This thread contains links to common DIYs. Some, but not all, of the DIYs reside within the Bf.c E39 DIY section.Youtube has also become a repository for great E39 related DIYs, and although many of them are not yet vetted, be sure to check there as well.
I'll try to update this thread as often as possible. Please notify me of any new DIYs or broken links.
Technical
Torque Values (M62)
Engine/Mechanical
Alternator Removal/Replacement (M62)
Belt Replacement/Tightening (M62TU)
Camshaft Removal (M54)
Crankcase/Oil Seperator (CCV) Intake Distribution Piece (I6)
Crankcase/Oil Seperator (CCV) (M52)
Crankcase/Oil Seperator (CCV) (M52TU)
Crankcase/Oil Seperator (CCV) (M54)
Crankcase/Oil Seperator (CCV) (M62)
Crankcase/Oil Seperator (CCV) Replacement Notes and Photos (M62 DIY Supplemental)
Engine and Transmission Mounts (530d)
Engine and Transmission Mounts (540i)
Fuel Filter Replacement (528i)
Fuel Injector replacement/servicing (2003 530i)
Hood strut removal/install for replacement/raising hood to service position.
Idle Control Valve (ICV) Cleaning (5xxi I6)
Idle Control Valve (ICV) Cleaning (540i V8)
Intake Boot Replacement (2003 525i, M54)
Intake Silencer Delete (540i, M62)
Oil Change (98 528i)
Oil Change with Evacuator (98 540i)
Oil Filter Housing Gasket & "Freeze Plugs" Repair (1998 528i)
Oil Filter Housing Seal Replacement (528i)
Power Steering Hose Replacement (M62)
S.A.S Pierburg Air Pump Maintenance and Rebuild Info (1998 528i)
S.A.S. troubleshooting and How to Replace the Famous Fuse # 107 (1998 528i)
Spark Plug Access (528i)
Spark Plug Access (540i)
Timing Chain Guide Replacement (M62TU)
Timing Chain Lower Cover Removal (M62TU)
Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement (M62TU)
Timing Chain Tensioner Spring Replacement (M52)
Valley Pan Replacement (540i Pre-Vanos)
Valve Cover Gasket Replacement (M62)
Vanos/Single (I6)
Vanos/Double (I6)
Cooling
Aux Fan Replacement
Aux Fan Service
Belt Replacement Instructions (Incl. Fan Removal)
Bleeding the cooling system
Cooling System Bleeding (I6 w/video - comprehensive)
Cooling System Replacement (528i)
Fan Clutch test
Fan Shroud Removal
Radiator Removal/Replacement (M62-No pics)
Thermostat Replacement (540i M62)
Zionsville Radiator & Electric Fan Install (Thread slated for removal from DIY section due to broken pic links)
Transmission
ATF and filter change
ATF change (Steptronic)
AT Heat Exchanger Cleaning/Regulator Replacement (540iT)
Center Support Bearing Replacement (no pics)
Clutch Delay Valve (CDV) Removal
Clutch Replacement (52*i/530i)
Clutch Replacement (540i)
Differential and Manual Transmission Fluid Change (1998 528i)
Differential OS GIKEN LSD upgrade
Differential Removal (M62TU)
Half Shafts Inner CV Re-Fresh
Short Shifter retrofits
Suspension
Air Spring replacement (E39 Touring)
Alignment - FRONT (1998 528i)
Alignment - REAR (1998 528i)
Center Link Replacement
Complete Front Suspension overhaul (1998 528i)
Complete Rear Suspension Overhaul (1998 528i)
Eibach Front Sway Bar install (2002 525i)
M5 Rear Sway Bar install (2003 530i)
Rear Shock Replacement
Steering Rack replacement (528i/no pics)
Suspension Install Intrax/Koni (540i)
Suspension and Ride Height Survey
Thrust Arm Bushings install (Powerflex)
Thrust Arm Replacement
Tie Rod Replacement
Wheel Bearing Replacement (Front)
Battery/Electrical
ABS Module Removal/Repair/Diagnostics
Airbag ECU Replacement
Alarm Siren Replacement
Alternator Rebuild for $30! (Bosch, 1998 528i)!
Alternator replacement (540it)
Battery access with locked doors and trunk (dead battery)
Battery Replacement with Duralast 49-DL
Battery maintenance
Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement (540 M62)
Camshaft Position Sensor Replacement - Intake (1997 328is 2.8l)
Crankshaft Pulse Generator Replacement (740 M62)
Cruise Control Actuator Repair
External (Ambient) Temperature Sensor Replacement
Final Stage Unit (FSU) Replacement
Fuel Door Actuator Replacement (No pics)
Fuel Level Sensor Replacment/Fuel Pump Access (99 528i)
Homelink Install (Garage Door Opener)
HVAC Sampling Fan and Motor cleaning (No pics)
Ignition Switch Rebuild
Ignition Switch Replacement
MAF Removal and Cleaning (2000 540i and 2001 525i)
MAF replacement (2000 540i M62TU)
Nav Retrofit
O2 sensor replacement (2001 530i M54)
O2 sensor replacement (2000 540i M62TU)
Pixel Repair
Seat switch replacement
Trunk Lid Wiring Harness Repair
Wheel Speed Sensor Replacement
Window Regulator Replacement (Front)
Window Regulator Replacement (Rear)
Window Regulator Repair (Rear)
Interior
A Pillar Removal
Airbag Decal Removal (visor decal)
Armrest Retrofit from US sliding to Euro tilting with storage
Blower Motor Replacement
Center Air Vent Replacement
Cup/Can Holder Removal and Replacement
Front seatbelt removal/install
IHKA Button Repair vs. Replacement
Liftgate Strut Replacement (Touring)
M5 Instrument Cluster Retrofit
Pixel Repair
Rear Manual Shade install
Rear Door Panel and Frozen Latch Cable Repair
Seat Belt Buckle Pretensioner Replacement (Driver side Front - 98 528i)
Seat (Sport) Retrofit Using Seats With Older Black Connectors
Seat switch replacement
Steering wheel 4 spokes to M5 retrofit
Steering Wheel Replacement (Sport)
Steering Wheel Replacement (Non-Sport to Non-Sport Heated)
Steering Wheel Tilt Creak, Squeak, Noise Fix
Steering wheel type Victor retrofit
Trunk Strut Replacement
Exterior
Door Seal Drain cleaning procedure
Door Seal Replacement
Exterior B-Pillar Removal/Installation (Front & Rear Door)
Hood Service Position
Integrated Front Lip Spoiler
M5 Front Bumper Install
M5 Mirror Install
Mesh Lower Grill Cover
Repairing chipped paint
Shadowline window trim replacement
Side View Mirror Glass Replacement (Heated)
Touring Roof Rack – Thule Tracker 430 with TK2 foot pack retrofit
Touring Roof Rail Delete
Windshield Rubber Trim Replacement
Exhaust
Exhaust Cutout
Loose heatshield remedy
Wheels/Brakes
Brake Hydraulic System Overhaul (6 Hoses, Caliper Seals/Boot-1998 528i)
Brake Pad and Rotor replacement
Brembo Rotor Replacement
Hydraulic Bleeding Kit for those with Air Compressor
Parking Brake Overhaul (1998 528i)
Replacing Performance Friction floating rotors
Replacing Stoptech floating rotors
Wheel Bearing Replacement (540i)
Wheel Bearing Replacement/Front the Easy Way - 45-60 minutes per side (98 528i)
Wheel Bearing Replacement/Rear the Easy Way (98 528i)
Lighting
Aiming Headlamps and Auxiliary Lamps
Angel Eye Wiring Harness Adapter
Auto Headlight Retrofit
CELIS (US) Retrofit - NO BALLASTS
Depo Clear tail light retrofit
Depo Projector CCFL Angel Eye Retrofit
Fog Light Bulb Replacement (M5/M-Tech)
Fog Light Bulb Replacement (Pre-facelift '98 540i)
Headlight Adjusters/Covers Replacement
Headlight Adjuster Fix (Inexpensive -2003 525i; Driver side only)
Headlight Adjuster Replacement (2001-2003 non-permanently sealed)
Headlight Adjuster Replacement (2003 permanently sealed headlights - with cutting)
Headlight Adjuster Replacement (2003 permanently sealed headlights - without cutting)
Headlight Stubborn Inner Lense Clip Removal Video
Headlight Polishing/Refinishing
Headlight Refinishing/Installing Angel Eyes
HID Fog Lamps for the 1996-2000 BMW E39 5-Series (Excluding M5)
HID Retrofit
LED Interior/Exterior door handle retrofit
LED Exterior door handle retrofit
Light Control Module (LCM) replacement
Pixel Repair
Rear Fog Lights
Rear Fog to Brake Lights Conversion (pre facelift -not Celis)
Universal Predator Angel Eye Install
Audio
AM Radio Reception Fix (1998 528i - also applicable to other BMW models)
Auxiliary Audio Port install (E39 models after 09/2002)
Auxiliary Input for Ipod/MP3 player (inexpensive)
Auxiliary Input Retrofit (2003 540i w/business CD)
Bluetooth and Auxiliary Input Retrofit
Factory Head Unit (MID) plug to X5 MID Retrofit
Factory Head Unit (MID) Removal
Factory Head Unit (MID) and Business RDS Removal
Radio Bezel Guide
Misc
Battery access with locked doors and trunk (dead battery)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement/Retrofit (Inexpensive)
Engine Cowl Replacement
Homelink/UGDO, Sunroof Motor/Manual Crank housing access
Hood Release Cable Maintenance
Hood Release Cable and Latch Replacement (Hood Release Junction Box to Hood Latches)
Hood Release Cable Replacement (Hood Release Lever to Junction Box)
Hood strut removal/install for replacement/raising hood to service position.
Key Initialization/Programming
M5 Wheel Liner retrofit (97 540iA)
Pixel Repair
Radar Detector Install/Hardwire (Valentine One)
Sunroof Repair DIYs
Sunroof Realignment
Tool Kit Thumbscrew Replacement
Trunk Latch Fix (easy)
Trunk Lock Actuator Replacement
Windshield Washer Reservoir Leak Fix
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement (no pics)
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement (Blades from Dealership Parts Dept.)
Doru's "Useful Links" thread parked at the top of the E39 main subforum.
*
E39 DIY Websites
BMW Online TIS
Bimmer DIY
www.e38.org/e39
BMW Tips'n Tricks
Edge Motorworks E39 Problems Checklist
*Many thanks to Doru for the tons of time and effort he put in creating his "Useful Links" thread! (Last updated 3/13/13).
Last edited by jamesdc4; 03-04-2014 at 01:34 AM. Reason: Added: Side View Mirror Glass Replacement (Heated)
Hi,
Please consider adding a link to my page:
E39 6-cylinder clutch replacement
Thanks!
3x2plus2
Last edited by jamesdc4; 04-01-2009 at 11:41 PM.
Amazing job. What about a DIY for the Inspection II?
Are you asking if one exists or offering to do one?
If you just want to know what the Inspection II involves, it's already in the E39 FAQ.
How do I interpret the BMW Service Interval Light System (BMW Service/Maintenance Schedule)?
Inspection II
Undercarriage
1.Change engine oil and filter while engine is at normal operation temperature.
2.Check transmission for leaks.
3.Check rear axle for leaks.
4.Visually check fuel tank, lines, and connections for leaks.
5.Check condition, position, and mounting of exhaust system. Examine for leaks.
6.Check power steering system for leaks.
7.Check overall thickness of front and rear disc brake pads.
8.Examine brake disc surfaces.
9.Clean brake pad contact points in calipers.
10.Grease wheel center hubs.
11.Check steering for absence of play, condition of suspension track rods, front axle joints, steering linkage, and joint disc.
12.Check front control arm bushing for wear.
13.Check brake and clutch system connectors and lines for leaks, damage, and incorrect positioning.
14.Check for free movement of the parking brake cables. Adjust parking brake if necessary.
15.Check all tire pressures (including spare). Correct if necessary.
16.Check condition of tires (outer surfaces (left/right)), tread wear and pattern; In case of uneven tread wear readjust wheel alignment if required.
17.Check thickness of parking brake linings.
18.Half-shafts; check for leaks at flexible boots.
19.Inspect entire body according to terms of rust prevention limited warranty.
Engine Compartment
1.Read out diagnostic system
2.Check engine cooling system/heater hose connections for leaks.
3.Check coolant level and antifreeze protection level; add coolant if necessary.
4.Check level of brake and clutch fluid in reservoir; add fluid if required.
5.Check windshield washer fluid level and antifreeze protection. Fill up and/or correct if necessary.
6.Check air conditioner for operation.
7.Check air conditioner for operation.
8.Replace spark plugs.
9.Replace intake air cleaner element.
Body/Electrical Equipment
1.Check battery electrolyte level and add distilled water if required.
2.Perform batter load test.
3.Check lighting system, i.e. headlights, foglights, parking, backup, license plate, interior (including map reading lights), glove box, flashlight, illuminated makeup mirrors, luggage compartment lights.
4.Check instrument panel and dashboard illumination.
5.Check all warning/indicator lights, check control.
6.Check turn signals, hazard warning flashers, brake lights, horns, headlight dimmer/flasher switch.
7.Check wiper and washer system(s); wiper blades, washer jet positions.
8.Check condition and function of safety belts.
9.Oil hood, trunk/tailgate, and door hinges.
10.Grease hood, trunk/tailgate and door latches. Check operation of all latches.
11.Check central locking/double lock.
12.Replace microfilter or Acc Cabin Filter.
13.Check heater/air conditioner blower, rear window defogger.
14.Check rear view mirrors15.Visually examine the SRS airbag units for torn cover, obvious damage or attachment of decals, decorations, or accessories.
Last edited by jamesdc4; 06-15-2009 at 09:05 PM.
awesome thread!!! just bought a 2002 530i sport with 80,000 miles, i'm sure i will be using these diy's
Steven
great info
One more, do you have windscreen wiper motor removal and refit diagram
This is the best I could do. I'll keep my eyes open for a DIY with pics.
______________________________
1. Remove the motor. I'd disconnect the power connector going to
it first (it will try to park otherwise if you accidently rotate it,
perhaps taking a finger or two with it). On my 535 - it's behind
the cowling for the fresh-air intake for the heater - don't have
a clue where for a 3er.. remove the nut (and washer) holding the
linkage to the motor, try to prevent it from turning while
you remove it. The arm connecting to it is splined, but removes
fairly easily (a good tug). Remove nuts/bolts holding motor in
vehicle. Walk it to your workbench.
2. Disassemble: The contact you want are behind the light aluminum
plate that covers the big gear (this will be fairly obvious).. on
mine, the plate was held on with mashed over aluminum studs. Right
next to these studs were holes through the plate and corresponding
holes into the housing.. sorta looked like these could be tapped to
take a few screws for reassembly (CLUE!).
3. Repair it: Drill off the mashed over aluminum heads of the studs (1/4"
bit works fine). The cover should remove easily. You'll find lots of nice
brownish grease. Clean the contacts (attached to the cover) and the face of
the gear where the metal segment is). Regrease lightly with a white lithium
grease (at least that's what I used)..very lightly!
While apart - tap the holes in the aluminum housing - I *think* I
used 4-40 American (looked about right, and I had the tap and some
short 4-40 screws, but it might have been 2-56). Try to keep tap
filings out of the housing (grease on the tap helps a lot).
4. Reassemble: Put the cover back like you found it and screw it back
together. Reinstall motor in car. Align the motor by starting it once
WITHOUT the wiper arm attached and letting it go to the park position. Once
it's aligned, refasten the wiper arm in the correct parked position (try NOT
to turn the motor while tightening the nut holding the arm).
5. Pat yourself on the back - for $.02 of grease you've saved about $300.
The entire process on mine took me less than 1 hour - and my motor was
not too easy to get at.
6. Send me EMAIL thanking me.
Of course as usual, you may be a klutz with 6 thumbs.. you might have
the hood fall on your head and kill you.. the waste product from an
airline toilet could fall on you and drown you. Whatever.. it's your
fault - not mine. Your milage may vary.
Best.. and let us know how it works out..
Don Eilenberger
Bellcore
331 Newman Springs Rd.
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Voice: 908-758-3167
FAX: 908-758-3166
EMAIL: dje@mail.bellcore.com
Last edited by jamesdc4; 01-08-2010 at 11:44 AM.
I JUST WANT TO SAY THANK YOU TO ALL OF THE GUYS OUT THERE THAT MAKE THIS POSSIBLE! I'M A TOTAL DIYR AND JUST BOUGHT MY 2ND BMW A 2002 540I AND CAN'T WAIT TO GET IT AND WHEN IT NEEDS IT WORK ON IT AND ALL OF YOU THAT POST MAKE THAT POSSIBLE.......THANK YOU!!!!
thanks so much for these links!!! just installed the FSU on my E39!!
Finally i can enjoy my AC after being turning off/on for like 2 weeks now
Plus the California sun was killing me
Thanks so much again James!!
I found a cool site to search on too! It's like a search engine for bmw diy's
it's www.diybmw.com check it out.
My godt! Thank you james! This is great!
thanks for organization this helps a lot
Thanks
question... are the parts and DIY's the same for all of the models?
I am planning on buying a 540i year 2000 Model so want to learn as much possible before my purchase
is there also a specific one for oil change, tranny oil change, and hose replacements?
where is a thread where we can post a question and get an answer?
I think this thread link should be added for audio upgrade: http://www.m5board.com/vbulletin/e39...-system-2.html
I got so busy, I never even checked this thread for questions.
The DIYs are not always the same for different models. The model and year is usually specified at the end of the link.
I'll check the link and add it if it fits the billing. Thanks for posting.
It was suggested that this writeup that I made should be placed here. It is my write up for replacing the clutch and shifter bushings on a 2002 M5.
http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...0#post27819560
Current fleet:
1999 BMW e36 M3
1999 BMW e36 328is with rotary valve engine head
1999 Oldsmobile Eighty Eight
1990 Jeep Comanche Eliminator
1962 Austin Healey Sprite
CCV Link for (M62) does not fuction--anyone know if it was moved?
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G935A using Tapatalk
Thread has info on 98 528i manual trans and diff fluid. But, can't find if same oil can be used on 03 530i 5 spd manual trans. Appreciate confirmation.
May I suggest adding the E39 Buyers Guide video to this list of links? Here is a relatively in-depth 30 minute video on what to look for when buying your first E39!
link: https://youtu.be/70zvnZdvEog
BF thread link: https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...i-530i-540i-M5
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