🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

7 Series

Chassis Code:

E32

Specific Models Covered:

735i, 735iL, 750iL

Model Years Covered:

1988, 1989

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Target Audience:

Affluent consumers seeking premium performance, comfort, and advanced technology

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Jaguar XJ, Lexus LS

Luxury Appointments:

Spacious interior, high-quality materials, advanced comfort features

Performance Orientation:

BMW's renowned driving dynamics and powerful engine options

Technological Advancement:

Early adoption of electronic systems for engine management, comfort, and safety

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Electrical Systems Troubleshooting

Secondary Coverage:

Component Location, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures for Electrical Components

Estimated Page Count:

Refer to specific manual publication. Typically 300-600 pages for comprehensive electrical troubleshooting.

Type:

Official BMW Service Manual / Technical Information Manual

Language:

Likely English, though original German and other translations may exist.

Format:

Digital (PDF) likely, potentially available as printed.

📖 Manual Coverage

Power Distribution:

Detailed power distribution charts and diagrams

Fuses And Relays:

Fuse charts, fuse details, and power distribution

Ground Distribution:

Ground distribution points and wiring diagrams

Engine Management:

Engine Control System (DME - Digital Motor Electronics)

Charging System:

Alternator, battery, charging circuit diagnostics

Starting System:

Starter motor, ignition switch, starting circuit troubleshooting

Transmission Control:

Electronic transmission control (e.g., for automatic transmissions)

Safety Systems:

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS - Airbags), Slip Control (ABS - Anti-lock Braking System)

Comfort And Convenience:

Power Mirrors, Central Locking, Power Windows, Power Seats, Heated Seats, Power Sun Roof

Lighting:

Instrument cluster lighting, light switch, headlights, fog lights, turn/hazard lights, park/tail/underhood lights, license plate/luggage compartment lights, backup lights, brake lights, interior lights, glove box light, cassette box ash tray lights, charging socket

Wiper Washer:

Wiper/washer module, headlight washer, windshield washer jet heaters

Climate Control:

Park ventilation with HKR (Heated Coolant Recirculation), Rear Window defogger, Integrated climate regulation

Infotainment:

Radio/CD player, Radio/Hi-Fi system, Cellular Telephone, On Board Computer

Driver Assistance:

Cruise Control (Tempomat), Anti-Theft System

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides based on symptoms

Diagnostic Procedures:

Procedures for identifying electrical faults and diagnosing issues

Repair Instructions:

Detailed repair steps for electrical components and wiring harnesses

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems

Component Identification:

Component location charts and views, connector views

Depth:

In-depth technical information, suitable for professional technicians and knowledgeable enthusiasts

Diagnostics Level:

Advanced diagnostics, including signal tracing and component testing

Illustrations:

Illustrations, diagrams, depth illustrations for clarity

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (searchable, printable)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans or original factory print quality.

Binding Type:

N/A for digital; if printed, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for workshop use.

Paper Type:

N/A for digital; if printed, typically heavy-duty paper for workshop durability.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M30B35

Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Displacement:

3.430 cc (3.4 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

92 mm x 86 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.0:1 or 8.5:1 (depending on market/specific tuning)

Horsepower:

Approx. 208-211 hp @ 5,500 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 290-300 Nm (214-221 lb-ft) @ 4,000 rpm

Engine Code:

M70B50

Configuration:

V12, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per bank

Displacement:

4.988 cc (5.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

84 mm x 90 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 296-300 hp @ 5,200 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 470-472 Nm (347-348 lb-ft) @ 3,900 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) on M70 V12

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 280/5) - less common, primarily for European markets

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP24)

Optional Transmission:

None

Electronic Control:

Electronic control for shift points and transmission operation

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,972 mm (195.7 in)

Length:

Approx. 5,164 mm (203.3 in)

Length:

Approx. 5,164 mm (203.3 in)

Wheelbase Short:

Approx. 2,830 mm (111.4 in) for 735i

Wheelbase Long:

Approx. 3,074 mm (121.0 in) for 735iL and 750iL

Curb Weight 735I:

Approx. 1,730-1,760 kg (3,814-3,880 lbs)

Curb Weight 750Il:

Approx. 1,950-2,000 kg (4,299-4,409 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Modern crash test data may not be directly comparable to contemporary standards. Focus on the era's safety features.

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard, passenger airbag optional on some models/markets.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.

Chassis Design:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models by this period.

Traction Control:

Optional on some models, often referred to as ASC (Automatic Stability Control) or ASC+T.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

Advanced Hi-Fi sound systems, often with cassette and/or CD players. Radio data system (RDS) support.

On Board Computer:

OBC (On-Board Computer) providing diagnostics, trip computer functions, and system monitoring.

Cruise Control:

Standard 'Tempomat' cruise control system.

Anti Theft:

Factory alarm system, often with remote central locking.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control with integrated cabin temperature and air quality sensors.

Seat Adjustment:

Multi-way power adjustable front seats with memory function.

Telephone:

Optional factory-installed car phone system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-18 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Check Condition Based Service (CBS) if equipped.

Spark Plugs:

At least every 30,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., copper, platinum, iridium).

Coolant Flush:

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

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 (consult manual for specific viscosity based on climate).

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron III (or equivalent). Specific type and quantity for ZF transmissions (consult manual).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap).

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Electrical Gremlins:

Common for aged vehicles: intermittent failures, corroded connections, failing modules (e.g., OBC, comfort modules), vacuum leaks affecting electronics.

Cooling System:

Plastic components (water pump impeller, expansion tank, thermostat housing) can become brittle and crack. M70 V12 engines can be particularly sensitive to overheating.

Fuel System M70:

Ignition coils and spark plug wires on the V12 can be a source of misfires. DME modules can fail.

Suspension:

Hydropneumatic self-leveling rear suspension (on some models) can develop leaks or pump failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

'The Ultimate Driving Machine', emphasizing performance, engineering, and driver engagement.

E23 Predecessor:

The E32 succeeded the E23 7 Series.

E32 Introduction:

Introduced in 1986 as a revolutionary redesign, setting new benchmarks in luxury and technology.

E32 Facelift:

While this manual covers early E32 models, a significant facelift occurred in late 1991 (for model year 1992), introducing updated styling and technology (E32 LCI).

Production Period E32:

1986–1994

Production Location:

Dingolfing Plant, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

While specific awards for the 1988-1989 models might be rare, the E32 chassis was lauded for its aerodynamic design and styling by BMW designer Claus Luthe.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

Not awarded for these specific years, but subsequent BMW models often received accolades.