Vehicle Segment:
Executive Mid-size Luxury Sedan
Brand Perception:
Performance-oriented luxury, advanced engineering
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Infiniti M
Powertrain Highlight:
BMW's renowned naturally aspirated V8 engine
Chassis Technology:
Advanced aluminum construction for reduced weight and improved handling
Infotainment System:
Introduction of the iDrive system for integrated control of various functions
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine management (DME)
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (GM 5L475-N) diagnosis, overhaul, and servicing
Drivetrain Systems:
Driveshaft, differential, axles, hubs
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, strut replacement, control arms
Brake Systems:
Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC, brake pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures
Steering Systems:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, power accessories, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM)
Comfort Control Systems:
HVAC system, climate control, seat heating/ventilation
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, corrosion protection
Infotainment And Navigation:
iDrive system diagnosis and basic troubleshooting
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, replacement, and reassembly
Adjustment Procedures:
Wheel alignment, steering wheel centering, door adjustments
Testing Procedures:
Component testing, electrical circuit testing, sensor testing
Special Tool Usage:
Identification and application of specific BMW tools required for certain repairs
Depth Level:
Comprehensive - from routine maintenance to major component overhaul and diagnostics
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics including sensor data interpretation and component actuation
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed specifications and procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds
Software Type:
Proprietary Software Application
Accessibility:
Instant download, no physical shipping
Searchability:
Full-text searchable content for rapid information retrieval
Platform Compatibility:
Windows PC compatible (specify minimum OS version if known, otherwise generic)
Printability:
Pages can be printed for offline use or quick reference
Binding Method:
N/A (Digital Software)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Software)
Transmission Type:
GM 5L475-N 5-speed Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmission:
No manual transmission offered for 545i in this model year
Sport Mode:
Yes, with Steptronic manual shifting capability
Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW ATF LT-5 (refer to manual for specific part number)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 9.5 liters (refer to manual for exact capacity and filling procedure)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-star (for driver and front passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Rating:
5-star (for front and rear passengers)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with optional side airbags)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Brake Assist:
Yes, integrated with ABS/DSC
Anti Lock Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, available head protection system (curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Infotainment System:
BMW iDrive system with 6.5-inch or optional 8.8-inch central display
Audio System:
Standard HiFi System Professional; optional Logic7 audio system
Navigation:
Optional Professional Navigation System with DVD-based maps
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control; optional Active Cruise Control (ACC)
Parking Assistance:
Optional front and rear Park Distance Control (PDC)
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming; USB interface in later production runs or as an aftermarket add-on
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, dependent on driving conditions and oil quality sensor.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and interval)
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 synthetic oil (check manual for exact specifications)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation)
Common Engine Problems:
Coolant expansion tank leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, ignition coil failures, oil filter housing gasket leaks
Common Transmission Problems:
Mechatronic unit issues (rare), torque converter shudder (less common)
Common Electrical Problems:
Water pump failure (electric), headlight condensation, iDrive system glitches
Common Suspension Problems:
Control arm bushings, sway bar links, strut mount wear
Brand History:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German manufacturer of luxury and performance automobiles and motorcycles, founded in 1916.
E60 Generation Intro:
The E60 generation of the BMW 5 Series was introduced in 2003 (for the 2004 model year in North America), replacing the E39 generation.
545I Placement:
The 545i served as a potent mid-tier model in the E60 lineup, positioned above the 530i and below the performance-oriented M5.
Production Years E60:
2003-2010
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Dingolfing, Germany; also produced in other international locations.