Segment:
Executive Sedan, Luxury Sports Sedan
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Cadillac STS
Powertrain Highlight:
Twin-turbocharged inline-6 engine (N54) offering strong performance and refinement.
Drivetrain Highlight:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive system providing enhanced traction and stability in various conditions.
Technology Highlight:
Advanced iDrive infotainment system, optional active steering and adaptive suspension.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive System, Transmission (Automatic), Transfer Case, Drive Shafts, Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS, DSC, Parking Brake), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Infotainment System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Navigation, Audio System, Alarm System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Seats, Interior Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replenishments
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, Fault code interpretation, Diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, Electrical schematics, Component identification, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical diagrams.
Engine Type:
3.0L Twin-Turbocharged Inline 6-cylinder (N54B30)
Horsepower:
300 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 1300-5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (High-Pressure Fuel System)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
Bosch DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Emissions Systems:
Catalytic Converters, Secondary Air Injection System, Oxygen Sensors
Type:
6-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (less common for xi models)
Automatic Features:
Sport mode, Manual shifting mode (Steptronic), Adaptive transmission control
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-5 or equivalent (refer to manual for specific part numbers)
IIHS Front Crash:
Good (2007-2010 models)
NHTSA Front Crash:
★★★★★ (5-Star)
NHTSA Side Crash:
★★★★★ (5-Star)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, Side-impact airbags, Head protection airbags (Curtain airbags)
Seat Belts:
Pretensioning seat belts with force limiters
System:
iDrive System (various iterations depending on model year and options)
Features:
Central control knob, LCD screen, Radio (AM/FM/Satellite), CD player, Optional Navigation System, Bluetooth connectivity (optional/later models).
Features:
Optional Active Steering, Adaptive Headlights, Park Distance Control (PDC), Cruise Control, Rain-sensing wipers.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface, USB adapter (later models).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Condition Based Service (CBS) system often dictates.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles for original equipment plugs (e.g., NGK SILZKBR8E8S or equivalent).
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 4 years or 60,000 miles with BMW-approved antifreeze.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-30 or 5W-30. (Consult manual for exact specs).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW Super DOT 4 recommended)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Common Problems:
High-pressure fuel pump failure (HPFP), Injector issues, Turbocharger wastegate rattle, Oil pan gasket leaks, Valve cover gasket leaks, Power steering pump failure, Idrive system glitches, Ignition coil failures.
Turbocharger Care:
Allow engine to idle for a minute or two after spirited driving to cool turbochargers.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, focusing on performance, luxury, and engineering.
E60 Generation:
The E60 5 Series generation (2004-2010) introduced significant design and technological advancements over its predecessor (E39).
535Xi Introduction:
The 535xi variant was introduced to offer the performance of the 535i with the added benefit of BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, enhancing all-weather capability.
Production Location:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing Plant)
Ward Auto Ten Best:
The N54 engine was a multiple recipient of Ward's 10 Best Engines award for its performance and efficiency.
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated well for performance and handling, with some recurring concerns about reliability in certain areas. Specific ratings varied by model year.
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its respective model years.
