Target Audience:
Affluent professionals, driving enthusiasts
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type
Vehicle Strengths:
Driving dynamics, build quality, luxury interior, refined powertrain
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners to maintain and repair their vehicle to factory standards, maximizing longevity and performance
Engine:
Detailed internal and external components, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emission controls
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox, shift mechanisms, repairs, fluid service
Transmission Automatic:
Hydraulic system, valve body, torque converter, electronic controls, repairs, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axles, CV joints, hub bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, pump, fluid service
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors, fluid replacement and bleeding
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, ignition system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Frame, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, sunroof
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant, diagnosis
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, SRS system diagnosis
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Component Replacement:
Engine components, transmission, suspension parts, brake components, electrical modules, sensors
Troubleshooting Diagnostic Trees:
Systematic approach to identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive schematics for all electrical systems
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for BMW-specific tools
Recalibration Procedures:
Post-component replacement procedures where applicable
Depth:
Expert-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Code Coverage:
Explanation of OBD-II codes relevant to the 1998 model year
Engine Rebuilds:
Complete teardown and reassembly instructions
Transmission Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for both manual and automatic transmissions
Oil Change Interval Miles:
7,500 - 10,000 (depending on oil quality and driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement Miles:
30,000 - 60,000
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
60,000 - 100,000 (depending on plug type)
Coolant Flush Miles:
30,000 - 60,000
Brake Fluid Flush Years:
2
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-98 or LL-01)
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
6.5
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue (G48 Ethylene Glycol)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW ATF Dexron III
Common Issues Engine:
PCV system issues (oil consumption, vacuum leaks), oil filter housing gasket leaks, VANOS solenoids/seals failure, spark plug well seals
Common Issues Cooling:
Plastic coolant expansion tank cracks, water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks
Common Issues Suspension:
Control arm bushings (vibrations), rear subframe mounts, shock absorber leaks
Common Issues Electrical:
ABS/ASC sensor failures, headlight leveling motors, door lock actuators, pixelated instrument cluster displays
Common Issues Interior:
Headliner sagging, worn seat bolsters, climate control vents
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, engineering excellence, sport-luxury focus
E39 Introduction:
Introduced in 1995 (Europe) / 1996 (North America), replacing the E34 generation
E39 Mid-Cycle Refresh:
Facelifted in 2000, minor changes for 1998 model year
Production Years E39:
1995-2003
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing), Austria, Brazil, Egypt, Russia, Thailand, Ukraine