Market Segment:
Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan
Positioning:
The BMW 528i (E60) represented BMW's commitment to combining luxury, performance, and advanced technology in the executive segment, competing with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E350, Audi A6 3.2 FSI, Lexus GS 350, Cadillac STS.
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering (Servotronic), and engaging driving experience, characteristic of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy.
Technology:
Advanced iDrive infotainment system (E60 generation), optional Active Steering, Adaptive Headlights, Head-Up Display (HUD).
Design:
Chris Bangle's controversial but distinctive flame surfacing design language, offering a modern and athletic aesthetic.
Value:
This comprehensive PDF service manual provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the exact information needed to maintain and repair the BMW 528i (E60/E61) of these model years, saving significant costs associated with dealership service.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (DME), transmission (automatic and manual), differential, drive shafts.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS, DSC, Dynamic Drive), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instrument cluster, infotainment system (iDrive), comfort systems (HVAC, seats, windows, locks), power distribution, diagnosis and troubleshooting of electrical faults, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, bumpers, structural components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.
Component Repair:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, power steering system repair, AC system service.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), use of diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D), component testing.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for fasteners, alignment specifications, diagnostic parameters, fluid capacities, wear limits.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2996 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 24 Valves, Double VANOS, Valvetronic
Horsepower:
230 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque:
200 lb-ft (271 Nm) @ 2750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with High-Pressure Fuel Pump
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)
Engine Control Unit:
Bosch DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Emissions Control:
Catalytic Converter, Secondary Air Injection (specific markets), Oxygen Sensors
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual (S6S 360G)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Automatic (GA6HP-19Z)
Transmission Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting via selector lever or paddle shifters), Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF 6, Dexron VI or equivalent.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent SAE 75W-80 GL-4.
Wheelbase:
116.4 inches (2957 mm)
Length:
191.1 inches (4853 mm) - Sedan
Width:
72.4 inches (1839 mm)
Height:
58.0 inches (1473 mm) - Sedan
Front Track:
61.2 inches (1555 mm)
Rear Track:
61.7 inches (1567 mm)
Trunk Capacity:
14.0 cubic feet (396 Liters) - Sedan
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3700-3800 lbs (1678-1724 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4800 lbs (2177 kg)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Wheel Offset:
ET 20-35 (depending on wheel size)
Standard Tire Size:
245/40R18
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (2007 Model Year)
IIHS Front Offset:
Good (2007 Model Year)
Electronic Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including ABS, traction control (ASC+T), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), cornering brake control (CBC).
Steering System:
Optional Active Steering (variable steering ratio and effort), Servotronic power steering.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), side-impact airbags (front and rear), head protection system (curtain airbags).
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Chassis Structure:
High-strength steel safety cage.
Features:
Central display screen, iDrive controller (rotary knob and buttons), navigation system (optional), radio, CD player, Bluetooth connectivity (optional).
User Interface:
The E60 generation's iDrive system was a significant step forward but also a point of contention for its complexity. This manual provides detailed instructions for its operation and troubleshooting.
Adaptive Headlights:
Optional Xenon headlights with adaptive control that adjust beam pattern based on steering angle and vehicle speed.
Head Up Display:
Optional HUD projects key driving information (speed, navigation prompts) onto the windshield.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone preparation.
Comfort Access:
Optional keyless entry and start system.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically indicates oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles for the N52 engine (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
BMW recommends BMW Blue coolant, often with a long service life (e.g., every 4-5 years or 100,000 miles, check manual).
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48).
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (or Pentosin CHF 11S for specific hydraulic systems, check manual).
Valve Cover Gasket Leaks:
Common for the N52 engine to develop leaks from the valve cover gasket and spark plug well seals.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Oil pan gasket and oil level sensor seals can also be prone to leaks.
Cooling System Leaks:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks and hose connections can degrade over time, leading to leaks.
Alternator Failure:
Early models could experience alternator failures. Alternator type is typically a Valeo unit.
ABS/Dsc Module Failure:
The hydraulic unit and pump for the ABS/DSC system can fail, causing warning lights on the dash.
Pcv Valve Issues:
The crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve system, integrated into the valve cover, can become clogged or fail, leading to rough idle or oil consumption.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics and engineering excellence.
E60 Introduction:
The E60 generation of the 5 Series, launched in 2003 (for the 2004 model year in North America), replaced the E39. The 528i model was introduced as part of the updated lineup for the 2007 model year, featuring the new N52 engine and an updated exterior and interior design.
E60 Facelift:
The E60 received a significant facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) for the 2008 model year, which included revised bumpers, headlights, taillights, and interior trim. This manual covers both pre-facelift (2007) and facelift (2008-2010) models.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in contract plants in various countries.