🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5-series

Chassis Code:

F10 (Sedan), F11 (Touring/Wagon)

Model Years Covered:

2012

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan/Wagon

Target Audience:

BMW owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts

Differentiation:

Highly detailed, vehicle-specific information mirroring OEM service manuals, crucial for complex BMW systems

Accuracy:

Vehicle-specific, not generic, ensuring correct procedures and specifications

Completeness:

Covers all models and repairs A-Z for the specified model year range

Diagnostic Capability:

Detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams essential for troubleshooting complex electronic systems common in BMWs.

📋 Manual Details

Comprehensive Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Scope:

Vehicle-specific, dealer technician level

Estimated Pages:

Extensive (specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive for all repairs)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (implied by typical aftermarket manuals of this nature, though exact format not specified)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain components

Chassis:

Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS, DSC, DTC), wheel and tire specifications

Electrical:

Body electrical systems, lighting, instrumentation, infotainment systems, comfort and convenience systems, driver assistance systems, diagnostic procedures

Body:

Body structure, exterior components, interior trim, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical circuit testing, component testing

Repair:

Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, system adjustments, calibration procedures

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Includes symptom-based troubleshooting, diagnostic flowcharts, and step-by-step repair instructions.

Depth:

Detailed repair procedures, torque specifications, electrical schematics, component data, diagnostic flowcharts

Accuracy:

Dealership-level accuracy and specificity

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for digital access and printing (specifics not detailed)

Quality:

High-resolution images and diagrams (expected for technical manuals)

Binding:

Not applicable for digital format, but implies printable pages

Paper Type:

Not applicable for digital format

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive service and repair coverage for all F10/F11 variants of the 2012 model year.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Lines Covered:

Likely includes N52 (3.0L I6), N55 (3.0L Turbo I6), N20 (2.0L Turbo I4), N57 (3.0L Turbo Diesel I6), N47 (2.0L Turbo Diesel I4) - based on 2012 F10/F11 variants

Sample Performance N55:

Approx. 300-306 hp, 300-332 lb-ft torque (specific to variants)

Sample Performance N20:

Approx. 240-248 hp, 255-295 lb-ft torque (specific to variants)

Injection Type:

Direct injection (SIDI/Valvetronic technology)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (typically 91 RON or higher), Diesel for diesel variants

ECU Type:

BMW proprietary Engine Control Unit (ECU) systems, requiring specific diagnostic tools for advanced functions

Sample Engine Codes:

Common gasoline engines include N52B30 (Naturally Aspirated I6), N55B30 (Turbo I6), N20B20 (Turbo I4). Diesel engines include N47D20 (2.0L Turbo Diesel) and N57D30 (3.0L Turbo Diesel).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (ZF 8HP series) was prevalent. Some early models may have had 6-speed manual options.

Manual Transmission:

Likely available on specific trims and markets, typically 6-speed

Automatic Features:

Steptronic manual shifting mode, sport mode, adaptive shift logic

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Specific ZF Lifeguard Fluid (e.g., ATF M-1375.4 or equivalent) - precise specification crucial

📐 Dimensions

F10 Sedan Length:

Approx. 4,899 mm (192.9 in)

F11 Touring Length:

Approx. 4,998 mm (196.8 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,968 mm (116.9 in)

F10 F11 Width:

Approx. 1,860 mm (73.2 in)

F10 F11 Height:

Approx. 1,464 mm (57.6 in) for F10, 1,471 mm (57.9 in) for F11

F10 Trunk Volume:

Approx. 520 liters (18.4 cu ft)

F11 Cargo Volume:

Approx. 560 liters (19.8 cu ft) with rear seats up, expandable to 1670 liters (59.0 cu ft)

Curb Weight:

Varies significantly by engine and configuration, typically ranging from 1,600 kg to 1,900 kg (3,527 to 4,189 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Typically achieved 5-star overall safety rating in NHTSA testing for this generation

IIHS Rating:

Often awarded 'Top Safety Pick' or 'Top Safety Pick+' by IIHS

Active Safety Systems:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Cornering Brake Control (CBC)

Steering Control:

Servotronic speed-sensitive power steering

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, head protection system (air curtains), active headrests, seatbelt pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW iDrive system (typically CIC or NBT depending on options), featuring navigation, media playback, Bluetooth connectivity, voice control.

Display Size:

Commonly 7-inch or 10.2-inch central display screen.

Available Driver Assistance:

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Change Warning (LCW), Blind Spot Detection, Parking Assistant, Surround View cameras, Head-Up Display (HUD).

Parking Aid:

Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear, optional rearview camera or surround view

Connectivity Options:

USB integration, Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling, optional BMW ConnectedDrive services (internet access, real-time traffic information).

Engine Technologies:

Valvetronic, Double VANOS, TwinPower Turbo (on turbocharged engines), direct injection.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or 12 months, based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system, or as specified in manual.

Brake Fluid Change:

Generally recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Depends on engine, typically around 60,000 miles for gasoline engines.

Engine Oil Type Gasoline:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) for diesel, with specific viscosity grades like 0W-30, 0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40 (refer to owner's manual for exact application).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation) or equivalent approved by BMW.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Central Hydraulic Fluid (CHF 11S) or equivalent for models with hydraulic power steering.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity) or equivalent approved by BMW.

Differential Fluid Spec:

Specific synthetic gear oil, e.g., BMW Hypoid Gear Oil SAF-XJ or approved equivalent, with specific viscosity grades.

Common Issues F10 F11:

Water pump failure, oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, ignition coil and spark plug failures, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler leaks (diesel), turbocharger issues (less common but possible), electrical gremlins related to comfort electronics, transmission mechatronics unit issues.

Key Checks:

Regular inspection of cooling system hoses and connections, PCV valve operation, drive belts, and thorough diagnostics for any stored DTCs.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, luxury, and engineering.

F10 F11 Introduction:

The F10/F11 generation replaced the E60/E61 5-Series, focusing on a more conservative and elegant design, enhanced luxury, and advanced technology.

Production Period:

F10/F11 generation produced from 2010 to 2017, with the 2012 model year being a significant part of its lifecycle.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Awards:

The 5-Series has historically been recognized for its balance of luxury, performance, and technology, often winning comparisons against competitors like Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6.

Powertrain Awards:

BMW's inline-six and turbocharged four-cylinder engines have frequently received 'Ward's 10 Best Engines' awards in various iterations.

Safety Certifications:

Consistent high marks in global safety tests (NHTSA, Euro NCAP, IIHS) for its generation.