Segment:
Luxury Mid-Size Sedan
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS Series, Cadillac DeVille
Vehicle Focus:
Performance, Luxury, Driver Engagement, German Engineering
Manual Value:
Official licensing implies accuracy and completeness; digital format offers convenience and instant access
Powertrain:
Engine (M62 V8), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Automatic - likely GM 5L40-E), Driveshaft, Differentials, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, DSC)
Electrical:
12V System, Alternator, Starter, Battery, Lighting, Instrumentation, ECU (DME), Body Control Modules (BCM), ABS/ASC Module, SRS Airbag System
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Convertible Top (if applicable), Interior Trim, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Flushes, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation (OBD-II), Component Testing Procedures
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Installation:
Component Installation and Replacement Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive from routine maintenance to complete drivetrain and chassis overhauls
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts, exploded views
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
4.4 Liters (4398 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 82.7 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Management:
BMW DME (Digital Engine Electronics)
Horsepower:
282 hp @ 5400 rpm
Torque:
324 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MFI)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 420G) - availability may vary by region
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting capability)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible (e.g., BMW Part No. 83 22 0 024 359)
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 Liters (for a complete fill, including torque converter)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not specifically rated for this model year with modern standards, but generally considered safe for its era.
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, potential for side airbags depending on options
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
BMW Professional RDS stereo with CD/Cassette options. Harman Kardon premium sound system available.
Navigation:
BMW Business or Professional Navigation System (optional)
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, potentially adaptive on later models/options.
Phone Integration:
BMW Integrated Bluetooth or phone cradle (optional)
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) system, typically around 7,500-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and sensor readings.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 approved synthetic oil, 5W-30 or 5W-40 viscosity recommended (check specific manual for exact specs).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 Liters (with filter)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III compatible (BMW Part No. 83 22 9 407 765)
Common Problem 1:
Cooling System: Plastic expansion tanks, radiator, and hoses can become brittle and leak. Water pump often fails.
Common Problem 2:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing): Early M62 engines (pre-2001) could develop issues with the VANOS seals, leading to rough idling and power loss.
Common Problem 3:
Ignition System: Coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils can fail.
Common Problem 4:
ABS/DSC Sensors: Wheel speed sensors can fail, triggering ABS and DSC warning lights.
Common Problem 5:
Oil Leaks: Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are common leak points.
Brand Focus:
Sporty luxury, performance, driving dynamics
E39 Generation:
Introduced in late 1995 for the 1996 model year, replacing the E34. The E39 540i was a flagship model.
1998 Updates:
The 1998 model year saw the 540i equipped with the new M62 engine, a significant upgrade from the previous M60.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing Plant)
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E39 5-Series, including variants like the 540i, was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run for its balance of performance and luxury.
Popular Mechanics Car Of The Year:
The E39 platform received accolades for its engineering and driving dynamics, reflecting BMW's commitment to performance.
