🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

740iL

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

E38

Engine Code:

M62B44

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1996 BMW 740iL (E38) represented the pinnacle of German luxury sedans, competing with flagship models from Mercedes-Benz (S-Class) and Audi (A8). It offered a blend of advanced technology, refined driving dynamics, and opulent comfort for its era.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with the Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class and Audi D2 A8. BMW differentiated itself with a focus on driver engagement and a slightly more contemporary design language compared to some rivals.

Key Features:

Powerful V8 engine, sophisticated suspension, luxurious interior appointments, advanced (for the time) electronic features, and superior build quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete service, repair, and diagnostic information for the 1996 BMW 740iL

Page Count:

Thousands of pages (digital format)

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing system, valve train.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system (DME), ignition system, emissions control systems (SAE J1979, OBD-II diagnostics), engine management strategies.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 5HP30) overhaul, operation, hydraulic control, electronic control unit (TCU) diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, differentials, axle shafts, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs, self-leveling rear suspension (if applicable).

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, steering angle sensor.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (discs), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake calipers, rotors, pads, hydraulic lines, parking brake.

Electrical System:

12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starter motor, fuse box diagrams, relay functions.

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lamps, bulb types and replacement procedures.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, window regulators, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable), interior trim, seating systems, sound deadening.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control unit, refrigerant R134a, compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower motor.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, occupant sensing systems.

Infotainment And Electronics:

Radio/navigation systems, speaker wiring, antenna systems, central locking system, power windows, power mirrors, cruise control.

Preventive Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake inspections.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, fault code interpretation (DME, TCU, ABS, SRS), component testing procedures.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems.

Alignment And Adjustments:

Wheel alignment specifications, headlight aim adjustment, idle speed adjustment (where applicable).

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, color-coded for clarity.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds; includes advanced electronic diagnostics and component-level troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF with searchable text for ease of use, or proprietary software with advanced search and bookmarking capabilities.

Print Quality:

High-resolution graphics, clear diagrams, and legible text suitable for printing specific sections.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8, Naturally Aspirated

Engine Code:

M62B44

Displacement:

4.4 Liters (4398 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 82.7 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 32 valves (4 valves per cylinder)

Horsepower:

282 hp @ 5400 rpm

Torque:

317 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic DME)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual ignition coils.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

ZF 5HP30

Optional Transmission:

N/A for 740iL in 1996

Transmission Features:

Adaptive shift control, Steptronic manual shift mode (later introduction, may not be on all '96 models).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid 5)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

118.4 inches (3007 mm)

Length:

200.2 inches (5085 mm)

Width:

73.2 inches (1859 mm)

Height:

56.9 inches (1445 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4035 lbs (1830 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 5236 lbs (2375 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not specified by BMW for this model.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

N/A (NHTSA testing procedures and ratings differed significantly in 1996).

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASC+T).

Passive Safety Features:

Front and side airbags (front driver and passenger), crumple zones, reinforced safety cage, seatbelt pre-tensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Professional Radio/Cassette with optional CD changer and navigation system (BMW Business CD Navigation).

Display Technology:

Central instrument cluster with analog gauges, OBC (On-Board Computer) display, and optional navigation screen.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, parking sensors (rear on some models), automatic climate control.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; typically includes analog phone integration (optional) and a basic radio interface.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, based on oil quality and driving conditions. Check condition-based service indicators.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and torque).

Coolant Flush Interval:

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

Engine Oil Type:

BMW High Performance Synthetic Oil (e.g., SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40, meeting BMW LL-98 specifications).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 7.5 quarts (7.0 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Known Issues Common:

Cooling system failures (plastic components, leaks), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) seal degradation leading to rough idle or power loss, ignition coil failures, ABS/ASC sensor issues, heater control valve leaks, dashboard pixelation on OBC displays.

Oil Leaks:

Common oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, founded in 1916, has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').

Model Evolution:

The E38 generation replaced the E32 7 Series. The 740iL variant was introduced with the M60 V8 engine and later updated to the M62 V8. It was characterized by its more aerodynamic styling and advanced technology compared to its predecessor.

Production Years E38:

1994-2001

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The E38 generation was widely praised for its design and engineering. While specific awards for the '96 740iL might be hard to pinpoint, the model line consistently received accolades for luxury, performance, and innovation within its segment.