Segment:
Executive Sedan and Wagon
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, and independent repair shops.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type.
Vehicle Design Philosophy:
The E39 generation of the BMW 5 Series emphasized driving dynamics, build quality, and advanced technology for its era.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides access to the same detailed technical information used by authorized BMW dealerships, enabling accurate and efficient servicing and repair.
Primary Coverage:
Maintenance, repair, diagnostics, and overhaul procedures for all specified models.
Systems Covered Overview:
Engine, transmission, suspension, steering, brakes, body, body equipment, electrical system, equipment and accessories, electrical wiring diagrams.
Estimated Page Count:
Thousands (typical factory service manuals are extensive)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed coverage of M52/M54 inline-six engines (525i, 528i, 530i) and M62/M62TU V8 engines (540i), including component removal, installation, repair, and overhaul. Covers cooling system, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, and engine management systems.
Transmission:
Comprehensive repair and maintenance for both manual (e.g., GETRAG) and automatic transmissions (e.g., ZF 5HP series) specific to E39 models. Includes fluid specifications, diagnostic procedures, and component replacement.
Suspension Steering Brakes:
In-depth information on front and rear suspension systems (e.g., multi-link, MacPherson strut variants), power steering systems, and braking systems (including ABS, DSC). Covers component replacement, alignment specifications, and brake system bleeding.
Body And Interior:
Repair procedures for body panels, doors, windows, exterior trim, and interior components. Includes details on body construction, sealing, and alignment.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the E39's complex electrical architecture, including lighting, power windows, seats, mirrors, climate control, infotainment, and body control modules. Includes troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug service, and general inspection procedures.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues, often referencing BMW's diagnostic codes (e.g., OBD-II).
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation for virtually every system on the vehicle.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Complete factory-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes torque specifications, clearances, testing procedures, and component tolerances.
Primary Engine 525I 528I 530I
Engine Code Prefix:
M52/M54
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement 525I:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Displacement 528I:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Displacement 530I:
3.0 Liters (2979 cc) - introduced later in the E39 lifecycle
Horsepower 525I:
~189 hp @ 5900 rpm (M52TU), ~190 hp @ 6100 rpm (M54B25)
Horsepower 528I:
~190 hp @ 5500 rpm (M52TU)
Horsepower 530I:
~225 hp @ 5900 rpm (M54B30)
Torque 525I:
~181 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (M52TU), ~180 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (M54B25)
Torque 528I:
~206 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm (M52TU)
Torque 530I:
~214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (M54B30)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection (SPI).
Configuration:
V8, DOHC, 32 valves
Displacement:
4.4 Liters (4398 cc)
Horsepower:
~290 hp @ 5400 rpm (M62TU)
Torque:
~324 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (M62TU)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Port Injection (SPI).
Type:
5-speed Manual (e.g., GETRAG S5D 250G for inline-six models)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP19 for inline-six, ZF 5HP24 for V8)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic manual shifting mode available on most automatic transmissions.
Automatic Fluid:
BMW LT-3 (or equivalent such as Pentosin ATF1 or ZF Lifeguardfluid 5) is often specified for the ZF 5HP transmissions.
Manual Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent gear oil.
Length:
approx. 4820 mm (189.8 in)
Width:
approx. 1799 mm (70.8 in)
Height:
approx. 1431 mm (56.3 in)
Length:
approx. 4820 mm (189.8 in)
Width:
approx. 1799 mm (70.8 in)
Height:
approx. 1472 mm (57.9 in)
Wheelbase:
approx. 2830 mm (111.4 in)
Curb Weight Approx 528I:
approx. 1600 kg (3527 lbs)
Curb Weight Approx 540I:
approx. 1760 kg (3880 lbs)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely good for its era, though specific ratings may vary by year and testing methodology.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T) available on most models.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard; optional Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger; optional side airbags.
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cell with crumple zones.
Navigation System:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation system with CD-ROM based maps.
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems from manufacturers like Harman Kardon.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, with adaptive cruise control not generally available on E39.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth preparation and integrated telephone systems.
Engine Oil Change:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) system, typically ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 miles (15,000 to 25,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Consult manual for precise intervals.
Service Intervals Filters
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as per VSI system. Cabin air filter (pollen filter) usually every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Service Intervals Coolant
Coolant Replacement:
BMW Long-Life Coolant (BMW HT-12 or similar), typically replaced at 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or every 4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Long-Life 01 (LL-01) or Long-Life 04 (LL-04) synthetic oil is generally recommended, with appropriate viscosity (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40 depending on climate and specific engine). Refer to manual for exact specifications.
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue or Green Antifreeze/Coolant (typically silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based). BMW recommends specific coolants like 'BMW engine coolant' or 'Kuhlerfrostschutzmittel'. Often requires a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks and radiator end tanks can become brittle and crack over time. Water pump failure is also common. Thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings (especially front lower control arms), sway bar links, and tie rod ends can lead to poor handling and tire wear. Rear subframe bushings can also wear out.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket leaks and oil pan gasket leaks are common. The " ও-rings " for the oil filter housing can also leak.
Electrical:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, ignition coil failure, ABS/ASC sensor failures, and headlight leveling system problems.
Interior:
Pixelated instrument cluster displays (often due to failing ribbon cables), worn seat bolsters, and failing door seals.
Vibration Control:
Replacement of worn suspension components, driveshaft center support bearing, and guibo (flex disc).
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building sporty, driver-focused luxury cars with advanced engineering.
E39 Development:
The E39 was designed to build upon the success of its E34 predecessor, offering improved handling, a more refined interior, and advanced technology.
E39 Updates:
Key updates included the introduction of the M54 engines, revised styling (LCI facelift around 2000), and updated technology features like iDrive in later models (though primarily associated with E60).
Production Years:
1995-2003 (E39 chassis)
Manufacturing Location:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany.
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver magazine named the BMW 5 Series (E39) to its annual '10Best' list multiple times during its production run, recognizing its balance of performance, luxury, and value.
Consumer Reports Rating:
Often received good ratings for performance and reliability, though some model years had specific issues noted, as would be detailed in the manual.
