Positioning:
Luxury, performance-oriented sedan, competitor to Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6 of the era.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W210 E-Class, Audi A6 C5, Lexus GS300, Volvo S80
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on driving dynamics, premium build quality, sophisticated engineering, and driver-focused cockpit.
Chassis Platform:
E39 platform, renowned for its excellent balance and handling characteristics.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, specific component repair (e.g., VANOS, ignition system, fuel injectors)
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmission service, repair, fluid changes, component replacement
Drivetrain:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, differential, driveshafts, axle shafts
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, ECU functions, component testing, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), lighting systems, power accessories
Bodywork:
Exterior panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, underbody protection
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant service, blower motor, climate control unit
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, illustrated instructions for component removal, replacement, and reassembly
Diagnostic Procedures:
Procedures for testing electrical components, fuel system pressure, ignition timing, and mechanical systems
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, voltage readings
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and structural repair information.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves
Displacement:
2494 cc (2.5 Liters)
Horsepower:
170 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
181 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, premium octane recommended (91+)
Engine Control Unit:
MS41.0 or MS42
Variable Valve Timing:
Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing System)
Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP18/5HP19)
Transmission Control:
Adaptive transmission control for automatic, electronically managed.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT3 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (check specific manual)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (from contemporary testing)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (from contemporary testing)
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Dynamic Stability Control:
Optional DSC on some models
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD (radio/cassette) or BMW Professional RDS CD
Navigation:
Optional BMW On-Board Navigation System (MKII or MKIII)
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear park distance control (PDC)
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated mobile phone system (GSM)
Climate Control:
Optional dual-zone automatic climate control
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (BMW Condition Based Service system applies).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (using long-life spark plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 recommended, typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (approx. 6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation or equivalent)
Common Issues Vanos:
Leaking VANOS seals (solenoid and piston seals), leading to rough idle and low-end torque loss.
Common Issues Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank brittle and prone to cracking, water pump failure (plastic impeller degradation).
Common Issues Electrical:
Ignition coil failure, ABS/ASC sensor issues, pixelation in instrument cluster displays.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and strut mounts due to age and mileage.
Bmw Heritage:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, focusing on performance, engineering, and luxury.
E39 Introduction:
The E39 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1995 (as a 1996 model in North America) and replaced the E34. It marked significant advancements in chassis dynamics, interior refinement, and technology.
E39 Facelift:
The 1998 model year falls within the pre-facelift E39 range. A significant facelift occurred for the 2001 model year.
Production Period:
1995-2003
Manufacturing Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany; Rosslyn, South Africa; various CKD assembly plants globally.
