🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528i

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

E39

Engine Code Range:

M52B28

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Mid-size Sedan

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts and owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS

Vehicle Identity:

Represents BMW's focus on driving dynamics, build quality, and refined engineering for its executive sedan line.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides authoritative, manufacturer-backed repair information to save on dealership costs and ensure proper vehicle care.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics for M52B28 engine

Engine Management:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics), sensor diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition timing

Transmission Manual:

Service, repair, clutch replacement, gearshift mechanisms

Transmission Automatic:

ZF 5HP18/5HP19 service, repair, electronic controls, fluid replacement

Suspension:

Front McPherson strut, rear multi-link, component replacement, alignment specifications

Brakes:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), caliper, rotor, pad replacement, bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

Full wiring diagrams, component testing, sensor identification, fuse/relay locations

HVAC:

Climate control system, refrigerant handling, component replacement, diagnostic procedures

Bodywork:

Panel removal/installation, dent repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement

Chassis:

Structural components, body rigidity, mounting points

Exhaust System:

Component replacement, gasket identification, emission control systems

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, filter, injectors, pressure regulator, tank service

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, linkage service

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks, belt inspections

Troubleshooting:

Symptom-based diagnostics, component testing, common fault finding

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement

Diagnostic Scans:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) interpretation and troubleshooting

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step guides for all major vehicle components

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level repair information, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using specialized BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) and common scan tools

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Readability:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clear text and diagrams

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves

Engine Code:

M52B28

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 5300 rpm

Torque:

206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)

ECU Type:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)

Type:

5-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP18 / 5HP19)

Automatic Control:

Electronic transmission control with sport/economy modes

Manual Fluid Type:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2)

Automatic Fluid Type:

BMW ATF LT-1 / LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid5)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4769 mm (187.8 in)

Width:

1799 mm (70.8 in)

Height:

1435 mm (56.5 in)

Wheelbase:

2830 mm (111.4 in)

Curb Weight Approx:

1550 kg (3417 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:

2070 kg (4564 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Wheel Offset Approx:

ET 20-26

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 Stars (estimated, based on similar era BMWs)

ABS:

Standard

Asc:

Available (Automatic Stability Control)

Dsc:

Available (Dynamic Stability Control)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Front and rear three-point seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

BMW Business or Professional CD/Cassette head units

Navigation:

Optional BMW Professional Navigation system (older CRT-based)

Cruise Control:

Standard

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking sensors

Phone Integration:

Optional integrated cellular phone system (early generation)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Approx:

7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12-15 months (flexible service interval system)

Spark Plug Replacement Interval Approx:

60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type - platinum/iridium)

Coolant Flush Interval Approx:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles

Transmission Fluid Interval Approx:

75,000 - 100,000 miles (especially for automatic)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or SAE 5W-40 Synthetic

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US quarts)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or DOT 4 PLUS)

Common Problems M52B28:

VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid/seal failure, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, coolant expansion tank cracking, ABS/ASC sensor failures, window regulator failures, power seat module issues.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter W914/2, Mahle OX172

Air Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter C35173

Cabin Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter CU2445

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

"The Ultimate Driving Machine" - emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.

E39 Introduction:

The E39 generation debuted in 1995 (Europe) and 1996 (North America), replacing the E34. The 528i was a key model for this generation.

E39 Updates:

The 1997 model year marked the early production of the E39 in North America, establishing its platform and powertrain.

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E39 generation (including the 528i) was frequently recognized by Car and Driver as one of the 10Best cars.

Consumer Reports Reliability Estimate:

Variable, often rated average to above average for its class in its era.