Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi V8/A8, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ
Luxury Appointments:
Premium leather, wood trim, advanced (for its era) comfort features, spacious interior
Driving Dynamics:
Balanced handling, powerful inline-six engine, refined ride quality, characteristic BMW driving feel
Technology:
Early adoption of ABS, early iterations of electronic climate control, available traction control (ASC), power everything
Engine:
M30B35 Engine (3.5L inline-6), fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions control
Transmission:
4-speed automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22), manual (less common, e.g., Getrag 260/5), clutch, drivetrain
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering, steering rack, steering column
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, rear independent trailing arms, self-leveling rear suspension (optional on iL), springs, shock absorbers, bushings
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, diagnostics (OBD I), body control modules, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), climate control electronics
Body:
Body structure, panels, doors, windows, sunroof (optional), bumpers, interior trim, sound deadening
HVAC:
Automatic climate control, A/C system, heater core, blower motor, ventilation
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (driver-side introduced during the E32 lifecycle), ABS
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, coolant flushes, battery maintenance
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, fuel system repairs, exhaust system repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic fault codes (OBD I), electrical circuit tracing, engine performance diagnostics
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments (if applicable to M30, typically requires specific tools), ignition timing, idle speed
Troubleshooting:
Systematic approaches to diagnosing various mechanical and electrical issues
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and diagnostic procedures.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually (check owner's manual for specific recommendations)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type, often copper NGK or Bosch)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 - 50,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)
Engine Oil Capacity Qt:
Approx. 6.5 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol-based coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank, water pump failure, hose degradation
Electrical:
ABS module failures, dashboard pixelation, idle control valve issues, door lock actuators, sunroof motor issues
Suspension:
Brake wear sensors, control arm bushings, rear self-leveling system (if equipped) issues (e.g., leaking accumulators, pump failure)
Engine M30:
Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, spark plug well oil ingress, vacuum hose degradation
Interior:
Headliner sagging, seat wear, EATC (Electronic Automatic Temperature Control) issues
Philosophy:
Ultimate Driving Machine, engineering excellence, focus on performance and luxury
E32 Introduction:
Launched in 1986 (for the 1987 model year in Europe), replacing the E23 7 Series. E32 introduced significant styling and technological advancements.
E32 Updates:
Mid-cycle refresh around 1992 included updated styling cues, interior refinements, and expanded electronic features. M30B35 engine was the primary powerplant for the US market during this period.
Production Years:
1986-1994
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
