Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Positioning:
BMW's flagship model, emphasizing advanced engineering, comfort, and performance.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi V8, Jaguar XJ.
Highlights:
Spacious interior, advanced technology for its era, refined ride quality, powerful inline-six and V12 engines.
Utility:
Indispensable resource for owners and mechanics to maintain, diagnose, and repair the E32 7 Series, mirroring dealer-level information.
Applicable Model Years:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994
Covered Variants:
735i, 735iL, 740i, 740iL, 750iL
Type:
Digital Service & Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission service and repair (e.g., ZF 4HP22 EH for 735i/iL, ZF 5HP30 for 740i/iL/750iL), clutch, driveshafts, differential.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc brake overhaul, parking brake.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, power windows, mirrors, central locking, onboard computer diagnostics (check control).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, self-leveling rear suspension (optional on some models).
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkage.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, bumpers.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C service, heater core, blower motor, climate control module.
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common electrical and mechanical faults, using onboard diagnostic codes.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and component replacements.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine management systems (e.g., Motronic), ABS, and other electronic modules.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic flowcharts.
Displacement 735:
3.430 cc (3.4 L)
Configuration 735:
Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC
Horsepower 735:
Approx. 208-211 hp (depending on market and year)
Torque 735:
Approx. 305-310 Nm (225-229 lb-ft)
Displacement 740:
3.982 cc (4.0 L)
Configuration 740:
V8, DOHC
Horsepower 740:
Approx. 282 hp
Torque 740:
Approx. 400 Nm (295 lb-ft)
Displacement 750:
4.988 cc (5.0 L)
Configuration 750:
V12, SOHC (historically referred to as DOHC due to twin-spark ignition, but primary valve actuation is SOHC per bank)
Horsepower 750:
Approx. 295-300 hp
Torque 750:
Approx. 470-490 Nm (347-361 lb-ft)
Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic (M3.3 for M60, M1.2 for M30, DME for M70)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ RON)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Limited availability in some markets)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP30)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP24)
Transmission Features:
Electronic control (EH on 4HP22), adaptive shift programs, Park/Neutral safety switch.
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available from era, but built to high safety standards for its time.
Active Safety:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), optional Traction Control System (ASC/ASC+T on later models).
Passive Safety:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger, standard on later models), reinforced safety cell, crumple zones, seatbelt pre-tensioners.
Audio System:
Premium sound systems (e.g., Harman Kardon optional), cassette player, AM/FM radio.
Assistance Features:
Cruise control, trip computer, parking sensors (early versions, e.g., Park Distance Control on later models).
Connectivity Features:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle controls and diagnostics. Optional car phone integration on some models.
Interior Features:
Dual-zone automatic climate control, power adjustable seats with memory, heated seats (optional), onboard computer (Check Control).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-18 months (check manual for specific recommendations and oil type).
Major Service Interval:
Spark plugs, transmission fluid, differential fluid, coolant flushes at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles).
Engine Oil Spec M30:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on climate. Check manual for exact spec.
Engine Oil Spec M60 M70:
API SH or higher, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended. Check manual for exact spec.
Transmission Fluid Zf4Hp22 5Hp30:
Dexron III or equivalent (specific ZF fluid recommended by some sources). Check manual for exact specification.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. BMW blue coolant or equivalent.
Cooling System:
Degradation of plastic cooling system components (radiator, expansion tank, hoses), water pump failure, thermostat issues.
Engine M60:
Timing chain guide wear (especially on early M60B40), potential Nikasil bore wear on early models (though less common than E34 M60).
Electrical:
Check Control system malfunctions, headlight leveling system issues, ABS sensor failures, wiring harness degradation, EML (Engine Management Light) faults.
Suspension Rear:
Failure of self-leveling rear suspension (if equipped), worn control arms and bushings.
Climate Control:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure, A/C system leaks, climate control module issues.
Heritage:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and luxury driving dynamics.
E32 Introduction:
Introduced in 1986 (for the 1987 model year) as the successor to the E23 7 Series.
E32 Facelift:
Facelift in 1992 introduced the M60 V8 engines (740i/iL) and updated styling cues.
E32 Discontinuation:
Production ended in 1994, succeeded by the E38 7 Series.
Production Years:
1986-1994
Awards:
While specific 'awards' are not commonly cited for this generation, it was widely recognized for its technological advancements and luxury appointments in automotive journalism of the era.
Consumer Reviews:
Praised for its ride comfort, build quality, and refined engines, though sometimes criticized for complex electronics and higher maintenance costs compared to some rivals.
