Segment:
Luxury Mid-size Sedan/Wagon
Brand Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, executive-class comfort, advanced engineering
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS
Unique Selling Points:
Sport Wagon versatility, renowned inline-6 engine, superior handling dynamics, build quality
Sport Package Elements:
Often includes sport-tuned suspension, aerodynamic enhancements, sport seats, specific wheel designs
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management (DME), fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain components (driveshaft, differential, axles)
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, ABS, DSC), wheel and tire specifications
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting systems, starting and charging system, instrument cluster, comfort electronics (HVAC, seats, windows, locks), SRS airbag system, diagnostic port (OBD-II)
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, exterior trim, interior trim, roof system, tailgate, bumper systems
Maintenance:
Routine service intervals, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt inspection/replacement
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures, diagnostic troubleshooting, electrical system repairs, mechanical component overhauls
Troubleshooting:
Fault finding guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Depth:
In-depth technical information, torque specifications, component tolerances, special tool requirements, diagnostic procedures, electrical schematics
Digital Format Availability:
N/A (This is a printed book)
Paper Quality:
Likely high-quality, durable paper typical of professional repair manuals
Printing Style:
Clear diagrams, detailed text, organized layout for ease of reference
Binding:
Likely perfect bound or spiral bound for lay-flat use in a workshop environment
Engine Code:
M54B25 (in later models of this range), likely M52TU25 for earlier 1997-2000 models
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower Peak:
Approximately 184 hp @ 5800 rpm (for M54B25), slightly less for M52TU25
Torque Peak:
Approximately 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (for M54B25), slightly less for M52TU25
Induction Type:
Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Port Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic DME)
ECU:
Digital Motor Electronics (DME)
Emission Controls:
Catalytic Converter, secondary air injection (depending on market/year)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260/6 or similar)
Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (GM A5S360R/A5S325Z)
Automatic Control:
Steptronic (manual shifting mode) may be available on some automatic models
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends various fluids, often of GL-4 or GL-5 specification, e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ETL-7045E or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III)
Length:
Approx. 4,871 mm (191.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,799 mm (70.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,471 mm (57.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,830 mm (111.4 in)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 460 liters (16.2 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 1,520 liters (53.7 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1650-1750 kg (3638-3858 lbs) depending on transmission and options
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely Good (based on contemporary E39 sedan tests)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Likely Acceptable or Good (based on contemporary E39 sedan tests)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) often standard or optional
Brake Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags (front), and potentially rear side airbags
Seat Belts:
Pretensioning front seat belts, rear seat belts
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cell with energy-absorbing crumple zones
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, or optional navigation system (MK III/IV).
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Hi-Fi or Harman Kardon premium sound systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) was an optional feature.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system via ULF (Ultimate Calling Unit).
Climate Control:
Automatic dual-zone climate control (HVAC) standard on most models.
Seat Features:
Power adjustable front seats with memory function, optional heated seats, sport seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system, but manual will specify exact intervals.
Major Service Points:
Spark plugs, coolant flush, transmission fluid service, differential fluid service at specific mileage intervals (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 specification synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) for the 2.5L engine.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or Dexron III ATF (check manual for specific model year).
Common Wear Items:
VANOS seals (clatter on startup), oil filter housing gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues, coolant expansion tank cracks, front suspension bushings/control arms, ignition coils.
Electrical Quirks:
LCM (Light Control Module) failures, pixelation on instrument cluster, door seal water ingress causing module issues.
Bmw Philosophy:
Founded on precision engineering, performance, and luxury driving experience.
E39 Generation:
The E39 generation of the 5 Series replaced the E34 and introduced significant advancements in chassis, electronics, and driver comfort.
Wagon Introduction:
The E39 Touring (wagon) variant was introduced in 1997, offering practicality to the executive sedan platform.
Production Period E39:
1995-2003 (sedan), 1997-2003 (Touring)
Manufacturing Location:
Primary manufacturing in Dingolfing, Germany.
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver 10 Best list multiple times during its production run.
Ward Auto Ten Best Engines:
BMW's inline-6 engines (including variants of the M52 and M54) were frequently recognized.
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated well for performance and build quality, though some noted reliability concerns with specific electronics.
