🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 5 Series Chassis Code: E39 Model Year: 1997 Generation Generation Code: E39 Generation Start Year: 1995 Generation End Year: 2003 Codes Body Styles: 4-door Sedan (Saloon), 5-door Wagon (Touring) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Executive/Luxury Mid-size Sedan and Wagon Target Audience: Affluent professionals, families seeking comfort, performance, and brand prestige Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210), Audi A6 (C4/C5), Lexus GS, Volvo S80 Key Features Performance: Renowned for balanced handling, comfortable ride, and refined powertrains Engineering: High-quality construction, advanced technology for its era, driver-focused ergonomics Design: Classic BMW styling with flowing lines and iconic kidney grille 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 1997 BMW E39 5 Series Sedan and Touring models Engine Coverage: Petrol (Gasoline) and Diesel engine variants available for the 1997 model year Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (Likely PDF, but confirmation needed) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, exhaust, emissions control Transmission: Manual and Automatic transmission removal, installation, repair, and maintenance Drivetrain: Driveshafts, differential, axles, wheel bearings Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment Steering: Steering rack, power steering system, steering column, linkage Brakes: Brake system components (calipers, rotors, pads), hydraulic system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) Electrical: Starter, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams, lighting, fuses, relays, ECU (Engine Control Unit) Body: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system (compressor, evaporator, heater core, controls) Safety Systems: Airbags, seatbelts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) diagnostics Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components Disassembly Assembly: Detailed procedures for removing and reinstalling parts and sub-assemblies Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and common fault finding Electrical Diagnostics: Wiring diagram interpretation, component testing, electrical system troubleshooting Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts Specifications: Torque specifications, tolerances, diagnostic data, electrical values Diagrams: Detailed diagrams, illustrations, and exploded views for clarity 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (Assumed, common for scanned manuals) Searchable Text: Likely, if OCR'd correctly Printable: Yes Print Quality Image Clarity: Varies by source; high-quality scans are essential Binding Type Type: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Codes Examples: M52B28 (2.8L I6), M52B25 (2.5L I6), M62B44 (4.4L V8), M43B19 (1.9L I4), M51D25 (2.5L Turbo Diesel) Performance Horsepower Range: 115 hp (1.9L) to 286 hp (4.4L V8) Torque Range: 180 Nm (1.9L) to 440 Nm (4.4L V8) Fuel System Type: Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for petrol engines, common rail direct injection (CRDI) for diesel Fuel Type: Unleaded Petrol (91 RON minimum), Diesel Cooling System Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G05 or equivalent, typically 50/50 mix) Lubrication Oil Type Examples: Castrol EDGE Professional BMW Longlife-01 0W-30 or 5W-30 (check specific model and climate) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260/6 or ZF S5-31/S5-36) Optional Type: 4-speed Steptronic Automatic (GM 4L30-E), 5-speed Steptronic Automatic (ZF 5HP18, 5HP19, 5HP24) Features Steptronic: Allows manual selection of gears via shifter or steering wheel buttons (on some models) Fluid Type Automatic Fluid: Dexron III (or equivalent like Mobil ATF 220, Mercon V) - check service history for specific fill Fluid Capacity Automatic Capacity: Approx. 7-9 liters (1.8-2.4 gallons) for a complete fluid change 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Sedan: 4,770 mm (187.8 in) Width: 1,799 mm (70.8 in) Height Sedan: 1,437 mm (56.6 in) Weights Curb Weight Range: 1,500 kg (3,307 lbs) to 1,850 kg (4,079 lbs) depending on engine and equipment Wheelbase: 2,830 mm (111.4 in) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Likely 4 stars (for 1997 model year standards) IIHS Side Impact: Good (for models equipped with side airbags) Active Features Traction Control: ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) standard on many models, optional on others ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Stability Control: DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) available on higher-spec models Passive Features Airbags: Front driver and passenger airbags standard, optional side airbags Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment System Type: On-Board Computer (OBC), optional Navigation System (MKII), optional Professional Radio with CD Player. Features: Radio controls, trip computer, climate control integration, navigation guidance (if equipped). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control on most models. Parking Sensors: Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC). Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional Bluetooth hands-free system (often via snap-in adapter). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: Variable Service Interval (VSI) or Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically suggests oil changes every 15,000-25,000 km (9,000-15,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Spark Plugs: 100,000...
Allows manual selection of gears via shifter or steering wheel buttons (on some models)
Fluid Type Automatic
Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent like Mobil ATF 220, Mercon V) - check service history for specific fill
Fluid Capacity Automatic
Capacity:
Approx. 7-9 liters (1.8-2.4 gallons) for a complete fluid change
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Sedan:
4,770 mm (187.8 in)
Width:
1,799 mm (70.8 in)
Height Sedan:
1,437 mm (56.6 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
1,500 kg (3,307 lbs) to 1,850 kg (4,079 lbs) depending on engine and equipment
Wheelbase:
2,830 mm (111.4 in)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely 4 stars (for 1997 model year standards)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Active Features
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) standard on many models, optional on others
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) available on higher-spec models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
System Type:
On-Board Computer (OBC), optional Navigation System (MKII), optional Professional Radio with CD Player.
Features:
Radio controls, trip computer, climate control integration, navigation guidance (if equipped).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system (often via snap-in adapter).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) or Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically suggests oil changes every 15,000-25,000 km (9,000-15,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plugs:
100,000 km (60,000 miles) for iridium spark plugs (check specific engine)
Transmission Fluid:
Often considered 'lifetime' by BMW, but recommended change every 80,000-100,000 km (50,000-60,000 miles) for longevity, especially for automatics.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G05 compatible)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 4 LV for vehicles with DSC)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or CHF 202 (Green fluid)
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank and radiator can degrade over time, leading to leaks. Water pump and thermostat failure.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear subframe bushings are common wear items.
Oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid failure (especially on early M52 engines), CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging.
Transmission:
Mechatronic sleeve leaks in automatic transmissions, clutch wear in manuals.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Legacy:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is renowned for producing premium vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E39 Introduction:
The E39 generation replaced the E34 5 Series, marking a significant evolution in design, technology, and refinement.
Key Innovations:
Introduction of CAN bus electrical architecture, advanced infotainment options (e.g., iDrive predecessor), improved aerodynamics, and enhanced safety features.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany, with some assembly in other BMW plants globally.
Production Years
E39 Production Period:
1995-2003 (for sedan), 1996-2003 (for touring)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E39 5 Series was a consistent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run, often cited for its exceptional balance of sport and luxury.
Ratings
Consumer Reports:
Generally well-regarded for reliability and performance by consumer publications, though specific model years and engines had known issues.
Certifications
Safety Certifications:
Meets all relevant US and European safety standards for its model year.