Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS300, Jaguar S-Type
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and comfortable ride, embodying BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy.
Powertrain Refinement:
Inline-six engines known for smoothness, power delivery, and durability.
Build Quality:
Typical BMW high-quality interior materials and solid construction.
Applicable Years:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 1000-1500 pages (estimated based on typical comprehensive BMW service manuals)
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF) or Printed
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic and Manual), Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering System, Brakes, Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Audio System, Navigation System (if equipped), Antitheft System
Body And Trim:
Interior and Exterior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Body Panels, Convertible Top (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), Scheduled maintenance intervals
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission repair/rebuild, Brake system overhauls, Suspension component replacement, Electrical component diagnosis and repair, Body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their meanings, Wiring diagrams, Component testing procedures
Special Procedures:
Alignment specifications, Torque specifications for all fasteners, Special tool requirements, Reset procedures (e.g., service indicator)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and component-level repairs.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, text-searchable PDF (if digital) ensuring clarity and ease of navigation.
Print Readability:
Designed for clear printing, with legible diagrams and text, suitable for workshop use.
Binding:
Durable binding (if printed), designed to withstand frequent use in a workshop environment.
Paper Quality:
Heavy-duty, laminated or glossy paper to resist grease and dirt (if printed).
Engine Type:
3.0L (2.8L advertised, actual displacement is approximately 2793cc) Inline-6 Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves, VANOS
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5500 rpm (for M52B28)
Torque:
206 lb-ft (280 Nm) @ 3950 rpm (for M52B28)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2 or ME 7.2)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual ignition coils
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 83.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Type:
5-Speed Manual Getrag Type D (S5D 310Z)
Type:
5-Speed Steptronic Automatic (GM A5S 325Z)
Clutch:
Hydraulic clutch actuation (manual)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 stars (driver), 4 stars (passenger) (for 1997-2003 models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for models with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Optional side-impact airbags (front)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners for all seating positions
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD/Radio systems. Optional CD changer and premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon).
Navigation:
Optional BMW Navigation system with CD-ROM based maps.
Parking Assist:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) sensors.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system (from ~2000 onwards) or cradle for older mobile phones.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used. The vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system will indicate specific needs.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or as indicated by the CBS system.
Transmission Fluid Change:
For manual: Check periodically, replace as needed. For automatic: Typically sealed for life, but many recommend replacement around 60,000-100,000 miles for longevity.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) of synthetic oil meeting BMW LL-01 specification (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-30).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 4 PLUS
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S (or equivalent hydraulic fluid approved by BMW)
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump impeller can degrade; thermostat housing leaks.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket are common leak points due to age and material degradation.
Rear Main Seal:
Can leak oil, often requiring transmission removal for replacement.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings and ball joints can wear out, leading to steering looseness and tire wear. Rear subframe bushings can also fail.
Electrical:
Heater control valve failure, ABS/DSC module failures, window regulator failures, pixilation of the instrument cluster display (LCD).
Bmw Legacy:
BMW AG, a German multinational company, is renowned for its luxury vehicles and motorcycles, with a history dating back to 1916. It is known for its engineering prowess and performance-oriented vehicles.
E39 Introduction:
The E39 5 Series, introduced in 1995 (Europe) and 1996 (North America), replaced the E34. The 528i variant replaced the 525i and 530i from the previous generation, offering a significant upgrade in performance and refinement.
Production Period:
1995-2003 (E39 generation worldwide). The 528i specifically was produced for the North American market from 1997-2000, and then the 530i (with a larger engine) became its successor from 2001-2003.
Manufacturing Locations:
Main production plant was Dingolfing, Germany. Assembly also occurred in other locations globally.
Car And Driver Best 10:
The E39 5 Series, including variants like the 528i, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run.
Konsumen Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as good to excellent for mechanical components, though electronic issues could arise with age. Specific ratings varied by model year.
