🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

735i / 735iL

Year:

1988

Model Codes:

E32

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Full-size luxury sedan, flagship model for BMW at the time.

Target Audience:

Affluent individuals seeking luxury, performance, and advanced technology.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126), Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac DeVille.

Design Philosophy:

Elegant styling, driver-oriented cockpit, advanced engineering, and refined driving dynamics.

Innovation:

Introduction of the E32 chassis marked significant advancements in chassis design, aerodynamics, and comfort features for BMW's flagship.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, often printable)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+ (typical for comprehensive factory-style manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed overhaul, diagnosis, and repair of the M30B34 engine (including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling).

Engine Management:

Bosch Motronic M1.3 fuel injection and ignition system, sensor testing and replacement, idle control, emissions control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Repair and overhaul of the Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission, clutch system, driveline components.

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis and repair of the ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission, hydraulic controls, torque converter, linkages.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson strut, rear semi-trailing arm, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, steering linkage, power steering system.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes (likely vented front), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, hydraulic system, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Full wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse/relay identification, battery, starter, alternator, lighting systems, power accessories, horn.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, seals, interior trim, sound deadening, chassis components.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis and repair, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, refrigerant system, heater core.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel pressure regulator, injectors.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, expansion tank, heater hoses.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections.

Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based problem solving, common fault identification.

Component Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding engines, transmissions, brake calipers, power steering racks, etc.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step testing of electrical components, sensors, actuators using multimeters and specialized tools.

Alignment And Adjustment:

Wheel alignment specifications, headlight aiming, throttle cable adjustment, parking brake adjustment.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools required for certain repairs and adjustments.

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine teardown, inspection, measurement, and reassembly with torque specifications and clearances.

Transmission Rebuild:

In-depth instructions for disassembling, inspecting, replacing worn parts, and reassembling both manual and automatic transmissions.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Comprehensive fault finding for electrical systems, including interpretation of wiring diagrams and use of diagnostic equipment.

Body Repair:

Detailed procedures for body panel removal, replacement, dent repair, and rust prevention.

ABS System Diagnosis:

Specific diagnostic procedures for the BMW ABS system, including sensor testing and hydraulic unit troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF; searchability, bookmarking, and printable pages are key features.

Print Quality:

High-resolution images, clear diagrams, and legible text.

Binding Type:

For physical copies: Typically perfect bound or spiral bound for lay-flat use in a workshop.

Paper Type:

For physical copies: Durable, often coated paper to withstand workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M30B34

Engine Type:

Inline-6, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

3.430 cc (3.4 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 or 9.0:1 (depending on market/spec)

Horsepower:

Approx. 208-218 hp @ 5700 rpm (DIN)

Torque:

Approx. 290-300 Nm (214-221 lb-ft) @ 3700 rpm (DIN)

Fuel Injection:

Bosch Motronic M1.3 Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (premium unleaded recommended)

Cooling Type:

Liquid-cooled

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Getrag 260 5-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

ZF 4HP22 4-speed automatic transmission

Automatic Features:

Electronic transmission control (later models), Sport mode.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III (or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW MTF LT-1 (or GL-4 75W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

735i: 2,830 mm (111.4 in) / 735iL: 3,020 mm (118.9 in)

Length:

735i: 4,920 mm (193.7 in) / 735iL: 5,110 mm (201.2 in)

Width:

1,800 mm (70.9 in)

Height:

1,400 mm (55.1 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,650 kg (3,638 lbs) for 735i / 1,700 kg (3,748 lbs) for 735iL

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 2,150-2,250 kg

Towing Capacity:

Not typically specified or recommended by BMW for this model.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating 1988:

Data not readily available for specific year/model ratings from that era.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models.

Traction Control:

Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) available on some models.

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard from 1988 model year.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear, pre-tensioners for front belts (optional).

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones front and rear, side-impact protection beams.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Professional RDS stereo system with cassette player, optional CD changer.

On Board Computer:

On-Board Computer (OBC) for vehicle status, diagnostics, and trip computer functions.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear park distance control (early ultrasonic systems) on some models.

Phone Integration:

Optional integrated car phone system available.

Seats:

Standard power-adjustable front seats, optional heated seats, lumbar support, and memory functions.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamps, fog lights, interior courtesy lighting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs; longer for platinum/iridium if fitted later.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50 (depending on climate).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.0 Liters (6.3 US Quarts) with filter.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 11S (confirm specific requirement for the vehicle).

Cooling System Leaks:

Common with age; radiator, hoses, water pump, and heater core can develop leaks.

O-Ring Failures:

Oil pan, valve cover, and various engine seals can degrade and leak.

ABS Sensor Failure:

ABS sensors can fail, leading to ABS warning lights.

Window Regulator Failure:

Power window mechanisms can become weak or break over time.

Climate Control Issues:

Blower motor resistors, vacuum leaks, or refrigerant leaks can affect HVAC performance.

Dashboard Pixel Fade:

Common issue with early LCD displays on instrument clusters and OBC.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

Ultimate Driving Machine - focus on performance, handling, and driver engagement.

E32 Introduction:

Launched in 1986 as the successor to the E23 7 Series. The 1988 model represents an early production year for the E32 generation.

E32 Variants:

Introduced with the 735i and 730i. The longer wheelbase 'iL' version offered increased rear legroom.

Production Years:

E32 generation produced from 1986 to 1994.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Dingolfing plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, comfort, build quality, and advanced features for its time.

Industry Awards:

While specific awards are hard to pinpoint for the exact 1988 model year in broad categories, the E32 generation was recognized for setting benchmarks in luxury sedan design and engineering.