🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Chassis Code: E39 Market Segment: Compact Executive / Luxury Sedan & Wagon Generation Generation Code: E39 Production Years: 1995-2003 Codes Vin Decoder Identifier: WBA 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The BMW E39 represented BMW's entry into the premium mid-size sedan and wagon segment, competing with the Mercedes-Benz W210 E-Class and Audi A6 C5. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS (JZS160), Jaguar S-Type Key Features Platform Strength: Known for its superior driving dynamics, refined ride quality, and robust build quality. Value Proposition: Offers a comprehensive and authoritative resource for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians to maintain and repair the E39 3 Series. Cost Savings: Presents a cost-effective alternative to expensive factory shop manual CD-ROMs, providing identical technical depth. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Workshop Service & Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Delivery Method: Email Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'COMPLETE' and 'all information which the Shop Manual CD ROMs contains') 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Internal combustion engines (all variants covered by E39 generation) Fuel System: Fuel injection, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, EVAP system Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, expansion tank, fan clutch/electric fan Exhaust System: Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, exhaust pipes, O2 sensors Transmission: Automatic and Manual transmissions (overhaul, adjustment, fluid service) Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, steering linkage Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, parking brake Electrical System: 12V battery, alternator, starter, lighting, ignition system, sensors, actuators, ECUs Heating And Air Conditioning: HVAC system components, climate control, refrigerant system, blower motor, evaporator, heater core Body: Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers Wiring Diagrams: Complete electrical circuit diagrams for all systems Emission Control Systems: Catalytic converters, EGR, PCV, secondary air injection (where applicable) Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues across all systems Repair: Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all vehicle components Rebuilding: Comprehensive guidelines for engine and transmission rebuilds Diagnostics: Engine management diagnostics, ABS/DSC fault finding, electrical system troubleshooting Installation: Instructions for replacement of major components and accessories Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics) Detail Level: Factory-level technical information, similar to OE shop manuals Diagrams: Abundant with 'lots of pictures and diagrams' 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Assumed searchable text content due to PDF format, enabling quick information retrieval Print Quality Printability: Full or section-based printing supported Binding Type Binding Type Digital: N/A (Digital Delivery) Paper Type Paper Type Digital: N/A (Digital Delivery) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Variants Covered: M52/M54 inline-6 (e.g., 323i, 325i, 328i, 330i), M62 V8 (e.g., 540i), M43 inline-4 (e.g., 318i), and M57 diesel variants (e.g., 525d, 530d). Performance Typical Horsepower Range: 115 hp (318i) to 282 hp (540i) Typical Torque Range: 180 Nm (318i) to 440 Nm (540i) Fuel System Injection Type: Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Lambda sensor controlled) Engine Management: DME (Digital Motor Electronics) or similar advanced engine control units 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual Getrag S5D 250G (e.g., E46 330i models) or ZF S5-31 (e.g., E39 530i models) Optional Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Automatic (e.g., GM A5S310Z for inline-6, ZF 5HP30/5HP24 for V8) Features Automatic Features: Steptronic (manual shifting mode) available on some automatic transmissions Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW recommends GL-4 or GL-5 synthetic gear oil (specific viscosity depends on model and temperature, e.g., 75W-90) Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III or equivalent (specific fluid depends on ZF or GM transmission type) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Sedan (4-door), Touring (5-door wagon) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 1500 kg (3300 lbs) to 1750 kg (3850 lbs) depending on engine and body style 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Safety Rating: Generally well-regarded for its era; specific ratings varied by year and test protocols. Known for a very strong safety cell. Active Features Active Safety Systems: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) on later models Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Front airbags, side-impact airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, reinforced chassis structure 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Available with BMW Professional or Business Radio, CD player, and optional Navigation System (Mk III/Mk IV). Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Cruise control, parking sensors (PDC - Park Distance Control) available on select models. Connectivity Connectivity Options: Optional telephone integration with Bluetooth capabilities on later models. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil specification. Condition-based service system (CBS) on later models. Spark Plug Replacement: Around 60,000-100,000...
5-speed Automatic (e.g., GM A5S310Z for inline-6, ZF 5HP30/5HP24 for V8)
Features
Automatic Features:
Steptronic (manual shifting mode) available on some automatic transmissions
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends GL-4 or GL-5 synthetic gear oil (specific viscosity depends on model and temperature, e.g., 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (specific fluid depends on ZF or GM transmission type)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Sedan (4-door), Touring (5-door wagon)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1500 kg (3300 lbs) to 1750 kg (3850 lbs) depending on engine and body style
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating:
Generally well-regarded for its era; specific ratings varied by year and test protocols. Known for a very strong safety cell.
Active Features
Active Safety Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) on later models
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, side-impact airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, reinforced chassis structure
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Available with BMW Professional or Business Radio, CD player, and optional Navigation System (Mk III/Mk IV).
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (PDC - Park Distance Control) available on select models.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Optional telephone integration with Bluetooth capabilities on later models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil specification. Condition-based service system (CBS) on later models.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on ignition coil and plug type (e.g., Long-Life Spark Plugs).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Recommended every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-30, depending on climate and engine variant.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Cooling system components (plastic expansion tanks, water pump, hoses), VANOS solenoids, crankcase ventilation (CCV) system, ABS/DSC sensors, rear subframe bushings, front control arm bushings.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket, rear main seal.
Electrical Gremlins:
Water ingress in the DME box, door module failures, headlight leveling system issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Philosophy:
Continued BMW's legacy of building sporty and luxurious sedans with a focus on driver engagement.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
E36 3 Series
Successor:
E90 3 Series
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Dingolfing and Regensburg, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E39 5 Series (from which the E39 3 Series shares platform elements and design philosophy) was a multiple-time recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' award during its production run.
Ratings
Consumer Satisfaction Ratings:
Generally received high marks for build quality, performance, and luxury, though maintenance costs could be a factor.