Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type
Vehicle Appeal:
Performance, luxury, driving dynamics, build quality
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their vehicle, saving on labor costs while ensuring proper upkeep
Engine Mechanical:
V8 Engine (M62TU - 4.4L) overhauling, repair, diagnostics
Engine Management:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics), VANOS system, ignition, fuel injection, emissions control
Transmission Manual:
5-speed manual (Getrag Type D) overhaul, repair, diagnostics
Transmission Automatic:
5-speed automatic (Steptronic - GM 5L40-E) overhaul, repair, diagnostics
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems (struts, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars), alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, linkage, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, chassis components
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (A/C) system, climate control
Infotainment:
Radio, navigation system (if equipped), speaker systems
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems
Rebuilding:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilding
Restoration:
Guidance for cosmetic and mechanical restoration projects
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed troubleshooting for electrical faults using wiring diagrams
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific special tools required for repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Type:
5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM 5L40-E)
Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag Type D)
Automatic Modes:
Standard Drive, Sport Mode, Manual Shift (Steptronic)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent (BMW P/N 83 22 0 026 922)
Automatic Capacity:
Approx. 9-10 quarts (8.5-9.5 liters) for complete fill
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not specifically rated for 2001 model year, but E39 chassis generally performed well
IIHS Side Impact:
Not specifically rated for 2001 model year
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) available on some models
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags (optional)
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional CD radio, with optional navigation system (CCC or M-ASK)
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Hi-Fi or Harman Kardon premium sound
Parking Assistance:
Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) available
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Communication:
Optional Bluetooth preparation, integrated car phone (rare)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, based on oil condition sensor and driving style
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for long-life iridium plugs
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) Specification, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (P/N 82 11 0 027 075) or Pentosin CHF 11S
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and leak; water pump failure is also common.
Vanos:
Seals can degrade, leading to rough idle, hesitation, and loss of power.
Ignition Coils:
Coil-on-plug systems can fail, causing misfires.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are common leak points due to age and material degradation.
ABS/Dsc Sensor:
Wheel speed sensors are prone to failure, triggering ABS and DSC warning lights.
Heater Control Valve:
Can fail, leading to no heat or incorrect temperature control.
Rear Main Seal:
Can leak oil, requiring transmission removal for replacement.
Bmw Philosophy:
'The Ultimate Driving Machine' - focus on performance, engineering, and driver engagement
E39 Generation:
Fourth generation of the 5 Series, produced from 1995 to 2003 (facelift in 2000)
540I Positioning:
Top-tier model in the E39 lineup, offering V8 power and luxury features
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing Plant)
