Automatic transmission (GM 5L40-E, ZF 5HP24, ZF 6HP26 for later models), manual transmission (Getrag 420G for select models), xDrive all-wheel-drive system, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (independent, multi-link), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, sway bars, steering system (rack and pinion), power steering, wheel alignment.
Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), power windows, power locks, central locking, HVAC controls, instrument cluster, basic diagnostics of electronic control units (ECUs).
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, exterior trim, roof systems (sunroof), chassis components, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor), refrigerant handling, climate control module diagnostics.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System) diagnostics and service, seatbelt mechanisms.
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair Overhaul:
Engine overhaul procedures, transmission overhaul and repair, suspension component replacement, brake component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Installation Adjustment:
Installation and adjustment of various components, including timing belts/chains, sensors, control modules, and body parts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on diagnostic connectors, software, and basic procedures for using OBD-II scanners and BMW-specific diagnostic tools.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections
Binding Type
Binding Type For Printed:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type For Printed:
N/A (Digital Download)
Completeness
Completeness Level:
Complete Workshop Manual, covering all aspects of service, repair, and diagnostics.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code Early:
M52TU (2.8L Inline-6), M62TU (4.4L V8)
Engine Code Later:
M54 (3.0L Inline-6), N62 (4.8L V8)
Displacement 3.0L:
2979 cc (181.7 cu in)
Horsepower 3.0L:
225 hp @ 6100 rpm (M54B30)
Torque 3.0L:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (M54B30)
Displacement 4.4L:
4398 cc (268.4 cu in)
Horsepower 4.4L:
282 hp @ 5400 rpm (M62TU V8)
Torque 4.4L:
324 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (M62TU V8)
Displacement 4.8L:
4799 cc (292.8 cu in)
Horsepower 4.8L:
355 hp @ 6300 rpm (N62 V8)
Torque 4.8L:
361 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (N62 V8)
Performance
0 60 Mph 3.0L:
Approx. 8.5 - 9.0 seconds
0 60 Mph 4.4L:
Approx. 7.1 - 7.5 seconds
0 60 Mph 4.8L:
Approx. 6.0 - 6.5 seconds
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) with electronic throttle control.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Emission Standards:
Meets various emissions standards depending on market (e.g., LEV, ULEV).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Early:
5-speed automatic (GM 5L40-E)
Standard Transmission Later:
6-speed automatic (ZF 6HP26)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
5-speed manual (Getrag 420G) on select 3.0L models in certain markets.
Features
Drivetrain System:
xDrive permanent all-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled torque distribution.
Automatic Modes:
Steptronic manual shift mode for driver control.
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
BMW LT-2 or equivalent (check manual for specific GM or ZF fluid type and BMW part numbers, e.g., Esso JWS 3309 for 5L40-E).
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 188.2 inches (4780 mm)
Width:
Approx. 73.5 inches (1867 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.4 inches (1712 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 111.0 inches (2820 mm)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 32.0 cu ft (895 liters)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 71.8 cu ft (2030 liters)
Weights
Curb Weight 3.0L:
Approx. 4500 - 4700 lbs (2040 - 2130 kg)
Curb Weight 4.4L/4.8L:
Approx. 4800 - 5000 lbs (2175 - 2265 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 6,000 lbs (2720 kg) with proper towing package.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Wheel Size Standard:
17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels.
Tire Size Standard:
235/65R17, 245/60R18 (varies by model and options).
Front and rear head protection system (curtain airbags), rear side-impact airbags (depending on model year and options).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System Early:
Optional 'Business' or 'Professional' navigation systems with CD-ROM based maps, basic radio, cassette player.
Infotainment System Later Lci:
CCC (Car Communication Computer) iDrive system with DVD-based navigation, Bluetooth integration (optional), satellite radio ready.
Instrument Cluster:
Classic BMW cluster with analog gauges, digital odometer, and multi-function display for onboard computer information.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Parking distance sensors (PDC) front and rear (optional), rain-sensing wipers (optional), automatic climate control.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional on some models (ACC).
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming (optional, primarily on later models with iDrive).
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (15,000-25,000 km) or annually. However, many owners opt for more frequent changes (e.g., 5,000-7,500 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval M54:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Long-life spark plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval M62/N62:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Coolant Flush Interval:
First change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 2 years.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:
BMW stated 'lifetime' for early transmissions, but it's highly recommended to change every 60,000-100,000 miles, especially for longevity. The 6HP26 had a service interval for fluid and filter.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity 3.0L:
Approx. 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters)
Engine Oil Capacity 4.4L/4.8L:
Approx. 7.9 US quarts (7.5 liters)
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 (check manual for specific viscosity: 5W-30, 5W-40).
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent.
Known Issues
Common Problems Engine:
Coolant expansion tank leaks, VANOS system issues (whistling/rattling), oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets), CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogs, thermostat housing leaks.
Common Problems Transmission:
GM 5L40-E transmission issues (slipping, harsh shifting, mechatronics failures), especially if fluid is neglected. ZF transmissions generally more robust but require proper fluid maintenance.
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, front suspension clunks, power steering pump leaks, steering tie rod ends.
Common Problems Electrical:
Water ingress into LCM (Light Control Module), blower motor resistor failure, ABS/DSC sensor failures, alternator failure, battery drain issues.
BMW's first foray into the SUV market, leveraging their reputation for driving dynamics and luxury.
Model Evolution
Launch Year:
Introduced in late 1999 for the 2000 model year.
Facelift Year:
Received a mid-cycle facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) for the 2004 model year, introducing updated styling, engines (N62 V8), and technology.
Platform Shared With:
Shared some components and design principles with the E39 5 Series and E38 7 Series.
Production
Production Plant:
Assembled primarily at BMW's Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA plant.
Total Production E53:
Approximately 600,000 units worldwide during its production run.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Reception:
Generally well-received for its blend of BMW driving dynamics in an SUV format, luxury, and available power.
Motor Trend SUV Of The Year Nominee:
Recognized as a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment upon its introduction.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied throughout its production run, with certain model years and powertrains receiving better marks than others. Specific details would be in consumer reports databases, but the manual covers the necessary maintenance to preserve reliability.
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