Market Position:
Premium executive sedan, competing with Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6. Known for its driving dynamics and build quality.
Competitive Analysis:
The 1997 528i (E39) represented a significant evolution for BMW's mid-size executive sedan, focusing on improved handling, comfort, and technology compared to its predecessor (E34). Its direct competitors included the Mercedes-Benz W210 E-Class and the Audi C5 A6.
Key Features:
Inline-six engine, rear-wheel drive (optional xDrive), refined ride and handling balance, high-quality interior materials, advanced (for the era) electronic features.
Coverage Areas:
Complete service, repair, diagnostic, and maintenance information for the 1997 BMW 528i
Page Count:
Estimated 2000+ pages (for comprehensive software)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (Digital, likely searchable PDF or proprietary application)
Systems Covered:
Engine (M52B28), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels & Tires, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Climate Control, Electrical System (ECU, wiring diagrams), Lighting, Instrumentation, Safety Systems (Airbags), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, window mechanisms, seat removal, dashboard disassembly, headliner repair, trunk lid, bumpers, exterior trim.
Electrical System:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits, ECU pinouts, fuse box layouts, component testing, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, power windows, central locking, lighting circuits, instrument cluster, audio system.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled service, troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, repair procedures, overhaul instructions, wiring harness repair, clutch replacement, brake system servicing, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, engine tuning, emission system repair, air conditioning service, diagnostic scan tool usage
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly procedures for the M52B28 engine, including timing chain and guide replacement.
Transmission Repair:
Detailed procedures for manual transmission clutch replacement, automatic transmission fluid and filter changes, and potential internal component repair (depending on software depth).
Brake System Repair:
Front and rear brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing, ABS system diagnostics and component testing, brake fluid bleeding procedures.
Suspension And Steering:
Replacement of control arms, ball joints, shock absorbers, struts, tie rod ends, power steering pump and rack diagnosis and repair, wheel alignment specifications.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, in-depth electrical diagnostics, and chassis repair
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 90 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
193 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Port Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual ignition coils
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent
Oil Capacity:
6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
5W-30 or 5W-40 (API SJ or higher)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 280)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (GM A5S 310Z)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic manual shifting mode
Fluid Specifications Manual
Fluid Type:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil
Fluid Specifications Automatic
Fluid Type:
ATF LT-3 (BMW P/N 8322 9 407 807) or equivalent Dexron III
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4/5 Stars (when tested)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4/5 Stars (when tested)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASC+T)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, Side-impact airbags (optional/standard depending on market), Crumple zones, Reinforced door beams, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners
Infotainment System:
BMW Business CD (radio/cassette), BMW Professional RDS CD (optional/higher trims), optional navigation system (CCC - Car Communication Computer).
Driver Assistance:
Traction Control (ASC+T), Cruise Control, Parking Sensors (optional).
Connectivity Features:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system, integrated telephone (optional).
Headlights:
Halogen projector headlights, Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional on later models/facelift).
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 7,500 - 15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (based on iridium spark plugs, if equipped from factory)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or CHF 11S (check specific vehicle build for correct fluid)
Known Issues:
Vanos (Variable Valve Timing) system solenoids and seals, Oil Vanos (OVS) leaks, cooling system (plastic components prone to cracking), ABS/DSC sensor failures, window regulator failures, Check Engine Light (CEL) due to various sensor issues (e.g., MAF, O2 sensors), door seal degradation, sagging headliner.
Oil Filter:
Mann-Filter HU 835, Mahle OX 166, Bosch 72205 (examples)
Air Filter:
Mann-Filter C 35 145, Mahle LX 876 (examples)
Cabin Filter:
Mann-Filter CU 3527 (examples)
Brand Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles, known for their 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy.
Model Evolution:
The E39 generation replaced the E34 5 Series and was produced from 1995 to 2003. It marked a significant advancement in design, engineering, and technology, setting a new benchmark for the executive sedan segment.
Production Years E39:
1995-2003
Manufacturing Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany; Rosslyn, South Africa; Graz, Austria (for some models)
