Dexron III / Mercon (or BMW ATF LT-2 / 83 22 0 024 359)
Fluid Capacities
Automatic Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 liters (9.0 US quarts) for a complete fill
Manual Capacity:
Approx. 1.3 liters (1.4 US quarts) of ATF Fluid (e.g., Dexron III)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
188.8 inches (4795 mm)
Width:
70.2 inches (1783 mm)
Height:
57.4 inches (1458 mm)
Wheelbase:
113.4 inches (2880 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Auto:
3770 lbs (1710 kg)
Curb Weight Manual:
3704 lbs (1680 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
15.0 cu ft (425 L)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4-Star (Front Passenger), 5-Star (Rear Passenger)
Active Features
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) / Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Antilock Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Brake Assist:
Brake Force Display (BFD)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Side airbags (front)
Seat Belts:
Front pretensioners, Rear three-point seat belts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Navigation System:
BMW Professional Navigation System (MKIV) with CD-ROM maps.
Audio System:
Hi-Fi stereo system with CD player, optional Harman Kardon sound system available.
Climate Control:
Automatic dual-zone climate control with pollen filter.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Parking Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth mobile phone preparation available.
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or based on driving conditions.
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs (approx. 100,000 miles), Coolant flush (approx. 2-4 years), Transmission fluid (often considered 'lifetime' but recommended service every 50,000-100,000 miles, especially for automatic).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-01 FE approved)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification) or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol-based coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (BMW recommendation is typically DOT 4 PLUS)
Fluid Capacities
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 liters (10.0 US quarts)
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks are prone to cracking, water pump failure (plastic impeller can disintegrate), coolant hose leaks.
Valve Cover Gaskets:
Leaking valve cover gaskets are common, leading to oil consumption and smell.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
Failure of ABS/DSC sensors can trigger warning lights.
Oil Pan Gaskets:
Oil pan gasket leaks are also frequent.
Alternator Bracket Seals:
Oil leaks from the alternator bracket seals.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
MAF sensor contamination can lead to rough idling and poor performance.
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure leading to oil consumption, rough idle, and potential vacuum leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Reputation:
Known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', luxury, performance, and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E39 Generation:
The E39 generation (1995-2003) is highly regarded for its balance of luxury, technology, and driving dynamics.
E39 Updates:
The 2001-2003 E39 models received significant updates including refreshed styling (angel eyes headlights, revised taillights), new engines (M54 for 6-cyl, M62TU for V8), and updated interior features.
Production
Production Years:
1996-2003 (E39 generation)
Assembly Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The E39 5 Series was a consistent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' awards during its production run, including for the 2002 model year.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Generally rated well for performance and luxury, with some common electronic and mechanical issues noted.
Certifications
Safety Certifications:
Compliant with US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for 2002 model year.