Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, component testing, tuning
Engine Control System:
Fuel injection (Motronic), ignition system, sensor diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, lines, pressure testing, specifications
Emission Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR, air injection systems, testing
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, fan clutch, coolant specifications
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil pressure specifications, fluid types
Ignition Starting Charging:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition coil, spark plugs, timing
Automatic Transmission:
Service, repair, fluid specifications, troubleshooting
Manual Transmission:
Service, repair, clutch operation, fluid specifications
Driveline:
Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle service
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers
Wheel Tire System:
Wheel balancing, tire pressure, wheel specifications
Brake System:
Front and rear brakes, calipers, pads, rotors, hydraulic system, parking brake
Steering System:
Steering column, power steering system, hydraulic components
Air Conditioning:
System components, refrigerant, servicing procedures
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts, supplemental restraint system (SRS) basics
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, glass, mirrors, trim
Body Interior:
Interior trim, seats, dashboard, instrument panel
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, power distribution, fuses, relays
Instrumentation And Controls:
Gauges, warning lights, switches, controls
Wiper Washer System:
Wiper motor, linkage, washer pump, fluid
Door Lock System:
Lock mechanisms, central locking (if equipped)
Audio Visual System:
Radio, speaker system (basic information)
Cruise Control System:
Components and basic operation
Engine Immobilizer:
Basic system description (if applicable)
Multiplex Can Communication:
Not applicable to this generation of E23; relies on traditional electrical wiring.
Body And Trim:
Exterior and interior trim components, seals, weatherstripping, panel alignment.
Instrument Panel And Gauges:
Removal, installation, and troubleshooting of gauges, warning lights, and the instrument cluster itself.
Seat And Interior Furnishings:
Seat adjustment mechanisms, upholstery repair, interior paneling.
Engine Hood And Door Mechanisms:
Hinges, latches, gas struts, door alignment.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based guidance
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Rebuilding Procedures:
Engine and transmission rebuilds (comprehensive detail expected)
Diagnosis And Testing:
Electrical testing, fuel system testing, mechanical component testing
Component Removal And Installation:
Detailed instructions for all major components
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical system wiring diagrams for all circuits are a critical part of this manual.
Torque Specifications:
Includes critical torque specifications for engine, chassis, and drivetrain fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics
Diagnostic Tools:
Covers use of basic hand tools and likely diagnostic procedures for Motronic systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or as specified in the manual, dependent on oil type used.
Major Service Points:
Spark plugs, fuel filters, air filters, coolant flushes at specific mileage or time intervals.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for viscosity (e.g., 15W-40, 20W-50 for older spec) and API service classification, likely SE/SF or higher.
Coolant Specification:
BMW coolant, or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Atf:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent for automatic transmissions.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW approved power steering fluid or equivalent.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 gear oil of appropriate viscosity (e.g., 75W-90, 80W-90).
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 gear oil of appropriate viscosity (e.g., 75W-90, 80W-90), check for LSD additive requirement if applicable.
Common E23 Issues:
Cooling system leaks (hose degradation, radiator), fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic or Motronic), electrical connector corrosion, suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints), odometer gear failure, rust (particularly in common areas).
