Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)
Target Audience:
Discerning luxury car owners seeking performance, comfort, and advanced technology, with an interest in DIY maintenance or understanding vehicle systems.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, Lexus SC 430, Jaguar XK, Audi A5/A8 (depending on market focus)
Vehicle Appeal:
Stylish design (E63 Coupe, E64 Convertible), potent V8 engine, refined interior, advanced technology features for its era, comfortable ride quality.
Manual Value:
Provides comprehensive, OEM-level repair information for owners and independent workshops, saving on dealership service costs and enabling informed maintenance decisions.
Engine:
N62B48TU V8 Engine (4.8L)
Transmission:
6-speed automatic (GA6HP26Z)
Chassis:
Front and Rear Suspension, Steering System, Brakes
Electrical:
Engine Management, Body Electronics, Infotainment, Lighting, EWS (Electronic Immobilizer)
Body:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Convertible Top Mechanism (E64)
Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (PDF/Proprietary Format)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel, ignition, exhaust, cooling, lubrication systems; Engine control module (ECM) diagnostics.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission operation, diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications, and torque converter.
Chassis & Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system (including Servotronic), wheel alignment, and wheel bearing replacement.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad/rotor replacement, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Detailed wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, battery system, alternator, starter, lighting (bi-xenon, adaptive), horn, wipers, power windows, power seats, mirrors.
Body & Interior:
Door locks, central locking, remote control, climate control system (HVAC), airbags, seat belts, interior trim removal, convertible top operation and repair (E64).
Information & Entertainment:
Professional Navigation System, iDrive controller, radio, CD changer, HiFi audio system, Bluetooth connectivity.
Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacement (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant replacement, drive belt inspection/replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for major component repairs: engine assembly/disassembly, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, alternator/starter replacement.
Diagnostics & Troubleshooting:
Common fault codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures using BMW's ISTA/D (or similar) principles, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagram interpretation, pinpoint tests for electrical circuits, troubleshooting of modules like DME, EGS, DSC, EWS.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing sensors (crankshaft, camshaft, ABS), actuators, ignition coils, injectors, fuel pump, thermostat, water pump, catalytic converter.
Bodywork:
Panel alignment, door handle replacement, mirror replacement, bumper removal/installation, convertible top seal replacement.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems.
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, special tool requirements, electrical schematics, component locations, and diagnostic trouble tree charts.
Configuration:
4.8L (4799 cc) V8
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing), Valvetronic
Horsepower:
360 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque:
360 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Bore X Stroke:
93.0 mm x 88.3 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Spark Plugs:
NGK SILZKR7B11 (Laser Iridium) - typically replaced every 60,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 Approved)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Common Problems:
Valve stem seal leaks (blue smoke on startup), oil pan gasket leaks, ignition coil failures, VANOS solenoid issues, coolant leaks from thermostat housing or water pump.
Type:
6-speed automatic Steptronic
Transmission Code:
GA6HP26Z
Shift Modes:
Driver-selectable automatic modes (Sport, Manual via Steptronic paddle shifters or gear lever)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF LT-3 (BMW part number 83 22 0 142 516 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 9-10 quarts (8.5-9.5 liters) for a pan drop and fill. Full system capacity is higher.
Transmission Filter:
Integrated filter pan (BMW part number 24 11 7 536 747 or equivalent), typically replaced with fluid.
Common Problems:
Mechatronics unit failures, torque converter shudder, solenoid issues, occasional harsh shifting.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not specifically rated for this model year in publicly accessible databases, but generally high for BMW of this era.
IIHS Crash Tests:
Likely good ratings for frontal offset and side impacts based on BMW's safety structure, but specific results may vary.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including ABS, Traction Control (ASC+T), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC).
Headlights:
Adaptive Xenon Headlights with integrated LED turn signals.
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver/passenger), side-impact airbags (front), head protection system (front and rear side curtain airbags).
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Rollover Protection:
Active rollover protection system (integrated into A-pillars and headrests for E64 Convertible).
System:
iDrive Control System (CCC - Car Communication Computer)
Display:
6.5-inch or 8.8-inch color display
Navigation:
Optional Professional Navigation System with DVD or Hard Drive based maps.
Audio:
Standard Hi-Fi system, optional Logic 7 premium audio.
Parking Assistance:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear sensors.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) with stop-and-go function.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth mobile phone integration.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace as needed or typically every 45,000-60,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Coolant Flush:
Initial change around 100,000 miles, then every 2-4 years thereafter.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S (Green fluid)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance
Common Maintenance Concerns:
Regular checks for vacuum leaks (affecting Valvetronic and idle quality), coolant expansion tank leaks, rear main seal leaks, valve cover gasket leaks.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, focusing on performance, handling, and driver engagement, coupled with luxury and engineering excellence.
Previous Generation:
The 6 Series replaced the E24 6 Series and was part of BMW's strategy to re-enter the large luxury coupe/convertible segment.
Generation:
E63 (Coupe) and E64 (Convertible) generation, introduced in 2003 for the 2004 model year, with the 650i model replacing the 645Ci for 2006.
Design Philosophy:
Designed by Chris Bangle, featuring controversial 'flame surfacing' design language which was modern and aerodynamic.
Production Years:
2003-2010
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany