Positioning:
The 1991 BMW 750iL (E32) represented the pinnacle of BMW's luxury sedan offering, positioned as a direct competitor to high-end Mercedes-Benz S-Class and other flagship luxury vehicles. It was designed for discerning buyers prioritizing performance, advanced technology, and unparalleled comfort.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W126), Jaguar XJ Series, Lexus LS 400.
Luxury Appointments:
Extended wheelbase ('L'), premium leather upholstery, advanced climate control, power-adjustable seating, superior sound insulation.
Performance Engineering:
The V12 engine offered smooth, powerful acceleration, epitomizing BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy even in a luxury context.
Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Page Count:
Extensive (specific number not provided in product info, but implied to be comprehensive)
Type:
Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, given common availability for this era of manuals)
Engine:
V12 Engine (M70) - including diagnostics, overhaul, and component specifics
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., ZF 4HP-24) - repair, diagnostics, fluid service
Brakes:
Hydraulic System, ABS, Servicing, Component Replacement
Electrical:
Full Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Diagnostic Procedures for all onboard electronics
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension Systems, Component Replacement, Alignment Specifications
Steering:
Power Steering System, Components, Troubleshooting
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Fan Clutch, Hoses
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection System (Motronic), Fuel Pump, Injectors, Fuel Lines
Exhaust System:
Catalytic Converters, Mufflers, Pipes, Oxygen Sensors
Body:
Bodywork Repair, Doors, Panels, Glass Replacement, Trim
HVAC:
Climate Control System, Refrigerant, Components, Diagnostics
Interior:
Seat Adjustment, Upholstery, Dash Components
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Fluid Checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul
Diagnostics:
Engine Management System (Motronic), ABS, and other electronic systems
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools required for certain repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive; from basic fluid services to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including complex electrical diagnostics.
Displacement:
5.0 Liters (4988 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder (48 valves total)
Horsepower:
300 PS (296 bhp / 221 kW) @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
332 lb-ft (450 Nm) @ 3900 rpm
System:
Bosch Motronic M1.2 (Sequential Fuel Injection)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane)
ECU:
Dual ECUs (one for each bank of cylinders)
Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP-24)
Optional Transmission:
Manual Transmission (rarely optioned or available in North America for this model)
Sport Mode:
Yes, typically with selectable 'Sport' and 'Economy' modes.
Fluid Type:
BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon
Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 liters (8.0 quarts) for a complete fluid change, including torque converter.
Crash Test Results:
While official NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this specific model year are scarce by modern standards, BMW vehicles of this era were built with substantial safety structures. The E32 chassis was renowned for its rigidity.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control) available on some models, though less sophisticated than modern systems.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag standard. Passenger airbag not standard on all early E32 models, but available.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioner seat belts for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell construction.
Audio System:
High-quality premium audio systems, often with cassette player and radio. CD changer was an option.
Navigation:
Early BMW navigation systems (e.g., BMW Professional Navigation System) were available as an option on later E32 models, though rare on 1991 models. This manual would cover diagnostics if present.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Park Assist:
Rear parking sensors were an option on some models, but not widely prevalent.
System:
Dual-zone automatic climate control (IHKA - Integrated Automatic Climate Control) for driver and front passenger, with rear climate controls also often present.
Headlights:
Halogen headlights. Fog lights were standard or optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Follow on-board computer service indicators if equipped.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on spark plug type. The M70 uses 12 spark plugs, requiring careful attention during replacement.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km).
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic recommended. BMW Longlife-98 or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 7.5 liters (7.9 quarts) with filter.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water.
E32 Common Problems:
Cooling system leaks (hoses, expansion tank), VANOS seal issues (on later M70 versions, less common on early ones), ABS sensor failures, window regulator failures, aging rubber components, OVP relay issues on some models, ignition coil failures.
M70 Specific Issues:
Complex nature of the V12 can lead to higher repair costs. Two ECUs and dual ignition systems require specialized diagnosis. O-ring seals in the intake manifold can degrade. Oil leaks from the rear main seal can be labor-intensive to fix.
Parts Status:
Many parts are still available from BMW or specialized aftermarket suppliers, though some wear items may be scarce or expensive.
Heritage:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused luxury vehicles with advanced engineering and performance. The 7 Series has consistently been their flagship model.
E32 Introduction:
The E32 generation replaced the E23 and was introduced in 1986. The 750iL variant, featuring the new V12 engine, debuted in 1987 for the 1988 model year in Europe and 1990 in North America. The 1991 model is part of the initial E32 production run.
Production Years:
E32: 1986-1994. 750iL specific: 1987-1994.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
