Positioning:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT) coupe/convertible, targeting a high-end market segment
Competitors:
Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Jaguar XJS/XK8, Ferrari models of the era
Design:
Iconic wedge-shaped design, pop-up headlights, long hood, and short deck proportions
Performance:
Powerful V8 and V12 engines, rear-wheel drive, and comfortable yet sporty ride
Luxury:
High-quality interior materials, advanced features for the time, and a refined driving experience
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, and repair of V8 and V12 engines (M60, M62, M70, M73 series)
Engine Electrics:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures for engine control units (ECU), sensors, and actuators
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems (DME), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulation, fuel tank, and lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant lines, fan operation, and heater core
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converters, mufflers, oxygen sensors, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) if applicable
Drivetrain:
Clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), drive shafts, differential, and rear axle components
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering rack, and tie rods
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake calipers, rotors, pads, and lines
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire pressure monitoring system (if equipped), mounting, and balancing procedures
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and bushings
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top (if applicable), frame structure, and rust prevention
Interior Equipment:
Seats, upholstery, climate control system, airbags, and interior trim components
General Electrical Equipment:
Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, mirrors, central locking, and infotainment system wiring
Instruments And Gauges:
Instrument cluster operation, diagnostics, and calibration
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, and component inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, and symptom-based repair guidance
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul
Diagnostics:
Procedures for using diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW's DIS or similar systems), reading fault codes, and interpreting data
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and pressure readings
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
Assumes access to specialized tools and diagnostic equipment for advanced repairs
840Ci:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission
850Ci:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission
840Ci Optional:
6-speed Manual Transmission (less common)
850I Original 850Csi:
6-speed Manual Transmission (standard on 850CSi)
Steptronic:
Allows manual gear selection via shifter or steering wheel buttons (later models)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact BMW specification, e.g., BMW ATF LT-3)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for exact BMW specification)
Head Unit:
BMW Professional RDS radio/cassette player or optional CD player, often with integrated navigation system (CCC or similar predecessor)
Speakers:
Premium sound systems by Harman Kardon or similar manufacturers were often available.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors on later models.
Telephone:
Optional integrated car phone system (analog or early digital).
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control.
Seat Features:
Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, heated seats were common options.
Service Intervals General
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 1 year, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine; for M60/M62 V8s, typically 60,000 miles; for M70/M73 V12s, potentially longer (refer to manual)
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) specification, typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic (refer to manual for specific viscosity grade)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant, or compatible ethylene glycol-based coolant with appropriate corrosion inhibitors (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Premium
Common Issues V8:
Coolant expansion tank leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, VANOS system (variable valve timing) issues, ignition coil failure, door seal degradation.
Common Issues V12:
Spark plug replacement complexity (12 plugs), ignition system reliability, cooling system component wear, ABS sensor failures, electronic control unit (ECU) issues.
Common Issues General:
Window regulator failures, headliner sagging, headlight motor failures, aging wiring harnesses, catalytic converter issues.