🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5-series

Model Code:

E39

Model Year Start:

1997

Model Year End:

1997

Vin Code:

WB

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Executive Sedan / Luxury Mid-size Sedan

Target Competitors 1997:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS300, Jaguar S-Type.

Platform Focus:

E39 platform known for excellent driving dynamics, refined ride, and sophisticated engineering.

Target Demographic:

Professionals, executives, individuals valuing performance, luxury, and build quality.

Manual Value Proposition:

Enables owners and technicians to perform all maintenance and repairs to factory standards, maximizing vehicle longevity and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Specificity:

Vehicle Specific (BMW E39 1997)

Target Audience:

Dealership Technicians, Professional Mechanics, Advanced DIY Enthusiasts

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition; typically 500-1500+ pages for comprehensive factory service manuals.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English (Assumed standard for North American/European markets, verify specific edition)

Format:

Likely printed physical copy or high-quality digital PDF.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, and specifications for all E39 engine variants released in 1997, including M52B25, M52B28, and potentially early M62 variants (e.g., M62B44 for 540i).

Engine Management:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics) system, sensor diagnostics (MAF, MAP, O2, Crank, Cam, Knock), ignition system, fuel injection, emissions control systems (secondary air, EVAP).

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair procedures for Getrag 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., GS5-39DZ) including clutch replacement, gearbox overhaul, shifter linkage adjustments.

Transmission Automatic:

Detailed troubleshooting and repair for ZF 5HP automatic transmissions (e.g., 5HP19 for 525i/528i, 5HP24 for 540i), including valve body, torque converter, and electronic control unit (TCU) diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive axle, driveshaft, universal joints, differential service and repair. Limited slip differential (LSD) servicing if applicable.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (MacPherson struts, multi-link rear), component replacement (control arms, ball joints, bushings, springs, shock absorbers/struts), alignment procedures and specifications.

Steering:

Hydraulic power steering system, steering rack diagnosis and replacement, steering column adjustments.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (vented discs, calipers), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) diagnostics and repair, brake fluid bleeding procedures, parking brake service.

Electrical System:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, starter motor, alternator, battery service, lighting system diagnostics.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel repair, door mechanism servicing, window regulators, sunroof operation, interior trim removal and installation, corrosion protection.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, blower motor, climate control unit repair, AC compressor service.

Comfort Systems:

Power seat mechanisms, central locking system, alarm system diagnostics, keyless entry.

Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter servicing, fuel filter replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, differential oil changes, transmission fluid changes, power steering fluid service.

Diagnostics:

Systematic troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW GT1/DIS, INPA/ISTA), fault code interpretation.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, adjustment, and calibration for virtually all vehicle systems.

Rebuilds:

Comprehensive procedures for engine and transmission overhauls, including torque specifications, assembly sequences, and critical tolerances.

Troubleshooting:

Flowcharts and diagnostic trees for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.

Technical Specifications:

Detailed torque values, engine clearances, fluid capacities, pressure specifications, electrical resistance values, alignment angles.

Depth:

Factory-level technical depth covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds and advanced electronic diagnostics.

Documentation Source:

Directly sourced from BMW's official technical documentation used by dealership technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (likely searchable text, high-resolution images/diagrams)

Print Quality:

High-resolution for clear diagrams, schematics, and photographs.

Physical Binding:

Professionally bound (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect bound) for ease of use in a workshop environment.

Physical Paper Type:

Durable, often coated or heavy-stock paper to withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Variant 1:

M52B25 (2.5L Inline-6)

Engine Variant 2:

M52B28 (2.8L Inline-6)

Engine Variant 3:

M62B44 (4.4L V8 - 540i)

M52B25 Horsepower:

Approx. 170 hp @ 5500 rpm

M52B28 Horsepower:

Approx. 190 hp @ 5500 rpm

M62B44 Horsepower:

Approx. 282 hp @ 5400 rpm

M52B28 Torque:

Approx. 206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm

M62B44 Torque:

Approx. 317 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic engine management with multi-point fuel injection (MPI) and Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) on V8 models.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane RON/AKI recommended)

Variable Valve Timing:

VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system on M52 engines for improved torque and efficiency.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Offering:

5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., Getrag GS5-39DZ for 6-cyl models)

Optional Offering:

5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (ZF 5HP19 for 6-cyl, ZF 5HP24 for V8)

Automatic Modes:

Sport and Manual (Steptronic) modes available on automatic transmissions.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW approved gear oil, e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent. Check specific manual for API GL-4/GL-5 classification and viscosity.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ZF LifeguardFluid 5 (LF-5) or BMW ATF LT 71141 ( Esso JWS 3309 equivalent). Critically important to use the correct fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 190.2 inches (4831 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.5 inches (1435 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 111.4 inches (2830 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by model: Approx. 3400-3800 lbs (1542-1724 kg) for 6-cylinder models, 3900-4200 lbs (1769-1905 kg) for V8 models.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-star (Driver), 4-star (Passenger) - NHTSA ratings for similar models of the era.

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models tested by IIHS during that period).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Dsc:

Optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on most models, later made standard.

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) standard on many models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional side airbags (SIPS - Side Impact Protection System).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell construction for occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Professional Radio/Cassette or CD player with optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).

Navigation:

Optional BMW Business or Professional Navigation System with CD-ROM based maps.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control with pollen filter.

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Telephony:

Optional Bluetooth preparation or integrated mobile phone system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval (VSI) system indicating based on driving conditions, typically 7,500-15,000 miles (12,000-24,000 km) or 12-24 months. Consult specific manual for VSI reset procedures.

Spark Plug Interval:

Typically 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km) depending on plug type (standard vs. long-life platinum/iridium).

Brake Fluid Change:

Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage, due to hygroscopic nature of brake fluid.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Verify with owner's manual or specific manual.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Coolant or G48 (ethylene glycol based with organic corrosion inhibitors). Always use BMW-approved or compatible coolant. Dilution 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW's specified power steering fluid. Do NOT use generic ATF or power steering fluid.

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump failure (especially plastic impeller versions); thermostat housing leaks.

Suspension Components:

Front control arm bushings and ball joints wear prematurely; rear subframe bushings can fail.

Electrical:

ABS/DSC wheel speed sensor failures; VANOS solenoid failure; alternator failures; battery drain issues related to comfort electronics.

Interior:

Pixelated LCD displays (instrument cluster, radio); headliner sagging; door panel creaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' tagline, emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering innovation.

E39 Introduction:

The E39 generation succeeded the E34 5-series and debuted in late 1995 for the 1996 model year in Europe, and later in North America. The 1997 model represents the early production phase of this generation.

E39 Design:

Designed by Joji Nagashima, featuring a sleeker, more aerodynamic profile compared to its predecessor.

Production Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing Plant, Germany, and also assembled in Austria (Graz) and other locations globally.

E39 Production Span:

1995-2003

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E39 5-series was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run for its exceptional balance of sport and comfort.

Consumer Reports:

Consistently ranked high for owner satisfaction and reliability in its class during its prime years, though some specific issues are noted in later reports.