BMW 5 Series (E39) Service Manual: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 - 2 Volume Set

I bought this manual when I decided it was time to start doing my own maintenance on my 5 series. My brake wear indicator came on showing that I was in need of brake pads and rotors, so having this book was invaluable when the time came to do the job. I had done some checking on dealer prices and found that a brake job can run anywhere from $800 - $1200. With the help of this manual, I did it myself for the cost of the parts and a few hours of work. The manual is rather expensive, but I saved about four times as much just on the brake job. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to work on their own cars.

Bentley manuals are a 'must have' for any BMW owner. Whether you are a DIY weekend mechanic, or just want to familiarize yourself better with your BMW, the Bentley is the BEST manual out there. Chilton's and the other ones are 'ok' but these are the best. I do all my own wrench work on my cars and between the forums and these books, it helps me get the job done. I also have the Bentley for my E36 M3, and it has helped me do work on the car for years. If anything, it gives you all the torque specs for basically every bolt on the car, which is invaluable for a detailed home mechanic like myself. If you own any older BMW's these books are a no-brainer.

The Bentley manuals are incredibly comprehensive. This was well worth the purchase - I have already saved thousands of dollars by repairing/replacing items on my own rather than paying the ridiculous labor charges for simple repairs. One thing that is not really a complaint but more of a wish is that I own a 2002 525i, but most of the book seems to refer to the slightly earlier e39 models like the 528 and 540, but in many cases, there isn't much difference.If you want to keep your e39 for a while and save money and you're somewhat handy, getting these manuals is the bast way to do it.

I drive this BMW, and DIY as much as I'm able to. This manual provides answers as to whether or not I WANT to DIY a project, and if not it provides information as to how intensive possible work is. Worth the money for me.Binding and printing quality is very good.

The E39 manual is okay, but as I drive a 2003, it isn't specifically included. But it's still an E39. However, the book is better than nothing. You just have to be prepared to decipher what is applicable, and what is not regarding your particular model and year. Many of the photos are not recognizable.The real weak part is the electrical. Connection points not identified or just totally ignored in the index. Often the part is not where the book says it should be located. Perfect case in point: the engine electrical relay box beneath the pass.side air filter. The photo is not even close to the actual.As I said, it's just too broad of a subject I suppose to cover accurately.

It says 1997-2002 but if you have a 2003 E39 these service manuals have you covered. These manuals are relatively comprehensive; they don't have BMW part numbers - but [...] does, nor does it take you through rebuilding your manual transmission. But it will help you get the transmission out. There are lots of pictures, specifications, BMW special tools (lots of those) and more. If you think you are likely to do any kind of maintenance, change the clutch or just want to know more about what makes these cars special, you won't go wrong by buying this set.

I received volume 1 but no volume 2. Very disappointed considering the advertisement is for both

This manual is a 2 book set, first book is mechanical, second book is electrical with all of the wiring diagrams.The manual is well layed out, torque specs are where and when needed instead of having to go to a tag elsewhere.There was a mistake in the shipping, the seller communicated immediately and simply, and took care of the problem instantly. I would recommend this manual and this seller.