How good is the E53 Bentley Manual

[bmw540san]

New to the forum. I have 2 E39's and E39 Bentley Manual and while it lacks in some ways, it still provides decent information.

I can get E53 one for $77 shipped and I was wondering how satisfied are the guys who have it. Thanks.

[Junkycosmos]

My opinion: I have used the Bentley for our E39 which is great. I picked up Bentley for E53 and found it is lacking much detail. What it covers it does ok. Would really recommend a DVD with TIS software (some if us have purchased packages from eBay with code reading GT1). Goes well with Bentley.

[Gregory891]

Bentley is OK, not perfect but has helped me for specific questions (I've redone the front & rear suspension, some interior seat & trim work). It's an adequate base, which I've supplemented with Xoutpost (of qualified content), Bentley YouTube and careful gleaning of web info (not all the glitters is gold).

For those with non-North American cars (like mine), the understandable lack of information about the (diesel) M57 engine is unfortunate - but there are some good German & French language forums which helped me.

If you are an avid DIY person, buy it. If you only do oil & filter changes, you'll make less frequent use of a thick book.

[bmw540san]

Gregory891 and Junkycosmos, thank you both for your opinions. As suspected, it seems that it's lacking but it's probably worth the money.

[THE VEIN]

Originally Posted by Junkycosmos

My opinion: I have used the Bentley for our E39 which is great. I picked up Bentley for E53 and found it is lacking much detail. What it covers it does ok. Would really recommend a DVD with TIS software (some if us have purchased packages from eBay with code reading GT1). Goes well with Bentley.

What should I be looking for on ebay to find this?

[cn90]

If Bentley is free then I'd take it. IMHO, not worth $80-$100.

I agree that TIS is better. I can get TIS for $10 on ebay for the CD.
But I have fixed cars for 25 years, so all I need is torque values.

If you look at bimmerfest E39 DIYs and TIS, you will essentially have it all covered for E53.

[bmw540san]

Originally Posted by cn90

If Bentley is free then I'd take it. IMHO, not worth $80-$100.

I agree that TIS is better. I can get TIS for $10 on ebay for the CD.
But I have fixed cars for 25 years, so all I need is torque values.

If you look at bimmerfest E39 DIYs and TIS, you will essentially have it all covered for E53.

Even though is lacking, I like the paper manual over digital. To me, there is something about having the book in my hands and going through it. But, you're right, it's unquestionable that TIS or DVD represent great addition and value.
I was looking for used but I found it for $73 and I'll probably pull the trigger.

[TiAgX5]

The Bentley is missing some engine detail info (valvetronic for one) on post-'03 engines.

Seeing you have an '03 4.6is, it will suit you well.

I've used the Bentley for my '03 4.4 (180k miles, DIY EVERYTHING) and it's never left me asking questions.