Vehicle Market Segment:
Executive/Luxury Sedan and Wagon
Key Competitors E39 Era:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type, Volvo S80.
E39 Distinguishing Features:
Renowned for its excellent chassis dynamics ('Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos), sophisticated engineering, refined interiors, and powerful inline-six and V8 engines.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, professional-grade repair and maintenance information, enabling owners and independent workshops to perform accurate and efficient servicing, reducing reliance on costly dealership labor.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft), fuel delivery and injection, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions control.
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, transmission (manual & automatic), driveshaft, differential, axles.
Suspension Steering Systems:
Front and rear suspension, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment.
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brakes (disc), ABS, DSC, parking brake, brake fluid service.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, instruments, switches, relays, fuses, comfort electronics, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) control unit.
Body And Chassis Systems:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), body structural repairs.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission removal and installation, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, bodywork repair, HVAC system servicing.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
System-specific diagnostic fault finding, symptom-based troubleshooting, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D, DIS).
Installation Replacement:
Component removal and installation, accessory fitting, part replacement procedures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Detailed, step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, special tool requirements, and diagnostic flowcharts, equivalent to OEM dealer-level information.
Digital File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format) - typically high-resolution for clear diagrams.
Digital Resolution:
High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.
Digital Navigability:
Searchable text and hyperlinked table of contents for efficient navigation.
Digital Compatibility:
Compatible with computers, tablets, and smartphones.
Engine Options Overview:
Inline-six and V8 gasoline engines, known for their smooth power delivery and sophisticated engineering.
525I Engine Specs:
M52B25/M54B25: 2.5L Inline-6, approx. 189-192 hp, 232-245 Nm torque.
528I Engine Specs:
M52B28: 2.8L Inline-6, approx. 190-193 hp, 274-280 Nm torque.
530I Engine Specs:
M54B30: 3.0L Inline-6, approx. 225 hp, 289 Nm torque.
540I Engine Specs:
M62B44/M62TUB44: 4.4L V8, approx. 282-290 hp, 432-440 Nm torque.
Fuel Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Transmission Options:
Available with both 5-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmissions depending on the model and market.
Automatic Transmission Type:
Typically ZF 5HP series automatic transmissions (e.g., 5HP19, 5HP24).
Transmission Features:
Steptronic function (manual shift mode) available on most automatic transmissions.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Specific ZF Lifeguard fluid or equivalent (e.g., ATF LT 71141 for certain ZF transmissions). Refer to manual for exact specification and part number.
Wheelbase E39:
Approximately 2830 mm (111.4 inches).
Overall Length E39:
Approximately 4770-4800 mm (187.8-189.0 inches).
Overall Width E39:
Approximately 1790-1800 mm (70.5-70.9 inches).
Overall Height E39:
Approximately 1430-1440 mm (56.3-56.7 inches).
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 1550 kg (3417 lbs) to 1750 kg (3858 lbs) depending on engine and configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 2000-2150 kg.
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Generally received good ratings for its era, though specific data for all years/trims might vary. Consult NHTSA archives.
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) / Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags (optional or standard depending on trim/year), seatbelt pre-tensioners, reinforced safety cage.
Infotainment Systems E39:
BMW Professional Radio, optional Navigation system (MK series), CD changer, premium audio options (e.g., Harman Kardon).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (optional), rain-sensing wipers (optional).
Connectivity Options:
On-board computer, optional Bluetooth integration (with specific phone modules).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12-15,000 km (or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service - CBS system for later models).
Major Service Points:
Spark plugs, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, differential fluid, various filters at specific mileage intervals (e.g., 30k, 60k, 100k miles).
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30. Consult manual for exact grade.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue antifreeze/coolant concentrate (G48 type) mixed with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid.
Common E39 Issues List:
VANOS system (especially on early M52 engines), cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, hoses), oil pan gasket leaks, CCV system (crankcase ventilation), ABS/DSC sensor failures, pixelation on instrument cluster LCDs, rear subframe mounting points.
Maintenance Importance Note:
Proactive maintenance is crucial for E39s to prevent common issues from escalating, making this manual invaluable.
Bmw Brand Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics, and luxury.
E39 Development:
The E39 succeeded the E34 and was produced from 1995 (model year 1996) to 2003. It represented a significant step forward in design, technology, and refinement for the 5 Series.
E39 Production Years:
1997-2002 (as per manual title).
E39 Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Dingolfing, Germany.
Facelift Details:
Facelifted in September 2000 for the 2001 model year, featuring updated front and rear styling (lights, bumpers), new engine options (M54), and interior refinements.
