🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

733i / 735i

Model Code:

E23

Years Covered:

1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987

Chassis Code:

E23

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Luxury Sedan

Target Audience:

Discerning automotive enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking to maintain and repair their E23 generation BMW.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz W126 S-Class, Jaguar XJ Series, Cadillac Sedan de Ville.

Vehicle Philosophy:

The E23 represented BMW's commitment to performance, luxury, and advanced engineering in the executive sedan segment.

Manual Value Proposition:

Enables significant cost savings by empowering owners to perform complex maintenance and repairs themselves.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Maintenance, Repair, Diagnostics

Specific Systems:

Engine (M30), Transmission (Automatic/Manual), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Braking System, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, Climate Control, Body & Chassis, Interior Components

Estimated Pages:

800+

Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for Bosch Motronic fuel injection and ignition systems.

Transmission Overhaul:

Complete step-by-step instructions for rebuilding and repairing both the automatic (e.g., ZF 4HP22) and manual transmissions.

Electrical Schematics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including engine, lighting, accessories, and climate control.

Suspension And Steering:

Detailed procedures for suspension component replacement, alignment, and power steering system service.

Braking System:

Information on hydraulic system components, ABS (if equipped), brake pad/rotor replacement, and bleeding procedures.

Routine Maintenance:

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

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head service, transmission overhaul, differential service, fuel pump replacement.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Flowcharts and symptom-based guides for diagnosing common and complex issues.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing virtually every component of the vehicle.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes diagnostic fault codes and troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams ensuring clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

M30

Engine 733I:

3.2 L (3210 cc) Inline-6 cylinder, SOHC, Bosch Motronic EFI

Engine 735I:

3.4 L (3430 cc) Inline-6 cylinder, SOHC, Bosch Motronic EFI

Horsepower 733I:

Approx. 197 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque 733I:

Approx. 211 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Horsepower 735I:

Approx. 218 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque 735I:

Approx. 230 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Injection System:

Bosch Motronic (LH Jetronic variant for fuel, ignition control)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)

Fuel Pump Type:

In-tank electric

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual (Getrag 265/5 - later models often received 5-speed manual)

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (ZF 4HP22)

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate (manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (consult manual for precise BMW PN)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (consult manual for precise BMW PN)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 199.2 in (5059 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.5 in (1791 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.1 in (1425 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 116.7 in (2964 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3600-3800 lbs (1633-1724 kg) depending on options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Consult specific model year documentation

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

Vehicle safety standards of the era; comprehensive crash test data for this specific period is limited in public domain.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (optional on earlier models, standard on later ones)

Traction Control:

Not typically available on these models.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts front and rear.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became optional/standard later in the E23 lifecycle, often part of premium packages.

Body Construction:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Premium sound systems often featured Nakamichi or Blaupunkt head units with high-quality speaker configurations. Cassette player standard.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control system with multi-zone temperature management.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control system.

Onboard Computer:

Optional trip computer offering fuel economy, distance to empty, and other basic data.

Early Tech:

Focus on sophisticated mechanical and electrical integration rather than external connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for precise recommendations).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 30,000 miles (consult manual for specific plug type and gap).

Coolant Flush:

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

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (M30 engines use a timing chain).

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ/SL or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 recommended (consult manual for viscosity based on climate).

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol based.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or DOT 3 for older systems if specified, but DOT 4 is generally preferred).

Common Issues:

Head gasket leaks, cooling system component failures (radiator, hoses, water pump), fuel injector seals, idle control valve issues, fuel pump wear, suspension bushings deterioration, ABS sensor faults, door seal degradation, window regulator failures.

Maintenance Considerations:

The M30 engine is robust but requires meticulous maintenance. Early diagnosis of cooling system issues is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Positioning:

BMW's reputation for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' was solidified with models like the E23, blending performance with luxury.

Predecessor:

BMW E23 (BMW New Six) 1977-1986

Successor:

BMW E32 (7 Series) 1987-1994

Production Years E23:

1977-1986

Key Updates 1983-1987:

Introduction of the 735i with the larger M30 engine, updates to Motronic system, ABS availability, and minor aesthetic revisions.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, build quality, and luxury appointments, often being cited as a benchmark for executive sedans of its era.