Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)
Target Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking performance, luxury, and style
Primary Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Jaguar XK, Audi A5/A7 (later models), Porsche 911 (lifestyle comparison)
Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, powerful engines, sophisticated technology, driver-focused cockpit
Body Styles:
E63: Coupe, E64: Convertible (hardtop)
Powertrain Options:
Naturally aspirated V8, Twin-Turbocharged Inline-6
Technology Integration:
Advanced iDrive infotainment system, optional Active Front Steering, Dynamic Drive
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (N62 V8, N54 Twin-Turbo I6), engine management, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (e.g., GM 6L45/6L50, ZF 6HP series) repair and diagnostics, manual transmission (if applicable), clutch, driveshaft, differentials
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (Active Roll Stabilization, Adaptive Drive), steering, brakes (dynamic stability control, ABS, brake servo), wheel alignment
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starter, lighting (adaptive headlights), instrument cluster, body electronics modules (FEM, FRM), comfort access, keyless entry, infotainment system (iDrive)
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism (E64), seats, airbags, climate control (HVAC), interior trim
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (alternator, starter, fuel injectors), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement (shocks, control arms), brake caliper repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation and resolution, testing procedures for sensors and actuators
Special Procedures:
Convertible top system repair, adaptive headlight aiming, iDrive system troubleshooting, complex electrical system diagnostics
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
References for BMW-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D, INPA)
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Engine Type:
4.8L Naturally Aspirated V8
Horsepower:
360 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque:
360 lb-ft @ 3400-3800 rpm
Engine Type:
3.0L Twin-Turbocharged Inline-6
Horsepower:
300 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
300 lb-ft @ 1400-5000 rpm
Acceleration 0 60 Mph V8:
Approx. 4.7 seconds
Acceleration 0 60 Mph I6:
Approx. 5.4 seconds
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with direct injection on N54
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (specific version varies)
Transmission Type V8:
6-speed Steptronic Automatic
Transmission Type I6:
6-speed Manual or 6-speed Steptronic Automatic
Optional Transmission V8:
None (only automatic for V8)
Steptronic Functionality:
Manual shift mode via selector lever or paddle shifters
Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic:
BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Dexron VI for some later versions)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic:
Approx. 9-10 liters (check specific model)
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Not consistently rated by NHTSA for this specific generation, but generally good occupant protection
IIHS Crash Test Ratings:
Refer to IIHS archives for specific model year tests
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Automatic Stability Control (ASC)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Steering Systems:
Optional Active Front Steering (AFS)
Airbags:
Front, side-impact, and head protection airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners
Convertible Safety:
Pop-up rollover protection system (E64)
Infotainment System:
BMW iDrive (2nd Generation)
Display Size:
8.8-inch central display
Features:
Navigation, AM/FM/Satellite Radio, CD/DVD player, Bluetooth connectivity, optional USB/Auxiliary input
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Parking Assistance:
Optional Parking Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear sensors
Lighting Technology:
Optional Bi-Xenon Adaptive Headlights
Bluetooth Integration:
Standard on most models for hands-free calling and audio streaming
Telematics:
BMW Assist (subscription-based telematics and emergency services)
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS): Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years (BMW CBS)
Spark Plug Replacement N62:
Approx. 100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type)
Spark Plug Replacement N54:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type, often requires replacement sooner)
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate.
Coolant Spec:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent HOAT coolant
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW equivalent
Engine N62:
Valley pan gasket leaks, VANOS solenoids, ignition coil failures, oil separator issues, eccentric shaft sensor failures.
Engine N54:
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures, fuel injector issues, turbo wastegate rattle, oil leaks from valve cover gasket.
Transmission Automatic:
Mechatronic sleeve leaks, torque converter issues, transmission control module (TCM) faults.
Electrical:
Water damage to FRM (Footwell Module), battery registration issues, sensor failures (e.g., ABS/DSC sensors), iDrive system glitches.
Convertible E64:
Hydraulic pump issues for the convertible top, sensor malfunctions in the top mechanism, seal degradation.
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, focus on performance, luxury, and engineering excellence
Previous Generation:
E24 6 Series (discontinued in 1990)
Introduction E63 E64:
Introduced in 2003 (E63) and 2004 (E64), succeeding the E24 generation after a long hiatus.
Facelift:
Minor updates and technology enhancements throughout its production run, including 2007.
Production Years:
2003-2010
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Car And Driver Best 10:
The 6 Series often appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best list in previous generations, setting a benchmark for luxury coupes.
Ward 10 Best Engines:
The N62 V8 and N54 Inline-6 engines received numerous awards, including Ward's 10 Best Engines during their production life.
Overall Performance Reputation:
Highly regarded for its balance of performance, luxury, and refined driving dynamics.