🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

740i / 740iL

Year:

1990

Chassis Code:

E32

Engine Code:

M60B40

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW 7 Series (E32) represented the pinnacle of BMW's luxury sedan offerings in the early 1990s, competing with established German luxury marques like Mercedes-Benz and Audi. The 740i and its long-wheelbase counterpart, the 740iL, were the volume models powered by BMW's groundbreaking V8 engine.

Competitors:

Key competitors included the Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class, Audi V8 Quattro, and Lexus LS 400.

Distinctive Features:

The E32 7 Series, particularly the 740i, was lauded for its superior driving dynamics, refined ride, advanced technology for its time, and the smooth, powerful M60 V8 engine. It set benchmarks for luxury sedan engineering and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, Engine electrical, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Drivetrain, Transmission (automatic), Suspension, Steering, Brakes, ABS, Body electrical, Climate control, Chassis, Interior appointments, Exterior trim, Diagnostics

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, though original format might vary)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed procedures for engine assembly/disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing chain/belt, valve train, oil pump, etc.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter, alternator, battery, engine control unit (ECU) operation, sensors, wiring diagrams

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (DME), fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel filter, evaporative emission control

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 4HP24 or 4HP22 EH), shift linkage, torque converter, transmission fluid, electronic control

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnostics

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment procedures

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, hydraulic fluid

Climate Control:

HVAC system operation, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core, climate control unit

Body Electrical:

Lighting, power windows, power seats, central locking, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, OBC (On-Board Computer)

Maintenance:

Routine oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guidance, error code interpretation

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair of all major vehicle systems

Diagnostics:

Procedures for using diagnostic tools (e.g., BMW specific scanners for the era), understanding sensor data, ECU fault tracing

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF; optimized for searchability and printing. May include scanned pages from original factory manuals.

Print Quality:

High resolution scans of original diagrams and text; printable pages.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Model:

M60B40

Engine Type:

4.0L V8 DOHC 32-valve

Horsepower:

282 hp @ 5800 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M3.3 electronic fuel injection

Block Material:

Aluminum

Head Material:

Aluminum

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 liters (with filter)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 10.5 liters

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (e.g., 5HP18 for some later M60 engines, but 4-speed automatics like 4HP24 were common in 1990 models)

Manual Transmission:

Not typically offered on 740i/iL models in the US market for this year, primarily automatic.

Transmission Control:

Electronic control with comfort/sport modes (depending on specific variant and options)

Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent compatible fluid, e.g., Dexron III for some older spec transmissions)

📐 Dimensions

Length 740I:

Approx. 199.7 inches (5072 mm)

Length 740Il:

Approx. 207.1 inches (5260 mm)

Width:

Approx. 73.4 inches (1864 mm)

Height:

Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight 740I:

Approx. 3900-4100 lbs (1769-1860 kg)

Curb Weight 740Il:

Approx. 4000-4200 lbs (1814-1905 kg)

Wheelbase 740I:

Approx. 117.1 inches (2975 mm)

Wheelbase 740Il:

Approx. 124.3 inches (3157 mm)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not directly comparable to modern rating systems. Vehicles of this era focused on passive safety features.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ASC+T may have been optional on later models or distinct variants)

Traction Control:

Optional on some models (ASC)

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag was standard, passenger airbag became available later in the E32 lifecycle or on specific options.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic but sophisticated for its time. Features likely included a premium sound system, cassette player, and potentially a rudimentary navigation system on some higher-spec models. On-Board Computer (OBC) provided trip data, fuel consumption, and system checks.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, cruise control, automatic climate control, self-leveling suspension (optional on some models), parking distance control (optional).

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Onboard diagnostics via proprietary BMW connectors. Phone integration (optional, early car phone systems).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil quality. Check the specific vehicle's owner's manual or onboard computer indications.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 50,000-60,000 miles, though some sources suggest it's a 'lifetime' fill. For preventative maintenance, regular changes are advised.

Coolant Change:

Every 2-3 years or as per manual recommendations, typically using BMW blue coolant (G48).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for precise specification). BMW High-Performance Synthetic Oil recommended.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S (check specific vehicle for correct type).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tank, water pump seals, and radiator hoses can degrade over time, leading to leaks.

Engine Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are common leak points.

E32 Electrical Gremlins:

Can occur due to aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, or failing control modules (e.g., ABS, climate control). The OBC can be prone to pixelation issues.

Transmission Control:

Electronic transmission control module failures or solenoid issues can impact shifting performance.

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converters can become clogged; exhaust manifolds can develop cracks.

Oil Filter Part Number:

e.g., Mann-Filter HU 718/1y or Bosch 0 451 104 004 (Verify with VIN)

Air Filter Part Number:

e.g., Mann-Filter C 35 163 (Verify with VIN)

Cabin Filter Part Number:

N/A for 1990 models, cabin air filters were not standard or widely implemented in this generation's early production.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused luxury vehicles with advanced engineering and performance, dating back to its inception.

E32 Introduction:

The E32 7 Series was introduced in 1986, succeeding the E23 generation. It represented a significant leap forward in design, technology, and performance.

E32 Facelift:

A significant facelift occurred in 1994, introducing updated styling and the new M62 V8 engine to most models (730i, 740i). The 1990 model is part of the pre-facelift generation.

Production Period:

1986-1994

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific awards for the 1990 740i are not as widely publicized as modern vehicles, the E32 generation as a whole was highly regarded for its engineering and luxury, often featured in 'best luxury car' lists of its era.