🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

Sedan

Year:

1997

Chassis Codes:

E39 (for 5 Series Sedan models of this era)

👋 Introduction

Brand Perception:

BMW Sedan models of this era (likely E39 5 Series) were positioned as premium executive sedans, known for performance, luxury, and advanced engineering.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS.

Vehicle Focus:

Emphasis on driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine'), refined interiors, and robust powertrains.

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and professional technicians seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information.

📋 Manual Details

Global Coverage:

Primarily North American and European specifications, with general applicability worldwide.

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, though physical copies existed)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, performance tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system (injection), ignition system, emissions control.

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnostics, fluid changes, torque converter replacement, clutch service (manual).

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings, U-joints, CV joints.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, sway bars), alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid, parking brake.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, ignition switch, fuses, relays, comfort electronics, diagnostic connector (OBD-II).

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, convertible top (if applicable), chassis components, structural repair.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core.

Interior:

Seat removal and installation, dashboard components, trim panels.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt tensioning, fluid level checks and top-offs, tune-ups.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair across all major vehicle systems.

Rebuilding:

Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding, including component specifications and tolerances.

Refurbishment:

Guidance on restoring worn components and updating systems.

Restoration:

Information relevant to bringing a classic vehicle back to its original specifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical troubleshooting and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Searchable text, high-resolution diagrams)

Diagram Resolution:

High-resolution, crisp diagrams and schematics.

Binding:

N/A (for digital format); Traditionally perfect bound or spiral bound for printed versions.

Paper Quality:

N/A (for digital format); High-quality, durable paper for printed versions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options Common:

Likely includes inline-6 cylinder engines (e.g., M50/M52 series) and potentially V8 engines (e.g., M60/M62 series) depending on the specific Sedan model (e.g., 525i, 528i, 540i).

Inline 6 Power Range:

Approximately 170-190 hp for earlier M50/M52, up to 215 hp for later M52TU.

V8 Power Range:

Approximately 282 hp for M60B40, up to 290 hp for M62B44.

Injection Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) with Bosch Motronic engine management systems.

Common Inline 6:

M50B25, M52B25, M52B28, M52TU B25, M52TU B28

Common V8:

M60B40, M62B44

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Getrag 260/5, Getrag 420G for higher output engines).

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (e.g., GM A4S 310R) or 5-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP18, ZF 5HP24, ZF 5HP30) depending on engine.

Automatic Features:

Often featured Steptronic (manual shifting mode) on later models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase E39:

Approx. 111.4 inches (2830 mm)

Length E39:

Approx. 190.0 inches (4826 mm)

Width E39:

Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Refer to specific model; generally spacious executive sedan.

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3400-3900 lbs (1542-1769 kg), depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings General:

Expect good to excellent ratings for its era, with frontal impact protection being a strong point for BMW.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Traction Control:

Often equipped with ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) or DSC (Dynamic Stability Control).

Airbags:

Front driver and passenger airbags; side airbags may be optional or standard on higher trims.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD/Radio systems, often with cassette player. Optional navigation system (CCC).

Speakers:

Premium sound systems often available, with component speakers and subwoofer options.

Parking Sensors:

Park Distance Control (PDC) was available as an option.

OBD Port:

OBD-II diagnostic connector, typically located under the dashboard, allowing for scan tool diagnostics.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or based on Condition Based Service (CBS) if equipped; check manual for exact intervals.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Often around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium spark plugs (if fitted); older plugs may have shorter intervals. Manual specifies.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent synthetic API SJ, ACEA A3/B3. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Consult manual for specific engine.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

ATF Dexron III (e.g., ZF LifeguardFluid5). Lifetime fill often stated, but recommended to change every 50,000-70,000 miles (80,000-110,000 km).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (or DOT 4 PLUS for enhanced performance). Flush every 2 years.

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pumps and thermostats can fail over time.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and O-rings for oil filter housing are common leak points.

Suspension:

Control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear subframe bushings can wear, leading to noise and handling degradation.

Electrical:

Ignition coil failures, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoids, ABS sensors, and pixelated instrument cluster displays are known issues.

Oil Filter:

Mann-Filter HU 821 x, Mahle OX 49D, Bosch 0 986 452 045 (Example - verify for specific engine).

Air Filter:

Mann-Filter C 26 135/1, Mahle LX 754 (Example - verify for specific engine).

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles, known for engineering excellence and driver engagement.

E39 Introduction:

The E39 generation of the 5 Series Sedan was introduced in 1995 (for the 1996 model year in Europe, 1997 in North America) and succeeded the E34 generation.

E39 Production Years:

1995-2003

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary assembly in Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Five Best:

The E39 5 Series was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' award during its production run, praised for its balance of luxury and performance.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally received positive ratings for performance and handling, with some variability in reliability scores depending on specific models and components.

Safety Certifications:

Meets all relevant US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and equivalent international standards.