Segment:
Mid-size luxury sport sedan/wagon
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Cadillac CTS
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned BMW handling, balanced chassis, xDrive all-wheel drive system
Luxury Appointments:
High-quality interior materials, comfortable ride, advanced technology for its era
Powertrain:
Engine (N52B25), Transmission (6-speed automatic/manual), Drivetrain (xDrive All-Wheel Drive)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Engine management, Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC controls, Power accessories, Body electronics, CAN Bus systems
Body:
Exterior body panels, Interior trim, Doors, Glass, Seats, Safety systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Fluid checks and top-offs
Repair:
Engine component overhaul, Transmission repair, Brake system servicing, Suspension component replacement, Electrical system diagnostics and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Symptom-based diagnosis, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Component testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and component specifications.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2497 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
82 mm x 78.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves, Double VANOS, Valvetronic
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
180 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME9.0)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91 AKI or higher recommended)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GA6HP-19Z)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual (GS6-37BZ)
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive with Electronic Torque Distribution
Automatic Features:
Adaptive Transmission Control, Manual shifting mode (Steptronic)
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
Good (2005 model year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2005 model year)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with integrated ABS and Traction Control
Braking System:
Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Front, front-side impact, and side-curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
System Name:
iDrive (first generation)
Features:
Central LCD display, Controller dial for navigation, audio, climate, and vehicle settings. Optional navigation, premium audio systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).
Advanced Features:
Adaptive Xenon Headlights, Parking Distance Control (PDC), Cruise Control.
Optional Features:
Bluetooth hands-free interface, SIRIUS Satellite Radio.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable: Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (regardless of mileage)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles for iridium plugs, check manual for specifics.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 or LL-04 approved). Capacity: 6.5 liters (approx. 6.9 US quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48). Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: 8.0 liters (approx. 8.5 US quarts).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF LifeguardFluid 6 (LF-6). Capacity: Varies by service (fill to specified level, approx. 7-9 liters for complete drain/fill).
Differential Fluid Rear:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil. Capacity: 1.0 liter (approx. 1.05 US quarts).
Common Problems:
Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues, coolant leaks (thermostat housing, water pump), power steering leaks, fuel pump failure, ignition coil failures, ABS/DSC sensor issues, window regulator failures.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E60 Introduction:
The E60 generation of the 5 Series debuted for the 2004 model year in North America, replacing the E39 generation.
X Drive Introduction:
The xDrive all-wheel-drive system was introduced to the 5 Series lineup during the E60 generation, offering enhanced traction and stability.
Manufacturing Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany (primary)
