Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Audience:
Executive car buyers, luxury automotive enthusiasts
Competitors 1994:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ
Design Philosophy:
German engineering, build quality, driving dynamics, luxury appointments
Distinctive Features:
Long wheelbase option (iL), advanced technology for its era, premium interior materials
Engine:
M60B35 V8 engine systems, diagnostics, repair, overhaul
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 5HP30) operation, diagnostics, repair, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, differential, driveshafts, axles
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, components, alignment, adjustments
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc brakes, service procedures
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, components, service
Electrical:
Comprehensive electrical system diagrams, ECU, sensors, wiring harnesses, components
Bodywork:
Exterior body panels, doors, glass, seals, interior trim, body repair
Climate Control:
HVAC system, refrigerant handling, diagnostics, repair
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelts, safety features
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all systems
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, component rebuilding
Adjustments:
Wheel alignment, brake adjustments, suspension settings
Installation:
Component installation and removal procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
211 hp @ 5,800 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
228 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic M3.3)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent G48 ethylene glycol-based coolant
Oil Capacity With Filter:
7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic
Type:
5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP30)
Type:
None (5-speed manual not offered in North America for this model)
Electronic Control:
Electronic transmission control with multiple shift programs (e.g., Sport/Economy)
Fluid Type:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 or equivalent Dexron III (check manual for definitive)
Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) for a full refill
Crash Test Data:
Specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for 1994 may vary; manual provides design specifications.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats
Head Unit:
BMW Business or Professional RDS radio/cassette system, often with CD changer integration
Navigation:
Optional BMW On-Board Navigation System (Monochrome CRT display)
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC)
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated hands-free telephone system
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to specific onboard computer prompts (service indicator) or typically every 7,500-10,000 miles with synthetic oil, consult manual.
Transmission Fluid Service:
BMW historically advised 'lifetime' fluid, but modern practice recommends replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles for longevity.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW specified hydraulic fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Common Problems:
Cooling system components (radiator, hoses, water pump), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system, ABS sensor failures, window regulator failures, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common in older BMWs due to aging wiring and modules; manual provides diagnostic paths.
Brand Focus:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, blending luxury, performance, and advanced engineering.
E38 Generation Start:
Introduced in 1994 as the successor to the E32 generation 7 Series.
E38 Key Innovations:
Features like CAN bus networking, available Xenon headlights, integrated navigation system (optional), and significantly improved aerodynamics.
Production Years:
E38 generation produced from 1994 to 2001.
Automotive Journal Awards:
While specific awards for the 1994 model year may not be readily documented, the E38 generation was consistently praised for its engineering, comfort, and driving dynamics by major automotive publications of its time.
Comfort And Luxury:
Generally rated highly for ride quality, cabin insulation, and premium interior materials.
