Positioning:
The BMW 850CSI (E31) was the pinnacle of BMW's GT offerings in the 1990s, representing ultimate luxury, performance, and engineering. This manual targets owners and specialists dedicated to preserving and maintaining this exclusive flagship model.
Competitors:
Competed against high-performance luxury coupes like the Mercedes-Benz SL, Porsche 928, and Aston Martin DB7. Its V12 engine and advanced chassis set it apart.
Unique Selling Points:
This service manual offers official BMW data, providing the highest level of accuracy and detail for the rare and complex 850CSI, ensuring correct maintenance and repair procedures.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, component replacement, timing, lubrication, cooling systems.
Engine Management:
Engine control unit (ECU), fuel injection (Bosch Motronic), ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (Steptronic) repair, diagnosis, fluid service, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, wheel bearings, axle shafts.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, hydraulic components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake discs, calipers, pads, lines, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting, horns.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, glass replacement, structural components.
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control (HVAC), power windows, power seats, central locking, interior trim.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt mechanisms.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic fault codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit analysis.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing major and minor components across all systems.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for using diagnostic equipment and interpreting sensor data.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure readings, electrical resistance values.
Depth:
Expert-level coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes detailed schematics, diagnostic flowcharts, and rebuild procedures.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V12
Displacement:
5.6 Liters (5573 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 100.8 mm
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
375 hp @ 5300 rpm (DIN)
Torque:
565 Nm (417 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M5.2 Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON / 91 AKI)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (Glysantin G48 or equivalent)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or SAE 10W-40 Semi-synthetic (refer to manual for exact BMW approvals)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (with filter)
Type:
6-speed manual (Getrag 420G - specific to CSI)
Type:
4-speed automatic (Steptronic - ZF 4HP30, less common on CSI but may exist)
Clutch:
Dual-plate clutch system (manual transmission)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent API GL-5 gear oil
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or ATF LT 71141
Crash Test Data:
Specific 1995 crash test ratings for the 850CSI are limited. Refer to BMW's internal testing data if available in the manual.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System)
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Oil Change:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months. Refer to manual for specific CBS indicators.
Transmission Fluid:
Check at 30,000 miles, replacement recommended at 60,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions (refer to manual).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (platinum tipped)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid
Common Wear Items:
Ignition coils, fuel pump, starter motor, ABS sensors, front control arm bushings, catalytic converters.
Electronics:
Dashboard electronics (pixelation), window regulators, central locking system, climate control modules.
V12 Specific:
Spark plug access, complex wiring harnesses, potential for oil leaks from crank seals.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's heritage is rooted in engineering excellence, performance driving dynamics, and luxury. The 8 Series embodies these principles, pushing technological boundaries.
E31 Development:
The E31 8 Series was developed as a grand tourer, designed to showcase BMW's V12 engine and advanced technology. The 850CSI, tuned by BMW Motorsport (M Division), represents the ultimate performance variant.
Production Years:
E31 Series: 1989-1999. 850CSI specifically: 1992-1996.
Production Volume:
Low volume for the 850CSI variant, making it a collectible.