Vehicle Segment:
Executive Sedan / Mid-Size Luxury Car
Key Competitors 1999:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS300, Cadillac Seville
Brand Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine, Sporty Handling, Premium Build Quality
Model Selling Points:
Refined ride, powerful engines, advanced technology for its era, excellent build quality
Diy Benefit:
Empowers DIY enthusiasts with factory-level repair knowledge
Professional Benefit:
Essential reference for professional mechanics, ensuring accuracy and efficiency
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical and Electrical Systems
Bodywork Coverage:
Exterior and Interior Trim, Body Panel Repair
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes
Estimated Pages:
Over 1500
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Purpose:
Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Overhaul
Format:
Digital (Likely PDF, searchable)
Engine Mechanical:
All Engine Types, Disassembly, Assembly, Rebuild Procedures
Engine Management:
Fuel Injection, Ignition Systems, Emissions Control
Transmission Manual:
Manual Gearbox Service, Clutch Operation
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic Transmission Service, Fluid Changes, Overhaul
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, Differentials, Axles
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension Components, Springs, Dampers
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Column, Tie Rods
Brakes:
Hydraulic System, ABS, Disc Brake Components
Electrical System:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Location, Troubleshooting
Comfort Systems:
HVAC, Power Windows, Locks, Seats
Lighting:
Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lighting
Infotainment:
Radio, Navigation System (if equipped), Speaker Systems
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service
Repair Procedures:
Component Replacement, System Overhaul
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions for All Major Components
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting
Installation Procedures:
Accessory Installation, Component Upgrades
Alignment:
Wheel Alignment Specifications and Procedures
Specifications Torque:
Torque Specifications for All Fasteners
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds)
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced Diagnostics and Fault Code Interpretation
Diagrams Illustrations:
Detailed Exploded Views, Wiring Schematics, Component Diagrams
Engine Code Common E39 1999:
M52TU (2.5L, 2.8L), M62TU (4.4L V8)
2.5L Inline 6 Hp:
170 hp @ 5500 rpm
2.8L Inline 6 Hp:
193 hp @ 5500 rpm
4.4L V8 Hp:
282 hp @ 5400 rpm
2.8L Inline 6 Torque:
206 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm
4.4L V8 Torque:
324 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Cylinder Configuration:
Inline-6 and V8
Valvetrain:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ for 6-cyl, ZF S5-325 for V8)
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic (ZF 5HP18 for 6-cyl, ZF 5HP24 for V8)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Sequential shifting capability ('Steptronic')
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Esso LT 71141 (or equivalent)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Asc T:
Optional (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Airbags:
Frontal Driver and Passenger Airbags, Optional Side Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point Inertia-Reel Seatbelts with Pretensioners
Infotainment System:
BMW Professional RDS Radio, Optional CD Player, Optional Navigation System (MKII/MKIII)
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Parking Sensors (Rear), Optional Xenon Headlights
Connectivity Options:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system
Oil Change Interval:
Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles for iridium plugs (M52TU/M62TU)
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Engine Oil Type 6Cyl:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 Approved)
Engine Oil Type V8:
SAE 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 Approved)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48)
Common Issue 1:
Cooling System: Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure, thermostat housing leaks
Common Issue 2:
Vibration Damper/Cracked Flywheel: Harmonic balancer issues, manual transmission clutch release bearing noise
Common Issue 3:
ABS/ASC Module Failure: Water ingress causing corrosion and failure
Common Issue 4:
VANOS System: Seal leaks causing rough idle and power loss
Common Issue 5:
Oil Leaks: Valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, oil filter housing seals
Brand Focus:
Performance, Luxury, Engineering Excellence
E39 Introduction Year:
1995 (Europe), 1996 (North America)
E39 Facelift Year:
2000 (minor exterior updates, significant interior/tech upgrades)
E39 Production Years:
1995-2003
E39 Assembly Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany; Graz, Austria (Magna Steyr)
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Included on Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run.
Ward Top10 Engines:
Selected BMW inline-6 and V8 engines were recognized by Ward's AutoWorld.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to above average for its class and era, though some specific components are known wear items.