Market Position:
Flagship Luxury Sedan, positioned at the apex of BMW's lineup for advanced technology, comfort, and performance.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with other ultra-luxury sedans from Mercedes-Benz (S-Class), Audi (A8), Lexus (LS), and Jaguar (XJ) during its production era.
Key Features:
V12 engine, extended wheelbase (Li designation), advanced technology integration (iDrive), premium interior appointments, sophisticated ride and handling.
Coverage Areas:
Complete Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Electrical Schematics, Bodywork, Technical Specifications
Page Count:
Extensive (Specific number not provided in product data, but typical for official service manuals)
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (Digital, likely executable or PDF)
Engine:
V12 (N73B60), Engine Management, Fuel System, Ignition, Cooling, Lubrication, Exhaust, Emissions Control
Transmission:
6-speed Automatic (GM 6L45/6L80), Transmission Control, Fluid Specifications, Seal Replacement, Torque Converter
Drivetrain:
Rear Wheel Drive, Differential, Driveshafts, Axles
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension Systems, Adaptive Drive, Self-Leveling Suspension, Bushings, Ball Joints, Shocks/Struts
Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Discs, Pads, Calipers, Brake Lines, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Steering:
Servotronic Power Steering, Steering Column, Steering Rack, Power Steering Fluid
Electrical:
Battery, Alternator, Starter, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Lighting, Horn, Power Accessories, DME (Digital Motor Electronics), EGS (Electronic Gearbox System)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Glass, Seals, Body Repairs, Corrosion Protection
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control, HVAC System, Refrigerant, Compressors, Evaporator, Condenser, Heater Core
Safety Systems:
Airbags, Seatbelts, ABS, DSC, Traction Control
Infotainment Nav:
iDrive System, Navigation System, Radio, CD Player, Audio System, Speaker Replacement
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Level Checks and Top-offs, Belt Inspection and Replacement
Repair:
Engine Component Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Fault Codes (DTCs), Component Testing, Sensor Diagnostics, System Malfunction Analysis
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring Harness Testing, Component Pinouts, Voltage Drop Tests, Signal Integrity Checks
Specifications Data:
Torque Values, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Diagnostic Parameter Ranges
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and electrical schematics.
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Front Overlap Crash Test:
Good (Likely for the era, specific 2005 data may vary)
Active Safety Systems:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
Passive Safety Features:
Front and Side Airbags, Head Protection System (HPS), Active Head Restraints, Seatbelt Pretensioners
Infotainment System:
BMW iDrive (Controller and 7-inch color display)
Audio System:
Standard HiFi system, optional Logic 7 premium audio
Driver Assistance Features:
Park Distance Control (PDC), Adaptive Headlights (AFS), Cruise Control (standard), optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Connectivity Features:
BMW Assist with TeleService, Bluetooth preparation (optional)
Comfort Features:
Power-adjustable front and rear seats, heated and ventilated front seats, optional heated rear seats, automatic climate control, power sunroof, power rear sunshade.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, typically indicated by Condition Based Service (CBS) system, often around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Refer to owner's manual for precise CBS guidance.
Transmission Fluid Service:
BMW initially claimed 'lifetime' fluid for the 6HP transmission, but industry best practice and owner experience suggest a fluid and filter change every 60,000-100,000 miles is advisable for longevity.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles for the N73 V12 engine. Specific interval may vary.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or as indicated by CBS.
Engine Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with silicate inhibitors.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid
Known Issues Ignition:
Coil-on-plug ignition systems can be a source of misfires, especially with age. Spark plugs require replacement at specific intervals.
Known Issues Cooling:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack, leading to leaks. Water pump and thermostat issues can also occur.
Known Issues Electronics:
The iDrive system can experience glitches or failures. Various sensors and control modules are complex and can fail.
Known Issues Suspension:
Adaptive Drive systems (Active Roll Stabilization, Electronic Damper Control) can develop leaks or actuator failures, which are costly to repair.
Known Issues HVAC:
HVAC blower motors, climate control modules, and door actuators can fail.