🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

6 Series

Model Variants:

633CSi, 635CSi, M6 (E24)

Model Code:

E24

Generation:

First Generation (E24)

Engine Codes:

M30B32 (633CSi), M30B34 (635CSi), S38B35 (M6)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW E24 6 Series was positioned as a luxury grand tourer, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and sophisticated styling, competing with models from Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Jaguar.

Competitive Analysis:

The 633CSi and 635CSi offered a more accessible entry into the luxury coupe segment compared to the outright performance of the Porsche 928, while providing superior handling and driver engagement than many American luxury coupes of the era.

Key Features:

Iconic Bertone-designed coupe body, powerful inline-six engines, rear-wheel drive, advanced (for its time) suspension, luxurious interior appointments, and a focus on driver involvement.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1983-1989

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact number not specified, but implies comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train

Engine Management Fuel Injection:

Bosch Motronic L-Jetronic/LH-Jetronic, fuel pumps, injectors, sensors, diagnostic procedures

Cooling System:

Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pressure, lubrication points

Exhaust System:

Manifolds, catalytic converters (where applicable), mufflers, pipes

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, gear selection, shifting mechanisms, fluid specifications

Transmission Automatic:

ZF 4HP22, torque converter, valve body, hydraulic systems, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, bushings, ball joints, steering knuckles, spring replacement

Suspension Rear:

Independent trailing arm, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering fluid

Brake System Front:

Ventilated discs, calipers, brake pads, hydraulic lines, ABS (where applicable)

Brake System Rear:

Solid discs, calipers, brake pads, parking brake mechanism

Wheels Tires:

Bolt patterns, wheel torque specifications, tire pressure recommendations

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery maintenance

Electrical System Ignition:

Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition timing, control modules

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb types

Electrical System Accessories:

Power windows, mirrors, locks, sunroof, wipers, horn, radio

Body And Chassis:

Frame, body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals

HVAC System:

Air conditioning compressor, refrigerant, heater core, blower motor, climate control unit

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Fault finding, diagnostic codes, symptom-based repair guides

Engine Repair Rebuild:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures

Transmission Repair:

Overhaul and repair for both manual and automatic transmissions

Brake System Repair:

Pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding procedures

Electrical Component Testing:

Testing of alternators, starters, ignition components, sensors, and actuators

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of worn suspension components and steering parts

Bodywork And Trim Replacement:

Guidelines for body panel alignment and trim piece installation/removal

HVAC System Servicing:

Refrigerant handling, component replacement, leak detection

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing, preserving original manual clarity

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 633Csi:

M30B32, 3.2L (3210cc) SOHC Inline-6

Engine 635Csi:

M30B34, 3.4L (3430cc) SOHC Inline-6

Engine M6:

S38B35, 3.5L (3453cc) DOHC Inline-6 (M88/3 derivative)

Horsepower 633Csi:

Approx. 197 hp (DIN)

Torque 633Csi:

Approx. 285 Nm (210 lb-ft)

Horsepower 635Csi:

Approx. 218 hp (DIN)

Torque 635Csi:

Approx. 310 Nm (229 lb-ft)

Horsepower M6:

Approx. 286 hp (DIN)

Torque M6:

Approx. 333 Nm (246 lb-ft)

Fuel System:

Bosch Motronic fuel injection (L-Jetronic or LH-Jetronic variations across models/years)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Premium/Super Unleaded recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

4-speed manual (Getrag 265) on some models, 4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22) common

Transmission Optional:

5-speed manual (Getrag 265) became more common on later 635CSi and standard on M6

Transmission Features:

Dogleg first gear for manual transmission (on some models), smooth automatic shifts

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron III (or equivalent ATF)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 gear oil (e.g., Castrol TAF-X or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approx. 4,750-4,800 mm (187.0-189.0 in)

Exterior Width:

Approx. 1,725 mm (67.9 in)

Exterior Height:

Approx. 1,370-1,380 mm (53.9-54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,630 mm (103.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,500-1,650 kg (3,307-3,638 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No formal NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings available for this era, but built to high safety standards for its time. Era-appropriate safety features.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes, limited-slip differential (on some models, especially M6), anti-roll bars

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced chassis, crumple zones, three-point seatbelts, padded dashboard, headrests

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Original systems typically included AM/FM radio, cassette player. Later models may have offered more advanced stereo systems. No complex infotainment systems like modern vehicles.

Driver Assistance:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) became available and standard on later models. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.

Connectivity Options:

Basic telecommunication features in some luxury trims, but no Bluetooth or smartphone integration in original form.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions.

Filter Replacement Interval:

Oil filter with every oil change; Air filter every 20,000-30,000 km (12,000-18,000 miles); Fuel filter every 40,000-60,000 km (24,000-36,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Approx. 30,000-50,000 km (18,000-30,000 miles) depending on plug type.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (depending on climate and specific engine variant). API SF/SG or higher.

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). BMW recommends specific coolants.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Common Issues:

Rust (wheel arches, sills, strut towers), aging rubber components (bushings, hoses), fuel injection system (pump, injectors, airflow meter), electrical issues (wiring harness degradation, relay failures), climate control system failures, headliner sag, transmission seal leaks, differential whine.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, engineering excellence, and driver engagement in its vehicles.

Model Evolution E24:

The E24 6 Series replaced the E9 coupe and was produced from 1976 to 1989. It received a significant facelift in 1982, which included revised styling and updated mechanicals. The M6 (or M635CSi in Europe) was the high-performance variant.

Production Period:

1976-1989 (E24 generation)

Production Locations:

Germany (Dingolfing plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The E24 6 Series is widely recognized by automotive enthusiasts and critics for its timeless design, dynamic driving capabilities, and status as a classic luxury GT.