Vehicle Segment:
Executive Mid-size Sedan
Segment Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar XF
Powertrain:
Powerful twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, sophisticated automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive (or optional xDrive AWD)
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned BMW driving dynamics, balanced chassis, responsive steering
Luxury Appointments:
Premium interior materials, advanced technology features, refined ride quality
Benefit To Owner:
Enables DIY maintenance, accurate diagnostics, and informed repairs, potentially saving significant costs compared to dealership service.
Target Audience:
BMW owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts
Engine Mechanical:
Engine teardown/rebuild, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery system, ignition system, emission control systems
Engine Management:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics), sensor diagnostics, actuator testing, fuel injection control, turbocharger boost control, VANOS system
Transmission:
ZF 6HP19TU (Automatic Transmission): Fluid service, valve body diagnostics, torque converter, mechatronics unit, solenoids
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, rear axle, CV joints, driveshaft center support bearing
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs, wheel bearings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications, rotor and pad replacement, caliper service
Steering:
Power steering system (Hydraulic), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering fluid type and capacity
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, lighting system, power windows, locks, mirrors
Comfort Systems:
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system, climate control module, blower motor, refrigerant charge specifications, A/C compressor service
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass replacement, body hardware torque specifications
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, live data stream analysis, special service functions
Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid service, differential fluid service, air filter replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts, common fault diagnosis, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all covered systems, including engine component replacement, transmission repair, suspension overhaul, brake system service, electrical component replacement
Installation:
Procedures for replacing common wear items and optional accessories if applicable within the scope of a service manual
Depth:
Comprehensive - from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and component-level repair
NHTSA Overall:
Not explicitly rated for 2010 model year with specific data, but generally high safety standards expected from BMW.
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Tire Pressure Monitor:
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver & passenger), side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 60,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace annually or as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Typically iridium plugs, replace around 60,000 miles (check manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40, depending on climate and specific BMW recommendation.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation)
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Engine N54 Common Issues:
Fuel injector failure, ignition coil failure, high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) issues, vacuum leak diagnosis (boost leaks), valve cover gasket leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, turbocharger wastegate rattle.
Transmission Common Issues:
Mechatronics unit failure, solenoid issues, torque converter shudder (less common than injectors).
Electrical Common Issues:
Water pump failure (electric), thermostat failure, various sensor failures (e.g., ABS sensors, camshaft/crankshaft position sensors).