🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

7 Series

Chassis Code:

E38

Sub Model:

735i, 735iL

Year:

1994

Engine Code:

M62B35

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W140), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ.

Luxury Focus:

Emphasis on comfort, refinement, advanced technology for its era, and superior build quality.

Driving Dynamics:

BMW's signature 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos adapted for a luxury sedan, offering a balance of comfort and engaging handling.

Target Audience:

BMW owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts, collectors of classic BMWs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostic information for the 1994 BMW 735i and 735iL.

Estimated Page Count:

~1500-2000 pages (typical for such comprehensive manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS), wheels and tires.

Body And Electrical:

Body construction, interior trim, exterior body panels, lighting, HVAC system, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), instrument cluster, diagnostic systems (OBD-I).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit diagnosis, component testing.

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair/rebuild, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical system component replacement.

Depth:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions, specifications, torque values, wiring diagrams, exploded views, special tool requirements.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (if professionally produced)

Print Readability:

High resolution for clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3498 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 78.9 mm (approximate)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

211 hp @ 5400 rpm (approximate for M62B35)

Torque:

236 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (approximate for M62B35)

Induction:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline

ECU:

Bosch Motronic M5.2

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic optional)

Type:

5-Speed Manual (Rare for 735i/iL)

Automatic Features:

Adaptive transmission control, comfort/sport modes.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III)

Automatic Transmission Capacity:

~8.5 Liters (18.5 Pints)

📐 Dimensions

Length 735I:

4984 mm (196.2 inches)

Length 735Il:

5124 mm (201.7 inches)

Width:

1862 mm (73.3 inches)

Height:

1420 mm (55.9 inches)

Wheelbase 735I:

2930 mm (115.4 inches)

Wheelbase 735Il:

3070 mm (120.9 inches)

Curb Weight 735I:

~1810 kg (3990 lbs)

Curb Weight 735Il:

~1860 kg (4100 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 2300 kg (5070 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Wheel Offset:

ET 20-25 (typical for 7-series)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

N/A (1994 standards were different)

ABS:

Standard (Bosch ABS III)

Traction Control:

Optional (ASC/ASC+T)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags (standard)

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensions.

Chassis Design:

Integrated safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

High-fidelity BMW sound system, optional CD changer.

Navigation:

Optional BMW navigation system (CRT screen).

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC).

Phone Integration:

Optional integrated cellular phone system.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control.

Seat Features:

Power-adjustable front seats with memory, heated front and rear seats (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually (check oil level more frequently).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Service:

BMW's 'lifetime' fill, but recommended every 50,000-60,000 miles for longevity.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-98 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Common Problems:

Heated Oxygen Sensors (O2 Sensors), Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP), ABS wheel speed sensors, Cooling system leaks (water pump, hoses, expansion tank), VANOS system issues (early M60/M62), EWS immobilizer problems, Door seal leaks leading to water ingress, Headliner sagging.

Maintenance Tip Valve Stem Seals:

Valve stem seals can deteriorate over time, leading to blue smoke on startup. A common repair, though labor-intensive.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW's long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, sporty driving characteristics, and luxury vehicles.

E32 Predecessor:

The E38 generation replaced the E32 7 Series, introducing a cleaner, more aerodynamic design.

E38 Introduction:

The E38 generation was introduced in 1994 for the 1995 model year in North America.

Production Period:

1994-2001

Manufacturing Location:

Dingolfing, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

While the E38 generation was praised, specific awards for the 1994 model are less common than later iterations.

Road Test Reviews:

Consistently received high marks for refinement, handling, and build quality by automotive publications of the era.