Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Cadillac CTS
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced handling, responsive steering, and comfortable ride, embodying BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
Powertrain:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine, offering a blend of performance and refinement.
Interior:
Premium materials, driver-focused cockpit, and advanced (for its time) technology and comfort features.
Engine:
M54B30 I6 Engine, including cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, and emissions control.
Transmission:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GS20) and 5-speed Manual Transmission (GS5-39DZ), including clutch, driveshafts, and differential.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad replacement, rotor resurfacing/replacement, brake fluid bleeding.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints), power steering system, alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system schematics, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking, instrument cluster, fuses, relays, and control modules (ECU, DME).
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis repair, rust prevention, sealant application.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant servicing, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, climate control unit.
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System) diagnostics and replacement, seat belts.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and rebuilding, including engine internal components, transmission overhauls, brake caliper rebuilds.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex mechanical and electrical issues, often using fault codes.
Diagnostics:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW GT1, INPA) for accessing trouble codes, sensor data, and performing system tests.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnosis and repair.
Length:
188.0 in (4,775 mm)
Width:
71.5 in (1,816 mm)
Height:
57.7 in (1,466 mm)
Wheelbase:
113.7 in (2,890 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,600 - 3,750 lbs (1,633 - 1,701 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,700 lbs (2,132 kg)
Trunk Capacity:
14.0 cu ft (396 L)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Dsc:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, and optional curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.
Head Unit:
Professional Radio, Business CD, or optional Professional Navigation System with iDrive (first generation).
Display:
Central Information Display (CID) in the dashboard, integrated with the iDrive system.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) sensors front and rear.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth mobile interface for hands-free calling.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, with optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) on some models.
Rain Sensors:
Optional rain-sensing automatic windshield wipers.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Refer to manual for specific indicators.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic oil, e.g., Castrol Syntec 5W-30 or 5W-40.
Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter change.
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 100,000 miles (long-life plugs). Refer to manual for specific plug type (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 US quarts (7.1 liters).
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure can lead to oil leaks, rough idle, and increased oil consumption. Requires replacement of CCV valve and potentially hoses.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack. Water pump and thermostat are also common replacement items.
Ignition Coils Plugs:
Ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires and rough running. Spark plugs should be replaced per schedule.
Oil Pan Gasket Seal:
Oil pan gasket and rear main seal leaks are common due to age and material degradation.
Window Regulators:
Window regulator motors and mechanisms can fail, preventing windows from operating.
ABS Dsc Module:
ABS/DSC control module failure (often due to cracked solder joints) can lead to warning lights and loss of ABS/DSC functionality.
Brand Focus:
BMW AG is a German manufacturer known for luxury and performance vehicles, with a strong emphasis on driving dynamics and engineering excellence.
Generation:
This 2002 model represents the E60 generation of the BMW 5 Series, which debuted in 2003 as a 2004 model year vehicle in North America. Early production models, including some built in late 2002, were designated as 2003 models in other markets and may share characteristics with the outgoing E39 generation, though the E60 is a distinct redesign.
Significant Changes Vs E39:
The E60 introduced a completely new exterior and interior design, advanced electronics, and a revised chassis, marking a significant departure from the E39 generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; some assembly also occurred in Austria and Mexico.