Positioning:
The BMW 645Ci (E63) was positioned as a luxury grand tourer, blending performance, comfort, and advanced technology, targeting affluent buyers seeking a sophisticated coupe experience.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, Jaguar XK, and Porsche 911 (though the 911 is a sports car, it occupied a similar price/performance segment for some buyers).
Defining Characteristics:
Powerful V8 engine, sleek styling, luxurious interior, advanced iDrive infotainment system, optional Adaptive Drive suspension system.
Powertrain:
Engine (N62B44 V8), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust.
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (Steptronic), differentials, drive shafts.
Chassis And Suspension:
Steering, suspension components (adaptive drive), brakes (ABS, DSC), wheel and tire information.
Electrical And Electronics:
Battery, lighting, instrument cluster, onboard computer, iDrive system, climate control, power accessories.
Body And Interior:
Doors, windows, seats, safety restraints, interior trim, convertible top operation (if applicable, though this is a coupe).
Basic Operations:
Starting and driving, parking, fuel filling, checking fluids, operating controls.
Maintenance Tasks:
Tire pressure checks, fluid level checks, bulb replacement, windshield wiper replacement.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Warning lights and indicators, basic system malfunctions.
Safety Features Operation:
Seat belt usage, airbag system explanations, child seat installation guidance.
Depth:
Comprehensive overview for the owner. Focuses on operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repair or diagnostic procedures typically found in a service manual.
Digital Format Options:
Typically available as a PDF for digital download or as a physical printed copy.
Print Quality:
High-quality printing with clear text and diagrams, matching OEM standards.
Binding:
Stapled or perfect bound, designed for durability in automotive environments.
Paper Quality:
Durable, semi-gloss paper stock to resist wear and tear.
Engine Type:
4.4-liter naturally aspirated V8
Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (variable valve timing), Valvetronic (variable valve lift)
Horsepower:
325 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque:
330 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME9.0)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmission:
None for the 645Ci in 2005 (a 6-speed manual was available in other markets or later models/trims).
Steptronic Operation:
Driver-selectable manual gear shifting via selector lever or steering wheel paddle shifters.
Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW LT-3 (or equivalent ATF specified by BMW)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 9.0 liters (9.5 US quarts) for a complete fill, though often serviced in smaller quantities.
Length:
4817 mm (189.6 inches)
Width:
1854 mm (73.0 inches)
Height:
1373 mm (54.1 inches)
Wheelbase:
2781 mm (109.5 inches)
Front Headroom:
Approx. 980 mm (38.6 inches)
Front Legroom:
Approx. 1050 mm (41.3 inches)
Trunk Volume:
450 liters (15.9 cubic feet)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1770 kg (3893 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2230 kg (4916 lbs)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific model year, but typically high for BMW vehicles of this era.
IIHS Crash Test Results:
Good in frontal offset and side impact tests (based on similar E63/E64 models).
Dynamic Stability Control:
Standard DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Standard DTC (Dynamic Traction Control)
Adaptive Drive:
Optional, combines Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) and Dynamic Drive Control (DDC).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (side curtain airbags).
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters for all seating positions.
I Drive System:
BMW's iDrive infotainment system with a central control knob, 7-inch LCD screen, radio, CD player, and optional navigation, Bluetooth, and enhanced connectivity.
Audio System:
Standard Hi-Fi sound system, optional Logic 7 premium audio system.
Parking Assistance:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) with stop-and-go functionality.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface with compatible mobile phones.
Usb Auxiliary Input:
Not standard on all models; often integrated with optional multimedia packages.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs typically at 60,000-100,000 miles. Coolant flush and transmission fluid change recommended at intervals suggested by CBS or manufacturer (e.g., 50,000-100,000 miles).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent silicate-free ethylene glycol coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4, or BMW Super DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW approved alternative.
Common Wear Items:
Valve stem seals (oil consumption), ignition coils, VANOS solenoids, coolant expansion tank/hoses, electronic water pump.
Common Electrical Issues:
iDrive system glitches, battery issues (due to high electrical draw), ABS/DSC sensor failures.
Common Suspension Issues:
Front control arm bushings, Active Drive components (if equipped) can be costly to repair.
Bmw Heritage:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) is a German luxury and premium performance vehicle manufacturer with a long history dating back to 1916, known for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy.
E63 Generation Introduction:
The E63 generation of the 6 Series was introduced in 2003 as a successor to the E24 and replaced the E64 Convertible in 2004. The 645Ci was a prominent model in this generation.
Engine Transition:
The N62 V8 engine was a departure from previous V8s, featuring Valvetronic and Double VANOS for improved efficiency and responsiveness.
Production Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Production Years E63:
2003-2010 (645Ci model primarily 2003-2005, succeeded by 650i).
Automotive Press Awards:
While specific awards for the 2005 645Ci might be limited, the E63 generation generally received positive reviews for its styling and performance from automotive journalists.
Owner Satisfaction Trends:
Owner satisfaction tends to be high for the driving experience and luxury, though maintenance costs and reliability are noted concerns common to high-performance European vehicles.