Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors 1992:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ6, Audi V8 Quattro.
Key Selling Points:
Advanced engineering, driver-focused dynamics, sophisticated design, V8 engine performance, luxury appointments.
Model Variant Distinction:
740i (standard wheelbase), 740iL (long wheelbase) offering increased rear legroom.
Introduction Year E38:
The E38 generation of the 7 Series debuted in 1994, however, the 740i/iL designation using the M60 engine was introduced earlier in some markets, or this manual might cover transitional vehicles or earlier models not strictly designated E38 but sharing mechanicals. (Note: A 1992 model year 740i/iL typically refers to the E32 generation or early E38 precursors. Given the M60 engine, it's likely referencing the E32 740i/iL with the M60 V8 which was introduced in 1992 as a replacement for the 735i/iL and 750i/iL with the M30 engine). This manual is likely for the E32 740i/iL.
Powertrain:
Engine (M60B40 V8), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic transmission details, e.g., Steptronic optional later but likely 4HP22/4HP24 for early E38), driveline components, driveshafts, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear independent suspension, struts, control arms, bushings), steering system, braking system (ABS, hydraulic components), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagnosis, wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, instrumentation, body electronics, ECU (DME) and related sensors.
Body:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, windows, locks, HVAC system, climate control, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts).
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical systems, including component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, component measurements, tolerances, electrical system specifications.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of special tools required for specific repairs and adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic preventative maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhaul and complex electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Type:
4.0L V8 (3982 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 90 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total), Chain-driven dual overhead camshafts.
Horsepower:
282 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Motronic M3.3
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 11.5 Liters (12.2 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent is a modern replacement)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts) with filter
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic (per BMW specifications of the era)
Spark Plugs:
Bosch FGR7DQP+ (or equivalent)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (e.g., ZF 5HP30 or 4HP24 on earlier models, M60B40 often paired with 5HP30 or 4HP24)
Manual Transmission:
Not typically offered or very rare in US market 740i/iL models of this era.
Shift Modes:
Standard automatic, possibly with Sport/Economy modes depending on specific production date and options.
Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 - 9.0 Liters (depending on model and torque converter drain)
Fluid Specification:
ZF Lifeguardfluid (e.g., Lifeguardfluid T-IV or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid for earlier models, refer to manual for exact spec).
Wheelbase 740I:
Approx. 2995 mm (117.9 in)
Wheelbase 740Il:
Approx. 3155 mm (124.2 in)
Length 740I:
Approx. 5024 mm (197.8 in)
Length 740Il:
Approx. 5184 mm (204.1 in)
Curb Weight 740I:
Approx. 1800 kg (3968 lbs)
Curb Weight 740Il:
Approx. 1850 kg (4079 lbs)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Standard Wheel Size:
16 inches (Alloy)
Standard Tire Size:
225/60R16 (front and rear)
NHTSA Ratings:
Information not readily available for this specific model year by current standards. Early 90s lacked standardized rigorous testing.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) may have been available.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag standard; Passenger airbag optional or standard depending on late-production 1992 models or early E38 transition.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Head Unit:
BMW Bavaria C Business CD or similar premium audio system with cassette and CD player. Optional navigation system (CCC) was pioneering for its time.
Speakers:
Multiple speakers throughout the cabin, often with premium audio options available.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) were an option.
Telecommunications:
Optional car phone integrated into the armrest or dashboard.
HVAC System:
Dual-zone automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with recirculation and cabin air filters.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific BMW recommendations for the era).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 60,000 miles (for platinum-tipped plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles, or as indicated by the service indicator system.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Engine Components:
Valve stem seals (oil consumption), timing chain guides (potential wear, though M60 is generally robust), VANOS system (if equipped on later M60 variants or early M62 predecessors).
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank and radiator end tanks can become brittle and crack.
Electrical System:
ABS/ASC sensor failures, door lock actuators, window regulators, headliner sagging, pixelated instrument cluster displays (dead pixels).
Suspension Components:
Control arm bushings, sway bar links, and shock absorber mounts can wear over time, leading to a less precise feel.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-centric, performance-oriented luxury vehicles.
E32 Generation:
The 1992 740i/iL represents the zenith of the E32 generation, which ran from 1986 to 1994. The introduction of the M60 V8 engine in 1992 marked a significant upgrade in performance and technology for the 7 Series.
Successor:
The E38 generation succeeded the E32 in 1994, introducing a new chassis, updated technology, and further refined powertrains.
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing Plant, Germany
Car And Driver 10 Best:
While the E38 generation (starting 1994) often featured on '10 Best' lists, the specific 1992 E32 740i/iL was highly regarded for its blend of performance and luxury, contributing to the 7 Series' consistent critical acclaim.
Road Test Reviews:
Contemporary reviews praised the V8 engine's smoothness, the car's refined ride, and its secure handling, establishing it as a benchmark in the luxury sedan segment.
