Segment:
Luxury Mid-size Sedan/Wagon
Target Audience:
BMW owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts seeking detailed repair information for the E60/E61 platform.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Volvo S80.
Drivetrain:
xDrive all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and stability.
Engine:
Smooth and powerful naturally aspirated inline-six engine.
Accuracy:
Officially licensed, ensuring accuracy and adherence to BMW's service standards.
Accessibility:
Digital format provides quick access and search capabilities, superior to older printed manuals.
Powertrain:
Engine (N52B30), Transmission (GA6HP19Z Automatic), Drivetrain (xDrive AWD system)
Chassis:
Suspension (front double-wishbone, rear integral-link), Steering (Servotronic II), Brakes (ABS, DSC, EBD, ventilated discs)
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Instrument Cluster, Lighting, Power Accessories, SRS Airbag System, Infotainment System (iDrive)
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, climate control
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, inspections), fluid level checks and top-offs
Repair:
Engine component repair/replacement, transmission service, brake system repair, suspension and steering component replacement, electrical diagnostics and component replacement, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for various systems, wiring diagrams
Technical Data:
Torque specifications, alignment specifications, component identification, special tool requirements
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to detailed engine and transmission overhauls, including complex electrical diagnostics and body repair.
File Type:
Digital Software (likely self-contained or PDF-based)
Searchability:
High (typical for software-based manuals, allowing keyword searches)
Printable:
Yes (standard for service manuals)
Visuals:
Detailed diagrams, illustrations, and schematics
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital)
Paper Quality:
Not Applicable (Digital)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
2996 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
85 mm x 88 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Horsepower:
255 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque:
235 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (Coil-on-Plug)
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, Secondary Air Injection System
Transmission Type:
6-speed Automatic (GA6HP19Z)
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Optional Transmission:
None for 525xi in 2006
Transmission Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting mode), Adaptive Transmission Control (ATC)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (Shell M-1375.4 specification, Dexron III compatible in emergencies but not recommended for long-term)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8-10 liters (dry fill)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Lighting:
Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional), Automatic Headlight Control
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver/passenger), Side-impact airbags (front), Head protection system (front and rear curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with automatic tensioners and force limiters
Child Safety:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system, Child Safety Locks
Infotainment System:
iDrive system (CCC - Car Communication Computer)
Display:
Central 8.8-inch LCD display
Audio:
AM/FM/CD player, optional Sirius Satellite Radio, Logic 7 premium audio system.
Parking Assistance:
Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear sensors
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control; Active Cruise Control (ACC) optional
Lighting Features:
Adaptive Xenon headlights, welcome light feature
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth phone connectivity with integrated microphone.
Usb Aux:
Auxiliary audio input jack; USB port typically available on later revisions or as an accessory.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, dependent on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace as needed (often recommended around 50,000-60,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace as needed (often recommended around 30,000-40,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace approximately every 100,000 miles (using Long Life Platinum or Iridium plugs).
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 viscosity.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts)
Common Problems Engine:
Valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS solenoid issues, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failures, ignition coil failures, cooling system leaks (water pump, thermostat housing).
Common Problems Transmission:
Mechatronic unit issues, torque converter problems, valve body issues (less common with GA6HP19Z than earlier models but possible).
Common Problems Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (thrust arm bushings) wear, rear shock absorber mounts, sway bar links.
Common Problems Electrical:
CCC/CIC iDrive system glitches, door module failures, headlight condensation, parking sensor failures.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, emphasizing performance, handling, and luxury.
E60 Introduction:
The E60 generation 5 Series replaced the E39 generation and was introduced globally starting in 2003. The 525xi variant was introduced for the 2006 model year, offering BMW's xDrive AWD system.
Production Period:
2003-2010 (E60/E61 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany; Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA (for North American market)