🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Chassis Code:

E39

Specific Model:

525i

Model Years Covered:

1997-2002

Generation Designation:

Fourth Generation (E39)

Production Years E39:

1995-2003

Engine Code Typical 525I E39:

M54B25 (post-2000 facelift), M52TUB25 (pre-2000)

👋 Introduction

E39 Market Segment:

Executive Luxury Sedan

E39 Brand Perception:

Known for driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated technology

E39 Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS (S160), Jaguar S-Type

E39 Distinguishing Factors:

Aluminum multi-link suspension, excellent chassis tuning, iDrive system (later models), robust inline-six engines

Manual Benefit:

Empowers owners and technicians with comprehensive knowledge to perform repairs and maintenance, reducing reliance on costly dealership services.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive E39 manuals, precise count not provided)

Manual Type:

Factory-Authorized Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Clutch, Gearbox, Propeller Shafts, Rear Axles

Chassis:

Front Axle, Front and Rear Suspensions, Wheels and Tyres, Steering System, Brakes

Body And Electrical:

Bodywork and Chassis Frame, Electric/Electronic System

Comfort And Climate:

Heat, Air Conditioning

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections

Repair:

Component removal, installation, overhaul, and replacement for all covered systems

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams for electrical systems

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive dealer-level instructions, including detailed specifications, torque values, and diagnostic procedures

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, enabling clear display of images and schematics

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, facilitating quick access to information

Print Ability:

Printable page-by-page, allowing users to print specific sections as needed

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-Cylinder (M54B25 or M52TUB25)

Displacement:

2.5 Liters (2494 cc)

Horsepower M54B25:

189 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque M54B25:

236 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Horsepower M52Tub25:

170 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque M52Tub25:

245 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)

ECU Type:

Siemens MS43 (M54) or MS42 (M52TU), DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (e.g., Getrag S5D 320Z)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 5HP19)

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW ATF LT-3 (for 5HP19), Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF LT-2 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

E39 Length:

Approx. 4,800 mm (189.0 in)

E39 Width:

Approx. 1,790 mm (70.5 in)

E39 Height:

Approx. 1,430 mm (56.3 in)

E39 Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,830 mm (111.4 in)

Curb Weight 525I Approx:

1,550 - 1,650 kg (3,417 - 3,638 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Wheel Center Bore:

72.5 mm

Typical Wheel Size:

16-18 inches

Typical Tire Size:

205/55 R16, 225/50 R16, 235/45 R17

🛡️ Safety Features

E39 NHTSA Front Impact:

Likely 4-star (typical for vehicles of this era, specific data for 525i may vary)

E39 IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

Active Safety Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction Control), optional DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, optional side airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, reinforced chassis

💡 Technology Features

E39 Infotainment Options:

Standard cassette/CD player, optional Professional CD or Navigation system, available premium audio systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Driver Assistance Systems:

ABS, ASC+T, Cruise Control, optional Parking Distance Control (PDC), optional Rain Sensor, optional Xenon Headlights.

E39 Connectivity Features:

Early Bluetooth phone integration (on some models with appropriate options), On-Board Computer (OBC) displaying fuel economy, range, etc.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Typical:

10,000-15,000 miles or annually (depending on driving conditions and oil type used)

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., iridium)

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles

Engine Oil Specification M54:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) 5W-30 or 0W-30 Synthetic

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common E39 Issues:

Cooling system leaks (water pump, expansion tank, hoses), VANOS seals, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), ABS/ASC sensor failures, Check Engine Light (due to various sensor issues), window regulator failures, pixelated instrument cluster LCDs.

525I Specific Notes:

M54 engine generally more robust than older M50/M52. VANOS solenoid issues can occur. Oil consumption can be a concern in higher mileage examples.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, handling, and engineering.

E39 Introduction Year:

1995 (Europe), 1996 (North America)

E39 Facelift Year:

2000 (significant updates including M54 engines and revised electronics)

E39 Production Location:

Dingolfing, Germany; Rosslyn, South Africa; Graz, Austria (for some models)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

E39 Car And Driver 10Best:

Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run.

E39 Ward Automotive Designer Of The Year:

E39 design recognized for its timeless elegance and balanced proportions.