🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528i

Model Code:

E60

Model Variant:

Sedan

Generation Code:

E60/E61 (Fifth Generation)

Generation Years:

2003-2010

Chassis Code:

E60

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size luxury sedan

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Cadillac CTS

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its engaging driving dynamics, balanced chassis, and responsive steering.

Powertrain:

Smooth and potent inline-six engine, coupled with a refined automatic transmission.

Interior:

High-quality materials, ergonomic design, and advanced iDrive infotainment system for its era.

Safety Technology:

Advanced safety features including DSC, ABS, and optional active safety systems.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

2008, 2009, 2010

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands (typical factory manual complexity)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul for the N52B30 (3.0L Inline-6) engine, including VANOS, Valvetronic, lubrication, cooling, fuel, and emissions systems.

Transmission:

Coverage for both the GM 6-speed automatic transmission (GA6HP19Z) and manual transmission, including removal, installation, fluid changes, internal repairs, and electronic control module (TCM) diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Front suspension, rear multi-link suspension, steering system (hydraulic power steering), driveshafts, differential, and wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement (calipers, rotors, pads, sensors).

Electrical System:

Comprehensive electrical schematics, fuse box diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, mirrors, seats, and body control modules.

Comfort Systems:

HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system operation, refrigerant, component testing (compressor, blower motor, climate control module), and seat heating/ventilation.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, convertible top operation (if applicable to 528i Touring), structural components, and corrosion protection.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, crash sensor locations, and diagnostics for restraint systems.

Infotainment And Electronics:

iDrive system operation, radio/audio system, navigation, telematics (ConnectedDrive components), instrument cluster, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, fluid checks and top-offs.

Repair And Overhaul:

Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement (struts, control arms, bushings), steering rack replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, and power steering pump replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting common issues, interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using OBD-II scanners, component testing procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Tracing electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing sensors and actuators, diagnosing module communication errors, and repairing wiring harness issues.

Installation And Replacement:

Step-by-step guides for replacing major components such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, water pumps, thermostats, ignition coils, and sensors.

Calibration And Adaptation:

Procedures for resetting service indicators, throttle body adaptation, steering angle sensor calibration, and other electronic module initializations.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed component specifications and torque values.

Diagnostics Level:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including interpretation of live data streams, component activation tests, and complex electrical system troubleshooting.

Component Detail:

Detailed exploded views, part identification, and specifications for all major mechanical and electrical components.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (typically)

Quality:

High resolution, suitable for printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

N52B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated, Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement:

2996 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.7:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 24 Valves, Double VANOS, Valvetronic

Horsepower:

230 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque:

200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with High-Pressure Fuel Pump

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GA6HP19Z)

Transmission Type:

6-speed Manual Transmission (for some markets/trims)

Automatic Features:

Steptronic manual shifting mode, sport mode, adaptive shift logic.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF 3 (or equivalent like Pentosin ATF1)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 liters (service fill)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.1 inches (4854 mm)

Width:

72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Height:

58.0 inches (1473 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.4 inches (2957 mm)

Front Track:

60.9 inches (1547 mm)

Rear Track:

61.3 inches (1557 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3700-3900 lbs (1680-1770 kg), depending on transmission and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4760 lbs (2160 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not Recommended/Typically None for US Models

Trunk Capacity:

14.0 cu ft (396 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-Star

IIHS Front Crashworthiness:

Good

IIHS Side Crashworthiness:

Good

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver & passenger), front side-impact airbags, head protection system (side curtain airbags).

Seatbelts:

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

💡 Technology Features

System Name:

iDrive (Professional Navigation system optional)

Features:

Central control knob with surrounding buttons, color display for navigation, climate control, audio, and vehicle settings. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling.

Standard Features:

Cruise Control, Parking Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.

Optional Features:

Adaptive Headlights, Head-Up Display (HUD), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Active Cruise Control (ACC), Adaptive Xenon headlights.

Telematics:

BMW Assist with Bluetooth interface.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 15,000 miles or 12 months, dictated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system and oil quality sensor.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 miles for the N52 engine.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 synthetic oil.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (with filter change)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 liters

Common Problems:

Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, PCV valve failure (leading to vacuum leaks), water pump and thermostat failures, VANOS solenoids/actuators, ignition coil failures, and sometimes eccentric shaft sensor issues.

Typical Repairs:

Replacement of valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, PCV system components, water pump, thermostat, ignition coils, and spark plugs.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW AG, a German multinational company, is renowned for producing luxury vehicles and motorcycles, with a strong emphasis on driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').

Previous Generation:

E39 5 Series (1995-2003)

Design Philosophy:

The E60 generation marked a significant departure in styling and technology from its predecessor, introducing modern design cues and advanced electronic systems.

Production Years:

2008-2010 (for 528i model within E60 lifecycle)

Manufacturing Locations:

Mainly Dingolfing Plant, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

While specific awards for the 2008-2010 528i are not prominently highlighted, the E60 5 Series generation as a whole was generally well-received by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and luxury appointments.

Critic Reviews:

Consistently praised for its driving dynamics, comfortable ride, and refined interior, though the iDrive system was initially criticized for its complexity.