Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking premium comfort, advanced technology, and sophisticated driving dynamics
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Porsche Panamera
Distinctive Attributes:
Long wheelbase offering enhanced rear-seat legroom, sophisticated iDrive infotainment system, potent twin-turbo V8 engine (initially), advanced driver assistance features, and luxurious interior appointments.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential information for DIY maintenance and repair, troubleshooting complex systems, and understanding the vehicle's engineering, saving on dealership service costs.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 6HP or 8HP) diagnostics, repair, fluid service, torque converter
Drivetrain:
All-wheel drive (xDrive) system, differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, rear axle assembly
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, air suspension (if equipped), alignment specifications
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC, brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake, bleeding procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, electronic power steering (EPS) diagnostics
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relays, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, power accessories
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, hinges, latches, glass, seals, exterior trim, interior trim
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant handling
Infotainment And Electronics:
iDrive system, navigation, audio system, display units, control modules, sensors, CAN bus communication
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, ABS, DSC, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II codes, diagnostic tool procedures, component testing
Repair:
Engine component replacement, transmission repair, suspension overhaul, brake system repair, electrical component replacement, body panel repair
Rebuild:
Engine rebuilding procedures, transmission rebuilding (if applicable), component overhaul
Installation:
Component installation, accessory installation, part replacement procedures
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for various procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and bodywork
Engine Type:
Twin-Turbocharged 3.0L Inline-6 Cylinder Petrol
Engine Code 2008 2010:
N54B30
Engine Code 2011 2015:
N55B30 (Single Turbo)
Horsepower N54:
300 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque N54:
300 lb-ft @ 1200-5000 rpm
Horsepower N55:
315 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque N55:
330 lb-ft @ 1200-5000 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (High-Pressure Fuel Pump System)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol based)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or Longlife-04 specifications)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally rated high, often 5-star in frontal and side impact (specific year testing may vary)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including Traction Control (DTC)
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
Driver Assistance Options:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Surround View Cameras, Head-Up Display
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, knee airbags, head protection system (curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
System:
BMW iDrive (CCC, CIC, or NBT systems depending on year)
Features:
Navigation, voice control, Bluetooth connectivity, USB audio interface, auxiliary input, optional rear-seat entertainment
Advanced Systems:
Adaptive Headlights, Parking Assistant, Night Vision, Active Steering
Telematics:
BMW Assist with Bluetooth connectivity and TeleService
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 miles or 12-24 months, indicated by vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 45,000 miles, or as indicated by CBS
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles, or as indicated by CBS
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles for N54, 70,000 miles for N55 (check specific service bulletins)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.0 liters (10.6 US quarts)
Common Problems N54:
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, turbocharger wastegate rattle, vacuum leaks, ignition coil issues, injector failure
Common Problems N55:
Water pump failure (electric), PCV valve issues, turbocharger wastegate issues
General Concerns:
Electronic control module failures, suspension component wear (bushings, control arms), exhaust manifold leaks, iDrive system glitches, headlight condensation
