Market Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126/W140), Audi V8, Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ.
Design Philosophy:
BMW's focus on driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine') applied to the luxury segment, blending performance with comfort and advanced technology for its era.
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals seeking a sophisticated, powerful, and engaging luxury sedan.
Primary Purpose:
To provide comprehensive diagnostic, repair, and maintenance information for BMW 740i and 740iL models from 1988 to 1994, enabling technicians and knowledgeable owners to service these vehicles accurately and efficiently.
Engine:
Complete engine mechanicals, fuel injection (DME), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP24) repair, overhaul, fluid specifications, shift diagnostics.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, driveshaft, differential, axles, components.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, control arms, hydraulic self-leveling rear suspension (optional).
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, components, adjustments.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, brake pads, rotors, lines, master cylinder, calipers.
Electrical System:
Complete electrical schematics, battery, alternator, starter, lighting system, power windows, mirrors, central locking, comfort electronics, fuse box layouts, diagnostic connectors.
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, hinges, latches, window regulators, seals, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis, repair, refrigerant handling, blower motor, climate control unit.
Interior:
Dashboard removal and installation, seat mechanisms, trim panels, audio system integration.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, fluid level checks and top-offs.
Troubleshooting:
Extensive troubleshooting guides for various systems, diagnostic fault codes (DTCs) and their meanings, symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Overhaul:
Comprehensive procedures for engine and transmission overhaul, including specifications and tolerances.
Adjustments:
Procedures for adjusting critical components such as throttle linkage, parking brake, and alignment specifications.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including use of specialized tools and reading diagnostic data.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and component-level repair.
Crash Test Data:
While specific NCAP ratings for this era are less standardized, BMW vehicles of this period were engineered to high safety standards for their time, featuring robust body structures.
ABS:
Standard Bosch ABS III
Traction Control:
Optional ASC (Automatic Stability Control) on later models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard from approximately 1992 onwards, optional earlier. Passenger airbag optional.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for all occupants, front seatbelt height adjustment.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Premium Hi-Fi audio system, optional CD changer, cassette player.
Navigation:
Optional early generation BMW navigation system (on-board computer with map display).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) on later models.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control, rear climate controls.
Seats:
Electrically adjustable front seats with memory function, heated seats (optional).
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated car phone system.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (refer to specific model year recommendations in manual).
Major Service:
Indications for spark plug replacement, coolant flush, transmission fluid service typically around 30,000-60,000 miles. (Manual will detail specific intervals for each component).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic engine oil meeting BMW LL-98 or equivalent specifications. (Consult manual for exact capacity and ACEA/API rating).
Coolant:
BMW Blue coolant (G48) or equivalent G-48 ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Valve stem seals (can cause oil consumption), cooling system components (hoses, expansion tank, water pump), VANOS system (on later M60 engines with single VANOS, though less common than M62), ABS sensors, ignition coils/plugs, fuel pump, starter motor.
Oil Leaks:
Common from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing.
Electrical Issues:
Can include EML (Engine Management Light) issues, dashboard warning lights, and issues with comfort electronics due to aging wiring harnesses or modules.
Bmw Philosophy:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, known for its engineering prowess, performance-oriented vehicles, and luxury segment presence since the mid-20th century.
E32 Introduction:
The E32 generation 7 Series was introduced in 1986, succeeding the E23. The 740i and 740iL models, powered by the new M60 V8 engine, were introduced in 1992, replacing the 735i and 735iL with the straight-six engines.
Production Years:
1988-1994 for E32 740i/iL
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
