Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking refinement, performance, and advanced technology for its era.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ.
Distinguishing Features:
Advanced engineering, powerful inline-six and V12 engines, sophisticated suspension, refined interior, and technological innovations.
Manual Utility:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics to perform dealership-level maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs.
Primary Coverage:
Factory Service and Repair Procedures
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Servicing, Diagnosis, and Repair
Estimated Page Count:
Likely exceeds 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Printability:
All pages are printable
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all covered engines (M30/M60 series).
Transmission:
Repair and maintenance for automatic transmissions (e.g., ZF 4HP22 EH, 4HP24) and potential manual transmissions if offered in specific markets.
Suspension:
Complete coverage including front struts, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, repair, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column.
Brakes:
ABS systems, brake fluid, master cylinder, calipers, rotors, brake lines, and parking brake.
Body:
Body panel repair, structural integrity, rust prevention, chassis alignment, and panel replacement.
Body Equipment:
Door mechanisms, locks, window regulators, sunroof, bumpers, and trim.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage of the entire electrical system, including ECUs, sensors, actuators, ignition, starting, charging, lighting, and instrumentation.
Equipment And Accessories:
Climate control (HVAC), power seats, power mirrors, heated seats, cruise control, and onboard computer (OBC).
Electrical Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, manufacturer-specific wiring schematics for all electrical systems.
Maintenance:
Regular service intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and inspections.
Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Rebuild:
Comprehensive procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, and electrical specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagrams And Pictures:
Highly detailed exploded views and diagrams for clarity and efficiency.
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data readily available for this era, but designed to high BMW safety standards.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on later models.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1990 onwards; passenger airbag optional/standard on later models.
Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones.
Audio System:
High-quality factory stereo systems with cassette player and optional CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional early GPS navigation systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Onboard Computer:
Onboard Computer (OBC) with diagnostic functions and trip computer.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control (dual-zone)
Seats:
Power-adjustable front seats with memory function, optional heated seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions (check manual for specific recommendation).
Coolant Change:
Every 2-3 years or as specified by BMW (typically with specific coolant type).
Spark Plugs:
Varies by engine (e.g., 30k miles for M30, 60k miles for M60/M70 with platinum plugs).
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40) and BMW approval, often LL-01 or prior specifications.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) required, often Dexron II/III or equivalent; consult manual for exact type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 recommended.
Coolant:
BMW-approved blue or green coolant (ethylene glycol based), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Engine:
M60 V8 timing chain guides (plastic) can degrade and fail; M30 can have head gasket issues; M70 V12 complexity and potential VANOS issues (if applicable).
Electrical:
Headlight switch failure, OBC pixelation, door handle microswitches, water ingress into fuse box/ECU due to clogged sunroof drains.
Suspension:
Worn bushings (control arm, subframe), strut mounts, and rear self-leveling suspension (SLS) system leaks (if equipped).
Cooling System:
Plastic radiator end tanks can become brittle and leak; water pump failure.
Interior:
Sagging headliner, cracked leather, worn driver's seat bolster.
