Vehicle Class:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Bmw Philosophy E32:
Represented BMW's pinnacle of engineering and luxury for its era, focusing on driver engagement combined with advanced technology and comfort.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS 400, Audi V8 Quattro.
E32 Distinctive Features:
Aerodynamic styling, sophisticated chassis, powerful inline-six and V8 engines, advanced electronics for the time, luxurious interior appointments.
General Data And Maintenance:
True
Engine Repair And Overhaul:
True
Transmission Service:
True
Suspension Steering And Brakes:
True
Body Equipment And Trim:
True
Electrical System Diagnostics And Repair:
True
Equipment And Accessories:
True
Electrical Wiring Diagrams:
True
Estimated Page Count:
Not specified in provided information, but typically extensive for this era of BMW
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, assembly, rebuilding, and component testing (e.g., cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, valve train).
Engine Management:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition systems, and emission controls.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair for Getrag 265 gearbox, including clutch and linkage adjustments.
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnosis, fluid changes, and repair procedures for ZF 4HP22 and 5HP30 automatic transmissions.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service.
Body Exterior:
Panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, and trim.
Body Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, headliner, door panels, and interior trim.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, blower motor, heater core, and A/C compressor service.
Electrical Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, and bulb replacement.
Electrical Instrumentation:
Instrument cluster diagnosis, warning lights, and gauge operation.
Electrical Comfort Features:
Power windows, mirrors, seats, central locking, sunroof operation, and memory systems.
Electrical Wiring:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
True
Rebuilding Procedures:
True
Refurbishment Procedures:
True
Restoration Guidance:
True
Troubleshooting Guides:
True
Assembly Disassembly:
True
Technical Specifications:
True
Step By Step Instructions:
True
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, and detailed electrical system troubleshooting.
Illustration Quality:
Detailed illustrations, diagrams, and photos are integral to the repair procedures.
Wiring Diagram Detail:
Comprehensive and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3430 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Horsepower:
Approx. 208-211 hp (depending on market and year)
Torque:
Approx. 225-232 lb-ft
Engine Code:
M60B30 / M60B40
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2997 cc) / 4.0 Liters (3982 cc)
Configuration:
V8, DOHC (4 valves per cylinder)
Horsepower:
Approx. 215 hp (3.0L) / Approx. 282-296 hp (4.0L)
Torque:
Approx. 214 lb-ft (3.0L) / Approx. 295-309 lb-ft (4.0L)
0 60 Mph Approx:
6.5 - 8.5 seconds (depending on engine and transmission)
Injection System:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Wheelbase:
Approx. 116.4 inches (2956 mm)
Length:
Approx. 198.9 inches (5053 mm)
Width:
Approx. 72.2 inches (1834 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3800-4200 lbs (1724-1905 kg) depending on engine and options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 5000 lbs (2268 kg)
Safety Ratings Era:
While official NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this specific era are less common or directly comparable to modern standards, the E32 was built with a strong emphasis on passive safety for its time.
ABS:
Standard on most models (Bosch ABS III).
Traction Control:
Optional on some later models (ASC/ASC+T).
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard mid-production. Passenger airbag optional/standard on later models.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belts, pretensioners for front belts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used (consult manual for exact recommendation).
Major Service Interval:
Often recommended around 30,000, 60,000, 90,000 miles, covering spark plugs, filters, fluid flushes, and inspections.
Timing Belt Chain:
M30 engines use a timing chain (requires inspection and occasional tensioner/guide replacement). M60 engines use a timing chain.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ZF TE-ML 04D or LT 71141 (specific to ZF transmissions, crucial to use correct fluid).
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; hose leaks; water pump failure.
Electrical System:
Corrosion on grounds and connectors; ABS sensor failures; headlight leveling system issues; window regulator failures; SRS (airbag) warning light.
M60 Engine Specific:
Nikasil cylinder liner wear (early models), timing chain guide wear, thermostat housing leaks.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, shock absorber leaks, strut mount failure.
Interior:
Headliner sagging, worn leather, pixelation on instrument cluster LCDs.
