🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Chassis Code:

E39

Body Styles:

Sedan, Sport Wagon (Touring)

Engine Codes Covered:

M52, M54, M62

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size luxury sedan and wagon segment.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS/LS, Volvo S80/V70.

Unique Selling Points:

BMW's renowned driving dynamics ('Ultimate Driving Machine'), refined engineering, robust inline-six engines (M52/M54), powerful V8 option (M62), spacious interior, premium materials, available Sport Wagon body style.

📋 Manual Details

Regions:

Global (primarily North American and European specifications implied by model variants)

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management (DME), transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, driveline, axles.

Chassis:

Suspension (front & rear, including Adaptive Ride Control if applicable), steering (power steering, steering column), brakes (hydraulic, ABS, DSC), wheels, tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), infotainment system, comfort electronics, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).

Body:

Exterior body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, climate control, body repair procedures.

Engine Management Systems:

Detailed coverage of DME (Digital Motor Electronics) functions, sensor inputs (crankshaft position, camshaft position, MAF, MAP, O2 sensors, knock sensors), actuator outputs (fuel injectors, ignition coils, VANOS solenoids), idle control, emission control systems (e.g., EVAP).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), tune-ups, component inspections, lubrication.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS).

Technical Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, electrical system specifications, fluid capacities, diagnostic specifications, component alignment procedures.

Engine Timing:

Procedures for camshaft timing chain and tensioner replacement, VANOS unit overhaul and installation, correct timing marks and procedures for belt-driven camshafts (early models) and chain-driven camshafts (later models).

Fuel System Repair:

Fuel pump testing and replacement, fuel injector cleaning and replacement, fuel pressure regulator diagnosis, fuel tank service.

Ignition System Repair:

Spark plug replacement, ignition coil testing and replacement, crankshaft and camshaft position sensor testing.

Transmission Diagnostics Auto:

Diagnostic flowcharts for automatic transmission fault codes, solenoid testing, valve body troubleshooting, torque converter diagnosis, fluid level and condition checks.

Suspension Geometry:

Alignment specifications, procedure for checking and replacing control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, shock absorbers, and springs. Coverage of multi-link rear suspension.

Steering System Service:

Power steering pump replacement, steering rack diagnosis and repair, steering column adjustments and repair, steering wheel removal and installation.

Brake System Overhaul:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service (rebuild or replacement), brake line replacement, bleeding procedures, ABS modulator testing and replacement, DSC system diagnostics.

Electrical Schematics:

Detailed, organized wiring diagrams for all major systems, including power distribution, engine control, lighting, HVAC, windows, locks, and infotainment. Crucial for troubleshooting electrical faults.

HVAC System Repair:

Diagnosis and repair of blower motor, climate control unit, refrigerant system (charging, leak detection), blend door actuators, heater core, and A/C compressor.

Body Panel Replacement:

Procedures for removing and installing fenders, doors, hoods, trunk lids, bumpers, and related trim. Also includes procedures for body repair and corrosion prevention.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.

Torque Specifications:

Extensive torque specifications for engine components, chassis fasteners, wheel lug nuts, and interior trim screws, ensuring proper assembly and preventing damage.

Diagnostic Tools Usage:

Guidance on using factory-level diagnostic tools such as BMW GT1 or DIS (Diagnostic Information System) for advanced system checks, module programming, and adaptive resets.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution, clear text and diagrams suitable for printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Search Function:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Licensing:

No expiry dates, no recurring fees.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

525I:

3.0L Inline-6 (M54B30), 225 hp @ 6000 rpm, 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx. for later models)

528I:

2.8L Inline-6 (M52TU/M54B28), 193 hp @ 5300 rpm, 206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm (approx. for M52TU)

530I:

3.0L Inline-6 (M54B30), 225 hp @ 6000 rpm, 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx.)

540I:

4.4L V8 (M62TU), 291 hp @ 5400 rpm, 324 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (approx.)

Engine Management:

Bosch Motronic (e.g., ME7.2 for M54/M62TU)

Injection Type:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Port Injection

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/6, GS5-39DZ) for most models; 5-speed Automatic (Steptronic) optional.

Automatic Transmission:

5-speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP19 for 6-cyl, ZF 5HP24 for V8) with Steptronic manual shifting mode.

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD); xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) not available for E39 generation.

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

4,869 mm (191.7 in)

Length Wagon:

4,887 mm (192.4 in)

Width:

1,799 mm (70.8 in)

Height Sedan:

1,435 mm (56.5 in)

Height Wagon:

1,472 mm (57.9 in)

Cargo Volume Sedan:

5.6 cu ft (trunk)

Cargo Volume Wagon:

53.6 cu ft (with rear seats folded)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,500 - 3,800 lbs (depending on model and configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for driver and passenger, 1997-2002 models often rated highly)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models tested)

Traction Control:

Standard ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) on most models; optional DSC (Dynamic Stability Control).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Airbags:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, optional side-impact airbags, optional head protection airbags (HPS).

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD, BMW Professional RDS CD, optional navigation system (CCC/MKIV era), cassette player integration.

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio system.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).

Auxiliary Input:

Rarely standard; often required adapter or aftermarket integration.

Onboard Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, supporting standardized diagnostic codes and data streams.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval Indicator (VSI) system, typically recommending oil changes every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide detailed VSI reset procedures.

Major Service Intervals:

e.g., Spark plug replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type), coolant flush every 2-3 years, transmission fluid service typically recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles (though often considered 'lifetime' by some, manual provides guidance).

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30. Specific viscosity depends on climate and engine type. Manual will list exact BMW approvals.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based antifreeze) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent; specific BMW P/N will be listed. Manual will detail change procedure and fluid level check.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4.

Common E39 Problems:

Cooling system leaks (water pump, radiator, hoses), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system issues, oil pan gasket leaks, ABS/DSC sensor failures, headlight leveling issues, power steering leaks, rear subframe bushings, window regulator failures, vapor canister purge valve (EVAP) issues, ignition coil failures.

Manual Utility For Issues:

The manual provides diagnostic steps, part numbers, and repair procedures for all common and uncommon issues encountered on these models.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW, a German manufacturer, has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty luxury vehicles with a focus on driving performance and engineering excellence.

E39 Development:

The E39 generation, introduced in 1995 for the 1996 model year in Europe and later for North America, represented a significant advancement over its E34 predecessor, featuring a more aerodynamic design, improved chassis dynamics, and enhanced technology.

Production Years:

1997-2003 (for North American market, though the manual specifies up to 2002 for certain models, encompassing the pre-facelift and facelift variants).

Manufacturing Locations:

Dingolfing, Germany; Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA (for certain export markets).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best 10:

The BMW 5 Series (E39) frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10 Best list during its production run, particularly the 528i and 540i models, for their excellent balance of luxury, performance, and handling.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied throughout the E39's lifecycle; later models generally improved. The manual is essential for proactive maintenance to mitigate potential issues.

Certification:

Not applicable in the context of a workshop manual, but the vehicle's build quality and engineering reflect BMW's adherence to German automotive standards.