🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5-series

Chassis Code:

F10 (Sedan), F11 (Touring/Wagon)

Model Year:

2011

Production Code:

F10/F11

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size luxury sedan/wagon, competing with Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS.

Key Strengths Of F10 F11:

Focus on driving dynamics, advanced technology, premium interior, and strong powertrain options. Inherits BMW's reputation for performance and build quality.

Vehicle Highlights:

Introduction of the F10/F11 generation brought significant advancements in chassis design, engine technology (e.g., turbocharged inline-sixes, efficient diesels), and electronic systems, including iDrive infotainment and driver assistance features.

Dealership Equivalent:

This manual is the exact same resource used by certified BMW technicians in dealerships, ensuring unparalleled accuracy and completeness for DIY enthusiasts and independent repair shops.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z for the specified year and chassis codes.

Estimated Pages:

Likely 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive manufacturer service manuals).

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English (standard for BMW technical documentation in most major markets).

Format:

Digital (PDF) or Printed. The product description implies dealership-grade digital access, often provided in a searchable PDF format.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions control, turbocharging (where applicable).

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 8-speed), manual transmission (less common in this generation for 5-series), clutch, drivetrain components (driveshafts, differentials).

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (double-wishbone), rear suspension (multi-link), adaptive suspension (Adaptive Drive, optional), power steering system (electric power steering - EPS).

Brake Systems:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad/rotor replacement, brake bleeding procedures, parking brake (electric parking brake - EPB).

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (LED, Xenon), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, Body Control Module (BCM), Engine Control Unit (ECU), infotainment system, navigation, HVAC controls, sensors.

Body Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, jacking points, towing points.

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, refrigerant, A/C compressor, climate control module, cabin filters.

Comfort Systems:

Seats (heating, ventilation, memory), sunroof, power windows, mirrors, central locking, keyless entry, interior lighting.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, brake service, tire rotation.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagram analysis, diagnostic tool usage (e.g., ISTA).

Repair Replacement:

Component removal and installation for all major systems, torque specifications for fasteners, assembly procedures.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specific BMW special tools required for certain repairs.

Component Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, or other component overhauls (if applicable to the manual's depth).

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, system-specific wiring diagrams with component identification and color coding for all electrical circuits.

Diagnostic Codes:

List and explanation of BMW's diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), their possible causes, and troubleshooting steps.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls. Includes detailed wiring diagrams and technical service bulletins (TSBs) where applicable.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners, ensuring correct assembly and preventing damage.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF with text searchability, bookmarking, and hyperlinked cross-references.

Print Quality:

High resolution for clear diagrams, schematics, and text. Designed for clarity and ease of use by technicians.

Binding:

If printed: Likely a durable comb or spiral binding for lay-flat use, or a sturdy hardcover/softcover for shop environments.

Paper Quality:

If printed: Heavy-duty, glossy or matte paper suitable for workshop environments, resistant to grease and dirt.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variations:

Likely includes the N52B30 (3.0L naturally aspirated inline-6), N55B30 (3.0L turbocharged inline-6), N63B44O0 (4.4L twin-turbocharged V8), and various diesel variants (e.g., N47D20 for 520d, N57D30 for 530d/535d).

Power And Torque:

Specific horsepower and torque figures vary by engine and model designation (e.g., 528i, 535i, 550i). Manual will detail these specifications for each variant.

Fuel Delivery:

Direct injection (for turbocharged gasoline engines) and common rail direct injection (for diesel engines). Fuel pump specifications, injector testing, and pressure regulation will be covered.

ECU And Sensors:

Detailed information on engine control units (ECUs), ignition timing, Vanos (variable camshaft timing), Valvetronic, and sensor operation (e.g., MAF, O2, camshaft/crankshaft position sensors).

Oil And Coolant:

Engine oil type, viscosity, capacity, and change intervals. Coolant type, capacity, and system pressure testing.

🔧 Transmission

Gearbox Type:

Often the ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 8HP45, 8HP70) was standard or a popular option on many models. Manual transmission (e.g., Getrag 6-speed) may have been available on some variants but less common.

Gearbox Options:

All-wheel drive (xDrive) variants would have specialized transfer cases. Manual transmission availability varied by market and engine.

Transmission Tech:

Details on adaptive transmission control, sport mode, manual shifting modes (Steptronic), and electronic control units for the transmission.

Transmission Fluid:

Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type and part number (e.g., Shell M-1375.4 or equivalent for ZF transmissions), and fluid change intervals/procedures.

📐 Dimensions

Length Width Height:

F10 Sedan: Approx. L: 4899mm, W: 1860mm, H: 1464mm. F11 Touring: Approx. L: 4907mm, W: 1860mm, H: 1471mm (dimensions can vary slightly).

Wheelbase:

F10/F11: Approx. 2968mm.

Trunk Volume:

F10 Sedan: Approx. 520 liters. F11 Touring: Approx. 560 liters (expandable to 1670 liters with rear seats folded).

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by engine and options, but typically ranges from ~1600 kg to over 1900 kg.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120mm.

Tire Sizes:

Common sizes include 225/55R17, 245/45R18, 245/40R19. Specific sizes depend on model and factory options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Euroncap:

Typically achieved high safety ratings (e.g., 5-star Euro NCAP for many variants) due to advanced structural design and safety systems. Manual will detail specific test results if publicly released by BMW.

Driver Assistance:

ABS, DSC, DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), Active Head Restraints, optional: Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Warning with City Braking function.

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, knee airbags (optional). Manual details airbag system operation, diagnosis, and replacement of SRS components.

Headlight Systems:

Halogen, Xenon, and optional Adaptive LED headlights. Manual covers bulb replacement, headlight aiming, and LED module diagnostics.

💡 Technology Features

Idrive System:

BMW iDrive system (likely CIC or NBT generation), featuring navigation, audio, climate control, and vehicle settings. Manual covers system operation, troubleshooting, and software updates.

Advanced Systems:

Features like Head-Up Display (HUD), Parking Assistant, Surround View cameras, Active Protection (pre-crash safety system), and various camera/radar-based driver aids. Manual provides integration and diagnostic information.

Bluetooth Usb:

Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB audio interface, and potentially BMW ConnectedDrive services (depending on options and market).

Adaptive Headlights:

Description and repair procedures for optional Adaptive Xenon or LED headlights that swivel with steering input.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Intervals:

Typically Condition Based Service (CBS) system, recommending oil changes based on driving conditions, often between 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Manual details CBS reset procedures.

Major Service Items:

Spark plugs (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles depending on engine), brake fluid flush (every 2 years), coolant flush (every 4-5 years), cabin air filter (annual), engine air filter (2-3 years).

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) for gasoline engines, depending on sulfur content of fuel. Specific viscosity grades like 0W-30 or 5W-30 are common. Manual provides exact BMW approvals.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent. Capacity varies by engine, typically around 8-10 liters.

Common Problems:

Potential issues might include: PCV valve failures on some naturally aspirated engines, water pump failures (electric on many models), issues with power steering systems, turbocharger problems on high-mileage models, sensor failures (e.g., NOx sensors on diesels), and software glitches in the infotainment system. Manual provides diagnostic steps for these.

Rotor And Pad Replacement:

Detailed procedures for replacing brake pads and rotors, including electronic parking brake (EPB) service mode activation/deactivation.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused vehicles, combining luxury with performance. The 5-series has been a cornerstone of this identity since its inception.

F10 F11 Generation:

The F10/F11 generation, launched in 2010, replaced the E60/E61. It marked a return to more traditional styling for some markets and introduced significant technological advancements, including electric power steering and a refined infotainment system.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily produced at BMW's Dingolfing plant in Germany, with potential assembly in other international locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Accolades:

The F10/F11 generation often received critical acclaim for its blend of luxury, performance, and technology. Specific awards might include 'Ward's 10 Best Engines' for certain powertrains, or 'Top Safety Pick' from IIHS/NHTSA.

Owner Satisfaction:

BMW generally scores well in owner satisfaction surveys, particularly regarding driving experience and build quality, though maintenance costs can be higher than non-premium brands.