Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)
Competitors 2009:
Mercedes-Benz CL-Class, Audi A5/A7, Jaguar XK, Aston Martin DB9.
Design:
Sleek coupe and convertible styling, long hood, iconic Hofmeister kink, premium interior.
Driving Dynamics:
Balanced chassis, powerful engines, rear-wheel drive (optional xDrive), Adaptive Drive system.
Technology:
Advanced iDrive infotainment, Head-Up Display (HUD), active steering, electronic damping control.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, camshaft, timing system, oil pump, cooling system, lubrication system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection systems (DME), ignition systems, emissions control, sensors, actuators, diagnostics, troubleshooting.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, gear selection mechanisms.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., GM 6L45/6L80) overhaul, mechatronics, torque converter, valve body, transmission control unit (TCU).
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, wheel bearings, axle shafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, anti-roll bars), alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, steering angle sensor.
Brakes:
Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads), ABS, DSC, EBD, hydraulic system, brake bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Electrical System:
12V battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting systems, horns, power windows, central locking.
Body Electrical:
Body control modules (BCM), comfort access, keyless entry, alarm systems, interior/exterior lighting, power seats, mirrors.
Comfort Systems:
HVAC system, climate control, automatic climate control blower motor, evaporator, heater core, refrigerant handling.
Infotainment System:
iDrive system, navigation, audio components, displays, control modules.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, occupancy sensors, crash sensor diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, fluid checks and changes.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for various faults, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical system repair.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, component testing procedures, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D).
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually every component.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth Level:
Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized BMW tools.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Schematics:
Detailed system schematics beyond just electrical wiring.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control (DTC)
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Steering Technology:
Active Steering (variable ratio)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, knee airbags (driver), head protection system (HPS) airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front seat-belt pretensioners and force limiters.
Convertible Safety:
Automatic rollover protection system.
System Name:
iDrive (CCC - Car Communication Computer or CIC - Car Information Computer)
Features:
Navigation system, Radio, CD/DVD player, Bluetooth connectivity, USB interface (optional), voice control.
Adaptive Drive:
Optional system combining active roll stabilization and adaptive damping control for enhanced handling and comfort.
Head Up Display:
Projects key driving information (speed, navigation, warnings) onto the windshield.
Lane Departure Warning:
Optional system that alerts the driver when drifting out of a lane.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional system that maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead.
Bluetooth:
Standard for hands-free calling; optional for audio streaming.
Bmw Connecteddrive:
Early implementation of telematics and online services, including emergency call and remote services.
Service Intervals General
Oil Service:
Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Check oil life monitor.
Brake Fluid:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 60,000 miles for naturally aspirated engines; consult manual for specific V8/V10 details.
Coolant:
BMW long-life coolant, typically replaced at significant mileage intervals or as indicated by CBS.
Engine Oil Weight:
SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-04 approval recommended, consult manual for specifics).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) for 4.8L V8; 8.5 liters (9.0 US quarts) for S63 V8.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
BMW ATF recommendation (e.g., ATF 6 or equivalent); fluid and filter change typically recommended around 60,000 miles.
Differential Fluid:
Hypoid gear oil (e.g., BMW SAF-XJ or equivalent).
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Hydraulic Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).
Oil Cooler Gaskets:
Leaking oil cooler gaskets (N62 engine) leading to oil consumption and potential coolant contamination.
Valve Stem Seals:
Degraded valve stem seals causing blue smoke on startup and oil consumption (N62 engine).
Water Pump:
Failure of the electric water pump (on some models) or mechanical water pump can lead to overheating.
Vanos System:
Issues with VANOS solenoids or seals can affect engine performance and idle quality.
ABS Dsc Module:
Failure of the ABS/DSC hydraulic unit can cause warning lights and loss of braking assist.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Hydraulic leaks or motor failures in the convertible top mechanism.
Brand Focus:
Performance, luxury, engineering excellence, driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
Generation Introduction:
E63/E64 generation introduced in 2003 (Coupe) and 2004 (Convertible), succeeding the E24 6 Series and bridging the gap between the 5 Series and 8 Series.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
Facelift (LCI) introduced for the 2008 model year, featuring updated front and rear styling, new headlights/taillights, and interior refinements. The 2009 model year reflects these updates.
M6 Introduction:
The high-performance M6 variant (E63/E64) was introduced in 2005, featuring the S85 V10 engine and distinct M styling and chassis enhancements.
Production Years E63 E64:
2003-2010
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany