🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

8 Series

Chassis Code:

E31

Model Year Covered:

1992

Generation Code:

E31

Product Code:

BMW_E31_1992_SRM

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Premium Grand Tourer, positioned at the pinnacle of BMW's coupe offerings for its era.

Key Competitors:

Porsche 911, Ferrari 412, Mercedes-Benz SEC models, Aston Martin Virage

Design Philosophy:

Elegant long-hood, short-deck coupe styling with concealed headlamps, emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency and luxury.

Target Audience:

Discerning buyers seeking a high-performance, luxurious, and technologically advanced coupe for grand touring.

Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level technical information for DIY enthusiasts and independent workshops, enabling accurate and efficient maintenance and repair.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All E31 8 Series models

Repair Scope:

A-Z, all repairs

Estimated Page Count:

N/A (PDF format, adaptable)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac

Accessibility:

Downloadable, printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Complete engine service, diagnostics, control systems, fuel service, emission control, intake, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting, charging

Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch, transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axles

Chassis And Suspension:

Suspension systems, tire and wheel service, brake control, brake system, parking brake

Steering:

Steering column, power steering systems

HVAC:

Air conditioning system

Electrical And Electronics:

Complete electrical system, wiring schematics, multiplexing, CAN communication, supplemental restraint system (SRS), seat belts, engine immobilizer, cruise control, windshield wipers and washers, door locks, meters, audio/visual systems, horn, glass and mirrors, instrument panel

Body And Interior:

Engine hood, doors, exterior and interior components, seats

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all systems

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid types and capacities, electrical values

Diagrams Illustrations:

Detailed diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics

Depth:

Factory-level, comprehensive

Accuracy:

Vehicle-specific, not generic

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text (dependent on PDF creation)

Printability:

All pages printable, option to enlarge images

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M60B40 (for 4.0L variant)

Engine Configuration:

V8, 32-valve, DOHC

Displacement:

3982 cc (for M60B40)

Bore X Stroke:

89 mm x 80 mm (for M60B40)

Horsepower Hp:

Approx. 286 hp @ 5600 rpm (for M60B40)

Torque Lb Ft:

Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (for M60B40)

Fuel Injection:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

Cooling System Type:

Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with electric fan

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Coil-on-plug, depending on specific sub-model

Note:

The 1992 model year would primarily feature the M60B40 V8 engine. Later E31 models (post-1994) also offered the M62 V8 and M70 V12.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual (common on some early models, e.g., 840i)

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (e.g., GM 4L30-E for 840i, ZF 5HP30 for 850i)

Transmission Control:

Electronic transmission control for automatic variants

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4780 mm (188.2 in)

Width:

Approx. 1855 mm (73.0 in)

Height:

Approx. 1340 mm (52.8 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2630 mm (103.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1700-1800 kg (3750-3970 lbs), varies by engine and equipment

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Not widely available for this era, but designed to high European standards. Refer to specific Euro NCAP or NHTSA reports if published for this model.

Active Safety:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) on some models

Passive Safety:

Reinforced body structure, front airbags (driver and passenger), seat belt pre-tensioners

Srs Details:

Covers front airbags and seat belt pre-tensioners, detailed in the manual.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Business or Professional radio systems with cassette player, optional CD changer, and analog display for climate control and audio settings.

Driver Assistance:

Cruise control, ABS, ASC+T (on select models), park distance control (optional on later models, less common for '92).

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily analog radio, optional telephone preparation.

Key Electronic Features:

Electronic climate control, electric seat adjustment with memory, power windows, heated seats (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to manual, typically 7,500 - 15,000 miles or 1 year, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Major Service Intervals:

Detailed within the manual for component inspections and replacements (e.g., spark plugs, belts) at specific mileage or time intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual, typically Castrol SYNTEC or equivalent synthetic oil meeting BMW Longlife-98 or LL-01 specifications (check VIN-specific requirements).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or similar ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4, low-viscosity (LV) recommended

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Refer to manual for specific fluid type (e.g., Dexron III for GM 4L30-E, ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 for ZF 5HP30).

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil

Common Issues:

V8 VANOS system issues (whining noise, reduced power), cooling system component failure (radiator, water pump, hoses), wiring harness degradation, electrical gremlins, ABS/ASC sensor issues, fuel pump failure.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Refer to manual for exact part number based on VIN and engine variant (e.g., Mann Filter HU 833 x or Mahle Ox 185/1).

Air Filter Part Number:

Refer to manual for exact part number based on VIN and engine variant (e.g., Mann Filter C 36 146).

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage Context:

BMW's heritage of engineering excellence, performance, and luxury automotive design. The 8 Series was an ambitious flagship model.

E31 Introduction:

Introduced in 1989 as the successor to the E24 6 Series, representing BMW's entry into the ultra-luxury GT coupe segment.

Key Variants 1992:

Primarily 840i (V8 engine) and 850i (V12 engine), though the 850i often featured the M70 engine introduced earlier.

Production Period:

1989-1999

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific awards for the 1992 model year might be scarce, the E31 8 Series was widely praised for its design, engineering, and luxurious GT capabilities. It was often featured in 'best of' lists for automotive design and luxury coupes.

Design Accolades:

Recognized for its timeless and sophisticated design, often cited as a modern classic.