Premium Segment:
Yes, positioned in the premium segment of the mid-size luxury sedan market.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS (JZS160)
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, RWD bias, and engaging driving experience.
Build Quality:
Exceptional German engineering and build quality typical of BMW.
Comfort And Luxury:
Spacious interior, high-quality materials, and comfortable ride for a luxury vehicle.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth factory knowledge, enabling owners and technicians to maintain and repair the vehicle to original specifications.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, repair, tuning
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual: Repair, maintenance, diagnostics, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Differential, driveshafts, axles: Repair and maintenance
Suspension:
Front and Rear: Components, diagnostics, alignment, repair
Steering:
System components, power steering, diagnostics, repair
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, pads, rotors, calipers: Diagnosis and repair
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, charging system, starting system
Engine Management:
ECU, sensors, fuel injection, ignition system, diagnostics
HVAC:
Climate control, refrigerant system, blower motor, diagnostics
Body And Chassis:
Panels, doors, glass, interior trim, structural components
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting: Diagnostics and repair
Exhaust System:
Components, mufflers, catalytic converters, diagnostics
Fuel System:
Tank, pump, lines, injectors, diagnostics
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, hoses, diagnostics
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, ABS (as part of braking system)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation
Preventive Maintenance:
Scheduled service tasks, component inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trees, symptom analysis, common fault identification
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for all major component replacements and repairs
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed instructions for taking apart and putting back together vehicle systems
Cleaning And Reinstalling:
Procedures for cleaning components before reassembly
Component Testing:
Methods for testing the functionality of individual parts
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Depth:
Complete Factory Level Detail
Diagnostic Tools:
Information applicable to factory diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, GT1)
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (Condition Based Service - CBS), typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years.
Coolant Replacement:
BMW Long-Life Coolant, typically every 4-5 years or 50,000-60,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (standard vs. long-life).
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Long-Life Oil (e.g., BMW LL-01 for synthetic, or specific viscosity like 5W-30 or 10W-40 as per owner's manual/engine condition).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (with filter).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or Green Long-Life Coolant (ethylene glycol based, silicate-free).
Cooling System Failures:
Common failures include plastic expansion tanks cracking, water pump impeller failure, and thermostat housing leaks.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket leaks are frequent due to age and material degradation.
ABS/Dsc Module Failures:
The ABS/DSC control module can fail, often due to cracked solder joints on the circuit board.
Vanos System Issues:
Degradation of the O-rings in the VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can lead to rough idling and loss of low-end torque.
Pixel Display Failure:
The instrument cluster LCD display (pixelated) can fail, rendering vital information unreadable.
Rear Shock Mounts:
Rear shock absorber mounts can wear out, causing clunking noises over bumps.
Window Regulator Failure:
Window regulators are a common failure point, leading to windows not operating.
Importance Of Maintenance:
Adhering to the service intervals and using high-quality parts is crucial for longevity and performance of the E39.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering.
E39 Introduction:
The E39 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1995 (as a 1996 model in North America), replacing the E34.
E39 Facelift:
Received a significant facelift in 2000 (for the 2001 model year) with updated headlights (angel eyes), taillights, and minor interior/exterior styling changes.
Production Period:
1995–2003 (with the 528i model primarily within the 1997-2002 timeframe).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.