🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

7 Series

Model Variant:

740iL

Model Generation:

E32

Chassis Code:

E32

Engine Code Series:

M60

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Flagship luxury sedan, competing with Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Lexus LS.

Competitive Set:

Mercedes-Benz W126/W140 S-Class, Lexus LS400, Jaguar XJ.

Key Features Vehicle:

Long-wheelbase body, V8 engine, advanced technology for its era, luxurious interior, refined ride quality.

Key Features Manual:

Authoritative source for repair, maintenance, and diagnostics; crucial for preserving the integrity of a complex luxury vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994

Covered Models:

740iL

Regions Covered:

Global (North America, Europe, Asia)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly, inspection, assembly, and torque specifications for M60B40 V8 engine.

Engine Management:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics) system, sensor diagnostics, actuator testing, wiring diagrams.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, EVAP.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan clutch, coolant specifications.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converters, mufflers, oxygen sensors, exhaust manifold.

Transmission Automatic:

ZF 5HP30 automatic transmission, fluid specifications, torque converter, electronic control.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, self-leveling rear suspension (SLS) details.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics, brake fluid specifications.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, fuses, relays.

Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, bulb types.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, sensors.

Interior:

Dashboard, seats, door panels, trim, headliner, power accessories.

Bodywork:

Body panel removal and installation, glass replacement, rust prevention, paint codes.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame construction, body mounting points, torque specifications.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire sizes, lug nut torque.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based problem diagnosis for all major systems.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Component testing, electrical system diagnostics, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., OBD I).

Specification Tables:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical system schematics with component identification and wire routing.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics).

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Standard hand tools, specialized BMW tools (e.g., for timing chain, suspension), multimeter, OBD I scanner.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and images.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8

Engine Code:

M60B40

Displacement:

3982 cc (4.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total)

Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Horsepower Hp:

282 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)

Torque Lb-Ft:

295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M3.3 Fuel Injection (Sequential)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Emission Controls:

Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, EGR (Early models might differ)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

ZF 5HP30 5-Speed Automatic

Optional Transmission:

None offered for 740iL during this period.

Transmission Features:

Electronic control, Sport mode, Lock-up torque converter.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF like ZF Lifeguardfluid 5)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Liters:

Approx. 8.0 Liters (total capacity, dry fill)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Mm:

3070 mm (120.9 in)

Length Mm:

5024 mm (197.8 in)

Width Mm:

1847 mm (72.7 in)

Height Mm:

1400 mm (55.1 in)

Curb Weight Kg:

1870 kg (4123 lbs) (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

2300 kg (5070 lbs) (approx.)

Standard Wheel Size:

15 x 7.0 J (optional 16 inch wheels available)

Standard Tire Size:

225/60R15

Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Center Bore Mm:

72.5 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not explicitly rated under modern NHTSA standards as it predates comprehensive testing protocols for this era.

Active Safety Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control System (ASC) available on later models.

Passive Safety Features:

Crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, driver's airbag (standard from 1990 onwards), seatbelt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Professional RDS Cassette/Radio, optional CD Changer.

Display Technology:

Basic LCD/LED displays for climate control, trip computer, and radio.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Park Distance Control (PDC) optional on later models.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (no Bluetooth or USB connectivity).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Km:

15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil).

Spark Plug Replacement Km:

80,000 km (50,000 miles) (iridium plugs, if applicable, or refer to manual for specific type).

Coolant Flush Interval Km:

40,000 km (25,000 miles) or 24 months.

Transmission Fluid Change Km:

60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 36 months (recommended, especially for ZF transmissions).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW LL-98 specification or equivalent).

Engine Oil Capacity Liters:

7.5 Liters (approx.)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol based) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or DOT 3 compatible).

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron III or CHF 11S (check specific model for correct fluid).

Known Issues:

Coolant expansion tank leaks, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) seal degradation (M60B40), heater core leaks, ABS sensor failures, self-leveling rear suspension (SLS) compressor/lines, window regulator failures, door seal degradation.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter HU 718/1Y or Mahle OC 208 (verify for specific VIN).

Air Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter C 35 130 (verify for specific VIN).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, founded in 1916, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' and performance luxury vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The E32 generation (1986-1994) replaced the E23 and introduced the V8 engine to the 7 Series line (M60 engine from 1992 onwards), a significant departure from the inline-sixes of its predecessor.

Production Years:

1986–1994

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

740Il Introduction Year:

1990 (model year 1991 in some markets) for M60B40

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journal Awards:

Often cited by automotive publications for its advanced engineering, comfortable ride, and potent V8 engine for its era.

Consumer Ratings:

While specific ratings are scarce for this era, it was generally regarded as a highly capable and luxurious vehicle, albeit with higher maintenance costs than some competitors.