Model Code:
E60 (Sedan), E61 (Touring)
Production Years Covered:
2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Market Segment:
Executive Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking performance, luxury, and advanced engineering.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar XF.
Performance Orientation:
The 550i variant emphasizes potent V8 power and dynamic driving characteristics.
Luxury Appointments:
High-quality interior materials, advanced technology, and sophisticated design.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, Engine electrical, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Ignition system, Starting system, Charging system, Transmission (automatic and manual), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (hydraulic and ABS), Body electrical, Climate control, Chassis, Interior/Exterior trim, Wiring diagrams, Diagnostic procedures, Maintenance schedules, Torque specifications, Troubleshooting guides, Component removal and installation.
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Comprehensive coverage of the V8 engine, including cylinder head, block assembly, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system (VANOS, chain), valves, seals, and gaskets.
Engine Electrical:
Detailed diagnostics and repair for engine control unit (ECU/DME), ignition system, fuel injectors, sensors (MAF, O2, crank, cam), starter motor, alternator, and related wiring.
Transmission:
Covers both the ZF 6HP26 automatic transmission and the Getrag manual transmission, including overhaul, fluid changes, electronic controls, and solenoids.
Brakes And ABS:
In-depth procedures for brake system maintenance, including pad and rotor replacement, fluid bleeding, ABS/DSC module diagnostics, sensor troubleshooting, and hydraulic component repair.
Climate Control:
Detailed diagnostics and repair for HVAC system, including A/C compressor, refrigerant, climate control module, blower motor, actuators, and cabin filters.
Maintenance Tasks:
Scheduled maintenance procedures (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, brake fluid), fluid level checks, belt replacement, and general inspections.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, and live data analysis.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding, including engine internals, transmission overhaul, suspension components, and body panels.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, system-specific wiring diagrams for all major electrical circuits, aiding in diagnosing electrical faults.
Depth Of Coverage:
Expert-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4.8 Liters (4799 cc)
Horsepower:
360 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque:
360 lb-ft @ 3400-3800 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with individual coil-on-plug ignition.
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
Bore X Stroke:
93.0 mm x 88.3 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (variable valve timing).
Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic (ZF 6HP26)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed manual (Getrag 420G) - Less common, often model year dependent.
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting mode), Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 6 (or equivalent approved fluid). Check manual for specific BMW part number.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific synthetic gear oil (e.g., Castrol SAF-XJ or equivalent). Refer to manual for part number.
Length:
Approx. 191.8 inches (4872 mm)
Width:
Approx. 72.7 inches (1847 mm)
Height:
Approx. 57.7 inches (1466 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 113.7 inches (2890 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3900 - 4100 lbs (1769 - 1860 kg) depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies, consult vehicle VIN plate.
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 14 cubic feet (396 liters)
Standard Wheel Size:
18-inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size:
245/40R18
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely a Top Pick or Good across various categories during its production years.
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T).
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags (front), head protection system (front and rear side windows), optional knee airbags.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning seatbelts with force limiters.
Lighting:
Adaptive Xenon Headlights (optional), LED taillights.
I Drive System:
BMW's iDrive infotainment system, featuring a central control knob and display for navigation, audio, climate, and vehicle settings.
Navigation System:
Optional professional navigation system with map updates and traffic information.
Audio System:
Premium audio systems available, including Logic7 surround sound.
Parking Assistance:
Front and rear parking sensors (PDC), optional rearview camera.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go function.
Head Up Display:
Optional Head-Up Display (HUD) projecting key information onto the windshield.
Bluetooth Interface:
Optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input.
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-based service (CBS) indicator, typically between 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles for the N62 engine, consult manual for exact interval and part number.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
BMW Long-Life Coolant typically lasts up to 5 years or 100,000 miles initially, then every 2 years or 30,000 miles thereafter. Verify with manual.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, viscosity grade 0W-30 or 5W-30. Consult manual for exact specification and capacity (approx. 8.5 quarts).
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW ATF LT-3. Consult manual for exact spec.
Valve Stem Seals:
Common issue on N62 engines, leading to oil consumption and blue smoke on startup.
Coolant Hoses And Thermostat:
Plastic components can become brittle and leak over time.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Can develop leaks due to age and material degradation.
Ignition Coils And Spark Plugs:
Can fail prematurely, leading to misfires.
Electronic Control Units:
Various ECUs can be prone to failure, requiring specialized diagnostics.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's heritage is rooted in performance, engineering excellence, and the 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
E60 Introduction:
The E60 generation of the 5 Series debuted in 2003 and was known for its significant styling and technological advancements over the E39 generation.
550I Placement:
The 550i replaced the 545i in the lineup, offering increased displacement and power.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Dingolfing Plant).
Generation End:
The E60 generation was succeeded by the F10 generation in 2010.
Ward Auto World Engine Of The Year:
While specific 550i awards may vary by year, the N62 V8 engine and the E60 platform generally received critical acclaim for performance and technology during their production.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The 5 Series models, including variants like the 550i, were frequently recognized on '10Best' lists for their driving dynamics and overall excellence.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings can fluctuate; consult specific year's Consumer Reports for detailed analysis. Some E60 models experienced average to below-average reliability in certain areas.
