🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

540i

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

E39

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Luxury Mid-size Sedan

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS (JZS160), Volvo S80

Vehicle Highlights:

Smooth V8 power, refined handling, luxurious interior appointments, advanced safety features for its era.

Benefits To Owner:

Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and undertake complex repairs, saving on dealership service costs while ensuring proper vehicle upkeep.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body & Chassis, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Specifications

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download/Disc-based)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

V8 Engine (M62B44TU - although likely refers to the earlier M62B44 for the 97 model year) Mechanical and Electrical Components, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Engine Control Unit (ECU) Diagnostics

Drivetrain:

Automatic Transmission (GM 5L40-E), Rear-Wheel Drive System, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles

Suspension Steering:

Front & Rear Suspension (MacPherson struts, multi-link rear), Steering System (Hydraulic Power Steering), Wheel Alignment

Brakes:

Front & Rear Disc Brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Fluid Specifications

Electrical Body:

12V Electrical System, Battery, Charging System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), Climate Control (HVAC), Body Control Module (BCM), Wiring Diagrams, Fuses and Relays, SRS (Airbag) System

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and Filter Change, Air Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Transmission Fluid Change, Differential Fluid Change, Belt Inspection and Replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Suspension Component Replacement (shocks, struts, bushings), Brake Component Replacement (pads, rotors, calipers), Steering Rack Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, HVAC System Repair

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

System-Specific Fault Finding, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Component Testing Procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, in-depth repairs, and advanced diagnostics suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Likely a proprietary executable or PDF with searchable text and integrated diagrams. Optimized for digital access and interactive use.

Print Quality Suitability:

High-resolution diagrams and text suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding:

N/A (Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4.4L Naturally Aspirated V8 (M62B44)

Engine Code:

M62B44

Horsepower:

282 hp @ 5400 rpm

Torque:

324 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic 5.2 or similar)

ECU Type:

Bosch Motronic

Bore X Stroke:

92 mm x 82.7 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 or equivalent)

Oil Capacity:

7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E)

Manual Transmission Availability:

Typically not offered on US market 540i models for this year; manual was available on 528i/525i.

Transmission Control:

Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with various shift modes (e.g., Standard, Sport)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent specification like Pentosin ATF1)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.5 inches (4788 mm)

Width:

70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

57.0 inches (1448 mm)

Wheelbase:

111.4 inches (2830 mm)

Curb Weight:

3,726 lbs (1690 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4,696 lbs (2130 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger) - Note: Ratings systems were less standardized in 1997.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction)

Airbags:

Driver and Front Passenger Airbags, Optional Side Airbags

Seatbelts:

Front 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners, Rear 3-point seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD or Professional RDS with optional CD changer, optional navigation system (MK I or II).

Audio System:

Optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Parking Assistance:

Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC)

Cellular Integration:

Optional integrated car phone or Bluetooth preparation (less common for early E39s).

Climate Control:

Automatic dual-zone climate control (HVAC) with cabin microfilter.

Seats:

Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function for driver's seat, heated seats.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 7,500 - 10,000 miles (or based on condition monitoring system 'service indicator')

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approximately 60,000 miles (refer to manual for exact specification and type)

Coolant Replacement Interval:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron III or CHF 11 S (check specific vehicle build)

Common Wear Items:

Vibrations from driveshaft flex disc, cooling system leaks (water pump, thermostat, hoses), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system issues, front control arm bushings, coil packs, ABS sensor failures, window regulator failures, headliner sag.

Engine Specific Concerns:

PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging leading to oil leaks, timing chain guides (though less prevalent on M62 than M60).

Key Areas:

Regular fluid changes, inspection of cooling system components, attention to the VANOS system, and addressing any oil leaks promptly.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Philosophy:

BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a strong engineering foundation.

E39 Introduction:

The E39 generation 5 Series was introduced in 1995 (for the 1996 model year in Europe, 1997 in North America) and replaced the E34 generation. The 540i variant represented the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the sedan lineup before the M5.

Production Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

Model Year Range E39:

1997-2003 (North America)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E39 5 Series, including variants like the 540i, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run, lauded for its blend of luxury, performance, and handling.