Market Segment:
Executive Sedan / Luxury Mid-size Sedan
Bmw Positioning:
The E39 5 Series was positioned as a premium sports sedan offering a balance of luxury, performance, and advanced technology, competing with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W210 E-Class, Audi A6 C5, Lexus GS, Volvo S80.
Chassis Design:
Advanced chassis design with extensive use of aluminum components for weight reduction and improved handling.
Handling Dynamics:
Renowned for its 'ultimate driving machine' dynamics, featuring excellent steering feel, chassis balance, and suspension tuning.
Technology Integration:
Early adoption of integrated electronic systems, including CAN bus communication, advanced infotainment, and optional driver aids.
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnostics, component testing, and repair procedures for DME (Digital Motor Electronics) systems, including sensors, actuators, and fuel injection.
Transmission Control:
Covers both manual and automatic transmissions (e.g., GM 5L40-E, ZF 5HP19, ZF 5HP24), including shift solenoids, valve bodies, and TCU (Transmission Control Unit) diagnostics.
Suspension Components:
Includes detailed procedures for struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, ball joints, sway bars, and suspension diagnostics.
Steering Systems:
Covers hydraulic power steering systems, steering racks, tie rods, and steering column adjustments.
Brake System Components:
Detailed coverage of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid service, caliper replacement, rotor machining/replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Climate Control:
Includes diagnosis and repair for HVAC systems, automatic climate control, blower motor, evaporator core, condenser, and refrigerant handling.
Body Electrical:
Covers lighting systems, power windows, central locking, mirrors, seats, door modules, and interior trim removal/installation.
Infotainment Audio:
May include basic troubleshooting for the factory radio, CD changer, and speaker systems.
Instrument Cluster:
Diagnosis and repair of the instrument cluster, including warning lights, gauges, and OBC (On-Board Computer).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, and fluid checks.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for common and uncommon problems, including symptom identification and fault code interpretation.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing wear items and major components like alternators, starters, water pumps, radiators, and fuel pumps.
Rebuild Procedures:
In-depth procedures for engine internal repairs, transmission overhauls, and differential rebuilds where applicable.
Electrical Repairs:
Detailed wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, and procedures for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults.
Body Panel Removal:
Instructions for removing and reinstalling bumpers, fenders, doors, hoods, and trunk lids.
HVAC System Servicing:
Refrigerant charging, leak detection, component replacement (compressor, expansion valve), and blower motor service.
Safety Systems Service:
Airbag system precautions and replacement procedures, ABS sensor testing, and DSC component diagnosis.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes and component replacement to full engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical diagnostics.
Special Tools Required:
Yes, lists and often illustrates special tools required for specific procedures (e.g., timing chain tensioner tools, suspension alignment tools).
Torque Specifications:
Includes detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners across various systems.
Clearances Tolerances:
Provides critical measurements and tolerances for engine components, brake systems, and suspension parts.
Engine Options:
M52TU (Inline-6), M62TU (V8), S62 (V8 - for M5 model).
Engine Codes Examples:
M52TUB25 (2.5L), M52TUB28 (2.8L), M62TUB44 (4.4L), M62TUB35 (3.5L), S62B50 (5.0L).
Horsepower Range:
189 hp (2.5L) to 400 hp (M5 5.0L).
Torque Range:
245 Nm (2.5L) to 500 Nm (M5 5.0L).
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-point fuel injection (MFI), Electronic throttle control (ETC) on later models and V8s.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 280/5 for most models).
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E, ZF 5HP19, ZF 5HP24 - depending on engine).
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting mode) on most automatic transmissions.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent recommended by manufacturer). Specifics vary by transmission type.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4/GL-5 or manufacturer-specific gear oil (e.g., BMW Manual Transmission Fluid MTF LT-2). Specifics vary by transmission.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used. BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system would monitor this.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40, depending on engine and climate.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based).
Power Steering Fluid:
CHF 11S hydraulic fluid (Pentosin).
Cooling System:
Common issues include thermostat housing leaks, water pump failure, and radiator cracks. The plastic coolant expansion tank can also become brittle.
Vanos:
Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system can develop leaks in seals, leading to rough idle and power loss. This is particularly true for the Double VANOS on M52TU engines.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gasket leaks are common due to age and heat.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in window regulators can break, causing windows to fall into the door.
Suspension Bushings:
Control arm bushings, thrust arm bushings, and subframe bushings can wear out, leading to sloppy handling and noise.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
These sensors are prone to failure, triggering ABS and DSC warning lights.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
Can become dirty or fail, leading to poor engine performance and check engine lights.