Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Key Competitors 2004:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac DTS.
Differentiation:
Known for advanced technology (iDrive, adaptive headlights), superior driving dynamics for its class, and luxurious interior appointments.
Innovations:
iDrive infotainment system, adaptive headlights (AFS), advanced electronic suspension controls, optional active roll stabilization.
Vehicle Philosophy:
The ultimate expression of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, adapted for the luxury segment, emphasizing performance and technology.
Engine Mechanical:
Full rebuild procedures, component diagnostics, timing, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system.
Engine Management And Electrical:
ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, ignition system, fuel injection, emissions control, starter, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams.
Transmission Automatic:
Detailed repair, overhaul, fluid changes, torque converter, shift solenoids, electronic control unit.
Transmission Manual:
Not applicable for 2004 7 Series which were primarily automatic.
Suspension And Steering:
Active roll stabilization, self-leveling suspension (ALSS), power steering system, hydraulic components, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake system hydraulic components, caliper repair, rotor replacement, brake fluid specifications.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, structural repairs, door mechanisms, glass replacement, sound deadening, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Climate control system, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, heater core, actuators, diagnostics.
Interior Trim And Accessories:
Seat mechanisms, interior paneling, roof liner, dashboard components, infotainment system integration.
Electrical Systems And Comfort Electronics:
Complex i-bus/K-bus architecture, LCM (Light Module Control), GM (Gateway Module), PDC (Park Distance Control), central locking, power windows, lighting systems, navigation, audio.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection, brake pad wear checks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for all major systems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, replacement, and reassembly.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Specific procedures for using diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, ISTA), reading fault memory, live data analysis, component activation tests.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and specific wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including component locations and connector pinouts.
Depth:
Complete, dealership-level technical information covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, and advanced electronic system diagnostics.
Engine Codes 2004:
N62B40 (4.0L V8), N62B44 (4.4L V8), N62B48 (4.8L V8)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 255 hp (4.0L) to 360 hp (4.8L)
Torque Range:
Approx. 295 lb-ft (4.0L) to 360 lb-ft (4.8L)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Double VANOS variable valve timing.
Cylinder Block Material:
Aluminum
Valve Train:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder.
Spark Plug Type:
Bosch FGR7KQE0U (or equivalent)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star (for models tested)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models tested, typically with specific equipment)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with integrated ABS, Traction Control (ASC+T).
Braking System:
4-wheel ventilated disc brakes, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.
Lighting:
Bi-Xenon Headlights with Adaptive (cornering) Headlights, front and rear fog lights.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver/passenger), front side-impact airbags, head protection system (curtains) for front and rear occupants.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters for all seating positions.
Chassis Structure:
High-strength steel safety cage, crumple zones.
System Name:
iDrive (first generation)
Features:
Central control knob and buttons, 6.5-inch or optional 8.8-inch LCD screen, navigation, radio, CD player, optional TV tuner, optional Logic7 audio system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go function.
Parking Assistance:
Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear, optional rearview camera.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth phone integration.
Seats:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory, optional heated and ventilated front seats, optional lumbar support, optional comfort seats with multiple adjustments, active comfort seats.
Climate Control:
Automatic dual-zone or quad-zone climate control, active charcoal filters.
Oil Service:
Condition Based Service (CBS), typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality sensor readings.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles for most N62 engines.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-01 FE (LL-01 FE) synthetic oil, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 0W-40 depending on climate and specific engine variant.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 - 8.5 liters (depending on engine variant)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 type)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11S (or equivalent hydraulic fluid)
Common Electrical Faults:
Water ingress into LCM (Light Module Control), tailgate wiring harness fatigue, EWS (Immobilizer) issues, PDC sensor failures.
Common Engine Issues:
Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, cooling system leaks (especially hoses and expansion tank), thermostat housing failure, oil separation system (CCV) issues.
Common Suspension Issues:
Failure of self-leveling rear suspension (air springs), worn control arm bushings, power steering leaks.
Common Transmission Issues:
Mechatronics unit issues, torque converter shudder, transmission control module (TCM) failure.
Common HVAC Issues:
Blend door actuator failures, HVAC blower motor issues, refrigerant leaks.
Brand Identity:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is renowned for its focus on driving pleasure, engineering excellence, and luxury vehicles.
Predecessor:
BMW 7 Series (E38)
Generation Introduction:
The E65/E66 generation debuted in 2001 (for the 2002 model year) and represented a significant departure in styling and technology from the E38.
Production Period E65 E66:
2001-2008
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany.
E67 E68 Purpose:
E67 was the armored/protection version, and E68 was a limited-production hydrogen fuel cell vehicle.