🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

745Li

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

E66

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 7 Series represents the pinnacle of BMW's luxury sedan offerings, competing with established players like Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Audi A8. The 745Li (long wheelbase) targets buyers prioritizing rear passenger space and ultimate comfort.

Competition:

Key competitors for the 2005 745Li included the Mercedes-Benz S500, Audi A8 4.2 quattro, and Lexus LS 430. The 745Li stood out with its advanced technology, unique styling, and a focus on driver engagement, even in a large luxury sedan.

Features:

Advanced iDrive infotainment system, sophisticated suspension (e.g., Adaptive Drive), powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior appointments, long wheelbase for enhanced rear legroom.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair

Estimated Pages:

Thousands (Digital Format)

Type:

Official Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital (Likely PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, diagnostics, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, emissions control

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter, alternator, ECU, sensors, wiring diagrams

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 6HP26) repair, diagnostics, fluid service, torque converter

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, alignment procedures

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column adjustments

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC, parking brake, brake pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures, hydraulic component testing

Body Electrical:

Lighting systems, power windows, mirrors, seats, door locks, wipers, horn, interior/exterior lighting diagnostics

Climate Control:

HVAC system, A/C compressor, blower motor, climate control unit, diagnostic procedures

Infotainment And Electronics:

iDrive system, navigation, audio system, telematics, sensor diagnostics

Chassis And Body:

Body panel removal/installation, structural components, chassis diagnostics

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component replacement, engine, transmission, suspension, brake system repairs

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, signal tracing, diagnostic tool usage

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools required for various procedures

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced diagnostics, and electrical system troubleshooting

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Software-based, likely searchable and hyperlinked for ease of navigation. Potential for interactive diagrams and videos.

Quality:

Digital, excellent clarity and detail. High-resolution images and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Software)

Paper:

N/A (Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

N62B44

Engine Type:

4.4L V8 (Naturally Aspirated)

Engine Configuration:

90-degree V8, DOHC, 32 valves

Horsepower:

329 hp @ 6100 rpm

Torque:

332 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Ignition

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

ECU:

Bosch Motronic ME9.2

Variable Valve Timing:

VANOS (Double VANOS)

Cooling Type:

Liquid-cooled, pressurized system

Oil Type Spec:

BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., Castrol Syntec 0W-30)

Oil Capacity Quarts:

8.5 quarts (8.0 liters)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Automatic (Steptronic)

Transmission Model:

ZF 6HP26

Optional Types:

None for 745Li in 2005

Gear Selection:

Electronic gear selector, manual shifting via Steptronic function (lever or steering wheel paddles)

Fluid Type Spec:

ZF Lifeguardfluid 6 (Shell M1375.4)

Fluid Capacity Quarts:

Approx. 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters) - requires precise fill level check

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Inches:

123.6 inches (3139 mm)

Length Inches:

203.5 inches (5169 mm)

Width Inches:

73.5 inches (1868 mm)

Height Inches:

58.2 inches (1478 mm)

Curb Weight Lbs:

4550 lbs (2064 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Lbs:

5776 lbs (2619 kg)

Trunk Volume Cubic Feet:

18.0 cubic feet (510 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

5-Star (Likely, based on model generation and typical BMW safety standards)

NHTSA Side Crash Test:

5-Star (Likely, based on model generation and typical BMW safety standards)

IIHS Small Overlap Frontal:

Not Rated (NHTSA and IIHS testing protocols evolved significantly after this model year)

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Dsc:

Standard (Dynamic Stability Control)

Traction Control:

Standard (Traction Control System)

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:

Standard (EBD)

Airbags:

Front, side-impact, and curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point safety belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)

💡 Technology Features

System Name:

iDrive (First Generation)

Features:

Central control knob, high-resolution LCD screen, navigation system, digital climate control, audio system control, Bluetooth connectivity (optional).

Advanced Systems:

Adaptive Cruise Control (optional), Park Distance Control (PDC), rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights.

Integration:

BMW Assist with Bluetooth connectivity (optional).

Adaptive Drive:

Optional system combining Active Roll Stabilization and Electronic Damping Control for enhanced ride comfort and handling.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Miles:

Variable, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.

Spark Plug Replacement Miles:

Around 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific N62 engine recommendations).

Transmission Fluid Service Miles:

BMW typically stated 'lifetime' fluid for this era, but it is highly recommended to change every 60,000-100,000 miles, especially for the ZF 6HP26 transmission.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW recommended equivalent

Common Problems:

Valley pan gasket leaks (N62 engine), VANOS solenoid issues, valve stem seal leaks, cooling system issues (water pump, thermostat), electronic module failures (e.g., LCM, CAS), iDrive system glitches, oil separator (PCV) system failures.

Timing Chain Maintenance:

The N62 engine features a timing chain, which is generally durable but can develop issues if oil maintenance is neglected. The manual will detail inspection procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage Summary:

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a rich history dating back to 1916, renowned for producing luxury vehicles with a focus on performance, engineering, and driving dynamics. The 7 Series has been its flagship luxury sedan since 1977.

Generation Code:

E65/E66 (E65 for standard wheelbase, E66 for long wheelbase)

Generation Years:

2001-2008

Design Language:

Introduced a controversial 'flame surfacing' design language by Chris Bangle, moving away from traditional BMW aesthetics.

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award Summary:

While specific awards for the 2005 745Li might be fragmented, the BMW 7 Series platform (E65/E66) was generally recognized for its advanced engineering, luxury features, and technological innovation in the automotive press during its production run.