Segment:
Executive Mid-size Sedan
Competitors 2006:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type
Key Differentiators:
Dynamic handling (BMW's core strength), advanced technology, upscale interior, powerful inline-6 engine
I Drive System:
Introduction of the updated iDrive infotainment system for enhanced control
Advanced Safety:
Optional Adaptive Headlights, Lane Departure Warning, Active Cruise Control
Engine Technology:
Introduction of the N52 lightweight magnesium-aluminum alloy inline-6 engine
Engine Service:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emission controls
Drivetrain Service:
Transmission (automatic and manual), clutch, differential, drive shafts
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, hydraulic brake system, ABS, DSC
Electrical Electronics:
Body control modules, engine control modules (ECU), infotainment, lighting, instrument cluster, comfort systems
Body Chassis:
Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, convertible top (if applicable), chassis components
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation
Electrical Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive wiring schematics for all vehicle systems
Specification Tables:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth Level:
Expert-level diagnostics and repair
Diagnostic Tools:
References specific BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D) and procedures
Component Rebuilds:
Information on rebuilding major components such as engine and transmission
Software Updates:
Procedures for software updates and module programming
Special Tools:
Lists and descriptions of special tools required for specific repairs
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
Horsepower:
255 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque:
260 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (SMPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Emission Controls:
Two-stage catalytic converters, secondary air injection, EVAP system
Type:
6-speed manual transmission
Type:
6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission with paddle shifters
Automatic Features:
Adaptive shift logic, sport mode, manual override
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF 6 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-2 (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2 or equivalent)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact:
5 Stars
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes
Dynamic Stability Control:
Standard
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard
Traction Control:
Standard
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
Active front seat belts with pretensioners, rear three-point seat belts
System Name:
iDrive (CCC generation)
Features:
Navigation, climate control, audio system, vehicle settings accessed via central controller and display
Adaptive Headlights:
Optional: Xenon headlights that swivel with steering input
Parking Sensors:
Optional: Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear
Bluetooth:
Optional: Bluetooth hands-free connectivity
Aux Input:
Standard: Auxiliary audio input
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 miles or 12 months (condition-based service)
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years
Coolant Change:
First change at 100,000 miles, subsequent changes every 30,000 miles (BMW Blue/Purple Antifreeze)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles for iridium spark plugs
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 Synthetic, BMW LL-01 approved (e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional OE, Mobil 1 ESP)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (approx. 6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or Purple Antifreeze (G48 or equivalent)
Valve Cover Gasket Leaks:
Common due to aging plastic and rubber components
Cooling System Components:
Water pump (especially electric pump failures on later models), coolant hoses, and expansion tank can fail
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Leaking oil pan gaskets can be an issue
Ccv System Failures:
Crankcase Ventilation system issues can lead to oil consumption and vacuum leaks
Power Steering Pump:
Can develop leaks or become noisy
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on performance, handling, and driver engagement
E60 Generation Introduction:
Introduced for the 2004 model year, replacing the E39 generation
Design Changes 2006:
Refinement of iDrive system, minor cosmetic updates, introduction of new option packages
Assembly Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Often featured on Car and Driver's 10Best lists in its segment
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Mixed to average depending on specific model year and components; requires diligent maintenance
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for 2006
