🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

X5

Generation Code:

E70

Model Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

E70

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Mid-size SUV (Sports Activity Vehicle - SAV by BMW)

Brand Perception:

Premium, performance-oriented, technologically advanced.

Primary Competitors:

Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz M-Class (W164), Lexus RX, Porsche Cayenne.

Design Philosophy:

Dynamic handling, premium interior, advanced technology, versatile cargo and passenger space.

Innovations:

Optional third-row seating, advanced xDrive all-wheel-drive system, iDrive infotainment controller.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All models and all repairs A-Z

Vehicle Specificity:

Vehicle specific, not generic

Target Audience:

Dealership technicians

Estimated Pages:

Varies significantly by specific model variant and included engine options, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive coverage.

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Digital (PDF/Electronic format) for dealership use, potentially printable. Actual product might be a compilation of official BMW workshop manuals.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, component testing, and specifications for all available engine variants (e.g., N52B30, N55B30, N62B48, M62B44, diesel variants like M57).

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 6HP26, ZF 8HP series), manual transmission (less common in E70), transfer case, differentials; includes diagnostics, fluid services, seal replacement, control module troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

All-wheel drive (xDrive) system, driveshafts, axles, wheel bearings, hub assemblies.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers/struts, adaptive suspension systems (e.g., EDC), air suspension (optional), steering system (hydraulic/electric power steering), alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications, pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, parking brake system, regenerative braking (if applicable).

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, battery service, alternator, starter, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, mirrors, seats, door locks, central locking.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, tailgate operation, interior trim, soundproofing, rust prevention, body repair guidelines.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, climate control, heater core, evaporator, refrigerant handling, blower motor, ductwork, diagnostic procedures.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel tank, emissions control systems (e.g., EVAP).

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, oxygen sensors, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system (diesel).

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, impact sensors, related control modules.

Infotainment And Electronics:

iDrive system, navigation, audio system, Bluetooth, instrument cluster, head-up display (HUD), parking sensors, rearview camera, sensor diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, battery check.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system fault finding, mechanical component diagnostics.

Repair:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, electrical component replacement, body panel repair, interior component replacement.

Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic routines for all major systems, using diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D), sensor testing, actuator testing.

Installation:

Component replacement procedures (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, turbocharger), accessory installation (if covered).

Calibration:

Steering angle sensor calibration, ride height sensor calibration (for adaptive suspension), adaptive headlight calibration.

Programming:

Control module programming and coding (requires specialized BMW software and hardware, though manual will detail the necessity and procedures).

Depth:

Comprehensive and detailed, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex component overhauls and electrical diagnostics, equivalent to factory workshop manuals.

Detail Level:

Specific torque specifications, assembly sequences, measurement tolerances, electrical schematics, exploded views, and component identification.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Digital (PDF) is most common for this type of manual, offering searchability and easy access.

Quality:

High-resolution, clear text and diagrams suitable for professional use. If printed, it would be on quality paper.

Binding:

N/A for digital format. If a physical copy, typically a robust comb or spiral binding for ease of use in a workshop, or a perfect bound format.

Paper:

N/A for digital format. If physical, typically heavier weight paper to withstand workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2008:

3.0L Inline-6 (N52B30), 4.8L V8 (N62B48), 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 (N55B30 - introduced later in the year or for 2009 MY, but variants exist), 3.0L Turbocharged Diesel (M57D30).

3.0L I6 (N52B30) Power:

Approx. 255 hp @ 6600 rpm

3.0L I6 (N52B30) Torque:

Approx. 236 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm

4.8L V8 (N62B48) Power:

Approx. 350 hp @ 6300 rpm

4.8L V8 (N62B48) Torque:

Approx. 350 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm

3.0L Diesel (M57D30) Power:

Approx. 231 hp @ 4000 rpm

3.0L Diesel (M57D30) Torque:

Approx. 383 lb-ft @ 1750-3000 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Direct Injection (some variants), Port Injection (others). Electronic throttle control.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane recommended for gasoline engines), Diesel Fuel (for diesel variants).

ECU:

Advanced Engine Control Units (ECUs) managing fuel, ignition, emissions, and ancillaries.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 6HP26)

Transmission Type Optional:

Rarely, manual transmission (check specific market/model for availability).

Drivetrain Configuration:

Standard xDrive All-Wheel Drive (permanently engaged, torque-sensing).

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by engine/transmission pairing, detailed in the manual.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Specific to transmission type (e.g., ATF LT-3 for ZF 6HP series). Consult manual for exact BMW part number and specifications.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 191.1 inches (4854 mm)

Width:

Approx. 76.1 inches (1933 mm)

Height:

Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 115.6 inches (2938 mm)

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 (optional third row)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 25.7 cu ft (728 L)

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 75.2 cu ft (2130 L)

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine, approx. 4,600 - 5,000+ lbs (2087 - 2268+ kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 6,000 lbs (2722 kg) with optional towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for driver and passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

5-Star (for front and rear passengers)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes, Top Safety Pick for its year.

Stability Control:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC).

Brake Assist:

Standard.

All Wheel Drive:

Standard xDrive.

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Standard.

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, head protection system (curtain airbags for all rows).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with automatic tensioners and force limiters for all seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW iDrive system (CCC or CIC depending on specific build date and options). Includes navigation, radio, CD/DVD player, auxiliary input, Bluetooth.

Display:

Central color LCD display (7 or 8.8 inches depending on iDrive version).

Parking Assistance:

Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear, optional rearview camera.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go function.

Lighting:

Xenon Adaptive Headlights, automatic headlight control, fog lights.

Bluetooth:

Standard Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, often with music streaming capabilities (via extended functionality or specific options).

Usb Aux:

Auxiliary audio input standard, USB interface often optional or part of a package for music playback and iPod integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Consult the manual for exact recommendations based on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles, or as needed based on air quality and CBS. Cabin filter: 15,000-20,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Gasoline engines: 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., iridium). Diesel engines: Glow plugs as needed.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage. BMW specifies DOT 4 Low Viscosity brake fluid.

Transmission Service:

BMW's official stance was 'lifetime' for many transmissions, but expert recommendations and independent research suggest fluid and filter changes every 60,000-80,000 miles. Manual will detail BMW's procedure or lack thereof.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) for diesel. Specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 0W-40) depends on engine and climate. Consult manual for precise specs and BMW part numbers.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48). Do not mix with other types. 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

CHF 11S (for hydraulic systems). Check if electric power steering is present on specific models.

Common Problems Gasoline:

Valve stem seals (N62 V8), oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS solenoids, cooling system leaks (water pump, thermostat, hoses), ignition coil failures, eccentric shaft sensor failures.

Common Problems Diesel:

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration issues, glow plug failures, EGR cooler failures, turbocharger issues, exhaust gas temperature sensor failures.

Common Problems General:

Xenon headlight leveling sensor failures, power tailgate malfunctions, iDrive controller issues, battery drain due to parasitic draw, fuel pump failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw History:

Founded in 1916, BMW is renowned for its luxury vehicles, performance engineering, and motorsport success. Pioneer in automotive innovation and driving dynamics.

X5 Lineage:

The E70 represents the second generation of the BMW X5, introduced in 2006 as a successor to the E53. It marked a significant evolution in design, technology, and platform.

E70 Launch:

The E70 generation debuted with a larger, more refined platform, improved handling, and more advanced features, including optional third-row seating and the iDrive system.

Production Years:

2007-2013 (for the E70 generation).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary assembly in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Consistently received high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, often earning 'Top Safety Pick' accolades.

Design Awards:

While not always specific awards, the E70 was lauded for its upscale interior and refined styling within its segment.

Consumer Reports:

Received mixed reliability ratings historically, with specific model years and engine options showing greater propensity for issues compared to others. The manual is crucial for understanding and addressing these.