Positioning:
Positioned as an essential tool for owners and technicians of the flagship BMW 850Ci, a high-performance luxury grand tourer.
Competitors:
Competes with other official BMW workshop manuals and high-quality aftermarket repair manuals, but the 'officially licensed software' designation suggests authoritative OEM data.
Features:
Official BMW documentation, extensive system coverage, detailed diagnostic procedures, digital format for easy access and searchability.
Powertrain:
Engine (V12), cooling system, exhaust system, fuel system, ignition system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic), differential, driveshafts, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Engine management system (DME), battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, HVAC controls, infotainment, security system.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, bumpers, safety restraints.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement, battery maintenance.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with explanations, component testing procedures, wiring diagrams, electrical schematics.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component replacement, body panel repair and replacement.
Special Procedures:
Calibration of electronic systems, diagnostic tool usage, torque specifications for critical fasteners, safety precautions specific to BMW.
Depth:
Detailed, expert-level coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Includes full disassembly and reassembly instructions.
Engine Code:
M70 (or variant)
Configuration:
V12 (Naturally Aspirated)
Displacement:
5.4 Liters (5379 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 322 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 361 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M3.3 or similar)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR6EK or equivalent (Specify exact part number if available in manual)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (8 US Quarts) with filter
Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-98 or API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3 (Specify exact BMW oil spec)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (4HP30)
Type:
6-speed Manual (Rare, for 850CSi variant, not 850Ci)
Automatic Features:
Sport mode, electronic control, adaptive shift logic.
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or specified BMW equivalent)
Automatic Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 Liters (16.5 - 18.7 US Quarts) for complete fill, varies by drain/fill procedure.
Crash Test Data:
Specific crash test data for 1997 models may vary; E31 platform generally designed with advanced safety features for its era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) on many models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners.
Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones.
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional RDS radio/cassette/CD player, potentially with navigation preparation.
Speaker System:
Premium sound system options often included.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Phone Integration:
Optional factory cellular phone integration (rarely used in modern context).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-15 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact spec).
Transmission Service:
Inspect fluid and filter every 30,000-50,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's service indicator system (CBS).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW PSF or CHF 11 S (Central Hydraulic Fluid).
Common Faults:
EWS (Electronic Immobilizer) system issues, ABS/ASC sensor failures, cooling system leaks (hoses, expansion tank), door seal degradation, VANOS system (if equipped on later models), catalytic converter failure, idle control issues.
Heritage:
BMW's legacy of engineering excellence, performance, and luxury grand tourers.
E31 Introduction:
The E31 8 Series debuted in 1989 as the successor to the E24 6 Series, setting new benchmarks in automotive design and technology.
E31 Facelift:
The 1997 model year represents a refined version of the E31 chassis, with updates to the engine and electronics.
Production Years:
1989-1999
Key Markets:
North America, Europe, Asia.
