Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking premium comfort, performance, and advanced engineering
Primary Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ
Design Philosophy:
Elegant styling, driver-focused cockpit, sophisticated engineering, emphasis on comfort and performance
Innovations:
Advanced suspension systems, refined V8 engines, extensive use of electronics for comfort and safety
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily North America & Europe)
Specific Models Covered:
735i, 735iL, 740i, 740iL, 750iL
Type:
Workshop Service & Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M30, M60), transmission (automatic), driveline, exhaust
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering, brakes (ABS), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Engine management, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, comfort systems, diagnostics (OBD I)
Body:
Body panels, interior trim, climate control (HVAC), safety systems (airbags)
Engine Management:
Fuel delivery, ignition timing, emissions control, sensor diagnostics
Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit diagrams, fault code interpretation
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing common and complex issues
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes detailed electrical schematics for all major systems
Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Type:
5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP18)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP24)
Shift Modes:
Sport and Comfort modes (depending on model)
Recommendation:
BMW ATF Dexron II (or equivalent)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated in modern standards, but designed for high safety.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (introduced during the E32's run)
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction
Audio System:
Premium sound systems, optional CD changer
Navigation:
Optional early-generation GPS navigation system
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC)
Features:
Limited by era; focus on comfort and convenience features like power seats, windows, mirrors, sunroof.
Climate Control:
Automatic dual-zone climate control
Seating:
Electrically adjustable front seats with memory, heated seats (optional)
Oil Change Miles:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Varies by engine (e.g., 30,000-60,000 miles for M30, M60)
Coolant Flush Miles:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (synthetic recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, water pump), head gasket issues (M60 engines), VANOS system (early M60 models), ABS sensor failures, door handle microswitches, fuel pump relay failures, OVP relay issues.
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter W940/4, Mahle OX36D (varies by engine)
Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG known for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
Predecessor:
E23 7 Series
Key Updates E32:
Introduction of V8 engines (M60), longer wheelbase ('iL' models), advanced electronic features, improved aerodynamics.
Manufacturing Plant:
Dingolfing, Germany
Automotive Journalism Awards:
Frequently cited for its refinement, comfort, and technological advancements by automotive publications of its era.
Consumer Reports Historical:
Often received good ratings for comfort and performance, though reliability concerns for certain components were noted.
