Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops
Competitors 2001:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220), Lexus LS 430, Audi A8 (D2)
Design Philosophy:
Introduction of the E65 chassis, a significant departure from the E38 generation, featuring advanced electronics and luxury amenities.
Licensing:
Officially licensed, indicating direct OEM-derived or authorized content.
Accessibility:
Instant online availability, offering convenience over traditional printed manuals.
Engine:
M62TU V8 engine diagnostics, repair, and overhaul
Transmission:
GM 5L44E automatic transmission service and repair
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, differential, driveshaft
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, adaptive ride control (EDC)
Brakes:
ABS, DSC, EBC400 brake system, rotor and pad replacement, fluid service
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system, steering column adjustments
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, exterior trim, interior trim, sound deadening
HVAC:
Climate control system, A/C compressor, evaporator, heater core, blower motor
Infotainment:
iDrive system (CCC), radio, navigation, speaker systems, telephone preparation
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, xenon headlights
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, passive safety components
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flush, brake fluid service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems
Repair:
Engine component repair (e.g., VANOS, timing chain), transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical module repair
Diagnostics:
Use of diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA, DIS), sensor testing, module programming
Adjustments:
Wheel alignment, headlight aim, door alignment
Installation:
Component replacement, accessory installation (e.g., tow hitch, roof rack)
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, diagnostic procedures, wiring schematics
Diagrams:
Includes detailed exploded views, wiring diagrams, and system schematics
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 2001 model year by NHTSA in a comparable format to modern vehicles, but generally considered very safe.
IIHS Front Impact:
Good (for comparable vehicles of the era)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Brake Assist:
Yes (Brake Assist)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, optional head protection airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
System:
BMW iDrive (CCC - Car Communication Computer)
Features:
Navigation system, Radio Professional, CD player, optional TV tuner, Bluetooth phone preparation.
Cruise Control:
Active Cruise Control (ACC) was an option.
Parking Assist:
Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Features:
BMW Assist telematics system.
Oil Change Interval:
Condition-based service (CBS) indicator, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for exact intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (per CBS, but often recommended sooner for optimal performance).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40. Check manual for specific viscosity.
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 chemistry)
Engine:
VANOS system leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, coolant leaks (especially from thermostat housing and hoses), ignition coil failure, starter motor issues.
Transmission:
Slipping or harsh shifting (often related to valve body, solenoids, or torque converter), Mechatronics sleeve leaks.
Electrical:
Water ingress into LCM (Light Control Module), ABS/DSC sensor failures, CIC/iDrive system glitches, battery drain issues, window regulator failures.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings, ball joints, front struts (for EDC).
