Vehicle Segment:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)
Target Audience:
Discerning automotive enthusiasts, owners of high-performance luxury vehicles seeking to maintain and repair their E31 themselves or with greater understanding.
Competitors:
Porsche 928, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129), Jaguar XJS
Manual Advantage:
Provides exact, vehicle-specific information used by dealership technicians, unlike generic repair guides. Offers extensive visual aids (diagrams, illustrations).
Convenience:
Single PDF format eliminates the need for multiple physical books, with the ability to print only necessary pages.
Cost Savings:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, reducing reliance on expensive dealership or independent specialist labor.
Models Covered:
All 1993 BMW 8 Series (E31) models including 840i, 850i, 850CSi
Repair Scope:
Comprehensive A-Z repair coverage for all vehicle systems
Page Count:
Not specified, but described as comprehensive and sufficient for all repairs.
Manual Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (M60, M70), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Intake System, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Differential, Drive Shafts, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering (Power Steering, Steering Column), Brakes (Hydraulic, Parking Brake, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instruments & Gauges, Audio/Visual Systems, Horn, Wipers & Washers, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks), Cruise Control, Engine Immobilizer, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Multiplex/CAN Communication
Body:
Exterior (Hood, Doors), Interior (Seats, Instrument Panel), Glass & Mirrors, Air Conditioning System
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures for all systems
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all components and systems, including major overhauls and component replacement
Technical Adjustments:
Engine timing, valve adjustment (if applicable), brake adjustments, steering alignment specifications
Wiring Information:
Complete wiring schematics and diagrams for all electrical systems
Depth:
Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within PDF, enabling quick access to information.
Printability:
All pages are printable, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.
Image Enhancement:
Ability to blow up images for enlarged viewing and printing of diagrams.
Binding Type:
Digital (PDF), eliminating the need for physical binding and offering convenience.
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
3.0L V8 (M60B30):
Displacement: 2997 cc (3.0 L); Bore x Stroke: 84 mm x 90 mm; Compression Ratio: 10.0:1; Horsepower: 218 hp @ 5800 rpm; Torque: 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm
4.0L V8 (M60B40):
Displacement: 3982 cc (4.0 L); Bore x Stroke: 84 mm x 90 mm; Compression Ratio: 10.0:1; Horsepower: 286 hp @ 5800 rpm; Torque: 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm
5.0L V12 (M70B50):
Displacement: 4988 cc (5.0 L); Bore x Stroke: 84 mm x 90 mm; Compression Ratio: 8.8:1; Horsepower: 300 hp @ 5200 rpm; Torque: 470 Nm (347 lb-ft) @ 4100 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection (specific version varies by engine)
ECU:
Bosch Motronic M3.3 or M3.1 (for V8s), Bosch Motronic M7.1 (for V12)
Automatic Transmission:
ZF 4HP24 (4-speed automatic) for V8 models, ZF 5HP30 (5-speed automatic) for V12 models
Manual Transmission:
Getrag 6-speed manual (S6-40/5-70) available on some V8 models (e.g., 840Ci with M60B40)
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) available on some models
Crash Testing:
While formal crash test ratings for this era are less standardized, the E31 was engineered with a robust chassis and safety cage, typical of BMW's commitment to occupant protection.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
ASC+T available on some models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags, supplemental restraint system (SRS)
Seat Belts:
Pre-tensioned seat belts
Audio System:
Factory premium sound systems often featured Nakamichi or Harman Kardon components, with CD changers available as an option.
Navigation:
Early GPS navigation systems were available as an option on some models, often featuring a dash-mounted screen.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control system
Parking Sensors:
Not typically available for the 1993 model year.
Phone Integration:
Optional car phone systems were available, but not modern Bluetooth connectivity.
Keyless Entry:
Remote central locking and keyless entry systems were often equipped.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Oil Change:
Typically every 15,000 km (9,000 miles) or 12 months, following BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system or manufacturer recommendations.
Major Service:
Spark plug replacement typically around 100,000 km (60,000 miles); coolant flush and replacement recommended every 2-3 years.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or equivalent synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate. Consult manual for precise viscosity and capacity for each engine.
Coolant:
BMW Blue coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF fluid for ZF automatic transmissions (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid6 for 5HP30, consult manual for specific type and quantity for each transmission).
Cooling System:
Water pump, thermostat, and plastic coolant pipe failures are common. E31's V8 engines can be prone to overheating if not properly maintained.
Electrical:
Aging wiring harnesses, especially in the engine bay, can degrade. Window regulators and headlamp motors are known failure points.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings and rear trailing arm bushings can wear out, leading to imprecise handling.
V12 Specific:
Dual ignition system complexity can lead to misfires if not properly addressed. Oil leaks from the valley pan are also noted.
Bmw Philosophy:
BMW's pursuit of 'Ultimate Driving Machine,' focusing on performance, engineering excellence, and driver engagement, which the E31 embodied.
E31 Development:
Conceived as a flagship V12 coupe, later expanded to V8 models to broaden appeal. Featured advanced technology for its time, including a retractable headlight system and sophisticated electronics.
Production Years:
1990-1999
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Automotive Design:
The BMW 8 Series (E31) is widely recognized for its timeless and elegant design, often cited as a modern classic.
Performance Acclaim:
Praised for its powerful engines, refined handling, and comfortable ride, fitting its Grand Tourer ethos.
