Positioning:
The BMW E24 6 Series represented BMW's flagship grand tourer, blending performance, luxury, and sophisticated styling. The M6 variant, in particular, was a high-performance halo model.
Competitors:
Competed with other luxury grand tourers of its era, such as the Mercedes-Benz SEC coupes, Jaguar XJ-S, and Porsche 928.
Design:
Iconic Paul Bracq design, long hood, low profile, shark-nose front fascia, pillarless hardtop coupe body style.
Performance:
Powerful inline-six engines, rear-wheel drive, refined handling, offering a comfortable yet engaging driving experience.
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel injection, cooling, exhaust, transmission, differential, driveshafts.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (including ABS if equipped), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics.
Body Interior:
Body repair, chassis, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, seats, restraint systems (seatbelts), HVAC system.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections, spark plug replacement, lubrication points.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
System-specific troubleshooting guides, common fault identification, diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, and electrical systems.
Engine Repair:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, cylinder head service, piston and connecting rod installation, crankshaft service, timing belt/chain service, fuel injector testing and replacement, emissions system repair.
Transmission Repair:
Manual and automatic transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly. Clutch service, driveshaft and universal joint repair.
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake line and hose replacement, bleeding the brake system, ABS system diagnostics and repair.
Electrical Repair:
Component testing, wiring harness repair, sensor replacement, starter motor and alternator service, fuse and relay diagnosis.
Suspension Steering Repair:
Component replacement (shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings), steering rack service, wheel alignment specifications.
Depth:
Complete factory-level repair and maintenance information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic adjustments to full component rebuilds.
Displacement:
3.2 liters (3210 cc)
Configuration:
Inline-6, SOHC
Horsepower:
Approx. 197 hp (147 kW) @ 5500 rpm (Euro spec), lower for US spec
Torque:
Approx. 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm (Euro spec), lower for US spec
Displacement:
3.4 liters (3430 cc)
Configuration:
Inline-6, SOHC
Horsepower:
Approx. 218 hp (163 kW) @ 5800 rpm (Euro spec), 182 hp (136 kW) for US spec
Torque:
Approx. 304 Nm (224 lb-ft) @ 4000 rpm (Euro spec), 275 Nm (203 lb-ft) for US spec
Displacement:
3.5 liters (3453 cc)
Configuration:
Inline-6, DOHC, 24 valves
Horsepower:
Approx. 256 hp (191 kW) @ 6500 rpm (Euro spec), 260 hp (194 kW) for US spec (early) / 282 hp (210 kW) for US spec (late)
Torque:
Approx. 333 Nm (246 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm (Euro spec), 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) for US spec
Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection (model dependent)
Oil Change:
Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific intervals.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km). Manual: Typically lifetime fluid, but periodic inspection is advised.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 API SG rated oil (check manual for exact specification based on climate).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Rust:
Common in wheel wells, rocker panels, door bottoms, and sunroof areas due to age and material susceptibility. Thorough inspection is crucial.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing relays can lead to various electrical faults. The manual's comprehensive wiring diagrams are invaluable here.
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel pump failures, clogged injectors, and fuel pressure regulator issues can impact performance. Bosch L-Jetronic and Motronic systems require specific diagnostic approaches.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, failing water pumps, and aging hoses are common. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are prone to wear, affecting handling and ride quality. The manual details replacement procedures.
Heritage:
BMW's reputation for producing driver-focused luxury vehicles with exceptional engineering and performance.
E24 Development:
The E24 6 Series was introduced in 1976 as the successor to the E9 coupes. It featured a new chassis and updated styling, evolving significantly throughout its production.
Facelifts Updates:
Received minor updates and facelifts during its lifespan, including revised bumpers, grilles, and interior appointments. The M6 (initially branded M635CSi in Europe) was introduced as the high-performance variant.
Production Years:
1976-1989 (E24 generation).
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany.
