🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

7 Series

Model Variant:

740i, 740iL

Years Covered:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994

Chassis Code:

E32

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Brand Perception:

High performance, engineering excellence, luxury, driver engagement.

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ.

Distinguishing Factors:

Sophisticated V8 engines, advanced chassis dynamics for its era, premium interior appointments, long-wheelbase option (iL) for enhanced rear-seat comfort.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

BMW 740i, BMW 740iL

Engine Variants Covered:

M60B40 (4.0L V8)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication, cooling.

Engine Management:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition system, sensors, actuators, emissions control.

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (e.g., 5HP30): Overhaul, torque converter, valve body, electronic control, fluid services.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, driveshafts, differential, axle shafts.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, springs, self-leveling suspension (if applicable).

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, pump, hoses, steering column.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter, alternator, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, glass, trim, chassis components, corrosion protection.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant, compressor, blower motor.

Interior:

Seats, dashboard, center console, door panels, interior trim, seat belts.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Extensive diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems.

Preventative Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, inspections.

Component Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for repair and overhaul of virtually all mechanical and electrical components.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Systematic diagnostic approaches, using specialized tools and test equipment.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and accurate electrical schematics for all vehicle circuits.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical assembly points.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (typically)

Printable:

Yes

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation

Binding:

N/A (Digital Product)

Type:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M60B40

Configuration:

4.0L V8 (3982 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

282 hp @ 5800 rpm

Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Type:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP30)

Type:

None for 740i/740iL variants

Features:

Electronic control, adaptive shifting programs, Sport mode.

📐 Dimensions

Length 740I:

196.4 inches (4988 mm)

Length 740Il:

204.4 inches (5192 mm)

Wheelbase 740I:

117.1 inches (2975 mm)

Wheelbase 740Il:

124.4 inches (3160 mm)

Curb Weight 740I:

4079 lbs (1850 kg)

Curb Weight 740Il:

4233 lbs (1920 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not explicitly rated by modern standards; built to era-specific safety requirements.

Active Safety:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control System (ASC+T, later models).

Passive Safety:

Driver and front passenger airbags, reinforced chassis, crumple zones, side-impact protection.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Onboard computer, premium audio systems (e.g., Hi-Fi), cassette player, potentially early navigation systems on later models.

Features:

ABS, Traction Control (ASC+T), Cruise Control, Park Distance Control (PDC) available on some later models.

Features:

Limited by era; may include basic cellular phone integration in some specific configurations.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Spark Plugs:

Refer to manual for specific type and interval (e.g., platinum or iridium plugs might have longer intervals).

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendation.

Engine Oil:

Refer to manual; typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting BMW LL-98 or LL-01 specifications (check for specific M60 approval).

Transmission Fluid:

ZF LifeguardFluid 5 (or equivalent approved fluid for 5HP30 transmission).

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant concentrate mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid.

Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks (especially on early M60 engines), coolant leaks from plastic components (e.g., expansion tank, hose connectors), VANOS seal wear (if applicable to specific early M60 variants), electronic sensor failures, EML (Engine Management Light) issues, aging wiring harnesses, ABS/ASC sensor failures, power steering leaks.

Maintenance Priority:

Regular maintenance and proactive replacement of aging rubber and plastic components are crucial for reliability.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented luxury vehicles with advanced engineering.

E32 Introduction:

The E32 generation replaced the E23 7 Series and introduced significant advancements in technology and design, including the V8 engine for the 740i/iL models.

V8 Introduction:

The M60 V8 engine was a major technological leap for BMW in this class, offering smooth power delivery and advanced engine management.

Production Years:

E32 generation: 1986-1994

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

While specific awards for the 740i/iL variants of the E32 are not prominently listed, the E32 generation was generally well-received for its engineering, comfort, and driving dynamics, often praised by automotive journalists of its time.