Segment:
Executive Sedan/Wagon
Target Audience:
BMW owners seeking DIY maintenance and repair, independent repair shops, automotive technicians.
Competitors 2014:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar XF, Volvo S80.
Uniqueness:
Official BMW dealer-level service information, covering all variants and repairs A-Z for the specific model year. Provides vehicle-specific data, not generic.
Value Proposition:
Enables accurate diagnosis, efficient repair, and proper maintenance, saving time and money compared to dealership service for owners or independent shops.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (ECU diagnostics and programming).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 8HP series) repair, maintenance, diagnostics, fluid specifications, torque converter; driveline components (driveshafts, differentials, axles).
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., double-wishbone front, multi-link rear), adaptive drive, electronic power steering (EPS) system, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), electronic parking brake (EPB), brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Electrical Electronics:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator/generator), starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, mirrors, seats, wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, component testing.
Body Interior Exterior:
Body panel repair and replacement, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, upholstery, HVAC system, climate control, audio system, navigation system, keyless entry, soft-close doors.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, brake fluid flush, coolant flush), inspections, lubrication points.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, component testing procedures, sensor readings, module resets and programming.
Repair Rebuild:
Component removal and installation, major component overhauls (engine, transmission), suspension and steering repairs, brake system repairs, electrical component replacement.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, electrical resistance and voltage values, component dimensions and clearances, diagnostic tool usage.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic to advanced repairs, including engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and module coding/programming procedures.
Common Engines 2014:
2.0L TwinPower Turbo I4 (e.g., N20/B48), 3.0L TwinPower Turbo I6 (e.g., N55), 4.4L TwinPower Turbo V8 (e.g., N63/S63), 2.0L TwinPower Turbo Diesel I4 (e.g., N47/B47), 3.0L TwinPower Turbo Diesel I6 (e.g., N57).
Power Output Range:
Approx. 180 hp to 560 hp depending on engine and M-Sport variant.
Torque Range:
Approx. 200 lb-ft to 500 lb-ft depending on engine and M-Sport variant.
Injection Type:
Direct Injection (VALVETRONIC and VANOS variable valve timing technologies on most gasoline engines).
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended for most gasoline engines); Diesel fuel for diesel variants.
Length F10:
Approx. 193.1 inches (4907 mm)
Width F10:
Approx. 73.5 inches (1868 mm)
Height F10:
Approx. 57.7 inches (1464 mm)
Wheelbase F10:
Approx. 116.9 inches (2970 mm)
Trunk Volume F10:
Approx. 18.0 cubic feet (520 liters)
Cargo Volume F11:
Approx. 19.0-56.5 cubic feet (560-1600 liters) with rear seats up/down
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,700 lbs (1680 kg) to 4,500 lbs (2040 kg) depending on engine and configuration.
NHTSA Overall:
Typically 5-Star ratings in US NCAP testing (check specific vehicle configuration).
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Often awarded Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ status (check specific vehicle configuration).
Driver Assistance Systems:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), ABS, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Parking Assistant.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver/passenger), side-impact airbags (front/rear), head protection airbags (curtain), knee airbags (driver).
Body Structure:
High-strength steel construction, crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell.
System Name:
iDrive infotainment system (NBT or CIC depending on build date/options).
Features:
High-resolution color display, hard drive storage, navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, USB interface, voice control, optional premium audio systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).
Advanced Features:
Optional Driving Assistant Plus package (active cruise control with Stop & Go, active steering and lane keeping assistance, collision warning with pedestrian detection).
Bmw Connecteddrive:
Integration with BMW ConnectedDrive services, smartphone integration via USB/Bluetooth, remote services, internet connectivity (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically Condition Based Service (CBS) system, around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Manual provides specific CBS reset procedures.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine; e.g., 60,000 miles for some gasoline engines, 100,000 miles for others. Manual details specific engine requirements.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic oil, specific viscosity (e.g., 0W-30, 5W-30) depending on engine and climate. Manual lists precise OEM specifications and part numbers.
Coolant:
BMW Blue or Pink antifreeze concentrate, mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Manual specifies type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ZF Lifeguard fluid (e.g., 8HP Fluid), not a generic ATF. Manual provides part numbers and change intervals.
Common Problems:
Timing chain wear (N20/N55), oil cooler gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, water pump failure, vacuum leaks, fuel injector issues (direct injection), turbocharger issues, electronic parking brake faults.
Diagnosing Common Issues:
Manual provides diagnostic flowcharts and specific procedures for troubleshooting these common fault areas.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty luxury vehicles with advanced engineering and driver-focused dynamics since its inception.
5 Series Lineage:
The 5-Series, introduced in the 1970s, has always been positioned as BMW's executive car, balancing sportiness with comfort and luxury, evolving through multiple generations (E12, E28, E34, E39, E60/E61, F10/F11).
F10 F11 Production Years:
2010-2017
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembly in other global locations like Mexico and China for specific markets.