🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5-series

Model Code:

E60

Year:

2008

Generation Name:

Fifth Generation (E60/E61)

Generation Years:

2003-2010

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Executive Sedan/Wagon (Luxury Mid-size).

Target Audience:

Owners and independent repair shops seeking authentic, detailed information for maintaining and repairing the 2008 BMW 5-series.

Competitive Alternatives:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Volvo S80.

Manual Advantage 1:

Vehicle-specific, not generic information.

Manual Advantage 2:

Directly replicates dealership technician manual content.

Manual Advantage 3:

Comprehensive coverage from routine maintenance to advanced diagnostics and repairs.

Manual Advantage 4:

Easy-to-use digital format with printability and image scaling.

Owner Benefit:

Empowers owners to perform repairs and maintenance themselves, saving time and money while ensuring accurate work.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the 2008 BMW 5-series (E60).

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive, as indicated by 'complete step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications to completely repair your vehicle'.

Manual Classification:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, engine control system, fuel service, emission control, intake, exhaust, cooling, lube, ignition, starting, charging.

Drivetrain Systems:

Automatic transmission, manual transmission, transfer case (if applicable to specific E60 models), propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axles, suspension.

Chassis Systems:

Tires & wheels, brake control, brakes, parking brake, steering column, power steering.

Electrical Systems:

Electrical system overview, supplemental restraint system (SRS), seat belts, engine immobilizer, cruise control, wiper & washer, door locks, meter, audio/visual, horn, windshield/glass/mirrors, instrument panel, multiplex/CAN communication.

Body Systems:

Air conditioning, seats, engine hood/doors, exterior & interior components.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting, fault diagnosis using provided schematics and specifications.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair across all systems.

Technical Data Provision:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Depth Of Information:

Factory-level detail, equivalent to that used by dealership technicians for diagnosis, maintenance, and repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

Document Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Printable Pages:

Yes, all pages are printable.

Image Scalability:

Images and diagrams can be blown up and printed in enlarged copies.

Binding Method:

N/A (Digital PDF format, no physical binding).

Paper Material:

N/A (Digital PDF format, no physical paper type).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Common Engine Families E60:

N52 (Naturally Aspirated Inline-6), N54 (Twin-Turbocharged Inline-6), N62 (Naturally Aspirated V8).

Engine Code N52:

N52

Displacement N52:

3.0 L (approx. 2996 cc)

Horsepower N52:

Approx. 255 hp @ 6600 rpm

Torque N52:

Approx. 220 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm

Engine Code N54:

N54

Displacement N54:

3.0 L (approx. 2979 cc)

Horsepower N54:

Approx. 300 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque N54:

Approx. 300 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm

Engine Code N62:

N62

Displacement N62:

4.0 L / 4.8 L (approx. 3999 cc / 4799 cc)

Horsepower N62:

Approx. 300 hp (4.0L) / 360 hp (4.8L) @ 6300 rpm

Torque N62:

Approx. 295 lb-ft (4.0L) / 360 lb-ft (4.8L) @ 3400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), often with High-Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI) on N54 and later N62 variants.

Valvetrain Technologies:

Double VANOS (variable camshaft timing), Valvetronic (variable valve lift) often featured.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

6-speed manual transmission (SMG available on some earlier models, but less common for 2008 MY).

Transmission Type Optional:

6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with manual shifting mode.

Transmission Control:

Electronic transmission control unit (TCU) for optimal performance and efficiency.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

Specific to ZF 6HP transmission; typically requires ZF Lifeguard Fluid 6 (or equivalent approved by BMW).

Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:

Specific gear oil, often synthetic SAE 75W-90 or 75W-80 GL-4/GL-5 depending on exact gearbox.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Sedan (E60), Wagon/Touring (E61).

Wheelbase:

Approx. 116.4 inches (2956 mm)

Length:

Approx. 191.1 inches (4855 mm) for Sedan

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3500-4000 lbs (1588-1814 kg), varies by engine and configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Typically 4-star or 5-star in frontal and side crash tests (specific ratings vary by exact test year and configuration).

IIHS Rating:

Often designated as a 'Top Safety Pick' or received 'Good' ratings in crashworthiness tests.

Active Safety Systems:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, active head restraints, pre-tensioning seatbelts.

Advanced Driver Assistance:

Optional adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot detection, active steering.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

iDrive system (CIC or CCC depending on specific production date and options), featuring navigation, radio, CD player, and auxiliary inputs.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional USB audio interface.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC), optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Head-Up Display (HUD), Lane Departure Warning.

Electronic Systems:

Advanced electronic control units managing engine, transmission, chassis, and body functions. LIN and MOST bus communication for data transfer.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.

Major Service Interval:

Examples include spark plug replacement around 60,000-100,000 miles, brake fluid flush every 2 years, coolant every 4-5 years.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30, depending on climate and specific engine.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or approved equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4 Plus.

Common Issue 1:

Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, or oil pan gasket.

Common Issue 2:

Cooling system leaks (water pump, thermostat housing, radiator).

Common Issue 3:

PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system issues, leading to rough idle or oil consumption.

Common Issue 4:

Ignition coil and spark plug failures.

Common Issue 5:

Fuel injector issues, particularly on N54 twin-turbo models.

Common Issue 6:

Electronic issues related to the iDrive system, sensors, or modules.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Focus on 'Ultimate Driving Machine' with emphasis on performance, handling, and driver engagement.

E60 Introduction:

Introduced in 2003 as a replacement for the E39 5-series, marked a significant design and technology shift.

E60 Facelift:

Mid-cycle facelift occurred for the 2008 model year, bringing updated styling, iDrive improvements, and powertrain enhancements.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

The E60 5-series often received awards for design, performance, and safety from various automotive publications and organizations during its production run.

Powertrain Recognition:

BMW's inline-6 and V8 engines, particularly the turbocharged N54, were frequently lauded for their power and efficiency, sometimes appearing on 'Ward's 10 Best Engines' lists.