Wiring diagrams, starting & charging system, lighting system, driver information system, wiper/washer/horn, body control system, LAN system, audio/visual/navigation/telephone system, auto cruise control system, power supply/ground/circuit elements
Procedures Included
General:
General Information, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting
Frontal airbags (driver/passenger), optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation system (Mk II or Mk IV units).
Audio:
Factory premium audio systems (e.g., Harman Kardon optional), CD player, radio tuner.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional active cruise control (ACC) on some models.
Connectivity
Telephone:
Optional factory integrated telephone system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval System (VSIS) often indicated around 10,000-15,000 miles, depending on driving conditions, or annually. Refer to manual for specific VSIS logic.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles depending on ignition type (standard vs. long-life).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Check manual for precise OEM specifications.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Typically GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity depends on temperature (e.g., 75W-90). Check manual for specific BMW part numbers and specs.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF Dexron III or equivalent. Refer to manual for exact fluid type and capacity.
Coolant:
BMW Blue/Green Antifreeze/Coolant, or a suitable ethylene glycol-based coolant with long-life additives. Always use a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pumps, especially plastic impeller versions, are prone to failure; radiator leaks.
Engine:
Oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS solenoid issues (M52/M54), CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging, oil separator failures, valley pan leaks (M62 V8).
Electrical:
Heater control valve leaks, blower motor resistor failure, instrument cluster pixelation, ABS/DSC sensor failures, headlight condensation.
Suspension:
Control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and ball joints wear out, leading to steering looseness and uneven tire wear. Rear subframe bushings can also deteriorate.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
Sheer Driving Pleasure, engineering excellence, focus on performance and driver engagement
Model Evolution
E39 Introduction:
Launched in 1995 (for 1996 model year in Europe, later for North America), succeeding the E34 generation.
E39 Facelift:
Significant facelift in 2000 included redesigned headlights, taillights, front bumper, and updated interior electronics, along with the introduction of the M54 engines.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Production Years:
1995-2003 (globally), 1997-2002 for North American market as specified by the manual.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver's 10 Best Cars list multiple times during its production run.
Consumers Reports Ratings:
Generally rated well for performance and build quality, though reliability ratings could vary depending on specific components and model year.
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