E39 Market Segment:
Executive/Luxury Mid-size Sedan and Wagon
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS (JZS160), Jaguar S-Type.
E39 Highlights:
Renowned for its driving dynamics, sophisticated engineering, refined interior, and robust build quality. Introduced advanced technologies for its era, including CAN bus architecture.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, BMW dealerships, and owners seeking in-depth technical knowledge.
PDF Searchability:
Enables rapid location of specific procedures or components by searching keywords (e.g., 'timing chain', 'brake fluid change', 'ignition coil').
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (DME), transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, drive shafts, differentials, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, DSC), wheels, tires.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, engine control modules (ECU), transmission control modules (TCM), comfort electronics, audio systems, navigation systems, body control modules (BCM).
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, airbags, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), interior trim, sound insulation, exterior trim, bumpers, body sealant, corrosion protection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, tire rotation and balancing.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system diagnostics, component testing.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper rebuilding, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair and replacement, interior component repair.
Special Procedures:
Special tools and equipment requirements, torque specifications, alignment procedures, diagnostic connector locations, ECU programming and coding, airbag system service.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting Flowcharts:
Often includes structured troubleshooting flowcharts based on symptoms to guide technicians effectively.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, detailed instructions suitable for professional technicians, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Electrical Diagrams:
Includes detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, crucial for diagnosing electrical faults.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, ensuring readability of text, diagrams, and images. Searchable text for efficient information retrieval.
Accessibility:
Accessible on computers, tablets, and smartphones, making it convenient for use in a workshop or garage.
Printability:
Designed for easy printing of individual sections or the entire manual. Optimized for clear black and white or color printing.
Digital Format:
Not applicable (digital PDF format)
Digital Format:
Not applicable (digital PDF format)
Engine Variants Covered:
Includes engines such as M52 (2.5L, 2.8L inline-6), M54 (2.2L, 2.5L, 3.0L inline-6), M62 (4.4L V8), and S62 (4.9L V8 - M5).
Typical Horsepower Range:
168 hp (2.0L) to 394 hp (4.9L S62)
Typical Torque Range:
245 Nm (2.0L) to 520 Nm (4.9L S62)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI), Electronic throttle control (ETC) on later models.
ECU System:
Bosch Motronic (e.g., ME7.2 for V8, MS43/MS45 for inline-6) and Siemens DME.
Block Material:
Aluminum alloy (most variants)
Head Material:
Aluminum alloy
Valve Train:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on most engines.
IIHS Ratings:
Generally rated 'Good' in frontal offset crash tests by IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) for its era.
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) standard on many models, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) optional or standard on higher trims/later models.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. Optional DSC integrated braking functions.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags and head airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters for front seats.
Navigation System:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation System with CD-ROM based maps.
Audio System:
Optional Harman Kardon audio system, CD player, cassette player, radio.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Parking Assistance:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) sensors (front and rear).
Telematics:
Optional telematics systems (e.g., BMW Assist) using analog or early digital cellular networks.
Headlights:
Halogen projector headlights standard, Xenon headlights with automatic leveling optional (from 2000 facelift onwards).
Oil Change Interval Typical:
Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (15,000-25,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Typical:
60,000 miles (100,000 km) for platinum plugs, varies for iridium plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
API SL or higher, ACEA A3/B4, BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., Castrol Syntec 5W-30, 0W-30, 5W-40 depending on climate and engine).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based) with distilled water (50/50 mix).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ZF LifeguardFluid 5 (for 5HP19/5HP24) or equivalent ATF Dexron III/VI.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4 Plus.
Common E39 Failures:
Cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), VANOS system (solenoid seals, rattle), CCV system (crankcase ventilation), oil pan gasket leaks, window regulator failures, ignition coil failures, ABS/ASC sensor issues, headlight leveling actuators.
Ccd Sensor Failure:
Commonly known as 'ABS/ASC' light illumination due to failing wheel speed sensors or ABS control module faults.
Bmw Brand Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on performance, engineering, and driver engagement.
E39 Introduction:
Launched in 1995 in Europe and 1996 in North America, succeeding the E34 5 Series. Known for its significant chassis advancements and improved aerodynamics.
E39 Facelift:
Facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) introduced in 2000, featuring updated headlights (angel eyes), taillights, bumpers, and interior refinements.
Production Period:
1995-2003 (sedan), 1997-2004 (Touring/wagon)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in other BMW plants worldwide.
