Market Segment:
Executive sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent professionals, enthusiasts
Key Competitors 1998:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS300, Jaguar S-Type
Bmw Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine; emphasis on performance, handling, and build quality
E39 Strengths:
Balanced chassis, powerful engines, refined interior, excellent handling
Technological Advancements E39:
CAN bus integration, advanced engine management, electronic stability control (optional)
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, timing, lubrication, cooling
Engine Electrical:
Ignition, fuel injection (DME), sensors, actuators, ECU troubleshooting
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, driveshafts, linkage, fluid service
Transmission Automatic:
Hydraulics, torque converter, electronic control (EGS), valve body, fluid service, diagnostics
Braking System:
Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front/rear suspension components, bushings, ball joints, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment
Electrical System Body:
Lighting, wipers, washers, power windows, central locking, mirrors, seats, climate control blower, horn
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis structure, rust prevention
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, lines, filter, EVAP system
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converters, mufflers, pipes, hangers, oxygen sensors
Climate Control:
AC system, heater core, evaporator, refrigerant, blower motor, controls
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, diagnostics
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Fault code retrieval, component testing, wiring diagrams, symptom-based troubleshooting
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, belt inspection/replacement
Component Replacement:
Headlights, taillights, starter, alternator, water pump, fuel pump, radiator, thermostat
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild (partial/full), transmission overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, differential service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, testing circuits, component testing using multimeter and scope
Drivability Issues:
Diagnosis and repair of misfires, rough idling, poor acceleration, starting problems
Suspension Steering Repair:
Replacement of shocks, struts, control arms, tie rods, power steering pump/rack
Brake System Repair:
Calipers, rotors, brake lines, ABS module troubleshooting
Climate Control Servicing:
Refrigerant recharge, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, expansion valve)
Body Repair:
Panel alignment, door hinge adjustment, trim removal/installation
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive schematics for all electrical systems
Depth:
Expert-level; covers complete teardown, rebuild, and advanced diagnostics
Diagnostic Tools:
Implies use of BMW's diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1/DIS) and procedures
Engine Variant 1998 Common 1:
M52B25 (2.5L Inline-6)
Engine Variant 1998 Common 2:
M52B28 (2.8L Inline-6)
Engine Variant 1998 Less Common:
M52B20 (2.0L Inline-6), M62B44 (4.4L V8)
2.5L Inline 6 Hp Approx:
170 hp @ 5500 rpm
2.5L Inline 6 Torque Approx:
181 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
2.8L Inline 6 Hp Approx:
190 hp @ 5500 rpm
2.8L Inline 6 Torque Approx:
206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
Fuel Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Management:
Digital Engine Electronics (DME) - Siemens or Bosch
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane)
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Variable Valve Timing:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on intake camshafts for most models
Transmission Standard 1998:
5-speed Manual (e.g., Getrag 420G for some models)
Transmission Optional 1998:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP18, 5HP19, 5HP24)
Steptronic Functionality:
Allows manual gear selection via shifter or steering wheel buttons (on some models)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Dexron III/VI depending on specific ZF unit)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-4/GL-5 gear oil, check specific model)
Oil Change Interval Miles Approx:
7,500 - 10,000 (or Condition Based Service)
Spark Plug Interval Miles Approx:
60,000 - 100,000 (depending on plug type, e.g., platinum/iridium)
Coolant Flush Interval Miles Approx:
30,000 - 60,000
Brake Fluid Flush Interval Years:
2
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-98 or BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., 5W-30, 5W-40 synthetic)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11S or similar hydraulic fluid (check specific system)
Engine Oil Capacity Liters Approx:
6.5 - 7.5 (depending on engine)
Common Problem 1:
Cooling system failures (plastic expansion tank, radiator, water pump)
Common Problem 2:
VANOS seal wear leading to rough idle/power loss
Common Problem 3:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, rear main seal
Common Problem 4:
ABS/DSC sensor failures
Common Problem 5:
Window regulator failures
Common Problem 6:
Ignition coil failures
Common Problem 7:
Headlight leveling system failures
Common Problem 8:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure