Positioning:
Flagship luxury sedan of its era, known for advanced engineering and comfort.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS 400 (UCF10), Jaguar XJ (XJ40).
Engineering Excellence:
Represents BMW's dedication to sophisticated engineering, driver engagement, and high-quality construction.
Technology Introduction:
Pioneered various comfort and safety technologies for its time, including advanced climate control and onboard computer systems.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed repair, rebuild, and refurbishment procedures for all E32 engine variants (e.g., M30, M60).
Engine Electrical:
Comprehensive diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repair for engine control systems, ignition, and fuel injection.
Transmission Manual:
Repair, adjustment, and overhaul procedures for manual transmissions.
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnostic and repair procedures for automatic transmissions, including fluid service and adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Service and repair of drive shafts, differentials, and axles.
Suspension:
Detailed procedures for front and rear suspension components, including shock absorbers, springs, and bushings.
Steering:
Repair and adjustment of power steering system, steering rack, and associated components.
Brakes:
Comprehensive brake system service, including hydraulic components, ABS, caliper repair, and rotor replacement.
Fuel System:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel pump, injectors, lines, and emissions control systems.
Cooling System:
Maintenance and repair of radiator, water pump, thermostat, and associated hoses.
Exhaust System:
Repair and replacement procedures for exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, and mufflers.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of all electrical components, including lighting, instruments, power accessories, and central locking.
Body And Chassis:
Procedures for body panel repair, interior trim, glass replacement, and chassis components.
HVAC System:
Diagnosis and repair of climate control systems, including refrigerant recharge and component replacement.
Maintenance:
Detailed service schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, and tune-up procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually every component and system on the vehicle.
Rebuild:
Comprehensive procedures for rebuilding major components like engines, transmissions, and differentials.
Refurbish:
Guidance on restoring worn or aged components to good working order.
Restoration:
Detailed information applicable to restoring the vehicle to its original factory specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, integrated wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, essential for diagnostics.
Diagnostics:
Specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting trees for common failures.
Depth:
Professional Technician Level, suitable for advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Detail Level:
Very detailed, with sub-steps, notes, cautions, and warnings.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult the manual for specific intervals.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 50,000-60,000 miles (80,000-100,000 km) for automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions may have longer intervals or lifetime fluid, consult manual.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40) based on climate. BMW Longlife oils are often recommended.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 3.
Common Wear Items:
Cooling system components (radiator, hoses, water pump), suspension bushings, ignition coils (on later models), window regulators, fuel pump, and ABS sensors.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can sometimes experience minor electrical issues due to age and complexity of systems.
V8 Engine Maintenance:
M60 V8 engines are known for potential Nikasil cylinder liner wear in certain fuels/conditions (less common with proper maintenance) and timing chain guide issues if not addressed.
