🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

8 Series

Chassis Code:

E31

Model Years Covered:

1989-1999

Engine Codes:

M60B30 (3.0L V8), M60B40 (4.0L V8), M62B35 (3.5L V8), M62B44 (4.4L V8), S70B56 (5.6L V12)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer (GT)

Key Competitors:

Porsche 911, Ferrari 456 GT, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129), Jaguar XJS

Design Philosophy:

Elegant styling, powerful engines, sophisticated chassis, driver-focused luxury

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and independent shops with dealer-level repair and maintenance information, saving significant costs.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive mechanical and electrical repair, maintenance, and diagnostics

Secondary Coverage:

Troubleshooting, specifications, wiring schematics, diagrams, illustrations

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Viewable On:

PC, Mac, Tablets, Smartphones, E-readers

Printability:

Yes, individual pages

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full disassembly, assembly, repair, tuning, and component replacement for V8 and V12 engines

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine management sensors and actuators

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter systems, EGR, evaporative emission control, diagnostics

Fuel System:

Fuel injection ( மோтроник - Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank

Clutch System:

Clutch assembly, hydraulic system, release bearing, flywheel

Manual Transmission:

Gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism, synchronizers, bearings, fluid specifications

Automatic Transmission:

Transmission overhaul, hydraulic control, torque converter, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics, fluid specifications

Driveshaft Axle:

Driveshaft universal joints, CV joints, rear axle differential, wheel bearings

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications

Steering System:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, steering angle sensor

Restraint System:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, pre-tensioners, occupant sensing systems

Brake System:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake pads, rotors, calipers, bleeding procedures

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, trim, glass replacement

Body Electrical:

Lighting systems (headlights, taillights), power windows, power locks, mirrors, central locking, wiper system, horn

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heating, ventilation, climate control unit, blower motor, refrigerant handling

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting common faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for major component overhaul and replacement

Component Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams for tracing circuits, diagnosing electrical faults, component testing using multimeters

Bodywork Repair:

Panel alignment, rust repair considerations, door and window seal replacement

Depth Level:

Complete

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics and skilled DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within PDF

Print Fidelity:

High-resolution scans/digital files suitable for clear printing

Physical Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality For Printing:

Standard printer paper, durable for workshop use

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.0L V8 (M60B30), 4.0L V8 (M60B40), 3.5L V8 (M62B35), 4.4L V8 (M62B44), 5.6L V12 (S70B56)

Horsepower Range:

218 hp (3.0L V8) to 380 hp (5.6L V12)

Torque Range:

290 Nm (3.0L V8) to 530 Nm (5.6L V12)

Fuel Injection System:

Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (various versions depending on engine)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 91+)

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed Getrag 265 (on select V8 models)

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed ZF 4HP24 automatic (V8 models), 5-speed ZF 5HP30 automatic (V12 and later V8 models)

Transmission Control:

Electronic control for automatic transmissions, including EGS (Electronic Gearbox Control)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4783 mm (188.3 in)

Width:

Approx. 1855 mm (73.0 in)

Height:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1650 kg - 1900 kg (depending on engine and options)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety:

Designed to meet contemporary safety standards; detailed crashworthiness data would be in specific BMW documentation not typically in general workshop manuals.

Driver Assistance:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) on some models, DSC on later models

Passive Safety:

Driver and passenger front airbags (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, reinforced safety cell

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium sound systems from manufacturers like Nakamichi or Harman Kardon, with CD players and optional navigation systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control

Diagnostic Interface:

OBD-I or OBD-II depending on the specific model year and region, often requiring specialized BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1) for full access.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by engine; typically 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-98 or Longlife-01 specification, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for precise viscosity and API rating)

Coolant:

BMW Blue or G48 ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (refer to manual for specific type)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-2, LT-3, or LT-4 (specific to transmission type, consult manual)

Common Problems:

Oil separator leaks (M60), VANOS unit issues (M60/M62), cooling system leaks (plastic components), starter motor issues, window regulator failures, ABS/ASC sensor problems, fuel pump issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving dynamics, and luxury.

E31 Development:

Developed as BMW's flagship coupe, showcasing advanced technology and design, succeeding the E24 6 Series.

Production Years:

1989-1999

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing Plant, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Acclaim:

Often praised for its timeless design and performance; received numerous accolades in automotive press during its production run.