Segment:
Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
BMW enthusiasts, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics seeking in-depth technical knowledge.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Infiniti M
Powertrain Emphasis:
Renowned inline-six engine and advanced xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
Luxury Appointments:
Focus on sophisticated interior design, advanced technology for its era, and a refined driving experience.
Powertrain:
Engine (M54B30), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive System, Transmission (Automatic - GM A5S360R/A5S390R), Differential (Front, Rear), Axles, Driveshafts
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC, EBD), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Management System (DME), Ignition System, Lighting (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Instrumentation, Power Distribution, Body Control Modules (BCM), Infotainment System, Comfort Systems (HVAC, Seats)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Wiper System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Transmission Fluid, Power Steering Fluid), Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Cabin, Fuel), Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad/Rotor Service, Battery Maintenance
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Fault Finding Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing
Repair:
Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhauls, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement, HVAC System Repair, Cooling System Repair
Installation:
Component Installation (e.g., alternators, starter motors, sensors), Accessory Installation (where applicable), Trim Panel Removal and Installation
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2979 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic MS43/MS45
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Management:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual (Limited availability, more common in other 5-series variants)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S390R)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Steptronic (Manual shift mode), Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC)
Drivetrain System:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
AWD System Type:
Electronically controlled, fully variable power distribution
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver/passenger), Side airbags (front), Head protection system (front/rear)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front belt tensioners and force limiters
System Name:
iDrive (first generation)
Features:
Central control knob with buttons, LCD screen for navigation, radio, climate control, and vehicle settings. Optional: CD changer, satellite radio.
Features:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Rain-sensing wipers, Adaptive Xenon headlights (optional), Park Distance Control (PDC - optional).
Features:
Bluetooth hands-free calling (optional, with Bluetooth adapter or integrated system), SiriusXM Satellite Radio (optional).
Features:
Multi-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats (optional), power adjustable steering column, cruise control.
Oil Change:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes based on driving conditions, usually between 10,000 - 15,000 miles or annually. Refer to CBS for specific intervals.
Engine Air Filter:
Approximately every 30,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Air Filter:
Approximately every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Typically around 100,000 miles for iridium spark plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
BMW historically considered 'lifetime' fluid, but professional recommendation is to change every 60,000-100,000 miles for longevity, especially for automatic transmissions.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) compliant synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30 viscosity.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) approved brake fluid.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (part number 83 22 0 094 375) or equivalent specified for the GM A5S360R/A5S390R transmission.
Common Issues:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, hoses), VANOS solenoids, eccentric shaft sensor, ignition coils, fuel pump failure, power steering leaks, ABS/DSC sensor failures, electronic module failures (e.g., CCC, LCM).
Specific To M54:
Cracked plastic oil filter housing, PCV system issues causing rough idle, starter clutch wear.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure - focus on performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E60 Generation:
The E60 generation of the 5 Series (2004-2010) represented a significant design and technological shift from its E39 predecessor, marked by more aggressive styling and advanced features.
530Xi Introduction:
The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, offering enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Manufacturing Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany; Graz, Austria (for E61 wagon variants)
Ward Auto 10 Best Engines:
The M54 engine series received multiple 'Ward's 10 Best Engines' awards in its early years for its smooth power delivery and refinement.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied for the E60 generation; specific model year ratings should be consulted. The M54 engine generally has a good reputation for durability when properly maintained.
Manual Certification:
Produced by certified automotive technicians and adheres to industry repair standards.
