🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

5 Series

Chassis Code:

E39

Model Year:

2001

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW E39 5 Series (2001 model year) represented BMW's entry into the premium mid-size luxury sedan segment, competing with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Audi A6. It was known for its blend of performance, luxury, and advanced technology.

Key Competitors 2001:

Mercedes-Benz W210 E-Class, Audi C5 A6, Lexus GS300/GS400, Jaguar S-Type

Vehicle Features:

Renowned for its excellent chassis dynamics ('Ultimate Driving Machine'), sophisticated interiors, powerful inline-six engines, and available V8 options. The 2001 model year often saw the introduction of the M54 engine family.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

2001 BMW 5 Series (E39)

Engine Coverage:

All gasoline engines for 2001 E39 models (e.g., M54B25, M54B30, M62TU)

Transmission Coverage:

Automatic and Manual Transmissions for 2001 E39 models

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Body

Electrical Coverage:

Drivetrain Electronics, Body Electronics, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Infotainment, Lighting

Estimated Pages:

Approx. 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, intake/exhaust systems

Engine Management:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

Transmission Mechanical:

Automatic transmission (e.g., GM 5L40-E, ZF 5HP19/24) and manual transmission (e.g., Getrag S5D) overhaul, clutch service

Transmission Electronic:

Transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics, shift solenoid testing

Chassis Suspension:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, control arms, bushings), wheel alignment specifications

Chassis Steering:

Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column service

Chassis Brakes:

Brake system diagnostics, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), caliper service, rotor replacement, brake fluid specifications

Body Exterior:

Panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, trunk, hood, bumpers, lighting assemblies

Body Interior:

Seat removal/installation, dashboard, trim panels, headliner, HVAC system components

Electrical Powertrain:

Alternator, starter motor, battery, wiring harnesses, engine sensors, ignition coils

Electrical Chassis:

ABS module, DSC module, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components, body control module (BCM)

Electrical Comfort:

Power windows, power seats, central locking, climate control, sunroof, wipers

Electrical Infotainment:

Radio, navigation system (MKIV), amplifier, speaker systems, OBC (On-Board Computer)

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common faults, troubleshooting trees, symptom-based diagnosis

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes

Repair Procedures:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, assembly, and reinstallation

Installation Procedures:

Guidance on installing new or replacement parts and accessories

Adjustment Procedures:

Adjustments for systems like parking brake, idle speed, sensor calibration

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Searchable text within PDF for quick information retrieval.

Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Printability:

Printable pages for at-the-bench use.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

2001 Engine Variants:

M54B25 (2.5L inline-6), M54B30 (3.0L inline-6), M62TU (4.4L V8, in 540i)

M54B25 Power:

184 hp @ 6000 rpm

M54B25 Torque:

230 Nm (170 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

M54B30 Power:

228 hp @ 5900 rpm

M54B30 Torque:

300 Nm (221 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm

M62Tu Power:

290 hp @ 5400 rpm

M62Tu Torque:

440 Nm (325 lb-ft) @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Injection System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

M54 Engine Codes:

M54B25 (Engine Code X), M54B30 (Engine Code Y)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission E39 2001:

5-speed Manual (Getrag S5D 250G/320Z) for 525i and 530i; 5-speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E) for 525i and 530i; 5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP24) for 540i.

Optional Transmission E39 2001:

5-speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E) for 525i/530i, 5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP24) for 540i.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Steptronic (manual shifting mode) on most automatic transmissions.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

GM 5L40-E: Dexron III-H or Dexron VI; ZF 5HP24: ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (or equivalent like Pentosin ATF1).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase E39:

111.4 inches (2830 mm)

Length E39 Sedan:

191.1 inches (4854 mm)

Width E39:

70.2 inches (1783 mm)

Height E39:

56.5 inches (1435 mm)

Curb Weight 525I Approx:

3571 lbs (1620 kg)

Curb Weight 530I Approx:

3605 lbs (1635 kg)

Curb Weight 540I Approx:

3902 lbs (1770 kg)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

Cargo Volume Sedan:

15.0 cubic feet (425 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star (for driver and front passenger)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (typically for E39 generation models tested)

Active Safety Features:

ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Traction Control (ASC+T on some models), Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional)

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side airbags, head protection system (HPS) airbags (optional on some models), seatbelt pretensioners, reinforced chassis structure

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Professional Radio or optional Navigation system (MKIV) with CD-based maps. Optional Harman Kardon sound system available.

Onboard Computer:

On-Board Computer (OBC) providing fuel consumption, average speed, range, and service interval information.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Parking Distance Control (PDC) front and rear (optional).

Connectivity Options:

BMW Assist (telematics service with emergency calling) was an optional feature, integrated with the navigation system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 miles or 12-24 months, dependent on driving conditions and oil quality. On-board condition monitoring system (Service Indicator) will prompt.

Spark Plug Replacement M54:

Every 60,000 miles (for platinum or iridium plugs).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles, using BMW's approved coolant.

Engine Oil Spec M54:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-98 (LL-98) certified synthetic oil, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 0W-40.

Engine Oil Spec M62:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) certified synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-40 or 5W-40.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with appropriate corrosion inhibitors.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 High Performance Synthetic Brake Fluid.

Common E39 Issues:

Cooling system component failures (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) seal wear, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), ABS/DSC sensor failures, front suspension bushing wear, pixelated instrument cluster displays, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging.

Oil Pan Gasket Material:

The E39 often utilizes a one-piece rubber oil pan gasket that can degrade over time, leading to leaks.

Ccv System Function:

The CCV system is critical for crankcase pressure regulation and can become clogged, leading to increased oil consumption and vacuum leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has a long-standing reputation for producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles, often referred to as the 'Ultimate Driving Machine'.

E39 Generation:

The E39 generation of the 5 Series was produced from 1995 to 2003 (with facelifts in 2000). The 2001 model year falls within the post-facelift period, benefiting from updated engines (M54), revised styling, and technology enhancements.

E39 Production Years:

1995-2003

E39 Assembly Locations:

Dingolfing, Germany; Rosslyn, South Africa; Graz, Austria (Magna Steyr)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E39 5 Series (including various model years) was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's 10Best lists for its exceptional driving dynamics and overall balance of attributes.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports often rated the E39 highly for performance and reliability for its era, though some specific model years or powertrains might have had more reported issues than others.