Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Era:
Late 1980s - Mid 1990s
Primary Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ
Luxury Appointments:
Integrated telephone, fax machine, wine cooler, double glazing, advanced climate control
Performance Features:
Powerful V8 engines, sophisticated suspension, refined driving dynamics
Advanced Technology:
Traction control system (ASC), automatic wiper pressure adjustment
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling systems
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Motronic), ignition systems, emission controls
Transmission:
Automatic transmission service, repair, and diagnostics (e.g., ZF 4HP22)
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, axle shafts, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc brake service, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, convertible top (if applicable), chassis components
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair
Comfort Features:
Power seats, mirrors, windows, central locking, integrated telephone, fax, wine cooler
Safety Systems:
Traction control system (ASC), airbag system (if equipped)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, component testing
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair
Overhaul Procedures:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Detailed wiring diagrams and troubleshooting flowcharts
Specification Tables:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhaul)
Safety Focus:
Designed with a strong emphasis on occupant safety for its era
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) available on later models
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard on later models, passenger airbag optional
Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioned front seat belts
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), though BMW originally cited 'lifetime' fluid for some transmissions.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 (refer to owner's manual for specific engine recommendations)
Coolant Type:
BMW blue coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent hydraulic fluid
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump seals can fail.
Electrical System:
Biodegradable wiring insulation can degrade over time, leading to shorts; door lock actuators and central locking issues; ABS sensor failures.
Engine M60 V8:
Timing chain guides (plastic) can wear and break; piston ring wear leading to oil consumption.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings and ball joints wear out, leading to knocking noises and poor handling.
HVAC:
HVAC blower motor resistors fail; climate control panel issues.
