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.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors 2001:
Mercedes-Benz W210 E-Class, Audi C5 A6, Lexus GS300/GS400, Jaguar S-Type
Key Features
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
Coverage Areas
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
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
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
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Searchability:
Searchable text within PDF for quick information retrieval.
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Injection System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Engine Codes
M54 Engine Codes:
M54B25 (Engine Code X), M54B30 (Engine Code Y)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
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
Optional Transmission E39 2001:
5-speed Automatic (GM 5L40-E) for 525i/530i, 5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP24) for 540i.
Features
Automatic Transmission Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting mode) on most automatic transmissions.
Fluid Specs
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
Exterior
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)
Weights
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
Cargo Volume Sedan:
15.0 cubic feet (425 Liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (typically for E39 generation models tested)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Traction Control (ASC+T on some models), Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side airbags, head protection system (HPS) airbags (optional on some models), seatbelt pretensioners, reinforced chassis structure
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
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
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Parking Distance Control (PDC) front and rear (optional).
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
BMW Assist (telematics service with emergency calling) was an optional feature, integrated with the navigation system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
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.
Fluid Specifications
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.
Known Issues
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
Brand Heritage
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'.
Model Evolution
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.
Production
E39 Production Years:
1995-2003
E39 Assembly Locations:
Dingolfing, Germany; Rosslyn, South Africa; Graz, Austria (Magna Steyr)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
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.
Ratings
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.