🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Chassis Code:

E39

Body Styles Covered:

Saloon (Sedan), Estate (Touring/Sportwagon)

Generation Identifier:

E39

Applicable Years:

1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 5 Series E39 represented the pinnacle of executive luxury and sporty driving dynamics in its segment during its production run.

Competitors:

Competed directly with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Jaguar S-Type, and Lexus GS.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving experience, often considered a benchmark in its class.

Build Quality:

Exceptional build quality and interior materials, reflecting BMW's commitment to luxury and durability.

Engine Options:

Offered a range of smooth inline-six and potent V8 engines, along with efficient diesel options.

Owner Benefit:

Empowers owners and independent workshops to perform all necessary maintenance and repairs accurately, saving time and money while ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

All gasoline and diesel engines offered in the E39 5 Series for the specified years (e.g., M52/M54 I6, M62 V8).

Transmission Coverage:

Manual and automatic transmissions.

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, steering, brakes, body structure.

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics, lighting, comfort systems.

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection, ignition timing, emissions control.

Engine Management:

ECU functions, sensor diagnostics (MAF, O2, crankshaft position, camshaft position, knock sensor), actuator control (idle control valve, VANOS), troubleshooting fault codes (DTCs).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gearshift mechanism.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, valve body operation, planetary gear sets, transmission control unit (TCU), hydraulic systems, fluid servicing.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (multi-link, trailing arms, shock absorbers), wheel bearings, alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, rack, hoses), steering column, wheel alignment adjustments.

Brakes:

Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, ABS/DSC module, EBD), bleeding procedures, parking brake system.

Electrical System Power:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, charging system, fuses, relays.

Lighting:

Headlights (halogen, xenon), taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, auxiliary lighting systems.

Comfort Systems:

Climate control (HVAC), power windows, power seats, sunroof, central locking, alarm system, keyless entry.

Infotainment Navigation:

Radio/CD systems, navigation unit (MK-II, MK-III), speaker systems, antenna modules.

Bodywork Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass replacement, trim pieces.

Bodywork Interior:

Dashboard removal, interior trim, seating systems, airbags.

Maintenance Tasks:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based diagnosis, using diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW DIS, ISTA).

Repair Procedures:

Detailed instructions for component replacement and repair, torque specifications for all fasteners, specialized tool requirements.

Component Rebuilds:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, differential rebuild.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting wiring harnesses, testing sensors and actuators, diagnosing ECU faults, repairing lighting circuits.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of ball joints, control arms, tie rods, wheel bearings, steering rack repairs, shock/strut replacement.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, brake line replacement, ABS/DSC bleeding procedures.

Body Panel Replacement:

Removal and installation of doors, fenders, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, and associated trim.

Climate Control Service:

HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant servicing, blower motor replacement, evaporator core replacement.

Interior Component Service:

Dashboard removal, seat replacement, airbag system service (with safety precautions).

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major overhauls and diagnostics.

Diagnostic Tools:

Details on the use of BMW-specific diagnostic software and hardware (e.g., BMW System Tester, DIS, ISTA) for advanced fault finding.

Wiring Diagrams:

Extensive and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, enabling precise troubleshooting of electrical faults.

Torque Specifications:

Explicit torque values for all critical fasteners, crucial for correct reassembly and component longevity.

Special Tools:

Identification of necessary specialized tools and equipment required for specific repair procedures (e.g., VANOS tools, bearing pullers).

Troubleshooting Charts:

Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and tables based on symptoms, guiding technicians through a logical diagnostic process.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick access to information.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Scalability:

Printable pages, allowing for physical copies of specific sections.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Inline 6 Variants:

2.5L (M52TU B25, M54 B25), 2.8L (M52TU B28), 3.0L (M54 B30).

V8 Variants:

4.4L (M62 B44), 4.4L (M62TU B44 - with VANOS), 4.9L (S62 B50 - M5 variant).

Diesel Variants:

2.0L (M47 D20), 2.5L (M51 D25), 3.0L (M57 D30).

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 170 hp (2.5L I6) to 400 hp (S62 V8 M5).

Torque Range:

Approximately 180 lb-ft (2.5L I6) to 368 lb-ft (S62 V8 M5).

Fuel Injection Type:

Bosch Motronic engine management systems, sequential multi-point fuel injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating varies by engine), Diesel for diesel variants.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual (e.g., Getrag S5D 250G, ZF S5-31).

Optional Transmission:

5-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP18, ZF 5HP19, ZF 5HP24, GM A5S360R/A5S325Z).

Automatic Features:

Steptronic manual shifting mode available on select automatic transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 113.4 inches (2880 mm).

Length:

Approximately 188.0 - 189.0 inches (4775 - 4800 mm).

Width:

Approximately 70.2 inches (1783 mm).

Height:

Approximately 56.5 - 57.2 inches (1435 - 1453 mm).

Trunk Volume Saloon:

Approximately 15.8 cubic feet (445 liters).

Cargo Volume Estate:

Approximately 17.7 - 54.4 cubic feet (500 - 1540 liters) with rear seats folded.

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3400 - 4000 lbs (1540 - 1815 kg) depending on engine and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Generally received good safety ratings in contemporary crash tests. Specific ratings may vary by model year and testing organization.

ABS Dsc:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T) or Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) on some models.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, optional side airbags, optional head protection system (HPS).

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

Chassis Safety:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Professional Radio/CD system, Business CD player, optional navigation systems (MK-II, MK-III), Hi-Fi loudspeaker system, Logic 7 audio system.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) on some V8 models.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear park distance control (PDC).

Phone Integration:

Optional BMW Mobile Assist or Bluetooth preparation kits (requiring separate cradle).

Headlight Options:

Halogen headlights, optional Xenon HID headlights with auto-leveling and headlight washers.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-15,000 miles (12,000-24,000 km) or annually, depending on oil type and driving conditions, as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for platinum/iridium plugs, or 30,000 miles (50,000 km) for older copper plugs (engine dependent).

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) compliant synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40 depending on ambient temperature and engine. Refer to manual for specific viscosity and approval.

Coolant Specification:

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

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 75W-85 (check manual for specific type).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

BMW LT-2, LT-3, or LT-4 approved ATF (e.g., Esso ATF LT 71141 for ZF 5HP transmissions). Consult manual for exact fluid type and change interval.

Brake Fluid Specification:

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

Common Wear Items:

Vibrations from driveshaft flex disc, coolant expansion tank leaks, VANOS solenoid issues (for M52TU/M54 engines), power steering hose leaks, window regulator failures, ignition coil failures, differential seal leaks.

Common Engine Issues:

CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging leading to oil leaks and rough idle, oil pan gasket leaks, thermostat housing leaks.

Common Electrical Issues:

ABS/DSC sensor failures, EWS (immobilizer) system issues, pixelated instrument cluster displays.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, performance ('The Ultimate Driving Machine'), and luxury.

Predecessor:

Succeeded the BMW 5 Series E34.

Successor:

Succeeded by the BMW 5 Series E60.

Production Years E39:

1995-2003 (with a significant facelift in 2000).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing in Dingolfing, Germany, with some assembly in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Editorial Accolades:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, comfort, and quality. Often featured on 'best of' lists for its era.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Received generally good reliability ratings from consumer organizations, though some specific issues were noted over time.

Iso Certification:

Manufactured under strict ISO 9001 quality management standards.