Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, stabilizer bars, bushings, springs, adaptive suspension systems (if applicable).
Steering:
Power steering system (electric power steering - EPS), steering column, steering rack, tie rods, power steering pump (if hydraulic variant existed, though unlikely for this generation).
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, secondary air injection.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
8-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission
Manufacturer:
ZF (ZF 8HP series)
Optional
Type:
No manual transmission option available for 528i in these years.
Features
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios available in manual for each gear and reverse.
Transmission Fluid:
BMW Longlife-01 or equivalent approved ATF (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, ZF Lifeguard 8).
Shifting Modes:
Sport Mode, Manual Shift Mode (via paddle shifters or gear selector).
Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled with adaptive shift programs.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
192.9 inches (4899 mm)
Width:
73.0 inches (1854 mm)
Height:
57.7 inches (1466 mm)
Wheelbase:
116.9 inches (2970 mm)
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 99 cu ft
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 14.0 cu ft
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3700-3800 lbs (1678-1724 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4800-4900 lbs
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Standard Tire Size:
225/55R17 (may vary by trim)
Optional Tire Size:
245/45R18, 245/40R19, 275/35R19 (rear)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for 2011-2013 models)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Rollover:
4-Star
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for many model years)
Active Features
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.
Driver Assistance Options:
Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control (optional).
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, head protection system (curtain airbags).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
System Name:
BMW iDrive (e.g., iDrive Controller with high-resolution display, optional navigation, enhanced Bluetooth and USB)
Display Size:
Typically 7-inch or 10.2-inch high-resolution LCD screen.
Audio System:
Standard BMW Professional Radio, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assistance:
Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear, optional rearview camera.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality.
Connectivity
Bluetooth Integration:
Standard Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Port:
Standard USB/Auxiliary input for media playback and device charging.
Lighting
Headlights:
Standard Halogen or optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights with LED accent lighting.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Air Filter:
Check every 30,000 miles, replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter:
Check every 30,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Typically around 60,000 miles for the N55 engine.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 is common.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent).
Power Steering Fluid:
EPS does not use hydraulic fluid for steering assist. Refer to manual for any specific fluid requirements for EPS components if applicable.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads and rotors, tires, front control arm bushings, serpentine belt, water pump, thermostat.
Engine Specific Considerations:
N55 engine can be prone to carbon buildup on intake valves (requires periodic walnut blasting), potential for turbocharger issues, and ignition coil failures.
Transmission Specific Considerations:
ZF 8-speed is generally robust, but proper fluid and filter changes are crucial for longevity. Valve body issues can occur.
Electrical Issues:
Water ingress into the Body Control Module (BCM) or ECU can cause electrical gremlins. Sensor failures (e.g., camshaft position sensor, crankshaft position sensor) can cause running issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, focusing on performance, luxury, and engineering.
Model Evolution
Generation:
F10 generation of the 5 Series, replacing the E60 generation.
Styling Direction:
Smoother, more conventional styling compared to its predecessor (E60), with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and classic BMW design cues.
Technological Advancements:
Introduction of electric power steering (EPS), advanced iDrive system, and various driver assistance features.
Production
Production Years Covered:
2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany, with potential assembly in other global locations.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Ward Auto 10 Best Engines:
The N55 engine family frequently received Ward's 10 Best Engines awards in various BMW applications for its performance and efficiency.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for this generation of 5 Series can be mixed, with some model years performing better than others. The manual is essential for proper maintenance to mitigate potential issues.