Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals seeking comfort, performance, and advanced engineering.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class, Lexus LS400, Jaguar XJ.
Design Philosophy:
BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos applied to a luxury flagship, balancing performance with comfort.
Innovations E32:
Introduction of V8 engines (M60), advanced electronics, and improved safety features compared to predecessor.
User Benefit Mechanics:
Provides accurate, factory-level procedures for efficient and correct repairs, reducing guesswork and comebacks.
User Benefit Diy:
Enables DIY enthusiasts to tackle complex repairs with confidence, saving on labor costs and maintaining vehicle integrity.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, removal, installation, specifications for M30 and M60 engines.
Engine Management:
DME (Digital Motor Electronics) system, sensors, actuators, troubleshooting of fault codes.
Transmission Manual:
Removal, installation, overhaul procedures, specifications for Getrag 5-speed manual transmission.
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnosis, repair, removal, installation, specifications for ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission.
Drivetrain:
Rear axle assembly, differential, driveshafts, CV joints, repair and specifications.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems (McPherson struts, multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, troubleshooting and repair.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes (ventilated), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, hydraulic system components.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component locations, fuses, relays, battery, charging system (alternator, starter).
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, wiring and troubleshooting.
HVAC:
Climate control system, air conditioning (compressor, refrigerant), heater core, blower motor, diagnosis and repair.
Bodywork:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, seals, repair and adjustment procedures.
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, door panels, trim, headliner, repair and disassembly.
Safety Systems:
ABS system, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components (airbag module, sensors - if applicable to 1993 model year).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation.
Repair:
Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems.
Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for major component overhauls, such as engine rebuilds and transmission overhauls.
Installation:
Procedures for installing new or replacement parts and components.
Adjustment:
Calibration and adjustment procedures for various systems, including timing, idle speed, and parking brake.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostics, including interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and use of diagnostic tools.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive rebuild procedures for major mechanical and electrical components.
Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, and electrical values.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete, high-resolution wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, aiding in electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Code M30:
M30B30, M30B35
Engine Code M60:
M60B30, M60B40
M30B30 Displacement:
2986 cc (3.0 Liters)
M30B35 Displacement:
3430 cc (3.5 Liters)
M60B30 Displacement:
2997 cc (3.0 Liters)
M60B40 Displacement:
3982 cc (4.0 Liters)
M30B30 Horsepower:
188 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
M30B30 Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
M30B35 Horsepower:
208 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.)
M30B35 Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
M60B30 Horsepower:
215 hp @ 6100 rpm (approx.)
M60B30 Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm (approx.)
M60B40 Horsepower:
296 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)
M60B40 Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Coolant or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based antifreeze
Transmission Type Base:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 265 - less common in US market for E32)
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Sport and Economy modes (EH - Electronic Hydromechanical control)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8-10 liters (including torque converter, depending on procedure)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 40,000 - 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SH/CD, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for precise viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10-12 liters (depending on engine)
M60 Engine Issue:
Timing chain guides and tensioners can wear, potentially leading to catastrophic failure if not addressed.
Cooling System Issue:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack; water pumps and thermostats can fail.
Electrical Issue:
Wiring harness degradation (especially under battery tray), faulty door lock actuators, climate control unit issues are common.
Suspension Issue:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and strut mounts due to age and mileage.
Interior Issue:
Headliner sagging, dashboard cracks (especially in warmer climates), seat upholstery wear.