Vehicle Class:
Executive mid-size sedan.
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts.
Key Competitors 1997:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C4), Lexus GS300, Jaguar S-Type.
Vehicle Highlights:
Renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and luxurious interior, the E39 5 Series represented BMW's commitment to performance and comfort.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides authoritative, step-by-step instructions directly from the manufacturer, enabling users to maintain and repair their vehicle to factory standards.
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, diagnostics, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Service, repair, overhaul procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions.
Drivetrain:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, drive axles, differential.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, repair, ABS system servicing, hydraulic components, parking brake.
Electrical:
Full electrical system schematics, diagnosis and repair of lighting, charging system, starting system, body electronics, infotainment, instrument cluster.
Body:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, interior trim, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
Chassis:
Frame and structural components, underbody protection.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, error code interpretation (if applicable).
Major Repairs:
Engine component overhaul, transmission rebuilds, suspension and steering system repairs, brake system overhauls.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing various parts such as alternators, starters, water pumps, radiators, fuel injectors, etc.
Diagnostics:
System-specific diagnostic charts, flowcharts, and testing procedures for electrical and mechanical systems.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Digital Format:
Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and printing.
Illustrations:
High-quality diagrams, schematics, and photographs as typically found in official workshop manuals.
Physical Format If Applicable:
N/A (product description implies digital format)
Physical Format If Applicable:
N/A (product description implies digital format)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
168 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
181 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic 5.2)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (91 Octane recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) with individual ignition coils.
Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Type:
5-speed Steptronic automatic transmission
Automatic Features:
Steptronic manual shift mode.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (check manual for specific grade)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (check manual for specific grade)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (driver/passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for vehicles of similar design and weight class from that era)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Traction Control:
Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners.
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon), cassette player standard, CD player optional.
Navigation:
Optional BMW On-Board Navigation system (requires separate display unit and CD-ROMs).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated Bluetooth or earlier cellular phone kits.
Climate Control:
Standard automatic climate control, dual-zone climate control optional.
Seats:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory for driver's seat, heated seats optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Check manual for specific 'Condition Based Service' indicators.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, potentially longer for platinum/iridium plugs. (Manual will specify).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Engine Oil:
BMW recommends synthetic oil, typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 with BMW LL-01 approval (check manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Common E39 Issues:
Coolant leaks (water pump, expansion tank, hoses), VANOS seals degradation, oil pan gasket leaks, ABS sensor failures, vacuum leaks, sagging headliner, "Check Engine" light due to various sensor issues (e.g., MAF, O2 sensors).
Common Issues Manual Coverage
Diagnostic Procedures For Issues:
The manual will detail diagnostic steps for all common issues, including specific tests for VANOS, vacuum leaks, and ABS systems.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance luxury vehicles.
E39 Generation Debut:
Introduced in 1995 (Europe) and 1996 (North America), replacing the E34 generation.
1997 Model Year Updates:
The 1997 model year was part of the early production run for the E39 generation in North America.
Manufacturing Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E39 5 Series (including the 525i and 540i) was a consistent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run.
Jd Power Dependability:
BMW E39 generation generally received good to excellent ratings for build quality and dependability for its era.
Epa Fuel Economy Est Mpg:
City: ~18-20 mpg, Highway: ~25-28 mpg (varies by transmission, check manual or EPA for exact figures).
