🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

528i

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

E39

Engine Code:

M52TU B28

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 528i (E39) was positioned as a premium mid-size luxury sedan, competing with models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, and Lexus GS. It emphasized driving dynamics, build quality, and advanced technology for its era.

Competitive Analysis:

The E39 generation of the 5 Series, including the 528i, was highly regarded for its superior handling and driver engagement compared to many of its competitors, often praised for its balanced chassis and responsive steering. Its build quality and interior refinement were also key selling points.

Key Features:

Inline-six engine known for smoothness and power delivery, advanced suspension design for excellent ride and handling, luxurious and driver-focused interior, optional features like navigation, premium audio, and advanced climate control.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Repair Procedures

Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF/eBook)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Management (DME), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission (GM 5L40-E), Manual Transmission (Getrag 5-speed), Drivetrain (Rear Wheel Drive), Front Suspension (Double Wishbone), Rear Suspension (Integral Link), Steering System (Hydraulic Power Steering), Brake System (ABS, DSC), Electrical System (CAN Bus architecture, EWS immobilizer, SRS Airbags), Climate Control System (HVAC), Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs), Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Diagnosis and Troubleshooting of Common Faults, Electrical Circuit Diagrams, Wiring Harness Repair, Torque Specifications, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Interpretation, Special Tool Usage, Component Testing and Calibration

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance and fluid changes to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and detailed bodywork repair. Suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Searchable Text, Bookmarked Chapters)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

BMW M52TU B28 (2.8L Inline-6 DOHC 24-valve)

Horsepower:

193 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

206 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2)

Engine Management System:

Digital Motor Electronics (DME)

Bore Stroke:

84.0 mm x 84.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valvetrain:

Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Engine Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual (Getrag Type)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E)

Transmission Features:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), Optional Steptronic automatic transmission with manual shifting mode

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III/Mercon (BMW ETL-7045E or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 Liters (Total Capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.8 inches (4795 mm)

Width:

70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

57.0 inches (1448 mm)

Wheelbase:

111.4 inches (2830 mm)

Curb Weight:

3571 - 3704 lbs (1620 - 1680 kg) depending on options

Trunk Capacity:

15.0 cu ft (425 L)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Standard Wheel Size:

16 x 7.0 inches

Optional Wheel Size:

17 x 8.0 inches

Standard Tire Size:

225/55R16

Optional Tire Size:

235/45R17

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Not rated specifically for 2000 model year by NHTSA publicly available data, but generally considered safe for its era.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC - optional on some models, standard on later E39s), Traction Control System (ASC+T)

Passive Safety Features:

Front Airbags, Side Airbags (optional), Seatbelt Pretensioners, Crumple Zones, Reinforced Safety Cage

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Professional Radio/Cassette or optional CD Player. Optional Professional Navigation system with CRT screen.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC - optional), Cruise Control, Rain Sensor (optional)

Connectivity Features:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free system (BMW Assist), Voice Command (on navigation equipped models).

Lighting Features:

Optional Xenon Headlights with Angel Eyes (halo rings), Automatic Headlight Activation

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW's 'Condition Based Service' (CBS) system would recommend based on driving conditions, but typically around 7,500-10,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., Long Life Platinum/Iridium)

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-98 (e.g., Castrol Syntec 5W-40, Mobil 1 0W-40, or equivalent synthetic meeting API SJ/SL, ACEA A3-96)

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 US Quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48 Ethylene Glycol based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW CHF 02A (Green fluid, specific for BMWs of this era)

Known Issues:

Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket), Cooling system issues (plastic expansion tank, water pump, thermostat), VANOS solenoids, ABS/DSC sensor failures, PCV system clogging, Door seal degradation, Pixellated LCD displays (instrument cluster, radio), Front suspension bushings (control arms, sway bar links), Window regulator failures.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter HU 839/2, Mahle OX 153/1

Air Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter C 35106

Cabin Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter CU 3112

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-focused luxury vehicles with exceptional engineering and performance. The '5 Series' has been their benchmark executive sedan since its inception.

Model Evolution:

The E39 generation (1995-2003) was the fourth iteration of the 5 Series. It succeeded the E34 and was known for a significant improvement in handling, build quality, and technology over its predecessor. The 528i specifically replaced the 525i (M50 engine) and was powered by the new M52TU engine, featuring VANOS on both intake and exhaust camshafts for improved performance and efficiency.

Production Years:

E39: 1995-2003 (528i model specifically: 1996-2000)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Car and Driver 10 Best (1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002) for the 5 Series lineup, including the 528i variants.

Car And Driver Rating:

Consistently praised for its driving dynamics, handling, and powertrain.

Certifications:

N/A (Vehicle specific awards are more relevant)