Vehicle Segment:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, enthusiasts.
Competitors 2000:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS 300, Volvo S80, Jaguar S-Type.
Bmw Philosophy:
'The Ultimate Driving Machine' – emphasis on performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E39 Generation Strengths:
Refined ride, excellent chassis dynamics, high-quality interior, powerful inline-six engines, advanced (for its time) technology.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection (DME), ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control, engine diagnostics, rebuild procedures.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (GM 5L40-E) and manual transmission (Getrag 420G) service, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain Systems:
Driveshafts, differentials, axles, wheel bearings, ABS integration.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings, springs), power steering system, steering rack, wheel alignment specifications.
Brake Systems:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations, battery, charging system (alternator), starter, lighting, horn, power windows, mirrors, central locking, interior/exterior lights.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), climate control diagnostics.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting flowcharts, sensor testing, module testing, common failure points.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, tire rotation, general inspection checklists.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all covered systems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including torque specifications, tolerances, and assembly sequences.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Testing of sensors, actuators, control modules, and electrical circuits using multimeter, oscilloscope, and diagnostic scan tools.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: From basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics and bodywork repair.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4/5 Stars (as per period testing)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4/5 Stars (as per period testing)
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Brake Assist:
Optional (depending on package)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 7,500 - 15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific CBS interpretation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 - 100,000 miles (Long-life spark plugs, check manual for exact interval based on plug type).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
BMW Long-Life Coolant, typically 4 years or 100,000 miles for first change, then every 2 years or 50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Long-Life 01 (LL-01) or 01 FE synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30. Consult manual for exact specification and viscosity.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron III (or equivalent/successor approved by BMW for this transmission).
Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:
Approximately 9.5 US quarts (9.0 Liters) for a complete fluid change (requires transmission pan removal and torque converter drain).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based concentrate).
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks are prone to cracking, water pump failure (plastic impeller), and thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear shock mounts can lead to handling issues and noise.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC wheel speed sensors, alternator failure, VANOS solenoid issues (leading to rough idle or power loss), fuel pump failure.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket are common leak points.
Bmw Legacy:
Founded in 1916, renowned for performance sedans, sports cars, and motorcycles. Strong motorsport heritage.
E39 Generation:
Fourth generation of the BMW 5 Series, produced from 1995 to 2004. Known for significant advancements in chassis, electronics, and refinement over the E34.
E39 Facelift:
Minor facelift occurred in 2000, including revised headlights, taillights, bumpers, and interior enhancements.
Production Years:
1996-2003 (E39 generation), 528i model specifically 1997-2000 (pre-facelift) and 2001-2002 (facelift, though designation changed to 525i with similar engine output due to displacement increase).
Manufacturing Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany
