🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Model Code:

E39

Years Covered:

1997-2002

Generation Name:

Fourth Generation

Generation Code:

E39

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Premium mid-size executive sedan segment

Target Audience:

Discerning drivers seeking luxury, performance, and advanced engineering

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type

Chassis Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving dynamics

Build Quality:

Exceptional build quality and material refinement typical of BMW

Powertrain Options:

Wide range of capable inline-6 and V8 engines known for smooth power delivery

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All service and repair jobs

Page Count:

Extensive (specific number not provided, described as comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, engine management (DME/ECU)

Transmission Systems:

Manual and Automatic transmission repair, diagnostics, fluid service, shift control

Drivetrain Systems:

Driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings

Suspension Systems:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, steering knuckle

Braking Systems:

Brake hydraulics, calipers, pads, rotors, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)

Steering Systems:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams

Body Systems:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, convertible top (if applicable), rust prevention and repair

HVAC Systems:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant service, blower motor, evaporator, condenser

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) diagnostics

Comfort Controls:

Seats, mirrors, windows, sunroof, central locking

General Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Engine Repairs:

Head gasket replacement, piston and ring overhaul, valve stem seals, timing chain/belt service (where applicable), cylinder head removal and installation

Transmission Repairs:

Clutch replacement (manual), torque converter service (automatic), valve body repair, transmission overhaul

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake fluid bleeding, ABS/DSC sensor replacement

Suspension And Steering Repairs:

Control arm bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump and rack service

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness repair, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnostics

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant recharging, leak detection, compressor replacement, heater core replacement, cabin air filter replacement

Body And Interior Repairs:

Door panel removal, window regulator replacement, seat removal, bumper repair, trim piece installation

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code reading and interpretation, component-specific testing procedures

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic strategies, fault code explanations, and component testing procedures

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements, and cautionary notes

Specifications Data:

Includes all necessary technical data, torque values, fluid capacities, and diagnostic parameters

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

File Quality:

Professional quality, high detail, likely searchable text

Print Quality:

Suitable for printing, clear diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variants Covered:

Includes various inline-6 (e.g., M52, M54) and V8 (e.g., M62) engines, and potentially diesel variants (e.g., M57)

Common Engines:

2.5L I6 (M54B25), 2.8L I6 (M52TU), 3.0L I6 (M54B30), 4.4L V8 (M62TU)

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 170 hp to 300 hp (for non-M models)

Torque Range:

Approximately 177 lb-ft to 325 lb-ft (for non-M models)

Fuel System Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug (later models)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 260/5, Getrag 420G)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (GM A5S360R, ZF 5HP19, ZF 5HP24)

Transmission Features:

Mated to rear-wheel drive (RWD), with xDrive (AWD) available on select models/years (though less common for E39)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch (manual)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan (Saloon), 5-door Touring (Wagon)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 113.4 inches (2880 mm)

Length:

Approximately 188.0 - 190.2 inches (4775 - 4831 mm)

Width:

Approximately 70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

Approximately 56.2 inches (1427 mm) for Sedan

Trunk Capacity:

Approximately 15.0 cubic feet (0.42 cubic meters)

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3400 - 3800 lbs (1542 - 1724 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120mm

Wheel Offset Range:

ET20 to ET35 (typical)

Tire Sizes:

Common sizes include 205/65R15, 215/60R16, 225/55R16, 235/45R17, 245/40R18

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Generally good safety ratings for its era, with specific results varying by year and testing protocols.

Active Safety Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Halogen or Xenon headlights

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side airbags (optional/standard depending on trim and year), front and rear head protection system (HPS), seatbelt pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Professional Radio, optional CD changer, optional navigation system (CCC or MKIV based).

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, Parking Distance Control (PDC) front and rear (optional).

Connectivity Features:

BMW Assist telematics system (optional, services may be discontinued).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 15,000 miles (12,000 - 24,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type (e.g., BMW Longlife-01)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for standard plugs; 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for long-life iridium plugs (varies by engine)

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km)

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved oils are recommended (e.g., SAE 0W-30, 5W-30, 5W-40 depending on climate and engine)

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 (or DOT 4 PLUS for improved performance)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Specific to transmission type; e.g., for ZF 5HP series, Esso LT 71141 or equivalent is often specified.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, specific viscosity (e.g., 75W-90) as per manual.

Common Issues:

Cooling system failures (plastic components: water pump, thermostat housing, expansion tank), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system issues, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), ABS/ASC sensor failures, ignition coil failures, door seal deterioration, sunroof drain clogs.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Proactive replacement of plastic cooling system components is often recommended around 80,000-100,000 miles.

Vanos Maintenance:

Seal replacement for VANOS units can restore lost low-end torque and improve engine smoothness.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving characteristics, and luxury vehicles.

E39 Introduction:

Introduced in 1995 for the 1996 model year, replacing the E34 generation. Facelift (LCI) occurred in 2000.

E39 Development:

Focused on improved aerodynamics, lighter weight construction (using more aluminum), and enhanced driving dynamics compared to its predecessor.

Production Years:

1995-2003 (Sedan), 1997-2004 (Touring)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also plants in South Africa and Mexico.

Notable Variants:

M5 (E39) with S62 V8 engine, Alpina B10 V8/V8S

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Awards:

Car and Driver 10 Best list multiple times during its production run, highlighting its dynamic prowess and overall excellence.

Model Reputation:

Widely regarded as one of the best-driving sedans of its era, praised for its balance of luxury, performance, and handling.