Brand Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine, focus on performance, luxury, and technology
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Cadillac CTS, Jaguar XF
Design:
Modern, elegant styling with signature BMW kidney grille and Hofmeister kink
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced chassis, precise steering, and engaging driving experience
Technology Integration:
Advanced infotainment (iDrive), driver assistance systems, and connectivity features
Cost Saving:
Enables DIY repairs and maintenance, saving significant labor costs
Usability:
Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions and pictures enhance user experience
Market Coverage:
North America
Model Years Covered:
2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
Variants Covered:
All models, engines, trims, and transmission types
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Exact count not provided, but described as 'Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual')
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Digital Format:
Downloadable (PDF compatible)
Powertrain:
Engine (all variants), Transmission (automatic and manual), Drivetrain (RWD/xDrive)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes (including ABS/DSC), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), Infotainment, Lighting, Sensors, Wiring Diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, trim, seats, climate control, airbags
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)
Repair:
Component removal and installation, system overhauls, adjustments
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, alignment procedures, testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and major component repair
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions with pictures and diagrams
File Type:
Digital Download (likely PDF)
Software Requirement:
Adobe Reader (free download available)
Printability:
Printable (individual pages, chapters, or entire manual)
Image Quality:
High quality images and diagrams
Binding:
Not Applicable (Downloadable)
Paper Quality:
Not Applicable (Downloadable)
Engine Codes Covered:
N52 (3.0L I6), N55 (3.0L Turbo I6), N63 (4.4L Twin-Turbo V8), B58 (3.0L Turbo I6 - later models within range)
528I Engine:
3.0L Naturally Aspirated I6 (N52B30), 230 hp @ 6600 rpm, 200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm
535I Engine:
3.0L Turbocharged I6 (N55B30), 300 hp @ 5800 rpm, 300 lb-ft @ 1200-5000 rpm
550I Engine:
4.4L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (N63B44), 400 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm, 450 lb-ft @ 1800-4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (High-Pressure)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition with Coil-on-Plug
Cooling Type:
Water-Cooled
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic or similar advanced ECUs
528I Standard Transmission:
8-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (ZF 8HP45)
535I Standard Transmission:
8-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (ZF 8HP70)
Manual Transmission Availability:
Available on select models (e.g., 528i, 535i) in North America, typically 6-speed manual
Automatic Transmission Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting mode), adaptive shift programs, sport mode
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW P/N 83 22 2 152 426 (ATF LT-5), ZF Lifeguard 8 (or equivalent specified by ZF)
Length:
Approx. 193.1 inches (490.5 cm)
Width:
Approx. 72.2 inches (183.4 cm)
Height:
Approx. 57.7 inches (146.6 cm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 116.9 inches (297.0 cm)
Front Headroom:
Approx. 38.9 inches (98.8 cm)
Rear Legroom:
Approx. 35.3 inches (89.7 cm)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 18.4 cubic feet (521 liters)
Curb Weight 528I:
Approx. 3,803 lbs (1,725 kg)
Curb Weight 550I:
Approx. 4,277 lbs (1,940 kg)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112 mm
Standard Tire Size 528I:
245/45R18
Optional Tire Size 535I:
245/40R19
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally received 5-Star Overall safety ratings from NHTSA for models within this range (check specific year for exact ratings)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Many models in the F10 generation were awarded IIHS Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ (check specific year)
Active Headrests:
Standard
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Driver Assistance Options:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Parking Assist
Airbag System:
Front, side-impact, and curtain airbags
Body Structure:
High-strength steel and advanced safety cell design
System Name:
iDrive (various iterations, e.g., CIC, NBT depending on model year)
Features:
Navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, USB audio integration, HD Radio, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon, Bang & Olufsen)
Standard Assistance:
ABS, DSC, DTC, Cruise Control
Optional Assistance Packages:
Driver Assistance Package (backup camera, parking sensors), Driver Assistance Plus (lane departure, forward collision warning, active cruise control)
Connectivity Features:
BMW Assist, TeleServices, optional ConnectedDrive services (depending on model year and options)
Headlight Options:
Halogen, Xenon, and optional Adaptive LED headlights
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Indicator (VSI) typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 miles for gasoline engines (N52, N55, N63), may vary by engine and plug type.
Engine Oil 528I N52:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved.
Engine Oil 535I N55:
SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 approved.
Engine Oil 550I N63:
SAE 0W-40, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (P/N 82 14 1 467 704 or equivalent G48 formulation), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (P/N 83 29 0 429 578) or Pentosin CHF 11S (specified for certain models)
Oil Consumption N63:
Certain early N63 engines were known for higher oil consumption; addressed by BMW service campaigns and revised parts.
Water Pump Failure:
Electric water pumps can fail prematurely on some models, requiring replacement.
Thermostat Failure:
Thermostat housing and integrated sensor can leak or fail.
Pcv Valve Issues:
Cracked or failed crankcase ventilation (PCV) valves can cause rough idle and oil leaks.
Brand Focus:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, luxurious, and technologically advanced vehicles.
Predecessor:
BMW E60 (5 Series Generation prior to F10)
F10 Design Philosophy:
To blend luxury and comfort with BMW's signature driving dynamics, moving towards a more refined and sophisticated presence than its predecessor.
Production Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also assembled in other BMW plants globally.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The BMW 5 Series frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best list for its class.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied across model years and specific powertrains; consulting specific year data is recommended.
Safety Certifications:
Certified by NHTSA and IIHS for safety standards applicable to the respective model years.
