🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

ActiveHybrid 5

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

F10

Powertrain Code:

ActiveHybrid

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Mid-size Sedan, Premium Hybrid

Competitors:

Lexus GS 450h, Mercedes-Benz E 350 Hybrid (where available), Porsche Panamera Hybrid (higher segment)

Differentiation:

BMW's signature driving dynamics combined with efficient hybrid technology, advanced materials, and premium interior.

Powertrain Strategy:

Combines a powerful turbocharged inline-six engine with an electric motor for enhanced performance and efficiency.

Chassis Dynamics:

Leverages BMW's renowned chassis tuning, including optional Adaptive Drive and Integral Active Steering for superior handling.

Luxury Appointments:

High-quality interior materials, advanced infotainment, and premium comfort features expected of the BMW brand.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair

Pages:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive digital service manuals)

Type:

Official Licensed Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software/PDF (implied by 'online in the blink of an eye')

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Internal Combustion Engine (N55B30A), Electric Drive Unit, Hybrid Battery System, Power Electronics, Cooling Systems (Engine & Hybrid Components), Fuel System, Exhaust System

Drivetrain:

8-speed Automatic Transmission (ZF 8HP70), Driveshafts, Differentials, AWD System (if applicable)

Chassis:

Suspension (Adaptive Drive, Electronic Damper Control), Steering (Servotronic, Integral Active Steering), Brakes (ABS, DSC, Regenerative Braking), Wheels and Tires

Electrical:

Complete vehicle electrical system, Battery Management System (including high-voltage), Charging System, Starter Generator, Lighting Systems (LED, Xenon), Infotainment System, Navigation System, Instrument Cluster, Body Control Modules (BCM), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Driver Assistance Systems (ACC, Lane Departure Warning, etc.), Comfort Systems (HVAC, Seat Modules)

Body:

Body structure, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Exterior trim, Interior trim, Seating systems, HVAC components, Soundproofing

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Brake fluid flush, Coolant flush, Hybrid battery coolant service, Inspection procedures

Repair:

Engine component repair and replacement, Transmission overhaul, Hybrid system component diagnosis and repair, Electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, Suspension and steering component repair, Brake system service and repair, Body panel repair and replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation, Component testing procedures, Wiring diagrams, Diagnostic tool usage (ISTA/D)

Specifications:

Torque specifications, Fluid capacities and types, Electrical specifications, Component dimensions, Performance data

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic maintenance and fluid checks to complex electrical diagnostics, hybrid system repair, and complete engine/transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagrams and step-by-step instructions suitable for professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Digital Software (likely executable or web-based accessed via license key), PDF

Quality:

High-resolution digital images, clear diagrams, searchable text

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

N55B30A

Engine Type:

3.0L Twin-Scroll Turbocharged Inline 6-cylinder with Valvetronic and VANOS

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 90.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Displacement:

2979 cc (3.0 Liters)

Combined Horsepower:

335 hp (250 kW) @ 5800-6000 rpm

Combined Torque:

330 lb-ft (450 Nm) @ 1300-4500 rpm

Electric Motor Power:

55 hp (40 kW)

Electric Motor Torque:

155 lb-ft (210 Nm)

Battery Type:

Lithium-ion

Fuel Delivery:

Direct Injection (High Pressure)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

8-speed Automatic with Steptronic and ECO PRO mode

Transmission Manufacturer:

ZF Friedrichshafen

Transmission Model:

8HP70

Hybrid Integration:

Integrated electric motor within transmission housing, allowing for electric-only driving, power assist, and regenerative braking.

Gear Ratios:

Detailed ratios available in manual (e.g., 1st: 4.714, 2nd: 3.143, 3rd: 2.106, 4th: 1.667, 5th: 1.285, 6th: 1.000, 7th: 0.839, 8th: 0.667, Reverse: 3.546)

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW Longlife-01 or equivalent (e.g., ATF L 1375.4)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

193.0 inches (4905 mm)

Width:

73.0 inches (1855 mm)

Height:

58.1 inches (1476 mm)

Wheelbase:

116.9 inches (2970 mm)

Front Headroom:

38.3 inches (973 mm)

Rear Headroom:

37.6 inches (955 mm)

Front Legroom:

40.7 inches (1034 mm)

Rear Legroom:

35.3 inches (897 mm)

Trunk Volume:

14.0 cu ft (396 L) (combined with hybrid components)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,200 - 4,300 lbs (1905 - 1950 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5,400 lbs (2450 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star (for similar F10 models, specific ActiveHybrid 5 ratings may vary or not be available)

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC)

Braking Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Regenerative Braking System

Driver Assistance:

Optional: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Active Blind Spot Detection, Surround View Camera

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Side-impact airbags (front and rear), Head protection system (front and rear, curtain airbags)

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, Active Head Restraints

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

System Name:

BMW iDrive (CCC or CIC generation, depending on specific build)

Features:

Navigation system, Radio (AM/FM/Satellite), CD/DVD player, USB/Auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth connectivity (phone and audio streaming), Voice command system, Optional: Enhanced Bluetooth with USB and smartphone integration.

Systems:

Parking Assistant, Surround View cameras, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Active Protection (pre-crash safety system).

Connectivity Features:

BMW ConnectedDrive services (potentially subscription-based for certain features), remote services via smartphone app (e.g., locking/unlocking, climate control preconditioning).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Consult manual for exact CBS triggers.

Brake Fluid Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Interval:

Approximately every 60,000 miles (check specific ignition coil and spark plug health indicators).

Engine Air Filter:

Check every 30,000 miles, replace as needed based on condition.

Cabin Air Filter:

Check every 15,000-20,000 miles, replace as needed.

Hybrid Battery Coolant:

BMW recommends inspection and potential replacement based on vehicle mileage and condition, typically around 60,000-100,000 miles. Specific interval detailed in the manual.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 FE (SAE 0W-30) or BMW Longlife-04 (SAE 0W-30/5W-30) depending on market and specific engine variant. Always verify with manual.

Coolant:

BMW Blue antifreeze (G48 or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid:

BMW DOT 4 HP

Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF L 1375.4 or equivalent (for 8HP70 transmission)

Hybrid System:

Potential issues with hybrid battery degradation over time, power electronics module failure, or issues with the integrated electric motor. Diagnosis requires specialized tools and knowledge.

Engine:

N55 engine can experience vacuum leaks (disa valve, intake manifold gaskets), carbon buildup on intake valves, and potential turbocharger issues if not properly maintained.

Electrical:

Water ingress in certain modules (e.g., BCM), battery drain issues due to parasitic draw, and sensor failures are not uncommon in complex modern vehicles.

Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, strut mount failures, and issues with the adaptive suspension system (e.g., EDC module faults) can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW, a globally recognized German luxury automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles with a focus on driving pleasure and engineering excellence.

Platform:

Based on the F10 generation BMW 5 Series sedan, introduced in 2010.

Introduction:

The ActiveHybrid 5 was launched as part of BMW's 'EfficientDynamics' strategy to offer more fuel-efficient alternatives without compromising performance.

Hybrid Strategy:

Employed a full-hybrid system, allowing for electric-only driving at lower speeds, coasting, and enhanced acceleration.

Production Years:

2011-2016 (for F10 platform)

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing Plant, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Awards:

While specific awards for the ActiveHybrid 5 are less publicized than core models, the F10 5 Series platform received numerous accolades for its luxury, performance, and technology from publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and various European automotive media.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

EPA estimates for the 2012 model were around 22 MPG city / 28 MPG highway / 24 MPG combined, reflecting its hybrid powertrain efficiency.

Emissions Certifications:

Compliant with relevant US EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year.