BMW 535i 2003-2010

BMW 535i 2003-2010 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2003-2010 BMW 535i drivetrain system, including engine, transmission, differential, and related components. Ideal for technicians and enthusiasts.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2003-2010 BMW 535I, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'driveshaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the desired section from the table of contents or using the page navigation buttons at the bottom of each section.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

3.0L

Transmission Type

6-speed manual/automatic

Final Drive Ratio

3.08:1

Brake Rotor Diameter (Front)

348 mm

Driveshaft Diameter

80 mm

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission system, including specifications and technical data

Engine Specifications

3.0L N54 twin-turbocharged inline-6 engine
Maximum power output: 300 hp (224 kW) at 5800 rpm
Maximum torque: 300 lb-ft (407 Nm) at 1400-5000 rpm
Compression ratio: 10.2:1
Direct fuel injection system

Transmission Details

6-speed manual transmission (standard)
Optional 6-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic
Gear ratios: 1st - 4.35:1, 2nd - 2.50:1, 3rd - 1.66:1, 4th - 1.23:1, 5th - 1.00:1, 6th - 0.85:1
Final drive ratio: 3.08:1
Transmission fluid capacity: 1.5 liters (manual), 9.5 liters (automatic)

Note: The automatic transmission includes adaptive shift logic for optimized performance.

Driveshaft and Differential

Technical details about the driveshaft and differential system

Driveshaft Specifications

Two-piece steel driveshaft with center support bearing
Driveshaft diameter: 80 mm
Maximum rotational speed: 6500 rpm
Balanced to within 10 g-cm
U-joint angles: 1.5° to 3.5°

Differential Details

Limited-slip differential (optional)
Standard open differential with 3.08:1 final drive ratio
Differential fluid capacity: 1.2 liters
Differential housing material: cast aluminum
Axle shaft diameter: 32 mm

Note: The limited-slip differential provides improved traction in low-grip conditions.

Suspension and Steering

Information about the suspension and steering components related to the drivetrain

Front Suspension

Double-wishbone front suspension
Coil spring rate: 25 N/mm
Stabilizer bar diameter: 28 mm
Shock absorber type: gas-pressurized
Front track width: 1550 mm

Rear Suspension

Multi-link rear suspension
Coil spring rate: 28 N/mm
Stabilizer bar diameter: 18 mm
Shock absorber type: gas-pressurized
Rear track width: 1580 mm

Note: The multi-link rear suspension enhances stability and handling.

Braking System

Details about the braking system and its integration with the drivetrain

Brake Specifications

Front brake rotor diameter: 348 mm
Rear brake rotor diameter: 336 mm
Brake pad material: semi-metallic
Brake fluid capacity: 1.0 liter
ABS system with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)

Parking Brake

Electromechanical parking brake
Parking brake cable tension: 150-200 N
Parking brake lever travel: 6-8 clicks
Parking brake shoe thickness: 4.5 mm (minimum)

Note: The electromechanical parking brake provides automatic hold and release functions.

Search Specifications

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Component Specifications

Engine

Type: N54B30

Displacement: 3.0L

Configuration: Inline 6-cylinder

Power Output: 300 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque: 300 lb-ft @ 1400-5000 rpm

Compression Ratio: 10.2:1

Fuel System: Direct injection

Part Number: 11002283793

Transmission

Type: 6-speed automatic (ZF 6HP19Z)

Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.17:1
2nd: 2.34:1
3rd: 1.52:1
4th: 1.14:1
5th: 0.87:1
6th: 0.69:1
Reverse: 3.40:1

Final Drive Ratio: 3.08:1

Fluid Capacity: 9.5 liters

Fluid Type: BMW ATF LT 71141

Part Number: 24007522817

Transfer Case

Type: Not applicable (RWD configuration)

Note: This model is rear-wheel drive only

Differential

Type: Limited-slip differential

Ratio: 3.08:1

Fluid Capacity: 1.2 liters

Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XJ + FM booster

Part Number: 33107525064

Driveshaft

Material: Steel

Length: 72.5 inches

Diameter: 3.5 inches

Part Number: 26107545231

Axles

Front: Not applicable (RWD configuration)

Rear: Type: Semi-floating
Spline Count: 32
Shaft Diameter: 1.5 inches
Part Number: 33207560987

Clutch

Type: Not applicable (automatic transmission)

Note: This model uses an automatic transmission

Cooling System

Radiator Capacity: 12.5 liters

Coolant Type: BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix)

Thermostat Opening Temperature: 97°C

Part Number: 17117573754

Lubrication System

Oil Capacity: 6.5 liters

Oil Type: BMW Longlife-01 5W-30

Oil Filter Part Number: 11427566327

Oil Change interval: 15,000 miles or 12 months

Operational Limits

Max Rpm: 7000 rpm

Max Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)

Max Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing

Max Payload: 950 lbs

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the 2003-2010 BMW 535I drivetrain

15,000

Engine oil and filter change
Inspect transmission fluid level
Check differential fluid level
Inspect driveshaft and axle boots for wear

Use only BMW-approved fluids and parts

30,000

Replace transmission fluid and filter
Inspect and replace differential fluid if necessary
Check and adjust drivetrain mounts

Transmission fluid replacement is critical for longevity

60,000

Inspect and replace driveshaft center support bearing if necessary
Check and replace axle seals if leaking
Inspect and replace engine and transmission mounts

Comprehensive drivetrain inspection recommended

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2003-2010 BMW 535i use?

The 2003-2010 BMW 535i is equipped with a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) system. It features a longitudinally mounted N54 or N55 turbocharged inline-6 engine, paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission (ZF GS6-53BZ) or a 6-speed automatic transmission (ZF 6HP19).

What is the torque rating of the drivetrain components?

The N54 engine produces a maximum torque of 300 lb-ft (406 Nm) at 1,400-5,000 RPM, while the N55 engine generates 300 lb-ft (406 Nm) at 1,200-5,000 RPM. The drivetrain components, including the driveshaft and differential, are designed to handle this torque output efficiently.

How often should the differential fluid be replaced?

BMW recommends replacing the differential fluid every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as specified in the vehicle's maintenance schedule. Use only BMW-approved synthetic gear oil (SAE 75W-90) to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the differential.

What is the gear ratio of the differential in the 535i?

The standard final drive ratio for the 2003-2010 BMW 535i is 3.08:1. However, this may vary slightly depending on the specific model year and transmission type. Always verify the ratio using the vehicle's VIN or official documentation.

Can the 535i drivetrain support aftermarket performance upgrades?

Yes, the N54 and N55 engines are highly tunable, and the drivetrain can support moderate performance upgrades. However, excessive torque increases (beyond 400 lb-ft) may require reinforced components such as upgraded driveshafts, differentials, or axles to prevent premature wear or failure.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW 535i Drivetrain Maintenance Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide covering routine maintenance procedures for the drivetrain, including fluid changes, inspections, and torque specifications.

N54/N55 Engine Technical Specifications

Coming Soon

Comprehensive technical data for the N54 and N55 engines, including torque curves, power output, and compatibility with drivetrain components.

Driveshaft and Differential Replacement Procedure

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing or servicing the driveshaft and differential, including alignment and torque specifications.

BMW Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Access the official BMW parts catalog to identify and purchase genuine drivetrain components for the 535i.

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