With which engine to choose a BMW E39, what to look for and how much its maintenance costs. Is it worth it to buy such a car at all, because about 85-90% of 39 in the CIS countries are in a "crumpled" state ?! If you are resolved, and are firmly convinced of the desire to buy a BMW E39, then from this article you will learn what you need to pay attention to in order not to buy completely full rubbish and how to choose a 39-ku in good condition and with the best engine.
The BMW E39 at a glance - the premium sedan / touring of the 5 Series in the fourth generation. The car replaced the body of the BMW E34 and was put into mass production at the end of 1995. The first versions were 520i, 523i, 528i, 540i, diesel versions 525td and 525tds were offered only a year later.
The E39 was produced until 2003 in the sedan and touring (station wagon) bodies, after which it was replaced by the BMW E60. At the end of 2000, the BMW E39 5 series model range was updated (restyling - minor changes in the exterior and interior, revision / improvement of engines and correction of errors / problems that arose during the operation of the first models of this generation).
Dorestyling or Restyling
How to distinguish between pre-styling and restyling BMW E39 ?!
In the front end, the updated version has a new bumper with body-colored moldings, round fog lights for the design of the bumper and changed optics - for the first time on a BMW, "angel eyes" are installed. At the rear, the headlight has been redesigned.
And these are the external signs of differences between the BMW E39 with the M Sport Package in comparison with the top version of the M5
After restyling, most of the design flaws were eliminated, and the BMW E39 became one of the reliability leaders in its class. However, the Bavarian sedan remains a rather complex vehicle that requires skilled maintenance, quality parts and consumables. When buying a pre-styling version, special attention should be paid to the condition of the car, since there were more weak points in the first production cars.
The lineup
BMW 520i E39 is a gasoline version of the BMW E39 produced from 1995 to 2003 in two body types - sedan and touring. Over the entire production period, three engines were installed on the 520 - from 1996 to September 1998, a 2-liter BMW M52, from 1998 to January 2000, its updated M52 engine with the TU index and from 2000 to 2003 a 2.2-liter and one of the most popular, reliable BMW M54.
BMW 523i E39 - produced from 1995 to 2000 in the sedan body, and since 1997 the model has been available in the touring body. The car was originally equipped with an M52B25. Since September 1998, the company has replaced this unit with an updated M52TUB25 engine with a double VANOS system.
BMW 525i E39 - this modification is available only in a restyled body and was equipped with a 2.5-liter BMW M54. The car was produced from 2000 to 2003 in the sedan and station wagon (Touring).
BMW 528i E39 - This modification was produced from 1995 to 2001 and was available with the BMW M52. Since September 1998, an updated TU engine was installed on the 39th, and the Single VANOS system was replaced by Double VANOS.
BMW 530i E39 - Just like the 2.5-liter version, the 530 version with the 3-liter BMW M54 was offered in 2000. The production was completed in 2003.
BMW 535i E39 - E39 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V8. The 535th produced from 1996 to 1998 is equipped with an M62B35 engine with a capacity of 245 hp. Since September 1998, the Bavarians have installed an upgraded BMW M62 engine with the TU index under the hood.
BMW 540i E39 - if you do not take into account the BMW M5 E39, then this is the top version in the 39th body. The car has been produced since 1995 and was equipped with a 4.4-liter M62B44 engine, and since September '98 with its modified version M62TU developing 286 hp. The armored version was designated 540iP (Protection).
BMW 520d E39 is the most economical version. The diesel modification was produced from 2000 to 2004 and was equipped with only a 4-cylinder BMW M47 engine.
BMW 525td E39 - the first version with a diesel engine was offered only in the sedan body and was equipped with a BMW M51 engine (M51D25 UL). Production period 1996 - 2000.
BMW 525tds E39 is a more powerful diesel model produced with the same M51 (M51D25TU OL) and in the same period.
BMW 525d E39 is a restyled diesel modification with a 2.5-liter BMW M57. The car was produced in sedan and station wagon bodies from 2000 to 2003.
BMW 530d E39 is a top-end diesel version under the hood of which the same reliable BMW M57 engine was installed, only with a volume of 3 liters. Since 1998, the 530th diesel has been equipped with an 184-horsepower version of the engine. From August 2000 to 2003, the same engine was installed on this model, only modified and improved, the power of which increased to 193 hp.
How to choose BMW E39
As for the choice of modification, it is worth noting that even the 520th version with a two-liter engine will bring you driving pleasure, and at the same time moderate maintenance costs. The choice of modification is directly related to your financial capabilities.
What to look for when choosing, examining and buying a "five" of the fourth generation?
Body
The search for a used BMW E39, as well as, in principle, the search for another used car leads to one obligatory moment - checking the body, since you can even buy a BMW E39 in a "killed" state, then go through the engine, repair the gearbox and sort out the chassis part, but if you bought a car with badly damaged bodywork, it will stay with you forever, or until you sell the car.
When examining the body condition, you should understand that time takes its toll and it is almost impossible to find a BMW E39 unbroken and not painted. As practice shows, the search for "five" in native paint can take a long time, and you will be very lucky if at least one hundredth of the viewed car becomes it. 
100% - not broken and not painted BMW 528i in the back of E39. At the moment it is on the podium of the BMW Museum, and if you still manage to buy it, then for VERY expensive
Below are the places you need to pay attention to in order to clearly see the overall picture of the condition of the machine. What to look at when inspecting the body? The main task is to choose a body that has not been in a severe accident, that is, let it be repainted, repaired somewhere, but the most important thing is that the supporting structure is not damaged.
Determine in what place the car was bit, possibly with a device for measuring paintwork. With the help of it, it is possible at the initial stage to find out whether you should further inspect the car or not. If you do not have such a device, you will have to examine it more closely.
front part
The repainted place gives itself out mainly with a matte shade and bloated paint, which indicates poor-quality repair work.
In the engine compartment, the fender liner can suggest its replacement, and the torn off bolts on the hood and fenders will let you know that the wing was removed, or even changed. It is possible to determine if the headlight has changed by checking the date of manufacture of the car and the date of manufacture of the headlight indicated on the headlight housing itself. It is worth noting that the headlight can be changed not only after an accident, but also when updating the appearance.
the problematic place in the front of the E39 body is the sealant in the front of the hood (front corners) - if the corrosion is strong, then the hood will have to be changed in the future.
Side part
It is possible to determine the repainted part of the body by the presence of poor-quality painting with a painter, which may well leave traces, such as subsidence of the soil or paint smudges. When examining a dirty car, it will be difficult to determine such moments even for a person being dismantled.
Inspect the fit of the doors to the side fenders, and the openings for cracks or paint swelling, which will warrant a replacement or repair operation on the doorway.
It is easy to determine by the bolts that the door has been dismantled;
Rear part
The presence of "bitness-dyeing" can be determined by examining the luggage compartment, namely the mounting area of \u200b\u200bthe rear wing. After installing the "new" rear wing, characteristic marks remain. The surface of the attachment plate may be glossy, although it should be more matte. There are no traces of spot welding. If the car has been hit from one side, it will be easy for you to identify by comparing it to the opposite side. It is also possible to determine the bitness by the presence of "handicraft" welding under the very platform from the inside.
The next element that must be examined is a niche for a spare wheel, and the presence / absence of welds, putty or other unpleasant repairs.
Pay attention to the trunk lid itself; torn paint near the trunk mounting bolt will let you know about its removal or replacement.
Engine
You will hardly be able to see the new engine in the engine compartment of a used BMW E39, but when examining, pay attention to the external condition of the attachment and everything around it - including the power unit itself.
Visually, the poor condition of the engine will tell you the valve cover gasket, which requires replacement, the power steering sweating, the leakage of high pressure hoses and other oily parts of the engine compartment, which indicate the unreliable operation of the engine.
But, only by starting the engine, a knowledgeable person will understand how good or bad everything is with the engine.
Best BMW E39 engine
The BMW E39 was fitted with 6- and 8-cylinder petrol engines and 4- and 6-cylinder diesel power units.
Gasoline - M52, M52TU, M54 and M62. Unlike its predecessor, the BMW M20, the BMW M5x engine series is less prone to overheating, which cannot be said about the V-eight M62 with a volume of 3.5 and 4.4 liters. The word "overheating" does not mean short-term high speed.
With which engine is it better to choose BMW E39? Get away from your car budget!
Try to "weed out" the E39s with the M52 engine. Why?! Because the blocks of this motor are made of aluminum, and in the manufacture of the cylinder walls such surface treatment / spraying technology as Nikasil was used. This spraying is "afraid" of very low-quality gasoline, which contains a lot of sulfur.
If the budget is limited, look towards the BMW E39 with the M52TU engine release from 09.1998 or from 1999 release. This engine is much more reliable than the M52 installed on the first models. It is also worth noting that a double VANOS is installed on the "TU" version, which makes the car more economical, and at the same time has higher dynamic characteristics.
With a bigger budget, buy with a BMW M54 gasoline engine. This is a great motor that won't have any problems. The motor has proven its reliability over time. But this does not mean that you can buy a BMW E39 with an M54 engine and not service it at all. 
Visual difference between BMW M52 and M52TU engines: 1 - one two VANOS; 2 - a lid; 3 - intake manifold; 4 - the location of the oil dipstick;
The M54 engine was equipped only with restyled BMW E39
As for the 8-cylinder engines, the situation is the same with the blocks. Nikasil block motors were installed until September 1997, so models up to 97 ′ would be cheaper to bypass.
It is also worth noting that the VANOS system on the BMW E39 V8 has been installed since September 1998. When choosing such a "device", you need to pay special attention to the sound of the system itself (VANOS) - to the absence of crackles and knocks. When buying a BMW E39 with a V-shaped engine, pay attention to the 4.4-liter version with a TU engine, that is, M62TUB44 installed on the 540th modification after 1998.
Left BMW M62 without VANOS - right M62TU VANOS
Most of the E39s were also equipped with diesel engines. From the start of production until 2000, modifications with the prefix to the index "td" and "tds" were equipped with a 2.5-liter M51 engine, and in 1999, as a more modern replacement, a two-liter four-cylinder M47 and six-cylinder M57 with a volume of 2.5 and 3.0 liters. They differ from the M51 in the presence of an exhaust gas recirculation system and more powerful power characteristics.
From diesel engines, pay attention to the reliable and powerful 3-liter BMW M57. As for the 4-cylinder BMW M47, as for a car of this class and with such a mass, it is a little weak, and does not quite reveal the capabilities of the BMW 5 Series. 
The reliability of the BMW M57 engine has been proven by time and the duration of the production of a diesel power unit.
A characteristic feature of these engines is the presence of an air sensor on one of the nozzles, which, after 80-120,000 km of run, may well cause an air leak that enters the fuel system, which leads to a difficult engine start. The solution to the problem is to replace the nozzle.
- The distribution mechanism in all power units is driven by a chain that will last about 250,000 km;
- Engines are sensitive to oil quality and require the use of BMW recommended lubricants;
- Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the radiator, which should be cleaned at least once a year (depending on the conditions and terrain of car operation);
- Cooling fan failure can cause overheating;
- Check connections for leaks from mechanical bushings;
In any case, the condition of the above and other components must be monitored and properly maintained if necessary, or the onset of maintenance.
Gear boxes
The reliability of the gearbox in the E39 body is extremely high.
According to the manual, automatic transmissions are not serviced, but nevertheless, "in practice" the oil in the automatic transmission is recommended to be changed every 60,000 km as a safety net.
Before buying it would be a good idea to assess the condition of the clutch. This car encourages a more aggressive driving style, and clutch replacement procedures are not cheap.
Suspension
The BMW E39 has (for the first time for the "five") a multi-link suspension, most of which is made of aluminum. The manufacturer made this "move" to optimize the weight, which he did well, but some owners, or former owners of the 39th body, criticized the suspension. There is one point, or rather advice, install original and high-quality parts - and you will be happy.
Front suspension
"Five" - \u200b\u200bMcPherson (McPherson) on two wishbones. This suspension option provides excellent handling and an affordable service price. Depending on the driving style, the front axle will last from 40,000 to 80,000 km.
The front suspension consumables include the silent blocks of the upper levers and the anti-roll bar rods, they are capable of going 15 - 25,000 km, the front shock absorbers will "live" a little longer (or further) (40 - 80,000 kilometers). The ball joint can travel up to 100,000 km, or even more, but it changes together with the lever, since the ball joints on the wishbones are not repressed.
Rear suspension
Multi-link with lower H-shaped lever. In terms of handling, durability and comfort, the rear suspension will last longer due to its resource.
The weak point of the four-link rear suspension of the BMW E39 is the articulated silent block (ball joint) in the wheel bearing support, the boomerang arm (wishbone) and can sometimes disturb the torn silent blocks in the lower H-shaped levers (swinging arm).
It is worth noting that most of the suspension of the BMW E39 with a V8 engine consists of metal arms, and of course it is cheaper in terms of maintenance cost.
Before the sale, it is practiced to replace worn-out parts with new ones of very low quality, for example, instead of LEMFÖRDER levers (the price tag on which, after installation, could be included in the price of the BMW E39 sold), some Chinese levers with an unknown warranty period were installed, which will be enough for you for two weeks of a moderate trip, or even less.
Mileage
For starters, it's worth noting the fact that most BMW E39s on the market will be mileage adjusted. So at this stage, when choosing, pay attention to the technical condition of the car as a whole, the operation of its engine and gearbox, since it will not be possible to check the twisted mileage without special devices.
If it is important for you to know the real mileage of the BMW E39, you need:
- contact the BMW dealership together with the owner of the car, and then if the car was serviced by a dealer;
- visually inspect the interior, the technical condition of the car and compare them with the specified mileage on the odometer;
- in a technical way, by connecting a computer with special software to the car;
Diagnostics
This stage is obligatory if you have decided on a car and you are not indifferent to the state of your future "five".
Diagnostics BMW E39 will show the dates of errors, what errors are and in which control unit, that is, you will learn about those problems that cannot be visually identified, for example: errors in the operation of any cylinder, parking sensors, automatic headlight range control, incorrect operation gearboxes, ignition errors and other unpleasant moments.
Do not dwell only on computer diagnostics, just inspect the car on a lift and check the geometry of the body.
On the market it is possible to meet a vehicle with a dark past, therefore, origin verification is desirable if you do not need further unpleasant moments associated with your car.
Happy choice 🙂
www.bimmerfest.ru
Comparative analysis of ownership of e34 and e39 - logbook BMW 5 series Touring Individual /// M-package 2001 on DRIVE2
I think it is already possible to write a comparative analysis of e34 and e39, since I have had e39 for half a year, I will not write many letters, I will try to express everything concisely, and so let's start:
Exterior: Here, of course, for an amateur, who likes the e34, who likes the e39, of course the e34 is the last BMW in the classic four-eyed design, it clings with its old-school style, the e39 design is certainly not so remarkable, at one time the highlight were angel eyes, but they are sown every second credit scrubber, the only e39 in the M-package still catches the eye, while the e34 in any body kit now looks old-school aggressive.
Interior: In the interior, I would still give primacy to the e39, the interior is larger than in the e34, more ergonomic design, the panel is also deployed to the driver, the landing is lower than in the e34, the only build quality and materials used in e34 are a little better in my opinion ... Maybe the age of e39 is a little younger and there are no problems like in e34 in the form of a sagging ceiling, peeling door trims, but worn-out seats have long been a reality in e39.
The cost of spare parts and maintenance: Here the well-known factor plays a role, the simpler the cheaper and of course the e34 wins to keep it an order of magnitude cheaper than the e39 restayl, the e39 dorestyle is about the same as the e34 since there are no special differences. For example, in the restyling there is already marketing replacement by nodes, for example, the fuel filter changes with a pressure regulator, the thermostat changes with the housing, this increases the cost of the part, why change the pressure regulator every time you replace the gas filter.
The E34 will cost you an order of magnitude cheaper in maintenance, besides, when using the e34 you do not need a scanner, more precisely, you need it, you can do without it, in the e39, especially in the restyling, given the fact that the cars are constantly drizzling with electrics and electronics, here you cannot do without a scanner otherwise you will enrich diagnosticians.
Purchase price: Here live e34, and both restyle and dorestyle, have already caught up in price with live dorestyle e39, and fluctuate within 250-350tr, e39 restyled in live form fluctuate depending on the configuration from 350-500tr., So here there are almost no differences. Of course, I do not take into account museum pieces with low mileage, which easily sell for several million.
So the bottom line is that the e39 is more comfortable, perhaps everything is more modern, the e34 is more maintainable, cheaper to maintain and more charismatic.
www.drive2.ru
BMW E39 - technical characteristics, before and after restyling (photo and video)
≡ 7 June 2015 Category: E39 (1996-2003)The car from the BMW concern in the back of the E39 began to be developed back in 1989. Only 6 years later, the new generation of the 5 series was presented to the general public. This happened in the fall of 1995 at an exhibition in Frankfurt.
"Entwicklung 39" - the codename of the fourth generation of the fifth BMW series
E39 is the fourth generation of the fifth BMW series. According to the technical documentation at the plant, the car was named Entwicklung 39. Translated from German, this word means: "expansion", "evolution", "development", "process". Such words are the best fit for this car model from Bavarian design engineers. When developing it, reviews of the BMW in the previous body with the E34 index were taken into account. The main complaints then were about the suspension, so in the fourth generation it was she who was given a lot of attention.
| Indicator / modification | 520i | 520i Touring | 525i | 530i | 520d | 525tds | M5 | ||
| Before 2000 | Since 2001 | Before 2000 | Since 2001 | ||||||
| Engine displacement, cubic meters cm | 1991 | 2171 | 191 | 2171 | 2494 | 2979 | 1951 | 2498 | 4398 |
| Power, h.p. | 150 | 170 | 150 | 170 | 192 | 231 | 136 | 143 | 286 |
| Maximum speed, km / h | 220 | 226 | 212 | 223 | 238 | 250 | 206 | 211 | 250 |
| Fuel consumption (urban cycle), l per 100 km | 12,6 | 12,2 | 13,7 | 12,8 | 13,1 | 13,7 | 7,8 | 11,5 | 17,7 |
| Acceleration time to 100 km / h, sec. | 10,0 | 9,0 | 11,0 | 10 | 8,0 | 7,0 | 11,0 | 10,0 | 6,0 |
| Length mm | 4775 | 4808 | 4805 | 4775 | |||||
| Height, mm | 1800 | 1800 | 1800 | 1800 | |||||
| Width, mm | 1435 | 1440 | 1445 | 1435 |
What was new in the fourth generation?
"Five" of the fourth generation was the first BMW car with a lightweight suspension. German engineers have managed to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle by 38%. This result was achieved through the use of units and parts made of aluminum. The lightweight suspension made it possible to create a car with increased smoothness and significantly increased ride comfort.
Aluminum was also used for some of the body panels. This innovation helped protect it from corrosion. The body of the E39 is highly resistant to rust.
Fourth generation BMW 5 Series Touring
The E39 was the first BMW to be fitted with a stainless steel exhaust system. This significantly increased the life of the muffler.
The fourth generation of the BMW car was distinguished by increased sound insulation. Double glass was used for the side windows. This significantly reduced the penetration of noise into the interior.
Base model BMW E39. Salon equipment
The 520i is considered the backbone of BMW's 5 Series sedan range. It was equipped with a 2-liter power unit with a capacity of 148 horses. The average fuel consumption is 9 liters per 100 kilometers. Two years later, in 1997, the concern launched a station wagon. The word Touring was added to the index of the universal model. This car consumes up to 13 liters in the "city" mode, in the "highway" mode - 6.9 liters per hundred.
Fuel consumption in mixed mode is 9 liters per 100 kilometers
In the basic configuration, options appeared that were previously available only for additional money. Here is a list of them:
- climate control;
- multi-wheel;
- cruise control;
- bluetooth;
- automatic heated mirrors.
On request, the car can be equipped with a heated steering wheel. The inclusion control is located on the steering wheel itself, which is very convenient. The steering column can be adjusted in two directions. Three steering positions can be memorized.
Comfortable front seats are adjustable. Not only the backrest tilt and seat height are adjustable, but also the length of the lower part. Now it is possible to adjust the inclination of the upper backrest separately from the lower one. This design is called the "BMW breaking back". The front seats are equipped with three-position memory.
E39 received four stars in crash test
The signature feature of this sedan is the floor-mounted accelerator pedal. Some BMW owners have pointed out that it is a little harsh. But all unanimously declared that the gas pedal is very sensitive.
During the crash test, the E39 received four stars from the international organization EuroNCAP. In addition to the AirBag, the business sedan is equipped with a safety belt tightening system.
EuroNCAP is a European international organization founded in 1997. Its main activity is conducting independent crash tests. Based on the test results, the committee issues passive and active safety ratings.
The wide rear sofa can accommodate three people. True, the average passenger will feel inconvenience with the placement of the legs, a rather wide transmission tunnel in the middle will interfere with him.
Remarkable is the fact that the luggage compartment of the sedan has a volume of 460 liters, which is 50 liters more than that of the station wagon. But in the station wagon, it is possible to open the glass of the fifth door without opening the trunk itself.
Power units E39
Under the hood of the E39, motors with an aluminum block were installed. It was in the 90s that German car manufacturers began to use all-aluminum cylinder blocks. The Bavarians did not think that someone would bore and repair their engines. To increase the life of the engine, the cylinders were coated inside with a special substance called nikasil. It is an alloy of nickel and silicon. But as practice has shown, the nikasilon coating is rapidly destroyed by low-quality fuel. Therefore, since 1998, they began to install cast iron sleeves in blocks.
At the start of mass production, the business sedan was equipped with a line of three gasoline engines and one diesel engine. The engine of the previous "five" was taken as a basis. Below is a list of modifications with the corresponding power units:
- petrol models 520i - M52TU B20, 523i - M52TU B25, 528i - M52TU B28;
- diesel 525tds - M5
The M52 series of power units is a six-cylinder unit. The weakest develops power up to 150 horsepower. The engine with a volume of 2.3 liters produces 170 horsepower. On city roads, this car consumes just over 13 liters. The most powerful gasoline engine is capable of developing 193 hp. The diesel engine has a power of 143 horses. In urban mode, diesel fuel consumption is 11.5 liters, on the highway - 6.2 liters.
Double-VANOS system - camshaft control
Since 1998, the BMW concern began producing the top model M5. The main difference of this model was the engine. A V-shaped figure eight was installed under the hood. It was the first car with a powertrain that developed the power of 400 horses! Its volume was 5 liters. In addition, the M5 model used a new Double-VANOS system - two camshaft control. The fuel supply system was also changed: eight throttle valves supply the fuel-air mixture to eight cylinders. Average fuel consumption is up to 14 liters per hundred kilometers.
Constructive changes and restyling
In 1999, Bavarian designers carried out several upgrades to the BMW E39. The exterior was not changed. The main design changes were made to the engines. The six-cylinder engines have two camshafts. In the same year, a new M57D30 engine was added to the line of diesel power units - a 6-cylinder engine with a new Common Rail injection system. The injection for this car was developed by Bosch.
In 2000, German engineers carried out a large-scale restyling of the fourth generation. This time, they made adjustments to the appearance and added three new power units. The exterior of the car received new side lights, a modified radiator grille and a new front bumper. For the first time, BMW used the new Celis-Technik technology, later it was called "Angel Eyes".
6-cylinder engine with new common rail injection system
Since 2000, they began to install new engines with the M54 index. These inline engines had six cylinders and a Double-VANOS control system. The modernization made it possible to obtain more powerful engines. The 520i is 20 horsepower more powerful. Now 170 horses fit under its hood. 525i with the M54B25 engine develops 192 hp. with a torque of 245 Nm. The top model with the 530i index received the M54B30 with an impressive 231 horse herd under the hood. The maximum speed of this "five" is 250 km / h, the consumption of gasoline in city mode is 13.7 liters per hundred.
In early 2000, a new diesel model also appeared. This "five" was indexed 520d. Having a 2-liter diesel engine with 136 hp, it accelerated to a hundred in just under 11 seconds.
The fourth generation was produced until 2003, BMW M5 - until 2004. The body of the E39 was replaced by the model of the fifth generation E60. According to the editors of the authoritative publication AutoBild, the BMW E39 is the most successful business-class sedan in terms of driving performance and with an excellent line of power units.
Video overview
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The history of the BMW 5 Series in the back of E39 - DRIVE2
The model was presented to the public in September 1995 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The design changes compared to the previous generation (BMW E34) were more significant than in previous generation changes. In general, the body has become less angular, the branded double headlights were covered with a common shade, the edging of the radiator grille ("nostrils") acquired a more rounded shape. The center console of the car, as in previous generations, is slightly turned towards the driver. By increasing the wheelbase, the space for rear passengers has also increased.
The car's suspension is almost entirely made of aluminum (except for V8 models that use cast iron), which has a good effect on the car's handling, reducing its weight. As a result, the unsprung weight of the suspension decreased by 36% and, as a result, the suspension became more comfortable. Rear suspension design with "steering" action of the rear wheels, improves vehicle handling on the road. To better distribute the weight of the car along the axles, the battery was placed in the luggage compartment underground.
In the spring of 1997, the Touring station wagon was released, which is 90 mm longer than the sedan and 100 kg heavier, while retaining the best driver qualities of the sedan. The range of engines is completely identical to the sedan, and the list of standard equipment has been supplemented by two side airbags. BMW 540i touring is considered one of the fastest station wagons on the planet (6.2 s for manual transmission, 6.5 s for automatic transmission) produced from 1997 to 2004, second only to BMW M5 touring E61 5.0 produced since 2007 (4.8 s), and : Audi A6 Avant quattro 4.2 FSI (6.1 s for automatic transmission); Audi S6 Avant from 1994 to 1997 (6.0 s); Audi S6 Avant from 2006 to 2010 (5.3 s); Audi RS6 Avant 4.2bT from 2002 to 2006 (4.7 s for automatic transmission); Audi RS6 Avant 5.0 from 2007 to 2010 (4.6 s for automatic transmission); in addition: Mercedes-Benz E55T from 1997 to 2000 (5.9 s); Mercedes-Benz E500 from 2003 to 2006 (6.5 s); Mercedes-Benz E500 from 2006 to 2009 (5.4 s); Mercedes-Benz E550 from 2006 to 2009 (5.4 s); Mercedes-Benz E55 from 2003 to 2006 (4.8 s); Mercedes-Benz E63 from 2006 to 2009 (4.6 s); (what nonsense? VAZ is also fast, not counting the list of 9999 million cars in front of it) at the moment, no data is known on the latest model of the Mercedes-Benz E-class W212. Thus, the BMW 540i Touring e39 286 hp was second only to the Audi S6 4.2 290 hp of the 1994 model and the Mercedes-Benz E55T 354 hp of the 1997 model from the beginning of its production, being, in fact, the third station wagon in terms of acceleration dynamics in its class among the leading automakers in the world. !
In 1998, production of the BMW M5 began. This car was equipped with an uprated 5-liter V8 S62 engine, structurally similar to the serial 4.4-liter M62B44 unit, equipped with a Double-VANOS system and eight individual throttle valves. For the first time on a production BMW model, the engine power reaches 400 hp. But unlike the BMW E34, there is no E39-based M wagon. The world's only official BMW M5 E39 touring was ordered by the head of BMW M GmbH.
In 1999, the model received part of the design changes that affected the engines, and did not affect the design of the car. The main changes were that 6-cylinder engines received control of both Double-VANOS camshafts, 8-cylinder engines received VANOS system for intake valves and two-stage catalytic converters of exhaust gases, which made it possible to meet the Euro 4 requirements of 2005.
In the same 1999, an 184-horsepower diesel engine with an unseparated combustion chamber, a Common Rail injection system, turbocharging and intercooled air appeared on the BMW 530d. The car is capable of developing 225 km / h and consuming less than 6 l / 100 km in a standard extra-urban cycle.
At the end of 1999, the first BMW E39 cars appeared on Russian roads, assembled at the Avtotor plant in the Kaliningrad region. The price of the "Russian" BMW E39 was about 10 thousand dollars lower than the "German" ones.
In early 2000, a low-cost BMW 520d appeared with a 2-liter 4-cylinder direct injection diesel engine. Its power (136 hp) was quite enough to accelerate even a 1.6-ton 5-ku Touring from standstill to 100 km / h in 10.9 seconds.
The more powerful BMW 525d replaced its predecessor 525tds with a vortex-chambered 143 hp diesel engine. The new 2.5-liter 6-cylinder direct injection turbocharged diesel is equipped with a common rail fuel system and develops 163 hp.
In 2001, the BMW E39 underwent a reystaling. Externally, the updated five can be easily recognized by the original lighting technology made using CELIS technology, bumpers and more rounded mirrors. However, the main changes are hidden inside - there are three new M54 engines for the BMW 520i, 525i and 530i models. All of them are in-line, 6-cylinder, with Double-VANOS system. The first engine for the BMW 520i, based on the old 2-liter unit. The increase in the piston stroke from 66 to 72 mm allowed an increase in the working volume from 1991 to 2171 cm³ and the maximum power from 151 to 170 hp. at 6250 rpm. The second engine is the previous 2.5-liter unit of the BMW 523i model, but in the modernized version it develops not 170, but 192 hp. (index 523i was replaced with the correct 525i). The third engine for the BMW 530i, first introduced in mid-2000 on the 3 Series, is a 3.0-liter engine with an impressive 231 hp.
The model was produced until 2003, when it was replaced by the BMW E60. The BMW M5 E39 was produced until 2004, when it was replaced by the BMW M5 E60. Station wagons were also produced until 2004.
My first review, so don't criticize too much)
So, I chose a car within 350 thousand rubles, the choice consisted of the Germans: Mers 210, Audi A6, BMW 5 E39. After walking around the market, after sitting on auto sites, I realized that there was not enough money for a car in good condition, it only remained to save more. And then one day an acquaintance offers a BMW 520 e39 '98 release. I was confused by the manual transmission, but having driven this car, the box no longer played a role, because the car was in order technically and externally. In general, for a long time, without hesitation, he took it for the same 350 thousand rubles. I can say with confidence that I was lucky with this car, all consumables were changed, everything is fine. Sat down and went, as they say)
I own these cars for 2 years, bought with mileage of 150,000 km. The equipment is quite good, in addition to leather and a machine gun, there are 6 pillows, 2-zone climate, cruise control, TV + navigation. At the moment, the mileage is 256,000 km.
Engine.
2 liter engine. Honestly, it is not enough for a BMW, the car is heavy, 150 horses are not always enough, although it will be enough for someone for normal driving around the city, if someone breaks off a traffic light, it will be hard, things are better on the highway, reception from 100 up to 160 confident. Gasoline consumption in the city 11-13l, highway 9-10l. Oil consumption for 10.000 km is about 1.5 liters, I fill up Castrol 10w-40. In principle, there were no serious problems with the engine, in 2 years I changed the crankshaft sensor 3 times, ignition coils 3 pieces, flushed nozzles, nothing else.
Suspension.
Everyone knows firsthand that the suspension of the E39 is weak, this is true because of our Russian roads) For the first three months of using the car, I changed the front struts and bones twice. I go in winter and summer on 15 wheels, the survivability of the suspension depends on the size of the wheels) Basically, problems are always with the struts, bones, silent blocks. The most interesting thing is that for 2 years the levers have never changed, everything was ok on the diagnosis! Only now they were sentenced to replace them. And of course the steering rack is another painful place, I changed it twice, but if it knocks, then you can ride it anyway)) But only for a short time. I recommend taking spare parts only if possible, the original. Believe me, the miser pays twice. In general, the suspension is soft, comfortable, but this is on 15 discs, 17 will definitely be stiffer. So investments in the suspension are inevitable.
Brakes.
The brakes are good, when you touch the foot with the pedal, they react clearly. For 2 years, except for the replacement of consumables with brakes, everything was ok.
The rest.
Despite all the disadvantages of the suspension and electrics, the car is generally good. Here, as they say, you love to ride - love and pay) Controllability, comfort at a high level. Noise isolation is very good. The interior decoration is very high quality, with wood inserts it looks beautiful. The audio system is in order, the sound is very clear, crisp and spacious.
Personally, I am satisfied with my BMW, even if it is naughty sometimes, but the pleasure behind the wheel outweighs all the whims.
The car from the BMW concern in the back of the E39 began to be developed back in 1989. Only 6 years later, the new generation of the 5 series was presented to the general public. This happened in the fall of 1995 at an exhibition in Frankfurt.
E39 is the fourth generation of the fifth BMW series. According to the technical documentation at the plant, the car was named Entwicklung 39. Translated from German, this word means: "expansion", "evolution", "development", "process". Such words are the best fit for this car model from Bavarian design engineers. When developing it, reviews of the BMW in the previous body with the E34 index were taken into account. The main complaints then were about the suspension, so in the fourth generation it was she who was given a lot of attention.
BMW E39 engines
On BMW E39 a wide range of engines was installed, ranging from 136 strong diesel with a volume of 2.0 liters, and ending with a 400 strong 4.9 liter powerful atmospheric engine, which was installed on the M5. Its release began in 1998.
This model was installed inline sixes,which were the most common on this model, eight-cylinder engines were also installed on this model.
The motors were equipped with a system Vanos and double-Vanos. This is a valve control system that allows you to change the valve timing depending on the nature of the ride.
Engines before 1998 had a nikasil coating instead of cast iron liners. Thanks to the nikasil coating, the engine has become lighter, but in our conditions, with our gasoline, it collapses, and the compression in the cylinders begins to fall and due to low-quality gasoline, the cylinder heads are destroyed.
Later, the Germans began to use an alumina coating, which increased the reliability of the engines so that it would be better to choose cars from 1999 so it would be more reliable.
Engines reliable enough, but they are prone to overheating, this hereditary passes from generation to generation. Often the culprit for overheating is the electronic thermostat, it is short-lived, and quickly fails. To prevent overheating, it is necessary to clean the radiator every year. Before buying, if you are not sure about the serviceability of the viscous coupling, it is better to replace it, it may cause overheating.
All motors are equipped with a timing chain, which increases reliability, but do not forget that it stretches over time so that, if necessary, it is better to replace it; after replacing it, you will forget about it for a long time, its resource is about 300 thousand km.
Eight-cylinder motors are more prone to overheating, and fans fail more often. The radiator is clogged with dirt and dust. It must be cleaned regularly so that it does not clog and overheat. It is recommended to do this once every six months.
BASE MODEL BMW E39. INTERIOR EQUIPMENT
The 520i is considered the backbone of BMW's 5 Series sedan range. It was equipped with a 2-liter power unit with a capacity of 148 horses. The average fuel consumption is 9 liters per 100 kilometers. Two years later, in 1997, the concern launched a station wagon. The word was added to the index of the universal model Touring... This car consumes up to 13 liters in the "city" mode, in the "highway" mode - 6.9 liters per hundred.
In the basic configuration, options appeared that were previously available only for additional money. Here is a list of them:
- climate control;
- multi-wheel;
- cruise control;
- bluetooth;
- automatic heated mirrors.
On request, the car can be equipped with a heated steering wheel. The inclusion control is located on the steering wheel itself, which is very convenient. The steering column can be adjusted in two directions. Three steering positions can be memorized.
Comfortable front seats are adjustable. Not only the backrest tilt and seat height are adjustable, but also the length of the lower part. Now it is possible to adjust the inclination of the upper backrest separately from the lower one. This design is called the "BMW breaking back". The front seats are equipped with three-position memory.
The signature feature of this sedan is the floor-mounted accelerator pedal. Some BMW owners have pointed out that it is a little harsh. But all unanimously declared that the gas pedal is very sensitive.
During the crash test, the E39 received four stars from the international organization EuroNCAP. In addition to the AirBag, the business sedan is equipped with a safety belt tightening system.
EuroNCAP is a European international organization founded in 1997. Its main activity is conducting independent crash tests. Based on the test results, the committee issues passive and active safety ratings.
The wide rear sofa can accommodate three people. True, the average passenger will feel inconvenience with the placement of the legs, a rather wide transmission tunnel in the middle will interfere with him.
Remarkable is the fact that the luggage compartment of the sedan has a volume of 460 liters, which is 50 liters more than that of the station wagon. But in the station wagon, it is possible to open the glass of the fifth door without opening the trunk itself. 
Transmission
Transmissions are also reliable, you should make sure that they do not ooze oil, otherwise you need to urgently replace the oil seals.
All Bmw this model is rear-wheel drive. Three types of boxes were installed on this car: 5-6-speed mechanics and TipTronic automatic with the possibility of manual switching.
All boxes are highly reliable. The machine breaks down only with a sharp and aggressive ride.
On a mechanical box, over time, the gear shift bushing and the gearbox stem oil seal fail, in general, on the little things. The automatic transmission serves 250-300 thousand km before intermediate repairs.
Electrical equipment
This thing is pretty capricious. This model does not have very reliable electrical equipment. All because of its abundance, and not because of the quality, there is too much of it.
Often the contact between the loops of the information displays and the board disappears. As a result, the display is not clear. Interestingly, humidity can affect the malfunction.
There is also a problem with the climate control. From time to time, he begins to make an independent decision: to distribute air flows, refusing to regulate air flows.
The way out is replacing the electronic control unit. It also affected the window regulator mechanism. There are plastic parts, they are flimsy and often break.
On the previous model, this mechanism proved to be more reliable.
Strengths: - Good quality body and anti-corrosion coating - Good suspension - Effective brakes - No problems with electronics - Excellent handling - Ergonomics of the interior Weaknesses: - Loss of oil in the engine and gearbox - Failure of cylinder head gaskets and engine breakdowns can occur due to defects thermostat and broken hoses of the engine cooling system. - The alternator and battery are prone to defects. - Early models (before 96) - clutch disc problems. - The clutch cylinder may leak. -
EWS electronic anti-theft system malfunctions. - Lack of rear space for a car of this class Recommendation: The German Automobile Society DAT (Deutsche Automobil Treuhand) of used cars and recommend a three-year 520 (150 hp), which in Germany in March 2002 would cost 16,200 euros. The cheapest five in Germany can be purchased in '96 with a mileage of at least 115-125 thousand for just over 10,000 euros. 
There is every reason to argue that 150 hp for a two-ton car is not quite enough to feel the dynamics. 520 after 2000 (2.2 liters, 170 hp - already more frolic, but, it seems, a little dumber than 523. The optimal choice is 523 (170 hp), with a manual automatic transmission - the car is quite playful and fast. In 1996 it will cost about 11,600 euros, in 2000 - 18,850 euros. For touring, on average, they give 2 thousand euros more! The most comfortable choice would be 528 with automatic transmission - this is the opinion of the drivers themselves. Such a car costs from 12,500 (1996 ) up to 20800 (2000)
Suspension
Compared to the BMW E 34, it has an abundance of aluminum parts in the suspension, resulting in improved handling and comfort.
On our roads, the suspension travels no more than 40,000 km. In eight-cylinder engines, the front suspension is more reliable, it is made of cast iron.
Another trouble was the steering rack, which was installed on this model. On our roads, it is short-lived, it walks where 40,000-60000 km and then regularly empties the owner's wallet.
And here the eight-cylinder engines turned out to be more reliable, they still have the good old worm gearbox.
CONSTRUCTION CHANGES AND RESTYLING
In 1999, Bavarian designers carried out several upgrades to the BMW E39. The exterior was not changed. The main design changes were made to the engines. The six-cylinder engines have two camshafts. In the same year, a new M57D30 engine was added to the line of diesel power units - a 6-cylinder engine with a new Common Rail injection system. The injection for this car was developed by Bosch.
In 2000, German engineers carried out a large-scale restyling of the fourth generation. This time, they made adjustments to the appearance and added three new power units. The exterior of the car received new side lights, a modified radiator grille and a new front bumper. For the first time, BMW used the new Celis-Technik technology, later it was called "Angel Eyes". 
Since 2000, they began to install new engines with the M54 index. These inline engines had six cylinders and a Double-VANOS control system. The modernization made it possible to obtain more powerful engines. The 520i is 20 horsepower more powerful. Now 170 horses fit under its hood. 525i with the M54B25 engine develops 192 hp. with a torque of 245 Nm. The top model with the 530i index received the M54B30 with an impressive 231 horse herd under the hood. The maximum speed of this "five" is 250 km / h, the consumption of gasoline in city mode is 13.7 liters per hundred.
In early 2000, a new diesel model also appeared. This "five" was indexed 520d. Having a 2-liter diesel engine with 136 hp, it accelerated to a hundred in just under 11 seconds.
The fourth generation was produced until 2003, BMW M5 - until 2004. The body of the E39 was replaced by the model of the fifth generation E60. According to the editors of the authoritative publication AutoBild, the BMW E39 is the most successful business-class sedan in terms of driving performance and with an excellent line of power units.
For the first time the new BMW E39 of the fifth series was presented in 1995 at the legendary motor show in Frankfurt. The viewers who watched the premiere drew attention to the fundamental changes in the design of the car, made in the appearance of the "five" Joji Nagashima. The more aggressive and assertive styling that has been implemented in the guise of the new BMW has received many positive reviews, although it has drew criticism from conservative fans of the Bavarian brand.
The first countries in which the sale of these cars began were Germany and the UK. Since 1996, the line of modifications of the new "five" has been replenished almost every year. So, in 1997, a station wagon version (Touring) appeared, in 1998 a sports modification of the M5 in a sedan body, and in 1999 an inexpensive diesel BMW 520d rolled off the assembly line.
In 2001, the BMW E39 was restyled, as a result of which the car received updated side lights and a radiator grill, a new navigation system, an improved air conditioning system and the later legendary "angel eyes" - headlights with integrated LEDs.
The BMW 5 Series (E39) was produced until 2003 (in the station wagon body until 2004), and it was replaced by a new model - the BMW 5 Series with the E60 index.
Technical features of the BMW E39
The body design is the main aesthetic and technical difference between the BMW 5 Series E39 and previous generations of cars. The appearance of BMW has become much more aggressive with the appearance of headlights hidden under narrow fairings, a branded split radiator grille, gracefully inscribed in a predatory "beak" of the hood, a sloping roof resting on a powerful base of the pillar. The wheelbase of the car has increased by 70 mm in comparison with previous generations, while the body has almost not become longer - due to the shorter overhangs. The body significantly increased its rigidity, but the car did not become heavier at all, on the contrary, the weight was slightly reduced. In accordance with modern technological developments, aluminum was used in the manufacture of many elements of the car, for example, steering rods or suspension arms, which reduced the total weight of the car in the sedan body.
Interestingly, the unsprung weight of the suspension has decreased by 36%, as a result of which handling and driving comfort have increased. The car has become much safer, although about its predecessor, the BMW E34, in this regard, there were legends. One of the most interesting technical innovations was the special rear suspension design.
BMW E39 in comparison with classmates
Usually, when it comes to the BMW 5er E39, it is customary to compare it with the Mercedes E320, Lexus GS300 and Audi A6, and secondly with the Honda Accord. The main distinguishing feature of the BMW five is the dynamics. In this respect, the BMW 5er is unmatched in its class. Also at the height of the ride and the accuracy of the reactions - here the BMW E39 is ahead of the rest in terms of overall driving performance.
BMW 540i Touring was considered the fastest production station wagon until the release of the Audi RS6 Avant
The almost complete absence of rolls in corners, an understandable steering response, the absence of pecks during hard braking or acceleration - that's what the drivers who bought the new "five" got.
The "Bavarian" is not far behind in terms of the interior - the rear seat in the BMW E39 is the widest in the class, but the legroom for passengers is slightly closer than, for example, in the Audi A6. There is also a minus: the back of the rear seat in the BMW 5, like in the Lexus GS 300, is firmly fixed, while in Audi and Mercedes it reclines. The luggage racks of all the cars listed above are approximately the same.
The BMW 5 er E39 lineup includes a number of very interesting modifications. For example, the BMW 540i Touring was considered the fastest production station wagon up until the release of the Audi RS6 Avant.
At the end of 1997, an armored version of the BMW 5 Series was born - the 540i Protection model. The machine, produced in an amount of about 500 units (the exact number was not disclosed), is able to withstand explosions of grenades and shots of small arms thanks to bulletproof glass and armor made of aramid.
Interestingly, unlike the previous generation, the BMW 5er E39 lineup did not include the M wagon version. Nevertheless, the BMW M5 E39 Touring was still released - in a single copy, and the head of BMW M GmbH became its owner.
BMW E39 in Russia
At the Avtotor plant in Kaliningrad, two modifications of the BMW E39 were assembled - 523i and 528i. For operation on Russian roads, BMW has adapted its cars, providing them with the so-called "Russian package". The difference between the Kaliningrad and Munich BMW lies in about four and a half dozen details. First of all, weak hydro-filled silent blocks disappeared from the suspension, which made the car more rigid, but more resistant to bad roads. In addition, the catalyst disappeared from the exhaust system, and a powerful crankcase protection appeared under the engine. For assembly in Russia, two six-cylinder engines of 2.5 and 2.8 liters were recommended. The set of options is traditionally large, but the xenon headlights with powerful washers, so beloved in Russia, should be especially noted - a tribute to the climate. The windshield washer jets were heated. In support of the headlights, serial PTFs were installed.
Figures and awards
In 2002, the BMW 5er E39 was voted the best car the magazine has ever reviewed by the American magazine Consumer Reports. The BMW 5er E39 has successfully passed the EuroNCAP safety test.
In just 8 years of production, more than 1.5 million BMW 5 er E 39 cars were produced, including at the BMW plant in Kaliningrad.
BMW cars are loved in Russia. Even more. A couple of years ago, a film was made about one of the models of the Bavarian concern, and now Serega boasts in a popular song that he has a black BMW and all the local girls love to ride it. Indeed, not everyone can afford even a used BMW. Especially when it comes to the "five" in the back of the E39, produced from 1995 to 2003.
Typically, BMW 5 Series sold in our aftermarket have a sedan body. The generalists, which appeared only in 1997, are extremely rare. It's a pity, because the station wagon based on the "five" looks very harmonious and even stylish. True, it costs, as a rule, more expensive than a sedan of a similar configuration and technical condition. Moreover, this difference can be several thousand dollars. And it's not just that more material is used to produce station wagons. Many "touring" vehicles are equipped with pneumatic rear suspension, which automatically levels the body depending on the load.
And it should also be mentioned that the BMW 5-series in the back of E39 was assembled not only in Europe, but also in Russia - since 1999, the "fives" began to be made in Kaliningrad. Sometimes you can hear that these machines cannot be compared in quality with products made in Germany. But this is not the case. In terms of their reliability, "Russian" BMWs are not inferior to their German counterparts. Kaliningrad "boomers" have two "packages" - "for bad roads" and "for cold countries" (since September 1998), which is expressed in the presence of reinforced shock absorbers, other springs and stabilizers, engine protection, etc. All this can be supplied and for cars from Europe, but this additional equipment will cost more than $ 1200. Therefore, many buyers of European "fives" prefer at first to limit themselves to only strong metal crankcase protection for about $ 160 - without it on our roads in no time can damage the engine sump. And while preparing the car for Russian conditions, German engineers decided to change the location of the air intake, which on Kaliningrad cars is located not in the front bumper, but slightly higher. This significantly reduced the risk of water hammer.
Not a single "black sheep"
A total of 14 different modifications of power units were installed on the "five" E39, in which even a specialist can get confused. Let's start with 6-cylinder gasoline engines. Until 2000, the "fives" were equipped with 2.0-liter 150 hp engines. (BMW 520i), 2.3L 170 hp (BMW 523i) and 2.8 L with 193 hp. (BMW 528i). You can often hear that the 2-liter power unit is not very suitable for the 5-series, but this statement is controversial, because such cars can easily accelerate to 220 km / h. Agree, not so little. But the 523i and 528i versions are unlikely to be called "dead". These are almost ideal "fives", because the 2.3- and 2.8-liter engines have power, reliability, and besides, their price is more affordable compared to the "cooler" V8s. Well, after the modernization, even among the 6-cylinder engines, not a single "black sheep" remained, which, albeit with a stretch, could be ranked as insufficiently powerful. So, the 520i version received a 2.2 liter (170 hp) engine. In addition, the BMW 525i and 530i appeared with 6-cylinder units of 2.5 and 3.0 liters with 192 hp. and 231 hp. respectively.
But those who need not just a car, but a real "rocket" should look for "fives" with 8-cylinder engines. There were two of them, with a volume of 3.5 and 4.4 liters, with a capacity of 245 hp. and 286 hp. respectively. Here one could also add a unique 4.9-liter unit, which developed a mind-boggling 400 hp, but it was installed on the BMW M5 version, which is seriously different from the usual "fives" and is worthy of a separate article.
Diesel engines cannot be passed by. There are not many of them in our secondary market, but these motors are worthy of respect. On the "fives" you can find diesel engines of 2.0 liters (136 HP), 2.5 liters (143 HP or 163 HP) and 2.9 liters (184 HP or 193 hp). Diesel BMWs, especially those with more powerful engines, are good for everyone, however, with one big exception - in 90%, if not 100% of cases, they have very high mileage. Indeed, in Europe these cars were purchased only by those drivers who travel a lot - believe me, such cars roll about 50 thousand km or more every year. And as a result, after 5-7 years of operation, 250-400 thousand km are behind them. No matter how good the German motors are, they are usually seriously worn by this point. And repairing diesel engines costs a lot of money (it is unrealistic to find a used one in decent condition). And diesel fuel in Russia is also not great. In general, it's still better not to buy old diesel BMWs.
Dangerous options
There are dangerous "fives" with gasoline engines. And here we are not talking about the volume. Sometimes on sale there are cars (made before September 1998) with engines having nickel-silicon (nicosilic) cylinder coating. This very nikosil deteriorates over time, and the cylinder block must be changed. I must say that BMW quickly realized that it had made a big mistake in deciding to use this "nasty" drug. And in many cases the nikosilovye engines were replaced under warranty with new ones having a coating made of reliable alusil. But nicos power units are still found, and in this case, if the motor breaks down, you must either pay about $ 3000 for a new unit, or use cast iron inserts, which is also not cheap. Moreover, many masters doubt the effectiveness of the last operation. Therefore, when buying a car, it is imperative that you go to a service specialized in BMW and check the cylinder block using an endoscope (the nicosil coating is different in color from the alusil one).
Also, when buying, you need to find out if the engine has been overheated, which can lead to very expensive repairs. To prevent overheating from happening, it is necessary to clean the radiator once a year, for which you have to remove the bumper, as well as monitor the health of the thermal coupling for turning on the fan (its replacement will cost about $ 120-200) and the pump (in the latter, the plastic impeller sometimes turns, which leads to costs in the amount of about $ 60-100). Another relatively weak point in the cooling system is the thermostat (its replacement costs $ 50-100 with spare parts). And it happens that the engine starts to warm up due to a broken air conditioner radiator fan (located in front of the main one). I must say that the above breakdowns are rare enough, but these places deserve close attention so as not to become a victim of deadly overheating.
When operating a BMW 5-series, it is recommended to call in to the service to change the oil, not when the computer says it (the "five" is equipped with such a system), but a little earlier - better every 12-15 thousand km. Of course, the oil should only be of the best quality, and it is necessary to use only the one recommended by the manufacturer (by the way, the masters strongly advise against pouring "flushing" into the motor). But remembering about the delicate timing belt in the case of the BMW 5-series is not necessary - all "five" motors have a chain that is enough for 250 thousand km or more. And the money saved is better spent on cleaning the injectors (every 50-80 thousand km) with special preparations at the BMW service. Most likely, you will have to change the candles at the same time (they cost $ 15-20 apiece).
According to the experts, BMW E39 engines have proven to be very reliable. And in those cases when it is necessary to do this or that minor repair, it is often possible to avoid too high costs by using good non-original parts. But what is really worth fearing is the "capital" - it is very expensive. So before purchasing a "five" it is imperative to carry out the most thorough engine diagnostics. The $ 50-100 spent on this cannot be compared with the costs that a serious engine breakdown will bring. For example, the repair of the proprietary VANOS variable valve timing system, which is required after 200-300 thousand km of run, will cost $ 300-600 (if the "steeper" DOUBLE VANOS is worn out, the costs will be much higher).
To the envy of competitors
All versions of the BMW 5-Series E39 could have both manual and automatic transmissions. Moreover, since the end of the 90s, the "automatic" has the ability to manually switch, which made it possible to combine the advantages of both types of transmission. Boxes on the "five" are very reliable and capable of working no less than the engine itself. You just need to make sure that oil does not go out of them (with high mileage, it can start to seep through the oil seals, but replacing them usually costs $ 50-100). Clutch on cars with "mechanics" has a good resource and works for 150-200 thousand km (fans of quick starts, of course, "kill" it faster). The clutch kit costs about $ 350-400, and about $ 70-120 will be charged for its replacement at a regular service station.
When creating the BMW 5 Series, engineers decided to actively use aluminum, which helped to reduce the overall weight of the car, as well as reduce unsprung masses. On the "five" E39, the front axle beam, wishbones and suspension strut guides are made entirely of aluminum. The rear suspension is taken from the big "seven" and has its own brand name - Integral IVa. And the rear suspension, due to its design, can "steer" a little on bends, helping the driver to get more pleasure from driving.
Despite all the talk about the inability of fast BMWs to Russian roads, one thing can be said - the suspension of the "five" is reliable. Experience shows that stabilizer struts most often require replacement (both front and rear), but they are inexpensive - from $ 15 to $ 30, depending on the place of purchase and manufacturer. It is worth noting here that most of the chassis parts of the BMW 5 Series do not have to be purchased in the original version. Almost always you can find exactly the same items, but in a Lemferder box or some other company (specialists in spare parts stores know this very well).
Drivers of the BMW 5 Series should remember that at each MOT it is necessary not only to change the oil, but also to carefully inspect the suspension, blow out the drain holes under the hood, etc. And if there is the slightest doubt about the correct operation of a particular part, it is better to immediately change. Otherwise, one worn-out element will quickly drag others into the grave. As a result, the cost of repairs will not be $ 100, but $ 500. As is often the case, the front suspension requires more attention, where there are two levers for each wheel ($ 130 from Lemferder and $ 170 original). If you drive without noticing pits and potholes, they are "killed" for 15-30 thousand km. But it is worth being a little more careful, as levers with ball bearings and silent blocks work without problems for 70-80 thousand km. Although in many cases the upper arm bushings wear out much earlier, fortunately they are changed separately (part price $ 12-20).
The rear suspension is reliable, but on cars over 5 years old, it may require replacing the hub bush, sometimes referred to as "steering" or "floating" ($ 40-70), as well as the so-called integral arm ($ 26). A little less often, you have to change two more simple levers ($ 120 apiece). But the most unpleasant thing is when the silent block in the large H-shaped lever wears out. In this case, you have to buy the complete lever. It is only original ($ 340).
The vehicle's brakes are working as expected. It happens, however, that the ABS sensors or the system control unit fail. And if a new sensor costs about $ 120, then you will have to pay $ 950-1000 for the electronic unit! But here it should be noted that the "fives" made after 1999 have no problems with the ABS control unit. By the way, after 1999, the steering racks on cars with in-line engines also became more reliable (on the BMW 5 Series with V8 engines, there is a different steering). Buying a car with a faulty rail could ruin the owner $ 1200 in the future! So be careful.
