🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528xi

Year:

2008

Platform:

E60/E61

Chassis Code:

E60 (Sedan)

Drivetrain Code:

xi (All-Wheel Drive)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Premium Mid-size Luxury Sedan

Key Competitors:

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

Vehicle Highlights:

Sophisticated styling, premium interior, advanced technology (iDrive), engaging driving dynamics, powerful yet efficient engine, available xDrive all-wheel drive.

Target User:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, BMW owners seeking in-depth knowledge of their vehicle.

Software Advantage:

Searchable, easily navigable, potentially includes interactive diagrams and video clips (depending on specific software). More up-to-date and comprehensive than printed manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Specifications

Estimated Pages:

Thousands (Software format allows for extensive detail)

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system

Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (Steptronic), xDrive all-wheel drive system, differentials, driveshafts, axles

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, DSC), wheels and tires

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, horns, power accessories, body control modules (BCM), instrument cluster, infotainment system (iDrive), navigation system

Body And Interior:

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

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation and balancing

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for various systems, wiring diagrams

Repair:

Engine component repair/replacement (e.g., VANOS, valve cover gasket), transmission overhaul/replacement, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, starter/alternator replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair

Calibration And Programming:

Control module programming, sensor calibration (e.g., steering angle sensor, tire pressure sensors)

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls; includes detailed exploded views and torque specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (likely a proprietary executable or comprehensive PDF suite)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format; high-resolution diagrams and text for on-screen viewing or printing)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ 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

Horsepower:

230 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque:

200 lb-ft (271 Nm) @ 2750 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Fuel Injection (Multi-point Sequential)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended)

ECU Type:

Bosch Motronic (Specific variant likely MSV70 or similar)

Valvetrain:

Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VALVETRONIC, Double VANOS

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Automatic (Steptronic)

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW ATF 6 (Dexron VI compatible)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for 2008 528xi (Manual was available on RWD 528i, not AWD 528xi)

Transmission Features:

Sport mode, Manual shift mode (Steptronic), Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.8 inches (4871 mm)

Width:

72.7 inches (1847 mm)

Height:

58.0 inches (1473 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.4 inches (2957 mm)

Trunk Volume:

14.0 cubic feet (396 liters)

Curb Weight:

approx. 3925 lbs (1780 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

approx. 4960 lbs (2250 kg)

Standard Wheel Size:

17-inch alloy

Standard Tire Size:

225/50R17

Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

5-Star (2008 Model Year)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test Rating:

Good (2008 Model Year)

IIHS Side Impact Crash Test Rating:

Good (2008 Model Year)

Active Safety Systems:

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

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (HPS) airbags, active head restraints, seatbelt pre-tensioners, LATCH child seat anchors

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

iDrive (BMW's proprietary integrated control system)

Display Type:

Central Information Display (CID)

Control Interface:

iDrive Controller (rotary knob with buttons), various buttons on the center console and steering wheel.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional adaptive cruise control (Active Cruise Control), parking assist (Park Distance Control - PDC), optional rearview camera, optional Head-Up Display (HUD).

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB interface (for music playback and device charging), auxiliary audio input.

Lighting Features:

Bi-Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional), LED taillights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 15,000 miles or 12 months, dictated by Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Refer to CBS for precise interval.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years (regardless of mileage)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000-45,000 miles, or as indicated by CBS.

Cabin Microfilter Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended around 60,000 miles for the N52 engine. Refer to manual for specific plug type and torque.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-30 Synthetic, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) compliant. Check oil cap for specific recommendation.

Coolant Type:

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

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (Check manual for exact specification)

Common Issues:

Valve cover gasket leaks (oil seepage), oil filter housing gasket leaks, eccentric shaft sensor (eccentricity sensor) failure (causing rough idle/misfires), PCV valve failure, water pump failure (often electric pump with integrated thermostat), ignition coil failures, ABS/DSC module failures, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues, fuel pump failures.

Transmission Issues:

Mechatronic sleeve leaks in automatic transmissions, occasional solenoid failures. Regular fluid changes are crucial for longevity.

Tip 1:

Regularly inspect for oil leaks, especially from the valve cover and oil filter housing. Address promptly to prevent further damage.

Tip 2:

Pay close attention to the Condition Based Service (CBS) system alerts for proactive maintenance.

Tip 3:

Ensure proper cooling system maintenance; the electric water pump is a critical component.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw History:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, founded in 1916, renowned for producing premium vehicles with a focus on driving performance ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').

E60 Generation Introduction:

The E60 5 Series generation was introduced in 2003 (as a 2004 model) for North America, replacing the E39 generation. It featured significant design changes, new technology (iDrive), and updated powertrains. The 'xi' designation signifies BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system, which became widely available across the 5 Series lineup during this generation.

Production Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

Production Years E60:

2003-2010 (for North American market, facelift in 2007)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Accolades:

While specific awards for the 2008 528xi might be scattered, the E60 generation 5 Series consistently received accolades for its driving dynamics, technology, and safety from automotive publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Edmunds. It was often praised for balancing sportiness with luxury.