Segment:
Mid-size Luxury Sedan
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Cadillac CTS
Vehicle Philosophy:
Sporty handling, sophisticated engineering, luxurious comfort, advanced technology for its era.
Manual Advantage:
Official, factory-level accuracy and detail, superior to generic aftermarket guides for in-depth repairs.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Component Replacement, Specifications
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual (Software)
Format:
Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Complete Electrical System, Lighting, Ignition, ECUs, Sensors, Body Electronics, Audio System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, HVAC
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Diagnostics, Fault Code Interpretation, Troubleshooting Flowcharts
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks/Changes, Tune-ups
Repair:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, HVAC System Repairs
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic procedures, step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical diagrams, component data
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance through complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including complex electrical diagnostics and programming information.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 75 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder)
Timing System:
Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (for 2001 model year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Traction Control:
Available (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Stability Control:
Available (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
Brakes:
Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ventilated discs front and rear
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, optional front side-impact airbags, optional head protection system (HPS)
Seatbelts:
Three-point automatic locking retractors with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Head Unit:
BMW Business or Professional CD radio with options for navigation system (MKIII/MKIV).
Display:
Central LCD display for climate control, radio, and navigation information.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Cruise Control:
Standard on all models.
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system (may be defunct).
Audio Interface:
Standard CD player, optional CD changer. Cassette player also common.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable (Condition Based Service - CBS, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually)
Major Service Points:
Spark plugs (approx. 100,000 miles), Coolant flush (approx. 40,000-60,000 miles), Transmission fluid change (variable, but recommended around 60,000-100,000 miles for automatic).
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Capacity: 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48), typically 50/50 mixture with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Auto:
BMW ATF LT-71141 (or equivalent like Pentosin ATF1)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid)
Common Problems:
Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure leading to oil consumption/leaks, cooling system component failures (water pump, thermostat, hoses), VANOS solenoids, spark plug tube seals, ignition coil issues, ABS/DSC sensor failures.
Oil Filter:
BMW Part #: 11 42 1 745 557 (or Mann-Filter HU 821 x)
Engine Air Filter:
BMW Part #: 13 72 1 438 570 (or Mann-Filter C 25 321)
Cabin Air Filter:
BMW Part #: 64 11 6 907 784 (or Mann-Filter CU 2930)
Heritage Focus:
BMW's long-standing reputation for performance, driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine'), and engineering excellence.
E39 Generation:
The E39 generation (1995-2003) represented a significant advancement in BMW's 5 Series, known for its refined chassis, improved aerodynamics, and advanced electronics.
2001 Updates:
For 2001, the 525i received the new M54 engine, replacing the M52TU. Minor interior and exterior styling tweaks were also implemented.
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times for the E39 generation, often citing its balance of performance, luxury, and handling.
Reliability General:
Generally good, but requires diligent maintenance. Known for some specific electrical and cooling system weaknesses.
Certification Type:
Officially Licensed Product (indicated by product name)
