Positioning:
Flagship luxury sedan, competing with Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, Lexus LS.
Rivals:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220), Audi A8 (D3), Lexus LS (XF30).
Innovations:
iDrive infotainment system, advanced chassis control systems (Adaptive Drive, Active Steering), advanced safety features, diverse powertrain options.
Chassis Technology:
Advanced aluminum suspension components, optional Active Roll Stabilization, optional Active Steering.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, emissions control.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 6HP26), manual transmission (if applicable), clutch, differential, drive axles.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, power distribution, lighting, ignition, starting and charging, body electronics (modules, sensors), infotainment system, navigation, comfort systems.
Chassis Systems:
Braking system (including DSC/ABS), steering system (including Servotronic), suspension system (including adaptive drive, air suspension), wheels and tires.
Body Systems:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, HVAC system, seat adjustment, convertible top (if applicable).
Comfort Systems:
Climate control (IHKA), heated and ventilated seats, power seats, memory seats, sunroof operation, ambient lighting.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and servicing, seatbelt operation and replacement.
Exhaust Emissions:
Catalytic converter information, emissions control systems (e.g., secondary air injection), OBD-II diagnostics.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system bleeding, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (DTCs), diagnostic test procedures for various systems, sensor testing.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component location charts, diagnostic flowcharts for electrical faults, troubleshooting specific modules (e.g., DME, EGS, ABS/DSC, LCM).
Engine Rebuild:
Piston and ring replacement, bearing replacement, cylinder head gasket replacement, timing chain and tensioner service, valve stem seal replacement.
Suspension Repair:
Strut and shock absorber replacement, control arm and ball joint replacement, air spring replacement, hydraulic system bleeding (Adaptive Drive).
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake fluid flush and bleed, ABS/DSC sensor diagnosis and replacement.
Bodywork Repair:
Panel alignment, rust repair, dent removal, paint code information (general), door and lock mechanism repair.
Depth:
Comprehensive (Technician Level)
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete engine and transmission rebuilding procedures with torque specifications and clearances.
Diagnostic Tools:
References to BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, ISTA/D) and procedures for using them.
Electrical Wiring:
Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits.
NHTSA Rating Example:
Not extensively tested by NHTSA in the modern era for this specific model year, but generally received good ratings for its class.
Active Safety Systems:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Active Steering, Adaptive Drive (Active Roll Stabilization, Electronic Damper Control).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags, head protection system (airbags), seatbelt pretensioners, advanced crumple zones, run-flat tires (optional/standard depending on market).
Infotainment System:
BMW iDrive (first generation), including navigation, radio, CD player, climate control interface, vehicle settings.
Advanced Driver Assistance:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC - optional), Parking Distance Control (PDC), Rain-sensing wipers, Automatic headlights.
Connectivity Features:
On-board computer, voice control (optional), Bluetooth preparation (optional).
Lighting Technology:
Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional), LED taillights.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable; Condition Based Service (CBS) typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Interval:
Every 2 years (BMW standard)
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30 depending on climate.
Coolant Spec:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
ZF LifeguardFluid8 (for 6HP26 transmission) or equivalent specified by BMW.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid for Servotronic/Active Steering systems.
Common Faults:
Coil pack failures, oxygen sensor issues, electronic component failures (e.g., ABS/DSC modules), water pump leaks, power steering hose leaks, Active Front Steering (AFS) issues, iDrive system glitches, fuel pump failures.
Suspension Wear:
Air suspension compressor failure, strut leaks, control arm bushing wear.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank cracking, radiator leaks, thermostat housing leaks.
Engine Oil Capacity Example:
745i (N62B44): Approx. 6.5-7.0 liters (with filter change)
