Brand Perception:
Known for luxury, performance, and engineering prowess.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Cadillac DeVille.
Distinctive Elements:
Rear-wheel drive platform, refined inline-six engines, sophisticated chassis dynamics, premium interior appointments.
Engine:
Complete engine repair, disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmission service, overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service, shift control systems.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad replacement, rotor service, caliper repair, bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, power windows, power locks, interior electronics, diagnosis of electrical faults.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, springs, alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, hydraulic power steering fluid.
Body:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass replacement, interior trim, body sealing, rust prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant service, component replacement, climate control unit.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Procedures for reading and interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using BMW specific diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine component rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle problems, including electrical gremlins and mechanical failures.
Disassembly Assembly:
Comprehensive instructions for the removal and installation of all major components and sub-assemblies.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and bolts across all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Expert-level coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 or equivalent)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (BMW Longlife-01 or Longlife-98 specification)
Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5 - late models often had 6-speed manual as optional)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic manual shifting mode, adaptive shift programs.
Automatic Fluid Type:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent like Dexron III/Mercon, but LT-3 preferred for optimal performance)
Automatic Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts) for a complete fill (pan drop and torque converter)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not specifically rated for this exact vintage by NHTSA as per modern standards, but E39 generally performed well for its era.
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) often standard or optional.
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) introduced in later models.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional RDS, or optional Navigation System with CD-ROM/DVD-ROM.
Display:
Central display in dashboard (often green or amber LCD) for OBC, radio, and climate control. Optional widescreen color display for navigation and i-Drive (post-facelift).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).
Audio Inputs:
Optional CD changer, cassette player.
Bluetooth:
Not typically factory integrated in early models; aftermarket solutions available.
Oil Change Interval:
Approximately 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to car's Condition Based Service - CBS system for precise guidance).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 2-3 years or as indicated by the CBS system.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (or Pentosin CHF 11 S / CHF 202)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4+
Common Problems:
Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, PCV system issues (clogged hoses), cooling system component failures (water pump, thermostat, hoses, expansion tank), VANOS solenoid failures, sagging headliner, ABS/ASC sensor issues, oxygen sensor failures, starter motor failures, fuel pump issues.
Bmw Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on engineering, performance, and driver engagement.
E39 Introduction:
The E39 generation replaced the E34 5 Series and was produced from 1995 to 2003 (globally). The 528i was a key model in this lineup.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
A significant facelift occurred in 2000, introducing updated headlights, taillights, bumpers, and interior refinements, including i-Drive in some models.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing plant), assembly also occurred in other locations for specific markets.
