Segment:
Executive Mid-size Sedan
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced handling, rear-wheel-drive platform, and refined ride quality.
Build Quality:
Exceptional build quality and premium interior materials synonymous with BMW's reputation.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Exhaust
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC)
Electrical:
ECU, Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, HVAC Controls
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Locks, Interior Trim, Seats
Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Service, Fluid Checks & Replenishment
Repair:
Engine Component Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Bushing Replacement, Brake Caliper Service
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Common Issues, Fault Code Interpretation, System Testing Procedures
Technical Data:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Timing Settings, Electrical Schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive from routine maintenance to major component overhauls, including detailed diagnostic trees and wiring diagrams.
Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder, Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC), 24 Valves
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Horsepower:
193 hp @ 5500 RPM
Torque:
206 lb-ft (280 Nm) @ 3950 RPM
System:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI) with Bosch Motronic electronic engine management.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 280)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (Steptronic GM 5L40-E)
Automatic Features:
Steptronic manual shift mode.
Automatic Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent.
Manual Fluid:
BMW Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF-LT-1/LT-2) or equivalent GL-4 rated gear oil.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 stars (driver and passenger)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) standard on most models.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) available on later models.
Airbags:
Frontal driver and passenger airbags, optional side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front seat pretensioners.
System:
BMW Professional Radio, optional CD player, optional navigation system (Business or Professional).
Features:
On-board computer, optional Hi-Fi sound system.
Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (optional), rain-sensing wipers (optional).
Features:
Optional hands-free cellular phone integration.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 to 15,000 miles or annually, depending on oil type and driving conditions (as per onboard computer or manual recommendation).
Spark Plugs:
Approximately 60,000 miles for standard spark plugs, or longer for platinum/iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic recommended (check specific model year).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.9 US quarts (6.5 Liters) with filter change.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (P/N 81 22 9 407 765) or Pentosin CHF 11S.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank prone to cracking, thermostat housing leaks, water pump failure (plastic impeller).
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (bushings tear), rear trailing arm bushings, sway bar links.
Electrical:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system solenoids and seals, oil separator system (CCV) can cause vacuum leaks and rough idle, ABS/DSC sensor failures.
Interior:
Pixelated LCD displays in instrument cluster and infotainment, headliner sagging.
Engine:
Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks.
Philosophy:
Known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, engineering, and luxury.
Predecessor:
BMW 5 Series (E34)
Successor:
BMW 5 Series (E60)
Manufacturing Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany; Rosslyn, South Africa; various CKD assembly plants worldwide.
Production Years:
1995-2003
