Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and BMW 8 Series owners seeking detailed technical guidance.
Value Proposition:
Offers a practical, high-quality, and cost-effective alternative to authorized dealer service, providing essential information for maintenance and repair.
Usability:
High-quality diagrams and step-by-step instructions facilitate complex repairs and maintenance tasks.
Convenience:
Instant download format saves time and postage costs, allowing immediate access to critical repair information.
Completeness:
Covers a wide array of vehicle systems, making it a comprehensive resource for the entire E31 model.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service Repair Manual Download
Specific Sections:
General data and maintenance, Engine, Transmission, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Body, Body Equipment, Electrical System, Equipment and Accessories, Electrical Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (specific count not provided, but typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, engine management, manual and automatic transmissions, driveline components.
Chassis:
Front and rear suspension systems (including adaptive suspension if applicable to the year/model), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS components).
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, hinges, bumpers, sunroof operation.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system including battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, wipers, horn, power accessories, comfort electronics, engine control modules, ABS control modules.
Equipment Accessories:
Climate control system (HVAC), audio system, power seats, cruise control, on-board computer functions, other factory-installed accessories.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-up procedures, inspection points.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Fault finding procedures, diagnostic codes (if applicable to the era), symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems.
Repair Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul for engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering, body components, and electrical systems.
Electrical Schematics:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, component locations, and circuit tracing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine Code Examples:
M60B30 (3.0L V8), M60B40 (4.0L V8), M62B44 (4.4L V8 - later production, potential overlap depending on exact build date)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 218 hp (M60B30) to 300 hp (M62B44).
Torque Range:
Approximately 214 lb-ft (M60B30) to 310 lb-ft (M62B44).
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic engine management.
Octane Rating:
Premium Unleaded (91 AKI or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically BMW Blue (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Type Example:
ZF 4HP24 (4-speed Automatic Transmission) for many V8 models.
Transmission Type Example:
Getrag 6-speed Manual Transmission (S6S420G) available on some V8 models, particularly the 850i/Ci and M840Ci.
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Standard automatic, Sport mode (if equipped).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or ZF lifeguard fluid equivalent).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-1 or LT-2 (or equivalent high-quality manual transmission fluid).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 111.4 inches (2830 mm)
Length:
Approx. 191.3 inches (4859 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.5 inches (1816 mm)
Height:
Approx. 52.5 inches (1333 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,200 lbs (1724 - 1905 kg) depending on engine and equipment.
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 120 mm
Typical Tire Sizes:
225/60R15, 235/45R17, 245/40R18 (depending on model and options)
Crash Test Data:
Specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1994 E31 are not readily available, but the E31 was engineered with significant safety features for its era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models.
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Traction Control (ASC+T) available on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction.
Audio System:
BMW Bavaria C or Professional RDS radio cassette player, often with premium sound system options (e.g., Harman Kardon).
Display:
Multi-function display (MFD) for trip computer, climate control, and radio information.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Early Features:
On-board computer, often featuring central locking, power windows, and memory seats.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) or manufacturer recommendations.
Spark Plugs:
Varies by engine, but typically around 60,000 miles for iridium spark plugs or 30,000 miles for older platinum types.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended at 60,000-80,000 miles for automatic transmissions, often considered a lifetime fluid by some but subject to wear.
Engine Oil Capacity V8:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 liters (V8 engines).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-98 approved oils, typically 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on ambient temperature and specific engine.
Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (radiator, hoses, expansion tank), ABS/ASC sensor failures, window regulator issues, door handle microswitches, VANOS unit (on later M62 engines), fuel pump and injector issues, aging wiring harnesses.
Common Problems Specifics:
NIKASIL cylinder bore liners in early M60 engines are susceptible to sulfuric acid damage from poor quality fuel, though this is less of a concern with modern fuel standards and regular maintenance.
Heritage:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, luxury grand tourers, and performance driving dynamics.
Generation:
The E31 generation of the 8 Series was produced from 1989 to 1999.
Key Models Variants:
840Ci (4.0L V8), 850i/Ci (5.0L/5.4L V12), 850CSi (M-tuned V12).
Production Years For Model:
1989-1999
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Automotive Press:
While specific awards for the 1994 model year are not always documented, the E31 8 Series was widely praised by automotive journalists for its design, performance, and technological innovation upon its introduction.
Consumer Reports Style:
No specific consumer ratings for this period are directly available through this product information, but it was positioned as a high-end luxury coupe.
