🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

840Ci

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

E31

Chassis Generation:

E31 (First Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1996 BMW 840Ci represented the pinnacle of BMW's grand tourer offerings, positioned as a luxurious, high-performance coupe with advanced technology and distinctive styling, competing with marques like Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Jaguar in the premium GT segment.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Porsche 928, and Aston Martin DB7. The 840Ci distinguished itself with its V8 power, refined handling, and extensive luxury features, though it carried a premium price tag. The E31 chassis was lauded for its sophisticated engineering and driver-focused experience.

Key Features:

V8 engine, distinctive wedge-shaped styling, pop-up headlights, frameless door windows, extensive standard luxury features, sophisticated chassis dynamics, available self-leveling rear suspension, and advanced (for its time) electronic systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Repair Procedures, Troubleshooting

Page Count:

Extensive (Digital format implies comprehensive coverage, often equivalent to hundreds of printed pages)

Manual Type:

Service & Repair Manual Software

Manual Title Exact:

Official Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or similar executable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

M62B40 Engine, ZF 5HP30 Automatic Transmission, ABS/ASC Traction Control, Power Steering, Self-Leveling Rear Suspension (optional), Front/Rear Suspension Components, Brake System (including hydraulics and electronics), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Climate Control (HVAC), Power Windows, Power Locks, Seats, Mirrors, Lighting System, SRS Airbag System, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I/II depending on specific build date), Body Control Modules, Chassis Electronics

Procedures Included:

Scheduled Maintenance, Routine Inspections, Engine Tune-up, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Transmission Fluid Service, Power Steering Fluid Service, Belt Replacement, Hose Replacement, Component Removal and Installation (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, fuel injectors), Suspension Component Overhaul, Brake Caliper Rebuild/Replacement, Steering System Repair, Electrical System Diagnosis and Repair, HVAC System Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim Removal and Installation, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation and Resolution, Wiring Diagram Analysis, Software Updates/Resets (if applicable for diagnostic tools)

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers detailed diagnostic procedures, step-by-step repair instructions, torque specifications, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, component identification, and technical service bulletins (TSBs) applicable to the 1996 840Ci.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing procedures, and guidance on using BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS).

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners including engine components, suspension, brakes, and chassis.

Electrical Schematics:

Comprehensive electrical schematics and wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including lighting, power accessories, engine control, ABS, and comfort systems.

Body And Trim:

Procedures for removal and installation of interior and exterior trim components, bumpers, doors, hood, trunk lid, and glass.

Wheel And Tire:

Recommended tire sizes and pressures. Wheel bolt pattern (5x120 mm). Information on wheel balancing and alignment.

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Systematic approach to identifying and resolving faults, including symptom analysis, component testing, and fault code interpretation.

Repair Procedures Detail:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation, with emphasis on correct procedures and safety.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (likely .exe or .pdf, optimized for searchability and navigation)

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital content, designed for clarity and detail on screen or when printed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Completeness:

Official, factory-level documentation providing comprehensive coverage across all vehicle systems and repair procedures.

Searchability:

Excellent search functionality within the software for quick access to specific topics, procedures, and specifications.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

4.4L M62B44 V8 (Note: While the product name specifies 840Ci, the 1996 model year typically refers to the M60B40 4.0L V8. However, BMW introduced the M62B44 4.4L V8 in later E31 models, often marketed as 840Ci. This manual likely covers the relevant engine for the 1996 model year, which could be either the M60B40 or the early M62B44 depending on market and production build.)

Horsepower:

Approximately 282 hp (M60B40) or 300 hp (M62B44)

Torque:

Approximately 295 lb-ft (M60B40) or 310 lb-ft (M62B44)

Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MFI), Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) on M62, Bosch Motronic engine management system.

Engine Code:

M60B40 (4.0L) or M62B44 (4.4L)

Bore X Stroke:

M60B40: 84 mm x 90 mm; M62B44: 84 mm x 98 mm

Compression Ratio:

M60B40: 10.0:1; M62B44: 10.0:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 32 valves (4 valves per cylinder), Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on M60B40 and M62B44.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

5-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP30)

Transmission Optional:

6-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G) was available on earlier models and some specific markets, but less common for the 1996 840Ci, which was predominantly automatic.

Transmission Features:

Adaptive transmission control, Sport mode (on some variants), electronically controlled hydraulic pressure for smooth shifts.

Transmission Gear Ratios 5Hp30:

1st: 3.18, 2nd: 1.92, 3rd: 1.37, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.75, Reverse: 2.75

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.8 inches (4872 mm)

Width:

71.5 inches (1816 mm)

Height:

52.5 inches (1333 mm)

Wheelbase:

106.7 inches (2710 mm)

Front Track:

60.7 inches (1542 mm)

Rear Track:

60.7 inches (1542 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3800-4000 lbs (1724-1814 kg), depending on options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 5000 lbs (2268 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not specified or recommended.

Seating Capacity:

4

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No specific NHTSA or IIHS ratings readily available for this era and model, but known for robust construction. Euro NCAP was not established in its current form during the E31's production run.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) on later models and some market variants.

Passive Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear crumple zones, reinforced safety cell, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags

Front Brakes:

Ventilated Disc

Rear Brakes:

Solid Disc

Steering Type:

Power Assisted Rack and Pinion

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

BMW Professional Radio/Cassette with CD Changer option, multi-zone climate control, optional navigation system (Road Map Europe). Voice control was not standard.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges, trip computer, service interval indicator, check control system.

Climate Control:

Automatic dual-zone climate control with recirculate, A/C, heater, and fan speed adjustments.

Driver Assistance:

ABS, ASC+T (on some models), self-leveling suspension (optional), cruise control.

Connectivity:

Limited by modern standards. Basic analog telematics available on some later models, but primarily focused on vehicle systems and audio.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Oil Change: Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually. Air Filter: Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km). Spark Plugs: Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on plug type. Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Transmission Fluid: Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving conditions. Brake Fluid: Every 2 years. Differential Fluid: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km).

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW Longlife-98 or similar API SJ/CF specifications. Capacity approx. 7.5 liters.

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent. Mixture 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 10 liters.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Dexron III (or ATF Dexron III H) for ZF 5HP30. Capacity approx. 7.5 liters (dry fill).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid.

Known Issues:

Vanos system (especially on M60 engines) can develop issues, leading to rough idle and power loss. Cooling system components (radiator, water pump, hoses, expansion tank) are prone to aging and leaks. ABS/ASC sensor failures are common. Window regulators and door seal deterioration. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets. Crankcase ventilation system (CCV) can become clogged.

Cooling System Components:

Plastic expansion tank, radiator, and coolant hoses are common failure points due to age and heat cycling. Leaks are frequent. Thermostat housing can also crack.

Electrical Issues:

Failing door lock actuators, window motors, and heated seat elements. Wiring harness degradation in certain areas. Failure of the ABS/ASC sensor rings or modules.

Engine Management Issues:

Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor contamination or failure, ignition coil degradation, and fuel pump issues can affect engine performance.

Oil Filter Part Number:

BMW: 11421744000 (example, consult specific VIN for exact fitment)

Air Filter Part Number:

BMW: 13721730404 (example, consult specific VIN for exact fitment)

Cabin Filter Part Number:

BMW: 64118379792 (example, consult specific VIN for exact fitment)

Engine Oil Capacity:

7.5 liters (approx. 7.9 US quarts)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

7.5 liters (approx. 7.9 US quarts) for ZF 5HP30 (dry fill)

Coolant Capacity:

10.0 liters (approx. 10.6 US quarts)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

80 liters (approx. 21.1 US gallons)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, known for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine,' has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with sophisticated engineering and driver engagement.

Model Evolution:

The E31 8 Series was BMW's flagship coupe from 1989 to 1999. The 840Ci, introduced for the 1993 model year, featured the V8 engine as an alternative to the V12 in the 850Ci. It received minor updates throughout its production, including the introduction of the M62 engine and updated electronics.

Production Years:

1989-1999 (840Ci specifically from 1993-1999)

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

Model Designation:

840Ci denotes the 8 Series chassis (E31) with a V8 engine. 'Ci' signifies the coupe body style with the V8 engine.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 1996 840Ci are scarce, the E31 8 Series as a whole was critically acclaimed for its groundbreaking design, engineering, and luxurious GT capabilities. It is widely considered a modern classic and a benchmark in automotive design of its era.