MPI (Multi-Point Injection) and Direct Injection (for later models/specific engines), fuel pump specifications, pressure regulator details.
ECU Details:
Information on Engine Control Units (ECU/DME), sensor functions, and diagnostic procedures.
Coolant Spec:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol based) or equivalent. Capacity typically 7.5-8.5 liters depending on engine.
Manual Transmission:
Details on available Getrag 6-speed manual transmissions.
Automatic Transmission:
Details on available ZF 6-speed automatic transmissions (e.g., 6HP19, 6HP26) and potentially GM transmissions for some models.
Transmission Control:
Information on Steptronic (manual shifting mode) and electronic transmission control modules.
Atf Type:
Specific ATF fluids required for ZF transmissions (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid8 or equivalent) and manual transmission fluid specifications.
Length:
E60 Sedan: Approx. 4841 mm (190.6 in); E61 Touring: Approx. 4854 mm (191.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1846 mm (72.7 in)
Height:
E60 Sedan: Approx. 1468 mm (57.8 in); E61 Touring: Approx. 1491 mm (58.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and equipment, typically from approx. 1550 kg (3417 lbs) to over 1850 kg (4079 lbs)
Trunk Volume:
E60 Sedan: Approx. 520 liters (18.4 cu ft); E61 Touring: Approx. 500-1700 liters (17.7-59.9 cu ft) with seats folded.
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally received high safety ratings, including 5-star frontal and side crash test ratings from NHTSA for applicable models.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Traction Control (TC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC).
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Fade Compensation, Brake Drying feature.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, head protection system (air curtains) for front and rear occupants.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and force limiters for front seats, three-point seat belts for all seating positions.
Idrive System:
Features the first generation of BMW's iDrive infotainment controller, managing navigation, audio, climate control, and vehicle settings.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go functionality available on some models.
Parking Assist:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) and rearview camera.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Headlights:
Standard halogen or optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights with automatic leveling and cornering function.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically Long-Life Service Interval: Up to 15,000 miles or 24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Oil Service indicator on dash prompts for service.
Brake Fluid Interval:
Typically every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) for diesel engines. Viscosity grades like 0W-30, 5W-30, 5W-40 depending on engine and climate.
Common Problems:
Valve cover gasket leaks (N52/N54), Oil pan gasket leaks, Water pump failure (electric on later models), Ignition coil and spark plug issues (especially N54), VANOS solenoid issues, Fuel injector issues (N54 direct injection), Rear main seal leaks, ABS/DSC module failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, Control arm bushings, Differential seal leaks.
Oil Filter:
Examples: Mann-Filter HU 816 Z, Mahle OX 157/1 De (specific to engine variant)
Air Filter:
Examples: Mann-Filter C 35154, Mahle LX 1306/1 (specific to engine variant)
Heritage Context:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and luxury in the executive segment.
E60 E61 Development:
Introduced as a significant redesign from the E39 generation, featuring advanced electronics, new engine options (including twin-turbo and V8s), and a focus on handling dynamics. Design influenced by Chris Bangle.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Dingolfing, Germany. Some assembly may have occurred in other BMW facilities globally.
Automotive Awards:
While specific awards vary by year and region, the 5 Series is consistently recognized for its driving dynamics, build quality, and luxury features by automotive journalists and publications globally.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings vary, with some model years noted for strong performance and handling but potential for higher than average maintenance costs, particularly with advanced electronics and turbocharged engines.
