Climate control (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, blower motor, A/C compressor, refrigerant, heater core, evaporator, control panels.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim panels, glass replacement, rust prevention.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Extensive listing of DTCs, their meanings, and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Systematic approach to identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults, using diagnostic tools and symptom-based repair.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing virtually every component on the vehicle.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Image Resolution:
High-resolution scans for clear diagrams and text.
Likely 4-star (based on contemporary tests, specific data may vary).
IIHS Side Impact:
Likely Acceptable/Good (based on contemporary tests).
Active Features
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all wheels.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
BMW Business CD or Professional CD audio systems, optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Business or Professional Navigation system with a dashboard-mounted screen and CD-ROM based maps.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assistance:
Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional cellular phone integration via Bluetooth or specific cradle systems (requiring specific BMW-approved phones).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system often indicated intervals of 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, whichever came first. Manual will specify optimal intervals.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or specified mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 specifications. Manual will confirm exact specification.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Specific ATF fluid (e.g., Esso LT 71141 or equivalent). Crucial to use the correct fluid to avoid transmission damage.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based)
Known Issues
Common Problems Engine:
Valley pan gasket leaks, oil separator (CCV) system clogging leading to vacuum issues, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid issues, spark plug well oil leaks.
Common Problems Transmission:
Automatic transmission torque converter shudder or clutch pack wear, potential Mechatronics unit issues (later models, less common on '99).
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn front control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and ball joints leading to steering wander and premature tire wear.
Common Problems Electrical:
ABS/DSC wheel speed sensor failures, pixelation on the instrument cluster LCD (MID/OBC), blower motor resistor failures, door seal water ingress issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German manufacturer of luxury vehicles and motorcycles, known for its performance-oriented engineering and driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
Model Evolution
E39 Generation:
The E39 generation of the 5 Series (produced 1995-2003) was a significant evolution, praised for its improved chassis, refined ride quality, and advanced technology compared to its E34 predecessor. The 540i represented the high-performance, V8-powered variant.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily Dingolfing Plant)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Awards:
The E39 5 Series consistently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists during its production run, highlighting its overall excellence.