Segment:
Executive Luxury Sedan
Brand Perception:
BMW's reputation for driving dynamics and build quality
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type
Design Philosophy:
Balanced performance, luxury, and sophisticated engineering
Target Audience:
Affluent professionals seeking a blend of performance and comfort
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive vehicle service, repair, and maintenance
Technical Depth:
Covers complete disassembly and reassembly
Page Count:
Not explicitly stated, but described as 'every single detail'
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Printability:
Full Printable
Viewing Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader
Extraction Requirements:
WinZip (or similar archive utility)
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine:
Detailed information on the M52B25 inline-six engine, including diagnostics, repair, and overhaul
Fuel System:
Fuel delivery, injectors, fuel pump, pressure regulation, and diagnostics
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and coolant specifications
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, coils, ECU control, and troubleshooting
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, piping, and emissions control components
Transmission:
Coverage for both manual (Getrag 250G) and automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S440Z) transmissions, including service and repair
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, CV joints, differential, and rear axle assembly
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including springs, dampers, control arms, and bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake fluid specifications, and service procedures
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, and body electronics
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, climate control unit, and service
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, and chassis components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems and fault codes
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems
Rebuilding:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and testing procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical data
Depth Level:
In-depth technical procedures suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 90.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Horsepower:
189 hp @ 5900 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
236 Nm (174 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic ME 7.0/7.2
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, API SJ/SL or BMW LL-01 approved
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 250G)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (GM A5S360R or A5S440Z)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting capability)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 GL-4 or GL-5 synthetic gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III H or BMW ETL-7045E/8072B
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts) for dry fill, service refill ~4.5 Liters
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Generally good for its era, though specific ratings may vary by country and testing body.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Asc:
Optional/Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) - Traction control and stability enhancement
Traction Control:
Traction control system integrated with ABS and engine management
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cell with energy-absorbing crumple zones
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation System (MK III or MK IV)
Audio System:
BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, optional Harman Kardon sound system
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with cabin air filter
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park distance control (PDC)
Phone Integration:
Optional BMW Assist telematics and Bluetooth preparation (on later models)
Oil Change Interval:
Variable depending on driving conditions and BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or 1 year
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for long-life iridium plugs (if fitted), or per manual recommendations.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 2-3 years or as recommended by BMW, depending on coolant type.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW approved hydraulic fluid, e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or Dexron III (check vehicle specifics).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 in some earlier applications)
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank and radiator hoses are prone to cracking with age; water pump impeller can degrade.
Vanos:
Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) seals can degrade, leading to rough idle, loss of power, and fuel economy issues.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket are common leak points.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings, sway bar links, and tie rod ends are wear items.
Electrical:
Power window regulators, LCM (Light Module Control), and ABS wheel speed sensors can fail.
Brand Focus:
BMW's long-standing reputation for performance-oriented luxury vehicles
E39 Introduction:
Introduced in 1995 (for the 1996 model year) in Europe, later in North America. The E39 replaced the E34 5 Series.
E39 Facelift:
Received a significant facelift in 2000, including updated headlights, taillights, bumpers, and interior refinements.
E39 Generation Significance:
The E39 generation is often praised for its excellent balance of ride comfort, handling, and build quality, marking a significant step forward from its predecessor.
Production Period:
1995-2003 (globally)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in various other locations worldwide.
