🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Sub Model:

528i

Year:

1997

Chassis Code:

E39

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Executive Sedan

Positioning:

The BMW 5 Series (E39) was positioned as a refined, performance-oriented executive sedan, competing with models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W210 E-Class, Audi A6 C5, Lexus GS Series, Volvo S80.

Chassis Design:

The E39 generation introduced a significant update in chassis design, emphasizing improved handling and ride comfort with a focus on weight distribution.

Engine Technology:

The 528i featured BMW's robust inline-six engine, known for its smoothness, power delivery, and relative reliability.

Safety Technology:

Early adoption of advanced safety features for its time, including ABS and optional DSC.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Page Count:

Hundreds of Pages (Exact count not specified, but implied to be comprehensive)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M52B28 Engine: Disassembly, assembly, inspection, tuning, troubleshooting

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan clutch, coolant types, capacities

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, lines, emissions controls (SULEV/LEVs if applicable for the year)

Ignition System:

Coil-on-plug or distributor (depending on specific E39 variant), spark plugs, ignition timing, DME operation

Transmission:

5-speed Steptronic Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S310Z) and Getrag 5-speed Manual (ZF S5D-320Z): Gearbox overhaul, clutch service, shift linkage, fluid specifications, troubleshooting

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, differential, CV joints, axle shafts, fluid changes

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, bushings), alignment specifications, troubleshooting

Steering:

Power steering system (pump, rack, hoses), steering column, troubleshooting

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pads, rotors, calipers, bleeding procedures, parking brake

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter, fuses, relays, lighting, wiring diagrams, CAN bus architecture (early stages)

Bodywork:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, sealing, corrosion prevention

Climate Control:

HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, climate control unit, troubleshooting

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt mechanisms, troubleshooting SRS faults

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs, belt replacement, brake servicing

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, transmission issues, and other common problems, often with symptom-based guides.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair, from minor adjustments to major overhauls.

Installation:

Instructions for installing new or replacement parts and accessories.

Diagnostics:

Information on diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, and interpretation of sensor data.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, and in-depth mechanical and electrical repairs. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick navigation to specific topics.

Printability:

Full printable functionality, allowing users to print the entire manual or specific sections as needed.

Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M52B28

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2793 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 84.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

Horsepower:

190 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic DME

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Oil Capacity:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for specific BMW LL-01 or LL-04 approval)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (Getrag S5D-320Z)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Steptronic Automatic (GM A5S360R / A5S310Z)

Steptronic Functionality:

Allows manual gear selection via shifter or steering wheel buttons (on some models).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent like Dexron III for early models, consult manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts) for complete refill, 4.5 Liters for drain and fill.

Clutch:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated (for manual transmission).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,770 mm (187.8 in)

Width:

1,798 mm (70.8 in)

Height:

1,441 mm (56.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2,830 mm (111.4 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1,540 kg (3,395 lbs) for manual, 1,580 kg (3,483 lbs) for automatic

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 2,070 kg (4,564 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 460 Liters (16.2 cu ft)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Standard Wheel Size:

16 x 7.0 inches

Standard Tire Size:

205/55R16

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger) - Results vary slightly by year and test methodology.

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for vehicles equipped with side airbags, which were optional).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side-impact airbags available.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio with optional CD changer. Navigation system was also available.

Display:

On-board computer display in the instrument cluster providing information like average fuel consumption, range, and system warnings.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC) sensors.

Phone Integration:

Optional factory-installed cellular phone system with integrated antenna and hands-free functionality.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically every 7,500-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Consult the manual for precise CBS reset procedures.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (e.g., standard vs. long-life iridium).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years or as recommended by BMW, typically using BMW's blue coolant.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions are often considered 'lifetime fill,' but fluid changes are recommended for longevity.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or Pentosin CHF 11S (confirm specific vehicle application).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4, low viscosity (BMW DOT 4 LV)

Cooling System Leaks:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks and radiator end caps are prone to cracking and leaking. Water pump plastic impellers can also fail.

Oil Pan Gasket:

Common leak point due to age and material degradation.

Valve Cover Gasket:

Prone to hardening and leaking, leading to oil consumption and smell.

Ccv System:

Crankcase ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to pressure buildup, oil leaks, and poor performance.

ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:

Failure of ABS/ASC/DSC sensors is common, leading to warning lights and loss of these systems.

Window Regulators:

Plastic components in the window regulator mechanisms can break, causing windows to fall.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, high-performance luxury vehicles, with the 5 Series being a cornerstone of their lineup for decades.

E39 Introduction:

The E39 generation was introduced in 1995 for the 1996 model year in Europe and 1997 in North America, succeeding the E34 generation.

E39 Platform:

The E39 was praised for its superior ride and handling balance compared to its predecessor, and it laid the groundwork for future BMW chassis development.

528I Positioning In E39:

The 528i represented a mid-range option within the E39 lineup, offering a potent balance of performance and luxury before the introduction of V8 models.

Production Years:

1996-2003 (E39 generation)

Manufacturing Plants:

Primary manufacturing in Dingolfing, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E39 5 Series was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, including for the 1997 model year, for its exceptional blend of performance, luxury, and handling.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

While not winning the overall award, the E39 platform received critical acclaim and was a strong contender in its segment.