🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

740i

Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

E38

Engine Code Variant:

M62B44

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The BMW 740i (E38) represented BMW's flagship luxury sedan, competing with other high-end vehicles known for performance, luxury, and advanced technology for its era.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140), Lexus LS 400, and Audi A8 (D2). The 740i stood out for its potent V8 engine and dynamic driving characteristics.

Key Features:

The 1998 740i was lauded for its powerful V8 engine, sophisticated suspension, luxurious interior appointments, and pioneering electronic features, setting a benchmark for automotive luxury and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

North America

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Management & Control, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS, DSC), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), HVAC System, Body & Chassis, Interior & Exterior Trim, Restraints System (Airbags), Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides

Procedures Included:

Scheduled Maintenance, Engine Tune-Up, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service & Repair, Brake Service & Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Service, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement, HVAC System Diagnosis & Repair, Body Panel Repair & Alignment, Interior Component Replacement, Safety System Checks, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Retrieval & Interpretation, Component Testing & Calibration

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, and component specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary Software (likely executable or web-based interface requiring installation/access)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4.4L V8 (M62B44)

Displacement:

4398 cc

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 82.7 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

282 hp @ 5400 rpm

Torque:

317 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Engine Management System:

Bosch Motronic M5.2

Emission Control:

Dual Catalytic Converters, Oxygen Sensors, EGR (where applicable)

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized Liquid Cooling

Oil Capacity:

7.5 Liters (7.9 Quarts)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (synthetic recommended)

Timing Drive:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 Valves per Cylinder, Timing Chain

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic)

Transmission Model:

GM 5L40-E (also known as A5S 370Z)

Transmission Features:

Steptronic manual shifting mode, electronically controlled.

Transmission Fluid Type:

BMW ATF LT-2 (Dexron III equivalent, consult manual for specific BMW fluid)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 Liters (10 Quarts) total fill, ~4.5 Liters (4.8 Quarts) for torque converter replacement.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

197.3 inches (5011 mm)

Width:

73.0 inches (1854 mm)

Height:

57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Wheelbase:

115.4 inches (2931 mm)

Curb Weight:

4123 lbs (1870 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

5401 lbs (2450 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4-star

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Dsc:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (ASC+T)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Professional RDS radio with cassette player, optional CD changer, and navigation system (On-Board Computer).

Display:

Central infotainment display for navigation, climate control, and vehicle settings.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Parking Sensors (optional rear Park Distance Control - PDC).

Connectivity Features:

Telephone preparation (optional).

Lighting Features:

Xenon headlights (optional), Halogen headlights (standard).

Comfort Features:

Dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and power-adjustable front seats with memory, power-adjustable steering column, power windows and locks, automatic dimming rearview mirror.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12-18 months, depending on driving conditions and sensor readings. Consult the manual for precise CBS reset procedures.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 100,000 miles for iridium spark plugs (if equipped).

Coolant Flush:

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

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification, Ethylene Glycol based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

BMW CHF 11S or equivalent ATF (consult manual for specific type).

Known Issues:

Oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, cooling system component failures (radiator, hoses, water pump), VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid issues, ABS/DSC sensor failures, Piked Valve (PCV) system issues, Pixelfehler (pixelation) on instrument cluster display, window regulator failures.

Diagnostic Tools Recommended:

BMW DIS (Diagnostic Information System) or compatible OBD-II scanner with BMW proprietary protocols.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW, established in 1916, has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles known for their engineering prowess and driving dynamics.

Model Evolution:

The E38 generation of the 7 Series, produced from 1994 to 2001, succeeded the E32. It represented a significant technological advancement with improved aerodynamics, advanced electronics, and refined powertrains, including the introduction of the M60 and later M62 V8 engines.

Production Years E38:

1994-2001

Manufacturing Locations:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The E38 generation of the 7 Series received numerous accolades for its design, engineering, and luxury features upon its release. Specific awards for the 1998 740i model year would likely be included within automotive reviews of the period.