🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M6

Model Code:

E24

Year:

1986

Chassis Code:

E24

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Luxury Grand Tourer / Sports Coupe

Key Competitors Era:

Porsche 911, Ferrari 412, Jaguar XJ-S, Mercedes-Benz SEC models

Manual Advantage:

Vehicle-specific, factory-level detail, comprehensive A-Z coverage, digital format for ease of use.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific sub-model and included supplements, but extensive and comprehensive.

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Maintenance:

Included

Engine Control System:

Included

Engine Mechanical Components:

Included

Fuel System:

Included

Emission Control System:

Included

Intake Exhaust Cooling System:

Included

Lubrication System:

Included

Ignition Starting Charging System:

Included

Automatic Transmission Clutch:

Included

Manual Transmission:

Included

Transfer Propeller Shaft:

Included

Drive Shaft:

Included

Differential:

Included

Axle Suspension:

Included

Tire Wheel:

Included

Brake Control System:

Included

Brake System:

Included

Parking Brake System:

Included

Steering Column:

Included

Power Steering System:

Included

Air Conditioning System:

Included

Supplemental Restraint System Srs:

Included

Seat Belt System:

Included

Engine Immobilizer:

Included

Cruise Control System:

Included

Wiper Washer System:

Included

Door Lock System:

Included

Meter Audio Visual System:

Included

Horn System:

Included

Windshield Glass Mirror:

Included

Instrument Panel:

Included

Seat Systems:

Included

Engine Hood Door Systems:

Included

Exterior Interior Trim:

Included

Electrical System Components:

Included

Multiplex Can Communication:

Included

Maintenance Tasks:

Complete step-by-step instructions

Repair Procedures:

Comprehensive A-Z coverage

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Included

Component Replacement:

Included

Adjustment Procedures:

Included

Wiring Schematics Diagrams:

Included

Depth:

Factory-level detail, vehicle-specific, not generic.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

All pages printable, with option to enlarge images.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Operating Systems:

Windows Vista (32/64), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac compatible.

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free online).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

SOHC 24-valve V12 (M70 for European market, S38B35 inline-6 for US market originally, though M635CSi was the common E24 M-variant with an inline-6. For 1986 M6 specifically, it was the M88/3 inline-6 in some markets and S38B35 in others. The product description implies M6 which usually refers to the inline-6 in this generation unless specified as a V12 variant).

Engine Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3453 cc) for S38B35 / 3.5 Liters (3453 cc) for M88/3.

Horsepower:

Approximately 256 hp (DIN) for M88/3, 260 hp (DIN) for S38B35.

Torque:

Approximately 333 Nm (245 lb-ft) for M88/3, 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) for S38B35.

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 5-speed manual transmission (Type 265/6)

Optional Transmission:

ZF 4-speed automatic transmission (TH400 variant) was optional on some E24 models, but the M6 typically came with the manual.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4,700 mm (185.0 in)

Width:

Approximately 1,750 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

Approximately 1,380 mm (54.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2,775 mm (109.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era:

Pre-modern crash test standards. Focus on structural integrity and passive safety.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option or standard on later models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag was optional and became more common in later E24 production.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium sound systems were available from brands like Nakamichi or Blaupunkt, often with cassette decks.

Cruise Control:

Electronic cruise control system

Telematics:

Limited to basic features, no modern connectivity options.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 30,000 miles, depending on plug type.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended for most conditions. Check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.

Coolant Type:

BMW approved ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (ensure compatibility and flush as per schedule).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-5 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity approximately 1.8 liters.

Differential Fluid Type:

GL-5 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity approximately 1.2 liters.

Common Wear Items:

Bushings (suspension, control arm), fuel pump, fuel injectors, timing chain guides, valve stem seals.

Electrical Gremlins:

Can be prone to minor electrical issues due to age, particularly related to wiring insulation and connectors.

Cooling System:

Radiator, hoses, and water pump can degrade over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Reputation:

Renowned for performance, engineering, and luxury automotive manufacturing.

E24 Generation:

First generation E24 6 Series produced from 1976 to 1989, with significant updates throughout its lifecycle.

M6 Introduction:

The M6 variant was introduced to offer enhanced performance, utilizing BMW's M Power division expertise.

Production Period E24:

1976-1989

Production Year Specific To Manual:

1986

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Acclaim:

The E24 6 Series, particularly the M6, was highly praised by automotive journalists for its performance, handling, and luxury GT capabilities.