Class:
Luxury Grand Tourer / Personal Coupe
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz SLC/SEC series, Jaguar XJ-S, Porsche 928.
Design Philosophy:
BMW's characteristic blend of sporty performance, refined luxury, and sophisticated engineering.
Handling:
Renowned for its exceptional handling and driver feedback, characteristic of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
Engine Mechanical:
Comprehensive engine overhaul, diagnostics, and repair procedures for the M30B32 engine.
Engine Electrical:
Detailed wiring diagrams, ignition system, fuel injection (Bosch L-Jetronic/Motronic), and starting/charging systems.
Transmission:
Repair and maintenance for the Getrag 265 5-speed manual and ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmissions.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, and axle overhaul and repair.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement, and alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake system overhaul, hydraulic system bleeding, and ABS diagnostics (if equipped).
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, repair, and component replacement.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, and fuel tank servicing.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan maintenance and repair.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler replacement.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and structural components.
Electrical System General:
Lighting, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, and ancillary electrical components.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair, including A/C system servicing.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacements, spark plug changes, belt adjustments, and fluid level checks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, including fault codes where applicable.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, and brake system repairs.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Diagnostic Charts:
Flowcharts and tables to aid in pinpointing issues.
Schematics:
Detailed electrical and vacuum schematics.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics and knowledgeable DIY enthusiasts.
Transmission Type:
Getrag 265 5-speed manual
Transmission Type:
ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic
Manual Gear Ratios:
Typically includes a close-ratio setup for sporty driving.
Automatic Features:
Sport mode for enhanced performance shift points.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Typically Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
Length:
Approximately 4750 mm (187.0 in)
Width:
Approximately 1725 mm (67.9 in)
Height:
Approximately 1380 mm (54.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2625 mm (103.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1500-1600 kg (3300-3500 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by specification, typically around 1900-2000 kg
Crash Test Data:
As a vehicle from this era, formal crash test ratings (like NHTSA/Euro NCAP) are not directly comparable to modern standards. However, BMWs of this period were known for robust construction.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes, often with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as an option or standard on later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.
Structural Integrity:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 30,000 miles, depending on spark plug type.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 15W-40 recommended (check manual for climate-specific viscosity).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Long-Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Engine Common Issues:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, potential head gasket issues under extreme heat, timing chain guide wear.
Fuel System Common Issues:
Clogged fuel injectors, failing fuel pumps, worn fuel pressure regulators.
Electrical Common Issues:
Degradation of wiring insulation (due to age and heat), failing dashboard illumination, issues with central locking and power windows.
Suspension Common Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers.
Rust Prone Areas:
Fender arches, rocker panels, trunk floor, and around the windows.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance luxury vehicles with sophisticated engineering.
E24 Introduction:
The E24 platform was introduced in 1976 as the successor to the E9 coupes, with the 633CSi being an early and significant model in the series.
633Csi Positioning:
Positioned as a more powerful and luxurious alternative to the 628CSi, featuring the larger M30 engine.
Production Years E24:
1976-1989
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (Dingolfing Plant)
