Market Segment:
Executive Sedan
Brand Perception:
Luxury, performance, engineering excellence.
Primary Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type.
Powertrain Emphasis:
Powerful V8 engine, refined handling, advanced technology.
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking performance, luxury, and advanced engineering.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to maintain and repair the vehicle effectively.
Engine System:
Full engine diagnostics, repair, overhaul, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition.
Transmission System:
Automatic transmission (e.g., GM 5L475-N/5HP24) repair, overhaul, fluid changes, diagnostics.
Drivetrain System:
Driveshafts, differentials, axle shafts, U-joints, wheel bearings.
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, alignment procedures.
Brake System:
Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC, brake pads, rotors, calipers, fluid replacement, bleeding.
Steering System:
Power steering, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, interior electronics.
HVAC System:
Climate control, A/C system, heater core, blower motor, diagnostic procedures.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, structural components, corrosion protection.
Diagnostic Systems:
OBD-II diagnostics, fault code interpretation, sensor testing, module communication.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic fault diagnosis for common and uncommon issues with step-by-step instructions.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, including connector views.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, component measurements for accurate repairs.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for all electronic modules and sensors.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification of necessary special tools for specific procedures.
Engine Configuration:
4.4-liter, 32-valve, V8
Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
Approx. 325 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Engine Control Unit:
Siemens MS43 or similar (specific to model year and region)
Transmission Type Standard:
6-speed manual (Less common for 545i, but available)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed automatic (e.g., GM 5L475-N / 5HP24)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting capability)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent like Pentosin ATF1)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star (for 2004 model year typically)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for 2004 model year typically)
Active Safety Systems:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), ABS, Brake Assist.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, active head restraints.
Infotainment System:
iDrive system (Car Communication Computer - CCC)
Navigation:
Optional professional navigation system with DVD-ROM maps.
Audio System:
Available premium sound systems like Logic 7.
Driver Assistance Features:
Park Distance Control (PDC), optional Adaptive Headlights, optional Rain Sensor, optional Auto-dimming mirrors.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth preparation (optional), voice control preparation (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 miles or 24,000 km (with synthetic oil), or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for iridium spark plugs.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, 5W-30 or 0W-30 recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters)
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Pentosin CHF 11 S or BMW Power Steering Fluid
Common Issues Engine:
Valve stem seals degradation (oil consumption), VANOS solenoid failures, eccentric shaft sensor failures, coolant expansion tank leaks, oil separator issues.
Common Issues Transmission:
Mechatronic unit failures in automatic transmissions, torque converter issues.
Common Issues Electronics:
CCC/iDrive system glitches, headlight condensation, ABS/DSC module failures.
Common Issues Suspension:
Control arm bushing wear, rear subframe bushings, strut mount failures.
